Depending on personnel and schemes, an NFL defense can be especially good or bad against an offensive position. For example, the Kansas City defense is quite average against QBs but rank as the best defense for opposing WRs and the worst for TEs. Using the tools at SportFanalytics, we found a few surprising trends that go against the grain.
Get Start/Sit & Waiver Advice with My Playbook
Why Chris Ivory Will Disappoint
2. Eight RBs are averaging 18 or more rush attempts. Of those eight, Le’Veon Bell, Chris Johnson, Carlos Hyde and Matt Forte have missed substantial time or are on IR. Of the other four healthy ones, only Jonathan Stewart has more carries than Ivory since the 2014 season.
3. Lastly, since Powell returned from injury (Week 11), Powell has not just been eating into Ivory’s production but he’s actually earned more fantasy points, too!
Todd Gurley is Still an RB1
The Rams have been getting blown out, having lost three of the last four by 24 points. They’ve had no choice but to throw the ball. This young and talented team has been a disappointment, but head coach Jeff Fisher is fighting for his job. Gurley is the best player this team has on offense, so look for him to get the ball early and often so the Rams can finish with a respectable record.
Tyrod Taylor is a Top-Five QB this Week
Waiver-Wire Players to Target
- Vernon Davis is playing Oakland, the third-most friendly defense to TEs
- Shaun Draughn is playing Cleveland, a team that has given up the most rushing yards
Import your team for free to get lineup advice
Rishi Patel is a correspondent at FantasyPros. To read more from Rishi, check out his archive or follow him on Twitter @sportfanalytic.