Ronald Jones II Week 4 Outlook -

By Mike Tagliere (FantasyPros), Thu, Oct 1st 2020, 9:26am EDT

I said it last week, but I'll say it again. I'm getting vibes of the 2019 Bucs backfield of Peyton Barber and Jones. Though there was production to be had most weeks, predicting who proved to be a tougher task than I'd like to admit. Through three games, the opportunities are Jones 46, Fournette 32, and McCoy 13. With Jones not doing anything to forfeit the job in Week 3, we must assume he's the one with the most value in this backfield, though we have to remain fluid. The downside with the Bucs is that they've won 2-of-3 games, with both of their wins coming by at least 14 points. Still, the running backs have combined to average just 20.7 carries per game. Jones and Fournette have combined to average just 5.7 targets per game. When you look at those numbers and see a near-even timeshare, it's not one you can start anyone confidently. Not just that but running backs have averaged just 23.0 touches per game against the Chargers. Them and the Ravens are the only teams in the NFL who haven't allowed a rushing touchdown to a running back, and keep in mind they've played against Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Joe Mixon. None of the three starting running backs they've played have averaged more than 3.80 yards per carry, either. We have to treat Jones as the starter right now and the superior fantasy play, though he's on a short leash. Consider him a mediocre RB3 in this tough matchup, though it helps that his team has an implied total of 26.0 points. As for Fournette, he remains in the RB3/4 conversation as someone who can take over this backfield at any minute, though he comes with a low floor, as highlighted last week. It's also worth noting that Fournette missed practice on Wednesday with an ankle injury.