Good fantasy managers are always looking for ways to improve their teams. Below are running backs who played well in Week Eight, despite being owned in fewer than 10% of Yahoo fantasy leagues when the week began.
1. Dexter McCluster, Kansas City Chiefs
McCluster was available in 91% of leagues, but he had a big game in Week Eight. In addition to gaining 15 rushing yards, McCluster also caught six passes for 54 yards and a touchdown. Although he is not getting the rushing attempts that he received last season when he surpassed 500 yards on the ground, McCluster is currently on pace to catch more than 50 passes. He is really only an option in deeper leagues right now, but if the Chiefs get him more involved in the offense, McCluster could be a good add down the stretch.
2. Ronnie Brown, San Diego Chargers
Brown also had a great week as a receiver, catching seven passes for 85 yards. His 17 rushing yards put him over 100 total yards for the first time since he rushed for 115 on October 4, 2009. While Brown is available in 93% of leagues and has been seeing some action with the Chargers this year, he has not scored a touchdown since November of last season. Still, he has caught at least three passes in every game this year, he is on pace to set a career high in receptions, and he could be a good add in deep leagues.
3. Shane Vereen, New England Patriots
Although the Patriots running backs situation is always risky territory for fantasy owners, Vereen may be worth a look for those struggling at running back. Stevan Ridley is obviously getting the most work, while Danny Woodhead continues to play consistently. However, Vereen scored a touchdown in Week Eight and now has 15 carries in the last two games. He has two scores on the season and could be a decent flex option in very deep leagues following his bye week. Vereen was available in 94% of leagues.
Sources
Yahoo Sports - Fantasy Football
Mike Patton is a co-host on the Deep Sleeper Fantasy Football Podcast. He has been a fantasy enthusiast since 1997 and has won championships in baseball, football, basketball, hockey and pick 'em leagues.
