Rookie Jeremy Langford has been a fantasy football godsend since taking over as the Bears’ feature running back after Matt Forte suffered a knee injury, scoring three times in two starts.
Langford totaled 182 yards from scrimmage and scored twice against St. Louis last week, and those who added him recently don’t want the outstanding versatile production to come to an end.
Forte, though, was limited in practice on Friday, and the word is that he will be a game-time decision on Sunday. The Bears face the Broncos in what will be perceived as a difficult matchup for either Bears running back.
But you cannot take everything at face value in this situation. First, Langford has played more than well enough in Forte’s place, so the Bears do not have to rush the veteran back into action. Chicago plays on Thanksgiving, so it may not be wise for them to utilize Forte this week then have him come back on a quick turnaround.
Also, the Broncos have not been a complete shutdown defense against opposing RBs. They have allowed 19.2 fantasy points per game to opposing backs.
If Langford starts again, he will get enough volume to justify another fantasy start. With his versatility, he will at least post adequate all-around fantasy totals.
If the defense is getting overworked or gassed, because inexperienced QB Brock Osweiler can’t keep the Denver offense on the field, the Bears should be able to control time of possession, and Langford will be one of their key playmakers.
Chicago may need to lean heavily on Langford because star wide receiver Alshon Jeffery is questionable with shoulder and groin issues. Jeffery did not practice Friday, which is not a good sign for his availability. Marquess Wilson could be the Bears’ No. 1 wideout against a terrific Denver secondary. So Chicago may have to turn to Langford and tight ends Martellus Bennett and Zach Miller to be primary passing options.
Langford likely is going to be the focal point of the Chicago attack this week. Even if Forte makes what seems like a surprise return at this point, Langford may still get a lot of work.
Fortunately, the Bears play at 1 p.m., so you will know about the RB situation before you have to set the bulk of your lineup for the week. To play it safe, have another option available just in case Forte is active and starts. If reports come out that the two may split work, you still can consider Langford as a RB2 or flex. Also, Jeffery’s owners have to realistically prepare to be without him in Week 11.
- Cardinals WRs Michael Floyd and John Brown are iffy for Sunday night’s game against the Bengals. Floyd was not able to practice Friday and is a true game-time decision. Brown may be able to play, but might not be effective. If you have healthier options in earlier games, go with the alternatives. Jaron Brown could be in for a larger role and merits consideration as a bye week PPR plugger.
- Cowboys RB Darren McFadden (groin) is questionable for Sunday’s game against Miami. If he has no setbacks during warmups, he should be good to go in a friendly matchup with Tony Romo also returning to move the offense more efficiently. It’s a positive outlook for McFadden, who may see more scoring chances with the passing game getting back into form. Rod Smith does appear to be his primary backup for now, but Robert Turbin was also recently signed.
- Texans WR DeAndre Hopkins (knee) was back at practice on Friday and is expected to play against the Jets. Do not overanalyze the matchup or injury and consider benching Hopkins against the Jets unless you have another top-shelf option at the position. Hopkins is a bona fide fantasy superstar and capable of producing at least adequately in any matchup.
- Buccaneers WR Vincent Jackson (knee) will be a game-time decision for against the Eagles. But the Buccaneers have shown a tendency to allow players to practice and not play, so Jackson may not be active. Tampa Bay was playing the same game with TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins, who is not expected to play again because of a shoulder injury.
- Eagles RB Ryan Mathews (concussion) will not play against Tampa Bay. He has been a fine flex option this season. Darren Sproles could see an increase in touches with Mathews out, and is worth consideration as a flex sub in PPR formats.
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