LestersLegends.com RB rankings

Adrian Peterson 2012
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Training camp will be here before you know it. It’s a perfect time to revisit the 2013 fantasy football running back landscape.
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1. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
What more is there to be said about All Day. An injury that could threaten the career of most NFL running backs was shrugged off like a hangnail. All Peterson did was challenge the NFL record with 2,097 yards while posting his sixth straight season with double-digit touchdowns.
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2. Arian Foster, Houston Texans
Foster scored 17 touchdowns last year, 15 on the ground. He had 1,424 yards rushing and 217 yards receiving. That’s three straight monster years for Foster. He did see a 400-yard drop in receiving yards, which is a slight cause for concern.
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3. Trent Richardson, Cleveland Browns
Richardson had 1,317 total yards and 12 touchdowns despite dealing with knee, rib, and ankle injuries. If he can stay healthy, I believe he can challenge All Day for the top spot.
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4. Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
While I believe Richardson will be even better in 2013, I think Martin takes a small step back. Simply because the 1,926 total yards and 12 touchdowns set his bar so high. That said, this dual threat should remain one of the top fantasy backs.
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5. C.J. Spiller, Buffalo Bills
Spiller averaged a ridiculous 6.0 yard per carry. He gained 1,703 total yards on 250 touches. He should get closer to the 300 mark, which should put him over 2000 total yards.
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6. Marshawn Lynch, Seattle Seahawks
Lynch doesn’t typically give you the monster games like some of the other elite backs can produce, but he’s about as steady as they come. He had 1,786 total yards and 12 touchdowns last year.
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7. Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs
Lost in Peterson’s incredible season was Jamaal Charles’ similarly impressive return from his own knee injury. At times the Chiefs went away from Charles, but he still managed to produce 1,745 total yards. Another season removed from the injury, Charles should be even better in 2013.
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8. Ray Rice, Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens may have officially made the transition from Rice being the focal point on offense to Joe Flacco, but Rice isn’t out of the picture just yet. He remains one of the most dynamic running backs in the league with an ability to produce on the ground and in the passing game while having a strong nose for the end zone.
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9. Alfred Morris, Washington Redskins
Morris is coming off a 1,690 total yard, 13 touchdown season, but he does have the stigma of playing for Mike Shanahan. I think that is less of an issue than Robert Griffin III’s health. That and defenses adjusting to the Pistol offense.
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10. LeSean McCoy, Philadelphia Eagles
2012 was a season to forget for Eagles fans and McCoy owners alike. Shady should be much better in Chip Kelly’s offense.
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11. David Wilson, New York Giants
Wilson should have the chance to carry the load for the G-Men. He has the tools to breakout in a big way.
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12. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville Jaguars
Mojo’s season was a complete disaster, but he’s still on the right side of 30 (28 in March). I expect him to be the focal point of the Jaguars’ offense once again and a strong bounceback candidate.
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13. Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
Johnson was held under 25 yards rushing in four of the first five games, but managed to get back on track. He averaged 92.2 total yards per game. His window is closing (he’ll be 28 in September), but he should still have a couple of good seasons in him.
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14. Matt Forte, Chicago Bears
Forte is an impressive talent, and while he is able to play through injuries, how often is he limited by them? He also doesn’t punch the ball in frequently enough to be even a mid-level RB1.
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15. Stevan Ridley, New England Patriots
Bill Belichick is even harder to figure with running backs than Mike Shanahan. Ridley had an impressive 12 touchdowns, but he does little in the passing game to help his yardage total.
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16. Steven Jackson, Atlanta Falcons
Michael Turner ran for 800 yards and ten touchdowns last year for the Falcons. Steven Jackson had 1,363 total yards and four touchdowns last year for an inferior St. Louis Rams team. With Julio Jones, Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez commanding so much attention, S-Jax should be able to put up even better numbers than last year.
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17. Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers
Gore finished with 1,448 total yards and nine touchdowns. Gore turned 30 so it shouldn’t be a surprise if his touches decline a little during the season. With his massive offensive line, that shouldn’t stop Gore from turning in another solid year.
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18. DeMarco Murray, Dallas Cowboys
Murray brings as much risk as reward to the table. He has shown flashes, but has also missed nine games in two years. He averages 4.8 yards per carry and has 61 receptions in two years.
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19. Reggie Bush, Detroit Lions
Bush hasn’t reached 300 yards receiving since 2009, but that should change in Detroit’s offense. Matthew Stafford attempted 727 passes last year, and is fond of throwing to running backs. Bush will have to share with Mikel Leshoure, which limits both backs’ values.
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20.  Darren McFadden, Oakland Raiders
Speaking of risk vs. reward, Run DMC is the epitome of that scenario. With all of the hype he’s received, he still just has had just one productive season. If you own McDadden, you’ll have to worry about his availability all year.
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Click here for the 2013 Updated Fantasy Football RB Rankings!
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The NFL Draft is still off in the distance, but what better time to start exploring the 2013 fantasy football running back landscape.
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1. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
What more is there to be said about All Day. An injury that could threaten the career of most NFL running backs was shrugged off like a hangnail. All Peterson did was challenge the NFL record with 2097 yards while posting his sixth straight season with double-digit touchdowns.
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2. Arian Foster, Houston Texans
Foster scored 17 touchdowns last year, 15 on the ground. He had 1424 yards rushing and 217 yards receiving. That’s three straight monster years for Foster. He did see a 400-yard drop in receiving yards, which is a slight cause for concern.
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3. Trent Richardson, Cleveland Browns
Richardson had 1317 total yards and 12 touchdowns despite dealing with knee, rib, and ankle injuries. If he can stay healthy, I believe he can challenge All Day for the top spot.
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4. Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
While I believe Richardson will be even better in 2013, I think Martin takes a small step back. Simply because the 1926 total yards and 12 touchdowns set his bar so high. That said, this dual threat should remain one of the top fantasy backs.
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5. C.J. Spiller, Buffalo Bills
Spiller averaged a ridiculous 6.0 yard per carry. He gained 1703 total yards on 250 touches. He should get closer to the 300 mark, which should put him over 2000 total yards.
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6. Marshawn Lynch, Seattle Seahawks
Lynch doesn’t typically give you the monster games like some of the other elite backs can produce, but he’s about as steady as they come. He had 1786 total yards and 12 touchdowns last year.
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7. Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs
Lost in Peterson’s incredible season was Jamaal Charles’ similarly impressive return from his own knee injury. At times the Chiefs went away from Charles, but he still managed to produce 1745 total yards. Another season removed from the injury, Charles should be even better in 2013.
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8. Ray Rice, Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens may have officially made the transition from Rice being the focal point on offense to Joe Flacco, but Rice isn’t out of the picture just yet. He remains one of the most dynamic running backs in the league with an ability to produce on the ground and in the passing game while having a strong nose for the end zone.
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9. Alfred Morris, Washington Redskins
Morris is coming off a 1690 total yard, 13 touchdown season, but he does have the stigma of playing for Mike Shanahan. I think that is less of an issue than Robert Griffin III’s health. That and defenses adjusting to the Pistol offense.
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10. LeSean McCoy, Philadelphia Eagles
2012 was a season to forget for Eagles fans and McCoy owners alike. Shady should be much better in Chip Kelly’s offense.
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11. David Wilson, New York Giants
Wilson should have the chance to carry the load for the G-Men. He has the tools to breakout in a big way.
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12. Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville Jaguars
Mojo’s season was a complete disaster, but he’s still on the right side of 30 (28 in March). I expect him to be the focal point of the Jaguars’ offense once again and a strong bounceback candidate.
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13. Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
Johnson was held under 25 yards rushing in four of the first five games, but managed to get back on track. He averaged 92.2 total yards per game. His window is closing (he’ll be 28 in September), but he should still have a couple of good seasons in him.
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14. Matt Forte, Chicago Bears
Forte is an impressive talent, and while he is able to play through injuries, how often is he limited by them? He also doesn’t punch the ball in frequently enough to be even a mid-level RB1.
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15. Stevan Ridley, New England Patriots
Bill Belichick is even harder to figure with running backs than Mike Shanahan. Ridley had an impressive 12 touchdowns, but he does little in the passing game to help his yardage total.
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Also check out:

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With an exciting 16th week under our belts, here are the LestersLegends 2012 Week 17 fantasy football running back rankings.
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1. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
All Day is 102 yards shy of 2000 and 208 yards from the NFL record. The Packers have a mediocre run defense. AP ripped them for 210 yards in the last meeting. My gut says he gets to 2000, but comes up a little short. Prove me wrong AP.
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2. C.J. Spiller, Buffalo Bills
Spiller had 173 total yards against a solid Miami Dolphins defense. He had 194 total yards and a touchdown in the opener against the New York Jets. He’ll bookend the season by thumping them again. The Jets rank 27th in run defense.
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3. Marshawn Lynch, Seattle Seahawks
Lynch is averaging 118.6 yards with seven touchdown in his last four games. He dropped 155 total yards and a touchdown on the St. Louis Rams in the first meeting. He’ll pound them again. The Rams are one of four teams to have allowed 17 or more rushing touchdowns.
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4. Knowshon Moreno, Denver Broncos
Moreno is averaging 140 total yards in his past three games. The Kansas City Chiefs rank 26th against the run. I expect the Broncos to be particularly run-heavy this week to preserve Peyton Manning for the playoffs.
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5. Arian Foster, Houston Texans
I am a little concerned with Foster’s irregular heartbeat. If he is not limited, he should run wild on the Indianapolis Colts’ 30th-ranked run defense as the Houston Texans try to secure the number one seed in the AFC. Foster had 169 total yards in the first meeting and has averaged 187 total yards with five touchdowns in four career games against the Colts.
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6. Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
CJ is hit or miss, but should on against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He had 109 total yards in the first meeting. The Jags rank 31st against the run.
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7. Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs
Charles has a tough matchup against the Broncos, but Charles has been on a tear averaging 126.6 total yards in his past seven games. He had 107 yards against Denver in Week 12.
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8. Alfred Morris, Washington Redskins
Morris has been the most consistent of the trio of stud rookie running backs. He just keeps on churning. Morris has four touchdowns in his past three games. He’s averaging nearly 100 total yards per game and has 10 touchdowns on the year. Morris had 113 yards and a touchdown in the first meeting with the Dallas Cowboys.
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9. Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Martin has been the most explosive of the rookie runners, averaging 117.7 total yards on the year. He should finish strong against a Falcons team that has nothing to play for.
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10. Ray Rice, Baltimore Ravens
Rice got a heavy workload (30 touches) last week against the New York Giants and responded with 158 total yards and a score. He finishes with a tough game against the Cincinnati Bengals on the road.
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11. DeMarco Murray, Dallas Cowboys
Murray only received 11 carries last week, but his inclusion in the passing game allowed him to finish with 91 total yards against the New Orleans Saints. He should finish strong against the Redskins.
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12. Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers
Gore was an afterthought after the Seahawks ran away in Week 16. He should bounce back against the Arizona Cardinals’ 28th-ranked run defense.
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13. LeSean McCoy, Philadelphia Eagles
McCoy returned with 122 total yards last week against the Redskins. He had 140 total yards in the first meeting with the G-Men. Look for McCoy to finish his disappointing season on a high note.
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14. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Cincinnati Bengals
The Steelers shut down The Law Firm, but he should be back in business against the Ravens. They rank 24th against the run. BJGE ran for 91 yards and a touchdown in the first meeting.
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15. Shonn Greene, New York Jets
Greene has three touchdowns in his past three games. He ran for 94 yards and a touchdown in the first meeting with Buffalo. The Bills rank dead last against the run.
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16. Matt Forte, Chicago Bears
Forte is banged up, but I expect him to gut it out against the Detroit Lions’ mediocre run defense. Forte ran for 96 yards in the first meeting.
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17. Reggie Bush, Miami Dolphins
Bush continued his strong finish with 107 total yards and three touchdowns against the Bills. New England will be a tougher test, but he should see plenty of work in the passing game.
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18. Stevan Ridley, New England Patriots
Ridely had 71 yards and a touchdown in the first meeting with the Dolphins.
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19. Montell Owens, Jacksonville Jaguars
Owens did some damage against the New England Patriots, mainly in the passing game. He should finish well against Tennessee’s 23rd-ranked run defense.
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20. Steven Jackson, St. Louis Rams
Jackson has a tough finish against the Seahawks, but has averaged 109.3 total yards the past seven games.
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Also check out:


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With an exciting 15th week under our belts, here are the LestersLegends 2012 Week 16 fantasy football running back rankings.
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1. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
Does it even matter who AP faces? He’s averaging 164.1 yards in his past eight games. I don’t expect even a tough Houston Texans run defense to slow All Day down.
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2. Arian Foster, Houston Texans
Foster isn’t putting up Peterson numbers, but he is averaging 106.7 total yards per game with 16 combined touchdowns. He should rise to the occasion in a showdown with Peterson and the Vikings.
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3. Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Martin, like the rest of the Bucs, was a major letdown last week. He gets a chance to redeem himself against the St. Louis Rams. They have allowed 117.6 yards per game and 17 rushing scores.
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4. Knowshon Moreno, Denver Broncos
Moreno is averaging 121.8 total yards per game since taking over the starting gig. The Cleveland Browns have allowed 120.6 yards per game and 13 rushing scores.
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5. Alfred Morris, Washington Redskins
Morris is averaging 113.3 yards and a touchdown in his past four games. The Philadelphia Eagles have allowed 122.0 yards per game and nine rushing scores.
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6. DeMarco Murray, Dallas Cowboys
Murray has scored in all three games since his return while averaging 96.3 total yards per game. The New Orleans Saints have allowed 146.3 yards per game and 13 rushing scores.
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7. Marshawn Lynch, Seattle Seahawks
The San Francisco 49ers present a challenge, but Lynch and the Seahawks are flying high. He’s averaging 117.7 total yards over the past three games to go with five rushing scores. Lynch had 116 total yards in the first meeting.
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8. Trent Richardson, Cleveland Browns
The yardage has not been there, but the scoring has. T-Rich has 83 total yards in his past two games, but scored a pair of touchdowns in both games. He has six touchdowns in his past four games and 12 on the year. The Broncos present a tough test.
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9. Ray Rice, Baltimore Ravens
Change did not do Rice or the Ravens good. Look for Rice to get back on track against the New York Giants. The G-Men have allowed 123.7 yards per game and eight rushing scores.
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10. C.J. Spiller, Buffalo Bills
Spiller has a tough matchup against the Miami Dolphins’ top ten run defense, but Spiller is explosive and should get plenty of touches. He’s averaging nearly 100 yards per game this year while operating in a timeshare for a good part of the year.
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11. Stevan Ridley, New England Patriots
Ridley was taken out of the game by the Niners, but should bounce back against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jags have allowed 148.1 yards per game and 18 rushing scores.
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12. Matt Forte, Chicago Bears
Forte is averaging 116 total yards the past three games. The Arizona Cardinals have allowed 136.5 yards per game and 10 rushing scores.
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13. Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs
Charles struck out last week against the Oakland Raiders, but has a favorable matchup against the Indianapolis Colts for a rebound. The Colts have allowed 124.7 yards per game and a dozen touchdowns.
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14. Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
Johnson travels to Lambeau Field to face the Green Bay Packers. The Pack have allowed 114.3 yards per game and 11 rushing scores. If weather is an issue, CJ will carry the load.
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15. Darren McFadden, Oakland Raiders
Run DMC did his thing against the Chiefs, collecting 149 total yards. This week he faces the Carolina Panthers, who have allowed 117.9 yard per game and 11 rushing scores.
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16. Reggie Bush, Miami Dolphins
Bush is averaging 88.3 total yards in his past four games. The Bills have allowed 144.1 yards per game and 22 rushing scores.
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17. Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers
Gore continues to turn in good performances. Playing the Seahawks on the road makes for a tough test though.
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18. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Cincinnati Bengals
The Law Firm is averaging 117.2 total yards in his past five games with three touchdowns. The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the top run defenses in the league though.
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19. Vick Ballard, Indianapolis Colts
Ballard is averaging 104.5 total yards in his past two games. The Chiefs have allowed 136.4 yards per game and nine rushing scores.
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20. Steven Jackson, St. Louis Rams
S-Jax is averaging 114.7 total yards in his past six games. The Bucs lead the league in run defense, but Jackson has been playing so well. Plus, he is active in the passing game.
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21. DeAngelo Williams, Carolina Panthers
D-Will is averaging 128 total yards with a receiving touchdown in each of his past two games. The Raiders have allowed 122.5 yards per game and 17 rushing scores.
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22. Mikel Leshoure, Detroit Lions
Leshoure missed a golden opportunity against the Arizona Cardinals, but still managed 59 total yards and a touchdown. The Atlanta Falcons have allowed 124.9 yards per game and 14 rushing scores.
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23. Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons
Turner is averaging just 42.4 yards in his past five games, but has managed to score in each game. The Lions have allowed 119.4 yards per game and 12 rushing scores.
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24. Darren Sproles, New Orleans Saints
Sproles is a lot like Michael Turner when it comes to pure numbers. Neither get a ton of yards, and their fantasy value is tied to their ability to get in the end zone. Sproles has three scores in the past two weeks and will likely get his chance against the Cowboys.
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25. Shonn Greene, New York Jets
Greene is not a sexy pick, but he’s steady. He’s a low-end RB2 or a solid flex play against the San Diego Chargers.
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Also check out:


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With an exciting 14th week under our belts, here are the LestersLegends 2012 Week 15 fantasy football running back rankings.
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1. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
Adrian Peterson is on a tear. He’s averaging 157.3 yards over the past seven games. The St. Louis Rams have allowed a mediocre 110.3 rushing yards per game, but are one of four teams that have allowed 15 or more rushing touchdowns.
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2. Marshawn Lynch, Seattle Seahawks
Beast Mode was in full force as Lynch dropped 128 yards and three touchdowns on the Arizona Cardinals on just 11 carries. Next up is the Buffalo Bills, who have allowed 134.5 yards per game and a league-high 18 rushing scores.
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3. Arian Foster, Houston Texans
Foster should be in for a big day as the Indianapolis Colts have allowed 120.6 yards per game and a dozen rushing scores.
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 4. Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Martin continues to dominate. He is averaging 124 total yards per game with 11 touchdowns. The New Orleans Saints rank last in the NFL with 152.4 rushing yards allowed per game. In the first meeting Martin has 122 total yards and a score.
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5. Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs
Charles, like Peterson, is dominating despite inadequate quarterback play. He’s averaging 117.2 yards in his past five games. The Oakland Raiders have allowed 131.2 yards per game and 17 rushing scores.
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6. Trent Richardson, Cleveland Browns
T-Rich is averaging 93.6 total yards with 10 touchdowns in 13 games. The Washington Redskins are decent against the run, but Richardson is a dual.
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7. Alfred Morris, Washington Redskins
Morris is averaging 119.7 yards with two touchdowns in his last three games. He will likely be leaned on more heavily with Robert Griffin III likely out. The Browns have allowed 120.5 yards per game and 10 rushing scores.
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8. Ray Rice, Baltimore Ravens
Rice got a little banged up (hip), but managed to deliver his first 100-yard game since Week 5. I’m more concerned about his matchup with the Denver Broncos than his hip.
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9. Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
CJ has had two quiet games in a row, but one of them came against the Texans. He should rebound nicely against the New York Jets, who have allowed 136.5 yards per game and 13 rushing scores.
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10. C.J. Spiller, Buffalo Bills
Spiller will have the backfield to his own, but his matchup with Seattle tempers the expectations.
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11. David Wilson, New York Giants
With Ahmad Bradshaw out, Wilson gets his turn to shine. Atlanta ranks 22nd agaisnt the run with 127 yards per game allowed. They have also yielded 14 rushing scores.
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12. Darren McFadden, Oakland Raiders
Run DMC had 64 total yards and a touchdown on Thursday Night Football against the Broncos. Thankfully, he had extra time to rest because he tweaked his ankle (big shock). If he’s good to go, he should fare well against the Chiefs. They have allowed 131.2 yards per game and nine rushing scores.
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13. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Cincinnati Bengals
The Law Firm is averaging 120.1 total yards in his past four games. The Philadelphia Eagles have allowed 119.3 yards per game.
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14. Knowshon Moreno, Denver Broncos
Moreno is averaging 120.3 total yards in his three games since taking over the starting gig. The Ravens have allowed 129.3 yards per game and 12 rushing scores.
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15. Matt Forte, Chicago Bears
Forte was more effective in the passing game in the first meeting with the Green Bay Packers. He should have more success running this time, while still doing some damage through the air. The Packers have allowed 116.7 yards per game and 11 rushing scores.
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16. Stevan Ridley, New England Patriots
Ridley has a tough matchup against the 49ers, but Tom Brady and the passing game should open things up for him.
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17. Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers
The New England Patriots play the run well, but Gore has a good nose around the end zone. He can also do damage in the passing game.
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18. Mikel Leshoure, Detroit Lions
Leshoure was quiet against the Packers despite having conditions that were more suited for the ground game. He should have no trouble getting his footing and delivering against the Cardinals. They have allowed 140.5 yards per game and nine rushing touchdowns.
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19. Bryce Brown, Philadelphia Eagles
Brown took a backseat to Nick Foles last week because the Bucs are really good against the run and terrible against the pass. He’s worth considering because of what he did in Weeks 12 & 13, but there is obviously more risk associated with him against the Bengals after last week’s dud.
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20. Steven Jackson, St. Louis Rams
Jackson is averaging 108.4 total yards in his past five games. The Vikings will try to control the clock with Adrian Peterson, which could limit Jackson’s touches.
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21. DeMarco Murray, Dallas Cowboys
Murray has scored in both games since returning, but the Steelers will provide a stiff test. They are giving up just 93.2 yards per game.
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22. Shonn Greene, New York Jets
Green has been sharing the load with Bilal Powell, but there has been enough to feed both backs. The Titans have allowed 127 yards per game and 12 rushing scores.
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23. Reggie Bush, Miami Dolphins
Bush is quietly averaging 83 yards the past three games. The Jacksonville Jaguars have allowed 145.7 yards per game and a league-high 18 rushing scores.
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24. Darren Sproles, New Orleans Saints
Sproles scored on the ground and through the air. He had 59 total yards and a touchdown in the first meeting with Tampa Bay. He should be active in this one too.
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25. Ryan Mathews, San Diego Chargers
Mathews continues to get plenty of looks. He just hasn’t been very productive. That could change this week against the Carolina Panthers. They have allowed 121.6 yards per game and 11 rushing scores.
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Also check out:


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With an exciting 13th week under our belts, here are the LestersLegends 2012 Week 14 fantasy football running back rankings.
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1. Arian Foster, Houston Texans
Foster had a modest day (53 total yards) against the Tennessee Titans, but he scored yet again. Foster has 15 touchdowns through 12 games. The New England Patriots are solid against the run, but Foster so consistent.
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2. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
Peterson is averaging 181.8 total yards in his past four games. The Chicago Bears “held” him to 138 yards in Week 12. He’s not human.
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3. Trent Richardson, Cleveland Browns
T-Rich is averaging 124.2 total yards with three touchdowns in his past five games. The Kansas City Chiefs have allowed 129.3 at 4.7 yards per carry.
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4. Marshawn Lynch, Seattle Seahawks
Lynch is averaging 110.4 total yards with four touchdowns in his past five games. The Arizona Cardinals have allowed 128.6 yards per game.
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5. Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Martin is averaging 123.4 total yards with 10 touchdowns in 12 games. He’s a ball of awesomeness. This week he faces the lifeless Philadelphia Eagles.
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6. Ray Rice, Baltimore Ravens
Rice was held to 83 total yards by the Pittsburgh Steelers, but he managed to score a touchdown. He should have continued success against the Washington Redskins.
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7. Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs
Charles is averaging 115.8 total yards in his past four games. The Browns are giving up 115.6 rushing yards per game.
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8. Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
Johnson has averaged 120 total yards in his past nine games. He had 117 total yards in his first meeting with the Indianapolis Colts. Indy has allowed 122.6 yards per game and 12 rushing scores.
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9. C.J. Spiller, Buffalo Bills
Spiller continues to do serious damage with just about 15 touches per game. He’s averaging 112.1 total yards in his past four games. This week he faces the Rams. They have allowed 114.4 yards per game and 15 rushing scores.
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10. Bryce Brown, Philadelphia Eagles
If LeSean McCoy can go this week, it will shakes things up. Brown is averaging 186 total yards and a pair of touchdowns in tow starts. This week will be tougher against Tampa’s league-best run defense (82.3 yards per game).
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11. Ahmad Bradshaw, New York Giants
Bradshaw is a solid option against the league’s worst run defense. The New Orleans Saints have allowed 153.8 yards per game and 11 rushing scores.
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12. Stevan Ridley, New England Patriots
Ridley has a tough matchup against Houston, but Tom Brady and company will keep them honest. Ridley is averaging 84.2 yards and a touchdown in his past five games.
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13. Knowshon Moreno, Denver Broncos
Moreno had a more modest game (83 total yards) against the Bucs, which was expected as they have the league’s top run defense. This week he gets the Oakland Raiders. They have allowed 130.4 yards per game and 16 rushing scores.
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14. Matt Forte, Chicago Bears
Forte had 96 total yards and a touchdown on a ankle that wasn’t 100 percent. The Vikings have allowed 115.1 yards per game and 10 rushing scores.
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15. Alfred Morris, Washington Redskins
Morris has been a steady option all year. He faces the Ravens, who have allowed 125.8 yards per game and 11 rushing scores.
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16. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Cincinnati Bengals
The Law Firm has strung together three straight 100-yard games. The Dallas Cowboys have allowed 116.5 yards per game and 11 rushing scores.
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17. Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers
Gore is averaging 88 total yards and 0.5 touchdowns in his past four games. The Miami Dolphins are stout against the run, but Gore averages 107 total yards per game at home.
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18. Mikel LeShoure, Detroit Lions
LeShoure has scored in three straight games. The Green Bay Packers have allowed 115.2 yards per game and 10 rushing scores.
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19. Steven Jackson, St. Louis Rams
Jackson has averaged 117.3 total yards in his past four games. He’s a solid RB2 option against the Bills. They have allowed 139.2 yards per game and a league-high 17 rushing scores.
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20. DeMarco Murray, Dallas Cowboys
Murray came back with a bang, record 102 total yards and a touchdown against the Eagles. Expect the Bengals to put up more of a fight.
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21. Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons
Turner has now scored in three straight games. With seven touchdowns on the year, it’s possible that he could record his fifth straight double-digit touchdown season. He’s facing the Carolina Panthers, who have allowed 128.8 yards per game and 10 rushing scores. Turner had 178 total yards and a touchdown against them in Week 4.
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22. Shonn Greene, New York Jets
Greene has not scored in five weeks, but he has averaged 83.4 total yards during that span. He takes on the Jacksonville Jaguars, who have allowed 144.0 yards per game and 16 rushing scores.
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23. Vick Ballard, Indianapolis Colts
Ballard gets the benefit of playing without Donald Brown. Locking horns with the Titans, who rank 27th in run defense (129.4) also helps. Tennessee has allowed 11 rushing scores.
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24. Jonathan Dwyer, Pittsburgh Steelers
Dwyer struggled against the Ravens with 49 yards on 16 carries (3.1 yards per carry), but he was able to get in the end zone. The San Diego Chargers present a tough matchup, especially if Ben Roethlisberger can’t go again.
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25.Ryan Mathews, San Diego Chargers
Mathews has yet to be spectacular this year. He has been pretty steady though. The Steelers present a tough test.
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26. DeAngelo Williams, Carolina Panthers
D-Will will likely carry the full load once again. Atlanta has allowed 121.3 yards per game and 13 rushing scores.
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Also check out:


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With an exciting 12th week under our belts, here are the LestersLegends 2012 Week 13 fantasy football running back rankings.
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1. Arian Foster, Houston Texans
Foster got back on track with two touchdowns and 117 total yards on Thanksgiving. This week he gets the Tennessee Titans. They have allowed 129.8 rushing yards per game and 10 touchdowns.
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2. Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
Peterson continues to shine despite inadequate quarterback play. He had 138 total yards against the Chicago Bears. The Green Bay Packers have allowed 103.8 yards per game and nine rushing scores.
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3. Trent Richardson, Cleveland Browns
T-Rich had 112 total yards and a touchdown against the stingy Pittsburgh Steelers. He should have a field day against the Oakland Raiders. They have allowed 131.2 yards per game and 15 rushing scores.
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4. Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Martin has a tough matchup against the Denver Broncos. Still, he is averaging 158.5 total yards with nine touchdowns in his past six games.
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5. Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs
Charles is averaging 108.3 yards in his past three games against three tough defenses (Steelers, Cincinnati Bengals, Broncos). I like his chances against the mediocre Carolina Panthers.
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6. C.J. Spiller, Buffalo Bills
Spiller had just 14 carries, but managed 107 yards against the Indianapolis Colts. He should be a monster against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jags have allowed 136 yards per game and 14 rushing scores.
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7. Ray Rice, Baltimore Ravens
Rice is averaging 108.9 total yards. He had 93 total yards in the first meeting with Pittsburgh. This time he gets to play them at home, where he has scored six of his seven touchdowns.
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8. Chris Johnson, Tennessee Titans
CJ has averaged 137.2 total yards with four touchdowns in the past six games. He could have tough sledding against the Texans, although he did run for 141 yards in the first meeting.
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9. Marshawn Lynch, Seattle Seahawks
Beast Mode was held in check by the Miami Dolphins. He had another tough matchup against the Chicago Bears. He’s a power runner like Peterson so I still expect a solid outing.
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10. Alfred Morris, Washington Redskins
Morris continued his solid season with 113 yards and a touchdown on Thanksgiving. The New York Giants have allowed 114 yards per game, including 120 to Morris in the first meeting.
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11. Ahmad Bradshaw, New York Giants
Bradshaw gets a boost with Andre Brown on the shelf with a broken leg. He should be active on the ground and in the passing game against the Redskins.
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12. Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers
Gore continues to provide steady fantasy numbers. He’s averaging 97.4 total yards per game with six touchdowns. He takes on the St. Louis Rams. They have allowed 111.4 yards per game with 14 rushing scores.
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13. Bryce Brown, Philadelphia Eagles
It looks like LeSean McCoy will miss this one so Brown is a borderline RB1 against Dallas. If you watched him on Monday Night Football, you know he has some upside.
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14. Stevan Ridley, New England Patriots
Ridley has scored in the past four games while averaging 87.5 yards. The Dolphins are tough against the run, but it will be hard to key in against Ridley with Tom Brady at the helm.
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15. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Cincinnati Bengals
The Law Firm is averaging 89.3 total yards with three touchdowns in his past four games. He is unlikely to crack the 100-yard mark for the third straight week, but he should be solid against the San Diego Chargers.
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16. Ryan Mathews, San Diego Chargers
Mathews continues to be held out of the end zone, but is averaging 90.3 total yards per game. The Bengals have allowed 116.1 yards per game and 10 rushing scores.
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17. Beanie Wells, Arizona Cardinals
Beanie scored two touchdowns in his return. He gets a solid matchup in his second game back. The New York Jets have allowed 142.8 yards and 12 rushing scores.
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18. Knowshon Moreno, Denver Broncos
Moreno was the surprising winner in the Willis McGahee injury sweepstakes, compiling 111 total yards. Tampa Bay has the league’s stingiest run defense, allowing just 81.5 yards per game. They have allowed nine rushing touchdowns, and Peyton Manning should open things up for Moreno.
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19. Matt Forte, Chicago Bears
It looks like Forte will suit up against Seattle. They have a fierce defense and Michael Bush is a capable partner in crime, which could limit Forte’s touches. Not to mention he’ll get the work at the goal line.
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20. Rashad Jennings, Jacksonville Jaguars
I don’t expect Maurice Jones-Drew to be ready to return. Jennings is back in the mix against Buffalo. The Bills have allowed 147.3 yards and a league-high 16 rushing scores.
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21. Felix Jones, Dallas Cowboys
I am not expecting DeMarco Murray to play this week. Jones has scored a touchdown the past three weeks. If he gets the start, he should produce against the lifeless Eagles.
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22. Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons
Turner was stuffed in the first meeting against the New Orleans Saints. This time he gets them at home. Turner has scored in three of his past four games. The Saints have allowed 156.5 yards and 10 rushing scores.
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23. Reggie Bush, Miami Dolphins
Bush rebounded with 87 yards and a touchdown against the Seahawks. Daniel Thomas continues to play a prominent role, limiting Bush’s value against the Patriots.
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24. Shonn Greene, New York Jets
Greene is averaging 93.7 total yards the past six games. The Arizona Cardinals have allowed 124.2 yards per game.
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25. Jonathan Dwyer, Pittsburgh Steelers
Dwyer gets the latest crack at the starting gig in the revolving door that is the Steelers’ running back scene. He’s a solid option against a Baltimore team allowing 128.5 rushing yards per game.
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26. Steven Jackson, St. Louis Rams
S-Jax ripped the Niners for 127 total yards and a touchdown in the first meeting. I expect they will do a better job bottling him up in this one.
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27. DeAngelo Williams, Carolina Panthers
It looks like Jonathan Stewart (ankle) will be out of action. D-Will should be a solid option against Kansas City. They Chiefs are yielding 126.1 rushing yards per game.
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28. Darren McFadden, Oakland Raiders
It appears that Run DMC will make his return. I would expect Marcel Reece to maintain plenty of involvement, particularly on passing downs. The Browns have allowed 118.4 yards and nine rushing scores. McFadden is a high risk play.
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29. Mikel LeShoure, Detroit Lions
LeShoure has scored in back-to-back weeks and has five touchdowns in his past four games. The Colts have allowed 121.2 yards per game with 11 rushing scores. He is an injury concern. If he checks out, he could move up the ranks.
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30. Darren Sproles, New Orleans Saints
I don’t expect Sproles to be active in the running game, but he should be busy catching the football. I get the feeling he’ll find a way to score in this one.
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31. Vick Ballard, Indianapolis Colts
Ballard has a decent matchup against the Detroit, but he’s sharing the load with Donald Brown. The Lions are giving up 122.4 yards per game.
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32. Michael Bush, Chicago Bears
It looks like Forte will play against Seattle, but I expect Bush to be involved. He has five touchdowns in the four games he has had at least 12 carries.
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