Sit’ Em
Sep 15, 2013; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller (28) gets tackled by Carolina Panthers defensive back Quintin Mikell (27) during the first quarter at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Justin: C.J. Spiller, RB, Buffalo Bills
“What?! C.J. Spiller?! The same C.J. Spiller as the consensus first-round draft pick?? I’m supposed to bench C.J. SPILLER!?”
If you just yelled that at your computer screen, then you’re probably a crazy person who yells at inanimate objects. But you’re probably not alone. If you have Spiller, you (most likely) invested a high draft pick on him, in which case you’re (most likely) kicking yourself for not taking Jamaal Charles or LeSean McCoy. But what’s done is done. I’m sitting Spiller until he earns back his starting spot. If that means missing a good game, then so be it.
Thus far, Fred Jackson has looked like the better runner. Although he is expected to play, Spiller is a little banged up. Players I consider better options that you might actually have on your team: Reggie Bush, Bilal Powell, Giovanni Bernard, Knowshon Moreno, Jason Snelling. It may sound crazy. Or it may be the move that wins you the week.
(To prove that I really believe what I’m saying, I’ll let you know that I am actually sitting C.J. Spiller in favor of Bilal Powell in one of my leagues.)
David: Every single Giants player @ Kansas City Chiefs
No one could have seen the polar opposite trajectories of these two teams coming into the season. Pundits expected the Chiefs to be better, but heck, they only won 2 games all of last year. The perennially competitive Giants are absolutely trending downward and have some analysts questioning when they will win their first game. Well, it certainly won’t be this week as the Chiefs defense leads the league in sacks and ranks fifth in passing yards allowed. The Giants have a dismal run game and will be forced to pass the ball often, playing right into the Chiefs’ hands.
If you have to start Victor Cruz, then go ahead, but be forewarned about every other player on this roster.
Matt: Giovani Bernard, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals take on the Cleveland Browns who rank eighth against the run this year. Last week, they held Adrian Peterson to 88 yards on 25 carries. The Browns defense is no slouch and I would advise against starting Bernard this week.