1. Adrian Peterson (MIN) – Even with a tweaked hamstring Peterson managed to total 101 yards and 2 TD’s against the Titans who possess one of the best defenses in the league. Peterson is not listed on the Vikings injury report as of Wednesday so the hamstring should not play a factor in his week 5 match up against the Saints. Only two teams are allowing more yards per carry than the Saints (5.2) this season, so we expect Peterson to have a very successful fantasy day.2. LaDainian Tomlinson (SD) – He is slowly but surely returning to form and now has 4 TD’s in his last two games. Tomlinson should continue his resurgence in week 5 against an overachieving Miami run defense that has yet to face a RB of Tomlinson’s talents. The toe injury that has hampered him is on the mend and he should only continue to get better barring any setbacks.
3. Marion Barber (DAL) – We knew Barber was risky for week 4 based on his history against Washington, but the coaches really sealed his fate by only giving him 8 carries. We are pretty sure they realized the mistake, and you will see Barber early and often in week 5 against the Bengals. The Cincinnati run defense is allowing 164 rushing yards per game, so Barber should have a field day. He is a must start and expectations are high.
4. Joseph Addai (IND) – He certainly hasn’t done much in the yardage category this season and when you look at his match ups through the first 3 weeks it is easy to see why, but he has been able to get things going near the goal line. Addai should get going in all facets of the game in week 5 against Houston. In 3 games, the Texans defense has allowed a league tying worst 7 rushing TD’s and they are allowing a hefty 160 rushing yards per game. In addition, Addai ran for 3 TD’s in 2 games against them last season. He should have his best all around game to date coming into a great match up fresh off of a bye week.
5. Matt Forte (CHI) – Forte only had 43 rushing yards in week 4, but what did you expect against the Eagles? The good news is that he continued to be productive in the Bears passing game which bodes well for his versatility. The great news is that he will face Detroit this week who lays claim to the NFL’s worst run defense. The average game so far for the Lions run defense: 208 yards rushing and 2 TD’s allowed per game. While not likely, Forte is capable of keeping the Lions on their average heading into week 6. He makes for a great start as a RB1 for week 5.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE ENTIRE TOP 40+ RUNNING BACK RANKINGS FOR WEEK 5.
