Fantasy football enthusiasts, brace yourselves! Week 10 is here, and the running back landscape has shifted dramatically. Just a week ago, Rico Dowdle was labeled a 'loser' due to questionable coaching decisions. Fast forward to now, and he's a top-tier RB6 in PPR projections after a stellar 28.1-point performance against the previously stingy Green Bay Packers. But here's where it gets controversial: Can Dowdle sustain this momentum against the Saints, or was Week 9 just a fluke? And this is the part most people miss: Kyle Monangai is hot on his heels, fresh off a 198-yard game against the Bengals. But with D'Andre Swift's potential return, will Monangai's rise be cut short, or is he the next Dowdle? Is Swift's comeback a threat or a mere speed bump for Monangai's breakout?
Let’s dive deeper. Dowdle’s recent dominance isn’t just luck—he’s averaged over 60% of snaps in three games, racking up 519 yards and four touchdowns. Even more impressive? He’s the first back to rush for 100 yards against the Packers this season. Meanwhile, Monangai’s performance against the Bengals wasn’t just a one-off; he now faces a Giants defense that’s been generous to opposing running backs. But here’s the twist: If Swift returns, will it be a 50/50 split, or will Monangai’s superiority force Ben Johnson’s hand, just as Dowdle did with Canales? Should you buy into Monangai’s hype, or is Swift’s return a red flag?
Now, let’s talk numbers. Alvin Kamara’s six rush attempts in each of the Saints’ last two games should have you benching him ASAP. Jacory Croskey-Merritt hasn’t topped 41 scrimmage yards since Week 6—proceed with caution. Jahmyr Gibbs’ season-low 12 touches in Week 9 might be a blip, but keep an eye on it. James Cook’s 77.1% rush share led the NFL in Week 9—a trend worth riding. Derrick Henry’s 6.0 yards per carry with Lamar Jackson is no coincidence—he’s a league-winner in the making. Trey Benson’s 41.2% avoid rate is concerning, but if he returns, he could be a game-changer. And Kyle Monangai’s 44.1% rate of runs over five yards? Only James Cook and Aaron Jones are better. But here’s the burning question: Are these stats sustainable, or are we overreacting to small sample sizes?
On the waiver wire, Devin Singletary emerges as the Giants’ go-to back, despite Tyrone Tracy’s hype. Emari Demercado could be a flex play if Benson sits, but his goal-line fumble is a red flag. And Kenneth Gainwell? If Saquon Barkley’s groin injury flares up, Gainwell could lead a committee with serious upside. Who’s your waiver wire priority this week, and why?
For DFS, Monangai is the top play if Swift sits, but Dowdle takes the crown if Swift returns. De’Von Achane, despite being an underdog, is a contrarian play with massive upside against the Bills’ weak run defense. Is Achane worth the risk, or are you sticking with the safer options?
As you navigate Week 10, remember: Fantasy football is as much about gut instinct as it is about stats. Who are you starting, and who’s riding the bench? Let’s debate in the comments! For my full projections, head over to SportsLine and see which players are poised to exceed expectations—or fall flat.
