Week 5 is the kind of stretch where running backs make or break fantasy matchups. Injuries and weak run defenses combine to open doors for fantasy managers to make a move. Here’s who you lean into and who you fade at RB this week.
Start ’Em Running Backs
Alvin Kamara (Saints vs. Giants)
The Giants have allowed the fourth-most rushing yards to RBs and the second-most rushing TDs this season (6.0 YPC allowed), making them a great matchup. Kamara’s split work hasn’t been ideal, but in this matchup he’s still a high-floor RB2 this week.
David Montgomery (Lions @ Bengals)
Montgomery’s usage has dipped in recent weeks, but he remains tied for fifth in goal-line carries among all RBs. It should give him extra upside in touchdown scenarios. Against a Bengals defense that struggles vs. the run, he’s a safe bet for solid value.
Cam Skattebo (Giants @ Saints)
Skattebo’s quietly been productive: he’s scored double-digit fantasy points in three straight weeks. Since Week 2, he’s ranked third in red-zone carries among backs. The matchup against New Orleans’ defenses, which have surrendered multiple big games to RBs, gives him legit flex or borderline RB2 status.
Woody Marks (Texans @ Ravens)
This one is a clear breakout. Marks handled 21 touches for 119 yards and 2 TDs in Week 4 and is still available in many leagues. Baltimore has been surprisingly soft against backs, making mark a must-grab start.
Sit ’Em Running Backs
Chase Brown (Bengals vs. Lions)
His volume is dicey, and he’s often inefficient when touches come. Against the Lions’ defense, which can sell out to stop inside runs, Brown’s bubble status is at risk.
Isiah Pacheco (Chiefs @ Jaguars)
Despite flashes last week, his usage dropped with the committee look. Jacksonville’s been stingy against the run as only two backs all season have cleared 10 fantasy points vs. them.
Zach Charbonnet (Seahawks vs. Buccaneers)
Charbonnet’s role is too volatile to bank on, especially when Tampa has allowed just 2.9 YPC to RBs and only two rushing TDs this year. That matchup kills his floor.
Waiver Wire Watch
Woody Marks
If you haven’t added him already, he’s a priority pick. His usage and matchup make him more than a flash in the pan.
Kendre Miller
Miller continues splitting work in New Orleans and flashed as a midweek add. He’s currently rostered in only a few leagues and could emerge if Kamara sits or splinters more duties.
Justice Hill
Coming off a 117-yard total effort, Hill is trending upward in Baltimore’s backfield. With the Ravens’ injury issues, he’s worth a speculative add.
Final Take
This week, owners should ride on the matchups that are the most favorable for their lineups. Ride Kamara and Marks. Fade Brown and Charbonnet unless desperation demands otherwise. Dive into the wire for Miller, Hill, and others because this RB carousel turns fast.
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