Week 15 of the 2024 NFL season marks a pivotal moment for fantasy football players, as playoff battles intensify in many leagues. The previous week featured the second “Byemaggedon,” with six teams on bye, sidelining key players from teams like the Ravens, Broncos, and Texans. Now, with the postseason or a final push for playoff positioning on the line, critical lineup decisions must be made. For those grappling with running back choices, here’s a detailed guide on who to start and sit in Week 15.
Start ‘Em: Week 15 Running Backs
Brian Robinson Jr. (Washington Commanders at New Orleans Saints)
Fresh off a bye, Robinson Jr. is primed for success. His 109 total yards and a touchdown against Tennessee in Week 14 showcased his potential. Facing a Saints defense that’s allowed 135 total yards per game and four touchdowns in their last four games, Robinson Jr. is set for another strong performance, especially with Austin Ekeler potentially sidelined.
Aaron Jones (Minnesota Vikings vs. Chicago Bears)
Jones defied expectations with 84 total yards and a touchdown last week against Atlanta. This week, he faces a Bears defense that has struggled mightily, allowing 176 total yards per game and five touchdowns to running backs over the past month. Jones’ consistent involvement in the Vikings’ offense makes him a must-start.
Chuba Hubbard (Carolina Panthers vs. Dallas Cowboys)
Hubbard continues to thrive, as evidenced by his 107 total yards and a touchdown against Philadelphia in Week 14. This week, he faces Dallas’ 30th-ranked run defense, providing an excellent opportunity for another stellar performance.
David Montgomery (Detroit Lions vs. Buffalo Bills)
Montgomery’s recent form is unmatched, with five touchdowns and an average of 108 total yards over five games. Buffalo’s defense has struggled against running backs, making Montgomery a safe and productive option.
Braelon Allen (New York Jets at Jacksonville Jaguars)
Should Breece Hall remain out, Allen becomes a viable FLEX option. He racked up 81 total yards last week and now faces a Jaguars defense allowing 170 total yards and four touchdowns to running backs over the last four games.
Sit ‘Em: Week 15 Running Backs
Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers at Philadelphia Eagles)
Harris faces a tough road matchup against the Eagles’ formidable defense, which has allowed only two touchdowns to running backs in the past three games. His ceiling appears limited this week.
Bucky Irving (Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Los Angeles Chargers)
Irving, nursing a back injury, faces a strong Chargers defense. Even if healthy, his output is likely to be limited against this top-tier unit.
De’Von Achane (Miami Dolphins at Houston Texans)
Achane’s value lies in his receiving ability, but Houston’s stout pass defense and their recent success against running backs suggest a challenging outing.
Tyrone Tracy Jr. (New York Giants vs. Baltimore Ravens)
While Tracy Jr. has found the end zone frequently, the Ravens’ defense, allowing just 3.5 yards per carry, is a formidable challenge.
Isiah Pacheco (Kansas City Chiefs at Cleveland Browns)
Pacheco faces a Browns defense that excels at home, limiting running backs to 102.2 rushing yards per game. It’s not the week to rely on him.
