RB’s that get TD’s

MCT

San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews (24) rus through the Kansas City Chiefs defensive line in the first quarter at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California, Sunday, Sept. 25, 2011. The Chargers defeated the Chiefs, 20-17.

Start – Ryan Mathews, RB, Chargers

Mathews has broken the 100-yard mark in consecutive weeks and has finally found himself in a groove. Given Mathews’ consistency and his ability to show he can hang onto the pigskin, the Chargers will continue to feed him the rock. San Diego will need to rely on Mathews down the stretch to complement its passing game, meaning he will continue receiving a consistent workload.

Sit – Trent Richardson, RB, Colts

The fan from the ESPN fantasy football commercials wanting Richardson is probably the only one left thinking T-Rich has something to offer. Richardson was supposed to be a No. 1 fantasy back, but 3.14 yards per carry (YPC) and only two touchdowns does not justify that notion. Until his YPC improves or he sees more touches on the goal line, keep him on the bench.

Start – Andre Ellington, RB, Cardinals

Rashard Mendenhall was supposed to be the big addition to the Cardinals backfield this offseason, but Ellington, a sixth round pick from Clemson, has stolen the spotlight. With an ability to scamper for chunks of yardage, catch a number of balls out of the backfield, and find his way into the end zone, Ellington has Darren Sproles-like value to fantasy owners

Sit – Bilal Powell, RB, Jets

After a surprisingly fast start for Powell, it turns out his production is not sustainable over the course of a season. With the emergence of smash-mouth ex-Cougar Chris Ivory, there just has not been enough carries to go around for Powell. As long as Ivory continues to be the featured back, Powell is irrelevant.

Start – Mike Tolbert, RB, Panthers

The Panthers backup running back has a nose for the end zone, finding pay-dirt five times over the past five weeks. Whether it’s on the ground or through the air, Tolbert is an end zone threat every week. The yardage Tolbert adds in addition to the touchdowns is just the cherry on top. He is also as sure-handed as they come, meaning fantasy owners will not lose points from fumbles.