
Fantasy football is a game of strategy, luck, and sometimes, sheer frustration. One of the most debated topics among fantasy managers is how many running backs (RBs) to roster on their team. The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on various factors such as league size, scoring format, and personal strategy. However, one thing is certain: running backs are the backbone of any successful fantasy team. They are often the highest-scoring players, but they are also the most injury-prone and unpredictable. This article will explore the different perspectives on how many running backs you should have on your fantasy team, and why they seem to vanish just when you need them the most.
The Case for Loading Up on Running Backs
1. Running Backs are the Most Valuable Position in Fantasy Football
- In most fantasy leagues, running backs score the most points. They are involved in both rushing and receiving, making them dual-threat players who can contribute in multiple ways.
- The scarcity of elite running backs makes them even more valuable. There are only a handful of true workhorse backs who can consistently put up big numbers, so securing one or two of them can give you a significant advantage over your opponents.
2. Injury Risk and Bye Weeks
- Running backs are more prone to injuries than any other position due to the physical nature of their role. Having a deep bench of running backs can help you weather the storm when one of your starters goes down.
- Bye weeks are another factor to consider. If you only have two or three running backs, you could find yourself in a tough spot when one of them is on a bye. Having four or five running backs ensures that you always have a viable option to plug into your lineup.
3. Trade Bait
- Running backs are the most sought-after players in fantasy football. If you have a surplus of quality running backs, you can use them as trade bait to upgrade other positions on your team. For example, you could trade a mid-tier running back for a top-tier wide receiver or tight end.
The Case for a Balanced Approach
1. Opportunity Cost
- While running backs are valuable, they are not the only position that matters. Wide receivers, tight ends, and even quarterbacks can make or break your fantasy season. If you load up on running backs, you may be sacrificing depth at other positions.
- In PPR (points per reception) leagues, wide receivers can be just as valuable as running backs. If you focus too much on running backs, you could miss out on elite wide receivers who can consistently put up big numbers.
2. Flexibility in Lineup Construction
- Having a balanced roster allows you to be more flexible with your lineup. For example, if you have a strong group of wide receivers, you can use your flex spot to start an extra receiver instead of a running back. This can be especially useful in weeks when your running backs have tough matchups or are on a bye.
3. Handcuffing vs. Depth
- Some fantasy managers prefer to “handcuff” their star running backs by rostering their backups. While this can be a smart strategy, it also limits your overall depth. If you handcuff two or three running backs, you may not have enough roster spots to add depth at other positions.
The Case for a Minimalist Approach
1. Focus on Elite Talent
- Some fantasy managers believe in going all-in on elite talent at the running back position. Instead of rostering four or five running backs, they prefer to have two or three studs and fill out the rest of their roster with high-upside players at other positions.
- The idea is that if you have two or three elite running backs, you don’t need as much depth at the position. You can focus on maximizing the points from your starters and use your bench spots to stash high-upside players who could break out later in the season.
2. Streaming Running Backs
- Streaming is a strategy where you rotate players in and out of your lineup based on matchups. Some fantasy managers prefer to stream running backs, especially in deeper leagues where quality options are scarce.
- The idea is to identify running backs who have favorable matchups each week and plug them into your lineup. This strategy requires a lot of research and flexibility, but it can be effective if done correctly.
3. Prioritizing Other Positions
- In some cases, it may make sense to prioritize other positions over running backs. For example, if you play in a superflex league where you can start two quarterbacks, you may want to focus on securing elite quarterbacks before worrying about running backs.
- Similarly, if you play in a league that heavily favors wide receivers, you may want to load up on pass-catchers and take a more minimalist approach to running backs.
The Mystery of the Disappearing Running Back
One of the most frustrating aspects of fantasy football is the phenomenon of the “disappearing running back.” You draft a player in the early rounds, expecting him to be a cornerstone of your team, only to see him underperform or get injured. This can leave you scrambling to find a replacement, often with limited options on the waiver wire.
1. Injuries
- As mentioned earlier, running backs are more prone to injuries than any other position. A single hit can sideline a player for weeks, leaving you without a key contributor. This is why depth at the running back position is so important.
2. Game Script
- The flow of a football game can greatly impact a running back’s production. If a team falls behind early, they may abandon the run and focus on passing the ball. This can leave your running back with fewer carries and fewer opportunities to score points.
3. Coaching Decisions
- Sometimes, a running back’s production is out of his control. Coaches may decide to rotate backs, limit a player’s workload, or even bench him for disciplinary reasons. This can be frustrating for fantasy managers who are counting on a player to produce.
4. Matchups
- Even the best running backs can struggle against tough defenses. If your running back is facing a top-ranked run defense, he may not be able to put up the numbers you need. This is why it’s important to consider matchups when setting your lineup.
Conclusion
So, how many running backs should you have on your fantasy team? The answer depends on your league settings, your draft strategy, and your personal preferences. Some managers prefer to load up on running backs, while others take a more balanced or minimalist approach. Regardless of your strategy, it’s important to be prepared for the inevitable challenges that come with the position, such as injuries, bye weeks, and unpredictable production.
Ultimately, the key to success in fantasy football is flexibility. Be willing to adapt your strategy based on the flow of the season, and don’t be afraid to make bold moves if it gives you a better chance to win. And remember, no matter how many running backs you have on your team, there’s always a chance they’ll disappear when you need them the most.
Related Q&A
Q: Should I prioritize running backs in the early rounds of my draft? A: Yes, running backs are typically the most valuable players in fantasy football, so it’s a good idea to target them early in the draft. However, don’t be afraid to pivot if an elite wide receiver or quarterback falls to you.
Q: How many running backs should I start each week? A: Most leagues require you to start two running backs, with the option to start a third in the flex spot. The number of running backs you start each week will depend on your roster construction and matchups.
Q: What is a “handcuff” running back, and should I roster one? A: A handcuff is a backup running back who would take over as the starter if the primary back gets injured. Rostering a handcuff can be a smart strategy, especially if you have a star running back who is injury-prone.
Q: How do I decide which running backs to start each week? A: When deciding which running backs to start, consider factors such as matchups, recent performance, and workload. Use tools like expert rankings and projections to help guide your decisions.
Q: What should I do if my running back gets injured? A: If your running back gets injured, your first step should be to check the waiver wire for potential replacements. If no viable options are available, consider making a trade to acquire a replacement.