Nov 13, 2022; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins running back Jeff Wilson Jr. (23) runs with the football for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Browns at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
NFL: Cleveland Browns at Miami Dolphins
MUST STARTS
Jeff Wilson: If you need reasoning, you need to get checked! With Raheem Mostert doubtful, Wilson profiles as the featured back vs. the worst rush defense in the NFL.
Rachaad White: Leonard Fournette is doubtful, which means the Rachaad White breakout game is upon us. The only team with a worse rush defense than the Texans are the Browns. White is an easy plug-and-play.
Isiah Pachecho: The 7th-round-rookie is fresh off an 18 touch, 107 yard, 7.1 yard per carry game, and he’s just 15% started. Clyde Edwards-Helaire (ankle) was placed on injured reserve and Jerick McKinnon’s season high for carries in a game is eight. Expect Pacheco for the second consecutive week to be utilized as the featured back and that’s enough for me to EASILY start him.
RISKY STARTS
David Montgomery: Hopefully this one doesn’t come back to haunt me. With Justin Fields status in question, it’s likely Trevor Siemian getting the start on Sunday. Montgomery figures to see a ton of work, but with a low expected team total, possible negative game script, and a elite Jets defense, I have concerns.
Samaje Perine: With Joe Mixon (concussion) out, Perine profiles as the featured back for the Bengals in Week 12. The pass catching specialist thrived last week in Mixon’s absence, catching three TD passes en route to the RB2 finish. On tap for Week 12? A matchup with the #4 rush defense in the NFL. The Titans haven’t allowed a RB to surpass 65 rush yards since Week 3! I’m not banking on Samaje Perine breaking that trend. He’s a fringe start this week.
Latavius Murray: With Melvin Gordon gone and Chase Edmonds on the IR, Latavius Murray slides into a nearly ever down role. One would think that means to plug-and-play the 32-year-old. Hold the phone though. Among 69 running backs with at least 25 carries, Murray ranks 67th in yards after contact per attempt and 50th in PFF’s elusive rating. Murray has zero breakaway runs with his 74 carries. Volume will keep Murray in the RB2 conversation but with a low O/U, there are better options this week.
