As the final week of the NFL regular season approaches, two backup running backs are vying for the spotlight: Blake Corum of the Los Angeles Rams and Jaydon Blue of the Dallas Cowboys. Both players have the potential to emerge as their team’s featured back, making them key considerations for fantasy football lineups this week.
Jaydon Blue, a rookie out of Texas, has found himself unexpectedly thrust into the starting role for the Cowboys following injuries to both RB1 Javonte Williams and RB2 Malik Davis, who have both been placed on injured reserve ahead of the Cowboys’ matchup against the New York Giants. With only 22 carries throughout the season, Blue will face a Giants defense that has struggled significantly against the run, currently ranking among the league’s worst. They permit the second-most rushing yards per game and have allowed opposing running backs to accumulate 85 or more scrimmage yards in four of their last five games. Moreover, three of those running backs managed to score, highlighting the Giants’ vulnerability and making Blue a potentially valuable asset for fantasy teams.
On the other hand, Blake Corum has been a promising player for the Rams, despite not yet starting a game. His potential was evident in previous performances, including a four-game touchdown streak before he sustained an ankle injury last week against the Atlanta Falcons. Following that game, his status for the upcoming contest against the Arizona Cardinals remains uncertain, as Kyren Williams is also listed as questionable. If Corum returns, he faces a Cardinals defense that ranks eighth for most rushing yards allowed per game. Historically, the Cardinals have struggled against running backs, allowing over 110 scrimmage yards in their last three games, which could bode well for whoever takes the field from Los Angeles.
In terms of fantasy football recommendations for week 18, the current consensus leans toward starting Jaydon Blue while advising to sit Blake Corum. The decision primarily hinges on Corum’s recovery from injury, which could significantly limit his effectiveness and carry total. Given Blue’s favorable matchup, this game represents a critical opportunity for the Cowboys to assess his potential moving forward.
As the season draws to a close, the emergence of players like Blue could inject fresh energy into fantasy lineups and show promise for future seasons. With pivotal matchups ahead, both players illustrate the unpredictable nature of the NFL and the opportunities that arise even in the final week.