ClutchPoints
Week 5 brings the beginning of the dreaded bye week stretch, with fantasy managers already having to navigate roster holes left by the Falcons, Bears, Packers, and Steelers. This week demands deeper thinking beyond the obvious RB1 studs, as savvy managers will need to identify the lesser-known options that can provide surprising production or avoid potential landmines that could sink their lineups.
The running back landscape has been reshaped by recent injuries and shifting backfield dynamics, creating both opportunities and pitfalls. With key players like Bijan Robinson, Josh Jacobs, and Jaylen Warren on bye, plus season-ending injuries to James Conner and Najee Harris, the waiver wire has become more crucial than ever for finding viable starting options.
Woody Marks, HOU (at BAL)
The Texans backfield has officially shifted, with Marks surpassing Nick Chubb in both usage and effectiveness. In Week 4, Marks commanded 21 touches compared to Chubb’s 15, accumulating 119 total yards and two touchdowns for 25.9 fantasy points. His 4.1 yards per carry significantly outpaced Chubb’s 3.6, while Marks also dominated the passing game with four catches for 50 yards and a touchdown.
The matchup against Baltimore couldn’t be more favorable, as the Ravens defense has allowed the most fantasy points per game to running backs while missing key defenders Nnamdi Madubuike (neck) and Roquan Smith (hamstring). With Joe Mixon still sidelined, Marks appears to have seized the RB1 role permanently and should be prioritized in all formats.
Trey Benson, ARI (vs. TEN)
With James Conner out for the remainder of the season, Benson has inherited a golden opportunity against the league’s most generous run defense. The Titans have surrendered the most rushing touchdowns to running backs this season, making Benson an excellent play despite his limited sample size.
In Week 4, Benson handled eight of the Cardinals’ 11 carries against Seattle and figures to see an expanded workload moving forward. Arizona enters as 9.5-point home favorites against a Tennessee team that was shut out in Week 4 and ranks dead last in scoring at 12.8 points per game. The game script heavily favors sustained ground attack from the Cardinals.
Cam Skattebo, NYG (at NO)
Skattebo has emerged as a legitimate fantasy asset with Tyrone Tracy dealing with a shoulder injury. Over his last two games, the rookie has accumulated 38 fantasy points and demonstrated remarkable efficiency in his expanded role. His dual-threat ability makes him particularly valuable, as he recorded 10 carries for 54 yards and a rushing touchdown in his NFL debut while also contributing in the passing game.
The Saints defense has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points per game to quarterbacks, suggesting they struggle with mobile offensive players. With rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart making his second NFL start, the Giants will likely lean heavily on Skattebo to control the game’s tempo.
Jordan Mason, MIN (vs. CLE)
Despite his impressive Week 3 breakout against Cincinnati, Mason...
