New York Giants running back Shane Vereen had his best game of the season against the San Francisco 49ers, and it looks like he is due for another productive week against the Philadelphia Eagles this upcoming Monday.
While Vereen may seem like a risky play, he is actually a great running back to play in flex position or even your second back spot. In point per reception (PPR) leagues, Vereen brings an added bonus value. This past Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers, Vereen rushed for 24 yards on five carries, but the real value came on eight receptions for 86 yards and a touchdown.
The Giants play the Eagles, who are coming off a big win 39-17 over the New Orleans Saints. The Eagles offense was clicking Sunday, and if they continue to put up points, the Giants will likely have to throw the ball to keep pace. Philadelphia has the 26th worst pass defense in the league, and quarterback Eli Manning will likely look to dump the ball off to Vereen multiple times throughout this game. "So we're just looking forward to continuing to utilize his talent and his ability, along with the other players that we have offensively," said head coach Tom Coughlin, via the New York Daily News.
Both of the Giants' top two receivers in Odell Beckham Jr. and Rueben Randle injured their hamstrings against the 49ers Sunday night. If either one of them can't go, it likely moves Vereen's number of targets up, as Manning will likely rely on the fifth year running back.
While Vereen is not a typical running back that will get you points on the ground, he has proven to be effective in the passing game. Eli Manning was named the NFC offensive player of the week after leading the Giants down the field for a game-winning touchdown. If either Beckham or Randle can't play against Philadelphia, and you are in a PPR league, you should heavily think about plugging Vereen in.
