I don't know how it happened honestly. From Week eight and on, Denver Broncos running back C.J. Anderson was fantasy football's highest-scoring ball-carrier in 2014. In that eight game stretch, he racked up 767 rushing yards on 162 carries (4.7 YPC) and eight rushing touchdowns. He also added 30 receptions for 290 yards and two additional scores. He looked the real deal.
But six games into this season and Anderson, who was once touted as a potential No. 1 overall pick in fantasy, is looking like the biggest bust of the year. No, Denver's unhealthy offensive line hasn't helped his cause and neither has Peyton Manning's struggles. But a mere 180 rushing yards, an abysmal 2.7 YPC and not a single score is inexcusable for a first-round pick. He's been the fantasy equivalent to the real life JaMarcus Russell pick.
So going forward, should fantasy owners stick with Anderson or take a leap of faith with backup Ronnie Hillman? ESPN Fantasy Football Insider Eric Karabell thinks you should go with the latter.
"I still don't understand why people like C.J. Anderson over Ronnie Hillman," Karabell wrote. "Last year is long over. Not saying Hillman is great, but he rushed for 111 yards Sunday. Anderson rushed for 41. Hillman's the one to own, though he's more RB3/flex than reliable starter."
Overall, Hillman has carried the ball 66 times for 323 yards (4.9 YPC) and two scores. While he's also been stifled at times due to Denver's poor run blocking, he does have two 100-plus yard games in his last three outings and has clearly been the more effective back in the Broncos backfield. He also posted two 100-plus yard rushing efforts last season and was a decent option in the passing game before getting injured and giving way to Anderson.
Like Karabell said, he's far from a sure thing. But he's likely the best option Denver has which means Anderson owners should make the switch now while they still can.
