It's week nine in the NFL, and it is past the half waypoint in most fantasy leagues. Last week saw a ton of significant injuries in the NFL, and many fantasy owners are in need of a great plug and play this week. Here are two running backs that can be plugged in this week and should produce big numbers.
Pittsburgh Steelers DeAngelo Williams - The Steelers lost their star running back Le'Veon Bell last week and placed him on injured reserve for the rest of the season. With Bell out, Williams looks to be a great plug and play for this week and even a running back that could be kept on your roster the rest of the season. If Williams is still available in your league, grab him quickly, as he is the hot commodity this week. The Steelers running back started the first two games of the season when Bell was suspended, and produced big numbers in both games. In two starts this season Williams rushed for 204 yards and three touchdowns. The Steelers face the Oakland Raiders this weekend, and although they have the second best rush defense in the league, Williams is a definite start. Williams is a great play at the second running back position and should produce good numbers for fantasy owners this weekend.
San Francisco 49ers Pierre Thomas - The 49ers signed Thomas this week, and the new San Francisco running back will look to show he is still a productive player. The 49ers have already ruled out running back Carlos Hyde again this week, and running back Reggie Bush is done for the season with a torn MCL. Thomas will likely lead the 49ers ground game and could be a big play in point per reception leagues. Last season in New Orleans, Thomas averaged 4.9 yards per carry and caught 45 passes. Thomas will look to be a quick outlet for quarterback Blaine Gabbert, as he will make his first start for San Francisco this weekend. The 49ers face the Atlanta Falcons this weekend, and Thomas will look to make big plays against a stingy run defense. If you're in need of a plug and play running back that is available in most leagues, Thomas is a great start this week.
