Green Bay Packers running back Eddie Lacy may be one of the most frustrating players for fantasy owners this season, and with playoffs starting in many leagues this weekend, owners are wondering if they should start the inconsistent Packers running back.
Lacy saw a decreased role last week after reportedly missing curfew, as he saw only five carries against the Detroit Lions. While Lacy seems to be a risky play at times this season, he looks to be a clear start at the second running back position in all fantasy leagues and is a strong start at the flex spot in any league.
"I think Eddie's been rejuvenated," said head coach Mike McCarthy, via the NFL. "His work was good today. Checked in on him, just like I do with all of our players. I look for him to have a very good week of practice and look for him to be productive Sunday."
Prior to last week's game, Lacy had come off back-to-back 100 rushing yard performances, and Green Bay is looking to establish a strong ground game going into the postseason. Lacy was a second round pick by the Packers in 2013 and is likely to get plenty of touches on Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys.
Packers running back James Starks is tough play this week, but in point per reception leagues, he could be a good fit in the flex position. Starks is a key player on passing third down scenarios but has not rushed over 50 yards since Oct. 18. Starks should sit on the bench in most fantasy leagues this weekend, but he could have an upside in PPR leagues.
Rookie running back John Crocket saw his first carries this past week against the Lions and is a player to keep an eye on down the stretch of this season. Crocket clearly should not be played this weekend in all fantasy leagues, but he is a player the Packers are excited about and could be someone to watch on the waiver wire.
Lacy is the only clear start this weekend for fantasy owners, and he has a favorable matchup against the Cowboys' 15th ranked rush defense that gives up an average of 104.1 rushing yards per game. Outside of Lacy, Starks could be strong play in PPR leagues, but he will likely see less carries then Lacy, as McCarthy seems to want to establish a strong ground game behind him this weekend.
