It's getting to crunch time in fantasy football, and whether it's the last week of the regular season or the first week of the playoffs, many fantasy owners are in need of a strong player to pick up this week. Many fantasy owners across the country were extremely disappointed after learning that New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram was placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury on Wednesday night.
Whether you owned Ingram in your fantasy league, or you are just in desperate need for a second running back or flex position this week, Saints running back C.J. Spiller looks to be a viable option this upcoming weekend. Both Spiller and running back Tim Hightower are expected to pick up the load down the stretch of this season, and with running back Khiry Robinson already placed on injured reserve, the two will have plenty of opportunities.
Spiller has only rushed for 108 yards this season, but he can be a dual threat out of the backfield, as he has caught 29 passes for 216 yards with two touchdowns. Spiller should not be played in the top running back position this week, but if your struggling with your second spot or your flex position he could fill in nicely. Spiller will look to have a greater impact in point per reception leagues, and has a favorable matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this weekend.
Spiller has faced some criticism since arriving in New Orleans, but is looking forward to proving himself on the field this Sunday. "I haven't really ever had those conversations with the coaches or anything. I think my skill set speaks for itself," said Spiller, via ESPN. "Obviously they're always looking for guys to perform when you call upon them, and that's the mindset I have."
While Spiller looks to be strong play in your second running back position or flex spot, Hightower is player to keep your eyes on. Hightower has only seen 12 carries this season, but will likely get plenty of touches this Sunday. While Hightower clearly shouldn't be started in fantasy leagues this week, he could have a big upside in the final three games of this season. Saints head coach Sean Payton will look feed the hot hand Sunday, and depending on how both backs play a decision could be made as to who will be the official starter during the final three games of the season.
