Dalvin Cook returns to the lineup this week to a smash matchup against the Green Bay Packers, who are 31st in the league against the run, but 14th against the pass. Since the Vikings, especially with Cook in tow, like to run first, and foremost, as a part of their offense, Cook should have an opportunity to hit the 25-30 carry mark again. 

The Pittsburgh Steelers have also shown to be more run-funnel as the season has worn on, landing at 30th against the run and 18th against the pass. Just like the Vikings, the Browns would prefer to run as the primary focus of their offense, so Nick Chubb should also see a healthy workload in this game. 

The Buccaneers can pick how they want to score against the New York Jets, as the hosting Jets are 32nd against the pass but also 29th against the run. Given the amount of injuries and unavailability in the Bucs’ passing attack, it may make sense to lean on Ronald Jones and the running game in this one. 

There is discussion among the New York Giants as to whether Saquon Barkley should remain the RB1 or should they turn to Devontae Booker. Whoever gets the call has a good matchup against the 24th ranked Bears run defense this week. 

There is still a time-share running back situation with the Denver Broncos, but I am willing to lean on Javonte Williams against the 32nd (last) ranked Los Angeles Chargers run defense. Denver ran only 40 plays, horribly below league average and paid the price for only getting Williams seven carries. That won’t happen again against the Chargers. Williams had 111 total yards and a TD against the Chargers in Week 12. 

Rashaad Penny has broken out late for the establish-the-run Seattle Seahawks. Coming off a 17 carry, 135 yard effort at home against the 24th ranked run defense of the Bears, now Penny gets the 28th ranked run defense of the Lions. 

Jason Walker