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Why I bench De’Von Achane in fantasy football even when he plays (in standard scoring leagues)


Why I bench De’Von Achane in fantasy football even when he plays (in standard scoring leagues)

De’Von Achane is officially on the list as questionable for Thursday night because of an ankle injury, but there’s a lot of optimism that he’ll be there. (I know, I know. You’ve heard this before. Pay attention, Christian McCaffrey manager.)

Achane was seen in limited training on Wednesday, not resting his ankle much. Raheem Mostert has already been ruled out of this contest, so Achane appears to have plenty of options tonight.

But I won’t use Achane in standard point leagues (PPR is a different story), even if he’s facing the Buffalo Bills.

The Miami Dolphins’ running game didn’t really get going in Week 1, but Achane proved to be a threat in the passing game. Although he averaged just 2.4 yards per attempt, he caught seven passes for 76 yards and scored a rushing touchdown. The versatile threat could cause some problems for the Bills’ defense. The Bills allowed six catches for 64 yards in Week 1, an 85.7% catch rate against Cardinals runners.

In PPR leagues, I’d start Achane if he’s available. Those catches could add up quickly, as the Bills defense will focus on Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle on the outside, and the pressure on Tagovailoa could lead to some throws as well.

However, in standard leagues where you need a touchdown to really score points, I would keep him on the bench if he can’t do it on the ground.

With the risk of reinjury high, I would expect Jeff Wilson Jr. to get a significant share of the runs and be favored at the goal line. Unless the Dolphins march down the field and then punt, Achane’s risk of injury increases the longer he plays. I wouldn’t count that for a point. Wilson has been very effective at the goal line in his career. He was also the Dolphins’ most efficient runner in Week 1 and had five carries later in the game. The veteran managed 26 yards on five carries, averaging more than five yards per carry.

Also keep an eye on the status of rookie Jaylen Wright in this game. Wright was inactive due to health in Week 1, but fantasy managers would like to see him get his chance after an impressive preseason.

The Dolphins’ fourth-round pick has the trait Mike McDaniels loves most: speed. He fits perfectly into this system and is probably just one injury away from his chance. In his first preseason game, Wright ran for 55 yards on ten carries and scored a touchdown.

Keep in mind that the Bills are not an easy opponent and only allowed 63 yards to opposing runners in Week 1.

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