Fred Jackson: Assessing Bills RB's Fantasy Value for Week 4 Matchup vs. Patriots

If the Buffalo Bills decide to activate running back Fred Jackson for Sunday's game against the New England Patriots, he deserves a starting spot on your fantasy football team's roster, especially if you play in a PPR league.

According to Michael Fabiano of NFL.com, Jackson is back on the practice field after suffering an injury in Week 1.

"

Fred Jackson returned to Bills practice today. Looks like he's on track for a Week 4 return.

— Michael Fabiano (@Michael_Fabiano) September 26, 2012"

On Monday, Jackson explained the chances of him seeing the field against the Patriots, via ESPN's Adam Schefter.

"

Bills RB Fred Jackson said he's 70-75 percent certain he will be able to play Sunday vs. New England.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 24, 2012"

Jackson has done well against the Patriots throughout his career. In his most recent game against the Bills' AFC East rivals, he racked up 161 total yards and a touchdown. In his final matchup versus the Patriots in the 2010 season, Jackson had 92 total yards.

Running backs like Jackson, who are a threat in the passing and running games, bother the Patriots.  This was evident last week when Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice had 150 total yards and a touchdown.

New England has the seventh best run defense in the league through three games, but Rice was the first top-tier running back the team has faced thus far. The Patriots' awful pass defense will allow Bills quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick to have success in the passing game, which will make it easier for Jackson to have success on the ground.

As I explained earlier in the week, Bills backup running back Tashard Choice is worth a look for your fantasy team, depending on what the team's injury situation looks like at the running back position on Sunday.

In the event that Jackson plays, or even starts for the Bills this week, he is worth a spot on your fantasy team because of his recent success against a poor Patriots defense.

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