Re-Examining the Marshawn Lynch-Fred Jackson Timeshare

(Photo by Rick Stewart/Getty Images)

When Marshawn Lynch's NFL-mandated three-game suspension was lifted a few weeks ago, those fantasy owners riding the Fred Jackson train had to step off to watch the situation in Buffalo's backfield materialize.

So after two weeks of the Lynch-Jackson timeshare, how much do we really know?

First off, we know the Buffalo Bills' offense is a sinking ship. It looked like the Bills were for real in week one during a near-upset of the Patriots. In week two the Bills took care of the lowly Buccaneers.

But ever since then, the wheels have been coming off the wagons in consecutive losses to the Saints, Dolphins, and lowly Browns. The Bills' offense scored a grand total of one touchdown (Josh Reed) in those three games combined.

In the week prior to Lynch rejoining the active roster, the new running-back-by-committee in town was generating a lot of fantasy football buzz. Who would be the featured back? How would they use the double-headed monster of Lynch and Jackson? What should Jackson owners do with him?

Is it just a coincidence that the offense looked much better when there was no timeshare in Buffalo?

Jackson's first three weeks at the helm were productive from a fantasy standpoint: 61 carries, 291 rushing yards, 15 receptions, 134 yards, one touchdown.

Since Lynch's return: 22 carries, 72 yards, five receptions, 43 yards, zero touchdowns.

Through two weeks, Lynch has seen mixed results: eight carries for four yards rushing against the Dolphins, though he also chipped in five catches for 43 yards. His role was expanded against the Browns with 17 carries for 69 yards and six catches for 56 yards.

Jackson started against the Dolphins in Lynch's first game back from suspension, but Lynch started last weekend against Cleveland. It appears the Bills are ready to give Lynch the reins once again after a decent effort against the Browns.

The next three weeks are favorable (@ Jets, @ Panthers, v. Texans) before the Bills' bye week. Lynch appears to be the running back to start for fantasy owners in a bye week pinch. Jackson, meanwhile, should remain on the bench until further notice.

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