Fantasy Football Extravaganza: Top-30 Running Backs

Josh Galligan by Correspondent Written on August 05, 2008
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16. Reggie Bush (NO)

Reggie Bush is a classic case of too much hype due to college performance. Although Bush has proven he is a worthy complementary rusher and a skilled receiving back, the Barry Sanders-like expectations have left many disappointed after his first two seasons in the league.

With his rushing skills likely to improve over time, it may just take him a few more years until he’s a suitable starter. Even in his current complementary situation, his rushing yards and receiving yards combined equal enough points to make him a worthy target in your draft.

Not to mention his ceiling would have him turning into a Brian Westbrook type back. Not bad. I think we can finally chill on comparing Hall of Fame players to rookies that are being drafted, though. No?

15. Earnest Graham (TB)

Graham proved to be one of the most valuable, out-of-the-blue, waiver-wire pickups of the 2008 season. The only option after injuries to Cadillac Williams and Michael Pittman, Graham nearly rumbled himself to 1,000 yards, finishing instead with 898 and 10 TDs.

With Warrick Dunn’s return to Tampa, Graham will likely lose some carries, but he can easily claim the starting spot if he can prove that last year wasn’t a fluke. 175 fantasy points if you can guess correctly!

14. Ronnie Brown (MIA)

Although his recovery from an ACL tear is a major concern, Brown benefits from sustaining the injury early in the season last year, as well as returning to a vastly improved Dolphins offense.

With Ricky Williams back in town, he likely won’t need to carry all of the load immediately, as long as Williams stays away from the reefer. Brown is still a risky pick, but as 602 yards and seven TDs in seven games last year showed, not one without a potential hefty reward.

13. Willis McGahee (BAL)

Even though the Ravens have major question marks on offense, the rushing game is not one of them. A top-notch rusher and capable receiver, McGahee should top 300 carries for the first time since 2005, due to the subpar and inexperienced options at quarterback.

Although his new and improved ACL will be tested under such a workload, if he can handle the strain and put up his usual numbers, then his fantasy numbers will be just fine. Even if he is in on one of the worst offensive units in the game.

12. Larry Johnson (KC)

A slow start, poor passing game, and foot injury all contributed to Johnson’s worst season as a starter last year. Even if he can avoid the slow start and injuries this year, the Chiefs still have no passing attack, and the shoddy offensive line remains the same.

Although he‘ll get his carries, he will also be the focal point of every defense the team plays. Good thing we’ve seen what he can do before, so you can make an educated decision on whether or not to take the gamble. The upside is high, although the downside is low. Take your pick.

11. Maurice Jones-Drew (JAX)

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written on August 05, 2008 Rankings/List

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