Fantasy Football Week 3: Running Backs to Avoid This Weekend

Running backs are the single-most important slot in your fantasy lineup, especially if you play in a PPR league, but there are a few you should stay away from in Week 3.

Let's take a look:

Chris Johnson

Chris Johnson is killing (and not the good kind) fantasy lineups this season, sporting 19 carries, 21 yards and zero touchdowns.

While Johnson is busy blaming every one but himself (h/t ESPN) for his offensive woes, that doesn't change the fact that fantasy owners aren't happy, and that's not going to change in Week 3.

It doesn't matter that Johnson is facing a Lions defense that's allowing more than 112 rushing yards a game—the entire Titans offense is struggling and it begins with Chris Johnson.

Michael Turner

Maybe Michael Turner is still a little buzzed after being pulled over for DUI (via SI.com) following Monday night's win, I don't know.

But what I do know is that Turner is not the man you want starting this Sunday.

Turner and the Falcons will be facing the San Diego Chargers, who have already managed to contain Chris Johnson and Darren McFadden this season, giving San Diego the No. 1 rushing defense in the NFL.

Need I say more?

Let Turner sober up a bit this week before inserting him into your lineup in Week 4.

Adrian Peterson

It's difficult to sit a guy like Peterson who has been productive so far thus season, but you have to play the matchups (circa Kevin MacArthur), and the Vikings have the 49ers this weekend.

San Francisco has yet to allow a 100-yard rusher or even a single rushing touchdown, so you'll want to stay away from AP this week.

If you do ignore my warning and decide to start Peterson, you may be on your way to claiming the Sacko in your league.

Follow me on Twitter for more fantasy football advice: Follow @Pete_Schauer