LaRod Stephens-Howling: Assessing RB's Fantasy Value After Breakout Week

LaRod Stephens-Howling had 14 yards rushing on 23 carries heading into Week 7's game against a rather stingy Minnesota Vikings run defense. 

Following what's become the norm in the unpredictable NFL, the small scat back exploded for 104 yards and a touchdown run on 20 carries in Minnesota.

Makes perfect sense.

Looking ahead, what's Stephens-Howling's fantasy viability? 

Was his breakout effort an aberration or a sign of things to come? 

Pretty much the question many fantasy owners want answered right now. 

His 104-yard effort proves that oftentimes, you can't set your fantasy lineup solely based on matchups. The only reasonable aspect to consider when assessing Stephens-Howling's future as a fantasy option is the fact that Ryan Williams is out for the year and Beanie Wells can't return until Week 12. 

That's huge. 

Preseason stud William Powell only received four carries against the Vikings for 13 yards with long of seven. 

Another good sign for Stephens-Howling. 

The game in Week 8 against the San Francisco 49ers won't be easy, but if he's featured prominently, he could piece together a respectable game. 

The real issue hindering the Cardinals runner from being a great fantasy option is the lack of electricity around him. 

Larry Fitzgerald is one of the best receivers to ever play the game, but John Skelton is far from consistent and won't get much respect from a game plan perspective from opposing defenses. 

However, Stephens-Howling has tremendous athleticism and has the ability to break off big gainers every time he touches the ball. 

Right now, he is undeniably worth an add for the desperate owners out there, or for those who are looking for a different flex option, but don't expect 104 yards on the ground every week.

Then again, Stephens-Howling appears to be rather boom-or-bust, and with a relatively pedestrian offensive attack around him, he'll likely have a hard time contributing at the same rate as the season progresses. 

Lastly, if you're in a PPR league, his value's a little better. He caught four passes for 45 yards in Week 7, and should be the go-to screen and check down guy for Arizona in the second half of the season.

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