Mark Ingram, Travaris Cadet's Updated Fantasy Value Headed into Week 8

The rotation of running backs this season for the New Orleans Saints has been difficult all year. Whether it's due to injuries, struggles of certain backs or simply too many players sharing carries, fantasy owners have been puzzled when deciding who to start.

This week, however, the chances for success look promising for two backs. When the final injury report was announced by the Saints, both Pierre Thomas and Khiry Robinson were listed as out.

Player	Rush Att.	Rush Yds	Rec.	Targets	Rec. Yds	Fantasy Points
Travaris Cadet	0	0	6	9	51	5.1
Mark Ingram	10	16	2	3	13	2.9

Having both off the field leaves a huge opportunity for Mark Ingram in his second week back. It's also a chance for Travaris Cadet, who has been explosive as a pass-catching back in the last three games.

Even with Ingram finally healthy in Week 7, he was limited as a rusher against a stout Detroit Lions defense. It was Cadet making the most of his chances, as Mike Clay of Pro Football Focus notes:

Cadet will still get his chances, but it will be Ingram that gets the majority of the carries. Going against a porous Green Bay Packers rush defense, Ingram has a chance to return to his numbers he posted earlier this year.

Despite not having over 100 yards rushing this season, Ingram had three touchdowns in the first two games against the Atlanta Falcons and Cleveland Browns. He also compiled 104 total yards in Week 2, something fantasy owners might see against the Packers.

As for Cadet, he plays a specific role that will likely be heightened without Thomas on the field. Michael Fabiano of NFL.com points out he is a smart add in PPR leagues:

Over the last three games, Cadet has compiled 15 receptions for 129 yards and a touchdown. With Thomas not in the game plan, it will be Cadet who benefits the most in the passing game.

Both players will likely share the backfield on Sunday, but serve completely different roles in the offense. Ingram has a chance to be the featured back while owners can expect Cadet to add value on screen passes and his explosiveness.

In a week when Frank Gore is on a bye and several stars are struggling through injuries, either player could be a stopgap in Week 8. Ingram appears to be the more long-term option for owners, but Cadet remains one to watch with the health issues for New Orleans.  

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