Trent Richardson's Updated 2014 Fantasy Outlook Heading into Week 12

Though he's fallen out of the good graces of fantasy owners over the past two seasons, Trent Richardson now has one more chance to prove he's worthy of being a consistent starter.

The Indianapolis Colts running back has posted mediocre numbers yet again this year, but he will be asked to step up moving forward. His new role is due to a Ahmad Bradshaw's fibula injury that resulted in his placement on injured reserve.

Kevin Bowen of Colts.com reported the unfortunate news for Bradshaw:

Bradshaw has typically been the lead back with 4.7 yards per carry compared to Richardson's 3.4 this season. Now, the former Cleveland Browns back gets his chance to shine for owners—much like he did late last year with Indianapolis.

While Richardson is typically viewed as a disappointment in Indy, one player has full confidence in him. Andrew Luck shared his thoughts on the running game with Richardson, per Stephen Holder of the Indianapolis Star:

"You do have to be able to run the ball," Luck said. "I don't think anybody's losing sleep or worrying about if Trent and (Dan Herron) can handle the role. I think they're going to do a great job and really surprise a lot of people."

Yet another vote of confidence came from Conor Orr of NFL.com, who shared his thoughts on what the opportunity presents for Richardson:

"

While this article will largely be met with rolled eyes from both Colts and Browns fans, Richardson isn't done yet. There is still a supreme skill set and physical tools that few backs in this league possess.

If nothing else, Bradshaw's injury has provided the opening for a strong second act, a way to validate himself in the league like he never has been able to before.

"

The biggest question now is: Can fans afford to trust Richardson? Let's just say there are levels to that query.

Starting at the ground surface is simply looking at the sample size from Richardson during his time with the Colts. Last season as the No. 1 back, Richardson was far from the premier player Indy had hoped for, as he posted underwhelming numbers during the final 14 games of the season.

Here's a look at those horrid 2013 numbers for Richardson:

Carries-Yds	YPC	Rush TD-Fum	Rec.-Targets	Rec. Yds	Rec. TDs	Fantasy PPG
157-458	2.9	3-2	28-41	265	1	6.74

But there's good news. Richardson's yards per carry has jumped from last season—by a total of 0.5 yards. OK, there really is actually promising news for owners looking to start him, and that's the team's upcoming matchups.

In Week 11, Richardson faces the Jacksonville Jaguars followed by the Washington Redskins and Cleveland Browns. These look like promising games for Richardson and his fantasy owners, but nothing is guaranteed.

After all, the New England Patriots held him to no yards on seven carries. You read that right: zero yards, seven carries. Richardson will get his chance to be the lead back, but his past proves he still can't be trusted.

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