Mark Ingram, Pierre Thomas' Instant Fantasy Reaction After Week 12

The 2014 season has been a breakout one for Mark Ingram. Meanwhile, Pierre Thomas was set to return to help the ground and passing game in Week 12.

However, neither was particularly effective in the New Orleans Saints' 34-27 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Ingram and Thomas typically present a dynamic duo, but they were largely stymied by Baltimore in both facets. 

Player	Carries-Rush Yds	Rush TDs	Rec.-Targets	Rec. Yds	Fantasy Points
Pierre Thomas	5-19	0	6-8	37	5.6
Mark Ingram	11-27	0	2-2	15	4.2

Both have been good running backs at times this season, but it's been Ingram who has eclipsed 100 yards five times this season. Rather than continuing that trend, Ingram was held in check by the Ravens in Week 12.

Ed Werder of ESPN noted the struggles for Ingram against Baltimore's front seven:

Thomas has been off the field for over a month with a rib injury but made his return on Monday Night Football. Like Ingram, he wasn't successful running the ball. However, he made a slight impact with a few connections from Drew Brees.

Each back should still be owned in leagues, but for completely separate reasons.

Ingram should return to form as a possible RB2 for owners while Thomas is a PPR monster and should find more chances to shine at the end of the season.

During the fantasy playoffs, New Orleans faces the Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears and Atlanta Falcons. Given that slate of games, expect both to exploit those porous defenses for owners when they need it the most.

Follow @RCorySmith on Twitter.