Fantasy Football Week 5: Maurice Jones-Drew and 3 Star RBs You Must Bench

While benching your fantasy studs can often be a very difficult decision to make, sometimes taking such a risk can pay off big-time.

There are obviously some players who should never be benched, but some early-round picks struggle when faced with tough matchups.

Here are three star running backs who should be benched in Week 5, if you have a decent bench option.

Rashard Mendenhall, Pittsburgh Steelers

Aside from the fact that he has a disappointing 173 yards through four games, Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall is dealing with a hamstring injury. With his status for Sunday uncertain, starting him would be far too risky.

The Steelers are also facing a Tennessee Titans team that ranks in the Top 10 against the run and the pass this season. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's foot injury could also play into Tennessee's hands as the team will be able to stack the box against the run.

Even if Mendenhall is able to suit up, it seems as if backup Isaac Redman will receive a good chunk of carries as well. There isn't much upside with Mendenhall this weekend. 

Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons

Although the Atlanta Falcons have shown a big commitment to the passing game this season, running back Michael Turner has got off to a solid start with 304 yards and three touchdowns through four weeks.

However, the stars are not aligned for Turner this week.

The Falcons are set to host the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night. Thanks in part to nose tackle B.J. Raji, the Packers rank second in the league in rushing yards against, so Turner could find the sledding very difficult.

What's more, because of quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Green Bay's explosive offense, the Falcons will likely have to keep up with the Packers throughout the game. This will likely prompt a high-volume passing attack orchestrated by Matt Ryan.

Since Turner isn't much of a pass receiver, his value will be curtailed.

Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville Jaguars

With rookie quarterback Blaine Gabbert now under center, the Jacksonville Jaguars rely very heavily on running back Maurice Jones-Drew to supply them with most of their offense. That is both a blessing and a curse for fantasy owners, however.

It's a good thing in that Jones-Drew should receive plenty of touches, but it also allows opposing defenses to stack the box with eight or even nine defenders.

To make matters worse, the Jags will face the Cincinnati Bengals and their stingy run defense that allows just 3.1 yards per carry.

The game should be fairly close, so the Jags won't abandon the run like they have been forced to do in recent weeks. However, if Jones-Drew is ineffective, they will be forced to pass the ball more often. MJD still may have value in the passing game, but not enough to help your fantasy team much this week.