Week 12 Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Kevin Smith and More Must-Start RBs

Kevin Smith saved the Detroit Lions last week against the Carolina Panthers and he is a must-start running back for your fantasy football team in Week 12 of the NFL season.

Smith is the type of player who can dramatically enhance your chances of winning your fantasy league's championship.

Let's look at three running backs you would be foolish to bench this week.

1. Joe McKnight

Joe McKnight has not been a huge part of the New york Jets offense this season, but the young running back has played quite well in the chances he has received.

McKnight racked up 121 total yards last week and caught six passes, proving he is valuable in PPR fantasy leagues.

With Jets starting running back Shonn Greene battling a rib injury, McKnight will be featured more in the offense than he has been the previous weeks.

If your league awards points for return kick returns, McKnight also becomes a very valuable start on your team.

2. Toby Gerhart

With Minnesota running back Adrian Peterson nursing an ankle sprain, Toby Gerhart could start on Sunday, but even if he does not, he will get a good amount of touches.

Gerhart has great size and strength and is sure to get goal-line carries should the Vikings be in that position.

The Vikings are out of the playoff race and would be foolish to risk Peterson in a game that means nothing, making Gerhart likely to be a major part of the offense on Sunday.

3. Kevin Smith

Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith dominated the Carolina Panthers last week, amassing 201 total yards and three touchdowns.

Smith's breakout game is not a fluke, and with Jahvid Best still injured, Smith will likely start at running back over Maurice Morris on Thursday versus the Green Bay Packers.

With the Lions passing attack performing quite well, Smith will not have the front seven of the Packers defense stacking the box and waiting for him to touch the ball. Green Bay must respect the Lions passing attack.

Smith will be involved heavily in the Lions offense this week and his value as a receiver makes him a smart start in PPR fantasy football leagues.