Week 14 Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Beanie Wells and Other RBs You Must Bench

In Week 14 of the NFL season, the following five running backs are players you might want to sit on your bench:

Beanie Wells, Cardinals

Obviously, the reason for sitting Wells is much more about the matchup than it is an indictment on Wells' ability.

The 49ers are the No. 1 fantasy defense against opposing running backs and haven't given up a rushing touchdown all season. In fact, they've allowed more than 75 total yards to opposing running backs just twice this season.

A small potential for yards and none for points equals no start for Wells this week. 

Cedric Benson, Bengals

Benson has consistently got 15-to-20 carries this season, but you again have to look at the matchup here.

The Texans are the third-best fantasy run defense in 2011. They haven't allowed a touchdown in five weeks and it's been seven since a running back went over 100 yards.

Benson has really struggled against the top run defenses this season, so it might be best to start someone with a little more upside. 

DeAngelo Williams, Panthers

The Falcons are No. 5 against fantasy running backs this season, and there simply aren't enough carries in the Panthers backfield for Williams to put up starting-level numbers this week.

Jonathan Stewart and Cam Newton will steal touches, especially along the goal line. Scary scenario if you're starting Williams this week.

Brandon Jacobs, Giants

With Ahmad Bradshaw healthy and back in the lineup, Jacobs' days as the Giants lead back are all but over. He'll still see some spot carries, but nothing along the lines of what you expect from a fantasy starter. Your only hope with Jacobs is getting goal line carries.

Ryan Grant, Packers

Some may be tempted to start Grant this week, with James Starks likely on the shelf. However, I wouldn't buy into that theory.

While the Packers will start Grant, he's not going to get 15-to-20 carries in this pass-heavy offense. Brandon Saine will take some snaps in passing situations, too. Oh, and don't forget: Grant has yet to score a touchdown this season. Keep him on the bench.