If there's one word to describe the fantasy state of the Minnesota Vikings running back corps in 2014, it's turmoil. Fantasy owners who shelled out a high first round pick or a lot of auction money to land Adrian Peterson watched him start the season on a tear, only to be suspended indefinitely and then for the season after navigating child abuse accusations stemming from an incident involving his four-year-old son.
Meanwhile, Jerick McKinnon owners stood by and watched the Georgia Southern rookie blossom into a solid contributor -- but now are worrying if the recently signed Ben Tate is going to jeopardize McKinnon's production.
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Well, now those fantasy owners might be able to breath easier following comments made by Vikings offensive coordinator Norv Turner. Speaking to the Pioneer Press, Turner stated that Tate was primarily signed "as insurance" for the late season, and that the starting job remains McKinnon's.
So what course of action should fantasy owners take for Week 12? Well, the third member of the platoon, Matt Asiata, is doubtful after sustaining a concussion, so he's a wise choice to leave on the bench.
Owners of both McKinnon and Tate should consider starting both/either individual. McKinnon is nursing a lower back injury, yes, but all hands expect him to play at home Sunday vs. Green Bay.
The Packers are a ghastly 29th out of 32 in the NFL in rush defense, so expect Minnesota to lean on the ground game heavily in the hopes of exploiting that weakness and controlling time of possession (the easiest way to beat Aaron Rodgers is to keep him on the sidelines as long as possible). That means both rushers are going to get their looks. Tate might even see his number called more than expected in the unforeseen event that McKinnon's back becomes a lingering issue.
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