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Each week, the Noise highlights under-started names who he believes are destined to torch the competition. To qualify, each player must have started in fewer than 60 percent of Yahoo leagues. Speaking as an accountability advocate, I will post results, whether genius or moronic, the following week. Scoring thresholds (0.5 PPR) – QB: 18 fantasy points; RB: 12 fantasy points (10 for shockers); WR: 11 fantasy points; TE: 10 fantasy points.
Isiah Pacheco, KC
| Start pct. | 44% on Yahoo |
| Matchup | vs. Chargers |
| BetMGM line | Chiefs -4 |
| BetMGM total | 43 points |
| BetAlytics projection | N/A |
The Punisher is back to his customary ground-and-pound ways.
Condolences, Kareem Hunt zealots.
Kansas City’s running back power shift is well underway. In Black Friday’s near disaster against the division rival Raiders, Pacheco completely outperformed Hunt. The incumbent was assertive, displaying vintage downhill violence, break-tackle ability and versatility. Andy Reid has stated the hot hand will determine workloads, but it’s clear Pacheco already possesses fiery fingers.
On only eight snaps played against Las Vegas, Pacheco gained 49 total yards on eight touches. His 13 yards after contact and zero missed tackles forced were not encouraging, but on a similar volume, Hunt posted a wretched 1.14 yards after contact per attempt. Yikes.
This week, a 60-40 or greater split favoring Pacheco should be expected.
On Sunday, the Chiefs welcome the Chargers to Arrowhead Stadium. Los Angeles’ overall EPA per play defensive data paint a rosy picture. However, over the last five weeks, Jim Harbaugh’s guys are No. 28 in rush EPA D, giving up 4.55 yards per carry, 133.2 total yards per game and two touchdowns to RBs. They do rank a commendable No. 20 in most fantasy points allowed to rushers during the stretch, but as their EPA standing suggests, they’ve been quite bendable.
Chugging behind a top-five K.C. run-blocking line and likely encountering several light fronts, Pacheco slams his way to meaningful numbers.
The rust has been knocked off. Reinsert Pacheco into starting lineups with confidence.
Fearless Forecast: 13 carries, 55 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdowns, 3 receptions, 12 receiving yards, 14.2 fantasy points
Week 14 Bonus Flames
Isaac Guerendo, 49ers
| Start pct. | 14% on Yahoo |
| Matchup | vs. Bears |
Behind door No. 3 isn’t some random goat. Nah, it’s Guerendo. With Christian McCaffrey (PCL) and Jordan Mason (ankle) donezo for the season, the fleet-footed rookie gets his shot to carry the load. His fantasy playoff hero potential is significant. For starters, San Francisco ranks No. 1 in run-blocking efficiency as tracked by Pro Football Focus. Secondly, Guerendo has been spectacular in spurts as witnessed in mad dashes logged earlier this season against Dallas (102 total yards, TD) and Seattle (99 total yards). Overall, he’s notched a laudable 3.07 YAC per attempt, 16.7% missed tackle rate and 3.26 yards created per touch. Equipped with 4.33 40-yard wheels, plus power and useful hands, the fourth-round pick from Louisville will rack the touches In Week 14 and beyond. This Sunday against the Bears, Guerendo is sure to make greenbacks. Since Week 9, Chicago is No. 22 in rush EPA D, allowing 5.24 yards per carry, 185.8 total yards per game, four touchdowns and the fourth-most fantasy points to RBs. If you scored Guerendo off waivers, plug him in immediately.
Fearless Forecast: 18 carries, 83 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown, 5 receptions, 21 receiving yards, 18.9 fantasy points
Nick Chubb, Browns
| Start pct. | 41% on Yahoo |
| Matchup | at Steelers |
The once-vibrant Chubb Club isn’t exactly the hip joint it once was. Limited snap shares, negative game scripts and a minimized role in the passing game have all contributed to the RB’s mediocrity. His 2.62 YAC per attempt compiled in six games has also left much to be desired. The modest returns should’ve been expected. After suffering a devastating knee injury late last year, Chubb faced a road filled with potholes to regain his prior All-Pro form. The fact he’s even performing at his current level is a win for modern sports medicine. Despite his rather bland production, the four-time Pro Bowler is worth chasing in a bye-heavy week. Since Week 9, the Steelers are a lousy No. 31 in rush EPA defense, conceding 4.16 yards per carry, 73.8 rushing yards per game, seven touchdowns and the ninth-most fantasy points to RBs. Again, temper yardage expectations. However, Chubb’s probability to splash six is greater than 45%, according to BetAlytics. In the snowy Week 12 matchup against the Steelers in Cleveland, he carried the rock 20 times for 59 yards and two TDs. Replicate that throwback form, Nick.
Fearless Forecast: 16 carries, 51 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown, 1 reception, 5 receiving yards, 12.1 fantasy points
Season record: 19-18