Which RB to start in Week 1?

Question

I have a tough decision. I'm in a 15-team league where RBs get 1 point every 10 yards, with a +6 at 100 yards.

My Running Backs:

Ryan Grant vs Minnesota

Thomas Jones @ Miami

Jonathan Stewart @ San Diego

Rashard Mendenhall vs Houston

I doubt any (with a tiny chance of Jones) can get to 100 yards, but I'm having a difficult time trying to choose between Stewart and Grant, since both Defenses are solid against the run.

Answer 1

Thomas Jones has the best match up. Miami ranked last in rush defense last year giving up 153.5 yds/game.

Answer 2

Grant/Jones.  Jones should reach 100 yards easy, TDs will be questionable though.  Grant is tough to start against Minnesota, but he's better than your other two options.  With Grant, you at least know he'll get the carries, you don't know that about Stewart and SD has an equally tough run D.  Mendenhall looks like he won't have much of a role early in the season.

Answer 3

Jones against Miami could have a big day.  Stewart against San Diego is a lousy matchup.  Grant against Minn is also not a very good matchup.

Answer 4

I think you have to go with Thomas Jones this week.  Ryan Grant is coming off of an injury, playing with an unproven quarterback, and facing a very talented Vikings D.   Stewart and Mendenhall are both rookies;  Stewart will be splitting carries with Deangelo Wms and Mendenhall will probably not get many touches this week behind Willie Parker.  Thomas Jones should have his most productive season yet in the new Jets offense, and is a must start against Miami.  

Answer 5

As much as I *don't* like Thomas Jones, I think he may have the best chance because he is the main RB for his squad and he faces a relatively weak Miami D.

Answer 6

You know what you're working with here. Jones is a no-brainer against Miami. In my opinion, I'd go with Grant for the second spot. He had a big game against the Vikings last year, which isn't the same situation this year since they're on to him, but all the same. Plus, Stewart will be splitting with Williams. Go with Jones & Grant.