Top 5 Fantasy Running Backs

It is likely that you picked a running back in the first round of your fantasy draft back in September, and the way this season has gone, it is just as likely that you have been disappointed by your choice.  C.J. Spiller, Doug Martin, Ray Rice, Trent Richardson, and Alfred Morris were all highly-touted fantasy selections that have failed to live up to expectations.  Here's a list of the few running backs that have been able to keep their heads above the water in a season that has seen most running backs leaving owners sweating over poor waiver wire replacements.

1. Jamaal Charles, RB, Kansas City Chiefs

If you have read any of my articles before, you will understand that the most important statistic in fantasy football is touchdowns.  While Charles only has one week over 100 yards, he has six rushing touchdowns and two receiving touchdowns through seven weeks.  His eight total touchdowns are tied for first in the NFL, and this production should not end any time soon, as the Chiefs continue to lean heavily on Charles, their only star skill player.

2. Marshawn Lynch, RB, Seattle Seahawks

In a similar situation to that of Jamaal Charles, Lynch only has one game over 100 yards.  However, "Beast Mode" owners will be happy to know that he has more than made up for the lack of yardage with seven total touchdowns (6 rushing, 1 receiving).  It seems that his diet of skittles is working, as Lynch has rewarded fantasy owners with another steady and productive fantasy year that should continue with match ups against the two worst fantasy rush defenses in the league soon (I'm looking at you St. Louis and Minnesota).

3. Knowshon Moreno, RB, Denver Broncos

Moreno's production this season has been incredible, but may be more a function of the rest of Denver's awesome offense than anything else.  When game planning for the Bronco's, coaches certainly focus on Manning and his receiving core more than Moreno, who has obviously taken advantage of this.  As the season goes on, expect opposing teams to be more prepared for what Moreno brings to the table.  However, until teams begin to make adjustments, Moreno will remain a top five fantasy running back.

4. LeSean McCoy, RB, Philadelphia Eagles

Though McCoy may be putting up the most impressive numbers of any running backs on this list, his inconsistent amount of touches inside the red zone is worrying.  He only has three touchdowns on the year, and though he leads the league in rush yards by a long shot, until he begins to produce touchdowns, he will remain a good fantasy play, but not a great one.

5. Matt Forte, RB, Chicago Bears

Forte has been an absolute workhorse for the Bears, not posting less than ten fantasy points in any game so far this year.  His touchdown production has been key, as he has 6 touchdowns through the first seven weeks (all rushing).  Additionally, he has provided top notch receiving stats for a running back.  Forte has done it all this year, and owners should be exuberant after drafting him most likely in the third round or later.