Montee Ball is on the rise and stealing snaps. The Denver Broncos rookie running back is coming off a breakout game against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 11 and could be in for another top performance in Week 12. Starter Knowshon Moreno is healthy, but with Ball having the hot hand, he becomes a waiver wire option.
Ball might have only put up 25 yards rushing, but he was the definition of efficient scoring two touchdowns against a tough Kansas City Chiefs defense. He became the go-to goal line back over Moreno while also putting up 16 yards receiving on three catches.
Ball is definitely a player to monitor or pick up if available. He has gotten better each time he steps on the field and appears to be the new favorite red zone back. The only thing hurting Ball from becoming fantasy gold is the fact that he continues to remain the No. 2 and will still lose a majority of the carries to Moreno no matter how many times he scores in the red zone.
The Broncos are aware of the importance of developing the younger backs. Moreno's career has been marred by injuries and inconsistent play. Right now, he is healthy so he remains the starter. Moreno is playing well, but how long will it last? The role of trustworthy back up has fallen into the hands of Ball. A year ago, Moreno was benched for most of the season. He suffered a knee injury towards the end of the season. The Broncos may trust him now, but not later.
Denver continues to make the run game a priority for the offense. Even after Kansas City was proving capable of stopping it, the team remained committed, opening the door for Ball. The situation could start to become more of a 50-50 split as Moreno nears the overworked line. Only six other running backs have more snaps that Moreno this season. For a player coming off a knee injury, that is not good.
Moreno had his own breakout game on Sunday, putting up a season-high 79 yards off 27 carries. His touches on the ball were noticeably down as he was only targeted once on pass plays. Ball is on his wayt to becoming a strong RB1 and as he sits available in most leagues, owners should grab him.