Steven Jackson is officially not active for the Atlanta Falcons matchup against the Miami Dolphins in Week 3 of the season. After suffering a thigh injury against the St. Louis Rams, the running back could now be out 2-4 weeks. While this is not ideal for the Falcons' Super Bowl quest, the team does have two quality backups that can handle the starting job. So who should fantasy owners pick up off waivers, Jason Snelling or Jacquizz Rodgers?
This is really a tough choice, but the Falcons will likely stay committed to running the ball against the Dolphins as Miami has not fared well against the run. Their defense is stout against the pass, tied for the league lead in sacks while being second in interceptions. The ground game will be the focus to slow does the pass rush.
Rodgers will likely get more playing time than Snelling. So far this season, he has 20 more snaps than the veteran as Matt Ryan favors his style of running more. Rodgers excels in pass blocking which will earn him more playing time in the first place. There was no points for pass protection, but it does mean Rodgers gets more time on the field.
Rodgers is a versatile back that can offer bursts of speed when needed or he can turn into a downfield runner if the line gets messy. He is also extremely reliable with his hands. Ryan targeted Rodgers 58 times last season and he caught 53 of the passes. He has been slow on the ground this year, mainly due to splitting time with Jackson.
Snelling is a veteran and has proven to be extremely clutch for Atlanta is multiple situations. He will remain as the primary fullback for the Falcons after Bradie Ewing was once again lost for the season. Snelling has a bruising style as he thrives off contact. Snelling is not as reliable of a pass catcher as Rodgers is, but sees more time in redzone plays than the youngster.
It is a tough pick. Falcons running backs never generate a lot of points in the first place, but Mike Smith's gameplan against the Dolphins might rely heavily on it. Rodgers is the better option simply because of playing time. He will be given more opportunities, it just depends on what he does with them.
