ROSTERED: 0.3%
What a whirlwind week it has been for the San Francisco 49ers! With key players like Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason hitting the injured reserve, the spotlight turned to rookie running back Isaac Guerendo. Just last week, he was a hidden gem on the waiver wire, with a rostered percentage of only 0.6%. Fast forward to Sunday, and Guerendo’s stock skyrocketed to 72% as he dazzled fans and fantasy owners alike, racking up an impressive 128 yards from scrimmage and scoring two touchdowns against the Chicago Bears. However, the excitement was tempered when he exited the game with a foot injury in the fourth quarter, leaving many wondering about his availability for the upcoming matchup.
Injury Concerns and Short Weeks
After the game, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the media, revealing that Guerendo would undergo further testing on Monday to determine the severity of his injury. As of now, the details remain unclear, and with the 49ers facing a short week—hosting the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night—time is not on Guerendo’s side for recovery. Fantasy managers are left in a state of suspense, pondering whether their star rookie will be able to suit up for the crucial game.
Next Man Up: Ty Davis-Price
In the event that Guerendo is unable to play, all eyes will shift to Ty Davis-Price, who was called up from the practice squad last week. In Week 14, he had seven carries for 25 yards and even found the end zone late in the game. While he may not possess the same speed or agility as Guerendo, he is a powerful back capable of making an impact. The Rams’ defense has been relatively generous to fantasy running backs this season, making Davis-Price a potential sleeper pick if Guerendo is sidelined.
Fantasy Implications
So, what does this mean for your fantasy lineup? If Guerendo is cleared to play, he will undoubtedly be the go-to running back for the 49ers, making him a must-start in fantasy leagues. However, if he is ruled out, expect Davis-Price’s rostered percentage to surge as fantasy managers scramble to secure a piece of the 49ers’ backfield. The matchup against the Rams could provide a golden opportunity for whoever takes the reins in San Francisco’s backfield.
Analyzing the Matchup
Looking ahead to the game against the Rams, it’s crucial to consider how both teams have fared this season. The Rams have struggled defensively, particularly against the run, which could spell success for whichever 49ers running back gets the nod. With Guerendo’s explosive performance fresh in our minds, it’s hard not to get excited about the potential for a repeat performance—if he’s healthy. On the flip side, if Davis-Price steps in, he could find himself in a favorable position to capitalize on the Rams’ defensive weaknesses.
Keeping an Eye on the Waiver Wire
As the fantasy playoffs approach, every decision counts. The waiver wire is buzzing with activity, and players like Guerendo and Davis-Price could be the key to your championship run. If you haven’t already, now is the time to assess your roster and consider making a move. With the uncertainty surrounding Guerendo’s injury, it might be wise to pick up Davis-Price as a precautionary measure. After all, having depth in your lineup could make all the difference in the high-stakes weeks ahead.
Final Thoughts
This week’s developments in the 49ers’ backfield highlight the unpredictable nature of fantasy football. Injuries can change the landscape in an instant, and being proactive can set you apart from your competition. Whether you’re rooting for Guerendo to recover or hoping for Davis-Price to seize the moment, one thing is for sure: the excitement of NFL fantasy is alive and well. Stay tuned for updates on Guerendo’s status, and don’t forget to keep your roster flexible as the season progresses. The road to fantasy glory is filled with twists and turns, and you want to be ready for anything!
