The LA Chargers look like a tougher team in 2024, with new HC Jim Harbaugh looking set to utilize the run game. This makes both Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins interesting options. Both featured in Week 1 against the Las Vegas Raiders, and both are good starts in Week 2 versus the Carolina Panthers.
“Gus the Bus” looks set to get slightly more touches than Dobbins this season, but Dobbins should see more of the passing downs. Given the Panthers looked a mess in their 47-10 loss to the New Orleans Saints, giving up multiple TDs to multiple running backs, both Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins could outperform their expectations here.
If you have them both, Dobbins feels like the better pick, but either can go against Carolina. Let’s take a look at why:
Week 2 fantasy outlooks for Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins
Gus Edwards rushed the ball 11 times for 26 yards and caught one pass for 2 yards in Week 1. While this isn’t inspiring, especially given J.K. Dobbins’ numbers, the Panthers looked very poor against the Saints.
The Chargers look set for a comfortable win and a lot of points could be on the board early, so the game script looks favorable for LA’s running backs. Edwards should see more touches and more yards per carry here, and he is a good bet for a touchdown also.
Edwards is projected a very low 6.01 points (via fantasy.nfl.com) in HPPR leagues but could have a 15-point upside. Start Edwards with confidence if you are not blessed with a supreme running back corps, and at the very least, he is a good flex option in Week 2.
As for J.K. Dobbins, his Week 1 performance cannot be ignored. Dobbins went for 135 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries, adding 3 catches for 4 yards. His 21.40 points in HPPR leagues made him the RB4 on the week, so you should start him against a vulnerable Panthers here.
A solid prediction for Dobbins would be a floor of 8 points and a ceiling of up to 25 as if he breaks free, he might not be stopped.
Also read: Isaiah Likely or Mark Andrews? Week 2 fantasy outlooks explored for Ravens TEs