Fantasy Football: Backup RBs we might need to start in the playoff semifinals

Your support enables The Independent to cover critical stories, from reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, with a commitment to factual reporting. Donations help fund on-the-ground journalism and unbiased coverage across the political spectrum, without paywalls. In sports news, Gabriel Jesus scored a hat-trick to lead Arsenal to a 3-2 comeback victory over Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup, securing their spot in the semi-finals. Full Article

Liverpool's Harvey Elliott impressed in a Carabao Cup match against Southampton, scoring a goal and showcasing composure in a makeshift lineup. Despite a late surge from Southampton, Liverpool secured a spot in the semi-finals with a 2-1 victory. Trent Alexander-Arnold captained the team in his 300th start, leading the club to success in the absence of key players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil Van Dijk. Full Article

Seth Walder from ESPN Analytics predicts the NFL playoff picture with seven teams already clinching postseason berths and seven spots remaining. Using 10,000 simulations, one scenario, known as "chalk," emerged as the most likely, with the exact seeds for 14 teams occurring in 73 simulations. Key Week 16 results included the Steelers beating the Ravens, the Chargers edging out the Broncos, and the Commanders complicating the Eagles' quest for the NFC's top seed. Week 17...

Fantasy analyst Dalton Del Don discusses the trustworthiness of slumping stars in fantasy football, including Derrick Henry, who is expected to see increased scoring chances in favorable game scripts during the playoffs. Cooper Kupp, despite recent struggles, has an opportunity to bounce back against the Jets, who have struggled against wide receivers. Malik Nabers has shown promise with high target shares and a new role in a struggling Giants offense, making him a top-15 WR...

Liverpool narrowly secured a 2-1 victory over Southampton in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, with a late controversial challenge from Reds defender Jarell Quansah going unpunished. Despite a spirited second-half performance from the hosts under interim boss Simon Rusk, Arne Slot's much-changed Liverpool side, including young talents like Trey Nyoni, managed to hold on for the win. Slot emphasized the importance of squad rotation and long-term fitness, while Rusk saw the improved performance as a potential...

After being benched, Kirk Cousins stated he will support new Falcons starting QB Michael Penix Jr., following Atlanta's decision due to Cousins' struggles and turnovers. Despite acknowledging his turnovers as an issue, Cousins emphasized he hasn't forgotten how to play quarterback and will assist Penix. With the Falcons still in playoff contention, Cousins aims to contribute and remains open to his future as a starter in the NFL. Full Article