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Ever since the Indianapolis Colts brought in RB Trent Richardson from the Cleveland Browns, many fantasy football fans have started to lose faith in the former first round pick. Richardson has only averaged 2.87 yards per carry since wearing the horseshoe on his helmet and his longest run has been 12 yards. Needless to say, the lack of yards has caused many fantasy owners to panic.
However, Richardson has still scored a touchdown in both games since coming over to Indianapolis, despite his less than stellar rushing totals. He is also just starting to learn the team’s extensive playbook. Indy and Cleveland run to completely different style of offenses, and it has obviously taken Richardson some time to learn the plays. He will only get better as he gets more comfortable in his role.
Richardson’s struggles have caused many fantasy pundits to suggest picking up backup running back, Dominic Brown. Brown ripped off a 50-yard run and amassed 65 yards on just three carries last weekend, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that he is about to threaten Richardson for carries each week. Brown has been in the league for five years and Indy knows what the 5”10” back brings to the table. He is at most a third-down back, and considering the ability of Richardson, he most likely won’t even be that.
This weekend, Indy faces off against the stout Seattle Seahawks’ defense, so Richardson likely won’t see his average rise too much. However, Richardson is still a very tough inside runner and makes his living after contact. This is one matchup that screams for T-Rich to carry the rock and I would honestly be surprised to see Brown get more than eight touches versus the hard-hitting defense.
Richardson will only get better as the season moves on and he should have some huge performances in the later weeks of the season. Richardson owners must simply remain patient and be content with him scoring touchdowns for now. Just remember, there is a reason why you drafted him in the first round this summer.
Adam McGill is the Senior Fantasy Sports Writer at Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @adammcgill83, like him on Facebook, or add him to you networks on Google here or here.
