If you're in need of a running back for the stretch run of the fantasy football regular season, Samaje Perine just might be the guy you need.
Perine went off for three touchdowns in Cincinnati's impressive win over division-rival Pittsburgh on Sunday. Of course, he largely got the opportunity because Joe Mixon exited with a concussion. Mixon's status for Week 12 remains unclear as he needs to clear concussion protocol.
While he's clearly a short-term play, that doesn't mean you should shy away from Perine on the waiver wire. Action Network's expert fantasy staff explains why below.
Sean Koerner: Currently in concussion protocol, Mixon's Week 12 status is up in the air.
If he ends up being held out, Perine would take over as the lead back, but would have a tough matchup against a Titans defense that ranks first in DVOA against the run. Perine is likely a low-end RB2 in this scenario, so only teams desperate for a RB should be trying to obtain him as a potential one-week flier.
Samantha Previte: A heartfelt congrats to anyone who actually started Perine. He exploded in the Bengals' crucial win over the Steelers, recording a season-high 11 carries for 30 yards with four receptions for 52 yards and three touchdowns. His usage was higher than usual with Mixon going down in the third quarter with a concussion.
This was by far Perine's best game of the year, which isn't surprising given he's primarily been Mixon's understudy. He would be a viable RB2 if Mixon can't clear concussion protocol.
Mike Triplett: Perine is obviously a short-term play, and he only has value if Mixon is sidelined. But he should see a true RB1 workload if Mixon does miss time.
Not only did he have 15 touches with three touchdowns in Week 11, but Perine has had three other games with double-digit touches and a TD dating back to last season while splitting time with Mixon. Taking an even wider view, Perine is the exact type of player you should be looking to stash on your bench now that we’ve gotten past the Week 11 bye-nado and don’t have many more future byes to worry about.
You should consider adding any back who is just one injury away from a major workload (Perine, Elijah Mitchell, Rachaad White, Alexander Mattison, Dontrell Hilliard or even Matt Breida).
