Tyjae Spears Emerges as Titans’ Top Fantasy Option Ahead of Week 9

The Tennessee Titans’ backfield is seeing a significant shift. Rookie Tyjae Spears is now challenging veteran Tony Pollard for the lead role. This development comes ahead of their Week 9 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers.

According to analysis from ESPN, Spears has been the more effective player this season. His increased workload, especially in the red zone, signals a potential changing of the guard.

Statistical Breakdown Reveals Clear Advantage

In the Week 8 loss to the Colts, the workloads were nearly even. Pollard rushed 11 times for 44 yards. Spears rushed nine times for 59 yards and a touchdown.

The critical difference came in the red zone. Spears out-carried Pollard there by a three-to-one margin. This is a major change from earlier season usage.

Spears also holds a commanding lead in the passing game. He caught all three of his targets for 23 yards. Pollard managed just one catch for nine yards.

Why Spears is the Preferred Fantasy Play

Season-long efficiency metrics tell the full story. Spears is averaging an impressive 5.6 yards per touch. Pollard is averaging a solid, but lower, 4.4 yards per touch.

For fantasy managers, Spears is producing 0.35 fantasy points per touch. Pollard is generating 0.30 points in the same category. This difference becomes substantial over a full game.

The upcoming game script heavily favors Spears. The Titans are large underdogs against the Chargers. Negative game scripts mean more passing, which benefits the receiving back.

Spears is expected to see a few more touches than Pollard this Sunday. He offers strong upside with likely low ownership in DFS tournaments. He is a shrewd play for those stacking Chargers’ offensive players.

The data confirms that Tyjae Spears is the Titans’ running back to own for fantasy football success. His dynamic playmaking ability provides a higher weekly ceiling than his backfield counterpart.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is the better fantasy start, Tyjae Spears or Tony Pollard?

Based on recent usage and efficiency, Tyjae Spears is the better start. He is more involved in the passing game and saw more red zone work in Week 8. His role is expanding.

How did the Titans’ backfield split work in Week 8?

The snap share was nearly even. Spears was on the field for 52.1% of snaps, while Pollard saw 46.9%. The key difference was Spears getting more red zone carries and receiving work.

What is Tyjae Spears’ fantasy points per touch average?

Spears is averaging a robust 0.35 fantasy points per touch this season. This efficiency outpaces Tony Pollard, who is averaging 0.30 fantasy points per touch.

How does the Week 9 game script affect Spears’ value?

The Titans are significant underdogs. This negative game script typically leads to more passing plays. As the primary receiving back, Spears’ value gets a clear boost.

Why is Spears seeing more red zone opportunities?

Coaches may be responding to his explosive playmaking ability. His success in high-leverage situations is earning him more trust and a larger role within the offense near the goal line.

Trusted Sources

ESPN, NFL Network, Associated Press