Steelers running back James Conner has been ruled out for this week’s game against the Raiders, coach Mike Tomlin announced. Initially, Conner was believed to have suffered a minor contusion, but it turns out that he has a slightly more serious sprain that will keep him out of action for at least one game. 
Conner, 23, has exceeded all expectations this year in place of star Le’Veon Bell. In 12 games (eleven starts), Conner has amassed 909 yards off of 201 carries (4.5 yards-per-carry average) and 12 rushing touchdowns. He’s also caught 52 passes for 467 yards and one receiving score, showing that he’s a more than adequate replacement for one of the sport’s most dynamic weapons.
Naturally, the Steelers will still go into Sunday’s game against Oakland as heavy favorites, even though they’re on the road. With a win, the Steelers can further solidify their odds of making the playoffs while taking another step closer towards the AFC North title.
With Conner on the sidelines, Stevan Ridley and Jaylen Samuels are expected to lead the way at running back. Meanwhile, the club will hope to get Conner back on the field for a huge Week 15 matchup against the Patriots.
This is all about preparation for New England. They know they don’t need him against Oakland so they figure let him rest so he is 100% wrote the following week.
At this point they had better not look past or feel more comfortable playing anybody. I support sitting Conner until he is completely healthy; if not this week, fine, but rest him because he medically needs it, not because they want to save him for New England. They are only 1/2 game up on the Ravens so they need their best team on the field each week.
I’m waiting for someone to mention Leveon in the comments.
Who?
Couldn’t handle waiting so you posted yourself?
Either trustworthy fantasy wise?
Ridley TD dependent mostly?
Samuels is interesting. I don’t think Ridley is worth picking up.
If you’re playing in Yahoo, Samuels is TE eligible.
I just saw this today! I’m third in waivers and the other two teams are out of playoffs and don’t check their teams. Huge after Olsen went down and I have zero TE.
I picked up Samuels after week 12 just as a handcuff… starting him this week in place of Gus Edwards at the flex spot. Thinking is Samuels has fresh legs, has a nice matchup against Oakland and Pitt likes to use one featured RB all game. Edwards is a little banged up and starting to share carries. Plus jackson is a TD vulture.
They better not look past Oakland. They’ve done that in years past and it cost them. Plus under Tomlin, they have a BAD habit of playing down to their competition.