Fantasy Football: Chris Thompson a smart play in Week 15

For most people, the fantasy football playoffs have started. If you’re scrambling for a running back, Chris Thompson is a must-start.

Chris Thompson returned to the Washington Redskins in Week 13 against the Philadelphia Eagles. Unsurprisingly, the Redskins used him sparingly, as it was his first game in over a month. However, last week was supposed to be his true return to the fantasy football scene.

Instead, Thompson ended with 23 rushing yards and 15 receiving yards on three receptions. This could be excused by a few things though. You could argue he was still rusty, or that Mark Sanchez wasn’t exactly playing well under center. The biggest reason is simple, though, was that Washington got blown out.

With the score sitting 40-0 at one point, the Redskins rolled out it’s depth. Byron Marshall and Jehu Chesson were both given touches in the game. Another thing that happened was a change at quarterback as Josh Johnson took over.

Johnson looked more comfortable than Sanchez, but you also have to remember he entered during a blowout. The New York Giants defense wasn’t exactly playing the same smash-mouth defense at that point.

Johnson, however, did look more accurate, and clearly is more advanced when it comes to avoiding pressure and stretching plays out with his legs. This should lead to plenty of dump-offs to the running backs.

Now, against the Jacksonville Jaguars, it’s Adrian Peterson that will get the heavy carry load. After Derrick Henry tore them up last week, clearly you give the ball to your bruiser. However, you have to remember that the Tennessee Titans have a more credible passing threat. Against the Redskins, the Jaguars can truly stack the box until Washington proves they have to respect the pass.

That’s where Thompson comes in. Johnson’s been with the team for two weeks and has practiced as the starter for just one. That means the playbook won’t exactly be advanced. Quick passes will be the name of the game, and who better for quick passes than the man most dangerous with the ball in the open field — Thompson.

You still probably shouldn’t expect the Washington Redskins to put up massive numbers against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Chris Thompson will get plenty of work as they try to keep things simple for their quarterback who’s still learning a new offense though.