Minnesota’s backfield situation has settled into a definitive committee approach following Aaron Jones Sr.’ return from injured reserve last week. Both runners face significant challenges as the Vikings continue struggling offensively with inconsistent quarterback play. Can fantasy football managers trust either Vikings runner against the Detroit Lions this week?
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Aaron Jones Sr. Fantasy Outlook
Jones was immediately restored to starting status upon his return from a four-game absence but looked rusty in his first action since the injury. The veteran played 53% of the snaps against the Los Angeles Chargers, handling nine total opportunities that netted just 30 scoreless yards. At 30 years old, there are legitimate concerns about whether the hamstring injury and extended layoff have accelerated his decline.
Despite the nominal starting designation, this remains very much a split backfield situation moving forward. Jones managed just 3.4 yards per carry in his return, showcasing the same inefficiency that plagued him before the injury. The veteran’s inability to create explosive plays or generate consistent yardage has opened the door for continued heavy involvement from his backfield partner.
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Negative game script theoretically benefits Jones due to his pass-catching ability and experience in two-minute situations. However, Minnesota’s offensive struggles under Carson Wentz have limited opportunities for all skill position players. Jones caught three of four targets for 24 yards against the Chargers, demonstrating his hands remain reliable when given chances in the passing game.
The return of J.J. McCarthy could provide some optimism for Jones’ role, though the rookie quarterback’s inexperience creates additional uncertainty. McCarthy’s mobility and tendency to extend plays might benefit a receiving back like Jones who can find open spaces. However, Detroit’s pass rush and potential for negative game flow could limit any meaningful improvements for the passing attack.
Jordan Mason Fantasy Outlook
Performance metrics clearly favor Mason over his veteran counterpart, though his role has diminished since Jones returned to action. Mason has averaged 4.4 yards per carry this season compared to Jones’ 3.4 yards per attempt, showcasing superior efficiency when given opportunities. The former 49er has proven himself as a powerful downhill runner who consistently generates positive yardage.
Mason’s 17 snaps represented a season low in Week 8, reflecting his reduced status in the committee approach. The 26-year-old managed just five touches for six yards in his worst performance of the season. But the entire Vikings offense struggled against Los Angeles’ defense.
ESPN recently named Mason as Minnesota’s best offseason addition, highlighting his consistent production during Jones’ absence. Mason rushed for 383 yards and four touchdowns while serving as the primary back, posting a 28.4% first-down rate that ranked 11th in the NFL among running backs. His ability to generate tough yards between the tackles has proven valuable in short-yardage situations.
Neutral game script should provide Mason with more opportunities as the primary early-down back and goal-line option. The coaching staff appears committed to utilizing Mason’s bruising running style in situations where tough yards are needed. Fantasy managers should expect Mason to handle the majority of rushing attempts when the Vikings can establish their ground game.
Should You Start Mason or Jones This Week?
Detroit presents an extremely challenging matchup for both Vikings running backs this week. The Lions function as a massive pass-funnel defense, allowing the sixth-most schedule-adjusted fantasy points per game to wide receivers while permitting the fourth-fewest to running backs. Their defensive scheme forces opposing offenses away from the ground game toward aerial attacks.
Game script projections heavily favor Detroit, though, with the Lions installed as 8.5-point home favorites coming off their bye week. Minnesota enters the contest having lost three of their last four games and continues struggling offensively under inconsistent quarterback play. The Vikings will likely find themselves trailing early and often, necessitating a pass-heavy approach that limits both running backs’ opportunities.
McCarthy’s expected return provides some hope for improved offensive efficiency, though Detroit’s defense will look to exploit his inexperience. The Lions have dominated this NFC North rivalry recently, winning five consecutive meetings against Minnesota. Their pass rush and overall defensive talent create significant obstacles for a struggling Vikings offense.
If forced to choose between the two options, game script slightly favors Jones due to his pass-catching ability. The Vikings’ status as significant road underdogs against a quality opponent suggests they’ll be chasing points throughout the contest. However, both runners face extremely low floors and unreliable ceilings in this difficult matchup, making them poor fantasy options for Week 9 lineups.
