Fantasy Football Start or Sit Week 11: Chris Ivory

When it comes to fantasy football, Chris Ivory had one of his better performances last Thursday, posting 99 yards on 18 carries and an additional 36 yards on two receptions, the big question is, can he keep up the momentum as the Jets enter NRG Stadium this Sunday?

It’s no secret, Ivory’s momentum from the start of the season, recording 100 plus yards on the ground each game took a sudden turn as the second half of the season approached Gang Green. However, despite his struggles on the field these past few weeks, Ivory has remained consistent in his weekly fantasy football contributions.

Throughout the first 10 weeks of the fantasy football season, Ivory has only had three games in which he scored less than 10 points, one of those three games he was declared inactive during their Week 2 matchup in Indianapolis. The other seven games, Ivory has gained anywhere from 11-22 fantasy points, proving the 27-year old worthy as a starting running back in over 75% of fantasy football rosters everywhere.

Will the Jets’ star running back continue his impressive fantasy season as the teams next opponent will be the Houston Texans this Sunday afternoon? According to ESPN.com, the Houston Texans’ defense is ranked 24th in the NFL, allowing 106.9 rushing yards per game and grant 18 fantasy points each week to opposing teams backfield.

Ivory will receive the majority of the work load this Sunday, as the Jets depth at the position has trimmed down to Ivory and Stevan Ridley. With that being said, I would strongly suggest starting Ivory this week as your RB2 or even as your RB1. The Jets list of injuries has increased as Zac Stacy suffered a season ending, fractured ankle during their Thursday night loss to the Bills, Bilal Powell hasn’t suited up since Week 6 as the young buck has also been struggling with his own ankle issues, leaving the Jets with Ivory as the work horse.

Let’s also take into consideration as to who will be Gotham’s starting quarterback for Week 11. Ryan Fitzpatrick elected to receive surgery to repair his torn ligaments in his thumb last Friday. Todd Bowles has not ruled out Fitzpatrick as the starter but has also expressed his comfort in Geno Smith. If Smith gets the nod for Week 11, expect Ivory’s role this week to increase.

Nov 8, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets running back Chris Ivory (33) runs the ball against Jacksonville Jaguars strong safety Johnathan Cyprien (37) during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Bowles has shown his confidence in his back up quarterback, complimenting his play during their game against the Oakland Raiders. With Smith receiving a short week of first team reps, expect Ivory’s hand offs to increase. After last week’s performance against the (at the time) undefeated Cincinnati Bengals, the last thing Gang Green needs is for Smith to throw the ball in the direction of Jonathan Joseph or rookie Kevin Johnson.

Next: 10 burning questions

As long as Smith or Fitz can avoid any critical turnovers, and Ivory can steer clear of J.J. Watt, the Jets shouldn’t have an issue reaching their sixth win of the regular season.

Ivory will look to prove he is far from a one hit wonder this season as the half back looks to continue his successful fantasy streak with a big performance over the Texans’ weak rushing defense. I’m projecting Ivory to finish the game with 95 rushing yards, with an additional 30 receiving yards and one touchdown.

Keep track of Ivory’s performance this week as the Jets travel to Houston to seek a much-needed road victory to remain into the hunt for a wildcard berth in the NFL Playoffs.