Start ‘Em – Joe Mixon
While seemingly another layup, it’s not quite the snowbird you’d think it is. Joe Mixon had perhaps his best overall game of the year against the Lions Sunday with 18 carries for 94 yards, and another 59 through the air, including a touchdown where Ja’Marr Chase pancaked the defensive back to spring Mixon for the score.
What was particularly impressive was this performance came after a week Mixon went limited with an ankle injury. We have seen lower-body injuries shut Mixon down for extended periods of time, so for him to rebound this big was particularly notable.
Perhaps the Bengals finally being in contention and taken seriously has flipped a switch for Mixon, and inspired him to push harder and play through adversity. Who cares? Mixon is straight balling and it should continue in perhaps the most important game of his professional career.
Joe Mixon will rise to the occasion Sunday against the Ravens and provide RB1 value. Start him without trepidation.
Prediction: 22 carries, 110 yards, 1 TD