It’s common for fantasy owners to target high scoring, high powered offenses. Even though bad teams can provide fantasy relevance, it often doesn’t extend past a few key players. The top passing attacks like the Atlanta Falcons and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are perfect examples of teams with ample fantasy assets.
Run-heavy teams are great targets as well. However, the dreaded running back by committee (RBBC) has become a thorn in the side of fantasy owners for several years. We like teams with a clear cut RB1 (looking at you, Derrick Henry). If a team doesn’t have a clear No. 1 in the backfield but offers substantial rushing volume as a team, there is value to be had, but it takes on a bit more risk.
The San Francisco 49ers are a great example of this phenomenon. They were the third-most rush heavy team last season and had multiple fantasy-relevant running backs. Let’s see if we can decode the 49ers backfield heading into 2020.
Shanahan Coaching History
Kyle Shanahan is one of the best offensive minds in football. After several stints as an offensive coordinator spanning four teams and eight seasons, he landed his first head coaching position with the 49ers in 2017. In his first two seasons, his backfields took on several different forms.
