The Arizona Cardinals face another backfield transition as they head into hostile territory against Indianapolis. Michael Carter and Bam Knight represent the remaining options after injuries to both James Conner and Trey Benson. Recent developments suggest a potential changing of the guard at the running back position. Can fantasy football managers trust either Cardinals runner in challenging road conditions?
Michael Carter Fantasy Outlook
Carter stepped into the lead role last week and handled 23 touches as the clear primary back against Tennessee. He managed 73 total yards and one touchdown, serving as both the early-down runner and primary pass-catching option from the backfield. However, his 2.8 yards per carry average highlighted efficiency concerns that may have influenced coaching decisions.
Despite his volume advantage, Carter’s ineffective rushing performance appears to have created doubt within the organization. His 18 carries for just 51 yards represented significant struggles against a Tennessee defense that had been vulnerable against the run. The inability to create positive yardage consistently became a liability for Arizona’s offensive rhythm.
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The veteran did demonstrate value as a receiver, catching all five targets for 22 yards while providing a reliable outlet for Kyler Murray. His pass-catching ability initially seemed to separate him from other backfield options, offering a skill set that aligned with potential negative game script scenarios.
However, reports indicate the Cardinals are making changes to their backfield hierarchy this week. Adam Schefter reported that Bam Knight will receive the starting opportunity, suggesting Carter’s performance last week fell short of organizational expectations despite his heavy workload.
Bam Knight Fantasy Outlook
Knight has apparently earned promotion to starter despite limited involvement last week. He carried the ball four times for 11 yards and added a short touchdown. His 2.75 yards per carry average matched Carter’s inefficiency, yet the coaching staff appears willing to give him expanded opportunities based on practice performance and potential upside.
His previous NFL experience came during his time with the New York Jets, where he briefly held fantasy relevance after injuries to Breece Hall and Carter (yes, the same Carter). Knight managed 208 rushing yards and two touchdowns across four starts in that role, demonstrating his capability when given featured back responsibilities.
The coaching staff’s decision to promote Knight suggests they value his practice work or believe his running style better suits their offensive needs. His promotion despite minimal recent production indicates internal evaluation factors that aren’t reflected in his limited statistical sample.
Knight’s touchdown from last week showcased his goal-line effectiveness, an important skill given Arizona’s red zone struggles this season. His ability to convert short-yardage opportunities could make him valuable even in limited touches if the Cardinals reach scoring position.
Should You Start Carter or Knight This Week?
Indianapolis presents challenging road conditions for both Cardinals backs. The hostile environment combined with Arizona starting their backup quarterback creates scenarios likely to produce negative game script throughout most of the contest. These factors traditionally limit running back effectiveness and opportunity.
Knight emerges as the preferred option based on his reported promotion to starting duties. His fresh opportunity provides higher upside than Carter, whose ineffective performance last week appears to have cost him the lead role. However, his limited recent workload makes projections extremely difficult.
Carter faces the realistic possibility of reduced involvement following his demotion. Fantasy managers who relied on his volume from last week should seek alternative options rather than hoping for continued heavy usage. His pass-catching ability provides some floor protection, but his role appears diminished.
Both players function as extremely risky fantasy options given the challenging game environment and uncertainty surrounding touch distribution. The combination of negative game script, Jacoby Brissett, and efficiency concerns from both backs creates multiple obstacles for meaningful production.
Fantasy managers should add Knight from waivers for potential future value but avoid starting either player this week unless facing complete roster desperation. The unfavorable conditions make both backs unsuitable for confident lineup deployment.
