Vick Ballard vs. William Powell: Who to Start in Week 7
You’re star running back is on bye. You have Trent Richardson and you’re playing the dreaded wait-and-see game. You are looking for an alternative on the waiver wire, or wonder if you’re better off starting a back like Vick Ballard or William Powell.
Here’s what we saw from both backs in Week 6:
Vick Ballard, RB, Indianapolis Colts
He is clearly THE guy in Indy while Donald Brown nurses an ankle injury for at least another week. Against the Jets, he managed just 25 yards on eight carries, a 3.1 yard average. His biggest problem was the scoreboard which forced fellow rookie Andrew Luck to use an aerial attack most of the day. He added 2 receptions for 17 yards, hinting that he may have a more versatile role in Week 7.
William Powell, RB, Arizona Cardinals
Powell did not start for the Cardinals, (LaRod Stephens-Howling did), but Powell easily outclassed LSH, averaging 5.6 yards per touch and 70 yards on the ground. LSH managed just 22 yards on 11 carries (Powell had 13 carries). Powell showed an elusiveness that coaches like, forcing a few missed tackles on the day. Even if he doesn’t start this week, we’d expect him to be the more productive back.
While it’s close, I actually believe Ballard is the better play this week because we know he will start and play the Cleveland defense, while Powell will have to contend with a good Minnesota rush defense and the possibility his teammate may steal opportunities. At best either are flex plays for a bye week or injury, but both backs should see a dozen or more touches.
Kevin Roberts 
Keet Bailey 
Taylor Smith 
Michael Cellars 
Trevor Gunn 
Terrence Kirker
A thoughtful analysis. Much thanks.
Brown is out with a knee injury.
I think Ballard is the better start this week against the Browns, but I think Powell is the better player to keep for the rest of the season. I think he has a chance to prove he is the starter the rest of the way. Thoughts?
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