Running Back #33 – Antonio Gibson WAS
Antonio Gibson comes into the 2023 season with a few questions surrounding him. What are his strengths, what percentage of the snaps will he receive, and does new Offensive Coordinator Eric Bieniemy believe in him? He experienced career lows last year in games started (6), rushing attempts (149), rushing yards (546), and touchdowns (5). It was his first season without double digit touchdowns, and his current ADP is in between the 80s and 110s. This is usually just behind teammate and projected starting running back (RB) Brian Robinson.
Gibson did experience career highs in receiving targets (58), receptions (46), and receiving yards (353). It’s been rumored, and Gibson stated himself, that he will be more of a third down back, or the role of fellow RB teammate JD McKissic. Gibson should put up better numbers with Eric Bieniemy particularly if Washington plays from behind. Trust Gibson to provide value at his current ADP, and have spike weeks with several catches.

Linebacker #33 – Christian Harris HOU
Christian Harris is entering his second season in the NFL. Although he looked hesitant at times last year, most rookies thrust into a starting role would too. He did manage to put up great numbers for a linebacker (LB) that did not see the field until week seven. Once in the role he showed steady improvement through out the season. In weeks 15-18 (the fantasy football playoffs) he had three weeks with 20+ points, 33 combined tackles, 1 sack, and 1 interception. He is playing with a new head coach, and one that should benefit Harris greatly, Demeco Ryans.
Ryans is in his first year as a head coach for the Texans, but not his first year for the organization. He is second all-time in tackles for the Texans with 636, and holds the record for the most tackles by a Texans rookie with 156. Ryans has praised Harris and indicated that he has the talent to be a three down LB. Opportunity and availability are the most important fantasy football statistic and three down LBs probably play one of the highest, if not the highest, percentage of snaps. Harris is relatively unknown and is available late in most drafts. Do not skip on him as a potential three down LB in a perfect pairing with a coach who can elevate his talents.

Thank you for reading Mano y Mano. Check in tomorrow for RB & LB #32.
Bet Smart, Be Lucky – Iggy

*Stats come from FantasyPros, Pro Football Reference, Sleeper, and NFL/Next Gen.
*Rankings are based on .5 PPR format and FF7s.