Broncos RB Lance Ball may start Thursday

Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow calls running back Lance Ball a "powerful runner."Â (Image courtesy of Dave Kaup/Reuters)

Fantasy Football owners take note, with starter Willis McGahee recovering from a strained hamstring, Denver may give third year back Lance Ball the start at tailback tomorrow night against the Jets’ run defense that has allowed 16.7 points a game to backs this season and 1,044 yards on the ground.

McGahee has been limited in practice in back-to-back days and Coach John Fox noted that he is on a “day-to-day” status.  If McGahee cannot go, Ball will get the first start of his career.

A player who we’ve highlighted for his phenomenal effort, Ball is eager for the opportunity.

“The guy is hungry,” said Eric Studesville​, the Broncos’ running backs coach. “He knows the window of opportunity for him might be small, and you’ve got to be ready for it when it’s there. Since I’ve been here, whatever opportunity has opened up he’s made the most of it.”

In nine games this season, Ball has rushed 55 times for 227 yards (4.1 average) and added six catches for thirty more yards and a score.  In a bowling game, knocking down ten pins counts as a strike.  On Thursday evening, Ball will look to roll through eleven New York defenders for a score.

With Knowshon Moreno on injured reserve, recently activated running back Jeremiah Johnson will be Denver’s reserve back against the Jets.  Johnson has experience with the option from his college days at Oregon.

As of now it looks like Ball will see a heavy dose of carries even if McGahee is ready to play.  If you’re in need of a third flex-back in fantasy football, Ball seems like a safe option.