One of the reasons most fantasy leagues end before Week 17 is that playoff teams are often in a position to rest players. Another reason is that non-playoff teams don't feel the need to push players to play through injuries that perhaps they ordinarily would, and that might be the case with Todd Gurley.
The Rams rookie running back is in a walking boot and hasn't practiced the last two days. That doesn't guarantee he won't play Sunday; he could still practice today, or play regardless -- but it doesn't look good.
The Rams without Gurley would use some combination of Tre Mason, Benny Cunningham, and perhaps Malcolm Brown, added from the practice squad. We posted something yesterday about how visiting runners have fared in San Francisco (decent), but that was an easier case to stand behind with a talent like Gurley.
If the Rams use a committee of Mason, Cunningham and perhaps Brown on the road in San Francisco, you're not looking at great potential. Mason has been playing all season (not surprising if you haven't noticed) and averaged just 2.9 yards per carry.
If you're planning to use Gurley, make sure he's active. A practice today would be a good start.
--Andy Richardson
