Fantasy Football: 4 Unexpectedly Great Week 13 Performances

Rex Burkhead, RB, New England Patriots

NFL.com Start Percentage: 13.8%
Week 13 Fantasy Points: 22.3

Rex Burkhead was the third-best fantasy running back of Week 13 thanks to 78 yards rushing, 25 yards receiving, 3 catches, and 2 touchdowns. Sadly, he was only started in just under 14 percent of NFL.com leagues. That's a mistake that should be rectified.

Since the Patriots' Week 9 bye, Burkhead has produced double-digit fantasy points (NFL.com scoring) in three of four games. Dion Lewis has the edge in rushing attempts over that time frame, but Burkhead has been much more involved as a receiver, earning 15 targets to Lewis' 6. He's also been used a lot close to the goal line. Inside the opponent's 10-yard line, he has the edge with eight opportunities (six rushes, two targets) to five for Lewis.

Don't look now, but the Patriots backfield has become somewhat predictable. Both Burkhead and Lewis are usable fantasy assets, but Burkhead's heavier involvement as a receiver and goal-line back make him a solid consideration for your weekly lineups.