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The playoff races are starting to heat up in fantasy. Depending on your league's playoff format, there are only four or five weeks left in the regular season. That makes the waiver-wire scavenger hunt even more critical as owners look for the next one-week wonder. Here are five running backs owned in less than 50 percent of Yahoo! leagues who could help you out for the stretch run.
Mike James, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (owned in 48 percent of leagues)
Not much was expected out of James when he took over for the injured Doug Martin, but James had a big coming-out party in Week 9, gashing the Seahawks for 158 yards and a passing touchdown. He's not likely to repeat those numbers against the Miami Dolphins on Monday, but James is now on the RB2/flex radar. Martin still isn't expected to be back anytime soon.
Chris Ivory, New York Jets (owned in 45 percent of leagues)
Rex Ryan seems to have abandoned the timeshare between Ivory and Bilal Powell. Hard to doubt that decision when Ivory is producing results like this. He recorded 139 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries as the Jets ground down the Saints. With Geno Smith still on training wheels, the Jets will continue to rely on the running game, which should mean more opportunities for Ivory. New York gets the Bills and Ravens after the Week 10 bye.
Andre Brown, New York Giants (owned in 36 percent of leagues)
The wait is over -- Brown is set to make his season debut against the Raiders this week. He instantly becomes the most talented player in New York's backfield, but will probably be eased into game action at first. This might be your last chance to grab him off the wire. Brown should be a fine flex play down the stretch.
Jonathan Stewart, Carolina Panthers (owned in 18 percent of leagues)
Despite playing a limited role last week, Stewart still outgained DeAngelo Williams in yards, getting 43 yards on nine carries while Williams managed just 42 on 13. His role should be expanded with the Panthers firmly in the playoff hunt. Stewart has a tough matchup against the 49ers this week, but should have a better time against the Patriots in Week 11.
Rashad Jennings, Oakland Raiders (owned in 8 percent of leagues)
Stop us if you've this before -- Darren McFadden has a hamstring injury and is unlikely to play this week. Jennings took over in the second quarter and didn't miss a beat, ripping off 176 total yards and a touchdown on 22 touches. He still got plenty of running carries even with the Raiders getting blown out. If Terrelle Pryor is unable to go Sunday, look for Jennings to be the focal point of the offense against a vulnerable Giants defense.