How does a positive game script affect running backs?
It helps them. When a running back's team is winning big, the coach keeps handing him the ball to run out the clock, which adds carries, yards, and sometimes a late touchdown.
Game Script
Game script is how a game unfolds in terms of scoring and time, which shapes which players get the ball and how much.
In fantasy football, the game script is the story of how a game plays out: which team leads, by how much, and how much time is left. Coaches change their play calling based on this. A team that is behind throws more to catch up, while a team that is ahead runs more to burn the clock. Because of this, the same player can look great in one game and quiet in another, even if nothing about his skill changed.
Game script matters most when you are picking between two similar players. A running back on a team favored to win big often gets a lot of carries late in the game, because his team is protecting a lead. A wide receiver or tight end on a big underdog may see a pile of targets, because his team must throw to try to come back. Quarterbacks follow the same pattern: trailing passers pile up yards and attempts, while leading ones may hand off a lot in the second half.
When you set a lineup, think about the point spread and each team's style. Blowout wins can sink a passing game that barely throws after halftime, and blowout losses can turn a star running back into a spectator. Neutral or close games usually give both sides a fair share of chances, which is often the best setup for your starters.
Common questions
Why would a star player have a bad fantasy game in a blowout?
If his team is way ahead, the quarterback may stop throwing and the starters may sit out the fourth quarter. If his team is way behind, a running back may be ignored while the team passes on every down.
Should I bench players in games with big point spreads?
Not automatically, but be careful. A heavy favorite's receivers can lose targets to a run-heavy second half, so a similar player in a closer matchup can be the safer start.
Related terms
Fanademy ranks every player by value over replacement under your league's scoring. The free top five at each position is public; the full board is $5 a month or $40 a year.
See plans and sign up