As the bye weeks return to disrupt the weekly rankings at the RB position in fantasy football, it's crucial for owners to make calculated decisions when setting their lineups. In Week 9, players like D'Andre Swift, Joe Mixon, and Darrell Henderson Jr. face uncertainty, prompting fantasy enthusiasts to analyze their backup options. Let's take a closer look at two running backs that could provide valuable contributions this week.

First on the list is Rachaad White of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite struggling to break the 40-yard rushing mark in three consecutive games, White has been a consistent force in the passing game. His ability to haul in passes has boosted his PPR (points per reception) floor, catching all 13 of his targets for 135 yards over the last two games. Despite a lack of ground production, White showcased efficiency against the Buffalo Bills, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. With Tampa Bay potentially falling behind in games, White's role as a pass-catcher becomes vital. If the Buccaneers' defense can create trouble for rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, White could see an increased workload on the ground.

Next up is Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts, who appears to be on the verge of dominating the Colts' backfield. Taylor has consistently outperformed Zack Moss on a per-carry basis, yet frustratingly saw just one more carry in their recent games. Adding insult to injury, Moss managed to score another rushing touchdown, further complicating Taylor's standing. However, Week 9 presents an opportunity for Taylor to shine as the Colts face the Carolina Panthers, a team that struggled to put up points against the Houston Texans in their recent victory. If this turns into a low-scoring affair against a weak offensive unit, Taylor could receive a significant workload, making him an enticing option for fantasy owners.

As fantasy managers grapple with tough lineup decisions, tools such as the PFN Fantasy Football Trade Analyzer, Start/Sit Optimizer, and DFS Lineup Optimizer can provide guidance in making the right choices. For further insights and analysis, listeners can also tune in to the PFN Fantasy Podcast, available as a podcast or on the Fantasy YouTube channel.

In conclusion, Week 9 of fantasy football brings forth challenges and opportunities for RBs vying for starting spots. Rachaad White and Jonathan Taylor stand out as potential game-changers, offering unique skill sets and favorable matchups. Fantasy owners should carefully consider their options and utilize the available resources to maximize their chances of success in Week 9 and beyond.