**Fantasy Football Week 4: Running Backs to Start and Sit**

Week 4 of the fantasy football season is here, meaning it's time to tweak those lineups for optimal performance. While elite players like Breece Hall and Saquon Barkley are no-brainers when it comes to starting, this analysis delves into the less obvious choices—those running backs who have the potential to either shine or underperform based on their matchups this week.

**Top Running Back Starts for Week 4**

Jordan Mason is the start of the week as he faces the Patriots. Although his fantasy points have declined in the first three games, Mason's strong performance metrics suggest a strong rebound could be in the cards. New England's defense has had a tough time containing running backs, allowing significant points to backs like Breece Hall and Braelon Allen. Mason, who ranks third in rushing yards over expected, remains a reliable option.

David Montgomery is another must-start as he takes on the Seahawks on Monday night. Fresh off a game where he scored a touchdown and accrued 21.2 fantasy points against the Cardinals, Montgomery is poised for another impressive outing. The Seahawks' defense has been generous to home running backs, allowing the fifth-most fantasy points since last season and an average of 5.4 yards per rush.

Aaron Jones will be looking to make a statement against his former team, the Packers. After a stellar performance against the Texans, where he scored a touchdown and totaled 25.8 fantasy points, Jones is eager to shine. The Packers’ defense has allowed sizable points to running backs like Saquon Barkley and Jonathan Taylor, which bodes well for Jones.

Tony Pollard and Brian Robinson Jr. also make the list of recommended starts. Pollard faces a porous Dolphins defense that has struggled against running backs. Despite a poor showing last week, Pollard is expected to bounce back. Robinson Jr., averaging 14.4 fantasy points over three weeks, goes up against a Cardinals defense that’s been the most generous to road running backs.

**Running Backs to Sit in Week 4**

On the flip side, Rachaad White should be benched against the Eagles. White's rough start to the season, with just 11.8 points in the last two games, is compounded by rookie Bucky Irving getting more carries. White’s poor average of 2.1 yards per rush suggests he’ll struggle against the Eagles' defense.

Zach Charbonnet might have had a breakout performance in Week 3, but temper expectations as he goes up against the Lions. The Lions have been stout against the run, allowing only 2.8 yards per rush and the fewest fantasy points to running backs.

D'Andre Swift faces the Rams and has also had a rough start, averaging only 1.8 yards per rush and 6.5 fantasy points. With the worst Rush EPA in the league, Swift is a risky start, despite what looks like a favorable matchup on paper.

J.K. Dobbins faces a tough Chiefs defense that has surrendered the third-fewest PPR points to home running backs since last season. Although he led the Chargers' backfield in touches last week, his performance was underwhelming, making him a questionable start.

Javonte Williams is also a sit 'em candidate for this week. Averaging only 6.8 points per game and just 2.2 yards per rush, Williams is ceding touches to other players like Jaleel McLaughlin and Tyler Badie. It's best to keep Williams on the bench until he shows signs of improvement.

By keeping these matchups in mind, you can make more informed decisions and set yourself up for a successful Week 4 in fantasy football.