James Starks is officially the Packers’ No. 1 running back.
Packers coach Mike McCarthy told reporters today that the team views Starks, and not Eddie Lacy, as the top back heading into Sunday’s game against the Lions.
“I would say James is our No. 1 back right now going into Detroit,” McCarthy said. “He’s earned that opportunity. We’ll stay with a 1-2 punch.”
That’s a disappointment for Lacy, who has started seven games this year and not long ago was viewed as one of the best running backs in the NFL. But it’s hard to argue against the move, given the players’ production this year: Starks has 78 carries for 334 yards, while Lacy has 83 carries for 308 yards. Neither player has been great this year, but Starks has been better.
It sounds as if Starks will get the start and has earned the opportunity to touch the ball more than Lacy. Lacy is dealing with a groin injury, and should play, but given McCarthy's comments we feel confident about ranking Starks in our top 20. Lacy should be benched on the hopes that he re-emerges as the team's RB1.
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