QB Matt Schaub Likes Him Some Ben Tate

Posted by Scott Pashley in SPIN Articles No Comments »

NEWS

While falling short of man crush level praise, Matt Schaub was almost gushing in his praise of rookie running back Ben Tate. This is particularly true when you consider Schaub, like so many starting QBs, is a master of saying nothing in interviews. Schaub spoke about Tate’s surprising speed, impressive power, and his receiving skills. Here is the full article where he also speaks very highly of the TE’s and coaches…positive guy that Matt Schaub. The Houston Texan offensive is one of the more explosive units in the NFL as they finished 2009 ranked 4th in total yards from scrimmage (383/game). With consensus fantasy #1 WR Andre Johnson paired with the underrated Kevin Walter, Matt Schaub has a legit chance to finish as a top 5 fantasy quarterback in 2010. The top flight passing game should open up running lanes as most defensive coordinators will focus on shutting down the pass as priority #1. Ben Tate is currently being drafted with an ADP of 67 overall (RB27) making him a borderline starter in 12 team leagues. Monitor this situation in training camp as he has the potential to be a valuable slection on draft day especially in dynasty leagues.

VIEWS

At the risk of tooting our own horn, here is a great article from Rob Warner where he says Ben Tate’s stock is up.

Despite reports that Arian Foster is #1 on the depth charts, Profootballtalk.com doesn’t think his pole position will last.

Fantasyfootballxtreme.com has Tate ranked 27th on their Dynatsy running back rankings and 27th on their redraft rankings.

FANTASY FOOTBALL SPIN

Ben Tate is pretty well rounded. He will have more competition than fellow rookies Ryan Matthews and Jahvid Best. He may hold up better to the pro game, however, that the former Cal back turned Lion Jahvid Best. And, the competition is not all that stiff. Arian Foster poses more of a threat than one year wonder Steve Slaton, who’s 2009 performance came up well short of expectations and his 2008 break out.

Tate has a very good shot at winning the lion’s share of the carries and his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield will keep him on the field on third downs if he wins the job. One check mark against Tate is HC Gary Kubiak’s propensity to rotate backs and play the hot hand. Being that he has three fairly talented backs in his stable, he may have a short leash. I would not want Tate as any more than a fourth RB at this point, but if he seems to be emerging in camp, he could easily be a #3 with potential to be even more if he cleanly wins the starters role.