The 2010 NFL season has been disappointing for just about all NFL rookie running backs. Jahvid Best's toes have brought him to his knees. C.J. Spiller has all that speed and nowhere to go. Ben Tate and Montario Hardesty were done before opening day. A host of others have made a minimal impact as backups. And the most popular of them all in fantasy leagues, Ryan Mathews , has been bothered by injuries for most of the season. He missed Monday's game versus Denver and it doesn't look like he'll be active when the Chargers face the Colts this Sunday night. Head coach Norv Turner said Tuesday that he's "not optimistic" about Mathews' playing status for week 12. However, he gave a glimmer of hope by saying that Mathews may practice late in the week and "possibly play."

Fantasy Analysis:

Who would have thought that LeGarrette Blount would be the most trusted rookie RB by the time week 12 arrived? It's just been a really rough year for this class. Mathews has been bothered with ankle and knee injuries since week two and hasn't scored more than 12 fantasy points in any game. With how Mike Tolbert is carrying the rock right now, the Chargers can afford to be safe with Mathews. Don't expect to see him play against the Colts. With Tolbert getting the start, he's a solid flex play in 12-team leagues. Indy is not strong against the run and Tolbert is coming off a 153-yard game. He has also scored in six of his past seven contests.