Isiah Pacheco vs Tony Pollard: Who Should You Start?
Deciding between Isiah Pacheco and Tony Pollard is a common lineup dilemma for fantasy managers. The Detroit Lions running back put up 6.0 PPG in 2025 over 13 games; Tony Pollard of the Tennessee Titans averaged 10.0 in 17. A 4.0-point margin that could shift on any given week.
The per-game difference of 4.0 points favors Tony Pollard, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one running back to the other.
Both profile as early-down workhorses. Isiah Pacheco ran for 462 yards and 1 touchdowns; Tony Pollard posted 1082 and 5. Goal-line share, red zone touches, and which team is favored are usually the tiebreaker when neither back offers passing-game volume.
Both share a Week 5 bye, which matters for roster construction. If you are stacking running backs this deep on your bench, plan your replacement running back early.
