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Going into week 4 there are a handful of big name Running Backs that are facing injuries that threaten their playing status. The timing couldn't be worse with Bye weeks also kicking in across the league.

Ray Rice
Rice has a knee bruise and earlier in the week, it seemed like he was in jeopardy of missing the Ravens big matchup against the Steelers. However, he has since returned to practice and sounds optimistic that he will play on Sunday. He has been a little disappointing for a Top 5 draft pick, currently ranking 23rd in points amongst RB. Assuming he plays, he's not likely to breakout this week.

If Rice has any setbacks, Willis McGahee will get the touches, but he would be a very weak play against a tough Steelers defense.

Pierre Thomas
Thomas is facing a left ankle injury. He's missed practice, but there's still a chance he could play against the Panthers. He's currently being called a game time decision so you'll want to keep an eye on the situation.

If he can't go, the Saints, who are also without Reggie Bush will lead with Ladell Betts who has yet to record a carry for New Orleans. They will also sprinkle in rookie Chris Ivory. If you need to take a flier on one of these guys, spend it on Betts.

Steven Jackson
Of this group, Jackson is the most likely to be on the bench come Sunday. His groin may require a little extra time to fully heal and the Rams aren't going to want to rush him back and risk a more severe injury.

After Jackson went down last week, Kenneth Darby took over and did a decent job gaining 49 yards on 14 carries with a TD. If the Rams shut Jackson down this weekend, Darby is a viable option as a replacement if you don't have a better option.

Jahvid Best
Best missed practice on Thursday with a toe injury and is likely to be another game time decision. Even if he plays, this is the sort of injury that could limit his abilities on the field, not what he needs to go against Green Bay.

If Best can't go or if he is limited, Maurice Morris will get the majority of the displaced work. Even if Morris finds himself in position to run the ground game on Sunday, he would be a tough start against a good Packers run D.