Dean Connors vs Israel Abanikanda
Two running backs fantasy managers weigh against each other in Week 8. Here is the head-to-head on this week's Clutch Score, the next few weeks of projections and 2026 stats so far, with our verdict on who to roster.
Who to roster
Strong edge · 95% confident
Dean Connors- Projects more over Weeks 8-11: 0.2 vs 0.0 pts/game
Dean Connors and Israel Abanikanda are a Week 8 roster decision at running back. Over Weeks 8-11 the weekly projections are nearly even: Dean Connors at 0.2 PPR points per game to Israel Abanikanda's 0.0. This week's Clutch Score has Dean Connors at 0.2 PPR points to Israel Abanikanda's 0.0.
For the rest of the 2026 season, Dean Connors is the clear pick on the better outlook over the next few weeks and the higher Week 8 Clutch Score.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Connors | Abanikanda |
|---|---|---|
| This week · Week 8 | ||
| Clutch Score (proj. pts) | 0.2 | 0.0 |
| Position rank | RB74 | RB85 |
| Opponent | vs LAC | vs ARI |
| Weeks ahead · Weeks 8-11 | ||
| Projected pts / game | 0.2 | 0.0 |
| Season to date · 2026 | ||
| Fantasy pts (PPR) | - | 0.0 |
| Games played | - | 1 |
| Player | ||
| Age | 23 | 24 |
| Bye week | 11 | - |
Highlighted value wins each row. Points are PPR. Clutch Score adjusts this week's projection for matchup, Vegas and injury; the weeks ahead leave out a bye.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: Dean Connors or Israel Abanikanda.
Frequently asked
Should I roster Dean Connors or Israel Abanikanda for the rest of 2026?
Dean Connors is a clear call over Israel Abanikanda from Week 8 on, on the better outlook over the next few weeks and the higher Week 8 Clutch Score.
Who is projected to score more over the next few weeks, Dean Connors or Israel Abanikanda?
Dean Connors projects for 0.2 PPR points per game over Weeks 8-11, compared with 0.0 for Israel Abanikanda. Bye weeks are left out of both.
Who should I start in Week 8, Dean Connors or Israel Abanikanda?
Dean Connors has the higher Week 8 Clutch Score, 0.2 PPR points to 0.0 for Israel Abanikanda, after adjusting for matchup, Vegas and injury.
More comparisons
Verdict weighs projected points per game over the weeks ahead, points per game so far, usage, scoring rank, health and games played. Data via the Sleeper API, refreshed daily.