News: 49ers running back Anthony Dixon notched his second rushing touchdown of the season in Week 14 against the Dolphins. Dixon scored on a 1-yard scamper in the fourth quarter of the 27-13 win, capping off a 13-play, 83-yard scoring drive. He finished with 9 yards rushing on two carries and had a long of 8 yards.
Analysis: Dixon only saw a handful of touches Sunday, but both came in the red zone, which is something to keep an eye on moving forward. While it appears LaMichael James will see the bulk of the carries when Frank Gore needs a breather, Dixon looks like he will be Gore's backup in the red zone. While that could translate into a few scores over the final three games of the year, Dixon is not worth owning in most formats at this point in the season. The 49ers will be at New England in Week 15.
News: Comcast Sportsnet reports 49ers bulldozer Anthony Dixon "is responding" to a move to fullback. Dixon asked coach Jim Harbaugh to move to fullback and Harbaugh has given him a shot there.
Analysis: Dixon wasn't considered a capable Fantasy option before this move and he certainly won't be one if he sticks at fullback and doesn't get many touches. Keep him off of Fantasy rosters for now.
News: The 49ers called on RB Anthony Dixon to score on a goal line run, and though it took him two tries, he succeeded in a Week 17 win over the Rams. Dixon's first attempt from the 1-yard line was initially ruled a touchdown, but was reversed upon review. On second down, however, Dixon broke the plane of the goal line and scored his second touchdown of the season. He carried the ball eight times for 21 yards, and he also caught a pass for 6 yards.
Analysis: Dixon amassed just 87 rushing yards on the year, playing a minimal role in the 49ers' offense. He can be ignored in all postseason Fantasy formats, especially with Frank Gore almost certain to play a much larger role than he did in Week 17.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon had his most productive game of the season in Week 5 against the Buccaneers. He carried the ball two times for 4 yards and a touchdown in the 48-3 win. It was his first score of the season.
Analysis: Dixon entered Sunday with just one carry for 6 yards on the year but he was able to see some action with San Francisco up big. Fantasy owners shouldn't expect that to happen too often so continue to ignore the 24-year-old in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh said that RB Kendall Hunter, the 49ers' fourth-round pick from Oklahoma State, has moved ahead of RB Anthony Dixon on the depth chart and will be the backup for RB Frank Gore. However, he said that there will be a rotation and all three will play in games.
Analysis: The good news its that all three backs will get some run in each game, it seems. However, the backups remain just minor Fantasy options as long as Gore is healthy. For now, consider Dixon to be a late-round flier at best. We would not be surprised to find him on waivers.
News: Days after telling the Sacramento Bee that he's planning to "do it all," 49ers RB Anthony Dixon might have meant something else. Specifically, the job of a fullback. Dixon told The Reflector, the student newspaper at Mississippi State, that he's been asked to work in a fullback role as part of his duties by head coach Jim Harbaugh. "Me and coach talked about it," Dixon said. "I'm gonna do some fullback stuff this year, too. I'm trying to bulk up a little more so I can handle both. I really want to be versatile, you know. That's what I'm definitely trying to do."
Analysis: Dixon's a big guy, but he's always been more of a rusher than a blocker. Perhaps the 49ers want to use the rusher as a versatile threat in a number of situations. While it's good for Dixon to learn as many roles as he can in an effort to play more, it doesn't necessarily mean more statistics. We'd keep Dixon off rosters for now outside of deeper seasonal leagues and deeper dynasty/keeper formats.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon didn't have a good rookie season, ticking off his coaches and even some teammates by dancing around and not playing to what his role was: a tough inside rusher. He also said he got tired toward the end of the year and it wrecked his play. But he's optimistic for a fresh start with new head coach Jim Harbaugh, who told Dixon upon his hiring that he liked his game. "I'm focused on being an all-around running back," Dixon told the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat. "I want to be able to run inside. Outside. Catch screens. Run routes. Pass protect. Downfield blocking. ... I feel like [Harbaugh is] going to give me freedom to be me and get comfortable. I know I'm a good football player. I know I can play football. I know I can go out there and run the football, especially when I'm comfortable."
Analysis: Dixon's role is expected to be modified quite a bit with Kendall Hunter joining the 49ers this season. Hunter should be in the driver's seat to land the third-down role for San Francisco, leaving Dixon to be, at best, quality depth behind Frank Gore and potentially a short-yardage/goal-line back. Really, the only way Dixon will see relevant playing time is if Gore gets hurt, which happened last year and could always happen given Gore's history of missing a game or two per season. Dixon's worth a late pick in deeper seasonal formats and dynasty/keeper leagues.
News: According to a report on Comcast SportsNet in San Francisco, 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh said RB Frank Gore will again be the featured back in 2011 despite coming off a hip injury in 2010. "Having studied our team and our own personnel and other backs across the league, I really think Frank Gore is one of the best running backs in the National Football League and one of the most complete backs," Harbaugh said. "Frank Gore is the kind of guy who doesn't want to come out. He wants to be in there every single down. Can he have more production by coming off the field at times? And I think (Anthony) Dixon did a tremendous job last year. His productivity and growth as a football player will be elevated this year. So I think he'll be able to take some of those carries. Frank might not want to hear that." Harbaugh said there will be times they want to keep Gore fresh. "But it won't be the type of thing where we have Frank Gore come off the field too much because he's one of the best backs in the league, in my opinion."
Analysis: Dixon will remain in the No. 2 role for the 49ers in 2011, and he's worth a late-round pick in all leagues. Gore will continue to get the majority of touches, but Dixon will still be in the mix and is a handcuff option for Gore in case he gets injured again like he did last season.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon finished his rookie campaign with some positive numbers. Dixon carried the ball 11 times in Week 17 against the Cardinals, and tallied 22 yards on the ground. He also caught the one pass thrown his way for 2 yards. The rookie would fail to find the end zone in the season finale, but seeing how he had been dealing with an ankle injury just playing was a bright spot. San Francisco would go on to beat Arizona, 38-7.
Analysis: Dixon and Brian Westbrook shared the load on Sunday, but the veteran had a much better day. Dixon gained some yards and got some more experience. Both Dixon and Westbrook saw more action once Frank Gore went down in Week 12. In 2011, Fantasy owners will draft Gore in the early rounds and then target Dixon and/or Westbrook in the later rounds. Consider them both handcuffs for Gore, as he is injury prone.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon was active for the 49ers season finale against the Cardinals. He's been dealing with an ankle injury, but was given the green light on Sunday. Dixon rushed for 54 yards and a touchdown in Week 12 against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Dixon and Brian Westbrook will share the backfield for San Fran, but it's unknown which back will get more touches. Chances are the veteran will get the nod over the rookie (Dixon), which makes him just a low-end option for Week 17.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon (ankle) returned to full practice reps Friday after being limited all week and is now listed as probable for Week 17 against the Cardinals. Dixon rushed for 54 yards and a touchdown in Week 12 against the Cardinals.
Analysis: It doesn't appear this minor ankle injury will keep Dixon off the field on Sunday. However, he will still likely pull backup duty to Brian Westbrook. Dixon is nothing more than a desperation Fantasy start for Week 17.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon (ankle) remained limited in practice Thursday as the team prepares for Week 17 against the Cardinals. Dixon rushed for 54 yards and a touchdown in Week 12 against the Cardinals.
Analysis: When Frank Gore went down with a season-ending injury in Week 12, Dixon and Brian Westbrook stepped up in a big way for the 49ers in that win against the Cardinals. Since then, Dixon has been involved in the rushing game, but he hasn't had a touchdown and Westbrook is still considered the featured back. If Dixon plays Week 17, he will be nothing more than a desperation Fantasy start.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon (ankle) was limited in practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 17 against the Cardinals. Dixon rushed for 54 yards and a touchdown in Week 12 against the Cardinals.
Analysis: When Frank Gore went down with a season-ending injury in Week 12, Dixon and Brian Westbrook stepped up in a big way for the 49ers in that win against the Cardinals. Since then, Dixon has been involved in the rushing game, but he hasn't had a touchdown and Westbrook is still considered the featured back. If Dixon plays Week 17, he will be nothing more than a desperation Fantasy start.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon had his worst performance in weeks against the Rams in Week 16. He received six carries and gained only 17 yards in the 25-17 loss. Dixon finished third on San Francisco in rushing behind RB Brian Westbrook (40 yards) and QB Troy Smith (28 yards).
Analysis: Dixon had rushed for at least 30 yards in each of his last four games but he could not find much room to run on Sunday. San Francisco trailed for most of the game and hardly had a chance to get their running game going. Dixon continues to split carries with Westbrook but should be in for a better performance next week against the Cardinals. When the division foes met earlier in the year, Dixon came on for the injured Frank Gore and rushed for 54 yards and a touchdown. Consider him a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB or marginal flex option in Week 17.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon is active for the 49ers' Week 16 game against St. Louis on Sunday. Dixon was listed as questionable on the injury report with an ankle injury after being limited in practice on Thursday and Friday.
Analysis: Dixon will continue to share carries with RB Brian Westbrook against a Rams defense that ranks 16th against the the run this season. St. Louis has allowed seven touchdowns to running backs this season but Dixon has not reached the end zone in three weeks. Consider him a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB or marginal flex option in Week 16.
News: The 49ers officially listed RB Anthony Dixon (ankle) questionable for Week 16 on Friday. San Francisco will travel to St. Louis on Sunday in a key NFC West contest. The Rams rank 16th against the run this season and gave up touchdowns to both Thomas Jones and Jamaal Charles in Week 15.
Analysis: Dixon has yet to go over 60 yards in the four games since Frank Gore got hurt, and while Dixon still splits carries with Brian Westbrook, he's certainly the less viable Fantasy back of the two. If you must, start Dixon as a low-end flex option in deeper leagues for Week 16.
News: The 49ers have listed RB Anthony Dixon as questionable for Week 16 at St. Louis with an ankle injury. Dixon made it through practice on a limited basis on Thursday and Friday. If he plays he'll back up starter Brian Westbrook.
Analysis: We wouldn't recommend Dixon in Fantasy play; he might end up being worth six points if the Niners use him at the goal line. Consider other options.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon (ankle), who skipped practice Wednesday, was back ion the field Thursday as San Francisco continued preparation for its Week 16 game at St. Louis.
Analysis: Dixon isn't likely to be 100 percent on Sunday, which means Brian Westbrook will probably see a few more carries than usual. If you must use Dixon in Week 16, make sure it's just as a low-end flex option.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon left the Week 15 game against the Chargers with an ankle issue, but later returned. Dixon was able to rush for 30 yards on five carries before leaving, including a 4th-and-goal attempt from 1 yard out, when he was tackled behind the line of scrimmage by Chargers LB Brandon Siler. He received just one carry after that, totaling three yards and caught a 2-yard pass from QB Alex Smith.
Analysis: Dixon was running hard before the injury, but his opportunity seemed to be limited with the team facing a large deficit for most of the game. He came back and looked decent, but it was not a good sample of plays. Monitor his status heading into the Week 16 game against the Rams to see if he will be limited in that matchup. The good news is the nine day gap in between games that he has to rest. The Rams have not allowed an opposing RB to reach the 100-yard mark since Week 11. Dixon is now a No. 3 Fantasy RB when healthy.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon left the Week 15 game against the Chargers with an ankle issue, but later returned. Dixon was able to rush for 30 yards on five carries before leaving, including a 4th-and-goal attempt from one yard out, when he was tackles behind the line of scrimmage by Chargers LB Brandon Siler.
Analysis: Dixon was running hard before the injury, but his opportunity seemed to be limited with the team facing a large deficit for most of the game.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon -- who has established himself as the lead back on the team -- heads into the Week 15 game against the Chargers with a chance to catch a good defense on a short turnaround. The Thursday night kickoff provides the best chance for Dixon to try and find similar success that power-backs similar to him have found this season. Two weeks ago, Raiders RB Michael Bush was able to find the end zone and rack up 95 yards on the ground against them. Still, the team ranks fourth in the NFL against the run.
Analysis: San Diego allows the 11th-fewest Fantasy points to opposing RBs -- who average a hair over 15 points per game against them. However, the game figures to be in the Chargers favor,which means the 49ers could be forced to pass more than they want to, which lends to more playing time for No. 2 RB Brian Westbrook. Dixon has the ability to come out of the backfield, but Westbrook has made a career of it. Because of the likelihood of a San Diego lead and the strength the Chargers have against the run, we consider Dixon to be a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB or flex option heading into the Thursday night matchup. Dixon has averaged 49 yards rushing over his last three games, with one TD in that span.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon was the clear-cut top back for the Niners in the Week 14 40-21 win over Seattle. Dixon rushed 14 times in the game for 60 yards as Brian Westbrook totaled 23 yards on nine touches. Dixon did not score in the game as the Niners did most of their damage through the air against the Seahawks. Dixon added one catch for 8 yards.
Analysis: Dixon is the No. 1 RB in San Francisco ahead of Westbrook but Westbrook has been the better Fantasy option thanks to his ability to catch the football. That should remain the case entering Week 15 in San Diego. Consider Dixon a No. 3 Fantasy RB, at best, for the game.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon has a great matchup heading into Week 14 against Seattle. The Seahawks are allowing the fifth-most average Fantasy points per game to the position this season and just gave up 131 yards and two touchdowns to the Carolina Panthers' backs. Dixon made his NFL debut against Seattle in Week 1, and he said he's learned much more about his technique since. "I kind of got my butt kicked a couple times," Dixon said. "It was a learning experience, and it made me realize I gotta be more serious about my technique and stay low."
Analysis: Dixon split carries evenly with Brian Westbrook last week and will continue to share touches heading into the game against the Seahawks. That said, to the naked eye Dixon was the better and more explosive runner. All things being equal going into Week 14, we think Dixon has the better opportunity to shine against the Seahawks. Start him as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy RB.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon split carries evenly with nine apiece with Brian Westbrook in the Week 13 loss at Green Bay. Dixon rushed for 33 yards, while Westbrook totaled 31, with a long carry of 17 yards. He did not score in the game. Dixon caught one pass for 4 yards in the game and was targeted just once by QB Troy Smith.
Analysis: Dixon and Westbrook will continue to split carries entering Week 14 against Seattle. That is a very favorable matchup for the San Francisco backs. However, splitting carries, each is no better than a No. 3 Fantasy option for the game.
News: With the 49ers placing RB Frank Gore on injured reserve Tuesday with a fractured right hip, the focus now shifts to how San Francisco will utilize the run game without him. The likely candidate to replace Gore is veteran Brian Westbrook, who rushed for 136 yards in Week 12 after Gore got hurt. But coach Mike Singletary says he is going to be cautious with the veteran Westbrook and that Anthony Dixon will also be used in the running game. "We just have to be careful about how we use him (Westbrook) and how much exposure we allow him to see," Singletary said. "And I think it'll be a good mixture between Brian Westbrook and Anthony Dixon."
Analysis: Westbrook has had his history of injury problems and Singletary said it is probably asking too much to rely on him to carry the ball 20-plus times on a regular basis. "Because of the past history with Brian, some of the injuries, it's smart for us to be careful about how we use him, how often we use him," Singletary said. "He's a talented guy, but we want to be smart about that." Let's not forget that Dixon was a superstar in the preseason and showed he could handle a heavy workload in the NFL. He rushed for a touchdown in Week 12 and is probably a better goal-line back then Westbrook. If you miss out on Westbrook, then consider adding Dixon in Fantasy since he might be a sleeper option down the stretch. It takes only one injury to Westbrook for Dixon to become a real player in Fantasy.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon saw his most extended action of the season in Week 12 against the Cardinals. Dixon, who along with Brian Westbrook came on to help replace an injured Frank Gore, ran for a season-high 54 yards on 14 carries and scored his second rushing touchdown of the season in the 27-6 win. Dixon capped off a 10-play, 55-yard scoring drive with a 1-yard touchdown run right before halftime. He also caught one pass for minus-5 yards.
Analysis: Gore has been diagnosed with a fractured hip and will miss the rest of the season, so Dixon and Westbrook will likely be called on to try and replace him. We suspect that Westbrook will see more work, but Dixon should see a role as a short-yardage/goal-line back, and considering Westbrook's injury history, could see significant playing time sooner than later. Dixon has seen many carries this season, but proved on Monday night he can be moderately productive when given the opportunity. While owners who had Gore scramble to replace him with Westbrook (and some will go for Dixon, too), all owners should consider taking a flier on the powerful rookie running back simply because he could see some very meaningful playing time before this year is through.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon only saw one touch in Week 10 against the Rams, but it did not go well. He gained minus-1 yard on his lone carry in the 23-20 overtime win.
Analysis: Dixon had a career-high five carries for 11 yards a week ago but could not get on the field much as starter Frank Gore had a solid game on Sunday. Backing up one of the better running backs in the league does not help his Fantasy value but the 23-year-old remains someone to hold onto as a handcuff option. But until his role improves, leave Dixon on the bench in all formats heading into Week 11 against the Buccaneers.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon was able to suit up in Week 8 against the Broncos despite coming into the game as questionable with a hamstring injury. He totaled a career-high five carries for 11 yards. Three carries came on the team's final drive as they tried to run out the clock, but were unsuccessful and forced to punt.
Analysis: The 49ers have been very content to continually feed the football to RB Frank Gore, even with Dixon and Brian Westbrook on the roster. Rightfully so since Gore has been outstanding as usual. If Gore is ever injured, Dixon is likely to step in for him. But until that happens, Dixon doesn't do enough to start in Fantasy. The 49ers are off until Week 10 against the Rams.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon is questionable for Week 8 against the Broncos due to a hamstring injury. He was limited in practice all week.
Analysis: The 49ers pretty much just keep feeding the football to Frank Gore. When he needs a breather, Dixon or Brian Westbrook step onto the field. Dixon clearly has little Fantasy value as he is barely a factor on offense. Keep him merely as a handcuff option for Gore owners when healthy.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon managed just one carry for minus-6 yards in Week 7 against the Panthers. It was just his fourth carry of the season.
Analysis: Right now, the 49ers pretty much just keep feeding the football to Frank Gore. When he needs a breather, Dixon or Brian Westbrook step onto the field. Dixon clearly has little Fantasy value as he is barely a factor on offense. Keep him merely as a handcuff option for Gore owners. The 49ers play the Broncos in Week 8.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon is stuck on one touchdown after having his second career score called back on a penalty in Week 6. Offensive coordinator Mike Johnson said the coaching staff is aware that starting RB Frank Gore is being overused. "We have to use our other backs and take some of that load off him because, as the season goes on, it may wear him down," Johnson said. That could give Dixon a bit more opportunity, he looks to break into the end zone in Week 7 against the Panthers. Carolina has allowed RBs to total six touchdowns (four rushing) and average 21.4 Fantasy points per week, which is sixth highest in the NFL.
Analysis: After having a great preseason, Dixon has been pretty non-existent in the regular season. He has just three carries in six games. 'Tis life behind Frank Gore, who is the workhorse in the San Francisco backfield. Until Dixon starts seeing a significant amount of touches, he is not a recommended Fantasy option. Leave him on benches for Week 7.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon had just one carry for 9 yards in Week 6 against the Raiders but nearly had his first touchdown of the season in the fourth quarter. After RB Frank Gore broke off a 64-yard run into the red zone, Dixon took the next carry to the house but had the run called back on a penalty.
Analysis: Dixon had his most productive game of the year in Week 6 but still sees minimal carries playing behind Gore. He has carried the ball just three times for 14 yards this season and should remain on the bench in all formats until he sees his role improve.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon has not seen many carries through the first five games this season but will face a Raiders defense in Week 6 that has not fared too well against the run. Oakland ranks second to last in the league against the run, giving up an average of 147.8 yards per game on the ground. They have also given up an average of 25 Fantasy points to opposing running backs, which ranks them last in the NFL in that department.
Analysis: Dixon has carried the ball just two times for 5 yards this season and continues to sit behind RB Frank Gore. He and other backup, Brian Westbrook, have comparable numbers (two carries for 6 yards) and neither have been able to emerge as the true backup. Dixon has carried the ball just once over the past three games and should remain on the bench in all formats until he sees his role improve.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon failed to make the stat sheet on the offensive end in the Week 5 loss to the Eagles. However, he did make a tackle on special teams when he corralled DeSean Jackson on a punt.
Analysis: This is another disappointment for Dixon, who looked like he was going to get more touches after offensive coordinator Mike Johnson said the Niners would spread the carries around more this week. Until San Francisco commits more touches to Dixon, continue to ignore him as a Fantasy option.
News: 49ers new offensive coordinator Mike Johnson plans to get RBs Anthony Dixon and Brian Westbrook the ball more to become less reliant on starting RB Frank Gore. "He (Gore) can handle any situation," Johnson said. "But I think it's smart if we find ways to get other people involved." Dixon could benefit from Johnson's play calling mentality along with Week 5 opponent Philadelphia's run defense. The Eagles rank near the bottom of the league (27th) in stopping the run, allowing 138.8 yards per game.
Analysis: This bodes as a step in the right direction for Dixon, who only has two carries this season (one was for a touchdown). Still, Gore is the focal point of the entire Niners offense and will continue to get 20-plus touches week-in, week-out. Dixon has not made an impact in the ground game this season -- until he does -- continue to ignore him in Fantasy play.
News: Niners RB Anthony Dixon, who entered the game with only one carry on the season, got his second Week 4 at Atlanta. He picked up 3 yards.
Analysis: Frank Gore is pretty much the entire 49ers running game. Dixon and Brian Westbrook hardly factor from week to week, so even though they might be handcuff options, they're the worst possible kind. You can leave Dixon on waivers in most Fantasy leagues for Week 5 against the Eagles.
News: Niners RB Anthony Dixon, who has only one touch through three games, is unlikely to see more Week 4 on the road against a Falcons defense that has allowed only 101.3 rushing yards per game.
Analysis: The 49ers made a switch at offensive coordinator this week, but if any running back is going to benefit from the transition to Mike Johnson, it's Brian Westbrook, whose receiving skills could come in handy if the 49ers employ more of a spread offense. Dixon likely won't make much of an impact unless starting RB Frank Gore goes down, so you should treat him as no more than a handcuff option in Fantasy.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon did not touch the ball in a Week 3 loss at Kansas City.
Analysis: The 49ers put all their eggs in a basket called Frank Gore on Sunday, and Dixon was shut out as a result. The rookie remains worth owning in long-term keeper leagues and in deeper seasonal formats as a handcuff to Gore, but San Francisco also has Brian Westbrook. Do not start Dixon in Week 4 at Atlanta.
News: Should be get any carries, 49ers backup RB Anthony Dixon will face a tough Chiefs defense on the road in Week 3. Kansas City ranks ninth vs. the run in 2010.
Analysis: Dixon scored with his first NFL touch in Week 2, but the chances of him doing that on a regular basis are likely to be slim as long as Frank Gore is healthy. Continue to stash Dixon away in deeper formats as a handcuff to Gore.
News: 49ers Anthony Dixon scored on his first NFL carry in Week 2 against the Saints. Dixon was called upon the spell Frank Gore in the third quarter and a third-and-goal play from the 2. Dixon plowed his way into the end zone for his first career touchdown. It was his only carry of the game.
Analysis: The last 49ers' player to score on their first NFL touch was none other Terrell Owens. While the move to let Dixon score was extremely frustrating to Frank Gore owners, it perhaps signified he is the No. 2 back in front of Brain Westbrook. Still, unless something happens to Gore, Dixon will spend the majority of the season on the bench. We do not recommend using him in Week 3 at Kansas City.
News: 49ers coach Mike Singletary hinted that rookie RB Anthony Dixon may see some snaps if Sunday's game against the Seahawks gets one-sided. "I would like to see him get a chance to play more than special teams, but we'll have to see how the game goes," Singletary said. Frank Gore is expected to get the bulk of work in the backfield against the 15th ranked run defense (111.0 ypg) from 2009. Brian Westbrook will back him up.
Analysis: After having a monster preseason, in which he rushed for 300 yards, Dixon has earned countless compliments from the 49ers coaching staff. Still, as good as Dixon was, Gore is even better. It's clearly going to take some injuries before Dixon moves up the depth chart. Since it is no guarantee that the 49ers will mow down the Seahawks and Dixon gets into the game, he is not a recommended Fantasy start for Week 1.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon will dress for his NFL games against the Seahawks on Sunday. Despite currently being list third on the depth chart, Dixon continues to earn praise from his coaches. “I think he has a tremendous upside,” offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye said. “Every day is Christmas morning with him; it’s always a surprise. I like the young man. Sometimes it might not appear that way, but we’re getting there.”
Analysis: Dixon had a chance to be the No.2 running back on the depth chart when Glen Coffee suddenly retired, but the 49ers signed veteran Brian Westbrook to complement starter Frank Gore. Dixon had a very strong preseason, rushing for 300 yards with three TDs on 74 carries. While he has all the makings to be a very productive Fantasy RB, the fact the he is currently third on the depth chart means he most likely will not get a ton of touches on Sunday. Leave Dixon on the bench for Week 1. However, if Gore or Westbrook go down with a significant injury this season, Dixon should be able to step right in without missing a beat.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon finished his impressive exhibition campaign with another nice game on Thursday against San Diego. He got a key block from rookie guard Mike Iupati on the 46-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. "I've got a little speed in me and a lot of burst," Dixon said. Dixon, a sixth-rounder, finished the preseason with 74 carries for 300 yards and three TDs. He did sustain a ribs injury Thursday, but it wasn't considered serious. "I'm glad I got a chance to go through this so I know what to expect down the road," he said. "I'm kind of bruising a little bit, but I'm all right."
Analysis: Dixon had a chance to be the No. 2 running back option when Glen Coffee suddenly retired from the NFL, but the 49ers signed veteran Brian Westbrook to compliment starter Frank Gore. While Dixon did have a superb preseason, some of his playing time came against backups, so it is hard to tell how he would handle a typical Sunday during the season. The rookie out of Mississippi State should be viewed as a handcuff for Gore owners in deeper formats. He could turn into more if anything happens to Gore down the road.
News: 49ers RB Anthony Dixon ran 21 times for 69 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's preseason win over the Raiders. He now has 20 carries or more in two straight exhibition games.
Analysis: The 49ers clearly want to prove this offseason that Dixon, a rookie out of Mississippie State, can handle a ton of action if starter Frank Gore gets hurt, and the youngster has lived up to expectations. For now, Dixon remains just a handcuff for Gore owners in deeper formats, but he could well turn into more in 2010.
News: San Francisco RB Anthony Dixon has been impressing offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye and coach Mike Singletary so far this preseason. Singletary said after Sunday's game with Minnesota, his biggest disappointment was they weren't able to run the ball. Running backs Frank Gore and Brian Westbrook did not play in the game, as Dixon carried the load with 20 rushes for 51 yards and a touchdown. "I think if there's a reason he had happy feet," Singletary said. "If there's a hole he'll hit it. But sometimes even if there isn't a hole, you still gotta hit it." Dixon was critical of himself after the game though. "I have to know how to take three or four yards sometimes," he said. "I want to break a big run for the team so bad that I wasn't doing what I was supposed to.
Analysis: Dixon is making a case for the No. 2 running back spot behind Gore, but with Westbrook in the picture it makes for an interesting preseason for San Francisco. Dixon will continue to fight for his reps, and could be the goal-line back come Week 1. Dixon is worth a late-round pick on Draft Day, more as a handcuff for Gore than anything else.
News: Offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye seems to be impressed with rookie RB Anthony Dixon. “I think [he’s] very much in the running for vying for time at that position as the guy that goes in to replace [Frank] Gore,” Raye said Wednesday. Raye said his goal the next two weeks is to get Dixon into the preseason games earlier so they can play against "NFL players" instead of camp guys. Raye also said Wednesday it's not a sure thing that new addition Brian Westbrook will step right into the spot because Dixon impressed the coaches in the 49ers' 37-17 exhibition victory over the Indianapolis Colts, rushing for 100 yards with a touchdown.
Analysis: We like that the 49ers will keep their options open and give Dixon a shot. If he can prove this preseason that he belongs and can work as a change-of-pace back behind Gore, then he'll be worth drafting late in all leagues as a handcuff to Gore. Westbrook's arrival in San Fran ultimately will cost Dixon some playing time, but he could still be a goal-line bulldozer -- which would actually hurt Gore's numbers more than anything else. We'll see how he does in preseason action, starting Sunday night vs. the Vikings.
News: San Francisco offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye rallied support around rookie RB Anthony Dixon a day after veteran Brian Westbrook made his training camp debut with the 49ers as a possible backup to Frank Gore. Raye said Wednesday it's not a sure thing that Westbrook will step right into the spot because Dixon impressed the coaches in the 49ers' 37-17 exhibition victory over the Indianapolis Colts, rushing for 100 yards with a touchdown. Raye said Dixon will be given the opportunity to make an earlier appearance when the 49ers host the Vikings on Sunday night. "He's put himself in position to warrant more snaps and earlier snaps against better competition," Raye said. "Stats are not functional in an exhibition game. We're looking to see how clear the picture is, let him use his athleticism and how he plays within the framework of the offense."
Analysis: We like that the 49ers will keep their options open and give Dixon a shot. If he can prove this preseason that he belongs and can work as a change-of-pace back behind Gore, then he'll be worth drafting late in all leagues as a handcuff to Gore. Westbrook's arrival in San Fran ultimately will cost Dixon some playing time, but he could still be a goal-line bulldozer -- which would actually hurt Gore's numbers more than anything else. We'll see how he does in preseason action, starting Sunday night vs. the Vikings.
News: San Francisco rookie RB Anthony Dixon could see his role reduced with the signing of Brian Westbrook. Dixon, who had a great preseason debut, was battling with veteran Michael Robinson for the No.2 running back spot on the depth chart after Glen Coffee announced his retirement. He rushed for 100 yards on 21 attempts and had a 5-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter in his first preseason game.
Analysis: Despite his strong performance in Sunday's preseason game against the Colts, coach Mike Singletary said Dixon isn't ready for real game action yet. “I don't want to put Dixon into [a real game] situation right now,” Singletary said. “He has a lot to learn about pass protection.” Unless a major injury occurs, Dixon will most likely begin the season as the No. 3 RB on the depth chart and is not worth drafting in most standard leagues. At best he worth taking with a lat-round pick in rookie-only leagues.
News: San Francisco rookie RB Anthony Dixon made a strong case to be Frank Gore's primary backup once the season starts. Dixon and veteran Michael Robinson are battling for the spot left by Glen Coffee, who recently announced his retirement. Dixon rushed for 100 yards on 21 attempts and had a 5-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. He was also targeted four times, catching three passes for 22 yards in Sunday's preseason game with Indianapolis. "I thought he did a good job," Singletary said. "[He] obviously shows he has the talent and the strength to do some good things."
Analysis: Dixon is a powerful back out of Mississippi State and is showing he can help carry the load with Gore. His longest run on Sunday was 23 yards and had a 4.8 yard average. If he can continue to showcase his abilities and produce like this all preseason, he'll solidify his spot as San Fran's No. 2 back. Fantasy owners should consider Dixon a late-round choice or waiver wire pickup as insurance for Gore.
News: Out of the blue, 49ers backup RB Glen Coffee announced that he's quitting football. That means that veteran Michael Robinson will vie with rookie Anthony Dixon and possibly a free-agent signee for the backup spot behind Gore.
Analysis: Dixon is a back we had our eye on after the draft -- he's a physical back with fresh legs who could assist Gore in the rushing workload. Robinson has long been a versatile back, but injuries and sloppy play have littered his career. Whoever ends the preseason as second on the depth chart behind Gore is worth drafting late or picking up off waivers as an insurance policy for those owners who have Gore on their teams.
News: 49ers coach Mike Singletary said Wednesday that RB Frank Gore won't play much, if at all, Sunday at Indianapolis in the preseason opener, and that the bulk of the carries would be going to RB Glen Coffee and rookie RB Anthony Dixon. Singletary likened Dixon to "a bull in a china cabinet."
Analysis: It's going to be hard to get Gore off the field during the season, but the addition of Dixon and improvement of Coffee could hurt Gore's production slightly in 2010. We view Coffee as the No. 2 option in San Francisco, but Dixon will remain the mix, and it sounds like Singletary is high on the rookie. Still, if you're looking for a handcuff option for Gore, go with Coffee with a late-round pick in deeper leagues. And Dixon is worth a mid-round pick in rookie-only leagues.
News: 49ers coach Mike Singletary would like to see more from backup running backs Glen Coffee and Anthony Dixon. Both are competing to be the No. 2 RB behind starter Frank Gore. "Glen has to work and keep his head up so he can see what's going on around him," Singletary said Wednesday. "Dixon is a big guy who runs like a small guy." Even though Gore is the starter, Singletary did say all three rushers could see playing time each week. "The third guy has to be more of a special teams guy," Singletary said. "Then we have to convince Frank to not want the ball every play."
Analysis: It's going to be hard to get Gore off the field, but the addition of Dixon and improvement of Coffee could hurt Gore's production slightly in 2010. We view Coffee as the No. 2 option in San Francisco, but Dixon will remain the mix. Still, if you're looking for a handcuff option for Gore, go with Coffee with a late-round pick in deeper leagues. And Dixon is worth a mid-round pick in rookie-only leagues.
