Ahmad Bradshaw...late-round gold

Several RB combinations have become known as "Thunder and Lightning." Trouble is, too few live up to the powerful symbols they personify.

The Giants' tandem of Brandon Jacobs (a true Thunder back if there ever was one) and Ahmad Bradshaw (as lightning quick and electrifying as they come) will undoubtedly carry that label into the 2009 season. It suits them well. But while everyone is well aware of the production a healthy Jacobs brings to the table, Bradshaw is a lesser-known quantity.

Here's what you need to know about the third-year rusher: He's averaged 6.1 yards per carry over his first two seasons in the league. He has an incredible burst and knack for finding the seam in the blocking, and can take it to the house on any carry. His is a virtual lock to take over the departed Derrick Ward's role as the No. 2 RB in the Giants' rotation, which should translate roughly to triple his 61 carries from 2008. Oh, by the way, Jacobs hasn't played in all 16 games in a season since he became the starter.

True, NY drafted NC State's Andre Brown in the 4th round, who could poach some carries; but I'd be shocked if many came out of Bradshaw's allotment.

With the Giants potentially struggling through the air with a new stable of starting WRs, the running game will be relied on more than usual in 2009. Jacobs is a fringe RB1 for your fantasy team. Bradshaw, available several rounds later, has the potential to be even more valuable over the course of the season. You'll likely get RB2 value out of him, even though he'll be your third or fourth RB option.