Baltimore Ravens rookie running back Lorenzo Taliaferro seized his opportunity to take control of the team's backfield Sunday, leading the team in carries and adding a rushing touchdown.
Presumed starter Bernard Pierce didn't suit up against the Cleveland Browns, opening the door for the fourth-round pick to show off his stuff. Taliaferro proved he's a much stronger and more reliable option in the backfield than Justin Forsett, driving defenders back on a few of his runs and scoring a one-yard touchdown on a goal-line rush.
Taliaferro wasn't expected to play a major role before the season, but things change in a hurry in the NFL. With Ray Rice on the street and Bernard Pierce battling injuries and effectiveness, Taliaferro has emerged as the best option the Ravens have.
Taliferro will be a hot commodity on fantasy waiver wires this week, especially if Ravens coach John Harbaugh gives an indication Pierce is out of the mix to start when he gets healthy.