Adam Schefter has good news from Bills camp concerning Marshawn Lynch

“Electrifying … he might remind some people of … Thurman Thomas.”

Adam Schefter certainly likes what Marshawn Lynch brings to the table, comparing him to the great Bill’s running back Thurman Thomas. Thomas, for those of you who don’t remember, was a versatile running back noted for his receiving ability. The fact that Schefter thinks Lynch can bring that same skill set to the table is definitely great news for fantasy players.

Already considered a top rookie going into training camp, Lynch may have surpassed even some season veteran fantasy backs with his camp showing, moving up to the top 20 and securing a spot in most (12 team) drafts as a mid third round pick. In an offense where he will begin the season as the team’s starter, Lynch is a sure-fire impact player for Buffalo.

What’s the Expectation?

Take a look at Buffalo’s last starting running back, Willis McGahee, who was largely considered a disappointment. The Bills gave him opportunities — evidenced by the 20 carries he averaged in games he started — but at the same time he had some competition.

In the two seasons he didn’t have 300 carries, there was at least one back who had 90+. In 2006 it was Anthony Thomas with 107 (partly because McGahee missed two games with injury) and in 2004 it was Travis Henry who had 94. In those two seasons McGahee received 64% and 70% of the carries. In 2005, however, the season he had 325 carries, he accounted for 88%.

The difference between McGahee and Lynch is the situation. Lynch doesn’t have competition that will take a chunk of the carries away from him. Instead, he’s facing a season more like McGahee’s 2005. While he might not have 325 carries, it wouldn’t surprise me if he walked away with that many touches (carries + receptions).

Expect a 1450+ yard season with 8+ touchdowns.