Fantasy: Rookie Lorenzo Taliaferro seizes control of Ravens' backfield

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.