Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said Thursday that RB Marion Barber will play this week against Broncos. That’s news that would otherwise overjoy me, as Barber is a key part of one of my fantasy teams. But why am I feeling this sense of dread?

I can see this playing out now. Barber gets the start, has a couple of nice runs — and then pulls up lame. Leaving his backup, Tashard Choice, on my bench and me cursing up a storm like Vince Lombardi catching Max McGee sneaking out after bed check.

But why do I feel this way?

I have to believe my psyche is still ringing from 49ers RB Frank Gore and what he did to my team last week. Gore practice all week with an ankle injury and was started in my lineup with confidence despite the tough matchup against the Vikings. Gore lasted one run. One run. The new version of Knight Rider lasted longer. My fantasy weekend was ruined at 10:05 a.m. on Sunday morning.

So forgive me if I have a little anxiety about Jones giving Barber a complete bill of health. I have been burned before.

The only way to recover from a fantasy burning is to jump right back into the saddle. Honestly, starting Choice seems like a great option, but Barber is the guy. No need to try to get too smart and overthink this. Barber should and will be started.

Just pass the Xanax, please.

– Adam Rank

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