Who Should I Start? Baker Mayfield or J.J. McCarthy

Friday, December 12, 12:14 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield completed 19 of his 34 pass attempts for 277 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception during Thursday's Week 15 loss against the Atlanta Falcons. He also took five sacks in the defeat. Mayfield was decent for most of the game, but he threw a costly interception in the fourth quarter that allowed the Falcons to mount an improbable comeback. The 30-year-old has really struggled to hit his receivers in the back half of the season, completing just 54.7% of his passes over the Bucs' last five games. He ranks 21st among quarterbacks in fantasy points per game during that span. Managers will hope that he can bounce back in a key divisional battle against the Panthers next week, but it won't be easy. Carolina has intercepted five passes over its last two games. Mayfield remains outside the top 12 fantasy quarterbacks for the time being.

Tuesday, December 16, 9:58 AM

Minnesota Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy had a rough start to the season, with mistakes and injuries keeping him from being a fantasy option in almost all formats. In the last few weeks, though, the Michigan man has found a very nice groove while leading his team to wins over the Commanders and Cowboys. On Sunday Night Football, he completed 15 of 24 pass attempts for 250 yards and two touchdowns, while adding 15 rushing yards and a third score on the ground. He has six total touchdowns and just one turnover in those two games, and he has a great matchup to keep his momentum going in Week 16 as the Vikings head to New York and face the Giants. If you're looking for a second QB or are desperate for a streaming option, McCarthy's rushing potential makes him a solid snatch and start option this week.