Who Should I Start? Bijan Robinson or Ladd McConkey

Saturday, December 27, 4:05 PM

Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson is coming off the second straight week in which he's produced at least 168 total yards and a touchdown, currently sitting as a top-five running back in season-long fantasy. The 23-year-old even led the team with 11 targets in Week 16 despite the return of Drake London (knee). The work in the passing game provides the workhorse back with a high weekly floor, and he may need it in a Week 17 matchup against the Rams, who have limited opposing running backs to the fourth-fewest fantasy points this season, and are yielding just 97.3 rush yards per game over their last three (fifth-fewest). Expect the third-year pro to be heavily involved once again in a home game on Monday night, and with a high expected point total in this one (49.5), there should be plenty of scoring, making Robinson a high-end RB1 again in Week 17.

Friday, December 26, 9:53 AM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey returned to the end zone last week, leading the team with six targets, but a repeat performance will be difficult on Saturday against the Houston Texans. Houston's secondary is arguably the best in the NFL, ranking first in EPA/Pass and allowing the fewest passing yards per game. While McConkey remains Justin Herbert's primary target, the Texans' elite pass rush, which is tied for sixth in sacks, will likely force Herbert into quick, low-ADOT throws. This defensive pressure mirrors the conditions that led to McConkey's recent dud games rather than his productive outing against a porous Dallas secondary. While his target floor remains decent, the matchup significantly limits his big-play potential. He is a touchdown-dependent WR3 for the fantasy finals.