Who Should I Start? Cameron Ward or Jacory Croskey-Merritt

Friday, October 24, 9:14 PM

Tennessee Titans quarterback Cameron Ward has been playing better lately, but is still off to a slow start to his rookie campaign. Over the last three games, Ward has thrown for over 220 yards in each of those contests. The biggest problem is that Ward has thrown an interception in each of the last five contests. The 23-year-old is also missing his top wide receiver in Calvin Ridley (hamstring) again this weekend. It's hard to imagine Ward having much success against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 8. Due to bye weeks, fantasy managers might have no choice but to start Ward. However, he should be viewed as a low-end option.

Friday, October 31, 5:53 PM

Washington Commanders rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt has struggled since his Week 5 breakout against the Chargers, where he racked up 150 total yards and two touchdowns, finishing as the RB5 in PPR points for the week. Croskey-Merritt has recorded 39 carries for 119 yards to go with only two receptions for six yards on four targets and no touchdowns in the last three games. The rookie seventh-rounder has maintained a healthy snap share at 57.3%, but No. 2 running back Jeremy McNichols has served as the pass-down back and performed well in his opportunities. Croskey-Merritt is clearly the preferred option on early downs, but the lack of receiving is a hit to the ways he can produce for fantasy. The return of star quarterback Jayden Daniels will certainly help open up some rushing lanes, but Croskey-Merritt has a tough matchup against a Seahawks defense that is allowing the fewest yards per carry (3.3) and tied for the fewest rushing touchdowns (two) in the league through seven games. He is ranked as RotoBaller's RB30 in PPR formats for Sunday Night Football.