Who Should I Start? Chase McLaughlin or Blake Grupe

Friday, December 20, 5:51 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers kicker Chase McLaughlin turned in a great performance for fantasy managers during last week's game. McLaughlin connected on all eight of his kicks in the win over the Los Angeles Chargers. The 28-year-old made four field goals and four extra point attempts in what was a busy day for him. The expectation is that McLaughlin is going to be busy once again versus the Dallas Cowboys in Week 16. The Cowboys have a banged up defense that should give the Bucs plenty of scoring chances this weekend. Fantasy managers should feel comfortable starting McLaughlin in Week 16.

Sunday, December 22, 3:38 AM

New Orleans Saints kicker Blake Grupe went 2-for-2 on field goal attempts and converted his sole extra point try in Week 15. Grupe was good from 41 and 51 yards away and he is now 14-for-16 from 40 or more yards out. It was an encouraging effort after his 0-for-2 showing in Week 14. Despite the rebound, Grupe is not a recommended start in Week 16 when the Saints take on the Green Bay Packers on Monday night. The weather at Lambeau Field is expected to be wet, windy, and cold, which is far from ideal for a kicker used to kicking in the optimal conditions provided by a domed stadium. Pass on Grupe this week but keep an eye on his availability as he may be useful in Week 17 when New Orleans faces the Las Vegas Raiders.