Who Should I Start? Chris Boswell or Riley Patterson

Friday, December 26, 9:33 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers kicker Chris Boswell converted all three of his extra-point tries and drilled two of his three field goal attempts in a Week 16 win over the Detroit Lions. His miss from 37 yards out was nearly costly, as he failed to put Pittsburgh up by eight points with just over two minutes remaining, but the Steelers were ultimately able to close out the victory with a five-point lead. Boswell will look to bounce back against the Cleveland Browns this week. When he last faced Cleveland in Week 6, Boswell was incredibly productive for fantasy purposes in a 23-9 win. Sunday's contest carries an extremely low projected point total, which could signal limited touchdown opportunities and increased involvement for the kicker. Furthermore, Pittsburgh may not have much to play for if the Green Bay Packers defeat the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. If the Steelers rest some starters or adopt a conservative approach, Boswell could be called upon early and often. Fantasy managers can continue to roll with the 34-year-old in Week 17.

Saturday, December 13, 6:51 PM

Miami Dolphins kicker Riley Patterson has been solid but not spectacular this season, while filling in for Jason Sanders (hip), who remains on IR. Patterson has made 23 of his 25 field goal attempts and 28 of his 29 extra point attempts. He didn't have any issues on the road in the cold against the Jets last week, making all four of his kicks. This week, he'll be on the road for a night game in Pittsburgh with very cold temperatures again in the forecast. While it won't be ideal conditions for long field goals, Patterson has been consistent enough from short range to not be a total "must avoid" option, especially since the Steelers have been a top-10 matchup for kickers. Patterson is the No. 19 kicker in RotoBaller's Week 15 rankings, so there are potentially kickers with more upside on the waiver wire in most standard-sized leagues this week.