Who Should I Start? Christian McCaffrey or James Conner

Saturday, November 23, 12:21 AM

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey is in Green Bay for a Week 12 matchup with the Packers. Through two games since his return, McCaffrey hasn't quite been himself, producing 13.7 half-PPR points in Tampa before totaling 12.6 at home in last week's home loss to the Seahawks. Conspicuously, McCaffrey hasn't scored a touchdown since he came back. The last time he went two consecutive games without a touchdown was almost exactly two years ago, spanning 28 games including playoffs. Green Bay presents a good enough opportunity for McCaffrey to start a new streak, ranking in the exact middle of the NFL in fantasy points surrendered to running backs. Though CMC has proven to be matchup-proof during his time in San Francisco, the 49ers offense is limping into Lambeau. Quarterback Brocky Purdy (shoulder) has been ruled out -- ceding the start to backup Brandon Allen -- and future Hall of Fame left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) is questionable. Any volume boost created by the 49ers leaning more on McCaffrey is washed out by the likelihood that the offense becomes less efficient. McCaffrey is still a must-start high-end RB1 this week, but DFS players looking for maximum production out of a pricy back might rather have Saquon Barkley or De'Von Achane.

Friday, November 22, 12:12 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner has boom potential in their Week 12 road matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. The Cardinals are coming off a bye week, which afforded Conner much-needed rest after his heavy workload through the first ten games of the season. Conner is having one of his best seasons as a pro and is on pace for 1,185 yards and eight touchdowns. He'll look to maintain that pace against a familiar opponent in the Seahawks, against whom he has racked up over 300 total yards and four touchdowns in four games as a Cardinal. This should be a favorable matchup for the Cardinals' rushing attack, and Conner should be started in all leagues.