Who Should I Start? Courtland Sutton or Rashod Bateman

Tuesday, January 20, 6:37 PM

Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton posted a modest performance in his team's Divisional Round win over the Buffalo Bills, hauling in four receptions for 53 yards. Sutton functioned as Denver's WR1, earning a team-high nine targets. He could be in line for another sizable target share in the AFC Championship game against the New England Patriots, particularly with fellow Broncos wide receiver Pat Bryant (concussion) questionable to play after suffering a concussion against the Bills. However, the Denver pass game will be without starting quarterback Bo Nix (ankle), who will miss the remainder of the postseason after breaking a bone in his ankle late in the game against Buffalo. As a result, Sutton will be catching passes from Broncos backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham, who has thrown for 1,422 yards, eight touchdowns, and eight interceptions across 20 career NFL games (four starts). While Sutton should remain heavily featured against New England, he may struggle against the tough Patriots defense while working with a backup quarterback.

Friday, January 2, 9:28 PM

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (illness) is listed as questionable but is expected to suit up for Sunday's Week 18 contest against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Bateman is likely to play despite missing practice all week due to a lingering illness. The Ravens are likely going to wait and see how Bateman feels closer to game time before making a final decision. Even if he's active, Bateman isn't a reliable fantasy option. Since Week 11, Bateman has hauled in three receptions for 30 yards. Fantasy managers should look elsewhere for help, even if Bateman is active. The absence of Bateman would mean slightly increased value for DeAndre Hopkins and Tylan Wallace in a must-win game that will decide the AFC North division.