Who Should I Start? Geno Smith or Baker Mayfield

Wednesday, December 25, 12:10 PM

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith checks in as a QB2 in Week 17 against the Chicago Bears. Smith has a chance to put up solid numbers against a Bears defense that just got torched by Jared Goff and the Detroit Lions. The Bears have not played particularly well over the second half of the season given the turmoil in the organization and the multiple coaching changes. The Seahawks must win on Thursday to keep their playoff hopes alive. The offense should be aggressive both on the ground and through the air as a result. Smith should reach 200 yards passing without issue. The question is whether the touchdowns will flow for him. He has only thrown multiple touchdowns in a game on three occasions this year. That has limited him to the QB2 range despite being third in the league in passing yards. He is a great option for two-quarterback leagues, but he should remain on benches in leagues that only start a single quarterback.

Monday, December 23, 12:19 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield completed 31 of 43 pass attempts for 303 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception during Sunday's Week 16 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. He also took four sacks and rushed for 42 yards. Finally, Mayfield fumbled once, but he was able to pick up the loose ball. All in all, Mayfield had a solid showing, but it wasn't enough to propel Tampa Bay over Dallas. The 29-year-old ranks as a top-six fantasy quarterback this season with his 3,920 yards, 37 total touchdowns, and 15 interceptions. Fantasy managers should view him as a top option among quarterbacks when he takes on a subpar Carolina Panthers defense in Week 17, coinciding with most fantasy leagues' championships.