Who Should I Start? Geno Smith or Derek Carr

Friday, December 20, 3:43 PM

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith (knee) practiced in full all week and has been removed from the final Week 16 injury report. Smith will start on Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings despite being pulled from the Sunday night loss to the Green Bay Packers in Week 15 and never returning. Not only is it great news for fantasy managers looking to use Smith in two-QB leagues this week, but it's also excellent news for anyone with receivers Jaxon Smith-Njigba and DK Metcalf in their lineups. The 34-year-old Smith's mobility will most likely affected -- not that he was much of a threat to run to begin with. The two-time Pro Bowler comes into Week 16 action averaging 19.4 fantasy points per game, which is tied with Joe Flacco for 16th among all QBs in 2024. Against an aggressive Vikings defense, Smith checks in as a volatile QB2 for fantasy managers in the semifinals in most leagues.

Saturday, December 21, 4:37 PM

New Orleans quarterback Spencer Rattler will start in place of injured starter Derek Carr (hand). Carr did not progress enough during the week to get back to active status for the Week 16 game at Green Bay on Monday night. Rattler spelled Jake Haener last week after Haener earned the start against Washington in Carr's absence. Rattler was much more effective with 135 passing yards and a touchdown in relief and Haener will serve as the backup on Monday night. Rattler has completed 69 of 120 passes for 706 yards with two passing touchdowns and two interceptions this season. The matchup at Green Bay will be a tough one in frigid weather against a very solid pass defense in the Packers. Look for other fantasy options than Rattler at the position.