Who Should I Start? Geno Smith or Marcus Mariota

Saturday, November 22, 12:51 PM

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith had an underwhelming game in Week 11 against the Dallas Cowboys, completing 27 of 42 pass attempts for 238 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Across 10 games, the 35-year-old has completed 66.3% of his pass attempts for 2,082 yards, 12 touchdowns, and a league-high 13 interceptions. Smith has also been sacked on 9.1% of his drop-backs as he plays with a Raiders offensive line that has been hit hard by both injuries and underperformance. The job won't get any easier for Smith in Week 12, as he'll take on star edge rusher Myles Garrett and the Cleveland Browns. Through 11 weeks, the Browns have allowed the fewest passing yards (1,874) and recorded the fifth most sacks (32) in the NFL. Even in two-quarterback formats, Smith profiles as a player for fantasy managers to avoid in Week 12.

Friday, November 21, 11:00 AM

With Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (elbow) missing time due to both knee and elbow injuries, backup QB Marcus Mariota has gotten extended playing time in 2025. Across seven games (five starts) this season, the 32-year-old has completed 65.7% of his pass attempts for 1,065 yards, seven touchdowns, and five interceptions. Mariota also brings some juice with his legs, rushing for 193 yards and a touchdown on 27 attempts. However, Daniels was able to avoid surgery on his dislocated left elbow, which could allow him to return to the field shortly after the Commanders' Week 12 bye. At the same time, Washington is out of the playoff mix with a 3-8 record, so the team could choose to shut Daniels down and play for 2026. Still, the Commanders will face one of the NFL's best defenses in the Denver Broncos in Week 13. Mariota does not profile as a starting fantasy QB option in Week 13, which may be his last chance to start before Daniels returns.