Who Should I Start? Geno Smith or Patrick Mahomes

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.

Sunday, December 22, 6:45 AM

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes completed 28 of 41 pass attempts (68%) for 263 yards and a touchdown in the 27-19 win over the Houston Texans. Mahomes also rushed five times for 33 yards and a touchdown. Despite coming into this game with an ankle injury, the veteran quarterback broke off the longest rushing touchdown of his career. The 29-year-old had one of his best games of the season, eclipsing 20 fantasy points for the third time this year. Mahomes will look to continue his productive run next week against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who rank third in fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks this season. With Marquise Brown returning from injury in this game, Mahomes has another dangerous pass catcher to throw to. Fantasy managers will have to decide whether or not to start Mahomes in a difficult matchup next week.