Who Should I Start? Geno Smith or Sam Darnold

Friday, October 17, 1:26 PM

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith continues to disappoint fantasy managers as his turnover issues and poor efficiency have tanked his value across all formats. Smith has thrown at least one interception in all but one game this season and now faces a Kansas City Chiefs defense ranked among the top 10 against the pass. The veteran has failed to reach even modest fantasy production in recent weeks, with the Raiders' offensive inconsistency and reliance on the run game further limiting his upside. With few signs of improvement and a brutal matchup on deck, Smith projects as one of the lowest-scoring quarterbacks in Week 7. Fantasy managers can safely move on from the veteran, as his production doesn't justify a roster spot in any redraft or dynasty league formats.

Friday, October 17, 8:47 PM

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold has been an exciting fantasy asset of late. Unfortunately, Darnold draws a very tough matchup against the Houston Texans on Monday night. Houston is the No. 1 overall team against opposing quarterbacks in fantasy in 2025. This passing defense has done well to shut down every opposing quarterback they have played, especially over the past two games. Even Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield had a pedestrian game against this defense in Week 2. Darnold's hot streak has included two straight games with at least 20 fantasy points. Additionally, Darnold has produced at least 242 passing yards in four of his past five games. Best of all, Darnold is protecting the football with just four turnovers this season. Darnold should continue to protect the ball against the Texans this week, but Houston's smothering defense may cap his overall passing output. This projects to be a lower-scoring game in a clash between two elite defenses. As such, Darnold should be rostered, but left on your bench in Week 7.