Who Should I Start? Graham Gano or Blake Grupe

Saturday, December 21, 1:41 AM

New York Giants kicker Graham Gano looks to get going in Week 16 against the Atlanta Falcons after a quiet showing in Week 15, where he had no field goal attempts but made both PATs in a 35-14 loss to the Ravens. On the season, Gano has converted 6 of 8 field goals (75%) with a long of 50 yards. The Falcons' defense allows 24.4 points per game, ranking 25th in the league, which could create scoring opportunities if the Giants' offense can sustain drives.

Saturday, January 4, 4:22 AM

New Orleans Saints kicker Blake Grupe was perfect in Week 17, hitting his lone extra point and a 34-yard field goal try. On the season he is 30-for-32 for extra point attempts and has converted 23 of his 27 field goal attempts. All of those misses have come from 40 yards out or further. Grupe won't be kicking in the comfort of a dome in Week 18 but he will have good weather conditions when the Saints travel to Tampa to take on the Buccaneers. That said, Grupe should probably be avoided for fantasy purposes. Since their Week 12 bye, the Saints have averaged just 11.4 points per game. Rookie quarterback Spencer Rattler will be at the helm again in the season finale. The Saints have had a hard time sustaining drives since he took over for Derek Carr (hand), which means there is less of a chance for Grupe to get on the field. Grupe has a good leg and can be of service when called upon but the Saints' woes on offense should steer fantasy managers elsewhere in Week 18.