Who Should I Start? Graham Gano or Cairo Santos

Saturday, November 23, 1:46 AM

New York Giants kicker Graham Gano will look to bounce back in Week 12 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a mixed performance in Week 10 against Carolina, where he went 1-for-2 on field goals, including a clutch 42-yard game-tying kick in regulation. Gano, who has played just three games this season due to injury, has made three of four field goal attempts, including a long of 50 yards, for a 75% conversion rate. The Buccaneers' defense, ranked 30th against the pass, could allow the Giants' offense to generate scoring opportunities, giving Gano a chance to capitalize. With the Giants' offense still finding its footing (with Tommy Devito at the helm), Gano is a risky fantasy option.

Saturday, November 23, 5:44 AM

Chicago Bears kicker Cairo Santos is a solid, somewhat unexciting fantasy option in Week 12 as he faces the Minnesota Vikings. Santos' most recent performance was a mixed bag while he successfully converted his first two field goals, he had a chance to win the game with a field goal at the buzzer, only to see it get blocked. Whether that missed opportunity will linger in Santos' mind remains to be seen, but he has generally been reliable throughout the season, making him a dependable kicker option. Minnesota's defense has been tough on passing offenses this year, ranking 4th in points per game allowed and 1st in EPA per play, which could mean fewer scoring opportunities for the Bears. Still, Santos has been consistent in terms of accuracy, and with the potential for field goal attempts in a low-scoring game, he's worth considering as a start. While there are likely higher-upside options available, Santos is a steady, if unspectacular, play for Week 12. If you're dealing with bye-week issues or injury concerns, he's a reasonable choice, but don't expect any game-changing performances.