Who Should I Start? Jahmyr Gibbs or Jalen Coker

Wednesday, December 24, 8:29 PM

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs has been inconsistent as a rusher in recent weeks, as he's been held to 3.6 yards per carry or less in five out of his last six games. The 23-year-old was able to save his Week 16 production with his work as a receiver, recording 10 catches for 66 yards and a touchdown on 13 targets against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Gibbs has been heavily involved in the Lions' passing game since Detroit placed tight end Sam LaPorta (back) on Injured Reserve. Across six games without LaPorta, Gibbs has hauled in 40 catches for 333 yards and two touchdowns on 51 targets. Gibbs' receiving work may need to continue carrying his production in Week 17 against the Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings enter the week ranked 12th in the NFL in yards per carry allowed (4.1). Gibbs had his least productive game of the season in his first matchup of the year against Minnesota, racking up just 28 scrimmage yards on 12 touches in Week 9. However, he may see a few more touches this time around, as Lions back David Montgomery (illness) is officially listed as questionable to play on Thursday. Gibbs remains a must-start fantasy running back, but fantasy managers may want to downgrade expectations in Week 17.

Saturday, December 20, 11:38 AM

Jalen Coker delivered one of his better fantasy outings in Week 15 against the Saints. The Carolina WR caught four passes for 60 yards and a touchdown. He finished with 14.0 PPR points, marking the third time in the last four weeks that he posted double-digit PPR points. Carolina will take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 16 in a showdown for the NFC South lead. Tampa Bay ranks 17th in Fantasy Points Per Game to WRs this season. Although Coker has a decent matchup, his overall volume is a concern. Only once has Coker been targeted 5+ times in a game this year, and he averages 3.6 targets per game. Still, fantasy players can consider Coker in Week 16 if they need a flex streamer. He has caught a touchdown pass in each of his last two games, and Bryce Young may have to throw frequently to keep pace with the Tampa Bay offense. Considering the magnitude of this matchup for the Panthers, Coker is more likely to stay involved in the passing game this week. He is not an upside play, but can provide a decent statistical floor again.