Who Should I Start? Jake Haener or Bucky Irving

Saturday, December 14, 5:19 AM

The New Orleans Saints will give quarterback Jake Haener the start on Sunday against the Washington Commanders. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi confirmed the nomination in comments to the media on Friday. Haener took the reins from Derek Carr (hand, concussion) in Week 14 after Carr injured himself late in the Saints' win over the New York Giants. He only had one dropback in that game, which resulted in a sack for a loss of 10 yards. This will be Haener's first start of the season. During the season, Haener appeared in seven games in 2024, going 14-for-29 for 177 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. The Saints wide receiver corps has been depleted by injuries, limiting the inexperienced Haener's utility to fantasy managers in two-QB leagues who are desperate for their second option.

Monday, December 23, 12:39 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving rushed for 68 yards and one touchdown on 16 carries during Sunday's Week 16 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. He also caught all three of his targets for an additional 24 yards through the air. Although the Buccaneers were upset on the road by the Cowboys, Irving still had a good game, breaking several tackles and scoring a touchdown to keep his fantasy managers happy. Perhaps most importantly, he had 16 carries while Rachaad White had just three. It's safe to say that Irving has officially taken over as the Buccaneers' primary ball-carrier, and he'll continue to rank as a high-end RB2 option in fantasy football going forward. He should be started in all leagues when the Buccaneers take on the Carolina Panthers next week.