Who Should I Start? James Conner or Michael Penix Jr.

Monday, September 8, 10:21 AM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner did not have an efficient game, but did score a touchdown in his team's 20-13 Week 1 victory over the New Orleans Saints. Conner rushed for 39 yards on 12 attempts and added four catches for five yards and a touchdown as a receiver. Notably, second-year Cardinals running back Trey Benson was much more successful as a rusher, finishing with 69 yards on eight carries. Arizona may feature Benson more heavily in 2025, especially given that Conner is now 30 years old. The veteran still figures to be his team's goal-line back, but the workload split between Conner and Benson is one for fantasy managers to monitor closely in the coming weeks.

Sunday, September 7, 6:37 PM

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. threw for nearly 300 yards during the season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He got the game started off quickly with a 50-yard passing touchdown to Bijan Robinson on the opening drive. The Bucs basically completely stopped the Falcons running game, but Penix was able to keep his team in the game with his arm. He completed 27-of-42 passing attempts for 298 yards and a touchdown. Penix also added 21 yards on the ground on six rushing attempts with an additional touchdown on the ground. The young quarterback was able to hold his own especially without Darnell Mooney (shoulder) and Drake London towards the end of the game. It was a nice season opener for Penix, but he'll have a tough challenge ahead of him against the Minnesota Vikings defense in Week 2.