Who Should I Start? James Cook or Isaiah Likely

Monday, January 22, 12:31 AM

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook started hot but faded late as his team was sent home in Sunday's 27-24 Divisional Round loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, carrying 18 times for 61 yards and catching four passes for 21 yards. With the Bills dominating on the ground in the first half, Cook picked up one chunk gain after another. But the Chiefs stiffened up to stifle Cook during the second half, leaving the 24-year-old with a fairly quiet evening despite his second straight week with 22 touches. Cook undoubtedly took a big step forward in 2023 -- garnering his first Pro Bowl nod and placing third at his position in scrimmage yards -- but his inability to find the end zone was a major shortcoming. Totaling five TDs on the season on 325 touches including the playoffs, Cook also failed to reach the 90-total-yard threshold in any of his final five appearances. That probably shouldn't prevent Cook from being selected as a top-12 fantasy RB, however, in 2024 drafts.

Saturday, January 20, 9:13 PM

Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely secured his first-ever postseason touchdown in the Divisional Round, finishing with two catches for 34 yards and a touchdown in the team's 34-10 victory over the Texans. With Mark Andrews (ankle) still sidelined, Likely took on the role of the team's primary tight end and continued to make significant plays in his absence. Andrews returned to practice this week, increasing the likelihood of his return for the AFC Championship game next week. The Ravens will host either the Bills or Chiefs, both ranking in the top 10 in DVOA against the pass. These teams have effectively defended tight ends throughout the season, and Likely's value would diminish in any format if Andrews makes his return.