Who Should I Start? Joe Flacco or Joe Burrow

Sunday, November 23, 9:38 AM

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Flacco will get one more opportunity to start after Joe Burrow (toe) was ruled out for Sunday's Week 12 contest against the New England Patriots. While Burrow was trending in the right direction for this week, the Bengals have ultimately decided to keep him on injured reserve for at least a few more days. As a result, Flacco will remain installed as Cincinnati's starting quarterback for Week 12. He's coming off an uninspiring 199-yard clunker against the Steelers, and although he has five touchdowns over his last two games, he also has four turnovers during that span. To make matters worse, he'll be without Ja'Marr Chase (suspension), shifting Tee Higgins to the top receiver role. New England's defense has been strong this season, but it's best at stopping the run. The Patriots have allowed the ninth-most passing yards, seventh-most passing touchdowns, and 12th-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks in 2025. This matchup and situation are best defined as "good, not great." That sentiment is reflected in RotoBaller's ranking of Burrow as the overall QB17 this week.

Saturday, December 6, 3:52 PM

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow returned in the Week 13 win over the Baltimore Ravens. The signal-caller had trouble completing his throws (24-for-46). However, he still tossed for 261 yards and two touchdowns. While Burrow only had eight yards off three carries, he looked good from a mobility standpoint, which was certainly refreshing for fantasy managers. With the Bengals coming off a much-needed victory, snapping a four-game skid, they will look to remain on the winning path by taking down the Bills in Week 14. Fortunately, Burrow will have Tee Higgins (concussion) back in the lineup after a one-game absence. The former LSU Tiger also likely got rid of any residual rust caused by the lengthy stint on the shelf. As such, he should (in theory) improve as it pertains to his completion percentage, considering he's historically been an accurate passer. Although the weather in Buffalo can be a concern at this point in the season, it doesn't appear as if it will be a significant issue. All things considered, Burrow is a must-start, especially with Sunday's contest projected to be the highest-scoring game of the Week.