Who Should I Start? Josh Downs or Tetairoa McMillan

Saturday, December 13, 1:01 PM

Across 12 games this season, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has recorded 44 receptions for 393 yards and three touchdowns on 65 targets. Downs has earned at least five targets in four out of his last five contests, but he's failed to crack 50 receiving yards in a game since Week 9. In Week 15, the Colts will turn to 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to replace the injured Daniel Jones (Achilles), who was lost for the season after suffering a torn Achilles tendon in Week 14. It's hard to project what Rivers will bring to the table for Downs and the Colts' pass-catchers, as Rivers has not played in an NFL game since the 2020 season. One certain thing is that Indianapolis faces a difficult matchup in Week 15 against the Seattle Seahawks. Entering the weekend, Seattle ranks first among NFL defenses in yards per pass attempt allowed (6.0). Between the tough matchup and the Colts' quarterback uncertainty, Downs should likely be avoided by fantasy managers in Week 15.

Saturday, December 13, 12:24 PM

Tetairoa McMillan was targeted only twice, but still made a notable impact in the Panthers' 31-28 surprise victory over the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13. The rookie WR caught one pass, but it was for a 43-yard touchdown, boosting him to a total of 11.3 PPR points. This game was also McMillan's third in a row with a receiving touchdown. After going on bye in Week 14, the Panthers will face the New Orleans Saints in Week 15. New Orleans ranks 11th in Fantasy Points Per Game allowed to the WR position. In Week 10 against the Saints, McMillan had five receptions for 60 yards, totaling 11.0 PPR points. McMillan has seen enough volume as Carolina's leading receiver to usually maintain a solid fantasy floor. He should be started as a WR3 or flex start for Week 15.