Who Should I Start? Joshua Dobbs or Sam Howell

Saturday, August 16, 6:36 PM

New England Patriots quarterback Joshua Dobbs completed 11 of his 16 pass attempts for 106 yards, one touchdown, and zero interceptions during Saturday's preseason win over the Minnesota Vikings. The veteran backup looked solid, albeit against the Vikings' second-team defense. With only Drake Maye and Ben Wooldridge alongside him in the Patriots' quarterback room, Dobbs is in line to earn the backup job ahead of Week 1. The 30-year-old has seen increased opportunities over the last few seasons, including the 2023 campaign in which he threw for 13 touchdowns with the Vikings and Arizona Cardinals. He spent 2024 backing up Brock Purdy in San Francisco but did attempt 47 passes through two games (one start). If Maye were to suffer an injury, Dobbs possesses the experience, mobility, and arm needed to keep the Patriots competitive down the stretch.

Saturday, August 16, 6:53 PM

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Howell had a rough showing Saturday, completing just one pass from five attempts for 13 yards with a brutal interception. The veteran, who is on his third team in three years, is still the favorite to backup J.J. McCarthy, but hasn't been convincing during this preseason. Howell did add 14 yards on three rushes leading the offense without top receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, but the Vikings also took long looks at Brett Rypien and Max Brosmer on Saturday. From a fantasy perspective, Howell is only roster-worthy as McCarthy insurance in deep formats.