Who Should I Start? Justin Herbert or J.J. McCarthy

Friday, December 19, 8:45 PM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert enters Week 16, more than two weeks removed from successful hand surgery, and was a full participant in practice all week. While the Chargers' offense has recently shifted to a low-ADOT, run-heavy approach due to a decimated offensive line that has surrendered 27 sacks in six games, the matchup against the Dallas Cowboys is a significant get-right opportunity. Dallas ranks 30th in EPA/Pass and has allowed the most passing yards and touchdowns in the league this season. With Trey Pipkins (ankle) questionable but potentially returning to stabilize the league's worst PFF-graded unit, Herbert should have more time against a Dallas defense that is just 25th in sack percentage. Despite the team's recent conservative nature, Herbert remains a high-upside play against a defense allowing elite production to opposing signal-callers. He is a low-end QB1 this week.

Friday, December 19, 4:26 PM

In the midst of the best stretch of his young career, Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy can be considered a high-potential QB2 option for managers in Superflex leagues as the Vikings look to continue their winning streak in Week 16 at the New York Giants. He'll see another good matchup against the 2-12 Giants, who rank 27th in scoring percentage and 30th in turnover percentage, but could see a patchwork Minnesota offensive line. The Vikings will be without left tackle Christian Darrisaw (knee) and could also be missing right tackle Brian O'Neill (heel), who is questionable. McCarthy, who has been limited to eight starts in two years due to injuries, looked significantly improved during the past two games, in which he completed 66% of passes, accounted for six touchdowns, committed only one turnover, and finished among the top 10 fantasy quarterbacks both times. McCarthy is still raw and prone to volatility, but the past two weeks vindicated managers who kept the faith, giving them a quality option with a favorable matchup deep in the fantasy playoffs.