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

Saturday, December 13, 12:00 AM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (hand) enters Week 15 facing a tough Kansas City Chiefs defense while still managing a fracture in his non-throwing hand. Last week's 22-19 overtime win over the Philadelphia Eagles saw Herbert complete just 12 of 26 passes for 139 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, along with losing one of his two fumbles and taking a record seven sacks. His passing volume is considerably limited, forcing him to rely on his legs, where he led the team with 66 rushing yards. The Chiefs are a top-10 defense, tied for third in allowed aDOT and third in passing touchdowns allowed, though they rank 24th in sack percentage. With offensive tackle Trey Pipkins doubtful with an ankle injury, the already-battered offensive line faces a significant challenge. Chiefs Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo should look to exploit the Chargers' weak offensive line, stack the box, and force Herbert to pass under pressure. RotoBaller ranks Herbert as QB22 this week. Given the injury, reduced passing volume, and tough road matchup, fantasy managers should temper expectations and consider Herbert a low-end QB2 for the week.

Friday, December 12, 4:32 PM

Coming off the best game of his young NFL career, Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy will see another quality fantasy matchup when the Vikings travel to Dallas in Week 15. The former Michigan star has been particularly hot-and-cold, even for a young quarterback, but managers in Superflex formats can consider him an option this week against the Cowboys' defense. While Dallas leads the NFL in pressure percentage, the Cowboys rank 31st in passing yards allowed, 30th in net yards per attempt, and 32nd in passing touchdowns surrendered. The biggest issue for McCarthy has been turnovers, but he's coming off a week in which he played turnover-free ball and set a career-best mark for passer rating in a decisive win against Washington. McCarthy is rushing for nearly five yards per attempt and still has an excellent collection of weapons, giving him lineup potential if he can continue to build upon last week's blueprint.