Who Should I Start? Justin Herbert or Rashod Bateman

Monday, October 6, 5:40 PM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert had his worst game of the season, completing 22 of 29 passes for 166 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in the team's 27-10 loss to the Washington Commanders. The offense looked disorganized, burdened by costly penalties and sloppy play for most of the afternoon. Herbert also led the team in rushing with four carries for 60 yards, showing how often he was pressured behind a depleted offensive line. Herbert has been hit 35 times in the last three games, as a wave of injuries on the offensive line continues to mount. As the team prepares for Week 6 against a struggling Miami Dolphins defense, the Chargers might need to rely more on the passing game since they just placed rookie running back Omarion Hampton (ankle) on IR. Herbert should have a chance to bounce back if his offensive line can give him some protection.

Saturday, October 4, 2:28 PM

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman had just one catch in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs, bringing his season-long totals to 10 receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown on 17 targets. Baltimore's passing game will be shorthanded in Week 5, as Cooper Rush will replace Lamar Jackson (hamstring) at quarterback in a tough matchup against the Houston Texans. Houston's defense has allowed the seventh-fewest passing yards (790) and second-fewest number of passing touchdowns (three) in the NFL. Bateman is typically reliant on downfield targets for production, which may be tough to come by with Rush under center. At best, Bateman profiles as a desperation deep-league flex option in Week 5.