Who Should I Start? Justin Jefferson or Drake Maye

Friday, October 31, 4:50 PM

The Minnesota Vikings have struggled immensely in recent weeks, but wide receiver Justin Jefferson remains a clear WR1 with his team set to travel to Detroit in Week 9. Even though Detroit has had the better of the division matchup in recent years, Jefferson has tormented the Lions during his career. In just 10 games against Detroit, Jefferson has more than 1,200 yards, 72 catches, and four touchdowns. Detroit ranks 26th against half-PPR receivers this season, largely because it has surrendered 14 receiving touchdowns in seven games. Notably, Minnesota will bring back starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy (ankle), but a second-to-last sack rate behind a beaten-up offensive line remains a major concern. The Lions will see the return of starting cornerback Terrion Arnold (shoulder), but Jefferson still should be starting in every format, as usual.

Saturday, November 1, 9:35 AM

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye has been one of the best storylines this season, completing more than 75 percent of his passes for 2,026 yards, 15 touchdowns, and three interceptions. He also has 250 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. The UNC product has taken an extraordinary leap in his second pro season, leading the Patriots to a 6-2 record while entering his name into the MVP race. From a fantasy perspective, Maye is the overall QB2 and has established himself as a must-start player every week, regardless of matchup. That remains the case in Week 9 against the Atlanta Falcons. Even though Atlanta has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks, Maye should capitalize on a home matchup against a struggling Falcons squad. After all, Atlanta surrendered four touchdowns to Tua Tagovailoa last week. Maye is a strong, mid-range QB1 option once again.