Who Should I Start? Justin Jefferson or Rashee Rice

Friday, December 12, 4:23 PM

Week 15, which marks the start of the fantasy playoffs in many leagues, brings about an especially difficult call for fantasy managers who roster Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson ahead of a primetime game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night. On one hand, Jefferson remains one of the game's best; he's healthy, and he's up against a Cowboys defense that has allowed more points to fantasy receivers than any other team. On the other hand, the superstar receiver's recent lack of production is staggering. Jefferson hasn't finished among the top 20 PPR receivers since Week 9, and he has just 15 combined receiving yards in Minnesota's past two games. Managers who have been burned surely feel cautious; however, the matchup is favorable, and Jefferson is still too good to completely overlook. Factoring in the offense's struggles as they break in quarterback J.J. McCarthy, Jefferson is more of a WR2/high-end flex, but there is serious potential against a Dallas defense that has given up a ton of production to wide receivers this season.

Friday, December 12, 4:35 PM

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice was held in check by the Houston Texans in last week's loss. The Chiefs WR1 caught four passes for 34 yards, finishing third on the team in receiving yardage. Despite his lackluster performance, Rice still finished with a team-high eight targets, demonstrating the team's determination to keep him involved. The 26-year-old may once again struggle to find success this week against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Chargers defense is allowing the second-fewest fantasy points to opposing wide receivers this season, making them one of the most difficult matchups at the position. Rice has been the team's focal point on offense since his return, so he should continue to be heavily involved despite the matchup. Rice was also listed on the injury report with a hamstring injury this week, but was a full participant in every practice and does not have an injury designation for Sunday's game. Rice is ranked WR4 in our RotoBaller Half-PPR rankings, making him a top-end WR1 option again this week despite his recent struggles.