Who Should I Start? Keenan Allen or Brandon Allen

Monday, November 25, 11:35 AM

On Sunday, Chicago Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen turned in a massive performance in the team's 30-27 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Allen finished with nine receptions for 86 yards and a touchdown and led the team with 15 targets, solidifying himself as quarterback Caleb Williams' go-to option throughout the game. Especially in short-yardage situations, Allen came up big, making key catches to move the chains when the Bears needed them most. This game showcased the best version of Allen we've seen this season, as he made impactful plays at critical moments, including a substantial late fourth-quarter touchdown. However, his performance was marred by a notable mistake: a dropped pass on 4th down when the Bears were deep in Vikings territory. Despite the misstep, this was Allen's best game of the year. With a quick turnaround, he and the Bears will face the NFC-leading Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Thursday.

Sunday, November 24, 10:50 PM

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brandon Allen didn't have much to work with during a 38-10 loss to the Packers in Green Bay on Sunday. Filling in for starter Brock Purdy (shoulder), the sixth-year career backup went 17-of-29 for 199 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Allen was behind the eight ball from the beginning, getting his first start since the 2021 season on the road against a quality defense with future Hall of Fame left tackle Trent Williams (ankle) out. Allen wasn't perfect but made some quality throws, including the three-yard touchdown to tight end George Kittle. San Francisco's receivers didn't do Allen many favors, most notably Deebo Samuel Sr., who conspicuously dropped two passes, including the one that directly caused Allen's only interception. A number of drive-stalling offensive penalties and San Francisco's inability to win in the trenches on run plays didn't help, either. Purdy's status for Week 13 at Buffalo is still up in the air, so Allen could be in line for another start, but won't be recommended in standard leagues.