Who Should I Start? Keenan Allen or Jalen Hurts

Friday, October 17, 6:19 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen is coming off his lowest snap rate (56.3%) and second-lowest route rate (66.7%) of the season, posting just four catches for 27 yards on seven targets against the Miami Dolphins last week. He was out-targeted by both Ladd McConkey and rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden, even with teammate Quentin Johnston (hamstring) sidelined. While his declining usage is concerning, Allen has a favorable matchup against a middle-tier, banged-up Indianapolis Colts pass defense, particularly against DB Mekhi Blackmon, who is allowing an average of 11.3 yards per target. Historically, Allen performs better with Johnston on the field, so the latter's likely return could relieve some pressure on the veteran. RotoBaller ranks Allen as WR25 this week, making him a high-end WR3/FLEX option with potential upside in a shootout, but managers should be cautious of his decreasing volume.

Friday, October 17, 8:05 PM

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts now has multiple touchdowns in each of his last four games, scoring both on the ground and through the air last Thursday against the Giants. In Week 7 Hurts has a tougher challenge with a Vikings team sporting the second-best pass defense in the league, allowing just 157.6 yards per game. Philly is hungry for a victory after suffering back-to-back losses, so expect their offense to be full throttle. Plus, the chemistry between Hurts and his lead receiver A.J. Brown seems to have been mostly restored. Despite a daunting matchup, Hurts is still worthy of a solid QB1 slot.