Who Should I Start? Keenan Allen or Josh Downs

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, 2:13 PM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs (concussion) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Chargers. Downs popped up on the team's Wednesday injury report with a concussion and has not practiced since entering the league's concussion protocol. Downs is coming off his best game of the year after catching six passes for 42 yards and a score against the Cardinals. While they play different roles in the offense, Downs' absence could create more target opportunities for Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce. Meanwhile, Adonai Mitchell could see a return to action after the team limited his snaps in Week 5 and made him a healthy inactive for Week 6 following his Week 4 fumble on what should have been a highlight touchdown grab.