Who Should I Start? Keenan Allen or Quentin Johnston

Friday, November 7, 6:09 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen had another quiet week, recording season lows with just five targets and two catches for 41 yards. The main concern is his snap share, which has dropped to 25% and 37.5% over the past two weeks as rookie pass-catchers like Tre' Harris and Oronde Gadsden take on bigger roles. Despite facing a favorable matchup against a surging but still vulnerable Pittsburgh Steelers pass defense, Allen's reduced usage limits the upside fantasy managers have come to expect. He does have a good individual matchup against Steelers cornerback Darius Slay, who is allowing 1.3 yards per route run, showing he can still move the chains when targeted. However, due to his declining volume, Allen is best viewed as a low-end WR3 or FLEX option this week, projected as WR35.

Friday, November 7, 6:18 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston bounced back from a zero-target performance by catching four passes for 53 yards and a touchdown against the Tennessee Titans. This week, he faces a vulnerable Pittsburgh Steelers defense that ranks 27th in allowing deep passes (20+ yards), which fits Johnston's downfield role. However, he is likely to have a tough matchup against Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who is giving up one of the fewest fantasy points per route run in the league (0.15). Johnston's role in the offense remains unpredictable due to the rotating group of pass-catchers, including emerging rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden. His value heavily depends on game script, since it relies on the offense creating opportunities down the field or near the goal line. Johnston should be considered a boom/bust FLEX option, projected as WR26 this week.