Who Should I Start? Keenan Allen or Tony Pollard

Saturday, November 23, 5:37 AM

Chicago Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen will be looking to bounce back in Week 12 as he faces a tough matchup against the Minnesota Vikings' secondary. After a frustrating performance in Week 11 against the Green Bay Packers where Allen saw eight targets but only caught four passes for 41 yards he's eager to get back on track. Despite seeing consistent target volume from rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, Allen's fantasy production has been underwhelming this season, and the connection has yet to click fully. The Vikings' defense has been one of the most formidable in the league, ranking 4th in points per game allowed and 5th in EPA per pass. This makes it a difficult matchup for any passing game, including Allen's. To make matters more uncertain, Allen (ankle) was added to the injury report late in the week and is now listed as questionable. Head coach Matt Eberflus said it was a rolled ankle in practice, but they don't believe it's serious. While Allen is not a recommended start this week due to the tough matchup and his injury concern, fantasy managers dealing with bye weeks or injuries might be forced to use him as a desperation flex. Keep a close eye on his status before game time.

Friday, November 22, 3:46 PM

With Tennessee Titans running back Tyjae Spears (concussion) ruled out for Week 12 against the division-rival Houston Texans, it looks like Tony Pollard will carry more of the load on Sunday. However, Pollard has slowed down after a hot start in 2024. He had just 15 yards on nine carries in the Week 11 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, the second straight week with fewer than 10 carries and 50 rushing yards. The Titans will want to get their ground game going against Houston to help take some pressure off quarterback Will Levis and the offensive line. Pollard leads the Titans with 160 carries this year for 681 yards and three touchdowns and he should have some more volume upside as a low-end RB2/high-end RB3/flex against the Texans. The matchup isn't ideal, though, as Houston's D has allowed the fifth-fewest half-PPR points to RBs in 11 games this year.