Who Should I Start? Kyren Williams or J.J. McCarthy

Saturday, September 6, 10:07 AM

Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams has been the topic of many backfield discussions this offseason, and there was plenty of speculation that the team could look to bring in running back competition. While the presence of Blake Corum and Jarquez Hunter can't be ignored, there's no doubt that this backfield belongs to Williams and that he should continue to have an every-down role. That will benefit him this week against the Texans, who allowed the sixth-fewest rushing touchdowns to running backs last year. Therefore, a high-volume role is necessary to justify starting a running back against the Texans in fantasy football. Williams fits that description, and he also has a track record of scoring touchdowns against stingy defenses. He belongs in fantasy lineups this week.

Tuesday, September 9, 12:25 AM

Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy went 13 of 20 for 143 yards with two touchdowns and one interception, leading his team to a 27-24 win against the Bears in his NFL debut. McCarthy looked overmatched early as the Vikings' stagnant run game left him facing frequent third-and-long situations. He had just 48 total yards at the half while taking two sacks, and then threw a pick-six early in the second half to put Minnesota down 17-6. McCarthy bounced back remarkably well after his costly mistake, delivering his best play in the fourth quarter when he accounted for all three of his touchdowns. The Vikings' run game picked up on the subsequent drive and set up McCarthy for 13-yard touchdown strike to Justin Jefferson. He later hit Aaron Jones for a 27-yard touchdown on a wheel route on a really well-placed ball between two defenders. Finally, he showed off his athleticism and impact as a runner with a 14-yard touchdown run on a read option to essentially ice the game. There will be plenty of growing pains for the 22-year-old signal caller, but he showed some positive signs in this game. McCarthy will be set to make his home debut next Sunday night against Atlanta.