Who Should I Start? Marcus Mariota or Aidan O'Connell

Wednesday, August 6, 9:20 PM

Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota (leg) won't travel with the team for their preseason opener against the New England Patriots. Head coach Dan Quinn said on Wednesday that Mariota is dealing with a mild lower leg strain. Luckily, it sounds like a minor injury as Quinn said his level of concern was low. The Commanders will take the cautious approach and rest their backup quarterback. Mariota served as the backup to Jayden Daniels last season. He completed 34-of-44 passing attempts for 364 passing yards and four touchdowns in three games with Washington last year. There won't be any fantasy value here with Mariota while Daniels is healthy. Sam Hartman figures to see the bulk of the snaps in the preseason opener.

Friday, August 8, 12:52 AM

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Aidan O'Connell had an up-and-down preseason debut Thursday against the Seahawks, completing 18 of 30 passes for 205 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. He found second-year running back Dylan Laube for a six-yard score in the third quarter but otherwise led the offense to just two field goals. O'Connell is competing to retain the backup role behind Geno Smith, but his inconsistency leaves the door open. Sixth-round rookie Cam Miller, drafted out of North Dakota State, is pushing for the job and could close the gap with a strong showing in upcoming games.