Who Should I Start? Marcus Mariota or Jalen Coker

Sunday, December 21, 4:18 PM

Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota (right hand, quad) is day-to-day ahead of Thursday's Week 17 contest against the Dallas Cowboys, head coach Dan Quinn told the media. Mariota's right hand injury, which forced him out of Saturday's Week 16 loss to the Eagles, required stitches. He is also dealing with a quad ailment. Josh Johnson relieved Mariota on Saturday and finished the game. Now, it appears that the veteran journeyman has a chance to become the Commanders' third different quarterback to start a game this season. Managers invested in Mariota's availability should closely monitor the Commanders' injury reports from Monday through Wednesday.

Saturday, December 20, 11:38 AM

Jalen Coker delivered one of his better fantasy outings in Week 15 against the Saints. The Carolina WR caught four passes for 60 yards and a touchdown. He finished with 14.0 PPR points, marking the third time in the last four weeks that he posted double-digit PPR points. Carolina will take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 16 in a showdown for the NFC South lead. Tampa Bay ranks 17th in Fantasy Points Per Game to WRs this season. Although Coker has a decent matchup, his overall volume is a concern. Only once has Coker been targeted 5+ times in a game this year, and he averages 3.6 targets per game. Still, fantasy players can consider Coker in Week 16 if they need a flex streamer. He has caught a touchdown pass in each of his last two games, and Bryce Young may have to throw frequently to keep pace with the Tampa Bay offense. Considering the magnitude of this matchup for the Panthers, Coker is more likely to stay involved in the passing game this week. He is not an upside play, but can provide a decent statistical floor again.