Who Should I Start? Matthew Stafford or Justin Herbert

Sunday, December 28, 10:27 PM

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford continues to be a must-start fantasy option heading into Monday Night Football against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 17. Stafford tallied multiple touchdowns in each of his last nine games, and he only threw three interceptions during that span. The 37-year-old veteran is firmly in the hunt for the 2025 NFL MVP award, remaining in a neck-and-neck battle with Drake Maye as the regular season winds down. Despite lacking rushing upside, Stafford has ranked as the overall QB3 in fantasy football this season. The Falcons rank near the middle of the league in terms of fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks, but Stafford has shown that he is matchup-proof. He'll remain a high-scoring threat this week, even without Davante Adams (hamstring) at his disposal. Adams sat out Week 16, and Stafford still managed to rack up 457 yards and three touchdowns, albeit with a little help from overtime. He should be started in all leagues during Week 17.

Friday, December 26, 9:37 AM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert enters Week 17 fresh off a massive 300-yard, three-touchdown performance against the Dallas Cowboys, but fantasy managers should prepare for a steeper climb this Saturday. While Herbert thrived behind a clean pocket last week, he now faces a Houston Texans unit that ranks first in EPA/Pass and second in both completion percentage allowed and pressure rate. The Texans' pass rush, led by Will Anderson Jr., poses a significant threat to a Chargers offensive line that remains in shambles with Jamaree Salyer (hamstring) ruled out. Given that Houston has allowed the fewest passing yards per game, Herbert may need to replicate his recent rushing success to salvage his fantasy floor. Despite his elite talent, the lack of protection and the opponent's lockdown secondary cap his ceiling in the championship round. He is a mid-range QB2 this week.