Who Should I Start? Matthew Stafford or Tyler Shough

Tuesday, October 21, 11:59 AM

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is playing at an extremely high level so far in 2025. Across seven games, the 37-year-old has completed 66.1% of his pass attempts for 1,866 yards, 17 touchdowns, and just two interceptions. Stafford's average of 7.7 yards per pass attempt is his best since the 2021 season, when he finished the year with 4,886 passing yards and 41 touchdowns. The Rams have their bye in Week 8, so fantasy managers won't be able to deploy Stafford this week. Still, given how he has played this season, fantasy managers may be wise to stash Stafford through the bye, even in single-quarterback formats. For fantasy managers looking to beat the waiver wire in shallow leagues where Stafford might not already be rostered, the Rams have a favorable matchup in Week 9 against the New Orleans Saints.

Saturday, September 27, 10:38 AM

New Orleans Saints rookie quarterback Tyler Shough saw his first NFL action at the end of Week 3's 44-13 blowout loss to the Seahawks. He failed to complete either of his two pass attempts, but his appearance marked the first time he had stepped on the field in a regular-season game. The Saints now travel to Buffalo in Week 4 to face a Bills defense that has been dominant against the pass, allowing just 131.3 passing yards per game. Current starter Spencer Rattler is now 0-9, meaning the door may be opening for Shough to take over starting duties eventually. He is off the radar for now, but it would not be surprising to see him take over the starting spot if losses keep piling up.