Who Should I Start? Michael Penix Jr. or J.J. McCarthy

Friday, October 31, 4:14 PM

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (knee) was a full participant in practice on Friday and is not listed on the injury report ahead of Sunday's matchup against the New England Patriots. Penix was listed as limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday, but upgraded to full on Friday and is all set to return after missing Week 8 with a bone bruise in his knee. The 25-year-old has been up-and-down in six games this season, completing 61% of his pass attempts for 1,409 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions. Penix will be joined by Atlanta's top wideout, Drake London, as he will return on Sunday after missing last week's game with a hip injury. Penix will rank as a low-end QB2 in Week 9 against the Patriots.

Friday, October 31, 4:59 PM

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (ankle) is set to return to the starting lineup on Sunday against Detroit, but the biggest question for fantasy managers should be whether the team can keep him upright. The Vikings, who have the second-worst sack rate in the league, are coming off a miserable showing last week in which they ran just 47 plays and gained 146 yards. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw (knee) has been in and out of the lineup, right tackle Brian O'Neill (knee) has no designation this week but missed all of last game, and center Ryan Kelly (concussion) is on injured reserve. Still, with skill players like wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, there is at least some hope that McCarthy's return can provide a jolt to an offense that sorely needs it. Playing at Detroit is a tough start, however, so managers should consider McCarthy only in deeper leagues with a superflex spot.