Who Should I Start? Michael Pittman Jr. or Josh Downs

Friday, December 12, 11:00 PM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. had a down year in 2024. However, he's turned it around this season. In 13 appearances, the 28-year-old has 69 catches (94 targets) for 699 yards. While he could have a tough time surpassing his mark from the 2023 campaign (109 receptions), he has already amassed a career-high seven touchdowns. Unfortunately, the Colts have struggled of late, with the team losing their last three contests. To make matters worse, Daniel Jones went down with a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. As a result, Indy will turn to Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard (knee), who no longer carries an injury designation, in Sunday's meeting with the Seahawks. As expected, many feel that neither player will do enough to get Indianapolis back to the top of the AFC South. With that in mind, Pittman's fantasy ceiling might be at its lowest point of the season, especially with a challenging contest on tap. Although he's still a must-start in any setup, considering he's been a top fantasy wideout, managers should expect the worst and hope for the best in Week 15.

Saturday, December 13, 1:01 PM

Across 12 games this season, Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Josh Downs has recorded 44 receptions for 393 yards and three touchdowns on 65 targets. Downs has earned at least five targets in four out of his last five contests, but he's failed to crack 50 receiving yards in a game since Week 9. In Week 15, the Colts will turn to 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to replace the injured Daniel Jones (Achilles), who was lost for the season after suffering a torn Achilles tendon in Week 14. It's hard to project what Rivers will bring to the table for Downs and the Colts' pass-catchers, as Rivers has not played in an NFL game since the 2020 season. One certain thing is that Indianapolis faces a difficult matchup in Week 15 against the Seattle Seahawks. Entering the weekend, Seattle ranks first among NFL defenses in yards per pass attempt allowed (6.0). Between the tough matchup and the Colts' quarterback uncertainty, Downs should likely be avoided by fantasy managers in Week 15.