Who Should I Start? Michael Pittman Jr. or Justin Herbert

Friday, January 10, 12:10 PM

Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard said that wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (back) will not require surgery for the fractured back that he played through late in the 2024 season. "One tough dude. Example of what you want," Ballard said. It's a testament to Pittman's toughness that he missed just one game due to his back injury. But the 27-year-old's back issues and inconsistent play from the quarterback position in Indianapolis in 2024 led to Pittman posting only 808 receiving yards -- his fewest since his rookie season in 2020 -- to go with 69 receptions (also his lowest mark since 2020) and only three touchdowns in 16 games. Better health will give him a chance to rebound in 2025, but his overall upside might be dependent on quarterback Anthony Richardson's health and his ability to improve as a passer.

Saturday, January 11, 11:25 PM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert had the worst game of his career at a very inopportune time, losing 32-12 to the Texans in the first round of the playoffs. Herbert attempted 32 passes, completing just 14 for 242 yards, one touchdown, and four interceptions. He was also sacked four times, losing 31 yards. Herbert threw three interceptions all season. In 17 regular season games, he threw three interceptions. In one playoff game, he threw four. Herbert got no help from anyone besides Ladd McConkey, but it was still a rough performance from Herbert, who is still looking for his first playoff win.