Who Should I Start? Mike Boone or Isiah Pacheco

Sunday, January 5, 5:57 PM

Carolina Panthers running back Mike Boone was a non-factor in Sunday's 44-38 overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 18. Boone rushed for 18 yards on four carries while catching one pass for minus two yards. The Panthers activated Miles Sanders (ankle) off the injured reserve, and Boone took a clear backseat to Sanders in this one. He was out-touched by Sanders 17 to four in the contest. However, Boone did have the same number of rushing attempts as last week's starter, Raheem Blackshear. During the season, Boone had nine carries for 33 yards, which is not a recommended fantasy option for managers in 2025.

Saturday, January 25, 4:25 AM

Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco has been a shell of his former self since returning from injury. Even when given the opportunity to start last week's contest, Pacheco remained inefficient and ceded work to veteran Kareem Hunt. The 25-year-old handled five carries for 18 yards against the Texans, compared to eight carries, 44 yards, and a touchdown for Hunt. Given the importance of the matchup and Pacheco's struggles, the Chiefs likely lean on Hunt as their workhorse back in the AFC Championship game this Sunday. Kansas City will face the potent Buffalo Bills in Arrowhead to determine who will represent the AFC in the Super Bowl. With the Chiefs searching for a historic three-peat, the stakes are too high to rely on Pacheco. The second-year back should not be viewed as a start-worthy asset in fantasy playoff leagues and should be considered a dart-throw option in DFS leagues.