Who Should I Start? Philip Rivers or Geno Smith

Thursday, December 25, 10:20 AM

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers has entered streaming territory ahead of his Week 17 tilt against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Despite not appearing in an NFL game since the 2020 season, the 44-year-old has looked quite comfortable in the Indianapolis offense and has flashed solid upside for fantasy. In his season debut in Week 15, Rivers faced a tough Seattle defense and went 18-for-27 with 120 yards and a 1:1 TD:INT. However, on Monday evening, Rivers took a massive step forward, going 23-for-35 with 277 yards, two scores, and just one interception during their loss to the 49ers. On Sunday, Rivers has a very favorable matchup against a Jaguars defense that is allowing the ninth-most PPR points to opposing QBs. Rivers carries high-end QB2 upside and viable streaming appeal for those in deeper 12+ team one-QB formats.

Sunday, December 21, 8:18 PM

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (shoulder, back) returned to the field in Week 16, completing 16 of his 23 pass attempts for 201 yards for two touchdowns and one interception in a 23-21 loss to the Houston Texans. However, his interception early in the first quarter was costly, as the stalwart Texans defense returned it for a touchdown of their own. The 35-year-old quarterback spread the ball around to his pass catchers and kept his team competitive against the heavily favored Houston squad. Smith did end up taking three sacks, but this was his fewest since Week 9. The Raiders take on the New York Giants at home in Week 17, which is a top-five matchup for quarterbacks. The veteran play caller remains viable in 2QB or Superflex leagues in need of a starter, given this favorable matchup.