Who Should I Start? Sam Darnold or Caleb Williams

Friday, December 26, 11:24 PM

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold is a risky streaming option against a talented Carolina Panthers pass defense in Week 17. The Seahawks' passing game has been inconsistent in recent weeks, further adding to the risk factor for Darnold. Carolina is No. 8 against opposing quarterbacks in fantasy. They have also forced 13 interceptions, which is good for No. 9 in the league. Darnold himself has thrown 13 interceptions this season. Seattle should be able to move the ball on the ground, and they may lean less heavily on Darnold and the passing game this week than in normal weeks. Darnold, of course, should continue his smooth connection with wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, but a high enough passing output to merit a fantasy start may not be in the cards. Proceed with caution with Darnold in Week 17 if you have struggled with injuries at quarterback this year.

Saturday, December 27, 4:52 PM

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is coming off a stellar Week 16 performance, totaling 250 passing yards and two touchdowns, plus 30 rushing yards, in the thrilling overtime victory over the Green Bay Packers. Alongside head coach Ben Johnson, Williams has led the Bears to an 11-4 record and could clinch the NFC North with a Week 17 win and a Packers loss. He faces the San Francisco 49ers in Week 17, who have allowed the 11th-most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season. In Week 16, the 49ers defense allowed 44-year-old quarterback Philip Rivers to total 277 passing yards and two touchdowns. With good weather expected, Williams offers upside as a QB2 against this injury-plagued 49ers defense.