Who Should I Start? Sam Darnold or Jalen Hurts

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.

Friday, December 26, 11:10 PM

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts helped out fantasy managers last week with two passing touchdowns and his biggest day on the ground since Week 4, tallying 40 rushing yards. Hurts may have to rely on his legs some more in his upcoming game against the Bills, as Buffalo allows just 167.1 passing yards per game this season, which is the second-fewest in the league. Luckily, the Bills let Browns QB Shedeur Sanders scramble all around them last week as the rookie led his team with 49 rushing yards. While it may be tough to get it going through the air, Hurts has shown he can score in more ways than one with his eight rushing touchdowns this season. In this high-octane clash of Super Bowl-hopefuls, expect Hurts to bring his A-game. Especially with his five passing touchdowns in his last two games, consider him a solid QB1 despite the slightly intimidating matchup.