Who Should I Start? Sam Darnold or Tyler Shough

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.

Sunday, January 4, 6:18 PM

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough finished off his rookie season with another solid performance during Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons. Shough completed 23 of 35 passing attempts for 259 yards with one touchdown and one interception in the loss. He also added 34 additional yards on three rushing attempts with another score on the ground. Shough was able to throw a 16-yard touchdown to Ronnie Bell late in the fourth quarter, but the Saints weren't able to complete the comeback. He'll finish his rookie season with 2,384 passing yards with 10 touchdowns and six interceptions through 10 games. He ran 45 times for 186 rushing yards with three scores on the ground. The second-round pick has played well enough to earn himself the starting gig heading into the 2026 season.