Who Should I Start? T.J. Hockenson or J.J. McCarthy

Friday, December 12, 4:14 PM

Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (shin) is coming off a highlight-worthy touchdown last week, but a decrease in passing volume will once again keep him as a low-end TE2 option when the Vikings travel to Dallas in Week 15. Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy played the best game of his NFL career last week, which coincided with a tight-end-friendly gameplan. All three of McCarthy's passing touchdowns went to tight ends -- two to Josh Oliver and one to Hockenson -- but just three overall targets went Hockenson's way as Minnesota prioritized its running game. The Cowboys have been abysmal against the pass overall, surrendering the most passing touchdowns and second-most yards, but receivers have done much more damage: Dallas ranks a respectable 11th against half-PPR tight ends. While Hockenson is off the injury report, he's averaging just 3.5 catches and 28.5 yards per game, so he's best saved for formats that start more than one tight end.

Friday, December 12, 4:32 PM

Coming off the best game of his young NFL career, Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy will see another quality fantasy matchup when the Vikings travel to Dallas in Week 15. The former Michigan star has been particularly hot-and-cold, even for a young quarterback, but managers in Superflex formats can consider him an option this week against the Cowboys' defense. While Dallas leads the NFL in pressure percentage, the Cowboys rank 31st in passing yards allowed, 30th in net yards per attempt, and 32nd in passing touchdowns surrendered. The biggest issue for McCarthy has been turnovers, but he's coming off a week in which he played turnover-free ball and set a career-best mark for passer rating in a decisive win against Washington. McCarthy is rushing for nearly five yards per attempt and still has an excellent collection of weapons, giving him lineup potential if he can continue to build upon last week's blueprint.