Who Should I Start? Terry McLaurin or Puka Nacua

Wednesday, December 24, 9:39 AM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin has provided a major lift to the passing game since returning in Week 13. McLaurin has compiled 16 catches on 26 targets for 259 receiving yards and two touchdowns, ranking 16th among wide receivers in yards over that span. The 30-year-old wideout has a golden matchup on Christmas Day against a Dallas Cowboys defense that is allowing a league-high 8.8 yards per pass attempt over the last five games. However, the Ohio State product could be catching passes from journeyman quarterback Josh Johnson, with Marcus Mariota (hand, quadriceps) uncertain to play after missing two straight practices to open the week. McLaurin still profiles as a solid start with upside in Week 17 as Washington's clear top target, ranking as RotoBaller's WR14 in PPR leagues.

Friday, January 23, 3:35 PM

By his own lofty standards, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua was held in check by the Chicago Bears in the NFC Divisional Round, hauling in just five catches for 56 yards on 10 targets. Things may not get any easier for Nacua in the NFC Championship Game, as he will face one of the best pass defenses in the NFL in the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle finished the regular season ranked first in yards per pass attempt allowed (6.0) and fifth in interceptions (18). Still, Nacua remains an elite wide receiver option for fantasy managers. Dating back to the regular season, the 24-year-old has earned double-digit targets in seven straight contests, recording seven touchdowns in that span. Nacua also had success in the regular season against Seattle, recording a combined 19 catches for 300 yards and two touchdowns on 24 targets across two matchups. Even against a tough opponent, Nacua carries high-end upside at the wide receiver position. heading into the NFC Championship Game.