Honorable mention Start: Brock Purdy (SF), Justin Herbert (LAC), Caleb Williams (CHI)
Honorable mention Sit: Geno Smith (SEA), Russell Wilson (PIT), Aaron Rodgers (NYJ)
Start: Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers
The Buccaneers’ defense has struggled against the pass all season, allowing multiple passing touchdowns in several games. Their secondary is exploitable, especially against accurate quarterbacks. And While Young has had an up-and-down rookie season, he’s shown flashes here lately (including 28+ against these very Buccaneers). Also, if Tampa takes an early lead, Young will be put in a pass-heavy game script, boosting his volume and yardage potential as well. Carolina’s offensive line has had issues protecting Young, however, and outside of Thielen, Young doesn’t have many reliable targets – which could cap his ceiling. Young has upside in favorable game conditions, and I like/love his chances this week.
Start: Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Mayfield has taken advantage of good matchups all season, and Carolina’s defense has been inconsistent at best, particularly against the pass. They have struggled to generate pressure and contain QBs in recent weeks, making it an exploitable matchup for Baker. Mayfield has shown solid efficiency lately, especially in games where he’s had clean pockets. This matchup could turn into a high-scoring affair, as Carolina has shown offensive sparks the past month or so (RE: my other QB start reco). Mayfield is a great play this week, high ceiling with a solid floor and potential for a big game against Carolina.
Sit: Dorian Thompson-Robinson, Cleveland Browns
Miami’s defense has been pretty damn good against opposing QBs on the season (ranked first against the position), and I expect them to make it difficult for DTR to find consistent success through the air. As a rookie quarterback, DTR is still adjusting to the speed and complexity of NFL defenses, and he has struggled with turnovers and consistency in limited appearances this season (which may be amplified against a solid Miami defense). Miami’s offense can force opposing teams into catch-up mode, which could lead to DTR being put in unfavorable passing situations as well, increasing the likelihood of mistakes. Unless you’re desperate at quarterback or in a deep league, it’s better to explore safer, more proven options this week.
Sit: Cooper Rush, Dallas Cowboys
Cooper Rush faces an uphill battle this week against one of the NFL’s best defenses. The Eagles boast an elite pass rush and a strong secondary, which has been exceptional at limiting opposing quarterbacks all season (all credit due to Jadyn Daniels scorching them for nearly 50 points). Rush has done a commendable job managing games for Dallas, and he’s even dropped 20+ in four of his last six games. An interesting note, however – Philadelphia’s defense is particularly tough on pocket passers, making this a challenging matchup for Coop. If you’re a regular reader, you know I’ve shown Cooper much love. But I’m not sure I trust him in the ship this week in a bad-blood game. If you’re streaming quarterbacks, look elsewhere this week, as Rush’s ceiling and floor are both too low in this unfavorable divisional showdown.