Fantasy Football Week 15: Start Mariota or Sit Nix?
This week, fantasy football enthusiasts are faced with a critical decision in their lineups. The spotlight is on Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota and Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix. Both players have experienced varying levels of success as they prepare for their Week 15 matchups.
Bo Nix’s Performance Review
Bo Nix is coming off a modest outing against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 14. He completed 31 of 38 passes for 212 yards, but failed to throw a touchdown. Additionally, Nix contributed on the ground with three rushes for 15 yards and one rushing touchdown.
Currently, he is ranked as the QB15, amid a stretch of subpar performances that has seen him placed at QB20 since Week 11. This week, the Broncos face the Green Bay Packers, who have been strong defensively. Green Bay allows an average of 185.8 passing yards per game, ranking them seventh best in the NFL. Their defensive prowess has increased in recent weeks, with only 154 passing yards given up per game over their last three contests.
- Week 14 Stats: 31-38 passing, 212 yards, 0 TDs, 3 rushes, 15 yards, 1 TD
- Fantasy Rank: QB15
- Overall Rank Since Week 11: QB20
Marcus Mariota’s Opportunity
In contrast, Marcus Mariota has the chance to make an impact this week. Although he started Week 14 as a backup, he is expected to take on the QB1 role in Week 15, with Jayden Daniels sidelined due to an elbow injury sustained last Sunday.
In his most recent outing against the Broncos in Week 13, Mariota demonstrated his potential. He completed 28 of 50 passes for 294 yards, recording two touchdowns against one interception. Additionally, Mariota showed his versatility with 55 yards on 10 rushing attempts.
Matchup Advantages
The matchup is favorable for Mariota as he faces the New York Giants, a team struggling with pass defense. This season, the Giants rank ninth in passing yards allowed per game, allowing over 270 yards to quarterbacks in two of their last three games. Each of those QBs also managed to throw for two touchdowns.
- Week 13 Stats: 28-50 passing, 294 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, 55 rushing yards
- Upcoming Opponent: New York Giants
- Giants Passing Defense Ranking: 9th most passing yards allowed per game
Final Decision: Start or Sit?
When deciding between Mariota and Nix for Week 15 fantasy football, the recommendation is clear. Start Marcus Mariota and sit Bo Nix. Mariota’s recent performance and an advantageous matchup against a struggling Giants defense make him the more appealing option this week.
This analysis highlights the importance of player matchups and recent performance trends in making informed fantasy football decisions. Stay tuned to El-Balad for more updates and insights as the fantasy season progresses.
