Fantasy Showdown: Commanders vs. Cowboys – Week 17 Must-Starts and Sits

Game Preview

The Washington Commanders will battle the Dallas Cowboys at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, as part of the NFL's holiday lineup on Christmas Day. Even with playoff hopes dashed for both teams, the rivalry adds spice to this matchup.

In this matchup, the spotlight shines particularly bright on the quarterbacks. With backup Marcus Mariota sidelined, veteran Josh Johnson takes the reins, backed by Jeff Driskel. This dramatic shift elevates the stakes for a Commanders offense that will find itself one-dimensional and potentially predictable.

Understanding the Stakes

This game isn't merely a formality; it's about pride and bragging rights. As fans, we know divisional matchups can defy expectations—anything can happen when rivals clash. Thus, it's essential to evaluate our fantasy options closely.

If you've made it to Week 17, kudos! If you're managing players from either team, let's dissect who can make—or break—your fantasy lineup this week.

Fantasy Players to Start

Start: QB Dak Prescott

The Commanders have allowed the second-most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season. Dak Prescott, with his wealth of weapons at receiver, faces a secondary that's reeling from injuries. He should be viewed as a must-start in your fantasy leagues this week.

Start: RB Javonte Williams

Despite concerns over a neck injury, all signs point to Williams being a crucial part of the Dallas ground game. If he suits up, he faces a Commanders defense that ranks near the bottom in defending against running backs, paving the way for a solid fantasy outing.

Fantasy Players to Sit

Sit: WR Treylon Burks

Even with an uptick in targets lately, Treylon Burks lacks consistent reliability to warrant a start against this Cowboys defense. If Johnson is throwing, Burks could be a risky play. Play it safe and bench him this week.

Sit: RB Jeremy McNichols

With Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Jacory Croskey-Merritt leading the backfield for the Commanders, McNichols is unlikely to see significant touches. His limited opportunities diminish any fantasy upside, making him a player to sit.

Keep an Eye Out

Sleeper: RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt

While the Cowboys yield more points to wide receivers, they still rank among the bottom for running back defense. If the Commanders commit to the ground game, Croskey-Merritt could emerge as an impactful fantasy player. With a pair of touchdowns in the last two contests, he's one to watch.

“In fantasy, it's all about timing and matchups. Sometimes a sleeper can bring your team from obscurity to glory.”

Conclusion

This Week 17 matchup promises to be an intriguing clash of talent and strategy. Whether you're fighting for a title or just playing spoiler, every decision counts. Take these insights to heart as you set your fantasy roster for the Commanders vs. Cowboys game. Good luck, and may the best team win!