C.J. Stroud

Since Week 5, in CJ Stroud's seven starts, he has three QB1 finishes in weekly scoring (QB1, QB11, QB8). Since Week 5, among 41 qualifying quarterbacks, Stroud has ranked 17th in yards per attempt, 16th in passing yards per game, 33rd in highly accurate throw rate, and 35th in catchable target rate. Stroud could post another QB1 performance in Week 16. Since Week 11, the Raiders' pass defense has fallen apart, giving up the sixth-most yards per attempt, the fourth-most passing touchdowns, the second-highest CPOE, and the second-highest success rate per dropback.

The turnaround for the Texans since their Week 6 bye is one of the most impressive storylines of the season. Powered by their incredible defense, they're now in the thick of the playoff chase. Although Houston's defense deserves a lot of praise, C.J. Stroud has admirably controlled games and limited turnovers. On Sunday, he had 260 yards and three scores without an interception in a 40-20 win over the Cardinals. In Week 16, Stroud faces the Raiders, who had the NFL's eighth-worst opponent passer rating going into Week 15. With the Texans' defense likely controlling this game from the opening kickoff, Stroud probably won't be asked to do a lot. However, if the Raiders can make this a game, only Maxx Crosby stands in the way of another solid fantasy finish for Stroud.