Jared Goff vs Joe Burrow: Who Should You Start?
This is a genuine coin flip on paper. Jared Goff finished the 2025 season at 17.9 PPG over 17 games with the Detroit Lions, while Joe Burrow clocked in at 17.4 across 8 appearances for the Cincinnati Bengals. A 0.5-point gap means any given week could go either way.
With a margin this thin, season averages are not the deciding factor. Weekly variables like opponent defense, game script, and injury status carry more weight than a fraction of a PPG. The right start in Week 6 might be the wrong start in Week 14.
Both lean on arm talent and offensive scheme as traditional pocket passers. Jared Goff threw for 4564 yards and 34 touchdowns, while Joe Burrow posted 1809 yards and 17 scores. Volume, red zone efficiency, and game script are the key week-to-week differentiators when neither carries rushing upside.
One scheduling note: Jared Goff is off Week 5 and Joe Burrow Week 12. If these two are on your roster, you will need a fill-in quarterback for both weeks. DraftCall flags bye conflicts so you can plan ahead rather than panic on waivers.