Marcus Mariota vs Spencer Rattler: Who Should You Start?
This is a genuine coin flip on paper. Marcus Mariota finished the 2025 season at 12.0 PPG over 11 games with the Washington Commanders, while Spencer Rattler clocked in at 11.5 across 9 appearances for the New Orleans Saints. 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. Marcus Mariota threw for 1695 yards and 10 touchdowns, while Spencer Rattler posted 1586 yards and 8 scores. Volume, red zone efficiency, and game script are the key week-to-week differentiators when neither carries rushing upside.
One scheduling note: Marcus Mariota is off Week 14 and Spencer Rattler 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.
