5 breakout fantasy football stars to pick up for Week 17

ESPN rosters: 27.2%

Yahoo rosters: 22%

When you compare Tua Tagovailoa‘s numbers and fantasy output to other younger quarterbacks in the NFL, especially fellow rookie Justin Herbert, he probably falls short. However, Tagovailoa was named a starter after Herbert, and he is not necessarily given as much freedom in South Beach.

More importantly, Tagovailoa has been a winner for the Dolphins, and his team is fighting for a playoff spot. So, he will be playing meaningful football this week when the team travels up to the cold temperatures in Buffalo to play the Bills. Even after his benching in Week 16, he is someone to consider as Brian Flores has reportedly said he will be the starter this week.

Tagovailoa has primarily been more of a game-manager. He is tasked with playing turnover-free football and positioning the team to win. This is fine, and he has done that job well. But, recently, we have seen the rookie start to make more plays on his own.

Since his benching in Week 11, Tagovailoa has thrown for 934 yards with five passing scores and two picks while completing just over 65 percent of his passes. He also has three rushing scores.

Buffalo has been one of the best teams in football, and this club has had one of the most potent offenses in the league behind Josh Allen. Although, this defense has been more susceptible this season.

Tagovailoa will be on the road playing a division rival trying to keep the playoffs alive for his team. Yes, the team will probably rush the ball quite a bit with the rookie under center in a colder climate.  Although, play-action will probably be used and he can make plays as a runner in the open field.

This will in fact be the biggest game of Tagovailoa’s young career. For a player who has been on the big stage before in college, he can show out in Buffalo and have himself a huge game in Week 17.