Start Kirk Cousins or Michael Penix?
Week 1 start/sit. Our Clutch Score projects each player's points this week from matchup, Vegas odds, usage and injury status, then calls who to start.
Who to start
Strong start- Higher Clutch Score this week: 6.6 vs 2.7 projected points.
- Stronger baseline projection (6.4 vs 2.3 pts/game).
Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix are a Week 1 start/sit call at quarterback. Kirk Cousins hosts MIA (easy matchup) and Michael Penix travels to PIT (easy matchup). The Clutch Score projects Michael Penix for 6.6 PPR points to Kirk Cousins's 2.7.
Start Michael Penix on the stronger baseline projection.
This week, side by side
| Stat | Cousins | Penix |
|---|---|---|
| Clutch Score (Wk 1) | 2.7 | 6.6 |
| Baseline proj / game | 2.3 | 6.4 |
| Points / game (season) | 10.9 | 13.7 |
| Snap share | 46% | 93% |
| Red-zone touches | 1 | 3 |
Clutch Score is our Week 1 projection (PPR). Higher value wins each row.
Drafting rather than setting a lineup? See the season-long Kirk Cousins vs Michael Penix comparison.
Frequently asked
Should I start Kirk Cousins or Michael Penix in Week 1?
Start Michael Penix in Week 1, on the stronger baseline projection. The Clutch Score projects 6.6 PPR points to Kirk Cousins's 2.7.
Who is projected to score more this week, Kirk Cousins or Michael Penix?
Our Clutch Score projects Michael Penix for 6.6 PPR points in Week 1, compared with 2.7 for Kirk Cousins.
Who has the better matchup, Kirk Cousins or Michael Penix?
Kirk Cousins hosts MIA (easy) and Michael Penix plays at PIT (easy). Kirk Cousins draws the more favorable matchup in Week 1.
More start/sit calls
Clutch Score blends the season projection with this week’s matchup, Vegas implied total and injury status. Data via the Sleeper API and ESPN, refreshed daily.