Christian McCaffrey vs Jonathan Taylor: Who Should You Start?

Week 4 analysis

AstroLineup recommends starting Christian McCaffrey over Jonathan Taylor. Here's how the two compare on AstroScore, matchup, projected points, and expert consensus rank.

Christian McCaffrey

RB · SF

Jonathan Taylor

RB · IND

Verdict · Week 4

▲ Start McCaffrey

AstroScore

15.5

Projected Points

20.4

ECR Rank

vs DEN ★★★★★

Matchup

@ WAS ★★★★★

★ Why start McCaffrey over Taylor?

→Taylor projects ~5 points higher — McCaffrey's neutral cosmic conditions could help him outperform the projection gap against a tough defense

→ECR #7 vs #8 — Expert consensus slightly favors McCaffrey despite Taylor's higher point projection

→McCaffrey has the edge — McCaffrey's chart shows a mild off-rhythm week, while Taylor's shows a more significant one, giving McCaffrey the clearer edge.

McCaffrey’s stars45 · Neutral

Only minor influences this week, so trust his 15.5-point projection

MoonMood & rhythm▼ Slight drag

Game-day rhythm looks slightly unsettled, with focus wavering after any early setback. Expect a touch below his usual efficiency per carry and a modest dip in explosive runs, with touchdown chances steady but floor slightly lower than normal.

Taylor’s stars30 · Weak

Lean toward him falling short of his 20.4-point projection

MoonMood & rhythm▼ Strong drag

The Moon's pull this week unsettles his timing, making it harder to settle into a steady on-field rhythm. Expect inconsistent burst between carries, with efficiency dipping on early downs and vulnerability to a fumble if contact comes unexpectedly.

More Week 4 Comparisons