Tag: FanBall

Saturday DFS Domination: Week 16

Lineup recommendations for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 16 DFS fantasy football primetime slate.

The massive popularity of small DFS slates has propelled us to expand our DFS coverage. Here are my favorite lineups for this Saturday-Only Slate.

Recommended Saturday-Only DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB C.J. Stroud ($6.0k), RB Derrick Henry ($8.0k), RB Isiah Pacheco ($6.0k), WR Nico Collins ($8.1k), WR Zay Flowers ($5.9k), WR DeAndre Hopkins ($5.3k), TE Pat Freiermuth ($3.9k), FLEX Dalton Schultz ($3.4k), DST Baltimore Ravens ($3.3k)

FD Lineup: QB C.J. Stroud ($7.2k), RB Derrick Henry ($9.0k), RB Isiah Pacheco ($6.0k), WR Nico Collins ($9.0k), WR Zay Flowers ($7.2k) WR Calvin Austin III ($5.5k), TE Pat Freiermuth ($5.5k), FLEX Travis Kelce ($6.5k), DST Baltimore Ravens ($3.8k)

Patrick Mahomes (ankle) has the best matchup on the slate. He also has a high-ankle sprain. Nobody plays six days after a high-ankle sprain. Of course, if anyone could play six days after a high-ankle sprain, it would be Mahomes. He is already off the official injury report. His price is slightly higher than C.J. Stroud, but you can finagle him in. A cheaper pivot would be Russell Wilson. Lamar Jackson has an astronomical price and a tough matchup. To play him, you must fade one of Derrick Henry or Nico Collins. I’d rather just say no.

Joe Mixon (ankle) played through an ankle injury last week. Given he avoided an injury ll signs point to him being ready for Saturday, making him the pivot from Henry at RB1 (albeit it is in a tough matchup). If (and only if) Mixon is out, Dameon Pierce will step into a lead role and be a nice punt play. If Mixon plays, you can disregard Pierce. Najee Harris‘ matchup is brutal. As a “starter,” he still becomes the RB2 pivot by default. That said, I’d rather use Kareem Hunt, Jaylen Warren, or Justice Hill. For a discount punt, consider Samaje Perine.

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Unless I pay up for Jackson at QB, I will use both Collins and Zay Flowers. Tank Dell would be the pivot away from Collins in that case. At WR3, use one of Rashod Bateman (foot), Xavier Worthy, Calvin Austin III, or DeAndre Hopkins. Marquise Brown (chest) will make his 2024 debut this week. I’d wait a week to see his usage. I don’t see a need to punt, but if you do, use JuJu Smith-Schuster or Van Jefferson.

Tight end is the deepest position on this slate. Barring something crazy, I will probably pull my flex from this position. Travis Kelce has a good matchup, but his price makes him a potential fade. It helps when all four starters are legit options. Dalton Schultz and Pat Freiermuth each have elite-level matchups and cheaper costs. I’m trending towards featuring that pairing. Mark Andrews has eight TDs. They have all come in the last nine weeks. He is the top pivot from Freiermuth. Noah Gray also is a TD threat. He can be the pivot from Schultz. Isaiah Likely started the season as an absolute stud, but he has since become a colossal dud. I’ll likely pass, pun intended.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 16

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 16 DFS fantasy football.

Did you get Cooper’ed last week? Whether it was Amari or Kupp, looking at that goose egg in the live scoring box is disheartening. It’s even more gut-wrenching when you know that if that zero had just produced his weekly average, you would have gone from a minimal profit to a four-figure payday. For me, it was the Grinch, Amari, who put the coal down my stocking. So, unfortunately, my wallet did not grow three sizes last week.

Recommended DFS lineups

*Note: FanDuel and Fanball include the Sunday night game on their Main Slate. DraftKings doesn’t include them, so the pricing is listed as N/A.

DK Lineup: QB Aaron Rodgers ($5.6k), RB Jahmyr Gibbs ($7.5k), RB Jerome Ford ($5.6k), WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba ($6.0k), WR Davante Adams ($7.1k), WR Keenan Allen ($5.3k), TE Brenton Strange ($3.5k), FLEX Chuba Hubbard ($6.8k), DST Tennessee Titans ($2.6k)

FD Lineup: QB Cooper Rush ($7.0k), RB Chuba Hubbard ($7.1k), RB Jahmyr Gibbs ($8.3k), WR CeeDee Lamb ($8.5k), WR Keenan Allen ($6.2k), WR Jalen McMillan ($5.8k), TE Brenton Strange ($5.2K), FLEX Bucky Irving ($7.8k), DST Atlanta Falcons ($4.0k)

FB Lineup: QB Aaron Rodgers ($5.6k), RB Jahmyr Gibbs ($7.3k), RB Chuba Hubbard ($5.9k), WR Davante Adams ($6.7k), WR CeeDee Lamb ($7.1k), WR/TE Mike Evans ($7.0k), TE Hunter Henry ($3.9k), FLEX Bucky Irving ($5.9k), SUPERFLEX Cooper Rush ($5.3k)

*Note: Player salaries are color-coded based on expected output. Red = Less than 2.5x value, Black = 2.5x value, Green = Greater than 3x value.

Quarterback DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,700 $9,400
Jalen Hurts $7,800 $8,600
Joe Burrow $7,500 $8,300
Jayden Daniels $7,300 $8,200
Baker Mayfield N/A $8,100
Jared Goff $6,800 $7,800
Sam Darnold $6,500 $7,700
Brock Purdy $6,300 $7,500
Kyler Murray $6,100 $8,000
Tua Tagovailoa $6,000 $7,600
Matthew Stafford $5,900 $7,100
Cooper Rush N/A $7,000
Drake Maye $5,800 $6,800
Geno Smith $5,700 $7,300
Aaron Rodgers $5,600 $7,300
Caleb Williams $5,500 $7,200
Anthony Richardson $5,400 $7,400
Bryce Young $5,300 $6,700
Mac Jones $5,200 $6,800
Sam Howell $5,200 $6,600
Aidan O’Connell $5,100 $6,900
Desmond Ridder $5,100 $6,900
Mason Rudolph $5,000 $6,500
Drew Lock $4,900 $6,400
Dorian Thompson-Robinson $4,800 $6,000
Michael Penix Jr. $4,500 $6,000

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – With many teams making QB changes this week, there are several cheap options to choose from. Unfortunately, you get what you pay for. Mac Jones and Aidan O’Connell are the only cheap QBs to trust. Still, this is the week to use one of the proven options. Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, and Baker Mayfield (hamstring) are the top choices. Sam Darnold, Cooper Rush, and my favorite option of the week, Aaron Rodgers, are the pivots. Just use one of those six and don’t get too cute here.

Fantasy four-pack

Josh Allen, Bills vs. NE ($8,700 DK, $9,400 FD) New England shut out Arizona last week, but before that they allowed 11 total QB scores over their prior three games. Meanwhile, Allen has 13 total TDs over his last three games.

Joe Burrow, Bengals vs. CLE ($7,500 DK, $8,300 FD): Burrow has three or more touchdowns in six straight games, giving him eight such games out of 14 to start the season. Cleveland will not slow down this train; expect at least three TDs once again. 

Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers @ DAL (N/A DK, $8,100 FD) Dallas has allowed the third-most total TDs to the QB position. They have especially struggled with QBs who can run. Mayfield (hamstring) isn’t exactly Michael Vick, but he has three rushing TDs and averages 19 rushing yards per game. Plus, he has seven passing scores over his last two games. Stack him with Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan.

Jalen Hurts, Eagles @ WAS ($7,800 DK, $8,600 FD) Washington held Hurts in check back in Week 11. Of course, that came at the altar of Saquon Barkley, posting nearly 200 total yards and two scores. That also was one of only three games in which Hurts did not have multiple TDs. He’ll get back on track here, with two total scores being his floor.

Sleepers

Aaron Rodgers, Jets vs. LAR ($5,600 DK, $7,300 FD) Over the last four weeks, only four teams have allowed more total TDs to the position. Quietly Rodgers has moved into the top seven in passing TDs. I expect another pair of scores here.

Mac Jones, Jaguars @ LV ($5,200 DK, $6,800 FD) Jones has a couple more games to end this season as an audition for the second act of his career. Over the last three weeks, he has posted a pair of two-TD games. Meanwhile, five of the last seven QBs to face Vegas have scored at least twice.

Running back DraftKings FanDuel
Saquon Barkley $8,300 $9,100
Bijan Robinson $8,100 $8,900
Chase Brown $7,700 $8,200
Jahmyr Gibbs $7,500 $8,300
De’Von Achane $7,400 $8,000
Kyren Williams $7,200 $8,500
James Conner $7,100 $8,400
James Cook $7,000 $8,700
Bucky Irving N/A $7,800
Jonathan Taylor $6,900 $7,700
Rico Dowdle N/A $7,300
Chuba Hubbard $6,800 $7,100
Isaac Guerendo $6,700 $7,700
Tony Pollard $6,600 $7,200
Aaron Jones Sr. $6,400 $7,500
Kenneth Walker III $6,300 $7,000
Rachaad White N/A $7,000
Brian Robinson Jr. $6,200 $6,800
Breece Hall $6,100 $8,100
Zach Charbonnet $6,000 $6,900
Rhamondre Stevenson $5,900 $6,500
Travis Etienne Jr. $5,800 $6,300
D’Andre Swift $5,600 $6,200
Jerome Ford $5,600 $6,800
Tyler Allgeier $5,500 $5,700
Tyrone Tracy Jr. $5,500 $6,400
Cam Akers $5,400 $5,500
Antonio Gibson $5,300 $5,000
Tank Bigsby $5,300 $6,100
Ezekiel Elliott N/A $4,900
Patrick Taylor Jr. $5,200 $4,800
Ty Johnson $5,200 $5,500
Alexander Mattison $5,100 $5,600
Braelon Allen $5,100 $5,500
Isaiah Davis $5,000 $5,100
Travis Homer $5,000 $4,800
Raheem Mostert $4,900 $4,900
Tyjae Spears $4,900 $5,900
Kenneth Gainwell $4,800 $5,000
Roschon Johnson $4,800 $5,200
Ray Davis $4,700 $5,200
Trey Benson $4,600 $5,100
Devin Singletary $4,500 $5,400
Khalil Herbert $4,500 $5,000
Pierre Strong Jr. $4,400 $4,700
Jeremy McNichols $4,300 $5,300
Jaylen Wright $4,100 $4,700

Running back

Weekly strategy – Do you trust Jahmyr Gibbs to handle a full workload? I do. At this price, I cannot imagine not playing him. If I do pivot, it will be with Chase Brown or Bijan Robinson. James Conner and Bucky Irving are the other two players I can see playing there. At RB2, use one of Rico Dowdle or Chuba Hubbard. There are three potential punt plays Jerome Ford, Patrick Taylor Jr., and Alexander Mattison.

Fantasy four-pack

Jahmyr Gibbs, Lions @ CHI ($7,500 DK, $8,300 FD) Over the last four weeks, Chicago has allowed a league-worst six total TDs to the RB position. Plus, the Bears are allowing 169 combo yards per game over that stretch. Gibbs and David Montgomery (knee) were splitting just under 35 combined PPR points per game. If Gibbs gets even three-fourths of that, he will be golden. 

Bijan Robinson, Falcons vs. NYG ($8,100 DK, $8,900 FD) Obviously, all the eyes will be on Michael Penix Jr. He proved an elite passer in college, and New York is talent-challenged, so he may find success here. Robinson will be a large part of that passing game. Over their last four games, the Giants are third-worst in RB receptions and receiving yards allowed.

Chase Brown, Bengals vs. CLE ($7,700 DK, $8,200 FD) Only six teams have allowed more rushing TDs to opposing RBs. Meanwhile, Brown has now scored at least once in six of his last seven games (coinciding with Zack Moss‘ season-ending injury). In the other game, he finished with 143 total yards. 

Saquon Barkley, Eagles @ WAS ($8,300 DK, $9,100 FD) As mentioned above, Barkley (knee) went berserk against Washington back in Week 11. He has come back to Earth since the return of DeVonta Smith, but it is still hard to not play him here. Barkley has scored at least once in each of his last five games versus Washington.

Sleepers

Chuba Hubbard, Panthers vs. ARI ($6,800 DK, $7,100 FD) Hubbard posted his third dud in his last four games. I’m shocked, as the injury to Jonathon Brooks (knee) should’ve reopened the door to his early season success. Arizona has struggled all season with pass-catching RBs and Hubbard ranks 10th in RB receptions this year.

Jerome Ford, Browns @ CIN ($5,600 DK, $6,800 FD) In Dorian Thompson-Robinson’s few career appearances, the rushing game has been pathetic. Of course, half of those games came against elite rushing defenses. Nick Chubb (foot) scored in the earlier meeting against Cincy (during which DTR played), but the entire RB room combined for only 52 total yards. Still, Cincy has been struggling against the position recently, allowing six total scores over their last four games.

Wide Receiver DraftKings FanDuel
Ja’Marr Chase $8,500 $9,500
Justin Jefferson $8,200 $9,000
Puka Nacua $8,000 $8,900
Mike Evans N/A $8,800
Amon-Ra St. Brown $7,900 $8,600
A.J. Brown $7,800 $8,700
CeeDee Lamb N/A $8,500
Terry McLaurin $7,300 $8,000
Davante Adams $7,100 $8,400
Tyreek Hill $6,900 $7,700
Tee Higgins $6,800 $7,800
Jerry Jeudy $6,700 $7,200
Garrett Wilson $6,600 $7,100
Cooper Kupp $6,500 $8,300
Drake London $6,400 $7,400
Brian Thomas Jr. $6,300 $7,300
Jordan Addison $6,200 $6,900
Malik Nabers $6,100 $8,200
Jaxon Smith-Njigba $6,000 $7,900
Jauan Jennings $5,900 $7,000
Khalil Shakir $5,900 $6,600
DeVonta Smith $5,800 $7,600
Jakobi Meyers $5,800 $6,700
Calvin Ridley $5,700 $5,900
DJ Moore $5,700 $6,300
Adam Thielen $5,600 $6,200
Jaylen Waddle $5,600 $6,000
DK Metcalf $5,500 $7,500
Jameson Williams $5,500 $6,100
Darnell Mooney $5,400 $6,400
Marvin Harrison Jr. $5,400 $6,800
Keenan Allen $5,300 $6,200
Jalen McMillan N/A $5,800
Brandin Cooks N/A $5,700
Amari Cooper $5,200 $5,600
Deebo Samuel Sr. $5,200 $6,500
Rome Odunze $5,100 $5,900
Michael Pittman Jr. $5,000 $6,100
Sterling Shepard N/A $5,200
Cedric Tillman $4,900 $5,100
Josh Downs $4,900 $6,000
Alec Pierce $4,800 $5,400
Elijah Moore $4,800 $5,500
Keon Coleman $4,700 $5,300
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,700 $5,400
Ray-Ray McCloud III $4,500 $5,700
Tim Patrick $4,500 $5,500
DeMario Douglas $4,400 $4,900
Jalen Tolbert N/A $4,900
Parker Washington $4,300 $5,600
Jalen Coker $4,200 $5,200
Michael Wilson $4,200 $5,000
Wan’Dale Robinson $4,100 $5,100
Allen Lazard $4,000 $4,900
Demarcus Robinson $4,000 $5,000
Tre Tucker $3,900 $4,900
Tyler Lockett $3,900 $5,300
Adonai Mitchell $3,800 $4,900
Darius Slayton $3,800 $4,800
KaVontae Turpin N/A $4,800
Malik Washington $3,700 $4,700
Tyler Boyd $3,700 $4,800
Andrei Iosivas $3,600 $5,100
David Moore $3,600 $4,800
Mack Hollins $3,600 $5,200
Kayshon Boutte $3,500 $4,700
Olamide Zaccheaus $3,500 $4,700
Tutu Atwell $3,500 $4,700
Dyami Brown $3,400 $4,900
Kendrick Bourne $3,400 $4,800
Jahan Dotson $3,300 $4,600
Jalen Nailor $3,300 $4,900
Josh Reynolds $3,300 $4,500
Greg Dortch $3,200 $4,900
Michael Woods II $3,200 $4,500
Curtis Samuel $3,100 $4,800
Devin Duvernay $3,100 $4,800
Jamison Crowder $3,000 $4,600

Wide receiver

Weekly strategy – Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson are the top pair. Unfortunately, they are both priced outside my planned spending range. I feel more comfortable targeting second-tier guys like Davante Adams, Mike Evans, and CeeDee Lamb. At WR2, I am choosing between Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Malik Nabers, Khalil Shakir, and Brian Thomas Jr. Continue riding the recent success of Adam Thielen and Keenan Allen at WR3. Tim Patrick and Jalen McMillan are the two punts that should outproduce their price point. 

Fantasy four-pack

Ja’Marr Chase, Bengals vs. CLE ($8,500 DK, $9,500 FD) Chase is on pace for the WR Triple Crown. Even if you throw out his two Week 1 and Week 2 duds, Chase has more receiving yards and receiving TDs than any other WR. Cleveland held Chase to only 5-55-1 in their earlier meeting. He should approach double that here.

Justin Jefferson, Vikings @ SEA ($8,200 DK, $9,000 FD) After a string of six straight scoreless outings, Jefferson has hauled in three TDs, over his last two games. Seattle has allowed the eighth-most WR-receiving TDs, so Jefferson should keep his scoring run going here.

CeeDee Lamb, Cowboys vs. TB (N/A DK, $8,500 FD) Even with a pair of partial games (because of injury) in the mix, Lamb (shoulder) has the most WR targets since Week 6. During this stretch, he has six or more receptions in all but one game. 

Mike Evans, Buccaneers @ DAL (N/A DK, $8,800 FD) This game should be a shootout. Vegas has it tied for the highest combined total. Over the last four weeks, Dallas has allowed the second-most WR receptions and receiving yards. Since returning from his injury, Evans is averaging 6.5-104 with three TDs.

Sleepers

Keenan Allen, Bears vs. DET ($5,300 DK, $6,200 FD) Allen has four TDs in his last four games while serving as the primary red-zone target for Chicago. This stretch includes a Week 13 meeting with Detroit during which Allen finished with 5-73-2. 

Adam Thielen, Panthers vs. ARI ($5,600 DK, $6,200 FD) Since his return in Week 12, Thielen is top-14 in both WR receptions and receiving yards while averaging 6-77. Expect a similar line here, plus a TD.

Tight End DraftKings FanDuel
Brock Bowers $6,500 $7,700
Trey McBride $6,200 $7,500
George Kittle $6,000 $7,600
Jonnu Smith $5,500 $7,000
David Njoku $5,200 $6,500
T.J. Hockenson $4,800 $5,800
Sam LaPorta $4,700 $6,000
Dalton Kincaid $4,600 $5,600
Cade Otton N/A $5,400
Jake Ferguson N/A $5,300
Hunter Henry $4,100 $5,000
Kyle Pitts $4,000 $5,300
Zach Ertz $3,800 $5,200
Cole Kmet $3,700 $5,200
Noah Fant $3,600 $5,000
Brenton Strange $3,500 $5,200
Chig Okonkwo $3,400 $5,100
Grant Calcaterra $3,400 $4,800
Dawson Knox $3,300 $4,900
Mike Gesicki $3,300 $5,000
Jordan Akins $3,200 $5,100
Tyler Higbee $3,200 $4,000
AJ Barner $3,100 $4,700
John Bates $3,000 $4,300
Tommy Tremble $3,000 $4,800
Daniel Bellinger $2,900 $4,900
Ja’Tavion Sanders $2,900 $4,700
Michael Mayer $2,900 $4,600
Ben Sinnott $2,800 $4,400
Josh Oliver $2,800 $4,900
Tyler Conklin $2,800 $4,700
Colby Parkinson $2,700 $4,900

Tight end

Weekly strategy – As usual, Brock Bowers, George Kittle, and Trey McBride are the best options. T.J. Hockenson is the top pivot. I also like David Njoku (hamstring) if he plays, but I am concerned about the QB situation and his various maladies. Hunter Henry also plays here at a discount price. Brenton Strange‘s (shoulder) participation was limited early in the week, but if he plays it will be hard to avoid him.

Fantasy four-pack

Trey McBride, Cardinals @ CAR ($6,200 DK, $7,500 FD) Kyler Murray has promised that he will get McBride a receiving TD. We’ve heard that one before. Still, if it’s gonna happen, this is the week. Carolina has given up the most TE touchdowns.

Brock Bowers, Raiders vs. JAX ($6,500 DK, $7,700 FD) The return of Aidan O’Connell returns my trust in Bowers. Jacksonville has allowed the third-most TE scores this season, and they have struggled with EVERY legitimate TE that they have faced this year. 

George Kittle, 49ers @ MIA ($6,000 DK, $7,600 FD) Miami had been steady against TEs most of the season. Unfortunately, over their last four games, things have gone pear-shaped. They are averaging 8-85.5-0.5 over that stretch. Kittle has been very reliable this year scoring and/or topping 60 receiving yards in 10/12 games played.

T.J. Hockenson, Vikings @ SEA ($4,800 DK, $5,800 FD) Over the last four weeks, Seattle has allowed the most TE receptions and the third-most TE receiving yards. Hockenson’s stats have been just aight since his return, but his best numbers have come in the easiest matchups. This certainly qualifies as one of those.

Sleepers

Brenton Strange, Jaguars @ LV ($3,500 DK, $5,200 FD) Strange (shoulder) is currently dealing with an AC joint sprain. The timing stinks since he has been solid while filling in for Evan Engram (shoulder). Still, early reports have him playing this weekend. This is great news since Vegas is bottom-four in every significant statistical category against TEs.

Hunter Henry, Patriots @ BUF ($4,100 DK, $5,000 FD) Since Week 7, Henry has been top-seven in TE targets, receptions, and receiving yards. Unfortunately, he has failed to score over that stretch. His odds will improve this week if Buffalo remains without three of their starting DBs who missed last week.

Primetime DFS Domination: Week 15

Lineup recommendations for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 15 DFS fantasy football primetime slate.

The massive popularity of small DFS slates has propelled us to expand our DFS coverage. I will give you my favorite lineup for the Primetime Slate each week. We will release these as soon as both sites release their pricing.

Recommended Primetime DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Sam Darnold ($6.6k), RB Josh Jacobs ($7.4k), RB Zach Charbonnet ($6.0k), WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba ($6.2k), WR Jordan Addison ($5.9k), WR Keenan Allen ($5.4k), TE Tucker Kraft ($4.0k), FLEX Sincere McCormick ($5.1k), DST Las Vegas Raiders ($2.5k)

FD Lineup: QB Caleb Williams ($7.1k), RB Josh Jacobs ($8.2k), RB Zach Charbonnet ($6.7k), WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba ($8.1k), WR Jordan Addison ($6.4k) WR Keenan Allen ($6.2k), TE Brock Bowers ($7.6k), FLEX Sincere McCormick ($6.0k), DST Las Vegas Raiders ($3.3k)

Caleb Williams is the best pivot from Sam Darnold at QB. I don’t hate any of the six, but it will be hard to trust Kirk Cousins based on his recent performances. I feel better about using Desmond Ridder in the revenge game. Both Jordan Love and Geno Smith would be solid plays, but I’m afraid both teams will lean on their running games.

Your RB1 needs to be Bijan Robinson or Josh Jacobs. AT RB2, you can consider Aaron Jones (back), but I’d be afraid of him being limited in the game. The logical move is just to use whichever back starts for Seattle. I’m fading D’Andre Swift (groin). I also do not trust Swift’s backups Roschon Johnson (concussion) and Travis Homer (lack of talent) in a tough matchup. Sincere McCormick is officially starting for the Raiders, bypassing Alexander Mattison on the depth chart. I recommend using McCormick at flex. You can ignore Mattison. If you want to punt at RB2 or flex, use Cam Akers or Tyler Allgeier.

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Justin Jefferson is going to be too expensive to use unless you go dirt cheap at RB. If you don’t use him, you need to use Jordan Addison at WR2. Jaxon Smith-Njigba will be my primary WR1. Drake London is the obvious alternative. You also can use Jayden Reed or DK Metcalf (shoulder). That said, I don’t trust either of them. DJ Moore and Darnell Mooney are my favorite WR2 pivots. At WR3 use Keenan Allen. He’s ready for a gigantic game, and his ownership percentage should be lower after a poor performance last week. The other WR3/flex options are Ray-Ray McCloud, Rome Odunze, Romeo Doubs (concussion) if he plays, Christian Watson, and Jakobi Meyers (ankle). If Doubs is out, I also could see using Dontayvion Wicks. The punt options are Tre Tucker, Tyler Lockett, and Jalen Nailor. I just don’t see any obvious need to use a punt at WR on this slate.

Kyle Pitts has a gorgeous matchup, but his own family wouldn’t trust him enough to play him at this point. Cole Kmet has been equally hair-pulling in his usage. I’m putting my faith in Tucker Kraft. T.J. Hockenson is the best pivot. I’d love to fit Brock Bowers in at TE or flex, but to do so you will have to spend down at RB2 or WR2, and I don’t love that. Noah Fant and AJ Barner have a good matchup, but they neuter each other statistically. If I want a punt, I’d rather use Michael Mayer or even Josh Oliver.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 15

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 15 DFS fantasy football.

If you have made it into your full-season fantasy playoffs, congratulations! Better luck next year if you find yourself on the outside looking in. Regardless of your lot in life there, the DFS slates are here for everyone. This week is notorious for both the expanded player pool to choose from thanks to no byes and the expanded player pool of competitors buying in to scratch the itch of their regular fantasy season being Kaput. With more competition, enter your lineups early and often before the contests fill up.

Recommended DFS lineups

*Note: FanDuel and Fanball include the Sunday night game on their Main Slate. DraftKings doesn’t include them, so the pricing is listed as N/A.

DK Lineup: QB Tua Tagovailoa ($6.1k), RB Chase Brown ($7.2k), RB Rico Dowdle ($6.1k), WR Tyreek Hill ($7.4k), WR Davante Adams ($6.9k), WR Devaughn Vele ($4.2k), TE Stone Smartt ($2.6k), FLEX Chuba Hubbard ($6.5k), DST New York Jets ($3.0k)

FD Lineup: QB Aaron Rodgers ($7.1k), RB Chuba Hubbard ($7.5k), RB Rico Dowdle ($7.1k), WR Tyreek Hill ($8.7k), WR Davante Adams ($7.9k), WR DeAndre Hopkins ($6.5k), TE Stone Smartt ($4.5K), FLEX Zach Charbonnet ($6.7k), DST Cincinnati Bengals ($4.0k)

FB Lineup: QB Joe Burrow ($7.0k), RB Brian Robinson Jr. ($6.1k), RB Chuba Hubbard ($6.0k), WR Ja’Marr Chase ($8.1k), WR Tyreek Hill ($7.2k), WR/TE Davante Adams ($6.5k), TE Stone Smartt ($3.0k), FLEX Rico Dowdle ($5.8k), SUPERFLEX Aaron Rodgers ($5.3k)

*Note: Player salaries are color-coded based on expected output. Red = Less than 2.5x value, Black = 2.5x value, Green = Greater than 3x value.

Quarterback DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,500 $9,500
Lamar Jackson $8,300 $9,000
Jalen Hurts $8,000 $8,500
Jayden Daniels $7,500 $8,700
Joe Burrow $7,300 $8,600
Patrick Mahomes $6,700 $7,900
Jared Goff $6,500 $8,000
Baker Mayfield $6,400 $7,700
Bo Nix $6,300 $7,600
C.J. Stroud $6,200 $7,400
Jordan Love N/A $7,400
Tua Tagovailoa $6,100 $8,300
Kyler Murray $6,000 $7,800
Justin Herbert $5,900 $7,500
Anthony Richardson $5,800 $7,500
Russell Wilson $5,700 $7,300
Geno Smith N/A $7,200
Drake Maye $5,600 $6,900
Jameis Winston $5,500 $7,000
Aaron Rodgers $5,400 $7,100
Bryce Young $5,300 $6,800
Cooper Rush $5,200 $6,800
Jake Haener $5,100 $6,700
Will Levis $5,000 $6,600
Mac Jones $4,900 $6,500
Spencer Rattler $4,600 $6,000
Tommy DeVito $4,400 $6,200

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson are the top two options. Josh Allen is in play, but don’t expect anywhere near last week’s numbers. Fortunately, there also are three cheaper plays that I like just as much as those three. Tua Tagovailoa is my favorite play of the week. Kyler Murray and Justin Herbert (leg/ankle) also have great matchups. Aaron Rodgers, Bryce Young, Will Levis, and Cooper Rush are all punt options.

Fantasy four-pack

Joe Burrow, Bengals @ TEN ($7,300 DK, $8,600 FD) On the season, Tennessee has allowed the fewest passing yards. That said, they have given up 37% of their season-long total over the last four weeks. Over his last five games, Burrow has 18 passing TDs.

Lamar Jackson, Ravens @ NYG ($8,300 DK, $9,000 FD) The Giants have allowed the fifth-most QB rushing touchdowns. They also have allowed eight QBs to run for 20 yards or more and three to top 40 rushing yards. Meanwhile, Jackson is averaging over six YPC, while also passing for the second-most TDs.

Josh Allen, Bills @ DET ($8,500 DK, $9,500 FD) Detroit ranks seventh-worst in rushing yards allowed to QBs and Allen has 50-plus rushing yards in three of his last four games. It won’t be the ceiling game of last week, but Allen will still find his way to three total scores.

Tua Tagovailoa, Dolphins @ HOU ($6,100 DK, $8,300 FD) No team has allowed more passing TDs than Houston. The struggle will continue this week as Tua is riding a four-game smoldering streak where he is averaging 325 passing yards and 2.8 TD/game. Stack him with either of his top WRs and/or Jonnu Smith.

Sleepers

Aaron Rodgers, Jets @ JAX ($5,400 DK, $7,100 FD) Despite playing through a maligned season, Rodgers is still top-10 in passing TDs. It helps that he has two elite WRs. Only two teams have given up more passing TDs, and only one team has surrendered more passing yards than Jacksonville. So, the old man should have one of his best games of the year.

Cooper Rush, Cowboys @ CAR ($5,200 DK, $6,800 FD) Since Week 11, Rush is ninth in passing yards and 10th in passing TDs. Carolina has allowed a league-worst 29.8 points per game and Dallas is second-worst at 28.2 points per game. This game could be a sneaky points fest.

Running back DraftKings FanDuel
Saquon Barkley $8,600 $9,300
Derrick Henry $8,300 $9,200
De’Von Achane $7,900 $8,600
Joe Mixon $7,800 $9,000
Alvin Kamara $7,700 $8,800
Josh Jacobs N/A $8,200
Jahmyr Gibbs $7,500 $8,000
Chase Brown $7,200 $8,100
David Montgomery $7,000 $7,700
Kenneth Walker III N/A $7,700
Jonathan Taylor $6,900 $7,800
James Cook $6,800 $8,300
Tony Pollard $6,700 $7,600
James Conner $6,600 $7,900
Chuba Hubbard $6,500 $7,500
Breece Hall $6,400 $8,500
Bucky Irving $5,800 $7,400
Brian Robinson Jr. $6,200 $7,300
Rico Dowdle $6,100 $7,100
Isiah Pacheco $6,000 $7,000
Najee Harris $5,900 $6,900
Zach Charbonnet N/A $6,700
Rhamondre Stevenson $5,900 $6,600
Rachaad White $5,800 $7,200
Tyrone Tracy Jr. $5,700 $6,500
Travis Etienne Jr. $5,600 $6,200
Nick Chubb $5,500 $6,300
Braelon Allen $5,400 $6,400
Jaylen Warren $5,400 $5,800
Gus Edwards $5,300 $6,000
Jeremy McNichols $5,300 $5,400
Javonte Williams $5,200 $5,900
Khalil Herbert $4,800 $5,500
Ezekiel Elliott $5,100 $5,300
Tank Bigsby $5,100 $5,700
Isaiah Davis $5,000 $5,500
Kareem Hunt $5,000 $6,100
Antonio Gibson $4,900 $5,200
Jerome Ford $4,900 $5,500
Raheem Mostert $4,900 $5,000
Justice Hill $4,800 $5,600
Kimani Vidal $4,800 $5,200
Devin Singletary $4,700 $5,300
Jaleel McLaughlin $4,700 $5,000
Ray Davis $4,700 $5,300
Emanuel Wilson N/A $5,100
Kenneth Gainwell $4,600 $4,900
Trey Benson $4,600 $5,000
Audric Estime $4,500 $5,500
Kendre Miller $4,500 $4,900
Jaylen Wright $4,400 $4,800
Ty Johnson $4,400 $5,200
Dameon Pierce $4,700 $5,000
Tyjae Spears $4,300 $5,400
Chris Brooks N/A $4,700
Kenny McIntosh N/A $4,700
Cordarrelle Patterson $4,000 $4,200

Running back

Weekly strategy – Derrick Henry and Joe Mixon are the only two expensive backs I like this week. That said, I’d rather save here and spend big at WR. Chuba Hubbard, Rico Dowdle, and Brian Robinson Jr. will fill most of my lineups. You also can use whoever starts for Tampa Bay or Rhamondre Stevenson. If Breece Hall (knee) remains out, Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis would have some value as punt plays. Jaleel McLaughlin and Kimani Vidal fit that role as well.

Fantasy four-pack

Derrick Henry, Ravens @ NYG ($8,300 DK, $9,200 FD) The Giants are allowing 4.9 YPC and the fourth-most 141.7 rushing yards per game. Let’s see them try to stop Henry, who is averaging just under six YPC. 

Joe Mixon, Texans vs. MIA ($7,800 DK, $9,000 FD) Over the last four weeks, the Dolphins have allowed the third-most RB receptions and the second-most RB receiving yards. Mixon is on fire right now, scoring 11 times in his last eight games.

Chuba Hubbard, Panthers vs. DAL ($6,500 DK, $7,500 FD) Jonathon Brooks (ACL) retore his ACL, leaving this backfield entirely in the hands of Hubbard. Since Week 3, Chuba has scored and/or topped 100 total yards in nine of 11 games. Dallas is giving up the third-most 141.9 rushing yards per game. All of that will go to Hubbard.

Josh Jacobs, Packers @ SEA (N/A DK, $8,200 FD) Seattle allows 145 combo yards per game to opposing RBs. Meanwhile, Jacobs has been getting fed at the stripe, scoring eight times in his last four games.

Sleepers

Rico Dowdle, Cowboys @ CAR ($6,100 DK, $7,100 FD) Over the last three games, Dowdle is averaging 121 combo yards per game. Carolina is dead last against the run. They have given up 210 more total yards to opposing RBs than the next-worst team. They also have allowed the most total TDs to the position. 

Brian Robinson Jr., Commanders @ NO ($6,200 DK, $7,300 FD) Robinson has been up and down all season, but he has scored a TD in seven of the 10 games that he has played. Only the Panthers have allowed more RB rushing TDs, so another score is definitely in play.

Wide Receiver DraftKings FanDuel
Ja’Marr Chase $8,400 $9,400
Nico Collins $8,100 $9,200
A.J. Brown $8,000 $8,600
Amon-Ra St. Brown $7,600 $8,500
Tyreek Hill $7,400 $8,700
CeeDee Lamb $7,300 $8,400
Terry McLaurin $7,200 $8,200
Mike Evans $7,100 $8,300
Jaxon Smith-Njigba N/A $8,100
Davante Adams $6,900 $7,900
Tee Higgins $6,800 $7,800
DK Metcalf N/A $7,600
Courtland Sutton $6,600 $7,200
Garrett Wilson $6,500 $7,400
Malik Nabers $6,400 $8,000
Ladd McConkey $6,300 $7,100
Jerry Jeudy $6,200 $6,900
Khalil Shakir $6,100 $7,000
Zay Flowers $6,000 $7,300
Jayden Reed N/A $6,700
Christian Watson N/A $6,200
Calvin Ridley $5,900 $6,000
Brian Thomas Jr. $5,800 $6,800
Jaylen Waddle $5,500 $6,200
Jameson Williams $5,600 $6,400
DeVonta Smith $5,500 $7,700
Marvin Harrison Jr. $5,500 $6,600
Adam Thielen $5,400 $6,100
Tank Dell $5,400 $6,100
Amari Cooper $5,300 $5,900
DeAndre Hopkins $5,300 $6,500
Josh Downs $5,200 $6,300
Xavier Worthy $5,100 $6,000
Tyler Lockett N/A $5,500
Romeo Doubs N/A $5,400
Dontayvion Wicks N/A $5,200
Elijah Moore $5,000 $4,700
Quentin Johnston $5,000 $5,900
Cedric Tillman $4,900 $5,700
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,900 $5,800
Alec Pierce $4,800 $5,900
Keon Coleman $4,800 $5,400
Brandin Cooks $4,700 $5,700
Xavier Legette $4,700 $5,500
Joshua Palmer $4,600 $5,500
Wan’Dale Robinson $4,600 $5,400
DeMario Douglas $4,500 $5,300
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $4,500 $5,700
Michael Wilson $4,400 $5,400
Rashod Bateman $4,400 $5,800
Allen Lazard $4,300 $5,000
Tim Patrick $4,300 $5,300
Devaughn Vele $4,200 $5,400
Diontae Johnson $4,200 $4,500
Noah Brown $4,200 $5,200
Darius Slayton $4,100 $5,100
Parker Washington $4,100 $5,500
Adonai Mitchell $4,000 $5,100
Marvin Mims Jr. $4,000 $5,300
Sterling Shepard $4,000 $5,800
David Moore $3,900 $5,200
Jalen Tolbert $3,900 $5,200
Andrei Iosivas $3,800 $5,600
Mack Hollins $3,800 $5,600
Mike Williams $3,800 $5,300
Jalen Coker $3,700 $4,900
Jalen McMillan $3,700 $5,500
JuJu Smith-Schuster $3,700 $5,100
Calvin Austin III $3,600 $5,600
Curtis Samuel $3,600 $5,300
KaVontae Turpin $3,600 $5,000
Kendrick Bourne $3,600 $5,000
Kayshon Boutte $3,500 $5,000
Van Jefferson $3,500 $5,000
Troy Franklin $3,400 $5,100
Nelson Agholor $3,300 $5,100
Michael Woods II $3,200 $4,600
Dyami Brown $3,100 $4,900
Greg Dortch $3,100 $4,700
Ja’Lynn Polk $3,100 $4,600
Devin Duvernay $3,000 $4,700
Lil’Jordan Humphrey $3,000 $4,800

Wide receiver

Weekly strategy – Ja’Marr Chase, CeeDee Lamb (shoulder), and Tyreek Hill are the top choices. You need to roster one of them, and I support taking two of them. The cheaper WR2 pivots would be Davante Adams, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Marvin Harrison Jr., and if he plays Ladd McConkey (leg). At WR3, I like Amari Cooper, Adam Thielen, Calvin Ridley, Jaylen Waddle, and Joshua Palmer (if McConkey doesn’t play). Tim Patrick, Devaughn Vele, Jalen McMillan, Van Jefferson, and Nelson Agholor are the only deserving punt plays. 

Fantasy four-pack

Tyreek Hill, Dolphins @ HOU ($7,400 DK, $8,700 FD) Hill has scored in four of five games. Since Week 8, Houston has given up at least 60 total yards to every WR1 they have faced, and four have scored.

Ja’Marr Chase, Bengals @ TEN ($8,400 DK, $9,400 FD) Chase leads the league in both receptions and receiving yards. Since Week 10, he is averaging a ridiculous 36.5 PPR points per game. Tennessee is very good against the pass, but over their last four games, opposing WR1s are averaging 19.5 PPR points.

CeeDee Lamb, Cowboys @ CAR ($7,300 DK, $8,400 FD) A shoulder injury continues to hamper Lamb. That said, he still leads the league in targets while ranking third in both receptions and receiving yards. This game will have a ton of points, so stack everyone here.

Davante Adams, Jets @ JAX ($6,900 DK, $7,900 FD) Since Week 9, Adams has led the Jets in every receiving category. Jacksonville cannot stop anything. They have allowed the fourth-most WR receptions and receiving yards.

Sleepers

Calvin Ridley, Titans vs. CIN ($5,900 DK, $6,000 FD) Ridley has more than twice as many targets as the next closest receiver on the Titans. With this volume, he should produce against a Bengals defense, allowing the sixth-most passing yards. 

Adam Thielen, Panthers vs. DAL ($5,400 DK, $6,100 FD) In the three games since returning from injury, Thielen is averaging 6.7-86. He also has a TD (and should actually have two). I’ve already discussed the potential points in this one and like a game stack here with at least five legs.

Tight End DraftKings FanDuel
Trey McBride $6,000 $7,500
Travis Kelce $5,700 $6,700
Jonnu Smith $5,400 $6,900
David Njoku $5,200 $6,500
Dalton Kincaid $4,900 $5,700
Evan Engram $4,600 $5,600
Cade Otton $4,500 $5,500
Sam LaPorta $4,400 $6,000
Tucker Kraft N/A $5,200
Hunter Henry $4,300 $5,000
Noah Fant N/A $5,000
AJ Barner N/A $4,900
Mark Andrews $4,100 $6,300
Zach Ertz $4,000 $5,200
Pat Freiermuth $3,900 $5,300
Jake Ferguson $3,800 $5,400
Isaiah Likely $3,600 $5,800
Grant Calcaterra $3,500 $4,900
Mike Gesicki $3,500 $5,100
Dawson Knox $3,400 $5,100
Juwan Johnson $3,400 $5,500
Dalton Schultz $3,300 $5,300
Noah Gray $3,200 $5,400
Ja’Tavion Sanders $3,100 $4,700
Foster Moreau $3,000 $5,000
Tommy Tremble $3,000 $4,900
Chig Okonkwo $2,900 $4,900
Daniel Bellinger $2,800 $4,800
Tommy Tremble $2,800 $4,800
Jordan Akins $2,700 $4,800
Stone Smartt $2,600 $4,500

Tight end

Weekly strategy – David Njoku (hamstring) is my favorite TE play of the week. Unfortunately, he is trending towards missing this contest. Watch his status. If he misses this game, his understudy, Jordan Akins, becomes a nice punt option. I would also like Trey McBride, Jonnu Smith, and Travis Kelce if I were to pay up here. Hunter Henry, Pat Freiermuth, and Jake Ferguson are much cheaper pivots. If you punt the position (or need a cheap flex) consider Chig Okonkwo and Stone Smartt.

Fantasy four-pack

Travis Kelce, Chiefs @ CLE ($5,700 DK, $6,700 FD) Cleveland has allowed an average of 7-72 to the position over the last four weeks. Kelce also feels way overdue for a TD here.

Trey McBride, Cardinals vs. NE ($6,000 DK, $7,500 FD) Speaking of overdue for a TD, McBride has not scored a receiving TD, despite catching 80 of his 106 targets. New England has allowed four TE touchdowns in their last six games, so maybe this is the week. 

Jonnu Smith, Dolphins @ HOU ($5,400 DK, $6,900 FD) Over their last four games, Houston has allowed an average of 5.8-75-0.5 to the position. Meanwhile, over his previous four games, Smith is averaging 7-86-1.

Sam LaPorta, Lions vs. BUF ($4,400 DK, $6,000 FD) LaPorta’s usage has been sporadic, but he has six or more targets in each of the last four games that he has played. Those targets have amounted to meager yardage numbers, but he did score three times. With the clear highest combined line on the slate, the scoring should continue here.

Sleepers

Jake Ferguson, Cowboys @ CAR ($3,800 DK, $5,400 FD) Ferguson is finally fully healthy. Now, he faces the Panthers, who have allowed a league-worst 10 tight end scores.

Stone Smartt, Chargers vs. TB ($2,600 DK, $4,500 FD) With Will Dissly (shoulder) out, Smartt gets to pillage a Buccaneers defense that has allowed the second-most yards to opposing TEs. After replacing Dissly at halftime last week, Smartt caught all three of his targets for 54 yards. I’d take two times that this week.

Primetime DFS Domination: Week 14

Lineup recommendations for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 14 DFS fantasy football primetime slate.

The massive popularity of small DFS slates has propelled us to expand our DFS coverage. I will give you my favorite lineup for the Primetime Slate each week. We will release these as soon as both sites release their pricing.

Recommended Primetime DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Joe Burrow ($7.3k), RB Chase Brown ($6.7k), RB Rico Dowdle ($6.0k), WR Ja’Marr Chase ($8.5k), WR CeeDee Lamb ($7.3k), WR Joshua Palmer ($4.0k), TE Will Dissly ($3.8k), FLEX Noah Gray ($3.4k), DST Dallas Cowboys ($2.6k)

FD Lineup: QB Joe Burrow ($8.4k), RB Chase Brown ($7.8k), RB Rico Dowdle ($6.8k), WR Ja’Marr Chase ($9.5k), WR CeeDee Lamb ($8.1k), WR Joshua Palmer ($5.4k), TE Will Dissly ($5.1k), FLEX Noah Gray ($5.2k), DST Dallas Cowboys ($3.5k)

If I pivot from Joe Burrow, it will probably be with Cooper Rush. That said, all four QBs are in play. I prefer Patrick Mahomes to Justin Herbert, especially if Ladd McConkey (knee/shoulder) is out.

At RB1, you can swap out Chase Brown with Isiah Pacheco. This swap opens up the ability to spend more at WR3 or TE. Kareem Hunt and Gus Edwards are the replacement RB2 choices. Kimani Vidal would be the punt option, but the matchup makes him unnecessary.

[lawrence-related id=497210]

I love buying both Ja’Marr Chase (ankle) and CeeDee Lamb (shoulder). You must roster at least one of the two. The pivot would be Tee Higgins (or spending up for Travis Kelce at TE). McConkey is dealing with multiple injuries, but if he suits up, he could also be your WR2. You have five options at WR3: DeAndre Hopkins, Xavier Worthy, Quentin Johnston, Brandin Cooks, and Joshua Palmer. Palmer fits the budget best, but you can use any of them if you spend less on WR2. Andrei Iosivas, Jalen Tolbert, DJ Chark Jr., Mecole Hardman (knee), and KaVontae Turpin are the punt plays.

By opting for the double-TE lineup featuring the discount players Noah Gray and Will Dissly, you still leave little room for flexibility. To upgrade to Kelce, you must find savings elsewhere. Mike Gesicki is cheaper and easier to substitute. Jake Ferguson (concussion) will return. He can be a pivot from Dissly, and Luke Schoonmaker‘s value shrinks.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 14

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 14 DFS fantasy football.

With Thanksgiving in the rearview mirror, we face “Byepocalypse 2: Bye Harder with a Vengeance.” Six fantasy-relevant teams are playing outside the main slate, and five of the six teams on bye have multiple fantasy-relevant stars. Question No. 1 for everyone is “To Saquon, or not to Saquon?” Like one of the “Choose Your Own Adventure” books I read as a child, once you’ve made that decision, turn to one of two future pages to build the rest of your roster.

Recommended DFS lineups

*Note: FanDuel and Fanball include the Sunday night game on their Main Slate. DraftKings doesn’t include them, so the pricing is listed as N/A.

DK Lineup w/Barkley: QB Aidan O’Connell ($4.8k), RB Saquon Barkley ($9.0k), RB Isaac Guerendo ($5.4k), WR Drake London ($6.4k), WR Jakobi Meyers ($5.6k), WR Amari Cooper ($5.1k), TE Cade Otton ($4.4k), FLEX Brock Bowers ($6.5k), DST Tennessee Titans ($2.8k)

DK Lineup w/o Barkley: QB Jalen Hurts ($7.8k), RB Alvin Kamara ($8.0k), RB Bucky Irving ($6.6k), WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba ($6.3k), WR Keenan Allen ($5.6k), WR Sterling Shepard ($4.0k), TE Tommy Tremble ($3.0k), FLEX Tyrone Tracy Jr. ($5.8k), DST New Orleans Saints ($2.9k)

FD Lineup w/Barkley: QB Will Levis ($6.6k), RB Saquon Barkley ($10.0k), RB Bucky Irving ($7.7k), WR Drake London ($7.9k), WR Keenan Allen ($6.4k), WR Nick Westbrook-Ikhine ($6.2k), TE Cade Otton ($5.6K), FLEX Isaac Guerendo ($5.2k), DST New Orleans Saints ($4.4k)

FD Lineup w/o Barkley: QB Jalen Hurts ($9.2k), RB Alvin Kamara ($9.2k), RB Bucky Irving ($7.7k), WR Drake London ($7.9k), WR Keenan Allen ($6.4k), WR Amari Cooper ($5.7k), TE Grant Calcaterra ($4.3K), FLEX Isaac Guerendo ($5.2k), DST New Orleans Saints ($4.4k)

FB Lineup w/Barkley: QB Baker Mayfield ($6.2k), RB Bucky Irving ($6.3k), RB Saquon Barkley ($8.5k), WR Drake London ($6.5k), WR Mike Evans ($7.0k), WR/TE Jakobi Meyers ($5.3k), TE Cade Otton ($4.6k), FLEX Tony Pollard ($5.4k), SUPERFLEX Aidan O’Connell ($5.2k)

FB Lineup w/o Barkley: QB Jalen Hurts ($7.5k), RB Alvin Kamara ($7.3k), RB Tony Pollard ($5.4k), WR Justin Jefferson ($7.4k), WR Jakobi Meyers ($5.3k), WR/TE Keenan Allen ($5.2k), TE Cade Otton ($4.6k), FLEX Bucky Irving ($6.3k), SUPERFLEX Sam Darnold ($5.9k)

*Note: Player salaries are color-coded based on expected output. Red = Less than 2.5x value, Black = 2.5x value, Green = Greater than 3x value.

Quarterback DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,000 $8,900
Jalen Hurts $7,800 $9,200
Baker Mayfield $6,400 $8,100
Tua Tagovailoa $6,300 $8,300
Brock Purdy $6,200 $8,000
Patrick Mahomes N/A $7,900
Sam Darnold $6,100 $7,600
Kyler Murray $6,000 $7,800
Russell Wilson $5,900 $7,700
Justin Herbert N/A $7,500
Geno Smith $5,800 $7,400
Matthew Stafford $5,700 $7,200
Caleb Williams $5,600 $7,300
Kirk Cousins $5,500 $7,000
Jameis Winston $5,400 $6,900
Aaron Rodgers $5,300 $6,800
Bryce Young $5,200 $7,000
Derek Carr $5,100 $7,100
Mac Jones $5,000 $6,700
Will Levis $5,000 $6,600
Aidan O’Connell $4,800 $6,700
Drew Lock $4,700 $6,500
Tommy DeVito $4,200 $6,500

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, and Baker Mayfield are the top options. Sam Darnold and Russell Wilson are the “top” pivots. Kirk Cousins has been awful of late, but he gets a juicy revenge-game narrative. Looking at those so-so pivot plays, use one of the punts: Mac Jones, Will Levis, or Aidan O’Connell.

Fantasy four-pack

Jalen Hurts, Eagles vs. CAR ($7,800 DK, $9,200 FD) Not surprisingly, DeVonta Smith‘s (hamstring) injury has hampered Hurts’ performance in recent games. Smith is on pace to return this week, but now Hurts will be without Dallas Goedert (knee). Against the Panthers, it won’t matter. The only question is whether he will rush for his three TDs or throw for them. 

Josh Allen, Bills @ LAR ($8,000 DK, $8,900 FD) Allen can run for TDs. He can throw for TDs. Heck, he can even catch laterals and take them to the house. The only thing he didn’t do last week was return a kick for a score. At least the weather won’t limit him this week. Build a stack of Allen with whoever starts at TE and Amari Cooper.

Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers vs. LV ($6,400 DK, $8,100 FD) These two pass defenses are currently tied, each allowing a seventh-worst 21 passing touchdowns. When two bad passing defenses lock horns, points typically come in bunches. Build an uber-stack with either QB and two weapons on each side.

Sam Darnold, Vikings vs. ATL ($6,100, $7,600 FD) The story of this game will be the Kirk Cousins revenge-game narrative. Still, Darnold has more passing TDs and fewer INTs than Cousins. Atlanta has fallen on defensive hard times lately allowing multiple passing TDs in seven of their last eight games.

Sleepers

Kirk Cousins, Falcons vs. MIN ($5,500 DK, $7,000 FD) Minnesota has allowed fewer passing scores than Atlanta, but they have allowed the fifth-most passing yards. Cousins has been in a slump, but never underestimate the power of the revenge game. Cousins will have little difficulty picking apart an opportunistic but undermanned Vikings secondary.

Aidan O’Connell, Raiders @ TB ($4,800 DK, $6,700 FD) Only one team has allowed more total TDs to the QB position. This includes giving up 16 total scores to the position over their last six games. O’Connell is coming off a tremendous performance against a much tougher KC defense. He may well finish as a top-10 QB this week, provided a midweek illness doesn’t limit the young QB.

Running back DraftKings FanDuel
Saquon Barkley $9,000 $10,000
De’Von Achane $8,200 $8,700
Alvin Kamara $8,000 $9,200
Bijan Robinson $7,500 $8,900
James Cook $7,400 $8,500
Kyren Williams $7,300 $8,400
Breece Hall $7,000 $8,300
Kenneth Walker III $6,800 $7,900
James Conner $6,700 $7,600
Bucky Irving $6,600 $7,700
Aaron Jones $6,500 $7,300
Tony Pollard $6,400 $7,500
Chuba Hubbard $6,200 $7,000
Najee Harris $6,000 $6,900
Isiah Pacheco N/A $6,700
Nick Chubb $5,900 $6,500
Tyrone Tracy Jr. $5,800 $6,600
D’Andre Swift $5,700 $6,300
Kareem Hunt N/A $6,300
Travis Etienne Jr. $5,600 $6,400
Gus Edwards N/A $6,000
Jaylen Warren $5,500 $5,900
Isaac Guerendo $5,400 $5,200
Rachaad White $5,300 $6,200
Ray Davis $5,200 $5,400
Alexander Mattison $5,100 $5,700
Tank Bigsby $5,100 $5,800
Braelon Allen $5,100 $5,400
Kimani Vidal N/A $5,100
Kenneth Gainwell $5,000 $4,900
Jerome Ford $4,900 $5,400
Raheem Mostert $4,900 $5,100
Devin Singletary $4,800 $5,500
Zach Charbonnet $4,800 $5,300
Ameer Abdullah $4,700 $5,800
Jonathon Brooks $4,700 $5,600
Cam Akers $4,600 $5,200
Sincere McCormick $4,600 $5,500
Trey Benson $4,500 $5,000
Tyler Allgeier $4,500 $5,600
Tyjae Spears $4,400 $5,600
Roschon Johnson $4,300 $5,300
Blake Corum $4,200 $4,800
Zamir White $4,200 $5,000
Cordarrelle Patterson $4,100 $4,300
Ty Johnson $4,100 $4,900

Running back

Weekly strategy – Whether to use Saquon Barkley is the ultimate question. If you don’t use him, you should our Kyren Williams at RB1. The pivots would be Bucky Irving and Tony Pollard. I also could see using one of them at RB2 if you go cheap at WR. Isaac Guerendo also will see heavy ownership at RB2 and FLEX. To seek variance from the masses, trust Tyrone Tracy Jr. instead. The only punts to consider are Kenneth Gainwell and whoever starts for the Raiders.

Fantasy four-pack

Saquon Barkley, Eagles @ CAR ($9,000 DK, $10,000 FD) The best RB in football facing the worst rushing defense in recent history. What could go wrong here? This feels like either a 250-yard, four-TD game or an absolute bust where everyone scores but him. Choose wisely.

Alvin Kamara, Saints @ NYG ($8,000, $9,200 FD) Taysom Hill (knee) is out for the year. Maybe now the Saints will allow Kamara to score a TD. The Giants are allowing a league-worst 5.1 YPC and they have given up six rushing TDs over the last three weeks. AK41 is the clear pivot from Barkley.

Kyren Williams, Rams vs. BUF ($7,300 DK, $8,400 FD) Buffalo is allowing 4.9 YPC. This is nearly a full yard per carry more than Williams averages. Still, we are playing him for the TDs. He has scored in all but three games.

Bucky Irving, Buccaneers vs. LV ($6,600 DK, $7,700 FD) Since Week 8, Irving (back, hip) has a nearly 3-to-2 opportunity advantage over Rachaad White. As long as the hip issue doesn’t linger, he should post his third-straight 150-total-yard performance.

Sleepers

Tyrone Tracy Jr., Giants vs. NO ($5,800 DK, $6,600 FD) No team is allowing more YPC than New Orleans, and only three teams have allowed more RB rushing scores. Due in part to a few fumbles, Tracy has recently seen a dip in usage. Still, he has scored in four of his last seven games.

Isaac Guerendo, 49ers vs. CHI ($5,400 DK, $5,200 FD) Can we say 100% ownership? Much like Barkley, this chalk could blow up in everyone’s face. That said, are you going to be the one who sits on the sideline as Guerendo does his best Christian McCaffrey (knee) impersonation? Over the last four weeks, Chicago has allowed over 24 PPR points per game to opposing RBs.

Wide Receiver DraftKings FanDuel
A.J. Brown $8,100 $9,300
Justin Jefferson $7,800 $9,200
Puka Nacua $7,700 $8,600
Mike Evans $7,200 $8,400
Tyreek Hill $7,100 $8,200
Cooper Kupp $7,000 $8,500
Malik Nabers $6,900 $8,300
George Pickens $6,800 $7,500
Davante Adams $6,700 $7,300
Garrett Wilson $6,600 $7,200
Drake London $6,400 $7,900
Jaxon Smith-Njigba $6,300 $8,000
DK Metcalf $6,200 $7,600
Ladd McConkey N/A $7,000
DJ Moore $6,100 $6,600
Marvin Harrison Jr. $6,000 $6,800
Deebo Samuel Sr. $5,900 $7,100
Khalil Shakir $5,900 $6,500
Brian Thomas Jr. $5,800 $6,900
DeVonta Smith $5,800 $7,400
Calvin Ridley $5,700 $6,300
DeAndre Hopkins N/A $6,100
Jerry Jeudy $5,700 $6,100
Jakobi Meyers $5,600 $6,700
Keenan Allen $5,600 $6,400
Xavier Worthy N/A $6,000
Darnell Mooney $5,500 $5,900
Jaylen Waddle $5,400 $5,900
Adam Thielen $5,300 $5,900
Jordan Addison $5,300 $6,000
Jauan Jennings $5,200 $6,400
Amari Cooper $5,100 $5,700
Quentin Johnston N/A $5,700
Cedric Tillman $5,100 $5,800
Keon Coleman $5,000 $5,600
Rome Odunze $5,000 $5,600
Xavier Legette $4,900 $5,500
Elijah Moore $4,800 $5,600
Joshua Palmer N/A $5,400
Wan’Dale Robinson $4,800 $5,400
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,700 $6,200
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $4,600 $5,800
Tre Tucker $4,600 $5,300
Ray-Ray McCloud III $4,500 $5,500
Ricky Pearsall $4,500 $5,000
Parker Washington $4,400 $5,800
Darius Slayton $4,300 $5,300
Tyler Lockett $4,300 $5,600
Demarcus Robinson $4,200 $5,700
Michael Wilson $4,100 $5,300
David Moore $4,000 $5,300
Sterling Shepard $4,000 $5,400
Curtis Samuel $3,900 $5,500
Mike Williams $3,800 $5,200
Cedrick Wilson Jr. $3,700 $4,900
Justin Watson N/A $4,900
Jalen Coker $3,700 $5,100
DJ Turner $3,600 $4,800
JuJu Smith-Schuster N/A $4,800
Tyler Boyd $3,600 $5,000
Jahan Dotson $3,500 $4,700
Mack Hollins $3,500 $5,400
Jalen Nailor $3,400 $5,000
Trey Palmer $3,400 $4,900
Tutu Atwell $3,400 $4,900
Calvin Austin III $3,300 $5,500
Kevin Austin Jr. $3,300 $4,800
Greg Dortch $3,200 $4,800
Van Jefferson $3,200 $4,700
Johnny Wilson $3,000 $5,000

Wide receiver

Weekly strategy – A.J. Brown is a solid play, but both Mike Evans (hamstring) and Drake London have a higher floor. Justin Jefferson has struggled in recent weeks as he has been triple-teamed. This may be his return to the glory game. I just wish his price was less. At WR2/WR3, you have several options. My favorites are Marvin Harrison Jr., Brian Thomas Jr., Jakobi Meyers (ankle), Amari Cooper, Keenan Allen, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, and Darnell Mooney. The punt choices include Parker Washington, Sterling Shepard, and Ray-Ray McCloud. 

Fantasy four-pack

A.J. Brown, Eagles @ CAR ($8,100, $9,300 FD) Carolina is infinitely better against the pass than the run. Of course, that isn’t saying much considering how wretched their run defense has been in 2024. They have allowed back-to-back WR1s to score, so don’t be surprised if Brown does for the second time in his last three games. 

Mike Evans, Buccaneers vs. LV ($7,200, $8,400 FD) Over their last three games, Vegas has allowed an average of 6.3-83-1 to opposing WR1s. Meanwhile, Evans (hamstring) scored in his second game back from injury, giving him seven TDs in nine games.

Drake London, Falcons @ MIN ($6,400 DK, $7,900 FD) Possession receivers, like London, have eviscerated the Vikings all season. Kirk Cousins knows all the holes in this secondary, and he will continue to pepper London with targets. Since Week 10, only one WR has averaged more targets per game than him. 

Justin Jefferson, Vikings vs. ATL ($7,800 DK, $9,200 FD) Speaking of targets, Jefferson has received eight or more looks in nine of his last 10 games. Unfortunately, he hasn’t scored since Week 7. Atlanta has allowed the third-most WR receiving touchdowns, so JJ could get back into the end zone here.

Sleepers

Jakobi Meyers, Raiders @ TB ($5,600 DK, $6,700 FD) Despite a revolving door at QB, Meyers (ankle) has remained a legit WR2 all season. Since Week 8, Meyers has been top-10 among WRs in both targets and receptions. The ankle issue popped up on Thursday, so monitor his status going into this game. If he plays, chalk him up for a floor of 8-90. 

Amari Cooper, Bills @ LAR ($5,100 DK, $5,700 FD) Cooper has shed his wrist injury, opening the door for his first big performance since joining Buffalo. Opponents’ top WRs have scored in five straight against Los Angeles. Cooper will make it six.

Tight End DraftKings FanDuel
Brock Bowers $6,500 $8,000
Trey McBride $6,100 $7,200
George Kittle $5,800 $7,500
Jonnu Smith $5,300 $7,000
Travis Kelce N/A $6,800
David Njoku $5,100 $6,200
Dalton Kincaid $4,900 $5,700
Evan Engram $4,800 $5,900
Dallas Goedert $4,500 $6,000
Cade Otton $4,400 $5,600
T.J. Hockenson $4,300 $6,300
Kyle Pitts $4,100 $5,300
Noah Gray N/A $5,200
Will Dissly N/A $5,100
Dawson Knox $3,900 $5,000
Pat Freiermuth $3,800 $5,500
Cole Kmet $3,700 $5,200
Noah Fant $3,600 $5,000
Grant Calcaterra $3,500 $4,300
Juwan Johnson $3,400 $5,400
Ja’Tavion Sanders $3,300 $4,500
Tyler Higbee $3,200 $4,000
AJ Barner $3,100 $5,000
Foster Moreau $3,100 $4,800
Chig Okonkwo $3,000 $5,100
Tommy Tremble $3,000 $4,900
Tyler Conklin $2,900 $4,900
Colby Parkinson $2,800 $4,800

Tight end

Weekly strategy – Cade Otton had a dud in a glorious spot last week. This spot is even better. Brock Bowers is much more expensive, but his matchup is equally juicy. Trey McBride and David Njoku are the pivots. If Dalton Kincaid (knee) returns, he gets a soft opponent. Otherwise, Dawson Knox becomes a discount pivot play. The other punt choices are Pat Freiermuth, Will Dissly, and Grant Calcaterra.

Fantasy four-pack

Brock Bowers, Raiders @ TB ($6,500 DK, $8,000 FD) Bowers leads all of football in receptions, and he ranks fourth in receiving yards. Not bad for a rookie on a moribund team. Tampa is allowing the fourth-most yards to the position. I don’t love that FD price, but he is a must-play on DK.

Cade Otton, Buccaneers vs. LV ($4,400 DK, $5,600 FD) Prepare to engage a double-TE lineup — in the same game no less. Disregarding a Week 12 tilt when Vegas held Denver’s TEs to one catch and three yards, they are allowing an absurd average of 33.5 PPR points per game to the position since Week 8. Otton has posted back-to-back duds, which should keep his ownership respectable.

Trey McBride, Cardinals vs. SEA ($6,100 DK, $7,200 FD) If we could combine McBride’s receptions and yards with Nick Westbrook-Ikhine’s nose for TDs, we could have the world’s greatest football player. Just two weeks ago, McBride posted 12-133 on 15 targets against this defense.

David Njoku, Browns @ PIT ($5,100 DK, $6,200 FD) Since Jameis Winston took over at QB, back in Week 7, Njoku is third among TEs in targets, fifth in receptions, and second in receiving TDs. Meanwhile, over the last four weeks, Pittsburgh has allowed the fifth-most TE receptions and receiving yards.

Sleepers

Will Dissly, Chargers @ KC (N/A DK, $5,100 FD) Dissly trails only Ladd McConkey (knee) in receptions and targets among Chargers’ pass catchers. McConkey is iffy for this week. If he is out, Dissly should see a spike in usage. Meanwhile, KC has allowed the most receptions and yards to the position.

Grant Calcaterra, Eagles @ CAR ($3,500 DK, $4,300 FD) In the four games that Dallas Goedert (knee) missed earlier this season, Calcaterra was third on the team in targets, receptions, and receiving yards. Carolina has allowed a league-worst nine TE touchdowns, so this could be a sneaky and cheap way to get exposure to this game.

Primetime DFS Domination: Week 13

Lineup recommendations for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 13 DFS fantasy football primetime slate.

The massive popularity of small DFS slates has propelled us to expand our DFS coverage. I will give you my favorite lineup for the Primetime Slate each week. We will release these as soon as both sites release their pricing.

Recommended Primetime DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Josh Allen ($7.8k), RB Christian McCaffrey ($8.2k), RB Nick Chubb ($6.4k), WR Jerry Jeudy ($5.9k), WR Amari Cooper ($5.2k), WR Devaughn Vele ($4.4k), TE David Njoku ($5.4k), FLEX Mack Hollins ($3.6k), DST Buffalo Bills ($3.0k)

FD Lineup: QB Josh Allen ($9.0k), RB Christian McCaffrey ($8.8k), RB James Cook ($7.8k), WR Jauan Jennings ($6.1k), WR Courtland Sutton ($7.1k), WR Amari Cooper ($6.1k), TE Dawson Knox ($5.0k), FLEX Jerry Jeudy ($5.8k), DST Cleveland Browns ($4.1k)

If Brock Purdy (shoulder) plays, he instantly becomes the top pivot. That said, you may consider not using him if the weather is atrocious in Buffalo. Bo Nix is the other pivot option. I don’t like Jameis Winston against Denver. If Brandon Allen starts, downgrade all the Niners except George Kittle.

San Fran’s run defense is not the elite unit of yore. James Cook is a serviceable pivot from Christian McCaffrey. Nick Chubb is the clear RB2 this week, unless you spend less elsewhere to fit in both McCaffrey and Cook. I don’t trust either Broncos RBs (Javonte Williams and Audric Estime). Fortunately, you shouldn’t have to use either of them, unless you want to squeeze Kittle in at TE. Jerome Ford, Ray Davis, and Jaleel McLaughlin are punt options, but, again, you shouldn’t have to go that far.

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Unless you go dirt cheap, your WR1 will be Deebo Samuel or Courtland Sutton. At WR2 and WR3, you are choosing two of Jerry Jeudy (in the revenge game, albeit against Patrick Surtain II), Jauan Jennings, Khalil Shakir, Amari Cooper, Cedric Tillman (concussion), and Keon Coleman (wrist). You also can punt with Devaughn Vele, Mack Hollins, Curtis Samuel, or Elijah Moore. Watch the Buffalo weather, if winds and heavy snow occur during the game it will increase the value of both Samuels (and the tight ends) and decrease the value of the field stretchers.

George Kittle is pricey, and the matchup isn’t optimal. Still, he is an elite TE. Spending down at RB1 or WR2 should get him under your cap. If the weather is bad, he would be in for a load of targets. Dalton Kincaid (knee) is out, so Dawson Knox gets an enormous boost and is the top TE pivot on the slate. Plus, his price allows you to get both top RBs in on FD if you avoid David Njoku. Denver just released their most talented (although oft-injured) TE. This leaves Adam Trautman, Lucas Krull, and Nate Adkins … YUCK!

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 13

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 13 DFS fantasy football.

Are you in need of a respite after spending the holiday with your family? Perhaps the best cure for the holiday blues is to plop down in front of the TV for six hours while eating leftovers – and what can make that even better? When you’re watching football on that TV and have money on the game!

Recommended DFS lineups

*Note: FanDuel and Fanball include the Sunday night game on their Main Slate. DraftKings doesn’t include them, so the pricing is listed as N/A.

DK Lineup: QB Justin Herbert ($5.6k), RB Tony Pollard ($6.3k), RB Bucky Irving ($5.8k), WR A.J. Brown ($8.3k), WR Nico Collins ($7.9k), WR Quentin Johnston ($5.0k), TE Cade Otton ($4.5k), FLEX Mark Andrews ($3.9k), DST New York Jets ($2.5k)

FD Lineup: QB Justin Herbert ($7.9k), RB Christian McCaffrey ($8.8k), RB Bucky Irving ($7.2k), WR A.J. Brown ($8.8k), WR Ladd McConkey ($6.3k), WR David Moore ($5.1k), TE Cade Otton ($6.2K), FLEX Gus Edwards ($5.9k), DST New York Jets ($3.7k)

FB Lineup: QB Baker Mayfield ($6.3k), RB Bucky Irving ($5.9k), RB Gus Edwards ($3.7k), WR A.J. Brown ($7.6k), WR Mike Evans ($7.1k), WR/TE Ladd McConkey ($5.6k), TE Cade Otton ($4.7k), FLEX Christian McCaffrey ($7.8k), SUPERFLEX Justin Herbert ($5.7k)

*Note: Player salaries are color-coded based on expected output. Red = Less than 2.5x value, Black = 2.5x value, Green = Greater than 3x value.

Quarterback DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen N/A $9,000
Lamar Jackson $8,000 $8,700
Jalen Hurts $7,700 $9,200
Jayden Daniels $7,200 $8,800
Joe Burrow $7,000 $8,300
Baker Mayfield $6,600 $8,500
Brock Purdy N/A $8,100
C.J. Stroud $6,400 $8,000
Kyler Murray $6,100 $7,700
Kirk Cousins $6,000 $6,900
Sam Darnold $5,900 $7,200
Matthew Stafford $5,800 $7,400
Russell Wilson $5,700 $7,500
Drake Maye $5,600 $6,800
Justin Herbert $5,600 $7,900
Anthony Richardson $5,500 $7,800
Geno Smith $5,500 $7,600
Trevor Lawrence $5,400 $7,100
Aaron Rodgers $5,300 $7,000
Derek Carr $5,100 $7,300
Will Levis $5,000 $6,700
Mac Jones $4,900 $6,400
Bryce Young $4,700 $6,600
Brandon Allen N/A $6,500

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Baker Mayfield, C.J. Stroud, and Jalen Hurts are the top options. Kyler Murray, Matthew Stafford, and Justin Herbert (my favorite) are the top pivots. Will Levis and Bryce Young are the punt options.

Fantasy four-pack

Jalen Hurts, Eagles @ BAL ($7,700 DK, $9,200 FD) Baltimore has allowed 400 more passing yards than the next closest team. They also have allowed the third-most passing TDs. Hurts has only scored two total TDs in the last two games. This should keep his ownership reduced. Stack him with A.J. Brown and Dallas Goedert.

Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers @ CAR ($6,600 DK, $8,500 FD) Mayfield has scored the third-most total TDs among all QBs and Carolina has allowed the fourth-most total TDs to the position. He won’t have to throw in this game, but he will, especially if Carolina can keep it close. Four total TDs are on the table.

C.J. Stroud, Texans @ JAX ($6,400 DK, $8,000 FD) One team to have allowed more total QB touchdowns than Carolina is Jacksonville. They also have allowed the second-most passing yards and the third-most QB rushing yards. In three career games versus Jacksonville, Stroud is averaging 310-2, with an additional 26 rushing yards per game and one rushing score.

Josh Allen, Bills vs. SF (N/A DK, $9,000 FD) Over the last two weeks, Allen has only three total TDs. Fortunately, he has kept his value up by posting over 100 rushing yards during that span. San Francisco has been very solid against the pass this season, but they have allowed the seventh-most QB rushing scores.

Sleepers

Justin Herbert, Chargers @ ATL ($5,600 DK, $7,900 FD) The $7,900 price tag on FD hardly qualifies as a discount, but his DK price rocks. Atlanta has allowed multiple passing TDs in every game since Week 4. Meanwhile, Herbert has multiple TDs in four of his last five games. 

Will Levis, Titans @ WAS ($5,000 DK, $6,700 FD) Levis is playing YOLO ball right now, throwing for eight completions of greater than 20 yards over his last two games. Meanwhile, Washington has allowed eight passing TDs of greater than 20 yards, including three in their last four games.

Running back DraftKings FanDuel
Saquon Barkley $8,500 $9,200
Joe Mixon $8,000 $9,500
Derrick Henry $7,800 $9,000
Christian McCaffrey N/A $8,800
Alvin Kamara $7,700 $8,300
Breece Hall $7,500 $8,700
Bijan Robinson $7,300 $8,500
Kyren Williams $7,200 $8,400
Kenneth Walker III $7,000 $8,000
Jonathan Taylor $6,900 $7,900
James Cook N/A $7,800
J.K. Dobbins $6,800 $7,500
Chuba Hubbard $6,700 $7,400
James Conner $6,600 $7,600
Aaron Jones $6,500 $7,700
Tony Pollard $6,300 $7,000
Chase Brown $6,200 $7,300
Brian Robinson Jr. $6,100 $7,100
Najee Harris $6,000 $6,900
Rhamondre Stevenson $5,900 $6,400
Bucky Irving $5,800 $7,200
Travis Etienne Jr. $5,700 $6,600
Austin Ekeler $5,600 $6,000
Jaylen Warren $5,500 $5,800
Jeremy McNichols $5,400 $6,700
Rachaad White $5,300 $6,500
Tank Bigsby $5,200 $6,300
Kenneth Gainwell $5,100 $5,400
Braelon Allen $5,000 $5,300
Tyler Allgeier $5,000 $5,700
Antonio Gibson $4,900 $5,000
Justice Hill $4,800 $5,600
Jonathon Brooks $4,700 $5,300
Dameon Pierce $4,600 $5,100
Cam Akers $4,500 $5,500
Sean Tucker $4,500 $5,000
Tyjae Spears $4,400 $5,500
Zach Charbonnet $4,400 $5,400
Gus Edwards $4,300 $5,900
Ray Davis N/A $5,200
Trey Benson $4,300 $5,200
D’Ernest Johnson $4,000 $5,100
Jordan Mason N/A $5,000

Running back

Weekly strategy – Christian McCaffrey and Joe Mixon are both pricy but safe RB1 options. To save money, pivot to Kyren Williams. I’m concerned about chasing points with Saquon Barkley and will fade him. At RB2, use Tony Pollard, assuming Tyjae Spears (concussion), remains out. Otherwise, consider Chuba Hubbard, Bucky Irving, and Rhamondre Stevenson. There are three injury-replacement punt options: Jeremy McNichols, Braelon Allen, and Gus Edwards.

Fantasy four-pack

Joe Mixon, Texans @ JAX ($8,000 DK, $9,500 FD) Over their last three games, Jacksonville has allowed 602 rushing yards and five rushing TDs. Mixon laid a goose egg last week. This, paired with his high price, should keep his ownership down. Before that dud, Mixon had scored 10 TDs over his prior six games. He also topped 100 total yards in five of the six games. 

Christian McCaffrey, 49ers @ BUF (N/A DK, $8,800 FD) McCaffrey continues to underperform since his return from injury. Brandon Allen‘s presence is the reason for last week’s performance. Brock Purdy (shoulder) is has a chance to return this weekend, so that would help CMC return to his pre-injury status as the best RB in football, but missed most of the year comes with rust to remove. It will help that Buffalo ranks in the bottom two in RB receptions, receiving yards, and receiving scores allowed.

Derrick Henry, Ravens vs. PHI ($7,800 DK, $9,000 FD) Only one team (the Chargers) has allowed fewer total TDs to opposing RBs than Philly. That said, they have allowed a rushing TD in back-to-back games. Plus, this is Derrick Henry. Last week was the first time he had not scored at least one TD all season. His opponent, not surprisingly, was the Chargers. Even in that shutout, he reached 140 yards.

Kyren Williams, Rams @ NO ($7,200 DK, $8,400 FD) Williams’ production has waned since the return of Los Angeles’ top WRs. That said, he scored last week against a tough Philadelphia defense. This gave him at least one TD in eight of 11 games. Meanwhile, since Week 5, New Orleans has allowed 28 PPR points per game to opposing RBs.

Sleepers

Tony Pollard, Titans @ WAS ($6,300 DK, $7,000 FD) This tout comes down to whether or not Tyjae Spears (concussion) plays. Over their last four games, Washington has allowed 156 combo yards per game to opposing RBs. If Spears is out, this will all go to Pollard, making him a slate-breaker. Even if Spears plays, Pollard should score and approach 100 total yards.

Bucky Irving, Buccaneers @ CAR ($5,800 DK, $7,200 FD) Over their last two games, Irving leads all Buccaneers backs in every category. He also has scored twice. Carolina is the worst team in the league against opposing RBs, allowing an average of 29.5 PPR points to the position this season. 

Wide Receiver DraftKings FanDuel
Ja’Marr Chase $8,600 $9,300
A.J. Brown $8,300 $8,800
Justin Jefferson $8,100 $8,900
Nico Collins $7,900 $9,100
Puka Nacua $7,600 $8,700
Cooper Kupp $7,400 $9,000
Terry McLaurin $7,100 $7,900
Davante Adams $7,000 $7,000
Garrett Wilson $6,900 $8,000
George Pickens $6,800 $7,400
Mike Evans $6,700 $8,300
Tee Higgins $6,600 $7,600
Drake London $6,500 $7,300
DK Metcalf $6,400 $7,800
Jaxon Smith-Njigba $6,300 $7,700
Deebo Samuel Sr. N/A $7,200
Zay Flowers $6,200 $7,100
Ladd McConkey $6,100 $6,300
Marvin Harrison Jr. $6,000 $6,900
Tank Dell $5,900 $6,400
DeVonta Smith $5,800 $7,500
Calvin Ridley $5,700 $6,800
Darnell Mooney $5,600 $6,500
Brian Thomas Jr. $5,500 $6,700
Josh Downs $5,400 $6,400
Jordan Addison $5,300 $6,300
Michael Pittman Jr. $5,200 $6,600
Khalil Shakir N/A $6,200
Amari Cooper N/A $6,100
Jauan Jennings N/A $6,100
Keon Coleman N/A $5,900
Xavier Legette $5,100 $5,800
Quentin Johnston $5,000 $6,200
Mack Hollins N/A $5,700
Alec Pierce $4,900 $5,600
Adam Thielen $4,800 $5,800
DeMario Douglas $4,700 $5,600
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $4,500 $6,000
Tyler Lockett $4,500 $5,600
Noah Brown $4,400 $5,500
Rashod Bateman $4,400 $5,500
Joshua Palmer $4,300 $5,500
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,300 $5,900
Ray-Ray McCloud III $4,300 $5,700
Curtis Samuel N/A $5,400
Ricky Pearsall N/A $5,300
Cedrick Wilson Jr. $4,200 $5,000
Diontae Johnson $4,200 $5,800
Michael Wilson $4,200 $5,400
John Metchie III $4,100 $5,000
Demarcus Robinson $4,000 $5,700
Mike Williams $4,000 $5,400
Sterling Shepard $4,000 $5,500
Adonai Mitchell $3,900 $5,000
Parker Washington $3,900 $5,500
Jahan Dotson $3,800 $5,200
Tyler Boyd $3,800 $5,000
Jalen Coker $3,700 $5,300
Jalen McMillan $3,700 $5,200
Andrei Iosivas $3,600 $5,200
Trey Palmer $3,600 $5,100
Tutu Atwell $3,600 $4,800
David Moore $3,500 $5,100
Jalen Nailor $3,500 $5,200
Kendrick Bourne $3,500 $5,000
Greg Dortch $3,400 $4,900
Kayshon Boutte $3,400 $5,100
Tim Jones $3,400 $5,300
Calvin Austin III $3,300 $5,400
Olamide Zaccheaus $3,300 $4,800
Ja’Lynn Polk $3,200 $4,700
Kevin Austin Jr. $3,200 $4,700
Nelson Agholor $3,200 $5,000
Van Jefferson $3,200 $4,600
Dyami Brown $3,100 $4,700
Tylan Wallace $3,100 $4,900
Johnny Wilson $3,000 $5,100

Wide receiver

Weekly strategy – A.J. Brown and Nico Collins are the top two WRs. I’d love to roster both of them, but to do so, you must go cheap at RB1. The Rams’ duo are the top pivots. At WR2, choose from Mike Evans, Marvin Harrison Jr., Ladd McConkey, and Drake London. I would stack one of those four with my QB. To save money, consider Calvin Ridley, Darnell Mooney, or Michael Pittman Jr. I wouldn’t stack them, though. Xavier Legette, “Iron Hands” Quentin Johnston, Rashod Bateman, and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine are the best choices for WR3. You also can use Demarcus Robinson there if you don’t use Puka Nacua or Cooper Kupp. Other punt options include Noah Brown, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and David Moore. 

Fantasy four-pack

A.J. Brown, Eagles @ BAL ($8,300, $8,800 FD) Baltimore has allowed the most receiving yards to the position this season. In addition , the Ravens have allowed the second-most WR touchdowns and receptions. They have particularly struggled with WR1s, allowing 11 TDs to that spot over their last eight games.

Nico Collins, Texans @ JAX ($7,900, $9,100 FD) Jacksonville has allowed 10 passing TDs of greater than 20 yards this season. Collins should get in on the fun this week as he has posted 19-255-2 on 24 targets against this defense in their last two meetings.

Puka Nacua, Rams @ NO ($7,600 DK, $8,700 FD) You can use Nacua or Cooper Kupp. Only four teams have allowed more WR receiving yards this season. Ignoring the game where he was ejected, Nacua has averaged 8-111 since returning from the IR.

Mike Evans, Buccaneers @ CAR ($6,700 DK, $8,300 FD) In his first game back, Evans led the Buccaneers in receiving yards. With his sea legs back, expect Evans to go off here. Against Carolina, he has scored and/or topped 90 yards in 11 of 19 career meetings.

Sleepers

Xavier Legette, Panthers vs. TB ($5,100 DK, $5,800 FD) The Panthers have spread the ball around all year, but Legette leads them in all the pertinent receiving categories. The Buccaneers offense will force Carolina to throw the ball to keep up. I would consider David Moore here, too, if Jalen Coker (quad) remains out.

Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Titans @ WAS ($4,300 DK, $5,900 FD) Westbrook-Ikhine has surpassed three receptions in exactly one game this season. Still, he has scored in six of seven games. A 35% conversion rate is unsustainable, but enjoy the fun while you can.

Tight End DraftKings FanDuel
George Kittle N/A $7,800
Trey McBride $5,800 $6,900
Taysom Hill $5,000 $7,000
Evan Engram $4,800 $5,800
Dalton Kincaid N/A $5,700
Kyle Pitts $4,600 $5,400
Cade Otton $4,500 $6,200
T.J. Hockenson $4,400 $6,500
Dallas Goedert $4,300 $6,000
Hunter Henry $4,200 $5,100
Mike Gesicki $4,100 $5,300
Will Dissly $4,000 $5,200
Mark Andrews $3,900 $5,600
Zach Ertz $3,800 $5,400
Isaiah Likely $3,700 $5,500
Dawson Knox N/A $5,000
Noah Fant $3,600 $4,900
Pat Freiermuth $3,500 $5,100
Ja’Tavion Sanders $3,400 $4,600
Dalton Schultz $3,300 $5,200
Austin Hooper $3,200 $5,000
Chig Okonkwo $3,100 $4,900
Juwan Johnson $3,100 $5,300
AJ Barner $3,000 $4,900
Foster Moreau $3,000 $4,800
Tyler Conklin $3,000 $4,800
Colby Parkinson $2,900 $4,800
Darnell Washington $2,900 $4,700
Tommy Tremble $2,800 $4,600
Davis Allen $2,700 $4,700
Brenton Strange $2,500 $4,700
Cade Stover $2,500 $4,900

Tight end

Weekly strategy – Cade Otton is my favorite play this week. He should have minimal ownership after last week’s dud. In a soft matchup, play Trey McBride, who is overdue for a TD. T.J. Hockenson, Dallas Goedert, and Mark Andrews are the pivots. You shouldn’t need to punt here, but if you do, use Pat Freiermuth.

Fantasy four-pack

Trey McBride, Cardinals @ MIN ($5,800 DK, $6,900 FD) Since Week 5, McBride has averaged 6.8-80. Now, we just need him to score TDs, too. Minnesota has allowed only two TE scores all season, so we may have to wait another week, but the yards will be there.

Cade Otton, Buccaneers @ CAR ($4,500 DK, $6,200 FD) Only two teams have allowed more yards to the TE position, and no team has allowed more touchdowns. Otton posted a dud last week with the return of Mike Evans, but that was against the third-best TE defense in terms of yards allowed. His ownership will be down as he goes off this week. 

T.J. Hockenson, Vikings vs. ARI ($4,400 DK, $6,500 FD) With teams triple-teaming Justin Jefferson, Hockenson posted an epic game last week. This gave him two solid games out of four since his return from injury. Arizona is mid against the position, but if they pick their poison in Jefferson, Hock will feast again.

George Kittle, 49ers @ BUF (N/A DK, $7,800 FD) Buffalo is very good against the position, but they allowed a pair of scores by Noah Gray last week. Kittle is elite enough to get it done, regardless. He has now scored in seven of the nine games that he has played. Just consider this more of a floor game, which is still probably 6-50-1.

Sleepers

Mark Andrews, Ravens vs. PHI ($3,900 DK, $5,600 FD) Andrews a sleeper? That DK price seems to say so. Philly was elite against the position to start the season, but three of the last five TE1s to face them have reached double-digit PPR points.

Pat Freiermuth, Steelers @ CIN ($3,500 DK, $5,100 FD) Cincy ranks fifth-worst in both yards allowed and receptions to the TE position. They also have allowed the second-most TE touchdowns. Freiermuth is no sure thing, but the matchup (and DK price) screams to give him a chance.

Thanksgiving DFS Domination

Lineup recommendations for DraftKings and FanDuel for the Thanksgiving Day DFS fantasy football slate.

Every year, we give thanks for the ability to belly up to the turkey buffet and stuff ourselves to the gills. We also give thanks for the ability to stuff our wallets to the gills with a second helping of DFS deliciousness. Just be careful not to fall asleep before making your late swaps.

Recommended Primetime DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Cooper Rush ($4.8k), RB Josh Jacobs ($7.0k), RB Rico Dowdle ($5.5k), WR CeeDee Lamb ($7.3k), WR Jayden Reed ($5.7k), WR Keenan Allen ($5.1k), TE Jonnu Smith ($4.3k), FLEX De’Von Achane ($7.7k), DST Chicago Bears ($2.3k)

FD Lineup: QB Caleb Williams ($7.2k), RB Josh Jacobs ($7.8k), RB Rico Dowdle ($6.1k), WR CeeDee Lamb ($8.6k), WR Keenan Allen ($6.5k), WR Jaylen Waddle ($6.3k), TE Luke Schoonmaker ($5.0k), FLEX De’Von Achane ($9.0k), DST Chicago Bears ($3.5k)

FB Lineup: QB Caleb Williams ($5.9k), RB Jahmyr Gibbs ($7.4k), RB Rico Dowdle ($5.5k), WR CeeDee Lamb ($7.2k), WR Keenan Allen ($4.6k), WR/TE Tyreek Hill ($7.3k), TE Jonnu Smith ($4.2k), FLEX De’Von Achane ($7.5k), SFLEX Cooper Rush ($5.4k)

Considering their tricky matchups, I don’t love the price tag on Tua Tagovailoa, Jordan Love, and Jared Goff. Still, they each offer some variance from my preferred pair of Caleb Williams and Cooper Rush. To use one of the more expensive options, you must go cheaper elsewhere (likely RB1 or WR2). Tommy DeVito (assuming his arm is fine) is cheaper than everyone else, consider a lineup featuring him alongside two of Malik Nabers, Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, and Theo Johnson (back).

At RB1, you are choosing between Josh Jacobs and Jahmyr Gibbs. Gibbs gets a huge bump if David Montgomery (shoulder) ends up missing this game because of his shoulder. For RB2, it comes down to either Tyrone Tracy Jr. or Rico Dowdle. I prefer Dowdle. D’Andre Swift is on my bench this week. I’m going with De’Von Achane as my FLEX. His price and late-game status give you the ability to sub in anyone if the early game goes afoul. Based on recent usage, Roschon Johnson and Jaylen Wright are the only safe punts.

If you don’t use CeeDee Lamb at WR1, replace him with either Malik Nabers or Tyreek Hill. I’d prefer to fade Amon-Ra St. Brown (knee) in an abysmal matchup. Jameson Williams, DJ Moore, Jayden Reed, and Jaylen Waddle are my WR2 choices. I’m leaning toward Reed with Romeo Doubs (concussion) likely out. At WR3, you can swap in Rome Odunze, Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, Christian Watson, or Brandin Cooks (knee). If Cooks doesn’t play, Jalen Tolbert also becomes a WR3 threat. Punt options to consider are Dontayvion Wicks, Tim Patrick, and Kalif Raymond.

Jonnu Smith has a great matchup and a solid price. I may fade him to save money on FD. If I do, it will be for Tucker Kraft or Luke Schoonmaker. You could also opt for Sam LaPorta. His value will be astronomical if St. Brown misses this game. Theo Johnson is a potential punt, but one that isn’t necessary. Avoid Cole Kmet at all costs.

Primetime DFS Domination: Week 12

Lineup recommendations for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 12 DFS fantasy football primetime slate.

The massive popularity of small DFS slates has propelled us to expand our DFS coverage. I will give you my favorite lineup for the Primetime Slate each week. We will release these as soon as both sites release their pricing.

Recommended Primetime DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Justin Herbert ($5.5k), RB Derrick Henry ($7.7k), RB Saquon Barkley ($8.2k), WR Cooper Kupp ($7.3k), WR Quentin Johnston ($5.0k), WR Rashod Bateman ($4.3k), TE Will Dissly ($3.5k), FLEX Mark Andrews ($4.1k), DST Philadelphia Eagles ($2.9k)

FD Lineup: QB Justin Herbert ($7.4k), RB Derrick Henry ($9.2k), RB Kyren Williams ($8.3k), WR Puka Nacua ($8.6k), WR Quentin Johnston ($6.1k), WR Rashod Bateman ($5.5k), TE Will Dissly ($5.1k), FLEX Mark Andrews ($5.4k), DST Philadelphia Eagles ($4.2k)

Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson are both great QBs, but they do not work financially this week. To fit one of them, you will be dumpster diving at WR or RB. Matthew Stafford is the realistic pivot, although his matchup isn’t great.

On DK, you can afford both Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry. On FD, you can afford only one of them. Both Kyren Williams and J.K. Dobbins are solid fill-ins, and one will be adequate as your RB2 on FD (I prefer Williams). Gus Edwards, Kenneth Gainwell, and Jerome Hill (concussion) are your punts if you want to roster Jackson or Hurts. You also could use Keaton Mitchell if Hill is out.

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At WR1, A.J. Brown and Puka Nacua/Cooper Kupp are the pivots. You should start one of the Rams, and their costs make them virtually interchangeable. For WR2, I’d love to use Zay Flowers, but his presence will demand fiscal prudence elsewhere. You can pivot to Ladd McConkey (shoulder), if he suits up. If McConkey is a no-go, Joshua Palmer can fill in at WR3, otherwise, Demarcus Robinson and Jahan Dotson are your options there. Nelson Agholor (illness), Tutu Atwell, Derius Davis, Johnny Wilson, and Tylan Wallace are all dart-throw punts.

Will Dissly should be a lock at TE. You can use Mark Andrews or Dallas Goedert as a replacement for Dissly or play them in your flex slot. Isaiah Likely, Colby Parkinson, and Davis Allen are discount punts.