Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 10

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 10 DFS fantasy football

Am I the only person who finds it odd that we have early Sunday European football games on both of the weeks surrounding Daylight Savings Time but not on the day we all got up early anyhow? With Tom Brady planning a blitzkrieg versus Seattle in Munich and four teams on bye, we are once again left with 20 teams for the main slate. Hopefully, my recommendations this week are better than those of my namesake Sgt. Schultz. I hear that he claims to know nothing.

DFS: The Primetime Slate

Sunday Night

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS @ SAN FRANCISCO

Justin Herbert (QB2) has another tricky matchup. The injuries to his top WRs have really put a kibosh on my preseason prediction of NFL MVP for him. I still like him to throw for 250-2 here, which should push for QB2.

Jimmy Garoppolo (QB3) will push with Herbert — posting roughly the same final line — for a lot less cost. This is why I’d rather start Garoppolo despite the mildly lower ceiling.

Running against the Niners is difficult. Only four RBs have scored a TD against them. Austin Ekeler (RB3) gets enough volume and opportunities to remain an RB1 option, just reduce your expectations. Isaiah Spiller (RB9) should only be used in Showdown contests. Sony Michel (RB11) can be ignored.

In contrast to San Francisco, the Chargers can be run through like a papier-mache wall. Christian McCaffrey (RB1) will have one of the best offensive box scores of the season. He is a must-start. Elijah Mitchell (knee – RB6) could even have flex value against Los Angeles, if he returns as expected.

Mike Williams (ankle – WR6) is still officially not on IR. I doubt he plays, but if he does, give him WR2 consideration. Keenan Allen (hamstring – WR4) suffered a setback last week and ended up missing an easy game against Atlanta. The Niners can be beaten through the air, so he could also draw WR2 value if he suits up. All this said we will likely be treated to another game where Joshua Palmer (WR7) and DeAndre Carter (WR10) lead this aerial attack. If both Allen and Williams remain out, I love Palmer at WR2, and Carter deserves WR3 consideration. Palmer could also be used at WR3 if either Allen or Williams plays. Michael Bandy (WR12) has 14 targets over his last two games. He would also make a very sneaky WR3 option if the team remains shorthanded.

Deebo Samuel (hamstring – WR2) received two weeks off to rest his injured hamstring. Signs point to his return here in a great spot to go off. He is one of my two choices for WR1 if he plays. Brandon Aiyuk (WR3) could also draw WR1 value if Samuel is out. If they both play use just one of them. Ray-Ray McCloud (WR14) and Jauan Jennings (hamstring – WR17) should be left for Showdown contests despite the positive matchup.

Gerald Everett (TE3) did not have the blow-up game I expected last week. San Fran has limited every TE not named Travis Kelce they have faced this year to minimal production. Everett won’t move the needle in that regard here.

Despite struggling against every other position, the Chargers amazingly have been stingy with the TE position. This will keep George Kittle (TE2) as the second option for the position this week. I like him to score a TD, but his yardage will be small.

Monday Night

WASHINGTON @ PHILADELPHIA

Taylor Heinicke (QB4) has been an effective game manager while Carson Wentz (finger – IR) has been out. We don’t have a QB controversy yet, but we may when Wentz returns. This is an awful matchup for a QB, so don’t reach here.

This is NOT an awful matchup for a QB. This is the absolute opposite of that. Jalen Hurts (QB1) has the easiest matchup on this slate. Three total TDs are incoming.

Brian Robinson Jr. (RB5) and Antonio Gibson (RB4) continue to split the backfield touches for Washington. Gibson is the more talented back and gets the red-zone work, so I prefer him as an RB2 play. That said, either could fill your flex slot. J.D. McKissic (neck – RB8) missed last week with a neck injury. If he suits up, I’d leave him to Showdown for the risk of reinjury.

Washington is much tougher against the run than the pass. Still, this backfield poses headaches because of the collection of backs that Philly rolls out. Miles Sanders (RB2) is the strongest RB2 option on the board, having scored five times in the last five games. Kenneth Gainwell (RB7) doesn’t get the volume to be reliable most weeks. That said, I’d consider him a TD-dependent flex play here and a great Showdown option. Boston Scott (RB10) has had sporadic usage all season. I’m gonna pass on him here.

The Commanders hope to get Jahan Dotson (hamstring – WR13) back this week. It won’t help against this defense, which strangles outside WRs. Even if he plays, I wouldn’t use him outside of a dart throw on Showdown. This defense will also frustrate Terry McLaurin (WR8). The volume alone keeps him as a WR2/WR3 play, but I don’t like it considering his price. Curtis Samuel (WR9) is the best play here as Philly can be beaten by slot WRs. If Dotson remains out, you can maybe consider Cam Sims (WR16) or Dyami Brown (WR18) as a Showdown play. I wouldn’t, but you can.

The Brown that you want to play this slate is A.J. Brown (WR1). He is one of only two WRs that I would consider as my WR1 this week. DeVonta Smith (WR5) went ham in their earlier meeting. He won’t repeat that line, but I still love him as a WR2, if you pivot away from A.J. There is even an argument for playing both of them. Quez Watkins (WR11) could be a flex play if you need to save some money. I wouldn’t waste a spot on Zach Pascal (WR15), though.

Logan Thomas (calf – TE5) is supposedly back. That’s funny because his stat line looks like he belongs on a milk carton. The Eagles are easier to beat over the middle, but I don’t trust him here. If you need to start a Washington TE, consider John Bates (TE4) or Armani Rogers (TE6) as a punt.

Dallas Goedert (TE1) is the best choice on this slate. Build your stack around Hurts, Brown, and him, and then run it back with Samuel.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Trevor Lawrence ($5.4k), RB Saquon Barkley ($8.6k), RB Dalvin Cook ($8k), WR Tyreek Hill Jr. ($4.3k), WR Mecole Hardman ($4.5k), WR Amari Cooper ($6.5k), TE Cole Kmet ($3.4k), FLEX David Montgomery ($6k), DST Denver Broncos ($3k)

FD Lineup: QB Trevor Lawrence ($7k), RB Saquon Barkley ($9.5k), RB Khalil Herbert ($5.8k), WR Marvin Jones Jr. ($5.4k), WR Amon-Ra St. Brown ($6.9k), WR Darnell Mooney ($6.2k), TE T.J. Hockenson ($6k), FLEX Travis Kelce ($8.5k), DST Denver Broncos ($4.7k)

FB Lineup: QB Patrick Mahomes ($7.3k), RB Saquon Barkley ($7.3k), RB AJ Dillon ($5.1k), WR JuJu Smith-Schuster ($5.4k), WR Marvin Jones Jr. ($3.8k), WR Phillip Dorsett ($3k), TE Travis Kelce ($6.8k), FLEX Christian McCaffrey ($7.5k), FLEX Tyler Higbee ($3.7k)

Quarterbacks DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,600 $9,200
Patrick Mahomes $7,900 $8,500
Kyler Murray $7,200 $7,800
Tua Tagovailoa $6,700 $8,100
Dak Prescott $6,600 $7,400
Justin Fields $6,500 $8,300
Kirk Cousins $6,000 $7,300
Russell Wilson $5,900 $6,900
Daniel Jones $5,700 $7,500
Derek Carr $5,600 $7,100
Matthew Stafford $5,600 $6,700
Andy Dalton $5,500 $6,800
Jared Goff $5,500 $7,200
Jacoby Brissett $5,400 $7,000
Trevor Lawrence $5,400 $7,000
Ryan Tannehill $5,200 $6,700
Davis Mills $5,100 $6,500
Kenny Pickett $5,100 $6,600
Case Keenum $5,000 $6,100
Malik Willis $5,000 $6,700
Sam Ehlinger $5,000 $6,400
Taysom Hill $5,000 N/A
Colt McCoy $4,900 $6,100
John Wolford $4,900 $6,100

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Injury concerns limit Josh Allen‘s appeal despite a decent matchup. This makes Patrick Mahomes and Tua Tagovailoa the top two choices at QB this week. If you don’t opt for those two consider Derek CarrAndy DaltonJacoby Brissett, or my favorite play, Trevor Lawrence.

Fantasy Four-pack

Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs vs. JAX
($7,900 DK, $8,500 FD)
Jacksonville allows the fourth-most passing yards per game on the road. That sets up nicely for Mahomes, who leads the league in passing TDs and passing yards despite already having had his bye.

Tua Tagovailoa, Dolphins vs. CLE
($6,700 DK, $8,100 FD)
The Browns are competent against the pass, but they are by no means elite. They will struggle to face off against both Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill. Tagovailoa is coming off of a pair of 300-plus-yard, three-TD performances. He could get the hat trick here.

Justin Fields, Bears vs. DET ($6,500 DK, $8,300 FD) I don’t fully trust Fields as a passer, just yet. What I do trust, is that Detroit has no defense whatsoever. I also trust the numbers in front of my eyes that say that Fields is averaging over 100 rushing yards per game since Week 6. That rushing yardage should keep Fields very relevant this week.

Dak Prescott, Cowboys @ GB
($6,600 DK, $7,400 FDIt took a full game plus for Prescott to get his game legs back. Now, he faces a Green Bay defense that has a defensive injury list that reads like War and Peace. With 250-2 seeming like his floor here, Dalton Schultz is my favorite stack piece.

DFS Sleepers

Trevor Lawrence, Jaguars @ KC
($5,400 DK, $7,000 FD)
We know that Jacksonville will be forced to throw the ball to stay close to KC. Fortunately, Lawrence has enough weapons to choose from. I suggest stacking him with Marvin JonesZay Jones, or Evan Engram because everyone else will be stacking him with Christian Kirk

Jacoby Brissett, Browns @ MIA
($5,400 DK, $7,000 FD
Miami has an elite passing offense. They also have a vulnerable passing defense and a downright bad defense against QBs that like to run. If you want exposure to this game without using Tua Tagovailoa, consider stacking Brissett with Amari Cooper and running it back with one of the Dolphins WRs.

Running Backs DraftKings FanDuel
Saquon Barkley $8,600 $9,500
Derrick Henry $8,300 $9,400
Nick Chubb $8,100 $9,000
Dalvin Cook $8,000 $7,500
Josh Jacobs $7,600 $8,400
Jonathan Taylor $7,500 $7,000
Alvin Kamara $7,400 $8,600
Aaron Jones $7,200 $7,200
Travis Etienne $7,100 $8,000
AJ Dillon $6,700 $7,000
Tony Pollard $6,500 $7,000
D’Andre Swift $6,400 $6,800
Dameon Pierce $6,300 $7,700
James Conner $6,200 $6,300
Raheem Mostert $6,100 $5,900
David Montgomery $6,000 $6,700
Ezekiel Elliott $6,000 $7,000
Jamaal Williams $5,900 $7,400
Khalil Herbert $5,900 $5,800
Clyde Edwards-Helaire $5,800 $6,200
Eno Benjamin $5,700 $5,500
Melvin Gordon $5,700 $5,700
Alexander Mattison $5,600 $5,200
Devin Singletary $5,600 $5,600
Jeff Wilson Jr.  $5,500 $6,500
Najee Harris $5,500 $6,400
Deon Jackson $5,400 $5,500
Nyheim Hines $5,400 $5,500
Kareem Hunt $5,300 $5,800
Latavius Murray $5,200 $5,700
Darrell Henderson $5,100 $6,100
Isiah Pacheco $5,000 $6,200
Dwayne Washington $4,800 $5,500
James Cook $4,800 $5,200
Jerick McKinnon $4,800 $5,500
Chase Edmonds $4,700 $5,100
Dontrell Hilliard $4,700 $5,700
Zack Moss $4,600 $5,600
Cam Akers $4,500 $5,500
Jordan Wilkins $4,000 $5,400
Phillip Lindsay $4,000 $5,300

Running Back

Weekly strategy – Saquon Barkley should approach 100% ownership, and rightfully so. Nick Chubb and Dalvin Cook are my pivots. I expect Travis Etienne to post a huge game through the air. AJ Dillon could also have a solid game if Aaron Jones (ankle) is limited or out. If you want to go cheap use one of the Bears or one of the Dolphins.

Fantasy Four-pack

Saquon Barkley,  Giants vs. HOU
($8,600 DK, $9,500 FD)
We will consider it a failure if Barkley doesn’t top 170-2 against this defense. Five different individuals have already topped 25 PPR points against Houston and three have topped 30 points. Barkley will pass both of those marks, too.

Nick Chubb, Browns @ MIA
($8,100 DK, $9,000 FD)
I wish Chubb was more involved in the passing offense. He will post his standard floor of 120-1. Of course, if he wasn’t a passing-game afterthought, he could produce a slate-breaking line this week. We know the Browns will also use Kareem Hunt in this game. He could even earn some flex appeal. 

Dalvin Cook, Vikings @ BUF ($8,000 DK, $7,500 FDIn the matchup of Cook versus Cook, we can only recommend one of the Cooks, Dalvin. Over the last two games, both Green Bay and the Jets have rattled the Buffalo defense with their RBs. Plus, if Josh Allen is limited or out, the Vikes will have an even better chance at implementing a ball-control offense here. Oh yeah, Cook also gets the FD discount, which always gets me salivating.

Derrick Henry, Titans vs. DEN
($8,300 DK, $9,400 FD)
  Throwing against Denver is impossible. That is a good trend for Tennessee, since they curmudgeonly refuse to adopt the new concept known as the forward pass. Only five teams are allowing more yards per carry than Denver. Meanwhile, Henry has scored and/or topped 100 yards in each of his last seven games. His 130-1 floor is safe here. 

DFS Sleepers

David Montgomery, Bears vs. DET
($6,000 DK, $6,700 FD) Khalil Herbert
has actually been more efficient with his touches than Montgomery. It won’t matter here as both will approach 100-1 — that is assuming that Justin Fields is willing to share. Since Week 5, Montgomery has a 67% vs 32% opportunity advantage over Herbert, so his floor is the safest.

Jeff Wilson Jr., Dolphins vs. CLE ($5,500 DK, $6,500 FD) Wilson split carries with Raheem Mostert last week. Still, it was Wilson that averaged 5.7 yards per carry versus only 2.9 yards per carry for Mostert. Wilson was also more efficient with his targets. Both backs are in play here, but Wilson seems like the safer choice. Cleveland has allowed the second-most rushing TDs this season. Don’t be surprised if they both score once again.  

Wide receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Tyreek Hill $9,100 $9,000
Cooper Kupp $9,000 $9,200
Justin Jefferson $8,800 $8,600
Davante Adams $8,700 $8,500
Stefon Diggs $8,300 $9,100
DeAndre Hopkins $8,000 $8,300
Jaylen Waddle $7,600 $8,200
CeeDee Lamb $7,000 $7,600
Amon-Ra St. Brown $6,900 $6,900
Chris Olave $6,800 $7,500
Amari Cooper $6,500 $7,800
Gabe Davis $6,400 $6,500
Michael Pittman Jr. $6,200 $6,300
Allen Lazard $6,100 $6,700
JuJu Smith-Schuster $6,000 $7,000
Christian Kirk $5,900 $6,800
Diontae Johnson $5,800 $6,600
Jerry Jeudy $5,700 $6,400
Courtland Sutton $5,600 $6,200
Darnell Mooney $5,500 $6,200
Adam Thielen $5,400 $5,900
Brandin Cooks $5,300 $6,100
Romeo Doubs $5,200 $6,000
Rondale Moore $5,200 $5,800
George Pickens $5,000 $5,600
Kadarius Toney $5,000 $5,500
Michael Gallup $4,900 $5,700
Robert Woods $4,900 $5,600
Allen Robinson $4,800 $5,700
Chase Claypool $4,800 $5,800
Isaiah McKenzie $4,700 $5,200
Wan’Dale Robinson $4,700 $5,600
Darius Slayton $4,600 $5,800
Josh Reynolds $4,600 $5,700
Jarvis Landry $4,500 $5,500
Mecole Hardman $4,500 $6,000
Kalif Raymond $4,400 $5,300
Zay Jones $4,400 $5,500
Donovan Peoples-Jones $4,300 $5,700
Marvin Jones $4,300 $5,400
Tre’Quan Smith $4,300 $5,200
Mack Hollins $4,200 $5,500
Alec Pierce $4,100 $5,500
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $4,100 $5,400
Noah Brown $4,100 $5,200
K.J. Osborn $4,000 $5,200
Nico Collins $4,000 $5,500
Sammy Watkins $4,000 $5,100
Chris Moore $3,900 $5,300
Parris Campbell $3,900 $5,400
Samori Toure $3,900 $5,000
KJ Hamler $3,800 $5,000
Christian Watson $3,700 $5,400
Rashid Shaheed $3,700 $5,300
Marquez Callaway $3,600 $5,000
Phillip Dorsett $3,600 $5,200
Van Jefferson $3,500 $5,100
Greg Dortch $3,400 $4,800
Ben Skowronek $3,300 $5,400
Robbie Anderson $3,200 $4,900
Cedrick Wilson $3,100 $5,000
Amari Rodgers $3,000 $4,700

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – The Dolphins’ dynamic duo can each be considered at WR1. I’d also look at Justin Jefferson or Davante Adams. Unfortunately, I am spending a lot of money on RBs this week. This means that I will price down at WR1 using either Amon-Ra St. Brown or Amari Cooper. For WR2 choose one of the Chiefs, Christian Kirk, or Darnell Mooney. If you don’t use Kirk, use one of the other Jaguars at WR3. You can also roll out one of the Giants or Texans against each other.

Fantasy Four-pack

Justin Jefferson, Vikings @ BUF
($8,800 DK, $8,600 FD)
Buffalo is very good against the pass, but they are dealing with some DB injuries. Pair this with Adam Thielen (ankle) dealing with an injury of his own and we could see the perfect storm for Jefferson to be peppered. Plus, we get another case of FD pricing being below DK, which is always a pleasant find.

Tyreek Hill, Dolphins vs. CLE
($9,100 DK, $9,000 FD)
The price is approaching absurdity for Hill. Still, he keeps on delivering. Hill now has topped 140 receiving yards in five of nine games. I’d like to see more TDs from him, but who is seriously complaining?

Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions @ CHI
($6,900 DK, $6,900 FD)
St. Brown has established himself as a legit alpha WR. He can produce as the only weapon for this offense or when sharing the field with other talents. Neither of these teams cares much for the concept of defense, so this game could end up with higher scoring. This would secure the “sun god” a heavenly final line.

Davante Adams, Raiders vs. IND
($8,700 DK, $8,500 FD)
What is up with FD this week? Three of the top WRs have prices below their DK equivalents. Indy ranks among the elite against the pass, but they haven’t been tested at all this season. Adams will once again be without Darren Waller (IR – hamstring) and Hunter Renfrow (IR – oblique), so his already gaudy target share will go through the roof.

DFS Sleepers

Marvin Jones, Jaguars @ KC
($4,300 DK, $5,400 FD)
KC has struggled all season with big-bodied outside WRs, such as Jones. With most of the DFS world playing Christian Kirk, I recommend pivoting and using Marvin or Zay Jones in my stacks with Trevor Lawrence. 

Darnell Mooney, Bears vs. DET
($5,500 DK, $6,200 FD)
Despite his early season struggles, Mooney has seen five or more targets in every game since Week 3. He also finally made it into the end zone last week. Meanwhile, Detroit has allowed four of their last five opponents’ WR1s to go berserk.

Tight ends DraftKings FanDuel
Travis Kelce $7,800 $8,500
Taysom Hill N/A $6,500
T.J. Hockenson $5,300 $6,000
Zach Ertz $5,200 $6,300
Pat Freiermuth $4,200 $5,600
David Njoku $4,100 $5,800
Dalton Schultz $3,800 $5,500
Robert Tonyan $3,700 $5,000
Tyler Higbee $3,600 $6,000
Mike Gesicki $3,500 $5,100
Cole Kmet $3,400 $5,300
Greg Dulcich $3,400 $5,900
Dawson Knox $3,300 $5,000
Evan Engram $3,300 $4,900
Foster Moreau $3,200 $5,200
Juwan Johnson $3,000 $4,800
Mo Alie-Cox $2,800 $4,600
Brock Wright $2,700 $4,500
Harrison Bryant $2,700 $4,800
James Mitchell $2,700 $4,300
Brevin Jordan $2,600 $4,500
Adam Trautman $2,500 $4,500
Austin Hooper $2,500 $4,600
Chigoziem Okonkwo $2,500 $4,400
Teagan Quitoriano $2,500 $4,300
Josiah Deguara $2,600 $4,700
Dan Arnold $2,500 $4,400

Tight End

Weekly strategy – Finally, we get Travis Kelce back in the main slate. The price is high, but he is worth it. T.J. Hockenson and Tyler Higbee are the best pivots up top. I also love the idea of punting with either Greg Dulcich or Cole Kmet on DK.

Fantasy Four-pack

Travis Kelce, Chiefs vs. JAX
($7,800 DK, $8,500 FD
Kelce versus a defense that has faced only two top-10 TEs this season? Yes, Please. The price is high, but you are guaranteed 8-100-1.

T.J. Hockenson, Vikings @ BUF
($5,300 DK, $6,000 FD)
Hockenson caught all nine of his targets just five days after arriving with Minnesota. Now, he has had a full week of practice to get in sync with Kirk Cousins. The easiest place to attack Buffalo is in the middle of the field, so another big target game is pending.

Tyler Higbee, Rams vs. ARI
($3,600 DK, $6,000 FD)
The concussion for Matthew Stafford concerns me, as does Higbee’s recent decline in usage. Still, Higbee has had some monster games this season. Plus, backup QBs historically tend to lean on their TEs. Higbee will make a great target to lean on as Arizona has no clue how to cover the position.

Zach Ertz, Cardinals @ LAR ($5,200 DK, $6,300 FD) The same backup QB logic could come into play here if Colt McCoy is forced to start. Whoever is at the helm will want to keep Ertz involved. Ertz’s targets and yards have slipped since the return of DeAndre Hopkins, but he has scored in each of the last two games. I’d settle for 5-50-1.

DFS Sleepers

Cole Kmet, Bears vs. DET
($3,400 DK, $5,300 FD)
Don’t look now but Kmet has scored in back-to-back games as Chicago has opened up their passing offense. Meanwhile, Detroit has surrendered four TE scores in their last five contests. You shouldn’t go crazy and triple-stack this offense, but do up two separate lineups with one stacking Justin Fields and Kmet and one with Fields and Darnell Mooney.

Greg Dulcich, Broncos @ TEN ($3,400 DK, $5,900 FD) Dulcich has emerged as my favorite sleeper TE over the last few weeks. During Weeks 6 through 8, Dulcich was ninth in targets, seventh in receptions, and third in receiving yards at the position. Tennessee’s pass defense is shaky, at best, and Dulcich will finish with another top-five showing here.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 9

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 9 DFS fantasy football

We finally get to face the first bye-pocalypse of the season. Six teams on bye this week equals a much smaller pool of players to choose from. This does not bring me joy when eight of the top TEs are out of the main pool, and the WR room is full of players at their value, at best. Oh well, happy dumpster diving again.

DFS: The Primetime Slate

Sunday Night

TENNESSEE @ KANSAS CITY

Tennessee’s ball control offense has often proved pesky to Kansas City. Unfortunately for them, they used to have reliable pass-catchers and a serviceable QB. Now they either have an injured and mostly washed Ryan Tannehill (ankle – QB4) or an untested rookie in Malik Willis (QB6). Willis won his first start by repeatedly turning around and handing the ball off to his RBs. This does nothing to suggest that he should be an NFL starter. It doesn’t help that his receiving corps is reminiscent of a pee-wee team. Neither should be anywhere near your lineup this week.

Patrick Mahomes (QB1) is the top option on this slate, and it isn’t really close. Stack him with a WR of your choice and Travis Kelce.

Derrick Henry (RB1) was truly in beast mode last week versus Houston. KC’s run defense is bad, but they are nowhere near as bad as the Texans. At least this week, the Titans will be forced to use Henry more in the passing game again. Dontrell Hilliard (RB7) had a big Week 8 as well. Playing from behind here, he won’t come anywhere near that volume. He can be ignored.

The Chiefs have decided to minimize the value of all of their RBs by using a three-headed backfield. Isiah Pacheco (RB4) drew the start and led the team in touches. Still, both Jerick McKinnon (RB8) and Clyde Edwards-Helaire (RB5) ended with more fantasy points. I’d consider either CEH or Pacheco as an RB2, but leave McKinnon for Showdown.

Since Week 3, Tennessee has only one WR with double-digit targets. Plus, Robert Woods (WR5) has not topped four catches in any of those games. The team will have to throw here, so he might be able to return a WR3 value. Treylon Burks (toe) is eligible to return. The de facto other starter is Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (WR15). He has seven catches in seven games, he can be ignored. As can anyone else in this WR room.

This slate is weak at the WR position. JuJu Smith-Schuster (WR1) is the top option, but that isn’t saying much. As the top option, he needs to be considered as WR1. Marquez Valdes-Scantling (WR3) is in consideration at WR2 as are newcomer Kadarius Toney (hamstring – WR8) and speedster Mecole Hardman (WR4). If Toney doesn’t suit up, consider Justin Watson (WR13) in Showdown.

As bad as Tennessee’s WRs have been, their TEs are even worse. Austin Hooper (TE7) and Chigoziem Okonkwo (TE8) are both laughably worthless.

Travis Kelce (TE1) needs to be in your lineup this week. His backup Noah Gray (TE9) can be left as a Showdown dart throw.

Monday Night

BALTIMORE @ NEW ORLEANS

Lamar Jackson (QB2) gets 10 days off between starts. This will help him get some of his weapons healthy once again. He needs the boost, because while his legs have kept him usable, his overall lines haven’t been great. If Mark Andrews (shoulder) is active, boost Jackson’s output considerably.

I almost listed Andy Dalton (QB3) above Jackson. Dalton has a higher floor and more weapons and neither team have much of a pass defense. Stack Dalton with Chris Olave. DK still lists Taysom Hill (QB5/TE3) as only a QB. I won’t play him as a QB, but I’d certainly consider him at TE on FD.

Gus Edwards (hamstring – RB3) managed to avoid a major injury last week. His status is still very much up in the air for Monday night. If he plays, roll him out as an RB2. The best thing from a fantasy perspective, though, would be Edwards missing this game. Then we could clearly start Kenyan Drake (RB6) as a strong RB2. If they both play, consider neither more than a flex play. Justice Hill (RB10) could be viable in Showdown if Edwards is out.

Alvin Kamara (RB2) paired with Derrick Henry would be the optimum lineup decision as an RB1 and RB2. Mark Ingram (knee – RB9) will likely miss this game due to his knee injury. Assuming Ingram is out, Dwayne Washington (RB11) becomes Kamara’s handcuff. He could be used in Showdown.

Rashod Bateman (foot, IR) started last week, was targeted once, and then returned to the bench for the rest of the game. His absence makes this slate even weaker. Devin Duvernay (WR7) is an easy WR2/WR3 option. Both Demarcus Robinson (WR12) and James Proche (WR14) will also have some WR3 value as someone has to catch the ball.

New Orleans had planned on having a WR corps of Michael Thomas (foot, IR), Jarvis Landry (ankle – WR6), and Chris Olave (WR2) this season. Right now, we appear ready to head into a fifth straight week without Thomas and Landry. Olave being the second-best receiver on this slate tells you how rotten the board is on the upper end. Still, you have to consider him as a WR2. If Landry suits up, I’d also consider him at WR2. Meanwhile,  Tre’Quan Smith (WR9)Marquez Callaway (WR10), and Rashid Shaheed (WR11) all could garner WR3 consideration if Landry remains out.

As I mention above, Taysom Hill (QB5/TE3) only qualifies at TE on FD. I love him in a double-TE lineup with Kelce. Juwan Johnson (TE5) is very TD-dependent. This is a so-so matchup for him, so you should be able to skip him. His value will dip even more if Adam Trautman (ankle – TE6) returns from injury.

Mark Andrews (shoulder – TE2) left Week 8’s game with a shoulder injury, but early reports are that it is not overly serious. If he plays, both he and Kelce need to be in your lineup together. If Andrews is out, Isaiah Likely (TE4) would be a great fill-in. Heck, even Josh Oliver (TE11) could have value in that spot.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Justin Herbert ($7.2k), RB Austin Ekeler ($8.8k), RB Aaron Jones ($7.4k), WR Marvin Jones ($4.2k), WR Josh Palmer ($5.1k), WR Terrace Marshall ($3.9k), TE Zach Ertz ($5.1k), FLEX Deon Jackson ($5.2k), DST Tampa Bay Buccaneers ($3k)

FD Lineup: QB Trevor Lawrence ($6.8k), RB Austin Ekeler ($9.4k), RB Aaron Jones ($7.8k), WR DJ Moore ($7k), WR Tyler Boyd ($6.9k), WR Christian Kirk ($6.3k), TE Evan Engram ($5.2k), FLEX Deon Jackson ($5k), DST Buffalo Bills ($5k)

FB Lineup: QB Justin Herbert ($6.7k), RB Austin Ekeler ($7.5k), RB Travis Etienne ($5.9k), WR JuJu Smith-Schuster ($5.4k), WR Christian Kirk ($5k), WR Josh Palmer ($4.6k), TE Zach Ertz ($4.5k), FLEX Tyler Allgeier ($5.1k), FLEX Eno Benjamin ($5.3k)

Quarterbacks DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,500 $9,300
Kyler Murray $7,400 $8,200
Justin Herbert $7,200 $7,800
Tua Tagovailoa $6,700 $8,000
Joe Burrow $6,600 $8,500
Kirk Cousins $6,200 $7,900
Tom Brady $6,000 $6,900
Aaron Rodgers $5,900 $7,000
Geno Smith $5,800 $7,500
Matthew Stafford $5,600 $6,700
Jared Goff $5,500 $7,100
Derek Carr $5,400 $6,800
Taylor Heinicke $5,400 $7,200
Justin Fields $5,300 $7,400
Marcus Mariota $5,300 $7,100
P.J. Walker $5,200 $6,500
Trevor Lawrence $5,200 $6,800
Mac Jones $5,100 $6,400
Zach Wilson $5,100 $6,600
Baker Mayfield $5,000 $6,200
Sam Ehlinger $5,000 $6,300

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Justin HerbertTua Tagovailoa, and Kirk Cousins are the top high-dollar plays this week taking nothing away from Josh Allen and Kyler Murray who are solid plays, just overpriced. Aaron Rodgers and Geno Smith are both usable on DK. Taylor Heinicke could be a cheap punt option. Still, Trevor Lawrence is the best play of the week at his price.

Fantasy Four-pack

Josh Allen, Bills @ NYJ
($8,500 DK, $9,300 FD)
The Jets defense is improved over previous seasons, but Allen should still have little trouble posting his usual gaudy numbers. The Jets have only faced three QBs this year anywhere near Allen’s skill set. I just wish his price was less. If you use him the stack with Stefon Diggs costs a ton, so use Gabe Davis instead.

Justin Herbert, Chargers @ ATL
($7,200 DK, $7,800 FD)
Yes, I am advocating starting a West Coast QB traveling east with all of his WRs dealing with some level of injuries. In fact, he is my second-favorite QB play of the week. Keenan Allen (hamstring) suffered a setback this week and remains questionable heading into the weekend, but Josh Palmer should be back this week. Plus, Herbert still has Austin Ekeler to dump the ball off to 78 or so times each week. Use this play as a testimony to how rotten the Falcons are against the pass.

Kyler Murray, Cardinals vs. SEA ($7,400 DK, $8,200 FD) Speaking of rotten pass defenses, Seattle is right down there with Atlanta in the rankings. Strangely enough, Murray failed to throw a passing TD against them back in Week 6. He did, however, run for 100 yards. This week, the rushing yards will be less, but the passing TDs will be in effect.

Tua Tagovailoa, Dolphins @ CHI ($6,700 DK, $8,000 FDWhen you have Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle to throw to your own talent level doesn’t have to be exemplary. Tua will never be mistaken for Josh Allen or Patrick Mahomes, but he has enough moxie to get it done. Facing a defense that just traded two stars and that was skewered last week by Dallas will only make it easier.

DFS Sleepers

Trevor Lawrence, Jaguars vs. LV
($5,200 DK, $6,800 FD)
Vegas has allowed multiple TDs to every QB they have faced this season. Lawrence has enough weapons to choose from to secure his own pair of scores through the air and maybe a rushing score, too. I particularly like pairing him with one of Christian Kirk or Marvin Jones along with Evan Engram this week.

Taylor Heinicke, Commanders vs. MIN
($5,400 DK, $7,200 FD
Heinicke gets to face the team that signed him as an undrafted free agent but never gave him a real chance to ascend to a starting role. Minnesota has a fierce pass rush, but their secondary remains suspect. On a weak slate, you could do a lot worse for a lot more money.

Running Backs DraftKings FanDuel
Austin Ekeler $8,800 $9,400
Dalvin Cook $7,800 $8,500
Jonathan Taylor $7,700 $6,800
Aaron Jones $7,400 $7,800
Josh Jacobs
$7,300 $8,800
Leonard Fournette $6,600 $7,100
Joe Mixon $6,500 $8,100
D’Andre Swift $6,400 $7,500
Travis Etienne $6,300 $7,600
Kenneth Walker $6,200 $8,300
Rhamondre Stevenson $6,200 $8,000
Raheem Mostert $6,100 $6,500
David Montgomery $6,000 $7,000
D’Onta Foreman $6,000 $7,300
Eno Benjamin $5,900 $6,600
Jamaal Williams $5,900 $7,500
James Conner $5,800 $6,600
Khalil Herbert $5,800 $7,000
AJ Dillon $5,700 $6,100
Devin Singletary $5,700 $6,000
Damien Harris $5,600 $6,200
Antonio Gibson $5,500 $6,100
Michael Carter $5,500 $6,000
Nyheim Hines $5,500 $5,900
Brian Robinson $5,400 $5,900
James Robinson $5,400 $6,000
Tyler Allgeier $5,400 $6,400
Chuba Hubbard $5,300 $6,100
Samaje Perine $5,300 $6,000
Deon Jackson $5,200 $5,000
Darrell Henderson $5,100 $5,700
Cam Akers $5,000 $5,500
Caleb Huntley $4,900 $6,000
Ronnie Rivers $4,800 $5,300
J.D. McKissic $4,500 $4,800
Malcolm Brown $4,100 $5,200
Kyren Williams $4,000 $4,500

Running Back

Weekly strategy – Choosing between Austin Ekeler and Aaron Jones for the top spot this week will be tough. Plus, that Jonathan Taylor (ankle) FD price is just begging us to play him. If he can go, it would be hard to avoid using him there at that cost. Of course, if Taylor is out Deon Jackson becomes a must-start. Travis Etienne has a great matchup, and if you don’t use Trevor Lawrence at QB, please use him here. Eno Benjamin and Jamaal Williams both could be used as pivots if their lead backs remain out or limited. I don’t care for most of the cheap options this week. Brian Robinson and Tyler Allgeier are the only two I’d use.

Fantasy Four-pack

Austin Ekeler,  Chargers @ ATL
($8,800 DK, $9,400 FD)
We have a battle of two of the crappiest run defenses in the league in this contest. We could see these two teams combine for 400 rushing yards this week. Throw Ekeler’s pile of receptions on top of that and you will see why he is close to a must-start despite the high price.

Aaron Jones, Packers @ DET
($7,400 DK, $7,800 FD)
Jones channeled his inner Juggernaut last week against Buffalo. Now, he gets to face a run defense that has already allowed ten different RBs to reach double-digit PPR points. The specter of AJ Dillon is still here, but he just isn’t as much a part of this offense as he was in previous seasons. 

Josh Jacobs, Raiders @ JAX ($7,300 DK, $8,800 FDJacobs continues to get force-fed like a duck at a foie gras factory. Vegas doesn’t care if they run him into the ground, because they aren’t planning on keeping him around. Meanwhile, the Jaguars are giving up massive points to the position. In their last five games, Jacksonville has allowed an average of 153 combo yards, 6.4 receptions, and 1.4 total TDs to opposing RBs.

Dalvin Cook, Vikings @ WAS
($7,800 DK, $8,500 FD)
  Washington is better against the run than the pass but Cook can beat the opposition both ways. Plus, Cook has scored in four of his last five games. That will happen again as Washington has allowed six total RB scores over their last four contests. 

DFS Sleepers

Eno Benjamin, Cardinals vs. SEA
($5,900 DK, $6,600 FD)
Benjamin didn’t do much against this defense a couple of weeks back. In fact, he is the only lead back since Week 4 to not go ham against the Seahawks. Still, as long as James Conner (ribs) remains out, Benjamin deserves sleeper consideration (especially on a weak slate).

Tyler Allgeier, Falcons vs. LAC ($5,400 DK, $6,400 FD) Only one team is giving up more points to opposing RBs than the Chargers. Meanwhile, Allgeier is splitting the workload with Caleb Huntley, but Huntley has been more effective from a YPC basis. Still, Allgeier has been the back that has scored in back-to-back contests. Either could be used here for money savings of Cordarrelle Patterson (knee) isn’t active. 

Wide receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Cooper Kupp $8,900 $9,000
Justin Jefferson $8,600 $9,000
Tyreek Hill $8,500 $8,700
Stefon Diggs $8,400 $8,900
Davante Adams $8,100 $8,100
DeAndre Hopkins $7,900 $8,600
Jaylen Waddle $7,400 $8,200
Tee Higgins $7,300 $8,000
Mike Evans $7,200 $7,700
Gabe Davis $6,900 $6,600
Michael Pittman $6,800 $6,400
Amon-Ra St. Brown $6,600 $7,100
Keenan Allen $6,500 $7,500
DK Metcalf $6,400 $7,400
Tyler Boyd $6,300 $6,900
Chris Godwin $6,200 $6,700
Tyler Lockett $6,100 $7,600
Allen Lazard $6,000 $6,500
Terry McLaurin $5,900 $7,200
DJ Moore $5,800 $7,000
Adam Thielen $5,600 $6,200
Christian Kirk $5,500 $6,300
Jakobi Meyers $5,400 $6,800
Romeo Doubs $5,300 $6,100
Curtis Samuel $5,200 $5,600
Rondale Moore $5,200 $5,900
Joshua Palmer $5,100 $6,200
Allen Robinson $5,000 $7,000
Julio Jones $5,000 $5,300
Drake London $4,900 $5,600
Isaiah McKenzie $4,900 $5,500
Garrett Wilson $4,800 $5,800
Darnell Mooney $4,700 $6,100
Josh Reynolds $4,600 $5,700
Hunter Renfrow $4,500 $5,400
Mack Hollins $4,500 $5,700
Alec Pierce $4,400 $5,500
DJ Chark $4,400 $5,000
Corey Davis $4,600 $5,000
DeAndre Carter $4,300 $5,500
Elijah Moore $4,300 $5,000
K.J. Osborn $4,200 $5,300
Marvin Jones $4,200 $5,300
Parris Campbell $4,200 $5,400
Russell Gage $4,100 $5,200
Zay Jones $4,100 $5,500
DeVante Parker $4,000 $5,500
Kalif Raymond $4,000 $5,400
Marquise Goodwin $3,900 $5,300
Terrace Marshall $3,900 $5,400
Robbie Anderson $3,800 $5,100
Olamide Zaccheaus $3,600 $5,200
Sammy Watkins $3,600 $5,400
Christian Watson $3,500 $5,500
Damiere Byrd $3,500 $5,400
Dante Pettis $3,500 $5,300
Khalil Shakir $3,500 $5,200
Van Jefferson $3,500 $5,800
Braxton Berrios $3,400 $4,900
Ben Skowronek $3,300 $5,400
Dyami Brown $3,300 $4,800
Laviska Shenault $3,300 $5,100
Trent Sherfield $3,300 $5,100
Tyquan Thornton $3,300 $5,600
Nelson Agholor $3,200 $5,200
Cedrick Wilson $3,100 $4,900
Samori Toure $3,000 $4,600

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – This is a weird week. All of the high-priced options have decent matchups, but none scream 3x value. Any of them could be used at WR1 with Justin Jefferson my favorite. This parity may be the reason this week to pay down at WR1 with a Tyler Boyd or Amon-Ra St. Brown. At WR2, use one of Christian Kirk or Allen Lazard. You could also take a shot on Curtis Samuel or Rondale Moore. Joshua Palmer (concussion) should be your WR3 if he suits up. If you pivot from him consider Terrace MarshallMarvin Jones, or K.J. Osborn.

Fantasy Four-pack

Justin Jefferson, Vikings @ WAS
($8,600 DK, $9,000 FD)
Eleven different WRs have reached double-digit PPR points against the Commanders. This includes every WR1 to face them except Robert Woods. Jefferson has been held out of the end zone for far too long. The reverse TD regression will blow up in the face of Washington this week. 3x value isn’t guaranteed here, but it has the best chance among the high-priced options on the board.

Cooper Kupp, Rams @ TB
($8,900 DK, $9,000 FD)
It took an ankle sprain to push Kupp’s salary down into the usable range. He is a tough SOB, so I don’t think there is any chance that he misses this game. Tampa won’t have an answer for Kupp, who has averaged 9.5-136-1 against them in four career games.

Tyreek Hill, Dolphins @ CHI
($8,500 DK, $8,700 FD)
Hill has alternated good games and absurdly good games. This one trends as just a good game. Still, he has seven or more catches in all but one of those “good” games. Chicago’s pass defense numbers look better than they are as they haven’t faced many elite WRs. The ones that they have faced have gone off. 

Stefon Diggs, Bills @ NYJ
($8,400 DK, $8,900 FD)
Every WR1 to face New York has reached double-digit PPR points. In fact, they have given up 48 receptions to opposing WR1s over the last seven games. Diggs should approach his standard 8-100-1. 

DFS Sleepers

Allen Lazard, Packers @ DET
($6,000 DK, $6,500 FD)
 Lazard started his season putting up Davante Adams-esque numbers as the Packers’ WR1. Then he hurt his shoulder and missed the last game. All signs have him returning this week against the cream-puff Lions. Considering their recent performance arc, if both play this week, Lazard will outscore Adams. 

Joshua Palmer, Chargers @ ATL
($5,100 DK, $6,200 FD
With Mike Williams out and Keenan Allen (hamstring) suffering an in-week setback, Palmer should operate as the Chargers’ WR2 (behind RB Austin Ekeler). Only one team is worse against the pass than Atlanta, so lock Palmer into your WR3 slot. Heck, stack Palmer, Ekeler, and Justin Herbert.

Tight ends DraftKings FanDuel
Zach Ertz $5,100 $6,600
T.J. Hockenson $5,000 $6,200
Darren Waller $4,900 $6,000
Gerald Everett $4,800 $5,800
Kyle Pitts $4,500 $6,300
Mike Gesicki $4,000 $5,500
Robert Tonyan $3,800 $5,000
Tyler Higbee $3,700 $6,100
Hayden Hurst $3,600 $5,300
Dawson Knox $3,500 $5,100
Evan Engram $3,300 $5,200
Foster Moreau $3,200 $5,400
Tyler Conklin $3,200 $5,200
Cade Otton $3,100 $4,800
Cameron Brate $3,100 $4,500
Cole Kmet $3,000 $4,700
Hunter Henry $3,000 $4,700
Will Dissly $3,000 $4,900
Jonnu Smith $2,900 $4,400
Logan Thomas $2,900 $5,000
Noah Fant $2,900 $4,800
Johnny Mundt $2,800 $4,500
Mo Alie-Cox $2,800 $4,600
Donald Parham $2,600 $4,300
Brock Wright $2,500 $4,400
Brycen Hopkins $2,500 $4,100
Colby Parkinson $2,500 $4,400
Kendall Blanton $2,500 $4,200

Tight End

Weekly strategy – If you thought Week 8 was tough at the TE position, welcome to Week 9. Zach Ertz has a great matchup and the top price. Make your life easy and just use him. Gerald EverettKyle Pitts, and Robert Tonyan are the only pivots to consider. Otherwise, just punt to Evan Engram, Tyler Conklin, or one of the Seahawks.

Fantasy Four-pack

Zach Ertz, Cardinals vs. SEA
($5,100 DK, $6,600 FD)
Since Week 3, the worst that an opposing TE1 has posted against Seattle is 3-58. This includes a 7-70 game from Ertz in Week 6. Expect a similar line here with a TD added.

Kyle Pitts, Falcons vs. LAC
($4,500 DK, $6,300 FD)
Don’t look now but Pitts has scored in two of his last three games. He also continues to be one of the primary targets of the few passes that Marcus Mariota attempts. The Chargers have allowed 21-293-1 to the position over the last four games, so if Pitts gets the chance, he should show out again.

Gerald Everett, Chargers @ ATL
($4,800 DK, $5,800 FD)
Everett did not see the expected drop in his targets when Keenan Allen returned. With Allen questionable for this week and no Mike Williams, Everett should post a solid line once again. Atlanta has been torched by every legit TE they have faced this season, I see no reason why Everett won’t continue that smackdown.

T.J. Hockenson, Lions vs. MIA
($5,000 DK, $6,200 FD)
Normally, I would not recommend someone five days after being traded. That said, tight end plays a key role for the Vikings and Johnny Mundt is the only other healthy option for them. He may be asked to block more and not run a ton of routes, but Hockenson will catch a short TD in his first game with Minnesota.

DFS Sleepers

Evan Engram, Jaguars vs. LV
($3,300 DK, $5,200 FD)
Engram has emerged as a top-10 TE in every significant receiving stat except TDs. Meanwhile, four different TEs have reached double-digit PPR points against this defense. A 10-spot is guaranteed here and don’t be surprised if he gets his second score, too.

Tyler Conklin, Jets vs. BUF ($3,200 DK, $5,200 FD) It has become clear that TE is the best position to attack Buffalo with. They have allowed 26 TE receptions over their last three games. Meanwhile, Conklin scored twice last week. Those were his first scores since Week 1. Still, he has posted five or more targets in six of eight games, so the volume will be there.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 8

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 8 DFS fantasy football

Just when we thought Week 7 had too many ugly matchups, Week 8 entered the chat room screaming in CAPS LOCK. This week is brutal from an offensive standpoint. Two premier offenses are on bye. Two elite and two above-average offenses are in the primetime slate. Plus, the GOAT faced Lamar Jackson on Thursday. The only “off-slate” game that won’t be sucking away a ton of talent is the latest Sunday-morning London game.

DFS: The Primetime Slate

Sunday Night

Green Bay @ Buffalo

If this game was scheduled for last season, it would have been a must-see event. Now, we get to see a short-handed Aaron Rodgers (QB3) struggle to keep up with the top offense in football. If Allen Lazard (shoulder) misses this game, Rodgers will be forced to throw the ball to his rookie WRs.

Josh Allen (QB1) is the best QB in football right now (with my apologies to personal favorite Patrick Mahomes). Green Bay’s secondary is decent but they are about to get schooled.

It would be wise of Green Bay to run the ball frequently this week to attempt to keep it away from the Buffalo offense. It won’t work, as eventually, they will have to abandon the run to keep up. Aaron Jones (RB3) should have enough volume in both the run and pass games to be an RB2 consideration. A.J. Dillon (RB6) isn’t getting the opportunities needed to be more than a deep flex play. Maybe Green Bay can line one of them up at WR.

Devin Singletary (RB4) has actually posted respectable numbers this season despite continuing to play second-fiddle to the passing game. His price is cheap enough to make him a preferential RB2 play. James Cook (RB8) has passed Zack Moss on the depth chart. Moss wasn’t even active last week. If he suits up, he can be ignored in all formats. Heck, even fullback Reggie Gilliam (RB9) has passed Moss in value as he catches a few passes each week.

We don’t know which receivers Rodgers will have at his disposal. Allen Lazard (shoulder – WR6) is his only reliable option, but he is trending toward being out. Christian Watson (hamstring – WR11) has not been used much in the passing game yet, but his draft capital suggests that he is capable of being an alpha. Sammy Watkins (WR8) will be the de facto WR1 for Rodgers this week if Lazard is out. That alone would put him in WR3 consideration. Romeo Doubs (WR9) hasn’t done much recently but he will likely be WR2 for Green Bay this week. He could be a sneaky flex play as someone will draw the targets here. The only other options they have are Amari Rodgers (WR14) and something called Samori Toure (WR16). They can both be ignored.

Green Bay’s secondary has supposedly improved this offseason. The numbers suggest this is true until you look closer and see that Justin Jefferson and Terry McLaurin are the only legitimate WRs they have faced all year and both had huge games against them. Both Stefon Diggs (WR2) and Gabe Davis (WR3) are playable at WR1 this week, and I would not fault you for using both of them in an Allen stack. Isaiah McKenzie (WR10) has tailed off since Davis’ return, but he is also in play as a WR3. You could get cute and use Khalil Shakir (WR12) to save even more dough. He also makes a great Showdown play.

Robert Tonyan (TE2) merits consideration due to all of the WR injuries. Someone has to catch the ball here. Even with all of the WR questions, I’m not ready to deploy Josiah Deguara (TE5) or Marcedes Lewis (TE6).

As predicted entering this year, Dawson Knox (TE3) has found himself as a true TD-dependent play. It isn’t a great slate for TEs, but I feel better about the other options at a similar cost. Tommy Sweeney (TE7) has zero value without a Knox injury.

Monday Night

CINCINNATI @ CLEVELAND

In the battle of Ohio, Joe Burrow (QB2) has a huge advantage in talent, weapons, and moxie. Teams that wish to fade Allen should look here.

Jacoby Brissett (QB4) has actually had a solid season for being thrust into a starting role. Cincy is mediocre against the pass, so he will have a serviceable stat line. Unfortunately, it will still be the lowest on the slate.

Cleveland has looked foolish against the run most of the last month. Joe Mixon (RB2) will attempt to exploit this despite his vanilla tendencies. He is definitely the safest RB2 on the board. This awful defense also puts Samaje Perine (RB6) in play as a potential discount flex.

Nick Chubb (RB1) has been unstoppable this season. Regardless of the opponent, game script, or dodging his own teammates’ vultures, he has performed as a top-three RB in the league. Set him as your RB1 and smile. Kareem Hunt (RB5) has underperformed his draft equity this season, but he is always a threat to score, and his auxiliary numbers keep him flex-worthy. Just watch this weekend to see if the hot stove talk regarding him heats up as this may lead to him not playing here. If Hunt is held out/dealt, D’Ernest Johnson (RB9) would have Showdown value.

Ja’Marr Chase (hip) and Tee Higgins (WR1) both balled out last week in a stellar matchup. Now Chase is out for at least the next month. All of your lineups should have one of the following: Higgins, Diggs, or Davis. Tyler Boyd (WR5) also had a big game last week, and he deserves WR2 thought if you are going cheaper at the position. The “other” Michael Thomas (WR13) could be a Showdown play with the injury to Chase.

Amari Cooper (WR5) is a great run-it-back play in a Bengals stack, since Cincy has had struggles with WR1 this year. That said, we should point out that Noah Brown is the only auxiliary WR to do anything versus them. Donovan Peoples-Jones (WR8) should probably be faded here, and David Bell (WR15) shouldn’t even sniff Showdown lineups.

I love what Cincinnati is doing with Hayden Hurst (ankle/groin – TE1). I love even more that the sites refuse to raise his price. He is easily the safest TE on the board this week, and Chase’s injury should increase his target share.

With David Njoku (ankle) out, Harrison Bryant (TE4) may be a decent streamer this week. Cincy is middle of the road against the position, and Bryant has had success when featured previously. I’d consider some double-TE builds including him.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Kirk Cousins ($6.1k), RB Derrick Henry ($8.4k), RB Raheem Mostert ($5.9k), WR Jaylen Waddle ($6.7k), WR Adam Thielen ($6.2k), WR Josh Reynolds ($5k), TE Irv Smith ($3.5k), FLEX D’Onta Foreman ($5.3k), DST Washington Commanders ($2.6k)

FD Lineup: QB Geno Smith ($7k), RB Derrick Henry ($10k), RB Saquon Barkley ($9.5k), WR Adam Thielen ($6.2k), WR Brandin Cooks ($6.1k), WR Marquise Goodwin ($5.6k), TE Irv Smith ($5k), FLEX Raheem Mostert ($6.8k), DST Washington Commanders ($3.4k)

FB Lineup: QB Josh Allen ($7.6k), RB Derrick Henry ($7.4k), RB Raheem Mostert ($5.3k), WR Stefon Diggs ($7.1k), WR Josh Reynolds ($4.1k), WR Marquise Goodwin ($3.4k), TE Irv Smith ($3.5k), FLEX Kenneth Walker ($6k), FLEX D’Onta Foreman ($4.7k)

Quarterbacks DraftKings FanDuel
Jalen Hurts $8,300 $9,200
Kyler Murray $7,500 $8,200
Dak Prescott $6,600 $7,200
Tua Tagovailoa $6,200 $7,700
Kirk Cousins $6,100 $7,800
Matthew Stafford $6,000 $7,000
Derek Carr $5,900 $7,200
Geno Smith $5,800 $7,000
Daniel Jones $5,700 $7,500
Jimmy Garoppolo $5,600 $7,100
Andy Dalton $5,500 $7,100
Jared Goff $5,500 $7,300
Marcus Mariota $5,400 $6,900
Jameis Winston $5,300 $7,100
Mac Jones $5,300 $6,600
Ryan Tannehill $5,300 $6,700
Davis Mills $5,200 $6,500
Justin Fields $5,200 $6,500
P.J. Walker $5,200 $6,400
Taylor Heinicke $5,200 $6,400
Kenny Pickett $5,100 $6,600
Zach Wilson $5,100 $6,400
Malik Willis $5,000 $6,700
Taysom Hill $5,000 N/A

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Tua Tagovailoa is the safest option among the high-priced picks this week. Jalen Hurts is worth playing on DK as is Kirk Cousins. If you don’t use one of these three consider Geno Smith or Jared Goff. You can also punt with Davis Mills or (if he is able to start) Ryan Tannehill (ankle).

Fantasy Four-pack

Jalen Hurts, Eagles vs. PIT
($8,300 DK, $9,200 FD) 
Pittsburgh has held four of the seven QBs to face them to only one passing TD. The issue for them is that they are giving up the fifth-most passing yardage and the few running QBs they have faced have had success against them. Hurts should be good for three total scores this week.

Tua Tagovailoa, Dolphins @ DET
($6,200 DK, $7,700 FD)
Tua has gone from potentially out of football forever to the second-best QB option on this slate in just three weeks. Detroit is better against the pass than the run, but that isn’t saying much since they are ungodly bad against the run. Stack Tua with either Tyreek Hill or Jaylen Waddle and then run it back with whoever suits up at WR for Detroit.

Kirk Cousins, Vikings vs. ARI ($6,100 DK, $7,800 FD) The Cardinals seem to limit opposing WR1s every week, so consider Justin Jefferson a trap this week. The rest of the defense is in deep “blank” as they try to hold in check the rest of this passing offense. Cousins will find some combo of  K.J. Osborn, Adam Thielen, and Irv Smith for a trio of passing TDs.

Geno Smith, Seahawks vs. NYG
($5,800 DK, $7,000 FD
This feels like a possible trap here for Smith with Tyler Lockett (hamstring) playing through an injury and DK Metcalf (knee) questionable, at best. Still, you cannot argue with the success he has had so far this season. He has multiple passing scores in five of seven games. He also has had success with his legs. This could be his blessing here as New York has struggled with rushing QBs this season.

DFS Sleepers

Jared Goff, Lions vs. MIA
($5,500 DK, $7,300 FD)
An excessive volume of WR injuries combined with a tough pair of opponents has probably pushed Goff out of the comfortable start category. Still, Miami is dealing with injuries of their own on the defensive side of the ball opening the door for Goff to get back into the good graces of the DFS community here.

Davis Mills, Texans vs. TEN
($5,200 DK, $6,500 FD)
This game could be a sneaky shootout as neither team plays much defense. Ryan Tannehill (ankle) may actually outperform Mills in this matchup, but his starting status is in question. Mills is just a smidge cheaper than Tannehill. He also has a more reliable WR1 in Brandin Cooks to stack with.

Running Backs DraftKings FanDuel
Christian McCaffrey $8,700 $8,500
Derrick Henry $8,400 $10,000
Saquon Barkley $8,100 $9,500
Jonathan Taylor $8,000 $8,300
Dalvin Cook
$7,600 $8,200
Josh Jacobs $7,500 $9,000
Alvin Kamara $7,100 $7,800
D’Andre Swift $6,800 $7,500
Miles Sanders $6,600 $7,400
Kenneth Walker $6,500 $8,400
Rhamondre Stevenson $6,400 $8,000
Dameon Pierce $6,300 $7,300
David Montgomery $6,300 $6,700
Ezekiel Elliott $6,200 $7,100
James Conner $6,100 $7,000
Tony Pollard $6,100 $6,300
Eno Benjamin $6,000 $7,000
Jamaal Williams $6,000 $7,500
Michael Carter $5,900 $6,600
Raheem Mostert $5,900 $6,800
Damien Harris $5,800 $7,000
Khalil Herbert $5,700 $6,700
Najee Harris $5,700 $6,600
Alexander Mattison $5,600 $5,200
Brian Robinson $5,600 $6,000
Darrell Henderson $5,500 $6,500
Antonio Gibson $5,400 $5,600
Chuba Hubbard $5,400 $6,200
Tyler Allgeier $5,400 $6,100
D’Onta Foreman $5,300 $6,400
Nyheim Hines $5,200 $5,100
Chase Edmonds $5,100 $5,700
Jeff Wilson $5,100 $5,700
Caleb Huntley $5,000 $5,200
Cam Akers $5,000 $5,500
Keaontay Ingram $5,000 $5,400
Mark Ingram $4,800 $5,000
Kenneth Gainwell $4,700 $5,300
DeeJay Dallas $4,600 $5,100
Dontrell Hilliard $4,600 $5,100
J.D. McKissic $4,500 $4,800

Running Back

Weekly strategy – Saquon Barkley and Derrick Henry are the two best plays this week. They are also priced as such. You won’t be able to afford both of them, but try to get one of them into each lineup. An active D’Andre Swift (ankle/shoulder) would be a decent pivot as would Alvin Kamara (lack of TDs). It is just hard to rely on either of them seriously right now. Dameon Pierce is probably the safer pivot. Tony Pollard should also be a strong play with Ezekiel Elliott (MCL) likely out. Raheem Mostert gets the best matchup among cheaper options. He seems like a must-start. I also love the discount prices on D’Onta Foreman and Brian Robinson.

Fantasy Four-pack

Derrick Henry, Titans @ HOU
($8,400 DK, $10,000 FD)
Houston is allowing a league-worst 174 combo yards per game to opposing RBs. Now they have to contend with King Henry? Houston, we have a problem. That $10k price is high, but if there was ever a confluence of events that could produce 3x value to that, it is this matchup. Expect a floor of 150-2.

Saquon Barkley, Giants @ SEA
($8,100 DK, $9,500 FD)
Seattle is not as bad as Houston. They only allow 155 combo yards per game to opposing RBs. That said, they have been really putrid against pass-catching backs such as Barkley. For his part, he has scored and/or topped 100 combo yards in all but one game this season. This will be his top performance to date.

Christian McCaffrey, 49ers @ LAR ($8,700 DK, $8,500 FD) McCaffrey looked pretty dang good with no practice and just reading the playbook on a cross-country flight. Imagine what he can accomplish for San Francisco once he gets a week of practice in. The Rams are very good against the run, but San Fran will go out of its way to showcase its new toy this week. He will finish with right around 24 points here.

Jonathan Taylor, Colts vs. WAS
($8,000 DK, $8,300 FD)
I’m not sure what effects Sam Ehlinger will have on Taylor and the ground game, but he can’t be any worse to the team’s goals than Matt Ryan had been. Washington is decent against the run, but no team has allowed more RB receiving TDs this season. Taylor got a lot of targets last week, if this continues he will definitely score here.

DFS Sleepers

Tony Pollard, Cowboys vs. CHI
($5,900 DK, $6,800 FD)
Pollard will not have to split touches with Ezekiel Elliott (MCL) this week. This is nice because either one of them would be in for a big game if the other wasn’t present. Chicago is allowing 146 combo yards per game to opposing RBs. Now, all of that will go to Pollard. 

Raheem Mostert, Dolphins @ DET ($5,900 DK, $6,800 FD) The Lions are allowing a league-worst 1.7 total TDs per game to opposing RBs. Meanwhile, Mostert holds a 2-to-1 touch advantage over his clear backup, Chase Edmonds. Over the last four games, Mostert holds a 360-to-69 yards from scrimmage advantage. This is Mostert’s backfield, and this week Mostert is a must-start.

Wide receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Cooper Kupp $9,600 $9,300
Justin Jefferson $9,100 $9,000
Davante Adams $8,600 $8,500
Tyreek Hill $8,500 $8,700
A.J. Brown $7,700 $8,200
Deebo Samuel $7,500 $7,300
DeAndre Hopkins $7,400 $7,900
Michael Pittman $7,200 $7,100
CeeDee Lamb $7,000 $7,500
Amon-Ra St. Brown $6,900 $7,200
Jaylen Waddle $6,700 $7,800
DK Metcalf $6,600 $7,000
Tyler Lockett $6,500 $7,600
DeVonta Smith $6,300 $6,900
Adam Thielen $6,200 $6,200
Brandon Aiyuk $6,100 $6,700
Chris Olave $6,000 $6,900
Terry McLaurin $6,000 $6,800
Brandin Cooks $5,900 $6,100
Michael Thomas $5,700 $7,000
Diontae Johnson $5,600 $6,300
Jakobi Meyers $5,600 $6,600
Robert Woods $5,400 $5,700
Curtis Samuel $5,300 $5,600
DJ Moore $5,300 $6,200
Allen Robinson $5,200 $5,600
Drake London $5,100 $5,600
Rondale Moore $5,100 $5,500
Josh Reynolds $5,000 $6,500
Michael Gallup $5,000 $5,800
Hunter Renfrow $4,900 $5,600
Chase Claypool $4,800 $6,000
Darnell Mooney $4,900 $6,100
Elijah Moore $4,700 $5,000
George Pickens $4,700 $5,500
Wan’Dale Robinson $4,700 $5,900
Alec Pierce $4,600 $5,800
Darius Slayton $4,600 $5,700
DJ Chark $4,600 $5,000
Corey Davis $4,500 $5,500
Mack Hollins $4,500 $5,600
Parris Campbell $4,500 $5,600
Treylon Burks $4,500 $5,000
DeVante Parker $4,400 $5,800
Marquise Goodwin $4,400 $5,600
Tre’Quan Smith $4,400 $5,300
Jarvis Landry $4,300 $5,500
Kalif Raymond $4,300 $5,600
Noah Brown $4,300 $5,500
Garrett Wilson $4,200 $5,400
Jahan Dotson $4,200 $5,700
K.J. Osborn $4,200 $5,300
Nico Collins $4,200 $5,300
Ben Skowronek $4,100 $5,300
Greg Dortch $4,100 $5,000
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,000 $5,300
Olamide Zaccheaus $4,000 $5,300
Robbie Anderson $4,000 $5,300
Tyquan Thornton $3,800 $5,700
Braxton Berrios $3,700 $5,200
Marquez Callaway $3,700 $5,000
Richie James $3,700 $5,200
Rashid Shaheed $3,600 $5,100
Cedrick Wilson $3,300 $5,200
Damiere Byrd $3,300 $5,100
Dee Eskridge $3,300 $5,000
Laviska Shenault $3,000 $4,800
Van Jefferson $3,000 $5,400

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – I am spending up at RB this week, so I will likely only have one high-priced WR in my lineup. Both Cooper Kupp and Davante Adams (illness) are OK plays but are expensive. I’d rather roll with one of the Dolphins or one of the Eagles. Adam ThielenBrandin CooksDJ Moore, and Terry McLaurin are my favorite WR2 options. If you need to go cheaper, there use one of the Lions or Giants. They can also be used at WR3. You can also consider Marquise Goodwin or one of the Saints in that spot.

Fantasy Four-pack

Tyreek Hill, Dolphins @DET
($8,500 DK, $8,700 FD
Detroit has allowed 11 different WRs to reach double-digit PPR points already this season. This suggests that both Hill and Jaylen Waddle could blow up this week. Since you should also have a lot of exposure to Raheem Mostert, choose only one of the two in your stacks.

Cooper Kupp, Rams vs. SF
($9,600 DK, $9,300 FD)
Facing the Niners isn’t a death knell for Kupp. He was targeted 19 times versus them just a couple of weeks back. Over their last three meetings, Kupp is averaging 11-121. The knock is that he has only scored in one of those games. Consider this a floor game for Kupp, which will still be right around 20-24 points.

Davante Adams, Raiders @ NO
($8,600 DK, $8,500 FD)
Adams (illness) finally took a hit to his run of either scoring or topping 100 yards in every game as he finished with only 95 scoreless yards last week. This week, he faces a Saints team that has been demolished by an alpha receiver in each of its last four games. As long as his illness doesn’t affect his play, expect a huge game here. 

A.J. Brown, Eagles vs. PIT
($7,700 DK, $8,200 FD)
No team has allowed more receiving yards to opposing WRs than Pittsburgh. Plus, 12 different receivers have reached double-digit PPR points against this defense already. If you play Jalen Hurts, stack him with Brown and run it back with Pat Freiermuth.

DFS Sleepers

Adam Thielen, Vikings vs. ARI
($6,200 DK, $6,200 FD)
For whatever reason, WR1s have struggled to step up against Arizona. That said, subordinate WRs have embarrassed them. Coming off of a bye, I hate to write off Justin Jefferson, but Thielen just seems to be ready for the spotlight this week. In their last four games, Thielen has only four fewer targets than Jefferson and Thielen has actually outscored him. It seems crazy that their prices are nearly $3k apart. 

Marquise Goodwin, Seahawks vs. NYG
($4,400 DK, $5,600 FD)
I think most casual players did not know that Goodwin was still in the league. I admit that I had forgotten about him as well. DK Metcalf (knee) is questionable, at best, for this weekend, and while he is more likely to play, Tyler Lockett (hamstring) also is not 100 percent. If either or both are limited or out we will see Goodwin as the top target for Geno Smith in a game that could devolve into a shootout.

Tight ends DraftKings FanDuel
George Kittle $5,700 $6,900
Taysom Hill N/A $6,500
Darren Waller $5,400 $5,500
Zach Ertz $5,100 $6,000
Dallas Goedert $5,000 $5,900
T.J. Hockenson $4,900 $6,300
Tyler Higbee $4,200 $6,000
Kyle Pitts $4,000 $5,600
Pat Freiermuth $3,900 $5,700
Mike Gesicki $3,800 $5,400
Dalton Schultz $3,700 $5,100
Irv Smith $3,500 $5,000
Hunter Henry $3,400 $5,100
Juwan Johnson $3,200 $5,200
Tyler Conklin $3,200 $4,800
Will Dissly $3,200 $4,800
Foster Moreau $3,100 $5,000
Jonnu Smith $3,100 $4,500
Logan Thomas $3,000 $5,000
Cole Kmet $2,900 $4,600
Austin Hooper $2,800 $4,700
Chris Myarick $2,800 $4,600
Mo Alie-Cox $2,800 $4,600
Noah Fant $2,800 $4,700
Jordan Akins $2,600 $4,600
Adam Trautman $2,500 $4,400

Tight End

Weekly strategy – Simply put this week at TE is, “Yuck!” The best play this week is Zach ErtzDallas Goedert and T.J. Hockenson (knee) could be in play, but they are less appealing options. Based on pricing, the three I recommend using are Dalton SchultzPat Freiermuth, and Irv SmithJordan Akins and Chris Myarick are the only punt plays worth considering.

Fantasy Four-pack

Zach Ertz, Cardinals @ MIN
($5,100 DK, $6,000 FD)
Over their last five games, Minnesota has allowed an average of 5-61 to the position to go along with four TDs allowed. Ertz is currently third in targets and receptions at the position. Expect a solid week with another score here.

Dallas Goedert, Eagles vs. PIT
($5,000 DK, $5,900 FD)
Pittsburgh is middle of the pack against the position, but they have faced only a pair of quality TEs this season. Goedert has six or more targets in four of six contests this season. This volume should make him a strong third leg to an Eagles stack.

George Kittle, 49ers @ LAR
($5,700 DK, $6,900 FD)
Since his return in Week 3, Kittle is fourth among TEs in yards and fifth in targets and receptions. That said, the Rams are the best team in the league against the position so keep your expectations in check.

T.J. Hockenson, Lions vs. MIA
($4,900 DK, $6,300 FD
The Lions have dealt with a pile of WR injuries, and Miami has its own issues with health in its defensive backfield. This combination should set up for Hockenson (knee) to continue to post solid numbers. Just check his injury status prior to locking him in.

DFS Sleepers

Irv Smith, Vikings vs. ARI
($3,500 DK, $5,000 FD)
Arizona continues to have zero strategies for shutting down TEs. Smith will score and should be the third leg of your Vikings stack with Kirk Cousins and Adam Thielen.

Pat Freiermuth, Steelers @ PHI ($3,900 DK, $5,700 FD) You cannot succeed against Philly on the outside, so expect Freiermuth to be the most successful pass-catcher for Pittsburgh this week.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 7

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 7 DFS fantasy football

Week 7 brings us some of the least exciting games of the season, lowlighted by a god-awful primetime slate that I will detail below.

Can we convince the NFL to flex both of these games out of the primetime lights? Plus, we are without some superstar QBs and WRs this week as Minnesota, Philadelphia, Buffalo, and the Rams are all on bye. Prepare to hold your nose as you set some not-so-fragrant Week 7 DFS lineups.

DFS: The Primetime Slate

Sunday Night

PITTSBURGH @ MIAMI

Just a couple of weeks ago, Mitchell Trubisky (QB2) was benched in favor of Kenny Pickett (concussion – QB4). Now he finds himself back on the pine after the rookie cleared the protocol. Miami’s secondary remains shorthanded, but that is by no way a vote of confidence.

Tua Tagovailoa (concussion – QB1) will be the top choice on this slate. It appears he will start, but watch the status reports this weekend. Teddy Bridgewater (QB5) was forced into replacement duty last week. He actually looked pretty good. If Tua cannot go, I wouldn’t mind going to battle with Teddy.

Najee Harris (RB3) continues to put up modest total yardage, but he did score again last week and has no real competition for touches. Miami is certainly beatable by RBs.

Miami has settled on Raheem Mostert (RB4) as their lead running back. He hasn’t done a ton to promote confidence in his role and this matchup is just so-so. Volume can put him in RB2 territory, at best. Meanwhile, Chase Edmonds (RB7) is not getting many touches but his passing game usage gives him some flex appeal. He also is a valuable Showdown play.

Diontae Johnson (WR3) should be your WR2 this week. That said, I feel better about him if Trubisky starts. That is because Pickett seemed to prefer George Pickens (WR8). If Pickett starts, bump up Pickens into the WR2 territory as well. Chase Claypool (WR6) is the wild card. He had a huge game against Tampa Bay, and his usage has remained solid no matter who is at QB. Consider him a safe WR3, if you don’t use one of the other two.

Tyreek Hill (WR1) is a beast regardless of who is at QB. He should never be benched in regular fantasy, and he is a WR1 regardless of the matchup in DFS. Jaylen Waddle (shoulder – WR2) gives Miami the top two WRs on this slate. They both are usable in DFS if you do a Miami Voltron stack. Despite being supposedly healthy, Cedrick Wilson (WR11) did nothing in Week 6. He gets a great matchup here, so use him as a WR3 to save some money. Trent Sherfield (WR13) actually played on 66% of the offensive snaps in Week 5, but the return of Wilson returns Sherfield to Showdown dart-throw territory.

Pat Freiermuth (concussion – TE1) missed Week 6, but he should return this week. He is easily the best choice on this board. If he is out, Zach Gentry (TE6) and Connor Heyward (TE7) have minimal appeal, at best. You should be able to ignore them.

Miami had not utilized Mike Gesicki (TE3) much this season. Then last week he caught two TDs from Bridgewater, so consider his value up if Teddy somehow plays.

Monday Night

CHICAGO @ NEW ENGLAND

Any of the backups that might start due to injury are safer plays than Justin Fields (QB7) versus the Patriots. If you like burning money, do a lineup featuring him.

Mac Jones (QB3) may return as the starter this week. I’m not sure that Bailey Zappe (QB6) isn’t a better option for New England. Both are solid choices at home against a bad Chicago defense as their corps of weapons has grown recently.

I love David Montgomery (RB2) most weeks. This week feels like a floor game for him. That will still be good enough to make him the second-best RB play on the slate. Khalil Herbert (RB6) can also be used as a cheaper RB2 or flex as he has carved out a niche for himself in this offense.

It took Rhamondre Stevenson (RB1) a few plays to get rolling last week. Once he found his sea legs, he went off. Chicago is no threat to this beast. Expect another huge line, especially if Damien Harris (hamstring – RB5) remains out. If Harris returns, consider him a reinjury risk RB2, at best. Pierre Strong (RB8) is a potential Showdown dart throw since Bill Belichick likes to do stupid stuff with his RB stable.

Dante Pettis (WR9) had a big game and scored in Week 6. Still, these were his first catches since Week 1. Don’t go chasing here … he is a WR3 or worse.  Darnell Mooney (WR4) is the only WR you can trust in this offense, and he is no better than a WR2. You can ignore Velus Jones (WR15) and Equanimeous St. Brown (WR16).

Don’t look now, but New England went from having no reliable WRs to having several. Jakobi Meyers (WR5) is the safest play, though he also is immune to scoring TDs. DeVante Parker (WR7) has the TD pedigree from his time in Miami, but his usage is more sporadic than Meyers. Consider Meyers a WR2 and Parker as a WR3. Nelson Agholor (hamstring – WR12) missed Week 6 but he can put up flex-worthy stats, if active. If he is out again, Tyquan Thornton (WR10) would be a great play. He scored twice in Week 6 and eventually will emerge as a starter. Kendrick Bourne (WR14) has fallen behind Thornton in the pecking order. He can be ignored outside of Showdown.

Cole Kmet (TE5) has 10 catches this year. That isn’t good. Fortunately for him, the Patriots are horrible against the position. Kmet’s natural athleticism makes him a sneaky punt TE.

Chicago is a better defense against the position. Still, both Hunter Henry (TE2) and Jonnu Smith (TE4) make solid plays.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Aaron Rodgers ($6k), RB Derrick Henry ($8.2k), RB Saquon Barkley ($7.9k), WR Allen Lazard ($6.1k), WR Alec Pierce ($4.6k), WR Wan’Dale Robinson ($4.5k), TE Gerald Everett ($4k), FLEX Kenneth Walker ($5.8k), DST New York Jets ($2.6k)

FD Lineup: QB Aaron Rodgers ($7.1k), RB Josh Jacobs ($8.6k), RB Ezekiel Elliott ($6.9k), WR Ja’Marr Chase ($8.5k), WR Allen Lazard ($6.6k), WR Wan’Dale Robinson ($5.5k), TE Evan Engram ($5.2k), FLEX Kenneth Walker ($7.3k), DST New York Jets ($4.3k)

FB Lineup: QB Joe Burrow ($6.7k), RB Derrick Henry ($7.2k), RB Ezekiel Elliott ($5.4k), WR Ja’Marr Chase ($7.1k), WR Tyreek Hill ($7.2k), WR Alec Pierce ($4.1k), TE Evan Engram ($3.5k), FLEX Kenneth Walker ($5.3k), FLEX Wan’Dale Robinson ($3.5k)

Quarterbacks DraftKings FanDuel
Lamar Jackson $8,000 $8,800
Patrick Mahomes $7,800 $8,500
Justin Herbert $7,200 $8,100
Joe Burrow $6,900 $8,300
Dak Prescott $6,700 $7,500
Tom Brady $6,300 $7,400
Russell Wilson $6,200 $7,000
Aaron Rodgers $6,000 $7,100
Derek Carr $5,900 $7,600
Jared Goff $5,800 $7,300
Trevor Lawrence $5,700 $7,200
Geno Smith $5,600 $6,800
Jimmy Garoppolo $5,500 $7,200
Marcus Mariota $5,500 $7,100
Cooper Rush $5,400 $6,500
Matt Ryan $5,400 $7,300
Jacoby Brissett $5,300 $6,500
Daniel Jones $5,100 $6,900
Zach Wilson $5,100 $6,600
Davis Mills $5,000 $6,300
Jacob Eason $5,000 $6,200
P.J. Walker $5,000 $6,200
Sam Darnold $5,000 $6,200
Taylor Heinicke $5,000 $6,600

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Paying up for one of the four highest-priced QBs is a smart strategy this week. Among them, Joe Burrow is my favorite. Consider Aaron RodgersDerek Carr, Trevor Lawrence, or Geno Smith as discount pivots. I also like Daniel Jones, Matt Ryan, and even Taylor Heinecke, if you want to punt the position.

Fantasy Four-pack

Lamar Jackson, Ravens vs. CLE
($8,000 DK, $8,800 FD)
The Browns struggle mightily against the running back position. Jackson isn’t an RB, but he might as well be as he averages over 75 rushing yards per game. His passing numbers have been down since Rashod Bateman’s (foot) injury. If Bateman suits up, boost Jackson’s ceiling even higher.

Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs @ SF
($7,800 DK, $8,500 FD)
This is a sneaky play as people will see San Francisco and immediately skip over Mahomes. That said, the Chiefs will go all out here to get back on the winning track after last week’s loss to Buffalo. Plus, San Francisco has multiple injuries at every level of their defense.

Joe Burrow, Bengals vs. ATL ($6,900 DK, $8,300 FD) The Bengals have all of their receiving weapons healthy once again. This week, they face an Atlanta team that has been clobbered by every QB they have faced this year, while facing only one QB that is close to on par with Burrow. The stack with Ja’Marr Chase is my favorite of the week and then run it back with Drake London or Olamide Zaccheaus.

Justin Herbert, Chargers vs. SEA
($7,200 DK, $8,100 FD
It feels like Herbert has underperformed all season. I put most of that on the bum hamstring of Keenan Allen. Fortunately for Herbert, Seattle has been very forgiving to the position. Look for him to get back on track here with another 300-2 game.

DFS Sleepers

Geno Smith, Seahawks @ LAC
($5,600 DK, $6,800 FD)
  Smith has had solid performances in four of his six starts. That trend will continue here in a sneaky shootout. Bigger-bodied outside WRs have feasted on this defense, so stack Smith with DK Metcalf and then run it back with TEs Gerald Everett or Donald Parham

Daniel Jones, Giants @ JAX
($5,100 DK, $6,900 FD)
Jones gets sleeper value once again as he was clearly boosted by the return of Wan’Dale Robinson last week. Meanwhile, Jacksonville remains middle of the pack against the pass but they did just get gouged by Matt Ryan. Plus, Jones can add value with his legs.

Running backs DraftKings FanDuel
Christian McCaffrey $8,400 $8,700
Austin Ekeler $8,300 $9,500
Derrick Henry $8,200 $9,200
Jonathan Taylor $8,100 $8,000
Nick Chubb
$8,000 $8,900
Saquon Barkley $7,900 $9,300
Leonard Fournette $7,700 $8,400
Aaron Jones $7,600 $6,800
Joe Mixon $7,000 $7,400
D’Andre Swift $6,800 $7,800
Josh Jacobs $6,500 $8,600
Dameon Pierce $6,400 $7,700
Breece Hall $6,200 $7,600
Clyde Edwards-Helaire $6,100 $6,700
Jamaal Williams $6,100 $7,800
Ezekiel Elliott $6,000 $6,900
Melvin Gordon $6,000 $6,300
Deon Jackson $5,900 $6,400
James Robinson $5,900 $5,800
Jeff Wilson $5,800 $6,300
Kenneth Walker $5,800 $7,300
Tony Pollard $5,700 $6,500
AJ Dillon $5,600 $5,700
Brian Robinson $5,500 $6,100
Mike Boone $5,500 $5,400
Kareem Hunt $5,400 $5,800
Travis Etienne $5,400 $6,200
Antonio Gibson $5,300 $5,500
Nyheim Hines $5,300 $6,000
J.K. Dobbins $5,200 $6,600
Latavius Murray $5,200 $6,000
Joshua Kelley $5,100 $6,000
Kenyan Drake $5,100 $6,600
Tyler Allgeier $5,000 $5,900
Caleb Huntley $4,900 $5,900
Phillip Lindsay $4,900 $5,000
J.D. McKissic $4,800 $4,900
Michael Carter $4,800 $5,600
Tevin Coleman $4,500 $5,200
Jerick McKinnon $4,400 $5,100
Kyle Juszczyk $4,100 $4,600
Damien Williams $4,000 $5,500
D’Onta Foreman $4,000 $4,900

Running Back

Weekly strategy – Austin Ekeler and Derrick Henry look to be the strongest options on the board. Jonathan Taylor (ankle) will be a great value if he is good to go. Saquon BarkleyJosh Jacobs, and Dameon Pierce are all in a smash spot with a great DK price and a just “OK” FD price. Kenneth Walker and Cowboys RBs are all potential cheaper pivots. Travis Etienne, D’Onta Foreman, and whichever of J.K. Dobbins/Kenyan Drake starts are the only punt options that I like.

Fantasy Four-pack

Austin Ekeler, Chargers vs. SEA
($8,300 DK, $9,500 FD) 
Ekeler started the season slowly, but now he has six TDs over the last three games. He also leads all RBs in receptions and is second in RB receiving yards. Meanwhile, Seattle has been abused by pass-catching backs all season.

Derrick Henry, Titans vs. IND
($8,200 DK, $9,200 FD)
Henry has already posted a 147-1 line against this defense. At home, I would expect a similar line here with perhaps more receptions as Tennessee is starting to get him the ball in the passing game.

Saquon Barkley, Giants @ JAX ($7,900 DK, $9,300 FD) Barkley leads the league in RB combo yards. He also has scored in four of six contests. With a lack of other talents on this roster, Barkley has found himself deeply involved in the Giants’ passing game. This sets up nicely as Jacksonville is allowing the second-most RB receptions and receiving yards.

Jonathan Taylor, Colts @ TEN
($8,100 DK, $8,000 FD)
Taylor appears to be recovered from his ankle injury. Nyheim Hines (concussion) and Deon Jackson (quad) are both ready to go. Tennessee held Taylor in check in the earlier meeting, but he also watched Mo Alie-Cox hijack a pair of scores on drives that Taylor marched the team down the field.

DFS Sleepers

Kenneth Walker, Seahawks @ LAC
($5,800 DK, $7,300 FD)
Walker looked elite last week and most importantly didn’t share the touches with anyone as many feared he might. The Chargers had allowed opposing backfields an average of 162 total yards and 1.6 total scores per game prior to last week’s screwy contest with the Broncos. Walker should finish with a floor of 125-1.

Travis Etienne, Jaguars vs. NYG ($5,400 DK, $6,200 FD) Despite splitting touches evenly over the last two weeks, Etienne has outproduced James Robinson by more than 2-to-1. Meanwhile, the Giants are allowing a league second-worst 5.5 YPC to opposing RBs. Etienne will top the century mark in total yardage for the third-straight week and will finally get into the end zone.

Wide receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Davante Adams $8,700 $8,600
Ja’Marr Chase $8,200 $8,500
Deebo Samuel $7,600 $7,700
Michael Pittman $7,400 $7,500
Mike Williams $7,200 $7,800
Amon-Ra St. Brown $7,100 $7,500
Mike Evans $6,900 $7,600
CeeDee Lamb $6,800 $7,700
Keenan Allen $6,700 $7,300
DK Metcalf $6,600 $6,900
Tee Higgins $6,400 $7,100
Chris Godwin $6,300 $7,000
Courtland Sutton $6,200 $7,000
Allen Lazard $6,100 $6,600
Amari Cooper $6,100 $7,200
Brandin Cooks $6,000 $6,300
Brandon Aiyuk $6,000 $6,300
Christian Kirk $5,900 $7,200
Terry McLaurin $5,900 $6,200
Tyler Lockett $5,800 $6,800
Jerry Jeudy $5,700 $6,200
JuJu Smith-Schuster $5,600 $6,700
Robert Woods $5,500 $5,800
Drake London $5,400 $6,000
Curtis Samuel $5,300 $5,500
Tyler Boyd $5,300 $6,000
Rashod Bateman $5,200 $6,500
Julio Jones $5,100 $5,300
Michael Gallup $5,100 $6,100
Joshua Palmer $5,000 $5,700
Romeo Doubs $5,000 $5,800
DJ Moore $4,900 $5,500
Hunter Renfrow $4,900 $5,700
DJ Chark $4,800 $5,300
Elijah Moore $4,800 $5,100
Corey Davis $4,700 $5,600
Josh Reynolds $4,700 $5,600
Alec Pierce $4,600 $6,100
Mack Hollins $4,600 $5,500
Marvin Jones $4,600 $5,500
Devin Duvernay $4,500 $5,900
Garrett Wilson $4,500 $5,500
Treylon Burks $4,500 $5,000
Wan’Dale Robinson $4,500 $5,500
Darius Slayton $4,400 $5,300
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $4,400 $5,600
Noah Brown $4,400 $5,400
Russell Gage $4,400 $5,400
Zay Jones $4,400 $5,700
Kadarius Toney $4,300 $4,800
Mecole Hardman $4,300 $5,700
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,300 $5,400
Nico Collins $4,200 $5,600
Olamide Zaccheaus $4,200 $5,500
Donovan Peoples-Jones $4,100 $5,600
Richie James $4,000 $5,300
KJ Hamler $3,900 $5,200
Parris Campbell $3,900 $5,400
DeAndre Carter $3,700 $5,200
Demarcus Robinson $3,600 $5,400
Jauan Jennings $3,500 $5,200
Dyami Brown $3,400 $5,000
Skyy Moore $3,400 $5,100
Christian Watson $3,300 $5,200
Jamal Agnew $3,300 $5,100
David Bell $3,200 $4,900

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – I want one of the Bengals’ top two in all of my lineups this week. Davante Adams is the other player I would consider up top. Michael Pittman and Mike Williams both have decent matchups, but their prices seem slightly inflated. WR2 offers me the chance to choose between Christian Kirk, Allen Lazard, Amari Cooper, and Tyler Lockett. I could even see using two of them if I need to save some money here. Hunter Renfrow would be a great WR3, if you don’t use Adams. Otherwise, look at Michael Gallup, Alec Pierce, Olamide Zaccheaus, and Joshua Palmer (if Keenan Allen remains out).

Fantasy Four-pack

Ja’Marr Chase, Bengals vs. ATL
($8,200 DK, $8,500 FD
Amari Cooper is the only WR1 to not dominate this defense. Chase will go off for a second-straight week as long as he doesn’t have a setback with his hip. Stack him with Joe Burrow, and run it back with a WR from Atlanta.

Davante Adams, Raiders vs. HOU
($8,700 DK, $8,600 FD)
Adams has scored in four of five games and in the other game, he topped 100 receiving yards. Houston has really had trouble stopping alpha WRs, like Adams, all season. Plus, Adams appears to be ready to play “angry” after his postgame incident in Week 5. This could be a 10-150-2 type of blowup game.

Michael Pittman Jr., Colts @ TEN
($7,400 DK, $7,500 FD)
The matchup for Pittman is nice, but it would seem a hell of a lot better if the price was say $1k less on each site. Tennessee held Pittman in check back in Week 4, but if he gets another 16 targets like last week he will be fine. Personally, I would rather fade Pittman at this price and use Alec Pierce at his price instead. I think they will both score here.

Mike Williams, Chargers vs. SEA
($7,200 DK, $7,800 FD) 
When it comes to Williams you have two true outcomes. Either he breaks the slate with multiple long TDs, or he posts 2-20-0. Much like Pittman, the price is a bit high here. Still, this matchup should be an easy one for the deep threat.  

DFS Sleepers

Allen Lazard, Packers @ WAS
($6,100 DK, $6,600 FD
With Randall Cobb out for the next month expect Lazard to be featured even more than he already has been. In just five games, Lazard has scored in four of them and topped 100 yards in the other one (just like what Davante Adams has done in Vegas). Opposing WR1s are averaging 6-87 through the first six weeks, and they have given up four TDs to the position.

Wan’Dale Robinson, Giants @ JAX
($4,500 DK, $5,500 FD
Robinson clicked immediately with Daniel Jones last week and scored his first career TD. Jacksonville is middling against the pass, so anyone who suits up for New York is a decent play. Let’s see if the connection continues to grow.

Tight ends DraftKings FanDuel
Travis Kelce $8,000 $8,300
Mark Andrews $7,400 $8,500
Darren Waller $5,400 $6,000
George Kittle $5,300 $6,600
T.J. Hockenson $4,800 $6,200
Kyle Pitts $4,300 $5,900
David Njoku $4,200 $5,700
Robert Tonyan $4,100 $5,500
Gerald Everett $4,000 $6,300
Dalton Schultz $3,600 $4,800
Hayden Hurst $3,500 $4,900
Daniel Bellinger $3,400 $5,100
Evan Engram $3,300 $5,200
Tyler Conklin $3,200 $4,800
Noah Fant $3,100 $5,000
Cameron Brate $3,000 $4,500
Isaiah Likely $3,000 $4,500
Logan Thomas $3,000 $5,000
Mo Alie-Cox $3,000 $4,700
Will Dissly $3,000 $4,800
Jake Ferguson $2,900 $4,300
Albert Okwuegbunam $2,800 $4,600
Cade Otton $2,700 $4,900
Donald Parham $2,700 $4,300
Austin Hooper $2,600 $4,500
O.J. Howard $2,600 $4,500
Greg Dulcich $2,500 $4,000
Harrison Bryant $2,500 $4,500
Jelani Woods $2,500 $4,700

Tight End

Weekly strategy – As usual when paying up here opt for Travis Kelce. Otherwise, go cheap and use one of Gerald EverettHayden Hurst, Daniel Bellinger, or my favorite option, Evan Engram. If Dalton Schultz (knee) remains out consider punting with Jake Ferguson. The other punt options are Donald Parham and Greg Dulcich.

Fantasy Four-pack

Travis Kelce, Chiefs @ SF
($8,000 DK, $8,300 FD
The matchup may seem tough on paper, but San Francisco is dealing with a pile of injuries among their starters. It is so bad that even a mediocre TE would get a boost against them. Kelce is a little better than a mediocre TE.

Mark Andrews, Ravens vs. CLE
($7,400 DK, $8,500 FD)
Andrews (knee) is eighth among all players with 52 targets this year and third among all players in receiving scores. Cleveland has actually held the position in check until last week. So, expect more of a floor game here than a blowup, especially if his knee limits him. If he ends up unable to play because of the injury, Isaiah Likely will be chalk.

David Njoku, Browns @ BAL
($4,200 DK, $5,700 FD)
Njoku has topped 50 yards in four straight games. This actually places him as the yardage leader among TEs during that span. He also is fourth among TEs in receptions during this stretch. Meanwhile, Baltimore has allowed a TE to score in four of six games.

Gerald Everett, Chargers vs. SEA
($4,000 DK, $6,300 FD
The stats for opposing TEs versus Seattle are bloated due to Taysom Hill’s three rushing scores. Still, they have given up huge receiving numbers to the position every game as well. Everett has struggled a bit the last two weeks, but Seattle is the slump-buster that he needs.

DFS Sleepers

Hayden Hurst, Bengals vs. ATL
($3,500 DK, $4,900 FD) Tee Higgins
played through his injury last week and that limited Hurst’s production. That said, Atlanta is bad enough against the pass that Hurst, Higgins, Ja’Marr ChaseTyler Boyd, and even Mike Thomas could score against this team. Heck, I’d even consider Samaje Perine as part of a mega-stack against them.

Evan Engram, Jaguars vs. NYG
($3,300 DK, $5,200 FD)
Engram has put together a pair of quality starts in the last two weeks. Now, he gets the revenge game narrative versus the Giants. I love revenge game narratives, especially when they involve cheap TEs.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 6

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 6 DFS fantasy football

We knew it was coming. I hope you have done your preemptive planning. Week 6 is the onset of the bye weeks. Vegas, Tennessee, Houston, and Detroit all get a week to recover before setting course for the rest of the season. This leaves us with only 20 teams on the main slate. A thinner player pool makes it that much easier to put together the perfect lineup. It also makes it more important to smash on all of the sleepers. Hopefully, we can help you with that.

DFS: The Primetime Slate

Sunday Night

DALLAS @ PHILADELPHIA

Many thought Dak Prescott would return in Week 5. We were wrong. Now it appears that he won’t play this week either. Cooper Rush (QB4) is poised to get one more start. Against the Philly pass defense, I wouldn’t recommend either of them.

Jalen Hurts (QB2) continues to do damage through the air and on the ground. That said, this is the toughest test for Hurts this season. Dallas has an elite defense that should hold him in check. Still, I expect he will be over-owned. I’m not saying fade him completely, but I feel better using Justin Herbert. You can bump up Hurts slightly if Micah Parsons is limited by the hamstring injury he suffered last Sunday.

Tony Pollard (RB5) has looked the part of the better back between himself and Ezekiel Elliott (RB4) this season. Still, Dallas continues to give Zeke nearly a 2-to-1 advantage in touches. Either could be used as an RB2 here. Just be wary of the fact that no RB has had any real success against this defense since Week 1.

Philly finally decided to keep it simple using just Miles Sanders (RB2) as the primary RB and not playing musical chairs at the position. Dallas has some fast linebackers, so limit your expectations here. Kenneth Gainwell (RB8) is starting to look more like just a handcuff. You can give him Showdown work but nothing more.

CeeDee Lamb (WR3) struggled for the first few weeks with no assistance in the passing game. Now, he has Michael Gallup (WR8) back and Noah Brown (WR10) has evolved into a worthy third option. Lamb deserves no better than WR2 consideration here against this tough defense. Gallup could also be a WR3 option, but I would only play one of those two. Brown is a sneaky punt play here since third receivers have a much easier track to success against this secondary.

Philly has two viable fantasy WRs each week. This week, A.J. Brown (WR2) will have to battle with Trevon Diggs. He still deserves WR1 consideration, but I’d feel stronger about using DeVonta Smith (WR5) at WR2 and pairing him with Mike Williams at WR1. Quez Watkins (WR13) is a decent Showdown option, but he isn’t used enough to be trusted here.

Dalton Schultz (knee – TE3) left Week 5 due to a flareup of his prior knee injury. It is looking less likely that he plays this week. If he were to suit up, he would be an above-average play as teams operate underneath against this pass defense. You could even consider stacking both TEs in this game. Dallas’ backup TEs are Jake Ferguson (TE7) and Peyton Hendershot (TE9). Ferguson could be a punt play if Schultz is out. All Hendershot has going for himself is the coolest name in the league. Personally, I’d rather take a shot of lukewarm Jagermeister mixed with stale peach schnapps than take a shot on him.

Dallas Goedert (TE1) is the only truly safe TE on this slate. Save yourself a lot of headaches by just putting him in your lineup and building around him.

Monday Night

DENVER @ LOS ANGELES CHARGERS

This will be a divining test for Russell Wilson (QB3). He has the easiest defensive matchup on the slate. He also has looked absolutely washed for the last few weeks. With most users on Herbert and Hurts, he makes a decent pivot play at a much cheaper cost. I’ll give him another try here.

Despite the absence of his WR1a for most of the year, Justin Herbert (QB1) has been solid but not spectacular all season. Denver has impressive pass-defense stats. They also have faced four crappy QBs and Derek Carr. Herbert will be their first true test. I won’t put him on a huge ceiling game, but he should be safe for 280-2.

Melvin Gordon (RB3) did not lose a fumble last week. This should keep him penciled in as the RB1 for Denver for at least one more game. His numbers weren’t anywhere near as efficient as those of Mike Boone (RB6). Each can be considered as RB2 this week, because Los Angeles is rotten against RBs. The issue here is that Latavius Murray (RB7) may make his debut this week. If he does, downgrade the value of all three to flex level at best.

Austin Ekeler (RB1) is the RB1 this week. He will have 100 percent ownership and deservedly so. Don’t overthink this. Joshua Kelley (RB8) has notched out a niche as a change-of-pace back for the Chargers. He is a must-start in Showdown and a decent flex play if you make a Chargers’ Voltron stack.

Courtland Sutton (WR4) and Jerry Jeudy (WR6) each deserve WR2 consideration. Los Angeles has allowed multiple fantasy-viable WRs each of the last three weeks. Sutton has the safer floor of the two. KJ Hamler (WR12) should have caught a TD pass last week. Maybe Russell Wilson will actually look his way this time. Consider him a punt-WR3.

Keenan Allen (hamstring – WR6) has been M.I.A. since Week 1. If he returns this week, he could finish as one of the top WRs on the slate. I just think he’s going to miss this game, too. Odds are that Mike Williams (WR1) will lock horns with Patrick Surtain, which will limit his value. I still consider him the safest WR on the board, and he will get a bump if Allen is in there to open up some coverage. If Allen doesn’t play, consider Josh Palmer (WR9) as a WR3. DeAndre Carter (WR11) should be left to Showdown contests.

Greg Dulcich (hamstring – TE4) may finally return this week. There was a fair amount of preseason hype around the third-round rookie. Consider playing him as a third-leg in a Russell Wilson stack if he suits up. If Dulcich remains out, Albert Okwuegbunam (TE6) and Eric Saubert (TE7) are punt options, at best, and frankly, I’d ignore them both.

I’m amazed at what Gerald Everett (TE2) has accomplished this season. He had his first true dud last week. That said, on a weak slate, he deserves consideration. You could also take a flyer on Donald Parham (TE5). He has been a red-zone threat in the past and now appears to be fully healthy once again. He is TD-dependent, but his price makes him a decent option.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Josh Allen ($8.2k), RB Rhamondre Stevenson ($6k), RB Breece Hall ($5.8k), WR Gabe Davis ($6.5k), WR JuJu Smith-Schuster ($5.2k), WR Alec Pierce ($4.3k), TE Zach Ertz ($4.9k), FLEX Kenneth Walker ($5.4k), DST Minnesota Vikings ($3.4k)

FD Lineup: QB Josh Allen ($9.2k), RB Eno Benjamin ($6.3k), RB Rhamondre Stevenson ($7.5k), WR Gabe Davis ($6.9k), WR Allen Lazard ($6.2k), WR Richie James ($5.3k), TE Travis Kelce ($8.3k), FLEX Kenneth Walker ($6.5k), DST Carolina Panthers ($3.7k)

FB Lineup: QB Josh Allen ($7.6k), RB Breece Hall ($5.5k), RB Rhamondre Stevenson ($5.4k), WR Gabe Davis ($5.9k), WR Adam Thielen ($5.4k), WR Alec Pierce ($3.8k), TE Travis Kelce ($6.7k), FLEX Kenneth Walker ($5.2k), FLEX Eno Benjamin ($4.2k)

Quarterbacks DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,200 $9,200
Lamar Jackson $8,100 $8,800
Patrick Mahomes $8,000 $8,600
Kyler Murray $7,300 $8,300
Joe Burrow $6,700 $8,000
Tom Brady $6,300 $7,500
Matthew Stafford $6,200 $7,200
Aaron Rodgers $6,100 $7,500
Kirk Cousins $6,000 $7,600
Geno Smith $5,700 $7,400
Trevor Lawrence $5,600 $7,100
Jimmy Garoppolo $5,500 $7,100
Jacoby Brissett $5,400 $6,600
Jameis Winston $5,400 $7,000
Marcus Mariota $5,300 $6,800
Matt Ryan $5,300 $6,900
Zach Wilson $5,300 $6,700
Andy Dalton $5,200 $6,400
Daniel Jones $5,200 $6,800
Kenny Pickett $5,200 $6,500
Mac Jones $5,200 $6,600
Bailey Zappe $5,100 $6,300
Taysom Hill $5,100 N/A
Skylar Thompson $5,000 $6,300
P.J. Walker $4,900 $6,300

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes should be the top-two QBs in ownership and rightfully so. Their matchup could be record-setting. If you do pivot off of them, consider Tom Brady or Kirk Cousins. The only names that stand out as possible punts are Jimmy Garoppolo, Daniel Jones, Zach Wilson, and Matt Ryan.

Fantasy Four-pack

Josh Allen, Bills @ KC
($8,200 DK, $9,200 FD)
Allen is the more expensive of the pair in this game. Still, both will account for three-plus touchdowns. I give a slight advantage to Allen, because he is more adept with his legs.

Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs vs. BUF
($8,000 DK, $8,600 FD)
Mahomes gets the home-field advantage in this game, but it won’t matter as both sides will push to rewrite the record books here. Anything less than 350-3 would be disappointing.

Lamar Jackson, Ravens @ NYG ($8,100 DK, $8,800 FD) The absence of Rashod Bateman (foot) affected Jackson more than we could’ve predicted last week. The best hope here is that Bateman is back and/or Jackson goes crazy on the ground (certainly possible). It’s not as if the Giants are going to scare anyone.

Tom Brady, Buccaneers @ PIT
($6,300 DK, $7,500 FD)
Pittsburgh is not the elite defense it used to be. This will be a huge test for them as the Bucs are deep at WR now that everyone is healthy. Stack Brady with two of Mike Evans, Cameron Brate (concussion), and Chris Godwin if you want to avoid the mass ownership of Allen and Mahomes.

DFS Sleepers

Jimmy Garoppolo, 49ers @ ATL
($5,500 DK, $7,100 FD)
  Only three teams have allowed more passing yards than Atlanta. Meanwhile, Garoppolo’s stats have been very blase since taking over for Trey Lance, but last week he finally started to target George Kittle again. This will be a stack to attack as Atlanta is inept against opposing TEs. 

Daniel Jones, Giants vs. BAL
($5,200 DK, $6,800 FD)
Jones has posted OK stats this year considering that he has ZERO legitimate WRs. The passing TDs have been absent, but Jones is making up for it by rushing for the third-most yards among all QBs. Meanwhile, Baltimore has allowed a QB rushing touchdown in three straight games (on top of their allowing the most passing yards per game).

Running backs DraftKings FanDuel
Christian McCaffrey $8,300 $8,700
Nick Chubb $8,200 $9,500
Jonathan Taylor $8,000 $8,000
Saquon Barkley $7,700 $8,800
Aaron Jones
$7,600 $7,300
Dalvin Cook $7,500 $8,300
Leonard Fournette $7,400 $8,500
Joe Mixon $6,900 $7,800
Alvin Kamara $6,700 $8,100
Clyde Edwards-Helaire $6,300 $7,000
Jeff Wilson $6,200 $7,200
James Conner $6,100 $6,900
James Robinson $6,100 $6,700
Najee Harris $6,000 $6,200
Rhamondre Stevenson $6,000 $7,500
Alexander Mattison $5,900 $5,300
Devin Singletary $5,900 $5,700
Breece Hall $5,800 $7,100
Kareem Hunt $5,700 $6,000
Raheem Mostert $5,700 $6,500
AJ Dillon $5,600 $5,900
J.K. Dobbins $5,500 $6,800
Nyheim Hines $5,500 $5,500
Kenneth Walker $5,400 $6,500
Cam Akers $5,300 $6,100
Deon Jackson $5,200 $5,600
Rachaad White $5,200 $5,200
Darrell Henderson $5,100 $5,700
Tyler Allgeier $5,100 $5,800
Mark Ingram $5,000 $5,100
Michael Carter $5,000 $5,900
Travis Etienne $5,000 $6,400
Caleb Huntley $4,900 $5,500
Isiah Pacheco $4,900 $5,700
Chase Edmonds $4,800 $5,300
Phillip Lindsay $4,700 $5,400
Eno Benjamin $4,600 $6,300
Matt Breida $4,600 $5,600
James Cook $4,500 $5,000
Tevin Coleman $4,500 $5,700
Zack Moss $4,300 $4,900
Justice Hill $4,100 $5,500
Damien Williams $4,000 $5,500
Darrel Williams $4,000 $5,600
Kyle Juszczyk $4,000 $4,600

Running Back

Weekly strategy – Questions loom over the highest-priced options. Christian McCaffrey is finally getting the expected touches, but now there is a coaching change and a QB change. Will Jonathan Taylor (ankle) and Saquon Barkley (shoulder) be 100 percent in decent matchups? Will Alvin Kamara (Taysom Hill-itis) ever score another TD? Any of these four could be your RB1 or a straight-up fade. The only high-priced guy that has zero qualms for me is Dalvin CookJeff Wilson and J.K. Dobbins could have volume-based pivot appeal. I also do not hate Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Devin Singletary as exposure to the huge matchup between them. All that said, I will be loading up on Rhamondre Stevenson, Breece Hall, and Kenneth Walker. This may be my threesome on all sites. Keep an eye on James Conner (ribs). If he is out as expected, then Eno Benjamin and Darrel Williams could be bargain-basement plays in a good matchup.

Fantasy Four-pack

Saquon Barkley, Giants vs. BAL
($7,700 DK, $8,800 FD)
Baltimore is allowing the second-most RB receptions and the fourth-most RB receiving yards. Meanwhile, Barkley is sixth and seventh, respectively, in those two categories. Barkley also ranks first overall in total yards by a running back. If his shoulder remains sound, expect 150 total yards and at least one score this week.

Christian McCaffrey, Panthers @ LAR
($8,300 DK, $8,700 FD)
McCaffrey will be facing a paper tiger of a run defense this week. Unfortunately, he will be doing so with a new head coach and an unproven QB. Working in his favor is that the Panthers have finally started targeting him in the passing game. If the new coach, Steve Wilks, wants a chance to win his first game, he will continue that strategy.

Rhamondre Stevenson, Patriots @ CLE ($6,000 DK, $7,500 FDWith Damien Harris (hamstring) out for the foreseeable future, Stevenson will be the lead dog for New England. Last week, Stevenson went off for 175 total yards. Expect more of the same as Cleveland has allowed a total of 503 combo yards and five total RB touchdowns IN JUST THE LAST TWO WEEKS! 

Dalvin Cook, Vikings @ MIA
($7,500 DK, $8,300 FD)
Miami just allowed the Jets’ RBs to combine for 230 total yards and three touchdowns (in addition, to two other rushing TDs vultured by Zach Wilson and Braxton Berrios). They have also allowed at least one RB score every week except one. 120-1 is Cook’s floor here.

DFS Sleepers

Kenneth Walker, Seahawks vs. ARI
($5,400 DK, $6,500 FD) Rashaad Penny (leg)
is done for the year. This will expedite Kenneth Walker’s ascension to RB1 in Seattle. Last week, Walker ripped off a huge TD run against a strong New Orleans run defense. Arizona is middle of the pack against the run (including allowing one total RB score per week). Given a full volume of work, Walker should score and approach 100 total yards. 

Breece Hall, Jets @ GB ($5,800 DK, $7,100 FD) OK, FD has finally caught on to Hall. Would someone like to tell DK? Only two RBs have more targets than Hall, and only Austin Ekeler has more receptions. Plus, Hall has now scored in back-to-back games and should’ve scored multiple times last week.

Wide receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Cooper Kupp $9,700 $9,400
Justin Jefferson $8,900 $9,200
Stefon Diggs $8,400 $8,900
Ja’Marr Chase $7,700 $8,100
Deebo Samuel $7,600 $7,600
Tyreek Hill $7,500 $8,000
Marquise Brown $7,200 $8,200
Mike Evans $7,000 $7,700
Michael Pittman $6,900 $6,700
DK Metcalf $6,800 $7,400
Gabe Davis $6,500 $6,900
Tee Higgins $6,300 $7,200
Jaylen Waddle $6,200 $7,300
Chris Godwin $6,100 $6,800
Allen Lazard $6,000 $6,200
Adam Thielen $5,900 $5,900
Amari Cooper $5,900 $7,100
Christian Kirk $5,800 $7,000
Diontae Johnson $5,700 $6,300
Michael Thomas $5,600 $7,000
Tyler Lockett $5,600 $7,500
Chris Olave $5,500 $6,700
Brandon Aiyuk $5,400 $5,800
Drake London $5,400 $6,100
Jakobi Meyers $5,300 $6,600
JuJu Smith-Schuster $5,200 $6,400
Rashod Bateman $5,200 $6,500
DJ Moore $5,100 $5,700
Julio Jones $5,100 $5,500
Tyler Boyd $5,100 $6,000
Garrett Wilson $5,000 $5,700
Isaiah McKenzie $5,000 $6,000
Allen Robinson $4,900 $5,400
Elijah Moore $4,900 $5,200
Corey Davis $4,800 $5,800
Romeo Doubs $4,800 $5,500
Devin Duvernay $4,700 $6,200
George Pickens $4,600 $5,800
Marvin Jones $4,600 $5,500
Chase Claypool $4,500 $5,500
Kadarius Toney $4,500 $4,800
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $4,500 $5,800
DeVante Parker $4,400 $5,500
Randall Cobb $4,400 $5,700
Russell Gage $4,400 $5,700
Alec Pierce $4,300 $5,900
Jarvis Landry $4,300 $5,500
K.J. Osborn $4,300 $5,300
Richie James $4,200 $5,300
Rondale Moore $4,200 $5,600
Zay Jones $4,200 $5,600
A.J. Green $4,100 $5,300
Ben Skowronek $4,100 $5,500
Robbie Anderson $4,100 $5,300
Mecole Hardman $4,000 $5,600
Olamide Zaccheaus $4,000 $5,300
Donovan Peoples-Jones $3,900 $5,500
Marquez Callaway $3,900 $5,600
Darius Slayton $3,800 $5,600
Nelson Agholor $3,800 $5,400
Scotty Miller $3,800 $4,900
Khalil Shakir $3,700 $5,400
Tre’Quan Smith $3,700 $5,300
Jauan Jennings $3,600 $5,100
Wan’Dale Robinson $3,600 $4,900
Breshad Perriman $3,500 $4,900
Christian Watson $3,500 $5,000
Skyy Moore $3,500 $5,000
Cedrick Wilson $3,400 $5,000
David Sills $3,400 $5,100
Parris Campbell $3,400 $5,100
Demarcus Robinson $3,200 $5,400
Jamal Agnew $3,200 $5,100
David Bell $3,100 $4,900
Kendrick Bourne $3,100 $5,000
Mike Thomas $3,000 $4,600
Tutu Atwell $3,000 $4,900
Tyquan Thornton $3,000 $4,800

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – I don’t hate any of the top WR options. That said, Cooper Kupp’s price is borderline troubling going up against Jaycee Horn (ribs), assuming he plays. Stefon Diggs and Deebo Samuel are the safest WR1 choices. Cheaper pivots would include Gabe Davis, Marquise Brown, and Chris Godwin. WR2 will be much easier to outfit. Adam ThielenTyler LockettChris Olave (concussion), Amari Cooper, Christian Kirk, Allen Lazard, and JuJu Smith-Schuster all deserve consideration. The depth WRs for Buffalo and Kansas City should be considered for WR3. If you want to look outside of that game, consider Randall CobbAlec PierceDevin Duvernay, and whoever suits up for the Giants.

Fantasy Four-pack

Stefon Diggs, Bills @ KC
($8,400 DK, $8,900 FD)
With several weapons to target in this high-scoring game, why not just secure the most proven WR among them? Build your lineup around Diggs, Josh Allen, and Travis Kelce, and then fill out from there.

Justin Jefferson, Vikings @ MIA
($8,900 DK, $9,200 FD)
Jefferson has had three monster games already this year. Now, he faces a Miami defense that will be without Byron Jones and possibly Xavien Howard, too. The price is a little high but so is his ceiling.

Cooper Kupp, Rams vs. CAR
($9,700 DK, $9,400 FD)
Only one WR1 has performed well against Carolina this season. Still, this is Cooper Kupp, and he scores in the mid-20s in his worst games. Just know that this will be one of those 20- to 25-point floors if CB Jaycee Horn (ribs) plays.

Deebo Samuel, 49ers @ ATL
($7,600 DK, $7,600 FD)
Pairing Samuel with Jimmy Garoppolo and George Kittle makes a sneaky value stack. Atlanta was crushed by WR1s the first two weeks and then proceeded to struggle in two of their next three games against the position. Samuel salvaged his poor game last week with a TD, Of course, that was against Carolina, who I mentioned above have limited most WR1s.

DFS Sleepers

JuJu Smith-Schuster, Chiefs vs. BUF
($5,200 DK, $6,400 FD)
Everyone and their mother will be rostering Travis Kelce this week. So, why not pivot to Smith-Schuster and gain cheaper exposure to the game? This also applies to Marquez Valdes-Scantling.

Alec Pierce, Colts vs. JAX
($4,300 DK, $5,900 FD)
Pierce has watched all of his statistical categories rise each of the last three weeks. Non-WR1s have fared well in three of the five contests against Jacksonville this season. Pierce should approach 7-75-1 here.

Tight ends DraftKings FanDuel
Travis Kelce $7,800 $8,300
Mark Andrews $7,000 $7,800
Taysom Hill N/A $7,500
George Kittle $5,100 $5,700
Zach Ertz $4,900 $6,000
Tyler Higbee $4,600 $6,200
Kyle Pitts $4,200 $5,500
David Njoku $4,000 $5,900
Pat Freiermuth $3,800 $5,300
Robert Tonyan $3,600 $4,900
Evan Engram $3,500 $5,200
Dawson Knox $3,400 $5,100
Tyler Conklin $3,400 $4,900
Cameron Brate $3,300 $4,800
Hayden Hurst $3,300 $4,900
Daniel Bellinger $3,200 $4,700
Irv Smith $3,200 $4,900
Hunter Henry $3,100 $4,700
Mike Gesicki $3,100 $4,800
Will Dissly $3,100 $5,000
Adam Trautman $3,000 $4,700
Mo Alie-Cox $3,000 $4,800
Noah Fant $3,000 $4,900
Cade Otten $2,900 $5,000
Isaiah Likely $2,800 $4,600
Juwan Johnson $2,800 $4,600
Quintin Morris $2,800 $4,500
Harrison Bryant $2,700 $4,500
Jonnu Smith $2,600 $4,400
Zach Gentry $2,600 $4,600
Colby Parkinson $2,500 $4,400
Parker Hesse $2,500 $4,400

Tight End

Weekly strategy – Just pay up and play Travis Kelce. It may feel like chasing points, but no other player can break a slate as quickly as he can. Think of him as your WR2 and pay down at that position. George Kittle would be a very sneaky pivot. He is much cheaper and the matchup is juicy. Zach Ertz and David Njoku are the other two higher-priced options with decent matchups. One of them could be used in a double-TE lineup. Hayden Hurst and Daniel Bellinger are cheap punt plays.

Fantasy Four-pack

Travis Kelce, Chiefs vs. BUF
($7,800 DK, $8,300 FD
Kelce broke the primetime slate last week. Don’t expect four TDs here, but he will score at least once. He should also have more receptions and yardage, think 7-100.

George Kittle, 49ers @ ATL
($5,100 DK, $5,700 FD
Atlanta has allowed an average of 82 combo yards per game to opposing TEs. Now, they have to face Kittle, whom Jimmy Garoppolo finally remembered existed. This will be his best week of the season.

Mark Andrews, Ravens @ NYG
($7,000 DK, $7,800 FD
The Giants have actually posted decent numbers against the TE position. Of course, they have also faced more stiffs than a mortician. With Rashod Bateman likely out again this week, Andrews should post a solid floor game of 7-70-1.

Zach Ertz, Cardinals @ SEA
($4,900 DK, $6,000 FD
Seattle has allowed at least one TE score in three of five games. They have also allowed the most total yards to the position. With DeAndre Hopkins out one more week, Ertz has one more big game in him.

DFS Sleepers

Hayden Hurst, Bengals @ NO
($3,300 DK, $4,900 FD
With Tee Higgins (ankle) on the wrong end of questionable, I expect Hurst to be highly involved in the passing game once again. He has scored in two straight, and this week will be number three.

Daniel Bellinger, Giants vs. BAL
($3,200 DK, $4,700 FD
With so many injuries in their passing game, Bellinger has carved out a small niche for himself. Baltimore has struggled against the pass all year and has allowed three different TEs to score. Try a punt stack with Bellinger, Daniel Jones, and Saquon Barkley.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 5

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 5 DFS fantasy football

Quarterback concussions were the story of Week 4. We saw two veterans knocked out on Sunday in addition to the gruesome injury sustained by Tua Tagovailoa on Thursday. Scary head trauma aside, make sure to keep your brain in check and limit yourself to a short memory when setting DFS lineups.

DFS: The Primetime Slate

Sunday Night

CINCINNATI @ BALTIMORE

Seldom will Joe Burrow (QB3) find himself as the third-worst QB on a slate of four passers. It actually is a pretty strong matchup for him as Baltimore is putrid against the pass. Unfortunately, two of the other three have juicy matchups, too. If you want to avoid the heavy ownership numbers, definitely consider Burrow here.

One of those who will be more heavily owned is Lamar Jackson (QB1). His matchup isn’t as smooth as Burrow’s but Jackson offers the elite rushing production to go along with his passing stats. This alone makes him the safest floor option among the QBs.

Efficiency has never been a calling card for Joe Mixon (RB1). Fortunately, he gets so much volume that it doesn’t really matter. Samaje Perine (RB6) is his backup, but his usage is far too sporadic to rely on outside of Showdown contests.

J.K. Dobbins (RB2) looked comfortable in Week 4. This should strike fear into the hearts of all of Baltimore’s opponents as now they have one more weapon to deal with. Justice Hill (hamstring – RB8) was running strong before getting knocked out of last week’s game. If he can go, consider him as a flex option. If Hill is out, Mike Davis (RB11) will be the backup. He has no value. Patrick Ricard (RB10), on the other hand, is always a fun TD-dependent Showdown flyer.

The only thing that kept Baltimore’s secondary from getting thrashed by Buffalo last week was the remnants of a hurricane. They remain one of the worst pass defenses in the league. Ja’Marr Chase (WR1) and Tee Higgins (WR3) can both be considered as WR1. I also love Tyler Boyd (WR8) as the third leg to a Burrow stack. You can ignore the depth options here barring a practice-week injury.

Rashod Bateman (foot – WR5) was repeatedly in and out of the Week 4 game with an injury. Watch his practice status this week. If he can go, consider him as a WR2. I particularly like him as the run-it-back play in a Bengals’ stack.  Devin Duvernay came close to scoring once again last week. He is a great WR3 option here. Demarcus Robinson (WR12) could be a sneaky WR3/flex option, especially if Bateman is limited.

Hayden Hurst (groin – TE4) would be a strong play against Baltimore with the revenge game narrative. Unfortunately, he is ranked fourth among the active TEs on this loaded slate. Consider him as a cheap flex play in a multiple-TE lineup.

Mark Andrews (TE2) failed in the cake matchup last week. Forget about it and move on. Cincy has been gouged by both Pat Freiermuth and Tyler Conklin already this season. They are chopped beef compared to Andrews. On a loaded slate, Isaiah Likely (TE5) can be left to Showdown contests.

Monday Night

LAS VEGAS @ KANSAS CITY

Kansas City’s pass defense is shaky enough to consider using a punt lineup with Derek Carr (QB4). His value is even higher if Hunter Renfrow can go.

Patrick Mahomes (QB2) is facing the second-worst pass defense on this slate. Yes, Baltimore is even worse than Vegas (30th versus 31st). Last Sunday night, Mahomes showed once again how ridiculously good he can be … expect another huge game here.

Josh Jacobs (RB3) scored twice last week. That was twice more than I predicted going up against Denver. He was also the second-most-targeted option in the Vegas passing attack. KC has struggled with pass-catching backs allowing 40 receptions through the first four games. Even if Hunter Renfrow returns, Jacobs is a safe play at either RB1 or RB2. Brandon Bolden (RB9) and Zamir White (RB12) don’t see enough usage to deploy here.

Coming into Week 4, Kansas City had split the workload between all three of Clyde Edwards-Helaire (RB4)Jerick McKinnon (RB7), and Isaiah Pacheco (RB5). CEH lapped McKinnon in season touches in just Week 4 securing his spot as the lead man. While McKinnon seemingly has fallen even behind Pacheco, CEH can be used as an RB2 this week. Pacheco can be considered as a flex play, and McKinnon should probably be limited to Showdown lineups.

Davante Adams (WR2) continues to hoard targets for Vegas. I love pairing him with one of the Bengals as WR1 and WR2. Hunter Renfrow (concussion – WR6) has missed a pair of games with a concussion. If he can go, roll him out as a WR3. I prefer him on DK, where he gets the full PPR. If Renfrow misses another game, you can use Mack Hollins (WR7) as a WR3. That said, I wouldn’t trust him as more than a desperation punt play if Renfrow returns.

The Chiefs have spread the ball around through the first four weeks. Still, JuJu Smith-Schuster (WR4) has been consistently the top WR option. You will have the choice to use him as a cheap WR2 or an expensive WR3. Marques Valdes-Scantling (WR10) has been far less consistent and has battled some injuries. He could be used as a WR3, at best. Mecole Hardman (WR11) is cheap, but he has been ignored for the last two weeks. I can’t trust his usage right now. Skyy Moore (WR13) finally made the box score this past week, but I’d like to see more consistency before using him outside of Showdown.

Darren Waller (WR3) is ranked lower here than most weeks. He will be my least-owned option as I’d rather take the savings on Hurst if I choose to fade the top two options.

KC loves to attack their divisional rivals with Travis Kelce (TE1). In his last eight meetings with Vegas, Kelce has posted 56-808-5.  His price is high, but I would do everything possible to ensure he is in my lineup.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Carson Wentz ($5.7k), RB Rhamondre Stevenson ($5.5k), RB Dameon Pierce ($6.2k), WR A.J. Brown ($7.5k), WR Robert Woods ($5.2k), WR Curtis Samuel ($5.8k), TE T.J. Hockenson ($4.9k), FLEX James Robinson ($6.3k), DST Detroit Lions ($2.8k)

FD Lineup: QB Carson Wentz ($6.8k), RB James Robinson ($8k), RB Damien Harris ($7.2k), WR A.J. Brown ($8k), WR Curtis Samuel ($5.8k), WR Robert Woods ($5.9k), TE David Njoku ($5.7k), FLEX Jamaal Williams ($8.3k), DST Minnesota Vikings ($4.3k)

FB Lineup: QB Joe Burrow ($6.6k), RB Jamaal Williams ($6k), RB Dameon Pierce ($5.6k), WR A.J. Brown ($6.7k), WR Tee Higgins ($6.2k), WR Elijah Moore ($4.3k), TE Cameron Brate ($3.4k), FLEX James Robinson ($5.7k), FLEX Damien Harris ($5.3k)

Quarterbacks DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,200 $9,000
Jalen Hurts $8,100 $8,600
Kyler Murray $7,400 $8,100
Justin Herbert $7,100 $8,200
Matthew Stafford $6,400 $7,400
Kirk Cousins $6,300 $7,100
Dak Prescott $6,200 $7,500
Jared Goff $6,100 $8,000
Tom Brady $6,000 $7,800
Ryan Tannehill $5,800 $6,900
Carson Wentz $5,700 $6,800
Jacoby Brissett $5,600 $6,700
Trevor Lawrence $5,600 $7,600
Geno Smith $5,500 $6,900
Jameis Winston $5,500 $7,300
Cooper Rush $5,400 $6,500
Jimmy Garoppolo $5,400 $7,000
Marcus Mariota $5,400 $6,800
Teddy Bridgewater $5,400 $6,400
Justin Fields $5,300 $6,600
Zach Wilson $5,300 $7,200
Andy Dalton $5,200 $6,500
Mac Jones $5,200 $6,600
Bailey Zappe $5,100 $6,300
Baker Mayfield $5,100 $6,400
Brian Hoyer $5,100 $6,300
Kenny Pickett $5,100 $6,500
Mitch Trubisky $5,100 $6,500
Davis Mills $5,000 $6,400
Taysom Hill $4,900 N/A

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Jalen Hurts and Justin Herbert are the best plays on the board this week. If you choose to pivot to under $6k on DK consider Tom Brady, Ryan Tannehill, Carson Wentz, or Trevor Lawrence. Wentz is my favorite from that group as he should have low ownership. His FD price is also palatable. Teddy Bridgewater and Davis Mills could be barrel-scraping bargains.

Fantasy Four-pack

Jalen Hurts, Eagles @ ARI
($8,100 DK, $8,600 FD)
Hurts has two games with three total TDs and two games with one total TD. Fortunately, his rushing acumen keeps his value up even when he has a bad passing game. Arizona was decimated by Patrick Mahomes in Week 1 but has held middling QBs in check since then. Hurts is good enough to turn this into a shootout.

Justin Herbert, Chargers @ CLE
($7,100 DK, $8,200 FD)
Herbert leads the league in passing yards, but he has only thrown for nine TDs this year. Meanwhile, Cleveland has allowed zero or one passing TD in three of four games. You might think this is a bad sign for Herbert until you realize that the best QB that Cleveland has faced was Joe Flacco. Cleveland is about to be exposed.

Josh Allen, Bills vs. PIT ($8,200 DK, $9,000 FD) Pittsburgh has faced only one above-average QB this season. That was Joe Burrow back in Week 1. He threw for 338-2 in that game and even gained 47 rushing yards. After facing three straight subpar QBs, Pittsburgh may not be ready for Allen. I like him to approach 300-3 with a floor of 275-2 plus another 40 yards on the ground.

Tom Brady, Buccaneers vs. ATL
($6,000 DK, $7,800 FD)
Tom Brady has all of his weapons back healthy and will get healthy as well against an Atlanta pass defense that has allowed multiple passing TDs in three of four games.

DFS Sleepers

Carson Wentz, Commanders vs. TEN
($5,700 DK, $6,800 FD)
  Wentz is coming off a pair of stinkers against top-tier pass defenses. Recency bias will keep most DFS players off of him as they forget about his two early-season blowups against the Jags and Lions. Tennessee has allowed the third-most passing yards and the most passing TDs per game. With two horrible pass defenses facing off here expect big scoring on both sides.

Teddy Bridgewater, Dolphins @ NYJ
($5,400 DK, $6,400 FD)
I’ve always bad-mouthed Bridgewater for his standard line of 210-1. That said, this feels like a two-TD game for Teddy-one-TD. I could see stacking him with either Tyreek Hill or Jaylen Waddle, but Waddle would be my choice because he is cheaper.

Running backs DraftKings FanDuel
Christian McCaffrey $8,500 $8,700
Derrick Henry $8,200 $8,900
Nick Chubb $8,000 $9,400
Austin Ekeler $7,800 $9,000
Dalvin Cook
$7,300 $7,300
Leonard Fournette $6,900 $7,800
Alvin Kamara $6,600 $7,000
Jamaal Williams $6,500 $8,300
Miles Sanders $6,500 $7,600
Najee Harris $6,500 $6,600
Alexander Mattison $6,400 $7,300
James Conner $6,300 $6,700
James Robinson $6,300 $8,000
Dameon Pierce $6,200 $7,500
David Montgomery $6,200 $7,100
Devin Singletary $6,100 $6,000
Kareem Hunt $6,000 $5,900
Antonio Gibson $5,900 $6,300
Khalil Herbert $5,900 $7,100
Ezekiel Elliott $5,800 $6,200
Tony Pollard $5,700 $5,700
Cam Akers $5,600 $6,100
Damien Harris $5,600 $7,200
Darrell Henderson $5,500 $6,100
Jeff Wilson $5,500 $6,500
Rhamondre Stevenson $5,500 $6,000
Breece Hall $5,400 $6,600
Mark Ingram $5,400 $6,000
Rashaad Penny $5,300 $6,900
Chase Edmonds $5,200 $5,700
J.D. McKissic $5,200 $5,100
Rachaad White $5,100 $5,800
Travis Etienne $5,100 $5,600
Kenneth Gainwell $5,000 $5,200
Raheem Mostert $5,000 $5,800
Rex Burkhead $5,000 $5,100
Dontrell Hilliard $4,900 $5,000
Michael Carter $4,900 $5,500
Brian Robinson $4,800 $5,500
Craig Reynolds $4,800 $5,500
Kenneth Walker $4,700 $5,300
Tyler Allgeier $4,700 $5,700
Zack Moss $4,700 $5,100
Eno Benjamin $4,600 $5,400
Darrel Williams $4,400 $5,000
Caleb Huntley $4,300 $5,600

Running Back

Weekly strategy – Christian McCaffrey finally saw the targets he deserved last week, but this matchup is ugly. Derrick Henry has a slightly better matchup, so I prefer him here. Austin Ekeler and Nick Chubb have much better matchups than both of them. Still, Dalvin Cook has the best matchup of any of them and is cheaper. If I spend up at RB it will be for one of these five. That said, there are just too many bargains to not skip the high-priced guys. James Robinson Jamaal Williams, Dameon PierceKareem Hunt, and the Patriots’ RBs will make up most of my lineups. You can even punt easily with Breece Hall (knee)Mark Ingram (if Alvin Kamara (ribs) is out again), or Tyler Allgeier.

Fantasy Four-pack

Nick Chubb, Browns vs. LAC
($8,000 DK, $9,400 FD)
The Chargers have allowed rushing TDs each of the last two weeks. They also were torched by pass-catching backs all season. Chubb is not involved in the passing game at all, but he still is among the top two in both total yards and scores among RBs. Both Chubb and Kareem Hunt will score this week.

Derrick Henry, Titans @ WAS
($8,200 DK, $8,900 FD
Tennessee is using Henry in the passing game. That is a scary thought as he has already scored in three straight games on the ground. 

Dalvin Cook, Vikings vs. CHI ($7,300 DK, $7,300 FDCook is cheaper than all of the other decent plays among the high-priced tier. Plus, only two teams are allowing more RB rushing yards per game than Chicago. At home against this decrepit franchise, Cook will feast in a blowout (at least until Alexander Mattison is asked to finish this one off).

Austin Ekeler, Chargers @ CLE
($7,800 DK, $9,000 FD)
Ekeler woke up from his TD slumber to score three times last week. His success will continue this week as Cleveland has already given up five total RB scores this season. Plus, all of those targets add up fast in the full-PPR world of DK.

DFS Sleepers

Tyler Allgeier, Falcons @ TB
($4,700 DK, $5,700 FD)
Allgeier has a tough-on-paper matchup with the Buccaneers. Still, with Cordarrelle Patterson out for at least the next month, Allgeier is going to get all the touches he can handle. This volume should make him a favorite sleeper play this week.

Breece Hall, Jets vs. MIA ($5,400 DK, $6,600 FD) Only one RB has more targets through the first four weeks than Hall. Now, he faces a Miami team that is tough against the run but has allowed the fifth-most RB receptions. This game will be a sneaky shootout where Hall hauls in six or seven passes. 

Wide receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Cooper Kupp $9,600 $9,500
Justin Jefferson $8,900 $8,800
Stefon Diggs $8,400 $8,600
Tyreek Hill $8,000 $8,400
Deebo Samuel $7,700 $7,300
Amon-Ra St. Brown $7,600 $8,200
A.J. Brown $7,500 $8,000
Marquise Brown $7,200 $7,800
Mike Williams $7,100 $7,400
CeeDee Lamb $7,000 $7,200
Mike Evans $6,900 $7,500
DK Metcalf $6,800 $7,100
Jaylen Waddle $6,700 $7,700
Christian Kirk $6,600 $7,600
Keenan Allen $6,600 $7,000
Gabe Davis $6,400 $6,000
Adam Thielen $6,300 $6,300
Terry McLaurin $6,200 $6,500
Brandin Cooks $6,100 $6,800
Diontae Johnson $6,100 $6,700
Amari Cooper $6,000 $7,000
DeVonta Smith $6,000 $6,600
Chris Godwin $5,900 $7,000
Drake London $5,900 $6,200
Curtis Samuel $5,800 $5,800
Michael Thomas $5,800 $7,100
Chris Olave $5,700 $6,900
Tyler Lockett $5,600 $6,800
Julio Jones $5,500 $5,700
Brandon Aiyuk $5,400 $5,900
Allen Robinson $5,300 $5,700
DJ Moore $5,200 $5,900
Garrett Wilson $5,200 $6,000
Robert Woods $5,200 $5,900
Corey Davis $5,100 $5,900
Greg Dortch $5,100 $4,900
Joshua Palmer $5,100 $5,500
Darnell Mooney $5,000 $5,800
Elijah Moore $5,000 $5,300
Isaiah McKenzie $5,000 $6,100
Michael Gallup $5,000 $6,000
Josh Reynolds $4,900 $6,400
Noah Brown $4,900 $5,400
Russell Gage $4,900 $6,200
DJ Chark $4,800 $5,600
Jakobi Meyers $4,800 $6,000
DeVante Parker $4,700 $5,700
Jahan Dotson $4,500 $5,800
Chase Claypool $4,400 $5,600
A.J. Green $4,300 $5,100
George Pickens $4,300 $5,500
Jarvis Landry $4,300 $5,500
Robbie Anderson $4,300 $5,500
K.J. Osborn $4,200 $5,200
Marvin Jones $4,200 $5,200
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,200 $5,400
Breshad Perriman $4,100 $5,200
Donovan Peoples-Jones $4,100 $5,400
Nico Collins $4,100 $5,400
Rondale Moore $4,100 $5,200
Zay Jones $4,100 $5,700
Ben Skowronek $4,000 $5,300
Nelson Agholor $4,000 $5,500
Olamide Zaccheaus $4,000 $5,300
DeAndre Carter $3,900 $5,100
Equanimeous St. Brown $3,900 $5,200
Kyle Phillips $3,900 $5,200
Kalif Raymond $3,700 $5,100
Jamal Agnew $3,600 $5,300
Kendrick Bourne $3,600 $5,200
Tre’Quan Smith $3,500 $4,900
Brandon Powell $3,400 $4,700
Laviska Shenault $3,400 $4,600
David Bell $3,300 $4,800
Marquez Callaway $3,300 $5,100
Van Jefferson $3,200 $5,000
Cedrick Wilson $3,100 $4,800

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – Stefon Diggs and Justin Jefferson have great matchups but high prices. This WR slate is kind of gross, so strongly consider using one of them. You can also save a little money by rolling out Deebo Samuel or A.J. Brown instead. Christian Kirk, Brandin Cooks, and Terry McLaurin are decent WR2 options. At WR3, consider Curtis SamuelRobert WoodsElijah Moore, Josh Reynolds, or DeVonta Smith. There are not a lot of good punt plays this week. If you must go there, use one of the Titans, Jaguars, or Texans’ depth WRs.

Fantasy Four-pack

Justin Jefferson, Vikings vs. CHI
($8,900 DK, $8,800 FD)
Jefferson has scored and/or topped 100 yards in each of his four career matchups against Chicago. This season Chicago hasn’t really been tested. They will be this week.

Stefon Diggs, Bills vs. PIT
($8,400 DK, $8,600 FD)
Diggs leads all WR in TDs and is second in both receiving yards and receptions. This is impressive seeing as how last week he was playing in the remnants of a hurricane. Prior to last week’s meeting with the Jets, the Steelers had allowed the WR1 on their first three opponents to post a combined 26-325-2.

Deebo Samuel, 49ers @ CAR
($7,700 DK, $7,300 FD)
Marquise Brown and Chris Olave have clobbered Carolina over consecutive weeks. This week, they have to deal with the Swiss Army Knife that is Samuel. We know Samuel can score through the air or on the ground. This week, don’t be surprised when he scores both ways. 

A.J. Brown, Eagles @ ARI
($7,500 DK, $8,000 FD) Jalen Hurts
is my favorite QB of Week 5, so his top WR needs to be my favorite stack. Through four weeks, Brown has scored only once, but he is averaging over 100 receiving yards per game. He will do both this week in a shootout.

DFS Sleepers

Curtis Samuel, Commanders vs. TEN
($5,800 DK, $5,800 FD) 
I need to dig somewhere to find a third Samuel to stack with Deebo and Curtis this week. He was dealing with an illness early in the week but should be good to go for Sunday. He could be in for a big day against the Titans’ 29th-ranked pass defense with Jahan Dotson (ankle) unlikely to go.

Robert Woods, Titans @ WAS
($5,200 DK, $5,900 FD
Only one team is allowing more yards to opposing WRs than Washington. With Treylon Burks (toe) doubtful to play, Woods should easily have his best game of the season here. He was the only WR other than Burks to catch a pass last week and already has 36% of the WR receptions on the team.

Tight ends DraftKings FanDuel
George Kittle $5,200 $6,500
T.J. Hockenson $4,900 $7,000
Taysom Hill N/A $6,000
Zach Ertz $4,800 $5,900
Dallas Goedert $4,700 $6,100
Kyle Pitts $4,400 $5,600
Tyler Higbee $4,300 $5,500
Gerald Everett $4,200 $6,300
Pat Freiermuth $4,100 $5,800
David Njoku $3,800 $5,700
Tyler Conklin $3,700 $5,300
Dawson Knox $3,600 $5,000
Mike Gesicki $3,500 $5,000
Cameron Brate $3,400 $4,900
Dalton Schultz  $3,400 $4,800
Will Dissly $3,300 $5,100
Irv Smith $3,200 $4,700
Logan Thomas $3,200 $5,200
Evan Engram $3,100 $4,900
Juwan Johnson $3,000 $4,700
Hunter Henry $2,900 $4,500
Austin Hooper $2,800 $4,500
Noah Fant $2,800 $4,800
Adam Trautman $2,700 $4,500
Jonnu Smith $2,700 $4,400
C.J. Uzomah $2,600 $4,300
O.J. Howard $2,600 $4,500
Brevin Jordan $2,500 $4,300
Colby Parkinson $2,500 $4,500
Jake Ferguson $2,500 $4,400
Jordan Akins $2,500 $4,400
Tommy Tremble $2,500 $4,600

Tight End

Weekly strategy – Most of the top TEs are off of the main slate. Fortunately, the remaining TEs actually have decent matchups. T.J. Hockenson is the best of the best on this board but that FD price is extreme. Zach ErtzTyler Higbee, and Kyle Pitts (hamstring) could be in for decent volume production. Dallas Goedert has a great matchup as well. David Njoku (knee) has also emerged as a weekly reliable option. Cameron Brate (concussion), Logan Thomas, Will Dissly, or one of the Saints are the only punt options.

Fantasy Four-pack

T.J. Hockenson, Lions @ NE
($4,900 DK, $7,000 FD)
With injuries to Detroit’s top two WRs, Hockenson feasted against Seattle to the tune of 8-179-2. If the Lions remain short-handed, expect them to lean on Hockenson once again. This will be a strong game plan since New England has allowed five TE scores over the last three weeks.

Tyler Higbee, Rams vs. DAL
($4,300 DK, $5,500 FD) 
So, Higbee is the real WR2 in Los Angeles this season. If Matthew Stafford doesn’t look at Cooper Kupp, he looks immediately to Higbee. Kupp will have to deal with Trevon Diggs, which should open up another healthy dose of targets for the TE who is leading the league in that category.

Dallas Goedert, Eagles @ ARI
($4,700 DK, $6,100 FD) 
Arizona has given up a ton of yards and points to opposing TEs. Of course, they have also faced three of the best in the league. Goedert is currently fifth at the position in receiving yards, so there is no rest for the weary this week. He will continue his 5-60 production and may even score this week, too.

Zach Ertz, Cardinals vs. PHI
($4,800 DK, $5,900 FD)
This game could be gold for TEs. Consider the Jalen Hurts-A.J. Brown-Dallas Goedert stack, and then run it back with Ertz. Philly has a pair of studs at the outside corners to frustrate the Cardinals’ top outside WRs. This should mean that passes will be funneled to Ertz and Rondale Moore in the middle of the field.

DFS Sleepers

David Njoku, Browns vs. LAC
($3,800 DK, $5,700 FD)
Njoku has been on fire, posting 14-162-1 over the last two weeks. He always had the pedigree to support this level of production, but he never had the chance until now. Expect consistent 6-60 production all season.

Will Dissly, Seahawks @ NOS
($3,300 DK, $5,100 FD
Don’t look now, but Dissly has scored in three of the first four weeks. The Saints are actually posting solid stats against the position, but the only above-average TE they have faced is Kyle Pitts (and it isn’t as if he is being used as a top TE currently).

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 4

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 4 DFS fantasy football

Running back injuries and vultures marred the early slate last week. Khalil Herbert taking over for David Montgomery cost me a ton of cash. I also would like that second touchdown for Dalvin Cook instead of Alexander Mattison. Don’t even get me started on Jamaal Williams and Chase Edmonds. Will Herbert be a must-start this week? Will we see more vultures? Will Justin Fields ever complete more passes than most nine-man high school football teams? Find out this and more below in this week’s DFS Domination.

DFS: The Primetime Slate

Sunday Night

KANSAS CITY @ TAMPA BAY

A lot has changed since Super Bowl LV between these teams. One thing that has not is the QB matchup. Patrick Mahomes (QB1) is seeking revenge for being shut out in that game. Only three of Mahomes’ pass-catchers remain from that game, but Mahomes is still the safest play of the four QBs on this slate.

Tom Brady (QB2) threw for three TDs in that game. Two of those went to Rob Gronkowski and one went to Antonio Brown. My “Magic 8 Ball” says we won’t see either of them this week. We will see a few of Brady’s injured weapons return, though, and that should keep him viable this week after a pair of short-handed games.

It was not a good week on the ground for Clyde Edwards-Helaire (RB3). He did catch five passes and scored a TD, but it was easily his worst game of the year. Running against Tampa is virtually impossible, but this tableau is full of sketchy RB matchups. Historically, Tampa has been generous to pass-catching backs. CEH has a 12-7 target advantage over Jerick McKinnon (RB6) on the year, but it has been 9-3 over the last two games. Consider CEH as an RB2 or McKinnon as a punt-flex.

Leonard Fournette (RB1) is the only player remaining for either team that scored a TD in that Super Bowl. He also is the only RB on this whole slate that I feel comfortable starting. KC has been so-so against the run, and the Chiefs allowed a fair amount of RB receptions, too. His receptions will dip this week with the return of the other weapons, but he still has the highest floor of any RB here.

Skyy Moore (WR19) was supposed to be more involved last week. Don’t you just love coach speak? He gets the lowest rating of any WR, and he is unusable until he sees an offensive target. Fortunately, JuJu Smith-Schuster (WR4) and Marquez Valdes-Scantling (abdomen – WR10) are performing strongly. Smith-Schuster deserves WR2 consideration and MVS can be considered for WR3. Mecole Hardman (WR13) had a down week, but he has provided punt-WR3-level performance all season. He is also the last remaining KC WR from that Super Bowl appearance.

Mike Evans (WR2) will return from his suspension, and Chris Godwin (hamstring – WR6) might return from his injury. This will boost Tom Brady immensely. Julio Jones (PCL – WR8) is also a possible returnee. Evans is an easy WR1, and Godwin would be a WR2, if he plays. I wouldn’t trust Jones yet, though, unless Godwin remains out. Russell Gage (WR7) came up huge against Green Bay. His numbers will drop with the returns, but he is still a safe WR2 play. Breshad Perriman (knee, hamstring – WR11) and Cole Beasley (WR12) are both usable at WR3, but only if both Godwin and Jones don’t play. Jaelon Darden (WR16) should be left to Showdown contests.

This is the slate to consider double-TE or even triple-TE. Travis Kelce (TE1) is the best option. Just get him into your lineup and smile. I’d only consider Noah Gray (TE6) in Showdown.

Cameron Brate (TE4) will see fewer targets now that Tampa is getting their pass-catchers back. He still is a decent flex play if you go multiple-TE.

Monday Night

LOS ANGELES RAMS @ SAN FRANCISCO

Matthew Stafford (QB3) had a rough day versus Arizona. He won’t have it any easier this week. Plus, his price won’t be enough of a discount to pivot to him.

At least Jimmy Garoppolo (QB4) will be priced cheaply enough to consider for punting the position. Unfortunately, he is far and away the least talented QB on this slate and is facing an elite defense.

The Rams are playing musical chairs with their backfield. Darrell Henderson (RB5) led the way in Week 1, but Cam Akers (RB4) has been the more valuable the last two weeks. San Fran is stifling against the run making neither more than a cheap pivot RB2.

San Francisco is treading thin at the RB position. Jeff Wilson (RB2) has performed adequately enough to be the second-safest play on this weak slate. The team also has undrafted rookie Jordan Mason (RB6), but he can be ignored. As always, consider Kyle Juszczyk (RB7) in Showdown.

I predicted the down Week 3 for Cooper Kupp (WR1). He will return to stud-dom this game and is a must-start WR1 on a small slate. Allen Robinson (WR9) has 10 targets over the last two weeks, but his production continues to lack. He is a slightly overpriced WR2 here. With Van Jefferson (knee) out for the next month, Ben Skowronek (WR14) and Brandon Powell (WR15) have at least a bit of value. You can consider one of them at WR3, but I wouldn’t.

Deebo Samuel (WR3) is one of only three WRs that I would consider for WR1. I’d also consider using him at WR2 if you want to go cheaper at RB. Brandon Aiyuk (WR5) is a decent WR2 option as well (at a much cheaper price). Jauan Jennings (WR17) and Ray-Ray McCloud (WR18) are not used enough to be relied upon here.

Tyler Higbee (TE2) remains tied for third in TE targets. I will definitely use him in multiple-TE lineups. Kendall Blanton (TE5) returned to the Rams last week and caught a long pass. He should still be left to Showdown.

George Kittle (TE3) returned last Sunday night and performed adequately, at best. I was expecting more despite this being his first game. Still, you can use him in multiple-TE lineups or as a pivot. His breakout is coming eventually.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Josh Allen ($8.4k), RB Jamaal Williams ($6.1k), RB Dameon Pierce ($5.6k), WR Gabe Davis ($6.6k), WR Devin Duvernay ($4.1k), WR Kendrick Bourne ($3.7k), TE Mark Andrews ($7.1k), FLEX Khalil Herbert ($5.7k), DST Chicago Bears ($2.7k)

FD Lineup: QB Josh Allen ($8.9k), RB Jamaal Williams ($7.4k), RB Dameon Pierce ($6.8k), WR Gabe Davis ($6.5k), WR Amari Cooper ($7.5k), WR Greg Dortch ($5.3k), TE Mark Andrews ($8.4k), FLEX Robert Tonyan ($4.9k), DST Chicago Bears ($4.1k)

FB Lineup: QB Josh Allen ($7.4k), RB Najee Harris ($5.8k), RB Jamaal Williams ($5.3k), WR Stefon Diggs ($7.4k), WR Zay Jones ($4k), WR Kendrick Bourne ($3.5k), TE Mark Andrews ($6.5k), FLEX Dameon Pierce ($5.1k), FLEX Kareem Hunt ($4.8k)

Quarterbacks DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,400 $8,900
Lamar Jackson $8,300 $8,800
Jalen Hurts $8,200 $8,600
Kyler Murray $7,600 $7,800
Justin Herbert $7,100 $8,000
Russell Wilson $6,700 $7,100
Aaron Rodgers $6,300 $7,400
Carson Wentz $6,000 $6,900
Jared Goff $5,900 $7,600
Derek Carr $5,800 $7,200
Trevor Lawrence $5,700 $7,500
Marcus Mariota $5,600 $7,300
Matt Ryan $5,600 $6,700
Jacoby Brissett $5,500 $6,800
Ryan Tannehill $5,500 $6,800
Daniel Jones $5,400 $7,000
Geno Smith $5,400 $6,600
Cooper Rush $5,300 $6,400
Justin Fields $5,300 $6,700
Baker Mayfield $5,200 $6,600
Joe Flacco $5,200 $6,500
Zach Wilson $5,200 $6,500
Brian Hoyer $5,100 $6,300
Mitch Trubisky $5,100 $6,500
Davis Mills $5,000 $6,400

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Jalen Hurts is a decent third option, but there is no “non-weather” reason to avoid using one of Josh Allen or Lamar JacksonJared Goff and Carson Wentz are decent pivots. Also consider using Jacoby BrissettGeno Smith, or Davis Mills as a punt play.

Fantasy Four-pack

Josh Allen, Bills @ BAL
($8,400 DK, $8,900 FD)
Allen is sitting as the top-ranked QB through three weeks. Now, he gets to face the 30th-ranked pass defense in Baltimore. The only thing that could slow this aerial assault is if there are any remnants of Hurricane/Tropical Storm Ian up the coast in Baltimore.

Lamar Jackson, Ravens vs. BUF ($8,300 DK, $8,800 FDIf the weather does become a factor in this game, I give a slight advantage to Jackson, who runs more than Allen. This game has the makings of a scoring fest, so get as many stack legs into this matchup as you can.

Jalen Hurts, Eagles vs. JAX
($8,200 DK, $8,600 FD
Philly is more inland than Baltimore, so if you do decide to pivot due to weather, this game has high point potential, too. That said, I don’t trust Hurts’ arm as much as I trust that of Allen or Jackson. A.J. Brown also missed practice this week due to the birth of his child. They may be off-kilter to start this game. If you stack this one perhaps consider using DeVonta Smith or Dallas Goedert instead.

Aaron Rodgers, Packers vs. NE
($6,300 DK, $7,400 FD)
I don’t love the upper- to midpriced QBs this week. That said, Rodgers seems to be developing a rapport with his receiving corps as Allen Lazard is healthy and Romeo Doubs looks like an impact rookie. The Patriots just was gouged by Lamar Jackson for four TDs last week. At home, Rodgers will throw for at least two.

DFS Sleepers

Jared Goff, Lions vs. SEA
($5,900 DK, $7,600 FD)
  This is perhaps the safest pivot game for stacking if the weather is wreaking havoc across the East Coast. Both teams have many passing-game weapons and questionable pass defenses. Goff’s value slips since Amon-Ra St. Brown (ankle) cannot go, but you can still stack guys like T.J. Hockenson (hip) and D.J. Chark (ankle) with him.

Jacoby Brissett, Browns @ ATL
($5,500 DK, $6,800 FD)
Atlanta just allowed Geno Smith to throw for 325-2. Prior to that, they allowed five passing TDs over the first two games against Matthew Stafford and Jameis Winston. Stafford is the only QB in that group better than Brissett (and you could argue Stafford is not playing up to form yet this year). Brissett isn’t going to light up the box score, but 225-2 with 25-30 rushing yards is certainly in play. Consider stacking him with Amari Cooper or David Njoku to save some money.

Running backs DraftKings FanDuel
Jonathan Taylor $8,800 $8,700
Christian McCaffrey $8,700 $8,800
Derrick Henry $8,300 $8,600
Saquon Barkley $8,000 $8,100
Nick Chubb
$7,900 $9,200
Austin Ekeler $7,700 $8,400
Aaron Jones $7,500 $7,300
Najee Harris $6,700 $7,000
Javonte Williams $6,600 $6,900
Cordarrelle Patterson $6,500 $7,600
James Robinson $6,400 $7,800
James Conner $6,300 $6,800
David Montgomery $6,200 $7,200
Ezekiel Elliott $6,100 $6,400
Jamaal Williams $6,100 $7,400
AJ Dillon $6,000 $6,500
Antonio Gibson $6,000 $6,600
Kareem Hunt $6,000 $6,100
Miles Sanders $6,000 $6,600
Tony Pollard $6,000 $6,000
Devin Singletary $5,900 $6,200
Melvin Gordon $5,800 $6,500
Khalil Herbert $5,700 $7,200
Dameon Pierce $5,600 $6,800
Josh Jacobs $5,500 $6,500
Breece Hall $5,400 $6,300
Travis Etienne $5,400 $5,700
Damien Harris $5,300 $6,200
J.K. Dobbins $5,300 $5,800
Michael Carter $5,200 $5,700
Rhamondre Stevenson $5,200 $5,900
J.D. McKissic $5,100 $5,300
Zack Moss $5,000 $5,200
Kenneth Gainwell $4,900 $5,000
Rashaad Penny $4,900 $6,700
Darrel Williams $4,800 $5,500
Kenneth Walker $4,800 $5,200
Nyheim Hines $4,700 $5,100
Boston Scott $4,600 $4,800
Brandon Bolden $4,500 $4,800
Tyler Allgeier $4,500 $4,800
Eno Benjamin $4,400 $5,600

Running Back

Weekly strategy – The prices continue to go down for Jonathan Taylor (toe) and Christian McCaffrey (thigh). It is hard to not take advantage of it despite their minor injuries. That said, I am spending big at QB and WR, so I may opt for something cheaper here. Austin Ekeler has an easy matchup, but we have to be concerned about his early-season rushing numbers. Najee Harris, Cordarrelle Patterson, and James Robinson all make volume-based pivots. If David Montgomery (ankle) misses this game, Khalil Herbert is a must-start. The same goes for Jamaal Williams if D’Andre Swift (shoulder) is out. Miles Sanders, Antonio Gibson, Kareem Hunt, and Dameon Pierce are my discount RB alternatives to avoid the high ownership of Williams and Herbert. If you choose to punt here, consider Breece Hall or Rashaad Penny.

Fantasy Four-pack

Nick Chubb, Browns @ ATL
($7,900 DK, $9,200 FD)
Chubb leads the league in rushing yards and is tied for the NFL lead in total RB scores. This comes despite him ceding touches to Kareem Hunt. The FD price is too high but under $8k on DK is hard to pass.

Jonathan Taylor, Colts vs TEN
($8,800 DK, $8,700 FD
Taylor missed some practice this week due to a toe issue, but he is good to go. He has posted a pair of stinkers after decimating Houston in Week 1. He will get his groove back here, at a discounted price.

Christian McCaffrey, Panthers vs. ARI ($8,700 DK, $8,800 FDMcCaffrey also missed practice this week due to a thigh problem. Considering his history of leg injuries, this gives me cause to worry. Thankfully, he is also priced lower than usual. Arizona has allowed four total running back TDs. McCaffrey will get back into the end zone this week … I’d just prefer we saw more passes in his direction.

Austin Ekeler, Chargers @ HOU
($7,700 DK, $8,400 FD)
Ekeler’s rushing effectiveness this season has left us scratching our heads as if we had horrible scalp psoriasis. Fortunately, he has feasted in the passing game. Houston has allowed a league-worst 190 combo yards per game to opposing RBs. If Ekeler can’t get it going on the ground this week, he might not all year.

DFS Sleepers

Dameon Pierce, Texans vs. LAC
($5,600 DK, $6,800 FD)
The DFS sites have updated everyone’s salary except for Dameon Pierce. Someone needs to tell them that he has the 15th-most rushing yards despite playing sparingly in Week 1. They also can be told that the Chargers are allowing an average of 147 combo yards and a total score per week to opposing backs.

Breece Hall, Jets @ PIT
($5,400 DK, $6,300 FD)
Hall has been a PPR beast over the first three weeks. It remains to be seen if the QB change will affect this usage. My money is on Hall remaining an asset. I’d just like to see Michael Carter out of the picture.

Wide receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Stefon Diggs $8,400 $8,700
Davante Adams $8,300 $7,900
Amon-Ra St. Brown $7,700 $8,000
A.J. Brown $7,400 $8,300
Michael Pittman $7,200 $7,500
Mike Williams $7,000 $7,200
Marquise Brown $6,900 $7,700
DK Metcalf $6,800 $7,100
CeeDee Lamb $6,700 $6,800
Christian Kirk $6,600 $7,600
Gabe Davis $6,600 $6,500
Keenan Allen $6,500 $7,300
Terry McLaurin $6,500 $6,700
Courtland Sutton $6,400 $6,800
Amari Cooper $6,300 $7,500
Allen Lazard $6,200 $6,000
Drake London $6,100 $6,300
Diontae Johnson $6,000 $7,000
Tyler Lockett $5,900 $6,900
Brandin Cooks $5,800 $6,400
DeVonta Smith $5,800 $6,900
Curtis Samuel $5,700 $6,200
Rashod Bateman $5,600 $6,600
Jerry Jeudy $5,500 $6,500
Garrett Wilson $5,400 $6,100
DJ Moore $5,300 $6,100
Hunter Renfrow $5,300 $5,600
Robert Woods $5,200 $5,800
Isaiah McKenzie $5,100 $5,900
Michael Gallup $5,100 $6,000
Darnell Mooney $5,000 $5,800
DJ Chark $5,000 $5,700
Greg Dortch $5,000 $5,300
Joshua Palmer $5,000 $5,800
Noah Brown $4,900 $5,600
Elijah Moore $4,800 $5,600
Jakobi Meyers $4,800 $6,000
Chase Claypool $4,700 $5,700
Robbie Anderson $4,700 $5,700
Treylon Burks $4,700 $5,700
DeVante Parker $4,600 $5,700
Josh Reynolds $4,600 $5,900
Corey Davis $4,500 $5,600
Romeo Doubs $4,500 $5,900
Jahan Dotson $4,300 $5,700
Marvin Jones $4,300 $5,400
Equanimeous St. Brown $4,200 $5,400
Mack Hollins $4,200 $5,800
Zay Jones $4,200 $5,900
A.J. Green $4,100 $5,200
Devin Duvernay $4,100 $5,700
Kadarius Toney $4,100 $5,000
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,100 $5,200
Olamide Zaccheaus $4,100 $5,300
DeAndre Carter $4,000 $5,200
Donovan Peoples-Jones $4,000 $5,400
Nico Collins $4,000 $5,300
Randall Cobb $4,000 $5,200
Richie James $4,000 $5,500
Alec Pierce $3,900 $5,100
KJ Hamler $3,900 $5,500
Kyle Phillips $3,900 $5,000
Nelson Agholor $3,900 $5,600
George Pickens $3,800 $5,100
Rondale Moore $3,800 $5,000
Christian Watson $3,700 $5,300
Kendrick Bourne $3,700 $5,200
Ashton Dulin $3,500 $5,200
Chris Moore $3,500 $5,400
Laviska Shenault $3,500 $4,600
Quez Watkins $3,500 $5,000
Byron Pringle $3,400 $5,000
Demarcus Robinson $3,400 $4,800
Parris Campbell $3,400 $4,800
Wan’Dale Robinson $3,400 $4,800

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – If there was a way to do it, I would stack Josh Allen with both Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis. Unfortunately, I know that is nearly impossible. I will have one of them in every lineup. The other high-priced WRs have solid but not spectacular matchups or some other concern. At WR2 consider Tyler Lockett, Amari Cooper, DeVonta Smith, or Brandin CooksCurtis Samuel can also be considered, although his price is starting to reach that shady territory. Isaiah McKenzie, Greg Dortch (back)Zay Jones (ankle)Devin Duvernay, Laviska Shenault (hamstring), and the Patriots’ WRs (if Brian Hoyer starts) are the best WR3 choices.

Fantasy three-pack

Stefon Diggs, Bills @ BAL
($8,400 DK, $8,700 FD)
Stefon Diggs leads the league in receiving yards and receiving TDs. He also is only one reception behind the league leader. The weather may take away some of the deep passing in this game, but Diggs can run the middle routes with the best of them, so 12-150-2 is certainly a possibility.

A.J. Brown, Eagles vs. JAX
($7,400 DK, $8,300 FD)
I am slightly concerned about Brown missing practice this week due to the birth of his child. Still, he is an elite-level talent facing an improving but still young defense in a shootout. If you have concerns about his absences, consider rolling with DeVonta Smith instead.

Davante Adams, Raiders vs. DEN
($8,300 DK, $7,900 FD) 
Adams cannot possibly continue this lack of production. He is still getting targeted, ranking third in that category. He also has scored in every game. The receptions and yardage will come here even against a tough defense. 

DFS Sleepers

Tyler Lockett, Seahawks @ DET
($5,900 DK, $6,900 FD) 
Jeff Okudah has done a remarkable job of shutting down opposing WR1s this year. The problem is that his DB running mates have more holes in their coverage than a colander. Okudah will shadow DK Metcalf this week, providing Lockett the chance to go off. He netted nine catches on 11 targets each of the last two weeks. Expect a similar line here.

Brandin Cooks, Texans vs. LAC
($5,800 DK, $6,400 FD)
Cooks has been Mr. Consistent his entire career. Unfortunately, he is off to a slow start in 2022. The Chargers have allowed the fifth-most WR receptions and TDs to five different WRs already. So, Cooks will finally get in gear this week.

Tight ends DraftKings FanDuel
Mark Andrews $7,100 $8,400
Darren Waller $5,600 $6,500
Kyle Pitts $5,000 $6,100
Zach Ertz $4,700 $5,500
Dallas Goedert $4,500 $6,200
Pat Freiermuth $4,200 $5,600
T.J. Hockenson $4,100 $5,400
Gerald Everett $4,000 $5,500
Dalton Schultz $3,900 $5,300
Dawson Knox $3,800 $5,000
David Njoku $3,700 $5,700
Tyler Conklin $3,600 $5,400
Robert Tonyan $3,500 $4,900
Evan Engram $3,400 $5,000
Albert Okwuegbunam $3,300 $4,900
Logan Thomas $3,300 $5,100
Cole Kmet $3,200 $4,700
Will Dissly $3,200 $4,800
Austin Hooper $3,100 $4,600
Noah Fant $3,100 $4,800
Foster Moreau $3,000 $4,600
Geoff Swaim $3,000 $4,700
Harrison Bryant $2,900 $4,600
Hunter Henry $2,900 $4,600
Jonnu Smith $2,900 $4,600
Daniel Bellinger $2,800 $4,600
O.J. Howard $2,700 $4,500
C.J. Uzomah $2,600 $4,400
Jelani Woods $2,600 $4,500
Brevin Jordan $2,500 $4,400
Jake Ferguson $2,500 $4,600
Jordan Akins $2,500 $4,500
Kylen Granson $2,500 $4,500
Peyton Hendershot $2,500 $4,100

Tight End

Weekly strategy – Mark Andrews is expensive. He is also the undisputed top option of the week. If you don’t use him, consider Pat Freiermuth or T.J. Hockenson. On DK, consider using David Njoku (knee)Robert Tonyan, or Evan Engram as a punt option, but limit your exposure to them on FD due to the price difference. If you use a punt-QB lineup with Geno Smith or Ryan Tannehill, then Austin Hooper (neck) or Will Dissly can both be on the menu, too, in stacks.

Fantasy Four-pack

Mark Andrews, Ravens vs. BUF
($7,100 DK, $8,400 FD)
In a game that is expected to be the highest point total, you want all of the top scoring options active. None are safer than Andrews, who will score at least twice against this short-handed secondary.

Darren Waller, Raiders vs. DEN
($5,600 DK, $6,500 FD)
Waller didn’t do as much last week as I would’ve liked with Hunter Renfrow out. Renfrow remains in the concussion protocol, so he may miss another contest here. Denver’s defense’s biggest weakness might be against this position, so Vegas should attack them with Waller here.

Kyle Pitts, Falcons vs. CLE
($5,000 DK, $6,100 FD)
We finally saw the real Pitts last week. Despite the abysmal start, Pitts still finds himself eleventh in TE receiving yards. That ranking will continue to rise here in a sneaky shootout.

T.J. Hockenson, Lions vs. SEA
($4,100 DK, $5,400 FD)
Only seven teams have allowed more TE receiving yards than Seattle. Meanwhile, Hockenson has started the season slowly, but he did score last week. With Amon-Ra St. Brown missing this game, Hockenson will be the red zone beneficiary and score again.

DFS Sleepers

David Njoku, Browns @ ATL
($3,700 DK, $5,700 FD)
We have predicted the Njoku breakout for it seems like a decade. Little did we know it would take Jacoby freaking Brissett to unlock the huge tight end. The Falcons have allowed an average of 6.3-74 to the position. That should be considered Njoku’s floor as long as his knee doesn’t limit him.

Evan Engram, Jaguars @ PHI
($3,400 DK, $5,000 FD)
Philly’s exterior secondary may be the best in football. Unfortunately, their underneath coverage has been sloppy, at best. Engram hasn’t done much this year, but Jacksonville will deploy him frequently this week as their outside receivers are swallowed up by James Bradberry and Darius Slay. Engram has familiarity with Philly from his time with New York. In six career games against them, he has topped five receptions and/or scored four times.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 3

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 2 DFS fantasy football

Week 2 witnessed some slate-breaking performances by cheap QBs and some heart-breaking performances by expensive RBs. Will we see more of the same this week or will we finally see the first sense of normalcy in 2022?

DFS: The Primetime Slate

Sunday Night

SAN FRANCISCO @ DENVER

When the NFL made their schedule, I doubt they planned on Jimmy Garoppolo (QB2) being the second-best option on this slate. Even then, it isn’t a great matchup as San Fran is still run-first and Denver has a great pass defense, though injuries could play a role.

Russell Wilson (QB1) is the top option here. Still, this matchup isn’t great either, and Wilson has struggled to start the season as his WR corps is plastered with injuries. I may end up fading him due to his price.

Injuries have promoted Jeff Wilson (RB3) to RB1 in San Fran on the depth chart. Of course, we all know that Deebo Samuel is likely to finish with just as strong of a line, just not qualifying at the position. I don’t mind using Wilson at RB2/flex. I also don’t hate Kyle Juszcyzk (RB7) as a punt play or on Showdown.

Javonte Williams (RB2) once again split touches evenly with Melvin Gordon (RB6) despite the clear difference in talent. San Francisco is elite against the run, so I cannot recommend either of them highly here.

Deebo Samuel (WR1) is the strongest WR play on this slate (and arguably the strongest RB play as well). He needs to be in your lineup. Brandon Aiyuk (WR5) has a rough matchup here, but I’d consider him at WR3 (if you don’t use Samuel). Both Jauan Jennings (WR13) and Ray-Ray McCloud (WR14) have dart-throw WR3/flex values at a minimum cost. I especially like Jennings in Showdown.

The injuries continue to mount for Denver. Jerry Jeudy (ribs, WR6) joins KJ Hamler (knee, WR10) and out-for-the-year Tim Patrick as WRs to spend time on the trainer’s table this season. Either Jeudy or Hamler could be a WR3 option if they play, but I’d be scared to trust either of them. Courtland Sutton (WR2), on the other hand, is a strong play with the Broncos being shorthanded. I’d even consider Montrell Washington (WR11) as a WR3 option if both Hamler and Jeudy are out.

We may finally see George Kittle (groin, TE1) this week. His presence on the field would make Garoppolo’s day easier. If he is out again, do not consider Ross Dwelley (TE5) or Tyler Kroft (TE6). They are not reliable enough.

Albert Okwuegbunam (TE3) could have value if the Denver WRs remain out. He also could be ignored by his QB like in Week 2. If you choose to do a double-TE lineup consider him here.

Monday Night

DALLAS @ NEW YORK GIANTS

Cooper Rush (QB3) actually looked serviceable in Week 2. He has the softest matchup on the board, and, based on his price, I will definitely give him some ownership.

Meanwhile, Daniel Jones (QB4) is not very good, and he is facing a better-than-I-expected Dallas defense. He also has the worst collection of pass-catchers on the board. Ignore him completely.

Ezekiel Elliott (RB4) and Tony Pollard (RB5) split the workload for a second-straight week. Elliott is getting more carries, and Pollard is getting more receptions. This game will be more run-forward for Dallas, so I prefer Elliott. Still, they are both options at RB2 on a small slate.

This is the only spot I will recommend using a Giant. Saquon Barkley (RB1) is the best RB on the slate, and it isn’t particularly close. Much like Samuel above, Barkley should be 100 percent owned.

Considering their synergy, I love Noah Brown (WR4) as a stack with Cooper Rush. CeeDee Lamb (WR3) is a more-talented receiver, but Brown has been more valuable to start the season. Brown’s value will slide some as Michael Gallup (knee, WR8) returns as expected. I’d only consider Gallup at WR3 as he is expected to be on a snap count. Don’t bother with any of the other depth WRs for Dallas.

When you look at the Giants’ WR room, all I can think is “yuck!” Sterling Shepard (WR7) and Richie James (WR9) only rank this high because the whole slate is devoid of talent. One of them could be your WR3, at best. Kadarius Toney (WR12) was active last week, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at the box score. Wan’Dale Robinson (WR15) actually looks like an intriguing dynasty piece, but he has been battling injury. Don’t use him or any of the other chaff here this week.

Dalton Schultz (knee, TE2) isn’t a bad third-leg to a stack with Rush and either Brown or Lamb. I could even see doing a double-TE lineup with him and Kittle. Just confirm his status before putting him into your lineup. None of the backup TEs have any value, even if Schultz is out.

Daniel Bellinger (TE4) caught a TD in Week 2. It was also his only catch and only target. This does not bring me joy.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Jalen Hurts ($7.6k), RB Dalvin Cook ($7.9k), RB David Montgomery ($5.9k), WR A.J. Brown ($7.3k), WR Curtis Samuel ($5.1k), WR Mack Hollins ($3.3k), TE Dallas Goedert ($4.7k), FLEX Dameon Pierce ($5k), DST Baltimore Ravens ($3k)

FD Lineup: QB Jared Goff ($7.1k), RB Dalvin Cook ($8.3k), RB David Montgomery ($7.1k), WR Justin Jefferson ($9.5k), WR Amon-Ra St. Brown ($7.8k), WR DeVonta Smith ($6k), TE Zach Ertz ($5.2k), FLEX Dameon Pierce ($5.8k), DST Jacksonville Jaguars ($3.2k)

FB Lineup: QB Jared Goff ($5.7k), RB Joe Mixon ($6.7k), RB David Montgomery ($5.4k), WR Justin Jefferson ($7.6k), WR Amon-Ra St. Brown ($6.6k), WR Curtis Samuel ($4.8k), TE Logan Thomas ($3.3k), FLEX Dameon Pierce ($4.3k), FLEX DeVonta Smith ($4.9k)

Quarterbacks DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,200 $9,000
Lamar Jackson $8,000 $8,600
Patrick Mahomes $7,900 $8,700
Jalen Hurts $7,600 $8,100
Justin Herbert $7,400 $8,200
Kyler Murray $7,300 $7,800
Kirk Cousins $6,700 $7,600
Joe Burrow $6,600 $7,500
Matthew Stafford $6,500 $7,700
Aaron Rodgers $6,400 $7,400
Carson Wentz $6,300 $7,500
Tua Tagovailoa $6,100 $7,300
Tom Brady $6,000 $7,400
Derek Carr $5,900 $7,100
Jared Goff $5,800 $7,100
Ryan Tannehill $5,700 $7,200
Justin Fields $5,600 $7,000
Marcus Mariota $5,500 $7,300
Trevor Lawrence $5,400 $7,000
Joe Flacco $5,300 $6,800
Baker Mayfield $5,200 $6,600
Jameis Winston $5,200 $6,900
Matt Ryan $5,200 $6,700
Mac Jones $5,100 $6,400
Chase Daniel $5,000 $6,500
Davis Mills $5,000 $6,400
Geno Smith $5,000 $6,300
Taysom Hill $4,900 n/a

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts are the two safest high-priced options. Kirk Cousins and Joe Burrow are cheaper pivots that will return better production than they did last week. Of that foursome, Hurts will be my first choice. If I go cheaper, it will be with Jared Goff or Trevor Lawrence. The FD pricing structure does not encourage punting this position, but on DK consider Davis Mills or Matt Ryan if you are feeling a little froggy.

Fantasy Four-pack

Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs @ IND
($7,900 DK, $8,700 FD)
The Colts are starting the season looking like a gimpy animal and Mahomes and the Chiefs are coming to Indy to send them to the 2022 glue factory. A healthy Michael Pittman would help keep the Colts in the race until the homestretch, but ultimately Mahomes and his paddock-mates will pull away. Nevertheless, consider running it back with Pittman here if he plays.

Jalen Hurts, Eagles @ WAS ($7,600 DK, $8,100 FDI will eat crow on Hurts. The addition of superstar A.J. Brown has made this offense impossible to defend. Washington allowed Jared Goff to throw for four scores, and he presented no rushing threat. Expect Hurts to manufacture a total of three scores here.

Josh Allen, Bills @ MIA
($8,200 DK, $9,000 FD
Allen has 25 total TDs in eight career matchups against Miami. Unfortunately, he has topped 260 passing yards against them only once. Basically, Miami frustrates him through the air, but then he still gets it done on the ground as is witnessed by his 7-1 record against them. What this means is expect a solid floor day of 250-2, 40-1, which is solid but not spectacular by his lofty standards.

Kirk Cousins, Vikings vs. DET
($6,700 DK, $7,600 FD)
I love how recency bias can sway ownership figures in DFS. Cousins looked lost last week in Philly. Fast-forward to this Sunday, Minnesota will be at home and the game will not be in primetime (where Cousins has historically struggled). I expect that he will have low ownership numbers this week. Meanwhile, I’ll be happy to stack him and Justin Jefferson against a Detroit secondary that has allowed the fifth-most passing yards in an expected shootout.

DFS Sleepers

Jared Goff, Lions @ MIN
($5,800 DK, $7,100 FD)
The other side of this shootout is led by Goff. Minnesota has actually allowed more passing yards than Detroit. If you want less expensive access to this game, stack Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown and then run it back with Adam Thielen or Irv Smith

Derek Carr, Raiders @ TEN
($5,900 DK, $7,100 FD)
Tennessee will still be shellshocked from facing the Bills and Stefon Diggs. Now they have to contend with Carr and Davante Adams. Expect that pair to score twice against this soft secondary, and then hopefully Carr can add another score elsewhere.

Running backs DraftKings FanDuel
Jonathan Taylor $9,000 $9,400
Christian McCaffrey $8,800 $8,500
Derrick Henry $8,100 $8,800
Austin Ekeler $8,000 $8,700
Dalvin Cook
$7,900 $8,300
Saquon Barkley $7,800 $8,500
Joe Mixon $7,600 $8,200
Aaron Jones $7,400 $7,000
D’Andre Swift $7,200 $8,000
Alvin Kamara $7,000 $7,000
Leonard Fournette $6,500 $7,200
Antonio Gibson $6,400 $6,700
Clyde Edwards-Helaire $6,300 $7,300
James Conner $6,200 $7,100
James Robinson $6,100 $6,600
AJ Dillon $6,000 $6,900
David Montgomery $5,900 $7,100
Cordarrelle Patterson $5,800 $7,600
Darrell Henderson $5,700 $6,300
Damien Harris $5,600 $6,400
Devin Singletary $5,600 $6,100
Cam Akers $5,500 $5,800
Mark Ingram $5,500 $5,700
Miles Sanders $5,500 $6,800
Jamaal Williams $5,400 $6,500
Josh Jacobs $5,400 $6,500
Travis Etienne $5,400 $5,600
Breece Hall $5,300 $6,200
J.D. McKissic $5,300 $5,300
J.K. Dobbins $5,300 $6,000
Khalil Herbert $5,200 $6,000
Michael Carter $5,200 $5,900
Chase Edmonds $5,100 $5,700
Darrel Williams $5,100 $4,900
Dontrell Hilliard $5,100 $6,200
Dameon Pierce $5,000 $5,800
Kenneth Gainwell $5,000 $5,900
Kenneth Walker $5,000 $5,200
Nyheim Hines $5,000 $5,100
Rashaad Penny $4,900 $6,200
Rex Burkhead $4,900 $5,200
Kenyan Drake $4,800 $5,500
Rhamondre Stevenson $4,800 $5,400
Zack Moss $4,800 $5,500
Boston Scott $4,700 $5,800
Eno Benjamin $4,700 $5,000
Gus Edwards $4,700 $5,000
Jerick McKinnon $4,500 $5,000
Raheem Mostert $4,500 $5,500
Tyler Allgeier $4,400 $4,800
Zander Horvath $4,000 $4,600

Running Back

Weekly strategy – Christian McCaffrey and Dalvin Cook are primed to finally break out this week. Use one of them or Joe Mixon at RB1. If you spend up for RB2, go with David Montgomery. He is my favorite value RB play of the week. Heck, he could also be your RB1 if you want to spend big at WR. Josh Jacobs and Dameon Pierce are volume-based punt options here. Unfortunately, most of the cheaper options need to be avoided this week.

Fantasy Four-pack

Dalvin Cook, Vikings vs. DET
($7,900 DK, $8,300 FD)
Following an embarrassing defeat Monday night, coach Kevin O’Connell made it clear that the team had to get Cook more involved in the offense. That will start here against a Detroit defense that has already allowed four rushing TDs and the sixth-most RB receptions.

Joe Mixon, Bengals @ NYJ
($7,600 DK, $8,200 FD)
Mixon underperformed in Week 2, but he is a true bell cow for Cincinnati. He will score this week as the Jets have allowed three TDs to RBs so far. He may even score twice. 

Christian McCaffrey, Panthers vs. NO
($8,800 DK, $8,500 FD)
McCaffrey has never posted a huge rushing number against New Orleans, but he has always feasted against them through the air. On a week where there are more questions than answers at RB, go with the safe option, especially with his salary this low.

Jonathan Taylor, Colts vs. KC
($9,000 DK, $9,400 FD)
I always love deploying Taylor when his price dips below $10k. A returning Michael Pittman would mean that Taylor will have more room to operate. Still, to keep this close, he will need to be targeted like Week 1 and not Week 2 since KC has allowed the most receptions to the position. 

DFS Sleepers

David Montgomery, Bears vs. HOU
($5,900 DK, $7,100 FD)
Montgomery has been the only sign of life on this Bears offense. In Week 2, he averaged more than 8 YPC while gouging a Green Bay defense. Meanwhile, Houston has allowed a league-worst 367 combo yards to opposing RBs. Consider the game stack of both Montgomery and Dameon Pierce to give you big money to blow at WR.

Dameon Pierce, Texans @ CHI
($5,000 DK, $5,800 FD)
Pierce is cheap for one more week and Week 2 proved that Houston will feed him the rock. In fact, Pierce was the only RB to get a carry. The Bears have allowed 128 RB rushing yards per game. I’ll take that from the rookie.

Wide receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Cooper Kupp $9,900 $9,800
Justin Jefferson $9,300 $9,500
Davante Adams $8,400 $8,700
Ja’Marr Chase $8,100 $8,500
Stefon Diggs $7,700 $8,300
Tyreek Hill $7,600 $8,400
A.J. Brown $7,300 $8,000
Amon-Ra St. Brown $7,200 $7,800
Michael Pittman $6,900 $7,400
Jaylen Waddle $6,800 $7,500
Mike Williams $6,700 $7,000
Mike Evans $6,600 $7,700
Keenan Allen $6,500 $7,500
Terry McLaurin $6,400 $6,900
Gabe Davis $6,300 $7,200
Chris Godwin $6,200 $6,500
Christian Kirk $6,200 $7,100
DK Metcalf $6,100 $6,700
Tee Higgins $6,100 $7,300
Allen Lazard $6,000 $6,000
Marquise Brown $6,000 $7,000
Adam Thielen $5,900 $6,000
Michael Thomas $5,900 $7,300
Brandin Cooks $5,800 $6,600
Drake London $5,800 $6,200
Tyler Lockett $5,800 $6,600
Allen Robinson $5,700 $6,000
Rashod Bateman $5,700 $6,800
DJ Moore $5,600 $6,400
Julio Jones $5,600 $5,800
Hunter Renfrow $5,500 $5,800
JuJu Smith-Schuster $5,500 $6,100
Garrett Wilson $5,400 $6,100
Darnell Mooney $5,300 $6,300
DeVonta Smith $5,200 $6,000
Tyler Boyd $5,200 $5,900
Curtis Samuel $5,100 $6,300
DJ Chark $5,100 $5,500
Elijah Moore $5,000 $5,500
Jakobi Meyers $5,000 $6,200
Robbie Anderson $5,000 $5,700
Robert Woods $5,000 $5,700
Corey Davis $4,900 $5,800
K.J. Osborn $4,900 $5,500
Treylon Burks $4,900 $5,900
Jarvis Landry $4,800 $5,900
Joshua Palmer $4,800 $5,600
Isaiah McKenzie $4,700 $5,500
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $4,700 $5,600
Russell Gage $4,700 $5,700
Jahan Dotson $4,600 $6,000
Mecole Hardman $4,600 $5,800
Chris Olave $4,500 $5,500
Josh Reynolds $4,500 $5,300
Jamison Crowder $4,400 $5,400
Sammy Watkins $4,400 $5,400
Greg Dortch $4,300 $5,100
Olamide Zaccheaus $4,300 $5,100
DeAndre Carter $4,200 $5,300
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,200 $5,300
Nelson Agholor $4,100 $5,900
DeVante Parker $4,000 $5,200
Kyle Phillips $4,000 $5,500
Nico Collins $4,000 $5,400
Zay Jones $4,000 $5,400
Ashton Dulin $3,900 $5,600
Breshad Perriman $3,900 $5,300
Equanimeous St. Brown $3,900 $5,500
Randall Cobb $3,900 $5,000
Romeo Doubs $3,800 $5,300
Scotty Miller $3,800 $5,000
Christian Watson $3,600 $5,600
Rondale Moore $3,600 $5,000
Alec Pierce $3,500 $4,600
Van Jefferson $3,500 $5,000
Ben Skowronek $3,400 $4,900
Demarcus Robinson $3,400 $5,200
Parris Campbell $3,400 $4,900
Mack Hollins $3,300 $5,300

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – Justin Jefferson, A.J. Brown, Davante AdamsAmon-Ra St. Brown, and Stefon Diggs are my favorite options this week. Stack them with their respective QBs. I would even recommend rostering two of them. Tee Higgins, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Brandin Cooks, Christian Kirk, and Drake London are my money-saving WR2 pivots. For WR3, consider Allen Lazard, Garrett Wilson, and Curtis Samuel. If injuries remain for Indy or Vegas, consider punting with Ashton Dulin or Mack Hollins.

Fantasy Four-pack

Justin Jefferson, Vikings vs. DET
($9,300 DK, $9,500 FD)
Detroit has allowed an average of 7-115 to WR1. Meanwhile, Jefferson has had one monster and one so-so game. Still, he has more targets than the rest of the Vikings’ WRs combined. 10-130-1 is a safe figure here as this will be a shootout.

Davante Adams, Raiders @ TEN
($8,400 DK, $8,700 FD)
Arizona stifled Adams last week, but Tennessee will have no chance here. Stefon Diggs absolutely reamed the Titans, and they even made the Giants’ WR room look fantasy-relevant. If Hunter Renfrow (concussion) misses this game, Adams and Mack Hollins will see even more targets making them a great three-legged stack with Derek Carr.

Stefon Diggs, Bills @ MIA
($7,700 DK, $8,300 FD)
Diggs has scored a TD in three of four games against Miami since joining the Bills. Unfortunately, his reception and yardage numbers haven’t been huge. Still, the absence of Gabriel Davis (ankle) last week, forced even more targets than usual towards Diggs. If Davis is out again, expect a huge game; otherwise, just expect a big game. 

Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions @ MIN
($7,200 DK, $7,800 FD)
St. Brown has beasted to start the season. Now, he gets to assault a Minnesota secondary that has already watched multiple WRs scorch their cornerbacks. Plus, Minnesota may be without its top safety. Stack heavily in this game on both sides of the ball.

DFS Sleepers

Garrett Wilson, Jets vs. CIN
($5,400 DK, $6,100 FD)
Wilson looks like this season’s Ja’Marr Chase. I am kicking myself that I don’t have more dynasty exposure to him. Fortunately, I can play him all that I want on DFS. Cincy should win this game, but Joe Flacco and Wilson could have value as a punt stack as the Jets are forced to throw to stay in this one.

Curtis Samuel, Commanders vs. PHI
($5,100 DK, $6,300 FD)
Until the sites put some respect on Samuel with appropriate pricing, I will keep rolling him out. Philly has two top cornerbacks, but I presume they will be guarding Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson, leaving Samuel to operate underneath and out of the backfield. Lean heavily on the Jalen Hurts-led Eagles’ stacks, using Samuel as a great run-it-back option.

Tight ends DraftKings FanDuel
Travis Kelce $7,900 $7,800
Mark Andrews $6,900 $7,700
Darren Waller $5,800 $6,400
Taysom Hill n/a $6,000
Kyle Pitts $4,800 $5,600
Dallas Goedert $4,700 $5,500
Zach Ertz $4,600 $5,200
Tyler Higbee $4,500 $5,700
Gerald Everett $4,400 $5,800
Mike Gesicki $4,300 $5,400
T.J. Hockenson $4,200 $5,500
Dawson Knox $4,100 $5,300
Hayden Hurst $3,900 $5,100
Tyler Conklin $3,800 $5,200
Evan Engram $3,700 $5,200
Robert Tonyan $3,700 $4,800
Cameron Brate $3,600 $4,600
Noah Fant $3,600 $4,800
Logan Thomas $3,500 $5,400
Cole Kmet $3,400 $5,000
Austin Hooper $3,300 $4,900
Hunter Henry $3,200 $4,800
Irv Smith $3,400 $5,000
Mo Alie-Cox $3,000 $4,600
Juwan Johnson $2,900 $4,800
C.J. Uzomah $2,800 $4,500
Ian Thomas $2,800 $4,600
Isaiah Likely $2,800 $4,500
Will Dissly $2,800 $4,500
Adam Trautman $2,700 $4,500
Kylen Granson $2,700 $4,700
O.J. Howard $2,700 $4,700

Tight End

Weekly strategy – Travis Kelce has a super matchup. He should be the clear TE1 this week. If I pay down at WR2, he will be mine. I don’t mind Darren Waller if Hunter Renfrow is out. The same goes for Gerald Everett if Keenan Allen is out. Also consider Dallas Goedert, Tyler Higbee, or Zach Ertz as they have solid matchups. As usual, FD TE pricing is too high at the punt level. So, if you want to punt, use Juwan Johnson, Logan Thomas, or Hayden Hurst on DK only.

Fantasy Four-pack

Travis Kelce, Chiefs @ IND
($7,900 DK, $7,800 FD)
Indy allowed a big production day to Evan Engram and, in Week 1, gave up two TDs to O.J. Howard. If these two ham-and-eggers can get it done against Indy, what are they gonna do to stop Kelce? We might see 10-125-2 here. If I don’t spend up at WR2, he will be my TE.

Darren Waller, Raiders @ TEN
($5,800 DK, $6,400 FD) 
If Hunter Renfrow misses this game with his concussion, Waller will see a heavy target volume. Otherwise, I will probably fade him at this price.

Tyler Higbee, Rams @ ARI
($4,500 DK, $5,700 FD)
A couple of years back, we regularly attacked a bad Arizona defense against TEs. They improved last season but appear to have fallen apart again. To Arizona’s credit, its opposition has been the best of the best the first two weeks. Still, Higbee may start getting mentioned in that company if he continues to lead the league in TE targets. 

Zach Ertz, Cardinals vs. LAR
($4,700 DK, $5,700 FD)
Ertz showed last week that he was fully healthy as he led the Cardinals in targets, receptions, and receiving yards. With continued absences among the Cards’ WRs, expect Ertz to post big numbers repeatedly.

DFS Sleepers

Hayden Hurst, Bengals @ NYJ
($3,900 DK, $5,100 FD)
Hurst remains a great punt option, especially stacked with Joe Burrow and one of his WRs. The Jets have allowed the eighth-most yards to the position, so he should have a safe 3x floor on DK.

Juwan Johnson, Saints @ CAR
($2,900 DK, $4,800 FD)
For two straight games, Johnson has finished third on the Saints in targets. It won’t take much to reach 3x on DK.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 2

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 2 DFS fantasy football

After a crazy Week 1 of the fantasy football season — highlighted by some dominating plays (Jonathan Taylor, Justin Jefferson, Patrick Mahomes, Carson Wentz, and Curtis Samuel) and some milk cartons (Mike Williams, Austin Hooper, DeVonta Smith, Alvin Kamara, and Cole Kmet) — I am pumped to go back for seconds this weekend. So, let’s get down to it, starting with a triple-dose of Primetime DFS.

DFS: The Primetime Slate

Sunday Night

CHICAGO @ GREEN BAY

We didn’t get a true read on Justin Fields (QB6) last week thanks to a monsoon. Still, we know his weapons, or lack thereof. The best I can afford him is an outside shot at QB5 if Ryan Tannehill struggles.

Aaron Rodgers (QB4) also struggled last week due to a lack of weapons. If he can get one (or both) of his tackles and top WR, Allen Lazard, back he should make a jump in the right direction. If not, he might spend a lot of time on his back once again.

David Montgomery (RB4) failed to take advantage of the bad weather conditions. He also ceded a score to backup Khalil Herbert (RB10). Fortunately, Montgomery out-touched Herbert 2-1, so there isn’t really a controversy here yet. Green Bay was ground down but that was due to falling behind early. That won’t happen this week. So, don’t assume this is an easy 100-yard day for Montgomery.

A.J. Dillon (RB5) out-touched Aaron Jones (RB3) nearly 2-to-1. He also scored the only TD among the pair. That said, Jones averaged nearly 10 YPC while Dillon finished at 4.5 YPC. The game script should be much different this week for Green Bay. This will put both of these two in play at RB2. I prefer Jones, since we should see more carries than receptions this week.

Chicago’s WR corps was more like a corps(e) Week 1. The weather didn’t help things, but no WR saw more than three targets and none caught more than one pass. Darnell Mooney (WR6) should show out this week as Green Bay’s secondary looks overhyped. Equanimeous St. Brown (WR17) scored last week and gets the revenge game here. Consider him as a WR3/flex play. Byron Pringle (WR20) has more talent than St. Brown, but he and Dante Pettis (WR22) should remain bench-bound.

Allen Lazard (WR8) missed Week 1, but he will be the immediate favorite of Rodgers if he can go. Romeo Doubs (WR14) out-targeted Christian Watson (WR12) last week, but Watson should’ve had a long TD. Watson has more talent, so I like his chance better here. Randall Cobb (WR19) and Sammy Watkins (WR18) did little with their opportunity in Week 1. Neither should be used outside of Showdown at this point.

There was no excuse for Cole Kmet (TE5) posting a goose egg. The weather should’ve helped his cause, but he was targeted only once. Kmet is better than he showed here and Fields targeted him a lot at the end of 2021, so expect a bounce-back game.

Robert Tonyan (TE2) was tied for the second-most targets from Rodgers last week. As one of his few familiars on the field, I was not surprised. I love him this week in an easier matchup.

Monday Night

TENNESSEE @ BUFFALO

Ryan Tannehill (QB5) finished last week with a decent line but now faces an elite defense. The Titans will be playing keep-up, which should provide him many passing opportunities, I just wish he had better weapons.

You could argue that Josh Allen (QB1) is the top QB in all of football. This is why he is my top option here. It also helps that Tennessee has one of the more porous pass defenses among these games.

Derrick Henry (RB2) had a floor game by his standards against New York. He shouldn’t have. Unlike last year, Henry was ignored in the passing game, ceding every target (and two receiving TDs) to Dontrell Hilliard (RB9). This could be a disturbing trend that continues all season. This is a so-so slate for high-end RBs and considering his price, I may ignore Henry.

I have no clue what Buffalo is doing with their backfield, but it worked last week. Devin Singletary (RB7) was effectively carrying the ball while Zack Moss (RB11) was sure-handed through the air. This split may have been even more confusing had James Cook (RB14) not fumbled himself into the doghouse. Consider Singletary as an RB2 candidate, but I don’t trust the other two enough to rely on them.

Speaking of confusing situations, Robert Woods (WR9) was inexplicably ignored in Week 1. At least both rookie WRs, Kyle Phillips (WR13) and Treylon Burks (WR11), were active and efficient. Tennessee will have to throw the ball this week, so all three deserve WR3/flex consideration. Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (WR24) can be ignored, barring an injury.

Start all of your Buffalo WRs. Stefon Diggs (WR3) and Gabriel Davis (WR4) can both be considered at WR1 or WR2. Also, consider both Jamison Crowder (WR15) and Isaiah McKenzie (WR10) at WR3. Tennessee’s pass defense is weak enough that all four could score here.

Austin Hooper (TE4) was also ignored by Tannehill this past week. Geoff Swaim (TE7) actually got more love than Hooper. That had to be an aberration. On a weak TE slate, go back to the well with Hooper. He cannot do any worse.

Buffalo also ignored their TE, Dawson Knox (TE6), last week. This team has just too many weapons, and Knox is truly TD-dependent. So I’d only use him on Showdown.

MINNESOTA @ PHILADELPHIA

Kirk Cousins (QB2) was off to a quick start in Week 1 and gets an equally burnable secondary this week. Unfortunately, Cousins has struggled in primetime over the recent past.

Meanwhile, Jalen Hurts (QB3) looked impressive last week both through the air and on the ground. I’m willing to eat crow about his development as a passer. He has many weapons right now, and Minnesota’s secondary is dealing with some injuries. This will be a big game for the youngster.

Dalvin Cook (RB1) had a floor game last week as Minnesota made a concerted effort to pass the ball. I expect a more even split here, and he should eat against a team that was gashed by both D’Andre Swift and Jamaal Williams. Alexander Mattison (RB12) is strictly a handcuff back. He can be ignored outside of Showdown.

Miles Sanders (RB6) looked great last week. He also still was forced to split rushes four ways with Hurts and Kenneth Gainwell (RB8) and Boston Scott (RB13). Unfortunately for Sanders, this is the Philly Way. Running will be harder here against a stout Minnesota run defense. Sanders can be an RB2, but the others can be left to Showdown contests.

Set it and forget it, Justin Jefferson (WR1) will be a lock for 100-1 all season. Adam Thielen (WR5) had a down Week 1, but his historical red-zone usage makes him a great WR2 option if you want access to this offense without paying Jefferson’s price. K.J. Osborn (WR16) also slogged last week. I’d consider him as a punt WR3 for exposure to this game. Jalen Reagor (WR25) gets the revenge game narrative. Unfortunately, that is all he will get this week.

I knew that A.J. Brown (WR2) would command targets but I didn’t imagine DeVonta Smith (WR7) vanishing off of the stat sheet. Minnesota’s secondary is imminently burnable, putting both of them in play here. I just hope that Smith doesn’t turn into Tyler Lockett. Quez Watkins (WR23) and Zach Pascal (WR21) split one target last week. They can be ignored in all formats.

Johnny Mundt (TE8) drew the “start” last week since Irv Smith (TE3) wasn’t ready to go full-go. Smith should be ready for a full workload this week. He makes a nice third leg of a Cousins-Jefferson stack.

Dallas Goedert (TE1) is the strongest play on a very weak primetime TE board. I’m gonna fade him, though, based on price and since Minnesota has been historically strong against the position.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Matt Ryan ($5.9k), RB Joe Mixon ($7.2k), RB Javonte Williams ($6.5k), WR Davante Adams ($8.6k), WR Michael Pittman ($6.7k), WR Curtis Samuel ($4.6k), TE Hayden Hurst ($3.6k), FLEX Jeff Wilson ($5.1k), DST Cincinnati Bengals ($2.2k)

FD Lineup: QB Matt Ryan ($6.8k), RB Darrell Henderson ($6.2k), RB Javonte Williams ($7.3k), WR Davante Adams ($8.8k), WR Michael Pittman ($7.8k), WR Christian Kirk ($6.5k), TE Hayden Hurst ($5.3k), FLEX Jeff Wilson ($6.3k), DST San Francisco 49ers ($4.9k)

FB Lineup: QB Derek Carr ($6.1k), RB Antonio Gibson ($5.4k), RB Javonte Williams ($6.1k), WR Davante Adams ($8.2k), WR Julio Jones ($4.3k), WR Curtis Samuel ($4.3k), TE Hayden Hurst ($3.4k), FLEX Jeff Wilson ($5.1k), FLEX Joe Mixon ($6.9k)

Quarterbacks DraftKings FanDuel
Kyler Murray $7,500 $8,500
Lamar Jackson $7,400 $8,200
Russell Wilson $7,200 $7,500
Joe Burrow $6,600 $7,900
Tom Brady $6,400 $8,000
Matthew Stafford $6,300 $7,600
Derek Carr $6,200 $7,300
Carson Wentz $5,800 $7,400
Trey Lance $5,700 $7,500
Marcus Mariota $5,900 $7,300
Tua Tagovailoa $5,600 $6,800
Jameis Winston $5,600 $7,200
Matt Ryan $5,500 $6,800
Jacoby Brissett $5,400 $6,600
Jared Goff $5,400 $6,700
Baker Mayfield $5,300 $7,000
Trevor Lawrence $5,300 $6,900
Davis Mills $5,200 $6,400
Mac Jones $5,200 $6,400
Daniel Jones $5,100 $7,100
Geno Smith $5,100 $6,300
Joe Flacco $5,100 $6,400
Cooper Rush $5,000 $6,100
Mitch Trubisky $5,000 $6,500
Brian Hoyer $4,800 $6,400
Taysom Hill $4,400 $X,XXX

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Russell Wilson had a mediocre Week 1, but this matchup is just too juicy. Kyler Murray and Derek Carr also are great options up top. Carson Wentz has a nice DK price, but he is a bit pricey on FD. Matt Ryan is my favorite play of the week (as long as Michael Pittman plays). Jared Goff and Baker Mayfield could be punt options.

Fantasy Four-pack

Russell Wilson, Broncos vs. HOU
($7,200 DK, $7,500 FD)
Wilson has no inner storyline to deal with this week. At home, versus a bottom-feeding defense, he should cook. After the end-of-game controversy last week, Wilson will have a mile(high)-length leash this week and 350-3 is easily in sight.

Kyler Murray, Cardinals @ LV ($7,500 DK, $8,500 FD) We expected a high-scoring affair last week. We were half-right. Murray salvaged his day with some garbage time numbers. We could see something similar this week in another potential shootout. Still, expect improvement here as Zach Ertz should be closer to 100%, and Rondale Moore may be back.

Derek Carr, Raiders vs. ARI
($6,200 DK, $7,300 FD
Patrick Mahomes picked this defense to shreds last week including attacking its’ supposed strength in the middle. Davante Adams is better than any WR on the Chiefs roster, making this the premiere stack of the week. Even consider going three-legged with Darren Waller, too.

Lamar Jackson, Ravens vs. MIA
($7,400 DK, $8,200 FD)
Highlighting how poor this week’s QB class is, Jackson facing a stingy defense is the projected fourth-highest scorer. The establishment of Devin Duvernay as a legit Option C for this offense should open up more opportunities for Mark Andrews. I don’t love that stack, but it could pay dividends.

DFS Sleepers

Matt Ryan, Colts @ JAX
($5,500 DK, $6,800 FD)
Ryan ended up posting a fantasy-friendly line in Week 1, despite his failure to win the game. That sounds very Carson Wentz-esque of him. Speaking of Wentz, he torched this secondary for four scores. Ryan has, at worst, even weapons to that of the Commanders, so expect a floor of 300-3 as long as Michael Pittman (quad) plays.

Carson Wentz, Commanders @ DET
($5,800 DK, $7,400 FD)
For the second week in a row, Wentz gets a cream-puff defense to pick on. I loved the hookup with Curtis Samuel last week and will definitely roll out this pair once again. Just be cautious of using Terry McLaurin against his former college teammate Jeff Okudah, who shut down DeVonta Smith last week.

Running backs DraftKings FanDuel
Jonathan Taylor $9,900 $10,000
Christian McCaffrey $8,900 $9,000
Alvin Kamara $7,400 $7,200
Saquon Barkley $7,300 $8,800
Joe Mixon
$7,200 $8,300
Nick Chubb $7,100 $8,500
D’Andre Swift $7,000 $8,200
James Conner $6,900 $7,600
Leonard Fournette $6,700 $7,800
Kareem Hunt $6,600 $7,000
Javonte Williams $6,500 $7,300
Antonio Gibson $6,200 $7,400
Najee Harris $6,200 $7,200
Melvin Gordon $6,100 $6,000
Cordarrelle Patterson $6,000 $7,500
Ezekiel Elliott $5,900 $7,100
Josh Jacobs $5,800 $6,600
Tony Pollard $5,800 $5,700
Darrell Henderson $5,700 $6,200
Mark Ingram $5,700 $5,300
Cam Akers $5,600 $5,500
James Robinson $5,600 $6,800
Travis Etienne $5,600 $5,800
Damien Harris $5,500 $6,000
Jamaal Williams $5,400 $6,400
Jaylen Warren $5,400 $5,500
Rashaad Penny $5,400 $6,500
J.K. Dobbins $5,300 $6,000
Nyheim Hines $5,300 $5,500
Breece Hall $5,200 $5,900
Chase Edmonds $5,200 $6,000
J.D. McKissic $5,200 $5,200
Michael Carter $5,200 $5,900
Rhamondre Stevens $5,200 $5,600
Jeff Wilson $5,100 $6,300
Kenneth Walker $5,000 $5,500
Samaje Perine $5,000 $6,000
Tyrion Davis-Price $5,000 $5,000
Rex Burkhead $4,900 $5,800
Dameon Pierce $4,800 $5,600
Tyler Allgeier $4,600 $4,600
Rachaad White $4,500 $5,700
Raheem Mostert $4,400 $5,300
Zamir White $4,400 $4,600
Damien Williams $4,200 $4,800
Emo Benjamin $4,200 $4,900
Jordan Mason $4,200 $4,500

Running Back

Weekly strategy – Christian McCaffrey was not featured in the Carolina gameplan Week 1. They lost. He will be force-fed this week. Do what you can to get two of CMC, Saquon Barkley, Joe Mixon (my personal favorite), Nick Chubb, and, if he plays, D’Andre Swift (ankle) into your lineup. Jonathan Taylor’s matchup is nice, but that price is steep. Javonte Williams and Antonio Gibson are cheaper pivots. The punt options are few and far between. Consider Nyheim Hines, Darrell Henderson, or Jamaal Williams (if Swift cannot go).

Fantasy Four-pack

Christian McCaffrey, Panthers @ NYG
($8,900 DK, $9,000 FD)
The Giants actually held Derrick Henry somewhat in check last week (nearly 4.0 YPC), but they were eviscerated by Dontrell Hilliard through the air. McCaffrey offers the best of both of them and Carolina needs to feature him this week after a sloppy start to their season.

Jonathan Taylor, Colts @ JAX
($9,900 DK, $10,000 FD)
It is always hard to spend this much at RB. He needs to hit 30 points to return 3x value. The matchup suggests it is possible, but I’d rather take my chances with Nyheim Hines here at half the price.

Joe Mixon, Bengals @ DAL
($7,200 DK, $8,300 FD)
Cincinnati won’t have to pass the ball to win this week. That is good, because Tee Higgins may not be available for this one. Even if they choose to throw, Higgins’ absence could lead to another nine-target game for Mixon.

D’Andre Swift, Lions vs. WAS
($7,000 DK, $8,200 FD
Swift pummeled Philadelphia to the tune of 175-1. His line might go underappreciated since Jamaal Williams vultured a pair of scores. Washington gave up a total of 134-2 to the pair of Jacksonville RBs, so another 100-1 would be safe for Swift, if he is cleared to go. If Swift misses the game, Williams is a must-start.

DFS Sleepers

Darrell Henderson, Rams vs. ATL
($5,700 DK, $6,200 FD)
It was impossible to predict Henderson out-touching Cam Akers 6-to-1. It was also impossible to predict Atlanta limiting Alvin Kamara. Of course, hindsight has proven that injuries were responsible for both situations. Atlanta’s run defense is not this good, and Akers is clearly not 100%. Henderson’s line will surprise no one this week.

Nyheim Hines, Colts @ JAX
($5,300 DK, $5,500 FD)
Despite rumors that Indianapolis would pivot more of Jonathan Taylor’s looks to Hines this season, Taylor still dominated the carries and they split the receiving work. Hines did see six targets, catching them all for 50 yards. Meanwhile, Jacksonville allowed 10-92 to Washington’s RBs through the air. At half of Taylor’s salary, Hines provides you access to this offense and opens up the ability to spend up at both RB1 and WR1.

Wide receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Cooper Kupp $9,900 $9,700
Davante Adams $8,600 $8,800
Ja’Marr Chase $8,000 $8,700
Deebo Samuel $7,100 $8,000
Tyreek Hill $7,100 $8,000
CeeDee Lamb $6,900 $7,700
Mike Evans $6,800 $8,300
Michael Pittman $6,700 $7,800
Terry McLaurin $6,600 $7,300
Amon-Ra St. Brown $6,500 $6,900
Jaylen Waddle $6,400 $7,200
DK Metcalf $6,300 $6,800
Marquise Brown $6,200 $7,400
Courtland Sutton $6,100 $6,800
Brandin Cooks $6,000 $6,700
Tee Higgins $5,900 $7,000
Diontae Johnson $5,800 $7,100
Michael Thomas $5,800 $7,000
Christian Kirk $5,700 $6,500
DJ Moore $5,700 $6,200
Jerry Jeudy $5,600 $6,300
Tyler Lockett $5,600 $6,200
Allen Robinson $5,500 $5,700
Hunter Renfrow $5,500 $5,600
Julio Jones $5,500 $5,700
Rashod Bateman $5,500 $6,400
Amari Cooper $5,400 $6,300
Tyler Boyd $5,400 $6,600
Robbie Anderson $5,300 $5,900
Drake London $5,200 $5,600
Michael Gallup $5,200 $6,000
Brandon Aiyuk $5,100 $5,700
DJ Chark $5,100 $5,700
Elijah Moore $5,000 $5,800
Jarvis Landry $5,000 $6,100
Sterling Shepard $4,900 $5,800
Russell Gage $4,800 $6,100
Chase Claypool $4,700 $6,000
Corey Davis $4,600 $5,900
Curtis Samuel $4,600 $5,700
Chris Olave $4,500 $5,300
DeVante Parker $4,500 $5,500
Jalen Tolbert $4,500 $5,000
Donovan Peoples-Jones $4,400 $5,800
Garrett Wilson $4,400 $5,400
Jakobi Meyers $4,400 $5,500
Marvin Jones $4,400 $5,400
A.J. Green $4,300 $5,400
Devin Duvernay $4,300 $5,900
Zay Jones $4,300 $5,500
Jahan Dotson $4,200 $5,500
Kadarius Toney $4,200 $5,100
Kenny Golladay $4,200 $5,400
Olamide Zaccheaus $4,200 $5,400
Nico Collins $4,100 $5,100
Rondale Moore $4,100 $5,300
Kendrick Bourne $4,000 $5,000
Bryan Edwards $3,900 $4,800
KJ Hamler $3,900 $5,100
Darius Slayton $3,800 $5,000
D’Wayne Eskridge $3,800 $5,000
Noah Brown $3,800 $5,200
Cedrick Wilson $3,700 $5,100
Parris Campbell $3,700 $5,100
George Pickens $3,600 $5,000
Marquise Goodwin $3,600 $4,700
Nelson Agholor $3,600 $5,100
David Bell $3,500 $4,800
Greg Dortch $3,500 $5,500
Van Jefferson $3,500 $5,000
Jauan Jennings $3,400 $5,300
Alec Pierce $3,300 $4,800
Ben Skowronek $3,300 $5,100
Demarcus Robinson $3,300 $5,100
Laviska Shenault $3,300 $4,700
Mike Thomas $3,300 $5,300
Ashton Dulin $3,200 $5,200
Breshad Perriman $3,200 $4,700
Richie James $3,200 $5,500

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – Davante Adams is the top pick this week. I love him stacked with Derek Carr. Cooper Kupp is pricier, but he could approach similar output. One of the two should be your WR1. Michael Pittman (quad), Marquise BrownDeebo Samuel, and Courtland Sutton are my pivots. At WR2, consider Hunter RenfrowJulio Jones (knee)DJ Moore, and Christian KirkCurtis Samuel remains my favorite WR3 option. If you don’t use him, consider Jarvis LandryZay JonesDonovan Peoples-JonesDJ Chark, or Greg Dortch. I’d also consider using one of them at flex.

Fantasy Four-pack

Davante Adams, Raiders vs. ARI
($8,600 DK, $8,800 FD)
Adams and Derek Carr are my favorite stack this week. Arizona had no answer for Kansas City last week, and Adams has more talent than anyone who lined up at WR for the Chiefs … 10-125-1 is the floor here.

Cooper Kupp, Rams vs. ATL
($9,900 DK, $9,700 FD)
If you can figure out how to fit both Kupp and Adams under the cap, do it. Atlanta has a decent defensive backfield, but they gave up two scores to New Orleans’ alpha WR Michael Thomas last week. I am a tad concerned about his price, but he has topped 30 points many times before.

Deebo Samuel, 49ers vs. SEA
($7,100 DK, $8,000 FD)
The loss of Eli Mitchell forced Samuel to garner more RB snaps last week. Last year, in a similar spot, Samuel feasted out of the backfield. Seattle is just okay against the pass, but they are rotten at stopping receiving backs. I’m stoked for Samuel’s stats if he gets an equal share of backfield snaps and receptions.

Michael Pittman, Colts @ JAX
($6,700 DK, $7,800 FD)
Pittman (quad) was limited in practice midweek, but he should be good to go for Sunday. Pittman’s activity will affect my decision whether to start Matt Ryan or not. They make a perfect reduced-cost stack against a subpar secondary.

DFS Sleepers

Curtis Samuel, Commanders @ DET
($4,600 DK, $5,700 FD
People forgot about Samuel due to his injuries last season. He was brought in by Ron Rivera to revive his jack-of-all-trades role from their days together in Carolina. He showed out in Week 1 and with both Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson to keep defenses honest; Samuel should find lots of room to operate inside.

DJ Chark, Lions vs. WAS
($5,100 DK, $5,700 FD)
I love run-it-back stacks. You can go either way in this game. Jared Goff or Carson Wentz paired with Chark and Samuel at WR2 & WR3 allows you the savings to use big bucks RBs or Kupp and Adams at WR1 and flex. 

Tight ends DraftKings FanDuel
Mark Andrews $6,400 $7,400
George Kittle $5,900 $6,100
Darren Waller $5,600 $6,800
Taysom Hill $X,XXX $6,200
Kyle Pitts $5,400 $5,900
Dalton Schultz $5,200 $5,600
T.J. Hockenson $4,700 $5,700
Zach Ertz $4,500 $5,200
Pat Freiermuth $4,400 $5,400
Mike Gesicki $4,300 $5,200
Tyler Higbee $4,200 $5,300
Noah Fant $4,000 $5,000
Cameron Brate $3,900 $4,900
Albert Okwuegbunam $3,700 $5,100
David Njoku $3,700 $4,900
Evan Engram $3,600 $4,900
Hayden Hurst $3,600 $5,300
Hunter Henry $3,600 $5,100
Logan Thomas $3,400 $5,200
Tyler Conklin $3,400 $5,100
C.J. Uzomah $3,200 $4,600
Jonnu Smith $3,200 $4,700
Mo Alie-Cox $3,200 $4,800
Harrison Bryant $3,100 $4,700
Ian Thomas $3,100 $4,600
Adam Trautman $3,000 $4,600
O.J. Howard $3,000 $5,000
Tyler Kroft $2,800 $4,300
Will Dissly $2,800 $4,200
Brevin Jordan $2,600 $4,700
Andrew Beck $2,500 $4,000
Colby Parkinson $2,500 $4,100
Juwan Johnson $2,500 $4,500

Tight End

Weekly strategy – Mark Andrews has a decent matchup and his DK price is workable. Darren Waller is a little cheaper and his game projects as more of a shootout. If you are feeling a little froggy, consider Kyle Pitts or Dalton Schultz. Neither should have high ownership rates and each could outproduce their salaries. T.J HockensonTyler Higbee, and Zach Ertz make even cheaper pivots. Hayden Hurst is my favorite play (especially if Tee Higgins is out). The other punt options are Logan Thomas and O.J. Howard (who will be too heavily owned).

Fantasy Four-pack

Mark Andrews, Ravens vs. MIA
($6,400 DK, $7,400 FD)
Xavien Howard will likely be asked to cover Rashod Bateman. That will leave Andrews and Devin Duvernay as the best stack options with Lamar Jackson. A vanilla Week 1 by Andrews keeps his salary low for one more week take advantage of it.

Darren Waller, Raiders vs. ARI
($5,600 DK, $6,800 FD)
This is a weak week for main slate TEs. Still, elite TE, Travis Kelce, took Arizona to the woodshed last week, and Waller is one of the few who are close to the same stratosphere as Kelce.

Kyle Pitts, Falcons @ LAR
($5,400 DK, $5,900 FD)
This is another ranking based more on the player’s talent than the matchup. Pitts had an awful final line, but he was targeted seven times. Expect a better output as Pitts gets more comfortable with Marcus Mariota

T.J. Hockenson, Lions vs. WAS
($4,700 DK, $5,700 FD)
Finally, a good matchup to go along with a talented athlete. Hockenson makes a nice third leg to a Jared Goff-DJ Chark stack in what could be a sneaky shootout.

DFS Sleepers

Hayden Hurst, Bengals @ DAL
($3,600 DK, $5,300 FD)
The eight targets recorded by Hurst last week were fifth among all TEs. If Tee Higgins misses another game, expect a similar workload here.

Logan Thomas, Commanders @ DET
($3,400 DK, $5,200 FD)
Thomas finished Week 1 tied for 11th in TE targets with six. Not bad for a guy coming off an ACL tear. As mentioned above, this game could be a shootout, and Thomas adds another potential third leg to a stack.

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 1

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 1 DFS fantasy football

Welcome back to another season of DFS Domination. For the new readers, we rank all of the realistic plays for the Main Slate Millionaire contests on DraftKings (DK) and FanDuel (FD). We also offer a breakdown of suggested plays for the Primetime Slate. Our charts are color-ranked. Players in RED will struggle to reach 2.5x value. Players in BLACK will likely achieve 2.5x value but are not guaranteed additional success. Players in GREEN are likely to exceed 3x value.

I also provide the top four scorers at each position regardless of salary and a pair of discount sleepers at each position. Plus, you can find my favorite lineups for DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanball (FB).

DFS: The Primetime Slate

Sunday Night

Tom Brady (QB2) looked gaunt at a recent press conference. Perhaps age is finally turning the page on his career. I’m more concerned about his season-long well-being playing behind an offensive line filled out with third-stringers.

Dak Prescott (QB3) is probably the best option here as his ownership will be the lowest among the three playable options. Tampa Bay’s defense is no joke, but I prefer Dallas’ ability to throw against them much more than to run against the Bucs.

Despite their offensive line woes, Leonard Fournette (RB2) is a solid play this week. Lenny’s top backup is now an unproven rookie whose best attribute (receiving) is one that Fournette is also very good at. I will not be using Rachaad White (RB7) outside of Showdown contests until we see his actual usage.

Ezekiel Elliott (RB4) is not recommended this week. He will have a resurgence this year, just not this week. Tampa is elite up the middle against the run. This means ignoring Tony Pollard (RB6) as well. Of course, if I need to roster a third RB this week, Pollard’s price might put him in play.

Mike Evans (WR1) is the strongest play this week. Dallas has ballhawks in their secondary, but they also often overplay the ball. Chris Godwin (WR6) will be an OK play in a pass-heavy offense if he is cleared to go (still a big if). Julio Jones (WR7) will finish as high as WR4 if Godwin doesn’t play. Either way, he makes a nice WR3/flex play this week. Provided his hamstring allows him to play, Russell Gage (WR8) will also see a boost if Godwin misses the game. I like him as the third leg in a Brady-Evans triple stack.

CeeDee Lamb (WR2) was underwhelming last season when left to fend for himself. His supporting cast is even more suspect this year. So, unless you are playing Dak, fade him here. Jalen Tolbert (WR10) looked mediocre this preseason, but he will need to provide an immediate impact with Michael Gallup (knee) out. With no other options, Tolbert could be a sneaky play these first few weeks. Noah Brown (WR12) has experience with Dak, but don’t play him outside of Showdown contests.

Cameron Brate (TE3) and Kyle Rudolph (TE5) are looking to replace Rob Gronkowski’s production. Both are red-zone threats. If Godwin is out, Brate will definitely score.

Dalton Schultz (TE1) is the best option on this slate. Dak will need to establish an Option B in the passing game and Schultz will be it.

Monday Night

It will be an immediate revenge game for Russell Wilson (QB1). Against the weakest defense on the slate (including multiple injuries in their secondary), Wilson should lead the slate. Of course, the game script could minimize Wilson’s pass attempts in the second half.

With a strong defense facing Geno Smith (QB4), this will get ugly. The only reason to consider him here is as a pure punt play or as part of a run-it-back stack in superflex contests.

The two-headed Broncos’ backfield is back. Fortunately, Melvin Gordon (RB5) admits that he is the backup now. Javonte Williams (RB1) will move the ball at will against this defense. An early lead should provide both backs enough touches to be fantasy-relevant. The only way Williams fails to be the top back this week is if Denver decides to use them in a true 50-50 split. Neither back was a huge pass-catcher last year, but Seattle was abysmal against that role. Don’t be surprised if Williams hauls in five+ passes.

With Kenneth Walker III (groin) doubtful to play, Rashaad Penny (RB3) will need to pick up where he left off last season as the primary ball carrier for this run-first offense. Based on volume alone, you should consider him for RB2/flex. Travis Homer (RB8) could be considered in Showdown contests only.

We still do not know if Jerry Jeudy (WR4) or Courtland Sutton (WR3) will be Russell Wilson’s favorite receiver this season. I’m starting the year with my money on Sutton (the bigger body) being Option A, but they should both be viable as WR2 this week. KJ Hamler (WR11) could be a sneaky WR3/flex option here as his speed could translate into the Tyler Lockett role if he is fully recovered from his 2021 ACL injury.

If DK Metcalf (WR5) wasn’t DK Metcalf, he would barely have a pulse this week. Denver has a strong defensive backfield, which will frustrate Metcalf nearly as much as Geno’s lame duck throws will. Still, DK is a physical freak and by sheer volume, I expect he will sneak in a score. Tyler Lockett (WR9) is even less likely to make an impact this week. I want no part of him until Drew Lock takes over at QB. Dee Eskridge (WR13) can be used in Showdown contests only.

Injuries to rookie Greg Dulcich secure that Albert Okwuegbunam (TE2) will be the primary pass-catching TE to start the year. Seattle is solid at safety, but I still like Big Albert here on the small slate, especially if you use a double-TE lineup.

Noah Fant (TE4) also gets a revenge game right away. Unfortunately, he has not been in rhythm with Smith this preseason. It has been so bad that he is listed as the TE 1b behind Will Dissly (TE6) as 1a on the official depth chart. The Seahawks will use a lot of two-TE sets this season, and Smith will be forced to check down often making one playable. My money is on Fant since he has more natural talent.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

At DK: $5.5k for Matt Ryan. $5.2k for Chase Edmonds. $7.6k for Alvin Kamara. $5.9k for Amari Cooper. $5.5k for Michael Pittman.$5.2k for JuJu Smith-Schuster. $4.9k for T.J. Hockenson. $6.8k for D’Andre Swift at flex. $3.4k for the Carolina Panthers defense.

At FD: $6.9k for Ryan. $8.5k for Kamara. $7.6k for D’Andre Swift. $6.8k for Antonio Gibson at flex. $7.2k for Pittman. $6.6k for Mike Williams. $6.4k for Smith-Schuster. $5.3k for Pat Freiermuth. $4.7k for the Carolina Panthers defense.

At Fanball (double-flex – includes Sunday night): Jared Goff, Kamara, and Edmonds, Gibson at flex, Christian McCaffrey at second flex. Smith-Schuster, K.J. Osborn, DJ Chark, and Hayden Hurst.

Quarterbacks DraftKings FanDuel
Patrick Mahomes $7,700 $8,700
Justin Herbert $7,600 $8,400
Lamar Jackson $7,300 $8,500
Kyler Murray $7,200 $8,200
Aaron Rodgers $7,000 $7,800
Jalen Hurts $6,800 $8,000
Joe Burrow $6,400 $7,700
Kirk Cousins $6,100 $7,300
Trey Lance $6,000 $7,500
Derek Carr $5,900 $7,400
Ryan Tannehill $5,700 $7,100
Tua Tagovailoa $5,700 $7,000
Justin Fields $5,600 $6,900
Trevor Lawrence $5,600 $7,000
Carson Wentz $5,500 $6,800
Matt Ryan $5,500 $6,900
Jared Goff $5,400 $6,800
Mac Jones $5,400 $6,600
Baker Mayfield $5,300 $6,600
Davis Mills $5,300 $6,500
Jameis Winston $5,300 $6,700
Jacoby Brissett $5,200 $6,300
Marcus Mariota $5,200 $6,500
Daniel Jones $5,000 $7,100
Mitch Trubisky $5,000 $6,400
Joe Flacco $4,800 $6,200

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – There are two high-scoring matchups right away as Justin Herbert faces Derek Carr and Patrick Mahomes faces Kyler Murray. Also consider Lamar Jackson or Jalen Hurts as run-based alternatives. Still, I suggest going cheap this week with Matt Ryan, Jared Goff, Jameis Winston, or Davis Mills.

Fantasy Four-pack

Justin Herbert, Chargers vs. LVR
($7,600 DK, $8,400 FD)
This contest features a revenge game narrative for Herbert and the Chargers coming off being knocked out of the playoffs last year by Vegas. Plus, this game has the second-highest combined points so expect a shootout. Herbert has faced Vegas four times in his career averaging 311 yards and 2.75 TD per game. 300-3 sounds right here. Roll out the Herbert-Mike Williams stack this week.

Lamar Jackson, Ravens @ NYJ ($7,300 DK, $8,500 FD) Jackson will likely be without his top RB this week. This means he will do even more running than usual. From a DFS standpoint, that is like manna from heaven. Feel free to stack Jackson with both Mark Andrews and Rashod Bateman.

Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs @ ARI
($7,700 DK, $8,700 FD)
OK, we finally get to see a KC offense without Tyreek Hill. Mahomes still has myriad weapons to throw to, and I love both Marquez Valdes-Scantling and JuJu Smith-Schuster this week as Arizona can be beaten on the outside. This game has the highest projected points and will be a shootout. This sets up for a nice roll-it-back lineup with Marquise Brown included, too.

Kyler Murray, Cardinals vs. KC
($7,200 DK, $8,200 FD)
Murray also will be without his top weapon from last season. Fortunately, the Cardinals acquired Marquise Brown to fill in for him. KC has completely retooled its secondary this offseason. The newcomers are young and talented, but they may not be ready to face an Arizona Air Raid offense. Bump up Murray’s projections if Zach Ertz is cleared to play; otherwise, expect 280-3.

DFS Sleepers

Matt Ryan, Colts @ HOU
($5,500 DK, $6,900 FD)
Houston is young and improving, but they aren’t there yet. After last season’s shorthanded WR room in Atlanta, Ryan should be licking his chops to have Michael Pittman, Alec Pierce, and Parris Campbell to throw at. Ryan’s price makes him a great value option, especially paired with the equally discounted Pittman.

Jared Goff, Lions vs. PHI
($5,400 DK, $6,800 FD)
Motownphilly is back again this week. Last year, Goff’s final line against Philly was more boy than man. In his defense, his WR room had three total catches. His top three receiving options were a TE, his starting RB, and another RB who is out of the league. This year, he has Amon-Ra St. Brown, DJ Chark, Josh Reynolds, and Quintez Cephus to choose from — plus all of his auxiliary tools. Give him the manly 250-2 here on the discount.

Running backs DraftKings FanDuel
Jonathan Taylor $9,100 $10,200
Derrick Henry $8,600 $9,700
Christian McCaffrey $8,500 $9,500
Austin Ekeler $8,200 $9,400
Dalvin Cook
$7,900 $8,400
Alvin Kamara $7,600 $8,500
Joe Mixon $7,100 $8,300
James Conner $7,000 $7,700
D’Andre Swift $6,800 $7,600
Aaron Jones $6,700 $7,400
Nick Chubb $6,500 $7,800
Najee Harris $6,400 $8,200
Josh Jacobs $6,300 $7,000
Saquon Barkley $6,100 $6,800
David Montgomery $6,000 $6,600
Antonio Gibson $5,800 $6,800
Cordarrelle Patterson $5,800 $6,600
Damien Harris $5,700 $6,300
Kareem Hunt $5,700 $6,300
J.K. Dobbins $5,600 $6,900
James Robinson $5,600 $6,200
Travis Etienne $5,600 $6,200
Breece Hall $5,500 $6,400
Rhamondre Stevenson $5,500 $5,600
Clyde Edwards-Helaire $5,400 $5,800
Eli Mitchell $5,400 $6,700
Miles Sanders $5,400 $6,500
AJ Dillon $5,300 $6,100
Chase Edmonds $5,200 $5,800
Jamaal Williams $5,200 $5,700
Ronald Jones $5,200 $5,500
J.D. McKissic $5,100 $5,200
Jeff Wilson $5,100 $5,500
Michael Carter $5,100 $5,200
Nyheim Hines $5,100 $5,400
Kenyan Drake $5,000 $5,700
Rex Burkhead $4,900 $5,100
Dameon Pierce $4,800 $5,400
Zamir White $4,700 $4,900
Kenneth Gainwell $4,600 $5,300
Boston Scott $4,500 $4,900
Myles Gaskin $4,500 $4,900
Tyler Allgeier $4,500 $4,800
Mike Davis $4,400 $5,600
Eno Benjamin $4,200 $4,900
Jerick McKinnon $4,200 $5,200

Running Back

Weekly strategy – Each of the top-six priced options on both sites would make a great RB1 this week. The issue is fitting two of them under the cap. If I had to choose from among them, Christian McCaffrey and Alvin Kamara would be my first two picks. D’Andre Swift and Antonio Gibson would be my less expensive pivots. You could even pair two of that foursome. Even cheaper yet are likely lead options Chase Edmonds and Dameon Pierce. Just know that Pierce is going to have ridiculous ownership numbers, so you may want to fade him. If you want to punt RB2 without using Pierce, consider using Nyheim Hines or Kenyan Drake.

Fantasy Four-pack

Jonathan Taylor, Colts @ HOU
($9,100 DK, $10,200 FD)
Houston allowed the second-most rushing yards last year, including 288 to Taylor. Jonathan also added four rushing TDs in those two games. In those games, Taylor did nothing through the air. If he even catches a pittance of passes here, he is a lock for 3x (even with that high FD price).

Christian McCaffrey, Panthers vs. CLE
($8,500 DK, $9,500 FD)
Both DFS sites have McCaffrey priced below $10k. You will not get this discount all season. You may not even get this discount next week. Use it while you can. Cleveland is decent against the run, but CMC will do enough across the board to be a top-five overall scorer this week.

Alvin Kamara, Saints @ ATL
($7,600 DK, $8,500 FD)
Atlanta’s defense is better against the pass than the run. It won’t matter here because Kamara will beat them both ways. Anything short of 150 combo yards and a score would be disappointing. In fact, the only way he doesn’t reach that figure is if he is suspended over the weekend.

Derrick Henry, Titans vs. NYG
($8,600 DK, $9,700 FD)
The Giants improved their defense this offseason. Unfortunately, they still will have no answer for King Henry. Tennessee is devoid of receiving talent coming into this season, so they will have to lean even more than ever on their hoss RB. We may even see Henry pick up where he left off last season by developing into a semi-functioning pass-catcher, too.

DFS Sleepers

Antonio Gibson, Commanders vs. JAX
($5,800 DK, $6,800 FD)
You need to feel bad for Brian Robinson. Now, Washington will be forced to feed Gibson the ball. Despite being dissed by his coaching staff this preseason, he actually proved over the last couple of seasons that he is an incredibly talented RB. Jacksonville broke the bank to shore up their offense this offseason, but that defensive front is very young and unproven at this level. If J.D. McKissic (groin) is limited this week, bump Gibson’s value up even more.

Chase Edmonds, Dolphins vs. NE
($5,200 DK, $5,800 FD)
The release of Sony Michel left Edmonds as the early-down favorite in Miami. There are many weapons in this offense this year, but you know that Bill Belichick will be plotting to shut down both Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. This should leave Edmonds free to overachieve this week. This time next week, his salary will be much higher.

Wide receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Davante Adams $8,100 $8,500
Justin Jefferson $7,800 $8,100
Deebo Samuel $7,400 $8,400
Ja’Marr Chase $7,100 $8,200
Keenan Allen $7,000 $7,400
Tyreek Hill $6,800 $7,700
Mike Williams $6,600 $6,600
Terry McLaurin $6,500 $7,000
A.J. Brown $6,400 $7,100
Jaylen Waddle $6,400 $6,800
Brandin Cooks $6,300 $6,600
Marquise Brown $6,200 $6,900
Amon-Ra St. Brown $6,100 $6,500
Tee Higgins $6,100 $7,000
Diontae Johnson $6,000 $6,700
DJ Moore $6,000 $6,400
Amari Cooper $5,900 $6,300
Hunter Renfrow $5,800 $5,900
Darnell Mooney $5,700 $6,200
Michael Thomas $5,700 $6,200
Allen Lazard $5,600 $6,500
Robert Woods $5,600 $5,600
DeVonta Smith $5,500 $6,100
Michael Pittman $5,500 $7,200
Adam Thielen $5,400 $6,100
Rashod Bateman $5,300 $6,100
Brandon Aiyuk $5,200 $5,600
JuJu Smith-Schuster $5,100 $6,400
Christian Kirk $5,100 $5,800
Christian Watson $5,100 $5,200
Elijah Moore $5,100 $6,000
Chase Claypool $5,000 $5,800
Drake London $5,000 $5,500
Jarvis Landry $5,000 $5,700
Treylon Burks $5,000 $5,900
Corey Davis $4,900 $5,400
K.J. Osborn $4,900 $5,200
Sterling Shepard $4,900 $5,500
DeVante Parker $4,800 $5,700
DJ Chark $4,800 $5,300
Kenny Golladay $4,800 $5,600
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,800 $5,100
Robbie Anderson $4,800 $5,300
Tyler Boyd $4,800 $5,700
Garrett Wilson $4,700 $5,300
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $4,700 $5,500
Sammy Watkins $4,700 $5,500
A.J. Green $4,600 $5,700
Mecole Hardman $4,600 $5,400
Chris Olave $4,500 $5,000
Byron Pringle $4,400 $5,300
Donovan Peoples-Jones $4,400 $5,400
Marvin Jones $4,400 $5,000
Jakobi Meyers $4,300 $5,500
Bryan Edwards $4,200 $5,100
Curtis Samuel $4,200 $5,100
Darius Slayton $4,200 $5,100
Kendrick Bourne $4,200 $5,100
Nico Collins $4,200 $5,200
George Pickens $4,100 $5,200
Kadarius Toney $4,100 $5,300
Zay Jones $4,100 $5,100
Olamide Zaccheaus $4,000 $5,000
Rondale Moore $4,000 $5,500
Alec Pierce $3,900 $4,900
Cedrick Wilson $3,900 $5,100
Devin Duvernay $3,800 $5,000
Joshua Palmer $3,800 $4,900
Skyy Moore $3,800 $4,600
David Bell $3,600 $5,000
Jahan Dotson $3,400 $4,900
Nelson Agholor $3,400 $4,900
Quez Watkins $3,400 $5,200
Randall Cobb $3,400 $5,100
Parris Campbell $3,300 $5,200
Quintez Cephus $3,000 $4,800
Romeo Doubs $3,000 $5,000

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – Davante Adams gets to show off his connection with Derek Carr immediately. He and Justin Jefferson are the two best options up top. Either Chargers wide receiver would be a slightly cheaper pivot (I prefer Mike Williams). Also, consider going cheaper this week with JuJu Smith-Schuster, Marquise Brown, or volume options like Amari Cooper, Darnell Mooney, Michael Pittman, and Rashod Bateman at WR1 and WR2. I also like Allen Lazard (ankle) in this range, if he gets a clean bill of health. The WR corps of Jacksonville, Detroit, and whoever suits up for the New York Giants each make WR3 sense based on their opponents. Still, my top punt options this week are K.J. Osborn, Sammy Watkins, Nico Collins, and the depth WRs for Arizona.

Fantasy Four-pack

Justin Jefferson, Vikings vs. GB
($7,800 DK, $8,100 FD)
The word on the street is that Minnesota is going to throw the ball considerably more this season. Green Bay has a pair of studly cornerbacks, but Jefferson is in a class of his own. I’m not expecting a ceiling game here, but 8-110-1 is in play.

Davante Adams, Raiders @ LAC
($8,100 DK, $8,500 FD)
The Chargers are also set at cornerback, but this will be a huge test in Week 1. Adams and Derek Carr make a great stack, and I love to run it back with Mike Williams here. Just know that will leave you penny-pinching elsewhere.

Mike Williams, Chargers vs. LVR
($6,600 DK, $6,600 FD)
Anytime the FD price is the same or lower than the DK price, you have to use the player there. The Raiders lack anyone at cornerback to body up with the tall and physical Williams. This feels like a 6-100 game with a long TD.

Ja’Marr Chase, Bengals vs. PIT
($7,100 DK, $8,200 FD)
Mark me concerned about rust from Joe Burrow after missing the preseason with appendix surgery. I’m also concerned about the number of weapons that Cincy has. Still, Pittsburgh cannot double-team all of them. Expect a floor of 6-70-1 with considerably higher upside if Burrow isn’t limited.

DFS Sleepers

JuJu Smith-Schuster, Chiefs @ ARI
($5,200 DK, $6,400 FD)
Patrick Mahomes’ top (and most-proven) WR in a shootout matchup with Arizona, Sign me up! Throw in the reduced price and it is a mortal lock at WR1 or WR2. Consider using Kyler Murray at QB and then stacking Marquise Brown and running it back with Smith-Schuster.

Rashod Bateman, Ravens @ NYJ
($5,300 DK, $6,100 FD)
Bateman is now the true WR1 in Baltimore. Unfortunately, the team is still run-first and Mark Andrews is the real No. 1 target. The Jets have improved at every level on defense, but volume alone puts Bateman in play for 7-70-1.

Tight ends DraftKings FanDuel
Mark Andrews $6,800 $7,900
Travis Kelce $6,600 $8,000
George Kittle $5,900 $6,100
Kyle Pitts $5,700 $6,000
Darren Waller $5,400 $7,000
T.J. Hockenson $4,900 $5,700
Mike Gesicki $4,800 $5,500
Dallas Goedert $4,500 $5,700
Zach Ertz $4,400 $5,600
Pat Freiermuth $4,200 $5,300
David Njoku $3,900 $5,000
Robert Tonyan $3,900 $5,100
Gerald Everett $3,800 $5,200
Hunter Henry $3,800 $5,400
Austin Hooper $3,700 $4,800
Cole Kmet $3,700 $5,000
C.J. Uzomah $3,600 $4,800
Evan Engram $3,500 $4,900
Tyler Conklin $3,500 $5,000
Irv Smith $3,400 $5,100
Mo Alie-Cox $3,400 $4,800
Hayden Hurst $3,300 $4,900
Logan Thomas $3,200 $5,500
Adam Trautman $3,100 $4,700
Brevin Jordan $3,100 $4,800
John Bates $3,100 $4,700
Harrison Bryant $2,900 $4,600
Dan Arnold $2,800 $4,400
Donald Parham $2,800 $4,500
Jonnu Smith $2,800 $4,700
Ryan Griffin $2,700 $4,100
Daniel Bellinger $2,500 $4,100
Isaiah Likely $2,500 $4,100

Tight End

Weekly strategy – Feel free to pay up for Mark Andrews, Travis Kelce, or Kyle Pitts. Pitts on FD is almost free money compared to those other two. For lesser ownership, consider T.J. Hockenson and Pat Freiermuth. If you decide to punt the position (I wouldn’t this week), Austin Hooper, Cole Kmet, and Hayden Hurst are decent dice rolls.

Fantasy Four-pack

Travis Kelce, Chiefs @ ARI
($6,600 DK, $8,000 FD)
Patrick Mahomes went on record saying it would be a different target each week for fantasy purposes. I’ll believe that when I see it. Kelce was option 1a last year, and he will repeat that role here. That said, I don’t love the FD price considering how cheap some others are and since Arizona’s best DBs are in the middle.

Mark Andrews, Ravens @ NYJ
($6,800 DK, $7,900 FD)
There wasn’t a more reliable TE than Andrews last season. With Marquise Brown out of town, Andrews and Rashod Bateman will need to step up even further. Stack both of them with Lamar Jackson against a still learning-on-the-job Jets defense. The threesome should combine for four total scores.

Kyle Pitts, Falcons vs. NO
($5,700 DK, $6,000 FD)
The only thing missing from Pitts’ rookie season was TDs. Reverse TD-regression is assured this season, starting this week. I mean someone has to catch the ball in Atlanta. Lock him in for 8-90-1 here as Atlanta is forced to throw the ball to stay in this one.

T.J. Hockenson, Lions vs. PHI
($4,900 DK, $5,700 FD)
This may be my favorite TE play of the week. Detroit has more weapons to choose from, but Hockenson has the familiarity with Jared Goff from last season. This is the cheap stack to use so that you can go massive at RB.

DFS Sleepers

Cole Kmet, Bears vs. SF
($3,700 DK, $5,000 FD)
Kmet is the unquestioned number two option for Chicago. This means he will see close to 10 targets per week. If he can reel in 5-50 that puts him at 3x on DK already.

Austin Hooper, Titans vs. NYG
($3,700 DK, $4,900 FD)
The Titans are seriously lacking in reliable passing-game options. That is why Hooper should be in for a big start to the year until Treylon Burks gets more NFL-ready. Tennessee has effectively used their TEs in the red zone before. A short score seems imminent to go along with 5-50.