Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 18

Breaking down the top players and sleepers for DraftKings and FanDuel for Week 18 DFS fantasy football.

Players are being rested, and players are splitting roles. Some superstars will play a only few snaps, and others want to play despite nothing to play for. That is the insanity of Week 18. Enjoy the madness and don’t forget to tune in for our playoff DFS coverage over the next few weeks!

Recommended DFS lineups

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

DK Lineup: QB Baker Mayfield ($7.0k), RB Kenneth Gainwell ($5.6k), RB Bijan Robinson ($8.5k), WR Brian Thomas Jr. ($7.3k), WR Adam Thielen ($6.2k), WR Jalen McMillan ($5.1k), TE Noah Gray ($3.8k), FLEX Mack Hollins ($3.7k), DST Arizona Cardinals ($2.7k)

FD Lineup: QB Jared Goff ($7.9k), RB Bucky Irving ($7.9k), RB Bijan Robinson ($9.2k), WR Jordan Addison ($7.1k), WR Jameson Williams ($6.5k), WR Jalen McMillan ($6.1k), TE Sam LaPorta ($6.0K), FLEX Blake Corum ($5.5k), DST Arizona Cardinals ($3.7k)

FB Lineup: QB Baker Mayfield ($6.5k), RB Bijan Robinson ($7.7k), RB Jonathan Taylor ($7.4k), WR Jordan Addison ($6.0k), WR Jameson Williams ($6.3k), WR/TE Jalen McMillan ($4.6k), TE Noah Gray ($3.3k), FLEX Bucky Irving ($6.4k), SUPERFLEX Sam Darnold ($6.4k)

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

Quarterback DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,500 $9,000
Jayden Daniels $7,800 $8,700
Baker Mayfield $7,000 $8,400
Sam Darnold N/A $8,100
Jared Goff N/A $7,900
Bo Nix $6,400 $7,800
Jordan Love $6,100 $7,300
C.J. Stroud $6,000 $7,300
Kyler Murray $6,000 $7,600
Anthony Richardson $5,900 $7,500
Justin Herbert $5,900 $7,700
Bryce Young $5,800 $6,900
Tua Tagovailoa $5,800 $7,400
Drake Maye $5,700 $7,100
Matthew Stafford $5,700 $7,000
Aaron Rodgers $5,600 $7,000
Caleb Williams $5,600 $7,100
Carson Wentz $5,600 $6,700
Geno Smith $5,500 $7,200
Kenny Pickett $5,500 $6,700
Mitchell Trubisky $5,500 $7,000
Joe Flacco $5,400 $7,000
Michael Penix Jr. $5,400 $6,900
Cooper Rush $5,200 $6,800
Jimmy Garoppolo $5,200 $6,300
Mac Jones $5,200 $6,700
Aidan O’Connell $5,100 $6,600
Drew Lock $5,100 $6,600
Mason Rudolph $5,000 $6,500
Tanner McKee $5,000 $6,400
Will Levis $5,000 $6,000
Spencer Rattler $4,800 $6,500
Tyler Huntley $4,800 $6,700
Jacoby Brissett $4,700 $6,000
Trey Lance $4,700 $6,000
Joshua Dobbs $4,000 $6,000

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Baker MayfieldSam Darnold, and Jared Goff are the top players. Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix should play the full game, making them adequate pivots. To save money, consider Justin Herbert and Bryce Young. You also can use whoever starts for Indianapolis, Mac Jones, Michael Penix Jr., or Jimmy Garoppolo as punts.

Fantasy four-pack

Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers vs. NO ($7,000 DK, $8,500 FDTampa has everything on the line this week. New Orleans’ pass defense has been in a free fall since trading away Marshon Lattimore. Plus, Mayfield already toasted them once for 325-4. This is certainly in the realm of outcomes for this week. 

Jared Goff, Lions vs. MIN (N/A DK, $7,900 FDThis game may approach 90 combined points, and it is possible that neither punter steps on the field. Over the last four weeks, Goff has thrown for 1,416 yards and 14 TDs. Plus, Minnesota allows the fifth-most passing yards per game.

Sam Darnold, Vikings @ DET (N/A DK, $8,100 FDIn their Week 7 meeting, Darnold threw for only 259-1. Of course, that was before Detroit lost something like 271% of its defense to injury. The Lions will play their backups this week not by choice, but because they are the only players not currently on IR. In what projects as a shootout, the slightly more expensive Darnold will have lower ownership than Goff. 

Jayden Daniels, Commanders @ DAL ($7,800 DK, $8,700 FD) Daniels is on fire posting 17 TDs over his last five games and over 60 rushing yards in four of those contests. This included a three-TD game against the Cowboys. While Washington has already guaranteed itself a spot in the playoffs, the Commanders may want to play Daniels this full game to avoid a first-round matchup with Tampa or Philadelphia. 

Sleepers

Bryce Young, Panthers @ ATL: ($5,800 DK, $6,900 FD) Young’s yardage totals have been meager, but he has multiple TDs in four of his last five games. Meanwhile, only one team has allowed more passing TDs per game than Atlanta. With their running game muted, stack Young with Adam Thielen or Xavier Legette.

Mac Jones, Jaguars @ IND ($5,200 DK, $6,700 FD) We all saw what Drew Lock did to this defense. Well, Mac Jones is basically Drew Lock. Several middling QBs embarrassed Indy this season (Bo NixMason Rudolph, the skeletal remains of Aaron RodgersDrake MayeTyler HuntleyJustin FieldsWill Levis, and Trevor Lawrence) all have posted reasonable numbers against this defense. Ironically, the only QB the Colts have held out of the end zone this season was Jared Goff.

Running back DraftKings FanDuel
Bijan Robinson $8,500 $9,200
Jahmyr Gibbs N/A $8,800
Jonathan Taylor $8,200 $8,500
Josh Jacobs $8,100 $8,200
Bucky Irving $7,700 $7,900
Kyren Williams $7,600 $8,400
Joe Mixon $7,400 $7,700
Alvin Kamara $7,300 $7,400
De’Von Achane $7,200 $8,000
James Cook $7,000 $8,100
Aaron Jones Sr. N/A $7,300
Zach Charbonnet $6,700 $7,000
Breece Hall $6,500 $7,200
J.K. Dobbins $6,300 $7,500
Tony Pollard $6,200 $6,700
Tyjae Spears $6,100 $6,700
Brian Robinson Jr. $6,000 $6,900
Isaac Guerendo $5,900 $7,000
Rico Dowdle $5,800 $7,100
Tyrone Tracy Jr. $5,800 $6,400
Cam Akers N/A $6,000
Rachaad White $5,700 $5,800
Blake Corum $5,600 $5,500
Kenneth Gainwell $5,600 $5,600
Rhamondre Stevenson $5,500 $6,000
Dameon Pierce $5,400 $5,200
D’Andre Swift $5,400 $6,100
Patrick Taylor Jr. $5,400 $4,900
Alexander Mattison $5,300 $5,500
Antonio Gibson $5,300 $5,600
Kendre Miller $5,300 $5,600
Ray Davis $5,200 $6,200
Travis Etienne Jr. $5,200 $6,100
Ameer Abdullah $5,100 $6,300
Austin Ekeler $5,100 $4,000
Emanuel Wilson $5,100 $5,300
Tank Bigsby $5,100 $5,500
Braelon Allen $5,000 $5,700
Chris Rodriguez Jr. $5,000 $5,300
Raheem Blackshear $5,000 $5,100
Ty Johnson $5,000 $5,900
Javonte Williams $4,900 $5,300
Tyler Allgeier $4,900 $5,700
Devin Singletary $4,800 $5,100
Gus Edwards $4,800 $5,400
Jaleel McLaughlin $4,800 $5,900
Carson Steele $4,700 $4,300
Michael Carter $4,700 $5,800
Raheem Mostert $4,700 $4,900
Audric Estime $4,600 $5,200
Jeremy McNichols $4,600 $5,000
Tyrion Davis-Price $4,600 $4,500
Kimani Vidal $4,500 $5,200
Samaje Perine $4,500 $5,400
Mike Boone $4,400 $5,000
Roschon Johnson $4,400 $4,800
Jamaal Williams $4,300 $5,300
Clyde Edwards-Helaire $4,100 $5,400
Miles Sanders $4,000 $4,000

Running back

Weekly strategy –  Bijan Robinson and Jonathan Taylor are the top-two plays this week. I also like Jahmyr Gibbs on FD, just not as much as the other two. Bucky Irving is the cheaper pivot at RB1. At RB2, consider Brian Robinson Jr.Rico Dowdle, Kenneth Gainwell, Blake Corum, or whoever starts for Tennessee. Samaje PerineRay DavisTy JohnsonEmanuel WilsonMichael CarterCarson Steele, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire will all see playing time boosts because of injuries or players resting. I might use one of them as a punt flex.

Fantasy four-pack

Jonathan Taylor, Colts vs. JAX ($8,200 DK, $8,500 FD) Over the last three weeks, Taylor has led the league in carries, rushing yards, and rushing TDs. Now, he faces a Jacksonville team allowing just under 27 PPR points per game to opposing RBs. Taylor’s value will go up even more if Joe Flacco starts this game.

Bijan Robinson, Falcons vs. CAR ($8,500 DK, $9,200 FD) Carolina is allowing 29.5 PPR points per game to opposing backs. This includes allowing 830 total yards to the position over their last four games. Since Week 13, Robinson has exploded as his RB opportunity share increased from 26% to 33%.

Bucky Irving, Buccaneers vs. NO ($7,700 DK, $7,900 FD) Since Week 10, Irving has scored and/or topped 100 total yards in every game that he has completed. Meanwhile, no team has allowed more RB rushing TDs.

Jahmyr Gibbs, Lions vs. MIN (N/A DK, $8,800 FDThis price is a tad higher than I like, but since David Montgomery‘s injury, Gibbs trails only Jonathan Taylor in total yards and TDs among RBs.

Sleepers

Blake Corum, Rams vs. SEA ($5,600 DK, $5,500 FDThere was a ton of preseason hype over Corum potentially wrestling the starting RB job from Kyren Williams. The team plans to rest Williams this week. Last season at Michigan, Corum finished with 28 total TDs in 15 games.

Ray Davis, Bills @ NE ($5,200 DK, $6,200 FD) With nothing to play for, James Cook will see minimal, if any, snaps this weekend. This means that Davis and Ty Johnson will see an enormous boost in touches against a defense that allows the second-most RB rushing yards and the second-most total RB touchdowns.

Wide Receiver DraftKings FanDuel
Justin Jefferson N/A $9,500
Amon-Ra St. Brown N/A $9,000
Puka Nacua $8,300 $8,800
Mike Evans $8,000 $8,900
Nico Collins $7,800 $8,700
Brian Thomas Jr. $7,300 $8,000
Malik Nabers $7,100 $8,100
Davante Adams $7,000 $7,800
Ladd McConkey $6,900 $7,600
Terry McLaurin $6,800 $7,400
Tyreek Hill $6,700 $7,900
Drake London $6,500 $7,000
Courtland Sutton $6,400 $7,300
Jordan Addison N/A $7,100
Cooper Kupp $6,300 $6,900
Jameson Williams N/A $6,500
Adam Thielen $6,200 $6,400
Jaxon Smith-Njigba $6,100 $7,700
Garrett Wilson $6,000 $6,800
Keenan Allen $6,000 $6,100
DJ Moore $5,900 $6,300
Jauan Jennings $5,800 $6,800
Xavier Worthy $5,800 $6,600
Deebo Samuel Sr. $5,700 $6,700
Jakobi Meyers $5,700 $6,600
DK Metcalf $5,600 $7,200
Jayden Reed $5,600 $6,500
Marvin Harrison Jr. $5,500 $6,700
Romeo Doubs $5,500 $6,000
Calvin Ridley $5,400 $6,200
Jaylen Waddle $5,400 $5,900
Josh Downs $5,300 $6,000
Khalil Shakir $5,300 $6,300
Chris Olave $5,200 $5,800
Michael Pittman Jr. $5,200 $6,200
Darnell Mooney $5,100 $6,200
Jalen McMillan $5,100 $6,100
Alec Pierce $5,000 $5,800
Amari Cooper $5,000 $5,700
DeAndre Hopkins $4,900 $5,900
Rome Odunze $4,900 $5,700
Keon Coleman $4,800 $5,700
Quentin Johnston $4,800 $5,900
Brandin Cooks $4,700 $5,900
Christian Watson $4,700 $5,800
Marvin Mims Jr. $4,600 $5,600
Wan’Dale Robinson $4,600 $5,600
Hollywood Brown $4,500 $6,100
Olamide Zaccheaus $4,500 $5,800
Dontayvion Wicks $4,400 $5,400
Tim Patrick N/A $5,400
Joshua Palmer $4,400 $5,500
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine $4,400 $5,300
DeMario Douglas $4,300 $5,100
Jalen Tolbert $4,300 $5,500
Parker Washington $4,300 $5,600
Demarcus Robinson $4,200 $4,800
Kayshon Boutte $4,200 $5,100
Xavier Legette $4,200 $5,000
Jalen Coker $4,100 $4,900
Ray-Ray McCloud III $4,100 $5,400
Ricky Pearsall $4,100 $4,900
John Metchie III $4,000 $5,500
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $4,000 $5,600
Michael Wilson $4,000 $6,400
David Moore $3,900 $4,600
Devaughn Vele $3,900 $5,200
Malik Washington $3,900 $5,300
Robert Woods $3,800 $5,400
Tre Tucker $3,800 $5,100
Tutu Atwell $3,800 $4,700
Diontae Johnson $3,700 $5,700
JuJu Smith-Schuster $3,700 $5,300
Mack Hollins $3,700 $5,500
Darius Slayton $3,600 $5,000
Dyami Brown $3,600 $4,800
Sterling Shepard $3,600 $5,100
Tyler Lockett $3,600 $5,400
Adonai Mitchell $3,500 $5,000
Allen Lazard $3,500 $4,900
Jahan Dotson $3,500 $4,800
Jamison Crowder $3,500 $5,200
Justin Watson $3,500 $5,200
Bo Melton $3,400 $4,500
Derius Davis $3,400 $4,700
KaVontae Turpin $3,400 $5,000
Tyler Boyd $3,400 $4,800
Greg Dortch $3,300 $4,700
Xavier Hutchinson $3,300 $5,200
Cedrick Wilson Jr. $3,200 $4,900
Kendrick Bourne $3,200 $4,800
Troy Franklin $3,200 $5,000
Curtis Samuel $3,100 $5,300
Jonathan Mingo $3,100 $4,700
Kevin Austin Jr. $3,100 $4,800
Luke McCaffrey $3,100 $4,600
Alex Erickson $3,000 $4,000
Britain Covey $3,000 $4,000
Dante Pettis $3,000 $4,700
Devin Duvernay $3,000 $4,600
Johnny Wilson $3,000 $4,900
Josh Reynolds $3,000 $4,700
KhaDarel Hodge $3,000 $4,300

Wide receiver

Weekly strategy – Justin Jefferson and Amon-Ra St. Brown are both available only on FD. In a shootout, they are both dynamic plays, but their price tags will be hard to swallow. DK users will want to target Mike Evans and Brian Thomas Jr. as their top options. Ladd McConkey (toe), Terry McLaurin, Drake London, and Courtland Sutton are the top WR1 pivots. On FD, if you don’t use Jefferson or St. Brown, you must use at least one of Jameson Williams or Jordan Addison. Adam Thielen and Keenan Allen are my favorite WR2 options. The easy pivots are Michael Pittman Jr., Darnell Mooney, and Calvin Ridley. You must use Jalen McMillan at WR3, regardless of whether you play Evans. Punts to consider include: Olamide ZaccheausMarvin Mims Jr.Jalen TolbertXavier Legette, and whoever starts for Kansas City, Buffalo, and the Rams.

Fantasy four-pack

Justin Jefferson, Vikings @ DET (N/A DK, $9,500 FDAs mentioned above, injuries have decimated the Lions defense. Stopping Jefferson is tough with elite DBs. Against backups, he will smash. In nine career games versus Detroit, Jefferson is averaging 7.6-128 with four TDs.

Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions vs. MIN (N/A DK, $9,000 FDSt. Brown has been equally dominant against the Vikings in his career averaging 8-93 with four TDs. Plus, he has never posted fewer than six receptions against Minnesota. Both receivers should top the 25-point plateau this week.

Mike Evans, Buccaneers vs. NO ($8,000 DK, $8,900 FD) New Orleans has allowed the fifth-most receiving yards to WRs. Over their last nine games, they are allowing an average of 19.3 PPR points to opposing WR1s. With his 1,000-yard streak on the line in a win-and-in game, Evans is a lock for 7-110-1. 

Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars @ IND ($7,300 DK, $8,000 FD) If you watched the Giants and Colts play last week, I’m sorry for your lot in life. Nevertheless, you saw Malik Nabers go ham against this secondary. That was the third consecutive game where an opposing WR1 scored against them. A repeat of Thomas’ Week 5 performance of 5-122-1 seems probable.

Sleepers

Jalen McMillan, Buccaneers vs. NO ($5,100 DK, $6,100 FDThree weeks in a row and the sites still refuse to jack up McMillan’s price. Fine with me. I’ll just keep trotting him out there and counting the Benjamins rolling back in. Nine times this season, the Saints have allowed a secondary receiver to reach double-digit PPR points. With six scores in his last four games, this is a formality.

Olamide Zaccheaus, Commanders @ DAL ($4,500 DK, $5,800 FD) Zaccheaus has posted 13-155-3 on 17 targets over the last two games. If Dyami Brown (hamstring) remains out, expect similar production against a Dallas defense that has allowed the fourth-most WR receiving yards and the most WR receiving TDs over the last four weeks.

Tight End DraftKings FanDuel
Brock Bowers $6,600 $7,300
Trey McBride $6,500 $7,400
George Kittle $6,000 $7,600
Jonnu Smith $5,800 $6,300
Sam LaPorta N/A $6,000
T.J. Hockenson N/A $5,900
Hunter Henry $4,300 $5,200
Cade Otton $4,200 $5,200
Dalton Kincaid $4,100 $5,700
Kyle Pitts $4,000 $5,300
Zach Ertz $4,000 $5,400
Dalton Schultz $3,900 $5,600
Jake Ferguson $3,900 $5,200
Chig Okonkwo $3,800 $5,400
Noah Gray $3,800 $5,500
Noah Fant $3,700 $4,900
Tucker Kraft $3,700 $5,100
Juwan Johnson $3,600 $5,300
Will Dissly $3,600 $5,000
Brenton Strange $3,500 $5,000
Cole Kmet $3,500 $5,100
Tyler Conklin $3,400 $4,900
Tyler Higbee $3,400 $4,800
Austin Hooper $3,300 $4,800
Dawson Knox $3,300 $5,000
Foster Moreau $3,200 $5,200
Payne Durham $3,200 $4,900
Grant Calcaterra $3,100 $4,800
Stone Smartt $3,100 $4,900
AJ Barner $3,000 $4,700
Tommy Tremble $2,900 $4,700
Devin Culp $2,800 $4,300
Adam Trautman $2,700 $4,600
Ja’Tavion Sanders $2,600 $4,600
Lucas Krull $2,600 $4,600
Michael Mayer $2,600 $4,500
Irv Smith Jr. $2,500 $4,300

Tight end

Weekly strategy – The TE position feels weak up top this week. Brock Bowers has a rough matchup, and Trey McBride and George Kittle (ankle/hamstring) get a tough matchup against each other. Plus, Jonnu Smith potentially has QB issues to deal with. If you are playing on FD, T.J. Hockenson or Sam LaPorta. Otherwise, go on the cheap with Tucker KraftNoah GrayJuwan JohnsonJake Ferguson, or Zach Ertz. There are several potential punts including: Grant Calcaterra, Stone Smartt, Foster Moreau, Adam Trautman, and Dawson Knox

Fantasy four-pack

Sam LaPorta, Lions vs. MIN (N/A DK, $6,000 FDSince Week 6, LaPorta trails only Mark Andrews in TE touchdowns. This includes scoring four over the last five games. The Vikings held him in check in their earlier meeting, but I cannot expect a repeat of that here.

Trey McBride, Cardinals vs. SF ($6,500 DK, $7,400 FDHell has frozen over. McBride finally score his TD. Since Week 12, he has had 16 more targets and 15 more receptions than the next closest TE. This has propelled him into second place for the season in every relevant TE category except TDs.

Jonnu Smith, Dolphins @ NYJ ($5,800 DK, $6,300 FD) QB issues circle this game, but Smith has scored in six of his last seven games making him at worst a TD-dependent play. Jaylen Waddle (knee) may return this week. This could affect Smith’s volume. Still, he has a safe floor.

T.J. Hockenson, Vikings @ DET (N/A DK, $5,900 FD) It is all hands on deck in this game. Hockenson missed the earlier game because of an injury suffered due to a dirty hit by this defense last season. Chalk this up as a double-revenge game for the former Lion.

Sleepers

Zach Ertz, Commanders @ DAL ($4,000 DK, $5,400 FD) Ertz’s yardage and reception totals have been meager, but he has scored five times in the last six games (including once against Dallas). The Commanders are playing this game hoping for a better seed in the postseason, so expect them to go full go all game.

Noah Gray, Chiefs @ DEN ($3,800 DK, $5,500 FD) With Travis Kelce (rest) and other Chiefs starters resting expect Gray to be one of the top options in the passing game this week. Denver leans as a TE-funnel defense, so anticipate a gigantic game here as long as Carson Wentz is serviceable.

The Huddle’s Blitzed Fantasy Football Podcast: Episode 229

Talking NFL news, lineup advice, another look ahead to 2025, and more!

In this episode, Steve and Harley bring you NFL news, an early look at 2025 rankings, and “DFS Pay-ups, Stay-aways, and Value Plays.” So Huddle up, tune in, and get Blitzed!

Or, click here to listen

Fantasy Football DFS Domination: Week 18

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

Week 18 is when daily fantasy becomes extra crazy. During Week 18, it is possible for coaches to limit the playing time of several starters and for some to opt out of the game completely. When this occurs, it is important to determine which players are most likely to play the entire game. The worst feeling in the world is to build your ultimate lineup and watch your stars kick butt in the first half and then end up spending the rest of the game on the bench.

One thing to note is that both FanDuel and FanBall are including the Sunday Night Football game in their regular slate.

DFS: The Saturday Slate

Saturday Afternoon

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens

Mason Rudolph (QB4) is performing considerably better than either Kenny Pickett or Mitch Trubisky. He still is the low man on this slate’s totem pole. Against a solid Baltimore defense, he is looking at no greater than 200-1.

Lamar Jackson (coach’s decision) is sitting out this game. This leaves Tyler Huntley (QB3) to lead this offense. He is serviceable, but don’t expect him to put up huge numbers.

We continue to see a split between Jaylen Warren (RB6) and Najee Harris (RB4). Harris is getting the larger share of the carries, but Warren is seeing far more of the targets. Neither did much in their earlier meeting. That said, if Baltimore plays their reserves this week, both could return RB2 value.

Gus Edwards (RB5) and Justice Hill (RB3) have been serving as the primary ball carriers for Baltimore. Each is a potential RB2. Melvin Gordon (RB8) would see a heavy workload if Hill and Edwards are rested.

When Rudolph took over as the starter, it became immediately clear that George Pickens (WR4) would be the beneficiary. He is one of the WR1 choices this week. Diontae Johnson (WR5) is still seeing a fair target share, but he has returned to TD irrelevance. His receptions are enough to make him WR2 eligible in DK format. Allen Robinson (WR13) is, at best, a Showdown play.

Zay Flowers (calf) is doubtful, while Odell Beckham Jr. won’t play. That leaves Rashod Bateman and Nelson Agholor, who would become an instant WR2 play. Bateman is less appealing.

I expected more from Pat Freiermuth (TE3) with Rudolph under the center. His production has been steady but not elite. On a small slate, he is no better than a flex play.

Isaiah Likely (TE1) has stepped right into Mark Andrews’ role as the alpha receiver in this offense. If he plays, he should be your starting TE. If he rests, Charlie Kolar (TE7) could be a sneaky pivot.

Saturday Night

Houston Texans @ Indianapolis Colts

C.J. Stroud (QB1) returned last week and continued to post quality numbers, despite further injuries to his WR corps. Pencil in Stroud for a floor of 265-2.

Based on his performance this season, Gardner Minshew (QB2) deserves to be an NFL starting QB in 2024. Houston has not allowed many passing TDs, but they are seventh-worst in passing yards allowed. They also have allowed a league-worst seven QB rushing scores. Minshew will score both ways and throw for just under 260 yards here.

Devin Singletary (RB2) bypassing Dameon Pierce (RB8) was not on my preseason bingo card. Indy ranks bottom-five in RB rushing yards, rushing TDs, and receiving yards allowed. Use Singletary as an RB1, but skip Pierce.

Johnathan Taylor (RB1) is back from his second injury absence of the season. This return has coincided with the reinjury of Zack Moss (RB7 – forearm). Taylor has now scored in six of the last seven games he has played, making him a near-lock to score here. Even if Moss (questionable) returns, he is no better than a Showdown dart throw. If Moss remains out, Trey Sermon (RB9) also would have Showdown value.

Noah Brown (hip, knee, back) won’t play, so we can more safely expect another huge showing from Nico Collins (WR2). He should be in your WR1 conversation. Robert Woods (WR12) will be the other starter for Houston, if he plays through a knee injury that has him questionable. He can be a WR3 flier, if active. Both Xavier Hutchinson (WR15) and John Metchie (WR16) will see increased targets this week, but neither deserves a start.

If you don’t use Collins at WR1, then use Michael Pittman Jr. (WR1), or better yet, start both of them. Josh Downs (WR6) and Alec Pierce (WR10) are both WR3 considerations.

This is a deep TE slate, but Dalton Schultz (TE2) remains one of the safest plays. Even Brevin Jordan (TE6) makes a sneaky flex play.

Indy is once again playing “Wheel of Tight Ends.” Good luck choosing between Kylen Granson (TE4), Will Mallory (TE5), and Mo Alie-Cox (TE8). One of them will score and all three will combine for four catches and 40 yards. Granson is the only one to trust.

The Main Slate: recommended DFS lineups

DK Lineup: QB Tyrod Taylor ($5.3k), RB Rachaad White ($7.6k), RB Ezekiel Elliott ($5.9k), WR A.J. Brown ($8.7k), WR Brandin Cooks ($5.2k), WR Darius Slayton ($4.0k), TE Evan Engram ($5.4k), FLEX Zach Charbonnet ($5.0k), DST Los Angeles Rams ($2.6k)

FD Lineup: QB Josh Allen ($9.5k), RB James Conner ($7.3k), RB Rachaad White ($7.7k), WR A.J. Brown ($8.2k), WR Darius Slayton ($5.7k), WR Brandin Cooks ($6.3k), TE Noah Gray ($4.8k), FLEX Ezekiel Elliott ($6.7k), DST Los Angeles Rams ($3.6k)

FB Lineup: QB Nick Mullens ($5.2k), RB Ezekiel Elliott ($5.7k) RB James Conner ($5.8k), WR CeeDee Lamb ($8.6k), WR A.J. Brown ($7.9k), WR/TE Justin Jefferson ($8.0k), TE Tanner Hudson ($3.3k), FLEX Darius Slayton ($3.0k), SUPERFLEX Dak Prescott ($7.3k)

Quarterback DraftKings FanDuel
Josh Allen $8,300 $9,500
Jalen Hurts $8,100 $9,000
Dak Prescott $8,000 $8,700
Justin Fields $7,200 $8,100
Tua Tagovailoa $7,500 $7,600
Trevor Lawrence $6,800 $7,500
Jared Goff $6,700 $7,500
Jordan Love $6,600 $7,800
Kyler Murray $6,400 $8,000
Baker Mayfield $6,200 $7,200
Geno Smith $6,100 $7,300
Jake Browning $5,700 $7,400
Derek Carr $5,600 $6,800
Aidan O’Connell $5,400 $6,700
Tyrod Taylor $5,300 $7,000
Sam Darnold $5,200 $6,500
Sam Howell $5,200 $7,000
Nick Mullens $5,100 $7,100
Easton Stick $5,000 $6,600
Will Levis $5,000 $6,500
C.J. Beathard $4,900 $6,500
Jarrett Stidham $4,900 $6,400
Taylor Heinicke $4,900 $6,900
Trevor Siemian $4,900 $6,300
Blaine Gabbert $4,800 $6,400
Bryce Young $4,800 $6,400
Desmond Ridder $4,800 $6,900
Jaren Hall $4,800 $6,200
Ryan Tannehill $4,800 $6,500
Bailey Zappe $4,700 $6,300
Carson Wentz $4,500 $6,100
Jeff Driskel $4,000 $6,000

Quarterback

Weekly strategy – Dak Prescott has the best matchup, and it is a must-win game. The enormous concern is that it is on the road. Josh Allen is pricey, but this game is also a must-win, so consider paying up for him on FD. Jalen Hurts and Justin Fields have good matchups and can be solid pivots. Jared Goff has an easy matchup, and the Lions should play their starters the whole game. You can also use Jordan Love in a game the Packers need. Tyrod TaylorNick MullensCarson Wentz, and Ryan Tannehill are cheap punts.

Fantasy Four-pack

Dak Prescott, Cowboys @ WAS ($8,000 DK, $8,700 FDDallas is playing for the division title, so they will be all-in. The biggest concern is that Prescott has struggled on the road this year. Fortunately, Washington is rotten enough that the road curse shouldn’t bother him this week. Back in Week 12, Prescott put up 311-4 against this defense. It won’t be four scores, but 300-3 is certainly in play. 

Josh Allen, Bills @ MIA ($8,300 DK, $9,500 FD) Assuming that both Allen (neck) and Tua Tagovailoa (shoulder) are ready to go as expected, this game could hit 80 combined points. Despite posting just three passing TDs over his last four games, Allen has added six rushing scores over that span. This sets up nicely as only four teams have allowed more QB rushing scores than Miami. Also, back in Week 4, Allen accounted for five total TDs against them.

Jalen Hurts, Eagles @ NYG ($8,100 DK, $9,000 FD) Another team in must-win mode is the Eagles. Much like Allen, Hurts also has been keeping relevant thanks to his legs. He has eight rushing TDs over his last six games. One of those came two weeks ago versus these Giants. This week, Hurts will post 235-1 to go along with 40-2 on the ground.

Justin Fields, Bears @ GB ($7,200 DK, $8,100 FDGreen Bay has been in free fall defensively. In the last four weeks, they have allowed eight passing TDs. This is amazing when you consider that they have faced a murderer’s row of Tommy DeVitoBaker MayfieldBryce Young, and Jaren Hall over that span. Fields has scored a rushing TD in three of his last four games. Chalk up another here, to go along with at least one through the air.

DFS Sleepers

Tyrod Taylor, Giants vs. PHI ($5,300 DK, $7,000 FDTaylor (back) turned garbage time into a near-comeback victory last week. This week, he faces a Philly defense that has allowed the fifth-most passing yards and second-most passing TDs. Philly will have their feet firmly on the gas pedal, so Taylor will be a garbage-time hero again.

Nick Mullens, Vikings @ DET ($5,100 DK, $7,100 FD) Watching Mullens play may make you pull your hair out. Fortunately, only INTs count negatively against him in DFS. Even with their injuries, Minnesota still has a load of weapons to choose from. Plus, Detroit has been absolute trash against the pass. The Vikings have wafer-thin odds of making the postseason, so they will leave everything on the Ford Field turf. Expect Mullens to finish with 335-2 (and at least two INTs as well). 

Running Backs DraftKings FanDuel
Rachaad White $7,600 $7,700
Alvin Kamara $7,500 $7,200
Travis Etienne Jr. $7,300 $8,800
Raheem Mostert $7,000 $8,300
De’Von Achane $6,900 $8,200
Breece Hall $7,200 $7,500
Isiah Pacheco $7,000 $7,900
James Cook $7,100 $7,400
Saquon Barkley $6,900 $7,100
D’Andre Swift $6,800 $6,900
Jahmyr Gibbs $6,700 $8,100
Austin Ekeler $6,600 $6,400
Bijan Robinson $6,600 $6,900
Kenneth Walker III $6,500 $7,000
Tony Pollard $6,500 $7,600
David Montgomery $6,400 $8,000
Derrick Henry $6,400 $7,300
Aaron Jones $6,300 $6,800
Joe Mixon $6,300 $7,800
Josh Jacobs $6,200 $7,200
James Conner $6,100 $7,300
Zamir White $6,000 $6,500
Ezekiel Elliott $5,900 $6,700
Elijah Mitchell $5,800 $6,600
Khalil Herbert $5,700 $7,000
Jerome Ford $5,600 $7,100
Ty Chandler $5,600 $6,600
Chuba Hubbard $5,500 $6,200
Brian Robinson Jr. $5,400 $6,300
Javonte Williams $5,300 $6,200
Jamaal Williams $5,200 $6,000
Roschon Johnson $5,100 $5,400
Alexander Mattison $5,000 $5,400
Zach Charbonnet $5,000 $6,100
Clyde Edwards-Helaire $4,900 $6,500
Antonio Gibson $4,800 $5,200
D’Onta Foreman $4,800 $5,700
Kenneth Gainwell $4,800 $4,900
Tyler Allgeier $4,800 $5,900
Kareem Hunt $4,700 $5,800
Chase Brown $4,600 $4,900
Jordan Mason $4,600 $5,700
Matt Breida $4,600 $5,600
Rico Dowdle $4,600 $5,000
Tyjae Spears $4,600 $5,500
AJ Dillon $4,500 $5,600
Chase Edmonds $4,500 $5,300
Michael Carter $4,400 $5,200
Royce Freeman $4,400 $4,600
Jaleel McLaughlin $4,400 $5,500
La’Mical Perine $4,400 $5,000
Pierre Strong Jr. $4,000 $4,600

Running Back

Weekly strategy – Rachaad White is once again the safest play. De’Von Achane is in play on FD, if Raheem Mostert (shin) remains out. Otherwise, use Breece HallD’Andre Swift, or Saquon Barkley as pivots. Kenneth Walker III (shoulder) has a great matchup, but he might miss this game with a shoulder injury. His backup, Zach Charbonnet, is a fabulous punt option. Other RB2 choices include Ezekiel ElliottJames Conner, and Khalil Herbert. They all have easy matchups. You can also consider volume replacements for backs that are sitting this week. Elijah MitchellJordan Mason, Clyde Edwards-HelaireLa’Mical Perine, Royce Freeman, and Pierre Strong Jr. could all see starter’s reps.

Fantasy Four-pack

Rachaad White, Buccaneers @ CAR ($7,600 DK, $7,700 FD) Carolina has allowed a league-worst 24 total TDs to the position. One of those went to White back in Week 13. This was part of a stretch where White had scored in seven of his last nine games.

Breece Hall, Jets @ NE ($7,200 DK, $7,500 FD) Over the last four weeks, Hall has averaged 25 PPR points per game. Meanwhile, the Patriots have allowed four double-digit PPR backs in their last three games. With no Dalvin Cook, Hall will get all the touches he can eat here.

D’Andre Swift, Eagles @ NYG ($6,800 DK, $6,900 FD) The Giants rank bottom-three in both rushing yards and rushing TDs allowed to the position. They also were only one of six teams to allow Swift to score this season. If Jalen Hurts lets him, Swift could score again. Either way, he should approach 100 total yards.

De’Von Achane, Dolphins vs. BUF ($6,900 DK, $8,200 FDYou can only use him on FD, but Achane (toe) is primed for another gigantic game, if Raheem Mostert (shin) remains out. Achane has played in only 10 games this season, but he has 10 TDs in those games. This includes the earlier meeting with Buffalo, where Achane posted 120 yards and two scores on just 11 touches.

DFS Sleepers

Ezekiel Elliott, Patriots vs. NYJ ($5,900 DK, $6,700 FDOver their last four games, the Jets have allowed 472 total yards and NINE total TDs to opposing RBs. This includes six TDs allowed in just the last two weeks. Elliott has scored in three of his last four games and will score at least once here.

James Conner, Cardinals vs. SEA ($6,100 DK, $7,300 FD) Seattle is allowing the third-most total TDs to the RB position this year. Over their last four games, the Seahawks are allowing an average of 165 combo yards and 1.25 total TDs to the position. Meanwhile, since Week 13, Conner is averaging greater than 22 PPR points per game.

Wide Receivers DraftKings FanDuel
Tyreek Hill $9,400 $9,500
CeeDee Lamb $9,300 $10,000
A.J. Brown $8,700 $8,200
Amon-Ra St. Brown $8,600 $8,800
Justin Jefferson $8,500 $9,000
Stefon Diggs $8,200 $7,600
Davante Adams $7,900 $7,700
Puka Nacua $7,800 $7,700
Amari Cooper $7,700 $7,400
Deebo Samuel $7,600 $8,300
Keenan Allen $7,500 $8,100
Mike Evans $7,400 $8,400
Ja’Marr Chase $7,300 $7,800
DK Metcalf $7,200 $7,600
Brandon Aiyuk $7,100 $7,900
DJ Moore $7,000 $8,000
DeVonta Smith $6,900 $7,000
Jaylen Waddle $7,700 $7,000
Rashee Rice $6,800 $7,800
Chris Olave $6,700 $7,300
Calvin Ridley $6,500 $6,900
Courtland Sutton $6,400 $6,800
Chris Godwin $6,300 $6,900
Tee Higgins $6,200 $6,600
DeAndre Hopkins $6,100 $6,800
Adam Thielen $6,000 $6,400
Gabe Davis $5,500 $6,400
Garrett Wilson $5,900 $6,600
Romeo Doubs $5,800 $6,100
Jayden Reed $5,700 $7,100
Tyler Lockett $5,600 $6,800
Terry McLaurin $5,500 $6,900
Jakobi Meyers $5,400 $6,700
Jordan Addison $5,300 $6,700
Brandin Cooks $5,200 $6,300
Jerry Jeudy $5,100 $5,800
Drake London $5,000 $6,200
Joshua Palmer $4,900 $6,000
Jaxon Smith-Njigba $4,800 $5,700
Christian Watson $4,700 $6,500
Rashid Shaheed $4,700 $6,000
Dontayvion Wicks $4,600 $5,500
Greg Dortch $4,600 $5,500
Demarcus Robinson $4,500 $6,500
Demario Douglas $4,400 $5,900
Michael Wilson $4,400 $5,600
Curtis Samuel $4,300 $5,600
Tyler Boyd $4,300 $5,500
Wan’Dale Robinson $4,200 $5,900
Cedrick Wilson Jr. $3,900 $5,400
Khalil Shakir $3,400 $5,200
K.J. Osborn $4,100 $5,000
Darius Slayton $4,000 $5,700
Quentin Johnston $4,000 $5,500
Cedric Tillman $3,900 $5,300
Darnell Mooney $3,900 $5,000
Jameson Williams $3,900 $5,300
Julio Jones $3,900 $5,100
Rondale Moore $3,900 $5,000
Jahan Dotson $3,800 $5,400
Jauan Jennings $3,800 $5,000
Zay Jones $3,800 $5,600
Alex Erickson $3,700 $5,300
DJ Chark Jr. $3,700 $5,700
Bo Melton $3,600 $5,200
Trey Palmer $3,600 $5,400
DeVante Parker $3,500 $5,200
Marvin Mims Jr. $3,500 $4,900
Xavier Gipson $3,500 $5,100
Brandon Johnson $3,400 $4,800
David Bell $3,400 $5,000
Justin Watson $3,400 $5,200
Malik Heath $3,400 $4,700 
Parker Washington $3,400 $4,900
Tre Tucker $3,400 $4,900
Treylon Burks $3,400 $5,000
Tyler Scott $3,400 $4,800
A.T. Perry $3,300 $4,600 
Jalin Hyatt $3,300 $4,900
Josh Reynolds $3,300 $5,400
Lil’Jordan Humphrey $3,300 $5,000
Tutu Atwell $3,300 $4,800
Kadarius Toney $3,200 $4,900 
Michael Gallup $3,200 $4,900 
Ronnie Bell $3,200 $4,800 
Braxton Berrios $3,300 $4,500
Ben Skowronek $3,000 $4,300
Christian Kirk $3,000 $4,000 
Isaiah Hodgins $3,000 $4,800 
Justyn Ross $3,000 $4,300 
Keelan Doss $3,000 $4,800
Marquez Valdes-Scantling $3,000 $4,900
Mecole Hardman Jr. $3,000 $4,600 
Ray-Ray McCloud $3,000 $4,200 
Richie James $3,000 $4,500 
Skyy Moore $3,000 $4,700

Wide Receiver

Weekly strategy – To quote one of the greatest New Year’s movies of all time, “Spend, Mortimer, spend.” They loaded the top of the board with some studs in great matchups. You should use two of A.J. Brown, CeeDee LambJustin Jefferson, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Tyreek Hill (FD only). The cheaper pivots would be Ja’Marr Chase (shoulder), DK MetcalfDJ Moore, and Calvin Ridley. If you choose to spend up at WR3, use DeAndre HopkinsRomeo Doubs, or Brandin Cooks. Other WR3 options to consider are Demarcus RobinsonGreg DortchDarius SlaytonAlex Erickson, and whoever suits up for San Francisco and Kansas City.

Fantasy Four-pack

A.J. Brown, Eagles @ NYG ($8,700 DK, $8,200 FDBrown played the squeaky wheel card this past weekend. Combining this with the probability that DeVonta Smith (ankle) will not play this weekend, leaves Brown with a chance at 15 targets. 

CeeDee Lamb, Cowboys @ WAS ($9,300 DK, $10,000 FD) Lamb has scored and/or topped 100 total yards in 11 straight games. This includes topping 150 yards four times during that span. Washington has allowed the most WR receiving yards and the second-most WR receiving scores. Lamb is a lock for at least 125-1 here. 

Tyreek Hill, Dolphins vs. BUF ($9,400 DK, $9,500 FDThis game will feature very few punts. The last team to possess the ball will probably win. Both teams could approach 500 scrimmage yards and/or top 40 points. Hill will be the primary beneficiary of those yards and points, especially if Jaylen Waddle (ankle) remains out.

Justin Jefferson, Vikings @ DET ($8,500 DK, $9,000 FD) The Vikings need this victory to make the playoffs. Plus, Jefferson is within striking distance of the 1k receiving yardage mark. In the two earlier games with Nick Mullens at QB, Jefferson averaged 10 targets, 6.5 receptions, and 113 yards. This included a monster game against these same Lions. Mullens will pepper Jefferson all game. 

DFS Sleepers

Brandin Cooks, Cowboys @ WAS ($5,200 DK, $6,300 FD) Washington is awful enough against the pass to make both Lamb and Cooks startable. I wouldn’t recommend stacking all three, but if you cannot afford to squeeze Lamb into your lineup, use Cooks instead.

Greg Dortch, Cardinals vs. SEA ($4,600 DK, $5,500 FDDortch led all Cardinals in every receiving category last week. Most weeks, that role will fall to Trey McBride. A similar volume here should return a similar output to last week’s 7-82.

Tight Ends DraftKings FanDuel
Travis Kelce $6,600 $7,500
David Njoku $6,400 $7,000
Sam LaPorta $6,200 $7,300
Trey McBride $6,000 $6,700
Evan Engram $5,400 $6,800
George Kittle $5,200 $6,600
Dallas Goedert $5,100 $6,100
Jake Ferguson $4,900 $6,000
Dalton Kincaid $4,800 $5,700
Darren Waller $4,700 $5,600
Taysom Hill $4,600 $5,500
Cole Kmet $4,500 $6,300
Hunter Henry $4,100 $5,000
Kyle Pitts $4,000 $5,400
Gerald Everett $3,900 $5,200
Tucker Kraft $3,700 $5,300
Juwan Johnson $3,600 $5,400
Chig Okonkwo $3,500 $5,100
Tyler Conklin $3,300 $5,100
Logan Thomas $3,200 $5,000
Michael Mayer $3,200 $4,900
Cade Otton $3,100 $5,000
Tanner Hudson $3,100 $4,900
Durham Smythe $2,900 $4,800
Dawson Knox $2,800 $4,700
Johnny Mundt $3,000 $4,500
Jonnu Smith $2,900 $5,000
Josh Oliver $2,900 $4,600
Mike Gesicki $2,900 $4,800
Noah Fant $2,900 $4,900
Adam Trautman $2,800 $4,400
Austin Hooper $2,700 $4,600
Donald Parham Jr. $2,700 $4,300
Lucas Krull $2,700 $4,500
Colby Parkinson $2,600 $4,600
Blake Bell $2,500 $4,400
Davis Allen $2,500 $4,400
Harrison Bryant $2,500 $4,400
Noah Gray $2,500 $4,800
Ross Dwelley $2,500 $4,200

Tight End

Weekly strategyTrey McBride and Evan Engram should each see a high target volume in middling matchups. Dalton Kincaid (FD only), Darren WallerGerald, Everett, and Tucker Kraft are the top pivots. Tanner Hudson has a juicy matchup at a bargain price. Also, consider punt options replacing sitting starters such as Ross DwelleyNoah Gray, Davis Allen, and Harrison Bryant.

Fantasy Four-pack

Trey McBride, Cardinals vs. SEA ($6,000 DK, $6,700 FD) McBride has seven or more targets and five or more receptions in seven straight games. With Arizona continuing to be shorthanded on offense, McBride should continue to see a large target share.

Evan Engram, Jaguars @ TEN ($5,400 DK, $6,800 FD) Tennessee is very good against opposing TEs. That said, they have allowed a TE to score in back-to-back games. Meanwhile, Engram has five or more targets in every game this season. Plus, he has topped 60 receiving yards in four of his last five games. Much like Arizona, Jacksonville is severely shorthanded in their receiving corps. This means that Engram should continue to see just under 10 targets per game.

Dalton Kincaid, Bills @ MIA ($4,800 DK, $5,700 FD) After a pair of dud games, Kincaid exploded for 4-87 on seven targets last week. Miami has allowed three TE scores over their last two games. The stars are aligning here and Kincaid will finally net his third score of the year. 

Sam LaPorta, Lions vs. MIN ($6,200 DK, $7,300 FDMinnesota is solid against the TE position, but LaPorta is within striking distance of a few plateaus including 1k receiving yards and double-digit TDs. Look for the Lions to push to get LaPorta to both goals.

DFS Sleepers

Tucker Kraft, Packers vs. CHI ($3,700 DK, $5,300 FD) Chicago has allowed the fifth-most receptions and the third-most receiving TDs to the position. Since the injury to Luke Musgrave (kidney), Kraft has seen a ton of opportunities. This includes six targets in four of his last five games.

Tanner Hudson, Bengals vs. CLE ($3,100 DK, $4,900 FD) In six of his last nine games, Hudson has at least four receptions. He also is coming off of his highest target output of the season last week. Over their last four games, Cleveland has forgotten how to cover the position. During that span, they have allowed a league-worst 35 receptions and four TDs to the position.

The best fantasy football gamble of Week 18

A season of ups and downs has made this Cowboy a wild ride in fantasy.

Every week, at least one player becomes my fascination of whether he’s worthy of a fantasy football start as a streamer. The decision can be a mental wrestling match, but for the purpose of brevity, only one player can be chosen as my favorite fantasy football gamble of the week.

The players chosen in this series are meant to be fliers for fantasy owners in desperate situations or those willing to take an intentional risk. No player is intended to be a lineup lock for guaranteed results, hence the name of the series.

The best fantasy football gamble for Week 18

Tracking my 2023 predictions: 8-10-0
All-time record: 27-41-3 (40.1%)

Win: Player produces ≥ 75% of projected fantasy points
Loss: Player produces >75% of projected fantasy points
Tie: Player is ejected, leaves with an injury, or is ruled out after publishing

This year, we’ll also track the accuracy on a percentage basis to show relative results, since sometimes calling a player a loss doesn’t actually hurt gamers. An example would be if a projection narrowly falls short of the 75 percent threshold, the player is still of use in a lineup.

Wk 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
% 55 74 41 20 150 66 16 25 88 121 138 80 87 64 48 95 35 77
Grade E C F- F- A+ D F- F- B+ A+ A+ B- B+ D F A F- C+

Week 18 final update: Pollard finished just barely in the winning column, bringing my season-long prediction result to 8-10. Meh. I was close to breaking even but had several disastrous flops, too. Lessons learned for next season!


Last week, Washington Commanders wide receiver Curtis Samuel was the choice, and I stand by my initial decision to promote him. However, in hindsight, it’s easy to say I should have pivoted to a different player once the news broke that Jacoby Brissett wouldn’t be on the field. I stuck with Samuel mainly because he had been successful in recent weeks with Sam Howell. My only regret is not choosing the other player I had strongly debated before settling on Samuel … Juwan Johnson. Oof.

Dallas Cowboys RB Tony Pollard at Washington Commanders

So, while name-brand players don’t normally find their way into this space, Pollard’s season has been a disappointment in relation to his fantasy draft expectations. He has been streaky, but even when Pollard has stepped up his game, the results haven’t been a display of week-winning dominance.

Pollard hasn’t scored in four straight contests and posted more than 7.7 points in only one of those games. On the year, this Memphis product has averaged nearly three fewer fantasy points per game than last year despite seeing 3.5 more weekly touches, which suggests maybe less is more for his big-play profile. Through the first six games, Pollard mostly lived up to borderline RB1 status but was a better No. 2. Since, he has failed to reach double figures 60% of the time in PPR scoring. His early-season role as a receiver was much more stable than in the second half of 2023.

To his credit, Pollard has not gone more than three consecutive outings without a breaking into double digits, and he has four 16-plus-pointers in a row (Weeks 11-14) when he has been at his best this season. He had a fine game in Week 12 vs. the Commanders, generating 22.3 points, which was his best fantasy day of the year.

Since that game, Washington has ceded the most rushing yards, fantasy points, and total yards per game, and no defense has permitted rushing TDs at a higher frequency in that time. Throughout 2023, versatile backs have thumped the Commanders, and 18 total scores have come in the 16 games played. Only three defenses have allowed more receptions and aerial touchdowns. The matchup rating is 22.3% better than average on the year and an absurd 65.6% softer over the duration of the season.

Pollard will be the 18th back to get into double figures vs. this feeble unit.

My projection: 14 carries, 68 rushing yards, 1 TD, 5 targets, 5 receptions, 36 yards (21.4 PPR points)

The Huddle’s Blitzed Fantasy Football Podcast: Episode 189

Week 18 fantasy football news, daily lineup tips, and more!

In this episode, Steve and Harley bring you Week 18 DFS pay-ups, stay-aways and value plays. So Huddle up, tune in, and get Blitzed!

Or, click here to listen