Whether you’re a seasoned player in Yahoo’s Daily Fantasy or trying it out for the first time, this weekly column provides insights into the DFS landscape. It explores building lineups around favored players, identifies stars to potentially avoid, highlights undervalued picks, and offers bargain bin options to enhance your team.
Lineup Building Blocks:
Christian McCaffrey ($42) vs. Detroit Lions:
In the face of a challenging matchup against the Detroit Lions’ formidable run defense, McCaffrey continues to be a DFS standout.
Despite last week’s negative game script, he managed 128 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns. With 23 touchdowns in 17 games this season, McCaffrey remains a top choice, particularly in a week with limited alternatives.
Lamar Jackson ($39) vs. Kansas City Chiefs:
Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities make him a standout pick, even against the formidable defense of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Despite the Chiefs’ defensive prowess, Jackson’s ability to overcome matchups and the loss of defensive starters position him as a strong DFS option, especially as the lone remaining dual-threat quarterback in the playoffs.
Amon-Ra St. Brown ($34) @ San Francisco 49ers:
St. Brown emerges as a valuable option against the San Francisco 49ers, showcasing his skills in a matchup where the Lions are expected to rely on the passing game.
With favorable weather conditions and a history of strong performances on the road, St. Brown is a compelling DFS choice, especially considering the 49ers’ vulnerability against slot receivers.
Star to Fade:
Patrick Mahomes ($33) @ Baltimore Ravens:
Despite Mahomes’ elite status, his DFS appeal diminishes this week due to a challenging matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. With a higher salary than some more favorable alternatives, Mahomes is not the optimal choice, given the Ravens’ recent defensive dominance and Mahomes’ supporting cast concerns.
Undervalued Options:
Brock Purdy ($29) vs. Detroit Lions:
Purdy, despite struggles in adverse weather conditions last week, presents a solid option against the Detroit Lions. With a promising forecast and impressive home game statistics during the regular season, Purdy becomes an undervalued pick, especially with all his weapons available and a returning Deebo Samuel.
George Kittle ($23) vs. Detroit Lions:
Kittle, facing a Lions defense that is strong against the run but vulnerable to passing yards, is a valuable pick this week. With Deebo Samuel likely limited, Kittle’s explosiveness and the 49ers’ high projected team total make him an enticing DFS option.
Gus Edwards ($20) vs. Kansas City Chiefs:
Edwards stands out as an intriguing running back pivot in DFS against the Kansas City Chiefs. With the Chiefs excelling against wide receivers but struggling against the run, Edwards, the primary option for carries and goal-line work, becomes a compelling choice, particularly in 0.5 PPR formats.
Bargain Bin:
Mark Andrews ($10) vs. Kansas City Chiefs:
While not expected to see a full allotment of snaps in his return from a leg injury, Andrews becomes a minimum-priced DFS option. With the Chiefs effectively shutting down wide receivers, Andrews could be busy, especially in the red zone, making him a budget-friendly consideration for your lineup.
