Tag:

George Kittle

DFS: Midweek Injury Report

Edwin Porras 5 years ago

written by Edwin Porras

Week Twelve is on the horizon and it’s the final week of byes (thank the heavens). Unfortunately, the Cardinals, Chargers, Chiefs, and Vikings all roster DFS relevant players, making this week’s injury report and roster construction that much more difficult. I’ll walk you through the Midweek Injury Report so we can begin to get an idea of who is playable in Week 12. Please note that all of the following player prices are from FanDuel.

Sign up NOW for WIN DAILY Premium Gold right here! Projections, wagering info, 24/7 expert chats and more!

T.Y. Hilton ($11,500)

Every time Hilton plays against the Texans his incredible career stats against them are a topic of discussion. I understand the temptation to play Hilton in this matchup given all of the factors surrounding this game, but I’m not confident he’ll even be active. This is why I’m fading Hilton even if he is active:

He did not practice yesterday
He’s nearing day 15 of a calf strain
The average return to sport for the least severe calf injury is 15 days.

If Hilton defies the odds as he’s done before, I’m still comfortable avoiding him, especially in cash. Furthermore, this is a difficult group of skill players to peg, so instead I would pivot to Nyheim Hines ($10,000) who’s role is the most defined at this point in the week.

Update: Hilton’s estimated practice participation for today was “full practice” but he is still not a cash game play if active.

Will Fuller ($8,000)

Fuller was a surprise inactive last week as it was almost universally assumed he would play. Considering that he has continued to be limited in practice, his status is truly up in the air. The Texans are taking it slow with Fuller who last year, upon returning from a hamstring strain, tore his ACL. If he’s active, he’s a volatile tournament play given his current Week 12 status and hamstring strain history.

Tyler Lockett ($7,400)

Next on the DFS Midweek Injury Report is my favorite receiver in the league. Tyler Lockett suffered a severe contusion to his thigh in Week Ten and it knocked him out of Monday Night Football. It was significant enough that he stayed in the hospital for two nights to monitor for compartment syndrome (see my tweet below for a brief explanation of compartment syndrome). All of this information means that Lockett is not a lock-ett (see what I did there?) to play this week. Check back with me for his practice reports and updates but if he can’t go everybody in the receiving corps gets a boost, particularly D.K. Metcalf who is a reasonable $6,700. The Eagles secondary has been better of late, but this could very easily still become a shootout.

https://twitter.com/FFStudentDoc/status/1194260822446559232?s=20

Alshon Jeffery ($6,200)

Jeffery has been struggling with this ankle injury since before the Eagle’s bye and so far this week there has been no change in his status. This matchup against the Seahawks would be a great get-right game for the Eagles and Jeffery alike, but I’m skeptical he’ll play. Check back with me later in the week for updates. If he can’t go, it will be the Zach Ertz ($6,100) who gets most of the targets in what should be a shootout.

George Kittle

Kyle Shanahan tipped his hand a bit this week in an interview when speaking about Kittle’s knee and ankle injuries. He said “it’s going to come down to the wire again this week” in reference to whether or not Kittle will play on Sunday night.

Ha! Gotcha, Shanahan!

George Kittle didn’t practice even once last week and it was never going to “come down to the wire” in Week 11. The fact that he would immediately give that default answer about his Week 12 status clues me in that Kittle hasn’t actually made any significant progress. If that’s the case, Kittle will once again be inactive and Ross Dwelley will be in play. I could be wrong, so check with me for updates on this matter.

Thanks for reading the DFS Midweek Injury Report. Keep in mind this is a preliminary report that is constantly evolving, so stick with me and feel free to reach out with questions.

THANK YOU FOR READING. YOU CAN READ SOME OF MY OTHER WORK AND THOUGHTS ON MY AUTHOR PAGE. FOLLOW Win Daily DFS ON TWITTER @WinDailyDFS. PLEASE CHECK OUT EVERYTHING THAT Win Daily DFS HAS TO OFFER. NEW ARTICLES, STATISTICS AND DATA ARE BEING ADDED CONSTANTLY. ALSO, DO NOT FORGET TO LISTEN TO THE WIN DAILY PODCASTS HERE.

Image courtesy of Brian Allen for Voice of America.

5 years ago 0 comments

NFL

DFS: Midweek Injury Update

5 years ago

written by

In Week Ten, more people than usual in the Premium Gold group chat shared winning lineup screenshots- and we love to see it. As the DFS season moves forward it will be imperative to stay on top of injury news to join this winner’s circle. Most imperative of all, make sure to read my Injury Fade/Play article that comes out every Saturday morning as I’m currently sitting at a 70% accuracy for injury outlooks. And it’s totally free! With that said, I’ll get into the DFS Midweek Injury Update. Note that all prices below are from FanDuel.

Sign up NOW for WIN DAILY Premium Gold right here! Projections, wagering info, 24/7 expert chats and more!

James Conner ($14,500)

Conner has been sidelined by an AC joint sprain and as expected, is set to return this week right at the two to four week average layoff. Conner is a decent play in the single game slates this week as the Browns are middle of the pack in terms of rushing defense. Volume will be key for Conner as I don’t expect him to be limited from this injury.

Matt Breida

I’m treading lightly here because Breida must truly be made of iron and nails at this point, but I will say that it looks like he’s going to sit Week 11 out.

George Kittle ($7,500)

Kittle did not practice at all last week as he is dealing with knee and ankle injuries. He has been significantly banged up with these non-specific injuries for a few weeks now, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they hold him out again against the Cardinals this week, so Kittle can take the Week 12 bye to get healthy. Surprisingly, Ross Dwelley ($4,900), had seven targets in Week Ten against the Seahawks and could serve as a cheap tight end option in tournaments on Sunday against the Cardinals who are ~~abysmal~~ ~~terrible awful the worst bad~~ below average against tight ends.

Update: Kittle was officially ruled out for Sunday by Shanahan.

Jacoby Brissett ($7,500)

Brissett was a surprise scratch that was announced Saturday morning before kickoff on Sunday. The Colts (likely) sat him with the impression that the Dolphins weren’t worth worrying about

Narrators Voice: They were wrong.

At any rate, Brissett should definitely be ready to go in Week Eleven barring any setbacks as he progressed through practice as a limited participant all of last week. This week the Colts take on the Jaguars who are ranked 12th in pass DVOA.

Update: Brissett should be good to go on Sunday.

Matthew Stafford ($7,900)

Stafford’s back injury seemed to come out of nowhere last week and he sat out for Week Ten. Due to the fact that Matt Patricia falls from the Patriots coaching tree, there has been very little reported about the injury itself and it has been called “week to week and day to day” all in one sentence. The bottom line is that if Stafford is dealing with the same back issue that plagued him all of last year, this could be a multi-week absence. My guess from this limited amount of information is that Stafford could be having back spasms. Why do back spasms happen? We’ll stand by and monitor his practice participation before going down that rabbit hole which ends badly for Stafford. If Stafford is inactive again, Jeff Driskel ($6,700) is in play as a deep, deep money saver in tournaments.

Update: Stafford hasn’t practiced yet this week and it’s not looking like he’ll play on Sunday.

Adam Thielen ($7,000)

The reset button was hit on Thielen’s hamstring injury in Week Nine when he re-aggravated it and didn’t finish the game. As we all know, hamstring injuries can cause one to three week absences for players, so I wouldn’t be surprised if Thielen sits out this week then takes the Week 12 bye week to get fully healthy before the home stretch. In an odd turn of events, Kyle Rudolph ($4,500) has received 19 targets since Thielen’s initial injury. He’s a weak option to keep in mind as a tournament play as the Broncos have been solid against tight ends this year.

Update: Thielen has not practiced this week. I would not count on him playing this week.

Emmanuel Sanders ($6,900)

Sanders took a big hit on Monday night and the reports are that he now has cartilage damage. The thing about ribs injuries is that they’re mostly self-limiting in nature which means that if the player can tolerate taking hits with minimal pain, they can go. The catch is that ribs injuries can be excruciating as the rib cage needs to constantly expand and relax to breathe while at rest, let alone while playing in an NFL game. It’s early in the week, but even if Sanders is active, I would not expect him to be productive. He could be active solely as a decoy but I would avoid him in tournaments and cash games this week. On the other hand, Deebo Samuel ($5,600) popped off against Seattle and could be a fine tournament play against the lowly Cardinals pass defense.

Update: Based on the reports, it doesn’t seem like Sanders will be active.

Additions

Alshon Jeffery ($6,200)

Jeffery continued to sit out of practice on Thursday due to an ankle injury he’s been nursing since before the Eagles’ bye week. At this point, there’s no way to trust Jeffery will be active, but if he is that ankle joint lacks the maximal stability required for his physical style of play. For that reason, even if active he’s a fade in all formats. The bright side (if there is one when discussing player injuries) is that Dallas Goedert ($5,000) is an excellent play in cash games given the desolate tight end landscape. With Zach Ertz becoming the de facto number one option, New England might choose to key on him this week and allow Goedert to catch a touchdown or two while playing a game in which the Eagles are likely to be in a negative game script from the kickoff.

Marquise Brown ($5,600)

The fact that “Hollywood” didn’t practice on Thursday is simply perplexing. He’s been listed on the injury report most of the season with this ankle injury and his practice participation is sporadic on a week to week basis. For example in Week Nine he practiced in a limited fashion on Thursday then did not practice Friday. This Wednesday he practiced but did not practice on Thursday. To top it off, I’ve gone back and watched fourth quarter film on him and he doesn’t show signs of limitations or a specific injury to point to. You’re guess is as good as mine when it comes to Brown’s status for Sunday, which by default means you should not count on him for cash games. However, he’s a yellow light in tournaments in this favorable matchup against Houston.

David Montgomery ($6,400)

Montgomery was already limited by an ankle injury before “lightly rolling it” again on Thursday according to Matt Nagy. At this point, it would be hard to use Montgomery in any formats given the volatile Bears offense and his lack of production against a Lions defense who usually gives up big time production to running backs. Tarik Cohen ($5,300) is a “meh” option for the single game slates.

Will Fuller ($6,300)

The speedster is in a good spot playing in a likely negative game script that should be high scoring. The problem is that Fuller has shown a significant history of hamstring injuries over the last two years. That makes him a volatile option due to the legitimate chance at re-injury. For those reasons he’s only a tournament play.

Thank you for reading the DFS Midweek Injury Update. Make sure to follow me on Twitter for up to the hour updates and analysis on player injuries and DFS implications. See you for the Fade/Play article on Saturday!

Featured image courtesy of Keith Allison.

5 years ago 0 comments

NFL

DFS: Injury Updates- Fades/Plays

Edwin Porras 5 years ago

written by Edwin Porras

As the season marches on injuries begin to pile on. At this point, no player is completely healthy making the injury landscape a deep shade of gray. Luckily, I’m here to help you wade through the waters of uncertainty with the DFS Injury Update- Fades and Plays. Keep in mind that all of the following prices are pulled from DraftKings.

Sign up NOW for WIN DAILY Premium Gold right here! Projections, wagering info, 24/7 expert chats and more!

Patrick Mahomes ($7,000)

I won’t bury the lead and start with the player everybody is asking about: “Patty” Mahomes. From a DFS perspective, it’s tough to fade Mahomes at all- cash or tournaments- but coming off an instability injury like a dislocation makes me nervous about a re-injury. The flip side of this argument is that Mahomes is unlike any talent we’ve every seen, and the literature says that his relative risk of re-dislocation, though elevated, is still not likely. Additionally, what he might lack in mobility, he more than makes up for with his ~~cannon~~ arm. So, the net injury perspective of these arguments is that I would consider using Mahomes in his first week back as leverage against the majority of people who would normally play him but won’t this week due to the injury. Don’t go over board with your shares in cash games, but the Chiefs’ running game is non-existent and if the offensive line can protect long enough for a few deep shots down the field, count me in.

Jacoby Brissett ($6,000)

Brissett sprained his MCL last week against the Steelers, but has continued practicing this week in a limited capacity. The MCL is responsible for stabilizing the knee and preventing it from caving and rotating inward during planting and cutting. I’m not concerned about Brissett dropping back and passing, but I am worried about his side to side mobility in the pocket. He’s also at a relatively elevated risk for re-injury to that ligament. All in all, Brissett is a fade for me altogether as I can see this being a big game for Marlon Mack ($7,000) and the running game. This will help to protect Brissett from contact and run down the clock on a terrible Miami defense.

Update: Jacoby Brissett has was unexpectedly been ruled out. I think this has less to do with Brissett’s injury and more to do with the Colts’ confidence in beating the Dolphins.

https://twitter.com/FFStudentDoc/status/1193216576633348097?s=20

Marquise Brown ($5,100)

Next up on the DFS Injury Update- Fades and Plays is Marquise Brown, who has been dealing with nagging injuries all year. It’s concerning to me that even after a bye week, he re-aggravated an ankle injury. If you combine his limited practice participation on Friday with the fact that he has only scored more than ten DraftKing points once since Week Two, this makes Brown a fade for me in cash. I might consider him in a handful of tournaments given they play the last-place Bengals. This might be a bounce-back game for Mark Andrews ($5,200) from a passing game perspective.

George Kittle ($6,700)

Kittle is dealing with a knee and ankle injury that is compounded by an ongoing groin issue. As of today, San Francisco has not released his practice participation but at this point, he is considered questionable. Very questionable. It’s an absolute bummer, but Kittle is a fade for me on the Monday night slates even if he is active as there are simply too many moving parts to his injury situation to comfortably use him. The good news for those playing this slate is that Emmanuel Sanders is only $100 more expensive and will likely absorb the targets Kittle would normally see in a game that could easily smash the over of 46.

Updated List

In case you haven’t heard, Matthew Stafford ($6,400) will not play today due to a back injury. Jeff Driskel ($4,100) is a complete hail mary and not worth using in tournaments as a journeyman backup who has not made a single professional start since entering the league in 2016.

Amari Cooper ($7,200)

The Cowboys hadn’t given much insight on Cooper’s injury this week until the practice report revealed his limited participation. Cooper went from a limited practice, to sitting, then back to a limited practice again on Friday. If you remember, Cooper had a thigh contusion a couple of weeks back, and this very well could be the same injury. They’re painful to play through and stubborn to heal. Additionally, Cooper’s day was saved last week by a late touchdown catch and run in a game where he otherwise had just three receptions on 35 yards. Is this lingering injury holding him back? The up and down nature of this injury makes Cooper a volatile play this week, but may raise the ceiling of one Michael Gallup ($6,300). I’m not using Cooper in cash games this week and would consider Gallup in tournaments.

JuJu Smith-Schuster

To say JuJu has been a disappointment this year is less of an indictment on him, and more a reflection of the Steelers as a whole. When “Big Ben” went down in Week Two that offense entered a state of disarray and JuJu has arguably taken the biggest hit in terms of production. To make matters worse, JuJu popped on the injury report on Friday with a foot injury. This foot injury caused him to be on the DFS Injury Update in previous weeks. All things considered, JuJu is a complete fade for me this week.

Thank you for reading the DFS Injury Update- Fades and Plays. If you have any more injury questions make sure to follow me on Twitter @FFStudentDoc and check back with me here for updates.

Featured image courtesy of Merson.

5 years ago 0 comments

NFL Daily Fantasy Sports

Week 8 DFS TE and DST NFL Picks: Waller For the Win

jason mezrahi 5 years ago

written by jason mezrahi

It’s Week 8 DFS of the NFL season, and I’ve got your Sunday main slate plays for Tight Ends and DSTs to win you some big green in cash and GPP!

Sign up NOW for WIN DAILY Premium Gold right here! Projections, weather reports, wagering info, 24/7 expert chatsand more!

Week8 DFS Tight End Cash Game Plays

Week 8 DFS — Darren Waller, OAK at HOU

FD($6,800) DK ($5,900)

Houston doesn’t normally give up a ton of points to TEs, but Waller is no ordinary TE. And last week Eric Ebron had a nice game against them, so the matchup should be more favorable than the red numbers indicate. I’m going to have massive shares of Waller in cash and GPPs.

Week 8 DFS — Austin Hooper, ATL vs. SEA

FD($6,600) DK ($5,500)

Hooper should get a boatload of targets from whomever plays QB for the Falcons this week, and he’s been the best TE in football this season (by a small margin over Darren Waller). Roll with him confidently against a Seattle team that’s been “no great shakes” – as the old-timers said – against TEs. He’s safe for cash and fine for GPPs.

Week8 DFS Tight End GPP Plays

Week 8 DFS — Evan Engram, NYG at DET

FD($6,300) DK ($5,300)

Engram missed a week with an MCL sprain, but he’s apparentlyshed the wrap that was on his left knee – and despite the fact that he didn’t domuch in Sunday’s 27-21 loss to the Cardinals, he’s in a great spot now that he’shealthy and facing a battered Lions defense that’s allowed some big games to tightends. He’s a great option for GPPs – we know his upside and the recency biaswill keep him from high ownership.

Week 8 DFS — George Kittle, SF vs. CAR

FD($6,900) DK ($6,500)

Kittle (groin) just got cleared to play in Sunday’s gameagainst the Panthers, so I’m a little worried about cash games but he’s atop target for GPPs. As long as Kittle suits up and there’s no talk of arestriction, we’re getting aboard.

Week 8 DFS — Zach Ertz, PHI at BUF

FD($6,300) DK ($5,100)

Ertz and the Eagles’ passing attack got stymied by the Cowboys,and the stud tight end ended up being a stinker. Worry not, Ertz fans, becausehe’s still the top dog TE in Philly, not Dallas Goedert, and the Eagles will bemaking use of him against a Buffalo team where they’ll have to throw underneathand trust their big targets in the flats.

Week 8 DFS — Hunter Henry, LAC at CHI

FD ($6,700) DK (4,900)

Henry’s 2019 season got offto a bad start, but since returning from injury he’s had two big games – one abona fide monster (8-100-2 vs. PIT). The Bears have actually been just okayagainst TEs this year, so Henry is still fully in play against a defense that’sranked No. 22 in most fantasy points allowed to TEs.

Week8 DFS Tight End Punt Plays

Week 8 DFS — Eric Ebron, IND vs. DEN

FD ($5,400) DK ($3,400)

Ebron could see a larger chunk of targets if Jack Doyle sitson Sunday, and is coming off a big game where he caught four of five targetsfor 70 yards and a touchdown in a win over Houston. The TD was a nice one, too,as he got his feet in bounds on a short TD pass in the third that helped propelthem to victory. Denver is okay against TEs, but his upside shouldn’t be significantlylimited.

Week 8 DFS — T.J. Hockenson, DET vs. NYG

FD($5,300) DK ($3,500)

The rookie tight end hasbeen building more consistency in his game but had some mistakes last week againstthe Vikings. We’re hoping for a high-upside outlier (like Week 1) in a matchupagainst the Giants, who will have trouble containing this talented pass catcherand athlete.

Week 8 DFS — Cameron Brate, TB at TEN

FD($5,200) DK ($2,700)

Brate takes on some moretargets with O.J. Howard out Sunday, which propels him into GPP territory at apretty low price on DK. It’s a lot on FanDuel, but he’s still in play forlarge-field GPPs – he’s got two TDs in his last three games and Howard’stargets, while minimal, should be heading his way.

Additional Week 8 DFS GPPand punt options:

Gerald Everett, LAR vs. CIN(FD $6,100, DK $4,300)

Darren Fells, HOU vs. OAKIND (FD $5,100, DK $3,400)

Jordan Akins, HOU vs. OAK (FD$4,900), DK $2,800)

Ben Watson, NE vs. CLE (FD$4,900, DK $3,000)

Foster Moreau, OAK at HOU(FD $4,900, DK $2,700)

Week8 DFS DST Cash Game Plays

NewEngland Patriots (NE vs. CLE)

FD($5,000) DK ($4,300)

The Pats remain the best defense in football by a large marginand get a team that coughs it up quite a bit. Do we really need to tell you toplay this unit in cash games, GPPs, or basically any format? The cream of the crop– and the price is still lower than what it could be.

LosAngeles Rams (LAR vs. CIN)

FD($5,000) DK ($3,800)

As long as they don’t jump out to a huge lead and spend the final quarter or so in prevent, the Rams make an excellent cash game play facing the struggling Bengals. The Patriots are still a much better play at the same price on FD, but the $500 price difference on DK makes them worth a look if you’re locked into all the other lineup components and the Pats just can’t fit

Week8 DFS DST GPP Plays

JacksonvilleJaguars (JAC vs. NYJ)

FD($4,500) DK ($2,900)

It’s approaching Halloween, and Jacksonville can be prettyscary – especially if you’re already seeing ghosts. The Jags at home present aperfect GPP opportunity in a week where the Pats and Rams will take a good chunkof the ownership. The Jets produce just 142.2 passing yards per game, and rank 32ndin total offense this season.

ChicagoBears (CHI vs. LAC)

FD($4,500) DK ($3,600)

The Bears are fine for GPPs because they have massiveupside facing the bumbling Chargers, but I have an inkling that Austin Ekeleris the magic man for them this week. The Bears give up a lot of passes to RBsand sometimes can get caught in over-pursuit, where Ekeler can make his mark inspace. I’m not going to freak out if you roll them out in cash, but I’d preferthe Pats and Rams. The price is certainly fair on both sites.

TennesseeTitans (TEN vs. TB)

FD($4,600) DK ($3,200)

The Bucs turn it over a lot and the Titans have a solidsecondary. I could see 3 INTs and a pick six for this defense, and that’s the kindof upside we need to win GPPs. Just play these guys at this affordable price.

SanFrancisco 49ers (SF vs. CAR)

FD($4,800) DK ($3,700)

The49ers are loaded with talent and have played extremely well. Facing thePanthers and the versatility of fantasy stud Christian McCaffrey is a toughtask, but you can’t argue the 49ers defense hasn’t delivered this season. They’rea bit expensive, but fine for GPPs.

BuffaloBills (BUF vs. PHI)

FD($4,300) DK ($3,000)

The Bills defense shouldn’t have much trouble containing aPhilly offense that’s missing a spark. The offensive line is dealing withinjuries and Carson Wentz looks off this year. If the Bills can pressure him,they might be looking at some big plays and enough sacks to keep them relevant inthe GPP discussion.

Week8 DFS DST Value GPP and Punt Plays

SeattleSeahawks (SEA at ATL)

FD($4,900) DK ($2,800)

The Seahawks are a prime punt on DK at $2,800. They aren’t thedefensive juggernaut of the past, but even they can make some stuff happenagainst the Falcons, who have played sloppy football this season and may be missingMatt Ryan. If they have both Ziggy Ansah and Bradley McDougald for Sunday, I’dbe more interested in taking the chance in GPPs where they should be prettylow-owned on FD at the high price.

LosAngeles Chargers (LAC at CHI)

FD($4,100) DK ($2,300)

The Chargers are dirt cheap and facing a team thatstruggles to score. If they can get Melvin Ingram back this week, they are aneven better play. I keep coming back to Mitchell Trubisky, though. The dude isnot a great QB, and the Chargers have Joey Bosa to wreak havoc him and the underachievingbackfield.

TampaBay Buccaneers (TB at TEN)

FD($3,500) DK ($2,500)

The Bucs were second-to-last in turnover differential last season and they turned it over a lot last week (seven times!). But this is about defense, and the Bucs could have some under-the-radar potential in Week 8 due to the Titans’ inability to pass protect. They are risky, and the Titans have played better – but Ryan Tannehill is still Ryan Tannehill, so there’s upside here.

Monkey Knife Fight Pick of the Week – Click Here to Play and Get 100 Percent Bonus!

Pick the Players that will get the most Receptions

Goal: 16.50, Prize: 2x

Evan Engram, Saquon Barkley and Kenny Golladay. Do not let the red crosses keep you from choosing these high-volume pass catchers from the Giants and the top WR on the Lions. They will see upwards of 30 targets between them in this game, so reaching 17 catches seems like its very doable.

5 years ago 0 comments

NFL Daily Fantasy Sports

Week 7 DFS TE and DST NFL Picks: Andrews’ Air Force

jason mezrahi 5 years ago

written by jason mezrahi

It’s Week 7 DFS in the NFL, and we’ve got a detailed list of tight ends and defenses to play in cash games and GPPs — right here at Win Daily Sports!

Sign up NOW for WIN DAILY Premium Gold right here! Projections, weather reports,wagering info, 24/7 expert chats and more!

Week 7 DFS TightEnd NFL — Cash Game Plays

Mark Andrews, BAL at SEA

FD ($6,700) DK ($4,900)

Andrews entered last week’s matchup with the Bengals nursing a bit of a shoulder issue but emerged with six catches (on eight targets) for 99 yards – his highest yardage total since the monster games in weeks 1 and 2. He’s the Ravens’ leading pass receiver, the targets have been consistent each week and this week’s opponent – the Seattle Seahawks – are 29^th against fantasy TEs. He’s a solid cash game play and viable in all formats, and there’s a good chance he notches another TD this week.

Austin Hooper, ATL vs. LAR

FD ($6,600) DK ($5,300)

Hooper’s workload gives him an edge in cash games, as he’s seeing 8.3 targets per game and converting those opportunities into fantasy gold – with more than six catches and 55 yards in every game but one so far in 2019. The Rams defense isn’t a pushover, but they did yield 8-103-0 to George Kittle on Sunday. He’s not cheap and he’ll be chalky in GPPs, but we can find plenty of value at other positions in cash games to warrant consideration of this standout fantasy performer.

Evan Engram, NYG vs. ARI

FD ($6,800) DK ($5,400)

Engram makes sense for both cash games and GPPs this week, though I’m partial to the previous two TEs in cash games considering Engram’s recent knee injury. Still, the matchup against the Cardinals remains the most favorable for fantasy TEs and Engram got in full practices this week after sitting against New England. Giants QB Daniel Jones is making use of his other receiving options these days, but Engram’s ceiling is lofty, he’s been making his cuts and feels good in practice, and he should be fine on Sunday barring any setbacks.

Sign up and get started withWinDailySports! We have your sport and the experts to help make you money. Whylose another buck when you can win TODAY!

Week 7 DFS Tight End NFL —GPP Plays

George Kittle, SF at WAS

FD ($7,100) DK ($6,700)

The 49ers TE has posted three straight games with exactlyeight targets and is looking to build onhis 8-103-0 line from a Week 6 win against the Rams. Washington’s pass defenseis dubious, and Jimmy Garoppolo has been in game manager mode andconservatively utilizing his full complement of WRs and RBs in the passing game.But Kittle is his favorite target and played on 83 percent of the offensive snaps last week; he has a higher floor than any of the 49ers WRs. I’d list himamong the cash game options if he wasn’t so expensive and hadn’t been a limitedparticipant (groin) at Thursday’s practice. Stay tuned to the injury report tomake sure he’s 100 percent – or close to it – come Sunday.

Darren Waller, OAK at GB

FD ($6,200) DK ($4,700)

There’s mild reason for concern with Waller coming off his lowest target total of 2019 in the week before the bye (4-39-0 on five targets in Week 5), and his status as limited (foot) at practice on Thursday. Add in the fact that he recently signed a multi-year contract extension with the Raiders, and maybe he’s lost a bit of the hunger that got him off to such a great start this season. Hopefully Waller’s status for Sunday’s game against the Packers isn’t in jeopardy, because he has enormous upside in this matchup and they certainly want to get something out of him after inking the new deal.

Hunter Henry, LAC at TEN

FD ($5,700) DK ($4,000)

Henry burst back into our fantasy consciousness with a monsterWeek 6 performance (8-100-2 on nine targets) despite a pre-game announcementthat he’d be on a limited snap count. It was a triumphant return to the field followinga four-game absence due to a tibia plateau fracture to his left knee, and he’lllook to follow up with another big game Sunday against the Titans. I have a feelinghe’ll be a little chalky in GPPs, but he’s just $4K on DK and I’ll have some exposure.

Week 7 DFS Tight End NFL — GPPValue and Punt Plays

T.J. Hockenson, DET vs. MIN

FD ($5,400) DK ($3,600)

Canwe just call this guy “Hock” yet, like we called Rob Gronkowski “Gronk?” It’llbe a while before he’s the elite fantasy option the former New England TE was,but Hock bounced back with some limited involvement after clearing the concussionprotocol, hauling in four of six targets for 21 yards during Monday’s 23-22loss to Green Bay. WR Kenny Golladay remains the top receiving option for the Lions,but Matt Stafford often looks for the rookie TE in the red zone, where we findthose elusive two-TD games. He’s an under-the-radar, inexpensive GPP play.

Jordan Akins, HOU at IND

FD ($4,600) DK ($3,200)

It’s between Akins and Darren Fells ($3,100) for the title of bestGPP tight end from Houston, and it’s a tough choice. Akins has more upside and versatilitybetween the 20s (he’s utilized as H-back, WR and TE) and has the requisitespeed to take any pass from Watson on a seam route to the house. He’s alsosecond on the team in red zone targets with five, while Fells is the main TE intwo-TE sets, saw action on 80 of 92 snaps last week, and is also targeted in thered zone. Both make for interesting GPP value options on this slate, thoughAkins is cheaper on FD.

Luke Willson, SEA vs. BAL

FD($4,500) DK ($3,000)

Willson will take over as the Seahawks’ No. 1 tight end onSunday facing the Ravens after Will Dissly (Achilles) was placed on IR. Willsondoesn’t have the upside of Dissly but he did play a season-high 56 offensivesnaps and caught two of three targets for 16 yards last week after the startingTE departed. He’s worth a dart throw in large-field GPPs but I’ll be havinglimited exposure with so many other options and only be using him in half of mySeattle passing game stacks.

Additional GPP and puntoptions:

Gerald Everett, LAR at ATL(FD $5,900, DK $3,700)

Jimmy Graham, GB vs. OAK(FD $5,800, DK $4,200)

Darren Fells, HOU at IND(FD $5,400, DK $3,100)

Jack Doyle, IND vs. HOU (FD $4,900), DK $3,500)

Trey Burton, CHI vs. NO (FD $4,800, DK $3,200)

Foster Moreau, OAK at GB (FD $4,900, DK $2,700)

Week 7 DFS DST NFL —Cash Game Plays

Buffalo Bills (BUF vs. MIA)

FD ($5,500) DK ($3,400)

The Bills are the top defense on the slate facing Ryan Fitzpatrickand the Dolphins – and they have the price to match. There’s no reason tooveranalyze this in cash games. You can flip a coin between this unit and the 49ersor just use whomever fits into your builds and salary cap.

San Francisco 49ers (SF atWAS)

FD($5,000) DK ($4,100)

With Case Keenum starting for Washington, it goes without sayingthe 49ers defense has some upside and might even be as better GPP play than theBills – who will be very chalky. In cash games, it’s probably a toss-up. I’llhave shares of both.

Week 6 DFS DST NFL — GPPPlays

Chicago Bears (CHI vs.NO)

FD ($4,500) DK ($3,000)

The Bears offer similar upside to the previously mentioned teams but with a bit more risk. They’ll be relatively low-owned facing the Saints but will be missing underrated defensive standout Akiem Hicks, who the Bears hope can return from IR later in the season. Still, Khalil Mack is due for one of his trademark takeover games and this unit is super affordable on DK to boot.

Houston Texans (HOU at IND)

FD ($3,900) DK ($3,000)

The Texans defense has been adequate this season, forcing at leastone turnover in every game this season. The only two games where they didn’t scoreat least 8.0 fantasy points on DK were Week 1 at New Orleans and Week 6 atKansas City. The Colts will look early and often to Marlon Mack, and if theycan contain him, they’ll post a solid game.

Los Angeles Chargers (LACat TEN)

FD ($4,600) DK ($3,100)

The Chargers were not great last week against Pittsburgh, but ifthey can get Melvin Ingram back for this game, they stand a much better shot atmaking value. Injuries have been an issue for this unit, but the possible returnof Ingram adds some intrigue to a matchup facing new Titans starter Ryan Tannehilland the Titans’ bevy of underachieving skill position players.

Tired of losing money on your DFS and Sportsbook? Signup today and become a winner while turning your passionfor sports into a second stream of income!

Week 6 DFS DST NFL — PuntPlays

Minnesota Vikings (MIN atDET)

FD ($3,800) DK ($3,100)

The Lions didn’t crack double digits in either game against the Vikingslast season, and this Minnesota unit isn’t a whole lot different from the 2019version. I’m on board for the low, low price of $3,100 on DK, but they are a bitof a risk with the Lions offense looking a lot sharper this year.

Cincinnati Bengals (CIN vs.JAC)

FD ($3,800) DK ($2,100)

The Bengals have some high-upside individual defensive players and they’ll be super low-owned, but I’m a little concerned about the injuries in the secondary. If they can come together as a unit and force Gardner Minshew into some mistakes, they’ll be able to make some value in GPPs at just $2,100 on DK – and maybe even take an errant throw to the house to boost their score. A true DST dart throw in GPPs.

5 years ago 0 comments

Daily Fantasy Sports

DFS: Final Injury Report

Edwin Porras 5 years ago

written by Edwin Porras

It’s Week Six (hard to believe) and today marks the return of Tyreek Hill. Today will also bring tough decisions on players such as David Johnson and George Kittle. Should you be concerned about these injuries? Read the DFS Final Injury report to find out.

Sign up NOW for WIN DAILY Premium Gold right here! Projections, wagering info, 24/7 expert chats and more!

Tyreek Hill

I’m green-lighting Hill this week with a good amount of confidence. Hill is coming back after a five week absence due to a posterior dislocation of his sternoclavicular joint. This type of injury differs from a soft tissue strain or a bruise in that once out of the “protection” stage, it’s pretty much all systems go. This was somewhat of a freak accident, and although he’s relatively prone to re-dislocation, he’s active today which means the Chiefs’ medical staff is confident in his ability to safely take a big hit. He might not see the immediate rebound in volume, but a decrease in volume will likely come at the expense of fly sweeps and bubble passes towards the sidelines and not fly routes. Luckily, “cheetah” just needs one or two big plays to pay off massively. Don’t be afraid to fire him up in tournaments this week with an eye towards cash games next week after re-solidifying his role in the offense.

Alvin Kamara

Kamara is a yellow light for me this week overall. Kamara will be active for Week Six after popping up on the injury report in the middle of the week with an ankle injury. This is more than likely a run-of-the-mill lateral ankle sprain and shouldn’t be taken too seriously. However given the fact that Latavius Murray is always a fine option for the Saints, I’m not using Kamara in cash. These ankle injuries can linger it would not be a giant surprise for Kamara to see a lightened workload. For this reason I’m not paying for any piece of the Saints’ backfield this week.

George Kittle

I’m red-lighting Kittle for my lineups this week. Kittle was a limited participant in practice on Friday due to a groin injury. These injuries are scary for skill players and can cause extended missed time is aggravated (i.e. DeSean Jackson). Because we do not know the exact severity of this groin injury, there is no reason to pay up for Kittle this week as a safe DFS player. Other options like Austin Hooper are in play today.

David Johnson

Here’s another red-light player for me on the Final Injury Report. D.J. has been limited all week by a back injury and did not get in a limited practice until Friday. This is another injury that is a bit mysterious as it could be effecting his muscles, discs, or ligaments. Due to the lack of information on Johnson’s injury and his limited practice participation, I’m very hesitant to use him at all this week. After the showing Chase Edmonds had in Week Five, even if Johnson is active, he might not pay off his price tags in terms of volume.

That will do it for the DFS Final Injury Report. Make sure to find me on Twitter here with specific injury questions. Good luck this week!

THANK YOU FOR READING. YOU CAN READ SOME OF MY OTHER WORK AND THOUGHTS ON MY AUTHOR PAGE. FOLLOW Win Daily DFS ON TWITTER @WinDailyDFS. PLEASE CHECK OUT EVERYTHING THAT Win Daily DFS HAS TO OFFER. NEW ARTICLES, STATISTICS AND DATA ARE BEING ADDED CONSTANTLY. ALSO, DO NOT FORGET TO LISTEN TO THE WIN DAILY PODCASTS HERE.

Image courtesy of Chipermc.

5 years ago 0 comments

Daily Fantasy Sports NFL

Week 6 DFS TE and DST NFL Picks: Hanging With Mr. Hooper

Andrew Erickson 5 years ago

written by Andrew Erickson

It’s Week 6 DFS in the NFL, and there are plenty of viable TEs to consider, even if the list of DST plays is pretty stingy for cash games and GPPs. Either way, you’ll find the right plays right here at Win Daily Sports!

Sign up NOW for WIN DAILY Premium Gold right here! Projections, weather reports, wagering info,24/7 expert chats and more!

Week 6 DFS TightEnd NFL — Cash Game Plays

Austin Hooper, ATL at ARI

FD ($6,400) DK ($5,000)

Hooper gets the most favorable matchup on the board, as he’s facing the Cardinals –who possess the league-worst defense against the tight end position. The former Stanford Cardinal – who has 20 targets over his last two games and 42 on the season – may even take exception to this group hawking his Alma Mater’s Cardinal name! But really – the price is reasonable, and the Falcons game plan has consisted of flowing their passing game through Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley, as well as feeding Hooper. The fast pace of this game should lead to another 8-10 targets and plenty of scoring opportunities.

Travis Kelce, KC vs. HOU

FD ($7,500) DK ($7,000)

Kelce and the Chiefs are coming off a bizarre loss to the Colts that saw the standout TE garner the most targets of the season (10) but post his lowest fantasy output (4-70-0) of 2019. That should change against the Texans, who have solid numbers vs. TEs but will be doing plenty of scoring themselves. This game has the highest total in the main slate, and Kelce is a lock-and-load cash or GPP play regardless of his high price.

George Kittle, SF at LAR

FD ($6,500) DK ($5,200)

Kittle led the 49ers in targets and receiving on Monday against the Browns and got “off the schneid” with his first TD of the season – showing he’s still capable of being Jimmy Garoppolo’s go-to guy. He’s definitely a Top 3 TE this week and worthy of cash game consideration since he’s still a pretty good bargain relative to Kelce, who has similar if slightly better upside and floor.

Sign up and get started withWinDailySports! We have your sport and the experts to help make you money. Whylose another buck when you can win TODAY!

Week 6 DFS Tight End NFL —GPP Plays

Mark Andrews, BAL vs. CIN

FD ($6,300) DK ($4,800)

Andrews is now nursing a shoulder injury (it was his foot before) butreturned to practice Thursday and makes a lot of sense as a GPP option thisweek against the Bengals. He’s ben alarmingly consistent in terms of targetsper week through five games (8,9,7,8,7) and makes for a high-upside, moderate-riskoption at a position where there just aren’t a lot of exciting plays outside theTop 10 at the position.

Will Dissly, SEA at CLE

FD ($6,000) DK ($4,900)

Dissly is an efficient receiver (23 catches on 26 targets this season)and is coming off of his highest yardage total of 2019, with 4-81-0 against theRams last week. The Browns were embarrassed by Kittle and the 49ers last weekand they don’t stand much of a chance in stopping Russell Wilson and his bevyof physical targets. He’ll be a core build in my Seahawks GPP stacks.

Zach Ertz, PHI at MIN

FD ($6,600) DK ($5,400)

Ertz is probably viable in cash if you really feel likely usinghim, but he’s more of a GPP play against the Vikings, who have better LBs and aball-hawking strong safety in Anthony Harris, who’s already earned an NFC Defensive Player of the Week in 2019 for his work versus the Falconsin Week 1. Sure, Hooper had a good game that week, but he didn’t find the endzone and the Falcons receivers are in ever way superior to the Eagles wideouts –so Harris may have been a little more focused on them when he wasn’t in man coverageagainst Hooper. Ertz is still a Top 5 TE in all formats and remains a solid GPPplay in Week 6 DFS.

Week 6 DFSTight End NFL — Value and Punt Plays

Jordan Akins, HOU at KC

FD ($4,600) DK ($3,200)

I’m not too keenon punting TE this week for many reasons, but Akins is near the minimum salary onFD and should garner lower ownership this week after Daniel Fells had hismonster game against the Falcons. The Chiefs-Texans is one of our prospective shootouts– if not the shootout – this week, so plug him into a smattering of your GPPsif you’re willing to assume some risk and hope for another big output like hisWeek 3 breakout (3-73-2).

Noah Fant, DEN vs. TEN

FD($4,500) DK ($2,900)

Fant is a Top 15 TE play this week but lacks the flash we’d liketo see from an athletic tight end of his pedigree. He makes my puntrecommendations because of a favorable matchup with the Titans (26th in the NFLvs. TEs) and because he’s both cheap and under-the-radar.

Mike Gesicki, MIA vs. WAS

FD ($4,600) DK ($2,700)

Gesicki may be my favorite GPP dart this week, because hisownership will be low and the Dolphins are emerging from a bye week where theyprobably surmised they could utilize him in the offense and still tank vs. Washington– another dysfunctional team without a viable offensive rudder. Josh Rosen willbe feeding both DeVante Parker and Preston Williams, but I could see 6-7 targets,a handful of catches and a TD from the sophomore TE this week.

Additional GPP options:

Delanie Walker, TEN at DEN(FD $5,200, DK $3,700)

Jared Cook, NO at JAC (FD$5,600, DK $3,400)

Gerald Everett, LAR vs. SF(FD $6,000, DK $3,600)

Blake Jarwin, DAL vs. NYJ (FD $4,600, DK $3,300)

Week 6 DFS DST NFL —Cash Game Plays

Seattle Seahawks (SEA @CLE)

FD ($4,100) DK ($3,400)

I don’t care that they’re on the road this week, the Seahawks aremy top cash game play for Week 6 because the Browns are an absolute disaster. ThisSeattle defense has actually been a little better on the road this season, itsbest performance as a unit being the Week 4 win at Arizona. They’re viable inall DFS formats this week and I’ll be locking them in just about everywhere.

Baltimore Ravens (BAL vs. CIN)

FD ($5,000) DK ($4,100)

The Ravens are going to be popular this week and I’d be remiss ifI didn’t include them as a viable cash game play, but I much prefer the Seahawksthis week and I won’t be rolling out any other unit in cash. The Bengals are aperfect “get-right” spot for any DST, but my concern is that some of the injuriesthe Ravens have suffered (safety Tony Jefferson just hit the IR) will keep themfrom reaching their normal upside.

Week 6 DFS DST NFL — GPPPlays

Washington Redskins (WAS atMIA)

FD ($4,200) DK ($3,200)

ThisWashington team may have its problems offensively, but there are myriad playmakerson this defensive unit and the Dolphins are a good candidate for turnovers and sacks.They’re probably my favorite GPP play if I choose to pivot off the Seahawks.

Dallas Cowboys (DAL at NYJ)

FD ($5,000) DK ($4,300)

The Cowboys are a good GPP play this week facing Sam “The Spleen” Darnoldand the Jets, who have struggled offensively and could have trouble stoppingthe Cowboys improving pass rush. They’re not cheap, but they won’t be lockedinto that many lineups given the return of Darnold and price point.

Tennessee Titans (TEN atDEN)

FD ($4,700) DK ($2,900)

The Titans have solid DST but travel to Denver this week. They’redefinitely an option as a low-owned play and they average 10.0 FPPG on DK thisseason, so work them into a few GPPs if you’re multi-entering.

Tired of losing money on yourDFS and Sportsbook? Sign uptoday and become a winner while turning your passion forsports into a second stream of income!

Week 6 DFS DST NFL — PuntPlays

Jacksonville Jaguars (JACvs. NO)

FD ($4,100) DK ($2,200)

This is not a play for the faint of heart, but I’m considering theJaguars DST – which is a much better unit at home than on the road. The Jagsscored 15 FP in Week 3 during their last home game against the Titans and they’llhave almost no ownership facing a dynamic Saints offense.

Miami Dolphins (MIA vs. WAS)

FD ($3,700) DK ($2,700)

The Dolphins shouldn’t everbe played in cash games, but they do have some good young defensive players andthey’ll know what’s coming this week, as interim HC Bill Callahan has alreadycommitted to hammering away with Adrian Peterson in Week 6 and this unit hashad two full weeks to prepare. It’s not an interesting game plan and playing theDolphins won’t exactly be fun – but if you’re feeling frisky and supercontrarian, this could be your angle.

5 years ago 0 comments

NFL Daily Fantasy Sports

Week 2 NFL DFS TE and DST Picks: Waller Pads Wallets

jason mezrahi 5 years ago

written by jason mezrahi

It’s already Week 2 NFL DFS time, and your wallets are gonna love Darren Waller — my favorite GPP play at TE this week. I’m also looking for some cash game TEs for your NFL DFS lineups – and some upside-laden defenses (DSTs) who could give you that essential edge.

Sign up NOW for WIN DAILY Premium Gold right here! Projections, weather reports, wagering info, 24/7 expert chats and more!

Week 2 Tight End NFL DFS Cash Game Plays

Travis Kelce, KC at OAK

FD ($8,000) DK ($7,300)

With Tyreek Hill out for an extended period of time and the Chiefs searching for reliable receiving options, Kelce will be looking at possibly 12-15 targets on a weekly basis. He’s a difficult matchup even for a decent defense with a good game plan, and he’s got both a solid floor and soaring upside. This week could feature a lot of the TEs from both teams (Darren Waller being the other). Kelce caught three of eight targets for 88 yards during last Sunday’s 40-26 win over the Jaguars and will be more heavily involved in this game plan with the Raiders losing safety Jonathan Abram.

Evan Engram, NYG vs. BUF

FD ($6,400) DK ($5,200)

Not to sound too much like last week, but Engram is STILL the best receiver available on the Giants and they will continue to throw him the ball without a corps of dependable wideouts. Sterling Shepard is questionable and Engram is essentially matchup-proof with how he’s deployed by the Giants. His 14 targets last week and 11-116-1 were more than even I anticipated, and he could top those numbers this week despite a tougher matchup against the Bills.

Week 2 Tight End NFL DFS GPP Plays

Darren Waller, OAK vs. KC

FD (5,400) DK ($3,300)

Waller played on every one of Oakland’s 55 offensive snaps in Week 1 in the Jared Cook role, hauling in 7-of-8 targets for 70 yards on MNF, leading the team in targets and appearing to be every bit as good as we’ve heard. That type of volume and his storied athleticism means he’ll be one of Derek Carr’s go-to players in a matchup that could see the Raiders throwing a lot in the second half.

George Kittle, SF at CIN

FD ($7,100) DK ($6,800)

I’m going back to the well this week with Kittle, who pulled down eight catches for 54 yards (no score) on a team-high 10 targets last week on an offense that didn’t have anybody else over three targets. With Matt Breida locked into the lead RB role and a lack of viable offensive ball control options, expect more of the same from the 49ers. That means plenty of looks for Kittle, who has the requisite upside for both GPPs and cash games. Plus, the Bengals were one of the weaker teams at defending tight ends a year ago, and that’s a good guideline for trusting George in the Jungle against the Big Cats this week.

Mark Andrews, BAL vs. ARI

FD ($6,100) DK (3,800)

Andrews caught all eight of his targets for 8-108-1 and essentially tripled his output projections for Week 1 — even if we expected a big game from him. He’s a bona fide TE1 with a decent floor and more upside than we imagined in last week’s write-up. I know the Dolphins defense was bad, but Andrews is still affordable on DK and should be an excellent FD GPP play.

Week 2 Tight End NFL DFS Value and Punt Plays

Blake Jarwin, DAL at WAS

FD ($4,500) DK ($2,900)

We know from last season that Jarwin has upside (his 12/30/18 game vs. the Giants saw him collect 7-119-3 on eight targets), and we know he’s involved in the Cowboys offensive plans for 2019 (3-39-1 on three targets in Week 1 against the Giants). I know — the Cowboys are in Washington, and don’t get to face the Giants again until later this season. But there’s still plenty of value here and Jarwin won’t make it onto too many rosters with all the viable TE plays this week — making him a solid GPP punt if you don’t have much more than the minimum to spend on your final spot.

T.J. Hockensen, DET vs. LAC

FD ($6,000) DK ($3,000)

Hockensen also shattered expectations in his remarkable debut for the Lions with 6-131-1 in the Week 1 tie against the Cards. We saw a pronounced skill set with oodles of athleticism and upside, and the Rob Gronkowski comparisons may be premature — that just doesn;t necessarily make them wrong. He’s projecting as a weekly option in all formats and makes for a fine flex play if you’re looking to use a couple of TEs.

Additional GPP/Punt options:

Will Dissly, SEA vs CIN (FD $4,000, DK $2,800)

Delanie Walker, TEN vs. IND (FD $5,900, DK $3,500)

Tyler Eifert, CIN vs. SF (FD $4,900, DK $2,900)

Week 2 NFL DFS DST Cash Game Plays

Baltimore Ravens (BAL at ARZ)

FD ($5,400) DK ($3,800)

The Ravens were the top consensus unit heading into last week, and the most expensive. This week, they’re once again the highest-priced DST on both sites, and that doesn’t dissuade me from locking them into any lineup in any format. The upside is still there, and they could force a bunch of turnovers facing a rookie QB. As one of the premier aggressive, ball-hawking defenses in an excellent matchup, they’re also as safe as any other DST on the docket.

New England Patriots (NE at MIA)

FD ($4,600) DK ($3,700)

The Pats get the Dolphins and come in a little bit cheaper on both sites. This is a pretty easy decision. In cash games, you’re going with the Pats or the Ravens and either unit makes sense in GPPs as well, especially since there’s plenty of opportunity to differentiate lineups at the skill positions. Still, the lack of counting stats in Week 1 (just one sack and one TO) could push some DFS competitors toward the Ravens.

Week 2 DST GPP Plays

Buffalo Bills (BUF at NYG)

FD ($4,400) DK ($3,400)

Like last week, there’s a precipitous drop following the top two defenses heading into Week 2. And while I dug the Rams here in Week 1, I’m looking for more exposure to the Bills in GPPS this week. Facing an exploitable New York Giants team with its questionable QBs, we could see another big outing from the Bills. They racked up four sacks and one takeaway while allowing just eight points to the Jets, and now get their in-state NFC analogs.

Houston Texans (HOU vs. JAX)

FD ($4,500) DK ($2,800)

The Texans defense had a tough time containing the Saints in Week 1, but get a much less potent offense to contend with in Week 2. Jaguars QB Gardner Minshew was solid in relief of Nick Foles (shoulder) last week, but Houston will watch the tapes and plot some new looks and impending disaster for the rookie. They’re a below-the-radar GPP/punt option that won’t cost you much on either site.

Chicago Bears (CHI vs. DEN)

FD ($4,200) DK ($3,900)

The Bears make it on the main slate after being confined to TNF showdowns and all-week slates in Week 1, and Broncos QB Joe Flacco couldn’t be more scared. I’m kidding, but the gist is that this is a defense to fear — and because of that, one to utilize in all fantasy formats. The effort against the Packers was maybe even a little better than expected: they limited the Packers to only 10 points while picking up five sacks — figures they could rocket past in Week 2.

Week 2 DST Punt Plays

Los Angeles Rams (LAR vs. NO — GPP)

FD ($3,600) DK ($2,700)

This is not a play for the faint of heart. The Saints are really good, but the Rams have Aaron Donald anchoring their defensive line and play at home. Nobody will be on them, and they are dirt cheap on both sits.

Seattle Seahawks (SEA at PIT — GPP)

FD ($3,700) DK ($2,900)

The Seahawks aren’t as great a play as last week, but this unit is still having some growing pains, and they’ll only get better as the season progresses. Still — they recovered three fumbles in Week 1 and totaled four sacks as a team, and they’re facing a Steelers offense that scored three points in the opener.

Denver Broncos (DEN vs. CHI — DK Cash/FD GPP)

FD ($4,500) DK ($2,700)

The Broncos make for a solid GPP play at their elevated price on FD and a relatively safe cash game play on DK. The Monday night game can be viewed as an anomaly, since negative fantasy production against a seemingly innocuous Oakland offense was more than bizarre. The Broncos have the pieces for maximum disruption, including an elite pass rush, and they’re worth a look in Week 2.

Evan Engram Featured Image via Keith Allison

5 years ago 0 comments

NFL

Week 1 NFL DFS TE and DST Picks

jason mezrahi 5 years ago

written by jason mezrahi

It’s finally Week 1 of the NFL and I’m looking at what can sometimes be the last two pieces you plug into your NFL DFS lineups – tight ends (TEs) and defenses (DSTs). There’s plenty to discuss, so let’s dive right in!

Sign up NOW for WIN DAILY Premium Gold right here!Projections, weather reports, wagering info, 24/7 expert chats and more!

Week 1 Tight End NFL DFS Cash Game Plays

ZachErtz, PHI vs. WAS

FD($7,100) DK ($6,100)

Ertz caught the second-most passes of anyplayer last year (116) and saw 156 targets. He’s in a great Week 1matchup and is a consensus top 3 TE in every possible format. There may beample reasons to enumerate the many attributes of some of the remaining TEs in thisrundown, but I shouldn’t cloud your mind with too many competing thoughts in mycash game recommendations. Ertz is top dog this week in cash.

EvanEngram, NYG at DAL

FD($6,400) DK ($4,800)

Engram is the best receiver available on the Giants and they are going to inundate him with targets against the Cowboys are just middle-of-the-road when it comes to defending opposing TEs. The third-year TE had a TD in each of his games vs. Dallas in 2018 and offers a little more safety than Travis Kelce and O.J. Howard, with just a tad less upside.

Week 1 Tight End NFL DFS GPP Plays

TravisKelce, KC at JAX

FD(7,800) DK ($7,100)

The tough matchup willkeep a chunk of the field away and that’s what we want for a guy with this muchupside – especially in a game with a 51.5 total. I’ll tolerate some risk at myTE spot because there’s a shot to play both – and I’ll have a lot of exposureto a Kelce-Ertz combo on both sites, since they could both score three TDs andmake incredible value just under the price point of stud RBs.

GeorgeKittle, SF at TB

FD($7,300) DK ($6,600)

Traditional ownership inGPPs dictates that the better value with the lower risk gets taken, so Kittlemakes perfect sense as a GPP pivot from Ertz, who’s cheaper on both sites.Kittle is a one-man offensive powerhouse who can take over a game with 200 yardsand score 2-3 TDs, so he’s a fine GPP play in Week 1 facing the relatively weakBucs defensive unit.

Hunter Henry, LAC vs. IND

FD ($6,100) DK (3,900)

There’s just a ton of upside to Henry’s 2019 season, and it all starts in Week 1 facing the Colts. He’s blessed with a capable, adventurous QB in Philip Rivers (who has a history of torrid love affairs with his TEs), caught eight TDs as a rookie in 2016 (the fourth-highest mark for a rookie tight end in NFL history) spent a year in an expanded role while out-targeting Antonio Gates, and then missed the entire 2018 regular season with a torn ACL. Low projected ownership and a prime matchup make him a solid GPP play this week.

Week 1 Tight End NFL DFS Punt Plays

MarkAndrews, BAL at MIA

FD($5,400) DK ($3,000)

Andrews emerged as a viable TE option in 2018 and promises to once again be a useful safety valve for Lamar Jackson. There’s not an overwhelming sense of limitless upside with Andrews from a season-long perspective (and I think most folks who drafted him would be happy with Top 10 numbers), but the Dolphins LBs are an inexperienced unit at risk of giving up huge numbers to opposing TEs. Andrews is a cost-effective way to fit in a bunch of solid RBs and WRs, though you’ll be assuming a considerable amount of risk not looking to the obvious top TEs.

DelanieWalker, TEN at CLE

FD($5,400) DK ($3,500)

Walker makes for an interesting GPP play at just $5,400 on FD, and he qualifies as a punt for his low salary on DK. Walker probably has a little more upside than Andrews but the three-time Pro Bowler makes plenty of sense as a lower-risk option heading into a Week 1 contest that might be a little more lopsided than expected and have the Titans playing from behind. Walker played just one game in 2018 (dislocated ankle) and will look to rebound with a big Week 1, and Jonnu Smith isn’t much of a threat to his targets.

Additional GPP/Punt options:

Will Dissly, SEA vs CIN (FD $4,000, DK $2,900)

Tyler Eifert, CIN at SEA (DK $3,100)

Darren Waller, OAK vs. DEN (FD $4,800, DK $3,000)

Week 1 NFL DFS DST Cash Game Plays

BaltimoreRavens (BAL at MIA)

FD($5,400) DK ($3,800)

The Ravens lost some defensive starters in LB C.J. Mosley and DL Willie Henry, and there’s been some question as to the effectiveness of their pass rush, but they remain a perennial powerhouse and there’s no easier team to pick on in cash games than the Dolphins. Since Miami is a team in turmoil, Baltimore is the consensus top defense in the weekly rankings and there’s plenty of value to be found throughout the rest of the roster, so it’s no problem looking at the Ravens this week, even as the highest-priced DST on both sites.

PhiladelphiaEagles (PHI vs. WAS)

FD($4,600) DK ($3,600)

There’s plenty of appeal to both the Ravens and this Eagles unit in GPPs, since there’s plenty of opportunity to differentiate our lineups elsewhere. But the goal of cash games is to limit risk and maximize cost – and there’s just not a lot of difference cost-wise between the top and bottom defenses. Philly is still running the Jim Schwartz system of constant pressure and this group is a fine blend of experience and youth. They are deep, they are talented, and they are home in Week 1 to face the paltry Redskins. Don’t overthink it.

Week1 DST GPP Plays

LosAngeles Rams (LAR at CAR)

FD($4,400) DK ($3,200)

There’s a considerable drop after the top couple ranked DSTs this week, so they’ll be my only cash game recommendations, but the Rams are a formidable unit facing a much more potent offense. Whether Carolina’s Cam Newton is 100 percent is the main factor in the Rams making most of my GPP builds, and if I’ll look to some of the following options as a pivot. With that said, the Rams are a consensus Top 12 defense this week and the team’s offensive prowess sometimes forces opponents into silly mistakes (30 takeaways last season). This is where you can capitalize in GPPs. They offer relatively low ownership because of the higher price, but they’re still a few bucks cheaper than the elite DSTs, so they make sense as last-piece fit.

SeattleSeahawks (SEA vs. CIN)

FD($4,500) DK ($3,100)

Plenty of question marks surround the newer pieces (ZiggyAnsah and Jadeveon Clowney) in the Seahawks front seven and All-Pro safety EarlThomas is out the door – so DFS players could look at this unit with sometrepidation and steer clear in Week 1. But the Bengals are a team without itsstar WR for the first few games and I know that Scott Engel would beannoyed if I didn’t acknowledge his squad’s upside in this cushy spot and justhow good these linebackers and lineman can be in 2019.

ClevelandBrowns (CLE vs. TEN)

FD($4,200) DK ($3,100)

The Browns are a couple years removed from being a laughingstock, and this play might not be all that contrarian with the DST’s cost down. But Cleveland had 31 takeaways last season (17 INTs and 14 FRs) and should be an improved unit in 2019. The Titans aren’t too much of a threat to score 25+ points and a Nick Chubb/Browns DST game script could be a decent starting point in GPP builds.

NewYork Jets (NYJ vs. BUF)

FD($4,200) DK ($3,100)

The Bills and Jets defenses both feel a lot like the sameamount of risk and upside, so this should be a fun Week 1 contest to watch. It’llbe even more fun if you click the Jets into your DFS lineups and they force abunch of turnovers from Josh Allen and the dubious Bills offense. The Jets unitis a risk, because they’re susceptible to the big play, but the flip side is thepositive variance they offer. I’ve seen them as high as second on some Week 1 rankingsand as low as 30^th – the definition of a GPP option.

Week1 DST Punt Plays

LosAngeles Chargers (LAC vs. IND)

FD($4,000) DK ($3,000)

The Chargers are cheap, they get to the opposing QB, andthey have plenty of upside facing a Colts team without Andrew Luck. I’mcomfortable going here in Week 1 for this affordable cost.

SanFrancisco 49ers (SF at TB)

FD($3,700) DK ($2,200)

The 49ers are loaded with talented defensive lineman but have a weak LB corps, and they don’t stand out as particularly safe facing the Bucs in Tampa Bay. But if you’ve got to make it work with just a few bucks left in salary cap, they make plenty of sense. The biggest area of concern for the 49ers this season is +/ in turnovers, where they ranked last in the league at -25 in 2018. The addition of Nick Bosa, however, promises to change some of that and Week 1 is a fine place to take advantage of the cost savings this improving unit offers.

TampaBay Buccaneers (TB vs. SF)

FD($3,500) DK ($2,200)

The Bucs were second-to-last in turnover differential last season and offer a similar risk-reward scenario in Week 1 facing the 49ers. I could see easily see pick-sixes for both teams and a 20-17 final score, which would be an acceptable outcome given the variance at DST and our aim at providing a modicum of upside without overwhelming risk.

Zach Ertz featured image via Jason Peters.

5 years ago 0 comments

Newer Posts

Older Posts