It’s been a fun ride, but we’re down to the final regular season week of DFS. Week 17 can be tricky with some teams falling out of contention and playoff-bound squads resting some of their regulars.
Read MoreNFL Daily Fantasy Football Recommendations for Week 12 – Quarterbacks and Running Backs
The Chiefs, Vikings and Chargers are among the four teams who are on a bye in Week 12, leaving us without the services of Patrick Mahomes, Tyreek Hill, Dalvin Cook and Melvin Gordon in DFS. As we wade through who is still available, here are some quarterbacks and running backs who could be in line for productive afternoons.
Read MoreNFL Daily Fantasy Football Recommendations for Week 5 – Quarterbacks
Believe it or not, we are already a quarter of the way through the NFL season. The quarterback landscape is certainly very different since we started things off four weeks ago, which has caused significant ramifications across DFS. Let’s break things down for Week 5 and highlight some of the best players at the position to consider, as well as a couple to avoid.
Read MoreNFL Daily Fantasy Football Recommendations for Week 11 – Quarterbacks
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
Reader-only discount! Use code EBIRD15 at checkout to save 15%.
We’re back up to six teams on a bye for Week 11, but at least this will be the last week that more than two teams will be on a bye. The Packers, Chiefs, Rams, and, Seahawks all play primetime games, making the main Sunday slate in DFS even more thin at quarterback. Let’s dive into the position to see where value can still be found. Don’t forget to sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and help build a winning entry on FanDuel and DraftKings.
CASH CONTEST OPTIONS
Cam Newton vs. Detroit Lions
Stadium – Ford Field
FanDuel = $8,600
DraftKings = $6,200
The Panthers were blown out on the road Thursday night, but at least they get some extra rest for Week 11. Newton completed 79.3 percent of his passes in that contest, but for only 193 yards. The Steelers also bottled him up on the ground, holding him to 10 yards on two carries. Newton was able to somewhat salvage his line with two touchdown passes, which marked his eighth straight game with at least two scores through the air.
Being the road team on Thursday night is tough, let alone having to face the Steelers. Newton and the Panthers get a much easier matchup this week against the Lions, even though it’s also on the road. The Lions have done a good job limiting passing yards, but they’ve given up 19 touchdowns through the air. They’ve also had troubles forcing turnovers with just three interceptions. The passing yards still might not be great for Newton in this contest, but his touchdown upside still leaves him as a good option in cash contests.
Drew Brees vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Stadium – Mercedes-Benz Superdome
FanDuel = $8,500
DraftKings = $6,500
The Saints demolished the Bengals 55-14 in Week 10. It’s no surprise that Brees was spectacular, completing 22 of 25 passes for 263 yards and three touchdowns. He even chipped in a rushing touchdown, giving him a great overall line despite not playing the entire fourth quarter due to the lopsided score.
While that game wasn’t close, this should be a much more competitive matchup against the Eagles. Brees could be lined up for a big performance with the Eagles allowing the 10th-most passing yards per game (266). It won’t help their cause that they just lost cornerback Ronald Darby to a torn ACL, either. This game being played at home also favors Brees. In four games at the Superdome, Brees has 12 touchdown passes and is averaging 347.8 yards per game. Across five games on the road, he has nine touchdowns and is averaging 242 yards.
Carson Wentz vs. New Orleans Saints
Stadium – Mercedes-Benz Superdome
FanDuel = $7,700
DraftKings = $6,300
In one of the more surprising games of Week 10, the Eagles lost at home to the Cowboys. Wentz played well in the defeat, throwing for 360 yards and two touchdowns. He did throw an interception, but it was only his third of the season. That shouldn’t come as much of a surprise considering he only threw seven picks across 13 games last year.
One noticeable improvement for Wentz this season has been his completion percentage. After completing 60.2 percent of his passes last year, that mark stands at 71 percent through seven games. That’s helped his passing yards per game jump to 306.9 compared to 253.5 last year. The Saints have allowed the second-most passing yards per game (296), leaving Wentz with the potential for another great performance Sunday.
GPP TOURNAMENT OPTIONS
Deshaun Watson vs. Washington Redskins
Stadium – FedEx Field
FanDuel = $7,800
DraftKings = $5,700
The Texans squeaked out a close two-point win over the Broncos in Week 9. Then, they were able to enjoy the victory during their bye in Week 10. Watson hasn’t been able to keep up his crazy touchdown rate from his rookie season, but he’s still posted 17 passing touchdowns across nine games. He’s even increased his passing yards per game from 242.7 last season to 265.4 this year.
The loss of Will Fuller to a torn ACL could have been a big blow to Watson’s value, but the Broncos helped mitigate that by adding Demaryius Thomas in a deal with the Broncos. The Texans bye certainly came at the right time since Thomas will now have had extra time to familiarize himself their offense and develop a rapport with Watson. If you want to beat the Redskins, the way to do that is through the air. They are allowing the fifth-fewest rushing yards per game (90.9), but the eighth-most passing yards per contest (270).
Ryan Fitzpatrick vs. New York Giants
Stadium – MetLife Stadium
FanDuel = $7,600
DraftKings = $5,600
What an odd performance from Fitzpatrick against the Redskins in Week 10. He completed 70.7 percent of his passes for 406 yards, so he should have finished with a monster stat line. However, he failed to record a single touchdown and was picked off twice. Across the previous three games in which Fitzpatrick finished with at least 400 yards this season, he had a total of 11 touchdown passes.
The goods news for Fitzpatrick is that he’s held onto the starting quarterback job for at least another week. With how poorly their defense has played, he’s going to continue to be forced to throw a lot to try and keep pace in games. The Giants defense has certainly been better than their offense, but they traded away a couple of key players in Damon Harrison and Eli Apple. Don’t expect Fitzpatrick to be shut out on touchdowns again in this contest, leaving him as a tournament play with upside.
Eli Manning vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Stadium – MetLife Stadium
FanDuel = $6,700
DraftKings = $5,200
The Giants finally put another game in the win column with a defeat of the 49ers on Monday night. Manning wasn’t particularly sharp despite the victory, completing 61.3 percent of his passes for just 188 yards. However, he made up for it by recording a season-high three touchdown passes. That was even more shocking when you consider he had eight touchdown passes all year entering Week 10.
Manning will get another chance to shine against the Bucs, who have allowed the fourth-most passing yards per game (292). This could be another one of Manning’s better touchdown performances of the season, as well, with the Bucs allowing the most touchdown passes through the air (23) in the league. It’s hard to trust Manning at this stage of his career, but he’s priced so cheap that he might be worth taking a chance on in tournament play.
PLAYERS TO AVOID
Ben Roethlisberger vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Stadium – TIAA Bank Field
FanDuel = $8,000
DraftKings = $5,800
Roethlisberger destroyed the Panthers in Week 10, throwing for 328 yards and five touchdowns. He failed to complete just three passes all game and didn’t throw an interception for the third time in his last four contests. It’s hard to be too down on him coming off of a stat line like that, but the Jaguars have allowed the fewest passing yards per game (201) and have given up only 12 passing touchdowns. Roethlisberger’s price on DraftKings is reasonable, but he’s awfully risky at his price on FanDuel based on this matchup.
Andy Dalton vs. Baltimore Ravens
Stadium – M&T Bank Stadium
FanDuel = $7,100
DraftKings = $5,000
Simply put, Dalton was a disaster against the Saints. He really missed having his start receiver in A.J. Green (toe), finishing with just 153 passing yards and one touchdown. The Saints also picked him off twice, which was just the second time all season that Dalton has thrown at least two interceptions in a game. Dalton got off to a hot start, but he now has 229 passing yards or fewer in three of his last four contests. The Ravens have one of the best pass defenses in the league, so stay far, far away from Dalton with Green set to miss Week 11.
NFL Daily Fantasy Football Recommendations for Week 4 – Quarterbacks
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
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After three weeks of a full schedule, Week 4 brings two teams on a bye with the Redskins and the Panthers getting an early breather. The Chiefs also play on Monday, taking their high-flying offensive weapons out of the equation if you playing the main Sunday slate in DFS. However, there are still plenty of great matchups to take advantage of at the quarterback position. Let’s examine some players to target and avoid as you craft your entry. Don’t forget to sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and help build a winning entry on FanDuel and DraftKings.
CASH CONTEST OPTIONS
Aaron Rodgers vs. Buffalo Bills
Stadium – Lambeau Field
FanDuel = $8,500
DraftKings = $6,800
Last year, Rodgers threw for at least 300 yards in each of the first three games of this season. Through the first three weeks of 2018, Rodgers has yet to reach that mark. He continued to battle through a knee injury Sunday against the Redskins, throwing for 265 yards and two touchdowns. Although his yardage totals haven’t been great, he does have six touchdown passes and has yet to throw an interception.
Rodgers is certainly not going to be completely healthy again Sunday, but he could be in line for one of his best performances of the year. The Bills pulled off a miraculous upset against the Vikings last week, but that game was at home. Playing on the road in Lambeau Field is a completely different story. The Bills have allowed seven touchdown passes and recorded only one interception through the first three weeks, setting up Rodgers with a high floor in this contest.
Matt Ryan vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Stadium – Mercedes-Benz Stadium
FanDuel = $8,100
DraftKings = $6,100
Ryan’s season started with a whimper, registering 251 yards, one interception and no touchdowns Week 1 on the road against the Eagles. To say he’s bounced back well would be an understatement. In the last two games, Ryan has thrown for 646 yards, seven touchdowns and has even chipped in two rushing touchdowns. He completed just 48.8% of his passes in Week 1 but has completed 77.8% of his passes since.
Week 4 brings a third-straight home game for Ryan and the Falcons. They’ll face a Bengals defense that has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks through the first three weeks. The Bengals didn’t exactly get lit up by Cam Newton last week, but the Panthers offense is built around their running game, which is not the case for the Falcons. Their wide receiver trio of Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley, and Mohamed Sanu can cause a lot of problems for opposing defenses, so don’t hesitate to roll with Ryan for your entry.
Philip Rivers vs. San Francisco 49ers
Stadium – StubHub Center
FanDuel = $7,800
DraftKings = $6,500
Sunday’s game against the Rams wasn’t pretty for Rivers, who completed 18 of 30 passes for 226 yards. He still threw two touchdown passes and avoided being intercepted, but it wasn’t all that surprising that he didn’t have a banner day against a tough Rams defense that has allowed the fewest fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. The two touchdown passes by Rivers were the first they had allowed this year.
Things swing back in Rivers’ favor for Week 4 against a 49ers team that is still reeling from the loss of their franchise quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo to a torn in ACL. Their defense was torched in that contest, allowing Patrick Mahomes to rack up 314 yards and three touchdowns. The 49ers have now allowed eight touchdown passes and are still looking for their first interception. They will be short-handed in the secondary with Richard Sherman already ruled out due to a calf injury, potentially setting up Rivers for a productive afternoon.
GPP TOURNAMENT OPTIONS
Andy Dalton vs. Atlanta Falcons
Stadium – Mercedes-Benz Stadium
FanDuel = $7,400
DraftKings = $5,400
Dalton provided a mixed-bag against the Panthers in Week 3. While his 352 passing yards and two touchdowns look nice, he also threw four interceptions in the Bengals first loss of the year. His yardage total was boosted by his 46 pass attempts, which marked his second consecutive week with at least 40 attempts. He threw at least 40 passes in a game only two times all of last season.
The Bengals have a much easier matchup Sunday against a Falcons defense that is missing several key players due to injury, including linebacker Deion Jones and safeties Keanu Neal and Ricardo Allen. They have allowed 731 passing yards and six passing touchdowns to quarterbacks over the last two games, leaving Dalton as an excellent option in tournament play based on his upside.
Baker Mayfield vs. Oakland Raiders
Stadium – Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
FanDuel = $6,900
DraftKings = $5,300
The Browns finally ended their long losing streak and basically did so on the shoulders of Mayfield, who came in at quarterback after Tyrod Taylor left Thursday’s game due to a concussion. Although Mayfield didn’t throw a touchdown, he completed 17 of 23 passes for 201 yards and added some much-needed life to their offense. The Browns have already named Mayfield as the starting quarterback for Week 4, a job he should hold onto for the rest of the season, barring injury.
Playing on the road on the West Coast isn’t exactly ideal for a rookie quarterback’s first career start, but the Raiders don’t have an imposing defense. The trading of Khalil Mack has significantly hurt their pass rush as they have only three sacks through the first three weeks., which is the fewest in the NFL. Their lack of pressure has only resulted in one interception, as well. Don’t be surprised if Mayfield thrives in this game.
Ryan Tannehill vs. New England Patriots
Stadium – Gillette Stadium
FanDuel = $6,800
DraftKings = $5,500
Who would have thought that heading into this AFC East matchup that the Dolphins would be 3-0 while the Patriots would be 1-2? A lot of the Dolphins success can be attributed to Tannehill, who has completed at least 71.4% of his passes and thrown at least two touchdowns in each of the first three weeks. He’s also provided some value with his legs, rushing 15 times for 74 yards.
While the Dolphins’ start has been impressive, this will be by far their toughest task of the season facing the Patriots on the road. It might not be all that bad for Tannehill and their offense, though, since the Patriots have allowed 25.7 points per game across the first three weeks. The Dolphins are finally completely healthy at wide receiver, too, with DeVante Parker returning last week. I don’t think Tannehill has as high of a ceiling as Dalton and Mayfield do, but he can still provide value at this price.
PLAYERS TO AVOID
Carson Wentz vs. Tennessee Titans
Stadium – Nissan Stadium
FanDuel = $7,300
DraftKings = $5,800
Wentz made his first start of the season Sunday, completing his return from a torn ACL suffered last year. He wasn’t great, but he wasn’t awful either, throwing for 255 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. It certainly didn’t help his cause that the Eagles were missing two of their top three wide receivers in Alshon Jeffery and Mike Wallace. They were also without Jay Ajayi and Darren Sproles in their backfield. Ajayi and Sproles are expected to return for Week 4 and Jeffery might make his season debut, as well, which would certainly be a boost for their offense. That being said, Wentz is still coming off a long layoff, so it might be wise to spend your money elsewhere.
Derek Carr vs. Cleveland Browns
Stadium – Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
FanDuel = $7,000
DraftKings = $5,100
The Raiders are a mess. They have led at the half in each of their first three games, but don’t have a win to show for it. Carr has posted a 76.6% completion rate and is averaging 312 passing yards per game, which would both be career-highs. However, he’s turned that into only two touchdown passes and he has five interceptions. The Browns defense has been much improved and has allowed the second-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. That’s especially impressive when you consider they have faced the Steelers and Saints already. Stay away from Carr when crafting your lineup.
Daily Fantasy Football Lineup Recommendations for Week 13
*Mike Barner*
Daily Fantasy Football Lineup Recommendations for Week 13
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With no teams on a bye and only one game Thursday, this is the first time since Week 5 that there is a full list of options to choose from for your daily fantasy football entry. Put your favorite recommendations from the article below in our lineup optimizer and hit calculate. You can let it fill in the rest of the spots for you or choose your personal favorites from the NFL Player Lab.
**QUARTERBACKS**
Carson Wentz vs. Seattle Seahawks
Stadium – Century Link Field
DraftKings = $7,200
FanDuel = $8,000
Wentz continues to be a touchdown machine as he has thrown for at least two scores in seven straight games, five of which he threw at least three. Not only is his touchdown streak impressive, but he has not thrown an interception in three straight games either. Normally playing on the road in Seattle is no easy task against the Seahawks defense, but their secondary is a shell of its former self with Richard Sherman and Kam Chancellor out for the season. Look for Wentz to continue to excel in this contest.
Case Keenum vs. Atlanta Falcons
Stadium – Mercedes-Benz Stadium
DraftKings = $6,000
FanDuel = $7,600
If you are still a Keenum skeptic, you shouldn’t be. He’s not just a game manager anymore as he has at least 30 pass attempts in five of his last six games. The last four weeks have been especially exceptional as he has thrown for 1,154 yards and nine touchdowns. He’s even chipped in at least 20 rushing yards in each of his last two games. The Falcons defense has not been great as they have allowed at least 20 points in four of their last five games. With their offense catching fire as well, Keenum should be looked at to throw the ball plenty again this week. Another valuable performance could be in the works.
Trevor Siemian vs. Miami Dolphins
Stadium – Hard Rock Stadium
DraftKings = $4,800
FanDuel = $6,200
The Broncos quarterback carousel continues to turn as Paxton Lynch was their third starting quarterback this season in Week 12. Lynch, Siemian, and Brock Osweiler have all started under center for Denver this season, with Siemian really the only one showing any signs of promise. He performed well in relief of Lynch last week, throwing for 149 yards and two touchdowns. He started out the season throwing six touchdowns in the first two games, so he can be productive. Sunday brings a matchup against a Dolphins defense that is tied for the second-most touchdown passes allowed (22) in the NFL. They have only picked off four passes as well, so Siemian could be a nice cost effective option for your entry.
**RUNNING BACKS**
Todd Gurley II vs. Arizona Cardinals
Stadium – University of Phoenix Stadium
DraftKings = $8,200
FanDuel = $8,800
Gurley has seen limited carries of late as he has 17 or fewer rushing attempts in each of his last four games. However, he still provides tremendous value based on his role in the passing attack. He enters Week 13 having already set career-highs in targets (59), receiving yards (479) and receiving touchdowns (three). The Rams offense has reached new heights this season, resulting in 11 total touchdowns for Gurley. Gurley posted 154 total yards and a touchdown when these same two teams met earlier this season, so expect big things again this week.
Latavius Murray vs. Atlanta Falcons
Stadium – Mercedes-Benz Stadium
DraftKings = $5,200
FanDuel = $6,500
Keenum’s success at quarterback has been a major boost for Murray as teams are no longer able to stack the box to stop the run. While Murray is sharing the running back duties with Jerick McKinnon, he has received more carries than McKinnon in each of the last five games. Murray also gets the goalline work and has cashed in that opportunity to score five touchdowns over the last five games. This could be a high-scoring contest, leading to more scoring opportunities for Murray to reach the end zone. He presents an excellent mid-tier option for your entry.
Rex Burkhead vs. Buffalo Bills
Stadium – New Era Field
DraftKings = $5,000
FanDuel = $5,900
The Patriots running back situation has been a source of DFS frustration in the past, but it has seen some surprising clarity of late. Burkhead and Dion Lewis have taken over the lions share of the work, with James White only receiving limited opportunities. More than just a threat in the passing game, Burkhead has received at least 10 carries in two of the last three weeks. Burkhead has even found his way into the end zone, scoring three touchdowns over the last three weeks. With the Patriots offense firing on all cylinders, Burkhead should provide value again at this price.
**WIDE RECEIVERS**
Keenan Allen vs. Cleveland Browns
Stadium – StubHub Center
DraftKings = $8,300
FanDuel = $8,100
To say Allen has played well lately is an understatement as he has 23 receptions on 27 targets for 331 yards and three touchdowns in the last two games. Finally healthy, he is having one of the best season’s of his career as he is in the top-seven in the NFL in targets (107), receptions (67) and receiving yards (927). The Browns defense is not as horrible as it has been in recent memory, but they are still tied for the second-most touchdown passes allowed (22) in the NFL. Don’t expect them to be able to slow Allen down this week.
Robby Anderson vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Stadium – MetLife Stadium
DraftKings = $6,300
FanDuel = $7,200
Anderson is about as hot as you can get right now as he has scored a touchdown in each of the last five games. He’s piling up yardage totals as well as he has at least 85 yards in three of his last four games. With limited weapons around him, his 74 targets this year are only four away from matching his total from all of last season. Week 13 brings a matchup against a Chiefs defense that has allowed the fifth-most net passing yards per game (246) in the league, so look for him to keep his hot streak alive.
Cooper Kupp vs. Arizona Cardinals
Stadium – University of Phoenix Stadium
DraftKings = $6,400
Fan Duel = $6,300
Kupp had his best game of the season last week when he had eight receptions on 11 targets for 116 yards. While he failed to reach the end zone for the fourth straight game, that kind of volume gives him excellent value. Fellow Rams receiver Robert Woods should be out again this week with a shoulder injury, which was a big reason for Kupp’s added involvement last week. If he manages to find his way into the end zone, he could far exceed his price point.
Cordarrelle Patterson vs. New York Giants
Stadium – Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
DraftKings = $3,400
FanDuel = $5,500
Patterson had a big game last week against the Denver Broncos when he hauled in three of four targets for 72 yards. With Amari Cooper leaving the game due to injury and Michael Crabtree getting ejected, Patterson took on a more prominent role in the offense. Much of the same could be in store for him this week as Crabtree has been suspended and Cooper might not be able to play. The Giants defense has been decimated by injuries and will now be without top cornerback Janoris Jenkins as well. If you want to take a chance on a cheap receiver, Patterson has significant upside, especially on DraftKings.
**TIGHT ENDS**
Rob Gronkowski vs. Buffalo Bills
Stadium – New Era Field
DraftKings = $7,300
FanDuel = $8,100
When he’s healthy, you don’t need a whole lot of justification to start Gronk most weeks. Only Jimmy Graham has more than Gronk’s seven touchdowns amongst tight ends this season and only Travis Kelce has more receiving yards at the position. To make things even more enticing this week, Gronk has historically owned the Bills. In 11 career games against them, he has 52 receptions, 813 yards, and 11 touchdowns. Don’t overthink this one, get him in your lineup.
Jared Cook vs. New York Giants
Stadium – Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
DraftKings = $5,400
FanDuel = $5,500
Much of the same argument for starting Patterson can be made for also using Cook this week. He will likely be more involved in the passing game with the team thin at wide receiver, which is significant considering he already has received at least five targets in all but one game this season. While the Giants will be down their best cornerback, they are even thinner at linebacker. The Giants have allowed an NFL-worst 10 touchdowns to tight ends this season, making Cook a strong option if you want to save money at the position.
**DEFENSES/SPECIAL TEAMS**
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts
Stadium – EverBank Field
DraftKings = $4,500
FanDuel = $5,600
The Jaguars feasted on the Colts earlier this season when they recorded a staggering 10 sacks. The Jaguars have actually done that twice in a game this season and have recorded at least five sacks in four games. They are a turnover machine as well, producing four interceptions and five fumble recoveries in their last three games. Need further convincing? They also have seven scores this season. There is a reason they are the most expensive defense/special team option this week, so don’t hesitate to get them in your entry.
Denver Broncos vs. Miami Dolphins
Stadium – Hard Rock Stadium
DraftKings = $3,000
FanDuel = $4,600
If you can’t make the Jaguars fit into your budget, one of the better cheap options could be the Broncos. They take on a Dolphins team that struggles to score and are down to pretty much one NFL-caliber running back in Kenyan Drake. The Broncos defense is not as dominant this season, but they still allow the fourth-fewest net passing yards per game (202) in the league. The problem with the Broncos defense is they don’t create a lot of turnovers as they haven’t picked off a pass in their last four games. Miami is tied for the second-most interceptions thrown (15), so this might be the week the Broncos get back on track. Although losing Aqib Talib to suspension is a significant blow, the Broncos can still provide value this week.
Daily Fantasy Football Lineup Recommendations for Week 11
*Mike Barner*
Daily Fantasy Football Lineup Recommendations – Week 11
Get our NFL Seasonal package for 50% off for a LIMITED TIME using code “NLA5017”
Week 11 is the last week with teams on a bye, so this is the final time you will have limited options for your DFS entry. With the Indianapolis Colts and San Francisco 49ers being two of the teams on a bye, you won’t be able to take advantage of their bottom of the league defenses. That being said, there are still plenty of favorable matchups you can use to bring home some money. Put your favorite daily fantasy football recommendations from the article below in our lineup optimizer and hit calculate. You can let it fill in the rest of the spots for you or choose your personal favorites from the NFL Player Lab.
**QUARTERBACKS**
Carson Wentz vs. Dallas Cowboys
Stadium – AT&T Stadium
DraftKings = $7,200
FanDuel = $8,700
Wentz is one of the hottest quarterbacks in the NFL right now as he has thrown at least three touchdowns in four of the last five games. The Eagles are one of the best teams in the league and Wentz’s progress is the main reason why. Week 11 brings an excellent matchup against a Cowboys defense that has allowed 16 passing touchdowns while intercepting only five passes this year. Don’t expect them to be able to stop the Wentz Wagon this week.
Alex Smith vs. New York Giants
Stadium – MetLife Stadium
DraftKings = $6,700
FanDuel = $7,900
Not only is Smith averaging a career-high 271.6 passing yards per game, but he also has an insane 18 touchdown passes with only one interception. Week 11 brings a terrible Giants defense that is tied for the most touchdown passes allowed this season (20). The Giants defense has dealt with injuries and suspensions and looks to have quit on a disappointing season. 49ers quarterback C.J. Beathard torched the Giants for 288 yards and two touchdown passes last week after throwing two touchdown passes in the previous four games combined. Smith is primed for a big game Sunday.
Jay Cutler vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Stadium – Hard Rock Stadium
DraftKings = $5,400
FanDuel = $6,600
While the Dolphins offense has been terrible this season, Cutler has thrown at least two touchdown passes and thrown no more than one interception in each of his last four games. The Dolphins have weapons at wide receiver and are finally showing some semblance of a rushing attack, so don’t sleep on Cutler. He gets to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Week 11, a team who has allowed the fourth-most net passing yards per game (266) in the league. At this price, he is worth the risk in tournament play.
**RUNNING BACKS**
Kareem Hunt vs. New York Giants
Stadium – MetLife Stadium
DraftKings = $8,000
FanDuel = $8,600
Hunt has slowed down after a hot start to the season as he hasn’t scored a touchdown since Week 3. He was at least continuing to rack up yards, but even that has dropped off as he has 68 total yards or less in both of his last two games. While it was unlikely that he could keep up his torrid start, it’s also unlikely his recent slide will continue. Week 11 brings a great matchup against a Giants defense that not only struggles to defend the pass but is also allowing the third-most rushing yards per game (132.6). Start Hunt with confidence Sunday.
Chris Thompson vs. New Orleans Saints
Stadium – Mercedes-Benz Superdome
DraftKings = $5,400
FanDuel = $6,800
Like Hunt, Thompson also hasn’t produced much lately as he has 98 total yards over his last two games combined. That being said, he has still been very involved in the passing game as he has received at least five targets in each of the last five games. Fellow running back Rob Kelley went down with an injury last week and has been placed on injured reserve. While Samaje Perine will take over for Kelley on most rushing downs, Thompson should also see an expanded role in the offense. The Redskins may need to throw a lot on the road to keep up with the Saints, making Thompson a nice option for your lineup at this price.
Orleans Darkwa vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Stadium – MetLife Stadium
DraftKings = $4,800
FanDuel = $5,900
The Giants continue to be a mess on both sides of the ball, but Darkwa has quietly provided solid value as he has rushed for at least 70 yards in three of the last four games. He played well in a loss last week against a bad San Francisco rush defense as he had 70 yards on 14 carries and caught two passes for 18 yards. The Chiefs also struggle to defend the run as they are allowing the fourth-most rushing yards per game (131.1). While this game is likely to get out of hand, Darkwa should run enough at least in the first half to provide value considering the cost to add him to your lineup.
**WIDE RECEIVERS**
Adam Thielen vs. Los Angeles Rams
Stadium – U.S. Bank Stadium
DraftKings = $7,200
FanDuel = $7,700
One of the more underrated receivers in the NFL, you should not look past Thielen this week. He gets a ton of passes thrown his way as has had at least 10 targets in each of his last four games. He came away with at least 96 receiving yards in three of those games and has scored one touchdown in both of the last two games. Quarterback Case Keenum has done a surprisingly good job of not just managing the Vikings offense but also leading them to the tenth most points scored in the league. Look for him to continue to produce this week as the Vikings try to keep up with the Rams high-scoring offense.
Jarvis Landry vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Stadium – Hard Rock Stadium
DraftKings = $6,400
FanDuel = $6,800
While the Dolphins offense hasn’t been anything to write home about, Landry has been the key focal point as he leads the NFL in receptions (61) and is third in targets (96). He actually has more touchdowns (5) than Antonio Brown (3) this season. With the Buccaneers struggles to defend the pass already detailed, it would be wise to get Landry in your lineup this week.
Sterling Shepard vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Stadium – MetLife Stadium
DraftKings = $6,300
FanDuel = $6,500
The Giants have very few quality healthy receivers, leaving Shepard as their best threat. While he didn’t reach the end zone, he had a huge game last week against the 49ers as he caught 11 of 13 targets for 142 yards. He received 9 targets the previous week against the Rams, so expect him to be heavily involved going forward. The Giants are likely to find themselves down big against a productive Chiefs offense, meaning lots of passes heading Shepard’s way. The potential is here for a big stat line.
Taylor Gabriel vs. Seattle Seahawks
Stadium – CenturyLink Field
DraftKings = $3,400
FanDuel = $5,300
With all the injuries at quarterback around the league and some teams still on a bye, there are limited cheap options with value at wide receiver. Gabriel might be someone to consider as he has at least three catches and at least 56 receiving yards in both of his last two games. The Seahawks secondary was dealt a blow last week when Richard Sherman was lost for the season due to injury, so they won’t be as strong as usual. If you want a cheap tournament play with some upside, take a chance on Gabriel.
**TIGHT ENDS**
Travis Kelce vs. New York Giants
Stadium – MetLife Stadium
DraftKings = $7,300
FanDuel = $7,500
This almost isn’t fair. Kelce is one of the best tight ends as he is in the top three in the NFL in targets, receptions, yards, and touchdowns at his position. Week 11 brings a matchup against the Giants who have allowed tight ends to score a touchdown in 10 straight games. Tight ends who have scored against them include Tyler Higbee and Garrett Celek. This has the makings of a huge performance from Kelce.
Tyler Kroft vs. Denver Broncos
Stadium – Sports Authority Field at Mile High
DraftKings = $2,900
FanDuel = $5,300
Kroft is coming off a dud of a performance Week 10 when he hauled in only one of six targets for four yards. He actually only has three receptions over his last two games combined, but they have come against solid defenses in the Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars. This is a much easier matchup against the Broncos who have allowed the most receiving yards to tight ends (746) this season. He has the ability to provide significant value at this price.
**DEFENSES/SPECIAL TEAMS**
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Cleveland Browns
Stadium – FirstEnergy Stadium
DraftKings = $4,000
FanDuel = $5,600
The Jaguars failed to record a sack for the first time last week but still provided value as they produced an interception and a fumble recovery. They have an extremely favorable matchup against the hapless Browns offense this week. Not only have the Browns scored the second-fewest points in the league, but they have also allowed 27 sacks. Top that off with the 18 interceptions they have thrown and the Jaguars are a must start this week.
Houston Texans vs. Arizona Cardinals
Stadium – NRG Stadium
DraftKings = $3,100
FanDuel = $4,600
The Cardinals have been decimated by injuries at quarterback as not only is Carson Palmer out, but backup Drew Stanton is dealing with a knee injury that will likely sideline him this week. Blaine Gabbert would be in line to start if Stanton can’t play. There isn’t much more of a recipe for success than facing a team’s third-string quarterback, so play the Texans defense if you are looking for a more cost-effective option.
Daily Fantasy Football Recommendations for Week 8
*Mike Barner*
Daily Fantasy Football Recommendations – Week 8
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Week 8 looked like a week that was going to be missing several key players with six teams on a bye, including the Green Bay Packers, Arizona Cardinals and New York Giants. However, with Aaron Rodgers, David Johnson and Odell Beckham Jr. out for most (if not all) of the season with injuries, the damage was already done. Luckily DFS gives you the opportunity to still come away a winner even with some of the best players in the game unavailable. Put your favorite daily fantasy football recommendations from the article below in our lineup optimizer and hit calculate. You can let it fill in the rest of the spots for you or choose your personal favorites from the NFL Player Lab.
**QUARTERBACKS**
Carson Wentz vs. San Francisco 49ers
Stadium – Lincoln Financial Field
DraftKings = $7,200
FanDuel = $7,900
To say Wentz is on fire is an understatement. Over his last three games, he has thrown 11 touchdown passes compared to only two interceptions. He already has 17 touchdowns passes this season, passing his total of 16 for all of 2016. Not only is he throwing for more touchdowns, but he only has four total interceptions compared to 14 last year. This a great matchup Sunday against a 49ers defense that has allowed 259 net passing yards per game and 12 touchdown passes, both of which are towards the bottom of the NFL.
Jameis Winston vs. Carolina Panthers
Stadium – Raymond James Stadium
DraftKings = $6,100
FanDuel = $7,600
Winston entered Week 7 against the Buffalo Bills coming off of a shoulder injury, but he showed no ill effects as he threw for 384 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. That’s impressive on the road in Buffalo. If you exclude the previous Week 6 contest where he left early with the injury, he has thrown for at least 328 yards in each of his last four full games. Expect him to throw a lot again Sunday and put up valuable numbers against the Panthers.
Josh McCown vs. Atlanta Falcons
Stadium – MetLife Stadium
DraftKings = $5,600
FanDuel = $7,300
Don’t look now, but McCown has thrown for at least two touchdown passes in each of his last three games. Although he only threw for 209 yards last week against the Miami Dolphins, he threw a season high three touchdown passes and also had a rushing touchdown. The Falcons defense doesn’t create a lot of turnovers as they only have two interceptions to go along with nine passing touchdowns allowed this season. With only a few elite options this week, McCown has the potential to put up valuable numbers at a reasonable price.
**RUNNING BACKS**
Le’Veon Bell vs. Detroit Lions
Stadium – Ford Field
DraftKings = $9,300
FanDuel = $9,400
The key for Bell this season has been volume as he has rushed for at least 134 yards in all three games where he received at least 32 carries. The good news is that all three of those game have come over the last four weeks as the Steelers have been making a concerted effort to stick with the run. It hasn’t hurt Bell’s involvement in the passing game though as he has received at least six targets in four of the last five games. Look for him to put up big numbers again Sunday.
Mark Ingram vs. Chicago Bears
Stadium – Mercedes-Benz Superdome
DraftKings = $7,400
FanDuel = $7,200
Ingram has become more involved in the rushing attack since Adrian Peterson was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. He has not let the opportunity go to waste as he has rushed for at last 105 yards and one touchdown in both of his last two games. He’s also been involved in the pass catching side of things as he has received at least five targets and hauled in at least four receptions in both of those games as well. Look for him to continue to get plenty of volume Sunday, making for a solid play against the Bears.
Wendell Smallwood vs. San Francisco 49ers
Stadium – Lincoln Financial Field
DraftKings = $4,900
FanDuel = $5,500
Smallwood returned from injury Week 7 to rush for 25 yards on eight carries and catch two passes for 14 yards. While those numbers aren’t impressive, LeGarrette Blount struggled in the game as well as he only had 29 yards on 14 carries. Week 8 brings a matchup against a 49ers defense that has allowed the fourth most rushing yards in the league this season. He’s cheap enough to take the risk on this week if you need to save money at running back.
**WIDE RECEIVERS**
A.J. Green vs. Indianapolis Colts
Stadium – Paul Brown Stadium
DraftKings = $8,600
FanDuel = $8,500
Green is coming off of a tough game against the Pittsburgh Steelers as he hauled in only three catches for 41 yards. Don’t be overly concerned though as the Steelers have allowed the fewest net passing yards in the NFL. His overall production this season has been solid as he has 35 receptions on 57 targets for 545 yards and three touchdowns. Week 8 brings a great matchup against the Colts, who have allowed the second most net passing yards this season. This is the week to pay up for Green.
Michael Crabtree vs. Buffalo Bills
Stadium – New Era Field
DraftKings = $6,300
FanDuel = $7,200
Simply put, Crabtree is a touchdown machine. He has scored in each of the last three games and has six touchdowns on the season overall. He’s heavily involved in the passing attack in general as he is averaging just under seven targets per game. While the Raiders successfully got Amari Copper more involved in the offense last week, Crabtree still received seven targets in the game. After Winston and the Buccaneers receivers lit up the Bills last week, Crabtree could be in for another strong performance.
Kelvin Benjamin vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Stadium – Raymond James Stadium
DraftKings = $6,400
FanDuel = $6,600
The Panthers offense has been inconsistent this season, resulting in only 29 receptions on 44 targets for 436 yards and one touchdown for Benjamin. He had scored at least seven touchdowns in each of his first two seasons in the NFL, so his inability to reach the end zone has been a disappointment. There is potential for him to succeed this week though against the Buccaneers as they have allowed the third most net passing yards per game in the NFL this season. Benjamin posted 163 receiving yards and a touchdown against them in two games last year and I expect him to be productive in their first meeting this year.
Marquise Goodwin vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Stadium – Lincoln Financial Field
DraftKings = $3,900
FanDuel = $4,900
With so many teams on a bye, there aren’t many intriguing cheap options at wide receiver. Goodwin hauled in four of eight targets for 80 yards last week against the Dallas Cowboys and has at least 80 receiving yards in two of his last three games. The Eagles might be up big early in this game, resulting in the 49ers needing to throw a lot. The Eagles defense has allowed the fourth most net passing yards per game this season, so be willing to take the risk on Goodwin if you want to spend money elsewhere this week.
**TIGHT ENDS**
Zach Ertz vs. San Francisco 49ers
Stadium – Lincoln Financial Field
DraftKings = $7,000
FanDuel = $7,300
Ertz has scored at least one touchdown in four of the last five games and his five touchdowns on the season have already established a new career high. He has 58 targets this season and if he stays healthy, he should easily receive at least 100 targets for the third consecutive season. With an emerging young quarterback in Wentz having a lot of trust in him, Ertz should be another excellent play this week.
Kyle Rudolph vs. Cleveland Browns
Stadium – Twickenham Stadium
DraftKings = $4,500
FanDuel = $5,800
Rudolph’s numbers don’t jump off the page as he only has 26 receptions, 244 yards and two touchdowns this season. He has been more involved in the offense over the last three games though, hauling in 16 receptions on 25 targets for 135 yards and a touchdown. Week 8 brings a favorable matchup against the Browns as they have allowed 487 receiving yards and five touchdowns to opposing tight ends this season.
**DEFENSES/SPECIAL TEAMS**
Minnesota Vikings vs. Cleveland Browns
Stadium – Twickenham Stadium
DraftKings = $4,000
FanDuel = $5,300
The Browns offense is an absolute mess as they continue to struggle to find a competent starting quarterback. As a result, they are averaging an NFL-worst 14.7 points per game. The Vikings defense has been excellent at getting to the quarterback as they have 16 sacks over the last four games. Expect them to shut down the Browns in this contest.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos
Stadium – Arrowhead Stadium
DraftKings = $3,500
FanDuel = $4,900
It’s been a struggle for the Broncos to score points this season as they are only averaging 18.0 points per game. If you think that’s bad, they are averaging a paltry 8.0 points per game on the road. That doesn’t bode well for playing in the unfriendly confines of Arrowhead Stadium. Expect this to be another struggle for them to score, making the Chiefs a solid play at this price.
Fantasy Football Season Preview: Quarterbacks
**Mike Barner**
The long journey through the NFL season is rapidly approaching, meaning it’s one of the most exciting times of the year: drafting your fantasy football team. While you need your players to stay healthy and have a little luck go your way, having a strong draft can go a long way to determining the fate of your season.
Lineup Lab is here to help you come away a winner. In the first of our season previews, we’ll break down the quarterback position. While it’s the most important position in the NFL, it’s not necessarily the most important position in fantasy football. If you don’t get one of the elite signal callers, a sound strategy is to wait until later in the draft as there is plenty of depth at the position.
Whether you want to swing for the fences and take your quarterback early or wait for a sleeper in the later rounds, we’ll examine some players to target and avoid as you navigate your way through your draft.
Old Faces In New Places
Mike Glennon – Chicago Bears
Glennon joins the Bears after spending the first four seasons of his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With Jameis Winston at the helm, it was an easy decision for the Bucs to let Glennon leave in free agency. Glennon started 13 games during his rookie season in 2013 and posted a 59.4% completion percentage to go with 2,608 yards, 19 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He started five games in 2014, but has only appeared in two games the last two seasons.
Although Glennon signed a three-year deal with the Bears, they could get out of the deal after this season. It appears that could be a likely scenario as they just drafted Mitchell Trubisky with the second overall pick.
Glennon doesn’t have the best weapons around him to succeed this season. While Jordan Howard is an excellent running back, his receiving core leaves a lot to be desired. The Bears lost Alshon Jeffery to the Philadephia Eagles, which is a significant blow to the team. Although they brought in a big name in Victor Cruz, he is a much different player than Jeffery and his best days appear to be behind him.
That leaves Glennon’s top wideouts as the combination of Kevin White and Cameron Meredith. White was limited to four games last season and only averaged 46.8 yards in those games. Meredith had a breakout campaign in 2016 as he had 66 receptions, 888 yards and four touchdowns. Glennon has a solid tight end in Zach Miller to pair with White and Meredith, but none of the three players are elite targets.
Stay away from Glennon as not only does he have limited weapons, but there is a chance he could end up on the bench in favor of Trubisky at some point during the season.
Jay Cutler – Miami Dolphins
Cutler was ready to begin his career as a broadcaster until the Dolphins lost Ryan Tannehill for the season with a knee injury. Cutler was limited to only five games due to injury himself last season, but was struggling even when healthy as he had four touchdowns, five interceptions and a 33.2 QBR for the season. He had some strong campaigns early in his career, but has thrown for less than 20 touchdowns in four of his last six seasons.
Unlike Glennon, Cutler actually has some weapons in wide receivers Jarvis Landry and DeVante Parker. Although Landry only has eight total touchdowns in the last two seasons, he did record at least 94 receptions and 1,136 yards in both years. The Dolphins also brought in Julius Thomas at tight end, hoping to revive his career after two terrible seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Even with his struggles though, he did have nine total touchdowns in Jacksonville.
The Dolphins should be a run heavy offense behind Jay Ajayi, but Cutler has never been known to be a game manager. Even with several talented offensive players around him, Cutler is no longer a valuable fantasy option outside of two quarterback leagues.
Overrated Players
Russell Wilson – Seattle Seahawks
Don’t get me wrong, Wilson has put up some big numbers in his career. He finished 2016 with a career-high 4,219 passing yards to go along with 21 passing touchdowns, 259 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown. Durability is a big part of his value as he has yet to miss a game in his career. He has also thrown nine interceptions or less in three of his five seasons in the league.
With that being said, he’s going too high in drafts. Last season, he finished 10th in the NFL in passing yards, 12th in passing yards per game and 17th in passing touchdowns. While he can add value in the running game, he only finished ninth in total rushing yards for a quarterback. To put that into perspective, he only had 52 more rushing yards and actually one less rushing touchdown than Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford.
Wilson is likely to be picked among the top five quarterbacks in many leagues, but his production doesn’t match that price. You’d be better off waiting a few rounds and picking up someone like Marcus Mariota of the Tennessee Titans or Jameis Winston of the Bucs as they could approach (if not exceed) Wilson’s production.
Ben Roethlisberger – Pittsburgh Steelers
Roethlisberger has put up some monster numbers in his career. He went through a stretch from 2009 through 2014 where he threw for at least 4,000 yards four times and averaged 25 passing touchdowns per season. The best season of his career was in 2014 when he threw for 4,952 yards to go along with 32 touchdowns and only nine interceptions. That’s elite production.
Big Ben also has elite weapons around him, led by Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell. Brown has at least 106 receptions and 1,284 receiving yards in each of the last three seasons while Bell is one of the premier pass catching running backs in the league.
However, Roethlisberger has regressed the last two seasons, mainly because of injuries. He appeared in 12 games in 2015 and 14 games in 2016. Even in games when he does take the field, he seems to be dealing with nagging injuries more often than not.
Another area of concern is his crazy home and road splits. In home games last season, Roethlisberger averaged 319 passing yards per game and posted 20 touchdowns to only five interceptions. On the road, he only averaged 238 passing yards per game while recording nine passing touchdowns and eight interceptions. When you look at his touchdowns and interceptions, it’s even more staggering when you consider he played eight road games last year and only six home games.
Is this a one-year fluke you ask? No, it’s certainly not. Although his passing yards per game were much closer (348 at home compared to 308 on the road) in 2015, his totals were still way off as he had 16 touchdowns and seven interceptions at home compared to only five touchdowns and nine interceptions on the road.
There is limited value in a quarterback who you can only start with confidence in half of his games. Let someone else take the risk.
Undervalued Players
Jameis Winston – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Winston has had success in his young career as he has surpassed at least 4,000 passing yards in both seasons in the NFL. He has 50 touchdowns and 33 interceptions total while not missing a game so far.
Last season he threw for 4,090 yards, 28 touchdowns and 18 interceptions. His passing stats are impressive when you consider outside of star receiver Mike Evans, the offense was lacking talent. Evans had 96 receptions for 1,321 yards. The next highest totals were both posted by tight end Cameron Brate, who logged 57 receptions for 660 yards.
The Bucs have added some serious talent to their offense this season by bringing in wide receiver DeSean Jackson and drafting tight end O.J Howard. Jackson adds much-needed speed and has averaged at least 17.6 yards per catch in each of the last three seasons. Howard can help create some difficult match ups when paired with Brate on the field while also providing solid blocking.
This season is shaping up to be another big campaign for Winston. If you prefer to wait on a quarterback, Winston can be drafted long after the elite options are off the board, but could still post a top-10 season.
Carson Wentz – Philadelphia Eagles
Wentz had a respectable rookie season, throwing for 3,782 yards to go along with 16 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. He also added 150 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. While none of these numbers are eye-popping, take into consideration the talent he had around him. The team leader in both receptions (78) and receiving yards (816) was tight end Zach Ertz. Of their top four leaders in receptions, two were tight ends, one was a running back and only one was a wide receiver.
Although the Eagles traded away Jordan Matthews, they made significant upgrades at wide receiver by bringing in both Alshon Jeffery and Torrey Smith. Despite playing only 12 games last season, Jeffery still had more receiving yards (821) than anyone on the Eagles last year. Smith may not haul in a ton of catches, but he has averaged at least 16.8 yards per catch in four of his six seasons in the NFL.
With Ertz returning as well, Wentz has three legitimate options to throw to this season. The schedule also appears to be in Wentz’s favor this season as six of the Eagles 16 games come against teams who finished in the bottom nine of the NFL with regards to passing yards allowed last season. They also face only two teams who finished in the top five in passing yards allowed last season.
While he can be had in the later rounds of most drafts, Wentz has the potential to put up top-15 numbers at quarterback this season.
A Look At The Fantasy Playoff Schedule
Another key part of your research is to know who has favorable match ups during the fantasy football playoffs, generally weeks 15 and 16 in most leagues. Let’s dive in and see where you can gain that edge.
Favorable Schedules
Matt Ryan – Atlanta Falcons
Ryan has two road match ups in weeks 15 and 16, but they come against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Week 15) and the New Orleans Saints (Week 16). The Saints allowed the most passing yards in the NFL last season while the Bucs were one of 11 teams in the league to allow at least 4,000 passing yards. If you can make it to the playoffs, Ryan could help push you to a title.
Joe Flacco – Baltimore Ravens
Flacco also has an advantage in the fantasy playoffs as he faces the Cleveland Browns on the road in Week 15 and the Indianapolis Colts at home in Week 16. The Browns allowed 36 passing touchdowns last season, the most in the NFL. The Colts allowed 27 passing touchdowns of their own while also giving up 4,200 passing yards, which was good for sixth most in the league. You don’t want Flacco to be your starting QB for the entire season, but keep an eye on him when injuries mount at the end of the season and he gets this favorable schedule.
Difficult Schedules
Andrew Luck – Indianapolis Colts
Luck faces tough opponents as he gets the Denver Broncos at home in Week 15 and the Baltimore Ravens on the road in Week 16. The Broncos had the best pass defense in the NFL last season. They allowed a league-low 2,972 passing yards and had more interceptions (14) than passing touchdowns allowed (13). The Ravens were no slouch either as they tied for the league lead in interceptions (18) and finished in the top-nine in passing yards allowed. Luck could be in for some disappointing performances when it matters the most.
Kirk Cousins – Washington Redskins
Cousins is a trendy pick this season to outproduce his draft spot. While he might have a good season overall, the fantasy playoffs will be no picnic. Both games are at home, but he has to play the Arizona Cardinals in Week 15 and the Broncos in Week 16. I already detailed how deadly the Broncos’ defense is, but the Cardinals are very tough as well. They limited the opposition to only 210 passing yards per game and 21 touchdowns last season, both in the top-10 in the league. Of all the tough fantasy playoff schedules, Cousins may have the toughest.