The key to cashing in DFS on FanDuel is to jam in as many of the best plays as possible while punting others. The best way to do this is by identifying “lineup makers.” With so many elite running backs on the slate, finding these cheap options will be key. Here are some lineup makers for Week 8 based on advanced stats, metrics and player profiles.
Ty Johnson, RB: $5200
After Kerryon Johnson left Detroit’s Week 7 matchup against Minnesota, Ty Johnson received 14 touches to J.D. McKissic‘s seven. With plenty of time to set pricing, FanDuel still put Johnson behind McKissic ($5400).
Ty Johnson Advanced Stats & Metrics Profile
McKissic is a pure satellite back at 187 pounds with a 26.8 (2nd-percentile among qualified running backs) BMI. Meanwhile, Johnson is a solid 210 pounds. While McKissic may be a superior pass-catcher, Johnson has shown he can hold his own in that regard with nine catches on 10 targets. Johnson is clearly the lead back with an all-purpose skillset and has a plus matchup with the Giants this week. At $5200 as a home favorite, he’ll be the chalk in cash games.
John Brown, WR: $5900
It’s not often that we can find a bonafide alpha receiver for under $6000, yet here we are. John Brown is the only receiver besides Michael Thomas that has recorded at least 50 receiving yards in every game this season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Bi_ZyiOhcQ
Despite Brown’s consistency, he has only posted one game as a top-10 fantasy receiver, which is likely the reason for his low price tag. The good news is that he’s in the softest possible matchup, with the Eagles allowing the most yards and touchdowns to opposing receivers this season. Brown should be a staple in cash and tournament lineups this week with his safe floor and high ceiling.
Kenny Stills, WR: $5700
With Will Fuller struggling with a hamstring injury, Kenny Stills slid right into his role, playing 98.3 percent of snaps in Week 7. He also posted his first 100-yard game on just four receptions, making him the new deep threat for Deshaun Watson.
Kenny Stills Advanced Stats & Metrics Profile
Stills has already been incredibly efficient this season, ranking top-10 in True Catch Rate, yards per pass route and yards per target. Oakland ranks 29th against wide receivers in FanDuel scoring, so he has a shot at smashing his cheap price tag with the extra volume.
Christian Kirk, WR: $5600
Christian Kirk continues to log limited practices similar to last week. If he is finally able to return to the lineup, he’ll be matched up with Patrick Robinson in the slot. Robinson is getting the nod over P.J. Williams, who is on a two-game conduct suspension. Williams has been among the top corners for DFS players to target this season, so his backup should be treated the same.
Corey Davis, WR: $5500
Ryan Tannehill was all it took to spark the Tennessee offense. Corey Davis was the biggest beneficiary, posting 80 yards and scoring for the second time this season. Davis will be facing Vernon Hargreaves this week, who ranks No. 103 in PlayerProfiler’s cornerback rankings.
Check out Corey Davis on PlayerProfiler’s Updated Weekly Rankings and Projections:
The Buccaneers rank third in FanDuel fantasy points against running backs and 31st against receivers. The Titans will need to rely on Tannehill and his receivers in this one.
Josh Hill, TE: $5000
With Jared Cook out in Week 7, Josh Hill hauled in all three of his targets and found the end zone. With Cook unlikely to suit up again in Week 8, Hill will get a quarterback upgrade in the legendary Drew Brees. Furthermore, he’ll be matched up with a Cardinals defense that neglects his position in coverage. Hill will be a low-owned punt play in the ideal spot.
Jonnu Smith, TE: $4900
Jonnu Smith finally has a chance at unleashing his 127.0 (93rd-percentile) SPARQ-x score. With Delanie Walker out of the picture, Smith’s Snap Share and routes run skyrocketed to season-highs last week. He is another solid punt play at a tight end position that has no real values this week.
