While it may be the last multi-day slate of the NFL season, we do have four games that feature elite talent everywhere. This actually helps the pricing — in select spots — remain reasonable. Unfortunately, some matchups were still difficult to navigate in terms of a fantasy lineup. In the end, we had to strike the usual balance of paying a premium where required and finding value in less expensive targets. Some things don’t change that much when transitioning to the postseason.
Based on our expected Divisional Round DFS game flow analysis published earlier, we can carry our thoughts into actual lineup positions. The long list of players that fit the requirements set forth by the projected flow of the game was cut dramatically by the requirements set forth by salaries.
Below are Sporfolio’s DFS Divisional Round Plays:
Quarterback
Lamar Jackson – Since Week 13, we have been constantly talking about the turnaround the Baltimore Ravens experienced, and how they have emerged as one of the best teams in the league. With that has come much more consistent play from quarterback Lamar Jackson, and he has gone back to being one of the most consistent and most intriguing fantasy players week in and week out. If there is one thing we should have taken away from last week’s playoff game, it’s that the Ravens want the ball in Jackson’s hands, but not so much as a passer. In their win last week, Jackson tied a season-high with 16 carries while surpassing his previous season-high with 136 yards on the ground. When you consider the fact that neither of the Ravens two running backs reached double digits carries, the game plan is clear: let Jackson dominate the game with his legs from start to finish. Playing against a Buffalo Bills team that struggles mightily against the run, there is no reason to think the game plan changes this week, and there is no reason to think Jackson won’t put up another big fantasy day thanks to his dynamic running ability.
Baker Mayfield – We always preach the importance of game flow, and we actually saw it on full display in last week’s game that featured the Cleveland Browns. Indeed, it wasn’t quarterback Baker Mayfield who saw an uptick in volume, but his opponent. The Steelers were immediately trailing in the game, and it led to Pittsburgh throwing an unprecedented 68 times. Of course, we won’t ever expect that from a passer regularly, but the point is that the Browns will have an uphill battle all afternoon against the Kansas City Chiefs, and it will force Mayfield to throw more than he would on a normal Sunday.