As we gear up for Week 12 of the NFL season, fantasy football enthusiasts are faced with a unique challenge: six teams are on bye. This means the main slate is a bit thinner than we’ve grown accustomed to this season. But fear not! With a little creativity and strategy, we can still navigate this week successfully. The goal is to find those hidden gems and maximize our lineups to ensure we’re ready for the action ahead.
Understanding the DFS Landscape
In daily fantasy sports (DFS), success hinges on finding edges over your opponents. This week, with a limited player pool, it’s crucial to think outside the box. The finite salary cap forces us to make tough decisions, but it also opens the door for unique strategies that could lead to big wins. So, let’s dive into the optimal lineups and best picks for Week 12 on both DraftKings and FanDuel.
DraftKings DFS Picks Week 12
For the Sunday main slate, we’re working with a $50,000 salary cap. Here are our top picks:
Quarterback: Anthony Richardson, Colts vs. Lions ($5,600)
The return of Anthony Richardson was nothing short of spectacular. He completed 67% of his passes for 272 yards and scored two rushing touchdowns, racking up 28.1 DK points. What’s really exciting is that he had 10 designed runs last week, the most for any quarterback this season. With a matchup total set at 50.5 points, this is a prime opportunity to chase those ceiling outcomes once again.
Running Back: Kareem Hunt, Chiefs at Panthers ($5,700)
If Isiah Pacheco remains sidelined, Kareem Hunt will be a popular choice. At $5,700, he’s poised to be the Chiefs’ bell cow back in a dream matchup against a Panthers defense that allows the most fantasy points to running backs. With the potential for 20-25 touches, Hunt could easily surpass 20 fantasy points this week.
Running Back: Bucky Irving, Buccaneers at Giants ($5,300)
Bucky Irving is in a great position to shine. The Buccaneers have struggled recently, but trailing game scripts favor him as the primary rusher. With the Giants ranking last in yards per carry allowed, Irving could be in for a big day, especially as the Buccaneers are 5.5-point favorites.
Wide Receiver: Malik Nabers, Giants vs. Buccaneers ($7,400)
Despite Tommy DeVito taking over as QB1 for the Giants, Malik Nabers remains a strong fantasy option. His ability to earn targets and make explosive plays hasn’t changed. The Buccaneers rank poorly against wide receivers, making this a favorable matchup for Nabers to thrive.
Wide Receiver: DK Metcalf, Seahawks vs. Cardinals ($6,600)
In a week with limited appealing matchups, the Seahawks vs. Cardinals game stands out. Both teams have shown offensive prowess, and if it turns into a shootout, DK Metcalf will be a key player. His ability to make big plays downfield could lead to a significant fantasy output.
Wide Receiver: Josh Downs, Colts vs. Lions ($6,200)
Stacking Anthony Richardson with Josh Downs makes perfect sense this week. The Lions have struggled against slot receivers, allowing the most targets and yards to that position. With Richardson likely to throw often, Downs could see double-digit targets.
Tight End: Ja’Tavion Sanders, Panthers vs. Chiefs ($3,400)
For a budget-friendly option at tight end, look no further than Ja’Tavion Sanders. Since becoming a full-time player, he’s led the Panthers in targets. With the Chiefs being a top matchup for tight ends, Sanders could provide solid value at just $3,400.
Flex: Marvin Harrison Jr., Cardinals at Seahawks ($6,100)
There’s been some concern about Marvin Harrison Jr.‘s usage, but recent trends are encouraging. His ability to make plays could be crucial in what’s expected to be a high-scoring game. If utilized creatively, Harrison could be a game-changer.
Defense/Special Teams: Denver Broncos at Raiders ($3,200)
The Denver Broncos boast a talented defense and face a struggling Raiders offense. If they can contain key players, it could be a long day for Las Vegas, making the Broncos a solid pick.
FanDuel DFS Picks Week 12
Switching gears to FanDuel, where the salary cap is set at $60,000, here are our top selections:
Quarterback: Anthony Richardson, Colts vs. Lions ($7,500)
While Richardson is pricier on FanDuel, he’s still a smart pick. Expect him to air it out and scramble against a Lions defense that could push him to throw frequently.
Running Back: Bucky Irving, Buccaneers at Giants ($6,800)
Irving’s matchup against the Giants remains favorable. With the potential for explosive runs, he’s a strong option to carry over from DraftKings.
Running Back: Rhamondre Stevenson, Patriots at Dolphins ($6,400)
Rhamondre Stevenson’s usage has been impressive, playing 75% of snaps recently. At this price, he’s a great value play, especially if he finds the end zone.
Wide Receiver: A.J. Brown, Eagles at Rams ($8,500)
Incorporating A.J. Brown into your lineup is a smart move, especially with the Rams’ defense struggling against outside receivers. If this game turns into a shootout, Brown could be a slate-breaker.
Wide Receiver: DK Metcalf, Seahawks vs. Cardinals ($7,900)
Metcalf carries over from our DraftKings lineup, and for good reason. His ability to dominate in contested situations makes him a weekly threat for big points.
Wide Receiver: Josh Downs, Colts vs. Lions ($6,900)
Downs remains a key stacking partner for Richardson. His matchup against the Lions’ slot defense is too good to pass up.
Tight End: Ja’Tavion Sanders, Panthers vs. Chiefs ($4,900)
Sanders continues to be a solid option at tight end, providing the potential for targets and red zone opportunities.
Flex: Jauan Jennings, 49ers at Packers ($6,700)
Jauan Jennings has emerged as a dominant force this season. With impressive metrics backing him up, he’s a must-consider player for GPPs.
Defense/Special Teams: Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Giants ($4,400)
While the Giants may have some talent, their overall offensive struggles make the Buccaneers a strong defensive play this week.
With these picks in mind, you’re well-equipped to tackle Week 12’s DFS challenges. Remember, creativity and strategic thinking will be your best allies as you aim for that top spot in your leagues. Good luck, and may your fantasy fortunes shine bright this week!
