The NFL fantasy landscape is buzzing with excitement as we gear up for Week 13, especially with the thrilling three-game Thanksgiving slate just behind us. But don’t let that overshadow the Sunday main slate, which is packed with 10 matchups ripe for analysis. This week, there are countless opportunities to craft a winning DFS lineup. With a finite salary cap, creativity will be your best friend as you navigate through the options.
Unlocking the Potential of Week 13 DFS
In the world of Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS), the key to success lies in finding those edges over your opponents. Whether it’s identifying under-the-radar players or capitalizing on favorable matchups, every decision counts. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the optimal lineups and best picks for Week 13 DFS on both DraftKings and FanDuel.
DraftKings DFS Picks Week 13: NFL DFS picks for GPP tournaments
Sunday Main Slate, $50,000 salary cap
QB: Russell Wilson, Steelers at Bengals ($5,700)
Russell Wilson has shown flashes of brilliance as the Steelers’ starter, leading the team to four wins in five starts. He’s eclipsed 19 DK points twice, and this week, he faces a Bengals defense that has struggled against the pass. Ranking 24th in EPA per dropback, Cincinnati has allowed multiple passing touchdowns in six games this season. With their secondary banged up, Wilson could be primed for a breakout performance, potentially surpassing 300 yards for the first time in a Steelers uniform.
RB: Bucky Irving, Buccaneers at Panthers ($5,800)
Is a changing of the guard happening in Tampa Bay? Bucky Irving had a standout performance in Week 12, outsnapping Rachaad White and racking up a career-high 151 yards from scrimmage. Facing the Carolina Panthers, who are the premier matchup for running backs in fantasy, Irving is a must-start. Expect him to be a popular pick, but the opportunity is too good to ignore.
RB: Kimani Vidal, Chargers at Falcons ($4,000)
With J.K. Dobbins ruled out, the Chargers’ backfield is up for grabs. Gus Edwards may start, but his lackluster performance last week raises doubts about his reliability. Kimani Vidal, the only back with pass-catching ability among the trio, could see increased usage. His potential to play on passing downs makes him a sneaky option with upside.
WR: A.J. Brown, Eagles at Ravens ($8,300)
A.J. Brown has been a target magnet since returning from injury, boasting a 30-percent target share. With the Eagles facing the Ravens, who could push them into a more pass-heavy game plan, Brown is poised for a big day. This matchup features the highest total on the slate, making him an enticing option.
WR: Nico Collins, Texans at Jaguars ($7,900)
Nico Collins is back in a big way! Last week, he commanded 83 percent of the routes and was the focal point of the Texans’ passing attack. Against a Jaguars defense that he previously torched for 150 yards, Collins is set for another explosive performance. With man coverage being the Jaguars’ forte, expect Collins to thrive.
WR: George Pickens, Steelers at Bengals ($6,800)
Pairing George Pickens with Russell Wilson is a no-brainer. Pickens has thrived under Wilson, consistently scoring well in DFS. With the Bengals’ secondary struggling, he’s in line for another strong performance.
TE: Dalton Schultz, Texans at Jaguars ($3,300)
Dalton Schultz is a budget-friendly option at tight end. With the Jaguars allowing 30 or more points in five games this season, Schultz has a solid chance to find the end zone. He’s a touchdown-or-bust option, but the potential reward makes him worth the risk.
FLEX: Michael Pittman Jr., Colts at Patriots ($5,200)
Michael Pittman is coming off his best game in weeks, leading the Colts in targets. With Josh Downs injured, Pittman is set to be the primary target in the Colts’ offense. At just $5,200, he’s a solid bet for volume against a struggling Patriots defense.
D/ST: Indianapolis Colts, at Patriots ($2,800)
The Colts’ defense may not be elite, but they face a Patriots offense that has struggled mightily this season. With a weak offensive line and no clear WR1, the Colts are in a prime position to capitalize on New England’s woes.
FanDuel DFS Picks Week 13: NFL DFS picks for GPP tournaments
Sunday Main Slate, $60,000 salary cap
QB: Russell Wilson, Steelers at Bengals ($7,500)
Russell Wilson is a staple in both lineups this week, priced at $7,500 on FanDuel. With the Steelers’ implied team total at 22 points, Wilson has the potential to exceed expectations if he finds the end zone multiple times.
RB: Chase Brown, Bengals vs. Steelers ($7,300)
Chase Brown is the perfect bring-back option for our Russell Wilson stack. Dominating the snaps and touches in the Bengals’ backfield, he’s proven to be a reliable option. With a bell cow role and strong metrics, he’s a solid play at a reasonable price.
RB: Bucky Irving, Buccaneers at Panthers ($7,200)
Continuing from our DraftKings lineup, Bucky Irving is in a prime position to shine against the Panthers. Even if he shares touches, the matchup is too favorable to ignore.
WR: Puka Nacua, Rams at Saints ($8,700)
Puka Nacua has emerged as the top fantasy option in the Rams’ offense. With the Saints struggling against the pass, Nacua has the chance to put up big numbers if the game stays competitive.
WR: George Pickens, Steelers at Bengals ($7,400)
George Pickens makes another appearance as Wilson’s stacking partner. With favorable matchups against the Bengals’ depleted secondary, he’s a big-play threat waiting to happen.
WR: Calvin Ridley, Titans at Commanders ($6,800)
Calvin Ridley is known for his explosive plays, making him a volatile yet exciting fantasy option. With a high average depth of target, he’s a risk worth taking for those chasing a ceiling performance.
TE: Dawson Knox, Bills vs. 49ers ($5,000)
With Dalton Kincaid’s status uncertain, Dawson Knox steps into a budget-friendly tight end role. He offers a reasonable floor, but we’ll need a touchdown to unlock his ceiling.
FLEX: Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars vs. Texans ($6,700)
Brian Thomas Jr. could see a resurgence with Trevor Lawrence’s return. With a lack of receiving talent in Jacksonville, expect him to command a significant target share.
D/ST: Tennessee Titans, at Commanders ($3,300)
The Titans’ defense is well-positioned to exploit a struggling Commanders offense. After a lackluster showing against the Cowboys, expect the Titans to capitalize this week.
As we gear up for a thrilling Week 13, remember that every lineup decision can make or break your fantasy week. So, get creative, trust your instincts, and let’s dominate the DFS landscape!
