NFL DraftKings Tips for Week 15

Photo Credit: Patriots Wire-USA Today

It’s been awhile since we have done a NFL DraftKings preview, so we are cranking one out here at The Sports Chief. There are a few things to consider this week such as, weather and playoff implications. New England v. Pittsburgh is a marquee matchup that will be watched by millions around the world. I am going to break down each position and give some options for who I like and hopefully, my opinion can help our viewers win some dough. Keep in mind, my lineups are more GPP geared, not necessarily cash game, but they could be used for that as well. Any questions or input are greatly appreciated. 

Quarterback

Tom Brady $5,900: You will not be upset with this choice. Tom has been “lights-out” with his previous three performances, and this matchup against the Steelers will benefit him greatly. The Steelers haven’t had an INT since Week 10, and with the Patriots plethora of talent, it makes it tough for this sub-par defense to shut him down. DraftKings is practically begging you to pick him, and the lack of respect for the GOAT is evident. Brady has been priced at $5,800 the past two weeks, and that is too low. 

Derek Carr $5,400: Let’s be honest…the Raiders have been a train wreck this season. Jon Gruden is rather rusty in adjusting to today’s game, and Carr is suffering. I personally do not feel great about this option, but analytically…it is a sound choice. The Bengals have the worst defense in football giving up 421 yards a game. His 322 yards against the Steelers looked promising (the main reason why I like Brady) but the team is still rather weak. They rely heavily on Jared Cook, the run-game is non-existent, and they have a 3-10 record this year. If you are paying up for positional players, go with Carr.

Running Back

David Johnson $7,100: The Falcons have given up an average of 165 Rushing YPG in their last three contests, and look for David Johnson to eat on Sunday. The Cardinals are stagnant offensively, but Johnson has a great opportunity to get out of the cellar in this matchup. If he can manage 15 carries and 5 plus receptions…He will meet his EV. I predict a massive game from Johnson, but I understand he will be chalky. 

Joe Mixon $6,100: Cincinnati is without AJ Green for the remainder of the season and will rely upon Mixon to produce for them. The Raiders are 31st in rushing defense this year (Only above the Bengals) and Mixon should find running lanes with ease. Jeff Driskel is suspect in his throwing abilities, so look for Mixon to get 20 plus carries.

Wide Receiver

Julian Edelman $7,200: Since we are going Brady…we have to pair him with a New England receiver, right? Not really…but we are, only because the slot position for the Steelers is weaker than the outside with Joe Haden. Edelman is a target machine, with 12 last week and I look for this to continue.

Marcel Ateman $3,600: Hear me out…this choice is one of my more confident options. Ateman is new to the scene in Oakland, and the 6-foot 4-inch receiver WILL get a touchdown this week. The former Oklahoma State product was a 1,000-yard receiver his Senior year, and looks like a red-zone beast. Honestly, you cannot trust anyone in this Raiders offense, but Ateman seems logical today. His 10 targets against the Ravens in Week 12 were convincing to see. This matchup is the best one Marcel will get, let’s see if he can make a name for himself.

Tight End

Vernon Davis $3,200:I understand this is not a popular pick, but Jordan Reed is out. Jacksonville doesn’t care anymore and Josh Johnson needs a security blanket. I know most people will go with Gronk and Kittle, but if Davis gets a touchdown, his value will surpass theirs greatly. 

D/ST

Titans $2,600: This price for the Titans is a bargain. They have only had one negative game this year, and the Giants are without Odell. Barkley may do solid this week against them, but I like Eli to throw multiple picks with the strong Titans front rushing him. Not to mention, there is a 91% chance of rain, which means a slow game.

AustYn

References: ESPN, Rotogrinders, DraftKings