:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66159827/usa_today_13933015.0.jpg)
The San Francisco 49ers will face off with the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 54 this weekend. The 49ers defense seems to have peaked at the right time this season, as they were dominant in the playoffs, averaging 12 points per game over the past two weeks. What can you expect from this crew against an Andy Reid offense with Patrick Mahomes running the show? We break down the fantasy implications below.
DFS Superbowl Price
DraftKings Captain: $5400
DraftKings Flex: $3600
DFS Opponent Position Ranking
DraftKings: Third
Season Performance
The 49ers D/ST got off to a strong start this year, but injuries led to a lull towards the end of the regular season, as they averaged only 2.6 points per game in Weeks 13-17. Despite the poor fantasy performance down the stretch, they had the No. 3 ranked overall fantasy D/ST, averaging 10.3 points per game on the season. They allowed an average of 281 yards per game and 19.4 points per game to opponents. They’ve recorded 15 interceptions on the season, 17 fumble recoveries, 57 sacks, and scored five defensive touchdowns.
Playoff Performance
Despite the late season slide, the 49ers corrected their course at the perfect time, as they rallied in the playoffs to record three interceptions, two fumble recoveries, and nine sacks, while allowing a total of 30 points in their two playoff games. They have now been rewarded for these stellar performances with a trip to Miami for Super Bowl 54.
Matchup
The Chiefs are an opponent to be feared, as opposing D/STs have averaged the 3rd lowest amount of points when facing Mahomes and company. The Chiefs averaged 28.2 points per game and 379.2 yards per game in the regular season. They somehow managed to smash those numbers by averaging 43 points per game and 419 yards per game over the past two weeks in the playoffs. In addition to his ability to make big plays, Mahomes is also more elusive than most quarterbacks which may lead to a regression in recorded sacks for the 49ers. Big point totals are also detrimental to a D/ST’s final score, making things even more bleak for this typically reliable squad.
DFS Pricing and Analysis
Despite their strong performances over the past two weeks, the 49ers D/ST comes at a discounted price this weekend — and for good reason. The Chiefs have the ability to put up big numbers which does not bode well for fantasy prospects. The Chiefs are also not prone to frequent mistakes. They have only lost 10 fumbles on the season and Mahomes has thrown only five interceptions to his 26 touchdown passes. In addition, Mahomes has only been sacked 17 times on the season. The over/under for this game is currently 52.5, so the consensus seems to be that this is not going to be a defensive standoff. Tempting as it may be, it may be best to steer clear of the 49ers D/ST this weekend, unless you need a ‘what the heck’ cheap flex to complete a lineup.