Best lineup strategy for Panthers vs. Steelers Madden simulation Showdown

The Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers will face off in Wednesday’s second Madden sim on DraftKings in a snow game at 2:00 p.m. ET. We break down the ideal Showdown strategies for the contest centered around the game, and you can set your lineups here.

Captain’s Picks

Christian McCaffrey, RB, Panthers ($15,900)

Although McCaffrey has been on and off in Madden sims, Cam Newton has been outright terrible. The snow can make throwing the ball difficult because of loose footing, so don;t expect Newton to be any better in these conditions. If there was any game where the Panthers need to focus on short passes and pounding the ground, it’s this one.

Panthers D/ST ($5,700)

This is a risky value play in the captain’s spot, but it could pay off big time. The Steelers have one of the less productive offenses we’ve seen and rarely get big games from James Conner or the rest of their running backs. Ben Roethlisberger hasn’t eclipsed 15 fantasy points in seven of his 12 sims and has three receivers with essentially the same output. Count on Luke Kuechly to play a big factor in these conditions. A few turnovers could help Carolina come up big.

Flex Men

Greg Olsen, TE, Panthers ($8,400)

The Panthers have two speedy receivers, but both of them could be limited by the snow. That’s why I think going with a short-yardage/red zone threat like Olsen makes sense. He can eat up yardage and receptions in the middle of the field.

Vance McDonald, TE, Steelers ($7,200)

You don’t need to stay away from every receiver in this contest, but flexing both tight ends might be ideal. Both have hovered around double-digits in DKFP and could see more work than usual because of the weather.