Best lineup strategy for Cardinals vs. Patriots Madden simulation Showdown

The Arizona Cardinals and New England Patriots will face off in a Sunday Madden sim at 12:00 p.m. ET. We break down the ideal Showdown lineup strategy for the DFS contests centered around the game. You can set your lineup and play at DraftKings.

Captain’s Picks

Kyler Murray, QB, Cardinals ($16,200)

The Patriots’ defense hasn’t played like the top notch unit it was in real life this past season, so I like the chances of Murray having his way with New England by using his versatile skill set. He’s able to get rushing yards easily against most teams thanks to his escape artist trait, and Larry Fitzgerald still has some of the best catching (93) in Madden. Both Murray’s running backs can also get involved in the passing game.

James White, RB, Patriots ($12,900)

Julian Edelman is the Patriots’ top receiver, but he’s no go-go guy in Madden. White is always involved in the offense though. The running back can rush for more than 100 yards in a game and is also Madden’s second best pass catching option out of the backfield. Grabbing him instead of paying up for Tom Brady gives you a lot more flexibility in the flex.

Flex Men

Philip Dorsett, WR, Patriots ($5,400)

Dorsett has cooled down since setting the sim world on fire earlier in the season, but still has plenty of upside because of his speed (95). He’s shown how big he can be for the Patriots when he catches a few long balls and is a bargain at this price.

David Johnson, RB, Cardinals ($3,000)

Although Johnson was shown up by Kenyan Drake, but has outperformed the starter in simulated games. Both backs can run between the tackles and catch, but Johnson has been more valuable in passing sets. Johnson racks up more receiving yards and is a candidate to poach goal line scores from Drake.