To kick off Week 8, it’s an intriguing battle between two playoff contenders.
The 3-3 Vikings have dealt with quarterback uncertainty all season. Still, Minnesota boasts an array of weapons on offense and a stingy defense. That’ll be the challenge for the Chargers, losers in three of their previous four games. Can Justin Herbert ($10,400) lead Los Angeles to a much-needed victory?
In this primetime clash, which lesser-known players could deliver for fantasy football managers? Here are two value plays to consider in all DFS contests ahead of Thursday’s Vikings-Chargers showdown.
Set your DraftKings fantasy football lineups here: NFL Showdown $1.5M Thursday Night Showdown [$500K to 1st] (MIN @ LAC)
RB Zavier Scott, Minnesota Vikings ($3,200)
Since Aaron Jones’ Week 2 hamstring injury, Jordan Mason ($8,600) has taken over RB1 duties in Minnesota. The former 49ers running back has been solid so far, churning out 380 rushing yards on 84 carries (4.5 YPC). However, on a short week, the Vikings will likely limit the veteran’s workload. In addition, the team’s passing game has been suspect at best under Carson Wentz ($9,000). That should lead to additional usage for current backup Zavier Scott on Thursday night.
The 26-year-old hasn’t been the most consistent fantasy option. Still, he has shown flashes. Look no further than his six-catch, 43-yard performance against the Steelers last month. Through five games, Scott has recorded 118 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown. This season, the Chargers have surrendered the eighth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs. Even if he operates primarily as a pass-catcher, the Connecticut alum has value at $3,200.
Fair warning: Jones ($6,600) was activated off of the IR this week. There’s no guarantee the veteran actually plays on Thursday. However, if that does occur, Scott is no longer a viable DFS target.
WR Tre’ Harris, Los Angeles Chargers ($3,000)
Finding hidden value for the Bolts is easier said than done. Tight end Oronde Gadsden ($5,800) has emerged as a favorite target for Herbert. At wide receiver, the team hasn’t strayed away from the trio of Quentin Johnston ($8,000), Keenan Allen ($7,800), and Ladd McConkey ($7,600). Minnesota has limited any damage through the air, holding opponents to the seventh-fewest passing yards per game (184.0). Still, in a short-week affair, weird stuff tends to happen.
That’s four mouths to feed for Herbie on TNF. Envisioning a fifth option in the passing game is difficult at best. Still, this is a bargains piece after all; using your last lineup pick on a dirt-cheap lottery ticket is a viable option. The most likely candidate to fill that role for LA is Tre’ Harris. The rookie receiver has taken his time adjusting to life in the NFL. However, he’s hauled in six catches for 50 yards over his last two games. Those two outings surpassed his combined efforts from Weeks 1 through 5. The Vikings have been susceptible to deep shots, allowing the tenth-highest yards per pass attempt (6.9). All it’ll take is one big play for Harris to return value at this extremely low price tag.
