Postseason hopefuls are set for a clash on Monday night. For the 6-5 Panthers, every win counts in their quest for a shocking postseason berth. Their opponents, the 49ers, are finally getting healthy on offense. Another victory over an NFC foe would give San Francisco some late-season momentum.
In this primetime showdown, who is poised for an out of nowhere performance? Here are two Monday night bargain plays worth consideration in all DFS contests.
Set your DraftKings fantasy football lineups here: NFL Showdown $1.25M Monday Night Showdown [$300K to 1st] (CAR @ SF)
WR Jalen Coker, Carolina Panthers ($4,000)
Tetairoa McMillan ($9,400) is the clear WR1 in Carolina. However, the team’s depth chart is fairly wide-open after that. There’s a decent chance the Panthers find themselves trailing late. If that occurs, expect plenty of passes from quarterback Bryce Young ($9,200). One of the players that could benefit the most from that game plan is Jalen Coker. Through five games this season, the receiver has only snagged 11 catches for 118 yards.
Still, Monday’s contest presents a prime opportunity for the 24-year-old. Last week, Coker delivered a season-high four-catch, 52-yard performance vs. Atlanta. San Francisco’s secondary has struggled, surrendering the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers. Look no further than Sunday’s meeting with Arizona’s Michael Wilson, who hauled in 15 catches for 180 yards. Coker, a slot specialist, should have little trouble finding open space. That’s especially true if the 49ers opt for a prevent defense in the second half. Carolina’s secret weapon could get peppered with targets from Young in Week 12.
RB Brian Robinson Jr., San Francisco 49ers ($3,400)
Christian McCaffrey ($12,400) will garner most of the headlines, going up against his old team. However, San Francisco’s backfield isn’t a one-man show. The front office made a surprise move this offseason, bringing in former Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. This season, the 26-year-old has tallied 262 rushing yards and two touchdowns. That’s despite handling only 57 carries, good enough for an efficient 4.6 yards per attempt.
Robinson Jr. has gained some momentum over the past three weeks. During that time, the veteran has accounted for 118 rushing yards and both of his touchdowns. The Panthers have allowed the 11th-most fantasy points to running backs this season. Over the past two weeks, McCaffrey has earned five carries inside the 20. In comparison, Robinson Jr. notched four during that time. BRJ’s potential for goal line work makes him an intriguing upside play for those searching for fantasy points.
