Thanksgiving is over, but there’s still a stuffed slate of NFL action on tap this weekend. Sunday offers up ten featured games between 20 different teams. Still, more options doesn’t make things any easier for fantasy football managers. Figuring out who to target, and who to avoid, can make all the difference.
To build a winning lineup, it helps to have a few diamonds in the rough. Which players are flying under the radar this weekend? Here are three value plays to consider in all DFS contests before Week 13’s ten-game featured slate.
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RB Tyler Allgeier, Atlanta Falcons at NYJ ($4,500)
The Falcons haven’t given their fans much to look forward to this season. However, the team’s running game is still appointment viewing. That’s not just because of superstar Bijan Robinson ($8,500); backfield mate Tyler Allgeier is a threat as well. The bruising BYU alum would be a starter for several other clubs. As Atlanta’s number two, he’s still managed to carve out a notable role. Through 11 games, the running back has gained 324 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 89 carries (3.6 YPC).
Allgeier isn’t the most efficient, but he’s someone that thrives in short-yardage situations. This season, the Falcons have given the 25-year-old a team-leading 22 carries inside the 20 yard line. Inside the 10, he’s had 14 rush attempts compared to Robinson’s nine. This week’s opponent, the Jets, have often found themselves trailing by multiple scores. If Atlanta jumps out to an early lead, Allgeier should command double-digit touches. Given the lack of low cost running backs available, the over-qualified backup deserves strong consideration.
WR Chimere Dike, Tennessee Titans vs. JAX ($4,400)
Offense has been a perpetual struggle for the one-win Titans this season. Quarterback Cam Ward ($4,600) hasn’t had much help on the outside. Injuries and underperformance have defined Tennessee’s wide receiver room. However, there are a few names that have shown promise in recent weeks. Chimere Dike wasn’t someone that garnered much attention from casual fans this summer. However, the fourth-round pick has made a name for himself over the past month. During Dike’s last five outings, he’s recorded 19 catches for 226 yards and two touchdowns.
Calvin Ridley (fibula) is still on injured reserve, while fellow wideout Elic Ayomanor (hamstring) is questionable to play. If the latter is held out, Dike immediately becomes Tennessee’s most dangerous wide receiver. Sunday’s opponent, the Jaguars, are allowing the 13th-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season. Ward looked good last week vs. the Seahawks, throwing for 256 yards and a touchdown. Dike chipped in with five catches for 44 yards and a touchdown on seven targets. A similar stat line this weekend would make the rookie a steal for fantasy managers.
TE Dalton Schultz, Houston Texans at IND ($3,800)
We’ll stay in the AFC South, where the 6-5 Texans are hoping to make a statement. Houston’s chances at a victory this week will hinge on the play of C.J. Stroud ($). The quarterback hasn’t played since Week _ due to a concussion. Now healthy, he’ll face a tough test against the Colts, who recently acquired Pro Bowl cornerback Sauce Gardner. That could make airing it out difficult, even for a quality NFL passer. With that being said, Indianapolis’ defense isn’t without its flaws. Opting for more short throws, rather than deep shots, could make sense.
If Houston chooses to prioritize intermediate passes, Dalton Schultz should benefit. The tight end has become a reliable safety blanket this season for Stroud and backup Davis Mills. Through 11 games, he’s notched 52 receptions for 497 yards and one touchdown. During five of his last seven appearances, the 29-year-old has secured double-digit fantasy points. In addition, Indianapolis has surrendered the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends. As the position’s 11th-most expensive option, Schultz is an ideal value pick.
