NFC contenders are set for a post-Thanksgiving clash in primetime. The Lions suffered a 31-24 loss at home to the Packers last week, likely ending their hopes of a division title. However, Detroit still has a path to the postseason as a wild card team. One squad that also has their eyes set on the playoffs are the Cowboys. Dallas is riding high following wins over the Eagles and Chiefs.
In this primetime battle, which lesser known names will step up? Here are two value plays to consider in all DFS lineups ahead of Thursday’s Dallas Cowboys vs. Detroit Lions contest.
Set your DraftKings fantasy football lineups here: NFL Showdown $1.25M Thursday Night Showdown [$300K to 1st] (DAL @ DET)
WR Isaac TeSlaa, Detroit Lions ($4,400)
The biggest news for the Lions heading into this one is the health of Amon-Ra St. Brown. Detroit’s All-Pro wide receiver left last Thursday’s game early due to an ankle injury. Leading up to this week’s contest, the 26-year-old has yet to suit up for practice. Even if St. Brown does take the field, he’s unlikely to operate at 100%. In addition, fellow wideout Kalif Raymond (ankle) is listed as doubtful. Add it all up, and there should be more snaps, and touches, to go around at receiver.
One player who could benefit from less competition is Isaac TeSlaa. The rookie turned heads during the preseason, sparking some sleeper fantasy football appeal. Although that hasn’t come to fruition, the youngster has shown flashes of greatness. That includes a touchdown snag last week vs. Green Bay. In fact, three of the 23-year-old’s six career receptions have found the end zone. Big play ability makes TeSlaa an enticing option against Dallas’ lackluster secondary. The Cowboys are allowing the most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers this season. Keeping that in mind, Detroit’s under the radar rookie is due for an expanded role.
WR Ryan Flournoy, Dallas Cowboys ($3,400)
Unlike the Lions, Dallas’ wideout duo of CeeDee Lamb ($9,600) and George Pickens ($9,400) are both good to go. Still, there’s room for others to contribute in this pass-heavy offensive scheme. For most of the season, that hasn’t been Ryan Flournoy. Through 12 games, the second-year pro has hauled in 20 catches for 234 yards and two touchdowns. However, he usually serves as a fourth option behind Lamb, Pickens and tight end Jake Ferguson ($7,400).
Still, for those in search of a high-upside, end of lineup pick, Flournoy has some appeal. Over his last three games, the 26-year-old has been on the field for over 40% of Dallas’s offensive snaps. That’s put him at third amongst Cowboys receivers, behind Lamb and Pickens. Last week vs. Kansas City, Flournoy snagged three receptions for 34 yards (6.4 FPTS). That’s not an eye-popping performance, but it shows that the former sixth-rounder remains involved on offense. The Lions have coughed up the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers this year. All Flournoy needs is three or four catches to return value on this $3,400 investment.
