A monumental showdown is on tap this week, as the Eagles take on the Chargers. Both clubs see themselves as Super Bowl contenders, making Monday’s clash pivotal.
In this primetime showdown, who is poised for a big-time performance? Here are two Monday night football 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] (PHI @ LAC)
K Jake Elliott, Philadelphia Eagles ($4,800)
Kickers aren’t a normal priority when filling out a values list. However, the Eagles have a rigid offensive hierarchy. The trio of Saquon Barkley ($9,600), A.J. Brown ($9,000) and Devonta Smith ($8,400) command most of the team’s touches. There isn’t much room for anyone else to consistently produce. With that being said, Philadelphia has capitalized on its opportunities, ranking first in red zone scoring percentage (75.9%). That’s meant less work than normal for kicker Jake Elliott. The 30-year-old has converted 12 of his 16 field goal attempts this season.
With that being said, this week could prove more difficult for the Birds inside the 20. Over their last three games, the Chargers have held their opponents to a red zone scoring percentage of 77.8%. That’s the third-best mark in all of football during that time. Granted, Philadelphia’s use of the tush push gives them an advantage over most in third/fourth and short situations. Regardless, Los Angeles has what it takes to keep the Eagles behind the chains. Should that occur, expect more kicks than normal from the veteran Elliott.
RB Jaret Patterson, Los Angeles Chargers ($4,000)
Omarion Hampton (ankle) is currently listed as questionable to play this weekend for LA. If the rookie suits up, it’ll be his first appearance since Week 5. Should he play, the 22-year-old is unlikely to handle a normal workload. That should keep backup Kimani Vidal ($7,400) fantasy relevant, for at least one more week. To make things more confusing, Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (hand) is handling an injury of his own. While the Pro Bowler is expected to play, he’s not operating at 100%.
With so many question marks swirling over the Bolts, this offense is difficult to trust. Therefore, it’s better to spend as little as possible on any potential value plays. Last week vs. the Raiders, running back Jaret Patterson handled 11 carries for 54 yards and a touchdown (11.4 FPTS). Expecting a similar output this week might be wishful thinking for the third-stringer. However, as previously mentioned, there’s room for touches in Los Angeles. Philadelphia has coughed up the eighth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs. All it’ll take is one big gain for Patterson to make this selection worthwhile.
