The holidays are here, so what better way to enjoy the festivities than a full day of football? Thursday’s triple-header isn’t exactly packed with high-stakes matchups. Still, that doesn’t mean there’s no reason to tune in. With six teams taking the field, managers will have plenty of options when building their DFS lineups.
As everyone knows, winning in fantasy football requires more than just superstars. With a select number of players to choose from, you’ll need to find a few diamonds in the rough. Which under-the-radar players should you be targeting? Here are three to consider in all DFS lineups ahead of Thursday’s Christmas contests.
Set your DraftKings fantasy football lineups here: NFL $2.25M Merry Millionaire [$1M to 1st] (Thu)
RB Malik Davis, Dallas Cowboys at WAS ($4,300)
Javonte WIlliams ($6,300) has been a pleasant surprise, carrying Dallas’ backfield all season. However, the Cowboys have been officially eliminated from playoff contention. In addition, Williams is currently dealing with a neck injury. On a short week, there’s no reason to overwork the veteran. That opens up more touches from some other names further down the depth chart.
RB2 has been murky all season for Dallas, but Malik Davis has gained some momentum. Over his previous four appearances, the 27-year-old has accumulated 97 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries. Those numbers, while unspectacular, aren’t shabby for someone getting around 30% of all snaps. Washington’s lackluster defense isn’t equipped to slow down this Cowboys offense, either. The Commanders have surrendered the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season. One big play is all Davis needs to return value at his current price tag.
WR Marvin Mims Jr., Denver Broncos at KC ($3,900)
A scary play late in Sunday’s contest forced out Patrick Bryant (concussion). The rookie was making a solid impression in Denver, rising up the wide receiver depth chart. Assuming he misses Thursday’s game, Marvin Mims Jr. should see a larger role. The second-year pro is a true big play threat, but not the most consistent player. This season, the speedster has snagged 32 catches for 302 receiving yards and two total touchdowns. He’s also added 78 rushing yards on 12 carries.
Thursday night’s game could get ugly, with third-stringer Chris Oladokun ($4,500) under center for KC. Still, it’s not as if the Chiefs are flawless on defense, either. Kansas City is allowing 6.9 yards per pass attempt, eighth-worst in football this season. Mims is far from a sure thing, but he’s a clear WR3 on Denver’s depth chart. Following a disastrous showing on Sunday, the Broncos will be looking to put up points. If you’re looking for a high-upside dart throw, Mims is someone to consider.
TE T.J. Hockenson, Minnesota Vikings vs. DET ($3,300)
Max Brosmer ($4,700) has been tabbed as Minnesota’s quarterback in place of J.J. McCarthy (hand). In the rookie’s first and only start, the Vikings failed to score a single point against Seattle in November. Still, someone has to put up some kind of numbers for the home team. During the blowout vs. Seattle, T.J. Hockenson led the way with six catches for 59 yards (11.9 FPTS). Granted, it’s been a disappointing season for the former Pro Bowler. Through 15 games, he’s recorded 51 catches for 438 yards and three touchdowns.
It’s not as if the Vikings are going against a terrifying defense on Thursday. The Lions aren’t pushovers, but this isn’t the most intimidating unit. Detroit has given up the eighth-most touchdowns to opposing tight ends this season. In fact, Hockenson found the end zone against his old team back on November 2nd. There aren’t many tight ends worth paying up for on Christmas. Keeping that in mind, it makes more sense to spend big at other positions. Hockenson is a risk, but one worth taking at just $3,300.
