Best lineup strategy for Patriots vs. Cowboys Madden simulation Showdown

The New England Patriots vs. Dallas Cowboys will face off in a simulated Madden 20 game Saturday, and DraftKings will have DFS contests available for the matchup. We break down the ideal showdown lineup strategy for the contest, which you can play at DraftKings.

Captain’s Picks

Tom Brady, WR, Patriots ($16,800)

Brady has more X-Factor and Superstar abilities on Madden than any other quarterback despite ranking fifth in overall Madden QB rating. His appeal is much higher on Madden than in real life at this point, but we’re playing Madden right now and we need to go to the source.

Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Cowboys ($14,100)

Elliott has the second-highest Madden rating in this matchup and is second only to Christian McCaffrey while leading all backs in awareness rating. He is the most-likely to score a touchdown for the Cowboys and should be a safe play due to his usage as a receiver. In the Cowboys first simulation against the Eagles, Elliott didn’t have a big game, but did catch four passes to keep him a useful play and his upside is still very high.

Flex Men

Julian Edelman, WR, Patriots ($10,000)

Brady and Edelman have the highest awareness ratings in this matchup, as both are at 95, giving them a good chance to connect often. The Patriots have the advantage in cornerback with Stephon Gilmore and Jason McCourty over Byron Jones and Chidobe Awuzie, as the Patriots duo has a much higher Madden rating and Edelman should be able to avoid Byron Jones in the slot.

James White, Patriots ($8,400)

The Madden Patriots, like their real-life counterparts, are weak at receiver after Edelman, so White should be a useful target, especially with Brady’s superb short throw accuracy in the game and White’s catch rating, which is only surpassed by Christian McCaffrey.