Best lineup strategy for Texans vs. Colts Madden simulation Showdown

The Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts will face off in Thursday’s first Madden sim at 1:00 p.m. ET. We break down the ideal Showdown lineup strategy for the DFS contest. You can set your lineup and play at DraftKings before kickoff.

Captain’s Picks

Deshaun Watson, QB, Texans ($16,200)

Watson is one of the better dual-threat quarterbacks in the game. He makes the most since to captain because we’ve seen mobile quarterbacks do well in Madden sims, and Watson has passing prowess that exceeds his his running ability. Watson can spin it and has dangerous deep threats in DeAndre Hopkins — one of the best three receivers in the game — and Will Fuller. The only other option that might make sense is Hopkins.

DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Texans ($16,800)

Hopkins’ 98 rating is only second to Michael Thomas in Madden 20. His catching in traffic (99) is the best in the game. The Colts don’t have any standout defensive backs to match up against him, and he has the tools to come down with the ball in double coverage.

Flex Men

Adam Vinatieri, K, Colts ($3,800)

I don’t expect Indianapolis to score many touchdowns with Jacoby Brissett under center, so why not make a bargain play and use Vinatieri in a flex spot. His overall rating (74) isn’t great, but he still has 93 kicking power and a game-high 97 stamina at his position. He could boot some long ones through the uprights and get you points for cheap.

T.Y. Hilton, WR, Colts ($9,600)

Hilton is probably the best Colts play you can make, but it’s unlikely that he’ll stack up to the likes of Watson and Hopkins. If you play your cards right and find some effective value plays, you could be able to stack Hilton with Houston’s dynamic duo. A lineup with all three has a ton of upside.