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DraftKings will be running more Madden sims Thursday with kickoff times ranging from 1:00 p.m. ET to 8:00 p.m. ET, and there will be a classic contest option for the three-game slate. We break down some ideal picks at each position ahead of the action. Set your lineup and join in on the fun here.
Quarterback
Deshaun Watson ($7,200) vs. Indianapolis Colts
Watson is the most versatile quarterback in the slate because of his ability to make plays with his legs, but he’s also just more accurate than every signal caller but Aaron Rodgers and Carson Wentz. It also helps that he has the best available receiver at his disposal in DeAndre Hopkins against a below average Colts secondary. Watson is pricey, but worth the cost. Dual-threat quarterbacks are more likely to rack up points from what I’ve seen.
Other options: Carson Wentz ($6,200) vs. Packers
Running back
Austin Ekeler ($4,400) vs. New York Jets
Ekeler is $1,600 cheaper than Melvin Gordon but only one point lower when it comes to overall rating. Their speed is equal, but Ekeler accelerates faster. We’ve seen a lot of RB1’s end up being busts, so I like Ekeler as a value play. He’s a bargain and might have a higher ceiling than Gordon because of his pass catching skills. Backup running backs have been trending in the right direction.
Miles Sanders ($5,200) vs. Green Bay Packers
My second running back pick will also be a versatile running back. You typically don’t want to spend a lot on a running back, but Sanders has a great price for a top option. He’s hovered around 10 DKFP in each of his first two outings and hauled in four receptions in each of those appearances. He might not have a ton of rushing yards, but all it takes is one touchdown to make selecting him worthwhile.
Other option: Le’Veon Bell ($7,000) vs. Chargers
Wide receiver
DeSean Jackson ($4,300) vs. Green Bay Packers
Jackson might be the best deep threat in the slate. While he might be playing second fiddle to Alshon Jeffery on the depth chart, that doesn’t mean much. He has the most big play potential and a catching stat (87) on par with Jeffery’s.
DeAndre Hopkins ($8,100) vs. Indianapolis Colts
If you’re gonna spend big at wide receiver, Hopkins is your guy. He’ll be significantly better than any defensive back covering him and has some of the best hands in the game.
Other option: Keenan Allen ($7,900) vs. Jets
Tight End
Ryan Griffin ($4,700) vs. Los Angeles Chargers
Tight ends have done pretty well for themselves, but Griffen is an anomaly. He’s combined for 10 receptions, 150 yards, and a score through two simulations. There’s not telling whether this pattern will continue, but I’m not opposed to rolling with him. Maybe he’s some sort of cheat code.
Other option: Zach Ertz ($6,000) vs. Packers
Defense/Special Teams
Houston Texans D/ST vs. Indianpolis Colts
Houston doesn’t have a great secondary, but it does have J.J. Watt wreaking having on the front lines. I like the Texans’ pass rush to shake up Jacoby Brissett and make it hard to get the ball out to T.Y. Hilton
Other option: Chargers ($4,000) vs. Jets