Best lineup strategy for Chargers vs. Cowboys Madden simulation Showdown

The Los Angeles Chargers and Dallas Cowboys will face off in Monday’s first Madden sim at 12:00 p.m. ET. DraftKings will have a Showdown contest for the game, and we break down ideal lineup strategies here.

Captain’s Picks

Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Cowboys ($13,800)

Elliott is often one of the highest priced running backs you’ll see in Showdown formats, and that’s warranted given his upside. Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup haven’t put up great numbers and could be challenged by the Chargers’ elite secondary. I like the chances of the Cowboys pounding the ground and dumping off short passes to Elliott.

Keenan Allen, WR, Chargers ($15,300)

Allen is the top wideout in the contest and consistently performs at a high level. He probably won’t be shut down by the likes of Byron Jones. He could be substituted for Mike Williams, his ability to get open makes me more bullish in him as a captain. His route running is too elite.

Flex Men

Mike Williams, WR, Chargers ($6,800)

Williams and Allen both have more than 10 scores and are averaging above 17 DKFP per game. It’s hard to justify not rostering both in this game given how productive they’ve been.

Austin Ekeler, RB, Chargers ($4,400)

Ekeler has been as successful as Melvin Gordon on the ground and is significantly cheaper. He’s one of the better RB2’s in Madden and provides upside as a pass catcher out of the backfield. He’s the best value play you can make in my opinion.