Contrarian means opposing or rejecting popular opinion; going against the current practice. Being a contrarian in fantasy football is difficult because you’re taking a risk, but it can be a winning strategy. Contrarian is where the big money is made within DFS, especially in large tournaments because you’ll submit more unique lineups than your competitors.
Mix one or two of these players within a lineup to maximize individuality.
Do not create your entire lineup based on the contrarian picks below.
The key for charts:
Player = recommended contrarian play
Opponent = Home or away and the opponent
FD Roster % = This week's FanDuel roster percentages
FD Salary = FanDuel salary to roster the player
DK Roster % = This week's DraftKings roster percentages
DK Salary = DraftKings salary to roster the player
The Colts rank 29th in the NFL in expected points added on defense and 31st against the pass. 29th in 3rd down percentage allowed, 24th in points allowed per drive, 26th in red zone percentage and opposing QBs are averaging a 120.7 QB rating. Most of these stats were before they lost star DT DeForest Buckner last week. This is a get-right game for Caleb Williams and the underachieving Bears offense.
Andy Dalton is now the starter in Carolina, who will be attempting to create some stability on a bad football team. Dalton has enough NFL experience to play well immediately off the bench this week. The Raiders’ defense is average on the season and possesses only two high-end talents. Dalton is on this list because he’s extremely cheap and QB play is down across the league. Saving money with Dalton will help you create a stronger lineup elsewhere.
The Pittsburgh version of Justin Fields has limited mistakes and game-managed the Steelers’ offense to two wins. He’s averaged 11 rush attempts per game but hasn’t created a big play or TD. Fields’ first home game in Pittsburgh will be against a surprising Chargers team. While the Chargers' defense is playing well, they have played two poor offenses in the Raiders and Panthers this year. Fields is a cheap play and he could be a winning play in a lineup from a contrarian percentage.
Brock Purdy hasn’t played up to his standard this season as he’s missed Christian McCaffrey. The injuries will be worse this week with Deebo Samuel Sr. and George Kittle likely to also miss the game. Despite key pieces not playing on offense, Purdy should play well against the 32nd-ranked defense which is also losing starters. Trusting the 49ers' scheme and talent makes Purdy a calculated contrarian play.
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