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
Baker Mayfield has thrown multiple TDs in six consecutive games. Most expected his production to fall off without Chris Godwin and Mike Evans. Tampa Bay threw the football less last week, but Mayfield proved he’s developed into a good QB. Mayfield will face an easier overall defense than the Chiefs in the 49ers, and San Francisco will be without Charvarius Ward, while Nick Bosa is questionable. At home this season, Mayfield has thrown 13 TDs in only five games.
The Saints' defense ranks 13th against the pass, but they don’t resemble the same unit in the secondary. They traded away Marshon Lattimore, recently lost Paulson Adebo to injury, Kool-Aid McKinstry won’t play, and Rico Payton, J.T. Gray, and Will Harris are all questionable to play. Drake London is questionable to play as well, but the Falcons are more healthy. Kirk Cousins has thrown seven TD passes in his last two games and averaging more than nine yards per pass attempt. Cousins should take advantage of the backups in the Falcons secondary.
Chicago has struggled in the last two games, and Caleb Williams was held out of the end zone. The Bears have lost all four road games and Williams has produced only two TDs and turned the football over six times. Meanwhile, they’ve won every home game, and he’s produced seven TDs and turned the football over once. The Patriots' defense has allowed over 335 total yards in the last eight games and ranks 29th against the pass. New England will also be without starting S Kyle Dugger and LB Christian Elliss.
On the other side of the football, Drake Maye has been producing above expectations. He’s averaged 292 total yards in his three full games with seven TDs. Chicago ranks first against the pass, but they haven’t played well defensively the past two games. Maye should have a game script that favors him throwing the football or scrambling.