NFL Showdown can be a fickle beast. These contests do not rely on median projections so much as leverage and uniqueness. Fading the highest-rostered plays can be risky. Typically, your edge comes from identifying the best low-rostered plays and finding clever ways to pair them with the juggernauts of the slate.
With both DraftKings and FanDuel now using similar formats — a multiplier slot (Captain/MVP) that costs 1.5× salary and earns 1.5× points — the nuances between sites come down to scoring systems and contest dynamics. DraftKings' full PPR scoring and larger prize pools reward a slightly different decision-making process than FanDuel's half-PPR and softer fields, but the core principles of Showdown roster construction apply across both.
The advice in this article pertains predominantly to tournament lineups and strategy. For cash lineups, build around median projections. For head-to-head contests, continue to lean into median projections, but if two options project closely, give the nod to the lowest-rostered player.
DraftKings Showdown Game Scripting & Roster Construction
Yes, it's a divisional must-win on Sunday night; it's what football fun is made of. And yet, many are bracing for the "worst" as two boring, injury-dinged offenses collide. The Steelers, lacking their only dynamic pass-catcher, host the Ravens, whose all-world quarterback missed practice time this week.
Everyone knows the legend of Derrick Henry; thus, unless he erupts for another 30+ points, he likely won't move the needle much. The pass game, as usual, will likely crown a Showdown winner. Tonight's weather will be frigid but calm, so both teams should be able to throw as much as they want to. And only one projects to do so with any sort of dynamism or upside. The Steelers' inability to push the ball, coupled with a painfully low 41.5 Vegas total, strips away virtually all of their ceiling.
So, then, we should have a buffet of intriguing, low-played Steelers to pore over, right? You could say that… just note that all of their predictability will be in streetclothes with Metcalf.
Injury Roundup
The Ravens will have Lamar Jackson, who practiced in full late in the week. Tyler Huntley works just fine in relief, but there's no true substitute for Jackson, and he'll be felt throughout the offense. He won't have No. 3 wideout Rashod Bateman, though.
The Steelers are remarkably healthy, but won't have top (only viable?!) wide receiver DK Metcalf, who remains suspended.