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
Contrarian Quarterbacks
Jared Goff was mentioned in this article last week, and he rewarded people with a 412-yard passing performance with 4 TDs. Goff has thrown for multiple TDs in seven of his previous eight games. He’ll face a Colts defense ranked 21st against the pass. The Colts have allowed an average of 25 PPG to their last four opponents.
Mike Evans returning to the lineup is music to Baker Mayfield’s ears. Mayfield averaged two TD passes a game without Evans in the last three games and 2.6 TDs per game with Evans this season. Mayfield has scored 26 TDs in 10 games and faces a Giants defense, allowing opposing QBs the second-best QB passer rating in the NFL.
Bo Nix has accounted for 10 TDs in his last four games, including four last week. Nix has averaged over 257 passing yards and 10 rushing yards in the previous four games. He’ll face a Raiders defense ranking 26th against the pass, and all three starting CBs haven’t practiced this week due to injuries.
Tua Tagovailoa has progressed since returning from injury, culminating in three TD passes and 288 passing yards last week. He’s thrown for six TDs against only one INT in his last three games. Tagovailoa gets to play a Patriots defense ranking 28th against the pass. Last week, the Patriots defense allowed Matthew Stafford to throw for 295 yards with four passing TDs.
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