DraftKings Daily Fantasy Football Helper for Week 17
Running Backs
High-Cost Option: David Johnson ($9,800)
The Arizona Cardinals don't have much to play for in Week 17 and will likely lean heavily on David Johnson to end the season. Johnson has scored at least 25 fantasy points in nine of his last 11 games. The Rams' run defense hasn't been terrible, but we've seen this season that Johnson is matchup-proof and the focal point of this offense. Averaging 7.3 targets and 22.8 touches per game, there isn't much more to say about the reigning Total NEP and fantasy point leader. Fire him up this week with confidence.
Mid-Cost Option: Mark Ingram ($5,600)
Playing in this week's highest-projected-scoring game, Mark Ingram is in the mix for what should be a productive fantasy outing. The Falcons rank in the bottom five in run defense, according to our metrics, and have allowed 16 total touchdowns to opposing running backs this season. Ingram should be able to reach cash value (3 times salary), with the Falcons allowing nine different running backs to score at least 16.8 fantasy points this season. They've proven to be especially susceptible to receiving backs, allowing the most receptions and receiving yards to the position -- a trait that should favor Ingram (40 receptions) over teammate Tim Hightower (22).
Low-Cost Option: Jacquizz Rodgers ($4,900)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' running back depth chart has taken a massive hit over the past week. They just placed Charles Sims on injured reserve, and the league just handed Doug Martin a four-game suspension. Jacquizz Rodgers will get the lead back duties by default in a game Tampa Bay needs to win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. When earlier injuries forced Rodgers into a starting role, he averaged 18.7 DK points in his three starts. The Carolina Panthers have allowed nine running backs to clear at least 14.7 points (3x cash value for Rodgers) this season -- an attainable goal for Rodgers and his projected touches.
Other Options: Devonta Freeman ($7,000), Jay Ajayi ($5,900), Latavius Murray ($5,200), Tevin Coleman ($5,100), Alfred Blue ($4,300), Darren Sproles ($4,000)
