Welcome to FanGirl Football! Today, we’re diving deep into the world of Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS), specifically focusing on how to build a winning lineup on DraftKings. If you’re new to DFS, you might want to check out our DFS 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Daily Fantasy Sports episode first. It’s linked in the description for your convenience.
What is Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)?
Daily Fantasy Sports are short-term fantasy contests that last for just one game or a set of games, unlike season-long fantasy leagues. This means every week is a fresh start, and every lineup decision counts. The thrill of DFS comes from the wide array of players, matchups, and variables you need to consider when building your lineup. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate this exciting puzzle.
Types of DFS Contests
Before we get into building a lineup, let’s review the types of DFS contests available:
Large Entry Tournaments: These are like the popular Millionaire Makers, where you can win big, but the chances of winning are slim—think of them as lottery tickets.
Double-Up or Cash Games: In these contests, you can double your entry fee by finishing in the top half of the participants.
Beginner-Only Contests: These are great for newbies as they allow you to compete against other beginners.
Free Sponsored Tournaments: These are free to play but still offer a prize pool.
Building a Lineup on DraftKings
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of building a lineup. We’re focusing on the “Classic” game style, where you’ll need a quarterback, two running backs, a couple of wide receivers, a flex spot, a tight end, and a defense. DraftKings gives you a salary cap of $50,000 to build your lineup, meaning you’ll need to strategically allocate your budget to maximize your points.
Step 1: Pick a High-Scoring Game
The first step is to look at the NFL games and figure out your game script. You want to target games that are likely to be high-scoring and competitive. Avoid games that might be one-sided, as the winning team will often run the ball to kill the clock, limiting scoring opportunities.
For example, while a matchup between Cincinnati and New England might see Joe Burrow perform well, the game could be so one-sided that the Bengals will switch to a run-heavy offense, limiting Burrow’s fantasy upside. Instead, consider games like Arizona vs. Buffalo or Indianapolis vs. Houston, which have the potential for back-and-forth scoring.
Step 2: Stack Your Lineup
Once you’ve chosen your game, you’ll want to stack your lineup. Stacking means selecting multiple players from the same game, especially a quarterback and their top wide receiver. If the game script plays out as expected, both players will benefit. For example, if you choose Geno Smith as your quarterback, you might also want to select DK Metcalf, assuming they’ll connect for multiple touchdowns.
Step 3: Look for Value
The key to success in DFS is finding value players—those who are underpriced but have the potential to score big. In our example, Geno Smith is priced at $5,500, allowing you to spend more on high-upside players at other positions. Always keep an eye on the salary cap and adjust your lineup to get the most bang for your buck.
Step 4: Select a Defense
Defense can be tricky, as it’s often random and unpredictable. A good strategy is to look for a cheap, home-team defense that faces a rookie quarterback or a shaky offensive line. For instance, the Chicago Bears defense against Tennessee’s rookie quarterback could be a good bargain.
Step 5: Fill Out the Rest of Your Lineup
After selecting your stack and defense, it’s time to fill out the rest of your lineup with running backs, wide receivers, and a tight end. Remember to consider game scripts, player ownership percentages, and matchups. You want to be unique but also smart with your picks.
Final Thoughts
DFS is about having fun and enjoying the game. While it’s possible to win big, the real joy comes from cheering for your lineup and seeing how your predictions play out. Whether you’re building a lineup around your favorite team or trying out a wild strategy, remember that DFS should be enjoyable and add to your love of football.
Good luck, and may your lineups bring you victory!
