My philosophy on choosing kicker may be changing. I’m a big proponent of not paying up for kickers. I usually want to find a player between in the $4,600 to $4,800 range, who’s playing in a dome, and preferable at home. However, I’ve been questioning paying up for a kicker the last few weeks. Defense is still straightforward. I want, what I feel, is the best matchup available. Let’s find out who to keep off our rosters in the first installment of week 10 DFS don’ts.
Matt Bryant: FanDuel Price $5,000
I may be changing my tune when it comes to high-priced kickers, but I surely won’t be playing Matt Bryant this week. First of all, Bryant is dealing with a sneaky injury. Bryant managed to injure his leg in the pregame of Sunday’s contest against the Panthers. Fortunately, it did not lead to a missed field goal or extra point.
At Bryant’s advanced age, I’m not touching him with any chance that he’s not 100%. Atlanta’s offense has been improving, but it hasn’t translated into points for Bryant. For example, he’s only scored double-digit fantasy points once in his last five games. And, he only had more than two field goal attempts in once in that same five game stretch. Yes, he has suffered from game flow issues that have forced the Falcons to attempt to convert more 4th downs than usual. But, I don’t see them improving so much that Bryant stock is boosted enough for me to consider him.
Let’s not forget, Matt Bryant is the same price at Patriots kicker, Stephen Gostkowski. The Patriots will be visiting the Broncos and that vaunted secondary. I could easily see Gostkowski attempting multiple 40 or 50 yard field goals. Due to his health, price, and the Falcons offense, Matt Bryant lands squarely on the week 10 DFS don’ts list.
Patrick Murray: FanDuel Price $4,600
Once again, this is my weekly PSA about what kicker to avoid if you’re dumpster diving at this position. I’m going to be honest…I didn’t know who Patrick Murray was before reviewing this week’s slate. Now that I know who he is, I can tell you not to waste $4,600 of your FanDuel salary on him.
He plays for a completely anemic offense, potentially the worst NFL offense. With the news that Jameis Winston will not play for a few weeks and the Mike Evans suspension, this offense is almost untouchable. They will face a resurgent New York Jets team. Specifically, a front seven that is playing inspired Football against a struggling offense. I don’t know how many times the Buccaneers will get into field goal range and I don’t know Murray’s leg strength. Just make it easy on yourself, and pay an extra $100 or $200 for a better play.
Green Bay Packers: FanDuel Price $4,500
My initial thoughts on this slate from a team defense perspective are unclear. I legitimately think you can make a case that every defense $4,600 and above are in a good situation. The New York Jets at $4,600 are the most questionable. However, I think the Packers are an absolute must avoid.
I’m writing this article ahead of their game against the Lions, so we’ll have new information soon. But, they will be playing on the at Chicago on a short week with backup quarterback. Chicago’s offense is not scary but they have a clear identity. Jordan Howard is an absolute monster in terms of his workload. He was able to have success on the ground against the Saints on the road.
It’s also not out of the realm of possibility that Mitch Trubisky improves and is able to make a handful of down field throws. Conversely, I think the Bears defense will give this offense multiple short fields and apply pressure on Hundley. Even at a minimum price, I don’t think the Packers are worth a play this week.
Buffalo Bills: FanDuel Price $4,200
The Bills will host Drew Brees and the red-hot New Orleans Saints this Sunday. I’m totally out on the Bills this week. The last time an NFC South team came to town, the Buccaneers lit up this defense. Now that New Orleans is incredibly balanced, and Buffalo has to fill the void caused by the Marcell Dareus, I don’t think they have a prayer at stopping the Saints. Also, there’s another defense that I prefer this week for just $100 more. The Buffalo Bills join the Green Bay Packers, Matt Bryant and Patrick Murray on this edition of the week 10 DFS don’ts.
Featured Image Courtesy of The Falcoholic
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