In this matchup between NFC North division rivals, the 4-1 Detroit Lions take on the undefeated Minnesota Vikings to decide first place in the division. Both teams are riding winning streaks right now with this game, being the most important this season.
The Vikings and Lions will be without key players in this game but there will not be a lack of talent on the field. The Vikings are favored at home and could put a chip on the Lions’ shoulder in this NFC North battle.
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings DFS Start ‘Ems
Here are a few players we are leaning on in this game. These players are in a good spot for a solid performance and have a favorable matchup.
Amon-Ra St. Brown, Wide Receiver, Detroit Lions (DraftKings: $8.3, Fanduel: $8.8K)
After a lackluster first game, Amon-Ra St. Brown returned to being one of the top receivers in the league. He is averaging 18.75 fantasy points per game in his last four games and has scored a touchdown in three straight games. The Vikings’ pass defense hasn’t looked great this season primarily because they have held large leads but St. Brown should be in for a big day against the Vikings.
Jordan Addison, Wide Receiver, Minnesota Vikings (DraftKings: $5.6K, Fanduel: $6.3K)
Since returning from injury, Jordan Addison has had an important role in the Vikings’ offense. Much of the defense’s attention will be zeroing in on Justin Jefferson which should open up numerous opportunities to make big plays. The Lions also give up the fourth most fantasy points to wide receivers. Addison scored a touchdown in the last meeting between these two teams and will look to put up big numbers this week.
Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings DFS Sit ‘Ems
On the flip side, here are a few players we will be sitting in this one.
Jahmyr Gibbs, Running Back, Detroit Lions (DraftKings: $6.9K, Fanduel: $7.8K)
Jahmyr Gibbs is having another productive season for the Detroit Lions. Even though he shares a backfield with David Montgomery, he still finds a way to put up big numbers. This week might be a battle for Gibbs facing a Vikings run defense allowing only 67.2 rushing yards per game. They have given up the second-fewest fantasy points to running backs this season. Gibbs has value as a receiver but that won’t be enough to warrant starting him.
Sam Darnold, Quarterback, Minnesota Vikings (DraftKings: $6.2K, Fanduel: $7.5K)
Sam Darnold didn’t put up a great performance in London against the Jets and it could be a sign he is being figured out. With Aaron Jones banged up and not much of a running game behind him, the Vikings may be forced to pass a lot. He has thrown an interception in four out of five games this season and will match up against a Lions defense that has seven in five games.
Total Apex Lock of the Game
Justin Jefferson, Wide Receiver, Minnesota Vikings (DraftKings: $8.5K, Fanduel: $9.4K)
Justin Jefferson is in the top 10 in receptions and yards per reception and leads the league in 20+ yard receptions. He also scored a touchdown in four straight games to start the season. The inexperience of the Lions’ defensive backs will show up in this game and he will have another monster fantasy performance. Jefferson is a must start virtually every week but he will feast this week.
Total Apex Fade of the Game
Jared Goff, Quarterback, Detroit Lions (DraftKings: $6.5K, Fanduel: $7.8K)
Jared Goff has been flawless in his last two games but hasn’t faced the Minnesota Vikings’ defense. The Vikings have allowed only 15.2 points per game ranking them fourth in the league. They also lead the league in interceptions and are third in sacks. Jared Goff has been excellent but this defense will be too much for him to handle and he needs to be left out of your lineups.
Conclusion on Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions
This has the potential to be one of the best games of the year so far and will be crucial for both of these teams’ hopes for a division title. The Minnesota Vikings look to stay undefeated, while the Detroit Lions are attempting to get back to the top of the NFC North. Justin Jefferson, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jordan Addison are a good stack to start with for your DFS lineup and have the potential to win big this week.