Ja’Marr Chase poised for record-breaking performance as Bengals host Cardinals in fantasy clash
It’s Week 17, and for many fantasy football enthusiasts, this marks the Championship week. The Arizona Cardinals are traveling to Cincinnati to take on the Bengals in a matchup that promises to deliver fireworks. With both defenses showing vulnerabilities, fantasy managers are excited to capitalize on key offensive players from both teams.
Arizona Cardinals Key Fantasy Players
Jacoby Brissett, QB: DK $5700 / FD $7600
Brissett has been quietly impressive, putting up numbers worthy of a top-tier fantasy quarterback. With both offenses likely to play at a breakneck pace, Brissett will have ample opportunities to rack up passing yards. Given that the Cardinals will likely be in passing mode for much of the game, he presents solid value in both cash and GPP formats. The Bengals’ struggling secondary only enhances his appeal.
Trey McBride, TE: DK $7500 / FD $8300
McBride remains the most dependable target in the Cardinals’ arsenal, especially in the middle of the field. The Bengals have consistently struggled against tight ends, making McBride a must-start. He’s currently on a hot streak, shattering records and proving to be a reliable fantasy option.
Michael Carter, RB: DK $5200 / FD $6000
Carter has stepped into the lead running back role, and the Bengals’ defense has shown weaknesses against the run. He is expected to see a healthy number of touches both on the ground and as a receiver, making his price point a reasonable investment for fantasy managers.
Michael Wilson, WR: DK $4800 / FD $5700
With Marvin Harrison Jr. likely still limited, Wilson stands to benefit from increased targets. He has already demonstrated his capability to perform under pressure, providing a solid floor with significant upside. His price is very attractive, making him a worthy addition to both season-long and daily fantasy lineups.
Cincinnati Bengals Key Fantasy Players
Joe Burrow, QB: DK $6500 / FD $8700
While Burrow’s price tag might raise eyebrows, his performance is likely to justify the cost. His ability to read defenses and distribute the ball to multiple playmakers positions him as the top quarterback option across both DFS platforms. The Cardinals’ defense ranks in the middle tier for fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks, further enhancing Burrow’s potential.
Ja’Marr Chase, WR: DK $7400 / FD $9000
In games where the Bengals look to air it out, Chase is the clear go-to target. His elite status makes him a necessary inclusion in fantasy rosters. Though his salary may seem high, his consistency and performance are bankable. With the Bengals out of playoff contention, Chase is on the cusp of breaking two significant records: surpassing his own franchise receiving record and becoming the first player to achieve back-to-back seasons with 120 receptions since Michael Thomas accomplished the feat with the Saints.
Mike Gesicki, TE: DK $4000 / FD $5000
Gesicki comes at an affordable price point and is known for his ability to make an impact in the red zone. The Cardinals have struggled to defend against tight ends, making Gesicki a valuable option for those needing budget relief in DFS. However, he may not be the best choice for your season-long roster in the final week.
DFS Stack Suggestions
Burrow / Chase / Higgins
This trio offers elite passing potential and a solid foundation for accumulating high points through the air. It’s a safe and effective stack for any lineup.
Brissett / McBride / Carter
This Cardinals stack could prove fruitful if the game remains competitive and high-scoring, providing a balanced and affordable option.
Burrow + Gesicki + Michael Wilson
For those looking to take a different approach, this stack diverges from the typical choices of Chase and Higgins. If Harrison is limited, Wilson and McBride could have even more opportunities, while Burrow with Chase and Higgins remains a strong combination if it fits within your budget.
Focus on adjusting your salaries to prioritize volume first and upside second, and then unleash your lineup into the fantasy fray.
