On Sunday, September 22, 2024, the 2-0 Houston Texans will go on the road to face the 2-0 Minnesota Vikings in a battle of unbeaten teams. The Texans gave the Bears all they could handle on Sunday Night Football for a 19-13 victory while the Vikings upset the reigning NFC Champion 49ers 23-17.
The Texans defense put their mark on this game by sacking Caleb Williams seven times. Although the offense looked out of rhythm, Houston still pulled out the close victory. The Vikings nearly blew out the 49ers had it not been for a goal-line fumble by Aaron Jones. Nonetheless, Brock Purdy was seeing ghosts by the end of this one with the tenacious Vikings defense flustering him for three hours.
Houston Texans vs. Minnesota Vikings DFS Start ‘Ems
Here are some of the players we are leaning on in this game. These players are in a good spot to compile a solid performance and have a favorable matchup.
Tank Dell, WR, Houston Texans (DraftKings $5.2K, Fanduel $6.2K)
Tank Dell hasn’t had his breakout game that we saw often last year, but that ends this week. He’s been limited to only four catches this season but has five carries to his credit. Tank’s speed will be front and center in this game with an older Vikings secondary chasing him around for three hours. He averaged over 15 yards per reception last season and will look for C.J. Stroud to air it out in this one.
Jalen Nailor, WR, Minnesota Vikings (DraftKings $4.4K, Fanduel $5.9K)
Jalen Nailor has been a pleasant surprise for the Vikings this season. He has stayed healthy for the first time in his career and is taking advantage of his opportunity. Jordan Addison got hurt in week one and hasn’t been back since. Nailor has a touchdown in both games this season, and with defenders geared up to stop Justin Jefferson, Nailor should have plenty of chances to keep his touchdown streak going.
Houston Texans vs. Minnesota Vikings DFS Sit ‘Ems
On the flip side, here are a few of the players we are sitting in this one.
Stefon Diggs, WR, Houston Texans (DraftKings $6.6K, Fanduel $6.9K)
This will not be a good homecoming for Stefon Diggs. He is still a productive receiver, but the Vikings will be able to frustrate Diggs with their physical defensive backs. Diggs did catch two touchdowns in week one, but that was after a sideline argument with C.J. Stroud. With Nico Collins’s size and Tank Dell’s speed, this isn’t a Stefon Diggs game. You’re safe to leave him out of your lineup for this one.
Aaron Jones, RB, Minnesota Vikings (DraftKings $5.9K, Fanduel $6.6K)
Aaron Jones had a huge day for the Vikings in week one, but week two was a different story. He did get a little banged up during the game, but Ty Chandler outplayed him averaging over eight yards per carry against San Francisco. The Texans’ run defense has held opponents in check the first two games of the season. With Jones possibly splitting carries and a bad matchup, it’s best to sit Jones.
Total Apex Lock of the Game
C.J. Stroud, QB, Houston Texans (DraftKings $7.1K, Fanduel $8.2K)
C.J. Stroud is poised for a big game against the Vikings this Sunday. Through two games, he has 494 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 33 fantasy points. The Vikings blitz packages were a nightmare for Daniel Jones and Brock Purdy. Stroud is quick in his decision-making and can sense pressure before it gets home. The Vikings’ secondary has played well so far, but the Texans have too many weapons in this one. It will be a huge day for C.J. Stroud and the Texans.
Total Apex Fade of the Game
Sam Darnold, QB, Minnesota Vikings (DraftKings $5.5K, Fanduel $7.1K)
Sam Darnold has been playing like a top 5 quarterback in the league but now, it’s time to come back down to earth. The Texans’ defense has nine sacks, and three interceptions and has held starting running backs to under three yards per carry through two games. The Vikings will need to have a threat of a run game for Darnold to succeed. Justin Jefferson and Aaron Jones are playing but are banged up and they will be without Jordan Addison again. Sam Darnold needs to sit this week.
Conclusion
Minnesota has already exceeded expectations by upsetting the 49ers but will face a tall task against Houston. The defense will need to be at its best to give them a chance to keep this one close. Sam Darnold has looked excellent but has thrown inopportune interceptions. Those mistakes could cost you the game against a team like the Texans.
Houston hasn’t looked as dominant as last season, but they are still finding ways to win games. When they start clicking on all cylinders, it could mean big trouble for the AFC. Houston is favored on the road in this game but has to win the turnover battle against the stingy Viking’s defense. C.J. Stroud, Tank Dell, and Houston’s defense should be a profitable stack for you in this game.
For More Great Content
Craving top-tier content that covers it all? From electrifying sports highlights and insider entertainment news to expert gaming tips and sharp betting advice, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our curated articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the lowdown on gaming strategies that could level up your play. Plus, our betting advice will sharpen your edge and boost your chances of winning big. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, our content is your go-to source for all things exciting and relevant. Don’t miss out—explore now and power up your knowledge! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports, to stay informed.
