The week seven NFL slate opens up on Thursday night when the New Orleans Saints (2-4) host the Denver Broncos (3-3). The Saints are on a four-game losing streak after starting the season 2-0. New Orleans started off hot with two blowout wins over Carolina and Dallas. Since then, they have fallen victim to four probable playoff teams.
Denver’s three-game win streak was snapped on Sunday, with a 23-16 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. After starting 0-2, the Broncos reeled off three straight wins, mostly on the back of their defense. That streak came to an end in Week 6 when the Chargers got up 23-0 and held on after Denver made a comeback.
New Orleans Saints vs. Denver Broncos DFS Start ‘Ems
Here are a few of the players that we are leaning on heavily in this game. These players are in a good spot to put together a solid performance and have a favorable matchup.
New Orleans Saints QB Spencer Rattler (DraftKings: $5.2K)
Spencer Rattler stepped in for the injured Derek Carr on Sunday and actually put up decent numbers. Outside of a late third-quarter interception, he avoided major mistakes. Down 31-27, Rattler got picked off on a deep downfield throw to Rashid Shaheed. Once the game got out of hand, his stat line took a hit.
Rattler utilized his check-downs with effectiveness in his first career start for the New Orleans Saints. Going into his second start, he should continue to get a better grasp of the offense. Even though Denver has a top-five defense, they will be without star cornerback Patrick Surtain Jr. That in addition to Rattler’s cost gives DFS players flexibility with their lineups.
Denver Broncos WR Devaughn Vele (DraftKings: $3.2K)
Devaughn Vele has been strong in his two games played this season. After missing the first four games of the season, Vele burst into the Broncos lineup with 8 catches on 8 targets against the Seahawks in week five. He followed that up with 4 catches and 78 yards on 6 targets in Week 6. He is already tied for fourth on the team with 12 receptions, even though he’s played four fewer games. Look for him to continue his connection with QB Bo Nix against a poor New Orleans Saints defense.
New Orleans Saints vs. Denver Broncos DFS Sit ‘Ems
On the flip side of things, here are a few of the players we are sitting in this one.
Denver Broncos RB Javonte Williams (DraftKings: $5.5K)
Javonte Williams has yet to find the endzone this season for the Broncos. His carries have been varied, and his only fantasy value thus far has been as a pass catcher out of the backfield. Denver activated rookie RB Audric Estime off the IR this last week, so Williams’ touches could become even more sporadic.
Over his last three games, Williams has gained 161 yards on 35 carries. That’s not typically what you envision from a starting running back. What has saved DFS players from total disaster is his receiving upside. He has 20 catches on 26 targets for 143 yards in six games this season. Even though he has a low cost, he still isn’t worth utilizing in DFS until he proves he can find the endzone. With Audric Estime back in the fold, along with Jaleel McLaughlin, Williams’ touches could dip.
New Orleans Saints WR Chris Olave
Passing on Chris Olave this week isn’t an indictmemt on how he’s done this season. He does, however, have a concussion. He left Sunday’s loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers early and was absent from practice on Monday. With a short week, it’s hard to see him coming out of concussion protocol so soon. It’s something to monitor, but he’s likely unavailable on Thursday.
Total Apex Lock of the Game
New Orleans Saints RB Alvin Kamara (DraftKings: $7.8K)
Alvin Kamara has been nearly automatic for the New Orleans Saints this season. Even in games when his rushing output hasn’t been stellar, he is still getting targets out of the backfield. In his worst statistical game of the season against Kansas City, Kamara still put up 6 receptions and 40 yards. In Spencer Rattler’s first start, Kamara found the endzone and also had five catches. With Chris Olave likely out for Thursday, the New Orleans Saints running back should be in for a big workload.
Total Apex Fade of the Game
Denver Broncos WR Marvin Mims Jr. (DraftKings: $3.1K)
Marvin Mims Jr. has been a huge disappointment for fantasy players. Many people expected him to be a big part of the Broncos offense, but he has been nearly invisible. In six games, he only has 3 receptions on 8 targets for 26 yards. Mims Jr. has fallen well behind in the pecking order and should not be in your DFS lineups.
Conclusion
Thursday night games are so hard to predict. Most of them have been fantasy garbage. Then you get a game like the last two weeks when Atlanta and Tampa Bay and San Francisco and Seattle put on great showings. If you’re looking to play this game in your DFS lineups, be prepared. Use player costs to your advantage in this game, and load up on stars later.
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.
