The Pittsburgh Steelers recently gained some traction with a crucial victory over the Indianapolis Colts, pulling ahead of the Ravens. Meanwhile, the Chargers managed to avoid defeat against the struggling Tennessee Titans, keeping them in the race for the AFC West alongside the Broncos.
Here, we’re taking a look at some notable DFS picks from the Sunday night clash.
DK Metcalf, POS, Steelers (FLEX $11,400, CPT $17,100)
While Metcalf hasn’t exactly exploded this season, he’s definitely improving and is likely Pittsburgh’s leading receiver. This week, he’ll be up against a Chargers defense that favors zone coverage, a situation Metcalf tends to thrive in. His target share is impressive at 26.2% against such coverage, compared to 12.7% against man coverage. I think if the Steelers secure a win, Metcalf will play a significant role in that.
Ladd McConkie, WR, Chargers (FLEX $12,200, CPT $18,300)
The Steelers rank poorly against outside receivers this season in adjusted fantasy points, yet they have handed out a lot of targets to opposing WR1s. With five games left in the season, McConkie ranks fifth among fantasy receivers in total points. It seems like a prime matchup.
Justin Herbert, QB, Chargers (FLEX $13,000, CPT $20,700)
The Chargers are likely to score more through the air rather than on the ground, and Herbert’s ability to scramble could make him a standout this week. He has consistently rushed for over 24 yards in nearly every game this season, accumulating 119 yards and a touchdown in his last two outings. If Kimani Vidal struggles against the Steelers’ run defense, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Herbert taking chances again.
Oronde Gadsen II, TE, Chargers (FLEX $7,800, CPT $11,700)
Gadsen remains an appealing option given his potential, particularly as he faces a Steelers defense that has allowed the third-most fantasy points to tight ends. If the Chargers need to manage their budget, Gadsen could be a solid pick for the captain’s slot in this matchup.
Calvin Austin, WR, Steelers (FLEX $6,200, CPT $9,300)
Austin has recently returned from a shoulder injury and topped the Steelers’ list in targets, receptions, and yards last week. While it wasn’t a remarkable performance, it did highlight the team’s need for a second passing option aside from Metcalf. Marquez Valdes-Scantling likely won’t see much action, so I doubt anyone will take him seriously for this matchup. Austin’s potential might not be sky-high, but his affordability could work to fill out an optimal lineup.
Darnell Washington, TE, Steelers (FLEX $3,600, CPT $5,400)
Options at the low end of the price scale are limited, but Washington has been effective around the goal line lately. He leads the tight end group with six red zone targets since Week 4. We’re really looking for touchdowns here; last week, he was tied for the team lead in red zone opportunities and ranked second in receptions and yards.
