This article will focus on the best value play at each position using DraftKings’ pricing for the Sunday 1 p.m. slate. We will provide one cheap option at every position based on matchups and game theory from top to bottom. Now that we’ve done the housekeeping, let’s get into Week 8.
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Quarterback: Sam Howell, Washington Commanders ($5,200)
Howell has a tough matchup this week at home against the Eagles. But in Week 4 against Philadelphia, the Commanders got in the end zone four times in a close OT loss, while Howell finished with nearly 300 yards. Consider Howell a value play at home this week for this NFC East rematch. You can stack him with Terry McLaurin and/or Curtis Samuel.
Related: NFL QB Rankings 2023: See where Sam Howell and the other 31 starting QBs rank
Running Back: Dameon Pierce, Houston Texans ($5,300)
Pierce has been dreadful, but this week, he gets a shot at the Panthers’ 30th-ranked defense against the RB1 position. This is a risky play, but it is the kind that can take a tournament down. Hopefully, he can recover some of the big-play ability he showed last year as a rookie.
Wide Receiver: Kendrick Bourne, New England Patriots ($4,700)
Bourne has come alive in the last two weeks with 18 targets, 16 receptions, and a touchdown. He has a great matchup this week against the Dolphins’ 31st-ranked defense against the WR1 position. Bourne is a lock this week at that price.
Tight End: Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals ($2,800)
With Zach Ertz on IR, McBride is the Cardinals’ starting tight end. He has a tough matchup this week at home against the Ravens, but the volume he will get with Ertz out can make up for it. Consider McBride the best value tight end play this week, as his super-cheap price allows you to pay up at other positions.
Defense: Cincinnati Bengals’ DEF ($2,200)
The Bengals have averaged almost 12 fantasy points per game over the last four games, but they are priced near the bottom of the list due to a matchup with the 49ers. However, San Francisco QB Brock Purdy is currently in the concussion protocol. If he can’t go, the Niners will be forced to start Sam Darnold, making the Bengals’ defense a viable play.
Related: 2023 NFL defense rankings: Best and worst NFL defenses in Week 8