SNF Showdown
Rams @ Lions (-4.5)
O/U 53
Tonight, we have a highly anticipated rematch of last season’s NFC Wildcard game as the Los Angeles Rams travel to Detroit to face the Lions on Sunday Night Football. This game offers plenty of intriguing lineup possibilities, especially with stars like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, Sam LaPorta, Puka Nacua, and Cooper Kupp all viable candidates for the Captain spot.
Detroit’s Defense
The Lions have made significant upgrades to their defense, aiming to counter receivers like Nacua. They’ll be starting three new players in the secondary and two fresh faces on the defensive line. While it’s still uncertain if DJ Reader will play, Detroit boasted one of the league’s best run defenses last year, and there’s little reason to doubt their ability to maintain that strength this season. On offense, Jameson Williams moves into the #2 wide receiver role following an impressive preseason, while the coaching staff remains intact, which is rare in today’s NFL.
Rams’ Offense and Key Changes
The Rams return most of their key offensive pieces, with Kupp, Nacua, and Kyren Williams at running back. Matthew Stafford is back and healthy, looking to exact some revenge. However, the offensive line remains a concern due to injuries, compounded by the late, unexpected move of former Lion Jonah Jackson to center. Defensively, the Rams face life without Aaron Donald following his retirement, opting for a collective effort led by a mix of veterans and rookies.
Strategy
Given the matchups, I don’t see the Rams having much success running the ball against Detroit’s stout defensive front. However, with Detroit’s revamped and untested secondary, I’ll be including Kupp and/or Nacua in most of my lineups. While I think Detroit wins by a touchdown, the key decision is whether their victory will come through the air or on the ground.
For value Captain picks, I see two standout options depending on your build. Jameson Williams at $8,100 or David Montgomery at $9,900 are great choices for Lions-centric lineups. Using them as Captain will free up salary for higher-priced players in the Flex, offering solid lineup flexibility.
My Favorite Players
Amon-Ra St. Brown
As the most expensive player on the slate, I won’t be using him as Captain, but he’s a must-play in the Flex. Last season, St. Brown averaged 8 receptions per game, hitting 100 yards in eight different contests. He was remarkably consistent, with only one week of single-digit fantasy points.
Puka Nacua
Like St. Brown, Nacua rarely posted single-digit fantasy performances. As the clear No. 1 target for the Rams, I’ll be aiming to fit him into every lineup.
Sam LaPorta
LaPorta had one of the best rookie seasons ever for a tight end. With another year in the system, his production should only improve. With Josh Reynolds gone and Jameson Williams’ usage uncertain, LaPorta could see an increase in targets this season.
Jahmyr Gibbs
The Lions have been hinting all offseason about using Gibbs more as a receiver. With Detroit still searching for reliable WR3 and WR4 options, this could happen right away.
My Favorite Captains
Jameson Williams
Jahmyr Gibbs
Puka Nacua
David Montgomery
My Favorite Flex Plays
Amon-Ra St Brown
Jahmyr Gibbs
Cooper Kupp
Jared Goff
Matthew Stafford
Value Plays
Detroit Defense
Kalif Raymond
Tutu Atwell
Sample Lineup: Lions Passing Attack
This lineup assumes a high-scoring game, with the Lions focusing on an aggressive aerial attack. In response, the Rams will likely need to rely heavily on the passing game, with Puka Nacua as their primary target.
Jameson Williams (CPT)
Amon-Ra St Brown
Sam LaPorta
Jared Goff
Puka Nacua
Detroit DST