The Los Angeles Rams have made a name for themselves by transforming late-round wide receivers into stars, with standout success stories like Cooper Kupp and, most recently, Puka Nacua. As the Rams gear up for their next matchup against the Minnesota Vikings on Thursday Night Football, they may be looking to replicate this magic with Jordan Whittington, a sixth-round pick from the 2024 NFL Draft. Whittington displayed flashes of promise earlier in the season, recording seven receptions for 89 yards in Week 5, but has since faced some challenges, including a shoulder injury that limited his snap count in the following week. If he’s active against the Vikings, daily Fantasy football players could find him to be an enticing budget option worth considering.
However, the potential return of star wide receiver Cooper Kupp—who has been sidelined for four games due to an ankle issue—adds another layer of intrigue to the Rams’ offensive strategy. Kupp’s absence has allowed other players, like tight end Colby Parkinson, to step into larger roles; Parkinson averaged 34.5 receiving yards per game during Kupp’s absence. Yet the looming question remains: how will Kupp’s return impact the offensive dynamic? He saw a whopping 21 targets in Week 1 alone and has consistently proven to be a key contributor. Players setting their lineups for NFL DFS on platforms such as DraftKings and FanDuel need to seriously evaluate how to weave Kupp’s potential into their strategies—even amidst uncertainties regarding Whittington’s health.
To assist in crafting those lineups, one could turn to Mike McClure, a veteran DFS player with over $2 million in career earnings. He utilizes a robust prediction model that simulates every snap of NFL action, taking into account player matchups, statistical trends, and injury reports to unearth the best value plays in daily Fantasy. For those ready to dive deeper into their NFL DFS options, checking out McClure’s insights on the Rams vs. Vikings matchup could illuminate some hidden gems.
Standout NFL DFS Picks for Thursday Night Football
One player that McClure is high on for this week’s matchup is Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold. During his seven years in the NFL, Darnold has navigated various ups and downs while playing for multiple teams. However, he seems to have found his rhythm this season, boasting an impressive 104.0 quarterback rating—good for the seventh-best in the league. With 12 touchdowns against five interceptions over just six games, Darnold has emerged as a surprisingly steady option for DFS players, averaging two passing touchdowns per game. His recent performance against the Lions—259 passing yards, a touchdown, and a season-high 81.5% completion rate—showcases his potential for high-scoring outings.
Additionally, Darnold has shown versatility, adding to his value by rushing for a season-high 39 yards last week. This newfound dual-threat capability makes him a compelling choice that few DFS players might have thought to consider just a few weeks ago. Given Darnold’s form and potential, he could very well provide a strong foundation for building a winning lineup in a game that might otherwise seem unpredictable.
On the other side of the ball, Rams running back Kyren Williams also deserves a spot in optimal DFS builds. Williams has been a revelation, rushing for 76 yards and two touchdowns in his last game against the Lions. Over the last four weeks, he has consistently exceeded 75 rushing yards per game, averaging 90.3 yards during that span. Following the trade of Cam Akers, he stepped into the role of lead back and has taken full advantage of the opportunity, playing significant snaps (at least 70%) in most games. Williams is a workhorse running back, making him a must-consider for those looking to bolster their lineups as well.
The Rams have shown that they can adapt and thrive offensively despite changes in personnel, and choosing players like Darnold and Williams as part of a balanced lineup could yield significant rewards. McClure hints at another undervalued player who could break out this week, further signaling the potential for surprises in Thursday Night Football. Identifying such players could mean the difference between winning a contest or walking away disappointed.
As the fantasy football landscape continues to shift week by week, utilizing the insights of a proven expert can help daily players make informed decisions, maximizing their chances of success during matchups like Rams vs. Vikings. Keeping track of player performances, injuries, and evolving roles within the offense will be critical as lineup deadlines approach. Players interested in uncovering more of McClure’s insights and recommendations should definitely consider visiting SportsLine for expert analysis on navigating NFL DFS challenges effectively.
