Fantasy Football Week 9 DFS Picks: Contrarian Plays for Millionaire Maker Lineups

Geoff Ulrich offers his unique DFS selections for Week 9’s fantasy football slate. His analysis focuses on contrarian picks for DraftKings’ large-field tournaments. These choices aim to provide lineup differentiation and leverage against the field.

The goal is to identify undervalued players with high upside. Popular picks are often avoided to create unique roster constructions. This strategy is crucial for winning big in tournaments like the NFL $2.75M Fantasy Football Millionaire.

Top Contrarian Stack Targets the Chargers

A compelling contrarian stack involves the Los Angeles Chargers offense. Justin Herbert leads the group against the Tennessee Titans. He is priced at $6,800 and brings significant upside.

Herbert has thrown for six touchdowns and 647 yards in his last two games. He faces a Titans defense that ranks 29th in EPA per dropback. According to ESPN analytics, this is a prime spot for a passing explosion.

Keenan Allen at $5,600 is the primary stacking partner. He is the clear top receiver, especially with Ladd McConkey limited. Running back Kimani Vidal ($6,300) offers a correlated play with receiving upside against a weak run defense.

Value Plays and Position-by-Position Breakdown

At quarterback, Daniel Jones ($6,200) is a savvy contrarian play. He faces a Steelers defense allowing the second-most fantasy points to QBs. Jones has his full complement of weapons healthy for this matchup.

The running back position features Jahmyr Gibbs ($8,000). He comes off a bye week to face a Vikings rush defense ranked 25th in EPA. Gibbs is a threat for massive production both on the ground and through the air.

Kareem Hunt ($4,700) offers tremendous value if Isaiah Pacheco is inactive. He would lead the Chiefs backfield against a Bills defense that is weak against the run. Hunt scored two touchdowns just last week.

Wide receiver DK Metcalf ($5,500) possesses elite upside at a reasonable price. He faces a Colts defense that has allowed the third-most fantasy points to wide receivers. His big-play ability makes him a constant threat for a breakout game.

Dyami Brown ($3,800) is a deep value option for the Jaguars. With Travis Hunter on IR and Brian Thomas injured, his role should expand. He faces a Raiders secondary that has been generous to opposing receivers.

At tight end, rookie Colston Loveland ($3,300) is a intriguing punt option. He saw increased usage in Week 8 and faces a Bengals defense that is the league’s worst against tight ends. They have allowed 10 touchdowns to the position this season.

The Cincinnati Bengals defense ($2,600) is a viable cheap play. They face Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, who has struggled with turnovers. Williams has thrown zero touchdowns and four interceptions over his last two games.

Implementing these Week 9 DFS picks can create unique, high-upside tournament lineups. Finding contrarian value is the key to separating from the pack in large-field contests. This strategy offers a clear path to the top of the leaderboards.

Thought you’d like to know

Why is a contrarian strategy important in DFS?

It helps your lineup stand out in large tournaments. When popular players underperform, your unique roster gains significant leverage. This is essential for winning the top prizes.

Is Justin Herbert a safe play this week?

Herbert has elite matchup against a weak Titans secondary. His recent performance suggests he has massive upside. He is a strong play for tournament lineups.

What makes Kareem Hunt a valuable pick?

He costs only $4,700 and could see a large workload. The Bills run defense is ranked 28th in the league. He offers tremendous point-per-dollar potential.

Can Daniel Jones be trusted in DFS?

He has a favorable matchup against the Steelers’ struggling pass defense. With all his weapons healthy, his ceiling is elevated. He is a solid contrarian quarterback option.

Why target the Bengals defense?

They face a quarterback who has turned the ball over frequently. Caleb Williams has four interceptions and two fumbles recently. They offer sack and turnover potential at a low cost.