Welcome to another exciting week of NFL action from the 2023 season, and my attempts to help you make crucial decisions for your IDP lineup for Week 3. IDP sleepers are hidden gems among defensive players who, if given the opportunity, can deliver outstanding performances and help fantasy football teams secure victories. These players are often overlooked or underrated by fantasy managers but could make a substantial impact to IDP teams. As Week 3 of the NFL season unfolds, the spotlight is set to shine on several defensive stars who are poised to make a significant impact. In this article, we’ll focus on three standout players—DB Daxton Hill of the Cincinnati Bengals, LB Ivan Pace of the Minnesota Vikings, and DL Harrison Phillips, also of the Vikings—as they prepare to succeed in their respective matchups this week.
Harrison Phillips (DL, MIN) v LAC
Week 2 Stats: 13 tackles, 6 assists (78% snap count).
Harrison Phillips, a versatile defensive lineman for the Minnesota Vikings, is our final waiver wire gem. With his disruptive abilities, he’s ready to continue making an impact in Week 3. With the Chargers’ offense expected to be explosive, Phillips should have opportunities for tackles for loss and sacks. He’s a prime candidate for fantasy points in IDP leagues that reward linemen for tackles. Phillips demonstrated his knack for disrupting plays in Week 2 with a sack. Against the Chargers in Week 3, he’s expected to continue making impactful tackles and contribute to stopping their offense. The Chargers, who feature a dynamic running and passing game, Phillips can be an IDP force against both. His presence will create chaos for the Chargers’ offense.
In conclusion, as you scour the waiver wire for Week 3, consider adding these IDP sleepers to your roster. Daxton Hill’s versatility, Ivan Pace’s tackling proficiency, and Harrison Phillips’ disruptive presence make them attractive options. With their Week 2 stats and projected Week 3 performances, these players offer a chance to score points in your league.
Ivan Pace (LB, MIN) v LAC
Week 2 Stats: 8 tackles, 3 assists & 1 sack (86% snap count).
Week 3 Projection: 9 tackles, 4 assists & 0.5 sacks (88% snap count).
Ivan Pace, is our next waiver wire target. He’s proven to be a tackling machine and an asset for IDP managers. Ivan Pace’s Week 2 performance was characterized by his solid tackling ability, and in Week 3, he takes on the high-powered Los Angeles Chargers. The Chargers’ offense is expected to be in full swing, and this should provide Pace with ample opportunities. Pace isn’t just about tackles; he can also make plays in coverage. His projected pass deflections indicate his potential to disrupt the passing game, whether it’s dropping into coverage or blitzing the quarterback. With a high snap count and the ability to be a sideline-to-sideline presence, Pace is expected to continue making tackles and influencing the game. His impact extends beyond tackles, making him a multi-dimensional asset in the Vikings’ defense.
Daxton Hill (DB, CIN) v LAR
Week 2 Stats: 6 tackles, 2 assists & 1 INT (91% snap count).
Week 3 Projection: 7 tackles, 3 assists, 1 INT & 2 PD (94% snap count).
Daxton Hill, the emerging defensive back for the Cincinnati Bengals, is on our radar this week. He’s set to face the Los Angeles Rams in a Monday night showdown. With the Rams likely to air it out on Monday night, Hill is poised to have plenty of tackling opportunities. His ball-hawking skills should come into play once again, making him a strong addition for Week 3. In Week 2, Hill showcased his versatility and playmaking ability with an interception and solid tackling. Facing the Rams’ offense in Week 3, his snap count is expected to remain high, providing ample opportunities to accumulate stats and make impact plays in coverage. Hill’s ability to play both safety and cornerback positions adds a dynamic element to the Bengals’ defense. Against the Rams’ passing attack, Hill’s versatility will be key. He can line up in various positions to provide support against the Rams’ receiving corps. Facing Stafford, Hill’s instincts could lead to more interceptions and pass breakups. Expect him to accumulate tackles and make plays in the secondary.
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Image Credit: Eric Hartline – USA TODAY Sports
