Here we have the next DraftKings Showdown slate of the 2024 season- Dallas @Pittsburgh. Whether you’re locking in a star like CeeDee Lamb as your captain or searching for value plays like Rico Dowdle, there’s a lot to consider in this showdown.
This game could be a physical battle, with Najee Harris and Lamb leading their respective teams on offense. Expect Dak Prescott and Justin Fields to lean heavily on their top weapons — George Pickens and Jake Ferguson are sure to play pivotal roles in their teams’ game plans. Both defenses come in strong, with the Steelers allowing just 261 yards per game, setting up a potential defensive struggle under the primetime lights.
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – Dallas @Pittsburgh Captain Picks
CeeDee Lamb ($17,700 Capt/ $11,800 Flex)
CeeDee Lamb is coming off an impressive performance, securing seven of eight targets for 98 yards and a touchdown, while also adding three rushes for eight yards. He led the Cowboys in receiving yards and targets, including a 55-yard touchdown catch that showcased his big-play ability. Lamb has yet to hit the 100-yard receiving mark this season, but his chemistry with Dak Prescott has been on full display. As the primary target in Dallas’ offense, Lamb’s combination of volume and explosiveness makes him an excellent captain choice in this matchup. Expect him to be heavily involved once again as the Cowboys take on the Steelers in a primetime showdown.
Dak Prescott ($16,200 Capt/ $10,800 Flex)
Dak Prescott delivered an efficient performance in the Cowboys’ win over the Giants, completing 22 of 27 passes for 221 yards and two touchdowns. Prescott spread the ball around to seven different receivers, with CeeDee Lamb and Jake Ferguson leading the way. His connection with Lamb continues to flourish, as demonstrated by a 55-yard touchdown pass that highlighted Prescott’s ability to create explosive plays. As the Cowboys prepare to face the Steelers, Prescott’s experience and poise make him a strong captain option, especially with his ability to protect the ball and manage the game effectively. Expect him to continue his efficient play as Dallas looks to stay hot on the road.
Justin Fields ($14,700 Capt/ $9,800 Flex)
Justin Fields is expected to get the start for the Steelers, and his dual-threat ability makes him a high-upside captain option. Last week, he nearly led a comeback against the Colts, showing off his ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground. While there are questions surrounding the return of Russell Wilson, Fields has proven he can step up in critical moments. His rushing potential alone makes him a solid choice at captain, especially if the Steelers find themselves trailing. Look for Fields to use his legs and arm to keep the Steelers competitive in what could be a high-scoring affair.
George Pickens ($14,400 Capt/ $9,600 Flex)
George Pickens bounced back from a tough start last week to record 113 yards on seven receptions, including two big catches of 38 and 37 yards during Pittsburgh’s second-half comeback attempt. While he lost a crucial fumble near the end zone, Pickens dominated targets and reminded everyone of his playmaking ability. His big-play upside makes him a compelling captain option, particularly if the Steelers are forced to air it out against a strong Dallas defense. Even though he didn’t find the end zone last week, Pickens’ ability to stretch the field and rack up yards after the catch gives him a high ceiling. Expect him to see plenty of targets as Pittsburgh looks to keep pace with the Cowboys.
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – Dallas @Pittsburgh Flex Picks
Najee Harris ($8,800 Flex)
Najee Harris struggled in Week 4, carrying the ball 13 times for just 19 yards, though he did add 54 yards on three receptions. His workload has been inconsistent, particularly with Jaylen Warren sidelined and Justin Fields taking more rushing opportunities. While Harris has yet to top 100 yards from scrimmage or score a touchdown this season, his involvement in the passing game offers a glimmer of hope for fantasy production. He remains a risky play, but if you believe the Steelers will lean on him to control the clock, Harris could reward those who trust in his talent.
Rico Dowdle ($8,200 Flex)
Rico Dowdle led the Cowboys’ backfield in Week 4, rushing 11 times for 46 yards and adding a 15-yard touchdown reception. His increased workload and efficiency have given him a solid role, even outpacing Ezekiel Elliott in touches and yards. Dowdle’s versatility as both a runner and a receiver makes him an intriguing option, particularly if Dallas continues to give him opportunities in the red zone. With a tough matchup against Pittsburgh, Dowdle’s momentum could carry him to another strong performance.
Jake Ferguson ($7,600 Flex)
Jake Ferguson has emerged as Dak Prescott’s second-favorite target, catching all seven of his targets for 49 yards last week against the Giants. Ferguson tied for the team lead in receptions and continues to play a significant role in the Cowboys’ passing game. As Dallas prepares to face Pittsburgh’s tough defense, Ferguson’s ability to operate in short and intermediate routes could be vital, especially with Prescott likely facing pressure. His consistency and volume make him a strong flex option in a game where the Cowboys might rely on quick passes to move the chains.
Pat Freiermuth ($6,600 Flex)
Pat Freiermuth had a solid showing in Week 4, catching five passes for 57 yards and his first touchdown of the season. Freiermuth has been a steady contributor for the Steelers, with at least four receptions in each game so far this season. His role as a reliable target, especially in the red zone, makes him an appealing flex play. With Pittsburgh likely needing to throw against a strong Dallas defense, Freiermuth should continue to see consistent usage in the passing game.
Jalen Tolbert ($5,600 Flex)
Jalen Tolbert is expected to see more opportunities with Brandin Cooks sidelined due to injury, increasing his potential value as a flex play. Tolbert has been playing a significant role in three-receiver sets and could see additional targets with Cooks out of the lineup. While CeeDee Lamb and Jake Ferguson will remain Prescott’s primary options, Tolbert’s increased snap count gives him a shot at more volume. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with upside, Tolbert could surprise as a key piece of the Cowboys’ passing attack.
Ezekiel Elliot ($4,400 Flex)
Ezekiel Elliott has seen a reduced role this season, averaging just 4 carries for 17.5 yards over the last two games. Despite returning to full health after a brief dehydration issue, Elliott is expected to remain behind Rico Dowdle in the pecking order. His limited snaps and touches make him a risky play, but if you believe the Cowboys will use him in goal-line situations, he could be a touchdown-dependent dart throw. Elliott’s declining volume is concerning, but he’s still capable of producing if given the chance.
Calvin Austin III ($3,600 Flex)
Calvin Austin III was quiet in Week 4, securing just one target for 17 yards after a breakout performance the week prior. While he flashed his big-play potential with a 95-yard game in Week 3, his role has been inconsistent through the first four games of the season. Austin remains a boom-or-bust option in Pittsburgh’s offense, but his speed and ability to stretch the field give him some upside. He’s a low-cost flex play who could pay off if he breaks a big play, but his floor is limited by his low target share.
Dart Throw Plays (Various)
Here are a few dart plays to round out your lineup. These are high-risk, high-reward picks best suited for GPPs—not for cash games:
- KaVontae Turpin (WR, DAL) $3,000 Flex – KaVontae Turpin only played seven snaps in the last game, but with the Cowboys dealing with injuries, he could see more opportunities. The speedster is always a threat for a big play, making him an intriguing dart throw in deeper GPP formats.
- Darnell Washington (TE, PIT) $2,600 Flex – Darnell Washington hauled in both of his targets for 31 yards in last week’s loss, showing his ability when given a chance. However, with Pat Freiermuth ahead of him on the depth chart, Washington’s role remains too small for consistent fantasy production.
- Jalen Brooks (WR, DAL) $2,400 Flex – Jalen Brooks saw only eight snaps without any targets in the last game, but with the Cowboys’ wide receiver room banged up, he could see an increased role. If you’re looking for a low-cost dart throw, Brooks could benefit from additional opportunities in this matchup.
- Aaron Shampklin (RB, PIT) $2,000 Flex – Aaron Shampklin was promoted to the Steelers’ 53-man roster with injuries to Jaylen Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson. If both remain sidelined, Shampklin could see more work as the No. 2 back behind Najee Harris, giving him sneaky upside at this price point.
- Luke Schoonmaker (TE, DAL) $1,600 Flex – Luke Schoonmaker caught one of his two targets for five yards in last week’s game, but with Jake Ferguson healthy again, his role has diminished. As a backup tight end, Schoonmaker offers limited upside unless the Cowboys suffer another injury at the position.
- Jonathan Ward (RB, PIT) $200 Flex – Jonathan Ward was elevated to the Steelers’ active roster due to injuries in the backfield. With both Jaylen Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson ruled out, Ward will serve as the No. 3 back, but his opportunities will be limited unless Najee Harris or Aaron Shampklin miss time.
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – Dallas @Pittsburgh Kickers and DSTs
Brandon Aubrey ($5,800) has been solid this season, though he did miss his first field goal of the year in last week’s win over the Giants, failing to convert a 51-yarder. Prior to that, Aubrey had made 16 straight from beyond 50 yards, showcasing his reliability from long range. In a game that could see field goals decide the outcome, Aubrey remains a top option, especially if the Cowboys struggle in the red zone. If you’re expecting a grind-it-out game with limited touchdowns, Aubrey’s ability to hit from deep makes him a strong play. Chris Boswell ($5,400) continues to be a consistent force for the Steelers, converting a 50-yard field goal and all three of his extra-point attempts in last week’s loss to the Colts. Boswell has been reliable from long distance, going 5-for-6 on 50-plus yard kicks this season. His ability to connect from deep range, combined with Pittsburgh’s occasional struggles to finish drives, makes him a valuable kicking option. If the Steelers find themselves in a defensive battle with Dallas, Boswell could see plenty of opportunities to put points on the board.
Cowboys DST ($4,800) has been dealing with injuries, including key players like DeMarcus Lawrence and Micah Parsons, leaving them vulnerable, particularly against the run. They’ve struggled to contain opposing rushing attacks, allowing some of the most yards before contact in the league. With reinforcements signed off the practice squad, this unit may struggle to put pressure on the Steelers’ offense. However, if you believe the Cowboys can force turnovers and limit Pittsburgh’s scoring, they remain a viable option in tournaments. Steelers DST ($4,000) has been the backbone of the team, allowing just 261 yards per game, including a stingy 174 passing yards on average. They’ve also been elite in limiting scoring, ranking second in points allowed per game. With the Cowboys’ offense prone to inconsistency, Pittsburgh’s defense could be in for a big night if they can pressure Dak Prescott and limit CeeDee Lamb’s impact. If you expect a low-scoring, defensive battle, the Steelers’ DST offers strong value at this price.
So there you have it — our DraftKings picks for the 2024 Dallas @Pittsburgh! Whether you’re locking in lineups or just looking for that edge, we’ve got you covered. If you have any DFS questions shoot me a DM on twitter at @numeric_dfs. Also checkout our other KFS DFS articles here, and interact with us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. We’re always ready to talk shop and help you build those winning rosters!
