Ready to crush the next DraftKings SNF Showdown slate of the 2024 season (Detroit @Houston)? Whether you’re leaning on a reliable captain like Amon-Ra St. Brown or taking a shot on a value play like Tank Dell, there’s no shortage of intriguing options to fill out your lineup.
This game could feature a back-and-forth offensive showcase, with C.J. Stroud and Jared Goff each capable of lighting up the scoreboard. Expect the Lions to lean on their versatile backfield tandem of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, while the Texans will look to Joe Mixon to power their ground game. On defense, the Lions’ strong pass rush will aim to keep Stroud on his toes, while the Texans’ secondary, anchored by Derek Stingley Jr., will try to contain Detroit’s dangerous receiving corps. Let’s break down the best plays for every DFS format in what’s shaping up to be an exciting primetime matchup!
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – Detroit @Houston Captain Picks
Amon-Ra St. Brown ($16,500 Capt/ $11,000 Flex)
Amon-Ra St. Brown continues to be a rock-solid fantasy option, leading the Lions’ passing game with his reliable hands and savvy route-running. St. Brown’s ability to find space in short and intermediate zones makes him a high-floor captain pick, especially against a Texans defense prone to giving up big receiving games. His touchdown streak extended to six games last week, proving his red-zone involvement is no fluke. Given Detroit’s game plan to control the ball, St. Brown should see another hefty target share. Lock him in as captain if you’re looking for consistent production and a safe floor with upside for a high-volume day.
Joe Mixon ($16,200 Capt/ $10,800 Flex)
Joe Mixon remains a focal point of the Texans’ offense, especially as the team leans on his ground game to maintain balance. Coming off his fourth consecutive 100-yard performance and a touchdown last week, Mixon’s power running and goal-line involvement make him a prime captain candidate. In a game where the Texans will look to control tempo, Mixon is likely to see another high volume of carries. Although he went without a target last week, his consistency on the ground provides a steady floor. If you’re banking on a run-heavy approach from Houston, Mixon is your man in the captain spot.
Nico Collins ($15,000 Capt/ $10,000 Flex)
If he suits up, Nico Collins offers an intriguing captain choice with his big-play potential and red-zone presence. Despite his questionable tag, Collins has been one of C.J. Stroud’s favorite targets, delivering solid fantasy points when healthy. Against a Detroit secondary that can be vulnerable to deep passes, Collins could provide a much-needed spark for Houston’s passing game. While there’s risk tied to his health, Collins’ upside as a captain play is undeniable if he’s cleared to play. Monitor his status closely, and if he’s active, he’s a high-ceiling option for your captain slot.
Jahmyr Gibbs ($13,800 Capt/ $9,200 Flex)
Jahmyr Gibbs has been electric in recent games, with three consecutive games finding the end zone and a strong showing in the Lions’ committee backfield. While David Montgomery takes more of the heavy lifting, Gibbs has the burst and receiving skills to deliver explosive plays, especially in open space. Against a Texans defense that can be susceptible to dynamic runners, Gibbs’ ability to break tackles and create mismatches in the passing game adds to his captain appeal. He’s an ideal captain if you’re looking for a player with game-breaking potential and touchdown upside.
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – Detroit @Houston Flex Picks
C.J. Stroud ($9,800 Flex)
C.J. Stroud struggled under pressure last week, completing just 11 of 30 passes and losing a fumble amid constant pressure from the Jets. Despite the rough outing, he did show his versatility with 59 rushing yards, and brighter matchups lie ahead. Stroud will benefit if Nico Collins can return to the lineup, providing him with a deep threat against the Lions’ secondary. He remains a solid flex option, especially if he finds more time in the pocket.
Jared Goff ($9,600 Flex)
Jared Goff’s efficient outing against the Packers saw him complete 18 of 22 passes with a touchdown, despite the rain limiting the Lions’ passing volume. Returning indoors for this Sunday night matchup against Houston, Goff is primed for a more productive day. The Texans’ defense could allow Goff and his receivers to return to the high-volume passing attack that has fueled Detroit’s offense all season. He’s a strong flex play, especially for those looking for safe points in the passing game.
Tank Dell ($8,800 Flex)
Tank Dell’s status is up in the air due to a back issue that cropped up late in the week, making him a riskier play for Sunday night. If he suits up, however, Dell offers explosive playmaking potential and has been a key target for Stroud in recent weeks. Keep a close eye on injury updates, as Dell’s availability could shape Houston’s passing approach and provide significant fantasy upside if he’s cleared to go. He’s a high-risk, high-reward flex pick if you can handle the uncertainty.
David Montgomery ($8,200 Flex)
David Montgomery took charge of the Lions’ backfield in Week 9, handling 20 touches and showing solid efficiency with 4.3 yards per carry. Though he missed the end zone, Montgomery’s steady workload in sloppy conditions underscores his role as the reliable option for Detroit’s ground game. In a potential shootout with the Texans, Montgomery should see plenty of work again, especially with the Lions’ commitment to the run. He’s a dependable flex option with the potential to find the end zone.
Jameson Williams ($6,800 Flex)
Jameson Williams returns from a two-game suspension, adding a big-play element back to the Lions’ receiving corps. Prior to his suspension, Williams’ snap count was steady, but his production remained volatile with a few explosive plays mixed in. He could be eased back in or play a critical role right away, making him a potential high-upside flex option against the Texans’ secondary. Consider him if you’re looking for a flex option with game-breaking potential.
Sam LaPorta ($6,200 Flex)
Sam LaPorta saw just three targets last week, impacted by the Lions’ run-heavy game plan and the rainy weather. Indoors and against a Texans defense that has struggled against tight ends, LaPorta could find his way back into a more prominent role in the passing game. With consistent red-zone usage, LaPorta is a solid flex option in lineups that could benefit from his touchdown potential. He’s an appealing play for those who expect Detroit to air it out more on Sunday night.
Kalif Raymond ($2,800 Flex)
Kalif Raymond’s role has been steady, but his production took a back seat last week with only one catch for 12 yards. With Jameson Williams returning from suspension, Raymond’s opportunities may be even more limited moving forward. However, his low price and potential for a big play could make him a worthy punt in large-field tournaments. Consider him only if you’re in need of a cheap, low-volume dart throw with a bit of upside.
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:
- Dalton Schultz (TE, HOU) $5,600 Flex – Schultz saw six targets last week but could only turn them into three catches for 21 yards, showing his limited ceiling in Houston’s passing game. With Nico Collins possibly returning, his role might shrink even further, making him a risky play.
- Robert Woods (WR, HOU) $3,200 Flex – Woods contributed a 32-yard catch in Week 9, showing some ability to stretch the field in a depleted receiver room. However, if Collins returns, Woods could fall back into a secondary role, making him a low-volume dart throw.
- Dare Ogunbowale (RB, HOU) $3,000 Flex – Ogunbowale’s lone carry resulted in negative yardage, and he missed all three targets in a rough outing for Houston’s backup backfield. With Mixon entrenched as the lead back, Ogunbowale’s opportunities will remain limited to low-upside passing work.
- John Metchie III (WR, HOU) $2,600 Flex – Metchie saw two targets but failed to haul either in during a chaotic Week 9 for Houston’s offense. While his snap count increased, Metchie’s production was minimal, making him a speculative play at best.
- Tim Patrick (WR, DET) $2,400 Flex – Patrick logged a season-high in snaps last week, but his two catches for 12 yards didn’t inspire much confidence. With Jameson Williams back from suspension, Patrick’s already narrow window for production likely closes further.
- Brock Wright (TE, DET) $2,000 Flex – Wright scored an eight-yard touchdown on his only target last week, but he’s had just eight receptions on the season. As the No. 2 tight end behind Sam LaPorta, he’s purely a dart throw for those hoping lightning strikes twice.
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – Detroit @Houston Kickers and DSTs
Ka’imi Fairbairn ($5,200) had a rough Week 9, missing two field goals, including a 27-yard attempt that hit the upright. However, he’s typically reliable and nailed field goals from 54 and 29 yards, making him a bounce-back candidate for this week’s contest. Jake Bates ($5,000) stayed perfect on field goals with a 27-yard make and added three extra points in rainy, windy conditions. He’s now a perfect 12-for-12 on field goals this season, making him a steady option as the Lions return to a dome environment this week.
Texans DST ($3,600) led by Will Anderson, who has racked up 7.5 sacks, and Derek Stingley Jr. in the secondary, the Texans’ defense has shown some playmaking potential. They’ll face a Lions offense that’s generally tough but could struggle if pressured, making this unit a decent dart throw in tournament lineups. Lions DST ($4,000) despite injuries, Detroit’s defense has been consistent, averaging over 12 fantasy points per game across the last month. Against a Texans offensive line that’s struggled in protection, the Lions’ top-ranked turnover rate and Za’Darius Smith’s recent addition make them a solid option to consider for Sunday night.
So there you have it — our DraftKings picks for the 2024 Detroit @Houston! 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!
