Fresh from the holidays, we have another DraftKings showdown slate for 2024, with San Francisco @Buffalo. Whether you’re locking in a star like Christian McCaffrey as your captain or hunting for value plays like Dawson Knox, there’s a lot to consider.
This game has the potential to be a grind-it-out battle, with McCaffrey and Breece Hall leading their respective offenses. Expect Aaron Rodgers and Brock Purdy to lean on their playmakers — Garrett Wilson and Deebo Samuel will be heavily involved in their game plans. The Jets’ defense is coming off a dominant season, ranking first in total yards allowed per play, while the 49ers have bolstered their front seven with the addition of Leonard Floyd, setting up a showdown in the trenches.
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – San Francisco @Buffalo Captain Picks
Josh Allen ($16,500 Capt/ $11,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Josh Allen is the ultimate dual-threat quarterback, capable of piling up points with both his arm and his legs. Fresh off a commanding performance against the Chiefs where he totaled 317 yards and two touchdowns, Allen is poised to keep rolling against the 49ers. The matchup may be tougher on paper, but his versatility makes him game script-proof, as he can take over in high-pressure situations. Allen’s ability to rack up rushing yards and find the end zone on the ground gives him one of the highest ceilings on the slate. If you can afford him in the captain spot, he’s a no-brainer for lineups.
Christian McCaffrey ($15,900 Capt/ $10,600 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Christian McCaffrey is the heart of the 49ers’ offense, and even a rough outing last week doesn’t dim his immense upside. Despite struggling against Green Bay, McCaffrey remains one of the league’s most dangerous players with his ability to contribute as both a rusher and receiver. With Brock Purdy likely returning, defenses will have to respect the passing game, opening up opportunities for CMC. His unmatched workload and knack for explosive plays make him a high-floor, high-ceiling option. McCaffrey’s dual-threat role ensures he’ll be involved no matter how the game unfolds.
James Cook ($14,400 Capt/ $9,600 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
James Cook continues to thrive in the Bills’ offense, racking up touchdowns and proving he can deliver even in tough matchups. While he struggled for yardage against Kansas City’s stout run defense, his two short rushing touchdowns showcased his value in the red zone. Cook’s involvement as a pass-catcher boosts his floor, especially in PPR formats, making him a strong candidate in a competitive contest. With 11 touchdowns this season, Cook’s knack for finding the end zone adds immense value in showdown lineups. Slotting Cook in at captain could be a savvy move if you’re chasing upside while managing salary constraints.
George Kittle ($12,900 Capt/ $8,600 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
George Kittle returned with a bang last week, hauling in all six of his targets and scoring a touchdown despite Brock Purdy’s absence. With Purdy likely back under center, Kittle’s outlook brightens further, as their chemistry has been a cornerstone of the 49ers’ passing attack. Kittle’s ability to rack up yards after the catch makes him a threat to break big plays, even against a strong Bills defense. As one of the few tight ends with the ability to post WR1-type numbers, Kittle offers intriguing upside at the captain spot. With his consistent red-zone involvement, Kittle is a smart play for managers looking to differentiate their lineups.
DraftKings TNF Showdown 2024 – Buffalo @Miami Flex Picks
Brock Purdy ($9,200 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Brock Purdy is expected to return under center for the 49ers, which is a significant boost for their entire offense. Before his injury, Purdy showcased efficiency and poise, helping his team move the ball even in tough matchups. Facing a formidable Bills defense, Purdy’s ability to spread the ball to multiple playmakers like George Kittle and Deebo Samuel will be critical. His affordability in the flex spot makes him a solid option, especially for lineups needing a reliable quarterback to pair with premium options. If San Francisco is playing from behind, Purdy’s passing volume could translate into a valuable fantasy day.
Deebo Samuel Sr. ($9,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Deebo Samuel has struggled to meet expectations this season, but Brock Purdy’s likely return offers a glimmer of hope. The dynamic playmaker can contribute both as a receiver and a rusher, which keeps his ceiling high despite recent underperformance. With only two touchdowns this season, Samuel is due for some positive regression, especially in a high-stakes matchup against the Bills. His versatility makes him a risky but high-reward flex play, particularly for lineups looking to differentiate from the crowd.
Khalil Shakir ($8,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Khalil Shakir has quietly become a reliable weapon for Josh Allen, leading the Bills in receiving yards in their win against the Chiefs. His volume has increased steadily, and he’s already closing in on his 2023 production with several games left to play. While touchdowns have been sparse for Shakir, his role in the offense provides a safe floor, and his ability to rack up targets makes him appealing in PPR formats. Against a strong 49ers defense, Shakir could see additional targets in quick, short-pass situations, making him an intriguing mid-tier option for DFS lineups.
Jaun Jennings ($7,400 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jauan Jennings has quietly emerged as a steady contributor in the 49ers’ passing game, particularly when other stars are limited. He led the team’s wideouts in a rough outing against Green Bay and has shown he can be a reliable target underneath. While his ceiling is capped in an offense featuring so many stars, Jennings’ affordability and steady role make him a sneaky value play. Against the Bills, he could find opportunities in the short and intermediate passing game, especially if the defense focuses on shutting down the big names.
Amari Cooper ($7,200 Flex) ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amari Cooper returned from injury in style, delivering two big plays against the Chiefs that contributed to a critical victory. With a bye week to rest and prepare, Cooper should be at full strength heading into a showdown with the 49ers. His ability to win in contested situations makes him a valuable target for Josh Allen, particularly in a game that could feature plenty of passing. Cooper’s price tag makes him a great mid-range option for DFS lineups, especially if the Bills look to stretch the field.
Keon Coleman ($6,400 Flex) ⭐️⭐️
Keon Coleman’s status remains uncertain heading into Sunday night, making him a risky yet intriguing option for DFS players. When healthy, Coleman has flashed big-play potential in Buffalo’s passing game, and his return could provide a boost to the Bills’ offense. If Coleman suits up, he could see additional opportunities with defenses focusing on Amari Cooper and Khalil Shakir. Monitor his status closely on game day, as he could offer significant value at his price point if fully active against a tough 49ers defense.
Dawson Knox ($4,000 Flex) ⭐️⭐️
With Dalton Kincaid sidelined, Dawson Knox steps into a leading role in the Bills’ tight end rotation. Knox saw a healthy six targets last week, converting them into four catches for 40 yards, and he’ll be leaned on again against the 49ers. While San Francisco’s defense has been stingy against tight ends, Knox’s expanded role gives him a path to relevance, particularly in red-zone situations. At his price, Knox provides cost-effective exposure to a high-powered Buffalo offense, making him a solid punt play for those looking to save salary.
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:
- Ricky Pearsall (WR, SF) $4,800 Flex – Pearsall played a significant snap share last week but failed to record a single target, highlighting his volatile usage in San Francisco’s offense. The rookie wideout has potential for a bounce-back game if the 49ers find themselves in a pass-heavy game script against Buffalo. His price makes him an intriguing option, but he’s a true dart throw given his inconsistent involvement.
- Mack Hollins (WR, BUF) $3,600 Flex – Hollins has shown strong chemistry with Josh Allen, posting a 9-116-1 line over the past two games. With injuries in Buffalo’s receiving corps, Hollins has stepped up and could see a decent target share again this week. His big-play ability, highlighted by a 44-yard catch last week, adds upside to his profile. If Keon Coleman or Amari Cooper remain limited, Hollins becomes an even more appealing flyer.
- Ty Johnson (RB, BUF) $3,000 Flex – Johnson saw an increased workload last week, leading Buffalo’s backfield in snaps but failing to produce significant yardage. His involvement in the offense gives him a path to fantasy relevance, especially if Buffalo emphasizes the run against the 49ers’ aggressive front. Johnson’s role is hard to predict, but he’s worth consideration as a contrarian dart.
- Ray Davis (RB, BUF) $2,800 Flex – Davis continues to operate as a depth option in Buffalo’s backfield, logging minimal snaps and touches. While he offers little floor, a goal-line opportunity or expanded role due to injury could provide surprising value. He’s a risky play best reserved for large-field tournaments.
- Kyle Jusczyk (RB, SF) $2,000 Flex – Juszczyk remains a reliable presence in the 49ers’ offense but primarily as a blocker, with limited opportunities as a ball carrier or receiver. While his ceiling is capped, he occasionally finds ways to contribute in short-yardage or trick plays. At his low salary, he’s a gamble on a surprise touchdown or red-zone look.
- Issac Guerendo (WR, SF) $1,000 Flex – Guerendo’s opportunities have plummeted with Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason healthy, reducing him to a depth role. He is a long shot for meaningful production. Only consider him if you’re betting on injuries ahead of game day.
DraftKings SNF Showdown 2024 – San Francisco @Buffalo Kickers and DSTs
Tyler Bass ($5,400) converted all but one of his attempts last week, including a field goal that was effectively a second extra-point try. While he’s been uncharacteristically inconsistent on PATs this season, Buffalo’s offense keeps giving him opportunities. Bass is a solid option in a game where the 49ers’ defense may limit red-zone success, creating potential for multiple field goals. Jake Moody ($5,200) was perfect in Week 11 but saw limited usage with the 49ers’ offense struggling without Brock Purdy under center. His accuracy has improved since a shaky midseason stretch, but game script and tough matchups have capped his opportunities. Moody will need San Francisco to sustain more drives against Buffalo’s defense to hit value in Week 13.
Bills DST ($5,000) is coming off a strong performance against Kansas City, recording two interceptions and two sacks while holding the Chiefs to just 259 yards. With San Francisco likely starting a recovering Brock Purdy, the Bills’ pass rush could be poised for another productive outing. They’re a risky but high-upside play against a 49ers offense still finding its footing. 49ers DST ($3,200) looked out of sorts in Week 11, surrendering 38 points to the Packers while failing to force a turnover. Facing a potent Buffalo offense led by Josh Allen doesn’t bode well for a quick rebound. While they remain a talented unit, this matchup makes them a tough sell for fantasy purposes unless you’re banking on a contrarian dart.
So there you have it — our DraftKings picks for the 2024 San Francisco @Buffalo! 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!
