Getty Gallery: 2/6
49ers vs. Packers Showdown: Captain Choices & Strategy
There is a whole lot to take in from this game, but honestly, I'd much prefer slates like this where there are value plays we can use. In these types of spots, being able to find the best matchups and opportunities can help differentiate yourself. On many other showdown slates, you'll find yourself consistently going back to the chalk plays, which can be hard to avoid in some instances.
The captain spot in the 49ers vs. Packers game has a ton of appeal for me. There are ways to both build around the potential top-scorer in Aaron Rogers or even his expensive No. 1 receiver in Davante Adams while still building strong lineups. On the flip side, if we spend down at captain there are a few names who should be lower-owned and worth considering.
Finally, the Packers defense is in the mix here, especially considering how much pressure they're getting on opposing quarterbacks. I don't typically roll out defenses in the captain spot, but while most will want to use Green Bay, putting them in that top spot will be a unique approach.
When I begin building lineups, I'll select 4-5 players to consider for the captain spot, mixing up expensive and cheaper options. From there, you can spread those players across multiple lineups and mix in the other top plays with them. But it's worth noting that while I have a favorite core of captains, it doesn't mean I'll roll them out in all lineups. Often times, the stars don't align for many of the high-dollar names to be a captain.
Here's a look at the options I'll be targeting for the captain spot in Week 6 (with captain pricing of 1.5x more):
– Aaron Rogers ($18,300)
– Davante Adams ($17,400)
– C.J. Beathard ($13,200)
– Jimmy Graham ($11,400)
– Marquez Valdes-Scantling ($10,200)
– Kendrick Bourne ($4,200)
Favorite expensive captains: Aaron Rodgers, Davante Adams
Top value-saving captain: Kendrick Bourne
Now, I'm going to break down the lines I'll be using, starting with the optimal lineup, then the 150-max lineup and single-entry breakdown.
*Note: If any players currently listed as questionable are ruled out, but are in lineups, I will update this BEFORE lock Thursday. As ESPN's Lisa Salters (per Adam Schefter) revealed, both Packers WRs in Randall Cobb and Geronimo Allison are expected to be inactive for this game.