Welcome Back to “Part the Cloud”
In this week’s edition, we take a deep dive into defensive coverage schemes and explore how we can exploit them to uncover hidden gem Wide Receivers.
GOTTA KNOW WHERE YOU’VE BEEN…
Let’s reflect on the performances from Week 18:
Marvin Mims
- DKFP: 22.1 (4.8x)
- FDFP: 19.6 (3.5x)
Adam Thielen
- DKFP: 9.4 (1.5x)
- FDFP: 6.9 (1.1x)
If you had told me before kickoff that the Panthers would score 44 points and Adam Thielen would finish with just 44 yards and no touchdowns, I would have thought you were being a bit too optimistic. But, surprisingly, that’s exactly what happened. However, Marvin Mims came through in a big way, catching all five of his targets for 51 yards and two touchdowns!
…TO KNOW WHERE YOU’RE GOING
Now, let’s look ahead. Three players have caught my eye as potential value picks based on matchups and coverage schemes. Here are my recommendations:
1. Olamide Zaccheaus
- DK: $4,300 (Projected Ownership: 9.64%)
- FD: $5,400 (Projected Ownership: 13.23%)
Detroit’s defensive coverage scheme is predominantly single-high, often employing Man coverage or Cover 3. Over the past month, Zaccheaus has consistently proven to be adept at winning his routes against these types of coverages. His strength lies in routes like slants and hitches, which are particularly effective against Cover 1 and Cover 3. Given his current form, I believe Zaccheaus will see more targets as his route-running ability continues to impress, especially against a defense like Detroit’s.
2. Curtis Samuel
- DK: $3,400 (Projected Ownership: 2.75%)
- FD: $5,000 (Projected Ownership: 1.79%)
Samuel was the Bills’ big offseason acquisition, but injuries and an evolving offense delayed his impact. Over the past month, we’ve seen why they were eager to bring him in. Samuel’s ability to perform against both Man and Zone coverage makes him a versatile weapon. The Ravens typically deploy Cover 3 and Cover 1, and while Samuel is most effective against Man coverage, he can succeed against both schemes. Notably, he’s been the team’s best receiver in terms of separation and yards per route run, though his lack of red-zone usage is a bit perplexing given his strength on slants, outs, and hitch routes.
3. Tyler Johnson
- DK: $3,000
- FD: $4,000 (Projected Ownership: N/A)
Johnson was a healthy scratch last week, but if he’s activated this week, he presents an intriguing option, particularly against Man coverage. The Eagles frequently use Cover 1, especially in the red zone. Although Johnson may not be asked to stretch the field, his ability to work underneath with crossers and out routes could make him a red-zone target. If he can get on the field, he could have an opportunity to contribute.
In Summary
These are the players and matchups that stand out to me this week. If you have any questions about my process or other players to watch, feel free to reach out to me—I’m TreyJ989 in the channels. Don’t hesitate to tag me. Let’s make some bold moves this week!