Streaming Kickers: Week 14 Fantasy Football Targets

Dec 05, 2017

Projecting a kicker’s output isn’t as difficult or random as you may think—in fact, taking a look at Vegas odds is the best way to accurately predict a kicker’s weekly potential. By focusing in on the team implied point totals, game totals, and favorites, we can get a cumulative idea of how an offense will perform when it comes to settling for field goals, distance of kicks, and the like. For a more detailed explanation on using Vegas odds for successfully streaming kickers, I suggest checking out Chris Raybon’s DFS Playbook Strategy article, which is packed with info on the most profitable way to predict the position.

Another metric useful in projecting a kicker’s output is 4for4’s schedule-adjusted fantasy points allowed or aFPA. By removing the schedule bias, we can compare matchups in an apples-to-apples manner. By Week 4, there’s a solid sample size to work from, and the info gets more trustworthy with each data-filled week.

The goal in streaming is to roster a player who will return starting kicker fantasy points, and Week 13 was a mixed bag. Chandler Catanzaro made me proud as kicker six with 12 points, with Blair Walsh, Giorgio Tavecchio, and Phil Dawson all tied for the 19^th spot with six points. 4for4’s optimal streaming kicker has 179 total points on the season, enough for first place among all kickers in the league. Let’s move forward to Week 14- let’s attack those playoffs.

In order to provide advice that you can actually implement, candidates for streaming must be available in at least 40% of Yahoo fantasy leagues.

Travis Coons (LAC) vs. WAS

Promoted from the practice squad last week after Nick Novak was sent to the IR due to back issues, Coons stepped up to the plate dropping 13 fantasy points on the Browns. He gets a favorable contest in Week 14, with the over/under set as a generous 46 points, with the Chargers favored by six. Washington ranks 28^th in aFPA, which bodes well for Coons potential this week. He’s still under the fantasy radar for now and is free in all Yahoo leagues.

Jake Elliott (PHI) vs. LAR

Eagles’ rookie kicking sensation Elliott has been fairly quiet since Philly’s bye in Week 10, but that should change on Sunday. This showdown between two division leaders has the second-highest over/under for the week at 50.5 points, with the Rams favored by two points. Both offenses have been very productive this season, with the Rams’ and Eagles’ defenses ranking third and fourth in fantasy points. In other words, grab some popcorn and let the fireworks fly.

Continue reading for four kicker streaming options and three deep league candidates...