Best Bets & DFS Tips: Broncos Inch Closer to AFC West Title, Lions Stay in Playoff Hunt, Cowboys Rebound?
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The NFL’s Week 17 / Christmas Day slate features key games with playoff implications and juicy DFS value. Here’s what you need to know before setting your lineups or placing bets — including positional plays, matchup edges, and team trends. (.)
🟠 Denver Broncos: AFC West Control & DFS Value
Situation
The Broncos have surged into contention in the AFC West, with a strong record and a chance to clinch the division with key wins down the stretch. Denver still controls its destiny and sits near the top of the division race with favorable odds, strong playoff probabilities, and a high projected division-win chance — even when accounting for remaining tough opponents. ()
Best Bet
Broncos to cover vs. Chiefs or win outright — Denver’s path to the division title looks clearer than Kansas City’s at this point, especially given momentum and matchup context. ()
DFS Tips
Bo Nix (QB) — Projected to handle enough pass volume and potentially multiple scores; good Captain/Star choice in Showdown formats given his multi-touchdown upside. ()
RJ Harvey or other Broncos skill players — Look for upside plays in salary-efficient spots if Denver controls game flow. ()
💡 Broncos games often expected to trend toward totals influenced by offense efficiency and game script. If Denver leads, stacking offensive skill options can pay dividends.
🦁 Detroit Lions: Staying Alive in the Playoffs
Situation
The Lions remain in the playoff hunt despite ups and downs this season. With recent performance swings and a tight NFC race, Detroit needs every win it can get to stay above the cut line and avoid elimination. (.)
Best Bet
Lions to win and cover vs. Vikings — Detroit’s recent bounce-back performances and home/short turnaround situation make them strong candidates to maintain momentum. ()
DFS Tips
Skill players with target share upside — In a game where Detroit needs points, wide receivers or running backs with red-zone usage can outperform salary expectations.
Quarterback consistency matters — Prioritize Lions QB if volume and offensive snaps look strong.
🤠 Dallas Cowboys: Can They Rebound?
Situation
The Cowboys have had an uneven season and already are out of playoff contention, but weekends like these offer opportunities to build confidence and momentum for next year. Their offense has had flashes of explosiveness despite defensive struggles. ()
Best Bet
Cowboys vs. Commanders Over on total TDs — With both defenses permitting multiple scores deep in games, the over could be a playable angle, especially in prop markets. ()
DFS Tips
Offensive stars like receivers or quarterbacks can outperform projected floor if the Cowboys take an early lead or Tesla into shootout mode.
Limit defensive exposures — The Cowboys’ defense has struggled, so rostering opposing players could also provide leverage.
🧠 Game Flow & Strategy Insights
🎯 Matchups to Watch
Broncos vs. Chiefs: Denver’s impetus to close strong may neutralize an inconsistent Chiefs unit, and offensive balance from Denver should be reflected in DFS captain choices. ()
Lions vs. Vikings: Momentum and urgency give a Lions edge, particularly in second-half scoring opportunities. ()
Cowboys vs. Commanders: Score volatility can lead to big DFS performances from a few skill players on both sides.
📊 Totals & Trends
Games with higher implied point totals should lead you to prioritize more pass-catchers and high-usage offensive weapons in DFS.
Lower implied totals should bring value plays and mid-tier stacks into contention rather than locking into superstars.
📌 Quick Summary of Best Bets & DFS Plays
| Team | Best Bet | DFS Value |
|---|---|---|
| Broncos | Win/Cover in key divisional game | Bo Nix, offensive stack |
| Lions | Win & cover to stay in playoff hunt | Lions QB + skill |
| Cowboys | Over TD props; Competitive offensive scoring | Cowboys pass game upside |