Quarterback Matchups to Target in Wild Card Weekend - Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Jayden Daniels

The playoffs are here, and Wild Card Weekend brings us an exciting mix of matchups with plenty of DFS potential. Unlike the unpredictability of Week 18, every team on this slate is playing for something, which means we can count on full effort from all involved. This raises the stakes for quarterbacks, who often carry the highest ceilings on any DFS roster.

Whether you’re looking to stack in GPPs or lock in a safe play for cash games, these quarterbacks are set to deliver this weekend.

Let’s dive into the top QB plays for this weekend and how to maximize your DFS builds.

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Josh Allen – BUF vs. DEN ($8,200 DraftKings, $8,900 FanDuel)

Allen is the slate’s top quarterback option, and for good reason. The Bills' implied total of 28 points suggests this could be a one-sided affair, with Allen at the center of the offensive production. Facing a Denver defense that ranks 19th in passing defense efficiency and has struggled to pressure quarterbacks, Allen’s dual-threat ability makes him a lock for cash games and a high-ceiling GPP play. He averages 22.5 rushing yards per game, with an impressive red-zone rushing role that gives him multi-touchdown upside.

Josh Allen is a walking highlight reel 📽️ pic.twitter.com/2JyJjVmpi3

— Steven Patton (@PattonAnalytics) January 9, 2025

In a game where Buffalo is expected to dominate, Allen’s floor is bolstered by his passing volume and ability to create with his legs. Allen’s high salary on both DraftKings and FanDuel requires careful roster construction, but his consistency justifies the cost. He’s especially valuable in cash games, given his reliable production, but also makes a strong GPP option when paired with a pass-catcher.

Lamar Jackson – BAL vs. PIT ($8,000 DraftKings, $8,700 FanDuel)

Jackson is the perfect blend of floor and ceiling, making him a strong option in all formats. With Zay Flowers sidelined, expect Jackson to lean heavily on his rushing ability and short-area targets like Mark Andrews. Jackson has a history of thriving against Pittsburgh, who has struggled to contain mobile quarterbacks.

This season, Jackson has averaged 245.4 passing yards and added 24.2 rushing yards per game, with multiple touchdowns in key matchups.

The Ravens’ implied total of 26.5 points highlights their expected offensive success, with Jackson being the focal point. Jackson’s slightly lower price compared to Allen makes him an appealing pivot in tournaments. Stacking him with Andrews or Rashod Bateman offers a high-upside combination while leaving room for mid-tier or value plays.

Jayden Daniels – WAS @ TB ($7,500 DraftKings, $8,400 FanDuel)

Daniels brings sneaky GPP upside as Washington takes on a Tampa Bay defense that ranks 27th in quarterback fantasy points allowed. His rushing ability (33.9 yards per game) adds a significant ceiling, particularly if the Commanders fall behind and Daniels has to create plays on the ground. With a slate-high total of 50.5, this game projects as a potential shootout, which elevates Daniels’ appeal. His ability to extend plays and generate chunk yardage through both passing and rushing makes him a strong contrarian option in GPPs.

Jayden Daniels is already making his mark in the NFL. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/LFDkMi4ZrA

— Sunday Night Football on NBC (@SNFonNBC) January 9, 2025

Daniels’ lower price point compared to Allen and Jackson allows for more roster flexibility. Pair him with a pass-catcher like Terry McLaurin for correlation or go contrarian with a solo play, hoping for rushing production to carry his fantasy output.

Thanks for reading, and good luck with your DFS contests!

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