Primetime NFL games bring in the numbers -- and the bets. In an attempt to boost gamer bankrolls, this only occasionally profitable bettor will attempt to stack greenbacks under the lights. As always, fade or follow -- that’s up to you.
The Pick: Jeremy McNichols 20+ receiving yards (+110, ESPN Bet)
This time each year the “dad tax” is implemented, much to the chagrin of sugar-fueled youngsters. For the unaware, it’s a required duty where the household father dips into a kid’s coveted Halloween stash, fleecing whatever he so pleases -- Snickers, Skittles, Sour Patch Kids … whatever he wants.
Acting as a kind “king” over the years, this tariff enforcer always plucked a fun-sized bar the youngsters never threw a fit about -- 3 Musketeers. The 93 year-old underrated treat made by Mars is a simple concoction consisting of pillowy nougat wrapped in velvety milk chocolate. Many despise it. This pallet, however, absolutely loves it.
In fantasy, Washington’s Jeremy McNichols is a similarly viewed option. Largely dismissed due to the presence of Jacory Croskey-Merritt, many gamers purposely pass him up week in and week out.
Their nose turnings are understandable. He’s a committee back in an underachieving rushing attack who rarely posts noticeable numbers. After all, he’s logged only 19.0% of the team’s opportunity share, topping 10 PPR fantasy points only twice in eight games.
Bettors, however, see his contributions through a different lens. Featured more prominently in the pass game the last three weeks, the sticky-fingered back has steadily cashed in receiving yards. During that span, the change of pace has averaged 13.7 targets, 4.3 targets, 3.3 receptions and -- most importantly for the action listed above -- 39.0 receiving yards per game. Slotting inside the top 10 in YAC per reception among qualifying RBs and netting 9.3 yards per catch, he could race past the required number on only two grabs.
Seattle is not particularly enthusiastic chasing down receiving RBs when they leak into the short-field. This season, the Seahawks are tied with the Patriots in most-receptions allowed to the position, surrendering 47 in total. As a result, they’ve given up 51.3 receiving yards per game just to rushers. In total, six pass-catching backs have crossed the 20-yard mark against them.
Quit dissing the Musketeers and McNichols’ abilities underneath. Sunday night, the often overlooked RB satisfies this bettor’s sweet tooth.
NO CONTEXT PARLAY PLAY: SGP - Jaxon Smith-Njigba 60+ rec yards, Zach Charbonnet 25+ rush yards, Jeremy McNichols 3+ receptions (+191, ESPN Bet)