Fantasy Football, Week 5: High value plays for FanDuel

Saquon Barkley, New York Giants – $7,900

Since being drafted No. 2 overall in the 2018 NFL draft, Saquon Barkley has been exactly what the New York Giants have wanted and needed. Barkley’s rookie campaign has gotten off to a good start. Despite the obvious offensive line issues the Giants face, Barkley has still managed to be productive.

Last week against the New Orleans Saints, Barkley had an acrobatic jump into the end zone to secure his role as an every week starter no matter the overall flow of the game. His high floor and ample usage in the passing game makes it easy on those who want to use him week to week.

Through four games this season Barkley has managed 260 rushing yards, three rushing touchdowns, 56 carries, while adding 193 receiving yards on 27 receptions. Barkley is a safe pick each and every week. Having teammates such as Odell Beckham Jr. and Sterling Shepard to stretch the field, it makes Barkley more of a threat at rushing and catching the ball out of the backfield.

In Week 5, Barkley will go up against the 14th-ranked defense of the Carolina Panthers. What makes this a great matchup for Barkley is the Panthers allow 110 rushing yards per game. This opens up Barkley and his skill set on Sunday.

Through four games thus far the Panthers defense allow 356.7 total yards per game, 246.7 passing yards, and 20 points per game. While Carolina has been a solid team overall, their defense should allow Barkley ample running room, as they rank in the middle of the pack at 19th-overall against the rush.

Prediction: 100 rushing yards, 55 receiving yards, 2 total touchdowns