Wed Apr 17 9:26am ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer
Get in the Scout Championship
RealTime Fantasy Sports is once again very excited to bring you the Best Ball Scout Championship this season. This contest is a little different from our normal Best Ball Championship. All these drafts take place before the NFL Draft, so you don’t know where any of the rookies are going this year. You are taking them blindly. This makes for even more strategy come draft day. Should you load up on rookies? Should you just avoid rookies? What is the winning strategy? We are here to help.
First of all, the winner of the Best Ball Scout Championship takes home $10,000. You also win money for finishing first or second in your 10-team league. The cost to enter the contest is just $20. There are a maximum of 10,000 teams in this contest. Rosters are 20 deep with starters consisting of a QB, two RBs, two WRs, one TE and two FLEX spots. There are no kickers and defenses. Remember, this is a best ball contest, so there is no roster management. Your roster is set once the draft is complete.
With that said, we thought it would be a good idea to look at the championship roster from last year to see what won it all. Here it is:
Round 1: Ja’Marr Chase, WR
Round 2: Davante Adams, WR
Round 3: Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR
Round 4: DeVonta Smith, WR
Round 5: Deebo Samuel, WR
Round 6: George Kittle, TE
Round 7: Keenan Allen, WR
Round 8: Joe Mixon, RB
Round 9: Jahmyr Gibbs, RB
Round 10: Dak Prescott, QB
Round 11: Khalil Herbert, RB
Round 12: Jared Goff, QB
Round 13: Raheem Mostert, RB
Round 14: Ezekiel Elliott, RB
Round 15: Jimmy Garoppolo, QB
Round 16: Leonard Fournette, RB
Round 17: Tyler Boyd, WR
Round 18: Taysom Hill, TE
Round 19: Zach Ertz, TE
Round 20: Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB
The big thing to notice on this roster is just one rookie was taken. Obviously, this owner hit big with that one rookie, taking Jahmyr Gibbs in Round 9. Gibbs was the 10th rated fantasy back last season. But the championship team from last year took just one rookie. This owner did not load up on rookies and waited until the middle rounds to take his one rookie target. This could be a good lesson learned for owners this season. Maybe going early on rookies or taking several is a losing strategy. Just something to keep in mind this year.
And like with many best ball owners, this roster had three quarterbacks and three tight ends. This owner did not take a quarterback early, waiting to take a quarterback until Round 10. But the owner did got a little early on a tight end, getting George Kittle in Round 6.
The other winning strategy for this owner was loading up on receivers early while waiting to get his running backs until later. This was a very interesting strategy that worked. The owner took five straight receivers to start the draft and didn’t get a running back until Joe Mixon was picked in Round 8. This is a little riskier but another strategy that can obviously worked. Take those sure thing receivers first and get a bunch of question mark running backs in the mid- to later rounds and hope some hit. The big hits for this owner was his pick of Gibbs and getting Raheem Mostert in Round 13. The Mostert pick likely was the big one that put him over the top, getting the fifth rated fantasy back in the back half of the draft. The owners also had some misses at running back with Leonard Fournette and Clyde Edwards-Helaire but that didn’t impact his team too much, hitting on some of those other backs.
So overall, the winning strategy of last year’s Best Ball Scout championship team was going early on receivers, loading up on running backs with question marks in the middle to later rounds, take few rookies and wait on the quarterback spot.
There are numerous strategies to use but this was the winning one from last year. Just something to think about when drafting your team in this year’s Best Ball Scout Championship. Start drafting here.
Jeff Paur is a two-time finalist for FSWA Fantasy Football Writer of the Year and won the FSWA award for Best Fantasy Football Article on the Web in 2011. He also was the most accurate expert in 2012, winning the FSTA Fantasy Football Accuracy Award. If you have any questions for Jeff, email him at jeff@rtsports.com. Follow Jeff on Twitter @jeffpaur.
Hot Plays, Fades and Sleepers: Week 10
Chicago Bears running back Roschon Johnson is a bit of a speculative play in Week 10 as he faces the New England Patriots. With the Bears' backfield set, Johnson is a potential dart throw for fantasy managers in deeper leagues or those looking for a sleeper. The Patriots' defense has struggled against the run this season, ranking 26th in rushing yards allowed and 21st in scoring defense, which presents a favorable matchup for Johnson. However, Johnson's role remains uncertain, with the Bears still trying to find their offensive rhythm. Until the Bears can stabilize their offensive game plan, Johnson remains more of a stash or desperation flex option rather than a reliable start. If you require a high-risk, high-reward play, Johnson's matchup could provide some upside, but proceed cautiously.
From RotoBaller
This week, Chicago Bears wide receiver DJ Moore is a risky WR3 option in fantasy football. After a disappointing performance in Week 9 against the Arizona Cardinals, where Moore managed just four catches for 33 yards and appeared frustrated with his offense, he's looking to bounce back. The good news is that the Patriots' defense presents an opportunity for Moore to get back on track. New England ranks 22nd in pass yards allowed and 21st in scoring defense, which should give Moore room to produce. However, there is some concern over Moore's potential one-on-one matchup with Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez, a talented rookie who has been solid in coverage. While Moore's upside is evident, his inconsistency and the challenging matchup against Gonzalez make him a risky play this week. If you're rolling with him, be prepared for a volatile performance, but the opportunity is for a bounce-back.
From RotoBaller
Chicago Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen hopes to bounce back in Week 10 as he faces off against a challenging New England Patriots secondary. After a frustrating outing in Week 9 against the Arizona Cardinalswhere Allen saw ten targets but only hauled in 4 catches for 36 yardshe's eager to regain his rhythm. Despite leading the team in targets, Allen struggled to make an impact, and he'll be looking to turn things around in a more favorable matchup this week. The Patriots' defense, while solid, ranks 22nd in pass yards allowed and 21st in scoring defense, providing Allen with a solid opportunity to produce. However, his role in the offense is unclear, so his fantasy upside is risky. Still, if you're banking on a bounce-back, Allen could be a WR3/WR4 with some potential this week.
From RotoBaller
Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Rome Odunze has the potential for a breakout performance this Sunday as he faces a vulnerable New England Patriots secondary. Last week, Odunze emerged as the lone bright spot in a disappointing offensive showing for the Bears, leading the team with 104 yards against the Arizona Cardinals. His strong outing proved he can be a reliable target in a struggling offense. This week, Odunze will face a Patriots defense that ranks 22nd in pass yards allowed and 21st in scoring defense, giving him an excellent chance to continue his hot streak. With his ability to stretch the field and make big plays, Odunze could be in for another strong performance, especially if the Bears look to exploit the Patriots' weaknesses in the passing game. For fantasy managers needing a WR3 or flex option, Odunze could be a sleeper with solid upside in Week 10.
From RotoBaller
Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet is a risky starter in fantasy this week, given his limited usage and a mediocre matchup against the New England Patriots secondary. In Week 9, Kmet struggled to make an impact, finishing with no receptions in a disappointing performance against the Arizona Cardinals. With the Bears' offense still trying to find consistency, Kmet's role in the passing game has been a concern. However, he does have an opportunity to bounce back this week against a Patriots defense that ranks 22nd in pass yards allowed and 21st in scoring defense. While the Patriots' defense is generally solid, their vulnerability in coverage could open up chances for Kmet to get back on track. For fantasy managers, Kmet offers some upside, but with his recent lack of involvement, he remains a boom-or-bust option. If you're desperate for a tight end in Week 10, Kmet's matchup gives him a chance to produce, but proceed cautiously.
From RotoBaller
Chicago Bears kicker Cairo Santos is a solid yet somewhat unexciting fantasy option for Week 10 as he prepares to face the New England Patriots. In his last outing, Santos had a productive game, converting all three field goal attempts, including makes from 29, 53, and 53 yards. While the Bears' offense has been inconsistent, Santos' accuracy has been reliable, and the Patriots' defense, ranked 21st in points allowed this season, gives him a decent chance to put up points. With a potential for more field goal attempts and extra points in a matchup where the Bears may struggle to punch the ball into the end zone consistently, Santos could provide some solid fantasy production. He may not offer the excitement of a high-scoring game, but if you're looking for a steady kicker option, Santos is a startable choice for Week 10.
From RotoBaller
This Sunday, Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams presents a risky yet intriguing fantasy option as he faces the New England Patriots. After a disappointing performance in Week 9 against the Arizona Cardinals, where Williams completed 22 of 41 passes for 217 yards with no touchdowns, he's eager to bounce back and prove his potential. The Patriots' defense offers an opportunity for redemption, as they rank 22nd in the league for passing yards allowed and 21st in scoring defense. While Williams has shown flashes of promise, his inconsistency makes him a boom-or-bust play in fantasy this week. Still, with the Patriots struggling against the pass, Williams could thrive if he finds his rhythm. For fantasy managers looking for upside, he could be a high-risk, high-reward option in Week 10, especially if you're in need of a quarterback to take a gamble on.
From RotoBaller
Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift is primed to be a strong RB2 option in fantasy this Sunday as the Bears take on the New England Patriots. After a solid performance in Week 9, where Swift rushed for 51 yards on 16 carries and added six receptions for 31 yards, he should be in line for another productive outing. The Patriots' defense has struggled against the run this season, ranking 26th in rushing yards allowed and 21st in scoring defense. This sets up an excellent opportunity for Swift to take advantage of a vulnerable defense and produce solid fantasy numbers. With his involvement in both the running and passing game, Swift offers a high floor and plenty of upside for fantasy managers. If you're looking for reliable production from your RB2 slot, Swift should be in your lineup for Week 10.
From RotoBaller
New Orleans Saints "tight end" Taysom Hill had his most productive game of the season against the Panthers in Week 9. In the loss, he turned in season highs in receptions (four) and receiving yards (41), had five carries for 19 yards, and scored a touchdown, his third this year. The uptick in usage resulted from the Saints' wide receiver and running back depth charts stretched thin due to injuries. The same challenge is present in Week 10, with Chris Olave (concussion) and Cedrick Wilson Jr. (shoulder) declared out and running back Jamaal Williams (groin) questionable. Hill should factor in once again as the Saints cannot run their entire offense through Alvin Kamara alone. Tight end streamers or managers feeling the pinch of a bye week can plug Hill in as the circumstances around him give him top-12 potential.
From RotoBaller
New Orleans Saints tight end Juwan Johnson tied for the second most receiving yards on the team in Week 9 against the Panthers. Sadly, all he needed for that distinction was 41 yards. On the season, Johnson now has 20 receptions for 225 yards with one touchdown. In Week 10, Johnson and the Saints take on the Atlanta Falcons in an NFC South rivalry game. The matchup offers no special advantage to Johnson. Atlanta has seen only two touchdowns go to opposing tight ends this season and lands in the middle of the pack in terms of receptions and receiving yards allowed to the position. With the Saints' offense decimated by injuries, Johnson may be in line for an uptick in work but the same could have been said about his situation in Week 9 and nothing substantial came to fruition. He can be left on the wire in Week 10.
From RotoBaller
New Orleans Saints kicker Blake Grupe went 3-for-3 on field goal attempts in Week 9. Grupe got off to an early start, hitting tries from 29 and 31 yards out in the first quarter, and then nailed a 51-yarder in the third. He also converted his lone extra point attempt on the day. To date, Grupe is 16-for-17 on field goals and 19-for-21 on extra points and ranks in the top 12 in fantasy points. In Week 10, he will take the field against the Atlanta Falcons, which has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing kickers this season. That offers an upside to Grupe, who already represents a fairly stable floor. Remove his highest and lowest fantasy scores in 2024 and he averages seven fantasy points per game. Grupe is widely available and is worthy of a start for managers seeking help at kicker in Week 10.
From RotoBaller
The New Orleans Saints D/ST didn't do much for fantasy managers in Week 9 against one of the league's worst teams. Last week they allowed 23 points to Carolina and could muster just one sack and a single interception against the Panthers. This doesn't bode well for Sunday's matchup against the high-flying offense of the Atlanta Falcons. Even though Drake London (hip) is questionable, quarterback Kirk Cousins has shown great chemistry with Darnell Mooney and the other pieces of Atlanta's offense. Atlanta's offense has averaged 24.6 points per game and allowed just four pressures on 34 dropbacks in their last game. New Orleans traded away star defensive back Marshon Lattimore at the deadline earlier this week and will be missing rookie Kool-Aid McKinstry (hamstring), leaving their secondary vulnerable to Atlanta's air attack. With the Saints already struggling they are a bad bet for fantasy use in Week 10.
From RotoBaller
The New York Giants Defense heads into Week 10 against the Carolina Panthers with a strong pass rush and a top red-zone defense. The Giants lead the NFL with 35 sacks this season, which could create significant pressure on rookie QB Bryce Young, whose Panthers rank 30th in passing yards (176.6 per game) and points scored (16.3 per game). Despite allowing 142.6 rushing yards per game (29th), the Giants' pass defense remains solid, ranking 9th overall by limiting opponents to 191.6 yards per game through the air. With Carolina struggling as the league's 30th-ranked offense, the Giants' 5th-ranked red-zone defense (44% TD conversion allowed) has a prime opportunity to stifle scoring chances, making them a viable streaming option for fantasy managers in Munich.
From RotoBaller
New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr returned to action in Week 9 after an oblique injury sidelined him for the previous three weeks. In his return, he went 18-for-31 for 236 yards and one touchdown against the Panthers. It was the first time since Week 1 (also against Carolina) that Carr escaped a game without throwing an interception. In Week 10, Carr will face the Atlanta Falcons, who represent a somewhat forgiving matchup. Atlanta has given up 15 passing touchdowns in 2024 and has fewer sacks (nine) than any other team in the league. The biggest obstacle Carr will have to overcome on Sunday is the lack of healthy receivers. Chris Olave (concussion) and Cedrick Wilson Jr. (shoulder) are the latest of the Saints' pass catchers to be sidelined due to injury, leaving Carr the likes of rookies Mason Tipton and Jermaine Jackson, and journeyman Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Calling Carr a QB2 this week is generous given his circumstances and he should only be considered in two-quarterback formats.
From RotoBaller
Running back Alvin Kamara was the primary beneficiary of the New Orleans Saints offense being depleted by injuries in Week 9. Kamara ceded five carries to Taysom Hill but set new season-highs with 29 attempts for 155 rushing yards. With multiple receivers out, including an early exit by Chris Olave (concussion), Kamara's ability as a receiver took on added importance and he led the team in receptions and yardage, too. In Week 10, the situation is largely the same with Williams designated as questionable, Olave still ailing, and Cedrick Wilson Jr. (shoulder) also declared out. Thus, Kamara is in line for another big workload as both a runner and receiver against the Falcons. When the NFC South rivals squared off in Week 4, Kamara came away with 26 touches, 119 total yards, and a touchdown. He is a must-start in Week 10.
From RotoBaller
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Cedrick Wilson Jr. (shoulder) has been declared out for the team's Week 10 game against the Atlanta Falcons. Wilson picked up his shoulder injury during last week's loss to the Panthers but was able to return to the game. He ended up not practicing and will now be sidelined along with Chris Olave (concussion), leaving the Saints quite thin at wide receiver. Mason Tipton, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and Jermaine Jackson will see their roles enhanced, though they are unlikely to make an impact in fantasy. So far this season Wilson has caught 11 of his 14 targets for 122 yards and one touchdown.
From RotoBaller
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Mason Tipton suddenly finds himself at the top of the team's depth chart going into Week 10. Chris Olave (concussion) and Cedrick Wilson Jr. (shoulder) have both been declared out on the team's final injury report for their game against the Atlanta Falcons, paving the way for Tipton to step in as the Saints' WR1. What he does with the opportunity is another question. In the wake of Olave's early exit last Sunday, Tipton was targeted just three times and had zero catches despite being on the field for 78% of the team's offensive snaps. Tipton had close to an 80% snap share in the two previous weeks as well but saw little production. Over the last three weeks, the rookie out of Yale has eight catches on 14 targets for 59 receiving yards. It is hard to trust that Tipton will break out in Week 10 as there is little separating him from Marquez Valdes-Scantling or Jermaine Jackson. Looking like a WR5, Tipton can be on the wire in most leagues but makes for a dart-throw flex in deep leagues.
From RotoBaller
Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker will face the Denver Broncos in Week 10. Butker nailed all four kicks in Week 9 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Chiefs kicker split the goalposts on his only extra-point attempt and all three field goal attempts, with a long of 40 yards in the contest. Butker has now gone three straight games without missing a single kick. The Chiefs taking on the Broncos could mean more opportunities for Butker this week. The Denver defense is a strong unit, which could prevent Kansas City from scoring many touchdowns in this contest. The Chiefs may rely upon Butker more this week as he has not had more than two field goal attempts in a game since Week 5. Butker is ranked sixth-best kicker in our RotoBaller rankings this week, so fantasy managers should continue starting him.
From RotoBaller
The Kansas City Chiefs defense will take on the Denver Broncos in Week 10. The Kansas City defense gave up 24 points last week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but still managed to rack up two sacks. The Chiefs have collected 17 sacks in eight games this season, but that may be difficult in Week 10. Broncos quarterback Bo Nix has been sacked 15 times this season, fewer times than Patrick Mahomes has been brought down. Nix has shown his ability as a rusher this season, ranking fifth in rushing yards among quarterbacks. That said, Kansas City has been among the best defenses at stopping the run, and they're aware of Nix's rushing ability. If the Chiefs continue their run-stopping ways, they should be able to contain the Broncos offense. The Chiefs former first-round pick, George Karlaftis, was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice but practiced fully the rest of the week and does not carry an injury designation heading into the contest. Karlaftis is a vital piece of the defensive unit, so it's positive news that he has been removed from the injury report. This week, the Kansas City defense is ranked as the fourth-best defense in our RotoBaller rankings, so they are among the best options. Fantasy managers should start them confidently.
From RotoBaller
Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt will face the Denver Broncos in Week 10. Hunt is coming off another solid performance, totaling 106 yards and a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Hunt played a vital role in the Chiefs 30-24 overtime win, as he was the one who crossed the goal line to end it. The Chiefs lead back will take on the Broncos, who rank 20th in fantasy points allowed to opposing running backs this season. The Denver defense is tougher on the pass than the run, so Hunt should see another sizeable workload in this contest. Hunt logged a limited practice on Wednesday with a quad injury but practiced fully the rest of the week and does not have an injury designation for the game. Hunt is ranked RB16 in our RotoBaller Half-PPR rankings this week, making him a high-end RB2 option in this matchup. Expect Hunt to get at least 20 carries again in this contest with a good chance of finding the endzone.
From RotoBaller