Falcons vs. Chiefs: 3 Under-the-Radar Fantasy Football Picks
By Ryan Jackson
The Atlanta Falcons returned to form in their win against the Arizona Cardinals. Who are some under-the-radar fantasy football options when they face the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 13?
While there was some uncertainty coming back from the bye week after a loss, the Atlanta Falcons were firing on all cylinders on Sunday, beating the suffering Arizona Cardinals with a strong 38-19 outing in Week 12.
It was an exciting game, with the offense coming out strong with some beautiful execution, and the defense improving as usual. The Falcons played well, and they should be able to continue that play into Week 13 when they face the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Chiefs are coming off an exciting Sunday Night Football matchup where they beat the Denver Broncos in overtime, 30-27. The Falcons will be playing a legitimate playoff contender and it will be a test for them this season.
So which players on the Falcons can help your fantasy football team when they face this Chiefs team?
3. WR Mohamed Sanu
Mohamed Sanu had a strong game against the Cardinals, catching all eight of his targets for 65 yards. He was able to be a reliable option when quarterback Matt Ryan needed it, showing the ability to move the chains.
He can do even better this week against a Chiefs secondary that has floundered aside from Eric Berry and Marcus Peters.
Kansas City cornerback Phillip Gaines gave up more than 200 yards to the Broncos and Trevor Siemian and now looks to face a quarterback even more willing to drive the ball in Matt Ryan. Expect Sanu to make an impact for the Falcons, as well as your fantasy football team.
2. Falcons Defense and Special Teams
The defense did OK against the Cardinals, limiting their weapons and only allowing 19 points. While the Chiefs scored 30 points on the vaunted Broncos’ defense, the majority of their points came off of defensive stops, field goals and penalties moving them upfield.
If the Falcons can work the Chiefs’ poor offensive line and play with a sense of discipline, they may be able to do better against the Chiefs than Denver did. Expect a lot of short passing, where zone schemes may prevent large gains for quarterback Alex Smith and Co.
Facing a Jamaal Charles-less version of this team also helps. If the Falcons can stay on their A-game, expect few points for the Chiefs and high scores for your fantasy football team.
1. WR Taylor Gabriel
Taylor Gabriel had himself a day against the Cardinals, picking up 75 yards on four catches, including a fantastic 35-yard touchdown scamper. He also recorded 27 yards on just one rush.
The former Cleveland Browns wide receiver has been a blessing for this Falcons team, and he will likely be able to have himself a day against a struggling Chiefs secondary.
Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan has used Gabriel in a variety of ways, and he has accepted the role and exceeded expectations. The Falcons will likely have him feast upon slower linebackers in mismatches, and beat the floundering cornerbacks with his speed.
Next: 5 Reasons Falcons Beat Arizona
Watch Gabriel fly up the field, as well as your fantasy football scoreboard, on Sunday.