The Wild Card playoff game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens promises an exciting showdown on January 11. With the Ravens favored by 9.5 points and an over/under set at 45.5, Baltimore's rushing attack is expected to dominate. Key to success will be leveraging the talents of players like Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, and Mark Andrews in daily fantasy formats on platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings.

Lamar Jackson stands out as the top Captain choice due to his dual-threat capabilities, leading the league in both passing and rushing efficiency. His workload intensifies with teammate Zay Flowers sidelined, making him a must-have in lineups.

Derrick Henry presents a solid alternative for those looking to pivot, especially considering his playoff prowess and success in previous matchups against the Steelers. Tight ends Mark Andrews and Pat Freiermuth are poised for significant roles, with Andrews likely to see increased targets in red zone situations.

In the Flex category, Rashod Bateman emerges as a key option due to his expanded role, while Calvin Austin III and Justice Hill provide value picks at lower salary points. With the game anticipated to favor a strong running game from the Ravens, players across the board are being evaluated for their potential in this pivotal matchup.

In the NFL, Zack Baun's remarkable transformation from a seldom-used linebacker to a standout performer for the Philadelphia Eagles has captured attention. Once a player who saw limited action during his tenure with the New Orleans Saints, Baun has emerged as a leader in tackles and defensive metrics in his first year with the Eagles. His journey raises questions about the decisions made by the Saints during his rookie contract, with some suggesting negligence in not utilizing his talents more effectively.

Baun's success is attributed not only to the opportunity to play more but also to his work ethic and the right fit within the Eagles' defensive scheme under coach Nick Sirianni. The linebacker has thrived in a system that values instinct and adaptability, showcasing his athleticism and football IQ. His interactions with Sirianni highlight a newfound trust that has empowered him to excel. Baun's impressive statistics, including leading the league in solo tackles and forcing fumbles, demonstrate his pivotal role in the Eagles' defense.

Reflecting on his past struggles, Baun acknowledges the emotional toll of his early career, where he often felt inadequate. However, with the support of his coaches and teammates, he has found his stride. His commitment to learning and growth has allowed him to embrace his responsibilities and contribute significantly to the Eagles' success. As he continues to develop, Baun remains focused on refining his skills and making a lasting impact in the league.

The holiday season coincides with the conclusion of fantasy football leagues, making Week 17 a pivotal time for lineup decisions. Players like Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Jameson Williams have shown promise, while Nico Collins is expected to shine against the Baltimore Ravens, especially with Tank Dell sidelined.

DK Metcalf is poised for a bounce-back performance against the Chicago Bears, while Marvin Harrison Jr. has a favorable matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. Darnell Mooney's potential is tied to Michael Penix Jr.'s debut, promising an exciting finale for fantasy enthusiasts.

As Christmas approaches, NFL Week 17 brings two exciting matchups: the Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans and the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Kansas City Chiefs. With only two games, creating unique lineups is crucial for success in DFS competitions, especially on platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel.

This article highlights key players to consider, including core plays and contrarian pivots, to help maximize potential winnings during this festive slate.

The fantasy football finals are upon us, and it's crucial to make the right waiver wire pickups for wide receivers heading into Week 17. This week highlights players who can significantly impact your championship matchup.

Marquise 'Hollywood' Brown has made a comeback for the Kansas City Chiefs, showing promise after his season debut. Wan'Dale Robinson of the New York Giants continues to see a high volume of targets, while Quentin Johnston from the Los Angeles Chargers is finding opportunities despite inconsistent numbers.

Nick Westbrook-Ikhine from the Tennessee Titans is a solid option with a knack for touchdowns, and Calvin Austin III of the Pittsburgh Steelers is stepping up in the absence of George Pickens. Other potential pickups include Olamide Zaccheaus from the Washington Commanders and Robert Woods from the Houston Texans, both looking to capitalize on injuries within their teams.