What a deflating season opener it was for former first-round pick and Heisman trophy winner DeVonta Smith — zero receptions on two lousy targets. On the other hand, Smith did handle 13.8% of the Eagles’ wide receiver target share and 26.2% of the team’s total air yards last week. With about 80% of his routes projected against two bottom-tier coverage corners, it presents an excellent buy-low spot at enticing +240 odds over at FanDuel Sportsbook.
DeVonta Smith Anytime Touchdown (+240, FanDuel)
The Vikings were the fifth-worst passing defense last year. Smith has an excellent matchup tonight going up against the 32-year-old Patrick Peterson. Week 1 was far from desirable for Peterson; he was targeted six times, allowing four catches. This resulted in a 93.1 passer rating allowed and a whopping 12.8 yards per reception allowed. Peterson’s better coverage days are behind him, as it appears he has lost a step. He has not ranked in the top 25% of cornerbacks since 2018 with Arizona. 2022 starts off no different, with him ranking 75th out of 86 gradable corner backs.
Smiths’ second possible matchup is just as appealing. Chandon Sullivan allowed over 11 yards per reception in Week 1 and over a 100 passer rating when targeted.
A.J. Brown had one of the best debuts a wide receiver could have asked for. The Vikings will game plan to prevent a repeat of his Week 1 dominance by allowing opportunities for Smith. Bet on Jalen Hurts to get his former college teammate back on track in the Eagles’ Monday Night football home opener.
