Friday’s four-game college football slate on DraftKings offers several strong DFS plays, led by Utah State’s dual-threat quarterback and two explosive Nebraska receivers priced well below their upside. Based on production, usage, and matchup data, here are the best GPP plays for the October 17 slate.
CFB DraftKings Must Plays for Friday Night
Bryson Barnes – QB, Utah State ($7,800)
Barnes is the centerpiece of Utah State’s uptempo offense and combines rushing and passing upside better than anyone on the slate. He’s averaged around 28 fantasy points per game and has already produced multiple five-touchdown performances this season.
Barnes has topped 400 total yards twice, including 128 rushing yards in a win over Air Force. His ability to rack up fantasy points on the ground and through the air makes him a must-play and a strong stacking option with one of his receivers.
Danny Scudero – WR, San José State ($8,000)
Scudero is the top wideout on Friday’s slate, posting 50 catches, 845 yards, and eight touchdowns this season. He’s averaging nearly 33 DraftKings points per game and exploded for 10 catches, 180 yards, and four touchdowns in his last major outing. He is questionable, but if he plays, that tag will also keep his ownership down.
His target share is elite, and a likely shootout with Utah State should give him another opportunity for 10+ receptions. Paying up for Scudero offers a combination of volume and big-play potential that few others can match.
Mid-Tier GPP Values on DraftKings ($4K–$6K)
Miles Davis – RB, Utah State ($5,600)
Davis has been a steady producer and benefits from the same fast-paced system as Barnes. He’s topped 100 rushing yards in back-to-back games, adding receiving usage that raises his floor.
Utah State’s balanced approach means Davis should see consistent touches, and if the Aggies build a lead, he’ll likely see increased red-zone opportunities. At $5.6K, he’s one of the safest mid-tier options with 20+ point upside.
Darius Taylor – RB, Minnesota ($5,400)
Taylor was the focal point of Minnesota’s offense before a hamstring injury, and now that he’s healthy, he’s primed for another heavy workload. He’s already logged a 30-carry, 177-yard performance this season and has over 2,500 career scrimmage yards.
Minnesota leans on the run in Big Ten play, and Taylor’s combination of volume and scoring potential makes him an excellent tournament option against Nebraska.
Friday Night CFB DFS Sleepers (Under $4K)
Nyziah Hunter – WR, Nebraska ($3,900)
Hunter’s recent surge makes him one of the most dangerous value plays on the board. He’s caught 22 passes for 415 yards and four touchdowns, including a 125-yard, two-touchdown game against Maryland.
With freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola finding rhythm in the deep passing game, Hunter’s big-play role gives him real slate-breaking upside for under $4K.
Jacory Barney Jr. – WR, Nebraska ($3,600)
Barney leads Nebraska in receptions and already has three touchdowns this year. His 120-yard, two-touchdown performance against Michigan showed his ability to produce against elite defenses.
He’s heavily involved in the slot and red-zone packages, and his salary leaves plenty of flexibility to pay up elsewhere. Barney profiles as one of the best low-cost GPP options on the slate.
These six plays balance proven production with GPP-winning upside. Building around Barnes and Scudero gives your lineup a high-ceiling core, while the Nebraska receivers offer cheap exposure to one of the more unpredictable passing attacks on Friday night.
