Our top survivor pick came through again last week, with the Los Angeles Chargers defeating the Tennessee Titans 27-17. Looking ahead to NFL Week 11, a few teams present strong cases, but I’ve narrowed it down to just one. Here are our top recommendations for your NFL survivor pool picks in Week 11.
NFL Survivor Pool Picks Week 11: Lions, Texans or Dolphins?
Lions -13 vs. Jaguars | NFL Survivor Pool Picks Week 11
If you’ve been holding off on using the Detroit Lions as your survivor pick, now might be the time to pull the trigger.
Since their 20-16 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2, the Lions have found a way to win every game, pushing their record to 8-1. This team has proven they’re never out of a game, as evidenced on Sunday Night Football when, despite throwing five interceptions, Jared Goff still led them to a 26-23 road victory over the Texans.
Their upcoming matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars couldn’t come at a better time. Not only is it a prime opportunity for Goff to regain his rhythm against a defense that ranks 32nd in dropback EPA per play, but they’ll also face an offense missing its starting quarterback, Trevor Lawrence.
Mac Jones stepped in last week against the Minnesota Vikings, finishing 14-of-22 for just 111 yards, with zero touchdowns and two interceptions. While the game was close, with the Vikings narrowly winning 12-7, that outcome felt more like an outlier than a sign of potential from Doug Pederson’s squad.
This is the most obvious survivor pick on the board; however, the hesitation would be to consider saving Detroit for Thanksgiving Week when they host the lowly Chicago Bears.
Texans -7.5 @ Cowboys | NFL Survivor Week 11
Speaking of the Houston Texans, their upcoming matchup also presents a prime opportunity for a much-needed win.
Although, despite dropping their last two games and dealing with several injuries, the Texans remain atop their division at 6-4, with their closest competitor, the Indianapolis Colts, sitting at 4-6.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys are in disarray. The team’s struggles were on full display last week against the Philadelphia Eagles, where they were without starting quarterback Dak Prescott, who is now out for the season. Cooper Rush stepped in, completing just 13 of 23 passes for a mere 45 yards in a 34-6 blowout loss.
The Cowboys’ issues extend beyond the offense. Their defense has been a liability, ranking 30th in PFF’s overall ratings. While getting Micah Parsons back is a boost, it won’t be enough to mask their vulnerabilities. And Parsons’ recent comments about head coach Mike McCarthy likely haven’t resonated well in the locker room, adding to the turmoil.
Much like my earlier survivor pick recommendation, I believe the Texans are a strong choice here. However, it might be wiser to save them for next week when they host the Tennessee Titans, which is probably a stronger spot for them back on their home turf.
Dolphins -7.5 vs Raiders | NFL Survivor Week 11
The Miami Dolphins scratched and clawed to keep their season alive this past Monday with a 23-15 road victory over the Los Angeles Rams.
On paper, one might argue the Dolphins didn’t deserve the win, but when you consistently shoot yourself in the foot like the Rams did, it’s clear why they came up short. Regardless, Miami got the job done, keeping their postseason hopes alive and gaining some momentum as they head home to face the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Raiders, fresh off their bye week, remain a team full of question marks – especially at quarterback. While Gardner Minshew is likely to get the start, he was benched for backup Desmond Ridder in their last game. But let’s be honest: whether it’s Minshew or Ridder under center, it doesn’t change how overmatched this Raiders team is.
This matchup is, without a doubt, the best spot all season to use Miami in survivor pools, and I plan to take full advantage. It’s not that their performance on Monday night was particularly impressive, but getting back in the win column and building momentum is significant – especially when their next opponent is one of the league’s worst teams, and one that will be making a cross-country trip for this game.
Best NFL Week 11 Survivor Pick: Miami Dolphins
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