Get ready for an exciting week of Fantasy Football, as we dive into the Defense/Special Teams (DST) rankings and streaming options! This season has been a rollercoaster, with no undefeated teams after the first five weeks and some unexpected upsets. It's a challenging landscape to navigate, but that's where our rankings come in.
Last week, we had a tough time, landing only three defenses in the top 10. Some defenses, like the Packers and Patriots, didn't live up to expectations, while others, like the Raiders and Jets, surprised us. It just goes to show how unpredictable the NFL can be.
So, let's break down the rankings and strategies for Week 7. Remember, these rankings are not just about my personal opinions but also about understanding the reasoning behind them.
Tier One: These are the elite plays of the week, the defenses you can trust to deliver.
Denver Broncos vs NYG: The Broncos have been on fire, ranking first in pressure rate and EPA per play allowed. They're a tough test for any offense, and with Jaxson Dart at home, they could dominate.
Pittsburgh Steelers at CIN: The Steelers delivered last week, and I expect them to continue their strong performance. Despite some concerns about their secondary, they rank highly in turnover rate and pressure.
New England Patriots at TEN: The Patriots might have disappointed against the Saints, but the Titans have been allowing fantasy points to opposing defenses. With Calvin Ridley likely out, the Patriots could shine.
Tier Two: These are the defenses I consider strong, but with some potential risks or tough matchups.
Kansas City Chiefs vs LV: The Chiefs haven't had an easy schedule, but they're about to face the Raiders, who have been struggling. I think we can trust them this week.
Cleveland Browns vs MIA: The Browns have a solid defense, ranking high in conversion rate allowed and EPA per play. The Dolphins have been missing Tyreek Hill, and with the vibes in Miami not looking great, the Browns could force some turnovers.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs LAR: The Jags have been a fantasy favorite, but we'll have to watch the injury report for Puka Nacua. Without him, the Rams offense could struggle.
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Tier Three: These are the borderline top-10 plays, either good defenses in tough spots or mediocre defenses with great matchups.
Atlanta Falcons at SF: The Falcons impressed against the Bills, and their young defense is looking sharp. However, the 49ers are a tough matchup, so we'll need to keep an eye on injuries.
Indianapolis Colts at LAC: The Colts have a better defense than the Chargers, especially against the run. They could surprise and sneak into the top 10.
Seattle Seahawks vs HOU: The Texans are my top-ranked defense by BOD, but the Seahawks have been solid too. This could be a close call.
Detroit Lions vs TB: The Lions are missing their starting secondary, but the Bucs have been allowing few fantasy points. It's a tough call, especially with Bucky Irving's status uncertain.
Houston Texans at SEA: The Texans rank highly in key defensive categories, but the Seahawks have been performing well. This is an interesting matchup.
Green Bay Packers at ARI: The Packers haven't been impressive, but the Bengals had a big game against them. Kyler Murray's status could be a game-changer.
Minnesota Vikings vs PHI: The Eagles have been allowing few points, but the Vikings could surprise.
Chicago Bears vs NO: The Bears are not awful, and they have a solid matchup against the Saints.
Tier Four: These are deep-league targets, defenses to consider in larger leagues.
Carolina Panthers at NYJ: If Garrett Wilson is out, the Panthers could be a sneaky play.
San Francisco 49ers vs ATL: The Falcons could struggle against the 49ers.
Philadelphia Eagles at MIN: The Eagles have a tough defense, but the Vikings could surprise.
Tennessee Titans vs NE: The Titans might get a boost post-firing, but the Patriots are a tough opponent.
New Orleans Saints at CHI: The Saints rank highly in turnover rate, but the Bears have been solid.
New York Giants at DEN: The Giants might struggle against the Broncos.
Tier Five: These are defenses to avoid, except in the deepest formats.
Miami Dolphins at CLE: The Dolphins have a great matchup, but I wouldn't recommend them.
Los Angeles Chargers vs IND: The Colts have a better defense, so I'd avoid the Chargers.
New York Jets vs CAR: The Jets have been struggling, and the Panthers could exploit that.
Washington Commanders at DAL: The Commanders might have a tough time against the Cowboys.
Las Vegas Raiders at KC: The Raiders have been inconsistent, and the Chiefs could dominate.
Tampa Bay Bucs at DET: The Bucs might be without key receivers, but the Lions are missing their secondary.
Arizona Cardinals vs GB: The Cardinals have a tough matchup against the Packers.
Cincinnati Bengals vs PIT: The Steelers could dominate the Bengals.
Dallas Cowboys vs WAS: The Cowboys have a solid defense, so I'd avoid the Commanders.
Buffalo Bills BYE: The Bills are on a bye week.
Baltimore Ravens BYE: The Ravens are also on a bye.
Remember, these rankings are based on my formula, which considers pressure rate, turnover rate, and EPA allowed. I also take into account injuries and weather.
For a more detailed analysis, check out Eric's Pick 3(DST) video on the NFL on NBC YouTube page.
Let's see if we can improve our success rate this week! And don't forget to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments. Are there any defenses you think are being underrated or overrated? Let's discuss!
