If you’re diving into this streaming defense column as the fantasy football playoffs loom ever closer, you likely already appreciate the power of this strategy. Especially if you took the advice from last week and snagged the top streaming defense, which ended up as the No. 6 scoring defense for Week 13 and was available in 80% of leagues to start the week. It’s a thrilling time to be a fantasy football manager, and every decision counts!
This week, while the matchups may not be as enticing as last week’s, there are still plenty of solid options to consider. With teams like the Browns, Raiders, and Jaguars facing off against heavily-rostered defenses, it’s time to explore some alternatives that can help you secure those crucial fantasy points.
Here are the top fantasy football streaming defense options for Week 14, all available in at least 50% of ESPN public leagues. Let’s break them down!
1. New Orleans Saints (@ NYG) — 70.4% Available
The New York Giants have been a dream matchup for fantasy defenses all season long. With quarterbacks like Tommy DeVito and Drew Lock at the helm, this matchup becomes even more appealing. DeVito has been sacked 5 times or more in five of the eight games he’s played where he took at least 55% of the snaps. His career sack rate is a staggering 16.4% of dropbacks, which is music to the ears of fantasy managers looking for defensive points.
Even though the Saints have struggled this season, they’re still 4.5-point favorites on the road with a 40.5-point over/under. This means they should be playing with a lead, creating ample opportunities to capitalize on Lock’s mistakes or bring DeVito down for some sacks. The potential for turnovers and big plays is high here, making the Saints a solid streaming option.
2. Tennessee Titans (vs. JAX) — 86.6% Available
Starting a defense that just scored negative fantasy points the previous week can be nerve-wracking. However, the Tennessee Titans present an intriguing option against the Jacksonville Jaguars. With Mac Jones leading the charge for Jacksonville, the Titans could find themselves in a favorable position.
The Jaguars have struggled recently, scoring just 13 points against Minnesota and 10 points against another solid defense in Week 11. Turnovers have plagued them, with 4 turnovers in those games. The Titans, favored by 3.5 points, boast a surprisingly capable run defense, which might force Jacksonville to rely heavily on Jones’ arm. Given his track record, this could lead to some significant fantasy points for the Titans.
3. Cincinnati Bengals (vs. DAL) — 75.7% Available
The Bengals offer a more boom-or-bust option this week. Their matchup against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football is projected to be a shootout, with a hefty 49.5-point over/under. This could lead to Dallas becoming aggressive in their play-calling, especially since the Bengals are favored by nearly a touchdown.
However, this aggressive play could backfire for the Cowboys, especially with Cooper Rush under pressure from a Bengals defense that, while not stellar, has the potential to capitalize on mistakes. With the Cowboys’ offensive line ranked No. 25 in pass-blocking, the Bengals could find opportunities for sacks and turnovers, making them a viable streaming option despite their overall defensive struggles.
Why Streaming Defenses Matters
As the fantasy playoffs approach, the importance of streaming defenses cannot be overstated. Every point counts, and the right defensive play can be the difference between advancing to the next round or heading home. By targeting defenses with favorable matchups, you can maximize your scoring potential and give yourself the best chance to win.
In this week’s landscape, while the options may not be as abundant, the Saints, Titans, and Bengals all present unique opportunities to score big. Each of these defenses has the potential to exploit weaknesses in their opponents, whether through turnovers, sacks, or simply playing with a lead.
Final Thoughts
As you prepare for Week 14, keep an eye on these streaming defense options. The right choice could propel your fantasy team into the next round of playoffs. Remember, it’s all about matchups and opportunities. So, whether you’re rolling with the Saints against a struggling Giants offense, banking on the Titans to capitalize on Jacksonville’s woes, or taking a gamble with the Bengals in a high-scoring affair, make sure to weigh your options carefully.
In the world of fantasy football, every decision matters. Choose wisely, and may the fantasy gods smile upon your team this week!
