Fans were treated to an incredibly rare feat last week when the Bengals’ defense had a solid outing. They surrendered just six points while racking up five sacks and three turnovers on their way to an impressive 18 fantasy points. This marked their first time holding a team to fewer than 14 points since Week 6. What a turnaround for a unit that had struggled earlier in the season!
Defensive Dominance: Falcons Take Charge
On the more predictable side of things, the Falcons’ defense showcased their prowess against the Giants, scoring a whopping 25 fantasy points fueled by two pick-sixes. This performance was a highlight in what has been a challenging year for the Falcons’ defense. It was also the second time this season that a team had multiple pick-sixes in the same game. Can you imagine the excitement for fantasy managers who had the Falcons in their lineup?
Strategies for Fantasy Success
Every fantasy manager dreams of their D/ST scoring a touchdown or two during the fantasy championship. While it’s impossible to predict exactly when a defense will score, there are strategies to enhance your chances. Attacking favorable matchups and relying on elite defenses can set you up for success. So, keep an eye on those matchups as we head into Week 17!
Week 17 Fantasy Football Rankings
WEEK 17 FANTASY FOOTBALL RANKINGS
QBs | RBs | WRs | TEs | D/ST | Kickers
Rankings based on PPR scoring. These rankings were updated on Dec. 23 and will be refreshed throughout the week, so be sure to check back often.
| RANK | TEAM | OPPONENT |
| 1 | Philadelphia Eagles | vs. DAL |
| 2 | Kansas City Chiefs | at PIT |
| 3 | Los Angeles Chargers | at NE |
| 4 | Buffalo Bills | vs. NYJ |
| 5 | Indianapolis Colts | at NYG |
| 6 | Pittsburgh Steelers | vs. KC |
| 7 | Cleveland Browns | vs. MIA |
| 8 | Minnesota Vikings | vs. GB |
| 9 | Denver Broncos | at CIN |
| 10 | Washington Commanders | vs. ATL |
| 11 | Green Bay Packers | at MIN |
| 12 | Dallas Cowboys | at PHI |
| 13 | Seattle Seahawks | at CHI |
| 14 | Las Vegas Raiders | at NO |
| 15 | Baltimore Ravens | at HOU |
| 16 | Tennessee Titans | at JAC |
| 17 | New England Patriots | vs. LAC |
| 18 | Los Angeles Rams | vs. ARI |
| 19 | Houston Texans | vs. BAL |
| 20 | Miami Dolphins | at SF |
| 21 | Arizona Cardinals | at LAR |
| 22 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | vs. CAR |
| 23 | San Francisco 49ers | vs. DET |
| 24 | Atlanta Falcons | at WAS |
| 25 | Cincinnati Bengals | vs. DEN |
| 26 | New Orleans Saints | vs. LV |
| 27 | Jacksonville Jaguars | vs. TEN |
| 28 | Detroit Lions | at SF |
| 29 | New York Jets | at BUF |
| 30 | Chicago Bears | vs. SEA |
| 31 | New York Giants | vs. IND |
| 32 | Carolina Panthers | at TB |
Top Fantasy Defenses for Week 17
After a rocky season in 2023, the Philadelphia Eagles have emerged as one of the most formidable defenses in the league. With an infusion of young talent, they’ve regularly held opponents to fewer than 20 points. Their standout performance came against the Cowboys in Week 10, where they limited Dallas to just 146 yards and six points. Facing the Cowboys again this week, can we expect another stellar outing from Philly?
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers have undergone a transformation under Jim Harbaugh, becoming a more talented unit. They face the New England Patriots this week, a matchup where the Chargers should have the upper hand. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye has shown promise, but he could find himself under pressure against this revamped defense.
The Buffalo Bills have been a top-10 fantasy defense all year, and they’re poised for another strong performance against the Jets. After a couple of promising weeks, the Jets’ offense was completely stifled against the Rams last week. Heading to Buffalo, they might be in for another tough day.
Waiver Wire Wonders: Best Fantasy Defense Pickups
If you’re looking for a defensive streamer, consider the Colts facing the Giants in Week 17. This matchup is shaping up to be a clash of struggling offenses. The Colts have had their own challenges on defense, but the Giants, under Drew Lock and Tommy DeVito, have looked even worse. After a game with three turnovers and three sacks, the Giants’ offense is a prime target for defensive streamers.
The New Orleans Saints are also in the mix for the worst offensive roster in the NFL, featuring players like Spencer Rattler and Kendre Miller. With such "firepower," the Raiders are worth considering for streaming this week.
As we gear up for the fantasy championship, remember that the right defense can make all the difference. Stay sharp, keep an eye on those matchups, and may your fantasy team soar to victory!
