Finally back to a week of Professional Football without any teams on bye. One would think that this would provide ample team defenses to stream, however it’s slim pickins this week as there are many unfavorable matchups for the most available defenses. Most of the time, streaming the defense is a high risk high reward tactic that sometimes can back fire. As was the case with Oakland and Kansas City last week, where the matchup looked favorable on paper, but brought the pain with negative points in a couple of my lineups.
That said, there are some defenses available that could easily rack up some good numbers against the offenses they face.
Houston vs. TB
Houston has been almost as impressive on defense as they have been in the ground game this year thanks largely in part to new defensive coordinator Wade Phillips. The Texans have racked up 11 total interceptions and a massive 24 sacks this season and will continue to roll this week in Tampa Bay. If the Texans are still available in your league, waste no time to grab them and stick them in your lineup if you fear the worst for your defense this weekend.
Miami vs. WAS
Last week was quite the surprise when the Dolphins were able to hold the Chiefs to only 3 points and this week could be a repeat as the face the struggling Redskins. Washington is averaging less than 16 points of offense a game and has allowed 24 sacks through 8 games. Combine that with the fact that John Beck has thrown 4 interceptions in the last 3 games, Miami could be in for its second win of the season this weekend.
Jacksonville vs. IND
By now we know that it is almost always favorable to stream the defense that is playing the Indianapolis Colts and this week is no exception. After proving that they can stop an offense like Baltimore, the Jags have made it clear that improving their defense has been a major priority. Currently ranking 6th against the run and 10th against the pass, Jacksonville should be able to control the game against their division rivals and put up respectable numbers in the team defense.
Surprise Streamer of the Week
St. Louis vs. CLE
Both defenses in this matchup could come out with decent numbers this week as they are two of the worst offenses in the league. This one should be a low scoring game as both teams are ranked in the bottom 3 in yards per play and both are in the bottom 4 in offensive points scored per game. The Rams get a slight uptick as they were able to pull off the upset against the Saints and have sacked opposing QBs a total of 20 times as opposed to the 18 that the Browns have amassed.
