The New York Jets in Week 10 serve as an intriguing metaphor for the unpredictable nature of fantasy football defenses. Just a week prior, many fantasy managers might have considered starting Gang Green, despite their struggles. In fact, the Jets were even highlighted in this column last week, although that mention came before the team made the controversial decision to trade cornerback Sauce Gardner. Despite this major change, the Jets’ performance against the Cleveland Browns was anything but expected. Going into the game, hopes were low for a team that ranked dead last in fantasy points among defenses for the first nine weeks of the season.
However, in a stunning turn of events, the undermanned Jets managed to sack Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel six times, and remarkably returned both a kickoff and a punt for touchdowns. This performance tied them for the most fantasy points among defenses for the week, alongside the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks, who had higher expectations entering the week, benefited from Demarcus Lawrence's two touchdowns, boosting them to the top position for the season. Yet, like the Jets, they were also a waiver-wire find during the summer, highlighting the unpredictable yet lucrative potential of lesser-known defenses in fantasy football.
1. Houston Texans (at Tennessee Titans) - Despite their 4-5 record, the Texans’ defense has been stellar, leading the league in both total defense and scoring defense. They rank in the top five against both the run and the pass. After scoring a defensive touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars last week, no defense in the AFC has accumulated more fantasy points. This week, they face a struggling Tennessee Titans offense, setting the stage for a potential blowout.
2. New England Patriots (vs. New York Jets) - The Patriots have dropped in fantasy rankings due to a lackluster performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, facing a Jets team that managed only 42 passing yards in their last game is a prime opportunity for a rebound. The Jets have allowed the eighth-most fantasy points per game to opposing defenses this season, making this matchup a must-start for fantasy managers.
3. Baltimore Ravens (at Cleveland Browns) - The Ravens are on the upswing as they face a Browns team struggling with their offensive capabilities. Baltimore is getting healthier while Cleveland’s quarterback situation remains uncertain. The Ravens will look to dominate the run game and capitalize on the Browns’ struggles, making them a top choice for fantasy managers this week.
1. San Francisco 49ers (at Arizona Cardinals) - If the 49ers were at full strength, they would be a clear No-Doubter. However, with numerous injuries, they still pose a threat to a struggling Cardinals offense. Despite their injury woes, the 49ers can capitalize on the Cardinals’ weaknesses and still provide solid fantasy points.
2. Green Bay Packers (at New York Giants) - Following a tough loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, the Packers still boast a strong defense. With the Giants likely missing key offensive players, including their quarterback and top wide receiver, the Packers could have a favorable matchup this week, making them an attractive option for fantasy managers.
3. Atlanta Falcons (vs. Carolina Panthers) - While this matchup may not excite many, the Falcons have quietly posted a dozen sacks over the past two weeks. The Panthers’ offense has been underwhelming, allowing more fantasy points per game to defenses than even the Jets, making the Falcons a sneaky option this week.
4. Miami Dolphins (vs. Washington Commanders) - Although the Dolphins rank 25th in fantasy points among defenses, they recently surprised fans by defeating the Buffalo Bills. The Commanders, on the other hand, have become the team everyone thought the Dolphins would be a month ago, surrendering the most fantasy points per game to defenses.
5. Dallas Cowboys (at Las Vegas Raiders) - The Cowboys' defense has had its struggles this season, ranking among the worst. However, coming off a bye week and with the addition of key players, they could find success against a Raiders team that has been making questionable decisions on offense, particularly after trading away star players.
Finally, we must address the Seattle Seahawks (at Los Angeles Rams). The Seahawks’ defense has reached a point where they are either a start or a complete avoid. Facing a Rams team that has been explosive offensively, fantasy managers should proceed with caution when considering Seattle’s defense in Week 11.
In conclusion, navigating the fantasy football defense landscape requires a keen eye for matchups and trends. The Jets’ unexpected performance is a reminder that in fantasy football, anything can happen, and the real value often lies in uncovering those hidden gems, or in this case, defensive players worth a gamble.
