Week 16 Fantasy Football Rankings: Defenses to Start and Sit
Alright, fantasy football managers, we're down to the wire here! Week 16 is upon us, and if you're reading this, you're either fighting for a championship or trying to secure that precious final playoff spot. Either way, every decision matters, especially when it comes to your defense/special teams (DST). Let's dive into the week 16 fantasy football rankings for DSTs, and help you make the right call. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and week 16 fantasy football rankings defense.
Streaming the DSTs: Week 16
First things first, if you're in a league that requires you to set your lineup before the games start (like a Thursday night game), you might want to consider streaming a defense. Streaming a DST involves dropping a defense after they play and picking up another one with a favorable matchup the following week.
Why stream DSTs? Well, guys, not all leagues require you to start a DST, and even if yours does, there's a good chance you've got better players to focus on. By streaming, you can maximize your points each week without having to invest a high draft pick or roster spot on a defense.
Best streaming options for Week 16
1. New York Jets (@ Cleveland Browns) - The Jets have been surprisingly solid on defense this season, and they get a juicy matchup against the Browns, who have struggled to protect their quarterback all year. Plus, with Nick Chubb out, Cleveland's run game might not be as threatening.
2. Los Angeles Rams (@ Houston Texans) - The Rams defense has been up and down this season, but they're still a talented unit. They face off against the Texans, who have one of the league's worst offensive lines and are starting a rookie quarterback in Davis Mills.
3. Indianapolis Colts (@ Arizona Cardinals) - The Colts defense has been solid all season, and they get a matchup against the Cardinals, who have struggled to run the ball effectively. Plus, with Kyler Murray banged up, there's a chance he might not be 100%.
Start 'Em: Top DSTs for Week 16
Alright, let's get to the week 16 fantasy football rankings for DSTs you should consider starting.
1. New England Patriots (@ Jacksonville Jaguars)
The Patriots defense has been one of the league's best this season, and they get a dream matchup against the Jaguars, who have scored the third-fewest points this season. With Trevor Lawrence still figuring things out and the Jags' run game non-existent, the Patriots should feast.
2. Baltimore Ravens (vs. Cincinnati Bengals)
The Ravens defense has been up and down this season, but they're still a talented unit. They face off against the Bengals, who have struggled to protect Joe Burrow and have one of the league's worst offensive lines. Plus, with Lamar Jackson back, the Ravens should be able to force some turnovers.
3. Los Angeles Chargers (@ Houston Texans)
The Chargers defense has been one of the league's best this season, and they get a matchup against the Texans, who have one of the league's worst offensive lines and are starting a rookie quarterback in Davis Mills. With Joey Bosa and Derwin James leading the way, the Chargers should be able to wreak havoc.
Sit 'Em: DSTs to bench in Week 16
Now, let's talk about the DSTs you should consider benching in week 16.
1. Cleveland Browns (vs. New York Jets)
The Browns defense has been solid this season, but they're facing a Jets offense that has been surprisingly effective in recent weeks. With Zach Wilson back under center, the Jets should be able to move the ball against the Browns' suspect secondary.
2. Kansas City Chiefs (@ Pittsburgh Steelers)
The Chiefs defense has been one of the league's worst this season, and they're facing a Steelers offense that has been playing better of late. With Najee Harris running wild and T.J. Watt leading the way on defense, the Chiefs could be in for a long day.
3. Denver Broncos (@ Los Angeles Rams)
The Broncos defense has been one of the league's best this season, but they're facing a Rams offense that has been playing better of late. With Matthew Stafford back under center and the Rams' offense clicking, the Broncos could struggle to generate turnovers.
Final Thoughts
Guys, remember that week 16 fantasy football rankings can only take you so far. It's crucial to consider your league's specific rules and scoring system when making your DST decision. Also, keep an eye on the injury reports, as they can significantly impact a defense's prospects.
Lastly, don't forget to have fun out there! This is the most exciting time of the fantasy football season, so enjoy the ride, and good luck in your championship games!