Week 11 Fantasy Defense Rankings
Even though just two teams are on bye this week, our Week 11 fantasy defense rankings are feeling the effects. The Rams are typically a must-start, while the Broncos can work as a waiver wire streamer. Perhaps just as important, the Broncos are the type of matchup that creates D/ST sleepers, so that’s also thinning things out a bit.
Even with that said, there are still a few matchup-based plays available this week; unfortunately, most aren’t particularly good defenses. The Eagles (vs. Saints) are likely the best widely available defensive unit, but Trevor Siemian and the Saints are still playing fairly efficiently, so the matchup, at least on paper, isn’t overly appealing. The 49ers (@ Jaguars), Dolphins (@ Jets), and Washington (@ Panthers) are also in pretty good spots, but all present risks given their level of play this year.
WEEK 11 STANDARD RANKINGS:
Quarterback | Running back | Wide receiver | Tight end | Kicker
The Jets (vs. Dolphins) and Falcons (vs. Patriots) also have favorable home matchups, but they are even weaker defensively than those listed above, so you’d be taking a huge risk starting either.
WEEK 11 PPR RANKINGS:
Quarterback | Running back | Wide receiver | Tight end | Kicker
A few owners might need to take some chances this week, as lineup regulars like the Colts (@ Bills), Cardinals (@ Seahawks), and Steelers (@ Chargers) are in tough spots. The Bengals have also been a popular play this year, but a matchup in Vegas won’t be easy.
Ultimately, you might opt to stick with a D/ST that’s been good for you most of the year over a mediocre defense that has a favorable matchup. We tend to favor the matchups, but at this point in the season, it’s important to factor in your record and rest-of-season outlook. If you’re sailing toward the fantasy playoffs, then you can afford to go the “high-floor” route. If you’re in “must-win” mode, then play the matchups, go for the high ceiling, and worry about next week on Tuesday.
It’s also a good idea to look at future matchups and consider carrying multiple D/STs so you’re ahead of the streaming game. For instance, Philadelphia has the Giants, Jets, bye, Washington, Giants, and Washington through Week 17. Even if you don’t want to use the Eagles this week against the Saints, it’s not a bad idea to have them around. Likewise, you might not like the Chargers against the Steelers (or maybe you do), but future matchups against the Denver (Week 12), the Giants (14), and Texans (16) could have the Bolts making an impact down the stretch.
Overall, this isn’t a great week for defenses. Some of the top units have favorable matchups, which is always great for those who own those D/STs, but it’s not a great week if you need a streamer. Of course, any defense can get lucky and get some takeaways or return TDs, so go with your gut and hope for the best.
Note: We’ll be updating these D/ST rankings throughout the week, so check back for the latest analysis and player movement.
Fantasy Defense Rankings Week 11: Who to start, sit at D/ST in fantasy football
Buccaneers vs. Giants
Titans vs. Texans
Bills vs. Colts
Panthers vs. Washington
Patriots @ Falcons
Browns vs. Lions
Cowboys @ Chiefs
Ravens @ Bears
Saints @ Eagles
Eagles vs. Saints
49ers @ Jaguars
Dolphins @ Jets
Washington @ Panthers
Chargers vs. Steelers
Cardinals @ Seahawks
Bengals @ Raiders
Packers @ Vikings
Colts @ Bills
Steelers @ Chargers
Jets vs. Dolphins
Falcons vs. Patriots
Raiders vs. Bengals
Vikings vs. Packers
Bears vs. Ravens
Lions @ Browns
Seahawks vs. Cardinals
Jaguars vs. 49ers
Chiefs vs. Cowboys
Texans @ Titans
Giants @ Buccaneers
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