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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