Finding defensive value can be a differentiator between an average daily fantasy player and the elite. You can pick any team from 1-32 each week because the defense you select doesn’t necessarily have to be any good. If they’re playing a bad offense or one with plenty of injuries, there’s a ton of value in that.
Let’s go value hunting to find the best and least valued defenses as you evaluate your Week 14 lineup.
BEST: Minnesota Vikings - $3,800
Minnesota is the second most expensive defense/special teams unit in Week 14, but there is still value to be had with the Vikings. Lions quarterback David Blough had a solid game on Thanksgiving, but he’s still a third string quarterback. History has shown us the success of a third string quarterback does not last long especially when you’re going up against a solid defense like the Vikings.
WORST: Cleveland Browns - $3,600
Cleveland is coming in as the third highest priced defense in Week 14. That would make sense if the Browns were going up against Ryan Finley, but Andy Dalton is back as Cincinnati quarterback. This proved to be a much better offense last week when he returned to the Bengals and led them to their first win of the season. This is too much to spend on a Cleveland team that suffered a devastating loss last week.
BEST: Tampa Bay Buccaneers - $2,300
You’re playing with fire when you insert Tampa Bay as your defense, but it’s hard to see where the production will come from in the Colts’ offense. Indianapolis has injuries all over the place and was held to 17 points in each of its last two games. If you spent wisely elsewhere, the Buccaneers could be a quality, low-price option.
WORST: Buffalo Bills - $2,900
If you are sifting through potential defense and you land on the team that is playing Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens, daily fantasy might not be for you. The NFL may one day catch up to what the Ravens are doing on offense, but it hasn’t happened yet. Stay away from defenses against Lamar Jackson. Stay far away.