The Los Angeles Rams and New England Patriots D/STs both found success in Week 13, with each team managing to score at least one defensive touchdown. The Rams are the third ranked D/ST so far this season, averaging 8.9 fantasy points per game. The Patriots are the seventh ranked D/ST so far this season, averaging 7.1 points per game. They blew their season average out of the water this past week, when they had a season high 28.0 points with two touchdowns, two interceptions, and three sacks. With such great performances from both teams in Week 13, can a repeat occurrence be expected from either of them in Week 14?
Fantasy Football Analysis: Rams D/ST, Patriots D/ST
The Rams D/ST have stifled opposing quarterbacks and wide receivers so far this season, allowing the second fewest points to each of the positions. They have averaged 3.0 sacks per game and they have scored a touchdown in each of the last two games. The Patriots may have scored 45 points in their last game, but it was against a far less talented defense. Cam Newton has also had his fair share of turnovers this season, which makes for more opportunity for the Los Angeles D/ST. They are nearing the territory of a matchup proof D/ST and they can be started with confidence in Week 14.
The Patriots D/ST made a splash in Week 13, but had a string of disappointing performances prior to that game. The Rams are middle of the pack in points allowed to opposing D/ST’s this season, making them neither a matchup to avoid nor a matchup to target. With their recent strong performance, and middle of the road match-up the Patriots D/ST can be considered towards the lower end of starting capability in standard leagues this week, but are worth starting nonetheless.
Start/Sit Recommendation
Start Rams D/ST
Start Patriots D/ST