There are some juicy defensive matchup this week, the kind of one-sided affairs where a team with a playmaker or two in its front seven or secondary can really have a big game. And even if they are running back interceptions for points, there are at least a few defenses this week capable of putting up fantasy points just by keeping their opponents off the score board. Here are recommendations for two can’t-miss starts and two teams to avoid at all costs.
D/ST Starts
Los Angeles Rams
It all starts with Aaron Donald. After destroying the Cowboys last week, he gets to feast on an Eagles offensive line that gave up eight sacks to Washington last week. Then, you factor in injuries to Philly’s receiver corps, and the Rams secondary should not only have an easy go at it, they should produce some turnovers as well.
Buffalo Bills
With a game against the Miami Dolphins, the Bills defense might feel like they’re just having a really good practice by the time the final whistle blows. It’s such a one-sided affair, that it’s too obvious not to go with the Bills here. But what really makes this one attractive is the potential for Ryan Fitzpatrick turnovers. He threw three picks last week against the Patriots, and figures to be looking at another rough outing on Sunday.
D/ST Sits
Indianapolis Colts
So much for a cakewalk against the Jaguars last week. Indy’s defense single-handedly put the Gardner Minshew hype train into overdrive, giving up 27 points, while barely able to muster four fantasy points themselves. Things only get harder this week against a Vikings team that can at least move the football.
Atlanta Falcons
To be honest, I’m not sure there’s ever a week that the Falcons defense should be in your lineup. They gave Russell Wilson’s MVP campaign a huge boost last week, and all signs point to another difficult week against a healthy Cowboys offense.