With the season nearly halfway over, it’s time to reassess which real life defenses are most friendly for opposing fantasy players and which are the stingiest. Considering how quickly things change in the NFL, these rankings are very fluid year-to-year and even week-to-week.
Defenses: Who To Avoid, Who To Circle On The Calendar
Few would’ve thought the Broncos, who were a laughingstock defensively last year, would emerge as a top unit this year, while the Titans would completely fall apart as a unit. Likewise, while the Texans were gouged on the ground through the year’s first quarter, they have tightened considerably in the last few weeks, as rookie linebacker Brian Cushing has gotten back to full health.
With the fantasy playoffs closer than you think, take a look at these rankings and try to target players with advantageous matchups in trades. Beanie Wells is a strong option, as the Cardinals play the Lions and Rams (who are in the bottom quartile of rushing defense) in Weeks 15 and 16.
Without further ado, here are defensive ranks through Week 7.
Five Toughest Run Defenses (descending order)
1. Arizona
2. Pittsburgh
3. Denver
4. Miami
5. Cincinnati
Five Easiest Run Defenses
1. Buffalo
2. Cleveland
3. Oakland
4. Tampa Bay
5. San Diego
Five Toughest Pass Defenses
1. Carolina
2. Giants
3. Washington
4. Green Bay
5. New England
Five Easiest Pass Defenses
1. Tennessee
2. Jacksonville
3. Detroit
4. Arizona
5. Cincinnati
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