Streaming Defenses: Week 3 Targets
When it comes to drafting a defense, I’m not someone to start the run. I’d rather wait until the end of the draft and play the defense that has the great match-up.
This practice is commonly known as streaming defenses. Every week, you target a mediocre defense that has a great matchup against a weak QB or offensive line. We have been writing this streaming feature for six years -- offering readers several available-on-the-waiver-wire defense picks each week -- and they averaged DT5, DT6, DT7, DT10, DT8 and DT7 numbers from 2009 to 2014. Generating top 10 DT numbers off the waiver wire allows fantasy owners to basically ignore the position on draft day, instead focusing on more important areas during the draft.
Generally, defenses have to be available on the waiver wire in at least 40% of Yahoo fantasy leagues to be eligible. This ensures we are talking about defenses that are readily available.
Week 1 was rough, with all of the defensive targets getting abused. Tampa Bay, Oakland, Minnesota and Cleveland all gave up points. Week 2, we bounced back as Denver got after Kansas City and finished as a DT1. The Jets gave Andrew Luck fits, causing five turnovers and finished as a DT5. If it weren't for garbage points, Pittsburgh could've finished higher but they finished as a DT10. I think the biggest disappointment was Tennessee against the Browns.
Now, on to your defensive targets for Week 3:
Indianapolis Colts (vs. Tennessee Titans)
It's tough to recommend a road team, but the Colts' defense will look to take advantage of a Titan offense that was embarrassed by the Browns in Week 2. The Colts do have some playmakers on defense that can help get some fantasy points.
The big surprise on the defense has been rookie lineman, Henry Anderson. He’s rushing the passer and making plays on the ball. Trent Cole is always capable of sacking the QB and Robert Mathis has finally returned from an Achilles’ injury.
The secondary features Vontae Davis and Mike Adams, who recorded an INT in Week 2. The Colts are looking for a W and will be looking to take advantage of a division match-up.
