Streaming Defenses: Week 8 Fantasy Football Targets

Oct 24, 2017

Generally, defenses have to be available on the waiver wire in at least 40% of Yahoo fantasy leagues to be eligible as a streaming option. This ensures we are talking about defenses that are readily available.

Last week, the Rams were our top-scoring defense with 17 fantasy points against the Cardinals and finished as the DST4 in most formats. In Week 7, our targets averaged 10.4 points and, overall, our streaming picks are averaging 10.5 FP/game.

Continue to target a defense with a home matchup or facing a below average or rookie QB or making a long road trip. Week 8 is here, and we have six teams on bye, so let's look the defensive options we're targeting this week:

Atlanta Falcons vs. NYJ

The Jets have played well, however, the Falcons had some players return from injury. The Jets still have average NFL talent and the Falcons defense has some playmakers.

Vic Beasley returned in Week 6 and had an impact for the defense in Week 7 against the Patriots, one of the only few highlights for the Atlanta. Beasley recorded his first sack since returning from injury and turned in a QB hit, so he presents a threat of pressure. Brooks Reed is also capable of getting to the QB.

Deion Jones is now leading the team in tackles after posting consecutive games of 11 or more tackles. Jones also recorded his first INT of the season in Week 6, so he's able to turn the ball over if the ball comes near him.

After recording 17 tackles in the first three games, Keanu Neal has notched 25 tackles in his last three. He's defended two passes over three weeks and he's capable of punching the ball out. Desmond Trufant is one of the top cover corners, so he'll have INT upside this week if the ball comes near him.

Josh McCown has turned in a few solid games, but it appears the Falcons' defense is at full health heading into Week 8. Atlanta's defense is available in 79% of leagues and the Jets are a bottom-15 offense in aFPA to opposing defenses.

Continue reading for three more defense streaming options, plus two deep league candidates...