Streaming Defenses: Week 17 Targets

Dec 27, 2016

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 with the great matchup. This practice is commonly known as streaming defenses. Every week, you target a mediocre defense with a great matchup against a weak QB or offensive line.

We have been writing this streaming feature for seven 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 2015. 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.

Last week, the San Diego Chargers finished with 10 fantasy points, putting them on the board as the DST5. Through 16 weeks, our suggestions are averaging nearly 11 fantasy points per game.

As always, continue to target a defense with a home matchup or facing a below average or rookie QB. It’s Week 17 and most league championship weeks were in Week 16, however, if you’re playing for a title in Week 17, we have you covered. If streaming got you here, no reason to stop now. Thank you once again to all of the readers of this article. I appreciate you taking the time to read and I’d like to wish everyone a Happy New Year!

Now, let’s take a look at who we’re targeting this week:

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. CLE

This would be the top defense to target for you title game if they’re on your wire. Cleveland comes to a hostile crowd after an emotional win and I don’t see Pittsburgh’s defense relenting this week.

Stephon Tuitt has had a better second-half, recording three sacks in his last five games and eight QB hits. He’s also helped force two turnovers. He’s been a force on the defensive line since Cameron Heyward went down.

The linebacking group is going to give the Browns’ offensive line fits. James Harrison leads the team in sacks and has forced three turnovers. Ryan Shazier has also made big plays for the defense, recording 2.5 sacks and two INTs. Bud Dupree and Arthur Moats also can get to the QB and have combined for seven sacks.

Artie Burns leads the Steeler defense in picks with three and has 12 defended passes.

It appears that the Steelers are resting some offensive guys but I don’t see any of the defense resting, however, it is possible. I still don’t think Cleveland’s offense is going to be able to move the ball. Cleveland is allowing the 2nd most aFPA to opposing defenses and Pittsburgh is available in 58 percent of leagues.