As we head into Week 8 of the fantasy football season, it’s crucial to keep an eye on streaming defenses, especially with several teams on bye. If you successfully utilized the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a defensive option last week, you likely came away with a satisfying win. The Bucs showcased an impressive performance against the Carolina Panthers, racking up 25 fantasy points through numerous sacks, turnovers, and a blocked kick.
Top Streaming Options
This week, with the San Francisco 49ers, Houston Texans, New York Giants, and New Orleans Saints taking a rest, you may find yourself in need of a solid D/ST option. Here’s a handy list of defenses to target as you plan your lineup:
- Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts - 40% Rostered
- Cincinnati Bengals vs. Tennessee Titans - 24% Rostered
- Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks - 26% Rostered
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Atlanta Falcons - 6% Rostered
- Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 2% Rostered
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Indianapolis Colts
The Jaguars are coming off their bye week, ready to capitalize on a Colts offense that has struggled significantly this season. Indianapolis is currently on a three-game losing streak, lacking any serious threat on the field. With the Jaguars back home, expect them to aggressively pursue quarterback Daniel Jones. They have managed to generate turnovers in five of their six outings this year, making them a prudent streaming choice.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Tennessee Titans
After showing defensive strides this season, the Bengals recently held the Baltimore Ravens to just 13 points, even without their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. In what shapes up to be a favorable matchup at home against the Titans, the Bengals present a reliable floor for fantasy scoring. With a consistent performance that has seen them achieve at least nine fantasy points in four of their six games, they should be a solid pickup.
Chicago Bears at Seattle Seahawks
The Bears come equipped with a pass rush that has been enhanced by imaginative scheming, making them a competitive choice this week. The Seahawks, meanwhile, have only managed to score a total of 34 points across their last two games. Seattle’s offense has tended to lean heavily on Jaxon Smith-Njigba, making them predictable. Their offensive struggles have also afforded opposing defenses to capitalize, and they currently rank as the fifth-most generous team towards fantasy D/ST units.
Florida Load Out
Finally, while the Buccaneers put on a stellar display last week, they are also on the radar. Against a struggling Falcons team, their low roster percentage makes them an intriguing choice for this week. Defenses can turn a fantasy week around, and with the right matchups, any of these teams could deliver valuable points to your lineup.
As you set your lineup, keep these defenses in mind and optimize your chances for a strong weekly performance!