Streaming Defenses: Week 3 Targets

Sep 20, 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 Baltimore Ravens finished with 12pts against the Browns, putting them on the board, tied, as a DST4. After two weeks, optimal DT streamers are averaging 11.5 fantasy points per game, or DT8 numbers.

Continue to target a defense with a home matchup or facing a below average QB/rookie. Week 3 is here, so let's look the defensive options:

Miami Dolphins vs. CLE

Yes, it’s becoming chalk to pick on the Browns, but you know what? It produces fantasy points. We like fantasy points, so I’m going to continue to suggest streaming defenses against the Browns.

I’m projecting the defensive line to feast on the offensive line like it's a backyard BBQ. Cam Erving, who was already playing bad, is going to be out, so Ndamukong Suh should be able to dominate. Suh already has a sack and three QB hits and Mario Williams is adjusting nicely to Miami’s defensive scheme.

Kiko Alonso is starting to bring pressure and Koa Misi is playing well at linebacker and can make plays in the backfield.

The Dolphins boast one of the best playmakers at safety in Reshad Jones. He can pick a ball off at any time, while causing turnovers in the offense’s backfield. Isa Abdul-Quddus has also emerged, producing an INT and two defended passes in the first two weeks.

Josh McCown is out with a shoulder injury after getting destroyed up the middle for most of the game, so that means Cody Kessler is expected to get the nod. Now, Corey Coleman is out for a period of time with a broken hand. It's only a matter of time until Clipboard Jesus, Charlie Whitehurst, is taking snaps. I can't make this stuff up.