A lot of us will head into the fantasy football playoffs looking for a defense to stream. This can make a massive difference in the way the week goes. Of course our studs need to ball out, but anywhere we can get an edge is important. If you have already locked in your playoff position then it is time to grab a week 15 defense and try to plan for the playoff run. Some leagues have a first round bye and if you find yourself there, you can look all the way to week 16 and set yourself up nicely. The same can be said for kickers! That article will be on its way as well. Remember, we have to win to advance so we do need to be strategic in how we do this, but at this point there are certain handcuff/bench players that are worth the cut to stash an extra defense. The roster percentage of a defense being owned will be based off of ESPN leagues and looking at matchups with teams who give up the most schedule adjusted points (points above expectation) to opposing defenses.

Forget about the Eagles, Cowboys, and 49ers type defense as they are all rostered almost everywhere. The likes of the Texans, Packers, Falcons, Chiefs are all owned anywhere from 55-65% as well. If one of them are available then grab them right away and you can use them in both, if not all three playoff weeks. Let’s focus on the defenses that are owned in less than 35% of leagues and start with week 15.

Los Angeles Rams (16.9%) – The Rams will have the 3rd best matchup here as they draw the Washington Commanders at home who are allowing 4.3 points above expectation per game. The Commanders average just 20.1 points per game, while the Rams allow 21.1 a game. Washington allows the second most sacks per game in the league (4.5 a game) and on the defensive side themselves, they allow the most passing yards per game and the 19th most rushing yards per contest. The fact that the Rams will be able to move the ball effectively sets them up nicely in this spot. The Rams look to play with a lead, they should be able to turn up multiple sacks in this game and force Washington into at least one turnover, while keeping them at or below the 20 point total.

Chicago Bears (3.8%) – The Bears have quietly been a much better defense after a terrible first 5 weeks. The Browns are the 5th best matchup allowing 3.6 points above expectation per game. The Bears have put up 15, 9, and 8 the previous three weeks and have totals of 18, 11 in weeks six and seven. The Browns turn the ball over per game (2.0) more than anyone in football and allow the 7th most sacks a game (2.9). The Bears have been better the last few weeks at getting to the quarterback (2.3 sacks per) and have capitalized in the turnover market against turnover prone teams. Minnesota twice, Washington, Las Vegas, and also forced the Lions into three turnovers. Weather could play a big role here, but we should expect a low scoring contest regardless.

Los Angeles Chargers (22.5%) – The Chargers are a scary pick as always. You just never know what you are going to get with this team. The previous matchup and the Raiders likeliness of turning the ball over, mixed with streaming options gets them on the list. The Raiders are turning the ball over the 5th most per game (1.8) and are middle of the road in allowing sacks. However, the bolts were able to get to the quarterback and bring him down 7 times in the first contest, while adding two fumble recoveries and an interception. Khalil Mack had a massive day with six sacks of his own. Las Vegas is allowing 1 point above expectation per game to opposing defenses. The Raiders are scoring just 16.7 points per game and the Chargers are allowing 21.5. With the Chargers talent on the defensive side of the ball and possibly figuring something out against this Raiders offense, the Chargers may have some sneaky upside here.

Detroit Lions (32.1%) – The Lions have underperformed as a defensive unit from what we saw this team do the second half of last season. The talent level is there for this team and it has been shown in the handful of games they have been able to get after the quarterback. This matchup with the Denver Broncos may be another spot to do some of the same and have a successful day. The Broncos are allowing 3.0 sacks per game which is 7th most. If Detroit can pressure Russell Wilson there is a good chance of forcing a turnover or two. The Broncos do not light up the scoreboard at 21. 9 points per game and the Lions high powered offense usually scores regardless of the opponent. The strong running game of Detroit should create a lead for the home favorite and put pressure on the Broncos to throw. If Denver’s offensive line can hol, idt will be a so-so performance from the Detroit defense. If the Lions pass rush can break through there is potential for a big day.

If you need a defense come week 15, one of these just may save the day. Let’s hope so! Week 16 and 17 defense streamers will be on the way shortly.