Top-Five Fantasy Defenses

With open dates and losing four or more viable skill-position fantasy options in Thursdays' Browns/Broncos game, drafting later in the week will make these defensive units that much more important. Be certain to get one of these top-five game/week changing defenses.

Carolina Panthers (@Oak): Remember, I don’t normally favor road defenses, but Carolina in Oakland is an exception. Carolina only has 11 takeaways and 13 sacks on the season; however, the Raiders' offense turns the ball over at least once a game and they have allowed 22 sacks on the season. BTW, the Raiders got shut out last week.

Tennessee Titans (@Chi): The Bears have allowed 15 sacks on the season and Rex Grossman may take over at quarterback. Tennessee is second in the league in takeaways (18), and they have also accumulated 22 sacks on the season. The Bears won’t be able to run the ball, and Grossman will be forced into several tough situations.

Miami Dolphins (Sea): With the exception of the 49ers game (34 points) Seattle averages eight points in three road losses. On the other hand, Miami is allowing 18.2 points per game at home and has recorded 15 takeaways through eight games. This defense has played decent all season and I expect them to play a major role in a Miami home win. Besides, Joey Porter is running his mouth.

Pittsburgh Steelers (Ind): I have watched people actually draft Joseph Addai this week. Which means they’re Addai fans—or they’re totally unaware that the Steelers lead the league in total defense, sacks (32), and takeaways (12) through eight games. The Pittsburgh defense is a must draft on a weekly basis.

San Diego Chargers (K.C.): How could the Chargers' defense ever make a top-five list? First, they got rid of their defensive playcaller, Ted Cottrell. Second, they’re coming off of bye week. Third, they play at home against a team that ranks last or near last in all major offensive categories. Need I say more?