Week 6 Fantasy Football Rankings: Projecting the Top Team Defenses for Weekend

Although it is often overlooked, choosing the best team defense in fantasy football can make the difference in a matchup. 

While many fantasy owners choose to keep one top D/ST in their lineup the entire season, a smarter player will adjust weekly in order to find the best matchup and get the most points possible.

These people are in luck in Week 6, as there are a number of quality options likely available on the waiver wire to add and start. Here is a look at the rankings for the upcoming week, along with some sleeper options.

Indianapolis Colts (30.2 percent owned)

After shutting down the San Francisco 49ers and Jacksonville Jaguars, the Seattle Seahawks proved to be a tougher challenge. However, the Colts defense still had a solid game while also adding a touchdown on a blocked field goal.

This was the second game in a row the unit scored a touchdown and the third week of at least 10 fantasy points. 

In Week 6, Indianapolis will face Philip Rivers and the San Diego Chargers. The quarterback reverted back to his old form last game, throwing three interceptions against the Oakland Raiders for a total of five on the season.

With starting running back Ryan Mathews possibly out with a concussion, the Colts have a good chance of keeping this offense off the board.

Carolina Panthers (37.1 percent owned)

While Cam Newton's struggles are obvious, the Panthers actually have a very good defense. In the last two games, the squad has forced six turnovers to go with nine total sacks.

Greg Hardy and Charles Johnson represent one of the best pass-rushing tandems in the NFL, and they are both capable of having huge days.

They will go up against the mistake-prone Minnesota Vikings, who will likely struggle no matter who is under center. Christian Ponder, Matt Cassel or even new signing Josh Freeman could see the field, according to NFL.com, but none of them represent good options.

The Panthers should be able to get at least a few turnovers to have a strong day in fantasy.

Cleveland Browns (17.4 percent owned)

Going against the Detroit Lions can be hit-or-miss. The squad proved this week that it cannot do much offensively without Calvin Johnson, and there are times the group struggles even with him.

However, the 40-point outburst against the Bears in Week 4 proved it can be rough to go against them.

Still, the Browns have surprisingly been one of the most consistent fantasy defenses in football. The squad has scored at least seven points in standard leagues every week, with an average of 11.4. That number has jumped to 14 per game in the last three weeks.

The team gets turnovers, sacks and touchdowns, which is good enough for a start on your team.

Note: All stats and league information courtesy of ESPN. 

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