Fantasy Football Rankings 2011: New Orleans Saints and 3 Defenses Sure to Shock

You never want to reach too much for a defense in fantasy. It's a position that can generally be streamed as the season goes on.

So, while defenses like the Jets, Eagles, Ravens and Steelers are nice, they shouldn't be reached for.

This is especially true when you consider that there are other defenses that are more than capable of picking up some points.

Let's take a look at a few that aren't necessarily ranked high that can earn some points for their owners.

New Orleans Saints

 The Saints are ranked No. 8 according to ESPN. In 2009, they were one of the best teams at forcing turnovers in the NFL. In 2010, they were probably the worst.

Now, the Saints have added some bulk up front, which will allow the secondary to be more aggressive in forcing turnovers.

Will they surrender some points? Yes, and that makes fantasy owners nervous.

But they will also record a lot of sacks and should get back to the top of the NFL in turnovers. Also, when the Saints get interceptions, they are a threat to take them back to the house.

This is a team that will earn plenty of points for fantasy owners.

Detroit Lions

 Are you surprised that this team is on this list? So am I, don't worry.

ESPN has them as the No. 12 ranked defense.

But how many offensive lines can stop their front line led by Ndamukong Suh?

That line will go a long way in getting sacks, forcing bad passes, which will lead to interceptions.

The one understandable fear is that the Lions have a quarterback in Matthew Stafford who's prone to both interceptions and injuries. Also, their running game is questionable.

That means that the Lions will potentially be on the field a lot, which turns into points.

I get that fear, but I also see that extra time on the field resulting in sacks and turnovers. This is better than a top-12 defense.

Buffalo Bills

 While it has some flaws, I like this team's front line. I also like the fact that they don't play in a particularly daunting offensive division.

OK, there is one glaring exception to that. No, I wouldn't play these guys when they lock up with Tom Brady and company.

But playing in Buffalo means that some late season games are likely to be low scoring.

Nick Barnett will help the defense when he's on the field.

I like this team because they’re likely to have some low-scoring games and get some sacks on opposing quarterbacks.

ESPN has these guys ranked at No. 28. If they finish they year anywhere near that low, I would be stunned.