Week 5 Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: 3 Defenses You Must Claim

When it comes to defenses in fantasy football, you look for matchups. Sure, there are always some stalwart defenses, but even they are worth benching if the right matchup comes your way.

To look for a good matchup, ask yourself the following questions about the opposition:

Will the offense score a lot of points?

Will the offense surrender a lot of sacks?

Will the offense turn the ball over?

If you answered "no" to the first question and "yes" to the next two, you have to claim that defense.

In fact, if you gave the appropriate answer to two of the three, you need to claim these defenses. Since they are all owned in fewer than 50 percent of ESPN leagues, I am guessing that at least one is available to you. 

New York Giants

Two words come to mind: Seattle Seahawks. Actually, two more come to mind: Tarvaris Jackson.

On the road, Seattle has been inept on offense this year. 

They have a hard time protecting Jackson, who turns the ball over a lot. This is a match made in heaven for the Giants.

Yes, New York are a little beaten up with injuries, but Seattle is not the team to expose them. 

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals have actually had a decent total of points allowed per game this year. I like Blaine Gabbert, but I am not sure he has the weapons in place to put up big numbers just yet.

Cincinnati did a great job of containing Ryan Fitzpatrick and the Buffalo offense in Week 4. I really like their chances of keeping that going for another week. 

San Francisco 49ers

I am not necessarily predicting a 49ers win in this one. The Buccaneers have been remarkably clutch this year.

However, in fantasy, clutch points are no different than mop up points. I am really not expecting a lot of points in this one.

Tampa's not available in as many leagues, but either defense will probably play okay in this one. I expect a lot punts, a few turnovers and a game with both teams below 20 points. Even if you have the losing team, your fantasy day will probably be okay.