Week 4 Defense: Who To Start & Sit!

Hey guys! Welcome to Week 4, where we're diving deep into the wild world of defensive matchups in fantasy football. Knowing which defenses to start and which to sit can be the difference between a win and a loss, so let's get right to it. We'll break down the defenses you should be confidently starting this week and the ones that might be better off on your bench. Let's make sure you're setting your lineups for success!

Start 'Em

When looking at defenses to confidently start, it's all about the matchups and recent performances. You want defenses that are facing struggling offenses, especially those prone to turnovers or sacks. A solid defense can give you a significant edge in your fantasy matchup, racking up points through sacks, interceptions, fumble recoveries, and even defensive touchdowns. Let's highlight a few defenses that have great matchups this week.

Jacksonville Jaguars (vs. Atlanta Falcons)

The Jacksonville Jaguars are looking like a fantastic start this week. After a shaky Week 1, they've really found their stride, showcasing the defensive prowess we expected from them coming into the season. This week, they face off against the Atlanta Falcons, a team that, while capable, has shown vulnerabilities, especially in protecting their quarterback. The Jaguars' pass rush, led by players like Josh Allen and Travon Walker, should be able to pressure Desmond Ridder into making mistakes.

Moreover, the Jaguars' secondary is opportunistic and capable of generating turnovers. If they can force Ridder into a few bad decisions, interceptions could be on the horizon. The Falcons' offense is also heavily reliant on their run game, which the Jaguars' defense is well-equipped to handle. With a strong front seven and a secondary ready to capitalize on errors, the Jaguars are poised for a big fantasy day. So, fire them up with confidence!

Seattle Seahawks (vs. New York Giants)

The Seattle Seahawks at home against the New York Giants? Yes, please! The Giants' offense has been struggling mightily to find any rhythm, and their offensive line has been a sieve, allowing constant pressure on Daniel Jones. The Seahawks' defense, which has shown flashes of brilliance, should be able to take advantage of this. With a raucous home crowd behind them, expect the Seahawks to bring the heat and make life miserable for Jones.

The Seahawks have playmakers at all levels of their defense, from their defensive line to their linebackers and secondary. They're capable of generating sacks, turnovers, and even defensive scores. Given the Giants' offensive woes, the Seahawks have a high floor this week and a very appealing ceiling. Don't hesitate to plug them into your starting lineup. They're set to feast on the Giants' offensive struggles. — Danville VA Active Warrants: How To Check & What To Do

Kansas City Chiefs (vs. Chicago Bears)

Don't look now, but the Kansas City Chiefs defense is quietly becoming a reliable fantasy option. They've been generating consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks and have shown an ability to force turnovers. This week, they get a dream matchup against the Chicago Bears, who have been one of the worst offenses in the league. Justin Fields has been under constant duress, and the Bears' offensive line has been unable to provide adequate protection. — Erie Obituaries: Latest Death Notices Today

The Chiefs' defensive line, led by Chris Jones, should have a field day against the Bears' porous offensive line. Moreover, the Chiefs' secondary is opportunistic and capable of capitalizing on Fields' mistakes. With the Bears likely playing from behind, expect them to be forced into passing situations, which should play right into the Chiefs' hands. The Chiefs are a must-start this week, with the potential for a huge fantasy performance. They are definitely trending upwards.

Sit 'Em

On the flip side, knowing which defenses to sit is just as crucial. Sometimes, even a normally reliable defense can have a tough matchup that makes them a risky play. You don't want to start a defense that's likely to get torched, as negative points can be a real lineup killer. Let's take a look at some defenses that you might want to keep on your bench this week.

Denver Broncos (vs. Miami Dolphins)

The Denver Broncos are a defense to avoid this week. While they have some talented players, they're facing a buzzsaw in the Miami Dolphins' offense. The Dolphins have been lighting up the scoreboard with their explosive passing game and dynamic playmakers. Tua Tagovailoa has been playing at an MVP level, and the Dolphins' receivers, Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, are virtually uncoverable.

The Broncos' secondary is simply not equipped to handle the Dolphins' aerial assault. Expect the Dolphins to put up big numbers through the air, limiting the Broncos' opportunities for sacks and turnovers. This is a matchup where the Broncos are likely to get shredded, making them a very risky fantasy play. Keep them on your bench and look for a better option. The potential for negative points is simply too high.

Green Bay Packers (vs. Detroit Lions)

The Green Bay Packers are typically a solid defensive unit, but this week's matchup against the Detroit Lions is one to be wary of. The Lions have one of the best offensive lines in the league, which gives Jared Goff plenty of time to make reads and distribute the ball to his talented receivers and running backs. The Lions' offense is balanced and efficient, making them a tough matchup for any defense.

The Packers' pass rush may struggle to get to Goff consistently, and their secondary could have difficulty containing the Lions' diverse receiving corps. This is a game where the Lions are likely to control the clock and limit the Packers' opportunities to generate turnovers. The Packers are a sit this week. There are better, safer options available on the waiver wire.

Pittsburgh Steelers (vs. Houston Texans)

The Pittsburgh Steelers defense is usually a reliable fantasy option, but this week's matchup against the Houston Texans presents some concerns. While the Texans may not be an offensive juggernaut, they've shown signs of improvement, and rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud has been playing with poise and confidence. The Steelers' pass rush, while still formidable, may not have as much success against Stroud, who has been getting the ball out quickly. — Laurel County Jail Tracker: Your Guide

Additionally, the Texans' running game has been surprisingly effective, which could help them control the clock and keep the Steelers' defense off the field. This is a game where the Steelers could struggle to generate sacks and turnovers, limiting their fantasy upside. While they're not a must-sit, there are likely better options available on your waiver wire. Consider other matchups before plugging the Steelers into your starting lineup.

Alright, guys, that wraps up our Start 'Em, Sit 'Em for Week 4 defenses! Make sure to stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the week progresses. Good luck with your matchups, and let's bring home those wins!