Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
Defenses, you want an elite one and might be in a tough situation all season if you don't have at least a decent one.
But just when you think a team defense is going to pay off big time, that can't-miss unit gets decimated by injuries and then you're left getting a couple points per week.
It happens more than you think, too.
So while top-notch scoring defenses -- and they don't have to equate to real life top defenses based on statistics-- are extremely valuable, they are like kickers in fantasy football.
There are going to be values across the board, and you don't always have the jump and pay good money or draft too high to land the top squads based on projections.
But don't for one second think defenses aren't important. Remember, there are a lot of points to be had with sacks, interceptions, safeties, touchdowns, blocked kicks, special teams TDs. A high scoring output from time to time can make up for some iffy weeks by your stud players who produced like duds.
THE TOP 20
1. Pittsburgh Steelers
The defending Super Bowl champs, backed by James Harrison and Troy Polamalu, know how to rack up the points. The Steelers attacked the QB with 51 sacks, 20 INTs and 22 fumble recoveries. They even scored three touchdowns. The are solid all around and the pressure they put on opposing QBs always gives you solid points week to week.
2. Baltimore Ravens
The triple threat of Ed Reed, Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs are a scary bunch, and this a team that thrives on turnovers. While the Ravens only had 34 sacks, they did register 26 INTs, 23 fumbles and scored six touchdowns (5 INTs for TDs). They'll continue to produce and don't be afraid the land a top scoring unit.
3. Philadelphia Eagles
Pressure, pressure and more pressure. That's the philosophy of the Eagles. They sack the QB (48 last year) and get turnovers (15 INTs, 15 fumbles), and know how to score (7 combined, including special teams). DeSean Jackson also makes the Eagles dangerous on special teams.
4. Minnesota Vikings
You don't think the Vikings are very good on defense based on their mediocre record, but they can produce in fantasy. Last year the Vikings had 12 INTs and 25 fumbles, while scoring twice on fumbles, and nailing the QB 45 times. With rookie Percy Harvin in the mix, expect the special teams points to also help out. Considering how well the Vikings play the run, it's not surprising that teams have to throw and that's when mistakes are made and fantasy points are awarded.
5. San Diego Chargers
Without Shawne Merriman, the Chargers were trash last season (28 sacks), but with him back and playmaker Darren Sproles creating problems on kickoff an punt returns, expect the Chargers to be back among the best in the league. Don't sleep on this unit because they've got playmakers all over the field.
6. New York Giants
There's always a sack party going on in New York. The Giants front is unstoppable at times and it's a reason why they got 42 sacks in 2008, along with the defense getting 17 INTs and 18 fumbles. Remember, end Osi Umenyiora returns from injury and that defense gets that much better.
7. New York Jets
As much as I hate to say it, the Jets defense is pretty solid, and gets a major boost with defensive wizard, Coach Ryan, now on board. The Jets had 43 takeaways last year and 41 sacks. They also had six total scores. Oh, ya, don't forget electrifying specials teams man Leon Washington on kickoffs and punts. he makes this group that much better.
8. Tennessee Titans
Albert Haynesworth might be gone, but coach Jeff Fisher always has his defense jacked up and ready to play. Plus, they work as a team and the numbers don't lie. The Titans had 44 sacks and 20 INTs and 19 fumbles last season, including 3 touchdowns from INTs. They may not be as dominant up front with the loss of stud Haynesworth, but they are deep and talented enough to be happy you landed them on draft.
9. Dallas Cowboys
Can you believe the Cowboys had 59 sacks last year and were considered a bust? While they had 27 fumbles, they only got 8 picks and two total TDs. If they can get more consistent in the secondary and get turnovers, then watch out. Because of special teams, Felix Jones is an explosive young player that can give you a quick six points with a kickoff return. They've got enough talent to not be a bust this year.
10. Chicago Bears
Chicago knows how to score on defense and special teams (1 kickoff return, 3 fumble return TDs, 1 INT TD), but they can't get to the quarterback (only 28 sacks). Devin Hester is money on special teams, and Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs spearhead the defense. But if the Bears can get more sacks this year, they could get back to elite status.
11. Green Bay Packers
12. Carolina Panthers
13. New England Patriots
14. Washington Redskins
15. Indianapolis Colts
16. Miami Dolphins
17. Arizona Cardinals
18. Seattle Seahawks
19. Jacksonville Jaguars
20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
WATCH OUT FOR
Seattle Seahawks
Atlanta Falcons
BE WARY OF
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jacksonville Jaguars
TAKE A FLYER
New Orleans Saints
Oakland Raiders
