You have lineup questions, we have lineup answers -- at least we hope so. Start 'Em, Sit 'Em is here to help fantasy managers make difficult roster decisions. And you know what is a good move? Starting Puka Nacua. But that's too obvious, so you won't see such simple analysis here. Instead, we're exploring more debatable situations. And if you can't find a player you are looking for, please check out the latest NFL Fantasy lineup rankings.
NOTE: Unless otherwise indicated, all stats come from NFL Pro, Next Gen Stats or NFL Research.
Start 'Em
The Titans have allowed sacks and pressure at the second-highest rate in the NFL. Drops have also been an issue, as the receivers continue to make life as tough as possible on their rookie QB. And they've unsurprisingly struggled to put points on the board. It's why three of the four defenses they faced this season have scored at least 13 fantasy points against them ... and the other one scored eight. The Titans are the top team to stream against.
The Lions have 14 sacks and six takeaways in the last three games. They scored 19 fantasy points last week and eight apiece in the two prior, demonstrating both a safe floor and big upside. Now they get the Bengals, who have struggled with sacks and turnovers under Jake Browning . Last week, the Broncos defense scored 10 fantasy points against them, and the Vikings went for 30 the week prior. If the Titans are the top streaming target, the Bengals are No. 2 right now.
The Vikings defense has had three duds and one week-winning performance so far this season. This could be an upside week, though, with Minnesota set to face a rookie passer making his first career NFL start. Although it’s possible the QB change pays off -- the Browns offense under Joe Flacco was an absolute mess through the first four games -- Dillon Gabriel will have his hands full against a Brian Flores-led defense that gives even veteran signal-callers fits.
Both defenses are in play in this one! Despite being a very tough real-life defense, the Browns have not had a ton of fantasy success. However, the Vikings have allowed sacks at the highest rate in the NFL. The Steelers got to Carson Wentz six times in Week 4. Minnesota has given up at least three sacks in each game. The Browns are worth starting in their game across the pond.
The Colts have had two big fantasy performances and two not-so-big days. This week could be another big one, as Geno Smith has thrown a league-high seven interceptions. The Raiders have also taken sacks at the sixth-highest rate in the NFL. You should be chasing sacks and turnovers when you stream defenses, which puts the Colts in play in Week 5.
Sit 'Em
The Broncos are a really good defensive unit, both in real life and in fantasy. However, they face the Eagles this week, who haven't allowed more than five fantasy points to an opposing defense this year. In fact, Philly has allowed three or fewer in three of its four games. If you want to roll with the Broncos this week instead of dropping them or rostering two units, fair enough. But if you're fighting for a win, I'd go in a different direction.
Both defenses are benched in this one! The Broncos have taken sacks at the second-lowest rate in the NFL. Denver does a good job of taking care of the ball, as well. Plus, the Eagles tend to get every team's best effort -- the downside of being the reigning champs -- and have scored double-digit fantasy points only once through four games. There are better options out there.
The Jags might seem like a team worth streaming against -- with Trevor Lawrence and the passing game struggling to produce -- but then you realize they have surrendered sacks at the lowest rate in the NFL through the first month of the season. No defense has scored more than five fantasy points against Jacksonville this year. And the Chiefs have only scored double-digit points once in the opening month. This feels like a trap.
The Cowboys have been playing well on offense. Even with CeeDee Lamb sidelined last Sunday night, they were able to consistently move the ball against a tough Packers defense. They have allowed five fantasy points or fewer to opposing defenses in three of the first four weeks. Plus, their own defense gives up a ton of points, which usually means the Cowboys get into catch-up mode, leading to high-scoring contests. Play skill players against them, not defenses.
The Chargers can beat teams in a number of ways. They have a strong rushing attack, a three-headed monster at receiver and an up-and-coming tight end. No defense has reached double-digit fantasy points against them this season. Twice, those defenses have scored five or fewer points. This game also has fireworks potential if Jayden Daniels (knee) is indeed back. Get away from Washington.
