By Bart Lopez
1. Miami Dolphins: Miami takes the top spot after its first win of the season against Kansas City. The Dolphins don’t have a great defense, but are facing a very poor Redskins offense this Sunday. Washington averages just 89.9 rushing yards per game. Expect the Dolphins to slow down the Redskins offense in front of a home crowd. Projected fantasy points: 21.1.
2. Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens have one of the best defenses in football. Baltimore is ranked fifth in opponent passing yards and third in opponent rushing yards. Last week, it held Pittsburgh to just 20 points. The Ravens play the 2-6 Seahawks this weekend. It’s safe to assume their defense is going to have a great fantasy day. Projected fantasy points: 20.3.
3. Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles defense struggled again on Monday night football. They gave up 30 points at home to the Chicago Bears. Luckily for fantasy owners, Philadelphia plays Arizona this weekend at home. The Cardinals have one of the worst offenses in football, so this week is the best time to start the Eagles defense. Projected fantasy points: 20.0.
4. Washington Redskins: The Redskins take the fourth spot after their fourth straight loss. Washington has a decent defense, ranked 11th in opponent passing yards. This week it faces Miami on the road. The Dolphins don’t have a very potent offense, so expect the Redskins to hold them to under 20 points. Projected fantasy points: 17.0.
5. Green Bay Packers: The Packers have been winning games thanks to the best offense in football. The reality is that they don’t have a very good defense. Their biggest weakness is defending the pass, as they give up the second most passing yards per game. Luckily, Green Bay’s opponent on Sunday, Minnesota, has one of the worst passing games in football. Projected fantasy points: 15.4.
Not top 5, but could be: This week’s defense that just missed the cut is that of Jacksonville. The Jaguars play the winless Colts this weekend. The Indianapolis offense is just plain bad, failing to score over 20 points in the past four games. The Jags defense should have a field day. Projected fantasy points: 14.5.
