Unfortunately, two of the easier units to exploit, Washington and Jacksonville, are on bye this week. Usually, the opponents of those two teams either enter the streamer category or upgrade an already strong defense to a top-five play. Instead, fantasy owners will have to navigate this week without that luxury. The good news is no every-week D/STs are off this week, as Arizona and Houston join Washington and Jacksonville on bye.

WEEK 8 PPR RANKINGS: Quarterback | Running back | Wide receiver | Tight end |  Kicker

Fortunately, two top-10 defenses are returning to action after their byes. The Ravens (vs. Steelers) and Colts (@ Lions) have both been fantastic this year, but both have tough matchups this week. However, it’s worth noting that the Ravens traded for star pass rusher Yannick Ngakoue, previously of the Vikings, while the Colts should be getting stud linebacker Darius Leonard (groin) back after he missed a couple of weeks. Neither are optimal plays this week, but given the lack of depth at the position, you can take a chance with either.

WEEK 8 STANDARD RANKINGS: Quarterback | Running back | Wide receiver | Tight end  | Kicker

Atop this week’s rankings are the Bucs and Chiefs, who are facing the Giants and Jets, respectively. Get used to seeing the opponents of the two New York teams in the top five. The Rams (@ Dolphins) also crack the top three this week, as they are taking on Tua Tagovailoa in his first start and should be able to pressure him with Aaron Donald.

WEEK 8 DFS TOURNAMENT LINEUPS: DraftKings | FanDuel

In terms of streamers, the cupboard is pretty bare. The Cowboys (@ Eagles) could be a nice play if they can take advantage of the Eagles’ banged-up offensive line, but they didn’t do much against Washington this past week (two sacks, no takeaways, 23 offensive points allowed), so they’re a huge boom-or-bust risk. Green Bay (vs. Vikings) and Tennessee (vs. Bengals) represent higher-floor options who also have fairly high ceilings. 

WEEK 8 DFS CASH LINEUPS: DraftKings | FanDuel

NOTE: Check back for updates throughout the week. 

MORE WEEK 8 DFS: Best stacks | Best values | Lineup Builder

Week 8 Fantasy Defense Rankings

WEEK 8 FANTASY: Sleepers | Busts | Start ’em, sit ’em