Week 12 Defensive/Special Teams Wire Watch
Welcome to the Week 12 edition of the Defensive/Special Teams Wire Watch! The NFL weekend has wrapped up, so maybe it’s best not to dwell on the games just yet. With Thanksgiving coming up quickly, fantasy playoffs are right around the corner. It’s time to gear up for the postseason.
We’ll be diving into some D/ST units that you might want to consider grabbing off the waiver wire ahead of Week 12. As always, we’ll highlight players who are less than 50% rostered in leagues.
Week 12 Bye Teams
Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Chargers, Miami Dolphins, Washington Commanders
Cleveland Browns D/ST (40.6%)
The Browns faced their third consecutive loss with a close 23-16 defeat against the Ravens. However, it’s hard to point fingers at the defense. They put significant pressure on Lamar Jackson, accumulating five sacks and two interceptions, one helping to set up a touchdown. If only the Browns’ offense could have carried the weight, it could have been a different story.
Cleveland’s defense is averaging 8.0 fantasy points per game—pretty impressive, really. They’re ranked fourth in EPA per play, third in interception rate, and second in sack rate. This Sunday, they take on the Raiders, and, given Geno Smith’s issues with turnovers, they could really shine in this matchup.
Las Vegas Raiders D/ST (4.3%)
On the flip side, the Raiders’ D/ST must be feeling optimistic about facing Shedule Sanders during his first NFL start. Sanders stepped in for the injured Dillon Gabriel against the Ravens but had a rough outing, completing only four out of 16 passes and throwing for just 47 yards along with an interception and two sacks.
While Las Vegas’ defense hasn’t been stellar this season, this matchup feels like an opportunity. Sanders will likely be more prepared after a week of practice, but based on his last game, I’d be hurrying to snag the Raiders off the waiver wire this week.
Chicago Bears D/ST (27.9%)
The Bears are riding high with a three-game winning streak, clinching the top spot in the NFC North after edging past the Vikings 19-17. They really put the heat on JJ McCarthy, racking up five passes defended and two interceptions. The kick returner also made a significant impact, averaging 36 yards per return.
This Sunday, they’re set to face the Steelers, who may have Aaron Rodgers limited by a broken wrist or be relying on backup Mason Rudolph. Either scenario might give Chicago’s defense the chance to really make a mark.
