## NFL Fantasy 2024 Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em: Defenses for Week 16
With the NFL regular season winding down, fantasy football owners are entering crunch time. Every start and sit decision becomes crucial, especially when it comes to the defense/special teams (DST) position. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the right calls for Week 16:
### Start ‘Em
**1. Los Angeles Rams (vs. Carolina Panthers)**
The Rams defense has been on a tear lately, allowing just 16.0 points per game over their last four contests. They face a Panthers offense that ranks near the bottom of the league in scoring and has been particularly ineffective on the road.
**2. San Francisco 49ers (vs. Washington Commanders)**
The 49ers defense has been a force all season, ranking first in the NFL in points allowed (15.3 per game). They get a favorable matchup against a Commanders offense that has struggled to score consistently this year.
**3. Buffalo Bills (vs. Chicago Bears)**
The Bills defense has been opportunistic all season, forcing 17 turnovers. They face a Bears offense that has given up the most sacks (59) in the NFL and is prone to mistakes.
### Sit ‘Em
**1. Philadelphia Eagles (vs. Dallas Cowboys)**
The Eagles defense has been strong against the run but has struggled against the pass. They face a Cowboys offense that boasts one of the most explosive passing attacks in the league, led by Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb.
**2. Minnesota Vikings (vs. New York Giants)**
The Vikings defense has allowed the most passing yards in the NFL this season. They face a Giants offense that has been clicking lately, led by Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley.
**3. Jacksonville Jaguars (vs. Houston Texans)**
The Jaguars defense has been surprisingly good this year, but they face a tough matchup against a Texans offense that has been playing well lately. Davis Mills has been efficient and Dameon Pierce has emerged as a reliable running back.
### Matchup Analysis
**Favorable Matchups:**
* Los Angeles Rams (vs. Carolina Panthers)
* San Francisco 49ers (vs. Washington Commanders)
* Buffalo Bills (vs. Chicago Bears)
**Unfavorable Matchups:**
* Philadelphia Eagles (vs. Dallas Cowboys)
* Minnesota Vikings (vs. New York Giants)
* Jacksonville Jaguars (vs. Houston Texans)
### Waiver Wire Targets
If you need to stream a defense for Week 16, consider these options:
* **Detroit Lions (vs. Atlanta Falcons)**: The Lions defense has been playing well lately and faces a Falcons offense that has been inconsistent.
* **Seattle Seahawks (vs. Kansas City Chiefs)**: The Seahawks defense has the potential for big plays and faces a Chiefs offense that has been vulnerable to turnovers.
* **New Orleans Saints (vs. Cleveland Browns)**: The Saints defense has allowed the fewest yards per play in the NFL this season and faces a Browns offense that has struggled to move the ball.
### Conclusion
Making the right DST start/sit decisions can make a big difference in your fantasy football success. By considering the matchups and the latest trends, you can give yourself an edge over your opponents and secure a victory in Week 16.