Top 5 (Defense)

Defense

Top 5

Steelers- The Steelers defense has been so good for so long. They are definitely a huge reason why the Steelers won Super Bowl 43. A big reason that the Steelers defense was so good last year was the outstanding performance of outside-linebackers James Harrison (defensive player of the year) and LaMarr Woodley. Together they combined for 27.5 sacks. Troy Polamalo is also probably the best safety in the NFL which is another reason the Steelers defense is so good. I think they could be even better this year than they were last year. I predict 51 sacks, 24 interceptions, and 5 touchdowns.

Giants- The only down-side to their defense this year is that defensive coordinator Steve Spagnola is gone. Other than that that the Giants defense should be great. They have a defensive line that just knocks out everyone in their path. Their line-backers are very strong and they have great defensive backs. There is no reason why they won’t be the best defense in the NFL. The Giants are also getting DE Osi Umineyora back from season ending knee surgery. I predict 45 sacks, 22 interceptions, and 5 touchdowns.

Titans- The Titans are in pretty good shape for the upcoming season. They are returning 10 of 11 starters from last year. But the starter that isn’t returning from last year is Albert Haynseworth. Albert was probably the best player on the Titans defense and is the best defensive tackle in the NFL. He’s now on the Redskins (they way overpaid for him.) But you can’t really complain about any of the starters on the Titans. They are all very solid. I predict 46 sacks, 17 interceptions, and 5 touchdowns.

Ravens- The Ravens defense is very tough but they do have some holes to fill. Veteran corners Chris McAllister, Samari Role, and Cory Ivy are gone. Also, defensive-coordinator Rex Ryan is now the head coach of the Jets. He took All-Pro line-backer Bart Scott with him. The Ravens defense has lots of questions but Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, and Ed Reed are all returning to an already tough defense. Although their defense is aging, they are still effective, and are definitely a good fantasy starter. I predict 33 sacks, 20 interceptions, and 6 touchdowns.

Eagles- The Eagles defense is getting better, a lot better. But their defensive backs will be a lot different. CB Lito Sheppard and safety’s Brian Dawkins and Sean Considine are gone. New England’s Ellis Hobbs is in and CB Asante Samuel might be the only defensive back Eagles fans will remember from last season. Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson loves to blitz and gets lots of sacks which will help you and your fantasy team. This year I predict 47 sacks, 20 interceptions, and 4 touchdowns.