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The old saying is that defense wins championships. While I definitely believe that you need a great defense to be successful, I don’t think it has as much of a value as in years past. The Kansas City Chiefs have arguably the best defense in both real and fantasy football, but they have proven that if they fall behind on the scoreboard that they might not have the offensive firepower to mount a comeback. Yet in fantasy football there were some key injuries to defensive players that could impact your fantasy teams in either team defenses or IDP leagues. Here’s what you need to know about your guys.
Chiefs’ linebacker Justin Houston is among the leaders in defensive scoring and a key component of the Kansas City defense. During the game, Houston injured his right elbow to a scary extent when it literally popped out of place. He was scheduled to have an MRI on it Monday, but it was too swollen to continue with those plans. Owners need to start looking for replacements in both IDP and streamers of team D/ST’s.
To extrapolate things for the Chiefs, Tamba Hali has a minor ankle sprain. Fortunately, he avoided the dreaded high ankle sprain, and is listed as day to day. The Chiefs could be in for a long game next week when the Denver Broncos come to Arrowhead. IDP owners should also have a backup plan ready.
Shutdown corner Darrelle Revis left the game with a groin injury, giving a boost to the production of Calvin Johnson and Matthew Stafford. The results of his MRI were not available as this article was posted. Revis should not be in any IDP lineups as he is outside the top 150 in IDP scoring. Streamers of team D/ST’s should not be starting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as they face a Carolina Panthers team allowing the fourth fewest points to opposing D/ST’s.
Like Revis, Antonio Cromartie injured his hip on a non contact injury which always is a scare, especially for a player who has been plagued with hip injuries for over five years. Cromartie has a lower point total on the season than Revis, and should not be in any IDP lineups even when healthy. The New York Jets team D/ST still has an attractive matchup next week, hosting the Miami Dolphins. Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill has been sacked more than any other quarterback in the league, and Miami is allowing the ninth most fantasy points against opposing D/ST’s.
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie left the game Sunday night. The severity of his shoulder injury is unknown at this point. Although a key part of the Broncos defense, there should be minimal fantasy impact as the only reliable offensive threat for the Chiefs is Jamaal Charles.
As always, I welcome your comments. If you think I’m wrong, I’m willing to listen. Just back it up with some facts and solid evidence. Thanks for reading and good luck this season.
Dustin Manko is an author at Rant Sports.com. Follow him on Twitter @DustinManko, ”Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google
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