As we dive into Thanksgiving week, fantasy football takes center stage. This week is unique as there are no teams on bye, giving fantasy managers a chance to optimize their lineups with the playoff hunt heating up. With just a few weeks left in the regular season, planning ahead for both matchups this week and potential bye week fill-ins is crucial. After my rankings for Week 13 defenses, I’ll share essential recommendations for stashing defenses for the playoffs.

Streaming Defenses: Your Waiver Wire & Start/Sit Advice for Week 13

The streaming field for defenses can feel like a rollercoaster ride—one moment, it’s a gold mine, the next, a downturn. Last week was robust for streaming thanks to several favorable matchups, but with all 32 teams in action this week, the streaming options appear tighter due to some surprising defensive performances. Here are the key matchups and my defensive picks:

The Start Them With Confidence Tier

1. **Kansas City Chiefs vs. Las Vegas Raiders**: The Raiders have struggled as QB Gardner Minshew is out, meaning Desmond Ridder steps in with nothing but uncertainty. Start Kansas City's defense knowing they could wreak havoc.

2. **Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants**: Following a disappointing offensive output from Tommy DeVito, the Cowboys have a prime opportunity to capitalize on an attack ripe for exploitation.

3. **Washington Commanders vs. Tennessee Titans**: Will Levis just had a stellar performance, but his penchant for turnovers and sacks makes this matchup juicy for streaming Washington.

4. **Denver Broncos vs. Cleveland Browns**: Jameis Winston’s reckless style creates turnover opportunities; Denver can capitalize on his mistakes.

The Still a Fine Choice Tier

5. **Detroit Lions vs. Chicago Bears**: Caleb Williams might be coming around, but facing the Lions’ defense, who are riding high, spells trouble.

6. **Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars**: If Trevor Lawrence remains sidelined, the Texans elevate to a top-tier stream this week.

7. **Indianapolis Colts vs. New England Patriots**: With the Patriots’ ongoing offensive struggles, the Colts' defense could be a surprising asset.

8. **Minnesota Vikings vs. Arizona Cardinals**: Kyler Murray's inconsistency under pressure makes this matchup appealing for Minnesota.

The Maybe You Can’t Find Something Better Tier

9. **New York Jets vs. Seattle Seahawks**: Geno Smith has been under pressure, and the Jets certainly have the capability to exploit that.

10. **Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers**: Despite a recent shaky performance, the Bucs may still offer decent returns against the struggling Panthers.

Week 13 Matchups Overview

- **KC vs LV**: Raiders’ QB situation is dire; expect the Chiefs’ defense to assert their dominance.

- **DAL vs NYG**: With DeVito at the helm post-Daniel Jones, the Cowboys should feast.

- **WAS vs TEN**: Look for Levis to take sacks and turn the ball over against a strong Washington defense.

- **DEN vs CLE**: With Jameis Winston's propensity for turnovers, the Broncos should shine this week.

- **DET vs CHI**: This matchup poses a challenge for the Bears, especially against a team known for its resilience.

- **HOU @ JAC**: If Trevor Lawrence is out again, expect Houston’s D to ramp things up.

- **IND @ NE**: The Colts could capitalize on a struggling Patriots offense that continues to make mistakes.

- **MIN vs ARI**: Minnesota’s run defense will make things tough for Kyler Murray, raising sack potential.

Looking Ahead: Rest of Season Defense Planning

As we approach six bye weeks next week, now’s the time to strategize your defense lineup for playoffs. Here are some teams to stash:

- **Jacksonville Jaguars**: Pay attention to matchups as they approach weaker competition.

- **Indianapolis Colts**: Secure them through a bye for promising matchups ahead in the final weeks.

- **Los Angeles Chargers**: While their schedule may be tough, they could present solid opportunities when it counts the most.

In summary, the streaming landscape may shift, but with strategic planning, you can maximize your fantasy team's performance and solidify your path to the playoffs. Happy Thanksgiving and good luck with your lineups this week!