WEEK 3 Defensive Picks for Fan Duel and Draft Kings: Finding Value in the Top Tiers
When building your DFS lineups, selecting the right defense can be just as crucial as finding the perfect quarterback or running back. With favorable matchups in Week 3, a strong D/ST unit can provide high upside and potentially swing your contests. Below, we break down the top defensive plays of the week by tiers, factoring in implied points against and DFS value. Let’s dive into the defenses that can help you dominate this week’s slate.
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NFL DFS Week 3 Defense Picks
Tier 1 Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (vs. Denver Broncos)
- Implied Points Against: 15.5
- DFS Value: Moderate Cost, High Upside
The Buccaneers’ defense is coming off a great performance, and now they face the Denver Broncos. Denver has rookie quarterback Bo Nix under center, and that’s music to Tampa Bay’s ears. Trey Hendrickson, leading the Bucs’ pass rush, should have no problem putting pressure on Nix. Denver’s offensive line? Struggling. Tampa Bay could rack up multiple sacks, turnovers, and maybe even a defensive touchdown.
For DFS, Tampa Bay offers excellent value. You’re not breaking the bank to get them, and the upside is sky-high.
NFL DFS Week 3 Defense Picks
Tier 2 Pick: Las Vegas Raiders (vs. Carolina Panthers)
- Implied Points Against: 17.5
- DFS Value: High Cost, High Ceiling
Now let’s talk about the Raiders. They’re one of the more expensive defenses in DFS this week, and for good reason. The Panthers will be rolling out backup quarterback Andy Dalton, who, while a veteran, is not exactly the most mobile guy under center. Add that to an offensive line that’s been struggling, and Las Vegas has a recipe for success.
Maxx Crosby and the Raiders’ pass rush should have a field day. Dalton doesn’t have great chemistry yet with his receivers, especially Adam Thielen and rookie Jonathan Mingo. This is where mistakes get made. Las Vegas should force sacks, turnovers, and could even put up a defensive score. The high price for their defense is worth it for the potential return.
NFL DFS Week 3 Defense Picks
Tier 3 Pick: Green Bay Packers (vs. Tennessee Titans)
- Implied Points Against: 18.5
- DFS Value: Mid-Range Cost, High Ceiling
Without Derrick Henry, the Tennessee Titans’ offense has lost its identity. Rookie quarterback Will Levis is under pressure to carry the team, and that’s not an easy ask. The Packers’ defense is primed to capitalize on this.
Green Bay’s pass rush, led by Rashan Gary and Preston Smith, will make life hard for Levis. Add to that Jaire Alexander locking down receivers in the secondary, and you’ve got a recipe for turnovers. The Titans’ offensive line has been shaky at best, and Green Bay’s defense is looking to feast. They’re a mid-range DFS value but could give you high-end results this week.
NFL DFS Week 3 Defense Picks
Tier 4 Pick: Cleveland Browns (vs. New York Giants)
- Implied Points Against: 20.0
- DFS Value: High Cost, High Floor
The Cleveland Browns are another expensive pick, but there’s a reason they’re in Tier 4. The Browns’ defense, led by Myles Garrett, is among the most disruptive in the league. The New York Giants have struggled to protect Daniel Jones, and that spells trouble.
Cleveland has a high floor this week, meaning you can count on them to deliver consistent points. The sacks and turnovers will be there, and if Jones gets rattled, Cleveland’s defense could be in for a monster performance. While the cost is high, the payoff could be huge.
Conclusion: Defense Wins (and Pays)
In DFS, defense is often the most overlooked piece of the puzzle. But this week, your defensive pick could be what separates a decent lineup from a winning one. Whether it’s the Buccaneers shutting down a rookie quarterback, the Raiders bullying a backup, or the Packers and Browns capitalizing on rookie mistakes and weak offensive lines, defense matters.
So, when setting your lineup this week, don’t just throw in a defense as an afterthought. Make it a strategic pick. The right defense could be your ticket to a DFS payday.
NFL DFS LINEUP
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REMEMBER: These are lineups we use but feel free to pick and choose plays and make your own lineups. Don’t ALWAYS follow these as they don’t hit 100% of the time. We do use these but sometimes late scratches happen and it’s too late to update the lineup. Good luck and bring home the bacon.