It’s that time of the week when we look at which defenses stepped up and which others fell after week 16 in the NFL. That means we could have some new teams on this list, so let’s get to this week’s top defenses in the NFL. Have a great day, everyone, and may the tackles be with you.
Week 17 NFL Power Rankings: Top 20 Defenses
20. Miami Dolphins – 339.5 Total Yards Against
It’s crazy to see the Dolphins on this list still after giving up 45 against the Bengals, but here we are. This week, they face the Buccaneers, who should be able to score at will as well.
19. Detroit Lions – 335.8 Total Yards Against
The Lions are facing elimination from the playoffs this week after losing to the Rams and the Steelers. Now they have to go to Minnesota to play the Vikings, who have one of the best defenses in the NFL. They can’t seem to catch a break, but was their season doomed from the start?
18. San Francisco 49ers – 332.2 Total Yards Against
The Niners are in the thick of things when it comes to the playoffs and showed that last week against the Colts by forcing two turnovers. This week, they get the Bears, which could determine if one of them gets a home game in the playoffs.
17. Carolina Panthers – 329.1 Total Yards Against
The Panthers showed up against the Buccaneers, which kept their playoff dreams alive. This week, they have the NFC-leading Seahawks coming to Carolina, which should turn out to be a great defensive game for both teams.
16. Los Angeles Rams- 327.1 Total Yards Against
The Rams had a chance to beat the Seahawks and hold on to the number one seed in the NFC, but lost in overtime. This week, they face the Falcons in a game that is going to determine a lot of fantasy football championships.
