Fantasy football enthusiasts, brace yourselves! Week 7 is here, and it's time to dive into the world of defense and kicker matchups that could make or break your lineup. But here's where it gets controversial: while some matchups seem like no-brainers, there are hidden pitfalls and unexpected opportunities that could change the game. Let's break it down, starting with the defenses that could be your secret weapon this week.
Defense Matchups: Unlocking the Potential
In the realm of fantasy football, not all players are created equal. This column focuses on the unsung heroes and potential pitfalls, steering clear of the obvious elite players like Josh Allen or Ja’Marr Chase. Instead, we’re zeroing in on the players and defenses that might surprise you—for better or worse. For a comprehensive look at your lineup, don’t forget to check my weekly player rankings, updated daily throughout the 2025 NFL season.
Top Defense Matchups for Week 7:
- Chiefs defense vs. Raiders – A matchup you can’t ignore.
- Patriots defense at Titans – Tennessee’s struggles make this a prime opportunity.
- Steelers defense at Bengals (Thurs.) – A Thursday night showdown with potential.
- Broncos defense vs. Giants – Home-field advantage could pay off.
- Packers defense at Cardinals – A road game with favorable odds.
- Eagles defense at Vikings – A test of strength against a solid offense.
- Browns defense vs. Dolphins – Cleveland’s defense is no joke, especially at home.
- Dolphins defense at Browns – A clash of titans with fantasy implications.
- Bears defense vs. Saints – Chicago looks to capitalize on New Orleans’ weaknesses.
- Seahawks defense vs. Texans (Mon.) – A Monday night matchup to watch.
Complete Week 7 defense rankings: Link
Byes: Bills, Ravens
Start of the Week: Chiefs Defense vs. Raiders
The Chiefs defense is a no-brainer this week, facing a Raiders team that’s been generous with giveaways (11 so far) and has allowed 18 sacks. And this is the part most people miss: Las Vegas’ offensive line is struggling, making this a prime opportunity for Kansas City to dominate. Expect a top-10 performance from the Chiefs.
Start ‘Em
- Patriots defense at Titans: Tennessee’s offense is in disarray after firing head coach Brian Callahan, and their 25 allowed sacks are a league-high. New England’s defense is a solid play here.
- Browns defense vs. Dolphins: Cleveland’s defense is stout, especially at home. Miami’s offense, already with 8 giveaways, could struggle against this formidable unit.
Sit of the Week: Buccaneers Defense at Lions
While the Buccaneers defense can shine in the right matchups, facing the Lions at home is a different story. Detroit averages a league-high 43 points per game at home and ranks sixth in total net yards. Here’s the kicker: This isn’t the week to rely on Tampa Bay’s defense.
Sit ‘Em
- Chargers defense vs. Colts: Indianapolis’ offense is stingy, with only 4 giveaways and a league-low 5 sacks allowed. The Chargers defense might struggle here.
- Texans defense at Seahawks: Houston’s defense is tough, but Seattle’s offense has allowed just 7 sacks and Sam Darnold has only 1 turnover in his last 4 games. A low-scoring affair could limit fantasy upside.
Kicker Matchups: The Unsung Heroes
Kickers often fly under the radar, but they can be the difference between a win and a loss. But here's where it gets controversial: some kickers are in prime positions to excel, while others face matchups that could leave them struggling.
Top Kicker Matchups for Week 7:
- Brandon Aubrey vs. Commanders
- Eddy Pineiro vs. Falcons
- Jake Bates vs. Buccaneers (Mon.)
- Will Reichard vs. Eagles
- Cam Little vs. Rams (London)
- Matt Gay at Cowboys
- Cameron Dicker vs. Colts
- Jake Moody vs. Saints
- Michael Badgley at Chargers
- Chris Boswell at Bengals (Thurs.)
Complete Week 7 kicker rankings: Link
Byes: Bills, Ravens
Start of the Week: Will Reichard vs. Eagles
Reichard has been consistent, scoring 8 or more points in 4 of his first 5 games. Facing an Eagles defense that allows over 10 points per game to kickers, he’s a safe bet. And this is the part most people miss: Four kickers have scored at least 9 points against Philadelphia, with two hitting 15 or more.
Start ‘Em
- Cam Little vs. Rams: Despite a poor showing last week, Little has a favorable matchup in London. The Rams have allowed 14 field goals, and 4 of 6 opposing kickers have scored 10 or more points.
- Eddy Pineiro vs. Falcons: Pineiro has been on fire, scoring 64 fantasy points since taking over. The Falcons allow 9 points per game to kickers, making him a must-start.
Sit of the Week: Daniel Carlson at Chiefs
Carlson had a solid game last week, but he’s been inconsistent. Facing a Chiefs defense that’s allowed just 9 field-goal conversions, he’s a risky play. Here’s the kicker: Only one kicker has scored double digits against Kansas City.
Sit ‘Em
- Jason Myers vs. Texans: Despite a strong showing last week, Myers faces a tough matchup. No kicker has scored more than 5 points against Houston, and their defense is stingy against kickers.
- Joshua Karty at Jaguars: Karty has struggled, and the Jaguars’ defense has limited kickers to 7 or fewer points in all but one game. He’s a fade this week.
Final Thoughts
Fantasy football is all about making informed decisions, and Week 7 is no exception. But here's the real question: Are you willing to take a chance on a controversial pick, or will you play it safe? Let me know in the comments—I’m curious to hear your take on these matchups!
