Before we take a look at the best matchups for the fantasy playoffs, let’s make sure we make the playoffs. We’re close enough that you should consider stashing D/STs that have some utility beyond the current week. Personally, before my leagues’ trade deadlines, I like to optimize for a playoff push by freeing up an extra roster spot and stashing a defense a few weeks ahead of time.

Note: The Texans and the Steelers should be top priorities for streaming this week where available. They just missed the cutoff for consideration at sub-25% availability in ESPN leagues, and you probably don’t need this article series to direct you to pick up elite defenses with elite matchups. As always, we’ll focus on D/STs with some higher availability or a bargain price in daily fantasy.

Kansas City Chiefs (Available in 41.9% of Leagues/$3900 on DraftKings)

The Chiefs’ $3900 price tag is prohibitive for me in daily, but if you’re in the 41.9% of leagues where they’re available to stream, make them a priority. One of the lone bright spots in Carolina’s lost season has been their run game. It should be a disaster this week against a Chiefs defense allowing the second-fewest yards per carry in the NFL. Even worse, they may be without their best run-blocker with Ickey Ekwonu listed as questionable. Putting Bryce Young in a must-pass game script early is a recipe for catastrophe. And fantasy points for us.