D question:
* TN D vs DEN -- Originally thought this was a great matchup (and experts are universally ranking top 6 this wee), but there are a lot of injuries on the D side of the ball. Simmons, Dupree, Hooker. D had been on fire with sacks and ints the last few weeks too.
* KC vs JAX -- Not a great D, but if KC gets up they could force turnovers. That said, JAX is statistically pretty decent when it comes to points against on D.
* LAR D vs AZ -- Two struggling offenses meet and K. Murray is questionable with a hammy. Even if active he could be limited running the ball which can't be good for that offense. McVay has Kingsberry's number too. Could see this being a slugfest.
* LV vs Indy -- The classic bad defense vs. bad offense option. LV is not a good D, but Ehlinger is awful. Chance M. Ryan enters game as Indy declared him as backup.
Which?
Thanks
Defenses...ugh.
Generally when making these decisions (similar defenses no real distinguishing factors) I simply look at which defense has the most sacks + turnovers. That would be Tennessee in this situation 23. + 12 (35) However, without Simmons, Dupree and Hooker I think that dynamic changes and KC becomes the best choice 22 + 8 (30). The Rams are at 16 + 8 (24) and the Raiders are 9 + 5 (14).
Then I look at which offense gives up the most sacks + turnovers and see if that helps. In this case the Jags 12 + 13 (25), Broncos 24 + 9 (33), Cardinals 25 + 9 (34), Colts 35 + 17 (52).
Then I write the names of all the defenses on separate sheets of paper, lay them on the floor and use the Chumbawamba Method. Drink a shot of whiskey, a shot of vodka, a 16 oz lager and a 16 oz hard cider. When you puke see which paper most of it ends up on and choose that defense.
Honestly I can make an argument for any of these teams so it's a total gut call. If the Titans were healthy it would be an easy decision, IMO, but they're hurt bad with those losses. Can you count on next man up working? IDK.
I want to say go up against the Colts but, man the Raiders defense has been terrible at making big plays. Do they rally this week?
The Rams probably make the most sense but what if Stafford sits? Will the defense be on the field all day because of an inept Rams offense? If the Stafford sits, is the Arizona defense available to you (16 + 12 = 28 and the Rams are at 28 + 13 = 41)? That may be the best option.
I probably flip-flop a dozen times trying to figure this out.
ATM I think:
LVR>LAR>KC>TEN
Ask me again in 10 minutes, and we'll see how that changes.