Top 10 Unconventional Fantasy Predictions:
#5 . . .
The Seahawks, 49ers, and Texans DSTs will finish among the top 50 overall fantasy scorers. That means if you play in a 12-team league, each one will give you at least early 5th round value.
Crazy? If you listen to most of the experts, yes. But here's why it's so obviously sane:
Over the past several years, elite-level DSTs also have been elite scorers. In 2008, 6 DSTs finished in the top 30 in overall fantasy scoring. In 2009, 2 did. In 2010, 4 did. See a trend? Top-flight DSTs have major fantasy impacts. Last year was an historical oddity, as only one team (the Bears) finished in the top 30; however, two others finished at #39 and #46, respectively.
The fact is, there is a high probability that this year's crop of elite DSTs offer, at worst, early 5th round value. Many others insist that drafting a DST anywhere before the final two rounds is a wasted pick. But historical stats don't jive with this belief.
The Broncos DST could/should be in the elite category, if not for injury/suspension issues. And the Patriots DST is a major sleeper candidate as a top 5 positional performer.
But the Seahawks, 49ers, and Texans DSTs (in descending order) are a cut above everyone else and are primed for top 50 finishes.
#5 . . .
The Seahawks, 49ers, and Texans DSTs will finish among the top 50 overall fantasy scorers. That means if you play in a 12-team league, each one will give you at least early 5th round value.
Crazy? If you listen to most of the experts, yes. But here's why it's so obviously sane:
Over the past several years, elite-level DSTs also have been elite scorers. In 2008, 6 DSTs finished in the top 30 in overall fantasy scoring. In 2009, 2 did. In 2010, 4 did. See a trend? Top-flight DSTs have major fantasy impacts. Last year was an historical oddity, as only one team (the Bears) finished in the top 30; however, two others finished at #39 and #46, respectively.
The fact is, there is a high probability that this year's crop of elite DSTs offer, at worst, early 5th round value. Many others insist that drafting a DST anywhere before the final two rounds is a wasted pick. But historical stats don't jive with this belief.
The Broncos DST could/should be in the elite category, if not for injury/suspension issues. And the Patriots DST is a major sleeper candidate as a top 5 positional performer.
But the Seahawks, 49ers, and Texans DSTs (in descending order) are a cut above everyone else and are primed for top 50 finishes.