How Defenses Gain Points in Fantasy Football work.
In fantasy football, defenses can earn points by performing different actions on the field. These actions include sacks, fumble recoveries, tackles, and interceptions. Each action gives the defense a certain number of points. For example, a sack is worth one point, while an interception is worth two points.
How Do Defensive Players Work in Fantasy Football?
Each defensive player earns points based on their performance. They can score points for tackles, sacks, interceptions, passes defended, and touchdowns. These actions all add to the defense’s total score in fantasy football.
How Does Defense Scoring Work in ESPN Fantasy Football?
- Your defense/special teams (D/ST) start each game with 10 points (in standard scoring).
- Your D/ST earns points by registering sacks, turnovers, and scoring touchdowns.
- Your D/ST score will drop if they give up yards to the opponent’s offense.
When Should You Draft a Defense in Fantasy Football?
It is usually best to wait until the last two rounds of your draft to pick a defense. However, if you really want a top defense, you might need to draft it a round or two earlier. Sometimes, this can be a smart move.
Can You Have Individual Defensive Players in Fantasy Football?
Yes, fantasy football leagues are now using Individual Defensive Players (IDP). You can choose from different types of defensive players, such as defensive linemen (DE and DT) or defensive backs (D-Backs). These players can score points just like offensive players.
What Are Some Ways Defenses Earn Points?
- Blocked Kick = 2 points
- Safety = 2 points
- Sack = 1 point
- Fumble = 1 point
- Fumble Recovery = 1 point
- Interception = 2 points
- 0 Points Allowed = 10 points
- 1-6 Points Allowed = 8 points
What Is the Most Points a Defense Has Scored in Fantasy?
The Cleveland Browns scored the most fantasy points by a defense in a single game. They earned 50 fantasy points against the Giants on September 10, 1989.

What Does PA and PF Mean in Fantasy Football?
In fantasy football:
- PA stands for “Points Against.” It shows how many points were scored against your team.
- PF stands for “Points For.” It shows how many points your team has scored.
What Is the Worst a Defense Can Do in Fantasy?
The worst a defense can score in fantasy football is -5 points for giving up 46 or more points, and -7 points for allowing over 550 yards.
How Does Defense Work in Yahoo Fantasy Football?
In Yahoo fantasy football, your defense earns points based on how many points the opponent scores against them. For example, field goals and touchdowns scored by the opponent count towards the points allowed.
Can You Lose Points in Fantasy Football?
Yes, if your defense gives up too many yards or points, they can lose fantasy points. For example, if your defense allows a lot of rushing yards, it can hurt their score.
Should You Pick a Kicker or Defense First?
It’s generally a good idea to pick your defense last. Picking a kicker too early is usually not a smart move. Drafting a kicker in the middle rounds can hurt your chances to build a strong team.
Do You Need Two Defenses in Fantasy Football?
It’s not necessary to have two defenses on your team. Having one defense is usually enough. However, in deeper leagues, you may want to consider keeping two defenses to help you stream players during the season.
Can You Add Individual Defensive Players in Fantasy Football?
Yes, you can add Individual Defensive Players (IDPs) to your roster. The commissioner of your league can enable this option through the “Edit Roster Positions” link.
How Do You Add a Defense on ESPN Fantasy Football?
To add a defense on ESPN Fantasy Football:
- Go to the “Roster” tab.
- Select a player you want to drop from your roster.
- Click the red “Drop” button on their player card to confirm.
How Do Kickers Score Points in Fantasy Football?
Kickoff points for kickers depend on the distance. For example:
- Field goals (less than 40 yards) = 3 points
- Field goals (40-49 yards) = 4 points
- Field goals (over 50 yards) = 5 points
Do Bench Players Get Points in Fantasy Football?
Bench players do earn points for their performances, but those points won’t count toward your team’s total in head-to-head matchups. However, in some leagues, bench points can be used as tiebreakers.
What Is the Best Fantasy Football Performance Ever?
Jamaal Charles holds the record for most PPR fantasy points in a game, with 59.5 points against the Oakland Raiders on December 15, 2013.
Who Has the Best Defense in the NFL?
Some of the top defenses in the NFL include:
- Buffalo Bills
- New England Patriots
- Dallas Cowboys
- New Orleans Saints
- Denver Broncos
Can Kickers Lose Points in Fantasy?
Kickers rarely lose points in fantasy football, but they can score zero points if they don’t make any kicks. This is very uncommon, though.