Playoffs: Top DEFs

Volume (i.e.. games) counts for a whole lot here, probably more than any other position. Rather than guess which unit rules the roost, a solid strategy is pairing your defense with players you already have on specific teams. Selected commentary below.

1) New England - Second on the season in total points behind the Bears and super opportunistic down the stretch. Forced NFL-high 30 fumbles.

2) Denver - Tied with St. Louis and Cincinnati for most sacks (52) and allowed fewer rushing yards than any team in the postseason.

3) San Francisco - Only Seattle allowed fewer points during the regular season.

4) Green Bay - Second among the playoff teams during the regular season and could feast on Christian Ponder in the opener.

5) Houston - Even with J.J. Watt, faded late by scoring three or fewer points in three of their final four games. Still ranked seventh on the season.

6) Baltimore - Ray Lewis could be back for the Wildcard round. Never discount Ray-Ray's presence.

7) Seattle - Flat out scary at times this season, though the Redskins rarely turned the ball over this season.

8) Atlanta - Of the NFC teams, scored fewest points during the regular season.

9) Washington - Generated three turnovers against the Cowboys with the division title on the line and the Redskins 21 regular season interceptions ranks first among the playoff teams.

10) Cincinnati - The defensive line has some spunk and it's not like the Texans have been rolling.

11) Minnesota - Not a bad option and worthy grabbing early if you buy the Vikings as legitimate underdogs - and don't mind facing Aaron Rodgers off the bat.

12) Indianapolis - Improved over the final weeks, but hardly ideal.