3 FanDuel Defenses to Target in Week 13

New England Patriots

FanDuel Price: $4,600
Projections: 16.81 points allowed, 2.88 sacks, 2.14 turnovers, 0.28 touchdowns

Speaking of mismatches, look no further than the New England Patriots hosting Jared Goff and the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13. The Patriots are huge favorites in this game, as Vegas projects them to win by nearly two touchdowns. The Rams have the lowest implied total of the week -- and likely one of the lowest you’ll see all season -- at 15.5 points.

Goff will be making his third career start, which is not ideal against a Bill Belichick-run defense. Despite playing one game in New Orleans, Goff has thrown for just 5.5 yards-per-attempt so far -- there’s currently no upside to his game or this offense. In his first two starts, opposing defenses have averaged 7.0 FanDuel points, which should be the minimum expectation in this matchup.

This is the ultimate Vegas play. If Vegas -- and our projections -- are correct in assuming that Brady and the Pats’ offense will score early and often in this game, Goff will have a less-than-desirable, pass-heavy game script as the Rams play catch up. The more times Goff drops back to pass, the more chances for FanDuel points for the New England D/ST.

The Patriots’ defense has the same upside as Denver’s defense, but they’re $400 cheaper at $4,600. Because of the matchup and salary, New England will likely be much higher owned in all formats. But due to the variance and unpredictability of defensive performances, you’re better off playing the high-owned Patriots D/ST in cash games while rostering a lower-owned option in tournaments.