Fantasy Football Playoff Strategies Heat Up as Season Winds Down

ESPN Fantasy, November 25, 2025 – As the NFL season approaches the playoffs, fantasy football managers are ramping up strategies to optimize their lineups. With only a few weeks left in the regular season, selecting the right defense and special teams (D/ST) can be critical.

This pivotal decision comes as many fantasy players are seeking ways to enhance their output. The top three D/STs have been performing well this season, but managers without those coveted units need to be nimble as they prepare for the playoffs.

Research indicates that top defenses from the first half of the season may not maintain their performance in later weeks. Statistics show that only 40% of the top 10 D/STs from the first 12 weeks remained in that elite group through the season’s final six weeks from 2022 to 2024.

Over the past five weeks, the Cleveland Browns have proven to be the most advantageous team for streaming D/STs, adding an average of 7.5 fantasy points. The rankings for other favorable matchups include several teams that can boost D/ST scores significantly, making lineup decisions crucial for managers looking to advance.

On the flip side, teams like the Seattle Seahawks and the Los Angeles Rams have demonstrated weaknesses, consistently subtracting points from opposing D/ST efforts. This inconsistency should make managers think twice before deploying these teams in the fantasy playoffs.

The final weeks before playoffs bring a chance for managers to reassess their strategies and players. As four teams have a bye this week, it’s essential to plan ahead for week 14, which will be the start of playoffs for many. Managers are encouraged to consider all available players before making their final roster decisions.

With critical games on the horizon, every point counts. Fantasy managers hoping for a successful playoff run need to keep these insights in mind as the season draws to a close.