As the NFL season progresses, the defensive landscape has proven to be unpredictable, with surprising performances from teams like the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Chargers. With the byes beginning in Week 5, fantasy managers need to reassess their streaming strategies for defenses. This article outlines favorable matchups for defenses, teams to avoid, and specific recommendations for each week from 5 to 8, highlighting the importance of adapting to the evolving circumstances of the season.

• The Minnesota Vikings have emerged as the top-scoring defense despite being drafted late.
• Streaming defenses remains a volatile but strategic approach in fantasy football.
• The Indianapolis Colts are highlighted as a D/ST to lock in for October despite injury challenges.