NFL Week 6 Defense Rankings: Lions Lead, Jets Sink

Lions Set the Standard as Defensive Powerhouses

The Detroit Lions have stormed to the top of the Week 6 NFL defense rankings, not just because of their wins, but due to a defense that’s making headlines for its consistency and pressure. Their victory over the Cincinnati Bengals—marked by a relentless pass rush and strategic coverage—showcases why the Lions are now the team to beat. Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit’s defensive anchor, continues to set new benchmarks: three games this season with 7+ pressures and at least one sack, as highlighted by Next Gen Stats. His lightning-fast get-off time (0.67 seconds) places him among the elite edge rushers. But with a challenging schedule ahead and key injuries like cornerback Terrion Arnold’s absence, the question is whether Detroit’s defense can maintain its dominance against NFL heavyweights.

Bucs, Broncos, and Colts: Defenses on the Rise

While the Lions shine, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are rewriting their defensive identity. Once known for high-octane offense, Tampa’s defense has quietly fueled their ascent. After holding the Seahawks to 35 points in a shootout, the Bucs’ secondary and pass rush stepped up when it mattered. Their ability to adjust, especially late in games, is turning heads. Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos pulled off a surprise against the Eagles—holding Philadelphia to just 2-of-10 on third down. Bo Nix’s late heroics may grab headlines, but it was Denver’s defense that stifled a previously unbeaten team. The Indianapolis Colts, boasting the league’s best point differential (+74), have dominated lesser opponents by controlling the line of scrimmage and limiting explosive plays. Their defensive consistency, especially on third downs, is a key factor in their early success.

Falling Giants: Eagles, Bills, and Ravens Face Defensive Doubts

The Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills entered Week 6 as defensive juggernauts, but cracks are beginning to show. The Eagles, despite a strong start, have struggled to close out games—giving up crucial late drives and failing to create turnovers. Their loss to the Broncos highlighted issues with tackling and coverage, especially in high-pressure moments. The Bills, meanwhile, are still searching for their defensive identity. With expectations of a Super Bowl-caliber unit, Buffalo’s inability to consistently stop the run and generate pressure has left fans wondering if their defense can rise to the occasion. The Baltimore Ravens, once renowned for defensive grit, suffered a historic collapse—allowing 37+ points in four games, the most in franchise history at this stage. Injuries and lack of depth have made the Ravens vulnerable, and their ranking reflects this newfound fragility.

Jets and Dolphins: Defense in Crisis Mode

At the opposite end, the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins are struggling to find defensive answers. The Jets, now the league’s only winless team, have been unable to generate turnovers or pressure. First-year coach Aaron Glenn preaches patience, but the numbers are grim: opponents have consistently exploited New York’s porous secondary and weak front seven. Miami, led by Mike McDaniel, has lost its defensive identity. A team once feared for its aggressive schemes now looks lost, especially in run defense—managing just 14 yards on 13 carries in their latest defeat. The lack of physicality and discipline on defense has turned the Dolphins from contenders to question marks.

Trending Defenses: What to Watch in Week 7

As the season moves past its early surprises, several teams are worth watching for defensive trends. The Green Bay Packers, coming off a bye, have quietly built a top-four offense but their defense remains inconsistent. If they can shore up coverage and pressure, Green Bay could make a leap. The Washington Commanders, powered by a rejuvenated run defense and efficient third-down stops, have surged up the rankings. The Houston Texans, after a statement win over the Ravens, boast one of the league’s best pass defenses (by EPA per play) and are trending upward. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Chargers are at a crossroads—each with glaring weaknesses in pass defense but with schedules that offer a chance to rebound.

The Metrics Behind the Rankings

Week 6 defense rankings aren’t just about win-loss records—they’re shaped by advanced analytics. Metrics like expected points added (EPA) per play, pressure rates, and third-down efficiency separate pretenders from contenders. For example, Detroit’s pressure rate and third-down stops drive their top ranking, while Baltimore’s high points allowed expose deeper problems. The Colts’ dominance on third downs and point differential highlight the value of situational defense. On the flip side, teams like the Jets and Dolphins rank near the bottom in both EPA and turnover creation—clear indicators of defensive struggles.

What’s Next: Defensive Storylines to Follow

Looking ahead, the next month will be a litmus test for the league’s top defenses. The Lions face a gauntlet of playoff-caliber offenses, the Buccaneers’ secondary will be tested by the 49ers, and the Broncos’ resurgent unit has a chance to prove consistency. Injuries, coaching adjustments, and emerging stars will continue to shape the narrative. Can the top-ranked defenses withstand tougher competition, or will parity and unpredictability upend the rankings once again?

Conclusion: Defense Defines the Season’s First Act

As Week 6 closes, the NFL’s defensive landscape is anything but settled. The Lions, Bucs, and Colts have set a high bar, while traditional powers like the Eagles, Bills, and Ravens face new questions. For teams at the bottom, only drastic improvement will change their fortunes. The story of the 2025 season, so far, is that defense—more than ever—remains the great equalizer in a league full of shifting momentum and opportunity.

While offense often steals the spotlight, Week 6’s rankings prove that defensive units are the true architects of success and failure. Detroit’s rise, Baltimore’s fall, and the Jets’ struggles each tell a story of how schemes, execution, and resilience shape the NFL’s competitive balance. As the season unfolds, expect the unexpected—because in football, defense never rests.