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Joe

Week 10 Passing Matchups

By Mark Wimer with Joe Bryant

Bye Weeks

Denver: Danny Kanell/Rod Smith/Shannon Sharpe/Ashley Lelie are on bye.
New England: Tom Brady/Deion Branch/Troy Brown/Christian Fauria are on bye.
New Orleans: Aaron Brooks/Joe Horn/Donte Stallworth are on bye.
San Francisco: Jeff Garcia/Tim Rattay/Terrell Owens/Tai Streets are on bye.

Cincinnati's Passing Game vs. The Houston Defense (Great Matchup)

In the loss last week, Jon Kitna put up 21/38 for 218 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions vs. Arizona. He had to operate without Corey Dillon (his groin injury flared up) most of the game, but managed to find favorite targets Chad Johnson (10 targets for 4/75/0) and Peter Warrick (12 targets for 7/55/1) often enough to post a decent fantasy outing. Over his last 3 games, Kitna has been more than decent, with 56/96 for 732 yards, 6 TDs and 2 interceptions - good for 6th among all fantasy QB's in FP per game during that stretch. In his only other game vs. The Texans, Kitna threw for 22/27 for 263 yards and 4 TDs with 0 Int.

Houston hasn't been too stout in this phase lately, allowing Carolina to pile up 13/23 for 193 yards, 1 TD and 1interception last week, while Peyton Manning spanked them for 22/30 yielding 269 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions in week 8. This year, the Texans are 30th in the league allowing 245.1 passing yards a game, and dead last with 15 passing score allowed. Not too good, folks.

Reserve DB Jason Bell (knee, questionable) missed last week's game. CB Marcus Coleman (neck) is probable. Cincinnati's aerial unit is in relatively good shape, only down starting TE Reggie Kelly (foot, out) and reserve WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (hamstring, doubtful).

The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 46 F and a low of 27F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. That's nice football weather in our book.

Kitna and company won't see many more attractive matchups than this one all season long.

Miami's Passing Game vs. The Tennessee Defense (Great Matchup)

Brian Griese (vs. Indianapolis last week) threw for 18/29 yielding 231 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions. In his second start, he favored Randy McMichael with 8 passes (6/88/0), while Chris Chambers saw 6 balls (3/56/1), and Derrius Thompson got 3 looks (0/0/0). It was a decent performance against a top-tier secondary - but not enough for the "W". Griese's production over his first 2 games of the season put him at 12th among all fantasy QB's in FP per game (38/58 for 423 yards, 4 TDs and 0 interceptions).

The Titan's secondary has been allowing a lot of TDs lately, with 31/69 for 362 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions in week 7 vs. Carolina, and 24/40 for 244 yards, 2 TDs and 3 interceptions vs. the Jaguars in week 8. This season, the Titans are the 31st ranked secondary in the league, allowing 252.5 passing yards per game on average, and they have surrendered 11 passing scores so far. They're pretty soft.

Tennessee is coming off a bye, and is in relatively good health - Samari Rolle is questionable to play (elbow) as is S Donnie Nickey (foot). CB Andre Woolfolk remains sidelined. Miami lists starting QB Jay Fiedler as questionable with his bum knee, and WR Derrius Thompson has a sore groin (probable).

The forecast for the Coliseum calls for a high of 56 F and a low of 36F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. That's nice football weather, folks.

Look for Griese and company to enjoy a great outing vs. the soft Titans this Sunday.

Minnesota's Passing Game vs. The San Diego Defense (Great Matchup)

Daunte Culpepper racked up 21/34 for 202 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions in the loss vs. Green Bay last week. Randy Moss claimed 11 targets (6/87/1), while Nate Burleson saw 5 passes (3/51/0) and Moe Williams had 7 (4/26/0) come his way. Jim Kleinsasser accounted for the second TD (4 for 2/13/1). Over the past 3 weeks, Culpepper has led all fantasy QB's in FP per game, with 58/91 for 720 yards, 6 TDs, 2 interceptions, and 11/65/1 rushing. The Vikings are hot in this phase of the game.

San Diego fields one of the worst secondaries in the league, allowing 21/30 for 224 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception to Chris Chandler in week 9, and getting shellacked by the Dolphins' Brian Griese for 20/29 yielding 192 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions in week 8. This season, they are worst in the league allowing 15 scoring passes, 24th averaging 219.6 passing yards per game, and have only 6 interceptions. They stink, bad.

Minnesota comes into the game relatively healthy, while the Chargers list S Vernon Fox as probable despite a sore groin.

The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for a high of 68 F and a low of 52F, with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard, the field could get sloppy and slow (and make ball handling an issue).

Minnesota is hot, the Chargers are not - a big edge flows to the visitors in this matchup.

New York Giant's Passing Attack vs. The Atlanta Defense (Great Matchup)

All Kerry Collins did last week vs. the in-town rival Jets was to throw 24/40 for 303 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions. Collins has amassed 69/115 for 852 yards, 5 TDs and 1 interception in his last 3 starts (#3 among all fantasy QB's in FP per game for that span), and his usual suspects Amani Toomer (13/277/1), Ike Hilliard (15/166/3) and Jeremy Shockey (16/190/1) have prospered during the winning streak. Toomer saw 14 passes last week (6/127/1), while Shockey saw 11 (8/86/0) and Hilliard 9 (5/55/1). This is a potent passing attack firing on all cylinders, now that the OL is limiting sacks (1 for 5 yards last week).

Donovan McNabb found one way to get healthy throwing the ball in the NFL this year - play the pathetic Falcons defense. McNabb, who hadn't been able to throw a TD pass to a wide receiver all year long, ended up the day 21/33 for 312 yards, 1 TD (to WR Freddie Mitchell) and 0 interceptions against the Swiss-cheese Falcons. The game before that, the Falcons allowed 23/31 for 352 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions to Aaron Brooks and the Saints. Benching the entire secondary didn't have the intended affect last week, it appears. Not surprisingly, the Falcons are dead last in the league allowing an average of 271.3 passing yards per game, with 14 passing scores surrendered so far. Adjectives fail to describe how poorly this unit is playing.

Atlanta's new starting S Gerald McBurrows aggravated a pinched nerve in his neck on Sunday and injured a knee (doubtful), and CB Kevin Mathis is also doubtful due to a sore hamstring. The Giants list TE Jeremy Shockey as probable to play through his nagging foot injury.

A cool day to play football is on tap at Giants' Stadium - the forecast calls for a high of 47 F and a low of 31F with a 10% chance for precipitation

Look for Collins and the Giants to roll big-time on Sunday.

Philadelphia's Passing Game vs. The Green Bay Defense (Great Matchup)

McNabb finally returned to fantasy health last week against the pathetic Falcons' new secondary, to the tune of 21/33 for 312 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions (with a TD pass to a WR for the first time this year.). L.J. Smith (6/97/0) and Duce Staley (4/38/0) saw the most balls (8 targets each), while Pinkston (2/15/0) and Thrash (4/69/0) each saw 5 passes come their way. The lucky recipient of the first McNabb-to-a-WR TD of 2003 was Freddie Mitchell (3 for 2/43/1).

The Packers have been giving away TDs at a quick clip the last few weeks: vs. Daunte Culpepper last week, they allowed 21/34 for 202 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions, and St. Louis hit them in week 8 for 22/34 for 247 yards, 3 TDs and 2 interceptions. They are currently 29th in the NFL allowing 240.6 passing yards per game, and have surrendered 12 passing scores so far (near the bottom of the league) - almost half of the scores in the last two weeks.

Both teams come into this game in relatively good health on these units. McNabb (thumb) and Pinkston (quadriceps) are probable to play. CB Derek Combs is probable for the Packers (ankle).

This game is being played at Lambeau Field, starting 8 p.m. local time - think it will be cold after the sun has gone down? Yep - the forecast for Green Bay calls for a high of 37 F and a low of 32F, with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the sleet/snow comes down thickly, it could cause problems with footing (even though the field is heated) and make ball handling an issue - especially for receivers

McNabb is finally looking like the QB we expected to show up from the get-go, while the Packers are not playing well in this phase at all lately. Even in the bitter cold, McNabb and company have a good shot at a productive outing on Monday night.

Arizona's Passing Game vs. The Pittsburgh Defense (Good Matchup)

In the victory over Cincinnati, Jeff Blake threw for 18/28 yielding 166 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions. He tossed his scores to favorite targets WR Anquan Boldin (9 for 6/51/1) and TE Freddie Jones (7 for 5/38/1). Over the past three weeks, Blake has been up and down, with 32/52 for 263 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions in 2 games, with 6/40/1 rushing (17th among all fantasy QB's in FP per game). The Cardinals aren't exactly high-octane, but they are capable of decent fantasy outings when conditions are favorable.

Pittsburgh has struggled in this phase recently, allowing 18/31 for 215 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions to Matt Hasselbeck last week. In week 8 vs. St. Louis they coughed up 22/37 for 375 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions. The coaching staff has decided to bench RCB Dewayne Washington in an attempt to improve play in the secondary - he's being replaced by Deshea Townsend (despite Washington's $20 million contract). In the loss to St. Louis, the secondary gave up 11 plays of 20+ yards. Ouch. This year, the Steelers are 6th in the NFL in terms of passing yards allowed (183 per game, on average), but have been way worse than that recently - plus, they have coughed up 12 passing scores this year, near the bottom of the league.

Reserve WR Jason McAddley remains sidelined due to his severe hamstring injury. The Steelers are healthy, just not good - CB's Chidi Iwuoma (groin) and Ivan Taylor (finger) are probable to play.

The forecast for Heinz field calls for a high of 40 F and a low of 25F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. A clear, cool day is coming up - excellent football weather, if a little chilly.

If Townsend can spark the D, perhaps the Steelers can climb out of the hole their secondary has dug them. We think that Blake and company will enjoy modest success against this stumbling D - call it a good matchup.

Baltimore's Passing Game vs. The St. Louis Defense (Good Matchup)

Kyle Boller mustered 10/23 for 156 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception last week vs. Jacksonville - he has 40/77 for 595 yards, 4 TDs and 2 interceptions in his last 3 games, and the only fantasy-worthy receivers in that span have been TE Todd Heap (23/236/1) and Travis Taylor (8/207/2). They aren't explosive, but now that Boller's feet are wet in the NFL waters, they are at least reliably productive lately.

St. Louis has bled points like crazy lately: vs. San Francisco's Tim Rattay last week they gave up 19/29 for 236 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception, while vs. Pittsburgh week 8 they allowed 12/28 for 159 yards, 2 TDs and 3 interceptions. Those numbers are in line with the Ram's season average of 192.6 passing yards per game, and they have given away 11 scores this season - almost half of those in the last two games.

Part of the reason for the Ram's collapse is injuries: S Adam Archuleta has missed games due to an ankle injury (probable), CB James Whitley has a foot injury (questionable) and S Rich Coady has a sore groin (probable). Jason Sehorn is listed as probable with his foot injury. Baltimore is in good health at this stage of the season.

This game is being played in the Edward Jones Dome, so weather isn't an issue.

Boller and company have slowly improved from week to week - against the suddenly-soft Rams, they could find pay dirt a couple of times on Sunday night.

Chicago's Passing Game vs. The Detroit Defense (Good Matchup)

Chris Chandler vs. the league's worst secondary in San Diego: 21/30 for 224 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception. He hit Dez White (7/58/0) and David Terrell (7/38/0) the most last week, but Justin Gage was his long-threat (2/52/0 with a long of 28). Two weeks ago, he peppered this Lion's team for 20/31 yielding 207 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions.

Detroit enjoyed their outing against the second- and third-stringers from Oakland, allowing 21/39 for 190 yards, with 0 TDs and 3 interceptions. As noted above, they coughed up 20/31 for 207 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions to Chris Chandler week 8. The Lions are 23rd in the league allowing 219.4 passing yards per contest, but next-to-last in surrendering 14 passing scores this season.

Detroit's starting CB Dre' Bly missed last week's game with a bad hamstring (questionable), and backup DB's Rod Babers (shoulder, questionable) and Jimmy Wyrick (chest, questionable) are also hurt right now. Chicago went without Marty Booker last week (ankle, questionable).

This game is being played in a dome, so weather isn't a factor.

If anything, Detroit has gotten worse personnel-wise (thanks to injuries), in the past 2 weeks. Advantage, Chicago.

Green Bay's Passing Game vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Good Matchup)

Brett Favre tore up the Vikings last week, hitting 18/28 for 194 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception (in the Metrodome of all places). It was a huge win that the Packers had to have - enter Brett "Mr. Clutch" Favre (Favre is first in the NFC and 2nd in the NFL with a 67.1 completion percentage this year). Ahman Green was the top target last week (7 for 5/52/0), while Javon Walker (6 for 4/32/2) and Donald Driver (4 for 1/26/0) also saw a few balls come their way. Walker snagged 2 TDs and looks like he is becoming #2 in Green Bay as Robert Ferguson 27 targets at the half-way point in the season, while Driver has 46 and Walker has 43. Favre has 5 TDs and 2 interceptions in his last 2 games, with 41/60 for 462 yards in that span.

Philadelphia allowed 21/35 for 266 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to the Jets in week 8; and held Kittner/Johnson to 16/28 for 164 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception to the Falcons week 9. They sport the 26th ranked pass D in the NFL, averaging 220.1 yards per game, with 9 scores allowed thus far. Sacks (16 - tied for 20th in the NFL) and interceptions (only 6 so far) are normally a hallmark of the Eagles, but key injuries have depressed their ability to generate pressure and turnovers in 2003.

Speaking of injuries, the Eagles are still waiting on S Brian Dawkins (foot, out) and CB's Bobby Taylor (foot, doubtful) and Roderick Hood (hamstring, probable) to recover from their injuries. S Clinton Hart (hip) is probable to play. Green Bay lists Favre (thumb) and TE's Bubba Franks (quadriceps) and Wesley Walls (hamstring) all as probable to play on Monday.

This game is being played at Lambeau Field, starting 8 p.m. local time - think it will be cold after the sun has gone down? Yep - the forecast for Green Bay calls for a high of 37 F and a low of 32F, with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the sleet/snow comes down thickly, it could cause problems with footing (even though the field is heated) and make ball handling an issue - especially for receivers.

The Packers have been doing well throwing the ball lately, and the Eagles have trouble defending against the better NFL attacks this year. Green Bay is definitely one of the better passing attacks - the advantage flows to the home-team Packers in this game.

Houston's Passing Game vs. The Cincinnati Defense (Good Matchup)

Last week, Tony Banks was "on", hitting 13/19 for 154 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions vs. Carolina. In his first full game of action, Banks looked at Andre Johnson (5 targets), TE Billy Miller (4 targets) and Corey Bradford (4 targets) the most - rookie phenom Domanick Davis saw 2 balls before being forced from the game due to a pectoral injury.

Bradford failed to convert any of his chances, while Johnson (4/64/0) and Miller (4/58/1) made the most of their opportunities. It was an auspicious start for Banks. Word this week is that David Carr is practicing in a limited capacity early in the week - his status for the game won't be determined until later this week.

Cincinnati has been giving away scores in bunches lately - 18/28 for 166 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions for Jeff Blake last week, and 26/43 for 347 yards, 3 TDs and 3 interceptions allowed to Matt Hasselbeck in week 8. The Bengals are solidly in the middle of the NFL pack, with an average of 207.4 passing yards allowed per game (18th in the league), but have coughed up 11 scores - 5 in the last two games. Rogers Beckett was an IDP monster last week, with 12 solo tackles and 1 sack, tops among fantasy DB's.

Starting CB Jeff Burris suffered a concussion last week, and did not return to action. He is probable this week, though. Rookie Dennis Weathersby is the backup behind Burris. CB Artrell Hawkins (knee) and S Marquand Manuel (hamstring) are questionable. Houston lists backup TE Rashod Kent as doubtful (calf) and Carr as questionable.

The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 46 F and a low of 27F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. That's nice football weather in our book.

Look for the Texans to do well when they put up the ball against the middle-of-the-road Bengals.

Indianapolis' Passing Game vs. The Jacksonville Defense (Good Matchup)

Peyton Manning took the Dolphins to school last week, tossing 23/37 for 266 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception last week. Over the last 3 weeks, he's been hot, with 45/67 for 535 yards, 4 TDs and 1 interception in 2 games (5th best fantasy QB in FP per game). Reggie Wayne (11th in FP per game among WR during that span) has hauled in 8/116/2 while Marvin Harrison (27th) has snagged 14/160/0, and TE Marcus Pollard returned to top productivity in the absence of rookie Dallas Clark (6/100/1). Basically, the Colts are firing on all cylinders right now. Manning was solid in the first meeting between these clubs in week 3, with 21/33 for 216 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception (both TDs went to Reggie Wayne, by the way). Manning has dominated the Jags since coming into the league, he is 4-0 vs. the Jaguars and has a career 111.9 passer rating against them, completing 83 of 128 passes (64.8 pct.) for 1,013 yds with 10 TDs and only 1 interception.

Jacksonville has limited their past two opponents to modest passing numbers: 10/23 for 156 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception for Kyle Boller in week 9, and 21/27 for 187 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to Steve McNair the prior game. The club is the 17th ranked secondary in yards allowed (207 per game) but has coughed up 13 TDs so far, 3rd-worst in the NFL.

Jacksonville saw starting CB Fernando Bryant suffer a concussion last week (probable), while the other starting CB Jason Craft is questionable due to a knee injury. Indianapolis says that Clark is questionable to play, as is Troy Walters (ankle) and Brandon Stokley (head). WR/KR Brad Pyatt is out due to a spinal contusion.

The forecast for ALLTEL Stadium calls for a high of 75 F and a low of 57F, with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard, the field will get sloppy and ball-handling could become an issue in this one.

The Jaguars have some key injuries at the corners right now, while the Colts have a lot of momentum coming into this game. Advantage, Indianapolis.

Seattle's Passing Game vs. The Washington Defense (Good Matchup)

First off, the latest on Koren Robinson: (Coach) Holmgren said Robinson had an MRI taken on the ankle, and will have more information as to the nature and severity of the injury tomorrow. "How long he's going to be out, or if he misses any games at all, we won't know for a couple days until it quiets down a little bit," Holmgren said. "I'll be ready to go on Sunday," Robinson said. (11/04/03 Seattle Times article by Jose Miguel Romero) Darrell Jackson owners should be happy to hear that Robinson may be limited - given his struggles, Jackson has seen a ton of balls lately (12 targets vs. 5 last week), which he turned into 5/85/1 last week and 13/214/1 in the last 3 weeks. Hasselbeck owners are less thrilled, as he has been rather quiet lately (63/101 for 777 yards, 5 TDs and 4 interceptions the last 3 weeks, 10th in the NFL in FP per game). Hasselbeck tossed 18/31 for 215 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions vs. Pittsburgh last week.

Washington's secondary, meanwhile, has been playing steady-if-unspectacular football, holding Dallas to 17/33 for 196 yards 1 TD and 2 interceptions last week; while giving up 19/26 for 244 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to Drew Bledsoe in week 7. As a team, the Redskins rate as the 19th pass D in the league, allowing an average of 209 yards per game, but have allowed 14 passing scores so far (next-to-last in the NFL). Ifeanyi Ohalete was the 6th best fantasy DB last week, with 7 solo tackles, 1 assist, 1 interception and 1 pass defensed.

Washington lists CB Champ Bailey (wrist, probable) and CB Fred Smoot (chest, probable), along with CB Rashad Bauman (ankle, questionable) and S Todd Franz (ankle, questionable) on the injury report. Aside from Robinson's woes, the Seahawks are in good shape.

The forecast for Fed-Ex Field calls for a high of 47 F and a low of 30F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. That is great football weather - if the forecast holds up.

Seattle can be an explosive bunch when conditions are right - if Robinson is out, that will make it harder for them to "pop" this week. If he can play effectively, this looks like a good matchup for the visitors - advantage, Seattle.

St. Louis' Passing Game vs. The Baltimore Defense (Good Matchup)

In the loss vs. San Francisco, the Rams basically abandoned the run, so Marc Bulger (26/42 for 378 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions) and Tory Holt (11/200/1) were fantasy dream-players last week. Bulger is absolutely white-hot in his last 3 starts (70/113 for 1,000 yards, 5 TDs and 4 interceptions), and Tory Holt is a holy terror (22/441/4, 1st among all WR in the past 3 weeks). Isaac Bruce has 16/295/0 (20th among WR in FP per game). If you have one of these players on your fantasy team, you've had a pretty decent run over the past 3 weeks.

Baltimore plays pretty good pass D: 22/34 for 208 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception was their line vs. Jacksonville, and against the Bronco's Danny Kanell, the Ravens tethered him to 16/31 for 114 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions. They are 9th in the NFL allowing an average of 188.6 passing yards per game, but gave up 11 passing scores earlier in the year. They are playing better than those 11 scores suggest in the past few weeks, though. The Ravens are tied for 4th with 21 sacks and have generated a healthy 11 sacks in 2003.

Baltimore went without starting CB Corey Fuller last week (leg, questionable), but he is expected to play in this game. S Chad Williams has a sore back (questionable). The Rams' aerial attack is in good health coming into this game, though TE Cam Cleeland has a slight concussion (probable).

This game is being played in the Edward Jones Dome, so weather isn't an issue.

The Rams are white-hot, while the Ravens have been getting better each week. At home, though, the Rams are awfully tough, so we give them a slight edge heading into the matchup.

Tampa Bay's Passing Attack vs. The Carolina Defense (Good Matchup)

Brad Johnson had a tough loss last week, throwing 27/46 for 333 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions (and an additional fumble lost). Last week, Keyshawn Johnson saw 16 balls come his way, while McCardell and Pittman both were targeted 8 times (10/124/0 for Johnson, 5/75/1 for McCardell, 6/49/1 for Pittman). In his first game against the Panthers (in week 2), he tossed 34/61 for 339 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception - Keyshawn Johnson caught 9/102/0, and Keenan McCardell (5/53/1) accounted for the lone TD pass. In the past 3 weeks, Johnson has struggled a bit, throwing 4 TDs but 5 interceptions on 61/106 for 725 yards worth of work

Carolina has been giving in this phase recently, allowing 13/19 for 154 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions to Tony Banks week 9, and 21/34 for 201 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception vs. New Orleans the week before. The Panthers as a team have a mere 5 interceptions this year, so they haven't been generating much in the way of turnovers in this phase of the game. That should help Johnson get back on track in this matchup.

WR Joe Jurevicius is listed as questionable to play this week. Carolina's secondary is in good health at this point.

The forecast for Ericsson Stadium calls for a high of 57 F and a low of 35F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. Perfect football weather, in other words.

Tampa Bay enjoyed good success against the Panthers last time around, and they haven't been doing much better in the weeks since the last matchup. Advantage, Tampa Bay.

Carolina's Passing Attack vs. The Tampa Bay Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Jake Delhomme had a very "Carolina" week last week, throwing 13/23 for 193 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception in the loss to Houston. As usual, his #1 target was Steve "Boot to the Head" Smith (who cost his team the game with dumb kicking penalty during a crucial late drive) - 7 targets for 5/88/1. Other than handing off the ball to Stephen Davis, Delhomme's role is to take what the opposing defense gives him and to minimize his mistakes. Muhsin Muhammad got back in the action with 2/29/0 last week, and both catches were key grabs. Too bad Smith wasted his team-mates' efforts. In the club's first meeting with Tampa, Delhomme had a rough game, 9/23 for 96 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions - but that was his first start of the season and Delhomme has grown into his role since that early game. In fact, his 6 interceptions this season tie for 2nd-least among all NFC quarterbacks.

Tampa has allowed 15/25 for 140 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions to Dallas two weeks ago, and 13/30 for 142 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to Aaron Brooks and company last week - they are hard to pass on in 2003. In fact, the club ranks 5th in the NFL allowing only 175.4 passing yards per game, with 6 passing scores surrendered to date. They have posted 19 sacks and 14 interceptions so far in 2003 - getting pressure on opposing passers is something they can do well, at times. However, intensity is a problem for this club from week to week, and they just haven't risen to the challenge of divisional opponents very well in 2003 - they are 1-2 in divisional play so far.

Tampa has been without S John Lynch (shoulder, probable), starting CB Hank Poteat (hamstring, probable) and backup DB John Howell (hamstring, questionable) lately, while reserve DB Jermaine Phillips broke his forearm last week and is out 4-6 weeks. Depth is a concern in the Tampa secondary right now. Carolina lists backup TE Mike Seidman (ankle, questionable) and WR Karl Hankton (hamstring, probable).

The forecast for Ericsson Stadium calls for a high of 57 F and a low of 35F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. Perfect football weather, in other words.

Carolina isn't going to throw the ball around a lot, but when they do, look for them to work to exploit the weaknesses that injury has caused in the Tampa secondary. Tampa can be very dangerous, even though they are wounded - we call it a neutral matchup.

Dallas' Passing Game vs. The Buffalo Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Quincy Carter overcame a mistake-riddled beginning last week to finish 17/33 for 196 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions vs. Washington last week. Terry Glenn was thrown to 14 times during the game (6/73/1), while Galloway (4 targets for 1/14/0) and Bryant (6 targets for 5/52/0) languish in mediocrity. Other than Glenn (6th on wide receiver's board with 15/174/4 in the last 3 games), neither Galloway or Bryant has been a quality fantasy start for some weeks (94th and 66th on the wide receiver board over the last 3 weeks).

The Buffalo defense has been hot and cold in recent weeks, smothering the Redskins in week 7 by allowing only 10/29 for 119 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions, but getting blasted for 21/37 for 275 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions in week 8 vs. K.C. They rank as the 3rd best secondary in the NFL this season, allowing only 168 passing yards per game on average, with 8 passing scores surrendered to date. They haven't put too much pressure on opposing passers, though, with only 13 sacks all year (tied for 25th in the league).

Dallas is very healthy coming into this game, while the Bills are coming off their by week rested and ready to play.

The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 63 F and a low of 48F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. It sounds like great football weather is on tap in Texas this weekend.

Dallas is able to make some good things happen from time to time, but has lacked consistency in recent weeks. Buffalo is usually stout, but stumbled against the Chiefs. This one looks like an even matchup to us.

New York Jets' Passing Game vs. The Oakland Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Chad Pennington exploded for a fantasy bonanza last week, tossing 27/45 for 281 yards, 4 TDs and 2 interceptions in the OT loss to the Jets' in-town rival Giants. It was almost enough to pull out the victory in the real NFL, and helped a lot of fantasy owners to a "W" in their league last week. Santana Moss is "The Man" in New York's stable right now, as Wayne Chrebet is out this week with a concussion and Curtis Conway hasn't been very effective in recent weeks. In fact, Moss is the 2nd best fantasy WR in the land over the last 3 weeks, with 21/328/5 (lagging only Tory Holt).

Oakland has been playing fairly well in this phase of the game lately, holding Trent Green to 11/22 for 206 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception two weeks ago, and limiting Joey Harrington and company to 13/21 for 117 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception last week. The stout performances have helped move the Raiders into 10th on the overall pass D list, allowing only 189.3 passing yards per game this season (with 9 scores given up). You can make the case that this is because teams don't need to pass against Oakland but the reasoning doesn't really matter. The results are that teams just aren't throwing much against them.

Oakland lists S Rod Woodson as questionable due to his knee injury. New York has Chrebet as out on the early injury report.

The forecast for Network Associates Stadium calls for a high of 59 F and a low of 50F, with a 50% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard around game time, the field will get sloppy and slow, and ball handling will become more of an issue.

Pennington and Moss are clicking in recent games, while the Raiders have been smothering the competition fairly regularly. Sounds like an even matchup to us.

San Diego's Passing Game vs. The Minnesota Defense (Neutral Matchup)

What a mess this unit has become in recent weeks. Reche Caldwell just managed to return from his wrist injury, and then almost immediately suffers a concussion. TE Stephen Alexander has been missing action for weeks, and David Boston has regressed to mediocrity. Drew Brees is indecisive and off-target. Doug Flutie steps in last week, finally, and manages a mere 8/11 70 0 0 (after Brees threw 7/15 for 49 yards, 0 TD and 1 Int.). The coaching staff has refused to name a starter yet. It's pretty bleak out in Southern California, and not only because of the wild fires.

Minnesota was ripped by Brett Favre and company last week to the tune of 18/28 for 194 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception, while in week 8 they were rocked by Kerry Collins and the Giants with 23/39 for 375 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception - it's fair to say that the Viking's secondary has struggled in recent weeks. They are currently 28th in the league allowing 237.3 passing yards per game, and have coughed up 11 scores this year. On the bright side, they do have 19 sacks (tied for 11th in the NFL) and 18 interceptions (tie for 1st), so not everything is going wrong. Corey Chavous was the 9th best fantasy DB last week, with 6 solo tackles, 1 interception and 2 passes defensed.

San Diego lists TE Stephen Alexander (ankle, questionable), Reche Caldwell (concussion, probable) and WR Eric Parker (shoulder, out). Minnesota is in good health coming into the game.

The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for a high of 68 F and a low of 52F, with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard, the field could get sloppy and slow (and make ball handling an issue).

The Vikings are really struggling in this phase of the game, and so are the Chargers. Sounds like an even matchup to us.

Atlanta's Passing Attack vs. The New York Giants' Defense (Tough Matchup)

The Kurt Kittner experiment wound up with him on the bench last week, 11/18 for 78 yards, 0 TD and 1 interception before giving way to the former starter Doug Johnson (5/10 for 86 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions). It didn't really matter much who was under center, as the receiving corps disappointed again (only Peerless Price put up half-decent numbers, 6/84/0 - everyone else was held under 50 yards receiving). Price was the focus of the attack, with 12 targets - Crumpler and Finneran both were thrown to 6 times. As of Wednesday, the Falcons intend to start Kittner again this week, so don't look for much out of the Falcon's wide-outs this week.

The Giant's secondary was blasted for 27/45 for 288 yards, 4 TDs and 2 interceptions by Chad Pennington last week, and allowed 18/31 for 241 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions to Daunte Culpepper week 8. They haven't been too good lately. The team ranks as the 20th pass D in the league, allowing an average of 214.3 passing yards per game, with 9 TDs surrendered so far in 2003. They are excellent at putting pressure on the QB, though, with 27 sacks as a team so far this season - which could be a problem for the Falcons as they have allowed 22 sacks to date - a strength of the D vs. a definite weakness of the O. Last week, Omar Stoutmire was the 2nd best fantasy DB in the land, with 9 solo tackles, 2 assists, 1 sack and 1 forced fumble, while Shaun Williams was 7th best with 7 solo tackles, 2 assists, 1 interception and 1 pass defensed.

Mike Vick is still standing around with his hands in his pockets, and won't be using them on a football until late November or early December (by latest estimates) - if then. TE Brian Koslowski has a calf injury (probable). The Giants are missing CB William Peterson (back, out) and also list CB Kato Serwanga (knee, probable) and S Johnnie Harris (hamstring, questionable).

A cool day to play football is on tap at Giants' Stadium - the forecast calls for a high of 47 F and a low of 31F with a 10% chance for precipitation

A bottom-feeding offense will try to make waves against their foe this week, but the probability is that Kittner and/or Johnson will have to run for their lives most of the day. Advantage, Giants.

Buffalo's Passing Game vs. The Dallas Defense (Tough Matchup)

Drew Bledsoe and Alex Van Pelt were horrible against the Chiefs heading into the team's bye week, with a composite of 25/38 165 0 and 5 interceptions - not surprisingly, their team lost, BIG, 38 - 5. With 42/60 for 397 yards, 1 TD and 4 interceptions to his credit in the last two games, it's fair to say that Bledsoe is in the midst of a slump (again). Josh Reed has been a bright spot in recent weeks, with 16/168/1 in his last 2 games, but that about sums up the "upside" for Bills owners right now. There isn't much to get excited about here.

Dallas allowed 18/33 for 167 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions to Washington last week, and 13/26 for 151 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions to Brad Johnson in week 8. They sport the top pass D in the NFL in terms of yards allowed per game (157.5), but are generous when it comes to passing scores (10 given away so far).

Dallas is very healthy coming into this game, with only backup WR Randal Williams (ankle, questionable) and backup TE James Whalen (leg, probable) on the injury report, while the Bills are coming off their by week rested and ready to play. Eric Moulds is reportedly feeling good.

The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 63 F and a low of 48F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. It sounds like great football weather is on tap in Texas this weekend.

The Cowboys play solid pass D, but can be scored upon. The Bills were not looking too hot recently, and have to play in hostile environs. Advantage, Dallas.

Detroit's Passing Game vs. The Chicago Defense (Tough Matchup)

In the win over Oakland, Joey Harrington tossed 13/21 for 117 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception, however - the only players to catch more than 1 ball last week were FB Corey Schlesinger (4/53/1) and RB Shawn Bryson (4/32/0) - getting the ball downfield to his wide receivers isn't working out so well lately (Scotty Anderson had the long catch of the day among the WR - 1/10/0). 2 weeks ago, against this Bear's club, he managed 23/40 for 180 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions. One bright spot for Harrington: the Lions have only allowed 5 sacks this season, lowest in the NFL.

Chicago squashed Brees / Flutie last week, limiting them to 15/26 for 119 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception. This year, they are the 7th ranked pass D in yards allowed per game (183.1), but have coughed up 11 passing TDs so far, which is near the bottom of the league. They are dead last in the NFL with only 6 sacks to date.

Chicago's starting S Mike Green (groin, questionable) missed the game last week, and CB Todd McMillon is out (hand). S Cameron Worrell has a sore ankle (questionable). Detroit continues to wait on WR Charles Rogers (collarbone), and also lists Eddie Drummond (ankle/knee, out), WR Bill Schroeder (leg, questionable) and QB Joey Harrington (finger, probable).

This game is being played in a dome, so weather isn't a factor.

This game should look a lot like the last game - advantage, Chicago.

Jacksonville's Passing Game vs. The Indianapolis Defense (Tough Matchup)

Byron Leftwich cut down on the mistakes last week, slinging 22/34 for 208 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception vs. Baltimore. He has been going through typical rookie growing pains in recent weeks, posting 37/62 for 366 yards, 2 TDs and 4 interceptions in his last 2 games. Jimmy Smith (10 targets for 5/72/0), Fred Taylor (7 for 6/30/0) and Troy Edwards (6 for 4/58/0) were his main outlets last week. Leftwich saw limited playing time back in week 3 (4/5 for 32 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions) - a lot of water has gone under the bridge since then.

Indianapolis limited the Dolphins to 18/29 for 231 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions last week, while allowing 20/26 for 150 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to the Texans week 8. This year, they are a consistently tough secondary ranking 8th in the league allowing 186 passing yards per game - they have allowed 9 passing scores so far. The Colts don't give up a ton of yards, but they can be scored upon (usually once per game).

Mark Brunell's elbow is finally healing (out). WR Jimmy Redmond's foot is sore (probable). Indianapolis lists Joseph Jefferson (pelvis, probable), CB Walt Harris (knee, probable) and S's Cory Bird (shoulder, probable) and Idrees Bashir (shoulder, out) on their early injury report. The loss of Bashir is a blow to the secondary.

The forecast for ALLTEL Stadium calls for a high of 75 F and a low of 57F, with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard, the field will get sloppy and ball-handling could become an issue in this one.

Jacksonville is finding their way along with their rookie QB, but they have a huge challenge in front of them in Indianapolis this week, even though they are banged up.

Kansas City's Passing Game vs. The Cleveland Defense (Tough Matchup)

Trent Green tossed 20/35 for 273 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions vs. Buffalo in week 8, and has put up 31/57 for 479 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception in his 2 most recent games - good for 11th among all fantasy QB's in FP per game over the last 3 weeks. Tony Gonzalez has erupted for 9/152/1 in that span, to lead all TE's in FP per game, while the wide receivers have been pretty pedestrian - (Johnnie Morton has 3/28/0 in that span, Eddie Kennison has notched 6/100/0).

Cleveland limited New England to 20/33 for 259 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions in week 8, and flattened the Chargers to the tune of 9/19 for 74 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception in week 7. They are the 2nd ranked pass D in the NFL this season, allowing a mere 160.8 yards per game, on average, and only 4 passing scores to date. It's a solid secondary, that's for sure.

Both teams come into this game off a bye week, so injuries aren't a major factor. CB Lewis Sanders is questionable to play due to his sore groin.

The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium calls for a high of 54 F and a low of 40F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. That's nice football weather, if the forecast holds up.

Kansas City has been average in this phase lately, while Cleveland's strength is its pass defense. Advantage, Cleveland.

Pittsburgh's Passing Game vs. The Arizona Defense (Tough Matchup)

Tommy Maddox managed to avoid any interceptions last week - he threw for 21/35 yielding 226 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions vs. Seattle - but it wasn't enough to generate a "W". Hines Ward saw 13 passes last week, and Burress had 10 come his way (8/66/1 for Ward, 5/75/0 for Burress on the day), but neither was able to convert their chances into a huge game. Over the last 3 weeks, Maddox has put up 33/63 for 385 yards, 3 TDs and 3 interceptions in 2 games - putting him at 19th in the NFL for FP per game scored by a QB in that span of time.

Arizona limited the Bengals to 21/38 for 218 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions last week, and surprised the 49ers by holding them to 15/28 for 155 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions the week before. Dexter Jackson was the 8th best fantasy DB last week, with 6 solo tackles, 1 interception and 2 passes defensed in the win. The Cardinals are 16th in the league this season, allowing an average of 200.8 passing yards per game, and gave up 12 passing scores so far. They are also 31st in the league with only 7 sacks, and tied for next-to-last with only 5 interceptions this season - however, they have turned it up a notch in recent weeks.

Starting TE Jay Riemersma has missed the last few games, and is questionable to play this week. WR's Plaxico Burress (shoulder) and Lee Mays (back) are probable. Arizona's secondary is in good health, currently.

The forecast for Heinz field calls for a high of 40 F and a low of 25F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. A clear, cool day is coming up - excellent football weather, if a little chilly.

Maddox and company just can't seem to get on track, while the Cardinals have been playing well in recent weeks. Advantage, Arizona.

Tennessee's Passing Game vs. The Miami Defense (Tough Matchup)

Starting receiver Drew Bennett strained his left calf and may miss up to a month. (10/28/03 AP article) If Bennett is trapped on the sidelines this week, rookie Tyrone Calico may be in for a big game vs. the Dolphins. So far this season, Calico has 13/249/3 through 8 games. McNair was mediocre vs. the Jaguars in week 8, with 21/27 for 187 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to his credit. Derrick Mason has seen 63 passes this season, with Bennett at #2 with 40, McCariens at #3 with 39 and Calico at #5 with 29 balls. McCariens is slated to step into Bennett's slot if he is unable to play.

Peyton Manning played well week 9 vs. the Dolphins, with 23/37 for 266 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception, while in week 8 Drew Brees suffered through a 19/30 for 190 yards, 0 TDs and 3 interceptions performance. As has been well documented this year, the Dolphins surrender a lot of yards (235.8 per game, 27th in the NFL), but not many TDs (5 so far), and generate a lot of sacks (21) and turnovers (14 interceptions to date).

Tennessee says that Bennett is out. Miami's starting CB Patrick Surtain tweaked an ankle last week, but it isn't considered a serious injury (questionable).

The forecast for the Coliseum calls for a high of 56 F and a low of 36F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. That's nice football weather, folks.

McNair has been explosive at points this season, but is cooling off lately and is probably without his #2 WR this weekend. Miami is always stout in this phase - we call it a tough matchup for the Titans.

Washington's Passing Game vs. The Seattle Defense (Tough Matchup)

Quarterback Patrick Ramsey said he expects to be able to play Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks at FedEx Field despite a bruised left forearm and a dislocated little finger on his left hand. "I'm sore [but] not anything that's going to keep me from playing," Ramsey said. (11/04/03 Washington Post article by Mark Maske) Ramsey was battered (sacked 4 times for 43 yards lost) but productive last week, with 16/30 for 147 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions. He's been on the downswing yardage-wise for a few weeks now, totaling only 25/56 262 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions in his last 2 games. The OL is the big issue here, with a league worst 29 sacks allowed. Laveranues Coles is target #1, with 12 balls for 4/27/1 last week, while Rod Gardner saw 5 passes but only managed 1/14/0.

Seattle allowed 19/31 for 240 yards 2 TDs and 0 interceptions vs. the Bengals two weeks ago, and 21/35 for 226 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions to Tommy Maddox last week. They haven't been forcing turnovers in this phase lately, and are tied for 18th in the league with 16 sacks so far in 2003. The team is 14th in the league allowing an average of 195.8 passing yards per game, with 7 scores surrendered so far. Marcus Trufant was the 10th best fantasy DB last week, with 8 solo tackles and 2 passes defensed.

Washington reports that Ramsey is probable due to the forearm/finger injuries. Guard Dave Fiore was placed on IR this week. Seattle lists S Ken Hamlin as probable to play through a sore foot.

The forecast for Fed-Ex Field calls for a high of 47 F and a low of 30F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. That is great football weather - if the forecast holds up.

The Redskins are struggling in this phase of the game right now, while the Seahawks are steady but not spectacular at pass defense. Given the weakness of the OL, though, we have to give the nod to the visitors in this one.

Cleveland's Passing Game vs. The Kansas City Defense (Bad Matchup)

The two-headed monster that is the Browns' QB position hasn't done much of anything in recent weeks - 22/36 for 155 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception vs. New England before their bye week. The top Cleveland receiver for the 2 games before the bye week was Dennis Northcutt, with 7/83/1 (30th among all fantasy WR in FP per game), followed by Kevin Johnson at 59th, with 10/83/0. Fantasy owners with Browns on their roster have been very frustrated in recent weeks. Indications are that Cleveland will give Kelly Holcombe the start this week.

Kansas City whipped Drew Bledsoe and Alex Van Pelt in week 8: 25/38 for 165 yards, 0 TDs and 5 interceptions is what came out of the Buffalo rout. In week 7, they collapsed Oakland for 26/47 yielding 282 yards, but 0 TDs with 2 interceptions. The Chiefs are tied for 4th in the NFL with 21 sacks, are tied for 1st with 18 interceptions, but rank 25th allowing 220 passing yards per game, with 8 scores given up so far. They are opportunistic and aggressive in this phase of the game.

Both teams come into this game off a bye week, so injuries aren't a major factor. Couch (finger) and Holcomb (leg) are both probable, as is TE Steve Heiden (knee). CB Julian Battle has a sore hamstring (probable).

The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium calls for a high of 54 F and a low of 40F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. That's nice football weather, if the forecast holds up.

Cleveland has never gotten out of first gear in this phase of the game, while the Chiefs' secondary is gobbling up opposing passers lately. A huge edge flows to the home team in this matchup.

Oakland's Passing Game vs. The New York Jets' Defense (Bad Matchup)

Rick Mirer managed 15/28 for 125 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions last week, in relief of the injured Marques Tuiasosopo. For his career, Mirer is a 53.4 % passer (987/1850 for 10,897 yards) with a horrendous TD/Int. ratio (47 TDs vs. 73 interceptions). He's third-string for a reason. He did spread the ball around to Brown, Rice and Porter once he got into the game, so at least he is getting the ball in the right hands.

The Jets allowed Kerry Collins to rack up 24/40 for 303 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions last week, and Donovan McNabb hit them up for 17/23 for 141 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception two weeks ago. The Jets are tops in the league with 27 sacks, but have generated only 5 interceptions despite all the heat on opposing QB's. The team ranks 4th in the NFL allowing a mere 170.9 passing yards per game, with 6 scores given up so far in 2003 - this is a stout unit.

Oakland lists Gannon as out and Tuiasosopo as out due to their injuries, while Jerry Porter is probable despite his sore abdomen. The Jets are without DB Donnie Abraham (shoulder) and S Jon McGraw (shoulder), as well as pass rush specialist John Abraham (groin).

The forecast for Network Associates Stadium calls for a high of 59 F and a low of 50F, with a 50% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard around game time, the field will get sloppy and slow, and ball handling will become more of an issue.

The Jets are formidable, even with some good players on the sidelines, while Mirer is a 3rd-string talent with a penchant for interceptions. Advantage, New York.