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Joe

Week 9 Passing Matchups

By Mark Wimer with Joe Bryant

Bye Weeks:

Buffalo's Drew Bledsoe/Eric Moulds/Josh Reed are on bye.
Cleveland's Kelly Holcomb/Tim Couch/Quincy Morgan/Dennis Northcutt are on bye.
Tennessee's Steve McNair/Drew Bennett/Derrick Mason are on bye.
Kansas City's Trent Green/Eddie Kennison/Johnnie Morton/Tony Gonzalez are on bye.

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

Carolina went back to what has worked all season long - pounding the ball with Stephen Davis and playing conservatively in the passing phase of the game. An interesting trend has emerged in this phase of the game over the last three weeks, though. In each of his last three games, Steve Smith has topped 100 receiving yards. His production has ratcheted him to the No. 10 spot for receiving yards in the NFC, with 485 yards on 38 catches. What's more, over the past three games, Smith's catches have accounted for 45.5 percent of Delhomme's 55 completions - guess you could say that the two are in synch, huh? If your quarterback only throws for 12/27 yielding 148 yards, 0 TD's and 0 interceptions, yet you are good for 9/100/0 (Smith's numbers last week - 14th among all fantasy WR in FP), it would be fair to call that receiver his team's go-to guy. Which is exactly what Smith has become in recent weeks.

Houston was ripped in week 8 for 22/30 yielding 269 yards, 3 TD's and 0 interceptions by Manning and company. In week 7 vs. Vinny Testaverde, the Texans gave up 15/29 for 182 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions. This cellar-dwelling unit ranks 30th in the NFL this season, allowing an average of 252.6 passing yards per game, and is tied for worst in the NFL at 14 passing scores allowed this year. Ouch, Houston fans. They are also 30th in the NFL with only 8 QB sacks all season.

WR Karl Hankton (hamstring) and starting WR Muhsin Muhammad (concussion) are questionable for the Panthers, while Houston's CB's Jason Bell (knee) and Aaron Glenn (groin) are probable.

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 81F and a low of 65F with a 20% chance for rain. That's just about perfect football weather.

Carolina doesn't throw much, but when they do decide to put it up, there is an excellent chance for good things to happen against the lowly Texans.

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

Daunte Culpepper threw 18/31 for 241 yards, 2 TD's and 2 interceptions vs. the Giants last week, and has put up 37/57 for 518 yards, 4 TD's and 2 interceptions (7/49/0 rushing) in his last 2 starts. He and Randy Moss (17/276/2) have picked up where they left off before Culpepper's injury. This week, they face a key divisional game vs. the Packers. In week 1 vs. Green Bay, Culpepper tossed 15/30 for 195 yards, 3 TD's and 0 interceptions to lead his club to victory.

Green Bay has been lousy at defending the pass lately, surrendering 22/34 for 247 yards, 3 TD's (with 2 interceptions) vs. St. Louis in week 7, one week after being shelled for 27/45 for 400 yards, 3 TD's and 0 interceptions vs. K.C. The Packers are 29th in the NFL allowing an average of 246.7 passing yards per game, and have coughed up 10 passing scores - 6 of them in their past 2 games. It is definitely fair to say the secondary of the Packers has tanked in recent weeks.

No injuries of note to report in this matchup.

This one is in the Metrodome, so weather won't be a factor.

Culpepper and Moss are hot, and Green Bay has been awful in this phase lately even though they've faced excellent teams. A big edge goes to the home team.

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

Donovan McNabb managed to get above 100 yards passing last week (17/23 for 141 yards, 1 TD and 1 Int.), but he still has yet to throw a TD to one of his wide receivers this season. Pinkston and Thrash combined for 46 yards receiving on the day last week. Let's put it this way - the Eagles are not an explosive aerial attack. McNabb has disappointed more often than not in the past 3 weeks, with 37/72 for 331 yards, 2 TD's and 2 interceptions.

Atlanta has been absolutely shelled in recent weeks: 23/30 for 352 yards, 3 TD's and 0 interceptions vs. the Saints last week; 24/35 for 377 yards, 2 TD's and 2 interceptions vs. St. Louis the week before. In response to the poor play in the secondary, DC Wade Phillips is benching all 4 starters from the last game: cornerbacks Ray Buchanan and Tyrone Williams and safeties Keion Carpenter and Gerald McBurrows. Tod McBride and Juran Bolden (currently on the PUP list, due to a torn right patellar tendon suffered last January in the playoff game vs. Philadelphia) are slated to start at cornerback, Cory Hall and rookie Bryan Scott at the safeties. Bolden reports that he is 100% recovered and eager to play. It's a radical move, but the new guys would be hard pressed to be worse than the players who came before them.

You won't be shocked to know that the Falcons are dead last in the NFL in passing yards allowed per game (269.9), near the bottom of the league with 13 passing scores surrendered, and next-to-last with only 4 interceptions this season.

Donovan McNabb (thumb) and TE L.J. Smith (ankle) are probable to play. Atlanta lists S Cory Hall (knee) as questionable.

This game is being played in the Georgia Dome, so weather is not an issue.

McNabb and his receivers have struggled mightily, but they won't get a better matchup than this all year long.

Oakland's Passing Game vs. The Detroit Defense (Great Matchup)

The word on Rich Gannon's throwing shoulder is that the injury is a torn labrum in the shoulder, a condition that is currently expected to keep Gannon out 2-3 weeks (if not longer). Marques Tuiasosopo has been taking all the snaps with the first-team offense so far this week, so it looks like the 3rd year guy is going to get his first start against the Lions. In relief of Gannon two weeks ago Tuiasosopo threw for 16/28 224 0 TD's and 1 interception, but was within 1 yard of forcing OT in the game vs. KC, when Tim Brown stepped out of the end-zone to make the final catch of the game within a cat's whisker of a TD. He looked much more in tune with Rice, Porter and Brown than Gannon had for the past several weeks.

Detroit is playing abominably in this phase of the game. Chicago's Chris Chandler rang them up in week 8 for 20/31 yielding 207 yards, with 1 TD and 0 interceptions, while in week 7 Dallas looked great, and Quincy Carter hit 18/25 for 190 yards, 3 TD's and 0 interceptions. Detroit is 23rd in the league with only 12 quarterback sacks, and next-to-last in interceptions with 4 this season. They currently rank 24th in the league allowing 226.3 passing yards per game and are next-to-last in TD's surrendered, with 14.

Besides Gannon's shoulder, the Raiders list WR Jerry Porter (abdomen, questionable). CB Roderick Babers is out for the Lions; CB Jimmy Wyrick is questionable due to his sore chest.

This game is being played at Ford Field, so weather won't be a factor.

This is a great opportunity for Tuiasosopo to make a positive impression on the Oakland faithful and fantasy owners everywhere.

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

Jeff Blake only threw for 14/24 for 97 yards, 0 TD's and 0 interceptions last week - but his team had 44/221/1 rushing against the 49ers, including 4/29/1 for Blake. The bottom line is, Blake didn't need to throw against the flailing 49ers last week. In his past 2 games, Blake has put up 36/60 for 344 yards, 2 TD's and 3 interceptions (with 8/58/1 rushing), slotting him at 14th among all fantasy QB's in FP per game during the past 3 weeks. That's not too shabby. Anquan Boldin saw 8 balls come his way, while Brian Gilmore got 7 chances last week - they produced 3/29/0 and 2/18/0 respectively. Boldin has put up 42/621/2 this season, with 9/124/0 over his last 2 games, so it was an atypically bad outing on his part. He was slowed by an ankle injury sustained during the game, but refused to come out, according to reports from Arizona.

Cincinnati barely survived their game vs. Seattle (26/43 for 347 yards, 3 TD's and 3 interceptions (LB Brian Simmons, CB's Tory James and Jeff Burris each grabbed one)), and Kyle Boller lit them up two weeks ago for 15/27 for 302 yards, 2 TD's and 1 interception in his only decent game of 2003. Bottom line here: the Bengals' secondary isn't playing very well in recent weeks. They are currently 20th in the league, allowing 217 yards passing per game, and have given away 9 scores in this phase so far this year.

Cincy says S Marquand Manuel (hamstring) is questionable to play this week. Arizona will go without reserve WR Jason McAddley (again) due to his bad hamstring.

The forecast for Sun Devil Stadium calls for a high of 76F and a low of 55F with a 30% chance for rain. If the rain comes down hard at game time, the field could get sloppy and slow, especially since it saw 2 pro games last week on consecutive days.

Arizona has some weapons to bring to the table (and a newly-awakened rushing attack to help open up passing lanes), while the Bengals have been very vulnerable to the pass in recent weeks. That sounds like a good matchup for Blake and company to us.

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

Kyle Boller regressed to form in week 8 at Denver (15/27 for 137 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions) - it appears his big week was a one-game mirage of fantasy potential. Todd Heap saw the most balls last week (10), followed by Frank Sanders (4) and Jamal Lewis (4). Heap, of course, was robbed of a TD on a replay call, but ended the day with a respectable 3/54/0 anyway. TE Terry Jones came up with the lone score (3 targets for 2/9/1).

Jacksonville held off Jay Fiedler and company 2 weeks ago (14/27 for 147 yards, 0 TD's and 1 interception), and held Tennessee to 21/27 for 187 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception last weekend. This season, the Jags are ranked 19th in the NFL allowing 214.3 passing yards per game, with 12 TD's surrendered in this phase so far. They have been tougher than that in recent games, though, as the numbers above show.

TE Todd Heap is probable to go despite his sore shoulder, while CB James Trapp is out (ankle) and CB Jason Craft (knee) is doubtful for the Jags.

The forecast for M&T Bank Stadium calls for a high of 72F and a low of 56F with a 20% chance for rain. That's just about ideal football weather, if the rain holds off.

Boller is playing in a system that emphasizes handing off the ball to Jamal Lewis. Even though the Jaguars' weak secondary is an attractive matchup for Boller, don't expect a deluge of passing unless the Ravens are forced to it.

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

Chris Chandler last week: 20/31 for 207 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions vs. Detroit. It was good enough to notch a "W" in the win-loss column, and marked the emergence of rookie WR Justin Gage (3 targets but 2/58/1 worth of production to lead the team). Dez White and David Terrell both saw 8 balls come their way, but neither did much with their opportunities (3/36/0 for White, 5/22/0 for Terrell).

San Diego is horrible at defending against the pass, folks - dead last in the NFL with 15 passing TD's allowed so far in 2003; near the bottom of the league with a mere 5 interceptions; and 22nd in the league allowing 220.1 yards per game on average. In week 8, new Dolphins' starter Brian Griese tore them up for 20/29 and 192 yards, with 3 TD's and 0 interceptions. Cleveland put up 24/44 for 192 yards, 2 TD's and 2 interceptions in week 7. The opposition scores early and often on this squad.

The Bears list WR Marty Booker (ankle) and TE Desmond Clark (toe) as questionable, with QB Kordell Stewart (leg) as probable. CB Sammy Davis (ankle - questionable) and S Vernon Fox (groin - probable) are on San Diego's initial injury list.

The forecast for Soldier Field calls for a high of 53F and a low of 43F with a 20% chance for rain. If the wind kicks up come game time, the ball could tend to float on the quarterbacks.

We have a hard time getting fired up about Bear players in the passing game, but against San Diego in 2003, you are always looking at a good matchup in this phase. Advantage, Chicago.

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

Jon Kitna is one of the hottest fantasy QB's around right now, with 35/58 for 514 yards, 5 TD's and 0 interceptions in his last two games, including his "vendetta" 13/31 for 240 yards, 2 TD's and 0 interceptions performance vs. Seattle last week. That's good for 2nd place among all fantasy QB's in FP per game over the last 3 weeks. Chad Johnson has been bonkers lately - he averages 26.75 yards per catch over the last 2 games, with 8/214/2 (4th among fantasy receivers), while side-kick Peter Warrick isn't bad with 9/104/1 receiving and 2/53/0 rushing in the last 2 games (12th among fantasy receivers). They aren't the Bungles in this phase of the game, folks.

In week 8, Arizona surprised Jeff Garcia and company (15/28 for 155 yards, 0 TD's and 0 interceptions) and in week 6 the Ravens only managed 9/18 for 75 yards, 0 TD's and 0 interceptions. They are playing much better than their season totals would indicate - the Cardinals average 198.6 passing yards allowed per game in 2003, and have surrendered 11 TD tosses, with only 3 interceptions all year long. They are also last in the league with a meager 6 sacks - yet they have played tough in recent weeks, as we saw above.

T.J. Houshmandzadeh is (no surprise) out due to his hamstring injury, while TE Reggie Kelly has a foot injury (out). Arizona is in good shape, health-wise.

The forecast for Sun Devil Stadium calls for a high of 76F and a low of 55F with a 30% chance for rain. If the rain comes down hard at game time, the field could get sloppy and slow, especially since it saw 2 pro games last week on consecutive days.

Cincinnati is red-hot right now, with a great receiving tandem in rhythm with their QB. Arizona surprised the 49ers and smothered the anemic Ravens, but they are playing above themselves in recent weeks. Look for Kitna and company to push the Cardinals back towards their season average this week.

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

Quincy Carter disappointed last week against the wounded Tampa secondary, only connecting 15 times on 25 attempts for 140 yards, 0 TD's and tossing 2 interceptions. Antonio Bryant was blanked, while Glenn and Galloway each gained only 26 yards through the air. The Cowboys were completely dominated in this phase last week. The poor showing dropped Carter to 21st among all fantasy signal callers over the last three weeks, with 47/75 for 476 yards, 3 TD's and 3 interceptions during that span (Terry Glenn caught all 3 TD's in one game 2 weeks ago, so Carter has gone 2 out of 3 games with 0 TD's to his credit).

Washington was nuked by Brad Johnson in week 6 - 22/30 for 268 yards, 4 TD's and 0 interceptions - and went into the bye week after losing to Buffalo (Bledsoe went 19/26 for 244 yards, with 1 TD and 1 interception). The Redskins have surrendered 13 passing scores so far in 2003 (tied for 3rd-worst in the NFL), and currently rank 18th allowing 211.4 passing yards per contest. This unit isn't a team strength, despite the showmanship of Champ Bailey and Fred Smoot.

Dallas' TE James Whalen is questionable with a sore leg. CB Fred Smoot (chest) is doubtful, CB Rashad Bauman (ankle) is questionable, and CB Champ Bailey (wrist) is probable.

The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 83F and a low of 62F with a 20% chance for rain. That's very good weather for a football game.

Carter is on a roller-coaster this season, and has played 2 poor games in his last 3 appearances. Washington has been consistently soft, so this game provides Carter a good chance to bounce back to respectability again.

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

"They believe it was just a regular ankle sprain instead of a high ankle sprain," said Carr, who was hurt Sunday at Indianapolis. "On the MRI, you could see a lot of fluid, but they think that once the swelling goes down, they'll be able to tell more. The swelling is what is keeping me from doing anything as far as putting weight on it. The swelling should go down pretty soon." …(HC Capers) "It helps if you get a full week of practice. We'll start out Wednesday with Tony taking most of the reps, and Dave Ragone will get the backup reps. David will be doubtful for this week. We've done all the tests, and we're treating this as just a typical ankle sprain. One of the things we're going to make sure is that we want him to be well when we put him back out there. David is a competitor, and he'll want to come back. How he responds will determine how he comes back." (10/28/03 Houston Chronicle article by Carlton Thompson)

Enter Tony Banks, for a weekend, at least. Banks has a big arm, but his decision-making is this QB's Achilles' Heel (1221/2255 for a 54.1 completion % yielding 14,572 yards, 72 TD's and 69 Int. in his career) - he has almost always thrown as many interceptions as TD's wherever he has played, except for one shining season in Baltimore (1999), when he had 17 TD's but only 8 picks. In relief of Carr last week, Banks was 12/17 for 88 yards, 0 TD's and 1 interception. Jabar Gaffney led all WR with 6 targets during the game, while Andre Johnson saw 5 balls come his way (TE Billy Miller had 4). Miller came up with the lone TD, 4/37/1. Other than that, no-one did much in the way of fantasy points last week.

Carolina has been mediocre at pass defense this season - last week Joe Horn tore them up for 2 TD's (Aaron Brooks threw for 20/33 187 yards, 2 TD's and 1 interception last week). In the blowout loss to Tennessee they gave up 13/25 for 240 yards, 2 TD's and 0 interceptions to Steve McNair and backup QB Billy Volek. This year, the Panthers are the 25th ranked secondary in the land, allowing an average of 228.9 passing yards per contest, with 9 passing TD's given away so far. They are near the bottom of the league in generating interceptions, with only 5 so far in 2003. This just isn't an intimidating unit.

TE Rashod Kent is doubtful to play thanks to his calf injury: Carolina's secondary is healthy at this point in the season.

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 81F and a low of 65F with a 20% chance for rain. That's just about perfect football weather.

Tony Banks has started in this league before, and he can throw passes with authority when he is on track. His biggest liability, interceptions, is not a strong suit of the Panthers - this looks like a good matchup for Banks and the Texans.

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

Matt Hasselbeck threw for a ton of yards last week - 26/43 for 347 yards, with 3 TD's and 3 interceptions vs. Cincinnati - but he couldn't quite pull out the win due to a late, drive-killing interception. Koren Robinson and Itula Mili saw the same number of balls (6), but Mili turned his into 5/80/2, while Robinson managed only 2/35/0. Darrell Jackson had more than double the number of passes (13), and caught 6/98/0 on the afternoon. Hasselbeck is the 10th-ranked fantasy QB in FP per week over the last 3 weeks, with 62/97 for 769 yards, 5 TD's and 5 interceptions (10/40/0 rushing), so he has a fairly hot hand right now.

Pittsburgh got bombed by Marc Bulger last week (22/37 for 375 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions), and surrendered 17/28 for 172 yards, 2 TD's and 2 interceptions to Steve Beuerlein in week 7. They average 181.9 passing yards allowed per game (8th in the league), but have surrendered 11 passing scores so far in 2003 (in the bottom third of the NFL).

CB Chidi Iwuoma has a sore groin (probable), while Seattle's TE Ryan Hannam (knee) is out. WR Koren Robinson has a sore hip (questionable).

The forecast for Seahawks' Stadium calls for a high of 45F and a low of 30F with a 30% chance for rain. If it is closer to 30F than 40F at game time, and raining, the field will get slick and the ball will be harder to handle, too.

Seattle is fairly hot right now, and could be even more explosive if Koren Robinson can get back to the top of his game. Pittsburgh got mauled last week, and is fairly easy to score on in this phase - advantage, Seattle.

Tampa Bay's Passing Game vs. The New Orleans Defense (Good Matchup)

Brad Johnson had a workmanlike game against Dallas last week, hitting 13/26 for 151 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions. In his last 3 games, Johnson has put up 56/90 for 660 yards, 6 TD's and 3 interceptions, good for 11th among all fantasy QB's in FP per game during that span. Keenan McCardell saw WAY more balls than anyone else last week, with 12 targets for 6/68/0 - in comparison, Keyshawn Johnson was thrown to 3 times, and he made 1 catch for 7 yards and the lone receiving TD last week. In fact, McCardell has more targets (57 vs. 47 for Johnson), more catches (30 vs. 27) for more yards (505 vs. 363) and more scores (4 vs. 2) during the first half of the season. It looks like Brad Johnson has a new go-to wide receiver in Tampa, doesn't it? More good news for the team this week - #3 wide-out Joe Jurevicius is expected back from the knee injury that has cost him the first half of the season.

Meanwhile, the Saints have been putting up good stats against some bottom-tier passing attacks. Carolina managed 12/27 for 148 yards, 0 TD's and 0 interceptions against the Saints last week, (but had 223 yards rushing and 2 scores, which meant little urgency to pass the ball in that one). In week 7 Atlanta threw for 9/29 for 115 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception, but it was Kurt Kittner's first NFL start. Those anemic outings helped pad the Saint's stats - now they rank 6th in the NFL in passing yards allowed per game (176), but the Saints are tied for 4th-worst in the league allowing 12 passing scores this season. In addition, the Saints are tied for last in the league with only 3 interceptions this year.

Jurevicius is listed as questionable on the injury report, while backup QB Shaun King is probable (ankle). New Orleans' unit is in good health currently.

The forecast for Raymond James Stadium calls for a high of 85F and a low of 68F with a 20% chance for rain. It should be a great day to play football.

Brad Johnson has shown explosiveness in weeks past, and he will finally have his full complement of weapons at his disposal this week. New Orleans looks good on paper, but they have been playing weak units - the Buccaneers' squad is anything but that. At home, we give the nod to the Bucs.

Detroit's Passing Game vs. The Oakland Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Joey Harrington was mediocre week 8 vs. Chicago, throwing 23/40 for 180 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions. It was the best performance in recent memory for Harrington (who has put up 28/53 for 210 yards, 1 TD and 4 interceptions in the last 2 games). His favorite target last week was Az-Zahir Hakim (11 for 5/38/0) with Scotty Anderson a closed second (10 for 4/39/0). Mikhail Ricks pulled in 3/15/1 on 4 targets to account for the teams' lone passing score. Hakim has seen 41 passes come his way since returning from injury (by the way), but has yet to find the end-zone - not too good, huh?

Oakland has been playing tough in this phase (at least on paper) - in Week 7 vs. K.C. they gave up 11/22 for 206 yards, 0 TD's and 1 interception; in week 6 vs. Cleveland the numbers were 16/26 for 127 yards, 0 TD's and 0 interceptions. Part of the reason for the good-looking numbers in this phase is that the team is dead-last in the NFL at defending the run (allowing 159 yards per game on the ground), so teams don't need to throw very often. This season, the Raiders rank 16th in the NFL allowing 199.6 passing yards per game, with 8 receiving scores allowed so far. In fantasy football terms, the lowly rushing D means that passers playing the Raiders are likely to put up modest stats due to the defensive fronts' vulnerability.

Harrington is probable to play despite his sore finger, Ricks has a sore ankle (questionable) and of course Drummond and Rogers are out. S Rod Woodson continues to have trouble with a sore knee (questionable).

This game is being played at Ford Field, so weather won't be a factor.

Harrington has a weak supporting cast, in both the rushing phase and the receiving stable, so don't expect him to explode against the Raiders, despite their mediocre play in 2003. We call it a neutral matchup.

Green Bay's Passing Game vs. The Minnesota Defense (Tough Matchup)

Two weeks ago in the loss to St. Louis, Brett Favre threw 23/32 for 268 yards, 2 TD's and 1 interception. His favorite target that day was Donald Driver (8 targets), followed by Ahman Green (7 looks). Those two led the team in receptions, with 6/62/1 for Green and 4/58/0 for Driver - modest numbers for a WR by any yardstick. In the past 2 games, Favre has hooked up for 48/68 for 540 yards, 4 TD's and 2 interceptions, good for 9th among all fantasy QB's in FP per game in the last 3 weeks. Driver, tops among the team's wideouts with 11/112/0 ranks 43rd on the WR board for that same period, and Bubba Franks is 16th among fantasy TE (5/27/1), so Favre's good stats aren't trickling down to his receiving corps lately. In week 1 vs. Minnesota Favre threw for 25/41 yielding 248 yards, 1 TD and 4 interceptions (those interceptions cost Green Bay the game).

Minnesota was roughed up by Kerry Collins last week, allowing 23/39 for 375 yards, 2 TD's and 1 interception, while Denver, in week 7, put up 21/37 for 223 yards, 1 TD and 3 interceptions. This year, the Vikings are 28th in the league allowing 244 passing yards per game, with 8 scoring throws given away. However, they do have 17 interceptions (2nd in the NFL) and 18 sacks (8th in the league), so they make a lot of big plays on the ball and against opposing passers, despite the lowly ranking in terms of yardage allowed. Last week, Corey Chavous was the 2nd-best fantasy DB in the land, with 9 solo tackles, 1 assist, 1 interception and 1 pass defensed.

Brett Favre is probable to play through his sore thumb. Minnesota is ready to go.

This one is in the Metrodome, so weather won't be a factor.

Favre has been throwing for good numbers, but hasn't been hitting his wide receivers very often - the passing game is all about dump-off passes to the running backs lately. Minnesota allows a generous amount of yardage, but makes you pay by causing turn-overs. In this crucial game, at home, we think the Vikings have the edge on Favre and his compatriots.

Indianapolis' Passing Game vs. The Miami Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Peyton Manning tore up the Texans last week, with 22/30 for 269 yards, 3 TD's and 0 interceptions. He is leading the NFL in passer rating (105.5) and touchdown passes (15 so far). The Colt's OL is giving Manning great protection, allowing a league-low 4 sacks so far in 2003. Marvin Harrison led all receivers with 11 targets for 8/100/0, while Reggie Wayne was the fantasy star of the week among the team's WR with 7 targets for 6/96/2. Marcus Pollard hauled in every ball that came his way, with 4/32/1 last week. Wayne has come on strong in recent weeks, and is the 3rd ranked fantasy WR over the last 3 weeks in FP per game, with 10/167/3 in 2 games, while Harrison is 10th with 16/219/0. Marcus Pollard is 11th among all tight ends in that span, with 7/59/1.

Miami, meanwhile, was tough on San Diego week 8 to the tune of 19/30 for 190 yards, 0 TD's and 3 interceptions. In week 7 New England managed to put up 24/34 for 283 yards, 2 TD's and 0 interceptions vs. the Dolphins, though. This season, the Dolphins allow a lot of yards per game (235 passing yards per contest), but have only given up 4 passing scores all year. They also have 13 interceptions as a team - Patrick Surtain added 2 to that total last week on the way to being the 7th best fantasy DB of the week, with 4 solo tackles, 2 interceptions and 2 passes defensed.

TE Dallas Clark is questionable for the game, while WR Troy Walters is probable (knee). Miami's secondary is in good shape coming into the game.

The forecast for Pro Player Stadium calls for a high of 86F and a low of 71F with a 30% chance for rain. If the rain comes down hard, footing and ball handling could be an issue.

Manning and company are hot - the Dolphins field a very solid secondary. Sounds like a great game is on tap between these solid units - we call it an even matchup.

New England's Passing Game vs. The Denver Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Tom Brady was solid but unspectacular against the Browns last week, with 20/33 for 259 yards, 0 TD's and 0 interceptions in the game. His team managed to put Adam Vinatieri in position to out-duel Phil Dawson, 9-3. Over the last 3 weeks, Brady has thrown 52/88 for 654 yards, 2 TD's and 0 interceptions. With such a meager number of passing scores, it is no surprise to run across the top New England wide receiver, Troy Brown, down at #26 on the WR board with 9/149/1 in the past 3 games. There just haven't been many fantasy points to go around for Patriot receivers in recent weeks, although TE Daniel Graham had a break-out game last week with 7 grabs for 110 yards (no TD's).

Denver has been mediocre in this phase lately, holding rookie Kyle Boller to 15/27 for 137 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions last week, but giving up 19/26 for 277 yards, 2 TD's with 0 interceptions to Daunte Culpepper two weeks ago. The Broncos are ranked 5th in the NFL allowing 171.9 passing yards per game on average, but have given away 9 passing scores this year. They do have 21 sacks (tied for 4th in the league), but only 5 interceptions all year.

The bad news for Denver is that they lost the second LB from their core group of three starters this week when John Mobley went down to a spinal contusion. Ian Gold is already done for the season, so what used to be the strength of this D is now a suspect area. S Kenoy Kennedy is probable to play (ankle). New England has been missing the services of starting WR David Patten due to his knee injury (questionable). TE Christian Fauria has a sore leg (questionable) while Tom Brady is probable despite his sore arm.

The forecast for Mile-High Stadium calls for a high of 49F and a low of 27F with a 30% chance for precipitation. As this is a Monday Night game, any precipitation would likely be sleet or snow - if the wind kicks up, the conditions could get very tough for players in the passing phase of the game. However, keep in mind both teams are cold-weather franchises with experience handling the elements.

Brady and company have been low-key recently, while Denver plays mediocre pass defense (and will be vulnerable in the middle of the D due to mounting injury losses among the LB corps). It's a situation where neither unit is in a clearly dominant position over the other coming into the game.

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

Kerry Collins threw for 23/39 yielding 375 yards, 2 TD's and 1 interception vs. Minnesota's tough, ball-hawking defense on Sunday. Given that the Vikings field one of the most interception-happy secondaries in the NFL (17 so far this year, #2 in the NFL), and seeing Collin's recent struggles in that department (5 Int. in the last 3 games), the Giants got a vastly improved performance from Collins this week. One of the reasons for his improved play had to do with pass protection - Collins was only sacked once in the Minnesota game, much better than the three sacks and many pressures allowed two weeks ago vs. Philadelphia. Ike Hilliard (12 targets for 9/100/2) and Amani Toomer (11 targets for 3/96/0) were the main beneficiaries last week, although Jeremy Shockey also made good things happen with his 6 chances (3/81/0).

The Jets allowed Donovan McNabb to find some sort of rhythm last week (17/23 for 141 yards, 1 TD and 1 Int.), but he didn't have a huge game, obviously. Playing the Texans week 7, the Jets frustrated David Carr and company to the tune of 15/23 for 170 yards, 0 TD's and 0 interceptions. Part of the reason for the modest passing stats, it must be said, is due to the extreme ease with which teams can run the ball against the Jets - but, for whatever reason, they lead the league in passing yards allowed per game (152.7) and are tied for the second-least amount of passing scores surrendered (4 so far in 2003). The Jets also lead the league in sacks, with 26, but are near the bottom of the league in generating interceptions, with only 5 to their credit this year.

TE Jeremy Shockey is probable to play through his sore foot, while reserve WR Willie Ponder is likely to stay on the sidelines with his hip injury. The Jets will be without CB Donnie Abraham (shoulder) and S Jon McGraw (shoulder), as well as pass-rusher DE John Abraham (groin). CB Jamie Henderson is probable to play despite his sore knee.

The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 69F and a low of 52F with a 20% chance for rain. As long as the wind stays relatively calm, it should be a fine day for a football game.

Collins and company come into this game hot, and they face the Jets while that team is missing one of their top pass-rushers, thanks to John Abraham's injury. Even though the Jets are tough, this looks like a neutral matchup from where we sit.

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

Drew Brees had a miserable game Monday night: 19/30 for 190 yards, 0 TD's and 3 interceptions is a box score he must be eager to put behind him. David Boston snagged 5/82/0 in front of a hostile Arizona crowd (9 targets) while LaDainian Tomlinson was the other major component in the passing game with 15 targets resulting in 11/80/0. Over the past 3 weeks, Brees has been a fantasy bust with 28/48 for 264 yards, 0 TD's and 4 interceptions in 2 games.

Luckily for Brees, Chicago does not field a defense of the caliber that Miami does. Joey Harrington (sans Charles Rogers) was harassed by the Bears to the tune of 23/40 for 180 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions. Matt Hasselbeck fared better, with 19/27 215 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to his credit. For the season, the Bears are the 13th ranked pass D in the land, allowing an average of 191.4 passing yards per game, with 11 passing scores surrendered so far in 2003 (4th-worst in the league). Their DB's were a hot commodity last week, with Jerry Azumah racking up 7 solo tackles, 3 assists, 1 interception and 1 pass defensed (4th best IDP DB) and Charles Tillman garnering 8 solo tackles, 1 interception and 1 pass defensed (5th-ranked fantasy DB).

S Mike Green is questionable for the Bears (groin). TE Stephen Alexander (groin) is out, while TE Justin Peele (ankle) is questionable, along with WR Reche Caldwell (wrist).

The forecast for Soldier Field calls for a high of 53F and a low of 43F with a 20% chance for rain. If the wind kicks up come game time, the ball could tend to float on the quarterbacks.

San Diego's passing attack can't seem to get off the ground, but Chicago is mediocre enough that Brees should see some opportunities to make good things happen. It's up to him to convert those opportunities - we call it a neutral matchup.

San Francisco Passing Game vs. The St. Louis Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Coach Dennis Erickson has upgraded Garcia's status to probable for this week's game vs. St. Louis: "I've had worse ankle sprains," said Garcia, noting that a right ankle sprain would have affected him more because that's his plant leg on throws. "There's a bit of a limp, a bit of tenderness, a bit of soreness. But I feel pretty good today compared to how it felt when it happened." (quote from a Contra Costa Times article, by Cam Inman 10/28/03).

Garcia was not very effective playing through the injury last week vs. Arizona, with a paltry 13/24 for 153 yards, 0 TD's and 0 interceptions in the upset loss. He has been up and down at throwing the ball in recent weeks, with 44/80 for 574 yards, 2 TD's and 1 interception in the past 3 games, but has added 12/65/2 rushing, which helps bring up his rank among fantasy QB's to 12th in FP per game. Owens has 16/241/1 in that same 3 week span (17th in FP per game among WR's), while compadre Tai Streets has 10/132/1 (39th-ranked). Back in week 2, the 49ers lost in St. Louis, 27-24 (Garcia tossed 2 TD's and 1 interception that day).

St. Louis allowed some scoring week 8 vs. Pittsburgh (12/28 for 159 yards, 2 TD's and 3 interceptions). Brett Favre hit them with 23/32 for 268 yards, 2 TD's and 1 interception two weeks ago - that's 4 TD's surrendered in 2 games. The Rams have averaged 188.1 passing yards allowed per game so far in 2003, with 8 scores given up. Half of those scores were coughed up in the last two weeks - a red flag for Rams fans and a good sign for fantasy owners of 49ers.

S Adam Archuleta (ankle) and CB Kevin Garrett (hamstring) are questionable, while CB Travis Fisher (groin) is probable to play. Garcia (ankle), Owens (groin) and Streets (quadriceps) are probable to play, while WR Arnaz Battle (toe) is doubtful.

The forecast for 3COM Park calls for a high of 53F and a low of 42F with a 20% chance for rain. A nice, cool day to play a game of football is coming up by the Bay, if the forecast holds up.

Both teams have been in a funk in this phase of the game lately, with San Francisco struggling to score, and St. Louis failing to keep players out of the end-zone. Sounds even to us.

St. Louis' Passing Game vs. The San Francisco Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Marc Bulger dismembered the Steelers last week with 22/37 for 375 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions. How embarrassing for the Steelers' secondary. Bulger is a fantasy owner's dream right now, having erupted for 67/105 for 974 yards, 6 TD's and 4 interceptions (with 9/38/1 rushing as a sweetener) in the last 3 games - tops among fantasy QB's in that span. Torry Holt has seen a blizzard of balls come his way - 22/402/5 in 3 games, best in the NFL during those 3 weeks - while Isaac Bruce owners look on in envy (16/289/0 in 3 games). Dane Looker has chipped in, too (9/101/1 in 3 games). Back in week 2, Bulger got his first start of the season vs. San Francisco and threw 25/36 for 236 with 2 TD's and 0 interceptions.

San Francisco frustrated the Buccaneers 2 weeks ago (Brad Johnson threw for 21/34 yielding 241 yards, 1 TD but 3 costly interceptions). Last week, Jeff Blake was limited to 14/24 for 97 yards, 0 TD's and 0 interceptions, but his team managed to win despite the low-flying aerial attack. This year, the 49ers are 9th in the league allowing only 184 yards passing per game, and rank 3rd with 22 sacks - they also have double-digit interceptions this season, with 11 so far. The weakness they showed earlier in the season to TD passes (12 this year) has subsided in recent weeks - this unit looks like it is jelling.

S Ronnie Heard (knee) and CB Jason Webster (knee) are out, S Zack Bronson (neck) is doubtful for the 49ers. WR Mike Furrey is probable to come back from appendix surgery for the Rams.

The forecast for 3COM Park calls for a high of 53F and a low of 42F with a 20% chance for rain. A nice, cool day to play a game of football is coming up by the Bay, if the forecast holds up.

The Rams are red-hot, but they were played tough by the 49ers the first time around, back in week 2 (St. Louis won the first game this year, by 27-24 in OT) - we call it a neutral matchup as this one is at the 49ers house.

Atlanta's Passing Game vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Tough Matchup)

Kurt Kittner was underwhelming in his first NFL start, 9/29 for 115 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception, but at least the team managed to put up some points, something the Falcons failed to do with Doug Johnson under center vs. New Orleans the week before. Peerless Price was his favorite target (9 for 3/38/0), and Brian Finneran #2 with 6 targets (2/32/1), but neither guy managed to make much happen in their chances. Kittner looks like the guy again this week, as the Falcons continue to wait on the franchise, Michael Vick, to get 110% healthy.

Philadelphia allowed 21/35 for 266 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to the Jet's starting duo of Testaverde and Pennington last week, and 22/36 for 174 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions to Kerry Collins in week 7. They are near the bottom of the league in average yards allowed per game (230.6 on average, 26th in the league), and have given away 9 passing scores this season. They have an anemic 5 interceptions this year, too.

CB Bobby Taylor's foot is acting up again (doubtful), and S Brian Dawkins is still on crutches. S Clinton Hart (hip) and CB Roderick Hood (hamstring) are probable. The numerous injuries in the secondary are a big part of the reason that the Eagles have been so soft this year. Michael Vick is still out (until December, some say now), and WR LaTarence Dunbar is questionable due to his sore hamstring.

This game is being played in the Georgia Dome, so weather is not an issue.

Kittner just doesn't excite us, even against the decimated Eagles' secondary. They'll look tough enough to the newbie - we call this a tough matchup due to Kittner's inexperience.

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

Byron Leftwich has really struggled lately, with 39/70 for 414 yards, 1 touchdown and 6 interceptions in his two most recent games. Those statistics accurately reflect the state of the Jaguar's passing attack - not too good. Last week, Leftwich threw for 15/28 for 158 yards, 1 TD and 3 interceptions. Jimmy Smith was the lucky recipient of that single score (9 targets for 3/60/1). Troy Edwards chipped in with 4/63/0 (6 targets), while TE Kyle Brady had 3/31/0 (4 targets). Other than Smith, there isn't much fantasy potential on this unit right now.

Baltimore, meanwhile, was dismantling Denver and Danny Kanell to the tune of 16/31 for 114 yards, 0 TD's and 2 interceptions. In week 7, Jon Kitna was very impressive against the Ravens, throwing 16/27 for 274 yards, 3 TD's and 0 interceptions. This year, the Ravens are the 12th ranked pass D in the NFL, allowing 189 passing yards per game, but they have given away 10 passing scores so far.

Jacksonville has QB Mark Brunell listed as out with his elbow injury, while reserve WR Jimmy Redmond is questionable due to his sore foot. Starting CB Corey Fuller is doubtful due to his leg injury, while CB Tommy Knight is questionable (leg).

The forecast for M&T Bank Stadium calls for a high of 72F and a low of 56F with a 20% chance for rain. That's just about ideal football weather, if the rain holds off.

The Jaguars are going through typical rookie growing pains with Leftwich, while Baltimore is gearing up for a run at the playoffs. Look for Leftwich to have a tough time against Chris McAlister and company this week.

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

Jay Fiedler's sprained knee ligament kept him out of the game on Monday night, and Brian Griese played well enough that many fans and commentators are now calling for Griese to start - regardless of the condition of Fiedler's knee. Griese (20/29 for 192 yards, 3 TD's and 0 Int.) looked very comfortable slinging darts to Chris Chambers (7 targets for 4/79/1), Randy McMichael (4 targets for 3/24/1), and James McKnight (7 targets for 6/43/1) -- remember, though, that the game was played against the Chargers, who sport one of the weakest secondaries in the NFL (dead last with 15 passing scores allowed so far in 2003). Griese was officially named the starter on Wednesday.

Indianapolis has been stout in this phase of the game recently, allowing only 20/26 for 150 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to the Houston tandem of Carr and Banks last week. In week 6, they surrendered 12/20 for 181 yards, with 1 TD and 1 interception to Jake Delhomme and company. This year, the Colts are the 10th ranked pass defense in the league, allowing only 185.1 passing yards per game on average (with 8 passing scores allowed so far this year). They have been playing up to their season average in recent weeks, as you can see.

Indianapolis lists CB Joseph Jefferson (pelvis) as questionable, while CBs Cliff Crosby (groin) and Walt Harris (knee) are probable to play. Fiedler is questionable due to his knee, while Griese has a sore thumb (probable), TE Donald Lee's ankle hurts (probable) and WR's Derrius Thompson (groin) and Sam Simmons (neck) are all probable to play.

The forecast for Pro Player Stadium calls for a high of 86F and a low of 71F with a 30% chance for rain. If the rain comes down hard, footing and ball handling could be an issue.

Griese looked good vs. a bad secondary - it will be interesting to see how well he handles a sterner challenge. This looks like a tough matchup for the Miami squad.

New Orleans' Passing Game vs. The Tampa Bay Defense (Tough Matchup)

Last week, Aaron Brooks had an efficient outing vs. Carolina, with 20/33 for 187 yards, 2 TD's and 1 interception. In the absence of Donte Stallworth (due to a quadriceps injury), Joe Horn carried the team, seeing 11 balls, for 6/74/2 on the day. Rookie Talman Gardner blew his big chance, seeing the second-most balls on the day (7), but only making 1 catch for 11 yards. Deuce McAllister (32 yards), Jerome Pathon (34 yards) and TE Ernie Conwell (23 yards) all made 3 grabs Sunday to help the cause. Brooks has going strong in recent weeks, with 57/92 for 692 yards, 7 TD's and only 1 interception in his last 3 games - his hot hand puts him at 7th among all fantasy QB's in FP per game during that span.

Tampa took out their anger on Dallas in week 8, smothering Quincy Carter to the tune of 15/25 for 140 yards, 0 TD's and 2 interceptions. Ronde Barber came up huge as an IDP DB, with 8 solo tackles, 1 interception, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 pass defensed last week (6th best fantasy DB). Of course, part of the reason Tampa was so mad was due to Jeff Garcia's week 7 outing - 15/29 for 253 yards, 2 TD's and 1 interception. This squad is on-again, off-again regarding their intensity level from week to week - for the year, they are ranked 7th in the NFL allowing 181.4 passing yards per game on average, with 5 passing scores surrendered so far. Tampa has 13 interceptions this season, tied for 3rd-most in the NFL - they are aggressive about going after the ball. Since this is a divisional rivalry, believe that coach Gruden will do everything he can to maintain last week's intensity into this coming game. The question is, will his team respond?

S John Lynch missed last week for the Buccaneers, but is expected back in the lineup this week (questionable). Other members of the secondary listed are: S John Howell (hamstring - questionable); CB Ronde Barber (hamstring - probable) and CB Hank Poteat (hamstring - probable). Donte Stallworth is listed as questionable, as is Joe Horn (knee).

The forecast for Raymond James Stadium calls for a high of 85F and a low of 68F with a 20% chance for rain. It should be a great day to play football.

New Orleans' offense can be very explosive, especially when Donte Stallworth is in the lineup to take pressure of Joe Horn. Anytime the Bucs get their dander up, they are a dangerous bunch - with John Lynch back in the defensive backfield, we call this a tough matchup for Brooks and company.

New York Jets' Passing Game vs. The New York Giants' Defense (Tough Matchup)

Chad Pennington returned to action last week, with 14/24 for 154 yards, 0 TD's and 1 interception in the loss to Philadelphia. Santana Moss continues to be the team's go-to player, with 9 targets for 5/95/1. Curtis Conway (7 targets for 2/32/0) and Wayne Chrebet (5 for 3/44/0) didn't make much of a splash when the ball came their way. Anthony Becht grabbed both passes he saw, for 31 yards but 0 TD's. One bit of good news for Pennington - the OL has allowed only 8 sacks this year.

The Giants allowed Daunte Culpepper to throw for 18/31 for 244 yards, 2 TD's and 2 interceptions last week, while Donovan McNabb had a miserable day two weeks ago, with 9/23 for 64 yards, 0 TD's and 1 interception. This season, the Giants are in the middle of the NFL pack, allowing 207.7 passing yards per game on average (17th), but near the top of the league with only 5 passing scores surrendered so far. The Giants are second to only the Jets in sacking this year, with 24, but have generated only 6 interceptions with all that pressure on opposing signal callers.

The Giants will do without CB William Peterson (back), while the Jets are in good shape in this phase of the game.

The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 69F and a low of 52F with a 20% chance for rain. As long as the wind stays relatively calm, it should be a fine day for a football game.

The Jets will be continuing to re-acclimate to Pennington's cadence and approach this week, while the Giants come in off a huge win - this looks like a tough game for Pennington and company.

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

Tommy Maddox returned to form last week vs. St. Louis, throwing 12/28 for 159 yards, 2 TD's and 3 interceptions. The interceptions have piled up all season long (Maddox has 7 TD's and 11 Int. this season), and many have been returned for defensive scores - he is struggling right now, without a doubt. Luckily for Hines Ward owners, Maddox's problems haven't dampened Ward's fortunes (13/171/2 in the last two games). The same cannot be said for Plaxico Burress (6/66/0 in 2 games), however.

Seattle gave up 19/31 for 240 yards, 2 TD's and 0 interceptions to Jon Kitna last week. In week 7 they limited Chris Chandler and the Bears to 19/34 for 149 yards, 0 TD's and 2 interceptions. Seattle is in the middle of the NFL pack in terms of passing yards allowed per game (195 on average, 14th ranked), but is stingy with TD's, having surrendered only 6 so far this season.

TE Jay Riemersma is doubtful due to a knee injury. Seattle is in good shape.

The forecast for Seahawks' Stadium calls for a high of 45F and a low of 30F with a 30% chance for rain. If it is closer to 30F than 40F at game time, and raining, the field will get slick and the ball will be harder to handle, too.

Seattle is mediocre at defending the pass, but tough in the red-zone - Pittsburgh is just plain struggling along with their QB, unless the player's last name is Ward. In the Seahawk's house, this looks like a tough matchup for Maddox.

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

Patrick Ramsey is struggling in this phase of the game, having been sacked 22 times this season (the team has given up 25 total) and is finding little time to get passes off even when he can avoid the pass rush. In week 7, vs. Buffalo, he was only sacked twice, but only managed a meager 9/26 for 115 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions in the loss. Backup QB Rob Johnson played so poorly in relief duty that he ended up unemployed after the game, so Ramsey's backup now is Tim Hasselbeck. Rod Gardner has led the stable of WR's in the last two games, with 11/116/1, while Laveranues Coles is languishing lately (9/118/0). Not much exciting is going on in Washington right now.

Dallas was worn down by Brad Johnson last week (13/26 for 151 yards, 1 TD and 0
Int.); but they smothered Joey Harrington/Mike McMahon two weeks ago (10/33 81 yards, 0 TD's and 3 Int.). The Cowboys are 3rd in the league this season allowing only 162.3 passing yards per game (8 passing scores given up so far). They have been playing even better than their season average indicates in the past 2 weeks.

Both squads come into this one healthy.

The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 83F and a low of 62F with a 20% chance for rain. That's very good weather for a football game.

Washington just isn't getting the job done in this phase of the game, and Dallas is doing well right now. Advantage, Dallas.

Denver's Passing Game vs. The New England Defense (Bad Matchup)

Danny Kanell had a tough time with the Ravens in his first start of 2003, going 16/31 for 114 yards, with 0 TD's and 2 interceptions. He clearly preferred a trio of receivers last week - Ashley Lelie (10 targets for 3/28/0), Rod Smith (8 targets for 4/23/0), and Clinton Portis (7 targets for 6/29/0), but none of them made much happen with their chances.

New England was very tough on the Browns' duo last week, allowing only 22/36 for 155 yards, 0 TD's and 1 interception, while in week 7 Jay Fiedler managed 20/35 for 230 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions. The Patriots sport the 23rd ranked secondary in the league, allowing 222 passing yards per contest, but they are best in the NFL in terms of TD's allowed, with only 3 surrendered in this phase all year. The Patriots are tied for 4th with 21 sacks, and have 12 interceptions as a team - they make people make mistakes with pressure up front and in the secondary.

Danny Kanell has a sore finger (probable); TE Shannon Sharpe's knee is bothering him (probable), while WR's Chris Cole (ankle) and Ed McCaffrey (quadriceps) are both questionable. S Je'Rod Cherry (knee) and CB Ty Law (ankle) are both questionable for the Patriots.

The forecast for Mile-High Stadium calls for a high of 49F and a low of 27F with a 30% chance for precipitation. As this is a Monday Night game, any precipitation would likely be sleet or snow - if the wind kicks up, the conditions could get very tough for players in the passing phase of the game. However, keep in mind both teams are cold-weather franchises with experience handling the elements.

Kanell is still finding his rhythm as a starter, while the Patriots play an opportunistic style of pass defense that delights in disrupting a QB with pressure. That isn't a good thing for the Broncos at this juncture - advantage, New England.