Rushing Matchups

PLEASE NOTE: This does NOT replace the Cheatsheet ranking. The Cheatsheet rankings are the final say on where we see a player for that week. The Matchup Breakdowns are simply one more tool in the box when it comes to helping choose your lineup.

Also note, just because a player has a "bad" matchup, it does NOT mean he's not a starter in your league. If Priest Holmes is playing the toughest rush defense in the league, that just means he's got a tough matchup that week. He's also your starter. In the same way, if the worst RB on your roster has a "great" matchup, that doesn't necessarily mean you start him, it just means he'll likely fare better this week than he normally would.

Bottom line, the cheatsheets are the final word.

Let's jump to it.

Joe

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Week 17 Rushing Matchups

By Mark Wimer with Joe Bryant

Arizona, Atlanta, Buffalo, Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Houston, Jacksonville, Miami, New Orleans, N.Y. Giants, N.Y. Jets, Oakland, Pittsburgh, San Diego, San Francisco, Tampa Bay and Washington have been eliminated from playoff contention.

Notes: Due to the Christmas Holidays, the injury information in the matchups this week is based on the Footballguys Monday injury report. The report details

the players who missed playing in games last week due to injury (and any new suspension)
players who were injured in the games last week.

Players who played through their injuries last week are not generally included in the write-up. Refer to the official NFL injury report later in the week for the most up-to-date injury information (we supply it on our web-site as it becomes available, and also e-mail it out to our subscribers).

Houston's Domanick Davis vs. The Indianapolis Defense (Great Matchup)

Domanick Davis has struggled in recent weeks, with 14/51/1 rushing and 2/9/0 receiving against the Titans last week - two weeks ago, he managed a mere 16/56/0 and 2/2/0 against the nasty-tempered Buccaneers. Those two defenses are among the best in the league, though. Last time he played the Colts, Davis ripped them up for 25/109/2 rushing with 7/27/0 receiving (week 8).

Indianapolis' defense had a hard time with the Broncos last week, allowing 54/227/3 to the Portis-less bunch. Two weeks ago, the Falcons put up 26/125/1 in this phase - the Colts just aren't stopping much of anybody, lately. That's been the case all year - the Colts average 125.4 rushing yards allowed per game (21st in the NFL) and have surrendered 17 rushing scores to date.

Starting LB Rob Morris suffered a concussion last week, and reserve LB Jim Nelson hasn't been on the field much at all this season due to a collarbone injury. Houston's LG Todd Washington suffered a mild concussion last week. If Morris can't make it back, that would make things easier for Davis.

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 70F and a low of 43F, with a 60% chance of precipitation. As the stadium has a retractable-roof, we assume that it will be closed should the weather be too inclement come game time.

The Colts are not strong in this phase, and have been especially soft recently. Houston's Davis had a good game last time he faced the Colts, and should enjoy a strong afternoon on Sunday.

Jacksonville's Fred Taylor vs. The Atlanta Defense (Great Matchup)

Fred Taylor erupted for one of his "boom" games last week, racking up 34/194/1 rushing and 2/31/0 receiving on the way to a 20-19 victory over the Saints. Two weeks ago, he had it tougher against New England (16/57/0 rushing and 4/32/0 receiving) - however, Taylor is always a threat, every time he touches the ball. For the past 3 weeks, Taylor has amassed 74/414/2 rushing and 6/63/0 receiving (6th best fantasy back in FP per game during that span). Jacksonville is tied for 12th in the NFL averaging 4.2 rushing yards per carry - a very solid YPC average.

Atlanta isn't very good at rush D this season, averaging 143.4 rushing yards allowed per game - 27th in the NFL - with 20 rushing TDs given away to date. 31/178/0 was the Colts' total as a team two weeks ago: Tampa managed 22/94/0 against the Falcons last week (they were mostly throwing the ball playing catch-up, though).

Both units have a relatively clean injury slate, with no new major problems to report.

This game is being played in the Georgia Dome - weather isn't an issue.

Even though this is a "pride" game (both teams are eliminated from contention for the playoffs), don't expect either unit to lay down for the other. Taylor should have a great day against the anemic Falcons.

Philadelphia's Brian Westbrook/Correll Buckhalter/Duce Staley vs. The Washington Defense (Great Matchup)

The Eagle's 3-headed monster lost a head last week, when Correll Buckhalter was suspended for a game by the team for missing a team meeting and lateness to a walk-through. In his absence, the team dropped a close one to San Francisco, while Brian Westbrook (5/29/0) and Duce Staley (11/53/2) held down the fort in the rushing phase of the game. Back in week 5, it was Westbrook who led the pack against the Redskins (11/64/1 rushing and 4/15/0 receiving), while Staley was second (9/42/0) - Buckhalter brought up the rear with 3/3/0. From week to week, it is very hard to predict who will enjoy the most success in this all-out RBBC.

Washington's defense has been very soft in this phase of the game in recent weeks, surrendering 40/191/1 to the Bears last week and 45/222/2 to the Cowboys two weeks ago. They are the 26th ranked rushing D in the land this year (142.3 rushing yards per game, on average) and have allowed 19 rushing scores to date. Not too good, and they've been even worse over the last two weeks.

Both teams come into this game in decent health on their respective squads.

The forecast for Fed Ex Field calls for a high of 49F and a low of 29F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. It should be a decent day for a football game.

Washington's defensive front has collapsed in recent weeks, while the Eagles are corporately one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL (4.9 yards per carry, tied for 2nd in the NFL) - plus, the Eagles have playoff position on the line. Advantage, Eagles.

San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinson vs. The Oakland Defense (Great Matchup)

22/91/2 rushing and 6/8/0 receiving was Tomlinson's contribution to the San Diego effort last week. Two weeks ago, he rushed for 20/51/0 but caught 11/144/2 against the Packers - both games ended in defeat for the Chargers, though. Tomlinson is a phenomenal talent trapped on an awful team. 67/230/2 rushing with 26/300/4 receiving in the past 3 games makes Tomlinson the #2 fantasy RB in the land during that time frame. It is sad, really - unless he's carrying your team to victory in the fantasy playoffs, of course! Back in week 4, Tomlinson smoked the Raiders for 28/187/1 rushing and 7/24/0 receiving - another wasted performance, as the Raiders won 34-31.

Ahman Green got in his licks against the Raiders last week, with 24/127/1 rushing (the team had 37/156/1 rushing and 399 yards of passing (4 TDs) on the day). Two weeks ago, the dominant Jamal Lewis rushed for 24/125/0 against the Raiders - at least they kept Lewis out of the end-zone. Oakland is the 31st ranked rush D in the land, allowing an average of 149.8 rushing yards per game, with 19 rushing TDs given away to date - they're bad.

San Diego's starting C Jason Ball missed the game last week (ankle). OT Damion McIntosh re-injured the ankle that has been giving him trouble in the game, and LG Kelvin Garmon left the game with an undisclosed injury. Oakland has no new injuries of note to report along the defensive front.

The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for a high of 60F and a low of 43F, with a 20% chance of precipitation. Ah, sunny Southern California.

Tomlinson is one of the top backs in the land, and the Raiders are one of the worst rush defenses. Even with his banged-up line, we give the nod to Tomlinson's squad.

Baltimore's Jamal Lewis vs. The Pittsburgh Defense (Good Matchup)

This is a huge game for the Ravens, who are one game ahead of the Bengals - but they could still lose the division and be out of the playoffs if they lose to the Steelers and the Bengals beat the Browns.

Jamal Lewis took the Browns to school (again) last week, and scorched them for 22/205/2 (41/276/3 as a team). Two weeks ago, he put up 24/125/0 against the Raiders, and he has 76/510/5 rushing in his past 3 games (outscoring the QB and wide receivers during that span of time). Lewis had a slow day against the Steelers in week 1, with 15/69/1 rushing and 2/4/0 receiving - now, however, he has a more experienced QB under center and 15 games under his belt. We don't see Lewis being held to 69 yards rushing again this week, not with the single-season rushing record just 154 yards away.

The Steelers haven't been strong in this phase of the game in recent weeks, with 27/116/2 allowed to LaDainian Tomlinson and the Chargers last week, and 36/175/0 surrendered to the Jets two weeks ago. Normally, the Steelers are made of stouter stuff, ranking 11th in the NFL allowing an average of 107.5 rushing yards per contest, with 13 scores given away to date.

G Bennie Anderson is hurting for the Ravens (knee). Pittsburgh has no new injuries of note on their unit.

The forecast for M&T Bank Stadium calls for a high of 49F and a low of 36F, with a 20% chance of precipitation.

Given how soft the Steelers have been recently, and Lewis' dominance in the weeks since week one, we have to give an edge to the home team - advantage, Baltimore.

Carolina's DeShaun Foster vs. The New York Giants' Defense (Good Matchup)

With nothing to gain by either winning or losing as far as post-season seeding, and lots to gain by resting Stephen Davis, the Panthers decided to rest their super-star last week - and they are very likely to do so again this week. In his first game as the Panthers' starter, DeShaun Foster had a good game, with 21/76/0 rushing and 6/38/1 receiving. The Panthers have been opening good holes for their backs all season long, with a 4.1 yards per carry average to date (14th in the NFL), so it was no surprise to see Foster put up credible numbers. As a team, the Panthers gained 36/124/0 last week.

The Giants allowed 31/104/0 to the Cowboy's backs last week, and 29/132/0 to the Saints' squad two weeks ago. The Giants average 119.9 rushing yards per game allowed this season (18th in the NFL) and have surrendered 12 rushing scores to date. They are not a dominant unit, but neither are they a bunch of turnstiles.

Carolina is likely to also rest C Jeff Mitchell (groin) along with Davis. New York has decent health on their defensive front, with no new injuries of note to report.

The forecast for Giants Stadium calls for a high of 42F and a low of 30F, with a 10% chance of precipitation. It sounds like a nice, clear day to play football is on tap.

The Giants are a middle of the road rush defense; DeShaun Foster is playing behind a good line and has explosive potential. We think this looks like a good matchup for the youngster.

Chicago's Anthony Thomas vs. The Kansas City Defense (Good Matchup)

Chicago has been battling hard in December, handing division-leaders Minnesota a tough 13-10 loss two weeks ago, and then triumphing over Washington 27-24 last week. Anthony Thomas has been integral to their success in recent weeks, with 19/79/1 and 2/10/0 against the Vikings two weeks ago, and 32/141/1 with 2/11/0 against the Redskins last week. 60/242/2 rushing and 4/21/0 receiving during the last 3 games puts Thomas at #18 among all fantasy RBs during that span. The Bears have been decent at rushing the ball most week, with a mediocre 4.0 yards per carry average in 2003.

Kansas City is the worst run defense in the league, allowing an average of 150.7 rushing yards per contest to the opposition (18 rushing scores surrendered to date). They coughed up 39/223/3 to the Vikings last week, and 30/137/1 to the under-powered Lions' stable two weeks ago. Everybody can move the ball on these guys.

MLB Mike Maslowski continues to miss games for the Chiefs (knee), as do DL Eric Downing (groin) and LB Monty Beisel (groin). Chicago's OL is pretty battered, too, with LT Qasim Mitchell going down for the season with a broken leg last week, and OT Mike Gandy struggling to make it back on the field due to a shoulder injury.

The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium calls for a high of 47F and a low of 26F, with a 20% chance for precipitation. That sounds like a great day to play tackle football, folks.

KC doesn't scare anybody in this phase of the game, and Anthony Thomas has been getting the job done lately. Advantage, Chicago, even at Arrowhead stadium and with a banged-up OL.

Dallas' Troy Hambrick vs. The New Orleans Defense (Good Matchup)

Dallas has crushed their last two opponents - both divisional rivals - but Hambrick has been an inconsistent performer in those games. Two weeks ago, against the Redskins, he put up 33/189/0 rushing (the team had 45/222/2), but faded into the background last week with 12/36/0 against the Giants (31/104/0 as a team). That's been the book on Hambrick all season long - he flashes his talents one week, and then goes back to mediocrity (or worse) the next.

New Orleans fields the leagues' 28th ranked rushing D, allowing an average of 143.7 rushing yards per game. They have given away 12 rushing scores to date, as well. Last week, Fred Taylor and company blistered them for 45/243/1 rushing. 26/111/0 was the Giant's tally 2 weeks ago - they just don't shut anybody down this season, folks.

Starting DE Willie Whitehead (knee) and reserve LB Cie Grant (calf) missed the game last week. Dallas' unit is in good health.

This game is being played in the Superdome - weather won't be an issue.

Against the soft Saints, Hambrick has a chance to shine again this week - the rest is up to him.

Indianapolis' Edgerrin James vs. The Houston Defense (Good Matchup)

Indianapolis just couldn't get going against the Broncos last week, as they struggled in both phases of the game. Edgerrin put up 10/42/1 rushing, and Manning only managed 146 yards of passing - it was an ugly day for the Colts. Two weeks ago, the story was different against the Falcons, when James galloped for 20/126/0 and 2/6/0 receiving. Surprisingly, the Colts have been sub-par in yards-per-carry most of the season, currently averaging 3.6 per rush (28th in the NFL). However, James has gotten stronger as the season progressed. 57/263/3 rushing and 4/19/0 receiving over the past 3 games puts James at #11 among all fantasy RB during that 3 week span. 23/104/0 rushing with 1/5/0 receiving were James' totals against the Texans back in week 8.

Houston allowed 35/182/0 to the Titans' last week, and coughed up 42/161/1 to the Buccaneers two weeks ago. They are the 29th ranked rush D in the land, allowing an average of 144.2 rushing yards per game, with 14 rushing scores surrendered to date. This group leaks chunks of yards and scores almost every game.

Reserve LB Shantee Orr broke his ankle last week and is done for the season. The Colt's starting G Adam Meadows missed the game last week due to knee and shoulder injuries.

James is one of the top backs in the NFL, and he knows he can get the job done against the Texans. Advantage, Colts.

Kansas City's Priest Holmes vs. The Chicago Defense (Good Matchup)

Priest Holmes racked up a ton of TDs last week (18/55/3 rushing with 5/50/0 receiving), and has been on a roll in recent weeks (18/94/3 rushing two weeks ago against the Lions two weeks ago). It looks like he's got a great shot to break the single-season scoring mark for RBs this week, unless the Bears can pull a rabbit out of the hat. With 48/193/8 rushing and 17/125/0 receiving over the past 3 games, Holmes isn't cranking out the massive rushing totals his owners are used to, but the 8 TDs help take the edge of their disappointment, we're sure (5th best fantasy RB during that span). He's absolutely one of the top backs in the game, and his OL is pretty awesome, too (4.5 yards per carry average, tied for 10th in the NFL).

Chicago's rush D stifled the Redskins last week, limiting them to 18/44/0. Two weeks ago, the Vikings romped for 38/178/0 against them, but couldn't put the ball into the end-zone. That's been true a lot this season, as the team has given up only 10 rushing scores in 15 games, while ranking 17th in the league allowing 118.5 rushing yards per contest.

Reserve OL Marcus Spears (foot) missed the game last week for KC. Starting DT Keith Traylor (knee) couldn't go for the Bears. Injuries are not a huge issue in this matchup, although Traylor is an important player for the Bears.

The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium calls for a high of 47F and a low of 26F, with a 20% chance for precipitation. That sounds like a great day to play tackle football, folks.

Priest Holmes and the Chiefs are fighting for playoff position, and they are one of the top rushing attacks in the league. Against the mediocre Bears' front, playing in front of the home crowd, look for Holmes and company to come out on top.

Miami's Ricky Williams vs. The New York Jets' Defense (Good Matchup)

This one is for pride, because both teams are out of the playoff race. Ricky Williams did his best to get the Dolphins into the playoffs, putting up 29/111/0 rushing and 3/5/0 receiving against the Bills last week, with 18/107/1 rushing and 2/1/0 receiving against the Eagles two weeks ago. Alas, it was not enough. The OL hasn't given Williams a lot to work with this year - the team averages a sub-par 3.8 yards per carry in 2003.

The Jets allowed 24/133/0 to the Patriots last week; two weeks ago, they limited Jerome Bettis and company to 24/94/0. Both performances were better than their season average would indicate: the Jets allow 147.5 rushing yards per contest, and have coughed up 16 rushing scores in the course of 2003. They have been stouter than that, lately. Williams tore them up for 34/125/1 rushing with 4/37/0 receiving back in week 2.

Neither team has much in the way of serious new injuries to report - the injury factor isn't in play here.

The forecast for Pro Player Stadium calls for a high of 79F and a low of 61F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. Sounds like great football weather is coming to south Florida.

Williams victimized the Jets back in week 2, and that game was in the Jets' home park. Advantage, Miami.

Minnesota's Onterrio Smith/Michael Bennett/Moe Williams vs. The Arizona Defense (Good Matchup)

Minnesota comes into this game needing a win to protect the NFC North title from the Packers. They have come to rely on Onterrio Smith's talents as Michael Bennett struggles to come back from a sprained ankle (Smith put up 27/148/0 (2/10/0 receiving) last week vs. Chicago, and 21/146/3 (4/37/0 receiving) vs. Kansas City last week) and it looks like he'll be a big part of the mix going forward into the playoffs. Smith is the 9th ranked fantasy RB during the past 3 games, with 52/334/3 rushing and 6/47/0 receiving during that span. Bennett had 6/31/0 rushing last week, after taking the week off against Chicago. Moe Williams put up 5/34/0 rushing and 2/18/0 receiving in the KC game. The Vikings have moved the ball on the ground well all season long, averaging 4.8 yards per carry this season - their OL is one of the best in the business (6th ranked YPC average in the NFL).

Arizona plays mediocre run D, allowing an average of 117.7 rushing yards per game on average (16th in the NFL) with 16 rushing scores allowed to date. Shaun Alexander and company racked up 30/160/2 against them last week, while the Panthers put up only 18/67/0 two weeks ago. Usually, the Cardinals are somewhere in between those two extremes.

The forecast for Sun Devil Stadium calls for a high of 57F and a low of 37F, with a 10% chance of precipitation. It sounds like a nice, clear day to play football is on tap.

Arizona's reserve DL Wendell Bryant missed the game last week due to illness (he's expected back this week). Minnesota's Bennett has a sore ankle, as noted above.

The Vikings have a top rushing attack, while the Cardinals play mediocre run defense - advantage, Minnesota.

Seattle's Shaun Alexander vs. The San Francisco Defense (Good Matchup)

Seattle is still in the playoff hunt, and Shaun Alexander has been running hard in recent games - 21/135/2 against the Cardinals last week, and 25/126/1 against the Rams two weeks ago (1/7/0 and 2/8/0 receiving in those games, respectively). 60/317/4 rushing and 4/23/0 receiving in his past 3 games slots him as the 7th best fantasy RB during those 3 weeks. He's enjoyed good support from the OL all season - 4.6 yards per carry is what the Seahawks average in 2003 (8th in the NFL). Back in week 6, Alexander was limited by the 49'ers, with 22/77/0 to his credit rushing the ball.

19/88/2 was the tally when the Eagles' stable walked off the field last week; two weeks ago, the Bengals bull-dozed the 49'ers with 37/225/2 rushing - they have been up and down in recent weeks, but very giving in the TD department. This season, the Niners are 10th in the NFL allowing an average of 106.7 rushing yards per game, with 12 scores given up to date. 1/3 of the scores allowed have come in the last two games, though.

Reserve DL Devone Claybrooks (foot) missed the game last week, while DT's Bryant Young (groin) and Travis Kirschke (stinger) were injured in the Eagles game. Seattle has been doing without reserve OL Jerry Wunsch (ankle) in recent weeks.

The forecast for 3 COM Park calls for a high of 54F and a low of 45F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. Just about perfect football weather, in other words.

Seattle needs this game to stay in the playoff hunt, but San Francisco isn't giving anything away. Given the softness that the 49'ers are displaying in the TD department in recent weeks, this looks like a good opportunity for Alexander to redeem himself - and he has a head of steam up coming into this game. Advantage, Seattle.

St. Louis' Marshall Faulk vs. The Detroit Defense (Good Matchup)

Marshall Faulk is just now hitting his stride, rushing for 28/85/1 and catching 3/13/0 two weeks ago vs. Seattle, and putting up 22/121/1 rushing with 5/33/1 receiving last week against Cincinnati. The Rams had a hard time moving the ball on the ground in his absence most weeks, and that shows in their low yards-per-carry average (3.7, 27th in the NFL). Relax, Rams' fans - Marshall Faulk is back, just in time for the playoffs. He is the 8th best fantasy back over the past 3 games, with 74/308/2 rushing and 14/89/1 receiving during that span.

Detroit makes an effort in this phase of the game, averaging 116.1 rushing yards allowed per game (16th in the NFL), and they have surrendered 13 rushing scores to date. The Davis-less Panthers put up 36/124/0 against them last week, while Kansas City spanked them for 28/149/3. You'll realize just how bad the Lions are when you read the following: this is probably the best unit on their team. Last week, the Lions' offense had 21:46 time of possession - it's really tough to play almost 40 minutes of defense in a game.

DT Luther Elliss missed last weeks' game due to a concussion. St. Louis comes into this game pretty darn healthy on their squad.

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

Faulk is one of the top backs in the league, Detroit is merely mediocre at run defense, and is getting zero help from the offense. Advantage, St. Louis.

Arizona's Marcel Shipp/Emmitt Smith vs. The Minnesota Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Arizona has had mixed luck running the ball in recent weeks, with 39/171/2 against the Panthers two weeks ago (23/89/0 for Shipp; 9/23/1 for Smith), but 26/79/0 against the Seahawks last week (12/32/0 for Shipp, 4/9/0 for Smith). They have a 3.8 YPC average this season (tied for 24th in the NFL), so they haven't seen a lot of help from the big guys up front on the OL in 2003. They just aren't very dangerous at this point in the season, and neither is much of a fantasy start if week 17 is your championship game.

Minnesota limited the Bears to 23/87/1 two weeks ago, but gave up 23/105/3 to the Chiefs last week - it's fair to say they are yo-yoing in this phase in recent weeks. They are 19th in the league allowing 121.0 rushing yards per game on average, but have coughed up a league-worst 22 rushing scores to date. This isn't a top unit in 2003.

Starting C Pete Kendall (shoulder) missed the game last week and is likely to be out again this time around. G Leonard Davis sprained his thumb in the game last week - its considered a minor injury at this point. Starting LB Chris Claiborne (Achilles) has missed games in recent weeks, while starting DE Kenny Mixon had a badly swollen thumb after the game last week - even if it is fractured, coach Tice expects Mixon to play this week, though.

The forecast for Sun Devil Stadium calls for a high of 57F and a low of 37F, with a 10% chance of precipitation. It sounds like a nice, clear day to play football is on tap.

Minnesota sports a generous rush D, especially around the goal-line. The Cardinals' backs should enjoy decent success against the Vikings in their season finale this week - but don't expect huge fantasy points.

Cincinnati's Corey Dillon/Rudi Johnson vs. The Cleveland Defense (Neutral Matchup)

One week after Rudi Johnson's 21/174/2 performance, the Bengals decided to stick to the RBBC concept and split carries between Corey Dillon and Johnson. The results were pretty mediocre (7/37/0 for Dillon, 11/30/0 for Johnson, and 23/99/0 as a team), as the Bengals went down to a 27-10 defeat. However, don't look for things to change dramatically in week 17. Back in week 4, Johnson was the most productive Bengals' back, with 15/51/0 rushing and 4/11/0 receiving, while Dillon notched 4/20/0 rushing in the game against Cleveland. You can be sure that the Bengals will be "up" for this game, with a potential division championship on the line (if they win and the Ravens lose).

41/276/3 was the damage when Jamal Lewis and company were done with the Browns last week. 40/165/2 was what the Broncos did to them two weeks ago. Cleveland had been playing better than that in the middle of the season (averaging 133.2 rushing yards allowed per game (23rd in the NFL), with 12 rushing scores surrendered - but they have been awful in their last two games.

Cincinnati's starting G Eric Steinbach (thigh) missed the game last week. Cleveland's defensive front suffered no new injuries of note.

The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 57F and a low of 38F, with a 30% chance of precipitation. If the rain comes down hard around game time, the field will be slick and ball handling could become an issue.

Cincinnati has been inconsistent in recent games, and had trouble doing much against the Browns last time the two teams faced off. The Browns have been horrible recently - this looks like a fairly even matchup between struggling units.

Cleveland's Lee Suggs/Jamel White vs. The Cincinnati Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Lee Suggs got the call a lot last week, and did a few nice things with the ball, putting up 20/68/0 with his chances (2/0/0 receiving). Jamel White had 4/10/0 rushing and 4/21/0 receiving in support of Suggs' efforts. Cleveland as a team hasn't had a ton of success running the ball in 2003, averaging a sub-par 3.8 yards per carry as a team (24th in the league). Last time around the block (week 4), William Green was still in the backfield - recent history won't tell us much here.

The Bengals have been trampled in recent weeks, with 31/143/1 surrendered to Marshall Faulk and company last week, and 27/171/3 given away to Kevan Barlow and company two weeks ago. They have been soft all year, giving up an average of 130.3 rushing yards per contest (22nd in the NFL) and surrendering 16 scores to date. They've been even worse in recent games.

RG Paul Zukauskus injured his left knee in the game last week, and RT Ryan Tucker injured his right knee - the Cleveland line is banged up at the moment. Cincinnati's D is in good health, currently, with no new injuries of note.

The Browns have trouble mounting a strong attack, while the Bengals have trouble mounting a credible defense. That sounds like an ugly but even matchup to us.

Denver's Quentin Griffin/Mike Anderson/Clinton Portis vs. The Green Bay Defense (Neutral Matchup)

The word out of Denver early in the week is that Clinton Portis has recovered very quickly from his ankle and knee injuries, and that he is probably going to be available to play in the game vs. Green Bay. However, as the Broncos clinched a playoff berth with their win over Indianapolis last week (and they can't catch KC in the AFC West), they may elect to rest Portis another week. Stay tuned to updates as the week progresses. Quentin Griffin and Mike Anderson did just fine in Portis' stead last week, with 28/136/0 rushing and 1/24/0 receiving on Griffin's part, and 19/56/1 rushing and 1/4/0 receiving on Anderson's part (Plummer added two TDs on 6/22/2 worth of running).

Green Bay held off the Raiders' backs last week, allowing 16/104/1 (a very high 6.5 yards per carry, though), and smothered San Diego in the rushing phase two weeks ago (27/88/0). They are the 9th ranked rushing D in the land, allowing an average of 105.8 yards per game, with 10 rushing scores allowed in 15 games this year. Green Bay is tough in this phase of the game.

Aside from Portis' woes, starting G Dan Neil missed the game last week with a sore ankle. Green Bay emerged from the Monday Night game in good shape.

The forecast for Lambeau Field calls for a high of 44F and a low of 23F, with a 40% chance of precipitation. If it's really coming down hard at game time, the field may get slick (depending on if the moisture falls as rain, sleet or snow) and ball handling will become more of an issue.

Denver has a top attack, but playing against the Packers in Lambeau field is tough for any team - we call it even before the fact.

Green Bay's Ahman Green vs. The Denver Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Ahman Green continues to be a powerful part of the Green Bay offense, slapping down 24/127/1 against the hapless Raiders on Monday Night Football. He has rung up 73/282/3 rushing and 4/20/1 receiving in the last 3 weeks, to put him at 10th among all fantasy RBs during that span. Green Bay averages 4.9 yards per carry in 2003, tied for 2nd in the NFL - their OL really does a great job opening holes for the backs. Chad Clifton, Mike Wahle, Mike Flanagan, Marco Rivera and Mark Tauscher may become the first Packer OL in 25 years to start all 16 regular season games as a unit this Sunday - they are part of why Green is as good as they come.

Denver squelched Edgerrin James for the most part last week, holding him to 10/42/1 rushing. Two weeks ago, they limited the Browns to 26/102/0 - they've been tough to run on, lately. Denver ranks 3rd in the NFL allowing 89.5 yards on the ground per game, and have given away only 9 rushing scores to date (tied for 3rd-least in the league). They make it tough on opposing running backs.

Both squads enjoy decent health at this stage of the season - neither has major new injuries to report.

Green Bay is firing on all cylinders lately and enjoys home-field advantage - Denver has already clinched a spot in the playoffs, and can't better their position much by winning. Denver's D is too good to discount, though - this looks like an even matchup between top units to us.

New England's Antowain Smith/Kevin Faulk vs. The Buffalo Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Last week, Antowain Smith took charge against the Jets, with 18/121/0 rushing and 2/2/0 receiving - a much better YPC average than he is known to put up. Smith has rushed for 62/220/1 (4/11/0 receiving) in the last 3 games (28th among fantasy RBs during that span). Kevin Faulk has been second fiddle in recent weeks, with 3/8/0 rushing in the game last week, and 19/62/0 rushing and 4/24/0 receiving in the last 3 games (66th among fantasy RBs in FP per game during that span). The Patriots haven't been explosive in this phase of the game most weeks, averaging a mere 3.4 yards per carry in 2003 (30th in the league) - Antowain Smith managed 6/7/0 rushing against the Bills in week 1, while Kevin Faulk put up 10/62/0.

Buffalo has allowed 38/132/0 to Miami and 32/86/1 to Tennessee in the last two games - not terrible, but not great numbers, either. This year, they average 98.3 rushing yards allowed per game (7th in the NFL), with 11 rushing TDs surrendered. As you can see, they have bounced around that average in recent weeks.

Both units come into this game in relatively good health, with no new injuries last week.

The forecast for Gillette Stadium calls for a high of 30F and a low of 24F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. It should be a crisp, clear day for a football game.

The Bills limited the Patriots in their first meeting, but Smith has got a head of steam up coming into this game. In the Patriots' house, this looks like a neutral matchup to us.

Oakland's Tyrone Wheatley/Charlie Garner vs. The San Diego Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Oakland's tandem of Tyrone Wheatley (10/56/0 rushing) and Charlie Garner (3/27/1 rushing with 4/19/0 receiving) could only watch as their team got buried by Brett Favre (22/30 for 399 yards, 4 TDs and 0 interceptions) - the Raiders were playing from behind from the get-go, limiting the amount of running plays the team called. Two weeks ago, against the Ravens, Wheatley had 13/39/0 rushing, while Garner put up 7/28/0 rushing and 4/41/0 receiving - there just isn't a lot happening on the Oakland offense at this point in the season. Back in week 4, Charlie Garner ran for 12/70/1 and had 1/8/0 receiving against the Chargers, while Tyrone Wheatley had 8/28/0 rushing.

Misery loves company. The Chargers would love to hang a "L" on their division rivals, and put a "W" in their column, so that both teams would end the season at 4-12. However, they are very giving in the rushing phase of the game, allowing an average of 138.5 yards per game (25th in the NFL) with 12 rushing scores surrendered to date. Last week, the Steelers hung 43/181/1 on the Chargers. Two weeks ago, Green Bay had 27/83/1 against them.

LB Carlos Polk (shoulder) and DL DeQuincy Scott (foot) were injured in the game last week. Oakland's C Barret Robbins has been unable to play for many weeks (knee), and RT Lincoln Kennedy is expected to miss this game due to a variety of injuries.

The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for a high of 60F and a low of 43F, with a 20% chance of precipitation. Ah, sunny Southern California.

The Raiders are struggling to move the ball in this phase, while the Chargers give up a lot of yardage in this phase most weeks. It looks like an even matchup between sub-par units to us.

San Francisco's Kevan Barlow vs. The Seattle Defense (Neutral Matchup)

San Francisco showed that they are comfortable in the spoiler role last week, upsetting the Eagles 31-28. Kevan Barlow had a monster game in support of the San Francisco effort, with 30/154/1 rushing and 3/33/1 receiving. The team is probably going to continue giving him the majority of the work as Garrison Hearst recovers from knee surgery (and the staff evaluates Barlow's potential to be the featured guy next season). With 66/393/4 rushing and 12/122/1 receiving to his credit in the last 3 games, Barlow is the 4th best fantasy RB in the land during that span. The Niners have had room to run all season, with a great 4.7 yards per carry average to their credit (7th in the NFL). Back in week 6, Barlow enjoyed a strong effort in limited time, with 9/40/0 rushing (Hearst had 16/62/1) - the team managed 29/111/2 against the Seahawks.

Seattle crushed the Cardinals last week, holding them to 26/79/0 rushing (the QB led the team with 8/38/0). Two weeks ago, Marshall Faulk and friends put up 30/86/1 - those are some stout performances, folks. Seattle averages 113.3 rushing yards allowed per game (14th in the NFL), but have allowed only 9 rushing scores all season (tied for 3rd in the NFL). They are playing at the top of their game in this phase in recent weeks.

San Francisco lost the services of G Ron Stone last week (knee injury), and Hearst is still recovering from knee surgery, as noted above. Backup LB Orlando Huff (ankle) missed the game last week for the Seahawks, as did starting LB Chad Brown (illness) - the team expects Brown back this week, though. Both teams are a little banged up coming into this game, as you can see.

The forecast for 3 COM Park calls for a high of 54F and a low of 45F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. Just about perfect football weather, in other words.

Seattle is fighting for a playoff berth, while the 49'ers are fighting for pride and roster spots next season (the Philly game showed they aren't going to lie down for anyone). Seattle tends to play tough in this phase, but the Niners sport a top attack and are in their own house - this looks like a neutral matchup to us.

Washington's Rock Cartwright/Chad Morton/Trung Canidate? vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Washington struggled to move the ball last week against the Bears, with 13/41/0 for Rock Cartwright and 18/44/0 as a team. Starter Trung Canidate has been sidelined for several weeks with an ankle injury, and was listed as questionable last week - against the division-rival Eagles, the Redskins would love to have him back in the lineup. Rock Cartwright has yet to sniff the end-zone in his latest stint as the #1 ball carrier, and has put up 46/154/0 rushing and 2/15/0 receiving in 3 games - hardly numbers to make a fantasy owner smile wide. Backup RB Ladell Betts has a fractured forearm and is unlikely to play in the finale. Washington has struggled in this phase all season, averaging 3.9 yards per carry (403/1574 yards) this year. Back in week 5, none of the backs had much luck against the Eagles (21/49/1 as a team) - Trung Canidate led the team with 8/17/0 rushing (3/18/0 receiving).

Philadelphia has been very vulnerable in this phase of the game in recent weeks, with 42/206/1 allowed to the 49'ers last week and 29/177/3 coughed up to the Dolphins two weeks ago. Plus, their top play-making LB Carlos Emmons broke his leg last week and is out for the rest of the Eagles' playoff run. Even with Emmons in there, the team ranked 23rd in the NFL allowing 133.2 rushing yards per game, with 12 TDs surrendered to date. They have been even softer in recent weeks.

In addition to Emmons' injury, DE Brandon Whiting strained a shoulder in the San Francisco game. Washington's reserve OL Brandon Winey missed the game last week with a knee injury.

The forecast for Fed Ex Field calls for a high of 49F and a low of 29F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. It should be a decent day for a football game.

Washington has a hard time moving the ball, and really struggled against the Eagles the last time out of the gates. The Eagles have collapsed in this phase of the game recently - this one looks ugly but even, with neither squad ready to dominate the other.

Atlanta's T.J. Duckett/Michael Vick vs. The Jacksonville Defense (Tough Matchup)

Atlanta slapped down 42/148/0 on the Buccaneers last week (27/93/0 for T.J. Duckett, 12/39/0 for Vick), and also had 100+ against the Colts two weeks ago (18/74/1 for Duckett, 4/30/0 for Vick) - they are an effective tandem from week to week. The Falcons have averaged 4.5 yards per carry this season - some stout run blocking from the OL is helping open lanes for the backs, no matter who is in the backfield.

Jacksonville held Deuce McAllister and company to 25/61/0 last week, and gave up 32/84/1 to the Patriots two weeks ago - they are playing stout rush D right now, and have been all season long. The team ranks 2nd in the NFL surrendering 82.7 rushing yards per contest, with 11 rushing scores allowed in 15 games. That's what you call tough, my friends.

Jacksonville's starting DE Tony Brackens injured his knee last week, and may not play in this game. Atlanta's squad reports no new injuries of consequence this week.

This game is being played in the Georgia Dome - weather isn't an issue.

Even though this is a "pride" game (both teams are eliminated from contention for the playoffs), don't expect either unit to lay down for the other. Atlanta brings a respectable attack to the table, but the Jags bring an awesome run D - advantage, Jacksonville.

Buffalo's Travis Henry vs. The New England Defense (Tough Matchup)

Travis Henry's numbers have been trending downwards in the last two games, with 19/88/0 rushing and 2/13/0 receiving vs. Tennessee two weeks ago, and 24/67/0 rushing and 1/6/0 receiving last week against the Dolphins. Buffalo has been sub-par at rushing the ball most weeks this season, averaging 3.9 yards per carry (407/1582 yards). Henry put up 75/324/1 rushing and 4/25/0 (16th among all RBs in FP per game during that period). receiving in his past 3 games, but has been becoming less effective as the weeks go by. Back in week 1, Henry enjoyed good luck against the Patriots, putting up 28/86/2 on the day.

New England allowed 26/109/2 to the Jets' Curtis Martin and company last week, after limiting the Jaguars to 20/72/0 two weeks ago. They are ranked 4th in the NFL this season, averaging only 90.1 rushing yards allowed per game, and have given up 10 rushing scores to date. Not too shabby, huh?

Buffalo's starting OT Mike Williams (knee) missed the game last week, and Henry is, of course, playing with a fractured fibula. New England comes into this one relatively healthy.

The forecast for Gillette Stadium calls for a high of 30F and a low of 24F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. It should be a crisp, clear day for a football game.

A lot has changed since week 1 - New England is playing for home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, and wants to avenge their 31-0 drubbing at the hands of the Bills week 1. The Bills are just playing out the string, and Henry is struggling to move the ball in recent weeks - advantage, New England.

Detroit's Shawn Bryson/Artose Pinner vs. The St. Louis Defense (Tough Matchup)

Detroit's attack returned to normal last week (read "very bad" for normal), racking up 21/53/0 against the Panthers. Artose Pinner saw the ball the most, with 12/22/0 rushing and 1/9/0 receiving. The team had 106 yards of total offense last week. All the scoring happened on special teams or defense. None of this is anything new - the team ranks 29th in the NFL averaging 3.5 yards per carry, and has 1226 rushing yards in 15 games (~82 rushing yards per game). That's pretty lame production for an NFL team, my friends (pun intended).

St Louis has been solid but not dominating in this phase in recent weeks, allowing 23/99/0 to the Bengals last week, and 27/135/1 to the Seahawks two weeks ago. The Rams rank 20th in the NFL with an average of 124.5 rushing yards allowed per game, but have kept most opponents out of the end-zone, allowing only 9 rushing scores to date (tied for 3rd-least in the NFL). As you can see, their performance in recent games is consistent with those statistics.

Detroit's current unit has no new injuries of note to report. Backup LB Robert Thomas (groin) has missed several games for the Rams.

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

Don't expect much from the Lions' rushers, and you won't be disappointed. Advantage, St. Louis.

New Orleans' Deuce McAllister vs. The Dallas Defense (Tough Matchup)

New Orleans was bounced out of the playoffs by a missed extra point last week, but Deuce McAllister did his part to keep the team alive (21/50/0 rushing with 6/63/0 receiving) - the team had a hard time moving the ball on the ground (25/61/0 as a team). In the laugher over the Giants, McAllister had 15/80/0 rushing and 8/65/0 receiving - he's been showing both aspects of his game in recent weeks. In fact, he has 58/199/0 rushing and 17/147/0 receiving in the past 3 games - but the dearth of scoring is limiting his fantasy value (22nd among fantasy backs during that span). Word out of New Orleans says McAllister dinged up his knee last week, and is day to day to play this week. Keep an eye on the updates after Christmas, as game-time approaches.

Dallas sports one of the top 10 rush D's in the league, allowing only 91.1 rushing yards per game (6th), and are 2nd-best at limiting rushing scores (only 7 given up to date). 22/54/0 was what the Giants managed last week. 26/106/0 was the Redskins' tally two weeks ago. The Cowboys are a hard-nosed bunch of run defenders, without a doubt.

Deuce McAllister suffered a knee injury in the game on Sunday, and is described as day to day by coach Haslett (as noted above). New Orleans' OL is pretty battered right now, with both G LeCharles Bentley (knee) and OT Spencer Folau (knee) on the sidelines - Folau landed on IR, in fact. Dallas reserve DT Leonardo Carson (triceps) missed the game last week.

This game is being played in the Superdome - weather won't be an issue.

It's just tough to run on the Cowboys, no matter who you are.

New York Giants' Tiki Barber/Dorsey Levens vs. The Carolina Defense (Tough Matchup)

The Giants are in disarray, having been blown out in their last two games 45-7 and 19-3 (the latter one really hurts, because it was the hated Cowboys who completed a season sweep of the Giants with that 19-3 score). Tiki Barber continues to under-whelm in the rushing phase of the game, with 13/47/0 rushing against the Cowboys last week (5/55/0 receiving) and 11/37/0 rushing and 5/33/0 receiving against the Saints two weeks ago. Levens hasn't fared any better, with 6/4/0 rushing last week and 8/37/0 rushing and 2/19/0 receiving two weeks ago. Their season is ending with a whimper, not a bang.

The Panthers crushed Artose Pinner and the Lions like a wormy apple last week, holding them to 21/53/0 on the day. Two weeks ago, it was the Cardinals throwing down 39/171/2 against the Panthers - you could say they've been on a see-saw the past couple weeks. Carolina averages 109.7 rushing yards allowed per game (13th in the NFL), with 10 rushing scores surrendered in 15 games. Usually, they are pretty stout against the run.

The forecast for Giants Stadium calls for a high of 42F and a low of 30F, with a 10% chance of precipitation. It sounds like a nice, clear day to play football is on tap.

Carolina's starting DE Mike Rucker (knee) and starting DT Brentson Buckner (knee) missed the game last week (by design, coach Fox was resting them). The Giants' line lost Luke Petitgout to IR, and has a skeleton crew of inexperienced players currently making up the front 5. Chris Bober, the C, has 4 years of NFL experience - all the others have 2 or less.

The Giants are struggling, and the Panthers are tough against the run. Even with part of their starting defensive front on the sidelines, the advantage flows to Carolina.

New York Jets' Curtis Martin vs. The Miami Defense (Tough Matchup)

This one is for pride, because both teams are out of the playoff race. 22/89/0 rushing and 4/21/0 receiving were Curtis Martin's results last week against the New England Patriots - decent numbers, but not enough to propel his team to victory. Two weeks ago, it was a different story as Martin blasted the Steelers for 30/174/0 rushing and 4/54/0 receiving to set up 2 FGs (the only scoring during the game). Earlier in the year, he struggled to find running room, but that isn't true lately (the team averages a respectable 4.0 yards-per-carry this season). Back in week 2, Martin had a miserable game against the Dolphins, with 10/32/0 rushing and 2/-2/0 receiving.

Miami's rush D has been up and down in recent weeks, limiting the Bills to 28/73/0 last week, but allowing 28/140/3 to the Eagles two weeks ago. They are usually closer to the Bills' game than the Eagles - the D averages 90.5 rushing yards allowed per game (5th in the NFL), and has allowed only 10 rushing scores all season.

The Jets' OL Dave Szott injured his knee in the game last week. Miami is in fairly good shape along the defensive front, with minor dings but no major problems to report.
The forecast for Pro Player Stadium calls for a high of 79F and a low of 61F, with a 10% chance for precipitation. Sounds like great football weather is coming to south Florida.
Miami has a top rush D, and Curtis Martin struggled against them early in the year. Advantage, Miami.

Pittsburgh's Jerome Bettis vs. The Baltimore Defense (Tough Matchup)

Jerome Bettis has really hit top speed in the last few weeks, with 32/115/1 last week against the Chargers last week and 75/289/2 rushing with 7/42/0 receiving in the last 3 games. He looks poised to go out of 2003 in style this week against the Ravens if he can keep up the momentum. However, the Steelers didn't fare well against the Ravens back in week 1 (34/88/1), but that was when Amos Zereoue was the featured back and Bettis saw only limited duty (4/14/0).

31/79/1 was what the Raiders managed against the Ravens two weeks ago; last week, the Browns had 24/78/0 against the Baltimore defense. The Ravens currently rank 8th in the NFL allowing 98.7 rushing yards per game, and they are very tough to score on, with only 6 rushing TDs allowed all season (tied for 1st in the NFL).

OT Marvel Smith is still struggling with his neck injury, and hasn't played for several weeks. LB Peter Boulware has a thigh injury and is day-to-day for the Ravens.

The forecast for M&T Bank Stadium calls for a high of 49F and a low of 36F, with a 20% chance of precipitation.

Bettis has been in top form in recent weeks - but so have the Raven's defenders. With a playoff spot on the line, we think the home team has the edge - advantage, Baltimore.

Tampa Bay's Thomas Jones/Michael Pittman vs. The Tennessee Defense (Tough Matchup)

Thomas Jones followed up his excellent outing against the Texans (34/134/1 rushing) with a less impressive 17/73/0 rushing (4/14/0 receiving) game against the Falcons - the team was playing from behind from the outset of the game, so he saw more limited opportunities in the rushing phase of the game. Michael Pittman had 4/20/0 rushing and 9/85/0 receiving to his credit as the change-of-pace and passing-situations back. The Buccaneers have been sub-par at moving the ball all season, with a 3.9 yards per carry average to their credit.

The Titans are the toughest rush D in the land, allowing a mere 80.4 rushing yards per game on average (10 rushing scores to date). 18/91/1 was what the Texans managed last week - 20/89/0 was the Bill's total two weeks ago. They are just as tough lately as they have been all season.

Starting LB Rocky Calmus (broken leg) and reserve LB Jordan Kramer missed the game last week. Tampa's unit is in good shape, health-wise.

The forecast for the Coliseum calls for a high of 61F and a low of 39F, with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard at game time, the field will get sloppy and ball handling becomes more of an issue.

Anytime you play the Titans, moving the ball on the ground is tough - and they are battling for playoff position, chasing division-leaders Indianapolis. The Titans will be focused and ready to play on Sunday.

Tennessee's Eddie George vs. The Tampa Bay Defense (Tough Matchup)

Eddie George continues to be an important, if underwhelming, part of the Titans' attack: he has "racked" up 19/79/0 rushing (1/6/0 receiving) and 23/67/0 rushing with 1/19/0 receiving in his past two outings - those performances are typical of George's numbers week in and week out this season. Over the past 3 weeks, George has 53/197/0 rushing and 3/30/0 receiving (36th among all fantasy RBs during that span). The Titans are dead last in average yards per carry this season, with a 3.3 average. Ho Hum.

Tampa Bay fields one of the tougher rush defenses in the league, averaging 109.6 rushing yards allowed per game (12th in the NFL) while allowing a mere 6 rushing scores all season (tied for 1st). They held the Falcons scoreless, though they did surrender 42/148 yards last week. Two weeks ago, the Texans were crushed (19/65/0).

Tampa Bay may not put Warren Sapp on the field this week after an altercation in the locker room last week - time will tell. DE Greg Spires just went on the IR on Tuesday, and he joins a long list of defenders who've ended up there. Tennessee enjoys relatively good health on their squad.

Tennessee has struggled to run the ball all year - that shouldn't change this week. Advantage, Tampa Bay.