Also note that the matchups reflect how we think the team will do. There are a couple of "Good Matchups" that feature teams like the Lions and 49'ers who have more than one RB carrying the load. So make sure to understand that even though the 49'ers have a "Good Matchup" for rushing the ball, you have to factor in the fact that they'll likely spread the ball between Hearst and Barlow.

Bottom line, the cheatsheets are the final word.

Let's jump to it.

Joe

*******************
Joe Bryant
Owner www.footballguys.com

Buffalo's Travis Henry vs. The Jacksonville Defense (Great Matchup)

Travis Henry and the Bills got off on the right foot this season, with a 31-0 shellacking of divisional rival New England. Henry had a big day on the ground, with 28/86/2 TD's and 3 receptions for 37 yards. The 3.1 ypc average is not as high as one would like to see, but otherwise he had a stellar opener. Maybe he was serious about that 2,000 yards this season talk. As a team, the Bills went 33/104/2, so the OL needs to get a better burst off the ball in the weeks to come.

Jacksonville flummoxed the Panthers in the first half on Sunday, only to see Jake Delhomme lead the team back from a 17-point deficit to win 24-23. They weren't too effective at containing Stephen Davis, who put up 22/111/0 rushing (a 5.0 per carry average) and 1/11/0 receiving on the day. Last year, the Jags were 25th in the league in rushing yards allowed per game, averaging 129.4 per contest, so their lack-luster performance in this phase of the game continues into 2003. LB Akinola Ayodele led the Jaguars in their losing effort, with 8 tackles, 2 assists, 1 sack, 1 interception and 1 pass defensed - that was the very best defensive effort by a LB in fantasy football this past week.

Jacksonville's defense is banged up heading into this game - LB T.J. Slaughter missed last week due to an injured ankle (probable), as did reserve DL Brandon Green (quadriceps - questionable) and reserve DB James Trapp (ankle - probable). After the game, backup DE Paul Spicer had a protective boot on his sore left ankle - Spicer is expected to play this Sunday, though. Buffalo's unit came through their game unscathed.

The forecast for ALLTEL stadium calls for a high of 90F with a low of 73F, and a 30% chance for rain.

Buffalo is on a roll, while the Jaguars are coming off a heart-breaker, with a defensive team that is banged up and none-too-good vs. the run. The advantage flows to the visiting Bills in this matchup.

Denver's Clinton Portis vs. The San Diego Defense (Great Matchup)

Clinton Portis exploded in the opening game vs. Cincinnati for 120 yards rushing and 2 TD's on 24 carries (a 5.0 average) and added 5 snags for 39 yards. He was the engine that propelled the Denver offense week 1, as Jake Plummer looked pretty ugly going 12/25 for 115 yards 0 TD's and 3 interceptions. Portis is one of the premier double-threat fantasy backs in the NFL for 2003.

San Diego's defense folded in the onslaught of Kansas City's Priest Holmes, who slammed them for 18/85/2 TD's rushing and 7/98/0 receiving last Sunday. Last year, the Charger's averaged 108.7 rushing yards allowed per game (11th in the league), but on Sunday they surrendered 32/131/2 TD's to the Chiefs as a team. Kwamie Lassiter and Donnie Edwards led the Chargers with 9 and 8 solo tackles respectively - anytime a safety leads your team in tackles, the opposition is having good luck moving the ball well past the line of scrimmage.

Both units come into this game healthy and ready to play some football.

The forecast for Qualcomm stadium in San Diego calls for a high of 84F with a low of 65F, and a 10% chance for rain. Basically, there should be perfect football weather by the Bay.

Portis is one of the elite backs in the NFL, and San Diego's rush defense looks ragged at the moment. A big edge flows to Denver in this matchup. Just start Portis and don't worry about it.

Minnesota's Moe Williams / Daunte Culpepper vs. The Chicago Defense (Great Matchup)

Moe Williams did a solid job for the Vikings, rushing 20 times for 88 yards and 0 scores on Sunday. As a team, the Vikings put up 36/154/0 in the game (Daunte Culpepper grabbed 50 yards on 9 carries from the Packers). Onterrio Smith was Missing In Action, with 0 touches.

But enough about Williams and the Vikings. Let's look at how bad the Bears defense is - in 2002, they were 26th in the NFL, allowing 129.8 rushing yards per game, on average. This year, they stumbled out of the blocks and gave up 42/162/2 TD's to the Hearst/Barlow tandem in San Francisco on the way to a 49-7 defeat. LB Warrick Holdman had 12 total tackles (11 solo, 1 assist); fellow LB Brian Urlacher had 11 total tackles (6 solo, 5 assists), so their IDP statistics are stellar - but the Bears give up points in bunches!

Minnesota's starting unit is ready to go, and the Bears are healthy, if not good.

The game will be played in the Metrodome, so weather is not a factor in the matchup

The Bears' offense can't get anything going, so the defense is on the field forever. Give the Vikings a ton of opportunities, and their offense will burn you six ways from Sunday. A huge edge flows to the Vikings' unit in this matchup.

Oakland's Charlie Garner vs. The Cincinnati Defense (Great Matchup)

Against a very stout Tennessee defensive front, Charlie Garner managed only 7/22/0 rushing, but gouged the Titans for 8/112/1 receiving. In the Oakland offense, a short pass to Garner is considered almost the same thing as a hand-off - that's what makes Garner so lethal. The knee that bothered him in pre-season is healed enough that coach Callahan left #2 RB Tyrone Wheatley inactive for the game last week and activated rookie Justin Fargas instead - Garner is good to go.

Cincinnati's defensive front, on the other hand, was torched by Clinton Portis for 120 yards on 24 carries with 2 TD's (a 5.0 ypc average). In all, they gave up 40/184/2 on the day to the Broncos. Clinton Portis added 5/39 receiving in the rout. No surprise here, the Bengals were 22nd in the NFL last season defending the run, allowing an average of 125.2 yards per game. DE Oliver Gibson led the Bengals' effort with 5 solo tackles and 1 assist.

Cincinnati's starting WLB Brian Simmons injured his ribs in the game on Sunday, and did not return to action - he's probable for Sunday, though. Oakland's offensive line is banged up: Backup OL Langston Walker missed last week with a bum knee, as did backup RT Chad Slaughter (foot injury). Starting RT Lincoln Kennedy hurt his right leg in the game on Sunday, and the injury is being evaluated as the week progresses - he's not on the Wednesday injury report. Neither are Walker or Slaughter, so things are improving here this week. FB Chris Hetherington is still having trouble with his hamstring (questionable).

The weather in Oakland is expected to range from a high of 75F with a low of 59F, and a 10% chance for rain. It should be a perfect day to play some football.

As things stand now, the Oakland Raiders have a commanding edge in this matchup. We're a little worried as the Raiders didn't shake out the preseason cobwebs. Could this be an offense that's still reeling from the Super Bowl loss? Could be, but we like Garner's chances a lot here in this one.

Seattle's Shaun Alexander vs. The Arizona Defense (Great Matchup)

Shaun Alexander had a great start to his season on Sunday, with a 24/108/1 TD rushing performance to which he added 2/16/1 TD receiving to lead the Seahawks in a 27-10 rout of the Saints. Alexander looked strong and ran with confidence and decisiveness in the game - Matt Hasselbeck looked good, too. The team seems poised to continue on as they finished 2002, as one of the hottest teams in the NFC.

Arizona began another long season vs. Detroit on Sunday, losing a shootout 24-42. Detroit was without starting RB James Stewart, so they threw a RBBC at Arizona that managed to produce 66 yards rushing on 23 carries. Last season, of course, the Cardinals were near the bottom of the NFL in rushing yards allowed per game (30th, allowing 134.1 on average). LB Raynoch Thompson led the losing defense with 5 solo tackles.

Two Cardinals suffered concussions in the loss: starting LDE Fred Wakefield and starting OLB Levar Woods. Neither player was expected to miss the game this week as of this writing. Backup DT Marcus Bell has a sore knee (questionable). Seattle's starting team is healthy and ready to go.

The forecast for Sun Devil Stadium calls for a high of 99F with a low of 76F, and a 10% chance for rain. The heat could be a factor although Alexander played his college ball in Alabama where it's plenty warm too so it's not like he'll be shocked.

Shaun Alexander and his team-mates are forming an elite NFL offense, while the Cardinals are a bottom-feeding defense. Advantage, Seattle.

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

Jamal Lewis had a decent day vs. the Steelers last week, slapping down 15/69/1 rushing and 2/4 receiving in the losing cause. The game got away from the Ravens last week (it was 27-0 when Lewis punched in his lone TD), so the relatively low number of carries that Lewis saw was due in part to the team playing from so far behind.

Cleveland lost a squeaker to the Colts, 6-9, but they didn't do much in the way of shutting down Edgerrin James, who amassed 15/67 (4.5 yards per carry) rushing and 5/29 receiving on the day. Last season, the Browns were 27th in the league, averaging 129.9 rushing yards per game allowed, so they have no where to go but up. Linebacker Ben Taylor led the effort with 11 total tackles (6 solo and 5 assists).

Baltimore's reserve OL Casey Rabach missed the game with an injured knee - he is probable this week, though. Cleveland's front 7 are healthy coming into the matchup, with DE Courtney Brown showing up as probable on the injury report with his sore foot.

The forecast for M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore calls for a high of 81F with a low of 66F, and a 10% chance for rain. It should be a great day for a football game.

Jamal Lewis is a top back on a run-oriented team that faces a suspect Cleveland defense at home. Advantage, Baltimore.

Detroit's Olandis Gary/Shawn Bryson/Cory Schlesinger vs. The Green Bay Defense (Good Matchup)

Faced with the loss of starter James Stewart for the season, Coach Mariucci's promised RBBC attacked the Arizona defense last week with modest success. Olandis Gary carried the ball 12 times for 44 yards. Shawn Bryson only managed 8 yards on 5 carries, but rang up 3 receptions for 41 yards. Schlesinger was frustrated in his single rush attempt for -1 yards, but caught 3 balls for 30 yards and 1 TD. Overall, the team went 23 for 66, averaging 2.9 yards per carry. As of this writing, it looks like the RBBC will continue into week 2 - which back will be most worthy of a fantasy start is clearly open to question. If we had to choose, we like Gary as Coach Mariucci talked that Gary would be limited early on as he became more familiar with the offense. You have to think another week of practice will help there.

Green Bay, meanwhile, was humiliated in their home opener by their arch-rivals the Vikings. Minnesota rang up the Packers for 154 yards rushing on 36 carries (a 4.7 yards per carry average). Their top back was Moe Williams, who put up 22/80 vs. the defensive front. Green Bay was mediocre against the rush last year, too, allowing an average of 124.9 yards per game (21st in the NFL).

Detroit missed a reserve OL last week (Matt Joyce, leg injury) but their starting front stayed healthy through game one. Green Bay's defensive front 7 managed to make it through week one without significant new injuries.

The forecast for Lambeau field calls for a high of 67F and a low of 48F, with a 30% chance of precipitation.

With Olandis Gary still working to absorb the offense, and other threats clouding the picture, no clear cut fantasy starter is apparent for Detroit in week 2 although we're leaning toward Gary. However, the team should have a good chance for success against the soft Packer defensive front.

Houston's Stacey Mack vs. The New Orleans Defense (Good Matchup)

Stacey Mack and the Texans stunned the NFL last week by defeating the Miami Dolphins in Miami. Mack nearly broke 100 yards of combined offense (27/89/0 rushing and 1/6/0 receiving), a respectable performance vs. a normally dominant Miami defense. Better yet, the Houston OL gave up 0 sacks, which allowed QB David Carr to generate a bona-fide pass attack. If the improved protection continues, Carr should be able to help create running room for Mack by threatening defenses downfield.

New Orleans dropped a disappointing opener to Seattle 10-27, and looked soft doing so. They allowed Shaun Alexander to rush for 108 yards on 24 carries with 1 TD, and he added another score on 2/16/1 receiving work. It was a lack-luster performance, much like their 19th ranked rushing yards allowed average from 2002 (124.4 per game). Safety Jay Bellamy led the team in tackles with 8 (7 solo, 1 assist), symbolic of the Saint's lack of stopping power at the line of scrimmage.

The game is being played in a dome, so weather is not a factor in this matchup.

New Orleans' problems begin (but do not end) with injuries - starting DE Darren Howard is out 2-3 months due to a broken/dislocated right wrist. Backup DT Henry Ford missed the game due to an ankle injury, and may not be available again (doubtful). Reserve LB Cie Grant has an injured knee and is out. DE Charles Grant is probable to go despite his sore calf. Houston's reconstituted OL survived the first game intact, with no significant new injuries to report.

Mack and the Texans have their offense actually moving the ball, while New Orleans is struggling to hold people back at the line of scrimmage. It sounds like Mack and company could be in for another decent day vs.
the depleted Saints.

Jacksonville's Fred Taylor vs. The Buffalo Defense (Good Matchup)

Fred Taylor played well against an extremely talented Panthers' defensive front, amassing 22/71/0 rushing and 5/51/0 receiving in the Jaguars' opening loss at Carolina. That wasn't a super fantasy outing, but it was very strong in such a hostile environment.

The Buffalo Bills opened by thrashing the New England Patriots 31-0, and one of the keys to their destruction of New England were the new personnel added over the off- and pre-season. S Lawyer Milloy, a late addition to the team, was all over the field and new LB Takeo Spikes (late of Cincinnati) threw down 4 tackles, 2 assists, 2 interceptions and 3 passes defensed in the rout. Last year, the Bills were 29th in the league allowing an average of 132.6 rushing yards per game; last Sunday they allowed 105 to the Patriots (although they did average 5.0 yards per carry as a team, the Patriots failed to punch in a single score).

Both units came through their initial game of the season relatively healthy, with no new injuries to report. Backup RB Fuamatu Ma'afala is listed as probable on the Jacksonville injury report.

The forecast for ALLTEL stadium calls for a high of 90F with a low of 73F, and a 30% chance for rain.

Fred Taylor has phenomenal talent and will exploit any weakness shown to him along the defensive front. Considering the high yards per carry surrendered by the Bills week 1, we think he has a good chance for a productive day against this improving but still suspect Bills' defensive front.

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

Priest Holmes put any concerns about his hip to their final rest last week, with a dominating 18/85/2 TD rushing performance (4.7 yards per carry) and an additional 7/98/0 in the passing phase of the game. He is the premier double-threat running back in fantasy football at this stage of the season, bar none.

Pittsburgh, on the other hand, handily defeated the Ravens week 1 34-15, but they allowed 15/69/1 TD to Jamal Lewis (a 4.6 yards per carry average), and gave up 23/88 to the Ravens as a team. Last year, the Steelers were the top defense in the league, allowing only 85.9 yards per game on average - so their play wasn't atypically bad week 1, but neither was it dominating in the rushing phase. LB James Farrior was a monster in this game, with 13 total tackles (6 solo, 7 assists).

Pittsburgh will continue to play without LB Joey Porter, who is recovering from a gunshot wound. Kansas City's OL and backfield are healthy as of this writing.

The forecast calls for temperatures of 72F for a high and 51F for a low, with a 10% chance of precipitation on Sunday. Sounds like perfect football weather at Arrowhead Stadium.

Two top units meet in this matchup - home-field advantage in Arrowhead stadium tilts the tables slightly in Holmes' and the Chief's favor, as the crowd is brutal on opposing defenses in KC. But why are you even reading this - start Holmes and thank your lucky stars you have him on the roster.

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

During the surprise loss in the home opener, Houston's defense held Miami under 100 yards rushing (22/86/0, with Ricky Williams getting 17/69/0 of that total). Williams did add 5/60/1 in the receiving phase of the game, so the Texans did not stuff Williams - but they did contain him. Heading into week 2, the status of OT Mark Dixon is still doubtful (ankle injury), and the Dolphins OL is not at its' best with Dixon on the sidelines.

The Jets were run over by the Redskins in week 1, allowing a whopping 160 yards rushing to the Washington club on 34 carries (a 4.7 ypc average). Last season, the Jets averaged 123.3 rushing yards allowed per game, 18th in the NFL, so 160 yards in one game was very poor for the unit. LB Sam Cowart led the defenders with 8 solo tackles.

Aside from Dixon, Miami's starting unit enjoys decent health coming into this divisional showdown, as does the Jets' defensive front. C Tim Ruddy (knee) and Williams (ankle) are probable to play on Sunday.

The forecast for the Meadowlands calls for a high of 80F with a low of 62F, and a 30% chance for rain.

Miami has one of the best rushers in the league in the person of Ricky Williams, and he should remind us of that against a stumbling Jets' unit. Advantage, Williams and the Dolphins.

New Orleans' Deuce McAllister vs. The Houston Defense (Good Matchup)

Deuce McAllister put in a strong showing in the losing effort week 1, with 22/99/0 rushing (a very respectable 4.5 ypc average) and 8/35/0 receiving. Unfortunately, he didn't find pay-dirt or hit the bonus league plateau of 100 yards, but he did fine for owners in yardage leagues. Heading into week 2, he remains healthy and ready for action.

Houston's defense held Miami under 100 yards rushing last week (22/86/0, with Ricky Williams getting 17/69/0 of that total). Williams had a long run called back for holding though so it wasn't quite as bad as it looked. Williams did add 5/60/1 in the receiving phase of the game, so the Texans did not stuff Williams - but they did contain him. Last year, Houston was a lowly 28th in the league in yards allowed per game, at 130.6 on average. Week one's performance was a significant improvement here, obviously.. Linebacker Jamie Sharper led the way, with 9 total tackles (4 solo and 5 assists) and the defense as a whole generated 16 assists (they are swarming to the ball).

New Orleans' starting lineup is set, but reserve OL P.J. Alexander is having trouble with his shoulder and missed last week's game. Houston was without starting DE Gary Walker last week, as he struggles to return from a shoulder injury (questionable), and reserve LB Antwan Peek sprained his right knee on Sunday - he's out indefinitely with a sprained LCL, and will not play on Sunday (doubtful). ILB Troy Evans has a groin injury (questionable).

The game is being played in a dome, so weather is not a factor in this matchup.

Deuce McAllister and the Saints are very proficient at rushing the ball, while the Texans have historically struggled in this phase. One week does not a trend make, and with the Saints in their own house, we have to give the nod to McAllister in this matchup.

New York Giant's Tiki Barber vs. The Dallas Defense (Good Matchup)

Tiki Barber began 2003 with a bang, trampling the hapless Rams for 146 yards on only 24 carries (a 6.1 yards per carry average), while adding 2/19 through the air. He had several long runs - the longest being 22 yards - and only missed out on a TD because the Giants had KR/PR/RB Brian Mitchell plunge in a 1 yard gimme.

Dallas had a decent outing vs. Warrick Dunn and the Falcons, holding Dunn to 13/41/0 rushing (but they did allow him to gain 2/20/1 TD receiving). Overall, the Falcons only managed 30/98/1 TD vs. the Cowboys - a better showing for the Cowboys than their 2002 ranking as 15th-best run defense in the NFL would indicate, when they allowed 113.6 yards per game on average. LB Dexter Coakley led the Cowboys with 8 total tackles (4 solo, 4 assists).

The Giant's starting LT Luke Petitgout had to leave the game with back spasms, but the team expects him back this week. FB Jim Finn has a sore quadriceps, but is probable to play. Dallas is probably without reserve DL Willie Blades, whose bad knee is keeping him out of action (questionable).

The weather at Giant's Stadium is expected to range from a high of 80F with a low of 61F, and a 10% chance for rain on Monday night.

The Dallas defense is no slouch in this phase, but the Giants have a potent offense and the advantage of a home crowd. The edge lies with the Giants in this matchup.

Philadelphia's Duce Staley / Correll Buckhalter vs. The New England Defense (Good Matchup)

Duce Staley didn't start vs. Tampa Bay, but he did see the lions' share of the playing time. However, the team's backs were held to 10/19, including 7/14/0 for Staley, so he hardly bowled anyone over with his performance. Staley did add 7/46/0 receiving, and caught the most balls on the team during the miserable 17-0 drubbing that the Buccaneers handed out. Buckhalter had 1 carry for 0 yards, so he was mostly standing on the sidelines.

New England's defense was shredded by Travis Henry for 28/86/2 TD's rushing and 3 receptions for 37 yards in the course of their 31-0 loss to Buffalo. Last year, the Patriots were 31st in the league, allowing an average of 137.4 yards per game on the ground. They were a little better than that on Sunday, allowing 104 yards rushing to the Bills (but gave up those 2 TD's). Safety Rodney Harrison led the Patriots with 11 tackles (6 solo and 5 assists), symbolic of the teams' problems stopping the Bill's attack.

New England just lost LB Ted Johnson for the season when he underwent surgery Wednesday for a broken left foot, suffered in the 31-0 loss to Buffalo. He was part of the rotation at ILB. Philadelphia's starting unit is just fine health-wise.

The weather at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday is expected to range from a high of 80F with a low of 65F, and a 10% chance for rain. It should be perfect football weather, in other words.

The Eagles should have a much easier time facing the Patriots' soft run defense than they did battling Tampa's top notch defensive front. Advantage, Eagles.

San Francisco's Garrison Hearst / Kevan Barlow vs. The St. Louis Defense (Good Matchup)

The 49'ers humiliated the Chicago Bears week one, cramming the ball down the defenses' throat for 162 yards rushing on 42 carries. Kevan Barlow led the team in carries with 15/62 yards, but Garrison Hearst led the team in average yards per carry at 5.1, going 11/56/1 TD on a day when the team scored 49 points. Hearst added 3/41/1 receiving, while Barlow caught only 1 ball for 3 yards. They are the strongest tandem in the pro game right now.

St. Louis, meanwhile, embarrassed themselves in the opener vs. the NYG, allowing Tiki Barber to tear them up for 24/146/0 (a sky-high 6.1 ypc average) - he added 2/19 through the air to round out a big yardage-league day. Last year the Rams were made of stouter stuff, averaging only 113.5 rushing yards allowed per game - 14th in the league. They gave up 27/149/1 to the Giants last week. Things were bad enough that safety Adam Archuleta led the Rams with 8 total tackles (7 solo, 1 assist) - a sure sign that the defensive front isn't getting the job done.

The Rams don't even have the excuse of injuries to fall back on - their starting front seven are healthy heading into week 2. However, backup DT Jimmy Kennedy could miss this week after having minor surgery to clear up an elbow infection (questionable) and DT Ryan Pickett has a tweaked ankle (questionable). The 49'ers, meanwhile, missed starting OT Scott Gragg last week due to a high ankle sprain, and may have to do without him this week, too (questionable). Derrick Deese is also questionable due to an ankle problem.

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

The 49'ers new offensive scheme looks potent, and the Rams look inept in general right now. Expect Hearst and Barlow to combine for another big day, although which one will punch in the touchdowns on any given Sunday is impossible to know.

Washington's Trung Canidate / Ladell Betts vs. The Atlanta Defense (Good Matchup)

Trung Canidate may be the "official" starter for the Redskins, but in week 1 he was outscored in fantasy points by Ladell Betts (10/46 yards rushing vs. 17/88 yards rushing, respectively - and Betts added 4 yards on a reception, while Canidate had none). From where we sit, this looks like a running back by committee, for now at least. It will be hard for either guy to break through to "bonus" points (at 100 yards rushing, 150 and etc) in the current paradigm. As a team, the Redskins put up 160 yards rushing on 34 carries for a 4.7 yards per carry average against a decent Jets' defense. That says that the backs are finding holes to run through on a regular basis.

Atlanta, meanwhile, was slashed for 149 yards rushing on only 24 carries by the Dallas Cowboys (a big chunk of that came on Aveion Cason's 63 yard TD scamper). That is equivalent to a 6.2 yard per carry average - dropping the big play out of the statistics yields 86 yards on 23 carries, a 3.7 yards per carry average for the rest of the team. Last year, the Falcons were 23rd in the league, allowing 127.9 yards per game on average - not a very stout run defense.

A big concern for the Falcons is developing in the linebackers' corps. Starter Sam Rogers is questionable with knee problems, and one of his backups, Will Overstreet, re-injured his surgically repaired left shoulder on Sunday and is doubtful to play. The two players represent the WLB position on the depth chart, so someone else will have to move over and play out of position if Overstreet can't get his shoulder up to speed. Since LB Keith Newman is still serving a suspension, the above means that the team has only 6 LB's to man 4 spots in Wade Phillip's defensive scheme. Washington is enjoying good health among it's OL and RB's, with no significant injuries to report at the present time.

This game is being played in the Georgia Dome, so weather is not a factor.

Washington's rushing attack as a unit is looking fairly strong, while the Falcons' are facing some problems with their defensive front. The advantage has to go to the visitors in this phase of the game. However, because of their RBBC approach, don't expect earth-shattering numbers from either Canidate or Betts on Sunday.

Arizona's Emmitt Smith vs. The Seattle Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Emmitt Smith had some spring in his step opening day, and averaged 4.9 yards per carry on his 13 attempts (64 yards), while adding 2/9/0 in the receiving department. It wasn't a barn-burner of an opening game, but at least he looked fluid and strong hitting holes in the opener. Jeff Blake combined with rookie Anquan Boldin and Freddie Jones to blast Detroit for 363 yards, 3 TD and 1 interception - so there is life in the passing game after all. That's good news for Smith and his understudy Marcel Shipp.

Seattle comes into the 2003 season sporting a rush defense that averaged an embarrassing 152.6 yards per game allowed on average in 2002 - dead last in the league. However, this year's edition has a healthy John Randle in the middle, Anthony Simmons is healthy again after an injury plagued 2002 campaign (and led the team last week with 11 total tackles - 10 solo, 1 assist), and Randall Godfrey has been added to the mix. The result: the defensive front held Deuce McAllister to 99 yards on 22 attempts, and held the Saints entire roster (including Aaron Brooks) to 25/103/0 TD's - a definite improvement over 2002.

Arizona's starting G Leonard Davis injured his ankle during the game on Sunday, and may miss this game (questionable). Seattle's LB corps is thin, due to the lingering injuries that Isaiah Kacyvenski (ankle - questionable) and Orlando Huff (knee - not on injury report) are struggling to rehabilitate.

The forecast for Sun Devil Stadium calls for a high of 99F with a low of 76F, and a 10% chance for rain.

Seattle has an improving defense that looked good against New Orleans, while Arizona has an improving offense that looked pretty good against Detroit. This one looks like a neutral matchup to us, with neither team clearly dominant over the other.

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

Ahman Green was his usual double-threat self against the Vikings last week, putting up 15/53/2 rushing and 7/62/0 receiving. Najeh Davenport saw spot duty with 3 carries for 8 yards. However, during the course of the game, both starting wide receivers, Donald Driver and Robert Ferguson went down to injury and may not be back this week, as did backup WR Karsten Bailey. With a decimated receiving corps (TE Wesley Walls did not play due to an injured hamstring that is still a problem), the Packers may have trouble generating much passing offense week 2. That could spell problems for Green and company if the Lions stack the line and dare Favre to beat them with 2nd-team receivers.

Detroit was very generous last week to the Cardinals, who averaged 4.8 yards per carry on 20 attempts for 95 yards. Starter Emmitt Smith accounted for 13/64 - a 4.9 yards per carry average. Last season, the Lions were mediocre in this phase, allowing 122.9 yards per game (17th in the NFL).

Detroit has some depth problems in the front 7, with DL Cory Redding struggling to get on the field due to an injured knee (questionable), and LB James Davis also questionable to play due to a rib injury. Also, DL Luther Eliss has a torn pectoral muscle and is out. Green Bay's OL has been bothered by a variety of dings during pre-season, but emerged from week 1 intact.

The forecast for Lambeau field calls for a high of 67F and a low of 48F, with a 30% chance of precipitation.

Given the problems at WR, what would normally be a good matchup for Green becomes more of an even contest. Although you could make the argument they'll lean on Green even more. With pros and cons on both side of the fence, neither side has a clear-cut advantage in this matchup.

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

Curtis Martin and the Jets were unimpressive in the opener vs. Washington, with Martin scraping up only 15/48 rushing and 2/-7 receiving, with 0 scores. Given that the team was planning on leaning on the rushing game while new signal caller Vinny Testaverde gets comfortable in his role as starter again, those are very disappointing numbers. Even more distressing was coach Herm Edwards' move to pull Martin at the goalline and insert Jordan. As a team, the Jets were 22/57, so the big guys up front are obviously just not making much running room for the backs to exploit (LaMont Jordan was 6/0 on the day).

Miami, meanwhile, was busy getting shocked in the home opener vs. the Texans. Stacey Mack nearly broke 100 yards of combined offense (27/89/0 rushing and 1/6/0 receiving), a respectable performance vs. a normally dominant Miami defense. Worse yet, the Miami D generated 0 sacks vs. a line that gave up the most sacks in NFL history a season ago. Last year, Miami averaged only 97.1 rushing yards per game allowed, 5th in the NFL - but that statistic is headed south in a hurry if the defense doesn't start playing better right away. Zach Thomas was a big presence even in the losing effort, with 10 total tackles (4 solo, 6 assists).

Miami's starting DE Adewale Ogunleye injured his left knee in the loss, but the injury appears to be minor at this time (probable). DT Larry Chester's feet ache (probable), as does Zach Thomas' ribs (probable). The Jets' OL is healthy right now, just not playing very well.

The forecast for the Meadowlands calls for a high of 80F with a low of 62F, and a 30% chance for rain.

Two slow-starting units clash in this game, with neither looking dominant over the other heading into the matchup.

Pittsburgh's Amos Zereoue vs. The Kansas City Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Amos Zereoue and his team-mates came out of a tough pre-season to dominate the Baltimore Ravens 34-15. As a team, they put up 33/98/1 TD rushing against the intimidating Ravens' front seven, with starter Zereoue managing 15/56/1 in the featured role. Backup Jerome Bettis put up 4/14 but injured his groin during the game, and did not return to action. Zereoue enters week 2 as the man in the Pittsburgh backfield. Tommy Maddox and the receivers put on quite an aerial show week 1 (Maddox 21/29 for 260 yards and 3 scores), but Zereoue only caught 1 ball for -1 yards in the passing game.

Kansas City looked much better than last year's defense, which was 24th in the league with 129.2 yards per game allowed on average. Against LaDainian Tomlinson (one of the league's premier rushers), the Chiefs held Tomlinson to 13/34/0 and the Chargers as a team to 18/64/0. Newly imported veterans LB Shawn Barber (4 solo tackles and 2 assists) and DE Vonnie Holliday (5 solo tackles, 3 sacks) led the assault on the Chargers, and showed why the Chiefs may be among the most-improved defenses in the early portion of 2003.

Barber suffered a hip pointer during the opener, but the injury is considered minor and should not keep him off the field. Reserve DL Eddie Freeman was out last week with an injured elbow and is out this week. Pittsburgh's starting unit made it through week 1 without any significant new injuries, although C Jeff Hartings' knee is going to slow him all season long (cartilage loss causes swelling and pain in the joint - he's probable to play). Bettis is questionable due to the groin injury.

The forecast calls for temperatures of 72F for a high and 51F for a low, with a 10% chance of precipitation on Sunday. Sounds like perfect football weather at Arrowhead Stadium.

The Chiefs look like a rushing defense on the rise, but the Steelers have a potent attack of their own. Kansas City will find the Pittsburgh passing game much more powerful than they did San Diego's last week. Arrowhead stadium gives the Chiefs a big home-field boost, but this still looks like an even matchup to us, with no clear advantage flowing to either unit.

Atlanta's Warrick Dunn vs. The Washington Defense (Tough Matchup)

Warrick Dunn did not have a great day rushing against the tough Cowboys' defensive front, but he did amass 41 yards on 13 carries and 2 receptions for 20 yards and a TD, so he was decent from a fantasy standpoint. The big news that came out of game one was the vastly reduced touches for T.J. Duckett, who looks like a man without a role in the offense right now. Justin Griffith, the FB, and Duckett each had 5 carries, while Griffith had 2 receptions and Duckett caught 0. This looks like Dunn's team right now, with the other backs doing spot duty at best.

Washington, meanwhile, put a vice on the Jets' backs last week, allowing only 57 yards rushing on 22 carries (a 2.2 yards per carry average). Curtis Martin was 15/48 (3.2 average) with 0 rushing scores, and 2/-7 with 0 receiving scores. That's some stout defense by any yardstick. Last year, the Redskins were 12th in the league allowing only 109.6 yards per game on average, so they have been tough in this phase in the recent past, as well.

Atlanta's starting LG Travis Claridge injured his left shoulder last Sunday, but the problem is considered minor and he should see action as usual on Sunday. Washington made it through their opener with no significant injuries to report.

This game will be played in the Georgia Dome, so weather isn't a factor.

Dunn and company had a tough time running against the Cowboys, while the Redskins smothered the Jets last week. While one game does not a trend make, it looks like the Redskins should be a tough challenge for the
Falcons on Sunday.

Cincinnati's Corey Dillon vs. The Oakland Defense (Tough Matchup)

Corey Dillon had a miserable first game of the year, working against the Broncos' formidable defense headlined by LB's Ian Gold and Al Wilson. Dillon was stifled all afternoon and ended up with 14/34/0 rushing and 2/7/0 receiving. His team went as he did, down to a 30-10 defeat.

Oakland, on the other hand, played strong run defense against the Titans, limiting Eddie George to 20/42/0 rushing and 2/23/0 receiving. They were the 3rd ranked rushing defense in 2002, allowing only 90.8 yards per game on average, so it was no surprise to see George and the Titans struggle. Linebacker Eric Barton led the way for the Raiders with 8 solo tackles and 4 assists during the game.

Reserve RB Rudi Johnson is struggling with an injured thigh and probably won't be able to play. Backup RG Victor Leyva is also out (chest). Oakland will probably go without backup DL Sam Williams, who is hobbled by an injured knee (doubtful). OLB Bill Romanowski shows up on the injury report as questionable with a concussion.

The weather in Oakland is expected to range from a high of 75F with a low of 59F, and a 10% chance for rain. It should be a perfect day to play some football.

The Bengals have a hard time running on top-notch defenses - and Oakland is top-notch. Advantage, Oakland.

Cleveland's William Green vs. The Baltimore Defense (Tough Matchup)

William Green and the Browns failed to put up a touchdown opening week vs. the Colt's defense, but the Colts did allow him a 4.1 ypc average on 21/86 work in the opener. Cleveland struggled to run the ball well in the pre-season, so that 4.1 ypc average represents a solid improvement for week 1.

Baltimore, meanwhile, was getting shredded by the Steelers 34-15. As a team, they managed 33/98/1 TD rushing against the intimidating Ravens' front seven, with starter Zereoue producing 15/56/1 in the featured role. Last year, the Ravens were 13th in the league allowing 110.1 rushing yards per game on average - but that was without star LB Ray Lewis. This year, they expect to do better now that he is back in the lineup. Safety Ed Reed had 10 total tackles in the loss, while LB Ed Hartwell also had 10 total and Lewis put up 9. The Steelers broached the line of scrimmage with a lot of success last week.

Both units came out of their openers with no significant new injuries to report.

The forecast for M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore calls for a high of 81F with a low of 66F, and a 10% chance for rain. It should be a great day for a football game.

Baltimore had a rough opening game, but they were fairly stout vs. the rush in that loss. Cleveland didn't get much of anything going last week, and need to find some answers - but they will have hard time doing that in Baltimore vs. the Ravens' defense. Advantage, Ravens.

Dallas' Troy Hambrick/Aveion Cason vs. The New York Giants Defense (Tough Matchup)

Troy Hambrick and the Dallas running back corps did some good things vs. Atlanta last weekend. Hambrick led the team in carries, with 14/53/0 (a 3.8 ypc average) and he had 3 catches for 16 yards. Aveion Cason had a huge 63 yard scoring run and ended the day 2/77/1 rushing, with 2/29 receiving, so he popped some big plays in the change-of-pace role. Overall, the Cowboys produced 24/149/1 (a 6.2 yards per carry average). Not too shabby.

The Giants absolutely crushed the Rams by dominating the line of scrimmage. When the dust had settled, Kurt Warner had been sacked 6 times, lost 3 fumbles, had suffered a concussion and Marshall Faulk had "racked up" a paltry 28 yards on 9 carries. S Omar Stoutmire played hard all day, and led the team with 9 solo tackles and 1 assist, while Michael Barrow led the sack-fest with 2 sacks for -15 yards, with 5 solo tackles and 3 assists. Last year, this unit 16th in the NFL, allowing 114.4 yards per game on average. This edition of the Giant's D looks better than that in the early going.

OG Larry Allen continues to battle a pulled left hamstring, and may not be very effective if he can play at all for the Cowboys (questionable). Backup LB Nick Greisen is also battling a pulled hamstring, but is probable to play this week.

The weather at Giant's Stadium is expected to range from a high of 80F with a low of 61F, and a 10% chance for rain on Monday night.

Dallas will have a hard time moving the ball against their traditional rivals on Monday Night Football, with the crowd at full volume to welcome back Bill Parcells, now sporting the hated Silver-and-Blue.

Indianapolis' Edgerrin James vs. The Tennessee Defense (Tough Matchup)

Edgerrin James and the Colt's offense started 2003 with a whimper instead of a bang, failing to score any touchdowns in the season opener at Cleveland. The good news is, James averaged 4.5 yards per carry (15/67) and had 5 receptions for 29 yards - it looks like he is his old self again (no one else carried the ball for Indy week 1). Now the Colts just need to let him see more carries.

Tennessee throttled the Raiders in the rushing phase of the game, allowing only 10/34/0 - however, Charlie Garner burned them for 8/112/1 TD receiving. Last season, the Titans were 2nd in the league in rushing yards allowed per game, at 89 per contest. They plan to continue that hard-nosed play in 2003.

While James is healthy, his backups are not - both James Mungro and Dominic Rhodes (questionable) missed last week's game, and only Mungro (probable) seems likely for week 2. Tennessee was without backup LB Rocky Calmus last week, and it seems likely he'll struggle to get back due to a severe hamstring pull.

This game is being played in a dome, so weather is not a factor.

Anytime you face the Titan's defensive front, you are in for a tough day at the races. If Indianapolis struggles as much in the passing phase this week as they did last week, it will be a long day for James. We're not saying don't play James, we just see a tough matchup here.

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

In an intriguing matchup, two teams that got blanked by rival teams get to take out their frustrations on each other in this cross-conference matchup. Kevin Faulk did his part in the losing effort last week with 10 rushes for 62 yards (he added 4/25 in the receiving phase as well), while FB Larry Centers was #2 on the squad with 5/36 on the ground. Antowain Smith was an uninspired 6/7 on his attempts, and looks to be firmly ensconced in coach Belichick's doghouse.

Philadelphia's D played a good game, especially in the rushing phase where the Buccaneers were held to 90 yards on 31 attempts (2.9 per rush average) with 0 scores. Last year, the Eagles were ranked 9th in the league allowing only 103.8 rushing yards per game on average, so the team is continuing it's tough-nosed play in this phase. Linebacker Carlos Emmons led the way with 9 total tackles (8 solo, 1 assist).

Philadelphia's DE Derrick Burgess is out for the season, as is rookie DE Jamaal Green. In addition, DE Jerome McDougle probably won't be back from his injured hip and ankle yet this Sunday (out). DE Brandon Whiting suffered a hamstring pull (doubtful to play), and had an MRI on Tuesday. Starting CB Bobby Taylor injured his foot Monday Night, as did S Brian Dawkins (who plays a lot in run-support roles) - Dawkins may have a Lis Franc fracture, which would sideline him for a long while. Basically, the Eagles D is banged up in a big way. New England's starting C Damien Woody has an upper-body injury that required x-rays after the loss to Buffalo, and a leg problem too (probable to play).

The weather at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday is expected to range from a high of 80F with a low of 65F, and a 10% chance for rain. It should be perfect football weather, in other words.

The Eagles are banged up, but they still held Tampa Bay to a 2.9 yard per carry average. New England's rushing attack is mediocre at best, and will find running room hard to find vs. the Eagles' unit. If the Eagles were healthier, this would be a bad matchup - as it is, it is a tough one for the Patriots.

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

The Buccaneers are employing a three-headed monster in the backfield this season, with Michael Pittman and Thomas Jones essentially splitting time and Mike Alstott providing change-of-pace duty and also splitting out into the passing patterns from time to time.

In the regular season debut, Pittman put up 8/35/0; Jones had 10/30/0; and Alstott contributed 12/23/0 rushing. Alstott caught 5/36/0, Jones 2/10/0, and Pittman had 4/6/0. Talk about dividing the pie up 3 ways. Don't look for this to change anytime soon, as Pittman faces the possibility of jail time before the end of regular season on his probation violation in Arizona so they'll want to be prepared.

Carolina has one of the finest front fours in all of pro football, and very good line-backers behind the big guys up front. However, the loss of LB Mark Fields for the season hurt the units' depth, and now Mike Caldwell, one of the guys the Panthers brought in to help replace Fields, has been lost for a month (at least) to a knee injury. That means there are only 5 healthy linebackers to man the 3 LB positions in the lineup. Last week, the team did a good job containing Fred Taylor, holding him to 22/71/0 rushing and 5/51/0 receiving. Last year, the Panthers were 7th in the league allowing only 103.3 yards per game on the ground on average. They aim to do even better in 2003.

Tampa's unit comes into the game healthy, and the Panthers are fine aside from the loss of Caldwell.

The forecast for Raymond James Stadium in Tampa calls for a high of 89F with a low of 73F, and a 30% chance for rain.

Tampa Bay's RBBC faces a stiff challenge in the Panther's defense, and it doesn't look like any one of the 3 backs has good prospects for a decent fantasy performance this week.

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

The ever-sinking yards-per-carry average of Eddie George continued into week 1 of the regular season, when George put up 20/42/0 against the Oakland Raiders. That's a 2.1 yards-per-carry average, folks. He did snag 2 balls for 23 yards, but that wasn't enough to make this effort into a strong fantasy outing. His backup, Robert Holcombe, fared little better in his 6 attempts, gaining only 15 yards (a 2.5 yards per carry average). Those numbers tell you that there just isn't much running room being generated by the offensive line "surge" off the ball.

Indianapolis won a close call vs. Cleveland, but it wasn't the defensive front's fault - they did a decent job allowing 98 yards on 26 carries (a 3.8 ypc average), and held Cleveland's backs out of the end-zone. Starter William Green was 21/86. Last season, the Colts were 20th in the league, allowing 124.5 rushing yards per game, so the opener was better than was usual last year.

Two of Indianapolis' DE's were injured last week - Brad Scioli hurt a shoulder, and Dwight Freeney hurt his left shin; neither injury should keep the players out of action this week. The Tennessee offense got through week 1 without injuries of note, although G Zach Piller shows up on the injury report with a chest injury (questionable).

This game is being played in a dome, so weather is not a factor.

George just hasn't had much spark, either in pre-season or week 1, while Indianapolis has the look of an improving defense at this point in the season. At home, the Colts unit has the edge in this matchup.

San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinson vs. The Denver Defense (Tough Matchup)

It was a disappointing beginning to LaDainian Tomlinson's 2003 campaign. 13/34/0 rushing and 5/27/0 receiving was not exactly what his owners had in mind when they used the first or second selection on draft day to acquire Tomlinson. The loss of G Toniu Fonoti to the IR is part of the problem, but Tomlinson played behind a motley line last season with no problems worth mentioning.

Denver, meanwhile, has a new DC in Larry Coyer, and a new system that emphasizes star LB's Ian Gold and Al Wilson (who had 7/1 and 5/2 solo tackles/assists last week to lead the team). Corey Dillon was stuffed for 14/34/0 rushing and 2/7/0 receiving by the Denver team Sunday. Last year, the Denver Defense was 4th in the league with 93.1 yards per game allowed on average, but they faded badly down the stretch. They are starting out 2003 very well, however.

Denver will be without DT Daryl Gardener as he continues to rehabilitate his broken hand/wrist. San Diego's unit made it through week 1 without injuries of note to their rushing attack.

The forecast for Qualcomm stadium in San Diego calls for a high of 84F with a low of 65F, and a 10% chance for rain.

Tomlinson and his compatriots are struggling, and Denver's D is starting out of the blocks strong. The home field advantage helps out, but not enough to level the playing field. The advantage goes to the hot Broncos in this matchup although don't be surprised to see Tomlinson get back to his old form. You know he's too good to sit unless you have great depth at RB. We're just saying we're a little nervous about his matchup as Denver looked strong defending Corey Dillon. You do have to remember though that Dillon's one of the most up and down players in the league so we may be reading more into that than necessary.

St. Louis' Marshall Faulk vs. The San Francisco Defense (Tough Matchup)

Marshall Faulk got to carry the ball 9 times last week. The Rams threw 55 passes, but rushed the ball only 13 times as a team. Until Mike Martz starts calling Faulk's number more, pickings will be mighty slim for the Rams' star. After the game, Martz acknowledged he should have made sure Faulk got more carries (but he's said that before and then done nothing about it in following weeks). 9/28/0 rushing and 9/27/0 receiving (Faulk's numbers last week) sank quite a few fantasy football owners' hopes.

The San Francisco defense, meanwhile, dominated the Bears' rushers (QB Kordell Stewart led the team with 6/21/0), holding the team to 20/55/0 on the day. Last season, the 49'ers were 7th in the league, allowing only 103.3 rushing yards per game on average - so the week 1 performance was more skill than luck if history is a guide. LB Julian Peterson led the way for the unit, with 5 solo tackles and 2 assists on the day.

St. Louis' C Dave Wohlabaugh is playing with a huge soft cast on his left hand, which limits his hand techniques on the inside of the Rams' OL. Backup OL David Loverne is out for up to a month after elbow surgery on the 8th. The 49'ers front seven is in good health heading into the matchup, although DE John Engelberger has a sore Achilles (probable). Backup LB Brandon Moore is questionable with a bum ankle.

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

The news that Marc Bulger will start week 2 is reason to hope that the Rams might play a more balanced attack week 2. Still, given Martz and company's bizarre play-calling, and the strength of the 49'ers defenders, you have to like the 49'ers in this matchup. Faulk is probably too good to sit unless you're just loaded at RB, but we're nervous about this matchup for him.

Carolina's Stephen Davis vs. The Tampa Bay Defense (Bad Matchup)

Stephen Davis whacked Jacksonville's defense around last week, with 22/111/0 (a 5.0 per-carry average) and 1 reception for 11 yards. He has a new starting quarterback in the lineup, Jake Delhomme, who led the team back from a 17 point deficit to a last-second victory. The Carolina OL is one of the best units in the nation.

However, the Tampa Bay defense is the hardest-hitting defense on the block, and led the league last season in total yardage allowed per game at 252.8, and ranked 5th vs. the run at 97.1 yards per game allowed. They continued their dominant play on Monday Night Football vs. Philadelphia, squashing the Eagles 17-0 while allowing only 10/19/0 to the Eagle's backs: Donovan McNabb went 5/55 and James Thrash had an early 47 yard reverse that inflate the teams' rushing statistics in this game.

Carolina's reserve OL Matt Willig missed last week's game and may not be ready for Sunday. Tampa's defensive front is healthy and nasty, although DE Greg Spires shows up with a sore groin on the injury report (probable).

The forecast for Raymond James Stadium in Tampa calls for a high of 89F with a low of 73F, and a 30% chance for rain.

Stephen Davis and the Panthers have the look of a top rushing unit in the early going. Now they will have to prove their merit against a tough Tampa defense in the Buccaneer's house. We like Davis a lot this year but honestly, I don't want any part of that Tampa Defense. If you've got another decent RB, I'd strongly consider him here over Davis. Great players rise up to the occasion but seriously, the Buccaneers looked incredible Monday and I think anyone playing them has a bad matchup until we see something different.

Chicago's Anthony Thomas / Adrian Peterson / Kordell Stewart vs. The Minnesota Defense (Bad Matchup)

The only thing you can say about the 2003 Chicago Bears rushing attack is that it looks like more of the same from 2002. And that's a bad thing. Kordell Stewart led the team vs. San Francisco with 6/21/0 rushing, Anthony Thomas was next with 6/15/0, and Adrian Peterson contributed 5/12/0. As a team, they managed to gain 55 yards on 20 carries (a 2.8 ypc average) with 0 scores. In the course of the game, they lost starting RG Chris Villarial for 4-6 weeks with a sprained left MCL. Starting LG Rex Turner is already on IR, and Chicago is trying to get newly-acquired Corbin Lacina up to speed so that he can help out. OL Terrance Metcalf has an injured finger but is probable to play this week. Things look dire for the Chicago running game as of today.

Minnesota's rush defense, on the other side of the coin, is looking pretty good. They held the Packers to 19/62 yards rushing on Sunday, a 3.3 ypc average (although Ahman Green did punch in 2 TD's on them). Last season, the Vikings were 10th in the league vs. the rush, allowing only 104.1 yards per game on average, so they are maintaining a high level of play entering 2003. Chris Claiborne, a new addition to the LB mix this season, led the team in tackles on Sunday with 9 total tackles (8 solo, 1 assist) and 1 sack.

Minnesota did suffer a key loss in the defensive backfield, when starting SS Corey Chavous went down with a sprained right MCL. The Bears offensive line, as discussed above, is a mess.

The game will be played in the Metrodome, so weather is not a factor in the matchup.

Chicago's attack is in a shambles, in both phases of the game. Don't expect quality fantasy scoring from any of the Bears' backs.