Bottom line is that the cheatsheets are the final say.

Quick Note: Mark Wimer and I do these matchups. My partner, David Dodds handles the cheatsheets. On a normal week, we have more time to reconcile these matchups to the cheatsheets and work out players where we don't exactly see eye to eye. By getting our cheatsheets our early this week, we didn't have that opportunity so if you see some contradictions, please accept that as three guys with slightly different opinions. Thanks.

Let's jump to it.

Joe

Quick Index

Great Matchups

Green Bay's Passing Attack vs. The Minnesota Defense
Minnesota's Passing Attack vs. The Green Bay Defense
Denver's Passing Attack vs. The Tennessee Defense
Oakland's Passing Attack vs. The Kansas City Defense
Kansas City's Passing Attack vs. The Oakland Defense

Good Matchups

Tennessee's Passing Attack vs. The Denver Defense
Arizona's Passing Attack vs. The Seattle Defense
Buffalo's Passing Attack vs. The San Francisco Defense
Chicago's Passing Attack vs. The Detroit Defense
Detroit's Passing Attack vs. The Chicago Defense
Miami's Passing Attack vs. The Cleveland Defense
Jacksonville's Passing Attack vs. The Houston Defense
Cincinnati's Passing Attack vs. The New York Giants' Defense
Indianapolis' Passing Attack vs. The San Diego Defense
Washington's Passing Attack vs. The Dallas Defense

Neutral Matchups

Seattle's Passing Attack vs. The Arizona Defense
New Orleans' Passing Attack vs. The Atlanta Defense
Tampa Bay's Passing Attack vs. The Carolina Defense
New York Jets' Passing Attack vs. The New England Defense
Philadelphia's Passing Attack vs. The St. Louis Defense

Tough Matchups

Atlanta's Passing Attack vs. The New Orleans Defense
Pittsburgh's Passing Attack vs. The Baltimore Defense
Carolina's Passing Attack vs. The Tampa Bay Defense
Houston's Passing Attack vs. The Jacksonville Defense
New England's Passing Attack vs. The New York Jets' Defense
New York Giants' Passing Attack vs. The Cincinnati Defense
San Diego's Passing Attack vs. The Indianapolis Defense
Dallas' Passing Attack vs. The Washington Defense
St. Louis' Passing Attack vs. The Philadelphia Defense

Bad Matchups

Baltimore's Passing Attack vs. The Pittsburgh Defense
San Francisco's Passing Attack vs. The Buffalo Defense
Cleveland's Passing Attack vs. The Miami Defense

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

20/29 for 236 yards, 4 TDs and 0 interceptions was the tally the last time Favre faced off against the Vikings' pass defense (in week 10) - Javon Walker led all receivers with 3/74/1 during that contest. Favre has been running hot and cold lately, with more interceptions to his credit over the past 3 weeks than TDs (63/109 for 686 yards, 3 TDs and 5 interceptions in that span), including 30/44 for 367 yards, 2 TDs and 3 interceptions last week. Javon Walker is his #1 WR this season, with 81/1210/10 to date, including 16 targets for 11/152/0 last week. The receiving corps took a shot when Donovan Darius threw a cheap-shot clothesline on Robert Ferguson on Sunday - Ferguson was hospitalized Sunday and Monday due to the foul. He's very unlikely to play in the next game - his chances will go to Walker, Donald Driver and Antonio Chatman. The latter two caught the TDs from Favre on Sunday (4/74/1 and 4/48/1, respectively).

Minnesota's secondary made the struggling Joey Harrington look like a Dan Fouts clone last week (25/44 for 361 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions) - the Vikings average 267 passing yards and 2.3 thrown TDs allowed per game over the past 4 weeks, and rank 27th in the NFL this season averaging 238.4 passing yards allowed per game (25 passing scores given up to date). This is not a premier pass D, despite their talented personnel.

One of the best CBs in the league, Antoine Winfield, has been sidelined for the Vikings due to his sprained ankle - he's probable to play this week though - and CB Ralph Brown was out last week due to an eye injury (out) - the team wasn't that great even when they were in the lineup. Aside from Ferguson's sore neck (out), the Packers are in decent shape.

This game is to be played in the Metrodome - weather won't be a factor.

Favre and company indoors vs. Minnesota equals a scoring-fest. Advantage, Green Bay.

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

Daunte Culpepper tore up the Packers' secondary in week 10 (without the services of Randy Moss, by the way) hitting 27/44 for 363 yards, 4 TDs and 0 interceptions. This week, Moss will be back in the lineup - he snagged an 82 yard long-bomb last week en route to 4/102/1 on 9 targets. Nate Burleson grabbed all 5 balls that came his way for 5/134/2 - they are a lethal 1-2 punch now that Moss' hamstring appears to be 100%. Culpepper has tossed 69/101 for 953 yards, 6 TDs and 4 interceptions over the past 3 weeks (4th-best fantasy QB during that span).

Byron Leftwich didn't hit very many passes vs. Green Bay last week - 9/20 for 121 yards - but the few he did manage added 2 TDs to the winning tally with 0 interceptions. Green Bay has allowed the second-most passing scores this season (30 to date), while ranking 25th in the league surrendering an average of 231.6 passing yards per game. Over the past 4 weeks, the team has coughed up 251 passing yards and 2.3 TDs per game on average. The Packer's secondary is one of the most giving units in the NFL - that's nice if you are the owner of Daunte Culpepper this week, but we don't recommend starting the Green Bay defensive team.

Neither team has injury concerns in this phase of the game.

This game is to be played in the Metrodome - weather won't be a factor.

Culpepper and the Vikings are back to full strength and on a roll - the Packers' secondary is sorry this year. Advantage, Minnesota. This game should be a barn-burner with lots of aerial fireworks.

Denver's Passing Attack vs. The Tennessee Defense (Great Matchup)

Jake Plummer is in the midst of a horrendous slump. Over the past 3 weeks, he's stumbled to a total of 55/111 for 789 yards, 1 TD and 8 interceptions. His best receiver in that span, Rod Smith, has 18/248/1 on 32 targets (Ashley Lelie is #2 with 20 targets for 9/202/0) - there aren't many fantasy points to go around when the QB averages .3 TDs per game over 3 weeks.

Tennessee's secondary is a shambles. They have lost all their starting cornerbacks and safeties due to injuries, and in some situations are playing 3rd and 4th string personnel. They are extremely vulnerable in this phase of the game, and certainly haven't come close to shutting anybody down in the past month (an average of 298 passing yards and 3.3 TDs allowed per game in this phase over the last 4 weeks). The LB corps has also been racked by injury, so there's no help coming from the middle of the D, either. The situation is a complete meltdown.

Tennessee's laundry list of injured personnel (not including IR, remember) looks like this: CB Samari Rolle (knee); S Lance Schulters (foot); CB Andre Woolfolk (wrist) - all out - and CB Rich Gardner (toe, questionable).

Denver is in decent health at this point in the season, listing only WR Triandos Luke (shoulder, probable).

This game will go down in the Coliseum, where temperatures will range from 28F for a high to 11F for the low, with a 0% chance of precipitation. Under those conditions, the football will be hard and slick, making ball-handling more difficult than usual.

If Plummer is ever going to get back on track, it will happen this week.

Oakland's Passing Attack vs. The Kansas City Defense (Great Matchup)

Kerry Collins lit up the Chiefs' secondary during the first grudge-match between these division rivals (week 13), hitting 27/41 for 343 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions. Since then, Collins has racked up a 6th-best fantasy QB ranking over the last 3 weeks, with 62/106 for 880 yards, 8 TDs and 2 interceptions to his credit (2 great games sandwiched around a 14/28 for 166 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception stinker vs. Atlanta's playoff-bound squad). Last week against Tennessee's scrubs he exploded for 21/37 for 371 yards, 5 TDs and 1 interception. Against weaker defenses (like Kansas City's), Collins has been fantasy gold - start him and Jerry Porter (13/248/4 over the past 3 weeks) for sure this week - Porter saw 13 targets for 8/148/3 last week: Teyo Johnson had the next-most chances with 5 for 3/49/1.

K.C. contained Jake Plummer last week (23/41 for 292 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions allowed to Denver's QB), but they just aren't a solid unit. Heck, these guys average 339 passing yards allowed per game over the past 4 weeks, with 2.5 scores given up in this phase per contest, and rank dead last in the NFL this season giving up an average of 270.4 passing yards per game (tied for 3rd-most TDs allowed with 28 given away to date.)

S Jerome Woods (knee, doubtful) missed last week's game for the Chiefs. Oakland's TE Courtney Anderson hasn't played in a month of Sundays (knee, doubtful), and WR John Stone (hamstring, probable) missed the game last week. Kerry Collins also has a sore abdomen (probable).

This game is to be played at Arrowhead Stadium - the forecast calls for a high of 22F and a low of 11F with a 0% chance for precipitation. At this time of year, swirling winds are almost always a factor in this venue - and the football will be hard and slick in subfreezing temperatures. Conditions will be likely to impact on both of the quarterback's accuracy on Saturday.

This is a great matchup for Collins and company.

Kansas City's Passing Attack vs. The Oakland Defense (Great Matchup)

Trent Green stomped on the Raiders' secondary back in week 13, with 23/35 for 340 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception en route to a 34 - 27 victory. He hit 16/19 for 224 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions last week (with WR Johnnie Morton sidelined by injury) - Green is on a roll, with 57/86 for 808 yards, 9 TDs and 2 interceptions over the past 3 weeks - Tony Gonzalez (20 targets for 13/152/0) and Eddie Kennison (25 targets for 17/317/5) have been his preferred targets of late (no-one else has seen more than 9 balls in that span).

Oakland was blown away by Hurricane Volek last week, surrendering 40/60 for 492 yards, 4 TDs and 1 interception to the Titans. CB Charles Woodson, after practicing all week long, was deemed unfit to play come game time due to a bone bruise on his knee. Fellow starting CB Phillip Buchanon, fittingly, suffered a bruised tailbone during the game. The Raiders have given up 297 passing yards per game and 2.0 passing scores over the last 4 weeks on average. Of course, Volek's HUGE game skews those averages, but let's face it - with 28 TDs (3rd most in the NFL) allowed this season, and an average of 245.8 passing yards allowed over 14 games (31st in the league), the Raiders' pass D has been in the lowest echelon of the NFL all year long.

Morton is listed as doubtful (knee); WR Chris Horn has a sore knee (questionable); and TE Jason Dunn (knee, probable) is on the Wednesday report. QB Trent Green has sore ribs (probable). CBs Phillip Buchanon (tailbone, doubtful) and Charles Woodson (knee, doubtful).

Oakland's CB Charles Woodson and S Marques Anderson were arrested for public intoxication early on Monday morning this week - they are not displaying much self-control, to say the least. That's an indicator of poor morale in our book.

This game is to be played at Arrowhead Stadium - the forecast calls for a high of 22F and a low of 11F with a 0% chance for precipitation. At this time of year, swirling winds are almost always a factor in this venue - and the football will be hard and slick in subfreezing temperatures. Conditions will be likely to impact on both of the quarterback's accuracy on Saturday.

Green is on a roll, and the Raiders are reeling. Advantage, Chiefs.

Arizona's Passing Attack vs. The Seattle Defense (Good Matchup)

Josh McCown enjoyed one of his stronger starts vs. Seattle back in week 7, leading his team to a 25-17 victory by passing for 22/36 for 212 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception that day. He comes into this game after torching the sleepwalking Rams for 22/34 for 287 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions - McCown has definitely risen to the challenge/insult that coach Green dealt him with the mid-season benching (48/78 for 594 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception passing, with 10/40/2 rushing during his most recent 2 starts). Anquan Boldin (35 targets for 18/205/0), Larry Fitzgerald (22 for 10/96/2) and Bryant Johnson (20 for 11/180/0) are the team's top 3 receivers over the past 3 weeks.

Seattle's secondary was picked apart by Chad Pennington last week (18/24 for 253 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions). They've been picked apart often lately, surrendering an average of 252 net passing yards and 1.8 TDs per game over the last 4 weeks, and average 230 passing yards allowed per game this season (19 TDs given away to date). While the team has a rising star in S Michael Boulware, they aren't a solid secondary yet.

Seattle's CB Bobby Taylor missed last week's game due to his knee injury (doubtful). Arizona is in good shape for this late stage in the season, although QB John Navarre is still bothered by his sore finger (questionable).

The forecast for Qwest Field calls for a high of 50F and a low of 44F with a 30% chance for precipitation.

McCown is on a roll, while the Seahawks continue to squander their opportunities to put away the NFC West. Advantage, Arizona.

Tennessee's Passing Attack vs. The Denver Defense (Good Matchup)

If Burt Ward (Robin on the 1960's Batman T.V. show) were to comment on Billy Volek's recent performances in character, he'd say something like "Holy fantasy points blitzkrieg, Batman - who is this Mad Bomber?" 90/138 for 1187 yards, 11 TDs and 3 interceptions are Volek's totals for the past 3 weeks - Drew Bennett has been a fantasy champion-maker with 40 targets for 28/517/8 (in 3 weeks), while Derrick Mason is a merely elite mortal with 33 targets for 18/222/2 in that span. Start Volek, Bennett and Mason.

Denver's pass D has been weak over the past 4 weeks, allowing an average of 203 yards and 2.0 TDs per game during that span, including 17/23 for 266 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions to Trent Green last week. Forget about the team's season average of 191.9 passing yards allowed per game - this secondary is playing far worse than those averages indicate. They are hurting in a big way, folks.

S Sam Brandon (ankle, questionable) missed the last game due to injury. Tennessee's TE Erron Kinney was active last week but did not play due to a severely sprained ankle (questionable this week), while Steve McNair is unlikely to play again this season due to his separated sternum. WR Derrick Mason (ankle) and TE Shad Meier (hip/wrist) are also listed as questionable.

This game will go down in the Coliseum, where temperatures will range from 28F for a high to 11F for the low, with a 0% chance of precipitation. Under those conditions, the football will be hard and slick, making ball-handling more difficult than usual.

Denver is spiraling out of control in this phase of the game, while Billy Volek and Drew Bennett are rocketing out of the atmosphere - advantage, Tennessee.

Buffalo's Passing Attack vs. The San Francisco Defense (Good Matchup)

Believe it or not, Drew Bledsoe has stampeded his way up the fantasy QB board and almost cracked the top ten at his position over the last 3 weeks (46/87 for 560 yards, 6 TDs and 1 interception, 13th fantasy QB in fantasy points per game during that 3 week span). Eric Moulds (29 targets for 13/153/1) and Lee Evans (17 targets for 13/244/4) are the engines that are driving the passing games' success, in conjunction with Willis McGahee's strong play at RB. The team chemistry is threatened this week by McGahee's right knee injury, though - keep an eye on his status as the weekend approaches.

San Francisco's pass D is lurking in the middle of the NFL pack at this point in the season, averaging 217.1 passing yards allowed per game to date (with 23 scores surrendered so far). They are right on that pace over the past 4 weeks, allowing an average of 218 passing yards and 1.0 TDs per game in this phase, with 18/27 for 214 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions given up to Patrick Ramsey last week. They don't stink, but the 49ers aren't an excellent pass defense.

The Bills come into the game in good shape, as do the 49ers.

The forecast for Monster Stadium calls for a high of 61F with a low of 46F and a 0% chance of precipitation.

Look for Bledsoe to exploit the opportunities that San Francisco offers him - he's on a roll towards the playoffs, while the 49ers are treading water and waiting for next season and the first pick of the draft.

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

Rex Grossman was the man for Chicago back in week 1 - since then, they've started 3 other guys under center. Chad Hutchinson is the latest starter, and perhaps the best since Grossman, for the Bears. Hutchinson enjoyed one good outing, in his first start - he hasn't managed to throw a TD since then, though ("best since Grossman" is a conditional phrase, you see). He's been very consistent, with either 17 or 18 completions on roughly 32 attempts per week, for somewhere in the neighborhood of 200 yards per game (52/97 for 593 yards, 3 TDs and 2 interceptions), and he has yet to really stink up the scoreboard - but Hutchinson (and the Bears' WRs) are unlikely to do much for you in your fantasy playoffs, either. The Bears need to protect their QB better: they have surrendered the most QB sacks this season (55) - Detroit is in the top 10 this year with 36 sacks to their credit (tie-9th, with Baltimore).

Daunte Culpepper tortured the Lions' secondary last week with a blistering 25/35 for 404 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception firestorm. The team has been vulnerable in this phase of the game in recent weeks, allowing an average of 240 passing yards and 2.8 thrown TDs per game - the Lions are tied for 4th-most passing TDs allowed this season, with 27 given up in 14 games (they average 228 passing yards allowed per game, 22nd in the NFL in that department). This is not one of the league's better secondaries, folks.

Chicago's unit is in decent health, while the Lions list CB Fernando Bryant (ankle, questionable).

This game is to be played in Ford Field - weather won't be an issue in the air-conditioned dome.

Hutchinson and company have a nice matchup this week - now, can David Terrell and company get some separation give the QB somebody to throw at? Will the OL give Hutchinson enough time to find the open receivers (if there are some)? The answer to those questions remains to be seen.

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

Joey Harrington has been up and down all season long, ever since the Lions' opening day victory over the Bears (an acceptable 14/26 for 187 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception performance for Harrington). Last week, coming into the game during a bout with the flu, he enjoyed his best performance of the season, with 25/44 for 361 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions - it was his first multiple TD game since week 8 and his first time over 300 yards passing this season. Roy Williams (11 targets for 7/104/2) and Az-Zahir Hakim (9 targets for 4/96/0) were the mainstays for Harrington during the game.

David Carr enjoyed an effective-if-unspectacular outing vs. Chicago last week, with 13/28 for 220 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions to his credit. That's right around the team's average over the past 4 weeks (202 passing yards and 1.5 thrown TDs given up per game), and consistent with their 13th-ranked season average of 204.1 passing yards given up per game. The Bears field an above-average but not impressive pass defense, week in and week out.

Detroit's injury report includes WR Tai Streets (knee, probable). Chicago's S Cameron Worrell (ankle, out), CB Todd McMillon (hamstring, questionable) and S Todd Johnson (ankle, probable) are on the Wednesday injury report.

This game is to be played in Ford Field - weather won't be an issue in the air-conditioned dome.

Harrington is on a mini-roll, while the Bears remain a solid but unspectacular pass defense. With home-field advantage at the offense's back, we give the nod to the Lions in this matchup of so-so units.

Miami's Passing Attack vs. The Cleveland Defense (Good Matchup)

A.J. Feeley continues to improve as the weeks go by - his latest feat was leading the Dolphins to victory over division-rival New England, with 22/35 for 198 yards passing, 1 TD and 0 interceptions. He's not a fantasy stud yet, ranking 19th over the past 3 weeks among QBs with 64/121 for 671 yards, 5 TDs and 6 interceptions to his credit, but he is getting better. Marty Booker (25 targets for 13/176/1) and Chris Chambers (27 for 13/120/1) lead the team in targets during that span, while TE Randy McMichael is 3rd (20 for 11/105/0).

Cleveland has allowed an average of only 157 passing yards per game over the past 4 weeks, but they have coughed up 1.8 thrown TDs per game in that span - the team has lost 8 straight games, and was shut out 21-0 last week. As the Browns cough up rushing yards at a clip of 217 per contest (with 2.5 rushing TDs allowed per game) over the past 4 weeks, it's little wonder the opposition hasn't needed to throw the ball very much. Dreadful weather in Cleveland limited Drew Brees to 4/6 for 85 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions last week (72 yards on 1 pass to TE Antonio Gates) - the Browns aren't playing all that well in this phase, they just haven't seen many balls in the air lately.

CB Michael Lehan (hamstring, probable) and S Chris Crocker (biceps, doubtful) both missed the game last week for Cleveland. Miami lists QB A.J. Feeley (pectoral, probable) and TE Randy McMichael (ribs, probable).

The forecast for ProPlayer Stadium calls for a high of 73F with a low of 47F and a 40% chance for rain. If the moisture comes down hard at game time, the field could get slick and ball-handling could become an issue.

The weather won't be frightful in Miami at Christmas - we think that Feeley and company have more "Ooomph" left than the crashed-and-burning Browns.

Jacksonville's Passing Attack vs. The Houston Defense (Good Matchup)

Byron Leftwich tossed 25/40 for 227 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions vs. the Texans during their week 8 game - it was not his best performance this season. Over the past 3 weeks, Leftwich has been playing well, with 50/92 631 yards, 5 TDs and 1 interception in total - he managed to shake off the cold at Lambeau Field last week and hit 9/20 for 121 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions in less-than-ideal conditions. Jimmy Smith continues to be the MAN, with 4/87/2 vs. Green Bay, and 27 targets for 14/224/3 over the past 3 weeks (he leads the team in targets, receptions, yards and TDs - Troy Edwards is second with 17 for 11/130/1).

Houston's pass D has been mediocre over the past 4 weeks, allowing an average of 200 yards per game in this phase, but 1.8 TDs per contest. They are the 28th ranked secondary this season, averaging 239.8 passing yards per game, and are dead last in the NFL with 31 TDs allowed so far. Last week, though, they smothered the anemic Bears (17/35 for 168 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions). That anomaly says more about how pathetic the Bears are than it does about how good the Texans' D is, though.

Houston's secondary comes into the game in good shape, health-wise, at least. Jacksonville lists no new complaints.

The forecast for AllTel Stadium calls for a high of 46F with a low of 37F and a 40% chance for precipitation. If the rains come down hard at game time, footing and ball-handling could become issues.

Leftwich should do better the second time around the block against the bumbling Texans' defenders.

Cincinnati's Passing Attack vs. The New York Giants' Defense (Good Matchup)

Cincinnati is just not the same with Jon Kitna at the helm. Carson Palmer was just rounding into a really-impressive form when a knee injury sent him to the sidelines, and Kitna, while not horrible in relief, just doesn't have the same chemistry with the wide receivers after idling the majority of the season away on the bench. 16/32 for 151 passing yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions was what he managed against the top-5 Bills' secondary last week (Kelly Washington (4/60/0) and T.J. Houshmandzadeh (4/43/0) caught the most balls, while TE Matt Schobel snagged the TD (3/20/1). Chad Johnson was a non-factor (2/10/0).

The Giants defense has been awful in recent weeks. They made Kyle "over 100 yards passing is a good week" Boller look like the Joe Montana two weeks ago (18/34 for 219 yards, 4 TDs and 0 interceptions), and then gave Ben Roethlisberger a respite from mediocrity last week (18/28 for 316 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions) - the team averages 225 passing yards and 2.5 TDs allowed in this phase per game over the last 4 weeks. They've been playing much worse than the team's season average of 188.6 passing yards allowed per game (8th in the NFL) would seem to indicate.

The Giants list S Gibril Wilson (neck, out) this week - he's missed several games in a row due to this injury. Palmer is questionable to play this week (knee).

The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 16F and a low of 10F with a 0% chance for precipitation. In the subfreezing temperatures, the football will be hard and slick - ball-handling is likely to be more difficult than usual.

The Giants are not playing well at all in this phase of the game, while the Bengals are struggling to find a new rhythm with their old-but-new starting QB. Home field advantage tilts the scales to the Bengals, but not by a huge margin.

Indianapolis' Passing Attack vs. The San Diego Defense (Good Matchup)

What does 20/33 for 249 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions constitute for Peyton Manning? A very slow night - for merely mortal NFL QBs, it would be an exceptionally good performance against one of the league's premier pass defenses (Baltimore). However, our standards for Manning have risen to dizzying heights this season, as he and his trio of talented WRs Harrison (75/969/14), Wayne (71/1059/11) and Stokley (61/954/9) are poised to shatter Dan Marino's season record of 48 passing TDs in a single season, and to boast the first trio of receivers to each go over 1000 yards in a single season, all with 10+ scores! Manning has 4168 passing yards, 47 TDs and only 9 interceptions already, and there are 2 games still to play. Start your Colts. Did we mention Edgerrin James leads the league in yardage from scrimmage?

San Diego's pass defense isn't among the league's best, averaging 237.1 passing yards allowed per game this season - 26th in the NFL (they are right on pace at 235 passing yards and .8 thrown TDs per game over the last 4 weeks). They crushed the hapless Browns last week, begrudging 11/28 for 108 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception to Cleveland. Indianapolis is as far from Cleveland's offense as Pluto is from the Sun, though.

CB Sammy Davis is sidelined due to a broken leg (questionable), and S Clinton Hart injured his groin last week (probable). Colt TE Marcus Pollard (ankle, questionable) is on Indianapolis' first report.

This game is to be played inside the air-conditioned RCA Dome - weather won't be a factor.

Look for the Colts to methodically dissect the Charger's secondary in the RCA Dome on Sunday.

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

When these teams last faced off, in week 3, Mark Brunell was under center - recent history won't tell us much about this matchup. Since assuming the helm, Patrick Ramsey has amassed 133/217 for 1291 yards, 7 TDs and 8 interceptions - he's come on in recent weeks, with 66/94 for 639 yards, 4 TDs and 1 interception over the last 3 weeks. Washington is finally finding a rhythm on offense, and they notched a W last week over San Francisco - Ramsey tossed 18/27 for 214, 1 TD and 0 interceptions - Rod Gardner led the team with 6/111/0, while Robert Royal snagged the score (1/12/1).

Dallas' once-proud secondary is tied for 4th-most passing TDs allowed in 2004, with 27 TDs surrendered in 14 games. They rank 24th in the NFL giving up an average of 231.1 passing yards per game, and have coughed up yardage at a clip of 234 passing yards per game over the past 4 weeks (1.3 TDs per contest during that span in this phase of the game). Last week, the Eagles managed 20/35 for 223 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions - the Cowboys don't shut people down this year. They are mediocre-to-sub-par in this phase on any given Sunday.

Washington lists TE Chris Cooley as probable (calf). Dallas has no new injuries of note to report.

The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 53F and a low of 36F with a 0% chance for rain.

Ramsey and company are finding a rhythm in the latter stages of 2004 - Dallas dances to the wrong beat in this phase of the game. Advantage, Washington.

Seattle's Passing Attack vs. The Arizona Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Matt Hasselbeck had a horrendous outing vs. The Cardinals in week 7, managing only 14 completions on 41 attempts for 187 yards, 1 TD and 4 interceptions. He comes into this game with a sore elbow - will he be able to start (and play effectively) on Sunday afternoon? Hasselbeck reported on Tuesday that the joint "doesn't feel right", but an MRI showed no ligament damage and X-rays were negative - the Seahawks are expecting him to be ready for the game on Sunday as of midweek. The team also may get Koren Robinson back on the field after a 4 week drug suspension, but whether or not he'll be rusty remains to be seen. Over the past 3 weeks, Hasselbeck is the 2nd rated fantasy QB in the land, with 73/104 for 949 yards, 8 TDs and 3 interceptions in that span, including 22/30 for 201 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception vs. The Jets last week. Darrell Jackson (32 targets for 23/293/2) and Jerry Rice (19 targets for 16/222/2) have been Hasselbeck's go-to guys in the last 3 weeks.

Arizona stuffed the Rams' backups last week (17/37 for 189 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception) - they haven't been very generous over the past 4 weeks, allowing an average of 177 passing yards per game (1.3 TDs per contest). The team is just outside the top 10 this season, averaging 194.5 passing yards allowed per game (17 TDs to date) - this is an above-average unit that is playing up to their potential in recent weeks.

Seattle lists Hasselbeck as probable to play. WR Jerheme Urban (foot, out) will miss the game. CB Renaldo Hill (back, out), S Adrian Mayes (shoulder, questionable) and S Michael Stone (foot, probable) are on Arizona's early report.

The forecast for Qwest Field calls for a high of 50F and a low of 44F with a 30% chance for precipitation.

Seattle had a hard time with Arizona the first time around the block, but Hasselbeck has regained something of his form in recent weeks - this looks like a neutral matchup (with the 12th man behind the offense).

New Orleans' Passing Attack vs. The Atlanta Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Aaron Brooks was limited to 19/34 for 189 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions by the Falcons' secondary during their last game (week 12). Joe Horn, as usual, was the main target in the passing game, with 9/101/1 to his credit. Last week, he hit 14/29 for 169 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions vs. The ultra-tough Buccaneer's secondary - Brooks has 52/92 for 672 yards, 6 TDs and 4 interceptions (12/43/0 rushing) to his credit over the past 3 weeks, good for 10th-best fantasy QB during that span. He deserves serious consideration at QB unless you are loaded, while Horn is a must-start WR (33 for 17/308/4 in the last 3 games). Donte Stallworth has 17 targets for 10/186/2 over the past 3 weeks, with 2/29/1 last week - he'd be a decent play at #3 in some leagues, depending on your scoring paradigm.

Atlanta's pass D has been pretty stout of late, allowing an average of 190 passing yards and 1. 0 TDs per game over the past 4 weeks, which is much better than their season average of 224.8 passing yards per game (16 TDs allowed in 14 games). Last week Jake Delhomme had it his way with the Falcons, though, tossing 24/35 for 340 yards, 2 TDs and 1 (crucial) interception. The Panthers scared the Falcons but lost 34-31.

Atlanta reports CB Jason Webster is questionable due to his groin injury, as is CB Kevin Mathis (shoulder). TE Ernie Conwell is questionable to play for the Saints (back).

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

Look for the Falcons to fight hard vs. The Saints - this looks like a fairly even matchup to us.

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

Back in week 12, the Buccaneers ripped the usually-hard-nosed Panthers for 27/39 for 347 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception. Brian Griese hooked up with Michael Pittman for 8/134/2 that day (Michael Clayton also hauled in 8/77/0). Since then, Joey Galloway has come on strong for the Bucs (18 targets for 11/159/4 over the past 3 weeks) - Michael Clayton leads the team in yardage gained during the past 3 weeks (19 targets for 14/213/1). Griese comes into this game cold, off a poor 13/22 for 118 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception performance last week.

Carolina limited Michael Vick to 11/28 for 154 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions passing, but couldn't tackle him at the goalline (8/68/1 rushing). Luckily, Brian Griese isn't noted for his scrambling prowess (14/28/0 rushing this season). The team averages 235 passing yards and 2.0 TDs surrendered per game over the past 4 weeks, which is atypically high for this squad in the TD department (the team has given up only 14 passing scores in 14 games while averaging 213.2 passing yards allowed per game this year).

Carolina's secondary is in decent shape. Joey Galloway continues to play through the pain of groin and ankle injuries (not listed on Wednesday).

The forecast for Raymond James Stadium calls for a high of 53F and a low of 37F with a 40% chance for rain. If the moisture comes down hard at game time, the field could get slick - both footing and ball-handling may be issues.

Griese struggled last week; the Panthers have been unusually generous with the TDs lately - neither squad is on top of their game at the moment. That sounds fairly even to us.

New York Jets' Passing Attack vs. The New England Defense (Neutral Matchup)

When it was all said and done, there was 19/30 for 162 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions to Chad Pennington's credit back in week 7, when these two teams last faced off. He missed a few games in the middle of the season, but since his return Pennington has been respectable (55/82 for 597 yards, 5 TDs and 4 interceptions over the past 3 weeks, including 18/24 for 253 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions last week). He finally found his WRs again last week, hitting Santana Moss for 5/79/2 and Justin McCareins for 3/40/1 - maybe the team is finally going to unleash the passing game from dinking and dunking to the fullback and running backs all day long!

New England's pass defense has been right in the middle of the NFL pack this year, despite a spate of injuries (CB Tyrone Poole went on IR recently due to a knee injury) - they average 213.1 passing yards allowed per game, with 16 TDs given up to date. Over the past 4 weeks, the team is at 199 passing yards and 1.5 passing scores allowed per contest, including A.J. Feeley's 22/35 for 198 yards, 1 TD and 0 interception performance last Monday night. They are a blue-collar bunch of players who do a credible job week in and week out. The Patriots are 4th in the NFL to date with 41 sacks as a team - they get after the opposing QB and make him kiss the turf on a regular basis.

New England lists CB Ty Law as doubtful (foot), as is S Dexter Reid (shoulder). CBs Randall Gay (arm) and Asante Samuel (shoulder) are questionable, while S Je'Rod Cherry (ankle, probable). The Jets are in good shape in this phase of the game.

The forecast for New Jersey calls for a high of 37F with a low of 24F and a 20% chance for precipitation. That's balmy December weather in that part of the U.S.A.

The Patriots play solidly in this phase of the game; the Jets are a capable but unspectacular unit. That sounds even to us.

Philadelphia's Passing Attack vs. The St. Louis Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Donovan McNabb and company took a huge hit last week, when Terrell Owens severely injured his ankle/fractured his leg on during a routine play. The injury is a sprained deltoid ligament. A screw will be surgically implanted to stabilize and strengthen the ankle joint, which was severely damaged in the incident. Owens will not be back until (best-case scenario) the Super Bowl. Todd Pinkston, the other starting WR, has a sore knee, so the team could potentially come into this game without both starting wide receivers. Eagles fans (and McNabb owners) are hoping and praying that Freddie Mitchell can elevate his game enough to step into the starting lineup and make an impact. In Owens' absence (for most of the game) last week, McNabb managed 20/35 for 223 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions.

St Louis was shelled by the Cardinals last week (22/34 for 287 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions), and they have been rocked for an average of 193 passing yards and 1.5 TDs in this phase per game over the past 4 weeks. They average 211.1 passing yards allowed this season (15th in the NFL) with 22 TDs allowed in 14 games. The Rams don't intimidate their opposition in this phase of the game.

Aside from Owens (ankle, out), the Eagles list Pinkston as questionable due to his knee. WR Freddie Mitchell has a sore quadriceps (probable). S Aeneas Williams (neck, out); and CB Travis Fisher (knee, probable) are on the Rams' initial injury report.

This game is to be played in the Edward Jones Dome - weather won't be an issue indoors.

The Eagles will try to regroup in the aftermath of the Owens injury while the Rams try to regroup in the aftermath of the loss to Arizona - with so much regrouping going on, this looks like a toss-up to us, with neither team holding a clear-cut edge over the other.

St. Louis' Passing Attack vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Tough Matchup)

This week the Rams have a big problem: they face the most aggressive pass-rushing defense in the league, and the Rams are vulnerable to this tactic - they have allowed the 5th - most sacks in the NFL this season with 45 QB sacks surrendered (4 for 26 yards loss given up last week vs. Arizona). Worse yet, their starting QB has been out of the lineup for 2 weeks, and his backups are not getting the job done (Chris Chandler was awful - 1/6 for 1 yard, 0 TDs and 1 interception before getting the hook for Jamie Martin, who put up 16/31 for 188 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions) - Chandler has tossed 7 interceptions in 2 games. Luckily, the Rams' coach Mike Martz reports at midweek. that "He's ready to go…He has very little (pain) on the follow-through which is really the biggest concern. He should be fine." How long Bulger's shoulder will hold up if the Eagles start throwing him to the ground regularly is an open question. He has tossed 272/419 for 3289 yards, 17 TDs and 12 interceptions in 12 games this season (5th best fantasy QB in the land to date in fantasy points per game) and has added 15/76/3 rushing as icing on the cake.

Philadelphia's aggressive, blitzing style of defense has led to a league-leading 45 sacks this season. The Eagles keep pouring on the pressure vs. The opposing QB, play after play - last week, Philly sacked Vinny Testaverde 3 times. They are the 12th ranked secondary in the league allowing an average of 203 passing yards per game, but are tied for 2nd in TDs allowed to date, with only 14 surrendered in 14 games. Over the past 4 weeks, the team has given up an average of 173 passing yards and .8 thrown TDs per game, including last week's total of 16/28 for 176 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions yielded to Vinny Testaverde and the Cowboys. The Eagles are a tough nut to crack in this phase of the game.

The Eagle's DL woes continue: Derrick Burgess is out (sternum) as is DT Hollis Thomas (elbow); DE Hugh Douglas (shoulder), DE Jerome McDougle (knee) and DT Corey Simon (back) are all probable to play. S Quintin Mikell is out (shoulder), while CB Roderick Hood (shoulder) and S Michael Lewis (ankle) are probable to play. Bulger is probable to play; TE Brandon Manumaleuna is questionable (groin).

This game is to be played in the Edward Jones Dome - weather won't be an issue indoors.

Look for the Eagles to make life miserable for Bulger on Sunday - this looks like a tough matchup, regardless of home-field advantage.

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

Eli Manning found his groove against the most unlikely of defenses - Pittsburgh - and put up a very respectable total against the "Steel Curtain" (16/23 for 182 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception), hitting his TE's Marcellus Rivers and Jeremy Shockey for the scores (1/1/1 and 3/13/1 respectively). Both Ike Hilliard and Amani Toomer managed 34 yards receiving during the game. It was not a fantasy bonanza by any stretch of the imagination, but at least Manning started to look like a bona fide NFL starter.

Cincinnati's defense has been so-so in this phase of the game during 2004, allowing an average of 204.1 passing yards per game (13th in the NFL) with 22 scores given up in 14 games. They average 244 yards and 2.0 TDs surrendered in this phase over the past 4 weeks - the team had been heading in the wrong direction in recent weeks, but Drew Bledsoe was limited to 15/30 for 183 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions last week. The Bengals have been up and down in this phase of the game recently.

New York lists WR Jamaar Taylor (quadriceps, doubtful) on Wednesday. The Bengals report S Rogers Beckett as doubtful (neck); CB Deltha O'Neal is questionable (ankle); while Ss Kim Herring (thigh) and Kevin Kaesviharn (hip) are probable to play.

The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 16F and a low of 10F with a 0% chance for precipitation. In the subfreezing temperatures, the football will be hard and slick - ball-handling is likely to be more difficult than usual.

Eli Manning had his first decent pro game last week - can he build on the momentum? The Bengals represent a respectable but not overwhelming challenge for the youngster.

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

Michael Vick had one of his more prolific outings vs. New Orleans back in week 12, with 10/69/1 rushing to go with 16/29 for 212 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception passing (Alge Crumpler led all receivers with 4/103/1 on that day). However, his shoulder is sore, and the Falcons have nothing to gain or lose as far as playoff seeding by playing Vick (they are locked in at #2 in the NFC behind Philadelphia), so the word is that the team is seriously considering sitting Vick for the next two games so that he can heal for the playoffs. That would mean Matt Schaub, a rookie who looked very comfortable passing in coach Mora's scheme during the preseason, could be the starting QB over the next 2 weeks. Keep your ears to the ground if you are a Vick owner - he may by on your bench by default during this week's championship round (in most leagues). How Schaub would respond to the speed of a regular season game is anybody's guess.

New Orleans' pass defense hasn't been horrible over the past 4 weeks, which is a vast improvement over earlier in the season (they were dead last in the league for several weeks earlier this year). They have allowed an average of 185 passing yards and 1.0 TDs in this phase of the game during the past 4. Last week, Brian Griese could only manage 13/22 for 118 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception against the Saints (and he has some pretty good WRs to throw at in Joey Galloway and Michael Clayton). New Orleans is playing like a team that cares all-of-a-sudden.

New Orleans lists S Mel Mitchell (groin, questionable). The Falcons list Vick (shoulder, questionable) and TE Alge Crumpler (knee, questionable).

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

The Falcons are marking time until the playoffs start, while the Saints have to have this game. If Vick starts, this is a tough matchup - if Schaub, consider it a bad matchup in a hostile venue.

Pittsburgh's Passing Attack vs. The Baltimore Defense (Tough Matchup)

Tommy Maddox started but did not finish the first match vs. Baltimore - Ben Roethlisberger relieved the injured Maddox in week 2, and hit 12/20 for 176 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions in the loss (13-30). Since then, Roethlisberger has not lost a single start (although he's been up and down in recent weeks, he comes into this game on a high note, with 18/28 for 316 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions to his credit vs. The Giants last week). Plaxico Burress' hamstring injury is likely to keep him out until the playoffs, so look for the action to continue to center on Hines Ward (24 targets for 15/252/1 in the past 3 weeks) - he may find more room to maneuver now that Antwaan Randle-El has started to fill Burress' shoes (7 targets for 5/149/1 last week vs. NYG).

Baltimore slowed down the Peyton Manning/Colts juggernaut last week (20/33 for 249 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions) - that was no surprise, considering that the Ravens lead the NFL with only 11 passing TDs allowed this season, and rank 9th in the league giving up only 189.5 yards per game - they form an elite secondary. It's never easy to throw on this team, and it's very hard to score on Baltimore.

Pittsburgh lists Burress as questionable this week. TE Matt Cushing (shoulder, probable) and WR Hines Ward (hip, probable) are also listed. Baltimore lists CB Deion Sanders as questionable (foot injury).

The forecast for Heinz Field calls for a high of 20F with a low of 15F and a 0% chance of precipitation. At this time of year, the wind can be a factor and the football will be hard and slick - ball-handling is likely to be more difficult than usual on Sunday.

This year, it's always tough to play against the Ravens.

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

The last time these teams clashed, in week 12, Jake Delhomme stung the Bucs for 14/21 for 213 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception. He comes into this game off a strong fantasy performance vs. The tough Falcons, with 24/35 for 340 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception under his belt - favorite target Muhsin Muhammad hauled in 10/135/1 as he continues to torch every secondary he faces (the guy has 26/412/3 over the past 3 weeks, 4th among fantasy WRs during that span, and is 2nd in fantasy points among NFL WRs over 14 games with 79/1195/12 - only Terrell Owens and Marvin Harrison have more TDs to date (14)). These guys are starting caliber almost every week (Muhammad is a must-start since mid-season).

Tampa Bay ranks first in the NFL this season, allowing an average of 161.2 passing yards per game, with 17 scores allowed in 14 games. They average 155 passing yards allowed per contest over the past 4 weeks (1.5 TDs per game), including last week's 14/21 for 169 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions performance by Aaron Brooks. With 44 sacks to date (including 7 last week), the Bucs are the NFL's 2nd-ranked defense in that department right now. Luckily for Delhomme, the Panthers do a decent job in pass protection (only 26 sacks allowed to date, among the top 10 in the league as far as protecting the QB).

Carolina has no new injuries of note to report - Tampa's in good shape in this phase of the game, too.

The forecast for Raymond James Stadium calls for a high of 53F and a low of 37F with a 40% chance for rain. If the moisture comes down hard at game time, the field could get slick - both footing and ball-handling may be issues.

Tampa has a top-shelf pass defense that was stung by Delhomme last time around the block. This time, though, the game is in their house, which will give the Bucs a boost - advantage, Tampa Bay.

Houston's Passing Attack vs. The Jacksonville Defense (Tough Matchup)

26/34 for 276 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions was the tally that David Carr managed vs. Jacksonville during the first match between these teams (during week 8). Since then, the Texans have been up and down - Carr has amassed 41/74 for 544 yards, 2 TDs and 3 interceptions in his last 3 games, to rank 27th among all fantasy QBs in fantasy points per game during that span. Not too good, folks. Corey Bradford (8 targets for 5/85/1) is the only receiver to snag a TD in the past 3 weeks. Andre Johnson continues to lead the team in targets (23), receptions (12) and yards (190) over the past 3 weeks, but Jabar Gaffney suddenly awoke from a long slumber to garner 8 targets for 4/109/0 last week (he has 10 for 6/130/0 over the past 3 weeks). The bottom line here is that there are precious few fantasy points spread out among too many players for any of them to excel - as Bilbo Baggins put it, "like butter that has been scraped over too much bread".

Jacksonville's pass D runs in the middle of the NFL pack, with an average of 222.1 passing yards allowed per game this season (19th in the NFL) and a total of 17 scores allowed to date. Over the past 4 weeks, they are averaging 236 passing yards and 1.3 thrown TDs given up per contest, including 30/44 for 367 yards, 2 TDs and 3 interceptions vs. Brett Favre last week - it wasn't the Jaguars best game in this phase, but they did enough to win the game 28-25.

The Jaguars list DB Juran Bolden (quadriceps, questionable) - he missed last week's game - and S Deke Cooper (groin, probable). Houston's unit is in good health, with no new complaints amongst the starters.

The forecast for AllTel Stadium calls for a high of 46F with a low of 37F and a 40% chance for precipitation. If the rains come down hard at game time, footing and ball-handling could become issues.

Houston's pass offense sputters and stalls as often as it roars to life, while the Jaguars' pass D is sort of like a minivan - not showy, but it'll get you where you want to go. Advantage, Jacksonville.

New England's Passing Attack vs. The New York Jets' Defense (Tough Matchup)

Tom Brady managed 20/29 for 230 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions during the week 7 game vs. New York. He has been steady but unspectacular in the past 3 weeks, with 47/75 for 588 yards, 6 TDs and 5 interceptions to his credit in that span - only David Patten (17 targets for 12/221/2) and Deion Branch (13 for 7/101/0) have managed more than 100 yards receiving during that span. Brady has thrown to 12 receivers over those 3 weeks, and only Patten has more than 1 score to his credit among all 12. Last week, Miami threw a wrench in Brady's works, intercepting him 4 times (18/29 for 171 yards, 3 TDs were to his credit in the game).

22/32 for 201 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception were given up to the Seahawks last week - the Jets average 163 passing yards and .8 TDs allowed in this phase of the game over the past 4 weeks, compared to their season average of 187.3 (6th-ranked secondary in the league). These guys are very good at defending vs. The pass.

The Patriots list Tom Brady as probable to play despite a sore right shoulder. WRs David Givens (ankle), Bethel Johnson (thigh) and TE Daniel Graham (ribs) are all questionable. The Jets don't report any new injuries of note in this phase of the game.

The forecast for New Jersey calls for a high of 37F with a low of 24F and a 20% chance for precipitation. That's balmy December weather in that part of the USA

New England sports an efficient attack with lots of talented receivers, while the Jets play fundamentally solid pass defense week in and week out. With home-field advantage favoring the defense, we give the nod to the Jets in this divisional grudge match with playoff implications.

San Diego's Passing Attack vs. The Indianapolis Defense (Tough Matchup)

The only thing to be said about last week's game is that Antonio Gates made one really nice play for the Chargers (1/72/1) - Drew Brees only attempted 6 passes all day in miserable conditions (4/6 for 85 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions). 35/56 for 411 yards, 3 TDs and 3 interceptions defines Bree's last 3 games (31st ranked fantasy QB in the land during that span) - he's cooled off in the late going, although San Diego keeps on winning through good D and a strong running game.

Indianapolis' D played well last week, limiting Kyle Boller to 19/40 for 210 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions - the unit has been playing solid defense for weeks, now, averaging 191 passing yards and 1.3 thrown TDs allowed per game over the past 4 weeks - that's a far cry from their 29th ranked season average of 240.9 passing yards allowed per game. The Colts are now tied for 3rd in the NFL with 43 sacks to their credit, and DE Dwight Freeney comes into this game nuclear-hot after making Baltimore's all-world LT Jonathan Ogden look like a chump all night long last week (2 sacks and a lot of QB pressures for Freeney last week).

Indianapolis' Ss Idrees Bashir (hamstring, doubtful) and Bob Sanders (knee, doubtful) are on the Wednesday injury report; as are CB Waine Bacon (neck, probable), CB Von Hutchines (ribs, probable), CB Nick Harper (neck, probable) and S Gerome Sapp (ribs, probable). WRs Tim Dwight (toe) and Keenan McCardell (hamstring) are listed as questionable by the Chargers.

This game is to be played inside the air-conditioned RCA Dome - weather won't be a factor.

San Diego has cooled down in this phase of the game lately, while the Colts are just finding their "A" game (just in time for the playoffs) - with the 12th man behind the D, we give the nod to Indianapolis in this matchup.

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

Dallas' Vinny Testaverde tossed 14/29 for 214 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions when these two teams first met in week 3. Back then, Antonio Bryant was a Cowboy, and he led the team with 3/63/0 receiving during the game - Terry Glenn was second with 3/56/1. Neither receiver is in the lineup at this point in the season. Vinny Testaverde has managed 48/97 for 561 yards, 3 TDs and 5 interceptions in this phase of the game during the past 3 weeks - last week, he threw 16/28 for 176 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions vs. The Eagles. Jason Witten led the team in receptions, with 6/66/0, while Keyshawn Johnson was second with 5/61/1. Witten and Johnson are the engines that make the Cowboy's passing game move forward at this point in the season (to the extent that it does go anywhere).

Washington's pass D is a top-5 unit, allowing an average of 178 passing yards per game this season, with only 14 TDs allowed to date (tied, for second-least in the NFL). Ken Dorsey hit 20/38 for 206 yards, 2 TDs and 4 interceptions last week - the Redskins don't usually give up multiple TDs. Over the last 4 weeks, they average 163 passing yards and .8 thrown TDs allowed per game - this is a stalwart bunch of defenders, folks.

Washington has been doing without CB Shawn Springs right now (concussion/after effects, probable this week). Dallas reports no new injuries of note.

The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 53F and a low of 36F with a 0% chance for rain.

Washington deploys a premier defense, while the Cowboys bring a sputtering pass attack to the race. Advantage, Washington.

Baltimore's Passing Attack vs. The Pittsburgh Defense (Bad Matchup)

Way back in week 2, the Baltimore Ravens handed Pittsburgh their only loss of the season to date. It wasn't due to a strong passing assault, though, as Kyle Boller managed a mere 10/18 for 98 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions all day long. However, the return of Todd Heap to the lineup has helped somewhat in recent weeks - Boller has managed 56/107 for 601 yards, 5 TDs and 3 interceptions over the past 3 weeks (one good game, vs. The NYG in week 14, sandwiched between two unimpressive starts) - he's not a quality fantasy starter most Sundays. Todd Heap has been great since finally returning to the field 2 weeks ago (22 targets for 12/156/3) - little-known Clarence Moore has snagged the other 2 TDs in the past 3 weeks (17 targets of 6/63/2), but is inconsistent (1/17/0 last week) despite being the 3rd-most targeted receiver on the team. He needs to convert targets to receptions more often.

Pittsburgh got surprised by the anemic Giants' offense last week - Eli Manning finally looked like a blue-chipper, with 16/23 for 182 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception to his credit. Pittsburgh has allowed only 14 passing scores in 14 games this season, and ranks 4th in the NFL surrendering only 177.6 yards per contest in this phase of the game, so the multiple TDs allowed were something of a surprise. However, the team averages 184 passing yards and 1.0 thrown TDs given up per game over the past 4 weeks - they are not on the verge of a collapse.

CB Chad Scott continues to be sidelined due to his bum quadriceps/knee (questionable), as usual. He hasn't seen the field for over a month. S Troy Polamalu (shoulder, probable) is also listed. Baltimore's unit lists TE Todd Heap (ankle, questionable) is listed by Baltimore.

The forecast for Heinz Field calls for a high of 20F with a low of 15F and a 0% chance of precipitation. At this time of year, the wind can be a factor and the football will be hard and slick - ball handling is likely to be more difficult than usual on Sunday.

Boller struggles against quality defenses: Pittsburgh fields an elite unit, and they have the 12th man on their side this week. Advantage, Pittsburgh.

San Francisco's Passing Attack vs. The Buffalo Defense (Bad Matchup)

20/36 for 204 yards, 2 TDs and 4 interceptions was Ken Dorsey's tally last week when all was said and done - he went back to his mediocre ways in the face of a stout Washington defense. The bad news for owners of 49er receivers is that the Bills are as good in this phase of the game as the Redskins, and allow slightly less yardage per game on average this year. None of the 49er receivers cracked 100 yards receiving last week - Brandon Lloyd led in fantasy points with 4/51/1, while TE Eric Johnson grabbed 8/73/0 from Dorsey.

Buffalo deploys one of the toughest pass defenses in the NFL, averaging only 173.4 passing yards allowed per game this year (19 TDs given up to date). They have allowed 147 net passing yards and 1.5 TDs per game over the past 4 weeks, including 16/32 for 151 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions to Cincinnati's Jon Kitna last week. The Bills are tied for 5th in the NFL with 40 sacks to date: San Francisco has allowed the 3rd most QB sacks in the NFL this year, with 48 so far. That sounds like bad news for Ken Dorsey.

Tim Rattay is done for the season due to his injured foot, and WR Arnaz Battle has a thigh injury (questionable). Buffalo comes into the game in fine shape, with no new injuries of note.

The forecast for Monster Stadium calls for a high of 61F with a low of 46F and a 0% chance of precipitation.

The 49ers struggle most weeks; the Bills are a top-shelf defensive unit. Advantage, Buffalo.

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Cleveland's Passing Attack vs. The Miami Defense (Bad Matchup)

Luke McCown over the past 3 weeks: 39/81 for 447 yards, 3 TDs and 5 interceptions. 11/27 for 108 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception last week filled McCown's box score. The top Cleveland WR in the aforementioned 3 week span is Antonio Bryant, at 30th among all fantasy WRs with 14/182/2 (115 of the yards and both scores came 3 weeks ago, vs New England - since then, he has amassed 7/67/0). No Cleveland TE is in the top 20 over the last 3 weeks at their position. Enough said.

Miami's pass D is ranked 2nd in the NFL allowing an average of 164.8 yards per game, with 18 scores allowed in 14 games. They average 195 passing yards and 1.8 TDs given up per game over the last 4 weeks, with 18/29 for 171 yards and 3 TDs given away to Tom Brady last week (but they picked him off 4 times). Luke McCown is no Tom Brady, folks.

The Browns list TE Steve Heiden (ankle, questionable); TE Aaron Shea (knee/ankle, questionable) and QB Kelly Holcomb (ribs, questionable). Miami's CB Sam Madison (calf, probable).

The forecast for ProPlayer Stadium calls for a high of 73F with a low of 47F and a 40% chance for rain. If the moisture comes down hard at game time, the field could get slick and ball-handling could become an issue.

These kind of games come along for every rookie - hopefully McCown is good at learning from his mistakes, because he'll make plenty against the domineering Dolphins' secondary.