Hi Folks,

Here's our look at the Passing Matchups for this week.

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

Also note, just because a player has a "bad" matchup, it does NOT mean
he's not a starter in your league. If Peyton Manning is playing the
toughest pass defense in the league, that just means he's got a tough
matchup that week. He's also your starter unless you're loaded at QB.
In the same way, if the worst QB on your roster has a "great" matchup
that week, it doesn't necessarily mean he's your starter. It means we
think he'll fare better than normal that week.

Bottom line is that the cheatsheets are the final say.

Let's jump to it.

Joe



Quick Index:

Great Matchups:

Detroit's Passing Attack vs. The Tennessee Defense
San Diego's Passing Attack vs. The Kansas City Defense
Kansas City's Passing Attack vs. The San Diego Defense
Carolina's Passing Attack vs. The New Orleans Defense

Good Matchups:

Tennessee's Passing Attack vs. The Detroit Defense
Denver's Passing Attack vs. The Indianapolis Defense
Oakland's Passing Attack vs. The Jacksonville Defense
New England's Passing Attack vs. The San Francisco Defense

Neutral Matchups:

Seattle's Passing Attack vs. The Atlanta Defense
Dallas' Passing Attack vs. The New York Giants' Defense
New York Giants' Passing Attack vs. The Dallas Defense
Chicago's Passing Attack vs. The Green Bay Defense
Jacksonville's Passing Attack vs. The Oakland Defense
Washington's Passing Attack vs. The Minnesota Defense
New Orleans' Passing Attack vs. The Carolina Defense
New York Jets' Passing Attack vs. The St. Louis Defense
St. Louis' Passing Attack vs. The New York Jets' Defense
Tampa Bay's Passing Attack vs. The Arizona Defense
Arizona's Passing Attack vs. The Tampa Bay Defense

Tough Matchups:

Atlanta's Passing Attack vs. The Seattle Defense
Cleveland's Passing Attack vs. The Houston Defense
Cincinnati's Passing Attack vs. The Philadelphia Defense
Philadelphia's Passing Attack vs. The Cincinnati Defense
Houston's Passing Attack vs. The Cleveland Defense
Green Bay's Passing Attack vs. The Chicago Defense
Indianapolis' Passing Attack vs. The Denver Defense
Minnesota's Passing Attack vs. The Washington Defense
Pittsburgh's Passing Attack vs. The Buffalo Defense
Buffalo's Passing Attack vs. The Pittsburgh Defense
San Francisco's Passing "Attack" vs. The New England Defense

Bad Matchups:

Miami's Passing Attack vs. The  Baltimore Defense
Baltimore's Passing Attack vs. The Miami Defense



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

Joey Harrington came off his fine week 15 performance (25/44 for 361
yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions) to under-whelm observers once again
in week 16 – 15/30 for 166 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception was his
mark when the game was over. The great Reggie Swinton led all
receivers with 2/42/0 to his credit at the end of the day. There just
wasn't much to get excited about last week, folks.

Tennessee's defense surrendered 177 points over their last 4 games, an
average of 44.5 points per outing. They aren't even fielding a full 45
man roster on game day due to all the injuries, and their secondary
has been the hardest hit of any unit on the team, arguably (the OL is
torn up badly as well). It is no wonder that they average 299 passing
yards and 3.0 TDs allowed in this phase per game over the past 4 weeks
– they just don't have the personnel to put up a decent fight right
now.

Speaking of injuries, the Titans' laundry list reads like this for
week 17: CB Samari Rolle (knee); S Lance Schulters (foot); CB Andre
Woolfolk (wrist) – all out. Also listed are CB Rich Gardner (toe); CB
Michael Waddell (ankle); and S Lamont Thompson (ankle) – all
questionable. WRs Az-Zahir Hakim (groin) and Tai Streets (knee) are
questionable, while TE Stephen Alexander (ankle) and QB Joey
Harrington (elbow) are both probable to play.

The forecast for the Coliseum calls for a high of 65F with a low of
50F and a 50% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down thickly
at game time, the field could get sloppy and slow, and ball-handling
could become an issue as well.

If there was ever a week for Harrington and company to explode, this is it.



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

Trent Green had an off day vs. the Chargers back in week 12, with only
21/34 for 208 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception when the dust settled.
Since that game, he's amassed 66/96 for 826 yards, 8 TDs and 2
interceptions during the past 3 weeks (4th best fantasy QB in that
span) – Green's been hot. In the absence of WR Johnnie Morton (knee,
doubtful), Tony Gonzalez (27 targets for 21/244/2) and Eddie Kennison
(24 for 15/247/4) have been the big fantasy stars over the past 3
weeks. Green hit 32/45 for 358 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception last
week, so he comes into this game smoking hot.

San Diego stood firmly against the Colts in the first half last week,
but ended up allowing 27/44 for 383 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception to
Peyton Manning when the dust settled. The Chargers have been poor at
pass D all year long, allowing an average of 245.3 passing yards per
contest (29th in the NFL) with 18 passing scores given up to date.
Over the past 4 weeks, they've given up 260 passing yards and 1.0
passed scores per contest, on average. This team doesn't play solid
pass D, folks.

Aside from Morton, the Chiefs list WR Chris Horn (knee, questionable),
Green (ribs, probable) and Kennison (knee, probable). CB Sammy Davis
(lower leg fracture) is questionable to play, while S Robb Butler
(toe) is probable to play.

The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for a high of 62F with a low
of 44F and a 40% chance for rain. If the precipitation comes down hard
around game-time, footing could be treacherous and the ball will
become slick and hard to handle.

The Chiefs are a powerful offensive squad, while the Chargers are soft
in this phase of the game more often than not. Advantage, Kansas City.



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

Drew Brees and company tore up the Chiefs just a few weeks ago (week
12) – Brees had 28/37 for 378 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions to his
credit, hitting Antonio Gates for 7/92/2 that day (Gates led the team
in scoring – Kassim Osgood also had 92 yards receiving (2/92/0). Brees
and the Chargers almost showed up Peyton Manning last week – the team
combined for 21/31 for 290 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception vs. the
Colts. Over the past 3 weeks, Brees has racked up 42/60 for 595 yards,
6 TDs and 3 interceptions, hitting main-man Antonio Gates 9/138/2 on
14 targets, while throwing 19 passes to Eric Parker for 15/239/2
(LaDainian Tomlinson has 12 for 10/109/1 and Kassim Osgood grabbed the
other TD with 6 targets for 4/70/1). The Chargers' passing attack is
firing on all cylinders heading into the playoffs. Now, the question
becomes how long will Brees stay in the game before Doug Flutie steps
in to play out the clock?

The Chief's secondary was credible vs. Oakland last week, allowing
18/37 for 217 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception. Considering that their
season average is 265.9 passing yards allowed per game (with 30
passing scores given up to date), they played fairly well last week.
Over the past 4 weeks, the picture isn't so nice, though, with an
average of 311 passing yards and 2.4 passing scores allowed per
contest. Kansas City's secondary is one of the worst units in the NFL
this season.

The Chiefs list S Jerome Woods (knee, doubtful), while San Diego has
been doing without WR Keenan McCardell for a few games (hamstring,
questionable). The Chargers also list WR Tim Dwight (toe,
questionable).

The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for a high of 62F with a low
of 44F and a 40% chance for rain. If the precipitation comes down hard
around game-time, footing could be treacherous and the ball will
become slick and hard to handle.

The Chief's secondary is usually pathetic – the Chargers passing
attack is powerful, and they owned the Chiefs just a few short weeks
ago. Advantage, San Diego.



Carolina's Passing Attack vs. The New Orleans Defense (Great Matchup)

Jake Delhomme torched the Saints back in week 13, with 22/29 for 294
yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions (Muhsin Muhammad owned the secondary
with 10/179/1 on the day, including a long of 51 yards). Since then,
this tandem has been white-hot (59/89 for 760 yards, 7 TDs and 2
interceptions for Delhomme, 24/348/4 for Muhammad over the past 3
weeks) – there is no reason to think they won't light up the Saints
again this week, playing in the friendly confines of Bank of America
Stadium. One concern emerged out of last week's Tampa Bay game -- #2
WR Keary Colbert suffered a sprained ankle, so he may be limited this
week (allowing New Orleans to key on Muhammad more than ever) – keep
an eye on Colbert's status as game time approaches.

The Saints were tough on first-time rookie starter Matt Schaub last
week (17/41 for 188 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions) – that's about
what a rookie QB in his first start can usually expect to do. The
Saints have been in the bottom tier of NFL pass defenses all season
long, and currently rank 27th in the NFL allowing an average of 243.5
passing yards per game (with 24 TDs given up to date). Over the past 4
weeks, the Saints allowed an average of 183 passing yards and .8
passing scores per contest – they aren't very tough, usually, but they
haven't been pushovers in recent weeks.

Colbert is listed as questionable to play this week (ankle), as is WR
Micah Ross (thigh, questionable). New Orleans' S Mel Mitchell has
missed a few games due to his sore groin (questionable), and S Steve
Gleason left the game last week and was hospitalized with a bruised
lung (he was spitting up blood on the sidelines) – he's questionable
to play this week.

The forecast for Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte calls for a high
of 67F with a low of 48F and a 30% chance for precipitation – if the
rain comes down hard around game-time, footing and ball-handling will
be trickier than usual.

Carolina should have a great game vs. the Saints' usually-soft D.



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

Tennessee's passing attack unexpectedly crashed back to earth last
week, after ripping through their previous few foes like a hot knife
through butter – Billy Volek managed 8/20 for 111 yards, 0 TDs and 2
interceptions on a day when nothing went right (Doug Johnson mopped up
with 4/7 for 26 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions to close a miserable
day). Only Derrick Mason had a half-decent outing with 4/65/0 on 7
targets (Drew Bennett could only haul in 2/26/0 out of 6 chances). It
was just one of those weeks that happen in this league, when an
offense melts down for no particular reason.

Detroit's secondary smothered Chad Hutchinson last week, allowing
20/35 for only 114 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions during the game.
The Lions are usually much more giving, having allowed 28 passing
scores to date (tied for 4th-most in the NFL) while averaging 219.8
passing yards allowed per game this season (20th in the NFL). Over the
past 4 weeks they've averaged 213 passing yards and 2.3 thrown TDs
given up per contest – the Bears' sorry showing was due to their lame
offense more than a sudden improvement by Detroit's usually-porous
secondary.

The Titans list TE Erron Kinney as questionable due to his knee, but
he's stood on the sidelines during the past 2 games while being
nominally "active". QB Steve McNair had surgery this week to repair
his injured sternum – doctors inserted a slice of hip bone into the
damaged cartilage in his sternum (3 injuries to the sternum left the
area unacceptably weak) – he won't be playing this week (as expected).
Also listed are WR Drew Bennett (shoulder); WR Derrick Mason (ankle);
and QB Billy Volek (knee) – all are questionable. CB Fernando Bryant
is doubtful for Detroit (ankle).

The forecast for the Coliseum calls for a high of 65F with a low of
50F and a 50% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down thickly
at game time, the field could get sloppy and slow, and ball-handling
could become an issue as well.

The Titans imploded last week, but they were nuclear hot for weeks
before the crash – meanwhile, the Lions played an atypically strong
game vs. a weak opponent. We expect both teams to return more to their
previous form in this contest, and give the nod to Tennessee.



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

Jake Plummer finally managed to get back in the Bronco's saddle last
week (against the devastated and under-manned Titans), with 21/26 for
303 passing yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception. However, anything less
would have been a major disappointment vs. the crashed-and-burned
Titans' secondary, so we're not convinced that Plummer has suddenly
gotten 100% better – but it was encouraging to see him do well when he
was expected to do so. Rod Smith led 9 different receivers with 7
targets for 6/58/1 on the day.

Indianapolis' pass D is suspect at their best, averaging 243.5 passing
yards allowed per game this season (28th in the NFL) while
surrendering 24 TDs to date. They gave up 21/31 for 290 yards, 3 TDs
and 1 interception to Drew Brees and company last week, and average
209 passing yards and 1.6 thrown TDs given up per contest over the
last 4 weeks. This is not a stout secondary, folks. However, they do
bring a lot of pressure to bear on the opposing signal caller, with a
total of 44 sacks to their credit this season (tied for 3rd in the
NFL) and arguably the league's top pass rusher on their team in the
person of Dwight Freeney (16 sacks and 4 forced fumbles this season,
with 33 solo tackles and 3 assists).

The Broncos come in with a clean bill of health in this phase, while
the Colts list Ss Bob Sanders (knee) and Idrees Bashir (hamstring)
along with CB Nick Harper (back) as questionable, while S Gerome Sapp
is probable to play (ribs).

The forecast for Mile High Stadium calls for a high of 49F with a low
of 30F and a 20% chance for precipitation. Wind conditions are always
a concern at this time of year – keep an eye on the forecast as
game-time approaches, as weather in the high plains next to the
Rockies is always highly unpredictable at this time of year.

The Broncos need to win this game, while the Colts have their sights
set on the post-season and getting to the post-season as healthy as
possible. With the home-field (possibly) behind him and a soft
secondary in front of him, we expect Plummer to do well this week.



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

Kerry Collins tossed 18/37 for 217 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception vs.
the Chiefs last week, and has amassed 53/102 754 yards, 7 TDs and 3
interceptions over the past 3 weeks (10th best fantasy QB in the land
during that span). Jerry Porter has been the big beneficiary of
Collins' productivity, with 26 targets for 14/238/4 receiving in that
span (Doug Gabriel is second on the team with 14 targets for 5/82/1 in
those 3 games).

Jacksonville's defense was hard on David Carr last week, allowing only
14/20 for 139 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions to the Texans. The Jags
have been in the middle of the NFL pack this year, allowing an average
of 215.4 passing yards per game (17th in the NFL) with 18 TDs allowed
to date in this phase. Over the past 4 weeks, they've been allowing an
average of 213 passing yards per game, with 1.2 thrown TDs per contest
– they aren't shutting down people on a weekly basis, despite the
strong game vs. Carr and company.

Oakland's Collins is listed as probable (abdomen). Jacksonville's DB
Juran Bolden (quadriceps, questionable) and FS Deon Grant has an
injured knee (questionable). S Donovin Darius (ankle) and CB DeWayne
Washington (groin) are probable to play.

The forecast for Network Associates Coliseum calls for a high of 55F
with a low of 41F and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the moisture
falls thickly at game-time, footing and ball-handling could become
more tricky than usual.

Collins has been somewhere between steadily productive and explosive
in the past few weeks, while the Jaguars play mediocre pass D more
often than not. Advantage, Oakland.



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

Tom Brady tore up the Jets last week (21/32 for 264 yards, 2 TDs and 0
interceptions) and he's been strong over the past 3 games, with 57/87
for 695 yards, 7 TDs and 4 interceptions to his credit (11th best
fantasy QB down the stretch). His favorite targets during the past 3
weeks are Deion Branch (21 targets for 13/170/1) and David Patten (17
for 9/147/1), but TE David Graham is the top scorer on the receiving
corps (8 targets for 5/54/2) in that time-frame. Last week, Branch
(7/82/1) and Graham (2/30/1) grabbed the TDs. However, with the #2
seed in the AFC playoffs sewn up and nothing to gain by playing Brady
and company in a meaningless, non-conference game, we'd be surprised
to see Brady play for much longer than a cameo appearance on Sunday.
His backups are Rohan Davey and Jim Miller – we'll be likely to see
some of both players during the season finale.

San Francisco coughed up 23/36 for 216 yards, 2 TDs and 0
interceptions to the low- octane Bills' attack last week, and average
217 yards per game (18th in the NFL) with 25 passing scores given up
to date. Over the past 4 weeks, the 49ers gave up 218 passing yards
and 1.2 thrown TDs per game on average. The 49ers field a
mediocre-to-sub-par pass D from week to week – they are very much a
what-you-see-is-what-you-get bunch, as their consistently mediocre
numbers show.

The Patriots list WR David Givens (ankle); TE Daniel Graham (rib); WR
Bethel Johnson (thigh) as questionable, while Brady and QB Jim Miller
(shoulder) are probable. Meanwhile the 49ers have no new injuries of
note in this phase.

The forecast for Gillette Stadium calls for a high of 55F with a low
of 31F and a 20% chance for precipitation. 55F will feel almost
tropical to the fans in Foxboro Massachusetts.

Brady and company are one of the league's top attacks, while the 49ers
play mediocre pass D more often than not. Even with their backups in
the lineup, we give the advantage to New England.



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

The early word out of Tampa this week is that Brian Griese has a
strained right hip and he's also dealing with a foot problem – the
injuries have him questionable for the season finale. If Griese is
held out of the action, we'll most likely see Chris Simms in his 3rd
appearance of the 2004-5 regular season. 26/41 for 243 yards, 0 TDs
and 1 interception is the book on Simms so far this year, so we
haven't really seen enough of him to say much other than this: Simms
is a rookie, prone to making rookie mistakes. He's at the beginning of
the steep learning curve for pro quarterbacks. Griese has been playing
well in his chances this season (233/336 for 2632 yards, 20 TDs and 12
interceptions in 11 games) – Michael Clayton (4/66/2 last week) and
Joey Galloway (9/98/1 last week) will be far more valuable as fantasy
WRs if Griese is calling the signals on Sunday than if Simms is – pay
attention to the injury reports later in the week to assess Griese's
status for Sunday.

Arizona's pass D has been fairly stout of late, allowing an average of
167 passing yards and 1.0 passing scores per game over the last 4
weeks. Trent Dilfer threw for 10/26 for 128 yards, 0 TDs and 1
interception vs. the Cardinals last week – the secondary was on top of
the Seattle WRs all day long (Darrell Jackson managed 6/101/0, but
nobody else caught more than 1/18/0 all day long). This season, the
Cardinals average 189.9 passing yards allowed per game (9th in the
NFL) with 17 TDs allowed in 15 games.

S Adrian Mayes (shoulder, probable) and CB Renaldo Hill (back, out)
were both inactive for last week's game. S Michael Stone has a sore
foot (probable).The Bucs list Griese as questionable to play as of
Wednesday, while Joey Galloway is not listed despite his sore ankle
(and groin).

The forecast for Sun Devil Stadium calls for a high of 66F with a low
of 46F and a 30% chance of precipitation – if the rains falls heavily
at game-time, the field could get sloppy and slick (this field sees
both college and pro games during the year, which means the turf has
greater wear-and-tear than most pro stadiums), while the ball would be
harder to handle than usual.

The Buccaneers field a competent pass attack with Griese under center,
while the Cardinals deploy a top-10 secondary. If Griese can play, we
see this as a neutral matchup. If he can't go, then things will be
harder for the Bucs (with Simms under center).



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

Josh McCown turned in another strong performance last week, with 21/33
for 248 yards, 3 TDs and 2 interceptions vs. the Seahawks. He has
tossed 69/111 for 842 yards, 5 TDs and 3 interceptions during the last
3 games (with 12/50/2 rushing in that span), to rank 3rd among all
fantasy QBs in fantasy points per game in the waning moments of the
regular season. As usual, Anquan Boldin was the focus of the passing
attack, with 9 targets for 7/107/1 – his sidekicks Larry Fitzgerald
and Bryant Johnson both saw 7 targets, and each grabbed 4 completions
– Fitzgerald had 4/70/2, while Johnson piled up 4/41/0. The Cardinals
have it going in this phase of the game.

Tampa Bay's D had a hard time dealing with Muhsin Muhammad and Jake
Delhomme (19/24 for 214 yards, 4 TDs and 0 interceptions to Delhomme;
8/115/2 allowed to Muhammad). They have been generous with TDs over
the past 4 weeks, averaging 165 passing yards and 2.0 TDs given up per
game over that span (Tampa averages 164.3 passing yards allowed per
game this season, 2nd in the NFL, with 21 passing scores given up in
15 games). The Buccaneers' secondary is slipping as the season winds
to a close.

Both squads come into this game in decent health – backup QB John
Navarre is questionable due to his sore finger, while WR Nate Poole is
probable (thigh). Tampa's secondary is in good shape.

The forecast for Sun Devil Stadium calls for a high of 66F with a low
of 46F and a 30% chance of precipitation – if the rains falls heavily
at game-time, the field could get sloppy and slick (this field sees
both college and pro games during the year, which means the turf has
greater wear-and-tear than most pro stadiums), while the ball would be
harder to handle than usual.

Look for Arizona to challenge the fading Tampa secondary in their
final home game of the season – neither squad has a clear-cut
advantage over the other from where we sit.



Jacksonville's Passing Attack vs. The Oakland Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Jacksonville choked vs. Houston last week – Byron Leftwich managed a
mere 6/14 for 35 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception, while backup David
Garrard chipped in 4/7 for 19 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions (that's
right, 10/24 for 54 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception as a team). It was
easily the worst game by Jacksonville during the 2004 season. Leftwich
has put up 40/79 for 398 yards, 4 TDs and 2 interceptions during the
past 3 weeks (26th fantasy QB in points per game during that span) –
he isn't usually as pathetic as he was last week. Leftwich was
concussed during the game, which no-doubt contributed to his poor
outing (we're not sure what Garrard's excuse was). Over the past 3
weeks, Jimmy Smith has been the top Jaguar receiver by far (24 targets
for 12/189/3 during that span).

Oakland's secondary was without both starting CBs last week (Charles
Woodson has a bum knee, and Phillip Buchanon is suffering from an
injured tailbone). They dropped a heart-breaker to the Chiefs, 31-30,
allowing 32/45 for 358 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception to Trent Green
in the course of the narrow defeat. The team currently ranks 31st in
the NFL allowing an average of 251.7 passing yards per game, while
tying for 3rd-most passing TDs given up to date with 30. Over the past
4 weeks, they've been even worse, coughing up an average of 304
passing yards and 2.0 thrown TDs per contest.

Woodson is listed as doubtful to play, while Buchanon is also
doubtful. Leftwich is described as probable due to the concussion and
his sore knee.

The forecast for Network Associates Coliseum calls for a high of 55F
with a low of 41F and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the moisture
falls thickly at game-time, footing and ball-handling could become
more tricky than usual.

Oakland's secondary is horrible, and may be without their starting CBs
to compound the problem. Jacksonville is stone cold coming into the
game – this looks like an ugly but equal matchup between struggling
units to us.



Dallas' Passing Attack vs. The New York Giants' Defense (Neutral Matchup)

In week 5, Dallas managed a modest 15/24 for 126 yards, 1 TD and 1
interception vs. the Giants. In the weeks in between then and now, the
Giants have run up a season total of 27 passing TDs allowed (that's on
the high end of the league range that stretches from 13-33 TDs allowed
through 15 games). Last week, Vinny Testaverde tossed 23/39 for 234
yards, 1 TD and 1 interception vs. the highly-ranked Redskins defense
(5th in the NFL vs. the pass) – he comes into this game with some
momentum at his back. Keyshawn Johnson (13 targets for 9/84/0) and
Jason Witten (8 for 6/50/0) led the team in targets and yardage, while
little known WR Patrick Crayton surprised the Redskins for 2 for
2/54/1 to score the lone Dallas TD.

The Giants had trouble containing the Bengal's #2 QB last week, giving
up 20/32 for 186 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception to Jon Kitna and
company. The Giants have allowed a lot of passing scores this season
(27 so far, close to the bottom of the league in that department),
while averaging 187.3 passing yards surrendered per contest (8th in
the league from that viewpoint). Over the past 4 weeks New York has
allowed an average of 214 passing yards and 2.4 passing scores per
contest – they are fading to close the season.

The Giants continue to do without S Gibril Wilson (neck, out), who has
missed several games due to a recurring neck/shoulder burner. Dallas'
unit reports no new injuries of note, although TE Jason Witten had to
have stitches to close a gash on his nose last week.

The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 60F with a low of
39F and a 20% chance for precipitation. That's balmy weather in New
Jersey during the month of December!

Dallas' unit is playing fairly well in this phase of the game lately,
but they struggled vs. New York in the first game, while the Giants
give up a lot of points in this phase and have slipped as far as yards
allowed per game is concerned. Home-field advantage will work in favor
of the defense in this game – this one looks fairly even to us
beforehand, with neither squad significantly better than the other.



New York Giants' Passing Attack vs. The Dallas Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Back in week 5, Kurt Warner was still the starting QB for the Giants –
recent history won't tell us much about this particular matchup. Eli
Manning has started to get on track over the past two games (19/37 for
201 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception last week; 16/23 for 182 yards, 2
TDs and 1 interception in week 15 vs. the ultra-tough Steelers), but
he has yet to have a really impressive performance (especially in
fantasy terms). The Giants' receivers have been very quiet during the
last 3 weeks, though (15 targets each, with 7/122/0 to Toomer and
8/89/0 to Hilliard in 3 games) – Jeremy Shockey is Manning's #1 option
with 22 targets for 14/160/1 in 3 weeks.

Dallas' secondary handled Patrick Ramsey and company neatly last week,
allowing 19/29 for 158 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions to the hated
Redskins. It was a much stronger performance than we're used to seeing
out of this group, who average 225.6 passing yards allowed per game
this season (22nd in the NFL) with 28 passing scores surrendered to
date (tied for 4th-most allowed in the NFL this season). Over the past
4 weeks, they've been unimpressive more often than not, averaging 217
passing yards and 1.2 passing scores allowed per contest.

The Giants' unit comes into the game nicked up, with WR Mark Jones out
(hernia), while starters TE Jeremy Shockey (back, questionable), WR
Amani Toomer (hamstring, questionable) are also hurt – as are backup
WRs Willie Ponder (knee, questionable) and Jamaar Taylor (quadriceps,
questionable).

The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 60F with a low of
39F and a 20% chance for precipitation. That's balmy weather in New
Jersey during the month of December!

Look for Manning and the Cowboys to stage a hard-fought contest –
neither one seems to hold a huge edge over the other before the event.



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

Matt Hasselbeck's bad elbow flared up right before game-time last
Sunday, leading the team to start Trent Dilfer in Hasselbeck's stead
vs. Arizona. As of midweek, the Seattle Times reported (in an article
by Greg Bishop on 12/28/04) "Matt Hasselbeck pronounced yesterday his
healthiest Monday of the season and said he 'definitely thinks' he
will start at quarterback when the Seahawks host the Atlanta Falcons
on Sunday… 'My hope is he'll be healthy enough to play in this week's
game,' coach Mike Holmgren said." Hasselbeck owners will want to keep
an eye on Hasselbeck's practice status during the week, as he was
expected to start last week, but became a game-time scratch when his
injured elbow flared up during pre-game warm-ups. All the diagnostic
tools employed to assess his elbow have indicated no structural
damage, so assuming he's able to participate in practices it looks
like Hasselbeck will close the season as the Seahawks' starter. In
Hasselbeck's absence, Trent Dilfer piloted the team to a narrow 24-21
victory last week vs. Arizona with a 10/26 for 128 yards, 0 TDs and 1
interception performance (Darrell Jackson snagged 6/101/0 on the day –
nobody else caught more than 1/18/0 during the game).

12/24 for 227 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions was the final tally for
Aaron Brooks vs. the Atlanta secondary last week (the team allows an
average of 223.7 passing yards per game this season – 21st in the NFL
– with 17 passing scores allowed to date). The Falcons are a
mediocre-to-sub-par bunch in this phase of the game, averaging 194
passing yards and 1.0 thrown TDs surrendered per game over the past 4
weeks.

Aside from Hasselbeck (probable), the Seahawks list WR Jerheme Urban
(foot, out). Atlanta's CB Jason Webster is questionable to play due to
a groin injury.

The forecast for Qwest Field calls for a high of 43F and a low of 34F
with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the moisture falls thickly at
game-time, footing and ball-handling could be issues during the
contest.

The Falcons deploy a mediocre secondary, while the Seahawks bring an
up-and-down passing attack to the table – Hasselbeck helps maximize
the production among the WRs when he's "on", though (but he's had his
share of down weeks this year, and may come into the game rusty after
his time off). With home-field advantage at the Seahawks' back, we
view this as a fairly even matchup.



Chicago's Passing Attack vs. The Green Bay Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Rex Grossman was under center for the Bears for the first showdown
with Green Bay (the Bears have started three other QBs since then) –
recent history won't tell us much about this matchup. Chad Hutchinson
has not been able to do much with his motley crew of receivers since
his first week under center, with a mere 54/102 for 494 yards, 1 TD
and 2 interceptions to his credit in the past 3 weeks. He usually hits
right around 17-18 completions a game, week in and week out (20/35 for
114 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions last week) – he's asked to provide
some sort of threat to throw the ball, but not a whole lot more (his
receivers just don't make many plays for him (or any of the other 4
Bear QBs who have thrown at them during 2004)). Considering that the
Bears lead the NFL with 57 sacks allowed this season, Hutchinson is
doing well to limit the number of interceptions he throws, given all
the pressure in his face snap after snap.

16/23 for 285 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions was the tally that
Daunte Culpepper managed last week – the Packers have coughed up 33
passing scores this season, dead last in the NFL, so it was not
surprising to see Culpepper have a strong game against the 26th ranked
secondary in the land (allowing an average of 235.1 passing yards per
game this season). Over the past 4 weeks, the Packers have surrendered
an average of 258 passing yards and 2.4 thrown TDs per contest. The
Packers field one of the softest secondaries around the league during
any given Sunday this year.

Chicago lists WR Justin Gage as probable to play (foot).

The forecast for Soldier Field calls for a high of 40F with a low of
35F and a 20% chance for precipitation. That's a really nice forecast
for the Windy City at this time of year – we'll see if it holds up.

The Packers aren't likely to play their top personnel for long in this
game (and their top personnel aren't all that good, anyway), while the
Bears bring a sluggish passing attack to the dance – this looks like a
fairly even matchup between cellar-dwelling units to us.



Washington's Passing Attack vs. The Minnesota Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Patrick Ramsey didn't have a great game vs. Dallas last week, with
19/29 for 158 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions to his credit at the end
of 60 minutes. Laveranues Coles was his top target during the game (11
for 7/53/0), while TE Robert Royal hauled in the lone TD (1/5/1) when
he had the chance. Over the past 3 weeks, Ramsey has tossed 66/101 for
623 yards, 2 TDs and 3 interceptions to rank 27th among all fantasy
QBs during that span – there haven't been a lot of fantasy points to
be had among this squad in recent weeks.

30/43 for 365 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception were the totals Brett
Favre mustered against the Viking's secondary last week – the Vikes
folded with the NFC North championship on the line. They have allowed
an average of 245.8 passing yards per game this season (30th in the
NFL), with 30 passing scores given up in 15 games (tied for 3rd-most
in the NFL) – the Vikings haven't been shutting people down in this
phase at any point this season. In fact, they average 283 passing
yards and 2.4 thrown TDs given up per contest over the past 4 weeks –
that's a lot of real-estate and points allowed to the opposition.

Washington is in good shape coming into the game. Minnesota's CB Ralph
Brown is out due to his eye injury, while CB Antoine Winfield is
probable (ankle).

The forecast for FedEx Field calls for a high of 61F and a low of 37F
with a 40% chance for rain. If the precipitation falls thickly at
game-time, the field could get sloppy and the ball will be slicker
than normal – conditions may not be optimum for the offensive units.

Ramsey and company have a shot to go out with a bang to close the
regular season – can he capitalize on the opportunities the Vikings
allow to the Redskins? We'll find out.



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

20/40 for 251 yards, 3 TDs and 2 interceptions was Aaron Brooks'
passing tally last time he faced the Panthers, back in week 13 – the
Saints couldn't get the ground game going last time (11/30/0 as a
team), so they were reduced to throwing the ball almost every down.
Last week, the Falcons elected to play their second and third
stringers vs. the Saints, essentially giving away a 26-13 victory to
New Orleans. Brooks tossed 12/24 for 227 yards, 1 TD and 2
interceptions in the walk-through, hitting Joe Horn for 5/76/0 and
Donte Stallworth for the TD (2/62/1). It wasn't a great fantasy
outing, but Brooks managed to put up some decent numbers. He's not hot
coming into this game, but neither is he stone-cold.

Carolina has been playing soft pass D recently, allowing an average of
248 passing yards and 2.2 thrown TDs per contest over the past 4
weeks. They were torched for 30/41 for 321 yards, 3 TDs and 2
interceptions by Brian Griese last week – they come into this game
back on their heels. The team is in the middle of the NFL pack this
season, averaging 218.6 passing yards allowed per game (19th in the
NFL) with 17 scores allowed to date.

The Saints list TE Ernie Conwell (back) and WR Donte Stallworth (hip)
as questionable. The Panther's squad is in good health.

The forecast for Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte calls for a high
of 67F with a low of 48F and a 30% chance for precipitation – if the
rain comes down hard around game-time, footing and ball-handling will
be trickier than usual.

Carolina has been generous with TDs in recent weeks, while the Saints
bring a strong 1-2 receiving punch to this contest – home-field
advantage helps to level the playing field in this one. We think the
two teams are fairly evenly matched.



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

The Jets' offense choked against their AFC East rivals, the Patriots,
last week – Pennington managed to toss 22/36 for 252 yards, 1 TD and 2
interceptions (the score came in the 4th quarter when the Jets were
down 23-0 – Santana Moss, the guy who caught the TD, managed only
2/32/1 on 7 targets during the game. Justin McCareins led the team
with 5/76/0 on 7 chances last week. Pennington has 57/91 for 694
yards, 4 TDs and 5 interceptions over the last 3 weeks – he's been
off-pace recently.

St. Louis stood up well vs. the Eagle's scrubs last week (8/23 for 82
yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions as a team last week) – but it wasn't
really a test as the Eagles essentially conceded the contest after the
first series of the game. Over the course of the season, the Rams have
compiled an average of 202 passing yards allowed per game (13th in the
NFL) with 23 passing TDs given up to date. Over the past 4 weeks,
their averages are 169 passing yards and 1.4 passing scores given up
per contest (the weak Philly effort skews those averages downwards
artificially). The Rams do not put fear into their opponent's hearts
in this phase of the game.

The Rams' list CB Travis Fisher (knee, probable). Backup QB Quincy
Carter is ill at midweek (probable).

This game will be played in the Edward Jones Dome – weather won't be a factor.

The Jets' squad has been sub-par in recent weeks, while the Rams are a
mediocre bunch more often than not – this looks like a fairly even
matchup to us.



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

Marc Bulger returned to the Rams' lineup last week, with 20/27 for 225
yards passing, 1 TD and 0 interceptions on a night when the Rams
rushed for 44/209/1 as a team. The Rams' usual suspects were Bulger's
main targets (Isaac Bruce saw 9 targets for 8/106/1, while Torry Holt
caught 7/75/0 on 8 chances). The Rams are a much better offense when
Bulger is under center in case you hadn't noticed. One big problem for
the Rams is their porous OL – the team is tied for 5th with 47 sacks
allowed in 15 games.

Tom Brady dissected the Jets for 21/32 for 264 yards, 2 TDs and 0
interceptions last week – the Jets have been touched for an average of
182 passing yards and 1.0 thrown TDs per game over the past for 4
weeks. This season, they are the 11th ranked pass D in the land,
averaging 192 passing yards allowed per game (with 18 TDs given up in
15 games). The Jets are an above-average unit, but they come into this
game reeling after the bad loss to/poor performance vs. New England.

The Rams list TE Cam Cleeland (concussion, probable). The Jets are in
good shape in this phase.

This game will be played in the Edward Jones Dome – weather won't be a factor.

The Jets were taken apart last week, and come in to this game
sputtering. The Rams' up and down squad comes into this game on an
up-note, and they need a win to have a chance at the post-season –
this looks like a fairly neutral matchup to us, with neither club
enjoying much momentum heading for the post-season.



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

Pittsburgh benefited from the return of Plaxico Burress to the lineup
(he had 3/97/1 on 3 targets last week), and the team hung 14/19 for
221 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception on the league's toughest-to-score
against secondary (Baltimore) – it's fair to say that Ben
Roethlisberger enjoyed an excellent game (right up to the point where
his ribs were injured on a late hit by LB Terrell Suggs, that is).
This week, it's not clear if Roethlisberger will be in the lineup due
to his injury – if not, last year's starter Tommy Maddox will step in
(he's thrown for 18/36 for 209 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions in 1 ½
games this season – last year he tossed 298/519 for 3414 yards, 18 TDs
and 17 interceptions for the Steelers – Maddox is a tested veteran who
can get the job done if necessary.

Buffalo tortured the last-place 49ers last week, smothering their
tandem of QBs to the point of suffocation (9/20 for 109 yards, 0 TDs
and 3 interceptions). They are the league's 3rd ranked pass D
averaging 167.9 passing yards allowed per game, with 19 scores
surrendered to date. Over the past 4 weeks, opposing teams have
managed 135 passing yards and 1.2 TDs per game vs. Buffalo on average
– it's not easy to pass the ball on these guys.

Roethlisberger is listed as questionable by the Steelers. Burress
(hamstring) and Ward (hip) are probable. Buffalo's secondary is in
good shape at this point of the year.

The forecast for Ralph Wilson Stadium calls for a high of 44F with a
low of  30F and a 20% chance for precipitation – that's a really nice
forecast for upstate New York in the month of December, folks.

Pittsburgh and Buffalo are both top teams – but the Bills have
home-field advantage, and they need the win badly. Expect a playoff
level of intensity from the elite Bills' defense – they'll be tough to
beat at home.



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

Drew Bledsoe contributed to beating vs. San Francisco last week,
putting up an efficient 21/32 for 172 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions
(the Bills had 23/36 for 216 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions passing
at the end of the game). Lee Evans continues to be the red-zone target
of choice, with 8/92/2 last week and 21 targets for 17/226/4, while
Eric Moulds has seen more balls (34 targets for 16/166/0) but less TDs
(he had 8/81/0 last week). Bledsoe has amassed 48/89 for 455 yards, 3
TDs and 1 interception over the last 3 weeks – he's not a great
fantasy QB, but Lee Evans owners aren't complaining.

Pittsburgh frustrated the Ravens' Kyle Boller last week, allowing
18/32 for 177 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception. Their performance was
as expected – the Steelers rank 4th in the NFL this season allowing
177.6 passing yards per game, while ranking 2nd in TDs allowed to date
with 14 given up in 15 games. They are one of the league's premier
pass defenses (they average 182 passing yards and .8 thrown TDs
allowed per game over the last 4 weeks).

The Bills list TE Jason Peters (hamstring) as questionable.
Pittsburgh's CB Deshea Townsend is out (hand).

The forecast for Ralph Wilson Stadium calls for a high of 44F with a
low of 30F and a 20% chance for precipitation – that's a really nice
forecast for upstate New York in the month of December, folks.

The Bills are a run-and-defense oriented team – they'll need their
best in those phases, as they can't expect much from the passing game
vs. Pittsburgh.



San Francisco's Passing "Attack" vs. The New England Defense (Tough Matchup)

9/20 for 109 yards, 0 TDs and 3 interceptions – the total for both Ken
Dorsey (expected to play this week despite a finger injury) and his
backup Cody Pickett in the game vs. Buffalo last week (5/10 for 54
yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception for Dorsey; 4/10 for 55 yards, 0 TDs
and 2 interceptions). Ken Dorsey has 43/82 for 451 yards, 5 TDs and 5
interceptions over the past 3 weeks – Cedric Wilson (20 targets for
9/141/2) and Brandon Lloyd (18 for 8/94/2) lead the team's receivers
in that span – let's face it, though – the 49'ers are not a top squad,
and they face a tough D this week. Look elsewhere for your starters
this week if you are in your league's fantasy championship round. The
49ers are also tied for 2nd-most sacks allowed this season, with 51 –
it's no wonder Tim Rattay (foot, out) and Ken Dorsey (finger,
probable) have had their share of injuries.

New England has a middle-of-the-road secondary this season (partly due
to lingering injuries that have taken out Ty Law and Tyrone Poole for
most of the season) allowing an average of 214.5 passing yards (16th
in the NFL) and 17 TDs in the past 15 games. Over the past 4 weeks,
they've given up an average of 206 passing yards and 1.4 thrown TDs
per contest, including 22/36 for 252 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions
to Chad Pennington last week.

The Patriots list Law as questionable to play this week (foot), but he
probably won't go until the playoffs. Also listed by New England: CB
Randall Gay (arm/flu); CB Earthwind Moreland (abdomen);CB Asante
Samuel (shoulder); S Eugene Wilson (thigh) – all are questionable. WR
Brandon Lloyd is questionable (foot).

The forecast for Gillette Stadium calls for a high of 55F with a low
of 31F and a 20% chance for precipitation. 55F will feel almost
tropical to the fans in Foxboro Massachusetts.

The 49ers are one of the weakest passing attacks in the NFL, and they
are going to play in a hostile stadium vs. a decent-but-unspectacular
pass D – advantage, New England.



Indianapolis' Passing Attack vs. The Denver Defense (Tough Matchup)

The big question for Colts' owners this week is how much playing time
Peyton Manning will see in what is a meaningless game for Indianapolis
(but not for Denver). During the Monday Night Football broadcast,
Manning indicated that he wanted to play in this game, because he felt
a week off might cause the Colts' offense to come out "flat" in the
wild-card round of the playoffs (he probably would like to add a few
more TDs to his record, too…). Of course, the Colt's starting offense
is absolutely awesome (need we detail the 3 receivers over 1,000 yards
receiving and over 10 TDs each, the powerful running game that sets up
the pass, etc, etc, etc – you know all this already, right?). We just
can't say for how long the Colts' top players will play until it's
time for Jim Sorgi, Ben Hartsock and James Mungro to close the book on
the 2004 regular season.

Denver's pass defense has been up and down over the past 4 weeks,
averaging 181 passing yards allowed and 1.6 passing scores per contest
over that span, including their strong 12/27 for 137 yard, 0 TDs and 2
interception stuffing of the Titans last weekend. The team is 6th in
the NFL this season, giving up an average of 185.4 passing yards per
contest, with 15 TDs given up in 15 games in this phase (tied for
3rd-least in the NFL) – they have been very good at times this year.
Over all, it's fair to call the Bronco's secondary above-average most
of the time.

The Colts list Marcus Pollard as doubtful (ankle). The Bronco's S Sam
Brandon has a sore ankle (probable).

The forecast for Mile High Stadium calls for a high of 49F with a low
of 30F and a 20% chance for precipitation. Wind conditions are always
a concern at this time of year – keep an eye on the forecast as
game-time approaches, as weather in the high plains next to the
Rockies is always highly unpredictable at this time of year.

Denver is usually tough in this phase of the game, they have to have
this victory, and they are playing at home against the Colts, who
probably won't play their top personnel all 60 minutes. Advantage,
Denver.



Cincinnati's Passing Attack vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Tough Matchup)

Carson Palmer's knee has kept him on the sidelines recently, and we
would expect that the team won't risk further injury to their
franchise QB in the meaningless season finale vs. the NFC's top team.
Jon Kitna pulled out a "W" vs. the Giants last week with 20/32 for 186
yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception to his credit, and is more than
capable of mounting a respectable passing offense for the Bengals to
close out the 2004-5 regular season. His favorite target last week was
Chad Johnson (11 targets for 8/46/2), followed by T.J. Houshmandzadeh
(6 for 5/64/0).

With an ineffective offense going 3-and-out most of the game on Monday
night, the Eagles' defenders gave up 20/28 for 225 yards, 1 TD and 0
interceptions to the Rams. Philadelphia is usually very tough to score
on in this phase of the game (only 15 passing scores allowed all
season long, tied for 3rd-least in the NFL this season), while
averaging 203.5 passing yards surrendered per game (15th in the league
to date). Over the past 4 weeks, they've been pacing at 180 passing
yards and .8 passing scores allowed per game.

The forecast for Lincoln Financial Field calls for a high of 61F and a
low of 36F with a 30% chance of precipitation. If the conditions are
soggy at game-time, footing and ball-handling could become issues in
this contest.

Cincinnati lists Palmer as questionable, while the Eagles report CB
Lito Sheppard is doubtful (quadriceps), as is S Quintin Mikell
(shoulder) and S Michael Lewis is probable (ankle).

Even with a sub-par offense shifting the burden onto the Eagles'
defenders more than is usual, we think Kitna and company will have
their hands full when they visit Philadelphia's stadium on Sunday.



Philadelphia's Passing Attack vs. The Cincinnati Defense (Tough Matchup)

With nothing to gain and a lot to lose by risking injury to Donovan
McNabb and company, expect this week's game vs. Cincinnati to look a
lot like last week's Monday Night Football lay-down vs. St. Louis. Koy
Detmer and Jeff Blake combined for 5/20 for 46 yards passing (0 TDs
and 0 interceptions), which tells you a lot about why the coaching
staff doesn't want to take any chances with McNabb's health. We'd look
elsewhere for your QBs and WRs if your fantasy team is in play this
week.

Cincinnati's pass D limited Eli Manning to 19/37 for 201 yards, 0 TDs
and 1 interception last week – they've been weaker than that most of
the time lately, averaging 232 passing yards allowed (with 1.6 TDs per
game given up) over the past 4 weeks. The team is in the middle of the
NFL pack this season, allowing an average of 202.7 passing yards per
game (14th in the NFL) with 22 passing scores given up to date. They
are a what-you-see-is-what-you-get group that plays acceptable but not
stellar pass defense.

DB Rogers Beckett (neck, questionable) has missed several games for
the Bengals, while Ss Kevin Kaesviharn and Anthony Mitchell are both
probable (hip and shin injuries, respectively) – the Eagles list T.O.
as out, while TE Chad Lewis is doubtful (triceps) and WR Todd Pinkston
is probable (knee).

The forecast for Lincoln Financial Field calls for a high of 61F and a
low of 36F with a 30% chance of precipitation. If the conditions are
soggy at game-time, footing and ball-handling could become issues in
this contest.

Cincinnati hasn't been great in this phase of the game lately, but
they did well last week vs. the Giants, while the Eagles are extremely
likely to throw their 2nd and 3rd teamers into the mix as this game is
worthless to Philadelphia – advantage, Cincinnati.



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

In the race to prove which team was the worst in the AFC last week,
the Browns claimed a dubious distinction, succumbing 10-7 to Miami.
The good news is that Luke McCown actually threw for a TD last week
(9/16 for 161 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions), unlike his week 15
performance vs. San Diego, hitting Dennis Northcutt for 4/114/1 on 7
targets (Northcutt is the closest thing Cleveland has to a go-to
receiver since McCown took over, with 17 targets for 10/181/2 to his
credit, although Antonio Bryant has seen (and dropped) more chances,
with 22 for 9/82/0). McCown has 4 TDs and 7 interceptions in his 4
starts, with 608 yards in 4 tries – let's just say that fantasy points
are not in abundance on this offense and leave it at that.

10/21 for 54 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception was the total that the
Jaguars crawled to vs. Houston last week. Considering that the Texans
have given up the second-most passing TDs in the NFL this season (31)
and rank 23rd in the league allowing an average of 225.9 passing yards
per game, the majority of the blame goes to the Jaguars for their
horrendous showing, as many other teams have taken this secondary to
the woodshed earlier in the season. Of late, though, the Texans have
allowed an average of 166 passing yards and 1.4 thrown TDs per game
over the past 4 weeks, including the Jacksonville game last week
(which skews the 4 week average downwards somewhat – in the other 3
games, the Texans gave up 168 yards passing to Chicago; 298 passing
yards to Indianapolis; and 155 yards to Chad Pennington and company).
Houston has put up a tough fight in 3 of their last 4 games in this
phase.

Cleveland's TE Aaron Shea missed last week's game (ankle,
questionable). They also list Kelly Holcomb as questionable (ribs).
Houston's CB Kenny Wright is probable to play on Sunday despite a
mid-week illness.

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 79F and a low of
64F, with a 50% chance for rain. If the weather looks nasty at
game-time, the retractable roof will be closed, so weather shouldn't
be a huge factor in this matchup.

The Texans have gone from soft to mediocre in the final stages of the
season (and played shut-out football last week), while the Browns are
struggling mightily right now – with home-field advantage at the
defense's back, we give the nod to the improving Texans.



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

Houston stomped the Jaguars last week, while David Carr checked in
with a sub-par 14/20 for 139 yards, 1 TD and 2 interception
performance during the game. Domanick Davis carried the load with
30/150/1 during the game (the team bull-dozed to 43/211/1 vs.
Jacksonville on the ground). Andre Johnson had the best day among the
team's receivers, with 6 targets for 4/46/1 to lead the team. It was
another lack-luster performance from Carr, who has tallied only 43/69
for 526 yards, 3 TDs and 3 interceptions in his last 3 games.

Cleveland's defense was passable in this phase of the game last week
vs. the anemic Dolphins, allowing 25/44 for 176 yards, 1 TD and 0
interceptions to the 'Fins attack. The team is usually right in that
neighborhood this season, ranking 7th in the NFL allowing an average
of 186.6 passing yards per contest (with 16 passing scores allowed) –
the secondary is the teams' strength, if a 3-12 team can be said to
have a strength. Over the past 4 weeks, the Browns have averaged only
158 passing yards allowed per game, but have given away 1.6 passing
scores per game on average.

The Browns S Chris Crocker has been sidelined with a biceps injury for
many weeks (questionable this week). Houston's squad enjoys relatively
decent health, listing no new injuries of note.

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 79F and a low of
64F, with a 50% chance for rain. If the weather looks nasty at
game-time, the retractable roof will be closed, so weather shouldn't
be a huge factor in this matchup.

Houston's passing offense is sputtering heading down the stretch,
while the Brown's disastrous season isn't due to their above-average
secondary – advantage, Cleveland.



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

Matt Schaub didn't look so hot vs. a full-bore, regular-season pro
defense, managing 17/41 for 188 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions in
his first start of 2004. His favorite target on the day was Peerless
Price, who only converted 6/49/0 on 15 targets last Sunday (the
problems weren't limited to just Schaub, as you can see). Warrick Dunn
caught every ball that came his way (6 targets for 6/87/0) to lead the
team in receiving yardage last week (18/52/0 rushing in addition to
his double-duty catching the ball). Michael Vick probably will play
for part of this game as a tune-up for the playoffs, but don't expect
to see him for 4 full quarters (that's our guess at mid-week, anyway).
Vick rarely throws more than 20ish passes during any given game, and
his season high for completions is 18 in a game (twice – weeks 5 and
8) – Vick averages 12.5 completions and 22.4 attempts per game this
season. Owners of Atlanta receivers won't notice much difference
between the production of their players regardless of which QB plays
the most. Atlanta is tied for 5th-most QB sacks allowed this season,
with 47 given away to date (Schaub was nailed 3 times last week by the
Saints).

Josh McCown and his trio of receivers put a scare into the Seahawks
last week, with 21/33 for 248 yards, 3 TDs and 2 interceptions – the
Seahawks escaped with a narrow 24-21 victory. The secondary hasn't
been very good this season, allowing an average of 229.3 passing yards
per contest (24th in the NFL) with 22 passing scores allowed to date –
teams aren't afraid to challenge the Seahawks through the air. Over
the past 4 weeks, Seattle has allowed an average of 245 passing yards
and 2.0 thrown TDs per game – not too good, huh?

The Falcons list TE Alge Crumpler (who missed last week's game) as
questionable to play due to his sore knee, while Vick is also
questionable to play due to his sore shoulder. Seattle's S Michael
Boulware has a sprained foot (probable), while CB Bobby Taylor has
missed multiple games due to a knee injury (questionable this week).

The forecast for Qwest Field calls for a high of 43F and a low of 34F
with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the moisture falls thickly at
game-time, footing and ball-handling could be issues during the
contest.

Two mediocre-to-sub-par squads clash in this contest – look for the
home-team Seahawks (who have more to play for) to make things tough on
the low-octane Falcons, especially if Crumpler and Vick sit out the
majority of this game.



Green Bay's Passing Attack vs. The Chicago Defense (Tough Matchup)
Brett Favre hit 24/42 for 252 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions vs. the
Bears back in week 2 – it wasn't his best game of the season, and the
Bears won the contest 21-10. Last week, Green Bay had to have a
victory, and they got it – clinching the NFC North championship with a
win over Minnesota. The big unknown for fantasy owners this week is
how long the Green Bay starters will play in a meaningless game as far
as the playoffs are concerned (they have clinched the NFC North and
the #3 seed in the NFC Playoffs). Coach Sherman is playing his cards
close to the vest – "We're going to play the game against Chicago.
We're going to prepare for it, to win it, but I'm not going to tell
you today how the game is going to be played once we get in to the
ball game…They kicked our butts last time, so there should be
motivation." We expect to see Favre start and play at least a little.
But nothing is certain in these situations and it would be no surprise
to see a rapid devolution onto Craig Nall and the other backups (Ahman
Green and Najeh Davenport are both banged up in the rushing phase, and
could take a quick exit as well).

Chicago's pass D limited the Joey Harrington-led Lions to 15/30 for
166 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception last week (the team averages 200.9
passing yards allowed per game this season, 12th in the NFL, with 20
passing scores allowed in 15 games). Over the past 4 weeks, the Bears'
average 193 passing yards and 1.2 thrown TDs per contest – they play
above-average defense in this phase of the game, although they can be
scored upon.

The Packers list Robert Ferguson (head/neck, out), while the Bears
list S Bobby Gray (quadriceps, probable).

The forecast for Soldier Field calls for a high of 40F with a low of
35F and a 20% chance for precipitation. That's a really nice forecast
for the Windy City at this time of year – we'll see if it holds up.

The Green Bay backups will have their hands full with A). their
division-rival's "A" team in the secondary and B). the Chicago "12th
man" in the unfriendly confines of Soldier Field.



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

Daunte Culpepper had an impressive game vs. Green Bay, despite the
fact that Randy Moss looked anything but sharp vs. the Packers.
Culpepper ended the day with 16/23 for 285 yards, 3 TDs and 0
interceptions (with 3/21/0 rushing in addition). Nate Burleson turned
his 2 chances into 2/110/2, Michael Bennett snagged all 3 passes that
came his way for 3/67/1, while Moss posted just 2/30/1 on 7 targets.
After the game, coach Tice insisted that Moss' lackadaisical play was
not due to injury.

Washington deploys one of the toughest pass defenses in the NFL,
allowing an average of only 180.6 passing yards per game (5th in the
NFL) while giving up only 15 passing scores in 15 games (tied for
3rd-least in the NFL). Last week, they gave up an uncharacteristic
23/39 for 234 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to the Cowboys – over the
past 4 weeks, the Redskins have coughed up an average of only 174
passing yards and .8 thrown TDs per contest. The Redskins' pass
defense is no joke this season.

Minnesota may have caught a break, as the Redskin's top CB Fred Smoot
injured his back against the Cowboys last week, and ended up in the
hospital after a vomiting incident on the sidelines. He's listed as
doubtful to play this week. Also listed are CB Ade Jimoh (ankle, out)
and CB Shawn Springs (foot, probable). The Vikings are in good shape
coming into the game.

The forecast for FedEx Field calls for a high of 61F and a low of 37F
with a 40% chance for rain. If the precipitation falls thickly at
game-time, the field could get sloppy and the ball will be slicker
than normal – conditions may not be optimum for the offensive units.

FedEx Field is a tough place to visit, and the Redskins make things
difficult for the opposition week in and week out. Minnesota has a lot
of talent on their team, but they will have their hands full with
Washington this week.



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

Miami isn't able to do a whole lot in this phase of the game – last
week, A.J. Feeley managed 25/43 for 176 yards, 1 TD and 0
interceptions. Over the past 3 weeks, he's put up 64/113 for 544
yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception to rank 24th among all fantasy QBs.
The team's top receiver in that span has been Randy McMichael (30
targets for 18/150/0), while Marty Booker has been the best fantasy
receiver on the team with 19 for 12/111/1. Over 3 weeks, 12/111/1
isn't much to be excited about, though. However, Feeley's rib injuries
have him listed as doubtful this week, so we may well see Sage
Rosenfels in his first start of the season – we'd look elsewhere for
your fantasy starters if your league plays its championship round in
week 17.

Baltimore's pass defense is the least-generous in the league, having
allowed only 13 passing scores in 15 games this season, while ranking
10th in the NFL in yards allowed per game (191.6 per contest). Last
week, though, Pittsburgh touched them for 14/19 for 221 yards, 2 TDs
and 1 interception en route to a crucial 20-7 defeat of Baltimore.
Over the last 4 weeks, the Ravens have averaged 228 passing yards and
1.2 passing TDs given up per contest – they are off pace right now.
The Ravens have thrown their opponents down for 37 sacks this season
(12th in the NFL), while the Dolphins have allowed 49 sacks this
season (4th most in the NFL) – there is an obvious weakness for the
Ravens to exploit this week.

The Dolphins list WRs Marty Booker (ankle, doubtful) and Derrius
Thompson (hamstring, questionable). CB Deion Sanders is questionable
due to his nagging foot injury.

The forecast for M&T Bank Stadium calls for a high of 62F and a low of
41F with a 30% chance for rain – field conditions could be less than
optimal if the weather turns soggy around game time.

The Ravens make it tough for even the best teams to move the ball
through the air, though they've been off their usual peak lately – the
Dolphins aren't close to the best passing squads in the NFL.
Advantage, Baltimore.



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

Kyle Boller has improved this season – he no longer routinely throws
for less than 150 yards per game. It's been 5 weeks since he last did
that (week 12 vs. New England, 15/35 for 93 yards, 0 TDs and 1
interception). However, he hasn't hit for a TD in 3 of his last 5
games, and has tossed only 1 score in his past 2 games. Except for his
explosive week 14 game vs. the Giants, Boller has been a poor fantasy
QB in 4 of the past 5 weeks, with a very poor 18/32 for 177 yards, 0
TDs and 1 interception to his credit last week. In more bad news, TE
Todd Heap's bad ankle was aggravated in the game last week and swelled
quite a bit after the game as a result. There just isn't much good to
say about the Raven's passing game heading into week 17.

Miami's pass D has been puissant all season long, ranking first in the
NFL allowing an average of 163.3 yards per game (1st in the NFL), with
19 TDs allowed in 15 games. They gave up 9/16 for 161 yards, 1 TD and
2 interceptions to Luke McCown last week (right on their season pace),
and have averaged 184 passing yards and 1.6 passing scores allowed per
game over the past 4 weeks. This is one tough pass D, folks, despite
the TDs allowed over the past few weeks.

The Ravens list Heap as questionable to play. Miami's squad comes into
the game in decent shape.

The forecast for M&T Bank Stadium calls for a high of 62F and a low of
41F with a 30% chance for rain – field conditions could be less than
optimal if the weather turns soggy around game time.

Boller will have a hard time making much happen against the top-5
Dolphin's secondary.