Bottom line is that the cheatsheets are the final say.

Let's jump to it.

Joe

Bye Weeks

Philadelphia: Donovan McNabb; Terrell Owens
Chicago: Jonathan Quinn, David Terrell
Cincinnati: Carson Palmer, Chad Johnson
Kansas City: Trent Green, Tony Gonzalez

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

Will Steve McNair be able to play, or won't he? Coach Fisher said the following on Tuesday: "He ran, set, dropped, threw, sprinted out and he is doing better, which is encouraging. I would say he has a chance to practice this week. His ability to be able to practice, to run around, to not have difficulty breathing and to make the throws he needs to make (will determine if he plays). It looked like that he improved significantly over (Sunday)." That sounds encouraging, but not definitive. McNair owners will need to pay attention to whether or not he practices on Thursday and Friday.

Another injury-related subplot here is that Tyrone Calico, who recently re-injured his knee, may be lost for the season, pending the outcome of a second opinion on the MRI of his torn knee cartilage, while the Titans have released Jake Schifino, who never was able to get healthy during his years with the team. That leaves four WRs on the squad (Derek Mason, Drew Bennett, Eddie Berlin, Darrell Hill) with experience in this offense - pretty thin as far as quality depth is concerned. The Titans just added WR Jason McAddley. They are also banged up at TE - Erron Kinney (calf, out) and Shad Meier (ankle, questionable).

Billy Volek was a quality fantasy start last week, with 39/58 for 278 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions, so Mason and Bennett owners will be likely to get their fantasy points regardless of who is under center.

Green Bay is not playing well in this phase of the game, allowing 234.5 passing yards per game (24th) and a league-worst 9 passing scores. They just traded away arguably their best cornerback (Mike McKenzie) who was suffered a mysterious hamstring injury that just wouldn't get better. Things are pretty bleak for this unit - Kurt Warner completed 20/26 throws for 187 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception on a day that the team rushed for 245 yards against the Packers - can't stop the run, can't stop the pass - whew, the Packer faithful are not enjoying all these home games right now, are they?

Tennessee's situation is covered above - the Packers list CB Ahmad Carroll (groin, questionable), CB Al Harris (toe, probable); and S Darren Sharper (back, probable).

This game is scheduled to be played at Lambeau field, on Monday Night Football, so the temp will be close to 40F (the forecasted low) for most of the game - there is a 10% chance of rain, so it should be a nice, crisp autumn night for all involved.

Tennessee should have a quality outing vs. the subpar Packers.

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

Coach Sherman indicated earlier this week that Favre will start as usual, but will be held out of practice until Thursday - the bottom line is that Favre owners need to pay attention to the Thursday and Friday injury reports to see if Favre can practice or not. Concussions are tricky injuries, and problems often crop up days after the initial incident that triggered the brain trauma.
The team hopes he can, because backup Doug Pederson was ineffective and is injured (abdominal injury/ribs, out), leaving Craig Nall and new import J.T. O'Sullivan to back up Favre. Obviously, Favre's status also impacts squads with Javon Walker, Donald Driver and Robert Ferguson.

Tennessee is soft in this phase of the game, allowing an average of 189.3 passing yards per game (11th), but giving away 7 scores to date (3rd-most in the NFL). They got torched by the Chargers' Drew Brees last week to the tune of 206 yards and 3 TDs (with 0 interceptions) - and that was Drew Brees we're talking about.

Tennessee lists S Lance Schulters as out (foot). Doug Pederson is out, while TE Bubba Franks is probable (back).

This game is scheduled to be played at Lambeau field, on Monday Night Football, so the temp will be close to 40F (the forecasted low) for most of the game - there is a 10% chance of rain, so it should be a nice, crisp autumn night for all involved.

Favre and the Packers should enjoy a solid outing, assuming he can play on Monday night.

Oakland's Passing Attack vs. The Indianapolis Colts (Great Matchup)

Kerry Collins showed his rust last week, getting abused by the Texans for 3 interceptions and 0 TDs (21/38 for 237 yards) - let's not panic over a substandard outing, though. The ground game was churning last week, so Collins is likely to have some support from whoever ends up toting the rock this week. He'll get back on track with some more repetitions. Oakland has only allowed 7 sacks this season (Collins does best when protected and passing from a pocket), so conditions are right for him, although Jamie Sharper did make the Raiders pay for the one they allowed last week (TD return of a fumble). Jerry Porter (6 targets for 2/40/0) and Ronald Curry (5 for 5/69/0) saw the most attention in the game (Jerry Rice saw some action late in the game but was basically an afterthought).

Collins has an excellent shot at polishing up his form this week, though, as the Colts are battered among their DBs and likely to struggle again this week. They allow a whopping 313 yards per game in this phase (that's dead last in the NFL) and have coughed up the second-most TDs this year with 8. Heck, Byron Leftwich, who couldn't beg, borrow or steal a 200 yard game earlier this season tossed 29/41 for 318 yards and 1 TD against the Colts last week. The Colts stink in this phase of the game.

A big part of the Colts' problem is injuries: S Mike Doss (hamstring), CB Joseph Jefferson (knee) and S Bob Sanders (foot) are all out. S Idrees Bashir (groin, questionable), and CBs Donald Strickland (shoulder) and Nick Harper (hip) are both probable. Rich Gannon remains sidelined with his fractured neck vertebrae.

This game is being played in the RCA Dome, so weather won't be an issue.

Oakland should return to excellence in the passing phase of the game this week.

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

Indianapolis continues to slice, dice and julienne fry the various secondaries that they face this year - last week's victim was Jacksonville, who surrendered 20/29 for 219 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception to the Manning Express last week - and the Jags have one of the tougher pass defenses in the league. Harrison and his compatriot Marcus Pollard found the endzone last week, while Brandon Stokley (mysteriously not covered very well by the Jags for most of the day) racked up yards with 8/97/0. Only Reggie Wayne owners got left out of the party, with a mere 2/20/0 to Wayne's credit - however, among the wide receivers, Wayne is still second on the team with 33 targets this season (Harrison has 41, Stokley 29) - there isn't a more productive 1-2-3 tandem of WRs in the NFL right now. Start 'em if you've got 'em.

14/23 for 228 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions was what David Carr managed against the Raiders last week. They are allowing an average of 206.8 passing yards per game (4 scores to date), right in the middle of the NFL pack at 15th. Charles Woodson was a fantasy force last week with 8 solo tackles, 2 assists, and 4 passes defensed (3rd fantasy DB) as the Texans elected to test the corner (most teams don't). Oakland likes to pressure the opposing passer (4th in the NFL with 12 sacks to date), but Indy excels at pass blocking (2 sacks allowed to date).

Indianapolis lists Troy Walters as out (broken arm), but otherwise they are healthy in this phase of the game. WR Brandon Stokley (hip) is probable. Oakland is healthy in this phase of the game.

This game is being played in the RCA Dome, so weather won't be an issue.

The Colts are an elite squad, the Raiders are mediocre - advantage, Indianapolis.

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

Seattle finally started to produce the passing numbers we expected from Matt Hasselbeck in week 3, when he threw 21/30 for 254 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions during the 34-0 shellacking of the 49ers. However, Koren Robinson pulled a disappearing act with only 1/12/0, and the TDs went to Shaun Alexander and Itula Mili, so Darrell Jackson (7/97/0) and Bobby Engram (4/95/0) owners saw the yards but didn't get truly explosive fantasy points from their players. But, it was an encouraging performance for Hasselbeck owners, nonetheless.

St. Louis sleepwalked to an easy 24-14 win over San Francisco last week, but they did allow 31/47 for 299 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception to Tim Rattay in the course of the game. The Rams are subpar in this arena, allowing an average of 230.3 passing yards per contest (22nd in the NFL) with 4 scores surrendered to date.

Seattle comes into the game off a bye. St. Louis lists CB Travis Fisher as out (forearm).

The forecast for Qwest Field in Seattle calls for a high of 60F and a low of 47F with a 10% chance for rain. A clear day in Seattle? Guess it had to happen sometime.

The Seahawks have a very powerful offense, while the Rams sport a soft secondary - advantage, Seattle.

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

Kurt Warner continues to delay the Eli Manning era with his solid play, and he seems to be gaining confidence as the weeks go by (the teams' maligned OL has allowed 13 sacks, which is a concern for Warner and his fantasy squads, but so far, so good). 20/26 for 187 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception is nothing special, but Jeremy Shockey owners are finally seeing some results from their prize TE (5/74/1 last week). Tiki Barber is making it easy for Warner by rushing for about a gazillion yards each week - OK, "only" 182 last week, but there's no denying that the running game is helping Warner keep defenses back on their heels.

Dallas has a much-ballyhooed secondary that is not living up to its billing right now, allowing an average of 211.7 passing yards per game (17th in the NFL) and they are tied for 3rd-most passing scores surrendered with 7 to date. Usually pedestrian Mark Brunell blew up the Cowboys with 25/43 for 325 yards and 2 TDs with 0 interceptions in week 3. Not exactly what coach Parcells expects to see, huh?

Both teams enjoy good health coming into the game, with the Giants listing only WR Mark Jones (questionable).

The Forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 74F and a low of 59F with a 30% chance for rain. If the rain comes down hard at game time, the field could get slick and the ball harder to handle.

The Giants are shaping up into a credible NFL team, and the Cowboys are falling apart in this phase of the game. Advantage, Giants.

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

How effective will the running game be this week under the Dallas RBBC? That's the big question for Vinny Testaverde and company as Dallas comes off their bye-week and faces their division-rivals at home. Testaverde has verged on elite fantasy status in the pass-first offense injuries have forced on the Cowboys, completing 66/114 for 891 yards, 3 TDs and 3 interceptions over 3 games (10th best fantasy QB with an average of 17.83 fantasy points per game). 14/29 for 214 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions was his tally in the team's week 3 game vs. Washington - Terry Glenn and Jason Witten both caught TDs in the game (Richie Anderson threw the other TD). Witten is a top-ten fantasy TE with 12/121/1 to his credit so far. Glenn is the most consistent fantasy producer at WR right now, with 2 of Testaverde's TDs to his credit and he is tied with Antonio Bryant for most yards at 230. Keyshawn Johnson has seen the most balls (26 vs. 22 for Glenn and 21 for Bryant), but has converted less into catches 12/191/0 and he basically disappeared against Washington (1/23/0).

The Giant's pass D crushed second fiddle Packer Doug Pederson (both literally and figuratively) last week, 7/17 for 86 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception after Favre got knocked woozy and out of the game (12/18 for 110 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception). They were hitting with a vengeance last week. However, the team gives up a lot of TDs (8 passing scores to date) and averages 227 passing yards allowed per game (21st in the NFL) - this is not an elite secondary, folks. Gibril Wilson continues to be an IDP standout, with 10 solo tackles, 2 assists, and 1 pass defensed last week (5th fantasy DB).

S Shaun Williams is out for the Giants. Dallas is coming off a bye week in good shape, health-wise.

The Forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 74F and a low of 59F with a 30% chance for rain. If the rain comes down hard at game time, the field could get slick and the ball harder to handle.

Look for Testaverde and company to enjoy good results in this phase of the game. Advantage, Cowboys.

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

Byron Leftwich woke from his fantasy slumber last week, and put together a beauty of an outing, with 29/41 for 318 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions. It was against the very banged-up Colts, though, so he didn't do anything unexpected - but that doesn't take away from his fantasy value, either. Jimmy Smith made the TD happen (no surprise there), turning in 3/59/1 on his 7 chances. 10 players were thrown to in the game, with no-one seeing more than 7 balls (Ernest Wilford 6/56/0 and LaBrandon Toefield 6/34/0 were the others with 7 targets). Another opportunity for a good game waits in Southern California, because the Chargers are soft in this phase of the game.

How soft? Well, the Chargers allow an average of 258 yards per game (29th in the NFL), and have allowed 6 passing scores to date. They were touched for 39/58 for 278 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions by Titan backup Billy Volek last week. Basically, the Chargers stink in this phase of the game.

SS Terence Kiel injured a shoulder in last week's game (probable), while TE Kyle Brady continues to nurse a bad finger (out), and fellow TE George Wrighster (back, questionable) is also ailing. WR Troy Edwards has a sore groin (probable). Injuries are a factor for both teams this week, as Kiel was arguably the best player on the Charger's squad to date, while Brady is the Jags' best TE when healthy.

The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for typically beautiful Southern California weather (71F for a high, 58F for a low, 0% chance of precipitation).

Even in their home stadium, the Chargers are at a disadvantage in this matchup.

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

Mark Brunell regressed to 0 TD levels last week, tossing 17/32 for 192 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions - almost all the fantasy points were generated by Laveranues Coles, with 12 targets for 7/122/0 - Rod Gardner turned in a fantasy dud with 5 targets for 3/19/0. Those 2 receivers are far-and-away the most targeted receivers on the team over the last 3 weeks, with 40 targets to Coles and 30 to Gardner, so both have had their chances for big games. Gardner (15th fantasy WR overall) leads in fantasy points (20/313/2 in 4 games, average of 10.82 FP per game), while Coles is 34th so far (24/291/0).

Baltimore's defense has a fearsome reputation, but they are actually rather soft in this phase of the game, allowing an average of 222.8 passing yards per game (20th in the NFL to date) and 4 passing scores so far in 2004. 21/31 for 223 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions is what Trent Green hung on this unit last week, right in keeping with their mediocre season average.

Both teams come into this game in decent shape with no major injury woes to report. CB Deion Sanders is questionable (hamstring), and CB Gary Baxter is probable (shoulder).

The forecast for FedEx Field calls for a high of 70F, with a low of 46F and a 20% chance of precipitation. Great football weather.

Brunell is in an attack that deploys some very capable receivers, and the Ravens are playing below their reputation so far in 2004. Advantage, Washington.

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

Daunte Culpepper and Randy Moss continue to dominate all the secondaries that they come into contact with, most recently victimizing Chicago for 19/30 for 360 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions and 7/119/2, respectively. With Onterrio Smith on an unpaid vacation, Michael Bennett rehabbing a scoped knee, Moe Williams injured (calf) and iffy to play, the team is down to Mewelde Moore as their likely option to start at RB (coach Tice joked that Herschel Walker is coming out of retirement to help out earlier this week) - expect more aerial fireworks in week 5. Onterrio Smith was tied with Nate Burleson for #2 in targets (18) prior to his suspension, so it looks like Burleson may see more chances this week. Jermaine Wiggins' broken hand will keep him out.

Houston's pass D is mediocre-to-bad most weeks, allowing an average of 199 passing yards per game (13th in the NFL), but are tied for second-most TDs allowed at 8 so far.

Kerry Collins got stampeded by the Texans last week, though, tossing 3 interceptions and 0 TDs (21/38 for 237 yards). Dunta Robinson had a great IDP DB game, with 3 solo tackles, 3 assists, 2 interceptions and 2 passes defensed (4th best in the league last week).

Both teams come into the game slightly banged up, with Minnesota down TE Jim Kleinsasser (knee, out), and Jermaine Wiggins (out). S Eric Brown is doubtful (knee)

This game is to be played at Reliant Stadium - if the rains come, the retractable roof will probably be closed (30% chance of rain), but absent that, the team has been allowing the roof to be open to force their opponents to play in the sticky Houston humidity (80F for a high on Sunday, 65F for a low) which has caused cramping/dehydration issues for some players.

Culpepper/Moss look like they should feast on the generous Texan's secondary, although Kerry Collins' experience shows that Culpepper needs to be careful with the ball. Advantage, Minnesota.

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

David Carr finally got his hair cut. He also is starting to look like a legitimate NFL signal caller, with 14/23 for 228 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions passing last week, on a day when his deep threat (Corey Bradford) was absent from the lineup due to a lingering shoulder injury. Not half bad. Andre Johnson continues to be a fantasy standout, with 10 targets for 6/115/1 last week, and 17/355/2 so far this season (12th best fantasy WR). Keep starting Johnson if you've got him, he's flirting with elite fantasy status in 2004.

Minnesota's defense isn't very strong in this phase, allowing an average of 272.3 passing yards per game (only 3 scores, though) - they are playing with leads and that means other teams are throwing a lot of balls at them - 2 weeks ago the Bears' tandem threw at the Vikings 34 times, for example. However, the Bears did not get in the endzone (21/34 for 248 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions).

Bradford is not listed this week, but he was probable last week and then the shoulder tightened up on him 90 minutes before the game. Carr is probable to play, but has a sore foot. Minnesota is coming off a bye week, and lists no one.

This game is to be played at Reliant Stadium - if the rains come, the retractable roof will probably be closed (30% chance of rain), but absent that, the team has been allowing the roof to be open to force their opponents to play in the sticky Houston humidity (80F for a high on Sunday, 65F for a low) which has caused cramping/dehydration issues for some players.

The Texans are starting to jell in this phase of the game, and they should rack up some yards this week - just don't expect a big number of TDs and you won't be disappointed. This matchup looks pretty even to us, although if Bradford can play then the Texans' Carr would be in a good position, fantasy-wise.

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

The Cardinals surprised the Saints last week, and notched a W in the win/loss column. However, the ground game was the engine that drove the Cardinal's to victory (and one TD pass by Emmitt Smith) - McCown was the 27th ranked fantasy QB last week with 12/18 for 157 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions. Ho-hum. Larry Fitzgerald led the team with 4 targets for 3/61/0 (Bryant Johnson also saw 4 balls, but only managed 1/7/0). Those two receivers have seen the majority of targets over the last 3 weeks - Fitzgerald has had 22 passes come his way (13/134/0), while Johnson looked at 19 passes (10/99/0). As you can see, even the most productive receivers on this team have very little fantasy impact. Arizona's OL is not helping matters by allowing a league-leading 15 sacks.

San Francisco was battered by the Rams 24-14 last week, allowing 17/25 for 186 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions to Marc Bulger in the process of dropping the game. The 49ers are 16th in the league allowing an average of 207.8 passing yards per game to date, but have allowed the 3rd most (tie) passing TDs with 7 given away to date. This just isn't a very good secondary, and they have lost starting CB Mike Rumph for the foreseeable future due to a broken arm suffered last week.

The 49ers suffered a few other bumps and bruises last week (aside from Rumph's broken arm) - but don't list any other injuries on Wednesday. Arizona's Anquan Boldin remains sidelined due to a surgically repaired meniscus that is healing.

Monster Stadium expects a high of 65F and a low of 56F, with a 10% chance of rain on Sunday. That's great football weather in our book.

Arizona just doesn't have much going in this phase of the game - but the 49ers don't either. Two subpar units face off in this battle of the bad - it's a fairly even match.

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

Chad Pennington didn't need to do much for his team to destroy the Dolphins, so he didn't - 14/24 for 143 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception was a disappointing fantasy outing for Pennington, Santana Moss (1 target for 1/17/0) and Justin McCareins owners (2 targets for 1/14/0). Moss is a major fantasy bust so far in 2004, with a pathetic 9/169/0 to his credit over 3 games (49th fantasy WR in the land). There just hasn't been much need to pass with a resurgent Curtis Martin trampling every defense he faces (85/425/4 rushing and 13/63/1 receiving in 3 games, #1 fantasy RB in the land).

Buffalo is in the middle of the NFL pack so far in 2004, allowing an average of 213.3 passing yards per game, and 4 scores to date. Last week, Tom Brady torched them for 17/30 for 298 yards, 2 scores and 0 interceptions - the Bills are back on their heels in this phase of the game coming into this game.

The Bills are dinged up, down S Lawyer Milloy (broken forearm), and CB Troy Vincent injured a knee last week (both are out), while S Coy Wire is questionable (thigh). The Jets are in good shape.

The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 66F and a low of 48F with a 20% chance of precipitation - excellent football weather, in other words.

The Jets are underperforming in this phase of the game in fantasy terms, while the wounded Bills are showing soft spots in the secondary - it's a fairly even matchup from where we sit.

New England's Passing Attack vs. The Miami Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Tom Brady continues to be a study in quarterbacking excellence, racking up 17/30 for 298 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions vs. The Bills last week (58/95 for 850 yards, 7 TDs and 3 interceptions to date, 4th best fantasy QB in fantasy points per week, with an average of 22.67). Daniel Graham has a legitimate claim to elite status among fantasy TEs, with 11/113/4 to his credit in 3 games - he is the primary redzone receiver for Brady right now. David Patten leads the team's receivers with 11/238/2 to date (11th best fantasy WR) - only he (22) and David Givens (21) has seen more than 20 targets over the first 3 games, and Graham is 3rd with 16 - the injured Deion Branch is 4th with 10 looks to date (first 2 games, sat out last week). All 3 of the top receivers merit serious consideration for fantasy starts right now.

14/24 for 143 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception was the tally that Chad Pennington posted on the Dolphins last week. The proud Dolphins D continues to swim against the tide, ranking 1st in the NFL allowing a minuscule 115.8 passing yards per game and only 2 scores to date, despite zip as far as support from the offense. Miami likes to pressure the opposing passers (11 sacks to date) but the Patriots aren't particularly vulnerable to that strategy (4 sacks allowed this season).

Deion Branch is listed as (doubtful), and Troy Brown is questionable (shoulder) for the Patriots - depth at WR is a concern here. QBs Tom Brady (shoulder) and Jim Miller (shoulder) are dinged up but probable to play. Miami lists CB Will Poole (groin, questionable), and CB Reggie Howard (hamstring, probable).

The forecast for Gillette Stadium calls for a high of 61F, a low of 44F, and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard at game time, the field could be slick and ball will be more difficult to get a handle on.

The Patriots are a powerful aerial assault - Miami is playing at elite levels right now. At the Patriots' house, we see this as an even matchup.

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

Michael Vick has loads of talent, but little experience in the Falcon's offense, and he isn't getting much help from his wide receivers as far as separation from opposing DBs go. That's not a recipe for fantasy fireworks, and it shows in Vick's passing statistics (47/79 for 605 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions). The running game is on fire lately, too, limiting the urgency to throw the ball in order to move downfield - there just isn't much here for fantasy owners, unless you have the good fortune to have Alge Crumpler on your team (16/250/1 to date, 4th best fantasy TE in the land averaging 7.75 fantasy points per game). Look elsewhere for your fantasy WRs, unless you are in a really tight situation roster-wise (and even then, you may prefer to go to the waiver wire rather than waste a slot on Price, White or Finneran).

Detroit is soft in this phase of the game, coughing up 277 yards per game on average (31st in the NFL) and giving away 4 scores to date. Two weeks ago Donovan McNabb victimized them for 356 yards and 2 TDs - but the Vick/Price connection does not resemble McNabb/Owens so far in 2004.

Detroit continues to have injury woes at DB, listing CB Andre Goodman (hamstring, doubtful) and CB Dre' Bly (knee, questionable)

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

Vick and company are struggling mightily in this phase, while the Lions are trying to bounce back from a thrashing at the hands of the Eagles. We see it as an ugly but even matchup with neither team clearly holding an upper hand.

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

Marc Bulger didn't need to throw a lot last week, as the Rams showed off their power running game with 36/174/2 last week - Bulger chipped in 17/25 for 186 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions, though. The most striking development of the first quarter of the Rams' season is that Isaac Bruce has 15 more targets (47 vs 32) and 7 more receptions (32 vs. 25) than Torry Holt - 32/448/1 vs. 25/310/2 in the team's first 4 games. Bruce is 7th among all fantasy WR right now, and Holt 17th (roughly the reverse of what most people expected before the season started). However, having a top 20 WR on your squad is nothing to complain about, so just bear with Holt's 310 yards and 2 scores and realize the 1240/8 pace he is currently on.

Seattle's defense is very tough in this phase of the game, allowing a mere 171.0 passing yards per game on average (and only 1 score to date). Ken Dorsey was ineffective against the Seahawks 2 weeks ago (19/32 for 153 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions) - the Seahawks just don't give up much in this phase of the game, folks.

Seattle comes into this game off a bye, while the Rams enjoy pretty decent health - injuries are not a huge issue before the fact in this matchup.

The forecast for Qwest Field in Seattle calls for a high of 60F and a low of 47F with a 10% chance for rain.

Seattle is very tough to throw on, but the Rams have a lot of weapons to deploy - this looks pretty even to us.

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

Tampa Bay, at 0-4, has shelved their playoff aspirations, benched their veteran QB, and started a rebuilding phase with new signal caller Chris Simms. That is not great news for owners of… well, the only receiving weapon the youngster has to throw at right now is Michael Clayton, so it's bad news for Michael Clayton owners. This team is in desperate straits in this phase of the game, folks. The WR cupboard is almost bare, the OL has allowed 12 sacks in 4 games - this just isn't an environment that is going to lend itself for instant success on Simms' part. Hopefully, he won't get injured by the constantly blitzing LBs and DBs he is likely to face.

New Orleans, at least, is a mediocre pass defense, allowing an average of 230.8 passing yards per game (23rd in the NFL). They have 9 sacks to their credit this season (11th in the NFL), so they are not in the top tier of NFL teams in that category (but that may change after this game) - they have limited the opposition to only 3 passing scores, though. Last week, Arizona managed 13/19 for 178 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions against the Saints (they have limited options in the passing game, too). Tebucky Jones was 8th among all fantasy DBs last week with 10 solo tackles - he was a good start if you have him on your IDP squad. Charles Grant has 5 sacks this season after only 4 games.

The Bucs are still without WRs Joey Galloway (groin, out), Frank Murphy (Achilles, out) and Joe Jurevicius (PUP). New Orleans lists new CB Mike McKenzie as doubtful (hamstring).

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

Young QBs are rarely very good in this league, and Simms doesn't have much help. This is a tough matchup for the new Tampa QB.

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

New Orleans was surprised by the Cardinals last week, and Aaron Brooks was largely ineffective (24/40 for 242 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions) while the running game was downright bad (14/41/0). It was one of those weeks were nothing went well for the Saints, although Aaron Stecker made some hay catching the ball (6/71/0 to lead the team). Nobody else got above 50 yards receiving on the day. However, Brooks is the 5th best fantasy QB this season, with 91/152 for 1060 yards passing, 5 TDs and 1 interception, so its hardly time to panic and yank him from your lineup. Every team has an off game now and then (except the Patriots right now).

Tampa Bay's proud defense continues to fight hard despite the losing, and currently ranks 4th in the NFL with 153.3 passing yards allowed per game, surrendering only 3 scores to date. Jake Plummer eked out 13/31 for 138 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions last week - this is one of the elite pass defenses in the NFL, folks.

New Orleans lists WR Talman Gardner (ankle, questionable) and Jerome Pathon (hamstring, questionable).

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

Tampa Bay doesn't bend their knee to anyone, and that won't change this week. This is a tough matchup for the Saints.

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

Carolina just isn't getting the gob done. They are soft against the run, and end up playing from behind a good bit. That's good news for Jake Delhomme owners, though, because the team is relying on his arm more than ever. Over the first 4 weeks of the season, Delhomme is the 8th best fantasy QB in the land, averaging 18.3 fantasy points per game. Last week, he was a little off due to throwing 0 TDs and 2 interceptions (23/38 for 308 yards), but still ended up 12th among fantasy signal callers. Muhsin Muhammad put in a renaissance performance, with 12 targets for 7/114/0, and sidekick Keary Colbert had a workmanlike 4/40/0 on 7 targets as the second-most thrown to Panther on the field. The game plan called for Muhammad to use his height advantage over the smurfish Falcon DBs, so Muhammad was the focal point last week.

Denver, of course, deploys a very stout secondary with Champ Bailey and the surprising Willie Middlebrooks (3 solo tackles, a sack, a fumble recovery and a pass defensed put Middlebrooks at #10 among all fantasy DBs last week).They rank second in the NFL in pass yards allowed per game (137) and have only given away 2 scores to date. Like we said, stout. Brad Johnson managed 15/32 for 162 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions against this unit last week - there isn't many fantasy points to be had in this phase of the game when Denver plays up to their capabilities.

Steve Smith remains sidelined with his broken leg, and coach Fox recently said (10/1/04) that he might not be back in the lineup until December, so Smith owners should be looking at other options at this point. WR Karl Hankton has a sore hamstring (questionable). Denver enjoys good health on their unit, with CBs Roc Alexander (finger) and Lenny Walls (shoulder) probable to play.

The forecast for Mile High Stadium calls for a high of 65F and a low of 46F with a 30% chance of precipitation. That doesn't sound like a forecast for snow, but cold rain or sleet is always a possibility at this time of year in the high country - if the precipitation comes down hard around game time, conditions on the field could be less-than-optimum.

Denver is very tough to throw on, and that won't change this week in Mile High Stadium. Advantage, Denver.

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

The rushing game started to show signs of life last week, but the team relied more on their D than Jake Plummer and company to pull out the win - Plummer eked out 13/31 for 138 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions to squeak by the Buccaneers on a lackluster day for the Denver offense in general. TE Jeb Putzier led the team with 2/42/0, while Rod Smith pulled in 4/32/0 (the TD went to fantasy waste in the hands of Patrick Hape (1/5/1)). Bronco owners suffered from a power-outage in general last week. However, Plummer has been productive at points so far in 2004, with 79/135 for 912 yards, 5 TDs and only 2 interceptions (20/76/0 rushing) - 12th best fantasy QB so far in 2004 - don't give up on him and his crew due to the off-week. It looks more like an aberration than a trend.

Carolina's pass D contained the Falcons' wide receivers quite neatly, but gave up a lot of ground to TE Alge Crumpler. Overall, though, Vick was uninspiring, with 10/18 for 148 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions against the Carolina DBs. The team allows a paltry 149 passing yards per game on average (3rd best in the NFL) and has only coughed up 1 passing score all year - they are playing well in this phase of the game, statistically speaking (which is all we care about in fantasy terms).

Both squads enjoy decent health, with no major injuries to report.

The forecast for Mile High Stadium calls for a high of 65F and a low of 46F with a 30% chance of precipitation. That doesn't sound like a forecast for snow, but cold rain or sleet is always a possibility at this time of year in the high country - if the precipitation comes down hard around game time, conditions on the field could be less-than-optimum.

Plummer and crew stumbled last week against the Buccaneers, and the Panthers play very tough in this phase of the game. Advantage, Carolina.

San Francisco's Passing Attack vs. The Arizona Defense (Tough Matchup)

Tim Rattay finally got under center, and he was much more productive (in fantasy terms) than his predecessor Ken Dorsey (38th ranked fantasy QB in fantasy points per game, with 6.87 FP per game in 3 tries) - Rattay finished the week at #4 fantasy QB overall, with 31/47 for 299 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception. Considering how generous the 49er defense is to opposing offenses, Rattay is likely to be playing from behind a lot this season - that should make for a lot of stout fantasy outings. TE Eric Johnson (12 targets for 10/113/0) led the team in yardage, but Curtis Conway caught the TD (11 for 6/55/1). Rookie Rashaun Woods also caught the first TD of his pro career (5 targets for 2/35/1) - with Brandon Lloyd sidelined due to a groin injury, Woods is someone to keep an eye on. If he can produce consistently while Lloyd is sidelined, then Woods could move into the starting lineup.

Arizona's secondary is actually fairly stout, allowing an average of 201.5 passing yards per game to date (14th in the NFL), and only 3 passing scores to date. Aaron Brooks couldn't do much against this bunch last week, with 24/40 for 242 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions to his credit. One big vulnerability of the 49ers is their pass protection - 11 sacks allowed in 4 losses and counting - so expect to see a lot of pressure coming to bear on Tim Rattay this weekend (Arizona is tied for 11th in the NFL with 9 sacks to date).

Brandon Lloyd has missed action due to his groin injury (probable). Arnaz Battle has a thigh injury (probable). TE Eric Johnson has sore ribs (probable). Arizona's CB Duane Starks dislocated a shoulder in the game last week, and is listed as out.

Monster Stadium expects a high of 65F and a low of 56F, with a 10% chance of rain on Sunday. That's great football weather in our book.

The 49ers pass offense came to life a little with Rattay under center last week - however, the Cardinals are stern enough in this phase to make this matchup a tough challenge for the youthful 49er squad.

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

An interesting thing is happening in this phase of the game with Todd Heap and Travis Taylor sidelined - Randy Hymes is becoming a legitimate fantasy WR. In fact, over the first 4 games of this season (with the majority of the action happening in the last two weeks), Hymes is the 27th ranked fantasy WR, averaging 7.8 fantasy points per game (14/192/2). Last week, with 2/68/1, Hymes was the 8th best fantasy WR in the land. He may keep Travis Taylor out of the lineup at this rate folks, and Hymes is certainly worth grabbing if you have a need at WR. Most folks hadn't heard of him until 2 weeks ago, so he may still be on your league's waiver wire. Other than Hymes, though, this squad is a fantasy wasteland in the passing game - Boller is the 28th ranked fantasy QB in the land averaging 12.05 passing yards per game over the first quarter of the season.

Washington's pass D has been unforgiving this year, ranking 12th in the NFL allowing 193.8 pass yards per game, with 4 scores surrendered to date (not too shabby). Jeff Garcia managed 14/21 for 195 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions last week - right on pace for the team average.

S Andre Lott missed the game last week due to a hamstring injury (questionable this week). CB Shawn Springs has a sore ankle (probable). Heap and Taylor missed the game last week, and Heap isn't expected back this week, either. Taylor is questionable. TE Terry Jones is probable to play (shoulder).

The forecast for FedEx Field calls for a high of 70F, with a low of 46F and a 20% chance of precipitation.

Boller is not asked to throw the ball much, but when he does, it generally goes to Hymes right now. Washington is tough to move the ball on, and tough to score on, so don't expect an explosive amount of fantasy points from the Boller/Hymes connection this week. It's a tough matchup for the limited Ravens attack.

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

Drew Brees was on-again last week, racking up 16/20 for 206 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions against the Titan's secondary. He looked very good, hooking up with Reche Caldwell (3/110/1), Antonio Gates (7/57/1) and Justin Peelle (1/10/1) for his scores. Caldwell has stepped into the elite ranks of fantasy WRs, and finally seems to be fulfilling his fantasy promise (14/281/3, 10th best fantasy WR with 12.02 FP per game) while Eric Parker's neck injury has limited him to practically nil in recent weeks (0 targets last week). Parker can't seem to get his neck injury healed enough to play - he's questionable this week.

Jacksonville's D was not particularly effective against the high-octane Colts last week (20/29 for 219 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception on Manning's part). They are usually made of stouter stuff, though, with an average of 186.8 passing yards allowed per game (10th in the NFL), and only 3 scores surrendered to date. World-class QBs like Manning will make even the best secondaries look bad on occasion.

Aside from Parker's neck, the teams come into this game in decent shape, San Diego lists Brees (shoulder) and Tim Dwight (toe) are probable.

The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for typically beautiful Southern California weather (71F for a high, 58F for a low, 0% chance of precipitation).

Brees is on a mini-roll, with home field advantage to his credit - but the Jaguars are a very good to great unit that will test the erratic San Diego signal caller. Advantage, Jaguars.

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

Drew Bledsoe is in the twilight of his career, folks. He hasn't looked sharp at all, and it's time to admit that he is no longer a quality NFL or fantasy starter. 48/80 for 598 yards, 3 TDs and 2 interceptions over 3 games is subpar (21st fantasy QB in fantasy points per game, averaging 13.2 FP per week). Eric Moulds is the only quality fantasy prospect on the squad, with 20/242/3 over 3 games (5th best fantasy WR over the first ¼ of the season, with 14.17 FP per game). The OL is not helping matters by allowing opposing defenders to tee off on Bledsoe (league-leading 15 sacks surrendered to date).

The Jets stymied the under-strength Dolphins last week, holding the on-again starter Jay Fiedler to 18/33 for 206 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions. They have only allowed 3 passing scores in 3 victories, and limit opponents to an average of 216.7 yards per game (subpar at 19th in the league, but not terrible).

Both teams come into the game in decent shape, although rookie QB J.P. Losman is sidelined due to his broken leg. CB Donnie Abraham has a sore hip (probable).

The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 66F and a low of 48F with a 20% chance of precipitation - excellent football weather, in other words.

Bledsoe just isn't on top of his game anymore, and the Jets play hard-nosed pass D - advantage, Jets.

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

Rookie Ben Roethlisberger has been even better than expected, and is managing the Pittsburgh passing attack with considerable ability. Those of you who drafted him in a dynasty league can congratulate yourselves - he looks like a keeper. At 13.03 fantasy points per game (on average) his isn't starting material yet, though (22nd fantasy QB in the land to date). Plaxico Burress had a nice game last week (9 targets for 4/69/0), but he needs to convert more of his chances if he is to regain above-average fantasy status. Hines Ward was his usual sure-handed self (7 targets for 6/48/0) - 17 of his 28 2004 receptions have been for first downs - but didn't generate much in the way of fantasy points. This attack is still in its infancy, dependent on Roethlisberger's continued development - right now, you might find more fantasy points elsewhere on your roster, frankly.

Cleveland's pass defense gave up 17/192/0 to the Redskins last week, and the Browns have been tough to score on in this phase of the game all year long (1 TD allowed to date) while giving up a generous average of 236.8 passing yards per contest (26th in the NFL). However, as the game last week showed, they are clamping down as the weeks go by.

Tommy Maddox remains sidelined by his injured elbow (and it looks like he's lost his starting job at this point). WR Hines Ward is probable (wrist). Cleveland's secondary is in good health at this point.

The forecast for Heinz Field calls for a high of 61F and a low of 42F, with a 20% chance for rain - a nice day is on tap up in Pennsylvania, it appears.

The Steelers are taking baby steps right now, and the Browns are starting to jell in this phase - this divisional rivalry would be a tough test for any rookie QB, no matter how promising.

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

Joey Harrington has been making do quite well recently, thanks to Roy Williams. He threw for 21/38 for 199 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions in the game vs. Philadelphia before last week's bye. He has tossed 6 TDs and only 2 interceptions this season (53/89 for 562 yards in 3 games). Williams is definitely a fantasy starter on any fantasy squad, as he is the 3rd ranked WR in fantasy points per game to date with 17.27 on average (17/277/4 TDs in 3 games). He rung up 9/135/2 on 16 chances in the game 2 weeks ago, and is the focal point of the Detroit offense. The team will need to throw more than ever with starter Kevin Jones sidelined thanks to a bum ankle - Williams owners have got to like their chances for a standout game again this week. He has seen 29 targets, twice as many as #2 target TE Stephen Alexander (14). One big concern for Harrington owners this week is that the Lions' pass blocking is suddenly porous, allowing 9 sacks to date, and Atlanta loves to get in the QB's face (16 sacks to date, 2nd in the NFL right now). That's potential for trouble, Harrington owners.

Atlanta's pass defense is no joke, though, holding opponents to only 3 passing scores to date (they have allowed a lot of yards, though, averaging 247 per game - 27th in the league) so its not all roses for the Falcons. CB Kevin Mathis ran back an interception for a score last week, and SS Bryan Scott was all over the field with 7 solo tackles, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble, and 1 pass defensed (6th fantasy DB on the day) - the team is making big plays right now. DE Patrick Kerney leads the NFL with 7 sacks to date.

Both teams are in decent shape, health-wise. CB DeAngelo Hall remains sidelined by his bad hip, while fellow CB Jason Webster (knee, questionable) and S Cory Hall (back, probable) are also listed.

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

Harrington and company have been clicking lately, but the aggressive Falcons have a defense that matches up against the Lions' weaknesses on the OL and hold the home-field advantage. The Falcons have the edge in this one.

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

Jeff Garcia and company continue to struggle to get on the same page for the Browns, and the lack of a cohesive attack is seriously depressing his fantasy value. As of this week, he has put up an average of 12.63 fantasy points per game (26th fantasy QB in the land), with 58/103 for 626 yards, 3 TDs and 4 interceptions in 4 games. That's not much production, folks. The top Cleveland receiver, Quincy Morgan, checks in at 48th on the WR board, with 7/119/2 to his credit (5.98 fantasy points per game). Last week, Andre Davis snagged 3/93/0 to approach fantasy respectability (21st fantasy WR last week) - but nobody is getting it done consistently from week to week in Cleveland right now. Start Browns at your own risk right now.

Pittsburgh played the Bengals last week, and limited NFL newbie Carson Palmer to 20/37 for 164 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions. 2 Pittsburgh DBs were in the top ten among fantasy DBs last week: Chad Scott was 7th with 6 solo tackles, 1 assist, 1 interception and 1 pass defensed, while Troy Polamalu returned an interception for a score, and added 4 solo tackles, 2 assists, and 2 passes defensed (tops in the league). They are at the peak of their game in the Steelers' secondary coming into this contest. The team allows a mere 164.3 passing yards per game on average, and only 3 scores to date - 5th in the NFL in terms of yards allowed.

Neither team has new injuries of note to report, although Kellen Winslow is out for the season with a badly broken leg/surgical repairs (in case you haven't been paying attention lately, we'll mention it).

The forecast for Heinz Field calls for a high of 61F and a low of 42F, with a 20% chance for rain - a nice day is on tap up in Pennsylvania, it appears.

Cleveland is in for a tough game.

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

This struggling unit deserves worse than scare quotes, but we run a clean business and the language required to describe the Dolphins' passing offense right now isn't fit to print. They are that bad. 2 TDs tossed vs. 9 interceptions thrown between the two starters. 3 fumbles lost. 12 sacks allowed (4th worst in the NFL). What a waste of a superior defensive squad, which somehow manages to keep the Dolphins in most games despite the truly awful offense. The lone bright spot is TE Randy McMichael (24/274/1 so far, 3rd best fantasy TE in the land).

They're in for a tough fight this week, as the Dolphins go to division rival New England, who sport the leagues' 9th best secondary (186.7 passing yards allowed per game, to date, with only 3 scores surrendered). This unit handily contained a slightly-better-than-Miami team in the Bills last week, allowing 247 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to Drew Bledsoe. Expect the numbers to come closer to their season average this week. In further bad news for Dolphins' fans, the Patriots are 3rd in the league with 13 sacks, and the Dolphins 4th in the league with 12 sacks allowed - Uh-Oh, Jay Fiedler.

Chris Chambers continues to struggle with an injured knee (questionable). The Patriots list CB Tyrone Poole (knee, questionable).

The forecast for Gillette Stadium calls for a high of 61F, a low of 44F, and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard at game time, the field could be slick and ball will be more difficult to get a handle on - bad news for the fumble-fingered Dolphin QBs.

Miami is truly awful, while the Patriots are good-to-great most weeks. The overwhelming edge goes to the Patriots - it's a bad matchup.