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Hi Folks, Here's our look at the Rushing 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 Priest Holmes is playing the toughest rush defense in the league, that just means he's got a tough matchup that week. He's also your starter. In the same way, if the worst RB on your roster has a "great" matchup, that doesn't necessarily mean you start him, it just means he'll likely fare better this week than he normally would. Bottom line, the cheatsheets are the final word. Joe ************************************** Bye Weeks Tennessee's Steve McNair/Derrick Mason and company Quick Index Minnesota's Passing Attack vs. The Indianapolis Defense (Great Matchup) Tampa Bay's Passing Attack vs. The Kansas City Defense (Good Matchup) San Francisco's Passing Attack vs. The Seattle Defense (Neutral Matchup) Oakland's Passing Attack vs. The Carolina Defense (Tough Matchup) Minnesota's Passing Attack vs. The Indianapolis Defense (Great Matchup) Daunte Culpepper: 183/259 for 2180 yards, 20 TDs and 5 interceptions in the first 7 games of the season. He's the #1 fantasy QB in the land to date, averaging 29.43 fantasy points per game. The Indianapolis' defense is dead last vs. the pass, allowing an average of 305.9 passing yards per game, with 14 passing scores given up so far. Hmmm - do you think this game may be a high-scoring affair? Start the Vikings on your roster (if they end up being healthy enough to play) - this one should be a barn-burner. With a bunch of balls in the air, this matchup figures to be an IDP goldmine at DB - last week, S Mike Doss had 8 solo tackles, 1 assist, 1 sack and 2 forced fumbles (but see below). Bob Sanders had 8 solo tackles, 1 assist, and 1 fumble recovery. Injuries are a huge factor in this game. Both teams are very beaten up at this juncture, with Randy Moss nursing a very sore hamstring (questionable) and Marcus Robinson limping around on a sprained foot (probable). The Colts' key S Mike Doss injured his groin last week (doubtful), and fellow S Cory Bird (knee/calf, doubtful) and CB Joseph Jefferson (knee, questionable) missed the game last week. CB Nick Harper (shoulder, questionable) and S Idrees Bashir (back, questionable) are also listed, as is CB Jason David (hip, probable).If you are invested in the Viking's attack, keep a close eye on the progress of all of these players as game-time approaches. The Viking's passing attack is clearly not nearly as powerful when Moss can't play - meanwhile, Doss is arguably the best player on a very poor pass defense - again, injuries are a huge unknown quantity in this matchup as of mid week. This game is to be played in the RCA dome, so weather won't be important. The Vikings should be able to do good things against the Colt's weak pass defense, if they have the personnel to field an effective attack. Indianapolis' Passing Attack vs. The Minnesota Defense (Great Matchup) Peyton Manning: 156/240 for 2161 passing yards, 22 TDs and 4 interceptions in the first 7 games of the season. He's the #2 fantasy QB in the land to date, averaging 27.7 fantasy points per game. Minnesota's pass defense: 27th in the NFL allowing an average of 243.4 passing yards per game this season, with 7 TDs given up in this phase to date. This should be a high-scoring affair, folks. Hang on to your hats Monday Night, and start your Colts if you are lucky enough to have one on your roster. It looks like the sky is the limit as far as offensive potential in this matchup - both teams figure to score quickly and often. Indianapolis lists WR Troy Walters as out, as usual (broken arm). Reserve WR Brad Pyatt is probable this week (ankle). Minnesota's secondary is in good shape. This game is to be played in the RCA dome, so weather won't be a factor. No need to ramble on, start your Colts here. San Diego's Passing Attack vs. The New Orleans' Defense (Great Matchup) Drew Brees is on fire right now. 22/25 for 281 yards, 5 TDs and 0 interceptions last week helped power the Chargers to a lopsided 42-14 victory over their division rivals from Oakland. He's hit 66/88 for 704 yards, 6 TDs and 1 interception in the past 3 games. Clearly, Brees is taking care of the ball and not making many errors in judgment in recent weeks. Antonio Gates (21 targets for 18/204/2 in the past 3 weeks) and Eric Parker (20 for 16/214/1) are the featured receivers, with strong assistance from Charger newbie Keenan McCardell (13 for 9/120/1 since arriving in San Diego). The Chargers look strong in this phase of the game right now. New Orleans, on the other hand, is very weak in pass defense, allowing an average of 275.4 passing yards per game (31st in the NFL) and surrendering a total of 11 scores to date. Over the past 4 weeks, they've given up an average of 335 yards and 2.7 TDs per game - among the worst performances in the NFL during that span. Kerry Collins, hardly a model of excellence this season, managed to hang 26/45 for 350 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception on the Saints before they went on their bye - soft is the only polite term for this secondary. The Chargers come into the game in fairly good shape, with only WR Tim Dwight (toe, probable) on the report. New Orleans came out of bye week with CB Ashley Ambrose as probable (knee). The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for a high of 70F and a low of 53F with a 30% chance for rain. Hopefully, the rain will not come down hard at game time - otherwise, the conditions sound like great football weather. The Chargers are hot in this phase of the game - the Saints, meanwhile, are ice cold. Advantage, San Diego. Tampa Bay's Passing Attack vs. The Kansas City Defense (Good Matchup) Tampa has come alive under the leadership of Brian Griese - he has thrown 42/63 for 449 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception (18th fantasy QB in FP per game, averaging 16.70 fantasy points per game). Michael Clayton is playing well right now, and is the most targeted player on the team by far, with 20 targets for 14/204/1 over the past 3 weeks (Michael Pittman is second on the team, with 8 targets for 6/71/1 in that same span). While they are not a "high-octane" offense at this point, the offense is performing at a higher level than we saw earlier in the season. 15/23 for 163 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions was the mark that Griese set heading into the bye week (vs. Chicago). Kansas City's defense failed to stop the Colts last week - somehow, they managed to win despite 25/44 for 472 yards, 5 TDs and 1 interception on the part of Peyton Manning and company. It was not a scintillating performance for the Chiefs' secondary. They are tied for 3rd-most passing scores allowed this season (14), and have averaged 227.9 passing yards allowed this season. Of course, given Manning's huge game, they are significantly worse in that department over the past 3 weeks, allowing an average of 284 yards per game during that span. Tampa comes off their bye week in good shape, listing WRs Joey Galloway (groin), Joe Jurevicius (back) and Charles Lee (knee) as questionable, along with backup QB Chris Simms (shoulder). CBs Dexter McCleon (hamstring, questionable) and CB William Bartee (foot, probable) are listed for the Chiefs. The forecast for Raymond James Stadium calls for a high of 77F and a low of 57F with a 20% for precipitation. Weather will not be an issue if the forecast holds up. Tampa's offense has found a sort of rhythm over the past few weeks, while the Chiefs' secondary is not on top of their game right at the moment. At home, we give the nod to the Buc's unit. New England's Passing Attack vs. The St. Louis Defense (Good Matchup) Tom Brady had a solid fantasy performance last week, with 25/43 for 271 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions to his credit - it was not enough to win the game in the NFL, but Brady helped his fantasy owners last week. David Givens continues to be one of Brady's favorite targets (13 for 8/101/2 last week) even though Troy Brown returned to the lineup last week (7 for 5/59/0). David Patten was second on the team in targets last week (11 for 5/41/0). 64/102 for 732 yards, 4 TDs and 3 interceptions is the total that Brady has amassed in the past 3 weeks. St. Louis choked against the Dolphins two weeks ago, allowing 13/17 for 203 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions on their way to dropping a game to one of the worst teams in the NFL. The Rams have been lackluster in this phase of the game all year (averaging 229.7 passing yards allowed (23rd in the NFL) and giving away 10 passing scores to date). Over the past 3 weeks, the team has surrendered an average of 241.5 passing yards per game - they don't shut people down in this phase of the game. St. Louis comes into the game off a bye week in good health. New England has been waiting on WR Deion Branch all season (knee, doubtful). WRs Troy Brown (shoulder) and David Givens (knee) are both questionable, while QBs Brady and Jim Miller are probable to play despite sore throwing shoulders. This game is going to be played in the Edward Jones Dome - weather will not be a factor in this matchup. Brady and company can mount a powerful attack, while the Rams are below average at defending the pass - advantage, New England. St. Louis' Passing Attack vs. The New England Defense (Good Matchup) Marc Bulger passed for 23/39 yielding 295 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception vs. The Dolphins two weeks ago - it was a solid fantasy outing on his part. Isaac Bruce led the team in yards (6 targets for 5/98/0) while Marshall Faulk caught the most passes (9 targets for 8/74/0). Torry Holt had an off game (4 targets for 1/4/0), but has gathered 7/128/2 over the past 2 contests (14th among fantasy WRs in that span) - the 1/4/0 performance looks like an aberration and not a trend. Bulger has thrown 161/250 for 1985 yards, 10 TDs and 7 interceptions so far this year (9/47/3 rushing) to rank 4th among fantasy QBs in fantasy points per game - Bruce and Holt play in an explosive system and merit fantasy starts each week. Shaun McDonald has been hot lately (13 targets for 7/107/1 in the last 2 games) including 10 targets for 4/77/1 in the most recent game two weeks ago. Coach Cowher "officially" made Roethlisberger the starter for Pittsburgh earlier this week (no surprise there). New England lost for the first time this season last week, allowing 18/24 for 196 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions to Ben Roethlisberger and company. CB Ty Law has been lost for 4-6 weeks with a broken bone in his foot, which is a big subtraction for this unit (23 tackles, 5 assists, 1 interception and 3 passes defensed to date). The Patriots are the 15th ranked pass defense in the land (allowing an average of 212.4 passing yards per game), but have only given away 6 passing TDs this season. Over the past 4 weeks, they've averaged 232 yards and .8 TDs allowed per game. This is a solid, but not outstanding, secondary that has lost their top CB coming into this week's game. Rodney Harrison was an IDP monster last week, with 10 solo tackles and 8 assists last week. Aside from Law, the Patriots list CB Tyrone Poole (knee, out) - he missed last week's game. WR Dane Looker is doubtful to play (ankle). This game is going to be played in the Edward Jones Dome - weather will not be a factor in this matchup. The Rams field a lethal passing attack, while the Patriots have been knocked back on their heels and face a void at CB thanks to the loss of Ty Law. Advantage, St. Louis. New Orleans' Passing Attack vs. The San Diego Defense (Good Matchup) Aaron Brooks has been a consistently solid fantasy QB this season, with 147/252 for 1697 yards, 9 TDs and 3 interceptions (25/100/1 rushing) to his credit after 7 games played - the guy has been producing fantasy points at an average of 21.05 per game over the past 3 weeks (45/77 for 531 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception passing in 2 games) - he is a solid play at QB most weeks. Over his most recent 2 games, Jerome Pathon has emerged as a more consistent fantasy WR than Donte Stallworth (14 targets for 10/171/0 for Pathon vs. 15 targets for 5/49/0 for Stallworth) - Joe Horn is, as usual, the #1 WR on the team (23 for 16/188/1). Look for the tandem of Pathon and Horn to continue to be productive in the weeks to come. San Diego is on the rise in the NFL, sitting at 5-3 after 8 weeks - but their pass defense is not a strong point. The team averages 249.1 passing yards allowed per game this year, and has given up 10 passing scores to date. Over the past 4 weeks, the Chargers have allowed an average of 240 yards and 1 TD per game. They were in that range last week, allowing 263 yards passing and 1 scoring toss to Kerry Collins (2 interceptions). They are a subpar group, by all yardsticks. The Saints come into this game off a bye week and list TE Boo Williams (hamstring, questionable). San Diego says CB Drayton Florence is hobbled by a bad ankle (questionable) and he has missed action in the past few weeks. The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for a high of 70F and a low of 53F with a 30% chance for rain. Hopefully, the rain will not come down hard at game time - otherwise, the conditions sound like great football weather. The Saints are reliably solid in this phase of the game, while the Chargers are suspect - advantage, New Orleans. Dallas' Passing Attack vs. The Cincinnati Defense (Good Matchup) Vinny Testaverde has thrown 5 TDs in the past 3 weeks - 3 to Keyshawn Johnson (14/214/3) and 2 to Jason Witten (22/237/2). Johnson has 24 targets in that span, while Witten has seen 25 passes - with Glenn out due to torn ligaments in his foot, and Quincy Morgan struggling with a bad hamstring, we expect to see Johnson and Witten form the focus of the Dallas passing game this week, too. Witten is the 2nd best fantasy TE and Johnson is the 6th ranked fantasy receiver during the past 3 weeks - start them if you've got them. Cincinnati isn't too stout in this phase of the game, averaging 202 passing yards allowed per game (11th in the NFL) while coughing up 12 passing scores to date. Over the past 3 weeks, they've been even worse, allowing an average of 233.3 passing yards per game. Last week, 21/32 for 210 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception was the total that Volek hung on the Bengals. There is plenty of room to maneuver in the Bengals' secondary right now. They have also not brought a lot of pressure to bear on the opposing QBs to date, ranking 31st in the NFL with only 11 sacks to date. Glenn's woes are outlined above - Morgan is described as questionable this week. Cincinnati has CB Rashad Bauman (Achilles, questionable) on their report Wednesday. He hasn't played for several weeks, now. Ss Kim Herring (knee) and Kevin Kaesviharn (hand), along with CB Reggie Myles, are probable to play. The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 53F and a low of 31F with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the moisture comes down hard at game time, the field could get slick and the ball harder to handle - weather could be an "X" factor in this game. Dallas has a thin receiving corps, but Johnson and Witten have been fantasy gold lately as a result. The Cincinnati defense is soft in this phase - we think this is an attractive matchup for the Cowboys. Cincinnati's Passing Attack vs. The Dallas Defense (Good Matchup) Carson Palmer put up 20/36 for 247 yards, 0 TD and 1 interception last week - it wasn't his best game of the year, but Chad Johnson (6/67/0) and T.J. Houshmandzadeh (4/81/0) both grabbed a lot of passes and posted respectable yardage totals. Peter Warrick has been unable to play effectively for most of the season due to a shin injury. Johnson remains the top receiver on the team by far, with 31 targets for 16/253/1 over the past 3 weeks (the next-most-targeted receiver is Kenny Watson (12 for 9/47/0). Dallas' pass D has been pretty soft this year, averaging 217.6 passing yards per game allowed, and they have given up the second-most passing scores this season, totaling 15 to date. Over the past 3 weeks, the average is 225.7 passing yards per game - the Cowboy's have given up 10 TDs (rushing and receiving) in that span, second-most in the NFL. Last week, Joey Harrington lit them up for 19/32 for 255 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception - the Cowboys' secondary is just not playing well, period. Cincinnati lists Peter Warrick as questionable due to his bad shin. Dallas' defense is in good health at this point, with only DB Tyrone Williams listed on Wednesday (hamstring, questionable). The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 53F and a low of 31F with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the moisture comes down hard at game time, the field could get slick and the ball harder to handle - weather could be an "X" factor in this game. Palmer and company have good prospects this week against the soft Cowboy's defense. Denver's Passing Attack vs. The Houston Defense (Good Matchup) Jake Plummer was a mad bomber last week vs. The Falcons, hitting 31/55 for 499 yards, 4 TDs and 3 interceptions. Rod Smith tore up the Falcons' secondary (9/208/1), while Ashley Lelie (11 targets for 6/94/1) and Darius Watts (11 targets for 7/86/1) both contributed to the effort. TE Patrick Hape grabbed a TD on his single look (1/1/1), too, while TE Jeb Putzier saw 4 balls but managed just 2/47/0. It was a great week to be a Plummer owner. Houston's defense slowed down Jacksonville's offense last week, holding the Jags duo to 27/42 to 255 yards with 0 TDs and 2 interceptions - that's a significant improvement as far as TDs allowed, as the Texans are tied for 3rd-most passing scores surrendered to date (14) - the team averages 233.7 passing yards allowed per game (25th in the NFL). Over the past 3 games, the team averages 226 passing yards per game (2 games) and has generated 6 interceptions vs. only 1 TD allowed (a McNair pass to Drew Bennett). This unit has stiffened their resistance in recent weeks. CB Demarcus Faggins had 7 solo tackles, 1 interception and 1 pass defensed and landed in the top ten among IDP DBs. Houston has a depleted safety corps, with S Jason Simmons (head, questionable) and S Glenn Earl (hip, probable) on the injury report - both missed last week's contest. CBs Aaron Glenn (chest) and Kenny Wright (knee) are probable to play. Denver is in good shape on their side of the ball, with only WR Darius Watts (shoulder) listed as probable. The forecast for Mile High Stadium calls for a high of 63F and a low of 37F with a 10% chance for precipitation. It should be crisp day to play a game of football. Denver has the ability to explode when Plummer is "on" - the Texans were suspect early in the season, but have been stout in recent contests. With home field advantage in favor of the offense, we lean slightly toward the Broncos in this matchup. Carolina's Passing Attack vs. The Oakland Defense (Good Matchup) Jake Delhomme and the Panther's receivers are the most productive component of their injury-riddled offense this season, and that's not saying much - Delhomme ranks as the 20th fantasy QB in the land to date, with 135/240 for 1553 yards, 9 TDs and 11 interceptions to his credit to date. Over the past 3 weeks, he's thrown twice as many interceptions (6) as TDs (3) - going 60/114 for 608 yards. It's fair to say that the Panthers are in a slump in this phase of the game right now. Last week, Muhsin Muhammad led the team in targets (11) and receptions (8/106/2) - Keary Colbert made his 5 chances count (4/100/0) in his role as second-fiddle. Nobody else on the team managed to break 25 yards receiving - this attack is a 3-man show right now. Oakland was absolutely torched by Drew Brees last week (22/25 for 281 yards, 5 TDs and 0 interceptions) - it wasn't even close. Charles Woodson only managed to play for half of the game (hip pointer, ) - the Raiders are in the basement in this phase of the game, allowing a league-worst 16 passing scores to date (220.3 passing yards per game, 19th in the NFL). They are worse over the past 4 weeks, allowing 233 yards and 3.0 passing scores per game on average. It's all bad in this phase of the game for the Raiders. However, S Marques Anderson was an IDP star last week, with 8 solo tackles, 1 assist, and 1 fumble recovery. Woodson is said to be doubtful due to his sore hip. Carolina is in good shape,
with no new injuries to report. The Panthers are in a downswing in this phase of the game - however, Oakland makes almost all the opposing QBs they face look good this year. Advantage, Carolina. Philadelphia's Passing Attack vs. The Pittsburgh Defense (Good Matchup) With Brian Westbrook apparently unavailable to play this weekend, the Eagles will need to rely on their passing game to move the team down the field. Todd Pinkston, the teams' #2 receiver, sprained a knee last week and is questionable to play in this contest. That probably means we'll see another rendition of the McNabb-to-Owens show this weekend (not a bad thing at all if you happen to be a McNabb or Owens owner). The tandem has been amazingly productive in the first half of the season (McNabb: 158/246 for 1972 yards, 14 TDs and only 3 interceptions passing to date(#3 fantasy QB in the land); Owens has hauled in 42/697/9 to lead all fantasy WRs in fantasy points per game). They are on fire, with 18/33 for 219 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions for McNabb against the tough Ravens last week (8/101/1 went to Owens). Pittsburgh has been mediocre in this phase of the game over the past 4 weeks, allowing an average of 230 yards and 1.3 TDs per game - well off their 9th ranked pace of 193.6 yards per game this season (7 passing scores allowed to date). Tom Brady hit the Steelers for 25/43 for 271 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions last week - they are slipping in this phase lately. Part of the Steelers' problem is that CB Chad Scott is out (quadriceps). Philadelphia comes into the game listing Pinkston (knee) as questionable to play. The forecast for Heinz field calls for a high of 52F with a low of 40F and a 40% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard at game time, the field could get slick and the ball could be harder to handle. Philadelphia has a powerful attack, but they are having some injury issues right now. The Steelers are also hurting lately, though, and are not as strong at mid-season as they were to begin the year. Advantage, Philadelphia. Pittsburgh's Passing Attack vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Good Matchup) Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger is putting together a remarkable rookie campaign - coach Cowher "officially" anointed him the teams' starter this week, but it was a mere formality - Roethlisberger has been in charge of the attack since he started taking snaps. So far, he has thrown for 96/137 for 1133 yards, 9 TDs and 4 interceptions in 6 games of action. Plaxico Burress and Roethlisberger are connecting in the redzone recently (Burress has 8 targets for 6/111/3 in the past 3 weeks), while Hines Ward continues to rack up receptions (18 targets for 15/134/0 during the same span) - he hasn't found pay-dirt for quite a while, though. This offense is just starting to tap the potential of their young QB. 24/38 for 223 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception was the total surrendered to Kyle Boller by the Eagles last week. Considering how poorly Boller fares most weeks, the above total represents a poor performance by the Eagles' pass defense. They have been lukewarm in this phase of the game most weeks, ranking 21st in the NFL allowing an average of 225 yards per game, with 7 scores given away to date. Over the past 4 weeks, they average 210 passing yards and 1 score allowed per game. This is a run-of-the-mill pass defense week in and week out. The Steelers come into the game down Tommy Maddox (elbow, questionable) and WR Lee Mays (foot, probable), while the Eagles list S J.R. Reed (hamstring, doubtful) and S Quintin Mikell (concussion, probable). The forecast for Heinz field calls for a high of 52F with a low of 40F and a 40% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard at game time, the field could get slick and the ball could be harder to handle. Pittsburgh is getting stronger in this phase of the game, while the Eagles just tread water. Advantage, Pittsburgh. Seattle's Passing Attack vs. The San Francisco Defense (Good Matchup) Seattle went back to basics last week, and unfortunately for Matt Hasselbeck, Koren Robinson and Darrell Jackson owners, that appears to mean more running and less passing. Realize, though, that the Panthers are extremely vulnerable against the run this season, so the shift may be exaggerated due to the situation last week. 21/30 for 201 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception was a respectable fantasy outing for Hasselbeck, nonetheless. Darrell Jackson was by far the most targeted player in the game, with 10 for 6/71/0 - Jerramy Stevens was second with 5 for 3/16/0. This game is a rematch of the week 3 face off - Hasselbeck had a strong game last time around, with 21/30 for 254 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions to his credit. San Francisco has been easy to score on in this phase of the game (11 TDs allowed to date), while averaging 200.6 passing yards allowed per contest (10th in the NFL). Over the past 4 weeks, the secondary is surrendering an average of 191 yards and 1.3 TDs per contest - they do not a give up a lot of yardage, but do allow a substantial number of TDs each week. Last week, Craig Krenzel managed 13/24 for 168 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception in his first NFL start while facing this squad. They are just average in this phase of the game, folks. Seattle lists Jerry Rice as questionable to play due to his sore ankle, as is Darrell Jackson (ankle) and Bobby Engram (ankle). WR Alex Bannister is out (collarbone), while D.J. Hackett is probable (hip) - the Seahawks WR corps is banged up. No word has come down from the league regarding Koren Robinson and his expected suspension - everyone is being tightlipped about that situation. San Francisco's secondary has been doing without CB Ahmed Plummer recently (neck, doubtful this week). The forecast for Monster Stadium calls for a high of 68F and a low of 54F with a 0% chance for rain. If the forecast holds up, it will be a great day to play football down by the Bay. Seattle is starting to find their mojo again, and they had good luck against the 49ers earlier this year. Advantage, Seattle. San Francisco's Passing Attack vs. The Seattle Defense (Neutral Matchup) Ken Dorsey is clearly not the answer for the 49ers - when Tim Rattay is under center, this offense looks very fluid and powerful. When Dorsey is at the controls, the offense sputters and stalls. However, the forearm injury that has limited Rattay could flare up at any time (he's described as probable this week on Wednesday) - San Francisco may be doomed to another game with Dorsey under center this week. Over the last 3 weeks, Rattay has averaged 18.4 fantasy points per game in this offense (1 game, 18/28 for 286 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception) while Dorsey is at 2.8 fantasy points per outing (2 games, 16/36 for 122 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception). If Dorsey gets the start, look elsewhere for your fantasy WRs. Seattle faced off vs. Dorsey back in week 3, and held him to 19/32 for 153 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions. This season, they average 213 yards allowed per game, with 8 TDs surrendered to date. Over the past 4 weeks, the averages are 245 passing yards allowed per game, with 1.8 TDs given away. Obviously, Seattle has been regressing in this phase of the game in recent weeks. That showed last week, when Jake Delhomme hung 19/36 for 248 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception on the Seahawks. Rattay is listed as probable as of Wednesday, while Brandon Lloyd is described as probable despite his sore hip. Seattle says that they have a clean bill of health. The forecast for Monster Stadium calls for a high of 68F and a low of 54F with a 0% chance for rain. If the forecast holds up, it will be a great day to play football down by the Bay. San Francisco has been in neutral in recent weeks, thanks to their QB issues, while the Seahawks have been struggling to defend the pass. A lot depends on who starts for San Francisco - right now, we call this a more or less even matchup between subpar units. Washington's Passing Attack vs. The Detroit Defense (Neutral Matchup) Washington has been struggling in this phase of the game. Mark Brunell has been erratic in his performance, looking good on one snap and poor the next. 111/212 for 1130 yards, 7 TDs and 5 interceptions in 7 games (29th fantasy QB in fantasy points per game, 12.23 per game on average) paints the picture of his season - Brunell is just not a starting caliber fantasy QB. His top receiver over the past 3 weeks has been Laveranues Coles (23 targets for 11/135/0 receiving), followed by Rod Gardner (15 targets for 5/61/3) - right now Gardner has been snagging what passing TDs there are to be had. Detroit's defense was shaky last week, allowing 19/24 for 235 yards and 3 TDs to Vinny Testaverde (however, they also intercepted 3 passes during the game) - in the end, the Cowboys won 31-21. The Lions are the 29th ranked pass defense in the NFL this season, allowing an average of 253.3 passing yards per game (with 11 scores surrendered to date). Over the past 4 weeks, they are at an average of 236 passing yards and 1.8 TDs per game - slightly better than their season average, but still not very good. Washington lists WR Rod Gardner (hip) is probable to play this week. CB Fernando Bryant is probable to go for the Lions (ankle). This game will be played in Ford Field, so weather isn't going to be a factor. Brunell is not playing well this season, but neither are the Lions. This is an even matchup between struggling units. Kansas City's Passing Attack vs. The Tampa Bay Defense (Neutral Matchup) Talk about a shoot-out. Kansas City survived Peyton Manning's bombing, and Trent Green had a lot to do with the big win (27/34 for 389 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions). Green relied on the usual suspects - Tony Gonzalez saw 9 targets (8/125/2); While WRs Eddie Kennison (5/50/0) and Johnnie Morton (5/69/1) both saw 7 passes on the day. When Priest Holmes gets the ground game going, there is a lot of room for play-action passing (Holmes has 73/357/7 rushing and 10/170/1 receiving in the past 3 games) - he's been red-hot right now. Kansas City's offense is firing on all cylinders. Tampa crushed the Bear's journeymen 2 weeks ago, holding them to 116 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception. They average 148.6 passing yards allowed per week (1st in the NFL), and have given up 7 passing scores to date. Over the past 3 weeks (2 games) the Buccaneers have allowed only 160.5 passing yards per contest. It's not easy to move the ball on Ronde Barber and company. TE Kris Wilson (ankle) is out for the Chiefs. Tampa has no worries in this phase of the game. The forecast for Raymond James Stadium calls for a high of 77F and a low of 57F with a 20% for precipitation. Weather will not be an issue if the forecast holds up. Kansas City is red-hot right now, while the Buccaneers remain very tough in this phase of the game. This game is being played in the defenses' house, which should even the field - this looks pretty even to us. Arizona's Passing Attack vs. The Miami Defense (Neutral Matchup) Josh McCown and last-years' fantasy sensation, Anquan Boldin, went to Buffalo and got shellacked last week (38-14). McCown had trouble completing passes last week with terrible weather, hitting only 9/24 for 101 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions against the ultra-tough Bill's secondary. As you might expect, none of the Cardinals' receivers were fantasy standouts, with Boldin leading the team (4/50/0) while Bryant Johnson grabbed the lone TD (3/38/1). It was a forgettable day, for the most part. McCown is the 28th ranked fantasy QB over the past 3 weeks, with 31/60 for 313 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception in 2 games (11.65 fantasy points per game). Ho-hum. McCown has been sacked a lot this season (23, tied for 5th-most in the NFL). Miami's defense finally folded up their tent last week, and the team got blown out by the Jets 41-14. 12/20 for 197 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions was the mark that the Jets' QBs put up in the passing phase of the game. It was even uglier in the rushing phase (41/275/2). They have allowed 670 yards of passing offense in the past 3 games (223.3 yards per game on average) - the team is playing like a 1-7 club at this point, folks. Neither team has much to report in the way of new injuries. S Antuan Edwards is questionable due to a groin injury. The forecast for Pro Player Stadium calls for a high of 80F and a low of 64F with a 0% chance for rain. The Cardinals are not doing much in this phase of the game, but the dispirited Dolphins look pretty sorry right now, too. This looks like a fairly even matchup between struggling units. Cleveland's Passing Attack vs. The Baltimore Defense (Neutral Matchup) Cleveland won the first matchup between these two teams back in week 1, 20-3, and Jeff Garcia had a fine game that day, with 15/24 for 180 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions and 3/13/1 rushing to his credit. Since then, a lot has changed personnel-wise in Cleveland - Garcia has been getting pretty hot in recent weeks, with 37/55 for 546 yards, 5 TDs and 3 interceptions (10/22/1 rushing), an average of 26.25 fantasy points per game - good for second-best fantasy QB in average fantasy points per game in the last 3 weeks at 26.25. Dennis Northcutt (14 targets for 6/129/0), TE Aaron Shea (10 targets for 9/70/1), and RB Lee Suggs (11 targets for 7/105/1) have been his most-prolific receivers in that span. Baltimore comes into this game after holding the Eagles to 18/33 for 219 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions - not bad, considering how explosive the Eagles have been at points this season. The team averages 190.1 passing yards allowed per game (7th in the NFL), and have surrendered only 6 passing scores to date (tied for 3rd-least in the NFL). Over their past 2 games, the Ravens are right on pace, allowing an average of 192.5 passing yards - they are one of the toughest secondaries in the NFL. They are also tied for 3rd in the NFL with 20 sacks to date. Cleveland comes into the game off a bye week and well rested, listing only WRs Andre King (ankle, doubtful) and Andre Davis (toe, probable). Baltimore has no major complaints in this phase of the game. The forecast for M & T Bank Stadium calls for a high of 61F and a low of 47F with a 20% chance for rain. That sounds like excellent football weather to us. Cleveland is hot, while the Ravens are usually a wet blanket in this phase of the game - this is an even matchup between two bitter division rivals. Baltimore's Passing Attack vs. The Cleveland Defense (Neutral Matchup) Kyle Boller over the first half of the season: 96/166 for 959 yards, 3 TDs and 6 interceptions with 29/83/1 rushing - he currently ranks 37th among all fantasy QBs this season in fantasy points per game (9.77 fantasy points per game). 34/57 for 309 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception in his last 2 games - 31st fantasy QB in the land over the past 3 weeks. There just isn't much here for fantasy owners, folks. WR Travis Taylor has been far-and-away the leader in targets (15) and receptions (8/132/0) since his return to the lineup, and is the only Raven receiver you should consider playing right now. Cleveland held the Ravens to 22/38 for 191, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions the last time they battled (in week 1) - they had Kyle Boller's number to start the season. Since then, the Browns are the 26th ranked secondary in the NFL, allowing an average of 239.4 passing yards per game (7 TDs given away to date). Over the past 3 weeks, the Browns have bled yardage at a pace of 287 passing yards per game in 2 games. Not very impressive, in other words. Going into the bye week, Donovan McNabb and company hit the Browns for 28/43 for 376 yards, 4 TDs and 1 interception - they were stone cold in this phase of the game before the break, obviously. Baltimore lists TE Todd Heap as questionable this week (ankle) - he has been unable to go for many weeks. QB Boller has a sore back (probable). Cleveland, coming off a bye, says that they are good to go, with no new injuries. The forecast for M & T Bank Stadium calls for a high of 61F and a low of 47F with a 20% chance for rain. That sounds like excellent football weather to us. Boller and the Ravens just don't do much in this phase of the game, but the Browns have been unimpressive in this phase of the game lately. We call this an even matchup between struggling units. Miami's Passing Attack vs. The Arizona Defense (Neutral Matchup) If the Dolphins intend to keep Jay Fiedler upright and throwing the ball, they are going to have to do a better job of pass blocking. The team leads the NFL in sacks allowed, with 30 to date, and Fiedler was mercilessly pressured all night this past Monday by the Jets. He took 4 sacks in the game and was hit a lot more than that. Fiedler managed 20/41 for 218 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions in the face of all that pressure, which represented the 11th best fantasy QB outing of the week - pretty good, considering all the heat he faced. Randy McMichael continues to be a standout fantasy TE, with 12 targets for 7/87/1 to his credit last week. Marty Booker (3/37/0) and Chris Chambers (3/29/0) both saw 7 balls come their way. Arizona's defense held Drew Bledsoe to less than 100 yards passing last week (8/17 for 81 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions), but still got blown out 38-14. They are usually much more giving in the passing phase of the game, averaging 208.3 yards allowed per game - However, they have given away an average of only 130.5 passing yards per game in their two most recent contests. They have managed only 1 sack in that same span, though, and are 17th (tie) in the NFL with 15 this season - this is not a feared defense, folks. Both teams are in tolerably good health, with Miami listing WR Marty Booker (ribs) as questionable, with Jay Fiedler (forearm) and TE Randy McMichael (heel/knee) as probable. CB Renaldo Hill is questionable this week due to a sore hamstring. The forecast for Pro Player Stadium calls for a high of 80F and a low of 64F with a 0% chance for rain. The Dolphins are scrambling to mount an attack most weeks, while the Cardinals have been stingy with the yards in this phase recently. This looks like a fairly even matchup between NFL cellar dwellers. New York Jets' Passing Attack vs. The Buffalo Defense (Neutral Matchup) The Jets trounced their division rivals from Miami last week, and look to repeat their week 5 victory over the Bills on Sunday this week. Chad Pennington had good luck against the Bills' normally-stout secondary in the first game, with 31/42 for 304 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception during the game. Since then, he has cultivated Justin McCareins (20 targets for 12/197/1 during the past 3 weeks) and continues to look for old-reliable Wayne Chrebet (12 targets for 4/84/1 during the past 3 weeks). Santana Moss remains committed to his campaign for "fantasy bust of the year" (5 for 3/59/0 in the past 3 games). Buffalo is normally very tough in this phase of the game (averaging 169.1 passing yards allowed per game, with 7 scores surrendered to date). Over the past 4 weeks, the Bills have held opponents to an average of 136 yards and .8 TDs - they are hard-nosed in this phase of the game. Josh McCown only managed 9/24 for 101 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions last week - the Bills are a shutdown sort of pass defense. CB Nate Clements was a top ten IDP DB last week with 7 solo tackles, 2 assists, and 1 sack. CB Troy Vincent has been out of action for many weeks (knee, questionable), and S Coy Wire (abdomen, questionable), while the Jets list Chrebet as probable (back). The forecast for Ralph Wilson Stadium calls for a high of 43F with a low of 30F and a 40% chance of precipitation. If the moisture comes down hard at game time, the field conditions could deteriorate and ball-handling could get tricky. Visibility could also be an issue if snow comes down thickly - weather may be a factor in this game. The Jets did well against this team last time around, but the Bills have been very hard-nosed in this phase in recent weeks. Home-field advantage favors the defense - we call it a neutral matchup on balance. Buffalo's Passing Attack vs. The New York Jets' Defense (Neutral Matchup) 8/17 for 81 yards is usually not enough to win a game (Drew Bledsoe's totals from last week) - but he did toss 2 scores without an interception, which put his team over the top. One big worry for the Bills this week is the offensive line - the Bills are currently 4th in the NFL allowing 24 sacks to date, while the Jets are tied for 3rd with 20 sacks to date (4 last week vs. The Dolphins). With only 81 yards passing to share among the team, Eric Moulds led the way (as he does most weeks) with 6 targets for 3/40/1. Bledsoe had a solid effort vs. The Jets back in week 5, with 16/29 for 197 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception to his credit. The Jets won a laugher over the Dolphins last week, but allowed 20/41 for 218 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions to the intrepid Jay Fiedler (one TD came in "garbage time" after the game was out of reach). The team is the 14th ranked pass D in the land at this point (allowing an average of 212.1 passing yards per game) and has surrendered 9 scores in this phase to date. Over the past 4 weeks, they have averaged 209 passing yards and 1.5 TDs surrendered - that's not good pass defense, but not horrible, either. S Jon McGraw had 7 solo tackles, 1 assist, 1 interception and 2 passes defensed to land in the top 10 among IDP DBs Buffalo's TE Tim Euhus had a sore wrist after the game last week (not listed). WRs Josh Reed (knee, questionable) and Drew Haddad (knee, questionable) are listed as well. QB J.P. Losman is now considered questionable despite his healing broken leg. The Jet report that S Rashad Washington (foot, questionable) and CB Derrick Strait (foot, probable) on Wednesday. The forecast for Ralph Wilson Stadium calls for a high of 43F with a low of 30F and a 40% chance of precipitation. If the moisture comes down hard at game time, the field conditions could deteriorate and ball-handling could get tricky. Visibility could also be an issue if snow comes down thickly - weather may be a factor in this game. The Bills have been unimpressive in this phase of the game more often than not, while the Jets are only average at pass defense this season. This looks like a fairly even matchup from where we sit. Oakland's Passing Attack vs. The Carolina Defense (Tough Matchup) Kerry Collins returned to form last week, with 24/39 for 263 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions in the collapse to San Diego. He has amassed 5 TDs and 11 interceptions to date, lowering his fantasy value in leagues which penalize QBs for interceptions (130/224 for 1459 yards in 6 games). Over the past 3 weeks, he has targeted Joey Porter (28 for 13/184/1) and Doug Gabriel (19 for 8/126/0) the most, while TE Doug Jolley has racked up the most TDs (12 targets for 8/108/2). The ball is in the air a lot in Oakland - but not necessarily on target. Carolina has been very stout in this phase of the game all year, leading the NFL with only 4 passing scores allowed to date. They average 179.6 passing yards per game allowed so far (with an average of 203 yards and .8 TDs per game over the past 4 weeks). In their last contest, vs. Seattle's sputtering offense, the Panthers gave up 21/30 for 201 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception. They have many problems this year, but the Panther's secondary is not one of them. CB Chris Gamble was a top IDP DB last week, with 11 solo tackles to his credit. Oakland has a lot of nicked up players, listing WRs Alvis Whitted (hip, questionable), Doug Gabriel (hamstring, probable) and Ronald Curry (hamstring, probable). CB Chris Gamble (knee, questionable) and S Travares Tillman (forearm, questionable) are on Carolina's list. The forecast for Bank of America Stadium calls for a high of 62F and a low of 45F with a 20% chance for precipitation. It sounds like a great day to play football is around the corner in Charlotte. Oakland has been up and down in this phase recently - Collins has been sloppy with the ball most weeks. Carolina is regularly stout in this phase of the game. Advantage, Carolina. Chicago's Passing Attack vs. The New York Giants' Defense (Tough Matchup) Props to Craig Krenzel - he did a good, workmanlike job in his first NFL start (13/25 for 168 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception). His team won, and that's all they care about in the NFL. However, in fantasy circles we like to see a tad more production from our QBs (Krenzel was the 22nd ranked fantasy QB in the land last week, with 12.3 fantasy points to his credit). David Terrell continues to disappoint (3 targets for 1/14/0; 2/24/0 in the last 3 weeks on 11 targets) - you should look elsewhere for your starting WRs, and should probably be considering your options on the waiver wire if Terrell is taking up space on your bench - the big games are too unpredictable and too far apart to do fantasy owners much good. Bernard Berrian, who caught the TD last week (1/49/1) has 8 targets for 3/69/1 over the past 3 weeks; Bobby Wade has seen 19 for 8/61/0. There just isn't much fuel for your fantasy squad in these parts, folks. The Giants were tough on the high-flying Vikings last week (mostly without Randy Moss) - Daunte Culpepper scraped together 24/42 for 231 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions in a losing effort. Over their past 2 games, the Giants have allowed an average of 220.5 passing yards per game, slightly higher than their season average (208.7 yards per game, 13th in the NFL). The Giants have coughed up 12 passing scores this season, which is on the high end of the NFL range at this juncture (low of 4 allowed (Carolina), with a high of 16 (Green Bay and Oakland)). They are fair to middling in this phase most weeks. Both teams are in good shape, with no new injuries to report. The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 58F and a low 41F with a 20% chance for precipitation. That's good weather for playing football. The Bears are trying to come up with answers in the absence of Rex Grossman, but the jury is still out on Krenzel. The Giants are not a top secondary, but they aren't pushovers, either. We think this is a tough matchup for the youngster Krenzel. New York Giants' Passing Attack vs. The Chicago Defense (Tough Matchup) Kurt Warner didn't have to do a whole lot last week, as the Giants' running game dominated the Vikings (39/168/4). Warner ended the day with an unexciting 13/21 for 144 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions. The big development in this phase was Jeremy Shockey's resurgence in the passing game (he just barely missed scoring a TD) - 4 targets for 3/60/0 (he led the team in receiving yardage last week). Amani Toomer saw more balls (6), but produced less in his opportunities (3/31/0). Warner has been pretty quiet, fantasy-wise, in the last 3 weeks, with 36/55 for 414 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception in 2 games (11.85 fantasy points per game, 27th in the NFL). The Giants are allowing too much pressure to leak through the OL so far, with 27 sacks surrendered to date (2nd-most in the NFL). Minnesota had 5 sacks of the QB last week - not good. Chicago's pass defense lurks in the top ten this year in the NFL, allowing 193.3 passing yards per game on average (8th in the NFL) and 7 scores to date. 16/36 for 122 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception was all that Ken Dorsey managed to put up last week; over the past 3 weeks the Bears have averaged 221 yards allowed per game, slightly worse than their season average would indicate. They are a solid but not extraordinary bunch in this phase of the game. The team has 5 sacks in the last 3 weeks, but only 14 this season (23rd in the NFL) - look for that total to increase after this game, though. The Giants come into the game with a clean bill of health - the Bears list CB Charles Tillman as out with a knee injury. S Bobby Gray is doubtful to play thanks to his groin injury. CB Todd McMillon has a sore back (probable). The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 58F and a low 41F with a 20% chance for precipitation. That's good weather for playing football. Warner has good receivers to throw to, but plays in a low-risk, run oriented offense that is enjoying solid success grinding out yards on the ground this season - and his OL is allowing too much pressure to come to bear on him. Chicago fields a pretty respectable pass defense - Warner is unlikely to "break out" in fantasy terms this week. Houston's Passing Attack vs. The Denver Defense (Tough Matchup) David Carr is coming into his own this season. He's the 7th best fantasy QB in the land this year, with 138/210 for 1917 yards, 9 TDs and 5 interceptions passing to date (32/139/0) - he averages 20.13 fantasy points per game to date. Andre Johnson has been dropping off in recent weeks, with 21 targets for 13/149/0 to his credit in the past 3 weeks. Part of that is due to a drop-off in production from Carr (42/60 for 542 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception in 2 games over the past 3 weeks, 16th best fantasy QB in the land during that span at 17.8 fantasy points per week. Denver's defense was unable to deal with the Falcons' attack last week, allowing 18/24 for 252 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions to Michael Vick - it was a significantly worse performance than the Broncos' season average - 160.6 passing yards allowed per game, on average, with only 6 passing scores given up this season (tied for 3rd-least in the NFL). Over the past 3 weeks, the Broncos have been closer to their season average, allowing 191.3 passing yards per game. The Falcons' success looks more like an aberration than a trend. Houston lists WR Derrick Armstrong (quad, probable). Bronco CB Lenny Walls is probable due to his lingering shoulder problem, while S John Lynch is doubtful (out 2-4 weeks) with a broken tailbone. CB Willie Middlebrooks has a sore hamstring (probable). The forecast for Mile High Stadium calls for a high of 63F and a low of 37F with a 10% chance for precipitation. It should be crisp day to play a game of football. Denver is usually stout in this phase of the game, but stumbled last week. Houston has cooled off lately, and has to play in a hostile environment - advantage, Denver. Detroit's Passing Attack vs. The Washington Defense (Tough Matchup) Detroit tries to find ways to move the ball no matter who is available to play WR (Roy Williams was inactive last week due to his ankle injury) - Joey Harrington hit 19/32 for 255 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception last week. His threw 5 balls at 4 different receivers (Az-Zahir Hakim (4/90/0); Kevin Jones (4/11/1); David Kircus (1/50/1); and Tai Streets (2/16/0)) - favoring no-one in particular. Williams is described as questionable to play this week. Washington's pass defense was challenged by Green Bay last week, allowing 20/33 for 289 yards and 1 TD to Brett Favre - but they also picked him off 3 times. The team averages 165.4 passing yards allowed per game (4th in the NFL) and has surrendered only 5 passing scores to date. Over the past 4 weeks, the team averages only 128 passing yards allowed per game, and .3 TDs per game - this is a tough secondary. They lead the league averaging 2.3 interceptions per game right now, by the way. Tough. CB Shawn Springs was a top IDP DB last week, with 3 solo tackles, 3 assists, 2 interceptions and 2 passes defensed. Detroit says that WRs Tai Streets (hamstring) and Roy Williams (ankle) are questionable as of Wednesday. S Andre Lott is out for Washington (pectoral), while CB Fred Smoot is probable (shoulder). This game will be played in Ford Field, so weather isn't going to be a factor. Detroit is growing into a strong passing offense, but the Redskins won't make it easy. This game will be a tough test for the Lions' young cadre. |
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