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 Ahman Green 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.

Let's jump to it.

Joe

Quick Index:

Great Matchups:

Arizona's Emmitt Smith vs. The Carolina Defense (Great Matchup)

Emmitt Smith has 170 rushes for 672 yards and 8 TDs to his credit so far this season, ranking 16th among all fantasy RBs to date (9/67/0 receiving). He stuffed the ball into the end-zone twice last week against the Giants (19/67/2) and his efforts have the Cardinals threatening to make it to .500 this week. While Smith probably won't crack the 100 yard barrier very often anymore, he certainly knows how to find the end-zone and that makes him a solid #2 fantasy RB this year.

Carolina's defense has collapsed in this phase of the game during 2004, currently ranking 28th in the NFL allowing an average of 138.6 rushing yards per game, with a league-worst total of 15 rushing TDs given away to date. Over the past 4 weeks, the team has been run over for an average of 133 yards and 2.0 scores per contest, including 33/110/2 at the hands of the 49ers' sub-par unit last week (the 49ers are 28th in the NFL averaging 3.6 yards per carry this year). DL Julius Peppers was a top IDP player last week, with 4 solo tackles, 1 assist, 2 sacks, and 1 pass defensed. Will Witherspoon was in the top 5 among IDP LBs with 6 solo tackles, 2 assists, 1 sack, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble and 3 passes defensed.

MLB Dan Morgan continues to struggle with concussions/concussion related after-effects (doubtful). LB Brian Allen has a sore pectoral region (questionable) while DT Kindal Moorehead (shoulder) and DE Kemp Rasmussen (neck) are both probable to play. The Cardinals list Smith as questionable due to his sore ankle.

The forecast for Bank of America Stadium calls for a high of 69F and a low of 51F with a 40% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard at game-time, the field and ball could both be slick and harder to handle than usual.

Arizona is steady in this phase of the game, and they know how to find pay-dirt on the ground. Carolina is the most scored-upon rush defense in the league this season. Advantage, Arizona.

Denver's Reuben Droughns vs. The New Orleans Defense (Great Matchup)

Denver's ground game is as healthy as ever, with a total of 1240 yards rushing as a team this season (6th in the NFL to date) and a 4.2 ypc average. Reuben Droughns has been a solid fantasy option during most games, with 29/120/0 rushing and 1/6/0 receiving to his credit in the team's most recent game back in week 9. So far this season, he's rushed for 146/678/1 and hauled in 21/142/1 receiving – the dearth of TDs is the factor keeping him from fantasy stardom.

New Orleans' defense is simply awful. They are 32nd vs. the run and the pass at this point in the season, allowing an average of 149 rushing yards and 11 TDs to date. Over the past 4 weeks, they've been sticking right to their pace, giving up an average of 145 rushing yards and .7 scores per game. Derrick Blaylock blew them up for 33/186/1 last week (they gave up a total of 200 yards rushing and 311 yards passing in one game). In a word: Horrible. Yet they produced a top DL, Darren Howard, who put up 6 solo tackles, 1 assist, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery; and a top IDP LB, Orlando Ruff 6 solo tackles, 4 assists, 1 interception and 1 pass defensed.

Denver comes into this game off a bye and in good shape. New Orleans lists LB Derrick Rodgers (back, doubtful).

This game will be played in the Superdome – weather isn't a factor.

Denver should romp for a ton of yards over the welcome-mat Saints.

Detroit's Kevin Jones vs. The Minnesota Defense (Great Matchup)

Detroit finally unleashed Kevin Jones last week, feeding him the ball exclusively as the featured back – he put up 19/81/0 (a 4.3 ypc average) in his chance to shine, with a long of 16. It wasn't a fantasy bonanza, but at least he got a decent amount of touches (including 2/7/0 receiving). Hopefully the team will continue to feed him the ball and establish a credible running game. Over the past 3 weeks, Jones has amassed 42/137/0 rushing and 7/21/1 receiving – he may be on his way up the fantasy charts, though (he was the 37th ranked fantasy RB in the past 3 weeks with 7.27 fantasy points per game on average.

Minnesota's rush D was blasted for 35/206/0 by Green Bay last week. They have allowed an average of 143 rushing yards and 1 TD per game over the past 4 weeks, and currently rank 22nd in the NFL allowing an average of 121.3 rushing yards per game this season. They are among the most-scored upon defenses in this phase of the game, having given away 12 rushing TDs in 9 games. The Vikings do not scare opposing running backs this season.

Detroit's unit comes in with no new injuries to report in this phase of the game, although RB Stephen Trejo continues to have problems with a balky knee (questionable), while the Vikings have been doing without LB Raonall Smith for the past few weeks (concussion/post concussion symptoms, out).

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

Jones has a good opportunity to shine this week vs. Minnesota.

Minnesota's Onterrio Smith/Michael Bennett and company vs. The Detroit Defense (Great Matchup)

Last week none of the Vikings' backs were worth a plug nickel, as the team was chasing Green Bay almost the entire day and the passing game was paramount. Onterrio Smith scraped together 5/21/0 rushing and 2/13/0 receiving; Michael Bennett had 5/21/0 rushing. Moe Williams was the best fantasy back last week, with 4/57/1 receiving to go with his 1/-3/0 rushing. Over the past 3 weeks, Onterrio Smith has averaged the most fantasy points per game (he's only been off suspension for 2 games) with 18/101/1 rushing and 4/28/1 receiving in that span. Minnesota is still tops in the league with an average of 5.1 yards per carry – last week looks more like an aberration than a trend to us.

Detroit's rush D is near the bottom of the NFL allowing an average of 127.4 yards per game on average, with 7 scores surrendered to date. Over the past 4 weeks they've averaged 149 yards and .5 TDs given away in this phase, including the 50/239/1 they were trampled for last week (Jacksonville). The Lions come into this game knocked back on their heels.

Detroit continues to do without LBs Boss Bailey (knee). Donte Curry (knee, probable), and DE Jared DeVries missed last week's game due to a sore groin (questionable). DTs Marcus Bell (neck, probable) and Shaun Roger (neck, probable) are expected to play. Minnesota's group is fairly healthy, with no major new injuries to report, although Mewelde Moore continues to struggle with his injured ankle (questionable). C Matt Birk has an abdomen injury (probable).

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

A top attack meets a cellar-dwelling defense in this matchup – Minnesota has a big edge in this one.

Chicago's Thomas Jones/Anthony Thomas vs. The Indianapolis Defense (Great Matchup)

Thomas Jones is expected to be back in the lineup after healing his sprained big toe, but the solid play of Anthony Thomas has led OC Terry Shea to indicate that he intends to utilize Thomas' talents more often even when Jones is ready to go. We think that Jones will be featured and see a majority of the action, while Thomas sees some duty in short-yardage and possibly goal-line situations. We'll have a better feel for the mix after watching the Bears this week – Jones has been very good in his appearances, with 117/511/5 rushing and 26/191/0 receiving over 7 games, while Thomas put up 82/280/2 and 8/61/0 receiving in relief of Jones the past 3 weeks.

Indianapolis' defense did well in the passing phase of the game last week, but they were picked apart on the ground, allowing 37/132/2 to the Texans. The team ranks 19th in the NFL allowing an average of 117.8 rushing yards and 9 TDs to date – over the past 4 weeks, they have coughed up an average of 150 rushing yards and 1.5 scores per game –the Colts simply aren't very good in this phase of the game. However, they did produce three top ten IDP players last week: DL Robert Mathis had 3 solo tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles; DL Raheem Brock had 7 solo tackles, 2 assists, and 1 sack; while LB Cato June had 11 solo tackles, 2 assists and 2 passes defensed.

Chicago lists Jones as questionable (toe). Indianapolis has LB Gilbert Gardner (hamstring, out); LB Gary Brackett (shoulder, probable) and DE Robert Mathis (groin, probable) listed on Wednesday.

The forecast for Soldier Field calls for a high of 45F and a low of 32F with a 20% chance of rain. Blustery winds are common in Chicago at this time of year – that could be a factor in the passing game, which could lead to more handoffs to the backs if conditions are poor.

Jones has good prospects for a strong game now that he's feeling ready to play football again. Keep an eye on his status for the game.

New York Jets' Curtis Martin vs. The Cleveland Defense (Great Matchup)

Curtis Martin scored 2 TDs against the Ravens last week. Considering that they have allowed only 5 all season long, that's quite an accomplishment (Martin notched 28/119/2 rushing all told, with 2/5/0 receiving). He's the 4th best fantasy RB in the land with 218/984/9 rushing and 27/124/1 receiving after 9 games – start him if you were smart enough to draft him and smile.

Cleveland's season is imploding rapidly – they've been giving up yardage at a clip of 136 per game in this phase over the last 4 weeks, with an average of 1.0 TDs surrendered per game. The Browns were torched by the Steelers for 47/180/2 last week – it's all bad for the Browns in this phase of the game recently (they've given up the 4th-most rushing scores to date with 11 TDs surrendered).

The Jets are in good health at this point of 2004 – the Browns are also in good shape.

The forecast for Cleveland Browns' Stadium calls for a high of 58F and a low of 34F with a 30% chance for precipitation. If moisture falls thickly at game time, the field and ball could both get slick, adversely affecting both teams' footing and ball handling. Don't rule out snow either.

Martin should have a field day against the fading Browns.

Buffalo's Willis McGahee vs. The St. Louis Defense (Great Matchup)

Willis McGahee didn't make a very strong showing vs. the Patriots last week, rushing for 14/37/0 with 1/12/0 receiving – but he got no help from the QBs who failed to raise a credible threat throwing the ball (9/21 for 81 yards, 0 TDs and 4 interceptions). Considering that McGahee has 81/271/3 rushing and 4/32/0 receiving to his credit in the last 3 games, we think that last week poor showing was a result of the entire team's failure, rather than a problem with McGahee.

Saint Louis hasn't been very good in this phase of the game this year, averaging 140.1 rushing yards allowed per game, with 9 TDs given up to date. They average 157 yards and 1.0 TDs rushing per game over the last 4 weeks, and coughed up 28/206/0 to the Seahawks' backs last week. The Rams field a soft run defense.

Buffalo is in good shape, while LB Tommy Polley is listed for St. Louis (hamstring, probable).

The forecast for Ralph Wilson Stadium calls for a high of 52F and a low of 35F with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the moisture comes down as snow, visibility could be an issue – rain mixed with sleet would make the field and football slippery. Weather could be a factor in this game.

Willis McGahee has been a strong fantasy back more often than not since he was elevated to the top job, while the Rams are uniformly poor in this phase of the game from week to week. Advantage, Buffalo.

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

Shaun Alexander has enjoyed a lot of help from his OL this season – the team averages 4.9 yards per carry to date, and Seattle is 4th in the NFL with a total of 1337 yards rushing so far in 2004. Alexander has 80/531/3 rushing and 4/16/1 receiving to his credit in the past 3 games, and comes into this one after a 22/176/0 performance last week. Start him if you've got him.

Miami's defense has fallen all the way to 31st in the league in rushing yards allowed per game (145.6 this season, with 6 TDs given away to date), and they are on that pace over the past 4 weeks, allowing an average of 143 rushing yards and 1 TD per game. The Cardinals managed 121 yards rushing and 1 score against the Dolphins before Miami's bye week. The Dolphins don't put fear into the hearts of opposing running backs anymore.

Miami comes into the game off a bye week, so they should be rested and ready to play, although DT Mario Mounds is questionable to play (hand). Seattle is in good shape.

The forecast for Qwest Field in Seattle calls for a high of 50F with a low of 37F and a 20% chance for rain. It sounds like a really nice autumn day is on tap in the Northwest.

Miami's coaching staff was thrown into upheaval over the bye week, and they come into this game stone cold – advantage Seattle.

Green Bay's Ahman Green vs. The Houston Defense (Good Matchup)

Ahman Green steamrolled the Vikings last week with 21/145/0 (2/7/0 receiving) as the Packers piled up 35/206/0 rushing vs. their division rivals. He has 45/215/2 rushing and 6/80/0 receiving in his last 2 outings, and Brett Favre has the passing game clicking along like an armored column rolling through France right now – teams cannot key on Green unless they want to neglect Favre. Start Green if you've got him.

Houston's defense was humiliated by the Colts last week – they didn't really need to run the ball, since the Texans allowed 320 yards and 5 TDs passing, but when they chose to run the ball, they moved with ease (Edgerrin James piled up 20/86/0 rushing the ball). Over the past 4 weeks, the Texans have given away an average of 88 rushing yards per game, with 0 TDs (their pass D, however, is giving up 262 yards and 3 TDs per game during that span). They do make things difficult in the red-zone, though, holding their opposition to only 3 rushing scores to date.

Green bay lists Green as probable due to his bruised knee-cap, and backup RB Najeh Davenport is questionable due to a hamstring injury. Houston's defense may be without LB Antwan Peek (ankle, questionable) and DE Gary Walker (foot, questionable).

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 75F and a low of 58F, with a 40% chance for rain. If the weather looks too threatening before game-time, the retractable roof will get closed – weather shouldn't be a factor in this game.

Ahman Green is a top back who can get the job done rushing or receiving the ball – look for him to enjoy success when he touches the ball against the shaky Texans.

Atlanta's Warrick Dunn/T.J. Duckett vs. The New York Giants' Defense (Good Matchup)

The Falcons are 3rd in the NFL so far in 2004 with 1402 rushing yards to their credit. The team is second in the NFL averaging 5.0 yards per carry – is it any wonder that Michael Vick isn't throwing the ball very much? T.J. Duckett has 20/98/3 to his credit in the last 2 games; Warrick Dunn has ground out 32/109/1 rushing and 3/12/0 receiving; while Vick has 21/188/0 to his credit in that span. The only problem here for fantasy owners is that the rushing is getting shared to such an extent that neither of the running backs is excelling (Duckett is 16th among fantasy RB's in average fantasy points per game over the last 3 weeks, Dunn is 33rd) – but don't expect the Falcons to change their approach now.

The Giants' defense gave up 34/102/2 to the Cardinals last week, continuing their season of mediocre rush defense (the team averages 117.1 rushing yards allowed per game, with 7 scores given up to date). Over the last 4 weeks, the Giants have been just slightly better in the rushing department, allowing 109 yards per contest, but they are averaging 1.8 TDs surrendered each game. They don't shut anyone down in this phase of the game.

The Falcons come into the game healthy, while the Giants list no new injuries (although both their starting DEs went on IR last week). LB Barrett Green continues to have trouble with a sore knee/ankle (questionable).

The forecast for Giant's Stadium calls for a high of 61F with a low of 44F and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the skies open up at game time, the field could get slick and the ball may be harder to handle.

The Falcons deploy a top rushing attack; the Giants field a mediocre rush defense. Advantage, Atlanta.

New York Giants' Tiki Barber vs. The Atlanta Defense (Good Matchup)

Tiki Barber had no trouble moving the ball against the stout Cardinals last week, with 21/108/1 rushing and 5/52/0 receiving to his credit during the game. The Giants average 4.6 yards per carry this season (6th in the NFL) and are 8th with 1199 yards rushing so far in 2004 (Barber has gained 928 of those yards, and scored 9 times with 36/463/1 receiving to boot). Just start him and smile, Barber owners. He'll be more "featured" than usual with a rookie QB under center for the first time this week.

Atlanta has been tough to run on most of the time this year (94.9 rushing yards per game, 4th in the NFL), but they have given away a lot of TDs (12 so far). Over the past 4 weeks, the story is not so good for the defense, as they average 138 rushing yards and 2.7 TDs allowed per game in that span. That's including Tampa's 23/68/0 effort from last Sunday – the Falcons have been knocked back on their heels often the past few weeks, but may be on their way to recovery. Matt Stewart was a top IDP LB with 9 solo tackles and 2 sacks.

Atlanta is in good shape coming into the game (DE Brady Smith has a sore ankle (probable), while the Giants' OL has been challenged recently by injury – LT Luke Petitgout has been struggling to overcome a concussion, and fellow OT Marques Sullivan was inactive last week due to an ankle injury (questionable this week). C Shaun O'Hara has an ankle injury (questionable). RB Mike Cloud continues to struggle with a bad back.

The forecast for Giant's Stadium calls for a high of 61F with a low of 44F and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the skies open up at game time, the field could get slick and the ball may be harder to handle.

Tiki Barber and the Giants mount an impressive attack in this phase, while the Falcons have been shaky in recent weeks more often than not – advantage, Giants.

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

Jamal Lewis had a hard time vs. the Jets' defense last week, with 30/71/0 rushing and 3/20/0 receiving – he doesn't often fail to gain at least 100 yards in a game. He hasn't been up to his usual standards since returning from suspension, with 52/152/1 rushing and 3/34/0 receiving in 2 games – of course, LT Jonathan Ogden has been out due to injury in those contests, and Lewis suffered similarly at the beginning of the season when Ogden missed time. This week, the Ravens list Ogden as questionable to play (hamstring).

Dallas' rush defense is not impressive this year, ranking 25th in the league allowing an average of 126.7 rushing yards and a total of 7 TDs so far. Over the past 4 weeks, the team has averaged 131 rushing yards and 1.3 scores surrendered per contest – they got trampled for 33/149/2 by the Philly stable on MNF.

Dallas is in good shape, with no new injuries to report, while the Ravens report that T Orlando Brown (knee, probable) and G Edwin Mulitalo (toe, probable) are both dinged up.

The forecast for M & T Bank Stadium calls for a high of 67F and a low of 48F with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain falls thickly at game time, the field and ball could become even more challenging than usual to navigate/handle.

Lewis has been off his usual pace in recent games – the Cowboys' weak defense should help him improve, though.

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

Deuce McAllister found his was back to the top echelon of fantasy backs last week, with a superb 16/127/1 rushing performance last week (7.9 ypc average), putting him at 7th among all fantasy RBs last week. He's been slowly getting back into game shape since returning from his sprained ankle – it looks like he's all the way back now.

Denver has been fairly stout in this phase of the game this year, allowing an average of 106.1 rushing yards per game (8th in the NFL) while giving away 10 scores to date. Over the past 4 weeks, though, they've been gashed for an average of 144 rushing yards and 1.7 TDs per contest – Domanick Davis hit them for 19/71/2 in the game before Denver's bye week (the Texans totaled 103 yards rushing and 2 TDs as a team).

New Orleans is in good shape in this phase of the game. Denver comes into the game off a bye, listing only DE Trevor Pryce (back, out) and DT Luther Eliss (calf, out).

This game will be played in the Superdome – weather isn't a factor.

McAllister is a top talent when he's healthy – which he appears to be now – while the Broncos have been struggling in this phase of the game recently. Advantage, New Orleans.

Indianapolis' Edgerrin James vs. The Chicago Defense (Good Matchup)

Edgerrin James had light duty last week vs. the hapless Texans (Manning threw for 320 yards and 5 scores), but he still ripped them for 4.3 yards per carry (20/86/0) when his number was called. He also snagged 2/14/0 receiving during the rout. James is an elite NFL back by any yardstick, and will find ways to contribute no matter what the situation – the guy has 56/243/0 rushing and 10/160/0 receiving to his credit over the past 3 weeks. His owners would like to see some TDs in the mix, though – James has scored 5 times since the start of the season.

Chicago's defense was a wet blanket on the Titans' backs last week, allowing 24/72/0 to the club (Chris Brown's turf toe was a big problem for him last week, though). This year the Bears are very tough to score on, with only 4 TDs given away to date (an average of 117.9 rushing yards per game, 20th in the NFL). Over the past 4 weeks, they Bears have averaged only 91 rushing yards allowed per game, and .8 TDs. It sounds like they are in great shape, right? Alex Brown was a top IDP DL last week with 4 solo tackles, 3 assists, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery. LB Lance Briggs was in the top 5 with 12 solo tackles, 2 assists and 2 passes defensed.

They would be, if their spark-plug MLB Brian Urlacher weren't sidelined for the next 4-6 weeks due to a calf injury that cropped up this week. He had surgery on his lower left leg earlier this week. Hunter Hillenmeyer will fill in for Urlacher – but you don't lose a guy with 44 solo tackles, 14 assists, 3 sacks and 4 passes defensed (4th-best fantasy LB to date) without an adverse effect on your defense. LB Marcus Reese was sidelined with a foot injury last week (out) – the Bears are very thin at this crucial position. LB Lance Briggs (foot) is questionable. The Colts come into the game listing G Tupe Peko (ankle, out); G Rick DeMulling (chest) and T Makoa Freitas (back) are questionable.

The forecast for Soldier Field calls for a high of 45F and a low of 32F with a 20% chance of rain. Blustery winds are common in Chicago at this time of year – that could be a factor in the passing game, which could lead to more handoffs to the backs if conditions are poor.

Edgerrin James and the Colts will exploit the suddenly-vulnerable core of Chicago's defense. Advantage, Indianapolis.

Pittsburgh's Jerome Bettis/Duce Staley? vs. The Cincinnati Defense (Good Matchup)

Duce Staley led the Steelers in rushing the first time these teams faced off in week 4 – he had 25/123/0 rushing; Verron Haynes contributed 2/15/0 and Jerome Bettis scored twice (6/9/2). The word this week out of Pittsburgh is that Staley is questionable – neither he nor Bettis practiced on Wednesday, and coach Cowher refused to elaborate on Staley's status in his press conference. Bettis has been super subbing for Staley, with 77/317/3 rushing over the last 3 weeks. Keep your eye on the injury reports/practice reports as the week goes by to determine if Staley is likely to play this week (you know we will, too).

Cincinnati's rush D is near the bottom of the NFL this season, allowing 142.7 yards per game (30th in the NFL) and they have allowed 6 scores to date. Over the past 4 weeks, the team averages 121 rushing yards and .3 TDs per game, with 20/87/0 surrendered to the Redskins last week. They have definitely improved their play as the season goes along, as the stats above illustrate. Landon Johnson had 8 solo tackles, 1 assist, and 1 sack to land in the top 10 among IDP LBs last week.

Aside from Bettis (knee, probable) and Staley (hamstring, questionable), the Steelers list the following players as questionable: RB Verron Haynes (toe) and FB Dan Kreider (shoulder). Cincinnati has LB Caleb Miller (ankle) and DE Carl Powell (knee) down as questionable.

The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 59F with a low of 34F and a 30% chance of precipitation. Don't rule out the possibility of snow. If it is rain/sleet and falls thickly around game-time, footing and ball handling could become issues for both teams.

The Steelers have been running the ball very well this season, while the Bengals are improving but not yet dominant in this phase of the game. While home-field advantage is on the defense's side, we still think the Steelers have an edge.

Tampa Bay's Michael Pittman vs. The San Francisco Defense (Good Matchup)

Michael Pittman came back down to earth after several strong games, with 20/62/0 rushing and 4/16/0 receiving last week vs. Atlanta. He has mustered 35/190/3 rushing and 6/46/0 receiving over his last 2 games – its fair to say he's been up and down in recent weeks. The team has averaged 3.7 yards per carry this season, tied for 26th in the league – the OL isn't doing very well overall.

San Francisco's rushing defense has averaged 120 yards and 1.0 TD allowed per game over the past 4 weeks. The team has been very generous with rushing scores this season, allowing 13 to date (2nd most in the NFL), while giving up an average of 116.4 yards per contest (tied for 16th in the NFL). Carolina's RBBC only managed 18/57/1 last week vs. the 49ers, but they are the reserve talents (Carolinas' top 3 RBs are all on IR).

Tampa lists Mike Alstott as questionable to play (knee). San Francisco's LB corps is banged up LB Richard Seigler (foot) and LB Ray Wells (ankle) are doubtful to play. LB Saleem Rasheed is questionable to play (knee).

The forecast for Raymond James Stadium calls for a high of 84F and a low of 67F with a 20% chance for rain – it sounds like great weather for a football game is around the corner in sunny Florida.

Pittman has shown flashes of brilliance despite his poor OL, while the 49ers are mediocre-to-poor in this phase of the game from week to week. Advantage, Tampa.

Washington's Clinton Portis vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Good Matchup)

Clinton Portis had another mediocre fantasy showing last week, rushing for 17/81/0 and snagging 4 passes for 32 yards – he has yet to really explode for a lot of yards and TDs in any single game, although he has racked up 221/891/2 rushing and 28/183/1 receiving (over 1000 yards combined after 9 games) to rank 14th among all fantasy RBs this year, averaging 14.47 fantasy points per week. Nobody has scored much in Washington this year – hopefully, Patrick Ramsey will be able to spark the offense in the coming weeks.

Philadelphia's rush defense has not been impressive lately, averaging 150 yards and 1.3 TDs per game over the last 4 weeks, including 24/71/1 surrendered to the anemic Cowboys last week. They are the 23rd ranked rush D in the league this year, giving up an average of 124 rushing yards and 7 total TDs to date. As you can see, they've been up and down in this phase of the game lately – we're never sure which rush defense will show up for the Eagles, although the insertion of Jeremiah Trotter in the starting ILB slot last week seemed to help out.

DE Jerome McDougle (knee) is out this week; LB Nate Wayne (hamstring) is doubtful; LB Keith Adams (ankle), DT Corey Simon (groin), and LB Mark Simoneau (concussion) are questionable to play. The Eagles are struggling with injuries right now. Washington's unit is good to go, with no new injuries of note.

The forecast for Lincoln Financial Field calls for a high of 64F with a low of 44F and a 20% chance for rain. If that forecast holds, weather won't be a factor in this game.

Portis is an elite running back while the Eagles play sub-par rush defense most of the time and they are thin due to injuries – Advantage, Washington.

New England's Corey Dillon vs. The Kansas City Defense (Good Matchup)

Corey Dillon took the Buffalo Bills to school last week, slapping down 26/151/0 rushing last week and added 1/5/0 receiving (the Patriots totaled 45/208/0 rushing as a team – Kevin Faulk chipped in 13/61/0 rushing and 2/16/0 receiving). Dillon has been on fire lately, with 51/263/1 rushing and 3/24/0 receiving in his last 2 games, ranking 7th among all fantasy RBs in fantasy points per game over the last 3 weeks. The Patriots' offense is firing on all cylinders.

Kansas City's rush D has improved, but it is not powerful, either, averaging 116.4 yards allowed per game (with 10 TDs surrendered to date), ranking 16th in the NFL this season. Over the past 4 weeks, they have averaged 104 rushing yards and 1.3 TDs surrendered per game. They gave up 23/134/2 to the Saints last week – they are back on their heels coming into this game. Scott Fujita was a top IDP LB last week, with 5 solo tackles, 2 assists and 2 sacks to his credit.

LB Monty Beisel (calf) and DT Junior Siavii (ankle) are questionable to play on Monday, while DT John Browning (shoulder) and DE Vonnie Holliday (abdomen) are probable to play. New England is in good shape in this phase of the game.

The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium on Monday night calls for a high of 46F and a low of 32F with a 20% chance for rain. If the plains winds kick up it will feel a lot colder than 32F at game time – but that shouldn't bother the New England Patriots much.

Dillon is on fire, while the Chiefs are only average in this phase (and come into the game off a bad performance). Advantage, New England.

Kansas City's Derrick Blaylock vs. The New England Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Priest Holmes is doubtful to play due to his strained knee ligaments, so it looks like the Derrick Blaylock show will continue this week. All he did last week was lead all fantasy RBs with 33/186/1 rushing and 3/38/0 receiving to his credit. Kansas City's OL averages 4.8 ypc this season (4th in the NFL so far), so it's no surprise to see Blaylock do well.

New England's defense stifled the Bills last week, and Willis McGahee was totally stuffed (14/37/0 rushing, 17/50/0 for the Bills as a team) – the Patriots are playing well in this phase of the game, folks. Over the past 4 weeks, they've allowed an average of 115 yards and .5 TDs per game (they average 111.3 yards per game this season, with 5 scores given up to date).

T Willie Roaf (shoulder), and T John Welbourn (knee) are listed as probable to play, as is Blaylock (knee), while the Chiefs say LB Matt Chatham (hamstring) is questionable to go.

The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium on Monday night calls for a high of 46F and a low of 32F with a 20% chance for rain. If the plains winds kick up it will feel a lot colder than 32F at game time – but that shouldn't bother the out-door stadium New England Patriots too much.

The Chiefs are very good in this phase of the game, while the Patriots field an better-than-average but not elite unit. This looks like a pretty even matchup for Blaylock.

Philadelphia's Brian Westbrook/Dorsey Levens vs. The Washington Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Last week, Dorsey Levens ran with authority and led the Eagles in rushing yardage (12/73/1) – Brian Westbrook was also effective with 15/56/1 rushing and 4/62/0 receiving – the Eagles were firing on all cylinders vs. the Cowboys. Westbrook has 21/73/1 rushing and 7/66/0 to his credit over the past 2 games (Pittsburgh shut him down 2 weeks ago), while Levens has rushed for 26/117/1 and caught 2/10/0 over the past 2 games – they are starting to shape up as a powerful tandem.

Washington's rush D has been very tough all year long, averaging 85.7 yards allowed per game this year, with only 5 TDs given away to date. Over the past 4 weeks, they are right on that pace, giving up an average of 84 yards and 1 TD per game during that span. Cincinnati managed 34/99/1 against the Redskins last week. They are a very hard-nosed unit.

LB LaVar Arrington (knee) and DE Phillip Daniels (groin) are out, LB Mike Barrow (knee) is questionable to play, while DT Cornelius Griffin is probable (hip). RB Reno Mahe (ankle) is out for the Eagles, while G Jermane Mayberry (calf) is questionable.

The forecast for Lincoln Financial Field calls for a high of 64F with a low of 44F and a 20% chance for rain. If that forecast holds, weather won't be a factor in this game.

Washington is a tough nut to crack, while the Eagles have a strong offense with good blockers opening holes for the running backs – sounds pretty even to us.

Carolina's RBBC vs. The Arizona Defense (Neutral Matchup)

What's a team to do when their top 3 backs are placed on IR in the course of a season? You guessed it – go with a RBBC of backups and throw the ball a lot. Last week, Nick Goings came within shouting distance of 100 yards combined (8/42/0 rushing, 3/50/0 receiving) while recent-signee Brandon Bennett dove for a score (4/5/1). Over the past 3 weeks, the best Panther back in fantasy terms has been Goings, with 13/64/0 rushing and 9/100/1 receiving (36th ranked fantasy back in average points per game). If you are desperate for help due to injuries to other players, you might want to plug him in for a week – but don't expect a fantasy points bonanza.

Arizona is very tough to score on this season, allowing only 4 rushing scores all year (2nd-least in the NFL) while averaging 128.9 rushing yards allowed per game. Over the past 4 weeks they are right on their season pace, giving up 128 yards per game (1.0 TDs per contest right now). Tiki Barber and the Giants crashed through the Cardinals for 28/147/1 last week – the Cardinals are on a downswing in this phase right now. DL Bert Berry was a top IDP DL last week, with 7 solo tackles and 4 sacks to his credit. Karlos Dansby cracked the LB top ten with 4 solo tackles, 2 sacks, and 1 pass defensed.

Carolina reports no new injuries of note now that the gimpy Stephen Davis is on IR. Brad Hoover has as sore back, and fellow RB Joey Harris has a sore hamstring (questionable). T Todd Fordham has a sore knee (probable). Arizona's LB Leon Joe has a groin injury (probable), while LB Karlos Dansby is questionable (neck). DT Darnell Dockett has a tweaked groin (probable).

The forecast for Bank of America Stadium calls for a high of 69F and a low of 51F with a 40% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down hard at game-time, the field and ball could both be slick and harder to handle than usual.

Carolina is making do as well as they can, while the Cardinals have slipped in this phase of the game recently. Taken as a unit, the Panthers have enough ability to answer the Cardinals D in this phase of the game – we call it even.

San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinson vs. The Oakland Defense (Neutral Matchup)

The first time these teams played, back in week 8, Tomlinson was fighting through a groin injury (the Chargers just had a bye week, and his condition was improving through the week before the bye week) – he had 19/71/1 rushing with 1/7/0 receiving while being spelled often by Jesse Chatman (12/69/0). Over the past 3 weeks, Tomlinson has managed 36/107/2 rushing and 5/47/0 receiving in 2 games, including 17/36/1 rushing and 4/40/0 receiving in the week 9 rout of the Saints.

Oakland's defense played well against the Carolina backups in week 9, containing the team to 18/37/0. Over the past 4 weeks, the Raiders have averaged 85 rushing yards and 1 TD allowed per game – much better than their 21st ranked 120.2 season average (with 9 scores given up to date). They've been horrible in the passing phase (273 yards and 3.0 TDs per game on average over the past 4 weeks), so teams really don't need to run the ball against Oakland very much.

Both teams enter this game after a bye – San Diego lists RB Lorenzo Neal (toe) as questionable and RBs Jesse Chatman (toe) and Tomlinson (groin) as probable. LB Travian Smith is out for the Raiders.

The forecast for Network Associates Coliseum calls for a high of 62F and a low of 44F with a 10% chance for rain – a beautiful California day is on tap for this game.

Tomlinson is an elite back, while the Raiders play fairly well in this phase of the game – this looks like a neutral matchup for Tomlinson with the Oakland's "12th man" behind the D.

San Francisco's Kevan Barlow/Maurice Hicks vs. The Tampa Bay Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Kevan Barlow had a great first half last week, then tanked, lost his temper and incurred an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, which led to his benching. (He finished with 21/47/2 rushing for the day after several negative plays in the second half), Enter Maurice Hicks, who provided a spark (8/46/0) – now we have a murky situation at RB this week. We think Barlow will still be the starter and see a majority of the touches, but Hicks will see some touches and Barlow will be on a short leash – if he doesn't perform, he'll get the quick hook. According to the 11/16/04 San Francisco Chronicle (Janny Hu) "Kevan knows what his role is," (head coach) Erickson said. "He's our starting running back and when he gets tired, he comes out of the game and the other (guy) goes in. If the other guy gets something going, he's going to stay in the game for a little bit. That's simply what it is."

Tampa Bay was trampled by the Falcons last week (39/205/2). They have allowed an average of 129 rushing yards and 1.3 TDs per game over the last 4 weeks, which is in step with their season average of 125.9 rushing yards allowed per game (24th in the NFL) and 7 scores allowed to date. The Buccaneers do not shut down their opponent's running game this season. LB Shelton Quarles was an IDP Monster last week, with 12 solo tackles and 2 sacks when the dust settled.

San Francisco lists C Jeremy Newberry (back/knee, out) and G Kyle Kosier (shoulder/ankle, probable). DT Anthony McFarland is questionable to play (arm).

The forecast for Raymond James Stadium calls for a high of 84F and a low of 67F with a 20% chance for rain – it sounds like great weather for a football game is around the corner in sunny Florida.

San Francisco's rushing attack is struggling right now, but the Bucs are weak enough that Barlow and company have a shot for a decent game this week. We call this game an even matchup between sub-par units.

Jacksonville's Fred Taylor vs. The Tennessee Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Taylor has been racking up yardage this season (147/654/1 rushing and 23/255/1 receiving to date), including 23/144/0 rushing and 3/21/0 receiving last week vs. Detroit – unfortunately, he is not finding the end-zone very often (rookie Greg Jones has become the team's goal-line back). He's still an explosive player, but the lack of scoring is depressing Taylor's fantasy value (he's the 23rd ranked fantasy RB this year so far). Taylor did punch a run into the end-zone during the last meeting between these clubs back in week 3 (17/81/1 rushing and 1/11/0 receiving for Taylor that week).

Tennessee's season has gone south since week 3, and numerous injuries are limiting the defense's effectiveness at this point in the year (The Titans still rank 9th in the league allowing an average of 107.6 rushing yards per game this season, with 8 scores surrendered to date) – they are still tough in this phase of the game, holding their opponents over the last 4 weeks to an average of 103 yards and .7 TDs per contest. Kevin Carter was a top IDP DL with 7 sacks, 4 assists, 3 sacks and 1 forced fumble.

Tennessee's injury report includes DT Albert Haynesworth (elbow, out), LB Rocky Calmus (back, questionable), DE Carlos Hall (knee, questionable) and LB Robert Reynolds (concussion, questionable). Jacksonville in good shape with no new injuries to report.

The forecast for Alltel Stadium calls for a high of 80F and a low of 66F with a 20% chance for rain. That sounds like good weather for a football game to us

Tennessee plays tough D in this phase of the game, while the Jags sport an elite back and some talented backups – this looks like an even matchup, with neither team enjoying the upper hand.

Tennessee's Chris Brown?/Antowain Smith vs. The Jacksonville Defense (Tough Matchup)

The big news out of Tennessee is that Chris Brown's turf toe is quite aggravated this week, swollen and tender – coach Fisher actually uttered the word "doubtful" on Tuesday to describe Brown's chances to play on Sunday. Keep a close eye on Brown's status as the weekend approaches, but right now things don't look good for him this week. He was bothered by the injury last week (20/62/0 rushing with 2/6/0 receiving) and that limited his production. Brown managed 23/101/1 rushing vs. the Titans back in week 3.

Jacksonville sports the 7th ranked rush D in the league, averaging 105.7 yards allowed per game, and they have given up only 4 scores in this phase to date. Over the past 4 weeks, they average only 87 rushing yards allowed and haven't given up a single TD. Kevin Jones managed 19/81/0 vs. the Jags last week – they are tough.

DT Marcus Stroud (knee, questionable) and LB Daryl Smith (knee, probable) are listed by Jacksonville, while the Titans' T Brad Hopkins (hand) is out due to surgery to repair his broken hand. Team-mates Chris Brown (toe, questionable) and T Fred Miller (ankle, questionable) are also listed.

The forecast for Alltel Stadium calls for a high of 80F and a low of 66F with a 20% chance for rain. That sounds like good weather for a football game to us.

The Titans are in trouble if Brown can't go – Antowain Smith has been ineffective in his few chances – and even if he can play, this is a tough matchup for Tennessee.

Houston's Domanick Davis vs. The Green Bay Defense (Tough Matchup)

Domanick Davis battled for 31/98/2 rushing and 7/54/0 receiving last week against the Colts – he had a great fantasy outing, though his team lost badly. Over the past 3 weeks, Davis has piled up 72/225/4 rushing and 14/112/0 receiving to rank 6th among all fantasy RBs in average fantasy points per game (19.23 per outing). He's a major part of the Texans' attack, and scores fantasy points well despite the teams poor 3.4 yards per carry average (31st in the NFL).

Green Bay's rush D has been pretty stout lately, averaging only 73 yards and .3 TDs allowed over the past 4 games – they contained the talented Viking stable last week (16/71/0 rushing as a team), knocking more than half a yard off the squad's usual 5.1 yards-per-carry average (4.4 last week). They are playing significantly better in the last 4 weeks than they did the first 6, as evidenced by their season average of 111.1 rushing yards allowed per game (7 TDs to date) over the first 9 games.

Houston lists RB Tony Hollings as probable (hamstring), as is G Chester Pitts (ankle, probable). T Todd Wade is questionable (ankle). DT Grady Jackson has a banged up knee and is sick at mid-week (probable).

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 75F and a low of 58F, with a 40% chance for rain. If the weather looks too threatening before game-time, the retractable roof will get closed – weather shouldn't be a factor in this game.

Davis is doing well in recent weeks, but the streaking Packers will be a stern test for Houston. This looks like a tough matchup for Davis and company.

Cincinnati's Rudi Johnson vs. The Pittsburgh Defense (Tough Matchup)

Rudi Johnson had a strong game vs. the Steelers back in week 3, gaining 24/123/1 rushing during the contest. Since then, Pittsburgh has built an average of 79.6 rushing yards allowed per game this season, with only 4 scores surrendered to date. Over the past 4 weeks, they have averaged 32 rushing yards and 0 scores allowed, and held Cleveland to 22/68/0 last week.

Meanwhile, Johnson has been up and down from week to week, compiling a total of 207/788/5 rushing and 8/27/0 receiving this season. Over the past 3 weeks, he has racked up 74/254/2 rushing and 6/23/0 receiving, with 31/102/1 vs. Washington last week. Johnson comes into this game on something of a roll.

Both teams have some injury concerns: Cincinnati lists T Willie Anderson (knee, questionable) and RB Chris Perry (abdomen, questionable). Pittsburgh has LB Kendrell Bell (groin), LB James Harrison (shoulder), DE Brett Keisel (hamstring), and DE Travis Kirschke (back) are probable to play, while DE Kimo Von Oelhoffen (back) is questionable.

The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 59F with a low of 34F and a 30% chance of precipitation. If the moisture falls as snow, visibility could be an issue. If it is rain/sleet and falls thickly around game-time, footing and ball handling could become issues for both teams.

The Steelers are ultra-tough in this phase of the game, while Cincinnati is up and down from week to week. This looks like a tough matchup for Johnson and company.

St. Louis' Marshall Faulk/Steven Jackson vs. The Buffalo Defense (Tough Matchup)

The Faulk/Jackson tandem was very powerful last week – the Rams amassed 31/202/1 rushing vs. Seattle (18/139/0 for Faulk; 10/47/1 for Jackson) en route to a 23-12 victory. Faulk has been carrying the load more often than not recently, with 30/205/0 rushing and 11/43/0 receiving in the team's last 2 games, while Jackson has been more limited (13/48/1 rushing with 1/9/0 receiving in 2 games). Whoever carries the ball is getting lots of help from the OL – the Rams average 4.8 yards per carry this season, tied for 4th in the NFL.

Buffalo's rush defense is usually ferocious, ranking 11th in the NFL allowing 108.3 rushing yards per game, but giving away only 3 TDs all season (1st in the league). Lately, though, the Bills have been softer, averaging 131 yards and .5 TDs allowed per game over the past 4 weeks, including 45/208/0 to the Patriots last week. They were knocked off the ball regularly by the Patriots' OL last week.

St. Louis lists G Chris Dishman (knee) as out; T Grant Williams (shoulder) and Faulk (flu) are probable to play. Buffalo is in good shape in this phase of the game.

The forecast for Ralph Wilson Stadium calls for a high of 52F and a low of 35F with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the moisture comes down as snow, visibility could be an issue – rain mixed with sleet would make the field and football slippery. Weather could be a factor in this game.

St. Louis has a strong offense that is on a roll in this phase of the game, while the Bills got roughed up last week by the Patriots. Home-field advantage will help the defense, though – this looks like a tough matchup for the Rams despite last week's melt-down vs. New England.

Dallas' RBBC vs. The Baltimore Defense (Bad Matchup)

Collectively, these guys are mediocre to sub-par each week. Taken singly, none of them amount to much in fantasy terms, most weeks. Eddie George has 50/161/1 to his credit in the last 3 games (5/52/0 receiving) to check in at #31 among all fantasy RBs during that span. You should consider all your other options before plugging a Cowboy back into your lineup during the playoff push in your fantasy league.

That is especially true this week, as the Cowboys run into Ray Lewis (11 tackles and 3 assists last week, a top ten IDP LB), and DLs Marques Douglas (7 solo tackles, 1 assist, 1.5 sacks) and Kelly Gregg (5 solo tackles, 2 assists, 1.5 sacks – both players were top ten IDP DL last week). The Ravens rank 6th in the NFL this season, allowing an average of 105.2 rushing yards per contest, with only 5 scores allowed to date. Over the past 4 weeks, they surrendered yards at a rate of 108 per contest, with .5 rushing scores per game, although Curtis Martin and company did lay 36/156/2 on them last week – but Curtis Martin is one of the hottest running backs in the league, with one of the finest OL. Dallas averages a sub-par 3.9 yards per carry this season.

Dallas is in good health except for RB Julius Jones (shoulder, out), while the Ravens are in good shape in this phase of the game.

The forecast for M & T Bank Stadium calls for a high of 67F and a low of 48F with a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain falls thickly at game time, the field and ball could become even more challenging than usual to navigate/handle.

This is a bad week to start Cowboy running backs.

Miami's Sammy Morris vs. The Seattle Defense (Bad Matchup)

Miami's new coach announced this week that A.J. Feeley is the team's starting QB. That's probably bad news for the Dolphin's rushing game, because Feeley has been mediocre to poor in his appearances this season – Seattle is highly likely to "stack the line" and dare Feeley to beat them throwing the ball (which he hasn't shown the ability to do yet this year). Given how anemic the Dolphins' running game is on their best days, we think you'll want to give Morris and company a pass until we see how Feeley and the teams' receivers respond.

Seattle plays pretty stout run D, averaging 108.1 rushing yards allowed per game (10th in the NFL) with only 6 scores allowed in 9 games. They have been slightly more generous lately, allowing an average of 124 yards and .8 TDs per game over the past 4 weeks – St. Louis' Faulk/Jackson combo touched them for 31/202/1 last week. Nobody is going to mistake Miami's attack for St. Louis' this year, though.

Miami comes into this game off a bye week, but G Jeno James is out (knee). RB Travis Minor (ankle) and T John St. Clair (ankle) are both probable to play. LB Anthony Simmons is out (wrist, surgery) as is LB Tracy White (hamstring). LB Chad Brown is questionable (knee).

The forecast for Qwest Field in Seattle calls for a high of 50F with a low of 37F and a 20% chance for rain. It sounds like a really nice autumn day is on tap in the Northwest.

The Dolphins season is a shambles, and now they are starting over on offense with a guy who already had trouble getting the job done earlier this season at QB.

Cleveland's Lee Suggs/William Green vs. The New York Jets' Defense (Bad Matchup)

If William Green can keep his urges to imitate Muhammad Ali in check, we should see a return of the Cleveland "two-headed monster" this week. Last week, Lee Suggs handled the ball carrying duties alone, and finished the day with 18/38/0 rushing vs. the ultra-tough Steelers. It was a forgettable game all the way around for the Browns – there's not a whole lot more to say. They should be better this week because it would be hard to do worse than they did last week.

The Jets' rush D is no pushover, though, ranking 5th in the NFL allowing an average of 104.9 rushing yards per contest with a miserly 5 scores surrendered to date. Over the past 4 weeks, their opponents have averaged 111 yards rushing and .3 TDs per contest vs. the Jets. The Ravens could only muster 32/76/0 against this team last week. No matter what lens you choose to view the Jets through, they are a hard-nosed bunch of players in this phase of the game. John Abraham was a top IDP DL last week, with 6 solo tackles, 3 assists and 1 sack to his credit.

Cleveland is good to go in this phase, while the Jets list DE Shaun Ellis with a sore groin (probable) and LB Eric Barton is sick at mid-week (probable). LB Jason Glenn is out due to his broken arm.

The forecast for Cleveland Browns' Stadium calls for a high of 58F and a low of 34F with a 30% chance for precipitation. If moisture falls thickly at game time, the field and ball could both get slick, adversely affecting both teams' footing and ball handling. If the moisture falls as snow, visibility could be a factor, too.

This is a bad matchup for the Browns' backs.

Oakland's Tyrone Wheatley and company vs. The San Diego Defense (Bad Matchup)

Back in week 8, Tyrone Wheatley had a very limited appearance in the 42-14 loss, but he managed to (score 4/23/1 rushing) and contributed 4/22/0 receiving to the effort. In week 9, he carried the ball 19 times for 54 yards and 2 scores, with 3/10/0 receiving, vs. the Carolina defense. He hasn't been spectacular, but Wheatley is the ball carrier of choice at the goal line now that he is back in the mix.

San Diego has been stout vs. the rush over the past 4 weeks, averaging just 72 yards and .7 TDs allowed per contest, which is in keeping with their 1st ranked rush D this year (only 78.6 rushing yards allowed per game over the first 9 games) – they have given up 9 scores so far, though. The Saints managed 18/78/1 vs. the Chargers before their bye week.

Both teams enter this game after a bye – DT Eric Downing is questionable for the Chargers (knee) while G Ron Stone is out (knee) for the Raiders.

The forecast for Network Associates Coliseum calls for a high of 62F and a low of 44F with a 10% chance for rain – a beautiful California day is on tap for this game.

Oakland's attack is mediocre, while the Chargers are the best run D in the league. This is a bad matchup for the Raiders.