Mark Wimer/Joe Bryant - Rushing Matchups

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 Shaun Alexander 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

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Joe Bryant
Owner - www.Footballguys.com

Notes for Week 12 Matchups: In order to release these matchups in a timely manner (due to the NFL's Thanksgiving games), the injury information used to compose this set of matchups is derived from unofficial sources, including Footballguys.com's Monday Injury Wrap-Up and local-market media reports. Check the NFL's official injury report later in the week for full details regarding your players' status. Also, preliminary statistics (compiled before the Monday Night Football game between New England and Kansas City) were used to compose parts of the text - there may be slight differences between various offensive players' rankings as reported in the text of these matchups and the "final" statistical reports issued by Footballguys on Tuesday afternoon.

Quick Index

Great Matchups

Cincinnati's Rudi Johnson vs. The Cleveland Defense
Jacksonville's Fred Taylor vs. The Minnesota Defense
Atlanta's Michael Vick/Warrick Dunn/T.J. Duckett vs. The New Orleans' Defense
New York Jets' Curtis Martin vs. The Arizona Defense
Denver's Reuben Droughns vs. The Oakland Defense
Houston's Domanick Davis vs. The Tennessee Defense

Good Matchups

Chicago's Thomas Jones vs. The Dallas Defense
Dallas' Julius Jones vs. The Chicago Defense
Indianapolis' Edgerrin James vs. The Detroit Defense
Detroit's Kevin Jones vs. The Indianapolis Defense
Buffalo's Willis McGahee vs. The Seattle Defense
Philadelphia's Brian Westbrook/Dorsey Levens vs. The New York Giants' Defense
New York Giant's Tiki Barber vs. The Philadelphia Defense
Green Bay's Ahman Green?/Najeh Davenport? vs. The St. Louis Defense
San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinson vs. The Kansas City Defense
Pittsburgh's Jerome Bettis/Duce Staley? vs. The Washington Defense

Neutral Matchups

Seattle's Shaun Alexander vs. The Buffalo Defense
Cleveland's Lee Suggs/William Green vs. The Cincinnati Defense
Miami's Travis Minor/Sammy Morris vs. The San Francisco Defense
Tampa Bay's Michael Pittman vs. The Carolina Defense
Carolina's Nick Goings and company vs. The Tampa Bay Defense (Neutral Matchup
Tennessee's Chris Brown?/Antowain Smith vs. The Houston Defense
New England's Corey Dillon vs. The Baltimore Defense

Tough Matchups

Minnesota's Onterrio Smith/Moe Williams vs. The Jacksonville Defense
San Francisco's Kevan Barlow vs. The Miami Defense
New Orleans' Deuce McAllister vs. The Atlanta Defense
Arizona's Emmitt Smith vs. The New York Jets' Defense
St. Louis' Marshall Faulk/Steven Jackson vs. The Green Bay Defense
Baltimore's Chester Taylor/Jamal Lewis? vs. The New England Defense
Kansas City's Derrick Blaylock vs. The San Diego Defense (Tough Matchups)

Bad Matchups

Oakland's Tyrone Wheatley vs. The Denver Defense
Washington's Clinton Portis vs. The Pittsburgh Defense

Cincinnati's Rudi Johnson vs. The Cleveland Defense (Great Matchup)

Rudi Johnson couldn't get much done against the Browns back in week 6, with 16/57/0 rushing and 1/0/0 receiving to his credit in that game. Since then, he's been up and down (much like the fortunes of his rookie QB), with 73/259/1 rushing and 5/20/0 receiving to his credit over the past 3 weeks (22nd best fantasy RB during that span). The Bengals average 3.8 yards per carry this year, 22nd in the NFL - Johnson hasn't had a lot of help from the OL in 2004.

Curtis Martin and company shredded the Browns for 39/157/0 last week. They have averaged 148 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 weeks, much worse than their season average of 119.5 rushing yards allowed per game (11 TDs surrendered to date, though, tied for 3rd-most in the NFL to date). The wheels are coming of the car in Cleveland, and the engine is threatening to drop out. The rumor mill says a defeat by Cincinnati will send coach Davis packing (we'll see).

Both teams come into the game in decent shape, although RT Willie Anderson is playing with a damaged knee that needs surgical repair (he's ignoring his physician's advice).

The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 56F and a low of 43F with a 20% chance for precipitation. A fine autumn day is around the corner, it appears.

Johnson should avenge his poor week 6 effort this time around the block vs. the reeling Browns.

Jacksonville's Fred Taylor vs. The Minnesota Defense (Great Matchup)

Fred Taylor has been a yardage machine over the past few weeks, with 44/247/0 rushing and 6/41/0 receiving to his credit in just 2 games. Unfortunately for his owners, Taylor has managed only 2 scores, and RB Greg Jones is now the short-yardage specialist (read goalline plunge back) - the only way Taylor will score is if he rips off a long run or reception. That's something that Taylor is certainly capable of doing - but it's been a long drought for his suffering fantasy owners.

Minnesota's rush defense is a joke - they've allowed the second-most TDs in this phase of the game (12) to date, and average 123.8 rushing yards allowed per game this season (22nd in the NFL). Over the past 3 weeks, the team has imitated turnstiles while averaging 165 rushing yards allowed per game. The Lions victimized them for 27/146/0 last week. It's not hard to move the ball on the Vikings.

Jacksonville comes into the game in decent health, while the Vikings' LB Raonall Smith (concussion) has missed multiple games due to his second brain trauma of the regular season.

This game will be played in the Metrodome, so weather won't be an issue.

Look for Taylor to tear chunks of yardage out of the Viking's defense this week - he'll be a threat to go all the way against this soft defensive front.

Atlanta's Michael Vick/Warrick Dunn/T.J. Duckett vs. The New Orleans' Defense (Great Matchup)

Atlanta's rushing offense in 2004: 1st in the NFL averaging 5.1 rushing yards per carry, 2nd in the NFL with 1603 rushing yards to date. Vick leads the team with 89/604/1; Dunn leads the team in rushing scores with 147/583/7; while Duckett has 65/302/4 to his credit as the change of pace/short-yardage back. They are collectively a lethal combination.

What can be said about a defensive team that is dead last vs. The pass and the run at this point in the season: a defense that has allowed a total of 30 TDs (12 rushing, 2nd-worst in the league at this point) in 10 games, and averages 420.5 total yards allowed per game? They are genuinely out-Bungling the worst of the early 90's Cincinnati teams; they may be surpassing the 1976 Buccaneers for ineptitude. This pathetic Saints team may be fielding the decade's worst defense.

LB Derrick Rodgers (back) missed the game last week due to his injury. Atlanta's offense is in good shape in this phase of the game.

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

The sky's the limit this week vs. The doormat Saints.

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

Curtis Martin banged up his knee last week, and ended the day splitting carries with LaMont Jordan (17/88/0 for Martin, 18/73/0 for Jordan) - collectively, they battered the Browns into submission. Martin should be good to go for this game vs. Arizona, barring a setback during practices this week. Keep an eye on his status as the week progresses. 64/274/2 rushing and 2/5/0 receiving are Martin's totals over the past 3 weeks, slotting him at #16 among all fantasy RBs during that span - he should be in your starting lineup unless you are absolutely loaded at RB.

Arizona was shredded by the Panthers' 5th string RB (actually, he started the season as a FB) as the team's top 3 RBs are on IR and FB/RB Brad Hoover couldn't play last week thanks to a bad back. Nick Goings slashed the Cardinals for 22/121/3 leading Carolina to a team total of 27/151/3. Up until last week, the Cardinals had only allowed 4 rushing scores all season - now they rank 26th in the NFL allowing an average of 131.7 rushing yards per game. Over the past 3 weeks, they've allowed an average of 157 rushing yards per contest - the defensive front is melting down.

DE Bertrand Berry could only make it through part of the game last week due to his bruised thigh. LB Karlos Dansby missed the game due to his neck injury. The Jets are in good shape as long as Martin's knee holds up this week.

The forecast for Sun Devil Stadium calls for a high of 63F and a low of 39F with a 30% chance for rain. If the rain comes down hard around game time, the field could get slick and footing would be more treacherous. The field sees a lot of wear and tear between college and pro games during the course of the football season.

Martin and company should make mincemeat of the fading Cardinals.

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

Reuben Droughns blasted the Raiders for 38/176/1 back in week 6 - he's become more comfortable as the team's featured RB since that point in time. Over the past 3 weeks, Droughns has amassed 57/286/1 rushing and 3/31/0 receiving to rank as the 6th best fantasy RB during that span. Denver averages 4.3 yards per carry this season - Droughns is in a great situation, and is producing great statistics during 2004.

Oakland was gutted by the Chargers last week for 44/176/2 rushing, and they average 125.8 rushing yards allowed per game this season (25th in the NFL) with 11 rushing scores given away in 10 games. Lately, they've been up and down in this phase, as evidenced by their 18/37/0 performance against the Panther's backups in week 9 (that good showing was more about the Panthers' woes than the Raider's defense, it appears).

Denver is in good shape on their side of the ball, while the Raiders are doing without LB Travian Smith (knee injury) in recent weeks.

The forecast for Mile High Stadium calls for a high of 32F and a low of 18F with a 50% chance for rain/sleet/snow. At this time of year, that means the field could be very slick during the game - if the precipitation comes down as a heavy snowfall, visibility could also be an issue in this game.

Droughns should enjoy a great game vs. The weak Raiders' defensive front.

Houston's Domanick Davis vs. The Tennessee Defense (Great Matchup)

Domanick Davis has been very productive in recent weeks, despite the Texans' lowly 3.4 yards per carry average this season (32nd in the NFL). 71/234/4 rushing and 15/114/1 receiving describes his recent successes (over the past 3 games) - Davis is the 2nd ranked fantasy RB in the league during that span. Start him if you've got him - he's a prototypical dual-threat fantasy back.

Tennessee was ripped for 32/151/1 by the Jaguars last week, and has allowed an average of 126 rushing yard per game over their last 2 contests (the team's season average is 111.9 rushing yards allowed per game, with 9 rushing scores surrendered to date). As their injuries mount, the Titan's defense becomes more and more porous.

Speaking of injuries, the Titans did without DT Albert Haynesworth last week (elbow), and LBs Rob Reynolds (concussion) and Rocky Boiman (calf) were also sidelined. The secondary is also in tatters, with CB Andre Woolfolk the latest casualty (several other key DBs are sidelined) - Davis should find lots of room to maneuver this week.

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 76F with a low of 49F and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain holds off, it should be a great day to play some football.

Davis has a juicy matchup against a gutted defense in front of him this week.

Philadelphia's Brian Westbrook/Dorsey Levens vs. The New York Giants' Defense (Good Matchup)

Philadelphia's Brian Westbrook has exploited his dual-threat abilities in the past 3 weeks, and is the 15th best fantasy RB during that span, with 33/136/1 rushing and 12/108/2 receiving to his credit. The Eagles average 4.5 yards per carry this season, and Donovan McNabb's aerial fireworks force teams back off the line of scrimmage. Dorsey Levens has piled up 21/96/1 in the change-of-pace role during the same 3 week span. The Eagles are firing on all cylinders in this phase of the game. Westbrook tore up the Giants back in week 1, with 17/119/0 rushing and 3/42/0 receiving to his credit. His prospects look bright for a solid fantasy outing this week.

The Giants were blasted by the Atlanta trio of Vick/Dunn/Duckett last week, allowing a total of 34/201/0 to the Falcons last week. Over the past 3 games, the Giants have averaged 142 rushing yards allowed per game, much worse than their season average of 125.5 rushing yards allowed per game (with 7 rushing scores allowed to date). The Giants are heading in the wrong direction.

LB Barrett Green (knee/ankle) has missed several games for the Giants. The Philadelphia crew is down LG Artis Hicks (knee) this week, and several of the OL are nursing various dings - the Eagle's line is thin and fragile right now.

The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 55F with a low of 46F and a 20% chance for rain - a fine autumnal day is around the corner, it appears.

The Eagles are firing on all cylinders right now, while the Giants are heading downwards in this phase of the game. Advantage, Philadelphia.

New York Giant's Tiki Barber vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Good Matchup)

Tiki Barber was barely slowed down by the top-5 Falcon's rush defense (21/107/0 rushing with 3/24/0 receiving) - he is playing on another level this season. 63/287/3 rushing and 12/135/0 receiving are his tallies over the past 3 weeks, 5th best among all fantasy RBs during that span. Just start him and smile.

Philadelphia drilled the Redskins last week, and extinguished Clinton Portis' star (17/37/0) on the way to limiting Washington to 23/51/0 rushing as a team. Back in week 1, though, they were blasted by Barber (9/125/1 rushing and 5/75/0 receiving) - nobody has really found a way to shut Barber down this year. The Eagles rank 17th in the NFL allowing an average of 116.7 rushing yards per game (with 7 TDs given up in this phase to date). Over the past 3 weeks, they have given up 125 rushing yards per game on average. They are an average rush D this year.

The Giants T Marques Sullivan (ankle) and C Shaun O'Hara (ankle) both missed the game last week. Philly's DE Jerome McDougle (knee) missed last week's game, as did LBs Nate Wayne (hamstring) and Mark Simoneau (concussion). Both teams are banged up coming into this game.

The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 55F with a low of 46F and a 20% chance for rain - a fine autumnal day is around the corner, it appears.

Barber has enjoyed good success against the mediocre Philadelphia defense, and there is no reason to expect a different outcome this week.

Chicago's Thomas Jones vs. The Dallas Defense (Good Matchup)

Once Chicago's Thomas Jones was ready, Anthony Thomas went back to the bench and stayed there. Part of the reason for the sharp contrast was that the Bears fell behind early and needed to pass to play catch up (Jones is a better receiver than Thomas), but it also reflects the fact that the Bears consider Jones a better fit for their offense. Anyway, Jones put up 18/59/0 rushing and 4/23/0 receiving in his return to the lineup - it was not an awesome outing, but neither was it a bust. Look for a heavy dose of Jones again this week, with Thomas playing in select situations.

Dallas' rush D is only marginally better than their pass defense - they allow an average of 119.9 rushing yards per game this season, with 8 scores surrendered in this phase to date. Baltimore's backup, Chester Taylor, only managed 15/33/1 vs. The Cowboys once Jamal Lewis and Musa Smith went down to injury - but he's a backup-level talent. Over the past 3 games the Cowboys have surrendered an average of 108 rushing yards per game.

Chicago's G Ruben Brown suffered a shoulder stinger in the game last Sunday (stingers have a tendency to reoccur once inflicted), but returned to action. Dallas comes into the game in good health, with no new injuries to report.

The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 57F and 43F with a 0% chance for precipitation - that sounds like great weather for a football game.

Chicago needs to run the ball more than ever with raw Craig Krenzel under center, while the Cowboys are usually subpar in this phase of the game. Advantage, Chicago.

Dallas' Julius Jones vs. The Chicago Defense (Good Matchup)

The Cowboys settled on a featured running back last week, as Julius Jones returned to the lineup after missing the majority of the season due to a broken shoulder blade. The result? 30/81/0 rushing (vs. The ultra-tough Ravens' front 7) as part of a team effort of 35/94/0. As you can see, Jones saw a lion's share of the carries (Eddie George pitched in 3/5/0). We think you'll see more of the same on Thanksgiving.

Chicago's rush defense has been giving in the yardage department this season, averaging 133.6 rushing yards allowed per game (28th in the NFL) but they have been tough to score on (only 5 TDs surrendered). However, as we noted last week, losing MLB Brian Urlacher was a huge blow - the Bears coughed up 23/204/1 to Edgerrin James in the absence of Urlacher. Ouch. The team finished with 39/275/1 rushing (both James and Peyton Manning sat out the 4th quarter due to the ease of the victory, 41-10). Suffice it to say that the Bear's defensive front is reeling right now.

Dallas' unit comes into the game in good health, while the Bears are down Urlacher, and also have been doing without LB Marcus Reese (foot injury).

The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 57F and 43F with a 0% chance for precipitation - that sounds like great weather for a football game.

The Bears' defensive front is in disarray, while the Cowboys have finally got their featured back - if rookie Drew Henson starts at QB, expect to see a lot of hand-offs to Julius Jones.

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

Has there ever been a modern NFL offense this powerful? The Colts have so many weapons, and they utilize them all masterfully - Edgerrin James rushed for 23/204/1 last week as part of a 39/275/1 team effort on the ground. The Colts are fourth in the league, averaging 4.6 yards per carry this season. The passing game forces teams to respect not only the WRs, but also the TEs, opening lots of room for James and company to roam. It's a thing of beauty to watch the Colts' offense roll.

Detroit's defense is not overpowering in this phase of the game - in fact, they are usually subpar The team averages 125.4 rushing yards allowed per game this season (23rd in the NFL) with 8 rushing scores given up to date. They've averaged 167 rushing yards allowed per game over their last 3 games. Minnesota racked up 34/107/1 on this unit last week. The Lions can be "gotten to" in this phase of the game.

LB Boss Bailey remains sidelined for the Lions (knee). Indianapolis Gs Rick DeMulling (chest) and Tupe Peko (ankle) both missed the game last week for the Colts.

This game is to be played in Ford Field, so weather won't be an issue.

Watch James roll over the Lions while your Turkey dinner digests (12:30 ET kickoff on CBS).

Detroit's Kevin Jones vs. The Indianapolis Defense (Good Matchup)

Kevin Jones put together his first career 100 yard game last week (19/100/0, a 5.3 ypc average) and has rushed for more 4.3 yards per carry or more in 3 of his last 5 games for the Lions - he is finally getting acclimated to the speed of the pro game, and finding room to maneuver. The only downside to the recent developments is that he's only managed 1 score during that five week span, which is depressing his fantasy value. Over the past 3 weeks, he is the 36th ranked fantasy RB with 50/201/0 to his credit rushing (6/10/0 receiving).

Indianapolis crushed the Bears last week, 41-10, and limited them to 26/79/0 rushing despite the return of Thomas Jones to the lineup. They have been in the middle of the NFL pack so far this year, averaging 113.9 rushing yards allowed per game, with 9 rushing scores surrendered so far. Over the past 3 weeks, the team has allowed 116 rushing yards per game, right in step with their season average. Not great, but not terrible either.

LB Gilbert Gardner (hamstring) missed last week's game for the Colts. The Lions have good health on their side of the ball, with no new injuries of note to report after the Sunday game.

This game is to be played in Ford Field, so weather won't be an issue.

The Lions have been grooming Kevin Jones to carry the load for them, and he looks prepared to do that now. The Colts are only mediocre at run D - this should be a good opportunity for Jones to show us what he can do, on a national stage.

Buffalo's Willis McGahee vs. The Seattle Defense (Good Matchup)

Willis McGahee bounced back from his bad week 10 effort with 20/100/0 rushing and 3/27/0 receiving vs. The hapless Rams. He has rushed for 100+ yards in 3 of his last four games (and 4 of his last 6), with a total of 162/610/3 rushing and 13/105/0 receiving to his credit since ascending to the starting running back position. He's the real deal, a bona-fide NFL star in the making.

Seattle surrendered 23/69/1 to the Dolphins' RBBC last week - A.J. Feeley ran in the lone score himself (1/7/1). They definitely benefited from the return of Grant Wistrom to the lineup (but discovered that LB Chad Brown will be lost for an indefinite number of weeks (coach Holmgren said 1-6) after requiring arthroscopic surgery this week to clean out his left knee). The Seahawks are among the top ten rush defenses in the NFL this season (8th currently) allowing an average of 104.2 rushing yards per game, with 7 scores allowed in this phase of the game to date. Over the past 3 weeks, they've coughed up an average of 115 yards per game - they are slightly off their season pace right now.

Aside from Chad Brown, the Seahawks' DT Marcus Tubbs injured a hand in the game last week. LBs Tracy White (hamstring) and Anthony Simmons (wrist surgery, out for the season) have been sidelined in recent weeks - the defensive front is getting thin at this point in the season. The Bills are in good shape on their side of the ball.

The forecast for Qwest Field calls for a high of 46F and a low of 36F with a 10% chance for rain. A nice day for a football game is around the corner in the Pacific Northwest, apparently.

McGahee has a head of steam up - meanwhile, the Seahawks are subtracting defensive players from the lineup as quickly as they can get other players back onto the field. McGahee has a solid shot at a quality outing vs. The limping Seahawks.

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

Duce Staley's hamstring isn't getting better in a hurry - we expect to see Jerome Bettis carrying the load again this week unless some kind of dramatic improvement happens for Staley later in the week. Bettis has been just fine on his own, with 91/381/2 rushing and 2/10/0 receiving to his credit over the past 3 weeks - the team has continued to pile up victories, too. The Steelers have no reason to rush Staley back before his is 100%.

Washington's defense was carved up for 31/126/0 rushing by the Eagles last week - it was somewhat surprising because the Redskins' lone bright spot this season is their defense (3rd against the rush (allowing 89.7 yards on average and only 5 scores to date) and 7th vs. The pass). Over the past 3 weeks they've averaged 96 rushing yards allowed per game - we think the Eagles' performance is an aberration and not the beginning of a trend.

Aside from Staley, the Steelers are in good shape. The Redskin's DLs Phillip Daniels (groin) and Cornelius Griffin (hip) both missed the last game, as did LBs Lavar Arrington (knee) and Michael Barrow (knee). The Redskins have been whittled down to a thin unit thanks to their injury woes.

The forecast for Heinz Field calls for a high of 53F with a low of 44F and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain holds off, it should be a nice day to play a game of football.

Look for Bettis to rip up the Redskins' limping unit at home on Sunday.

Green Bay's Ahman Green?/Najeh Davenport? vs. The St. Louis Defense (Good Matchup, but…)

The big question this week for Packer fans and fantasy owners is this: who will carry the ball for Green Bay this week? Green has sore ribs after a hard shot sustained at the beginning of the Houston matchup last week. Davenport was inactive due to his hamstring injury. Both are dicey to play in this game, as is FB Nick Luchey (separated shoulder) and newly activated Walter Williams has a badly sprained ankle after his first NFL action of the year - he's very doubtful to play. Tony Fisher has a neck/shoulder stinger - and he's the healthiest player as of Tuesday. Unless Green or Davenport improves by Thursday, the team may be starting Fisher. Former Brown James Jackson was signed today. It's all about the injuries in Green Bay this week. Green is described as day-to-day and won't practice early in the week.

St. Louis had a hard time dealing with Willis McGahee last week (20/100/0 rushing for McGahee, 26/119/0 as a team), and that's nothing new for the Rams - they rank 29th in the NFL this season allowing 137.4 rushing yards per game on average, with 9 rushing scores surrendered to date. Over the past 3 weeks, the Rams have coughed up an average of 157 rushing yards per game - they are one of the softest defensive fronts in the league this year.

St. Louis' DE Tony Hargrove was unable to play last week (neck).

Weather should be a factor in this game, as the game is on Monday Night Football, starting 9 PM ET - at Lambeau Field in Wisconsin. The forecast calls for a high of 43F with a low of 22F (it will be close to that at kickoff), with a 30% chance for snow. Not exactly what the dome-dwelling Rams are used to, is it? The football gets very hard and slick in subfreezing temperatures and fingers can become stiff and numb.

Green Bay has a good matchup here - the question is, will they have the personnel to take advantage of the matchup?

San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinson vs. The Kansas City Defense (Good Matchup)

LaDainian Tomlinson's groin feels a lot better since the bye week, and it shows in his production (37/164/1 rushing with 1/9/0 receiving last week) - with Drew Brees firing on-target passes to Antonio Gates in the other phase of the game, the Charger's offense is on a big-time roll. Tomlinson has 54/200/2 rushing and 5/49/0 receiving to his credit over the team's last 2 games. The team averages 4.4 yards per carry this season - Tomlinson finally has the supporting cast he needs to play in the playoffs.

Last week, the Chiefs were ripped for 32/98/2 by Corey Dillon and company - they have been pretty soft in this phase of the game this season, giving up an average of 116.4 rushing yards per contest (10 scores allowed in 10 games) - they had averaged 132 rushing yards allowed per game in the 2 games previous to the Monday Night Football game.

Both squads come into this game in decent shape, with no major new injuries to report.

The forecast for Arrowhead stadium calls for a high of 50F with a low of 32F and a 40% chance for precipitation. If the moisture falls thickly around game time, the field could become slick and the ball may be harder than usual to handle. Weather could be a factor in this matchup.

The Chiefs are pretty soft, while Tomlinson is getting on a roll - this looks like a good matchup for the Chargers.

Cleveland's Lee Suggs/William Green vs. The Cincinnati Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Cleveland's offense is sputtering, partly due to Jeff Garcia's injury, and partly due to the languishing rushing attack. Suggs managed 17/62/0 last week, while Green chipped in 8/32/0 in his return to playing football instead of the "Ultimate Fighting Championship". 27/99/0 was a respectable effort as a team vs. The Jets, but it wasn't the sort of total that fantasy owners need to get excited about their piece of the Brown's attack. Over the past 3 weeks, Suggs has 53/156/0 rushing and 4/22/0 receiving, while Green has 16/42/0 rushing and 1/10/0 receiving in 2 out of 3 contests. Neither is in the top 36 fantasy RBs. The last time these teams tangled, back in week 6, Green exploded for 25/115/0 rushing (Suggs had 13/19/0 rushing, and 5/100/1 receiving in perhaps the finest moment for this tandem of backs).

Cincinnati's rush defense has been poor most of the year, allowing an average of 143.5 rushing yards per game (only New Orleans' rush D is worse). They have held teams to only 6 rushing scores, though - once in the redzone their backs stiffen somewhat. Over the past 3 weeks, the Bengals have averaged 116 rushing yards allowed per game, with 40/151/0 given up to the Steelers in their most recent contest. The Bengals don't have a lot to brag about in this phase of the game.

A big problem for the Browns cropped up on Monday when starting RT Ryan Tucker was diagnosed with a torn MCL in his left knee - he'll be replaced by someone yet to be named by coach Davis - most of the other OL players have struggled this season (Tucker is widely considered the best player on the OL since arriving in 2002). Tucker's loss could be a huge blow to the Browns' backs.

The forecast for Paul Brown Stadium calls for a high of 56F and a low of 43F with a 20% chance for precipitation. A fine autumn day is around the corner, it appears.

A struggling offensive unit throws down against a weak defensive front in this divisional matchup - Green and Suggs enjoyed success last time around, but their OL woes dim the chances of a repeat performance - this looks like an ugly but even matchup to us.

Seattle's Shaun Alexander vs. The Buffalo Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Seattle's Shaun Alexander has exploded since coach Holmgren refocused the offense on the running game - he ground out 29/96/1 vs. The Dolphins last week, and has 77/432/3 rushing with 1/3/0 receiving in his last 3 games (4th best fantasy RB during that span of time). Seattle is tied for 4th in the NFL averaging 4.6 yards per carry this season - just start Alexander if you've got him and smile.

Buffalo put the squeeze on the Rams' backs last week, though - Marshall Faulk could only muster 6 yards on 13 carries, while sidekick Steven Jackson managed to add 7/29/0 the teams' meager total (20/35/0 for the day). The Bills are the 6th ranked rush D in the land this year, with an average of only 101 rushing yards allowed per game, and a paltry 3 rushing scores in 10 games - that's a stout D, folks. Over the past 3 games they've allowed an average of 110 rushing yards per contest.

Seattle's OL is in good shape coming into this game, while the Bills' defensive front is also healthy.

The forecast for Qwest Field calls for a high of 46F and a low of 36F with a 10% chance for rain. A nice day for a football game is around the corner in the Pacific Northwest, apparently.

This game features a clash between top-tier squads - neither has a clear advantage over the other.

Miami's Travis Minor/Sammy Morris vs. The San Francisco Defense (Neutral Matchup)

There are a lot of terms for a matchup like this one (between two 1-9 teams): "Battle of the Bad"; "Toilet Bowl"; "Stink-Fest". Take your pick - this game is more likely to be a comedy of errors than a "Battle Royale". The QB is likely to be either gimpy A.J. Feeley or 3rd-stringer Sage Rosenfels. Either way, look for the 49ers to stack the line and dare the Dolphins to sling the pigskin come Sunday. There's a reason the Dolphins rank 31st in the league averaging 3.5 yards per carry this season - opposing teams don't have to respect the Miami passing game. Minor averaged 2.8 ypc last week (13/37/0), while Morris was chugging along at the glacial pace of 2.3 ypc (7/16/0). Look elsewhere for your fantasy starters this week.

San Francisco's rush defense is as soft as Miami's rush offense is weak. Tampa Bay ripped off 35/159/2 against them last week. They average 133 rushing yards allowed per game over the last 3 weeks, and have surrendered an average of 120.7 rushing yards per game this season (21st in the NFL) while giving away a league-high 15 rushing scores to date.

Sammy Morris is also injured (ribs) as is key lead-blocker Rob Konrad (concussion) - definitely stay away from Morris this week. San Francisco's laundry list of injuries includes LBs Ray Wells (ankle) and Richard Seigler (foot) - both of these guys have missed multiple games due to their injuries. Check the injury reports later in the week for the full scoop on both teams.

The forecast for Monster Stadium calls for a high of 59F with a low of 45F and a 10% chance of precipitation - pleasant weather is around the corner for this matchup, it appears.

Miami's season is a desolate wasteland. They can take solace in the fact that it's impossible to go winless, since they managed to win a game earlier this year. This matchup is ugly but even - but don't count on much of anything out of the imploding Dolphins.

Tampa Bay's Michael Pittman vs. The Carolina Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Michael Pittman's fortunes have been on the rise since Brian Griese sparked the passing attack. Over the past 3 weeks, Pittman has amassed 56/296/5 rushing and 6/46/0 receiving - last week, he slapped down 21/106/2 on the 49ers. It's all good in this phase of the game for the Buccaneers (Mike Alstott chipped in 7/21/0 in his return to the lineup).

Carolina's rush D crushed the Cardinals last week, limiting them to 28/85/0 on the day. The Panthers average 88 rushing yards allowed over their past 3 games - a significant improvement over their season average of 133.2 rushing yards surrendered per contest (with a league-high 15 rushing scores allowed to date). It's almost as if the 2003 defense has returned in the second half of 2004.

Carolina continues to do without LB Dan Morgan (concussion), and LB Brian Allen (pectoral injury) missed last week's game. DE Kemp Rasmussen (neck) was inactive last week, too. The Buccaneers are in good shape on their side of the ball.

The forecast for Bank of America Stadium calls for a high of 62F with a low of 54F and a 20% chance of rain. It sounds like the sky should be "Carolina Blue" during a fine Piedmont afternoon on Sunday.

Both teams have suffered disappointments in the first half of 2004, and both teams seem to finally be getting back on course heading into the final 1/3 of the season. This looks like a neutral matchup to us.

Carolina's Nick Goings and company vs. The Tampa Bay Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Nick Goings exploded for 22/122/3 vs. The Cardinals last week (the Panthers rushed for 27/157/3 as a team) - he figures to be the teams' starter this week, even if Brad Hoover can return to the lineup despite his nagging back injury. Carolina has had more than their share of bad luck in this phase of the game - have they finally found a durable RB to carry the pigskin for the rest of 2004? Time will tell, but we'd be surprised to see another 100+ yard, multiple TD outing from Goings.

Tampa's defensive front stuffed the 49ers last week, holding Kevan Barlow to 14/30/0 and the team to 23/72/0. They average 127 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 games, in comparison to their season average of 120.5 rushing yards allowed per game (20th in the NFL) with 7 rushing scores allowed in 10 games. The defense is not dominating any more, but neither are they soft.

Hoover's still dealing with a bad back. Tampa will do without DT Anthony McFarland (triceps injury) this week.

Goings and company are trying to muddle through for the Panthers, while the Buccaneers seem to be getting back to their roots on defense - we call this game an even matchup between teams battling through adversity.

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

Chris Brown has had a great season right up to last week, when his nagging toe injury finally forced him to the sidelines. Antowain Smith stepped in and did a great job in relief of Brown, with 24/95/1 vs. The Jaguars' defensive front. If Brown can't go again this week, the team will rely on Smith to put in a repeat performance of last week's display. Keep an eye on the injury report when it is released by the league, but remember that coach Fisher rarely uses any designation other than "out" or "questionable" - your best bet is to check what the Tennessean's NFL coverage has to say about Brown. Brown asserted that he would play in this game after the Titan's victory over Jacksonville last week. Time will tell if he's right.

Houston got lucky when Green Bay's Ahman Green suffered a rib injury on the first play from scrimmage, but they still surrendered 21/90/0 to the Green Bay reserves (a 4.3 yards per carry average). The Texans have been very tough to score on in this phase of the game (only 3 rushing scores allowed all season long) while averaging 111.2 rushing yards allowed per game (over the last 3 games they've given up yardage at a clip of 105 yards per game). Back in week 6, the Titans managed to compile 22/101/0 rushing vs. The Texans - they are hard-nosed in this phase of the game.

LT Brad Hopkins (hand surgery, out) and T Fred Miller (ankle) missed last week's game for the Titans. DE Gary Walker's foot injury sidelined him last week, as did Antwan Peek's bad ankle. Both teams have injury issues coming into this game.

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 76F with a low of 49F and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain holds off, it should be a great day to play some football.

The Titans managed modest success against the Texans last time around - that's about the best you can hope for against this unit. This looks like a fairly even matchup to us, with neither side clearly more dominant than the other.

New England's Corey Dillon vs. The Baltimore Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Corey Dillon tore up the Chiefs for 26/98/2 rushing last week, which gives him 77/357/3 rushing in his last 3 games - he's on a roll coming into this matchup. The team averages 4.2 yards per carry this year - the OL is doing their job - and Tom Brady is too lethal in the passing phase for teams to stack the line vs. Dillon. He's in a good place for an NFL running back, and his production in recent weeks shows it. He would have been even more explosive in fantasy terms if not for a goalline fumble on Monday night.

Baltimore contained the Cowboys last week to 35/94/0 rushing - that's nothing new for this team, which averages 104.1 rushing yards allowed per game this season (7th in the NFL this season) with only 5 rushing scores surrendered in 10 games. Over the past 3 weeks, they've averaged 114 rushing yards allowed per game - this team sports one of the toughest rush defenses in the league.

Baltimore's defensive front is in good shape, as is New England's current starting lineup. Injuries aren't a huge issue in this matchup.

The forecast for Gillette Stadium calls for a high of 52F with a low of 35F and a 20% chance for rain - a crisp autumn day is on tap for this game, it appears.

Dillon is on a roll, but the Ravens mount a fierce defense in this phase of the game. This is an even matchup between top squads.

San Francisco's Kevan Barlow vs. The Miami Defense (Tough Matchup)

Kevan Barlow's season continues to go south - his latest debacle was a 14/30/0 effort vs. Tampa Bay (backup Maurice Hicks managed 7/36/0 on his carries, 3.0 yards per carry more than Barlow). Even throwing in Barlow's 5/14/0 receiving doesn't add up to a decent fantasy outing. So much promise, so little production. That could be said of the entire offense, actually.

Miami's once vaunted rush defense has faded along with the team's hopes, and currently ranks 30th in the NFL allowing an average of 142.6 rushing yards per game. They have surrendered 7 rushing scores to date, and average 118.5 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 weeks. Seattle managed 38/116/1 vs. this group last week - there is some life left in the D despite their season of futility.

The 49ers have done without C Jeremy Newberry for many weeks (knee/back). Miami's DT Mario Monds has a hand injury, and LB Zach Thomas injured his hamstring last week - make sure to check the official injury report if you have Thomas on your IDP squad.

The forecast for Monster Stadium calls for a high of 59F with a low of 45F and a 10% chance of precipitation - pleasant weather is around the corner for this matchup, it appears.

Miami's defense has come out of their slump to arrive at mediocrity, while the 49ers have declined from mediocrity into a slump. Advantage, Miami.

New Orleans' Deuce McAllister vs. The Atlanta Defense (Tough Matchup)

Just as Deuce McAllister's ankle is approaching 100%, his team's defense has gone into a death spiral that is allowing teams to jump out to early leads - and effectively remove the running game from New Orleans' arsenal. Denver was up 20-0 after 15 minutes last week (the New Orleans defense has achieved dead last rankings in both phases of the game (rushing and passing) - they are truly horrible). All of this adds up to less than 20 carries per game for McAllister (13/42/0 rushing, with 11/87/0 receiving) - he still finds ways to be productive thanks to his excellent pass-catching skills - but it's not exactly an ideal situation for a running back.

Atlanta got to welcome Eli Manning to the NFL last week, but they still were hard-pressed to contain Tiki Barber (21/107/0) - the Falcons average 97.3 rushing yards allowed per game this season (but have allowed 12 rushing scores to date, near the bottom of the league). Over the past 2 games, the Falcons have given up an average of 93.5 rushing yards per game - they are very tough in this phase of the game.

Both teams come into this game with decent health among their starting players.

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

McAllister is an old foe who knows the Falcons well - but he hasn't run into this edition of the defense yet. This looks like a tough matchup for McAllister and the Saints.

Minnesota's Onterrio Smith/Moe Williams vs. The Jacksonville Defense (Tough Matchup)

The Viking's RBBC keeps getting more and more muddled - last week, Michael Bennett was the official starter, but only managed 11/30/0 rushing with 3/27/0 receiving. Onterrio Smith was more effective (8/27/0), but only marginally so. Moe Williams scored the rushing TD (4/15/1 rushing with 2/21/0 receiving) to turn in the best fantasy performance of the afternoon. The team is still second in the league averaging 4.8 yards per carry, but they just haven't settled on a featured guy since Bennett got his knee straightened out and Smith returned from his unpaid 4-game holiday.

Jacksonville started the season as a feared rush defense, fell into a mid-season slump, but has now resumed hard-nosed rush defense. Over their past 2 games, the team has averaged 92 rushing yards allowed per game, elevating their season average back into the top ten among NFL defensive fronts (105.4 rushing yards allowed per game, 10th in the NFL) with only 5 rushing scores surrendered in 10 games. Antowain Smith managed 24/95/1 vs. The Jags last week (27/103/1 rushing as a team for the Titans) - they are right on their season average coming into this matchup.

RT Nat Dorsey injured his shoulder last week, and is probably going to miss some time (he can't lift up his right arm as of Tuesday). Jacksonville's defensive front is in good shape with no new injuries of note.

This game will be played in the Metrodome, so weather won't be an issue.

The Vikings have a great stable of backs, but haven't settled on a featured guy (and may not do so) - their cadre will face a tough challenge from the visitors this week.

Arizona's Emmitt Smith vs. The New York Jets' Defense (Tough Matchup)

The switch to QB Shaun King did not help the Cardinal's rushing attack - Emmitt Smith could only grind out 11/26/0 during the game (28/85/0 for the team) vs. Carolina. Smith added 1/4/0 to his yardage through the air - there just wasn't much room to roam last week. Over the past 3 weeks, Smith has 49/135/3 rushing and 2/7/0 receiving to his credit (23rd among all fantasy RBs) - but he makes most of his points when the Cardinals are down near the goalline (which they didn't manage to do with King under center) and hand off to Smith for a short TD jaunt. The Cardinal's offense is in flux right now, to say the least.

The Jets held the Browns to 27/99/0 rushing last week, and have averaged 111 rushing yards allowed over the course of their last 3 games. This season, they are the league's 9th ranked rush defense, averaging 104.3 rushing yards allowed per game, with only 5 scores given up in ten games. This is a stout defensive front, without a doubt.

LB Jason Glenn missed the game last week due to his broken arm, while fellow LB Victor Hobson sprained an ankle. Arizona enjoys decent health at this point in the season.

The Jets are making a move in the playoff race, while the Cardinals are suddenly hiccupping. Advantage, Jets.

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

Last week was a disaster for the Rams' running backs. The Bills completely stuffed Marshall Faulk (13/6/0 rushing - no, we didn't transpose the carries and the yardage), and Steven Jackson could only wrangle a handful of plays once the team got WAY behind (37 - 17 at the end of the 3rd quarter) - he managed 7/29/0 rushing on the day (4/13/0 receiving for Faulk, 1/3/0 for Jackson). It was an imminently forgettable outing. Faulk's tally over the last 3 weeks 43/211/0 rushing and 15/56/0 receiving indicate that this disaster was just "a bad day at the office" - we don't expect to see a repeat meltdown.

Green Bay's defense allowed 27/107/0 to the Texans last week, with an average of 89 rushing yards allowed per game over their past 2 games. The team is 11th in the NFL averaging 110.7 rushing yards allowed per game this season, and have surrendered 7 rushing scores to date. The Packers defense is playing pretty well in this phase of the game right now.

G Chris Dishman (knee) missed last week's game for the Rams. The Packer's defense is in good shape in this phase of the game.

Faulk and company usually play well in this phase, but come into this game stone-cold after a bad game last week. Weather, home-field advantage, and the Green Bay defense are all against them this week, though - this looks like a tough matchup for the Rams.

Baltimore's Chester Taylor/Jamal Lewis? vs. The New England Defense (Tough Matchup)

Baltimore's Jamal Lewis injured his ankle last week, and didn't return to action, although the team maintains that he could have, if necessary, played. The story as of Tuesday, though, according to the 11/23/04 Baltimore Sun is as follows: "In what has proved to be a worse injury than the Ravens initially thought, Jamal Lewis' sprained ankle likely will sideline the Ravens' All-Pro running back for Sunday's clash against the defending Super Bowl champion New England Patriots, a league source said… According to the source, there is some concern the injury could keep Lewis out four to six weeks, which would put his season in jeopardy." As of Tuesday, it looks like the Ravens will be relying on Chester Taylor for an extended period of time (Musa Smith had successful surgery on his badly fractured leg, but won't be playing football for quite a while). The book on Taylor thus far in his career: 180/768/3 rushing with 48/333/2 receiving in 2 ½ seasons with the Ravens. His best game this year came in week 7 vs. Buffalo, with 21/89/0 rushing and 11 yards receiving (for 100 yards combined).

New England limited Derrick Blaylock and company to 20/64/0 last week. They've been on that pace for several weeks, averaging 65.5 rushing yards allowed in their 2 previous contests - this team is playing at the top of their game right now, much better than their season average of 111.3 rushing yards (with 5 rushing scores allowed in 10 games) would indicate.

Lewis' and Smith's woes are covered above. New England's defensive front is healthy and ready to rumble at this juncture in the season.

The forecast for Gillette Stadium calls for a high of 52F with a low of 35F and a 20% chance for rain - a crisp autumn day is on tap for this game, it appears.

The Ravens are going to go through withdrawal if Lewis is actually out for 4-6 weeks, while the Patriots come into this game at the top of their game in this phase - advantage, New England.

Kansas City's Derrick Blaylock vs. The San Diego Defense (Tough Matchups)

Derrick Blaylock had a tough time getting the ball moving vs. New England last week (19/58/0) - he's the guy again this week, though, as the Chiefs have announced that Priest Holmes is out again. Over the past 3 weeks (2 games), Blaylock has piled up 52/244/1 rushing with 8/71/0 receiving in relief of Holmes, so don't let his down week scare you off just yet. San Diego is a very tough defense, though - check out the synopsis below.

San Diego crushed the Raiders last week, allowing only 14/53/0 to Tyrone Wheatley and company. That's no surprise as the team is #1 in the NFL this season giving up an average of only 76 rushing yards per game (with 9 rushing scores allowed to date). They have been even tougher over their last two games, with an average of 65.5 rushing yards surrendered per game. This is a top rush defense, folks.

As we noted above, Holmes is out for this contest. San Diego's unit is good to go.

Blaylock has put up some impressive numbers in his chances this season, but he faces a very tough matchup this week. Considering your other options wouldn't be a bad idea this week.

Oakland's Tyrone Wheatley vs. The Denver Defense (Bad Matchup)

Back in week 6, Amos Zereoue (15/34/0 rushing) was still subbing for the injured Tyrone Wheatley - recent history doesn't inform us about much regarding this matchup. Over the past 3 weeks (2 games), Wheatley has scraped together 31/96/2 rushing and 4/19/0 receiving, putting him at #20 among all fantasy RBs in fantasy points per game (11.75 FP per game). Last week, though, he only managed 12/42/0 rushing and 1/9/0 receiving against the Charger's top-ranked rush defense.

Denver fields a rush defense that is only a little softer than the Chargers, averaging 100.4 rushing yards allowed per game this season (5th in the NFL this season), with 10 rushing TDs allowed to date. Over the past 2 games, the Broncos have averaged 76 rushing yards allowed per game, including 14/49/0 given up to the Saints last week. They are playing at the top of their game right now.

DT Luther Elliss (calf) and DE Trevor Pryce (back) missed the game last week, while LB Patrick Chukwurah suffered a shin contusion. Oakland has been doing without G Ron Stone (knee) for several weeks in a row.

This looks like a bad matchup for the Raiders' backs.

Washington's Clinton Portis vs. The Pittsburgh Defense (Bad Matchup)

Patrick Ramsey has struggled to produce since being elevated to the starting role in the Redskins' offense, and it is limiting the fantasy value of the other members of this squad. Exhibit A: Clinton Portis last week (17/37/0 rushing with 1/-4/0 receiving). Exhibit B: Clinton Portis over the past 3 weeks (68/265/0 rushing with 6/39/0 receiving). Unless and until Ramsey proves he can beat teams through the air, Portis is going to find running room hard to come by.

We'll just let the Pittsburgh numbers speak for themselves: this season, the Steelers are 2nd in the NFL allowing an average of 77.8 rushing yards per game with only 4 rushing scores allowed in 10 games. They held the Bengals to 16/62/0 last week, and average 51 rushing yards allowed per game over the last 3 weeks. Wow.

Washington's starting RG Randy Thomas is injured and may be lost for some time due to a hamstring injury. Pittsburgh's DE Brett Keisel strained a hamstring last week, and LB Kendrell Bell aggravated the groin injury that kept him out of the action for the first half of the season, and may miss a few more weeks of play.

The forecast for Heinz Field calls for a high of 53F with a low of 44F and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain holds off, it should be a nice day to play a game of football.

Pittsburgh has the best D in the league this season, while the Redskins have struggled to move the ball at all in this phase of the game recently. The Steelers have a huge edge in this game.