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Joe

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Joe Bryant
Owner - www.Footballguys.com

Bye Weeks

Cleveland's William Green/Lee Suggs
St. Louis' Marshall Faulk/Steven Jackson
New Orleans' Deuce McAllister
Tampa Bay's Michael Pittman

Detroit's Kevin Jones/Artose Pinner vs. The Dallas Defense (Great Matchup)

Kevin Jones did a good job in his first substantive game time since returning from a high ankle sprain, although he cramped up toward the end of the game and couldn't finish what he started. We expect to see him back in the starting lineup this week - hopefully he can get closer to optimum conditioning by this Sunday. By the time he exited the lineup, Jones had 13/65/1 rushing (Pinner added 9/36/1 in relief of Jones). All told, the Lions had 29/115/2 to their credit - a good game by any yardstick. They substantially improved on the team's season average of 3.4 yards per carry (30th in the NFL).

Dallas' defense is being exposed as the season wears on - the Cowboys now rank 29th in the NFL averaging 139.3 rushing yards allowed per game (4 scores to date). Green Bay trampled them for 31/220/2 last week. The Cowboys average 156.7 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 2 weeks - they stink at defending against opposing rushers right now.

Detroit lists FB Cory Schlesinger (hamstring, questionable). DE Greg Ellis is probable for Dallas (foot).

The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 80F and a low of 63F with a 30% chance for precipitation. The rains could cause problems on the field regarding footing and ball-handling if they come down hard at game-time.

Detroit is starting to get up to speed in this phase of the game, while the Cowboys are rapidly falling apart. Advantage, Detroit.

Indianapolis' Edgerrin James vs. The Kansas City Defense (Great Matchup)

Edgerrin James had a strong game last week, with 142 yards combined (87 rushing and 54 receiving), but he didn't manage to find pay-dirt in the game. Over the last 3 weeks (2 games), he is the 5th best fantasy RB in fantasy points per contest, with 50/223/1 rushing and 8/73/0 receiving - he's always a threat to explode on any given Sunday. If you have him, you should be starting him.

Kansas City's defense allowed 21/119/0 to the Falcons last week, but they won they game by 46 points, so you can see why they may have been playing off the line a bit. They average 110 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 weeks (2 games), and are the 24th ranked rush defense in the land this season, allowing an average of 125.2 yards per game (5 rushing scores surrendered to date). This is a mediocre-to-poor unit, depending on the week.

MLB Monty Beisel strained his calf last week (doubtful). DGT Junior Siavii (ankle is questionable to play, DT John Browning (knee), LB Scott Fujita (ankle), LB Kawika Mitchell (hamstring) and DT Ryan Sims (hamstring) are all probable to play. Indianapolis lists G Tupe Peko (lower back) as questionable.

The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium calls for a high of 67F and a low of 46F with a 20% chance of precipitation.

A bottom-tier rush D faces off against one of the best running backs in the NFL in this game - advantage, Indianapolis.

San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinson/Jesse Chatman vs. The Oakland Defense (Great Matchup)

San Diego has a problem - LaDainian Tomlinson's groin injury keeps getting aggravated, and he has missed significant portions of recent games (Jesse Chatman filled in admirably (8/69/1 last week - Tomlinson had 17/47/1 rushing and 3/13/0 receiving). The situation looks like one that could linger, as the groin just won't heal unless the Chargers rest Tomlinson (their bye is still two weeks away), and Tomlinson has stated he wants to play despite the injury. Keep an eye on his status as the week progresses. 59/167/3 rushing and 11/107/0 receiving to Tomlinson's credit over the last 3 weeks drops him to #11 among fantasy RBs during that span - he's still a starter in most leagues, but realize that he is limited and probably won't be his usual every-down self until after the bye-week.

New Orleans only managed to gain 42 yards on 28 tries vs. the Raiders last week, but 2 of the runs went for TDs, spoiling an otherwise solid defensive effort. Usually, the Raiders are more giving in the yardage department, averaging 124.3 rushing yards allowed per game (8 rushing scores given away to date). Over the past 3 weeks, they have averaged 146.8 rushing yards allowed per game - that 42 yard performance looks like an aberration, and not a trend. These guys just aren't that good.

DT Ted Washington has sore ribs (doubtful). LB Travian Smith missed the game last week with a bum knee (doubtful this week). San Diego suddenly cut sometimes-starter C Jason Ball this week, after demoting him to second string in favor of Nick Hardwick. The move was not injury related. Tomlinson and Chatman are both listed as probable to play on Wednesday.

The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for a high of 65F and a low of 51F with a 20% chance for precipitation. A typically beautiful Southern California day is on tap, in other words.

Tomlinson and Chatman have a good chance to run wild against the soft Raiders. Just keep an eye on Tomlinson's health status. Advantage, San Diego.

New York Jet's Curtis Martin vs. The Miami Defense (Good Matchup)

Curtis Martin had no problem handling the Dolphins back in week 4, and racked up 24/110/1 rushing and 4/31/0 receiving. He has been on a roll since, and has amassed 67/258/2 rushing and 11/43/0 receiving in his last 3 games (16th fantasy RB during that span) - the guy is back in a big way this year. Start him if you've got him.

The Rams put up 19/103/1 on the Dolphins last week - Miami didn't get blown up, but they didn't put the clamps on Faulk and Jackson, either. The Dolphins rank as the 27th rush defense in the NFL this season, allowing an average of 130.6 rushing yards per game, but have only given up 3 rushing scores to date - they get tough in the redzone. Over the past 3 weeks, the Dolphins have averaged 125 yards allowed per contest - they are not shutting people down, that's for sure. Zach Thomas continues to be a dominant IDP LB, with 6 solo tackles, 6 assists, and a sack last week.

DT Tim Bowens' back has been bothering him (he missed part of last week's game) - he's listed as out this week. LB Junior Seau has a sore quad that tightened up on him last week (questionable). LB Morlon Greenwood (quad, questionable) and DE Jason Taylor (knee, probable) are also on the Wednesday injury report. The Jets list G Brandon Moore (hamstring, questionable).

The forecast for New York calls for a high of 66F with a low of 50F and a 10% chance for rain. It sounds like a great autumn evening to play a game of football is waiting around the corner.

The Dolphins are not really stout in this phase of the game, and Martin has enjoyed good success against this bunch recently - this looks like a good but not great matchup for the Jets' backs.

San Francisco's Kevan Barlow vs. The Chicago Defense (Good Matchup)

Before the bye week, Kevan Barlow logged a decent fantasy performance, with 21/79/1 rushing and 1/9/0 receiving. He has been up and down all year long - over the past 3 weeks (2 games), Barlow has managed to average 10.25 fantasy points per game (35/113/1 rushing and 4/32/0 receiving in 2 games) - he's a borderline #2 fantasy RB at this point in the season. The OL hasn't been very helpful, averaging a subpar 3.8 yards per carry so far (25th in the NFL in that category).

Chicago's rush D is not stout as far as yards allowed (averaging 139.3 per game, 29th in the NFL), but has only surrendered 2 rushing scores all season long - they deny players the endzone on a regular basis. They've been even more generous with the yards in recent weeks, allowing an astronomical average of 178 yards per game in their last 2 games (Tampa Bay slapped down 37/138/1 on them last week).

The Bear's DL has injury problems - DE Adewale Ogunleye has an injured calf (questionable), while DT Alfonso Boone has missed several games due to a bum knee (questionable). San Francisco's unit is in fine fettle coming off the bye week, except for C Jeremy Newberry (knee, out).

The forecast for Soldier field calls for a high of 64F and a low of 53F with a 20% chance for precipitation. It should be a great day for a football game in Chicago.

San Francisco has a good shot at a solid performance against this Bears' unit. Just don't expect a lot of rushing TDs and you won't be disappointed.

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

Thomas Jones is going to be keyed on this week, no doubt about it. Craig Krenzel has been announced as the Bear's starter (9/19 for 69 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception in his first action last week). Expect San Francisco to pack the box and dare the Bears to throw the ball. Jones managed 13/52/1 rushing and 3/13/0 receiving in similar circumstances last week, (Anthony Thomas vultured a few touches, 5/17/0, but failed to impress in his limited opportunities) - Jones has been a great fantasy RB to date, ranking 9th in total fantasy points thus far - but he's going to have more defensive players challenging him at the line than usual this week, count on it.

San Francisco has not been solid at run defense this year, allowing an average of 114.5 yards rushing per game (17th in the NFL) and 10 rushing scores to date (2nd-most in the NFL). They have given away an average of 127.5 rushing yards per game over the past 3 weeks (2 games), and entered the bye week after the Jets stuffed 32/152/3 down the 49ers collective throats - they are not playing well in this phase of the game.

San Francisco comes into the game off a bye week, but has numerous injuries nonetheless: DE Andrew Williams is still out (shin), LB Saleem Rasheed (knee) is doubtful, DE Andre Carter is questionable (back) while DE Otis Leverette (ankle) and LB Derek Smith (quadriceps) are probable. Chicago lists Gs Ruben Brown (knee, probable) and Mike Gandy (hamstring, doubtful) and C Olin Kreutz (elbow, probable). Reserve RB Jason McKie is out (knee). The offensive line is pretty banged up at this point in the season.

The forecast for Soldier field calls for a high of 64F and a low of 53F with a 20% chance for precipitation. It should be a great day for a football game in Chicago.

The OL is banged up, and a young QB makes his first start for the Bears in this game - the situation is not great for Jones, but that soft 49ers rush defense may make him look good anyway.

Kansas City's Priest Holmes vs. The Indianapolis Defense (Good Matchup)

Last week, the Chiefs put up an NFL-record 8 rushing TDs in one game (4 for Priest Holmes, 4 for Derrick Blaylock) - why don't the Chiefs just directly snap the ball to their backs? It'd be one less exchange of the ball, and they don't seem to need Trent Green all that much right now. Their performance came against the top run defense in the league (up until week 7, anyway), folks. Holmes is a fantasy points machine - start him if you've got him. As if you need us to tell you that…

The Colts slowed down the Jaguars in the redzone., but still gave away 27/128/0 rushing last week (Fred Taylor averaged 5.4 yards per carry with a 20/107/0 day) - the Colts defense just doesn't shut players down in either phase of the game. They allow an average of 97.8 rushing yards per contest this year (6th in the NFL), with 3 rushing scores allowed - but their secondary is dead last, so that statistic is a bit misleading. Teams just choose to pass on the Colts because it's so easy. Over the past 3 weeks (2 games) the Colts have allowed an average of 90.5 rushing yards per contest. Dwight Freeney was a top IDP DL last week, with 3 solo tackles and 2 sacks to his credit.

K.C. comes into the game listing Holmes as probable due to his tweaked ankle (he wanted back in the game after the injury happened last week, but with such a huge lead the Chiefs decided to keep him sidelined and safe). RB Omar Easy has a sore hamstring (questionable). Ts Willie Roaf (shoulder) and John Welbourn (knee) are probable to play, as is G Will Shields (hip flexor). Indianapolis' defensive front is in good shape, though DE Robert Mathis has a sore thigh.

The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium calls for a high of 67F and a low of 46F with a 20% chance of precipitation.

Look for Holmes to enjoy good success against the Colts, as he runs the ball very well and is a dangerous receiver as well.

Jacksonville's Fred Taylor vs. The Houston Defense (Good Matchup)

Fred Taylor heated up last week, with 20/107/0 rushing and 5/67/0 receiving to his credit against division-rival Indianapolis. As Byron Leftwich gets more and more comfortable throwing the ball, the opposing defenses are being forced off the line - which is a good thing for Taylor owners. Over the past 3 weeks, Taylor has posted 50/237/0 rushing and 15/182/1 receiving to rank 8th among all fantasy RBs in fantasy points per game during that span. He looks like he's just getting stronger.

Houston's rush defense is not a shutdown type unit, but they do limit scoring (only 3 rushing scores given up to date). They average 126.3 rushing yards allowed per game to date, and have given away an average of 111.5 rushing yards per contest in the last 3 weeks (2 games). 22/101/0 was the total that the Titans managed against this unit two weeks ago.

Houston comes into the game off a bye, so they are in good shape as far as injuries go. Jacksonville lists RG Chris Naeole (ankle, questionable), along with Taylor (quadriceps, questionable) and G Vincent Manuwai (knee, probable). Keep an eye on Taylor's status as the week goes along.

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 84F and a low of 71F, with a 30% chance of precipitation - if the weather looks nasty before game time, the retractable roof will be closed, so field conditions should be great in any case.

Look for Taylor to continue his strong play against the mediocre Texan defensive front.

Houston's Domanick Davis/Jonathan Wells vs. The Jacksonville Defense (Good Matchup)

Domanick Davis just keeps getting nicked and dinged up - meanwhile, Jonathan Wells has been very solid in his relief appearances, and Tony Hollings has been a non-factor. Coming off a bye week, we expect Davis to start this game in good health - the question is, can he finish it that way? His owners hope so, as Davis has been pretty unproductive in recent weeks (24/56/1 rushing and 4/31/0 receiving in the last 21 games). Davis needs to do more with the ball if he wants to hold off Wells (22/73/1 rushing in his chances).

Jacksonville's once-feared rush D has been weakening as the season rolls along - last week Edgerrin James averaged 4.8 yards per carry against the unit (18/87/0). Over the past 3 weeks, the Jaguars have allowed an average of 113.3 rushing yards per contest - for the season, they average 111 per contest (15th in the NFL) with 4 scores given up. The defensive front has slipped from elite to average to this point in the season.

Houston comes off a bye, so they should be well-rested. T Todd Wade has an ankle injury (questionable). Jacksonville is healthy on their side of the ball.

The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 84F and a low of 71F, with a 30% chance of precipitation - if the weather looks nasty before game time, the retractable roof will be closed, so field conditions should be great in any case.

Davis has a decent shot at a solid effort vs. The Jaguars - can he cash in on the chance?

Cincinnati's Rudi Johnson vs. The Tennessee Defense (Good Matchup)

Rudi Johnson put on a show for the home crowd last week, with 24/119/1 rushing against the tough Bronco's defensive front. He has been very up and down lately, with a good game last Monday, but a poor effort in week 6 with 16/57/0 rushing and 1/0/0 receiving - the inconsistency makes him a rather risky proposition from week to week. The Bengals are averaging right at 4.0 yards per carry this season - the OL play has been acceptable, but not stellar.

Tennessee's defensive front got punctured regularly by the Vikings last week - when it was all said and done, the Vikes had 27/152/1 rushing to their credit. Tennessee has been less-than-impressive all year, allowing an average of 115.7 rushing yards and 7 scores to date. Over the past 3 weeks, they average 95 yards allowed per game - they had been looking better until they ran into the Viking's stable of backs. Travis Laboy was a top IDP DL last week, with 5 solo tackles, an assist, and 2 sacks. Keith Bulluck was a top LB with 9 solo tackles, 4 assists, 1 sack and a pass defensed.

Tennessee has a lot of injury woes on defense: DE Juqua Thomas keeps missing games (ankle, questionable), and DE Jared Clauss missed the game last week (concussion, questionable). DEs Carlos Hall (knee) and Antwan Odom (sternum) are also hurting. LB Keith Bulluck has a wrist injury (not listed), and Rocky Calmus is also listed (back, questionable). Cincinnati has decent health among their players right now, listing only RB Chris Perry (abdomen, questionable).

The forecast for the Coliseum calls for a high of 73F and a low of 61F with a 40% chance for precipitation. If the rains come down hard around game-time, the field and the football could get slick, causing footing and ball-handling issues.

Cincinnati has a good shot at a quality game against the unimpressive Titans.

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

Clinton Portis went into the bye week on a high note, with 36/171/0 to his credit against the Bears. So far he is the 10th best fantasy RB in the land, with 153/593/2 rushing and 16/123/1 receiving to his credit - he's not scoring as often as his fantasy owners would probably like, but there's no denying he is getting his chances to make things happen with 169 touches through 6 games. Washington's OL is playing subpar in this phase of the game, averaging only 3.8 yards per carry so far - Portis needs more consistent support from the big guys up front if he is to really excel in the second half of the season.

Green Bay's reeling Defense finally contained a rushing attack last week (Dallas had 16/66/1) - they need to do that more often. The team ranks 21st in the NFL allowing an average of 121.1 rushing yards per game to date, with 7 rushing scores surrendered so far. They have averaged 107.7 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 games, but have also coughed up 9 TDs (rushing and receiving). Green Bay is improving, but still has a long way to go. The return of Grady Jackson in the center of the DL definitely helped last week.

Washington comes into the game off a bye week, but still lists T Chris Samuels (ankle, probable) and RB Chad Morton (knee, questionable). Green Bay says DE Aaron Kampman is probable to play despite a sore ankle.

The forecast for FedEx Field calls for a high of 77F and a low of 51F with a 20% chance of precipitation. It should be a great day to play some football.

Clinton Portis is a star in this league - the Packers have shown some improvement, but need to solidify further before we think that they are a match for Portis - Advantage, Washington.

Tennessee's Chris Brown vs. The Cincinnati Defense (Good Matchup)

Chris Brown had an off week, with 14/55/0 rushing and 2/18/0 receiving last week - the entire offense struggled after McNair was forced from the game with a chest injury. Watch his status for this week. If he needs to play, hopefully Billy Volek can establish a better passing threat this week, which would help open up some room for Brown to roam. Right now, though, the receivers are banged up and it'll be easy for the Bengals to load up the box and dare Volek to throw on them - the question is, can the Titans burn them anyway?

Denver managed 26/123/0 rushing against the Bengals last week - they kept Droughns out of the endzone, but didn't shut him down by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, the Bengals don't shut anybody down in this phase of the game, ranking dead last in the NFL allowing an average of 154.2 rushing yards per game (5 scores to date). Over the past 3 weeks they've given up an average of 125 yards per game (better, but still soft). Justin Smith was a top IDP DL last week, with 4 solo tackles, 2 assists, 2 sacks and a forced fumble.

Cincinnati is in decent shape, but lost Tony Williams in the MNF game on a cut block (ankle, out). LB Brian Simmons (hamstring, probable) and DE Carl Powell (knee, probable) are listed as well. Tennessee's G Eugene Amaro injured an ankle last week (not listed), while G Benji Olsen (groin), T Fred Miller (ankle) and RB Chris Brown (toe) are all listed as questionable by the Titans.

The forecast for the Coliseum calls for a high of 73F and a low of 61F with a 40% chance for precipitation. If the rains come down hard around game-time, the field and the football could get slick, causing footing and ball-handling issues.

Brown has decent prospects for a strong game against the underachieving Bengals.

Denver's Reuben Droughns vs. The Atlanta Defense (Good Matchup)

Reuben Droughns is continuing to impress (good thing, too, because the team just lost his backup Quentin Griffin to a blown knee, out for the season). 24/110/0 rushing and 4/20/0 receiving wasn't up to his usual near-200 yards combined, but it is still a quality fantasy outing nonetheless The guy has exploded for 92/479/1 rushing and 9/42/1 receiving over the last 3 games (6th best fantasy back in the land in that span) - just start him if you were able to grab him a few weeks back, and count yourself fortunate.

Shell shocked is the only term for it. After a catastrophic meltdown along the defensive front, the Falcons were left, humiliated and beaten, on a field of defeat that saw an NFL record set for rushing scores allowed (8) in a single game. 49/271/8 - numbers that signify a crushing defeat. How will this embarrassed defense, once the league's best rush defense, respond to their blackened eye? They were exposed as not very good by the Chiefs last week - and now they have to play against a back with 3 straight 100+ yard efforts, at the Bronco's home stadium. This has to be keeping coach Mora up at night this week.

DT Rod Coleman missed last week's game due to non-football-related injuries (out), and LB Chris Draft sat out (toe/back, not listed this week). They were missed. The Broncos list G Dan Neil (abdomen, probable) and RB Tatum Bell (hamstring, doubtful).

The forecast for Mile High Stadium calls for a high of 52F and a low of 31F with a 30% chance of precipitation. At this time of year, precipitation could be rain, snow or sleet - field conditions might be less than optimum at game time.

Droughns should have another solid game, and could have a great one if the Falcons don't get their act back together.

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

The Giants rely heavily on Barber in both the rushing and passing game, and so far he has responded with a career season. 118/647/4 rushing and 26/342/1 receiving in only 6 games puts Barber on pace to easily surpass 2000 yards combined this season - he should blow past 1000 yards in total offense this week if he keeps this pace. His 989 yards from scrimmage is the most for NFL RBs at this point in the season. Start him if you've got him - only Priest Holmes has scored more fantasy points thus far among RBs. The Giants are 5th in the NFL averaging 4.7 yards per carry this season - the OL is helping Barber out in a big way.

Minnesota's rush D is not impressive, allowing 8 TDs to date (while averaging 95.7 rushing yards allowed per game, 5th-best in the league in that department). Over the last 3 weeks, the Vikings' defense averages 88.6 rushing yards allowed per game - last week, the suddenly-McNair-less Titans only managed 14/55/0 on the ground, but that was due to falling far behind (and poor quarterbacking by backup Billy Volek, which limited opportunities for Chris Brown). The Vikings can be gotten to in this phase of the game.

New York comes into the game healthy, while the Vikings list LB Chris Claiborne (calf, doubtful) and LB E.J. Henderson (knee, probable).

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

Barber is absolutely on fire this season, while the Vikings are suspect in this phase of the game. Advantage, New York.

Minnesota's Mewelde Moore/Moe Williams/Michael Bennett vs. The New York Giants' Defense (Good Matchup)

Michael Bennett saw limited action last week, before coach Tice decided that rotating backs in and out of the lineup was disrupting rhythm, and just went with Mewelde Moore for the rest of the game (by and large). How well Bennett performs in practice this week will likely determine how patient coach Tice is regarding working Bennett back into the rotation this week. Moore has been so good that Tice has little incentive to keep him out, though. Time will tell, but we think that Moore remains at the helm for as long as he's productive (55/339/0 rushing and 24/198/0 receiving over the past 3 games slots him at #4 among all fantasy RBs with 17.9 fantasy points per game during that span). Moe Williams handled goalline duties last week (3/10/1 rushing, with 1/1/1 receiving).

The Giants got their clock cleaned by Detroit last week - the Lions put up 29/115/2 rushing as a team. Those 2 scores were the first rushing scores the Giants have surrendered this year (they average 122.5 rushing yards allowed per game). Over the last 3 weeks (2 games) the Giants are giving up an average of 140.5 rushing yards per game - they have definitely regressed in this phase of the game.

The Giants missed a couple of defensive linemen last week - DT Kenderick Allen (calf, not listed) and Fred Robbins (shoulder, questionable). Minnesota's C Cory Withrow has been missing games (knee, doubtful), and the starter at C, Matt Birk, suffered a minor concussion last week (not listed). G Adam Goldberg has a sore knee (questionable), while RBs Michael Bennett (knee, probable) and Moe Williams (quadriceps, probable) are both expected to play.

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

The Vikings average 5.1 yards per carry this season (tops in the NFL), and there is no reason to think the Giants will slow them down much. Advantage, Minnesota.

Atlanta's Warrick Dunn/T.J. Duckett vs. The Denver Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Warrick Dunn saw just 11 carries last week as the Falcons got blown out by the Chiefs. The Falcons lost by 46, so the team didn't run the ball all that much, except for some scrambles by Vick (6/62/0) - Dunn had 11/49/0, Duckett eked out 8 yards on 4 carries. It was a forgettable afternoon for the Atlanta offense in general. Dunn did add 2/72/0 receiving, so in leagues with yardage as a component of scoring, he had a half-decent fantasy outing. Through 7 games, Dunn is the 11th best fantasy RB in the land, with 103/405/6 rushing and 10/124/0 receiving - so he's a starter in just about any fantasy league.

Denver doesn't surrender a ton of yardage in this phase of the game (93.9 yards per game, on average), but they are vulnerable in the redzone., with 6 rushing TDs allowed to date. Over their last 3 games, they are even stingier with yardage, averaging only 76 rushing yards allowed per game (4 TDs given up, rushing and receiving combined). However, Rudi Johnson and the Bengals took the Broncos to school last Monday, slapping down 33/133/1 on this unit - it's fair to say that they are back on their heels coming into this matchup.

Atlanta's unit is in good health, physically speaking (how their psyche is after a 56-10 drubbing at the hands of KC is another question). Denver reports no new problems on the defensive front, although DE Trevor Pryce is out due to his back surgery.

The forecast for Mile High Stadium calls for a high of 52F and a low of 31F with a 30% chance of precipitation. At this time of year, precipitation could be rain, snow or sleet - field conditions might be less than optimum at game time.

Atlanta has shown explosive ability in this phase of the game at points this season, while the usually-stout Broncos stumbled last week - this seems like a fairly even contest at this point.

Carolina's Brad Hoover vs. The Seattle Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Carolina is really depleted at RB right now. Rod Smart has a bum knee (out), DeShaun Foster is on IR due to his broken clavicle, and Stephen Davis has been unable to get back to top form due to his knee injury (he missed the last game). Davis is listed as out for this week as of Wednesday. His replacement would be Brad Hoover (24/99/0 rushing with 2/6/0 receiving last week). The RB cupboard is almost bare in Carolina right now. Hoover's backups this week will be Joey Harris and Brandon Bennett (just recently signed).

Seattle is reeling after 3 straight losses, 2 of them to divisional foes St. Louis and Arizona. The Venerable Emmitt Smith (and friends) racked up 37/127/1 against this team last week - and over the past 3 weeks, the Seahawks average 129.6 rushing yards surrendered. This season, they are the 8th ranked rush D, with an average of 100.5 yards allowed per game (4 TDs to date) - they are doing a quick fade in this phase of the game. LB Tracy White was among the best IDP LBs last week, with 10 solo tackles, 3 assists, and a sack. Antonio Cochran was in the top ten at DL, with 5 solo tackles, 1 assist, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble and a fumble recovery.

Carolina's injury woes include T Todd Fordham (knee, probable) and G Tutan Reyes (shoulder, probable). Seattle lists LB Isaiah Kacyvenski as doubtful (ankle), while LB Anthony Simmons is out (shoulder) and hopes that LB Chad Brown can step back in after healing his broken leg (not listed on the injury report). DE Grant Wistrom remains sidelined due to his broken knee cap (out).

The forecast for Qwest Stadium calls for a high of 53F and a low of 40F with a 40% chance for rain. If the rain comes down hard at game-time, the field and football could become slick, causing footing and ball-handling issues.

Both of these teams are struggling in this phase of the game - this matchup is ugly but even.

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

Shaun Alexander and company didn't do a bad job with their limited carries last week (12/57/0 for Alexander (4.8 ypc); 14/69/0 as a team (4.9 ypc as a team)) - they just didn't get much opportunity to carry the ball, thanks to a dominant performance by the Arizona offense (39:51 in time of possession). The Seahawks as a team are struggling right now, and that is limiting what the running backs can do in this phase of the game. 51/284/2 with 3/34/0 receiving is the total that Alexander has amassed in the last 3 weeks (13th fantasy RB during that span).

27/114/2 was the total of the Charger's efforts last week against the Panthers - the Carolina defensive front continues to struggle, folks. They are 28th in the NFL averaging 138.5 yards allowed per game, while giving away the 3rd most rushing scores so far (9). Over the last 3 weeks, they average 135 rushing yards allowed per game. This is just not the defensive front we saw in 2003 anymore. They are soft. Dan Morgan did manage to make the top ten among IDP LBs last week, with 6 solo tackles, a sack, and a fumble recovery.

DT Omari Jordan has missed multiple games due to a bum ankle (probable). DT Kindal Moorehead has a sore ankle (probable). Seattle comes into the game listing T Chris Terry as questionable (shoulder).

The forecast for Qwest Stadium calls for a high of 53F and a low of 40F with a 40% chance for rain. If the rain comes down hard at game-time, the field and football could become slick, causing footing and ball-handling issues.

Alexander is an elite back when the rest of the offense is in gear, but lately he's been hampered by his teammates. The Panthers are pretty bad in this phase of the game - this looks like an even matchup between struggling teams.

Baltimore's Chester Taylor vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Chester Taylor had a workmanlike outing vs. The hapless Bills last week, and battered them into submission with 21/89/0 (B.J. Sams stole the sole rushing score 1/5/1). That's the good news. The bad news is the Ravens have lost LT Jonathan Ogden for a few games due to a hamstring injury - and they are not nearly as effective at running the ball without him in the lineup. As Kyle Boller doesn't scare anyone, expect the Eagles to load up in the box and dare Boller to throw the ball on them - it may be very crowded along the line of scrimmage this week, folks.

Philadelphia has played middling rush defense this season, averaging 113.3 rushing yards allowed per game (16th in the league), with 5 scores allowed to date. Over the past 3 weeks, they've been better than those numbers indicate, allowing an average of 98.6 rushing yards per contest (but they've given up 5 scores, rushing and receiving, in that span). Last week, they got blasted by the Brown's tandem of backs - the Eagles barely escaped the 34/165/3 onslaught that the Browns brought to bear on them. The Eagles were blown off the ball last week.

LBs Mark Simoneau (foot, missed the game last week, probable this week) and Jason Short (concussion, doubtful) are listed by the Eagles, as are LB Dhani Jones (ankle, probable) and DE Jerome McDougle (illness, probable). DT Darwin Walker is questionable with a sore calf. In addition to Ogden, the Ravens list RB Ovie Mughelli (hamstring, questionable), T Ethan Brooks (thumb, probable), T Orlando Brown (finger, probable) and Cs Mike Flynn (shoulder, probable) and Joe Maese (groin, probable).

The forecast for Lincoln Financial Field calls for a high of 74F and a low of 51F with a 20% chance of rain - that's great football weather.

Baltimore has an offense built around running the ball, but their best offensive lineman is sidelined - meanwhile, the Eagles' D is reeling from a poor effort last week - this looks about even to us.

Green Bay's Ahman Green vs. The Washington Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Ahman Green and company put up a great game last week, with 15/163/2 rushing for Green and 31/220/2 as a team. Best of all, Green didn't fumble the ball. Green Bay looks like they are finally starting to come together as a complete and lethal offense, like we were expecting from day one. Green has 46/277/2 rushing and 8/12/0 receiving (with 1/1 for 20 and a score passing) to his credit in the last 3 weeks (10th best fantasy RB in the land) - he also busted an impressive 90 yard run last week that showed he still has breakaway speed at his disposal. It's all good for the Packers in this phase of the game.

Washington plays the run tough, allowing an average of 86.7 yards per game (1st in the NFL) and only 2 rushing scores to date. They haven't surrendered a TD in their last 2 games, but have been more giving yardage-wise (141 rushing yards per game on average in those contests), with 28/126/0 allowed to Thomas Jones and company before the bye-week. This is one of the best defensive fronts around.

Washington received a setback early in the week when LB LaVar Arrington aggravated his injured knee in practice (doubtful). LB Michael Barrow hasn't played a down this season, and may be headed to IR (knee tendonitis, questionable). DE Phillip Daniels continues to have a sore groin (questionable).The Green Bay OL has some injury problems, with G Marco Rivera (ankle, questionable) listed, and Green is nursing a sore Achilles (probable).

The forecast for FedEx Field calls for a high of 77F and a low of 51F with a 20% chance of precipitation. It should be a great day to play some football.

Green and company can mount a powerful assault, but the Redskins aren't all that vulnerable in this phase of the game. This looks like a neutral matchup between top units to us.

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

One X-factor in this game to be aware of is that the Patriots have lost their top FB, Patrick Pass, and stand-in Dan Klecko to injury in the past two games - Dillon may be breaking in a rookie lead blocker (Cedric Cobbs) this week. Even so, Dillon has been solid in the last 3 weeks, with 63/314/2 rushing and 2/6/0 receiving in 3 games (12th fantasy RB in the land during that span). He was instrumental in the victory over the Jets last week (22/115/0, a 5.2 yards-per-carry average). Dillon is getting better as the season goes along.

The Steelers received horrible news going into their bye-week, when NT Casey Hampton, a stalwart on the defensive line, was lost for the season due to a blown-out knee (torn ligament). 4th year player Chris Hoke, from BYU, will step into the starting lineup. The Steelers are currently the 10th ranked rush defense in the NFL, allowing an average of 103.3 yards per game on the ground, with 4 scores surrendered to date. Over the past 3 weeks (2 games) the Steelers have allowed an average of 99 rushing yards per contest, and entered the bye week after allowing 21/110/1 to the Cowboys. They are a good, but not great, run defense this season.

Aside from Hampton, the Steelers list LB Kendrell Bell (hernia, questionable). Klecko is out (knee), while T Tom Ashworth (back) and RB Patrick Pass (thigh) are questionable to go for the Patriots.

The forecast for Heinz Field calls for a high of 68F and a low of 52F with a 20% chance of precipitation. Just about ideal football weather, in other words.

Dillon faces a stout unit in this matchup - but the Patriots are no slouches in this phase of the game, either. This looks like an even matchup to us.

Pittsburgh's Duce Staley/Jerome Bettis vs. The New England Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Duce Staley leads his team with 126/582/1 rushing - the team's 3rd highest rusher (Verron Haynes is second with 19/91/0), Jerome Bettis has 37 rushes for 64 yards - and 7 TDs. Staley owners are sick, just sick, about that, you can bet. But, the team keeps on winning, so don't look for coach Cowher to change the plan now. When the team is on the goalline, look for Bettis to handle the "plunge" duties.

New England sports the league's 14th ranked rush defense at this time, averaging 110.8 rushing yards allowed per game (4 TDs given away so far). Over the past 3 weeks, the Patriots have been tougher, holding teams to an average of 91.7 yards on the ground per contest. The Jets managed 27/106/1 against the Patriots last week.

Pittsburgh comes into this game off a bye week, so they are in relatively good shape, listing RBs Verron Haynes (knee) and Duce Staley (knee) as probable to play. New England's D is good to go.

The forecast for Heinz Field calls for a high of 68F and a low of 52F with a 20% chance of precipitation. Just about ideal football weather, in other words.

Pittsburgh runs the ball well, but the Patriots know how to play defense, and have been strong in this phase recently - we call it an even matchup.

Miami's Sammy Morris vs. The New York Jets' Defense (Tough Matchup)

Sammy Morris didn't play the last time these two teams met (in week 4) - since then, he has given the Dolphins some semblance of a rushing attack (49/181/1 rushing and 5/36/0 receiving in the last 3 games). The Dolphins yards-per-carry average has gone up .5 yards per carry since Morris started playing (to 3.1, still the worst in the league by far, but it's getting better at least). Last week the Dolphins managed to defeat St. Louis by racking up 34/117/2 rushing as a team (28/83/1 for Morris, with an assist of 3/21/1 by Travis Minor). It looks like the Dolphins are actually fielding players you might want to consider starting in your fantasy league.

The Jets are a very good team, with a rush D that ranks 12th in the NFL allowing an average of 105.5 rushing yards per game (only 4 scores given up to date). In the last 3 weeks, they have allowed an average of 111.5 rushing yards (in 2 games). Last week, the Patriots managed 29/133/0 against the Jets defense. They are an essentially solid unit. Shaun Ellis (2 solo tackles, 4 assists and 1.5 sacks) and DeWayne Robertson (5 solo tackles, 1 sack) were in the top ten at IDP DL, and Eric Barton was a top IDP LB (7 solo tackles, 5 assists and a fumble recovery).

The Jets are down 2 LBs this week - Sam Cowart has a bum knee (questionable), and Jason Glenn broke his arm last week (out). Miami's unit lists Sammy Morris as questionable (wrist), and T Vernon Carey (shoulder) as probable.

The forecast for New York calls for a high of 66F with a low of 50F and a 10% chance for rain. It sounds like a great autumn evening to play a game of football is waiting around the corner.

Look for the Jets to make things tough on the Dolphins in this divisional rivalry.

Dallas' RBBC vs. The Detroit Defense (Tough Matchup)

Dallas' running game is suspect, and the team is being forced to rely on the passing game more and more each week as the defense caves in more and more often. Last week, Eddie George led the way with 10/41/1 rushing (1/10/0 receiving), while Richie Anderson chipped in 5/25/0 rushing and 2/22/0 receiving - but there just aren't a lot of fantasy points to be had in this phase of the game right now, and what there are end up split amongst the two players (plus the occasional ReShard Lee sighting). If you have other options to choose from, you should probably consider them.

Detroit limited the Giants' backs to 26/75/0 rushing last week (although Tiki Barber added 72 yards receiving to his tally) - a 2.9 ypc average. The Lions are the 11th ranked rush defense as of today, allowing an average of 104.2 yards per contest with 5 scores surrendered to date. Over the past 3 weeks, they allow an average of 108.6 rushing per contest - they playing right around where their season average indicates right now. That means this is an upper-echelon squad. Kalimba Edwards was a top-ten DL last week, with 2 solo tackles, 2 sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.

LBs Boss Bailey (knee, out) and Donte' Curry (knee, out) missed the game last week. LB James Davis has a sore knee (questionable) and DTs Marcus Bell (shoulder) and Dan Wilkinson (upper arm) are probable to play. Dallas lists Julius Jones (shoulder, out) and RB ReShard Lee (shoulder, probable)

The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 80F and a low of 63F with a 30% chance for precipitation. The rains could cause problems on the field regarding footing and ball-handling if they come down hard at game-time.

The Cowboys are one of the less-powerful units in the game, while the Lions field an above average rush defense. Advantage, Detroit.

Philadelphia's Brian Westbrook/Dorsey Levens vs. The Baltimore Defense (Tough Matchup)

As of Wednesday, it looks like Dorsey Levens will start for the Eagles this week, as the team has learned that Brian Westbrook has a broken rib. The break is expected to sideline Westbrook, unless he finds he can play through the pain. His status will be reviewed as the week goes along. As a team, the Eagles are tied for 5th in the NFL with an average of 4.7 yards per carry - the OL is doing their job so far in 2004.

23/85/0 was the total that the Bill's tandem managed to amass against the Ravens last week. Baltimore is the 7th ranked rush D in the NFL this season, allowing an average of 100.3 yards per game, with 3 scores surrendered to date. Over the past 3 weeks, the team has allowed an average of 68.5 rushing yards per game (2 games), and only 1 TD in that span. They are stout. 2 Raven LBs were in the top ten in IDP leagues - Terrell Suggs had 6 solo tackles, 1 assist, 2 sacks and a fumble recovery last week. Ray Lewis racked up 8 solo tackles, 4 assists and 1 pass defensed.

Aside from Westbrook, the Eagles list T Jon Runyan (groin, questionable), G Jermane Mayberry (knee, probable) and RB Josh Parry (knee, probable).

The forecast for Lincoln Financial Field calls for a high of 74F and a low of 51F with a 20% chance of rain - that's great football weather.

Baltimore makes it tough for everybody they play.

Arizona's Emmitt Smith vs. The Buffalo Defense (Tough Matchup)

Guess who is a top-ten fantasy RB over the past 3 weeks (in average fantasy points per game) - yep, Emmitt Smith is back in the top ten, with a total of 42/169/2 rushing and 4/30/0 receiving to his credit in 2 games. The old guy has been running with authority and some explosion lately - all of the sudden coach Green has the Cardinal's offense heading in the right direction. Soon, Anquan Boldin should be back, which will force opposing defenses to respect the passing game even more (which should help create even more running room for the backs). Smith looks strong even though we're almost midway through the season.

Buffalo has a very stingy rush defense this season, allowing an average of 91.8 rushing yards per game, with only 2 rushing scores given up to date. Over the last 3 weeks, the team has been nearly on the season pace, giving up 98.6 rushing yards per contest. Baltimore managed to crack 100 yards last week, but needed 33 carries to do it, and they did manage to score 1 TD - but it wasn't easy. Buffalo's defensive front had 3 top IDP performers on the unit last week: Aaron Schobel had 5 solo tackles, 2 sacks and a forced fumble at DL; while LBs Takeo Spikes (8 solo tackles, 3 assists and 1 sack) and London Fletcher (7 solo tackles, 2 assists, 1 sack and 1 pass defensed) were in the top ten at their position.

The Cardinals come in the game down RB Josh Scobey (knee, out). The Bills are in good shape health-wise.

The forecast for Ralph Wilson Stadium calls for a high of 61F with a low of 46F and a 20% chance for rain - that sounds like great weather to us.

Smith is running well right now, but Ralph Wilson is a hard place to face the Bill's hard-nosed defense. This looks like a tough matchup for the Cardinals.

Oakland's Amos Zereoue/Justin Fargas/Tyrone Wheatley vs. The San Diego Defense (Tough Matchup)

Neither Justin Fargas or Tyrone Wheatley could go last week, so the team relied on Amos Zereoue to tote the football - he was adequate but not impressive, with 21/70/0 rushing and 1/9/0 receiving. Over the past 3 weeks, Zereoue 46/145/0 rushing and 12/79/0 receiving, putting him in the mid-30's among fantasy RBs (36th, averaging 7.47 fantasy points per week). At this point, he's not a starter for most fantasy squads. Keep an eye on Wheatley (shoulder, doubtful) and Fargas' (toe, questionable) progress this week, as the team would love to plug those guys into the mix (thus further diluting Zereoue's fantasy value).

San Diego's gave up 116 rushing yards last week vs. The Panthers, but denied the Carolina backs the endzone Over the past 3 games, they have allowed an average of 96.3 rushing yards per game; for the season the average is 90 yards per game (2nd in the NFL). Earlier in the year they were allowing a lot of TDs (9 in this phase to date), but that hasn't been true recently (1 rushing TD allowed in the last 2 games). The Chargers have stiffened into a tough run D at this point in the season.

Oakland is down some OGs - Ron Stone has missed several games due to his injured knee (doubtful), while Frank Middleton has been lost for the season with a torn left quadriceps. The line will be thin this week, especially if Stone can't play again this week. San Diego is in good health in this phase of the game, listing only LB Steve Foley (knee, probable).

The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium calls for a high of 65F and a low of 51F with a 20% chance for precipitation. A typically beautiful Southern California day is on tap, in other words.

San Diego is a upper-echelon rush D at this juncture of the season, while Oakland is playing with back-up talent at RB and along the OL. Advantage, San Diego.

Buffalo's Willis McGahee/Travis Henry vs. The Arizona Defense (Bad Matchup)

Willis McGahee has stated in public that he expects to get his second start of the season this week, and we see no reason to dispute him. McGahee has clearly been the better running back this year (61/239/0 rushing, a 3.9 ypc average vs. Henry's 87/300/0 performance - a 3.4 ypc average). He looks poised to assume command of the Bill's attack. McGahee had 16 carries for 58 tough yards last week (vs. Baltimore), while Henry gained 7/27/0 in his chances.

Arizona is very tough in the redzone. this year, and they have yet to allow a rushing score this season. They average 118.2 rushing yards allowed per game (20th in the NFL), but when it counts, they shut people out of the endzone Over the last 3 weeks, they've averaged only 63 yards allowed in 2 games, and have given up only 3 TDs (rushing and receiving). Shaun Alexander and company had 14/69/0 vs. this group last week.

The Bills list T Jonas Jennings (ankle, probable), T Marcus Price (knee, questionable) and C Trey Teague (knee, out) on the Wednesday injury report. Arizona's DT Ross Kolodziej has been missing games due to a bad ankle, but is not listed this week.

The forecast for Ralph Wilson Stadium calls for a high of 61F with a low of 46F and a 20% chance for rain - that sounds like great weather to us.

This looks like a very tough matchup for the Bills (28th in the NFL averaging 3.7 yards per carry this season).