This feature is the sole opinion of Chris Smith and it may not correspond to the rankings / projections of the Footballguys.com website.

 

 

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

 

San Francisco 49ers 0-0 at the N.Y. Giants 0-0

 

Game Forecast

Are you ready for some football?  Finally after months of build-up and anticipation, the NFL is back for another season.  The season kicks off on Thursday this year as the Championship-seeking 49ers travel into New York to compete with the 2000 Super Bowl runner-ups, the Giants.  The 49ers are stocked with talent and believe they have an excellent shot to compete for the title in 2002.  Going into New York to do battle with the Giants will be an excellent test for this young team.  The Giants are a veteran team that has tasted success as recently as two seasons ago and want to put last season’s disappointment behind them.  This is a very big first game for both teams.  The 49ers want to immediately establish their presence as a team to be reckoned with while the Giants are hungry to prove the 2001 campaign was the fluke and not the Super Bowl season of 2000.  Should be an excellent first game of the year with lots of passing and scoring.

The 49ers Notes:  A great quarterback, a wonderful receiver, a strong running game and a young, aggressive defense.  The pieces are certainly all in place for the 49ers to have a successful season.  Jeff Garcia is hungry to take this team to the next level and the entire organization is eyeing the Super Bowl with optimism.  The 49ers will be able to pass against the Giants who had a very tough time stopping opponent’s passing attacks in 2001.  Look for Terrell Owens to find success deep and he’ll get a minimum of one touchdown on the day.  The ground attack won’t be nearly as successful as the Giants tend to be pretty stifling when it comes to shutting down the run in their home stadium.

·         17th in rushing yards against last year

·         18th in passing yards against last year

·         13th in total yardage against last year

·         9th in points against last year

·         Average score 25 PF to 18 PA

The Giants Notes:  It is amazing how a team can go from Super Bowl contenders to NFL pretenders in only one season.  Most fans knew the Giants were not likely to repeat their amazing success of the 2000 season but not many expected them to finish with a sub-500 record.  The team has talent on offense but was very inconsistent last year.  Quarterback Kerry Collins wasn’t able to match his production from the prior season but has looked very strong in pre-season this year for what that’s worth.  Many fantasy owners are down on Amani Toomer and the criticism is justified but I expect him to have his finest year as a professional this year.  The Giants will need to pass a lot this year because of holes on the defense and the result will be a solid year for the passing game.  Week one pits the team against the 49ers who are an emerging powerhouse in the NFC.  However if the 49ers have a weakness it is in their secondary and I expect the Giants to attack them down the field and across the middle with both Toomer and rookie tight end Jeremy Shockey.  Also expect Tiki Barber to get the bulk of the work from the halfback position if he can successfully fight off the pain of his rib injury, as he is likely to have more success against the strong 49ers front.  Ron Dayne would have a challenging time breaking free from the line of scrimmage.

·         8th in rushing yards against last year

·         24th in passing yards against last year

·         14th in total yardage against last year

·         17th in points against last year

·         Average score 18 PF to 20 PA

Must Starts
QB Jeff Garcia
WR Terrell Owens
TE Jeremy Shockey [r]

Possible Starts
QB Kerry Collins
WR Amani Toomer
WR J.J. Stokes
TE Eric Johnson

Only in a Pinch
RB Garrison Hearst
RB Kevan Barlow
RB Tiki Barber (listed as questionable)
RB Ron Dayne
WR Ike Hilliard

Bench ‘Em
WR Tai Streets
WR Ron Dixon


Final Thoughts:  This should be a tight football game.  Both teams are talented and believe they have the personnel to reach the playoffs.  Expect to see a lot of passing from both teams and neither will have a running back eclipse 100 yards rushing on the day.  Lots of excitement, lots of scoring and a close victory for the 49ers.

Predicted Score:

San Francisco 31 at New York Giants 27

 

 

 

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

 

 

New York Jets 0-0 at the Buffalo Bills 0-0

 

Game Forecast

The game between the Bills and the Jets is an important divisional tilt right off the bat in the AFC East.  Drew Bledsoe is the new man in charge of the Bill’s offense and optimism is running rampant in Buffalo.  The offense has underachieved the past few seasons and will be looking to do some damage in this competitive division.  Over the past four seasons, these teams have met eight times with the Jets winning five of those contests.  Both of these teams believe they can make the playoffs.  Winning this first contest could give needed momentum and confidence to the team that comes out on top.  It is always hard to tell if a game between the Bills and Jets will result in a ton of points scored or very few.  Last year for example had 78 points scored in their first meeting and only 23 points in their next game.  With the improved offenses on both sides, I am expecting a higher scoring contest.

The Jets Notes:  The Jets are healthy on offense to start the year.  The team was drooling all over rookie Santana Moss last year but his injury cut short his rookie season.  Moss is back and ready to help create explosiveness in an otherwise vanilla offense.  He is quick, a threat to score from anywhere on the field and will give the Jets a viable threat to line up across from Laveranues Coles, who emerged as a go-to receiver last year.  The Jets ran the ball superbly against the Bills in 2001 but have some issues on the offensive line that could cause some concern.  Curtis Martin has been explosive against Buffalo and he’ll likely put up another solid game this week.  Expect a lot of points to be scored by the Jets this week producing good fantasy stats across the board.

·         28th in rushing yards against last year

·         5th in passing yards against last year

·         19th in total yardage against last year

·         12th in points against last year

·         Average score 20 PF to 20 PA

 

The Bills Notes:  The offense is healthy and ready to go.  Eric Moulds has had one bad game in his past four against the Jets (a 2 catch for 24 yard effort in N.Y. last year).  In the other 3 contests, Moulds has caught 19 passes for a respectable 322 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Peerless Price last season had two solid games against the Jets for a total of 157 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns.  What is even better is they now have the dependable Drew Bledsoe throwing the ball to these two talented receivers.  Buffalo proved last year they can both run and pass against this team and it is unlikely the Jets will be able to slow them down in front of the excited fans looking for a more competitive team to root for.  I would not think twice about starting Buffalo players this week.  There should be some good fantasy numbers put up this week.  The defense, though, still has a long way to go towards respectability so look for the Jets to move the ball as well.

·         26th in rushing yards against last year

·         12th in passing yards against last year

·         21st in total yardage against last year

·         29th in points against last year

·         Average Score 17 PF to 26 PA

Must Starts
RB Curtis Martin
QB Drew Bledsoe
WR Eric Moulds

Possible Starts
QB Vinny Testaverde
WR Santana Moss
WR Laveranues Coles
TE Anthony Becht
RB Travis Henry
WR Peerless Price

Only in a Pinch
WR Wayne Chrebet
RB Lamont Jordan
TE Jay Riemersma
RB Larry Centers

Bench ‘Em
RB Shawn Bryson
WR Josh Reed [r]
 

Final Thoughts:  This should be a tight football game.  Both teams are talented and believe they have the personnel to reach the playoffs. Expect both starting running backs to have 100 + yards rushing and each will get at least one score.  Also look for very nice production from both Bills receivers and decent showings from the Jets wide-outs.  Should be a fun game to watch as a new era begins in Buffalo.

Predicted Score:

New York Jets 27 at Buffalo Bills 31

 

 

 

Minnesota Vikings 0-0 at the Chicago Bears 0-0

Game Forecast

What is it about the old “Black and Blue” division (now the NFC North) that brings such anticipation?  I am not a fan of either team but I look forward to this game with great interest.  A classic “Offense vs. Defense” affair but with a twist.  The twist is that the Bears have perhaps the deepest, most talented receivers in the NFL and could be a dominant passing team if they begin to stretch the field.  I believe this is going to be an excellent battle in Chicago.

The Vikings Notes:  I believe one of the fantasy MVP’s for the upcoming season is going to be Randy Moss of the Vikings.  With his awesome talent, he has always been a top five performer at the receiver position but he came into this season, focused and determined to become the best receiver in the game today.  The Vikings plan to get him the ball ten or more times a game and if that plays out, look for Moss to have a monster year.  This might not be the perfect matchup for Randy though…The Bears were able to completely shut down Moss last year with only 106 receiving yards in two games and also contained him during the 2000 campaign with only 118 receiving yards and a touchdown.  Moss can go off at any moment, but the Bears have been better than most at holding him in check.  On defense, the Vikings are completely revamped but it will take awhile for them to gel.  Look for the Bears to find success down field in week one.

·         31st in rushing yards against last year

·         17th in passing yards against last year

·         27th in total yardage against last year

·         26th in points against last year

·         Average Score 18 PF to 24 PA

 

The Bears Notes:  Nobody saw a 13-3 record coming for the Bears last year.  Everything came up roses for the team as they rode their aggressive defense and timely turnovers into the top NFC Central record.  The Bears like to utilize a conservative offensive approach but they have the talent at receiver to become one of the stronger passing attacks in the game.  With improving young receivers Dez White and David Terrell teaming up with solid veterans Marty Booker and Marcus Robinson, the sky is the limit for this team.  The Bears lost some talent at corner back, which will likely cause them concern when trying to cover Moss.  The departed corner Walt Harris was a much better coverage player than either R.W. McQuarters or Jerry Azumah will be.  I have my doubts that either of these players can hold onto Moss’s jockstrap as he flies past them, much less cover him effectively.  Anthony Thomas should have an excellent week one against a poor Vikings rush defense who was ranked right at the bottom last year when it came to stopping the run.

·         4th in rushing yards against last year

·         29th in passing yards against last year

·         15th in total yardage against last year

·         1st in points against last year

·         Average Score 21 PF to 14 PA

Must Starts
QB Daunte Culpepper
WR Randy Moss
TE Byron Chamberlain
RB Anthony Thomas

Possible Starts
QB Jim Miller

Only in a Pinch
RB Michael Bennett
WR D’Wayne Bates
WR Derrick Alexander
WR Marcus Robinson
WR Marty Booker
WR Dez White
 

Bench ‘Em
WR David Terrell
Any Bears tight end
 

Final Thoughts:  I am looking forward to this game.  Moss is going to want to burn this team because they have effectively shut him down the past two seasons and it should be fun to watch.  Hopefully the Bears will attack the Vikings down the field because the Vikings defense simply cannot contain the talented receivers in Chicago.  As much as the conservative offense worked for the Bears during the 2001 campaign, I believe they need to open up the offense to reach that level this year.

Predicted Score:

Minnesota Vikings 17 at Chicago Bears 24

 

 

 

San Diego Chargers 0-0 at the Cincinnati Bengals 0-0

Game Forecast

Two teams with losing records last year hook up and try to get the 2002 campaign off to a good start.  Both of these teams have strong defenses and good rushing attacks but feature passing attacks that have many questions to be answered before a playoff position is possible.  A very important first game for both teams to try and erase the losing tradition of the past few seasons.

The Chargers Notes:  Second-year quarterback Drew Brees takes over the offense and will try to establish a decent passing attack to help out gifted running back Ladainian Tomlinson.  The Chargers offensive line is not very strong and will need at least a decent passing attack to keep teams from loading up against the run.  Look for Stephen Alexander to have an effective game against the banged up linebacker core of the Bengals, who lately have been a very tough defense at home.

·         1st in rushing yards against last year

·         17th in passing yards against last year

·         11th in total yardage against last year

·         16th in points against last year

·         Average Score 21 PF to 20 PA

 

The Bengals Notes:  Gus Frerotte won the quarterback job for the Bengals and will try to bring both leadership and maturity to the position.  The Bengals were terrible passing the football a year ago but should be more effective in 2002 with more experience at the receiver position and a better quarterback behind center.  Corey Dillon is one of the best running backs in the NFL but has faced tough defensive fronts when the Bengals showed no other weapons on offense.  If the Bengals can get even a decent passing game going this season, Dillon could easily end up a top five running back.  He has a tough battle this week though against the top rush defense of 2001.  The Chargers do not give teams much room to run.

·         10th in rushing yards against last year

·         14th in passing yards against last year

·         9th in total yardage against last year

·         14th in points against last year

·         Average Score 14 PA to 19 PA

Must Starts
RB Ladainian Tomlinson
RB Corey Dillon

Possible Starts
WR Curtis Conway
TE Stephen Alexander
 

Only in a Pinch
WR Chad Johnson
WR Michael Westbrook
WR Peter Warrick
WR Tim Dwight
QB Drew Brees
QB Gus Frerotte
 

Bench ‘Em
WR Reche Caldwell [r]
Any Bengals tight end

Final Thoughts:  If you like defensive football, you should enjoy this contest.  Both teams have the talent to improve on poor records last year but both need to find more success on the offensive side of the ball.  This game could go either way but I’ll give the victory to the Bengals at home.

Predicted Score:

San Diego 14 at Cincinnati Bengals 17

 

 

 

Kansas City Chiefs 0-0 at the Cleveland Browns 0-0

Game Forecast

Is it just me or did Trent Green look simply horrendous in the pre-season.  I am one to discount 95% of what I see in the games that mean nothing but still, he appeared to complete more passes to the opposition than his own guys and with him going into Cleveland to play the Browns who picked off 33 passes a year ago, this game could get ugly in a hurry.

The Chiefs Notes:  You can hear the big sigh of relief in Kansas City as Tony Gonzalez finally signed a contract and will play in 2002.  He is critical to any success this team will have in the passing attack this year.  As I said above, Green has looked horrible and he had better improve in a hurry or the Browns will destroy any remaining confidence he had.  The bright side for the Chiefs is that Priest Holmes should find room to run against the 26th ranked run defense from a year ago.  The Browns are a better defense against the run than the statistics show but Holmes should still find room to run and will likely catch at least 6 passes.

·         25th in rushing yards against last year

·         13th in passing yards against last year

·         23rd in total yardage against last year

·         23rd in points against last year

·         Average score 20 PF to 22 PA

 

The Browns Notes:  With Tim Couch being hurt, this game could be closer than it should be.  The Browns rushing attack should be stronger this year with the addition of William Green and the receiving core looks better with the marked improvement of Quincy Morgan.    The Browns have one of the finest defensive units in the NFL and really have a nose for the football.  With the problems Trent Green is having at quarterback for the Chiefs, you may see the Browns catch more of his passes than his own receivers.

·         26th in rushing yards against last year

·         11th in passing yards against last year

·         22nd in total yardage against last year

·         15th in points against last year

·         Average score 18 PF to 20 PA

Must Starts
RB Priest Holmes

TE Tony Gonzalez

 

Possible Starts
RB William Green
WR Johnnie Morton
WR Kevin Johnson

Only in a Pinch
QB Trent Green
QB Tim Couch (listed as questionable)
WR Quincy Morgan
RB Jamal White

Bench ‘Em
RB Tony Richardson
WR Eddie Kennison
WR Dante Hall
WR Andre Davis [r]
any Browns tight end

Final Thoughts:  If Tim Couch is healthy and ready to go, the Browns will have themselves a double digit victory.  If he isn’t, the game will be closer but the Browns will still win.   Priest Holmes and William Green are the two most likely to have solid fantasy value.

Predicted Score:

Kansas City Chiefs 13 at Cleveland Browns 17

 

 

 

Atlanta Falcons 0-0 at the Green Bay Packers 0-0

 

 

Game Forecast

The Atlanta Falcons went to Green Bay a year ago and knocked off the Packers at home.  That was a surprise but it would be an even greater one if they managed to repeat the feat this week.  The Packers have one of the strongest teams in the NFL and they still remember the let down they had last season against the Falcons.  Don’t look for lightning to strike twice.

The Falcons Notes:  If nothing else, the Falcons should be an exciting team to follow this year.  Michael Vick may be erratic and inconsistent in the passing game but his athletic skills and talents will make him a joy to watch every week.  The Falcons have some good offensive weapons to stretch the field with and might be one great receiver away from being a top offense.  Warrick Dunn and T.J. Duckett look to be solid as a one-two punch in the backfield.  The team also possesses many options to throw at a defense from the receiver slot.  Since getting to the Super Bowl in 1998, however, the Falcons have gone a disappointing 16-32. 

·         30th in rushing yards against last year

·         30th in passing yards against last year

·         30th in total yardage against last year

·         24th in points against last year

·         Average score:  18 PF to 24 PA

 

The Packers Notes:  The Packers have Brett Favre returning at quarterback after a tremendous season a year ago.  He is the life force of the Packers success and there is little reason to expect any less from him this year.  Ahman Green is among the best running backs in the game although he still needs to improve on his ability to hang onto the football.  The potential weakness of the Packers is at receiver where they do not have a lot of experience.  It remains to be seen whether newly acquired Terry Glenn, who was a problem in New England, can stay focused and healthy.  If the Packers can get decent play from their receivers, they should be one of the teams to beat this year.  The Falcons couldn’t stop anyone last year and it is unlikely they’ll be able to slow down the Packers this week either.

·         22nd in rushing yards against last year

·         15th in passing yards against last year

·         12th in total yardage against last year

·         4th in points against last year

·         Average score:  24 PF to 18 PA

Must Starts
QB Brett Favre
RB Ahman Green
WR Terry Glenn
TE Bubba Franks

Possible Starts
QB Michael Vick
RB Warrick Dunn
RB T.J. Duckett [r]
TE Alge Crumpler
WR Donald Driver
WR Brian Finneran

Only in a Pinch
WR Willie Jackson
TE David Martin

Bench ‘Em
WR Shawn Jefferson
WR Robert Ferguson
WR Javon Walker [r]

Final Thoughts:  Look for some revenge from the Packers this week.  Veteran teams don’t forget when a lesser team knocks them off at home the year before and I expect the Packers to dominate this football game from beginning to end.

Predicted Score:

Atlanta Falcons 17 at Green Bay Packers 37

 

 

 

Philadelphia Eagles 0-0 at the Tennessee Titans 0-0

Game Forecast

Interesting game in week one. The Eagles are clearly the better of the two teams thanks to a stifling defensive unit but the Titans are generally solid at home (a disappointing 3-5 last year though) and have superb balance on the offensive side of the ball.  The difference will likely be the Titans defense, which has some glaring holes in the secondary.

The Eagles Notes:  Donovan McNabb has been an exciting quarterback and a great leader for this team.  Unfortunately he can’t do it all by himself.  I think of how good he could be if the Eagles had even a decent rushing attack.  But unfortunately they do not.  Antonio Freeman was a great acquisition for a receiving core that lacked both experience and ability.  He should see plenty of action immediately and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him end up as the go-to receiver in Philly this season.  Staley and Levens will both see time at running back and should do a decent job on Sunday.

·         16th in rushing yards against last year

·         4th in passing yards against last year

·         7th in total yardage against last year

·         2nd in points against last year

·         Average score:  23 PF to 14 PA

The Titans Notes:  Steve McNair finally became the passer that many expected him to become out of Alcorn State.  Part of that is his increased maturity and part of the success came from having his best receiving core ever in the talented Kevin Dyson and Derrick Mason.  Now with the Titans getting a healthy Eddie George back to keep defenses honest and a passing attack that will keep defenses from loading the ‘box’, the Titans will have one of the finest offensive attacks in 2002.  The defense is lagging far behind the offense though and the Titans will have to score a lot of points to win on a consistent basis.

·         6th in rushing yards against last year

·         31st in passing yards against last year

·         25th in total yardage against last year

·         25th in points against last year

·         Average score: 21 PF to 24 PA

Must Starts
QB Donovan McNabb
QB Steve McNair
RB Eddie George
 
Possible Starts

TE Chad Lewis
TE Frank Wycheck
RB Duce Staley
WR Derrick Mason
WR Kevin Dyson

Only in a Pinch
WR James Thrash
WR Todd Pinkston
WR Antonio Freeman

 

Bench ‘Em
WR Justin McCareins
WR Freddie Mitchell
RB Dorsey Levens
RB Brian Westbrook
 
 

Final Thoughts:  Can the Titans rebound from a poor 2001 season and regain the swagger that propelled them to 13 wins in 2000 and a Super Bowl appearance in 1999?  Can the Eagles improve enough this year to reach the next level of their development and get to the Super Bowl?  Can McNair continue to pass the ball effectively and will Eddie George rebound from his horrible season last year?  There are many questions to answer for this season and this first game should start to provide some of those answers.  I expect the Eagles to win the game in the final few minutes.

Predicted Score:

Philadelphia Eagles 24 at Tennessee Titans 21

 

 

 

Detroit Lions 0-0 at Miami Dolphins 0-0

Game Forecast

The Ricky Williams Era begins in earnest starting this Sunday and he has a great chance to start his new career off in style.  The Detroit Lions are one of the worst teams in the league and will likely struggle to win more than four games this year.  The Dolphins defense should dominate this football game against two young, inexperienced quarterbacks saddled with poor receivers.

The Lions Notes:  There are people that believe the combination of Az-Zahir Hakim and Bill Schroeder will put up decent fantasy numbers this year.  I am not one of those people.  I believe the Lions passing attack is going to stink this year and that is coming from a fan of Joey Harrington.  I watched Harrington many times at Oregon and he will likely be very good some day.  But some day is not today.  Defensive backs in the NFL will have little difficulty shutting down the worst receiver combination in the league.  I actually expect third-stringer Scotty Anderson to put up the most consistent numbers week to week.  The good news for the team is that James Stewart is a solid running back that can carry the ball 20+ times a game if he can stay healthy.  The Lions should lean on Stewart and try to ride on his back to a few wins.  If they try to win via the passing attack, it will be a very long season in Detroit.

·         20th in rushing yards against last year

·         25th in passing yards against last year

·         26th in total yardage against last year

·         30th in points against last year

·         Average score 17 PF to 27 PA

 

The Dolphins Notes:  The Dolphins have won the first game of the season the past four seasons by a total score of 116 PF to 59 PA and that was against some pretty good competition.  They will have no problem beating up on one of the league’s weak sisters.  Expect to see Ricky Williams get 25+ touches, as the Dolphins will simply grind out an easy victory.

·         14th in rushing yards against last year

·         2nd in passing yards against last year

·         5th in total yardage against last year

·         11th in points against last year

·         Average score 20 PF to 18 PA

Must Starts
RB Ricky Williams

Possible Starts
QB Jay Fiedler
WR Chris Chambers
RB James Stewart
TE Randy McMichael [r]

Only in a Pinch
WR Az-Zahir Hakim
WR Bill Schroeder
RB Travis Minor
WR Oronde Gadsden
TE Michael Ricks

Bench ‘Em
QB Mike McMahon
WR Scotty Anderson
WR Larry Foster
WR Dedrick Ward
WR James McKnight

Final Thoughts:  I gave the Lions a mercy touchdown but I expect the Dolphins to completely destroy them this week in Miami.  I believe Ricky Williams will have 30 touches on the day and Miami will continue their September mastery (6-2 the past two seasons).

Predicted Score:

Detroit Lions 7 at Miami Dolphins 27

 

 

Arizona Cardinals 0-0 at the Washington Redskins 0-0

Game Forecast

Finally, NFL fans will get to see if Steve Spurrier can make his “Fun N’ Gun” work at the NFL level.  I wasn’t very impressed during the first quarter of pre-season games but he sure made it look effective once the opposing defenses began subbing in players soon to be flipping burgers at the local joint down the street.  The Redskins will no longer compete with the Cardinals as divisional rivals but there will still be the intensity of such when the two teams meet up in week one.  The Cardinals have only managed to put up 23 points total in the past three years when they played in Washington.

The Cardinals Notes:  The Cardinals are an improving football team but it won’t show in the standings this year with the migration to the much tougher NFC West.  Jake Plummer has turned around his career and David Boston is rapidly becoming one of the toughest to cover in the NFL.  His blend of size and speed is downright scary and I feel for cornerbacks trying to stay with him on the football field.  This is Thomas Jones time to prove he can get the job done at the NFL level.  The team has handed him the job and there is no one else to turn to.  The team suffered a massive blow when offensive tackle Anthony Clement went down for the season.  I believe Jones will come through with a good season but he has a tough assignment against the Redskins this week who have a great defense.

·         19th in rushing yards against last year

·         21st in passing yards against last year

·         28th in total yardage against last year

·         22nd in points against last year

·         Average score:  18 PF to 21 PA

 

The Redskins Notes:  I am still not convinced that either Shane Matthews or Danny Wuerffel are going to be the guys to lead the Redskins into a new Era of offensive explosiveness.  However the Skins have put up a ton of points in the past with quarterbacks such as Mark Rypien so I guess that anything is possible.  However the key to the Redskins having a successful season will be to give the ball to stud runner, Stephen Davis as much as possible in 2002.  If he gets 25 touches a game, the Skins should win with the stellar defensive unit they have assembled.  It will be interesting to watch the situation in Washington play out and see how much (if any) Spurrier changes his thinking as the season goes on.  In terms of fantasy production, I would be terrified to start either Matthews or Wuerffel on a weekly basis.  Spurrier is notorious for pulling his starting quarterbacks out of the game and I doubt that will change in the NFL.

·         12th in rushing yards against last year

·         3rd in passing yards against last year

·         10th in total yardage against last year

·         13th in points against last year

·         16 PF to 19 PA

Must Starts
WR David Boston
RB Stephen Davis
TE Freddie Jones
WR Rod Gardner

Possible Starts
RB Thomas Jones
QB Shane Matthews
QB Jake Plummer

Only in a Pinch
WR Derrius Thompson
WR Jacquez Green

Bench ‘Em
WR MarTay Jenkins
WR Frank Sanders
any Redskins tight end
 

Final Thoughts:  I don’t believe the Cardinals have the talent on defense to knock off the Redskins in Washington and the Spurrier Era will begin with a victory.

Predicted Score:

Arizona Cardinals 14 at Washington Redskins 28

 

 

Baltimore Ravens 0-0 at the Carolina Panthers 0-0

Game Forecast

It’s hard to believe the Ravens were Super Bowl champions only two short years ago.  This team has been completely dismantled and will likely struggle all season.  However in week one they play a Panthers team that has as many problems as the Ravens do which means that this game is up for grabs.  Look for the offense who makes the least mistakes to win this game. Two young quarterbacks are on display in this contest.

The Ravens Notes:  The Chris Redman Era begins this week and he may find some success against a poor Panthers defense.  The Ravens will likely want to take pressure off of the kid by utilizing Jamal Lewis as much as possible. We should get a good look at how Lewis’s knee holds up after getting a lot of work.  Travis Taylor should get off to a nice start due to the Panthers inconsistency at the cornerback position.

·         3rd in rushing yards against last year

·         9th in passing yards against last year

·         2nd in total yardage against last year

·         5h in points against last year

·         Average score:  19 PF to 16 PA

 

The Panthers Notes:  The Panthers look pretty bad on paper but they do have some offensive talent if they can find even decent quarterback play.  Chris Weinke disappointed the team so much in pre-season that the Panthers will start veteran quarterback Rodney Peete in week one.  Peete hasn’t thrown more than 134 passes in a season since he was the starter for the Eagles back in 1995.  With a passing rating of 67.0 during that forgettable campaign, it is a mystery why the Panthers are giving him his first start since 1999.  Receiver Muhsin Muhammad has looked determined to climb back to his lofty position as one of the finest wide-outs in football and Lamar Smith will give the team some semblance of a rushing attack (although that may be tough against Ray Lewis and the Ravens).  The Ravens can be passed on down the field and if the Panthers are willing to attempt to attack them deep, they can match their win total of a year ago in the first week of the season.

·         23rd in rushing yards against last year

·         27th in passing yards against last year

·         31st in total yardage against last year

·         28th in points against last year

·         Average score: 16 PF to 26 PA

Must Starts
RB Jamal Lewis
WR Muhsin Muhammad
TE Todd Heap

Possible Starts
WR Travis Taylor
TE Wesley Walls

Only in a Pinch
QB Chris Redman
QB Rodney Peete
RB Lamar Smith
WR Brandon Stokley
WR Steve Smith

Bench ‘Em
WR Isaac Byrd
RB Deshaun Foster [r] – still injured
QB Chris Weinke – benched in favor of a quarterback who hasn’t taken a snap since 1999.
 

Final Thoughts:  If you are someone who likes to wager a bit on football, stay well away from this game.  Turnovers could play a huge part in this game and the result could end up swinging in either direction.

Predicted Score:

Baltimore Ravens 17 at Carolina Panthers 13

 

 

 

Indianapolis Colts 0-0 at Jacksonville Jaguars 0-0

Game Forecast

The Jaguars offense just regained a bit of credibility with the late signing of Jimmy Smith.  He will elevate their play back up to a respectable level and give the team a chance to compete week in and week out.  The Colts have a new coach, a new identity and a hunger for post-season success.  This is a great test for the Colts in week one, as the Jaguars usually play pretty tough at home.

The Colts Notes:  Peyton Manning received some criticism last year for the first time in his brief career.  He is such a competitor and student of the game that he will likely rebound with his finest career as a pro.  Manning has a myriad of offensive weapons to distribute the ball to such as Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, Qadry Ismail, Marcus Pollard and Edgerrrin James.  James says he is 100% back, but did not play in the preseason. The Colts are a tough team to stop on offense and the young defense figures to be much stronger under the tutelage of new Head Coach, Tony Dungy who is known for his defensive prowess.

·         29th in rushing yards against last year

·         28th in passing yards against last year

·         29th in total yardage against last year

·         31st in points against last year

·         Average score: 26 PF to 30 PA

 

The Jaguars Notes:  The Jaguars have a lot of holes on the roster but still have the hunger for the playoffs they experienced only a couple of years prior.  Mark Brunell is an experienced quarterback who makes smart decisions and puts his team in a position to win each week.  Fred Taylor is a tremendous talent who unfortunately is made of glass and cannot seem to stay healthy.  He alone makes the Jaguars much stronger although he may have some difficulties running the ball this year behind a patch quilt offensive line.  The team is very happy to finally have Jimmy Smith back in the fold.  He is very important to the team’s chance for success and he’ll regain his form after a game or two.  The defense is brilliant against the run and brutal against the pass so expect Manning to light it up week one.

·         2nd in rushing yards against last year

·         26th in passing yards against last year

·         16th in total yardage against last year

·         10th in points against last year

·         Average score 18 PF to 18 PA

Must Starts
QB Peyton Manning
WR Marvin Harrison
TE Marcus Pollard

Edgerrin James
RB Fred Taylor
WR Jimmy Smith RB

Possible Starts
WR Bobby Shaw
WR Reggie Wayne
TE Kyle Brady
QB Mark Brunell

Only in a Pinch
WR Qadry Ismail

Bench ‘Em
WR Patrick Johnson
RB Stacey Mack
 

Final Thoughts:  The Jaguars have won their first home game of the season each of the last four seasons by the combined score of 96 to 22.  I thought the Colts would win this game easily until I saw that stat.  Now my left side of the brain is saying one thing and the right side is saying another.  I will stick to my original guns and say the Colts will come away with the victory but it will be very close.

Predicted Score:

Indianapolis Colts 27 at Jacksonville Jaguars 24

 

 

New Orleans Saints 0-0 at the Tampa Bay Bucs 0-0

Game Forecast

Last season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers hosted the New Orleans Saints and absolutely destroyed them 48 to 21.  The Saints quit in that game and it was not a pretty thing to behold.  Will the Saints come out with conviction in week one and try to erase that embarrassment of a season ago?  More than likely the team will play hard all four quarters but it won’t be enough to beat the Buccaneers at home.

The Saints Notes:  The Saints offense looks strong this year if the players stay focused and hungry.  Aaron Brooks is a capable quarterback surrounded by excellent offensive weapons, which include all-star receiver Joe Horn and talented second-year running back Deuce McAllister.  McAllister especially looks primed to have a big season in New Orleans.  He has put on weight but still is running fast.  He has looked powerful in the pre-season and looks like he is ready for a big year.  The defense was very poor a year ago and must play better this season if the Saints are to contend for a playoff spot.

·         13th in rushing yards against last year

·         20th in passing yards against last year

·         18th in total yardage against last year

·         27th in points against last year

·         Average score 21 PF to 26 PA

 

The Buccaneers Notes:  New Head Coach Jon Gruden brings a new feeling of excitement in Tampa Bay who were so close to becoming a championship team the past several years under departed coach, Tony Dungy.  The team has a new running back, Michael Pittman who looks like he could compete in Mr. Universe this year.  They have returning veterans Keyshawn Johnson and Mike Alstott and have added talented guys such as Keenan McCardell, Joe Jurevicius and Ken Dilger who all bring experience and production to the field.  The Buccaneers are a well-rounded team on both sides of the ball and anything less than a playoff berth would be a major disappointment to them.  The team needs Brad Johnson to improve on his disappointing season last year and become the leader the team desperately needs on offense.

·         18th in rushing yards against last year

·         6th in passing yards against last year

·         6th in total yardage against last year

·         8th in points against last year

·         Average score 20 PF to 18 PA

Must Starts
RB Deuce McAllister
WR Keyshawn Johnson
WR Joe Horn

Possible Starts
QB Aaron Brooks
QB Brad Johnson
WR Keenan McCardell
RB Michael Pittman
RB Mike Alstott
TE David Sloan
TE Ken Dilger


Only in a Pinch
WR Jerome Pathon
WR Dante Stallworth [r]
WR Joe Jurevicius


Bench ‘Em
none
 

Final Thoughts:  Two teams that believe they have the talent on both sides of the ball necessary to compete for a playoff run.  The Buccaneers are closer to that goal than the Saints though and are at home.  That should be enough for an opening week victory.

Predicted Score:

New Orleans Saints 17 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers 21

 

 

 

 

Seattle Seahawks 0-0 at the Oakland Raiders 0-0

Game Forecast

The Seahawks have a new uniform, a new attitude and a new division but start week one off in familiar territory when they tangle with the hated Raiders.  Both of these teams are expected to challenge for a playoff position but both looked out of sync most of the pre-season.  The Raiders are the healthier of the two teams and are at home.  That will be a tough obstacle for the Hawks to overcome.

The Seahawks Notes:  Seattle Seahawks need Trent Dilfer to get healthy ASAP.   He had the offense looking crisp and explosive but his replacement for week one, Matt Hasselbeck looks both confused and troubled out on the football field.  The Seahawks have great offensive weapons to get the ball to but he is doe not look ready to lead a team on the field at this time.  The Hawks best hope for success in week one is to get the ball into Shaun Alexander’s hands 35 times and minimize Hasselbeck’s responsibilities on the field.  The Raiders can be run against and the Hawks will try and feature Alexander in a huge way.

·         15th in rushing yards against last year

·         23rd in passing yards against last year

·         20th in total yardage against last year

·         18th in points against last year

·         Average score: 19 PF to 20 PA

 

The Raiders Notes:  The Raiders are a tough football team to predict in week one.  Long-time coach Jon Gruden left the team for Tampa Bay and the Geriatric Crew in Oakland are another year older.  There is a fine line between an experienced team and an old team and the Raiders are getting close to that mark.  Still when you have an offense featuring Rich Gannon, Tim Brown, Jerry Rice and Charlie Garner, you shouldn’t have a problem putting points up on the board.  A player to watch for this season is third-year receiver Jerry Porter who looks ready to become a star receiver when Jerry Rice or Tim Brown finally step aside.  Also look for good numbers from Charlie Garner who has looked very strong in camp this year.

·         28th in rushing yards against last year

·         7th in passing yards against last year

·         17th in total yardage against last year

·         19th in points against last year

·         Average score: 25 PF to 20 PA

Must Starts
RB Shaun Alexander
QB Rich Gannon
WR Tim Brown

Possible Starts
RB Charlie Garner
WR Jerry Rice


Only in a Pinch
RB Tyrone Wheatley
WR Darrell Jackson
WR Koren Robinson
TE Jerramy Stevens [r]
TE Roland Williams
WR Jerry Porter

Bench ‘Em
QB Matt Hasselbeck
QB Trent Dilfer (back week two?)
WR Bobby Engram
RB Zack Crockett
TE Itula Mili
 

Final Thoughts:  The Raiders have too much offensive talent for the Matt Hasselbeck led Seahawks to keep pace with.  Raiders win by double digits.

Predicted Score:

Seattle Seahawks 17 at Oakland Raiders 27

 

 

 

St. Louis Rams 0-0 at the Denver Broncos 0-0

Game Forecast

These two teams played in week one during the 2000 campaign and it was an excellent football game.  The Rams prevailed 41 to 36 that year and there could be a ton of scoring in this year’s contest as well.  Should be lots of passing and lots of touchdowns.

The Rams Notes:  What can you say about the Rams that hasn’t been said already?  They simply are the best offensive juggernaut over the last three seasons that the NFL has ever seen.  It is almost impossible to shut them down when they play up to their capability and they will likely start off strong this week against the Broncos.  Look for great games from Kurt Warner, Marshall Faulk, Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce on the way to a close victory.

·         11th in rushing yards against last year

·         10th in passing yards against last year

·         3rd in total yardage against last year

·         7th in points against last year

·         Average score: 31 PF to 18 PA

 

The Broncos Notes:  The Broncos are almost as talented on offense as the Rams although they play a different style of game.  Ed McCaffrey is back from injury and Shannon Sharpe returns after a stint with the Ravens.  The Broncos should be able to run the ball this year but it may prove to be frustrating for fantasy owners again this season.  The three-headed monster at running back appears to have been reborn with Clinton Portis taking the place of Terrell Davis.  Head coach Mike Shanahan doesn’t desire to have RBBC and would like to make Clinton Portis the starter.  Unfortunately Posrtis messed up those plans with a three fumble game in the pre-season.  Look for all three backs (Portis, Gray and Anderson) to get carries this week.  Rod Smith looks like he will have another stellar season and Brian Griese should rebound from his shaky effort of a year ago.  I expect the Broncos to put up a lot of points this year.

·         9th in rushing yards against last year

·         16th in passing yards against last year

·         8th in total yardage against last year

·         21st in points against last year

·         Average score: 21 PF to 21 PA

Must Starts
QB Kurt Warner
WR Torry Holt
WR Isaac Bruce
RB Marshall Faulk
TE Ernie Conwell
WR Rod Smith
TE Shannon Sharpe

Possible Starts
QB Brian Griese
WR Ed McCaffrey

Only in a Pinch
RB Clinton Portis [r]
RB Olandis Gary
RB Mike Anderson


Bench ‘Em
WR Terrence Wilkins
WR Eric Crouch [r]
WR Troy Edwards
WR Ashley Lelie [r]



Final Thoughts:  If the Rams would have won the Super Bowl last year, perhaps the Broncos could have surprised them in week one with an upset victory.  However this Rams team is focused and determined to start the year off strong on the way to a reappearance in the Super Bowl.  This will be an explosive, entertaining football game, but I believe the Rams will squeak out a victory.

Predicted Score:

St. Louis Rams 31 at Denver Broncos 28

 

 

 

SUNDAY NIGHT, SEPTEMBER 8th

 

 

Dallas Cowboys 0-0 at Houston Texans 0-0

Game Forecast

A new rivalry is born in the NFL.  The Dallas Cowboys stroll into Houston to lock horns with the Texans in week one.  This is a great opportunity for the Texans to start the franchise off with a win, as the Cowboys may be the weakest team to visit Houston this year.

The Cowboys Notes:  The Cowboys defense is dominant.  They have talent at all positions and will keep the team in every game this year.  The offense on the other hand is a different story altogether and it is why the Texans have a shot to win this thing.  Quarterback Quincy Carter has some talent but is prone to making mistakes and playing inconsistent football.  He has the brittle Joey Galloway on one side of the field and rookie Antonio Bryant on the other side and he hasn’t played with either player very much.  Emmitt Smith on the other hand should find room to run and will likely pickup up over 100 yards rushing and a touchdown on his way to the NFL rushing record sometime this season.

·         8th in rushing yards against last year

·         1st in passing yards against last year

·         4th in total yardage against last year

·         20th in points against last year

·         Average score 15 PF to 21 PA

 

The Texans Notes:  If the Texans can play smart, mistake-free football and force Quincy Carter into making mistakes, this game will end up in a victory for the team.  Expect to see a very conservative offensive attack by the Texans who will try to ground the game to a halt and win on turnovers and mistakes.  David Carr is going to be a great NFL quarterback one day but the team will likely be holding the reins pretty tight to start the year.  Rookie receiver Jabar Gaffney was drafted into a nice situation as he immediately walks into the starting lineup much like Kevin Johnson did years ago with the Browns.  It will give both him and Carr the opportunity to develop a nice bond on the football field.  Fellow rookie, running back Jonathon Wells will also get the chance to showcase his talents on the field and he suits a conservative rushing attack.  I expect him to carry the ball 25 times in this game and the Texans will give themselves a shot to win.

·         - In rushing yards against last year

·         - In passing yards against last year

·         - In total yardage against last year

·         - In points against last year

Must Starts
RB Emmitt Smith

Possible Starts
WR Joey Galloway
WR Antonio Bryant [r]
RB Jonathon Wells [r]

Only in a Pinch
QB Quincy Carter
WR Jabar Gaffney [r]
RB Troy Hambrick
RB James Allen
WR Corey Bradford
TE Tony McGee

Bench ‘Em
QB David Carr
WR Ken-Yon Rambo
WR Jermaine Lewis
all Texans tight ends
 

Final Thoughts:  The Texans are at home against state rivals, the Cowboys and have a chance to win this game.  Look for them to strike the first blow that will lead to a wonderful rivalry in the years to come.  I expect the Texans to come out with both energy and determination which will be egged on by enthusiastic fans pulling for an upset victory in week 1.

Predicted Score:

Dallas Cowboys 14 at Houston Texans 16

 

 

 

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

 

 

Pittsburgh Steelers 0-0 at the New England Patriots 0-0

Game Forecast

Do you think the Steelers remember who knocked them out of the AFC playoffs last season?  I am willing to bet that this date has been circled on the calendar for a while now if you are a Steeler player.  It will be interesting to see how the Patriots come out this season.  I give them all the credit in the world for what they achieved last year but it is hard to achieve such an amazing roll two seasons in a row and I am not convinced on the virtues of Tom Brady.  Expect the hard-hitting Steelers to take it to the Patriots all game long.

The Patriots Notes:  The 2001 Super Bowl champs are determined to show that last season wasn’t a fluke.  They are led by a wonderful defense that dictated the pace of many football games last year.  However it is a bit worrisome that the defense gave up so many yards a season ago.  A bend, but not break defense can quickly deteriorate into a poor defense if work is not done to shore up the yardage given up.  The Patriots ranked 24th in yards given up last season and it is unlikely that they will finish in the top 6 in points given up this year if they don’t improve on that stat.  Tom Brady had a dream first year as a starter but I am unconvinced he is a great NFL quarterback.  He will come back to earth some this year.  Antowain Smith is another player who had a dream season but the Patriots weren’t very pleased with how he came into camp out of shape this season. The Patriots will play a similar style to what they used last year but I don’t expect the same success.  I think they will be lucky to make the playoffs.

·         21st in rushing yards against last year

·         22nd in passing yards against last year

·         24th in total yardage against last year

·         6th in points against last year

·         Average score: 23 PF to 17 PA

 

The Steelers Notes:  Until the Steelers met up with the Patriots last season in the playoffs they appeared destined to appear in the Super Bowl.  They were playing dominant football and had all aspects of the game clicking.  The Patriots showed up and ruined their parade.  The Steelers have spent the off-season reliving that game and are excited about another chance against the Patriots.  I expect the Steelers defense to come out and absolutely crush the Patriots in week one.  Look for Kordell Stewart to rebound from his below average performance against New England last year to have a very nice contest this week.  Plaxico Burress will be the main guy catching the ball.

·         5th in rushing yards against last year

·         8th in passing yards against last year

·         1st in total yardage against last year

·         3rd in points against last year

·         Average score:  22 PF to 14 PA

Must Starts
none

Possible Starts
QB Kordell Stewart
RB Jerome Bettis
WR Plaxico Burress
WR Troy Brown
RB Antowain Smith


Only in a Pinch
QB Tom Brady
RB Kevin Faulk
WR David Patten
WR Antwaan Randle-El [r]

WR Hines Ward
RB Amos Zereoue

Bench ‘Em
RB J.R. Redmond
WR Donald Hayes
RB Chris Fuamatu-Ma’afala
TE Mark Bruener
all Patriots tight ends (unclear who will get the bulk of the work to start the season)



Final Thoughts:  I expect to see some retribution at the hands of the Steelers on Monday Night.  The Patriots embarrassed them at home in the playoffs a year ago and the team will be pumped up to erase at least a part of that painful memory.  Steelers win big.

Predicted Score:

Pittsburgh Steelers 24 at New England Patriots 13