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Hi Folks, Here�s our look at the Passing
Matchups for this week. PLEASE NOTE: This does NOT replace
the Cheatsheet ranking. The Cheatsheet rankings are the final say on where we
see a player for that week. The Matchup Breakdowns are simply one more tool in
the box when it comes to helping choose your lineup. Also note, just because a player
has a "bad" matchup, it does NOT mean he's not a starter in your
league. If Rich Gannon is playing the toughest pass defense in the league, that
just means he's got a tough matchup that week. He's also your starter. Let's jump to it. Joe ************************************* Joe Bryant Owner � www.Footballguys.com Week 12 Passing Matchups Written by Mark Wimer and Joe
Bryant Carolina�s
Passing Game vs. The Atlanta Defense (Great Matchup) Forget what happened in the last game that Carolina played
against the Falcons. The team was horrible with rookie Randy Fasani thrust into
action, and only had the ball for 19:52 out of 60 minutes. Rodney Peete is much
more adept at running the offense than Fasani. However, the team�s leading
receiver, Steve Smith, is suspended for the game � he assaulted a team-mate and
marred rookie Anthony Bright�s face severely enough the young man needed
plastic surgery � a criminal investigation is under way. Also, starting LT
Chris Terry was released this week by the team for failing to report to an
arraignment on domestic violence charges, so there are significant off-field
distractions for the team, and big on-field consequences. Karl Hankton gets the
nod in Smith�s spot � he has 6 grabs for 124 yards this season. Atlanta plays the pass soft, especially in recent weeks �
they have allowed 293 yards per game over the last four weeks (31st
in the NFL), and are ranked 29th, 31st, and 21st
in points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends
during that span.�� A good chunk of that
yardage has come on big plays but it all counts the same. Atlanta�s secondary may be without LB John Thierry (hip �
doubtful), and LB Mark Simoneau (ankle � questionable) and CB Ray Buchanon
(groin � probable) are also banged up. Besides the absence of Smith and Terry,
the Panthers list TE Wesley Walls as probable to play after recovering from a
concussion � good news for the depleted receiving corps. Peete and the remaining members of the receiving corps
should have some good opportunities against the weak Falcon�s defense.�� It�s hard to get too excited about Rodney
Peete especially missing Steve Smith but if he�s a guy you normally consider,
this does seem like an attractive matchup. Chicago�s
Passing Game vs. The Detroit Defense (Great Matchup) Chris Chandler battled through a severe beating on Monday
night (7 sacks) and managed to not throw any interceptions (a minor miracle,
with as many hits and hurries as he endured) � predictably, his numbers weren�t
exciting from the fantasy perspective � 20/33 for 157 yards and 0 scores. Marty
Booker is, as usual, Plan �A� and �B� for the passing game. He didn�t score, but
had 7 receptions for 65 yards (he went 0 for 2 passing this week). Jim Miller�s
elbow tendonitis will keep him in reserve (and he may be headed for IR if the
inflammation doesn�t subside). In his last game against the Lions, Chandler
went 16/25 for 163 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception. Marty Booker had only
one catch for 14 yards (and the touchdown). For the season, the Lions are the 29th ranked
pass defense in the league, allowing 269 yards per game, and are the 28th
ranked unit during the past four weeks, allowing 273 yards per game. During
that span they are 23rd, 27th, and 24th in
fantasy points surrendered to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight
ends. The Bears lost starting LT Marc Colombo to a patella tendon
injury in his left knee, so their line enters this game even worse than last
week�s unit.� Besides Colombo and
Miller�s injuries, the Bears list TE John Davis as questionable with his
concussion, and C Olin Kreutz is expected back after recovering from an
appendectomy (probable). Detroit�s secondary has S. Lamar Campbell questionable
with a hamstring problem, S Brian Walker continues to be hobbled by his bad toe
(questionable) and LB Barrett Green has a knee problem (questionable). The
defensive line, who will try to generate a pass rush, is also banged up � DE
Jared DeVries is out with a foot injury, DT Luther Elliss has a ankle problem
(questionable) and DE Robert Porcher is nursing his knee (questionable). Chandler should get some respite from the pressure this week
as the limping Lions aren�t as good as the Rams defenders. Look for him to
enjoy a better game this week, and to exceed the numbers from his first game
against the Lions.�� Still though, it�s
hard to get excited about Chandler or any of his WRs except Marty Booker.�� They�ve not been very good of late, but
this is about as good as it gets for them against a struggling Detroit Defense. Cincinnati�s
Passing Game vs. The Pittsburgh Defense (Great Matchup) Here�s something I didn�t expect to write this season: the Bengals
have a top-ten wide receiver. Chad Johnson is the 9th best fantasy
wide receiver over the last three weeks, catching 14 balls for 254 yards and 3
touchdowns, including 4 balls for 103 yards and 1 score last week in his second
�guarantee� game of the season. It wasn�t Johnson�s fault the Bengals lost to
Cleveland. By the way, Jon Kitna is also hot � he�s the 5th best
fantasy quarterback over the past 3 weeks, with 793 yards, 7 scores and 3
interceptions (3 rushes for 4 yards and 1 more score rushing). How will the Bengal aerial juggernaut fare this week against
the Pittsburgh defense? If statistics are any guide, they should do fairly well
� the Steelers are ranked 27th in the NFL this season allowing 258
yards per game, and over the past four weeks they are allowing 262 per contest
(also 27th in the NFL). During that span, the defense is 28th,
28th, and 27th vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide
receivers and tight ends. Pittsburgh�s starting LB James Farrior injured his knee in
the loss to the Titans, and is out for this week. Fellow LB Larry Foote is
doubtful with a calf injury. The secondary has lost S Mike Logan (groin) and CB
Hank Poteat (knee), while CB Chidi Iwuoma is listed as questionable with a knee
problem. Depth is a concern for this already struggling unit. Cincinnati lists
no new injuries on their passing unit. Pittsburgh will give Kitna and Johnson lots of opportunities
to shine on Sunday. Miami�s
Passing Game vs. The San Diego Defense (Great Matchup) Ray Lucas and the Dolphins finally won a game, and Lucas
performed credibly in the course of the victory. 18/26 for 221, 0 touchdowns
and 0 interceptions (with 11/12 and 1 touchdown rushing) isn�t a great day, but
it was good enough to keep the chains moving and to open lanes for Ricky
Williams. San Diego�s passing D isn�t very good this season. They
allow 285 yards per game on average (30th in the league), and over
the last four weeks that number balloons to 348 yards per contest. They are
dead last in fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks and wide
receivers, and 29th vs. tight ends in that four week span. San Diego will probably do without LB�s Donnie Edwards
(questionable due to a concussion), and Carlos Polk (ankle � questionable).
Miami is without Cris Carter (kidney � out) and Oronde Gadsden (IR) in addition
to waiting for starting QB Jay Fiedler to get back from his broken thumb. TE
Randy McMichael is probable with his foot problem.1 This will be the best opportunity Lucas has to shine this
season.�� It�s hard to get excited about
him or his WRs that Lucas throws to, but it doesn�t get much better than this
for them. New
England�s Passing Game vs. The Minnesota Defense (Great Matchup) Tom Brady came down to earth last week vs. the Raiders in
the �tuck-rule� rematch � he was held to 172 yards passing on 18/30 work with 0
scores and 0 interceptions. However, Brady has bounced back from bad weeks
before in 2002 � Denver held him to 130 yards and one touchdown week 8, and he
shredded Buffalo for 265 yards and 3 scores the next week � bottom line, Brady
has the potential to light up the scoreboard at any time. Minnesota�s secondary is one of the worst in the NFL � 31st
this season allowing 295 yards per game, and 30th over the last four
weeks allowing 278 yards per match. During that span they are 27th,
29th, and 30th vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide
receivers, and tight ends. New England has no new injuries of note to their unit.
Minnesota�s DB�s are ready to lock horns, too. Look for a big bounce back from Brady this week.�� He�s a sure starter along with Troy Brown
and David Patten deserves serious consideration as well as they won�t face a
softer secondary. Oakland�s
Passing Game vs. The Arizona Defense (Great Matchup) Oakland�s on a roll again, and so is Rich Gannon. He didn�t
throw for 300 yards last week, or toss a score (but he did get 297 yards) �
however, he had 353 yards and 3 touchdowns the week before, so he�s hardly down
and out recently. Tim Brown, Charlie Garner, and Jerry Rice were his primary
targets last week (5/71, 7/65, and 6/65 respectively). Arizona�s pass defense is exceeded in softness by their rush
defense, but not by much. They allow 249 yards per game this season (24th
in the NFL) and 253 per game over the last four weeks (25th in the
league). During the four weeks mentioned, the Cards are 26th, 30th,
and 20th vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and
tight ends, respectively. CB Renaldo Hill is probably not ready to go for the Cards
(groin, doubtful) while LB Rob Fredrickson (neck) is probable to play. The
Raider�s TE Roland Williams has a sore toe (questionable). Gannon and Jerry Rice are sure starters.�� Tim Brown deserves a look in most leagues
and Jerry Porter is always worth a shot.��
Porter gets fewer targets than Rice or Brown but makes the most of what
he sees.� The only question in this game
is �How many touchdowns do the Raiders want to score before they call off the
dogs?� /**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/ Baltimore
Passing Game vs. The Tennessee Defense (Good Matchup) Baltimore�s Jeff Blake stumbled last week (just when it
looked like he might take over the starting spot permanently), throwing for a
mere 127 yards on 14/28 passing, with 1 touchdown and 1 interception. He also
rushed twice for 8 yards. Ouch. This week, Blake faces the much more forgiving Tennessee
secondary (Miami�s squad was his downfall last week) � they are allowing 256
yards per game this season (25th in the NFL) and remain consistently
soft, averaging 255 yards per game over the last four weeks (26th in
the NFL). The team ranks 25th vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, 25th
vs. wide receivers, and 17th vs. tight ends � it�s not too tough to
score on Tennessee through the air. Depth at wide receiver remains a concern for the Ravens:
Brandon Stokley continues to struggle with his foot injury (questionable) and
back-up Javin Hunter was knocked out of the Miami game with a concussion � he�s
not on the injury list this week, though. CB�s Dainon Sydney (broken arm) and
Mike Echols (leg) have been off the field recently, and will probably miss this
week too. Starting LB Randall Godfrey couldn�t go last week due to his ankle
injury, and may be unavailable again this week. We do like TE Todd Heap a lot this week.�� Jeff Blake, and Travis Taylor are not prime
players, but they will have better luck against the Titans than they did
against the Dolphins. Cleveland�s
Passing Game vs. The New Orleans Defense�
(Good Matchup) In the past two games, Tim Couch has thrown for 423 yards, 5
scores and 3 interceptions � not bad at all. In a huge divisional rivalry at
Cincinnati last week he was great, going 22/35 for 242 yards, 3 scores and 1
interception. As usual this season, he spread the ball around a lot � Northcutt
and Morgan caught the most balls (6/71/1 and 5/81/0 respectively). New Orleans is vulnerable to the pass in 2002 � they are
ranked as the 26th defense vs. the pass allowing 258 yards per game
this season. Over the past four weeks, they give up an average of 222 yards per
game, 14th in the NFL � but that is a seriously skewed stat, as they
have played the run-all-the-time Falcons twice and anemic Carolina once in that
span. It�s not so much that the Saints are so good against the pass recently �
the opposition is just not passing much. During the four weeks mentioned, the
Saints are 31st vs. opposing quarterbacks, and 32nd vs.
tight ends during that span (6th vs. wide receivers). CB Michael Hawthorne is listed as questionable with a knee
injury, and the Saints list CB Fred Thomas as probable with his head injury.
Cleveland�s TE Steve Heiden is questionable with an ankle problem. Couch and company will get a number of opportunities to make
something happen against the soft Saints.��
For the WRs, it�s really tough to pick one as Couch spreads the ball so
much but Northcutt and Morgan are probably the most likely to succeed.� Kevin Johnson remains a huge
disappointment.�� And Andre Davis isn�t
seeing enough passes thrown his way to be counted upon. Detroit�s
Passing Game vs. The Chicago Defense (Good Matchup) The last time these two teams met, the Lions enjoyed a solid
but unspectacular outing from Joey Harrington � 16/29 for 199 yards, 0
touchdowns and 0 interceptions won�t win any fantasy championships, but it was
good enough to spring James Stewart loose for 172 yards and 2 scores on the
ground. This week, Harrington will be without Az-Zahir Hakim, out for the
season with a major hip injury � but Bill Schroeder remembered how to catch the
ball last week, and WR Germane Crowell and TE Mikhail Ricks remain viable
options, so Harrington is not bereft of targets. Chicago�s pass defense stinks � they are 29th in
the league this season, allowing 263 yards per game, and have been worse over
the last four weeks, allowing 278 per contest (29th in the NFL).
They are 30th, 21st, and 16th in fantasy
points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends during
that span. On the Bear�s unit, S Larry Whigham has a tweaked knee
(probable). Detroit lists WR Jacquez Green as questionable with a leg injury (a
laceration he got while still a Redskin).��
They will likely have cornerback R.W. McQuarters but he�s been nothing
special. Harrington will get plenty of opportunities to throw the
ball from the soft Bears.� It just boils
down to how much faith you have in him.�
After a white hot start, he�s definitely cooled so it�s hard to get real
excited about him, even against this defense.��
Bottom line is it�s a struggling QB against a struggling defense. New
Orleans Passing Game vs. The Cleveland Defense (Good Matchup) Aaron Brooks has been steady and reliable in the recent past
� not spectacular, but not disappointing, either. 279 yards, 2 scores and 1
touchdown last week and 259 yards, 1 score and 0 interceptions the week before
will help most clubs into their league�s fantasy playoffs. Joe Horn is his
go-to guy � he�s led the team in receiving yardage for 5 straight weeks. Cleveland�s passing defense is strictly mediocre � 17th
in the league allowing 230 yards per game this season, and 18th in
the league over the last four weeks, allowing 235. They rank 19th,
26th, and 8th vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide
receivers, and tight ends during that four week time frame. New Orleans is ready to play and healthy. Cleveland lists
only LB Kevin Bentley (hand � questionable) from their secondary this week. New Orleans may be throwing a lot this week, with McAllister
questionable � they should do quite well at it against the ho-hum Browns.�� Brooks and Horn are definite starters and
Dont� Stallworth deserves a look if you normally consider him. New York
Giants� Passing Game vs. The Houston Defense (Good Matchup) Jeremy Shockey made a difference for the Giants last week,
taking up the slack that injuries to Ron Dixon and Ike Hilliard left behind �
he had 11 catches for 111 yards in nasty weather and basically dictated the
game�s pace to the division-rival Redskins. Kerry Collins had a solid 211 yards
with 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions � good enough to win the game. Amani Toomer
was the only other receiver worth mentioning in the game (8/95 and a score). Houston is tough in terms of yardage allowed per game � they
give up an average of 208 yards per game this season, and 200 yards per game
over the last four weeks. However, it�s fairly easy to score on them through
the air � they rank 21st, 23rd, and 31st in
points allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends
(Jeremy Shockey owners pay attention!). S Ramon Walker is the only wounded member of the Houston DB
corps � he�s questionable with an ankle problem. The Giants say Dixon is
doubtful to play through that knee injury. Collins, Shockey and Toomer should have fun playing pitch
and catch this week. San
Francisco�s Passing Game vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Good Matchup) Jeff Garcia and the 49er�s are playing ball by taking what
the defense offers � some weeks it�s passing lanes (last week vs. San Diego �
337 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception), and others it�s not (2 weeks ago vs.
K.C., 175 yards, 0 scores, 1 interception). Terrell Owens is the man in San
Francisco�s wide receiver corps, and has benefited from Tai Street�s elevation
to #2 (5 of Owens� 8 touchdowns came in the most recent 5 games). Philly�s pass defense is slipping as the season progresses.
They are ranked 6th this season allowing 207 yards per game, but
over the last four weeks they�ve surrendered 236 per game (20th in
the league) and are 15th, 14th, and 12th in
points allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends
during that time. LB Carlos Emmons is doubtful with a hamstring injury. The
49�ers unit lists TE Eric Johnson as questionable with a nagging back injury,
and Owens is probable with his aching heel. Philadelphia will give Garcia and company some opportunities
to make plays this week, if recent history is any guide.�� Owens and Garcia are sure starters and we�d
even look at Tai Streets if he�s a guy you normally consider.�� Philadelphia�s Bobby Taylor and Troy
Vincent have the scary reputation as corners but as you can see from the
numbers, teams can and do throw on them. Tampa
Bay�s Passing Game vs. The Green Bay Defense (Good Matchup) Red-hot and rearing to go � that is how Brad Johnson looks
to us. Spurred by an ineffective rushing attack, the Bucs are throwing often
and well right now � Johnson has thrown 7 touchdowns in 2 games, with 566 yards
in those contests. Keyshawn Johnson is finally finding pay dirt regularly (3
scores in his last two games, with over 200 yards in that span). The Green Bay pass defense is nothing special � 11th
in the league this season, allowing 213 yards per game, and 11th in
the NFL over the last four weeks, allowing 217 per match. During that span, the
Packers are 24th, 20th, and 15th in fantasy
points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends,
respectively. One could even call them slightly sub-par when looking at the
fantasy points allowed. Tampa�s unit is good to go. Green Bay lists CB Tyrone
Williams (hamstring � questionable) and LB Na�il Diggs (knee � probable) on the
injury report � no major concerns here. Johnson and Johnson should stay hot against the
underachieving Packer�s secondary. They made the struggling Viking�s attack
look good last week. /**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/ Atlanta�s
Passing Game vs. The Carolina Defense (Neutral Matchup) This game is a rematch of the week 7 game, but won�t
resemble it in many ways. First of all, the Panthers will start Rodney Peete
(their most effective quarterback) instead of the Weinke/Fasani tandem � so
Atlanta probably won�t enjoy 40 minutes of ball possession week 12. Secondly,
Michael Vick is healthy (he was knocked out of the last contest and Doug
Johnson stepped in). However, Atlanta is a rush first, rush second and pass
occasionally type team � Vick has thrown for 590 yards, 3 touchdowns and 2
interceptions over 3 games � the Falcon�s wide receivers don�t have explosive
games in 2002, period. Carolina�s passing defense is weakening lately � they are
allowing 233 yards per game during the last four weeks (17th in the
NFL), in contrast to their season average of 210 per game (8th in
the league). During that four week span they are #�s 12, 18 and 11 in fantasy
points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends. WR Shawn Jefferson is questionable with a foot injury for
the offense; Carolina lists LB Lester Towns (foot � out), S Deke Cooper
(hamstring � probable), and LB Dan Morgan (hernia � probable) on this week�s
injury report. If Morgan can go, it will be a major lift to the entire defense. Trevor Gaylor had the big game last week but it�s hard to
get too excited about a repeat performance.��
Finneran and Jefferson are less than 100% so I guess if you had to roll
the dice on one of these WRs, Gaylor would likely be it but it�s definitely a
dice roll. An effective but modestly productive aerial attack is pitted
against a second tier defense in this one � neither has a huge edge. Buffalo�s
Passing Game vs. The New York Jets Defense (Neutral Matchup) In this rematch of the week one game, don�t expect a similar
game to unfold. The Jets are a vastly better defense than they were to start
the season vs. the rush, and have stiffened against the pass in recent weeks
(averaging 238 yards per game allowed this season (22nd in the NFL)
vs. 225 yards per game the last four weeks (16th in the NFL)). They
are ranked 14th vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, 13th
vs. opposing fantasy wide receivers, and 26th vs. tight ends during
that four week span. Buffalo�s mad bomber, Drew Bledsoe, has thrown only 1
touchdown pass in each of his past four games, and only managed 225 yards
against a very weak Kansas City defense last week. Neither Price nor Moulds
went over 4 receptions or 50 yards (Moulds did have a score).�� Part of that was they�ve seemed to shift
some focus more towards the ground game and ball control.�� Buffalo is very healthy entering the game, New York�s
secondary is also in good shape, with no injuries of note. In this crucial AFC East battle, neither team has an edge
going into the game.�� Bledsoe, Eric
Moulds and Peerless Price are solid players but this looks like a neutral
matchup here. Denver�s
Passing Game vs. The Indianapolis Defense (Neutral Matchup) Griese�s out, Beuerlein�s in � and the crafty veteran has
the support of the whole team. His 2 passes for 2 completions and 2 touchdowns
against the lame Seahawks wasn�t a true test of his capabilities, but it
started him out on the right foot, for certain. Rod Smith may be Beuerlein�s go-to
guy � we�ll see how the numbers shake out this Sunday. Indianapolis plays solid pass defense, allowing only 176
yards per game over the last four games, which is 6th best in the
NFL during that span (185 yards per game this season, 2nd in the
NFL). During that four week period, the Colts are ranked 9th, 7th,
and 10th in fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide
receivers and tight ends, respectively. Besides Griese�s MCL sprain (out), Denver is still without
TE Shannon Sharpe (left elbow sprain). Indianapolis� back-up CB Joseph
Jefferson (ankle) is listed as questionable this week, as is fellow CB Nicholas
Harper (wrist). Other CB�s on the injury report: Cliff Crosby (knee � probable)
and Brian Leigeb (wrist � probable). Key LB Mike Peterson is probable to play
through his wrist problem. Two quality units lock horns on Sunday night, and neither is
a lot stronger than the other � this is a neutral matchup.� Green
Bay�s Passing Game vs. The Tampa Bay Defense (Neutral Matchup) Favre, Driver, Glenn and Franks vs. Sapp, Brooks, Lynch and
Barber (maybe). What a matchup. Favre is the 11th ranked fantasy
quarterback in points per game this season. He is coming off of an embarrassing
loss to the Vikings (in which Favre put up 24/43 for 296 yards and 2
touchdowns, but threw 3 crucial interceptions), but don�t look for two bad
games in a row from this veteran � he knows how to bounce back with a
vengeance. Tampa Bay is ultra-tough in the passing phase of the game �
#1 this season, allowing only 177 yards per game. #2 over the past four weeks,
allowing 161 yards per contest. They rank 1st, 1st and 9th
in points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends
during those four weeks. Ultra-tough, like we said. Key CB Ronde Barber injured his thumb last week, and had
surgery to repair it � his team hopes to fit him with a protective cast so he
can go on Sunday � right now he�s questionable. Green Bay�s unit is healthy and
rearing to go. Two great units tee off on each other in this one, and
neither looks like they have an advantage before hand (watch Barber�s status,
though). Indianapolis�
Passing Game vs. The Denver Defense (Neutral Matchup) Peanut Butter and Jelly, Oreos and Milk, Manning and
Harrison � some things just go together. Peyton Manning�s 898 yards, 7
touchdowns and 2 interceptions over the last three games puts him at #3 on the
fantasy quarterbacks list during that span; Harrison�s 374 yards and 5
touchdowns lands him at #1 on the wide receiver�s list. Smile, Manning and
Harrison owners. Denver�s pass defense isn�t nearly as stout as their rush
defense recently � they are the 12th ranked unit in the NFL,
allowing 221 yards per game (223 yards per contest this season, ranked 15th)
and are 22nd, 19th, and 18th vs. opposing
fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends during that span. Last
week, they did shut down the struggling Seahawks (Hasselbeck had 180 yards, 0
touchdowns and 2 interceptions to his credit), so they are on an upbeat at the
moment. Qadry Ismail is still nursing his sprained left knee
(questionable) for the Colts. Denver lists starting S Izell Reese as probable
in spite of his groin injury heading into the matchup. Manning and Harrison are not Hasselbeck and Robinson. Look
for the Colts to have room to maneuver against the mediocre Broncos� secondary
this week. New York
Jets� Passing Game vs. The Buffalo Defense (Neutral Matchup) Chad Pennington has reversed the fortunes of the Jets, and
is the 12th best fantasy quarterback over the last three weeks, with
649 yards, 5 touchdowns and 1 interception (with 13 rushes for 24 yards and
another score rushing). Last week he tore up the Lions for 4 scores (2 to Wayne
Chrebet), so he�s red hot. Laveranues Coles is target #1, catching 7 balls for
114 yards (0 scores) last week. Buffalo hasn�t played Pennington this season (Testaverde was
under center week 1), so they don�t have familiarity with the youngster. They
also have a mediocre secondary, ranking 21st this season allowing
234 yards per game. Over the past four weeks they give up 235 per contest (19th
in the NFL), and are 13th, 5th, and 23rd in
points allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends. Neither team has injuries of note to report heading into the
game. Look for both units to battle to the final minute in an
essentially even matchup.�� Pennington
will find that Buffalo is vastly tougher than Detroit.� And Buffalo will find that the Jets have a
solid passing game. Philadelphia�s
Passing Game vs. The San Francisco Defense (Neutral Matchup) Here are Koy Detmer�s career numbers (thanks to Doug Drinen
of football-reference.com) � 112/225 for 1243 yards, 8 touchdowns and 9
interceptions. In his most active season, 1998, he was 97/181 for 1011 yards, 5
touchdowns and 5 interceptions over essentially 5 starts at the end of the
season (a little spot action earlier in the season (4 completions)). He is not
spectacular, but he is capable, and doesn�t throw tons of interceptions � only
once in his career has he thrown 2 interceptions in a game. So there is hope
for Thrash, Pinkston and Freeman this week. San Francisco�s defense is fading in the passing phase �
they rank as the 19th pass D in the league this season, allowing 232
yards per game, but that number jumps to 245 per game over the last four weeks
(23rd in the NFL) � they are 16th, 18th, and 3rd
vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends during that
four week span. TE Chad Lewis (buttocks) and WR Todd Pinkston (tooth/wrist)
are both probable to play Sunday. The 49�ers list S Zack Bronson (foot � out),
LB Jamie Winborn (knee � doubtful), and LB Saleem Rasheed (thigh �
questionable) on the injury report. It�s difficult to jump into the starting role in the middle
of a season and we�re not expecting much out of Detmer this week although he
might surprise a few folks. The
Pittsburgh Passing Game vs. The Cincinnati Defense (Neutral Matchup) Kordell Stewart. Pro Bowl one season, toilet bowl the next �
which version of the mercurial quarterback will show up on Sunday? In relief of
Maddox, he was pretty good, almost rallying a shocked and dispirited group back
in the late going, putting up 13/17 for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns which equals
a 135.4 passer rating � it was by far his best performance of the year by that
standard. Hines Ward is his favorite target � sorry Plaxico Burress owners. Cincinnati�s passing defense is mediocre, ranking 10th
in the league for the season (allowing 212 yards per game) and over the last
four weeks (allowing 210 per game). However, they are ranked 17th
vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, 24th vs. wide receivers, and 22nd
vs tight ends, so they aren�t too hard to score on through the air. Cincinnati�s starting CB Jeff Burris was knocked out of last
week�s game with severe headaches (probable for this game), S Mark Roman has a
tweaked knee (probable) and LB Canute Curtis� shoulder is bothering him
(probable). Other than Maddox�s neck injury, the Steeler�s unit is good to go. Expect the Steelers to focus on the ground game here and for
Stewart and Ward to have just an ok game.��
Burress is an explosive guy that can score at any time, but it�s hard to
ignore the history with Stewart which doesn�t get anyone excited. Seattle�s
Passing Game vs. The Kansas City Defense (Neutral Matchup) Matt Hasselbeck: 27th in the NFL over the past
three games in fantasy points per game with 704 yards passing, 1 touchdown, and
2 interceptions. He might get some help in the form of Darrell Jackson, back
from his scary concussion/seizure of several weeks ago � it depends on how
rusty Jackson�s routes are after the layoff. Kansas City�s pass defense is threatening to try hard lately
(they are dead last this season allowing 311 yards per game on average) � they
rank 22nd in the NFL allowing only 245 yards per game in the last
four weeks, and slowed down Drew Bledsoe and the Bills� juggernaut last week
with a one point victory (226 yards and 1 score for Bledsoe). During that span,
they are the 6th, 15th and 13th ranked defense
in points allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight
ends. Chief�s CB William Bartee is nursing a sore ankle
(questionable). Seattle�s TE Ryan Hannam (concussion) and WR�s Bobby Engram
(thigh) and Jackson (concussion) are listed as probable to play. Two bottom-feeding units face off in this one, and neither
looks a lot worse than the other. /**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/ Arizona�s
Passing Game vs. The Oakland Defense (Tough Matchup) Your starting C, Mike Gruttadauria, is out, and the OT who
just returned from torn triceps tendon, Anthony Clement, is once again out for
the same reason. Your best wide receiver, David Boston, is gone for the season,
and his replacement, Jason McAddley is questionable with an arm injury. Jake
Plummer will throw the ball to Frank Sanders and who this week? Freddie Jones?
Jake Soliday? Good Luck, Dave McGinnis. Oakland�s passing defense isn�t stellar this year � they are
23rd in the NFL allowing 248 yards per game, on average, and are 21st
allowing 239 yards per game over the past four weeks. During that span, they
are 11th, 11th, and 19th in points allowed to
opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends. Besides the injuries mentioned above, T Jon Fina is listed
as doubtful with an ankle injury for the Cards. The Raider�s D has a few dings
(LB Napoleon Harris is questionable with a groin strain, and S Rod Woodson has
a tweaked knee � he�s probable), but they are much healthier than they were 4
weeks ago. It won�t be fun to wear a Cardinals uniform this weekend. Dallas
Passing Game vs. The Jacksonville Defense (Tough Matchup) 11/23� for 131 yards,
0 touchdowns and 0 interceptions, 3 points and a loss. That�s what you get with
a rookie quarterback making his third start. Don�t expect much more this season
from Chad Hutchinson. Jacksonville is dead average against the pass this season �
16th in the league allowing 227 yards per game. Over the past four
weeks they have maintained that pace, allowing 224 yards per game (15th
in the NFL). In that time frame they are 18th, 8th, and
28th vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight
ends. Health wise, Dallas� aerial attack (such as it is) is ready
to roll. Jacksonville lists CB Fernando Bryant
(concussion), CB Ike Charlton (knee), LB T.J. Slaughter (groin), LB Joe Tuipala
(elbow), LB Eric Westmoreland (hamstring) on the injury report this week � but
everyone is probable to play. An average NFL pass defense is still a big
challenge for a green rookie. Jacksonville�s
Passing Game vs. The Dallas Defense (Tough Matchup) Brunell and Jimmy Smith are still in synch, even in this
twilight period of Brunell�s years with the Jaguars. 224 yards, 2 touchdowns
and 1 interception (last week vs. the Texans) is a productive NFL outing by any
yardstick. Jimmy Smith caught 6 balls for 70 and 1 touchdown. He�s caught 3
touchdowns if 4 weeks after a slow first half of the season. Brunell is the 15th
ranked quarterback over the past 3 weeks in points per game. Dallas� pass defense is getting stout in the latter half of
the season, ranking 7th over the past four weeks, allowing only 178
yards per game (13th in the NFL this season, allowing 220 per game).
During that four week span the Cowboys are 4th, 9th, and
1st vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight
ends. Key S Darren Woodson is out for the Cowboys with an
abdominal injury, and LB Marcus Steele is nursing a sore back (probable). WR�s
Patrick Johnson (abdomen � questionable) and Smith (shin � probable) are on
Jacksonville�s list. The Cowboys are going to be a challenge for the Jaguars on
Sunday. Kansas
City�s Passing Game vs. The Seattle Defense (Tough Matchup) Trent Green has slumped the last two games, throwing for 390
yards, 0 touchdowns and 0 interceptions � hardly the stuff of fantasy legend
(and he�s only thrown one touchdown in 4 games). Also, this week the turnstile
Seattle rush defense will beg for mercy from Priest Holmes, so there won�t be a
lot of urgency to throw the ball on Green�s part. Seattle�s pass defense is highly ranked this season (partly
because teams need not throw against them to have success) � they are 5th
in the league over the season, allowing 204 yards per game, and 5th
over the last four weeks allowing 174 yards per contest. During that span they
are 5th, 10th, and 2nd vs. opposing fantasy
quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends. Seattle lists starting LB Isaiah Kacyvenski as doubtful with
an ankle injury, Anthony Simmons is questionable with his eternal high ankle
sprain (he may play 15-20 plays this week), and CB Shawn Springs has a foot
injury (questionable). Kansas City�s Green is probable to play in spite of a
sore ankle. Look for a quiet day from Green�s quarter � just enough to
keep the defense honest for Holmes.�� It
can�t be any worse than it has been for Tony Gonzalez owners and the inviting
rush defense of Seattle doesn�t make for a great situation.� But you still can�t bench the big guy. Minnesota�s
Passing Game vs. The New England Defense (Tough Matchup) So maybe the bench was the medicine Daunte Culpepper needed
to get his head on straight, after all. 13/26 for 217 and 2 scores with 2
interceptions isn�t jaw-dropping, but it�s solid. Moss had a great day, 115
yards and 1 score � his first touchdown in 3 weeks. We�ll see if the cure took when they face the very good New
England secondary. They are 4th in the NFL this season, allowing 204
yards per game. Although they�ve stumbled lately (24th in the NFL)
allowing 253 yards per game over the last four weeks, ranking 10th,
17th, and 14th vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide
receivers, and tight ends during that span. WR D�Wayne Bates (back � probable) and WR Cedric James
(ankle � doubtful) are on the injury report this week. For the Patriots, key S
Tebucky Jones is questionable with a leg injury. I�m of the opinion that you should either play Randy Moss
every week, or trade him.� He�s just too
explosive to have on your bench.�� We�ll
see if Culpepper can keep things rolling.�
He started off white hot last week but showed signs later of looking
like the shaken QB we�ve seen earlier. You never know which Viking�s team will show up from week to
week � the Patriots bring enough to the table to pose a serious challenge
whichever version hits the field Sunday. St. Louis�
Passing Attack vs. The Washington Defense (Tough Matchup) Kurt Warner�s passes looked weak and inaccurate during his
short stint in the game Monday night. He was terrible before the injury �
90/129 for 912 yards, only 1 touchdown and 8 interceptions. Marc Bulger is
113/173 for 1496 yards, 12 touchdowns and only 4 interceptions this season, and
his passes looked crisp and on target, even with an index finger injury on his
throwing hand. In his wisdom, coach Martz is starting Warner this week. Is he mad,
or a genius? We�ll find out on Sunday. Washington plays the pass tough, ranking 9th in
the NFL this season allowing 211 yards per game, and 13th over the
past four weeks, allowing 221 per game. They are #�s 8, 4, and 25 vs. opposing
fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends during that span. Marshall Faulk may not play (ankle/foot � questionable), and
Bulger is probable to be available in spite of the finger injury. Washington
has no injuries of significance to report. St. Louis has awesome receivers, but the ball has to get
past the defenders in order for them to put on a show. With Warner�s poor
velocity, Fred Smoot and Champ Bailey may be in for a feast at the Ram�s
expense this week.�� San
Diego�s Passing Game vs. The Miami Defense (Tough Matchup) Drew Brees is one solid young quarterback. 29/50 for 336, 2
touchdowns and 1 interception last week vs. San Francisco, and many of his
completions were in clutch situations when the team needed them to win the
game. Curtis Conway returned to the top ranks of NFL receivers with his 7 for
152 yard performance. Reche Caldwell caught a score, and he and Tim Dwight
combined for 8 catches between them, freeing up Conway for his big day. Miami is one solid pass defense. Over the past four weeks they
allow only 161 yards per game, 1st in the NFL (223 yards per
contest, 14th in the league on the season). They are 3rd,
2nd, and 4th ranked in fantasy points allowed to opposing
quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends during that four week span, respectively. The Dolphins have some bumps and bruises in the secondary, S
Trent Gamble (groin) and CB Patrick Surtain (calf) are both listed as probable.
Bree�s line is banged up with Bob Hallen (concussion) and Michael Keathley
(ankle) threatening the depth of an already-thin unit. Both are listed as
questionable, as is T Damion McIntosh (ankle). Pass protection could be a
concern with Miami�s tight coverage slowing Brees down. The Miami pass defense is really hard to throw on right now.
It will be a tough challenge for Brees and company.�� I can see Conway but it�s tough to get excited about the others
with this Dolphin Defense. The
Tennessee Passing Game vs. The Baltimore Defense (Tough Matchup) The Tennessee Titans are winning games, but that doesn�t mean
that McNair is having huge games. As a matter of fact, he is the 21st
ranked fantasy quarterback over the last three weeks, throwing for only 448
yards, 5 touchdowns and 2 interceptions in the course of three games (23 rushes
for 83 yards and 0 scores). Kevin Dyson is the 37th wide receiver in
that span, and Derrick Mason is 40th. The Baltimore passing defense has been pretty good, even in
the absence of Chris McAllister. The team is ranked 9th in the NFL,
allowing only 202 yards per game over the last four weeks (18th this
season allowing 232), and is 7th, 16th, and 7th
vs. opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends during that span. Baltimore�s McAllister continues to struggle with his gimpy
ankle (questionable), and Ray Lewis injured his calf last week and is doubtful
to play this week. Tennessee lists McNair as questionable with his injured toe
but that seems to be his every week status.�
Tennessee�s TE Frank Wycheck missed his first game in 105 starts last
week due to complications resulting from a concussion (he�s listed as
questionable this week). Look for good but not huge passing numbers from McNair and
company this week against the game Ravens. /**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/**/ Houston�s
Passing Game vs. The New York Giants� Defense (Bad Matchup) David Carr and Corey Bradford did everything they could to
put another tick mark in the �W� column last week � 22/30 for 228, 1 score and
1 interception for Carr, 5/73 and that touchdown on Bradford�s part � but it
just wasn�t enough to put the team over the top. Carr was �only� sacked four
times, an improvement from his battered perspective. The Giants have an excellent secondary � they are 3rd
in the NFL allowing 189 yards per game this season, and 4th over the
last four weeks, allowing only 164 per game � Will Allen and Will Peterson are
getting the job done, big-time. During that four week span, the Giants are 20th
vs. opposing quarterbacks, 12th vs. wide receivers, and 5th
vs. tight ends. Houston�s Corey Bradford is probable to play with his ankle
injury, as is butter-fingers Jermaine Lewis (chest). The Giants have a banged
up LB corps -- LB Nick Greisen (foot), and LB Quincy
Monk (ankle) are questionable to play, while LB Mike Barrow (concussion) is
probable. Carr and the Texans don�t have enough talent to
overcome the Giant�s backfield. Advantage, Big Blue. Washington�s
Passing Game vs. The St. Louis Defense (Bad Matchup) We�ve been critical of Steve Spurrier�s quarterback carousel
all season. This latest move � demoting Matthews to third string and elevating
Wuerffel to #1 (but making sure he�s looking over his shoulder at Ramsey) � is
hardly surprising. It�s just not good roster management. It�s demoralizing for
the team. Wuerffel hasn�t seen a meaningful quarter of action since the
pre-season, so who knows how his chemistry is with the receivers on the team?
Rod Gardner is the only fantasy player worth considering in the passing game
until the situation is clarified by some playing time for Wuerffel but he doesn�t
get anyone real excited either. St. Louis is on a roll, and their pass defense is playing
very well after starting the season playing like the 1976 Buccaneers � a team
led by, interestingly enough, Steve Spurrier (who was 156/311 for 1628 yards
with� 7 touchdowns and 12 interceptions)
during their 0-14 inaugural season (do you think 2002 feels like a
flash-back?). Spurrier�s coach allowed him to play in all the games. Over the
past four weeks, the Rams are 3rd in the NFL allowing 163 yards per
game, and are ranked 2nd, 3rd, and 6th vs.
opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends in that time
frame. The Redskins list Wuerffel as probable with his shoulder
injury, and TE Walter Rasby is doubtful with an abdominal injury. St. Louis� unit
is good to go. This is a very tough time for Wuerffel to step back into the
starting role for the Redskins. |