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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 ************************************* Dallas�
Passing Game vs. The San Francisco Defense (Great Matchup) San Francisco�s secondary is banged up, and Matt Hasselbeck
exposed their weaknesses last week, ripping the 49�ers for 427 yards and 3
touchdowns (2 interceptions) in his best game as a pro. They�ve been shelled a
lot lately, by other luminaries such as Koy Detmer, so clearly something is
very wrong � over the last four weeks, the team has given away 300 yards per
game (31st in the NFL), and rank 28th, 31st,
and 21st in points allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide
receivers and tight ends, respectively. Dallas� Chad Hutchinson has presided over 2 wins in a row �
and he�s thrown for 2 scores in each win (145 yards last week, 301 the week
before) � so Hutchinson shows signs of getting up to speed now that he�s got
some games under his belt. Joey Galloway is the man, and has caught 3 of those
4 touchdowns in the last two weeks. S Zack Bronson (foot) and LB Jamie Winborn (knee) are out
for this game, S Ronnie Heard (ankle) and LB Saleem Rasheed (thigh) are
doubtful; S Tony Parrish is questionable with an elbow injury and S John Keith
has a sore thumb (probable) while CB Ahmed Plummer nurses a sore ankle
(probable) � that�s a lot of limping DB�s! Dallas� unit is good to go. If there is one thing NFL coaches do, its review game tape
and spot weaknesses to exploit � and San Francisco has plenty for Dave Campo to
use against the 49�ers. Hutchinson and Galloway have excellent prospects in
this game.�� It is a great matchup but
you still have to use caution with these guys. Detroit�s
Passing Game vs. The Arizona Defense (Great Matchup) Defense? What Defense? The Cardinals have been lit up for
38, 41, and 49 points over the last three weeks (and were shut out 49-0 last
week). They present opposing offensive coordinators with the following dilemma
� �Shall we exploit their 27th ranked passing defense, allowing 280
yards per game, or their pathetic, 32nd ranked rushing defense which
allows 192 yards per game?� The Cards rank 30th, 29th,
and 29th in fantasy points allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks,
wide receivers and tight ends during the past four weeks. Detroit�s Joey Harrington had a rough game on Thanksgiving,
throwing for 210 yards, 0 scores and 3 interceptions. Rookies go through games
like that fairly often in the NFL. Before the Thanksgiving debacle, he was
doing OK � 5 touchdowns and 4 interceptions in the prior 3 games. LB Rob Fredrickson is out with a neck injury, while CB Duane
Starks is doubtful with knee woes. Detroit�s unit is actually healthy this
week. Harrington and the Lion receivers should bounce back against
this bottom-feeding defense.�� It�s a
great matchup for them but don�t forget it�s still Detroit. Green
Bay�s Passing Game vs. The Minnesota Defense (Great Matchup) Brett Favre looked awful during the first half against the
Vikings week 11, but was productive fantasy-wise (especially if your league
doesn�t subtract for interceptions), throwing for 296 yards, 2 touchdowns and 3
interceptions. Donald Driver had a huge game (4 for 121 and 1 score), while the
rest of the usual suspects split the remainder of the receptions and yardage
(Bubba Franks caught the other touchdown). Over the past three weeks, Favre has
been sub-par with 713 yards, but only 5 touchdowns and 8 interceptions (only
one last week though, after 4 vs. Tampa 2 weeks ago)! Minnesota�s pass defense is weak � they allow 252 yards per
game on average the past four weeks (24th in the NFL), and are
ranked 32nd, 18th, and 31st in fantasy points
allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends during
that span. Last week, Vick managed up to 173 yards passing with 1 touchdown and
1 interception (to go with his 173 yards rushing). The Minnesota secondary has no new injuries of note heading
into the game. Green Bay lists Terry Glenn as probable with his sore hip. Don�t look for Favre to embarrass himself vs. the Vikings
twice in a season. He�ll get payback this week in Green Bay. Miami�s
Passing Game vs. The Chicago Defense (Great Matchup) Miami gets their top quarterback, Jay Fiedler, back just in
time for the stretch run into the playoffs. Fiedler looked rusty in his
appearance against the Bills, but has vowed to be 100% for this week�s Monday
night game vs. the down-and-out Bears. Fiedler is the 17th best
fantasy quarterback in the NFL in points-per-game over his 7 starts this
season, with 117/185 for 1304 yards, 9 touchdowns and 7 interceptions through
the air, and 18 rushes for 77 yards and 3 touchdowns on the ground. He was very
simpatico with Chris Chambers (he caught both his 2002 scores and at least 3
balls every game with Fiedler under center) and TE Randy McMichael (McMichael
caught 3 of his 4 scores and at least 2 balls in every Fiedler-led game) early
in the season. Chicago�s pass defense is horrid in 2002 � they are 27th
in the NFL allowing 256 yards per game this season, and 28th over
the last four weeks, allowing 281 per contest. During the most recent 4 weeks,
the Bears rank 29th, 15th, and 25th vs.
opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends � McMichael
owners, take note! The Chicago secondary lists LB Brian Urlacher as
questionable with his banged up shoulder. Ray Lucas is questionable with a neck
injury. Miami is hoping that Cris Carter can work his way back onto the field
this week, after fully recovering from his kidney problems. Fiedler couldn�t ask for an easier contest in which to get
back into rhythm � at home, against a soft defense, with a long week to prepare
for the game on Monday Night Football. Oakland�s
Passing Game vs. The San Diego Defense (Great Matchup) Over the last three weeks, Rich Gannon has thrown for more
yardage (979 yards) than anyone else in the NFL. He has also tossed 4
touchdowns, 2 interceptions, and ran another score in by himself � that puts
him at #6 on the scoring list over the last three weeks. Tim Brown may have his
1000+ catches in his career now, but it�s Jerry Rice and Jerry Porter who have
become the top scoring threats on this team lately � 17/241/2 for Rice over the
last three, 7/99/2 for Porter, and 17/193/0 for Brown � Brown is catching a lot
of balls, but just not in the end-zone. We like Porter, but his yardage (or
lack of it) worries us a little.� Last time
these two teams met, in week 7, Gannon went 35/45 for 361 yards, 3 scores and 1
interception � Rice and Porter caught one touchdown each (Jon Ritchie caught
the third) � while both Rice and Brown went over 80 yards (86 and 83,
respectively). San Diego�s pass defense has been soft all season (allowing
277 yards per game, 30th in the league on the year), but they�ve
been really terrible lately, ranking 32nd in the league allowing 318
yards per game over the last four weeks. During that span, they rank 31st,
32nd, and 14th in fantasy points allowed to opposing
quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends. Not too good, are they? CB Ryan McNeil is questionable with his injured forearm, and
the Chargers� S Rodney Harrison is nursing a sore knee (probable). Oakland�s TE
Roland Williams (toe) is questionable to make it into the game. Gannon and company should enjoy a great game on Sunday.�� We always struggle with where to rank Brown
and Porter as it�s tough to guess which will see the targets but we like all
these guys against the Chargers. St. Louis�
Passing Game vs. The Kansas City Defense (Great Matchup) Jamie Martin�s first go at the starting job in St. Louis
wasn�t stellar, but neither was it Akili Smith-like. He went 24/37 for 262
yards, 1 score and 1 interception vs. Dallas week 4, and followed that up with
a 23/40 for 232 yards, 1 score and 2 interceptions effort vs. San Francisco
before giving way to Marc Bulger (the team�s leading quarterback in 2002).
After all, he does have Isaac Bruce, Tory Holt and Ricky Proehl to throw to �
no lack of talent there.� Scott
Covington is the #2 guy if Martin gets hurt � neither Warner or Bulger can
throw passes right now (both are questionable on the injury report).�� Although that could change by game time. Happily for Holt and Bruce owners, the Kansas City pass
defense stinks. Despite their shellacking of the player-less Cardinals last
week (only 122 yards of total offense on the Card�s part last week), the Chiefs
rank dead last in pass defense this season, allowing 300 yards per game on
average. Over the last four weeks it�s been a little better, they average 224
yards per game allowed (14th in the NFL) and are 8th, 9th,
and 22nd vs. opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends
during that span. However, the Cardinal�s collapse has a lot to do with those
statistics � the Chiefs made Matt Hasselbeck look like Dan Marino two weeks
ago, allowing him 362 yards and 3 touchdowns in the loss. The Chiefs played last week without starting CB William
Bartee due to an ankle injury, he�s questionable this week, as is LB Quinton
Caver (shoulder). CB Eric Warfield is probable with his hamstring injury, while
LB Larry Atkins is out (knee). It�s hard to get excited about Jamie Martin, but there isn�t
a better secondary for a quarterback to face in 2002 than the Kansas City
Chiefs. Tampa
Bay�s Passing Game vs. The Atlanta Defense (Great Matchup) In the first bout between these two teams, week 5, the Buc�s
prevailed, and Brad Johnson had a decent game, throwing 17 completions for 261
yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception. Over the past three weeks, Johnson has
been very solid, throwing for 663 yards with 6 touchdowns and 1 interception.
Last week, Keenan McCardell was the top target, pulling in 11 balls for 107
yards and 1 score. Keyshawn Johnson continues to see balls but hasn�t pulled in
a touchdown for 2 weeks. Atlanta�s pass defense hasn�t been very good lately � and
they are really banged up, see below � over the past four weeks they have
allowed 283 yards per game (29th in the NFL), and rank 27th,
30th, and 23rd in fantasy points allowed to opposing
fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends during that span. Key CB�s Ray Buchanan (abdomen/knee) and Kevin Mathis
(hamstring) are doubtful to play on Sunday. LB John Holocek is questionable with
an arm injury, and LB Mark Simoneau (ankle) is probable to play. Tampa�s
starting unit is ready to go to battle. Johnson, Johnson and McCardell should have a great day
exploiting the vulnerable Falcons� secondary. Baltimore�s
Passing Game vs. The New Orleans Defense (Good Matchup) Coach Billick announced this week that Jeff Blake is the
team�s starting quarterback for the rest of the season. Chris Redman will have
to wait until 2003 for his next shot at the top spot, barring injury to Blake.
Fantasy owners aren�t thrilled by this move � Blake has only thrown of 351
yards, 3 scores and 2 interceptions over the past 3 games (with 11 rushes for
26 yards), so it�s hard to get too excited about the Raven�s aerial attack.
Travis Taylor and Todd Heap are his top targets, and both notched a touchdown
last week (Taylor went 3/59 and Heap got 3 catches for 30 yards). New Orleans is pretty easy to throw the ball on this year,
allowing 253 yards per game on average, 25th in the NFL � over the
past four weeks, they�ve surrendered 232 yards per game (17th in the
league). During the most recent four weeks, they rank 23rd, 22nd,
and 28th in points allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide
receivers, and tight ends. Brandon Stokley is out with his foot injury. New Orleans
lists CB Dale Carter as questionable with his bum shoulder, and LB Darrin Smith
is probable to play in spite of a tweaked ankle. Blake should be able to find Taylor and Heap fairly often
against the Saints � the Ravens� unit could be quite good this week. Buffalo�s
Passing Game vs. The New England Defense (Good Matchup) The last time these two teams met, in week 9, Drew Bledsoe
moved his team up and down the field through the air but had trouble finding
the end-zone (28/45 for 302 yards, 1 score and 1 interception). Peerless Price
was the lucky recipient of that lone touchdown, on 9 for 98 yards worth of
work. Over the past three weeks, Bledsoe has been hot and cold � 306 yards and
3 scores with no interceptions last week, but 21 of 33 for 181 yards, 0 scores
and 2 interceptions two weeks ago, and 24/36 for 225, 1 score and 1
interception three weeks ago � consistency is not the word that leaps to mind. New England�s pass defense has been in a funk of late � on
the season, they are the 7th best unit in the league, allowing only
210 yards per game on average. However, over the last four weeks they allow 241
yards per game (20th in the NFL), and rank 13th, 17th,
and 13th in fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide
receivers, and tight ends during that span. Key LB Tedy Bruschi is doubtful with a knee injury, and
stalwart S Tebucky Jones is questionable with a leg injury � Buffalo�s unit is
fine � so injuries play a roll in this matchup. Bledsoe is a crafty veteran with veteran receivers who will
exploit any weaknesses they find. With Bruschi and Jones hurting, they will
find ways to make the Patriots pay. Minnesota�s
Passing Game vs. The Green Bay Defense (Good Matchup) Injuries are the big story in Minneapolis this week � D�Wayne
Bate�s aching back and sprained knee may not let him play on Sunday, #3 man
Kelly Campbell hurt his foot last week � he�s probable on the early injury
report, as is reserve WR Cedric James (ankle) � if none of them can play come
Sunday, though, or are seriously limited (or aggravate their conditions) � then
Moss and Culpepper could be in for a long day. Last time they met the Packers,
week 11, Bates pulled in 2 balls for 40 yards and a TD, while Moss caught 6 for
115 and a score. Culpepper threw for 217 yards, 2 scores, 2 interceptions and
ran the ball 10 times for 48 yards and a score in addition. Since then,
Culpepper has racked up games of 272 yards and 2 scores passing (5/59 rushing)
and 266 yards passing, 1 TD and 3 interceptions (7/35 and a score rushing) so
he�s been very productive lately. Green Bay�s pass defense is holding down the yardage allowed
� they are 10th in the NFL allowing 217 yards per game over the past
four weeks � but they are allowing lots of points, and rank 22nd, 23rd,
and 30th vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight
ends during that span. CB Tyrone Williams is questionable to play for Green Bay
with a bum hamstring. In addition to the receivers listed above, Chris Walsh
has a leg problem (probable). At home in Lambeau, the Pack is tough � but the Vikings
should get their shots down the field, nevertheless � as long as their
receivers can go. Downgrade to a tough matchup if Bates and either Campbell or
James can�t play. New
Orleans� Passing Game vs. The Baltimore Defense (Good Matchup) Aaron Brooks was very careful in his performance against the
awesome Tampa defense, throwing only 9 completions on 25 attempts (but he was
throwing the ball away a lot) against a ball-hawking Buc�s secondary. He did put
up 155 yards and 2 scores � 106 of those yards and 1 of the scores went to Joe
Horn � and more importantly, threw for 0 interceptions. Brooks left the game
late in the 4th with a biceps bruise that rendered him unable to
throw properly, however, so look at his status carefully as the game
approaches. Baltimore�s defense isn�t nearly as ferocious as the Tampa
unit. They are allowing 274 yards per game on average over the last four weeks,
26th in the NFL, and are ranked 16th, 24th,
and 12th vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and
tight ends during that time frame. Chris McAllister, their veteran CB, is
limited by a shoulder problem (probable). Besides McAllister, the Ravens list CB James Trapp (chest �
probable). Brooks is listed as questionable on the initial injury report. Horn and Brooks should enjoy a very productive outing
against the Ravens this week. New York
Jets� Passing Game vs. The Bronco�s Defense (Good Matchup) In the absence of a running game last week, Chad Pennington
gave his club a fighting chance against the Raiders� � he threw for 265 yards,
2 touchdowns and 1 interception in the loss � so you can�t lay that loss at his
doorstep. Over the past three weeks he�s been quite good, with 672 yards, 7
scores and 2 interceptions, plus another TD rushing. Laveranues Coles as
accounted for half of that yardage, 350 yards, but only 1 of the scores. Denver got trampled by LaDainian Tomlinson last week, but
their secondary did it�s job, holding Drew Brees to 217 yards and 0 scores in
the Bronco loss. Over the last four weeks, the Broncos have been vulnerable to
the pass, ranking 21st in the league allowing 245 yards per game,
and they are 19th, 13th, and 7th in fantasy
points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends during
that span. The Jets� speedster WR Santana Moss is questionable to play
with a sprained ankle. Denver�s secondary is healthy and ready to go Sunday. Pennington and Coles have been hot, and the Broncos are only
luke-warm � the advantage is with the home-team Jets. San
Francisco�s Passing Game vs. The Dallas Defense (Good Matchup) Jeff Garcia and Terrell Owens have been on the same page the
three weeks � Garcia has thrown for 785 yards, 4 touchdowns and 3 interceptions
during that span, while Owens has 382 yards and all 4 receiving touchdowns (1st
in the NFL during the past three weeks). Last week against the Seahawk�s
horrible rushing defense they let Garrison Hearst carry the load � Garcia had
an off day throwing for only 164 yards and 2 interceptions. Dallas plays sub-par passing defense (they are 18th
in the NFL allowing 232 yards per game over the last four weeks), and rank 20th,
26th, and 10th in points allowed to opposing fantasy
quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends during the past four games. Last
week they gave up 3 touchdowns to Danny Wuerffel (they also intercepted him 3
times). CB Duane Hawthorne is the only injury of note on either unit
(knee � questionable). Dallas is a lot tougher on the run, so expect Garcia and
Owens to hook up a lot while they exploit the suspect Dallas secondary. Washington�s
Passing Game vs. The New York Giants� Defense (Good Matchup) In week 11, the man in Washington was Shane Matthews � now
he�s 3rd string, so throw out the stats from that game as far as the
quarterback goes. Danny Wuerffel threw for his first 3 touchdowns of the season
last week (243 yards and 3 interceptions, too), but evidently that�s not good
enough for Spurrier, who is declaring his intentions to insert Patrick Ramsey
for some playing time in the near future. Whatever. Derrius Thompson was the
top guy last week, snagging 6 balls for 94 yards and a score. Rod Gardner
caught 6 for 76 and a score and remains the only consistently productive
receiver on the roster, with 4 touchdowns out of 5 games (one per game except
two weeks ago). The Giant�s secondary is battered and limping, but not
broken � over the last four weeks, they rank 4th in the NFL allowing
only 182 yards per game, but they rank 18th, 8th and 19th
in fantasy points allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers and
tight ends during that span. Last week McNair shelled them for 334 yards and 3
touchdowns with 0 interceptions, though. The Giant�s problem is injuries � starting CB Will Allen is
out with a shoulder injury. Starting LB Dhani Jones is doubtful with an ankle
injury, while starting LB Mike Barrow (concussion) and LB Quincy Monk join the
other starting CB William Peterson (concussion) on the report as questionable.
If most or none of these guys can play Sunday, then the Giants will be in big,
big trouble this week. Washington�s unit is ready to play. Whoever is under center for the Redskins should see
opportunities against the hobbled Giants this weekend.�� But don�t expect to see Wuerffel for long
if he struggles early. Arizona
Passing Game vs. The Detroit Defense (Neutral Matchup) Look, things are terrible in Arizona. Their line is
shattered, they have no experienced wide receivers healthy, and they got shut
out last Sunday by one of the worst defenses the NFL has seen in the last
decade. Poor Jake Plummer (and poor Josh McCown) � frankly, there isn�t a
single player on this team you should consider starting right now. Detroit�s defense is playing the pass very poorly over the
last four weeks, allowing 288 yards per game and ranking 26th, 28th,
and 24th in fantasy points surrendered to opposing fantasy
quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends during that span. Detroit expects to get S Brian Walker back in the secondary
this week (toe � probable). Arizona�s starting C Mike Gruttadauria is out, as
is T John Fina. Starting WR Frank Sanders (foot � doubtful) is very likely to
join David Boston (IR) on the sidelines this week. RB Marcel Shipp (stomach �
probable) had better be able to play, because former starter Thomas Jones is
out with a broken hand. Even considering how awful Detroit�s defense is, the
Cardinals offense might be just as bad. Cincinnati�s
Passing Game vs. The Carolina Defense (Neutral Matchup) Jon Kitna is playing really well over the last few weeks.
864 yards, 4 touchdowns and 1 interception over a span of 3 games is only
barely short of amazing, considering how much this unit struggled earlier in
the season. It�s good enough to put Kitna at #9 on the quarterback�s list over
the past 3 weeks, and his favorite target Chad Johnson is 6th among
fantasy wide receivers with 333 yards and 2 touchdowns. Start �em if you got
�em. This week the wounded-but-dangerous Panthers and Mike Minter
are waiting in their lair in Charlotte, coming off a rare win vs. Cleveland
last week. The Panther�s pass defense was great earlier in the year (209 yards
per game on average this season, 6th in the NFL), and are still
dangerous allowing only 230 yards per game over the past four weeks (15th
in the NFL). The Panthers are 15th, 14th, and 17th
vs. opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends during the four week
span � slightly better than average. One thing to look out for, though, is the
shattered Carolina defensive front � with Corey Dillon to batter the Panthers
with, Kitna may not need to throw all that much. However, with sack-machine
Julius Peppers done for the season (suspended), the Panthers should struggle to
put pressure on Kitna, too. The Panther�s secondary is fairly healthy, listing CB Reggie
Howard as probable with a dinged shoulder. LB�s Dan Morgan (shoulder) and
Hannibal Navies (ankle) are questionable to play. Kitna and Johnson should have opportunities to hook up when
the Bengals choose to throw the ball � it just might not happen a whole
lot.� Cleveland�s
Passing Game vs. The Jacksonville Defense (Neutral Matchup) The rug got pulled out from under Tim Couch last week as the
Carolina Panthers confused and exploited the Browns quarterback � Couch
finished the day with 130 yards, 0 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. That�s what
you call a rough day. Over the past three weeks, Couch has thrown for 554
yards, 4 touchdowns and 6 interceptions, so he isn�t a hot fantasy commodity
lately, for certain. Last week, the Steelers only managed 201 yards of passing
against the Jags, with 0 touchdowns and 1 interception � so the Jaguars
secondary did it�s job. Over the past four weeks, they�ve been fairly porous,
though, ranking 22nd in the league allowing 247 yards per game, and
they are 25th, 20th and 6th in fantasy points
allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends during that
span � the opposing aerial attacks have been putting up points on the secondary
in preceding weeks. Deep threat WR Dennis Northcutt is doubtful to play this
week with a bum knee, and the Jags may be without key S Donovin Darius
(shoulder � questionable). LB T. J. Slaughter is probable to play in spite of
his turned ankle. Two sub-par units square off in this game, and each faces
personnel challenges due to injury. Sounds like a toss-up to us.� Denver�s
Passing Game vs. The New York Jets Defense (Neutral Matchup) It looks like Brian Griese is ready to return to the field
after rehabbing his injured knee. It�s not that Beuerlein was terrible, or
anything � both of his games went into OT, so he was doing something right �
but both games ended up putting tick marks in the �L� column � so Broncos fans
are relieved to see Griese back in there. In his ten games this season, Griese
is the 14th ranked fantasy quarterback in points per game, so his
return should keep the aerial attack producing at a high level. The Jets fell to Oakland last week (Gannon was 31/42 for 341
yards, 1 score and 0 interceptions in that game), so they are on a down-beat
coming into the contest. Over the past four weeks the secondary has played
pretty well, ranking 16th in the NFL allowing 232 yards per game,
and ranking 11th, 4th, and 15th in fantasy
points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends during
that time frame. Not stellar, but not terrible either. Key CB Aaron Beasley is listed as probable to play this week
in spite of a minor head injury, and the Bronco�s receiving corps is a bunch of
walking wounded � TE Shannon Sharpe is expected back from his hyper-extended
elbow (probable), Ed McCaffrey has pain in his neck (probable), and Rod Smith
tweaked a hamstring (probable). All are expected to play on Sunday. Both teams got to have this game to stay in the play-off
hunt. It will be a hard fought contest that looks even going into the game. Houston�s
Passing Game vs. The Pittsburgh Defense (Neutral Matchup) It�s hard to have a passing game when you are getting your
block knocked off every other play. Just ask David Carr, who has been battered
more thoroughly than any quarterback in the history of the NFL. The Texans
should easily shatter the sacks-allowed record � so far, they�ve given up 64
this year � and that�s only the times Carr didn�t get rid of the ball just as
he was being hit. No wonder he�s thrown for 468 yards, 1 touchdown and 1
interception in the past three games (137 yards and no scores, no interceptions
last week). None of the Texans� receivers look very inviting in fantasy
football terms. Pittsburgh isn�t too hot defending the pass right now,
ranking 23rd in the league allowing 249 yards per game over the last
four weeks. The Steelers are 24th, 25th, and 26th
in fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight
ends during that four week span. Last week Mark Brunell was held to 146 yards
passing, but he gunned in 2 scores on the defenders � you can see the Steelers
are pretty soft lately since the average per game includes this low-yardage
effort. CB Chidi Iwuoma and S Mike Logan are both listed as probable
to play with some minor dings. The Texans� best receiver, TE Billy Miller, is
also probable to go despite his shoulder woes, so injuries aren�t a big deal in
this one. The Steelers are a very giving team, so the matchup isn�t a
bad one � but remember, it�s the Texans we�re talking about here.� I�d look elsewhere. Indianapolis�
Passing Game vs. The Tennessee Defense (Neutral Matchup) The last time these two teams met in week 9, Peyton Manning
mauled the Titans for 327 yards passing, 2 scores and 1 interception. Marvin
Harrison caught 11 balls for 99 yards and a score, with Reggie Wayne pulled in
5 for 93. It was a great day to have Manning on your fantasy football team.
Over the last three weeks, Manning has been flat, gaining 671 yards on 71
completions, with 3 touchdowns and 2 interceptions � so he�s hardly red-hot.
Harrison remains a monster, though, accounting for 346 of those yards and 2 of
the 3 scores. Over the past four weeks, the Titans are a very average pass
defense, allowing 223 yards per game through the air (13th in the
league), and ranking 14th, 19th, and 18th in
fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight
ends, respectively, during that span. Last week Kerry Collins put up 283 yards
and 2 scores against them. S Rich Coady (hamstring) and CB Samari Rolle (shoulder)
appear on the Titan�s injury list (as questionable, as usual). Reggie Wayne is
questionable to play for the Colts due to a chest injury, while Troy Walters is
probable with his shoulder problem. Not much has changed for the Titans since week 9, and the
Colts could use a pick-me-up in the passing phase. The matchup is even going
into the game. Jacksonville�s
Passing Game vs. The Cleveland Defense (Neutral Matchup) Mark Brunell was limited but effective vs. the Steelers last
week, throwing 12 completions on 23 attempts for 146 yards with 2 touchdowns
and 0 interceptions. Not a fantasy bonanza, but not a bust, either. Jimmy Smith
had trouble shaking loose � he was held to 26 yards and 1 touchdown in the
loss. Over the last three games, Brunell has 572 passing yards, 5 touchdowns
and 2 interceptions � this season, his better games top out around 230 yards
and 2 touchdowns (he bettered that once, in week 2, when he threw for 320 yards
and 2 touchdowns). Cleveland�s pass defense has allowed 226 yards per game on
average this season (17th in the NFL), and over the last four weeks,
they�ve maintained that pace, allowing 222 yards per game (12th in
the NFL), while ranking 7th, 7th, and 20th in
fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends
during that span. WR Pat Johnson (abdomen) and TE Kyle Brady (ankles) WR Bobby
Shaw (toe) and Brunell (finger) are all listed as probable to play on Sunday.
Key CB Daylon McCutcheon (thumb) and S Devin Bush (concussion) are questionable
to go for the Browns. Brunell and Smith are crafty veterans who take what defenses
give them. The Cleveland defense gives just enough that Brunell and company
should be right around the same level of productivity they have attained on
Brunell�s better days this season. New
England�s Passing Game vs. The Buffalo Defense (Neutral Matchup) Last time these teams clashed, in week 9, Tom Brady carved
up the Buffalo secondary like a holiday goose at Christmas, throwing for 22
completions on 26 attempts netting 265 yards, 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions.
That�s a good day (2 scores went to Antowain Smith, one to TE Christian
Fauria). Lately, Brady has been less effective � in three games he has only 621
yards, 3 touchdowns and 1 interception � so he doesn�t have a hot hand at the
moment. Buffalo�s secondary has found it�s game between then and
now, though � they are 1st in the NFL over the last four weeks,
allowing only 143 yards per game (including a blizzard-induced low of 55 yards
to Lucas and Fiedler last week in the Miami game). During that span they rank 4th,
2nd, and 11th in fantasy points allowed to opposing
quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends, respectively. Both units are healthy. This should be a much more difficult challenge for Brady
than the week 9 game was � but he�s at home, so the matchup is a toss-up. Seattle�s
Passing Game vs. The Philadelphia Defense (Neutral Matchup) Once is an aberration, but twice could be a trend. Matt
Hasselbeck looked very good again last week tossing the ball 55 times and
connecting for 30 completions, good for 427 yards, 3 scores and 2
interceptions. Darrell Jackson caught 7 of those balls for 114 yards and 2
scores � he did get injured, though (back � probable on the early injury
report). It�s possible we�re seeing him mature into a bona fide NFL
quarterback. Another test comes this week in the form of the Philadelphia
secondary, which shut down the Rams last week (Warner�s broken hand had
something to do with it, too) � they held Warner to 218 yards, 0 scores and 2
interceptions. They have been touched for 7 touchdowns in the three games
before that, though, and rank 25th in the NFL allowing 261 yards per
game over the last four weeks, and are 21st, 27th, and 4th
in fantasy points allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers and
tight ends during that span.��
Basically, their numbers are not supporting their reputation. The Eagles list S Blaine Bishop (groin � questionable), LB
Shawn Barber (quadriceps � probable), CB Sheldon Brown (knee � probable) and CB
Bobby Taylor (knee � probable) on the injury report, so depth could be a
concern if the DB�s aggravate their injuries Sunday. Besides Darrell Jackson
the Seahawks� unit is healthy. Philly has left the door open to opposing quarterbacks quite
a bit lately � can Hasselbeck continue his momentum and walk through it?� Of course, they�re also one of the better
teams in the league at pressuring a QB and that�s always a big worry with a
young QB. Atlanta�s
Passing Game vs. The Tampa Bay Defense (Tough Matchup) These two locked horns back in week 5, and Mike Vick was
unable to finish the game � he only threw 12 passes and rushed once before Doug
Johnson took over � so the 187 yards and 4 interceptions the two amassed
against the Bucs isn�t very representative of the Falcons� team we see in week
14. Since then, Atlanta has gone undefeated and is gaining momentum every week.
Vick has been nothing short of phenomenal of late, topping the points-per-game
list over the last three weeks at his position with 605 yards, 5 touchdowns and
2 interceptions passing, along with 248 yards rushing and 3 touchdowns on the
ground. Brian Finneran and Vick are becoming a reliable tandem � Finneran has 9
catches for 218 yards and a score in the last three weeks (including his first
100+ yard game). Tampa�s defense is tough, even when they lose games, and are
currently ranked 7th in the league over the past four weeks vs. the
pass, allowing 189 yards per game. During that span, they are 3rd,
12th, and 2nd in fantasy points allowed to opposing
fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends. Only one member of the Tampa secondary is listed on the
injury report � S Dexter Jackson (quadriceps � probable). Atlanta�s TE�s Reggie
Kelly (ankle) and Derek Rackley (gluteus) are also probable. Vick is on a roll though.��
Even against this tough defense, we like his chances and still have him
ranked highly.�� He�s that special and
that hot right now. Carolina�s
Passing Game vs. The Cincinnati Defense (Tough Matchup) Even in the win last week, Rodney Peete failed to crack 100
yards of passing � he was 8/17 for 89 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception.
And that was a good day for him � suffice it to say the Panthers are really
struggling to move the ball through the air in the second half of 2002. The
lone touchdown came on Wesley Walls lone reception of the day (24 yards).
Nobody on the team got over 50 yards receiving. From a fantasy point of view, this
offensive team is a complete and utter bust since the half-way point of 2002. Look for Randy Fasani to see action at some point here.�� There is even talk of him possibly starting
this week. Cincinnati plays decently vs. the pass � they have allowed only
194 yards per game over the last four weeks, 8th in the NFL, but
they are 17th, 21st, and 27th vs. opposing
fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends during that span. Neither unit has new injuries of note to report heading into
the matchup. Several of the Bengal�s safeties have been banged up, but they are
all listed as probable to play this week. Carolina is very bad, while Cincinnati is mediocre, in this
phase of the game. Advantage, Bengals. Kansas
City�s Passing Game vs. The St. Louis Defense (Tough Matchup) Trent Green has been solid the past three weeks, including
his partial game in the laugher vs. Arizona last week, and has put up 749 yards
passing, 4 touchdowns and 1 interception during that span, with 5 rushes for 26
yards and 1 score. That�s #10 on the fantasy quarterback�s list during that
span. Tony Gonzalez is #6 among fantasy tight ends during that time frame (10
for 142 yards and 1 score), but isn�t getting as many balls as he did earlier
in the season (4 for 74 and a score last week, though). The St. Louis pass defense is really stout right now � they
are ranked 3rd in the league over the last four weeks, allowing only
178 yards per game, and they are 1st, 1st and 5th
vs. opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends, respectively, during
that span. Neither unit has new injuries of note heading into the game
on Sunday � the Rams list LB Robert Thomas as probable with his foot problem. St. Louis� pass defense has been tough in this later part of
the season. This Sunday will be a challenging afternoon for Green and company. New York
Giants� Passing Game vs. The Washington Defense (Tough Matchup) In week 11, these two teams met on a stormy Sunday and Kerry
Collins was modestly successful, throwing for 211 yards, with 1 touchdown and 2
interceptions. Jeremy Shockey (11 catches for 111 yards) and Amani Toomer (8
for 95 yards and a score) were the receiving corps back in week 11, since then
Ron Dixon has made it back into the lineup � 5 catches for 93 yards and 1 score
last week. Washington�s pass defense is pretty tough � over the past
four weeks they allow only 213 yards per game (9th in the NFL) and
rank 9th, 16th, and 9th in fantasy points
allowed to opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends. Washington lists no injuries of note in it�s secondary,
although the LB�s are dinged up (Jessie Armstead (knee) LaVar Arrington (knee)
and Lamar Marshall (knee) are all probable to play). Dixon is listed as
probable to go with his sore knee. Look for the Giants and the Redskins to fight it out for
prides� sake on Sunday � this is a tough matchup for Collins and company.�� Philadelphia�s
Passing Game vs. The Seattle Defense (Tough Matchup) A.J. Feely got the job done last week, providing just enough
credible threat to throw the ball that his backs gained close to 100 yards.
14/30 for 181 yards, 0 touchdowns and 0 interceptions is not anybody�s idea of
a fantasy starter, though, and don�t expect a whole lot more than that from
Feely this week, either. Low-risk, high percentage throws are what he�ll be
told to throw, and he looks capable of doing just that. Seattle�s pass defense doesn�t stink � in fact, they were
downright good vs. the 49�ers, intercepting Jeff Garcia 2 times and holding him
to 164 yards passing with 0 scores. Over the past four weeks, they are ranked
19th in the NFL allowing 236 yards per game, and rank 10th,
11th, and 1st in fantasy points allowed to opposing
fantasy quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends during that span. CB Willie Williams is doubtful with a foot injury, and CB�s
Kris Richard and Shawn Springs are listed as questionable with their ailments.
Todd Pinkston is probable to play through his knee injury. Feely will do more of the same this week � throw to set up
the run � and he�ll have limited success doing it against the Seahawks. Look
for Philly to grind it out running the ball against the pathetic Seahawks�
rushing defense. Pittsburgh�s
Passing Game vs. The Houston Defense (Tough Matchup) Tommy Maddox is back in at quarterback this week � Kordell
Stewart played well in his absence, but the Steelers have produced 23
touchdowns in Maddox�s time under center this season, while the Stewart-led
offense managed 10 (in roughly the same amount of playing time) � which should
make the passing game more explosive this week than it has been under Stewart
(51/69 for 562 yards, 3 touchdowns and 1 interception, with 24 rushes for 135
yards and 1 score) in the last three games). Maddox-to-Plaxico Burress is the
hallmark of Maddox-quarterbacked games this season. The Houston pass defense has been playing the pass tough of
late, allowing only 184 yards per game over the last four weeks. They have also
limited scoring by the opposition � the Texans are 12th, 6th,
and 32nd in fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, wide
receivers, and tight ends, respectively, during that stretch. Peyton Manning
only managed 190 yards and 1 score against them last week. Houston lists S Ramon Walker (ankle) as questionable this
week, and LB Jamie Sharper (knee) is probable to play. The Steelers have placed
TE Mark Bruener on IR with extensive cartilage damage in his injured knee � but
that impacts the rushing game more than the passing phase, as Bruener is more
of a blocking-type TE. Hines Ward is probable to play in spite of his tweaked
hamstring. The Houston defense is playing the pass well lately, and
Maddox may need some time to get into a rhythm on Sunday. This looks like a
tough matchup to face as Maddox starts his comeback. Tennessee�s
Passing Game vs. The Indianapolis Defense (Tough Matchup) Last time these two hooked up, Steve McNair was horrible.
14/19 for 82 yards, 1 touchdown and 0 interceptions is a very poor outing by
any yardstick, especially in terms of fantasy production. Nobody on the team
got over 50 yards receiving. Over the past three weeks, McNair has been gutsy
and productive, though, throwing for 874 yards, 5 scores and 3 interceptions �
so he�s clearly real hot right now. Derrick Mason has been the top pass
catcher, with 250 yards and 1 score during that span. The Colt�s secondary has been stellar the last four weeks,
ranking 5th in the NFL allowing only 184 yards during that span, and
2nd, 3rd, and 16th in fantasy points allowed
to opposing quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends, respectively. Last
week they crushed David Carr and the Texans (doesn�t almost everybody?),
holding them to 137 yards and 0 scores through the air. Starting S Idrees Bashir is doubtful to play with a bum
hamstring. LB Donnel Thompson hurt his lower back, and is questionable, as is
fellow LB David Thornton (knee). Tennessee goes into battle without #2 wideout
Kevin Dyson (out-hamstring) and with reserve WR Darrell Hill questionable with
an ankle problem. McNair is listed as questionable due to that toe injury, but
it didn�t seem to limit his throwing last week. Two hot and strong units collide in this one, but the Colts
are a little healthier among their starting unit and this tilts the scales
their way. San
Diego�s Passing Game vs. The Oakland Defense (Tough Matchup) Will Curtis Conway be able to play, or won�t he? That is a
key question for Drew Brees, because he is far less effective with Conway on
the sidelines. Brees went 27/41 for 217 yards, 0 scores and 0 interceptions in
Conway�s absence last week, and no wide receiver went over 50 yards that day.
Over the past three weeks, with Conway missing most of that span, Brees has
thrown for 660 yards, 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. Those aren�t the kind
of numbers that win fantasy football championships. In their last game, week 7,
Brees threw for 16 completions on 25 attempts for170 yards, 2 touchdowns and 0
interceptions. Oakland�s passing defense is playing very well lately,
allowing only 219 yards per game (11th in the league), but ranking 6th,
10th and 8th in fantasy points allowed to opposing
quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends during that span. Chad Pennington
racked up 265 yards, 2 scores and 1 interception on them Monday night, so
they�re not at the top of their game at the moment, though. Part of Oakland�s problem is injuries � the team lists CB
Tory James (ankle), CB Clarence Love (knee) and CB Charles Woodson (ankle) as
questionable to go on Sunday, and S Derrick Gibson has a sore calf (probable).
That�s a lot of hobbled DB�s San Diego is waiting to see how Conway feels (no
practices so far) � he�s questionable with that spastic shoulder right now. This looks like a tough week to be a Brees owner � if Conway
can go, then upgrade the match-up to neutral. Chicago�s
Passing Game vs. The Miami Defense (Bad Matchup) Up until last week, the Miami secondary was really playing
well (they were tops in the NFL vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks and wide
receivers over the four weeks prior to the Buffalo game) � but Drew Bledsoe,
Peerless Price and Eric Moulds really embarrassed Sam Madison, Patrick Surtain,
and company last Sunday. Bledsoe mauled them for 306 yards through the air,
hitting Moulds for 130 yards and 1 score, while Price racked up 93 yards and 2 scores
(on only 2 receptions!). I guess you could say they gave up the long ball, as
Moulds averaged 26 yards per reception and Price 46.5.�� Even including this shelling, the Dolphins
still rank as the 2nd best pass defense over the past four weeks,
allowing only 177 yards per game during that span, and they are 5th,
5th, and 3rd vs. opposing fantasy quarterbacks, wide
receivers, and tight ends during that span � still a very dangerous (if
humiliated) group. Chicago�s passing attack is in tatters. Chandler keeps
getting hurt, Miller�s elbow and shoulder tendonitis is chronic � and last
week�s hero TE, Dustin Lyman, is out for the season after blowing out his left
ACL in the course of snagging his 2 scores.�
2 of the team�s 3 touchdown passes last week were thrown by people other
than Miller (Henry Burris hit a 45 yard completion for a touchdown, and punter
Brad Maynard threw a 12 yard score on a fake field-goal.) Miller went 25/36 for
191 yards, 1 score and 1 interception. Marty Booker remains the go-to guy, but
all the passes are short (6/52 last week). Besides Lyman�s ACL injury, TE John Davis is questionable
with a bad back, TE John Gilmore is probable to play in spite of an ankle
injury, and Chandler is listed as probable with his sore ankle. S Brock Marion
is expected to play in spite of his aching back (probable). Miami has way more talent in their secondary than the Bears
have in their passing game. |