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Week 3 Passing Matchupsby Mark Wimer and Joe Bryant, Exclusive to Footballguys.com[ARI] [ATL] [BAL] [BUF] [CAR] [CHI] [CIN] [CLE] [DEN] [DET] [GB] [HOU] [IND] [JAX] [MIA] [MIN] [NE] [NO] [NYG] [NYJ] [PHI] [PIT] [SEA] [SF] [STL] [TB] [TEN] [WAS]
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 Peyton Manning 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 unless you're loaded at QB. In the same way, if the worst QB on your roster has a "great" matchup that week, it doesn't necessarily mean he's your starter. It means we think he'll fare better than normal that week. Bottom line is that the cheatsheets are the final say.
Detroit Lions Passing Offense vs Green Bay Packers Passing Defense (Great Matchup) Jon Kitna hasn't set the world on fire through 2 weeks, tossing 44/67 for 459 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions (with 1/1/1 rushing, he ranks as the 17th fantasy QB so far). However, his team opened against the reigning NFC champs week 1 and then faced the NFC North champions week 2, so he's had a tough row to hoe during the early going. Mike Furrey (14 targets for 11/122/0 receiving to date, 43rd-ranked fantasy WR) and Roy Williams (15 targets for 9/107/0 receiving, 48th fantasy WR) have been mediocre as a result of the slow start. Kevin Jones has also seen 14 passes, with 11/83/0 to his credit so far - these 3 are the main targets for Kitna. Mike Williams continues to ride the pine as he has not measured up to the new coaching staffs' standards. Green Bay allowed 26/41 for 353 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception to the Saints last week, and have averaged 292 net passing yards allowed per game to date (30th in the NFL). Rex Grossman touched them for 18/26 for 262 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception in week 1 - the Packers are making opposing quarterbacks look pretty good in the early going, folks. They have allowed 60 points over the first 2 weeks of the season as a team. Kitna and company have an excellent opportunity to break out this week against the bottom-scraping Packers' secondary. Weather: Inside Ford Field, weather won't be an issue.
DET Injuries: WR Shaun Bodiford (Out)
Miami Dolphins Passing Offense vs Tennessee Titans Passing Defense (Great Matchup) Miami lost their third starting RG for the season when Bennie Anderson tore his left triceps muscle in the game against the Bills. Anderson joins Seth McKinney (neck surgery) and Joe Toledo (knee) on the IR. The team's fourth RG, Joe Berger, is currently nursing a sore foot and may not be in the mix for a few more weeks. The OL is in turmoil right now, which is a contributing factor to the 10 sacks allowed over the first 2 weeks (31st in the NFL - only Oakland has been worse to open 2006). Given that Daunte Culpepper is still learning a new offense, the shambles of the OL is not helping him acclimate. In this context, his season totals of 41/69 for 512 yards, 1 TD and 3 interceptions don't look as negative as they might at first glance. He's been dealing with a lot of pressure (but is not a solid fantasy play right now, ranking 15th among fantasy QBs, well outside of QB1 range). This week, though, Miami will enjoy a visit by one of the league's worst defenses, the pathetic Tennessee Titans. Only the Texans have allowed more total yardage (956 vs 869 allowed by Tennessee) and more total points (67 vs. 63 allowed by Tennessee). They have 0 interceptions and only 2 sacks to date, while laying down for 537 net passing yards so far this season. In a word, they stink. This is a great matchup for the Dolphins. Weather: The forecast for Dolphin Stadium calls for hot, muggy South Florida conditions - 88F for a high, 75F for a low, with a 30% chance for rain. If it rains hard during the game, the field could become slick and ball handling may be harder than usual.
MIA Injuries: WR Marty Booker (Questionable)
Washington Redskins Passing Offense at Houston Texans Passing Defense (Great Matchup) Mark Brunell did not look good against the Cowboys last week, tossing 18/33 for 197 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception. He threw to Santana Moss 6 times, connecting for 4/69/0, and dumped off to Betts 8 times for 7/57/0 - nobody else caught more than 2 balls. The passing offense has been anemic to date, with Brunell managing 35/61 for 360 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception to date (25th ranked fantasy QB to date). However, this week the Redskins visit the worst pass defense in the NFL, who just last week surrendered 26/38 for 400 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions to Peyton Manning and company. Over the first 2 weeks of the season, the Texans have laid down for 701 passing yards and given up 67 total points - they are dead last in passing yards allowed, total yards allowed (956) and points allowed. This is a game in which Brunell and company should look very good. Weather: Inside Reliant Park, conditions should be perfect under the retractable roof, which can be closed if the weather looks nasty before game time.
WAS Injuries: RB Clinton Portis (Probable), WR Santana Moss (Probable)
Arizona Cardinals Passing Offense vs St. Louis Rams Passing Defense (Good Matchup) The Seahawks limited Kurt Warner to 24/38 for 231 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception last week, keeping Anquan Boldin (10 targets for 6/62/0 receiving) and Larry Fitzgerald (4/52/0 on 7 opportunities) under wraps for the most part. Bryant Johnson hauled in a late score with 1/40/1 (3 targets) - there wasn't a huge amount of fantasy points among the Cardinals' receivers last week. Through 2 weeks, Fitzgerald is 19th among fantasy WRs with 13/185/0 and Bolding is 21st with 10/124/1 to his credit. They have been solid but neither has put together a truly dominant effort (although Fitzgerald had 9/133/0 week 1, the current lack of TDs is limiting his game-breaking potential from the fantasy perspective). St. Louis is currently 10th in the NFL averaging 165.5 passing yards allowed per game, and have sacked the opposing QB 4 times this season. Alex Smith tossed 11/22 for 233 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions against the Rams last week, and was not sacked at all - the Rams come into this game playing up-and-down vs. opposing passers. In week 1, they crushed Jake Plummer (13/26 for 138 yards, 0 TDs and 3 interceptions) - we haven't seen consistent play from the Rams in the early going. At home in their new stadium, we like Warner and his receivers vs. the inconsistent Rams defenders. Weather: In beautiful Cardinals Stadium under the retractable roof, weather won't be an issue.
ARI Injuries: none
Atlanta Falcons Passing Offense at New Orleans Saints Passing Defense (Good Matchup) Michael Vick threw for only 92 yards last week (10/15 for 92 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception), but when your team rushes for 306 yards, there is little need to throw the ball. Nobody on the team caught more than 22 yards worth of passes, and FB Fred McCrary accounted for the TD (1/4/1). WR Roddy White suffered a rib injury during the game that bears watching if the first bye-week is going to force you to possibly pull him off your bench for a WR stand-in. New Orleans is off to a hot start (also 2-0) and they have the emotional boost of a home-coming game (literally a home-coming, to the fully renovated and refurbished SuperDome) at their back this week. In week 1, they served notice that they are here to play this season, limiting Charlie Frye to 16/27 for 132 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions. This was followed up by surviving Brett Favre and the Pack at home, although Favre blew the Saints up for 31/55 for 340 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception last week. It's fair to say that the Saints have been up and down in this phase of the game out of the starting gates. Vick is no Favre when it comes to passing the ball, and considering how powerful the run game is right now, he may not need to put the football up very much. When he does throw the ball, he'll have a decent shot at making good things happen against the back-pedaling Saints' defense. Weather: In the completely renovated Louisiana Superdome, weather won't be an issue. Congratulations to the Saints - they have a sold-out, home stadium to play in this season!
ATL Injuries: WR Roddy White (Questionable)
Baltimore Ravens Passing Offense at Cleveland Browns Passing Defense (Good Matchup) Steve McNair is winning games by making throws when he has to, and otherwise simply making good decisions and leaning on the Raven's outstanding defense. In the real NFL, that's a winning formula. However, in fantasy circles, this game plan means that McNair is not a fantasy star - with 33/60 for 324 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception to date (6/14/0 rushing - his footloose days are well behind McNair now), McNair ranks as the 22nd best fantasy QB through 2 weeks. Derrick Mason (11 targets for 5/46/0 last week) and Todd Heap (8 targets for 5/17/1) are the main components of this conservative passing attack on the receiving end of the picture. Cleveland's defense is sorry. They have allowed 53 points in 2 games, and average 245.5 passing yards surrendered per contest so far (27th in the NFL). Carson Palmer torched them for 24/40 for 352 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions last week. These guys are reeling coming into week 3. More bad news hit Tuesday when the Browns were forced to place CB Daylon McCutcheon on IR due to knee problems that did not respond to a August 2nd arthroscopic knee surgery. CB Gary Baxter is battling through a chest injury (torn muscle) that is limiting his coverage and tackling abilities. The unit is banged up and it shows in their early-season results. McNair and the Ravens don't need to throw the ball a lot, but when they do put it up they should enjoy success against their soft divisional rivals. Weather: The forecast for Sunday calls for a high of 67F and a low of 58F at Cleveland Browns' Stadium. There is a 40% chance for rain - if precipitation falls thickly at game-time ball handling and footing could be more tricky than usual.
BAL Injuries: RB Musa Smith (Questionable), RB Jamal Lewis (Questionable)
Buffalo Bills Passing Offense vs New York Jets Passing Defense (Good Matchup) J.P. Losman's stat line from last week: 11/18 for 83 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions, with 2/10/0 rushing. After 2 weeks of regular-season action, he has posted 26/41 for 247 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions. That's an average of 123.5 passing yards per game, with .5 TDs per contest. Buffalo's top WR is Josh Reed, with 7/79/1 (37th in the NFL), while Lee Evans lands at #80 on the fantasy board, with 4/44/0. It's ugly from a fantasy football perspective right now. The Jets limited Tom Brady to 15/29 for 220 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception last week (but gave up 39/147/2 to the Patriots' backs), and have averaged 226.5 passing yards allowed per game to date (22nd in the NFL to date). They have only managed 3 sacks to date - the Jets' pass defense is sub-par this year. Who is worse? The Bills' toothless passing attack or the Jets' bottom-feeding secondary? We can't get too excited about Buffalo but this has to be seen as a good matchup for them. Weather: Conditions could be damp in Buffalo's Ralph Wilson Stadium this week, as the forecast states a 40% chance for precipitation on Sunday. The temperature range is expected to be between 61F and 53F.
BUF Injuries: none
Cincinnati Bengals Passing Offense at Pittsburgh Steelers Passing Defense (Good Matchup) Carson Palmer turned in a strong game in week 2, tossing 24/40 for 352 yards, 2 TDs and 2 interceptions vs. the Browns. He threw 12 passes to Chad Johnson (6/78/1) and 11 flares to Chris Henry (subbing for the injured T.J. Houshmandzadeh) - Henry managed to convert 5/113/0. Kelley Washington saw 6 passes and grabbed 5/77/1 - the Bengals' pass offense was "on" last week. During week 1, the Steelers posted a 3 sack, 2 interception effort vs. Miami's Daunte Culpepper (18/37 for 262 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions), and followed that game up by limiting Byron Leftwich to 26/39 for 260 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception, but only managed a single sack. They have 4 sacks this season (tied for 17th in the NFL) and have averaged 246 net passing yards allowed per game (28th in the NFL). The Steelers definitely have room for improvement in this phase of the game. It's worth noting as well that all world safety Troy Polamalu appeared limited with an arm injury in the Jacksonville game missing several plays he normally would make. Palmer and company looked pretty strong last week, and they expect T.J. Houshmandzadeh back in the lineup this week (keep an eye on his injury/practice status as the late-week injury reports come out). The Bengals will have to deal with the vocal Pittsburgh crowd this week, but even with the extra backing behind the D we think this looks like it could be a good matchup for Palmer and company. Weather: Heinz Field expects a high of 67F with a low of 56F and a 40% chance for rain. If the precipitation falls in bucket-loads around game time, ball handling may be problematic and footing could become more treacherous than usual.
CIN Injuries: WR Chris Henry (Probable), WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Questionable), WR Antonio Chatman (Doubtful), WR Tab Perry (Out)
Green Bay Packers Passing Offense at Detroit Lions Passing Defense (Good Matchup) Brett Favre bounced back from his awful week 1 outing to post 31/55 for 340 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception vs. the Saints. Greg Jennings made up for his weak opening day game taking 12 targets for 6/67/1, while Donald Driver converted 11 passes into 8/153/0. Driver has 15/249/0 through 2 weeks of action, to rank 7th among all fantasy WRs. TEs Bubba Franks (7 targets for 3/18/0) and David Martin (7 targets for 6/44/0) saw a lot of chances after seeing only 1 pass between the two of them in week 1. Robert Ferguson (1/4/1) and Noah Herron (1/6/1) accounted for the rest of Favre's TD passes. In all 7 players caught passes from Favre in week 2. During week 1, the Lions allowed 25/30 for 210 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions to the Seahawks. Last week, though, they were shredded by the surprising Rex Grossman and the Bears (21/28 for 294 yards, 4 TDs and 0 interceptions). The Lions are 24th in the NFL right now averaging 233.5 passing yards allowed per week. They have 5 sacks to date (tied for 13th in the NFL) and have yet to force an interception. After giving up only 9 points week 1, the Lions gave away 34 to Chicago last week. Favre has the Packers' attack heading in the right direction, while the Lions' secondary is regressing. Advantage, Green Bay. Weather: Inside Ford Field, weather won't be an issue.
GB Injuries: WR Will Blackmon (Questionable), TE David Martin (Questionable)
Houston Texans Passing Offense vs Washington Redskins Passing Defense (Good Matchup) The Texans were outscored last week, but David Carr put up a second strong statistical effort passing the ball in week 2, tossing 22/26 for 219 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions in the losing effort. Through 2 weeks, Carr has compiled 40/53 for 427 yards, 4 TDs and 0 interceptions despite being sacked 9 times. Andre Johnson is 13th among fantasy WRs with 10/157/1 through 2 games, while Eric Moulds has amassed 10/127/1 (18th best fantasy WR). Despite the difficulties in the rushing phase of the game, the Texans offense is actually functioning fairly well. Washington helped Drew Bledsoe out last week, handing over 19/38 for 237 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions to the embattled veteran, and only sacked the Cowboys' starter once. Over the first 2 games of the season, Washington has generated only 2 sacks (tied for 27th in the NFL) while allowing 226 net passing yards per contest on average (21st in the NFL). These guys don't scare opposing offenses, friends. At home, the Texans have the edge in this matchup as their unit is playing well while the Redskins come into the game looking vulnerable to opposing passers. Weather: Inside Reliant Park, conditions should be perfect under the retractable roof, which can be closed if the weather looks nasty before game time.
HOU Injuries: none
Jacksonville Jaguars Passing Offense at Indianapolis Colts Passing Defense (Good Matchup) Byron Leftwich did enough to notch a W over the Steelers last week, with 26/39 for 260 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception - he has tossed 49/73 for 497 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions since the season opener (10/11/1 rushing helps him to 13th on the fantasy QB board as of week 2). Reggie Williams finally looks like a high draft pick, posting 8/95/0 against the Steelers last week. Matt Jones was the second best WR last week, posting 6/73/0 (Ernest Wilford had a modest 4/27/0). If Williams can bring the same level of effort and intensity to the field each week, this unit will become a force to be reckoned with - we'll see how he follows through this week vs. the division-rival Colts. Indianapolis has been sub-par at pass defense this year, allowing an average of 219 net passing yards per game. They have 4 sacks and only 1 interception to date (not much in the way of pressure on opposing QBs), and have given up 45 points over the first 2 games. All 4 sacks came against the swiss-cheese Texans' offensive line, by the way. Despite sacking Carr 4 times, they still coughed up 22/26 for 219 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions to Houston (that's a 84.6 completion %). Leftwich and his rapidly-improving corps of young receivers should enjoy some good results against the weak Indy secondary.
Weather: Inside the RCA Dome, weather won't be a factor for either team.
JAX Injuries: RB Derrick Wimbush (Questionable), WR Matt Jones (Questionable), WR Chad Owens (Questionable), TE Marcedes Lewis (Questionable)
Philadelphia Eagles Passing Offense at San Francisco 49ers Passing Defense (Good Matchup) Donovan McNabb has shot to the front of the NFL pack at his position after 2 games, with 51/80 for 664 yards, 5 TDs and 1 interception (and 8/38/0 rushing). He's the number 1 fantasy QB in the NFL, despite Manning's huge game last week. Don't blame McNabb for the team's loss to New York - he tossed 27/45 for 350 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions during the game, hitting L.J. Smith for 7/111/0, while finding Donte' Stallworth for 5/81/1 and connecting with Reggie Brown for the other score (1/21/1). Stallworth is definitely making an impact in his new home, with 11/222/2 to stand as the surprise #1 fantasy WR after 2 contests. McNabb and his receiving stable are tearing up the league right now. The 49ers pass defense was tested by the Rams last week, and they withstood the assault pretty well, holding Bulger and his team mates to 19/34 for 185 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions. After facing the Rams and the Cardinals, the 49ers rank 19th in the league allowing an average of 215 net passing yards per contest, and they have generated 9 sacks in two games (tied for 3rd in the NFL). This unit isn't an elite group, but they are worthy of respect none-the-less. Philly is fielding an explosive aerial assault right now, while the 49ers have a decent-but-not-outstanding group to put in opposition. Advantage, Philadelphia. Weather: San Francisco's Monster park expects a high of 62F with a low of 53F and a 0% chance for precipitation on Sunday. It should be a fine day for a football game.
PHI Injuries: RB Reno Mahe (Probable), RB Brian Westbrook (Questionable), TE L.J. Smith (Questionable), TE Mike Bartrum (Questionable)
Seattle Seahawks Passing Offense vs New York Giants Passing Defense (Good Matchup) With a somewhat sluggish running game and a hole at LG caused by LG Floyd Womack's knee injury, Matt Hasselbeck delivered a mere 12/27 for 221 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions vs. the Cardinals. He hasn't been sharp to open the season, tossing 37/57 for 431 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions to date - we'll see if free agent import WR Deion Branch can help spark the passing game (he'll be taking reps away from Nate Burleson this weekend, while Bobby Engram and Darrell Jackson maintain their grip on the top roles in the passing offense). Speaking of Jackson, he had a great game last week, snagging 5/127/1 out of 10 targets. Engram had 4/51/0 in a support role. There may be a need for a lot of 3-wide sets this week as Itula Mili, the last veteran TE standing on the team, suffered a right knee injury last week and Jerramy Stevens is still rehabbing a torn meniscus cartilage in his knee and is unavailable. The team is auditioning veteran TEs this week while they wait to hear how long Mili is likely to be out... The Giants' secondary was blasted for 27/45 for 350 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions by Donovan McNabb last week, and rolled over for 276 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception vs. Indianapolis in week 1 - the Giants are heading in the wrong direction in this phase of the game. Their sack numbers are way down, too, with only 1 per game so far this year - neither the pass rushers or the secondary personnel are playing very well right now. Hasselbeck has a good shot at a strong game this week vs. the unimpressive Giants' defense. Weather: The forecast for Qwest Field calls for a high of 61F and a low of 49F with a 30% chance for rain. If the rain pours down at game-time, footing and ball handling could be more difficult than usual.
SEA Injuries: RB Shaun Alexander (Probable), TE Itula Mili (Questionable), TE Jerramy Stevens (Out)
San Francisco 49ers Passing Offense vs Philadelphia Eagles Passing Defense (Good Matchup) Alex Smith has made great strides this season, and currently ranks 12th among fantasy QBs with 34/62 for 521 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions to his credit after 2 games. He hit his playmaker, Antonio Bryant, for a long TD last week (72 yards) - Bryant posted 4/131/1 on the day and currently averages 30.6 yards per catch with 8/245/1 this season (he's 5th on the fantasy WR board right now). Rookie TE Vernon Davis is going through the predictable highs and lows (0 catches last week), but is still 15th at his position with 5/37/1 to his credit. These guys are progressing nicely, and Arnaz Battle joined in the show last week with 3/78/0 (long of 56) - it appears that Smith is capable of throwing the deep ball with good success. The Eagles played a great game through 3 quarters, only to let Eli Manning and the Giants off the hook in the 4th quarter and overtime (they ended the day allowing 31/43 for 371 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception to Manning). Despite 8 sacks (the Eagles lead the league with 13 after 2 games), they were unable to close the deal. In even worse news for the team, DE Jevon Kearse has been lost for the season due to spraining several ligaments in his left knee (MCL, LCL, and PCL - his knee is highly unstable with that much damage). We'll see how the juggled line does in terms of delivering a pass rush this week. The Eagles' secondary has been very porous since losing Lito Sheppard, allowing an average of 244.5 net passing yards per game (26th in the NFL to date). The 49ers have given up only 1 sack through 2 games - they haven't been particularly vulnerable to pass pressure in the early going. The 49ers youthful offense has been firing on all cylinders to open 2006 - meanwhile, the Eagles defense dropped a heartbreaker last week and is pretty banged up coming into week 3. We think that Smith and company have a good shot at continuing their hot streak this week.
Weather: San Francisco's Monster park expects a high of 62F with a low of 53F and a 0% chance for precipitation on Sunday. It should be a fine day for a football game.
SF Injuries: WR Taylor Jacobs (Doubtful), WR Delanie Walker (Out)
St. Louis Rams Passing Offense at Arizona Cardinals Passing Defense (Good Matchup) Marc Bulger hasn't generated a ton of offense in the new system through 2 weeks (37/68 for 402 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions), although he also has avoided making big mistakes. After 2 contests, he is the 24th ranked fantasy QB in the land - the Rams offense as a whole has struggled to get to the red zone and has generated exactly 1 TD in 2 games. As a result, Torry Holt (12/110/1, 24th fantasy WR to date) and Isaac Bruce (10/141/0, 36th best fantasy WR so far) have been merely ordinary in fantasy terms. They are starters, but haven't been explosive for their teams in the early going. The Arizona Cardinals rank 25th in the NFL currently, allowing an average of 240.5 passing yards per contest ( the 49ers' Alex Smith threw 23/40 for 288 yards and 1 TD in week 1; last week Matt Hasselbeck tossed 12/27 for 221 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions vs. Arizona). Arizona is in 17th as far as QB sacks go this young season, with 4 so far (3 last week vs. Seattle). They improved from week 1 to week 2 in this area, and hope to continue to do so vs. St. Louis. The Rams have a lot of weapons to throw at the Cardinals, but they'll be in the Cardinals' house this week which means a vocal 12th man backing the defense. We still like the matchup here for St. Louis though. Weather: In beautiful Cardinals Stadium under the retractable roof, weather won't be an issue.
STL Injuries: none
Carolina Panthers Passing Offense at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup) Steve Smith, where are you? Jake Delhomme and fantasy owners everywhere want to know. Reports on Tuesday (which the team refused to comment upon) placed Smith in Birmingham, Alabama, to consult with renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews (the same guy who rebuilt Daunte Culpepper's knee, just one among many professional athletes who have benefited from Dr. Andrews' expertise). Is the consultation a good sign or a bad one? That question is unclear as of mid-week. Smith (and Delhomme owners) will want to keep a sharp eye out on Smith's practice availability later in the week. He worked out lightly Wednesday with some light running and catching drills. Smith aside, Delhomme and company posted a better effort in week 2 vs. Minnesota than they did against Atlanta in the opener: Delhomme tossed 17/33 for 181 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions, but was only sacked twice (he went down 4 times vs. Atlanta and took many other hits as well). WR Drew Carter, who has been starting since Smith hurt his hamstring, broke a finger in last week's game - surgery is not required, according to coach Fox, but he'll be evaluated further as the week goes along. Keary Colbert figures to move into the starting lineup across from Keyshawn Johnson if Smith and Carter are unavailable. Speaking of Keyshawn Johnson, he posted 5/106/0 last week with a long of 40 out of 7 targets during the game. Carter turned 9 chances into 4/54/0. The Buccaneers only allowed 92 yards passing (with 1 TD and 1 interception) to Michael Vick last week, but they were totally dominated on the ground (allowing 306 rushing yards) - Atlanta didn't need to pass last week. Steve McNair and the Ravens put together 17/27 for 181 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions passing during week 1, so on paper the Buccaneer's pass D looks pretty good. However, the 41 points allowed during the first 2 games puts the lie to the statistical yards-against data. Make no mistake, the Tampa defense is floundering right now. Will Smith be able to play or not? If he can go, this looks like a neutral matchup to us. If he is sidelined, things become a lot tougher for Delhomme and company. Weather: The weather service is calling for a high of 90F and a low of 72F with a 40% chance for rain on Sunday. If the rain pours down at game time, the ball could be harder to handle than usual and the field at Raymond James Stadium might become slick.
CAR Injuries: RB Nick Goings (Questionable), WR Drew Carter (Questionable), WR Steve Smith (Questionable)
Denver Broncos Passing Offense at New England Patriots Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup) Jake Plummer's woes continued on Sunday, with 16/30 for 173 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception to his credit (and a concussion to leading receiver Rod Smith to boot - Smith is considered probable to play this week despite the injury, though). He has posted 29/56 for 311 yards, 0 TDs and 4 interceptions passing this season - until Plummer turns his game around, fantasy points are going to be few and far between for the Broncos' receivers. Javon Walker led the team with 5/79/0 last week, and is the top fantasy WR on the Broncos heading into week 3 (36th among fantasy WRs, with 8/120/0 so far on 14 targets). Rod Smith has seen 13 passes in 2 weeks, and converted 5/50/0 so far. During week 1 the Patriots allowed 15/23 for 164 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions to the Bills, and sacked J.P. Losman 3 times. They posted 4 sacks of Chad Pennington last week (currently tied for 8th in the NFL with 7 sacks) en route to allowing Pennington 22/37 for 306 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception. As you can see, despite the strong pass rush, the Patriots' secondary didn't fare particularly well against the Jets. They have been up and down to start 2006. Plummer threw fewer interceptions in week 2 than week 1, but isn't playing very well coming into this game - meanwhile, the Patriots' weaknesses were exposed by Pennington and company last week. This looks like an even matchup to us. Weather: Gillette Stadium expects a high of 73F and a low of 57F with a 30% chance for rain. If the skies open up around game-time, getting a handle on the football will be tougher than usual, and footing may suffer if the turf gets waterlogged.
DEN Injuries: RB Mike Bell (Probable), RB Cedric Cobbs (Out), WR Rod Smith (Probable)
New Orleans Saints Passing Offense vs Atlanta Falcons Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup) Drew Brees continues to utilize his young corps of receivers, tossing 9 passes to Reggie Bush (8/68/0) and Marques Colston (4/58/1), with 6 balls going to Devery Henderson (3/51/1). Old war-horse Joe Horn converted 6 opportunities into 5/88/0, helping Brees to a 26/41 for 353 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception game vs. Green Bay. It's all good in this phase of the game for New Orleans right now (Brees is the 10th ranked fantasy QB after 2 weeks with 43/72 for 529 yards, 3 TDs and 2 interceptions to his credit so far). The Falcons have limited their opponents to an average of 230.5 passing yards per game so far during 2006 (23rd in the NFL), and have notched 5 sacks in the last 2 games - although their pass rush dropped off last week as John Abraham was sidelined with a groin injury (only 1 sack on Chris Simms last week). They have generated 4 interceptions in 2 games, with 3 given away by Simms in week 2 (28/53 for 313 yards, 0 TDs and 3 interceptions). This isn't a shut-down type of defense when it comes to yards allowed, but the Falcons have given up exactly 9 points in 2 games - it's hard to put the ball through the uprights against these guys, let alone get to the end zone. Brees and his crowd of youngsters will have their hands full, home-coming game or not. We think this looks like an even matchup between two hot teams. Weather: In the completely renovated Louisiana Superdome, weather won't be an issue. Congratulations to the Saints - they have a sold-out, home stadium to play in this season!
NO Injuries: RB Mike Karney (Doubtful)
New York Jets Passing Offense at Buffalo Bills Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup) Chad Pennington continued his Jet-fueled comeback last week, tossing 22/37 for 306 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception vs. New England. He is the 4th ranked fantasy QB in the land after 2 contests, with 46/70 for 625 yards, 4 TDs and 1 interception to open the season. Laveranues Coles is 3rd among fantasy WRs with 14/253/1 in the first 2 games, and Jerricho Cotchery is 4th with 12/186/2 to his credit. The lack of a powerful running game hasn't hurt the numbers from Pennington and company yet - they are on fire. The Bills sacked Daunte Culpepper 7 times last week (they have amassed 10 sacks in just 2 games), and denied him any points until very late in the 4th quarter (under the 2 minute warning) - they are tied with Denver at 7th overall in pass yards allowed per game during 2006, averaging 163 passing yards given up per game. DE Ryan Denney accounted for 3 of the sacks, had 4 solo tackles and a forced fumble during the game - he was a force to be reckoned with last week. The Jets' receivers and quarterback are hot; the Bills are coming off a big divisional victory and have played solid pass defense to open the season. At Ralph Wilson Stadium, we think the 12th man will help put the air-brakes on New York - this one looks pretty even to us, on balance. Weather: Conditions could be damp in Buffalo's Ralph Wilson Stadium this week, as the forecast states a 40% chance for precipitation on Sunday. The temperature range is expected to be between 61F and 53F.
NYJ Injuries: QB Chad Pennington (Probable), WR Tim Dwight (Questionable), WR Laveranues Coles (Questionable)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Passing Offense vs Carolina Panthers Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup) 45/82 for 446 yards, 0 TDs and 6 interceptions represents the statistical story for Chris Simms this season - his team has posted 3 points during 120 minutes of playing time during 2006. Simms is behind Charlie Batch (who only played in one game), Damon Huard (1.5 games) and J.P. Losman in total fantasy points this season. In other words, Simms has suffered through a complete train wreck to open 2006. "I'm not thinking about a quarterback change at this time." said head coach Gruden after the second consecutive 3-interception, 0 TD performance by Simms. However, Simms had better shape up his game quickly if he's going to avoid the axe. Joey Galloway has seen 20 balls come his way to open the season (17 last week) to post 9/161/0 (all 9/161/0 coming last week). While Michael Clayton has handled 16 chances (7 week 1, 9 in week 2) for 8/96/0 to date. TE Alex Smith, who started so hot last year, has only seen 4 balls over the first 2 weeks (2/18/0). Aside from Galloway's big game last Sunday, there isn't much in the way of fantasy points here due to Simms' struggles. The Panthers' defense is currently 11th vs. opposing passers (allowing an average of 179 yards through the air per week in the early going) - but that is partially due to their soft rush defense, which is laying down to all comers and almost making the passing game an after-thought. Minnesota posted 200/32 for 259 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception against this group on Sunday (the TD was thrown by kicker Ryan Longwell on a fake field goal). Suffice it to say that Carolina's defense isn't playing nearly as well as their 179 yard passing-yards-against average might appear to indicate. At home, Simms will have an even chance to right the Buccaneer's ship in the passing phase of the game. Weather: The weather service is calling for a high of 90F and a low of 72F with a 40% chance for rain on Sunday. If the rain pours down at game time, the ball could be harder to handle than usual and the field at Raymond James Stadium might become slick.
TB Injuries: TE Dave Moore (Out)
Chicago Bears Passing Offense at Minnesota Vikings Passing Defense (Tough Matchup) Wow, Rex Grossman has silenced the clamor for Brian Griese, hasn't he? His top 3 targets last week - Muhsin Muhammad (7), Bernard Berrian (6) and Desmond Clark (5) accounted for 4/59/0, 5/89/1, and 5/85/1, respectively, during the game. Grossman also hit TE John Gilmore for 2 TDs (a 3 yard pass and a 5 yard pass), on his way to 20/27 for 289 yards, 4 TDs and 0 interceptions. With 48/53 for 551 yards, 5 TDs and 1 interception through 2 games, Grossman ranks as the 5th best fantasy QB in the land - this offense has been very strong out of the starting gates. In the season opener, the Vikings held Mark Brunell to 17/28 for 163 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions, and were flying to the ball with a lot of jarring hits. Last week, Jake Delhomme posted 17/33 for 181 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions - Minnesota currently ranks 9th in the league allowing an average of 163.5 net passing yards per game. They have only managed 2 sacks in the first two games, so there is room for improvement - but their secondary is clearly frustrating opposing passers and receivers. The Bears' offense is on a roll, but they have to visit a hostile Metrodome this week and will face a pretty solid secondary. This looks like a tough test for the Bears' signal caller. Weather: In the Metrodome, weather won't be an issue for either team.
CHI Injuries: none
Indianapolis Colts Passing Offense vs Jacksonville Jaguars Passing Defense (Tough Matchup) Peyton Manning posted a spectacular effort last week, bombing the soft Texans with 26/38 for 400 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions en route to a 43 point victory. The usual suspects handled his passes for the most part, although 9 different players caught balls during the game. The top 3 receivers were Reggie Wayne (6/135/0); Marvin Harrison (7/127/0); and Dallas Clark (3/26/0). Joseph Addai (2/22/1), Bryan Fletcher (2/15/1) and Brandon Stokley (1/10/1) snagged the scores - Stokley aggravated his sore ankle and had to leave the game after his TD, though. The Jaguars' defense is far better than the one that the Texans field. They are currently averaging 181 net passing yards allowed per game, with 4 sacks and 5 interceptions to their credit over the first 2 games. They have allowed 17 points in 2 contests, and just shut out the Super Bowl champs last Monday (Roethlisberger struggled to a 17/32 for 141 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interception finish against the Jags last week). Manning and company are firing on all cylinders, but the Jaguars have claws in their pass D - this is going to be a tough test for Manning and company despite their home-field advantage. Weather: Inside the RCA Dome, weather won't be a factor for either team.
IND Injuries: QB Jim Sorgi (Questionable), RB DeDe Dorsey (Questionable), RB Ran Carthon (Questionable), WR Brandon Stokley (Questionable), TE Ben Utecht (Questionable), TE Ben Hartsock (Questionable)
Minnesota Vikings Passing Offense vs Chicago Bears Passing Defense (Tough Matchup) Brad Johnson and Troy Williamson continue to be in synch - he has targeted Williamson 16 times in the first two games, and Williamson has hauled in 10/179/0 (22nd fantasy WR in the league) - last week, he was thrown to 7 times and grabbed 6/102/0 (even after injuring his shoulder and being put in a harness, he was a major part of the overtime effort that won the game for Minnesota). Said coach Childress of Williamson after the game "He's learned how to grind it out a little bit. Sometimes those elite athletes don't fight through a little 'owie,' a little hamstring, a little bump, a little bruise. He's a football player." Travis Taylor was second on the team in receiving last week, with 3/65/0 out of 6 opportunities. Johnson is the 19th ranked fantasy QB after 2 weeks, with 35/61 for 466 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception to his credit so far. In week 1, Favre and the Packers managed 15/29 for 170 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions against the Bears - last week, Jon Kitna and the Lions posted 23/30 for 230 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions. Over the first 2 weeks of the season, the Bears have given up 7 points - this is one of the elite defensive units in the NFL, folks, averaging 181.5 net passing yards allowed per game. They've thrown down 9 sacks in 2 games (3rd in the NFL) and put Kitna on the turf 6 times last week (2 sacks by Tommie Harris and 1.5 by Adewale Ogunleye led the way). Johnson and company have the home field advantage, but they will need all the help they can get against the formidable Bears. Weather: In the Metrodome, weather won't be an issue for either team.
MIN Injuries: WR Troy Williamson (Questionable), WR Marcus Robinson (Questionable)
New England Patriots Passing Offense vs Denver Broncos Passing Defense (Tough Matchup) Tom Brady hasn't been stellar to open 2006 (26/52 for 383 yards, 3 TDs and 2 interceptions to date), ranking 16th among fantasy signal callers - but he's doing enough to keep defenses honest and allowing his running backs a lot of room to roam. The top Patriot receiver in targets so far this season is TE Ben Watson, with 13 chances (6/89/0, ranking 17th among fantasy TEs to date) - WR Troy Brown is second so far with 11 chances for 6/69/1 (42nd ranked fantasy WR). We'll see if Brady can turn it up a notch for the home crowd this week. Denver battled the Chiefs to a 9-6 decision last week, holding Damon Huard and company to 17/23 for 133 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions. They coughed up 18/34 for 217 yards, with 0 TDs and 0 interceptions to Marc Bulger in week 1 - to date, the Broncos have kept the opposition out of the end zone, with 8 field goals surrendered to date. They have recorded 4 sacks so far (tied for 17th in the NFL) and rank 7th with 163 net passing yards given up per game. They are an above-average pass defense in the early going. Brady has been fairly quiet to open the season, and against the solid Denver defense he may have trouble getting it in gear - advantage, Denver. Weather: Gillette Stadium expects a high of 73F and a low of 57F with a 30% chance for rain. If the skies open up around game-time, getting a handle on the football will be tougher than usual, and footing may suffer if the turf gets waterlogged.
NE Injuries: QB Tom Brady (Probable), WR Doug Gabriel (Probable), WR Chad Jackson (Questionable)
New York Giants Passing Offense at Seattle Seahawks Passing Defense (Tough Matchup) Eli Manning overcame a horrendous performance by his offensive line (8 sacks allowed) and led his team to an improbable OT victory after a furious 4th-quarter comeback - Manning ended the day with 31/43 for 371 yards, 3 TDs and 1 interception after being dominated by Philly for much of the game. It was an impressive performance by not only Manning, but also Amani Toomer (12 targets for 12/137/2) and Plaxico Burress (9 targets for 6/114/1). Jeremy Shockey fought through his sore right ankle for much of regulation, but was sidelined for the OT period and ended the day with 2/17/0 - he was visibly hurting and looks pretty iffy for week 3, at least early in the week. Coach Coughlin commented after the game that "He just keeps wearing it down. The one thing that was good was last week at this time it was the same and then he got better each day during the course of the week." The Seahawks have allowed just 16 points to date (1 passing TD in 2 games) and currently rank 15th in the NFL giving up an average of 202 net passing yards per contest. They have notched 8 sacks during the first 2 games, and are sure to attack the weakness that the Giants' OL displayed last week in allowing 8 sacks to the Eagles. Seattle has managed only 1 interception despite the good pass pressure, but other than that this unit is playing very solid football entering week 3. Manning and company will have to fight hard for this game in the hostile environs of Qwest Field. Weather: The forecast for Qwest Field calls for a high of 61F and a low of 49F with a 30% chance for rain. If the rain pours down at game-time, footing and ball handling could be more difficult than usual.
NYG Injuries: RB Derrick Ward (Out), WR Tim Carter (Probable), WR Sinorice Moss (Questionable), TE Jeremy Shockey (Probable)
Pittsburgh Steelers Passing Offense vs Cincinnati Bengals Passing Defense (Tough Matchup) Ben Roethlisberger looked out-of-synch in his return to the field, especially late in the game when he turned the ball over to the Jaguars and threw a string of incomplete passes with the game on the line. He ended the day with 17/31 for 141 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions - Nate Washington led the team with 3/32/0 receiving. It was a very disappointing game for fantasy teams that started Steelers. Against the Chiefs during week 1, the Bengals allowed 23/35 for 230 yards, 1 TD and generated 1 interception - they followed this game up with 20/33 for 244 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions given up to Charlie Frye and the Browns. The Bengals have 7 sacks in 2 games (tied for 8th in the NFL), and continue their ball-hawking ways in the secondary. These guys currently rank 16th in the league allowing 210 net passing yards per game, but their ability to consistently generate turnovers makes this a feared defensive unit. Roethlisberger had trouble gunning the ball to his receivers last week, and tossed a couple of interceptions in the loss - against the aggressive Bengals defense, he'll have his hands full despite home-field advantage. Weather: Heinz Field expects a high of 67F with a low of 56F and a 40% chance for rain. If the precipitation falls in bucket-loads around game time, ball handling may be problematic and footing could become more treacherous than usual.
PIT Injuries: WR Nate Washington (Probable), WR Hines Ward (Probable), WR Santonio Holmes (Questionable)
Cleveland Browns Passing Offense vs Baltimore Ravens Passing Defense (Bad Matchup) Charlie Frye has not been explosive in the passing game, tossing 16/27 for 132 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions week 1, followed up with 20/33 for 244 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions during week 2. His rushing efforts (10/54/2 through 2 games) have helped salvage his fantasy value, but other than Kellen Winslow II (12/105/1 through 2 games, 4th best fantasy TE to date), the receivers in Cleveland are struggling to produce. Braylon Edwards checks into the WR list at 39th, with 6/133/0 to date to lead the WR stable. In off-field news this week, Winslow criticized the coaching staff for being too conservative and not playing him enough. This didn't sit well with head coach Crennel, who called a meeting with Winslow and stated to the press "I'm the head coach and I'm the guy who calls the shots. If he has displeasure with the shots that are being called, he should address them to me first. I'm calling the shots." Winslow owners can hope that he hasn't landed in the doghouse with his head coach - time will tell. The Ravens have surrendered 6 points in 2 games, and are 3rd in the NFL vs. the pass right now (averaging 119.5 passing yards allowed per game). Andrew Walter managed 10/27 for 162 yards, 0 TDs and 3 interceptions vs. the Ravens last week. The Ravens have 9 sacks (tied for 3rd in the NFL), 1 forced fumble, 6 interceptions (1st in the league, with one returned for a TD) and 22 passes defensed (1st in the NFL to date) over the first 2 games this season. Got the picture. Cleveland looks like it's in for a painful home game on Sunday. Weather: The forecast for Sunday calls for a high of 67F and a low of 58F at Cleveland Browns' Stadium. There is a 40% chance for rain - if precipitation falls thickly at game-time ball handling and footing could be more tricky than usual.
CLE Injuries: RB Reuben Droughns (Questionable), WR Joe Jurevicius (Doubtful), TE Kellen Winslow Jr (Probable), TE Darnell Dinkins (Doubtful)
Tennessee Titans Passing Offense at Miami Dolphins Passing Defense (Bad Matchup) The Kerry Collins era continues to be a disaster (the team traded Billy Volek to San Diego this week, so now we're just marking time until they decide to go with Vince Young throughout their coming losses). 6/19 for 57 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions is what you got if you started Kerry Collins last week - at least Young threw a TD (7/19 for 106 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions) and led the team in rushing (5/24/0). Drew Bennett handled the TD pass (3/45/1), but who knows when the Collins/Young combo will manage to toss another one of those? This rebuilding year is going to take a toll on fantasy owners with Titans on their rosters, at least in the early stages of the season. The Dolphins have allowed only 262 net passing yards over their first 2 contests, with a mere 11/18 for 83 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions accorded to the great J.P. Losman last week. Considering the problems on the Titans side of the trenches, they may do even better this week. In a hostile stadium, the Titans will be challenged to simply execute the offense. Advantage, Miami. Weather: The forecast for Dolphin Stadium calls for hot, muggy South Florida conditions - 88F for a high, 75F for a low, with a 30% chance for rain. If it rains hard during the game, the field could become slick and ball handling may be harder than usual.
TEN Injuries: RB Ahmad Hall (Questionable), RB Travis Henry (Questionable), TE Erron Kinney (Questionable)
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