Week 1 Rushing Matchups

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.

Arizona Cardinals Rushing Offense vs San Francisco 49ers Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

The Cardinals made a huge splash in the off-season, signing Edgerrin James to improve their rushing attack, which averaged a league-worst 3.2 yards per carry last season. While he hasn't shown us much in the pre-season (3/-2/0 rushing during the 3rd pre-season game), James hasn't played very much, either, as the team concentrated on developing their back-ups. James is a premier NFL veteran who'll be ready to go for the season opener. The best news for the Cardinals this pre-season has been the development of J.J. Arrington, who has run strong and opens the season at #2. He racked up 10/44/0 rushing and 2/1/0 receiving during a part-game appearance vs. Chicago in week 3 of pre-season.

The San Francisco defense was dead last in the NFL last year, allowing an average of 391.2 total yards per game, and were 18th vs. the run, giving up an average of 114.5 rushing yards per game. This year, during week 3 of pre-season (when most starters play fairly deep into the game) they surrendered 41/189/1 to the Dallas stable of running backs. This is not an impressive group of defenders.

This is a great matchup for James and the Cardinals.

Weather: Inside Cardinals Stadium, there will be no weather-related issues.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Offense vs Cincinnati Bengals Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

Larry Johnson. He blew the doors down and annihilated the opposition once he became the Chiefs' full-time starter. From week 9 to the end of the season, he never failed to post at least 107 yards rushing, and exceeded 200 yards rushing twice. He scored 16 rushing scores and 1 receiving TD during that tear, and had at least 2 TDs in every game from week 13 forward to season's end. He ended the season with 336/1750/20 rushing and 33/343/1 receiving. He helped his fantasy owners dominate their opposition during the playoff stretch run. The retirement of Willie Roaf early in training camp and the loss of lead-blocking FB Tony Richardson are concerns coming into 2006, but Johnson averaged 5.2 yards per carry last year, folks. Some of that was due to the outstanding OL play, but a lot of it was Johnson's will and desire to be the best running back in the NFL.

The Bengals sported the NFL's 28th ranked defense last year in total yards allowed, surrendering an average of 338.7 yards per game, and they were 20th vs. the rush, giving up 115.6 rushing yards per game on average. They allowed 16 rushing TDs during the season (24th in the NFL) - this isn't a top defensive unit. They did generate a lot of big plays, with 44 total take-aways, but also gave up their share of big plays. The team added Sam Adams to the DL in the off-season, so hopefully he can help shore up the line. However, the off-field meltdown of Odell Thurman hurt their defense at MLB - he may not be back with the team once his suspension is served.

Johnson should have a great day against the overmatched Bengals.

Weather: The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium calls for a high of 79F and a low of 63F, with a 30% chance for rain. If the sky opens up during the contest, footing and ball handling could become issues, depending on how hard the rain falls.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Philadelphia Eagles Rushing Offense at Houston Texans Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

Brian Westbrook says his sprained foot, which kept him out of most of the pre-season, feels great and that he's 100% for the start of regular season. "It feels a lot different with the commitment to the run," he said on 9/5/06. "It's going to remind people of 2003, when Duce was still here." The coaching staff also intends to get a lot of work to surprise returnee Correll Buckhalter, who has overcome a second serious knee injury to rebound into the Eagle's RB mix. With a 1-2 punch of Westbrook and Buckhalter, the Eagles have a good combo to throw at the Texans. Westbrook posted 156/617/3 rushing and 61/616/4 receiving last year in 12 games - there is plenty of room for Buckhalter to carry the ball too and for both players to be productive (although Westbrook is the superior fantasy option thanks to his huge role in the passing game).

The Texans were atrociously weak against opposing running backs last year, allowing an average of 143.9 rushing yards per game (32nd in the NFL), and 21 rushing TDs (29th in the NFL). There is nowhere to go but up from there, folks. The team expended its' first pick in the draft on DE Mario Williams, who is an instant starter, and 2nd rounder DeMeco Ryans is the starter at MLB going into regular season. The new coaching staff is undertaking a major rebuilding project.

Westbrook and Buckhalter are savvy veterans, and will make the most of any rookie mistakes that Williams and Ryans commit in their first full-speed NFL game. The Eagles have a great matchup to work with here, folks.

Weather: The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 88F and a low of 73F, with a 40% chance of rain. If a downpour looks imminent before the game, the retractable roof can be closed, so weather shouldn't be a huge issue in this one.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

San Diego Chargers Rushing Offense at Oakland Raiders Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

LaDainian Tomlinson. Got him? Start him. He's been the 3rd ranked fantasy running back four years in a row. He is the engine that makes the Chargers offense go.

The Raiders give Tomlinson owners just another reason to start him. They were 25th against the rush last season, allowing 128.1 rushing yards per game to the opposition on average, and 25th in rushing scores allowed, with 18. Tomlinson rushed for 31/140/1 and snagged 2/39/1 in the first game against Oakland last year, and crossed the 100 yards combined barrier the second game, with 25/86/0 rushing and 5/24/0 receiving. New coach Art Shell is trying to bring back the excellence, but this rebuilding defense isn't ready for prime time yet.

This is a great week to have Tomlinson on your fantasy football squad.

Weather: The forecast for McAfee Coliseum calls for a high of 71F with a low of 57F and a 0% chance for precipitation. It should be a nice, cool night to play a game of football.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Seattle Seahawks Rushing Offense at Detroit Lions Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

Shaun Alexander - what is there to say that hasn't been written or said already? The guy has scored high-teens to 27 TDs for years, and has posted 20 and 28 total TDs in the last 2 seasons. He posted 370/1880/27 rushing and 15/78/1 receiving last season. He hasn't missed a game in 6 years, and he's only 29. If you had the first or second pick in your draft, you are one of the lucky few to have him on your fantasy team. Start him!

The Lion's rush D was anemic last year, ranking 24th while allowing an average of 127.5 yards on the ground, and 20th in rushing scores allowed (20). New head coach Rod Marinelli came in determined to improve this squad's play - we'll see if his cover-2 schemes will help stiffen the rush D. The Raiders slapped down 37/123/1 during the week 3 pre-season contest, including 6/30/1 by starter Lamont Jordan, so clearly there is plenty of room for further improvement.

Alexander has a nice matchup to work with this week.

Weather: Inside Ford Field, there will be no weather-related issues.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Tennessee Titans Rushing Offense vs New York Jets Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

Chris Brown has weathered the storm of LenDale White, and was proclaimed the starter for week 1 by coach Jeff Fisher on August 31st. White is the #3, behind veteran Travis Henry, at least for now. Brown put up 224/851/5 rushing and 25/327/2 receiving in 15 games last year, and hopes to progress in his 4th year, getting back closer to his 2004 yards-per-carry average of 4.8 (220/1067/6). We'll see how the chaos at the QB position plays out, but for now the RB depth chart is all set.

The Jets stunk vs. the run last year, ranking 29th in the NFL allowing 136.6 rushing yards per game, and 28th in rushing TDs allowed with 19. They brought in a new head coach in Eric Mangini, but he hasn't had time to assemble a crew of quality defenders (and the team let DE John Abraham go in a trade). This year the Jets' defense is in "rebuilding mode" and that is generally a good thing for opposing offenses.

Brown has a great shot at a solid game in this one. The team needs to lean heavily on the running game with all the chaos at QB entering the season.

Weather: The weather service predicts a high of 81F with a low of 68F and a 20% chance for rain at LP Field. That sounds like great football weather from where we sit.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Carolina Panthers Rushing Offense vs Atlanta Falcons Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

DeShaun Foster finally has a chance to be the team's featured running back, now that Stephen Davis is a Ram. He has played well during the pre-season, and rookie DeAngelo Williams is 2nd on the depth chart by virtue of Foster's solid play. During week 3 of the pre-season, Foster ran for 9/41/0 vs. Miami's solid D, a 4.6 yards per carry average (Williams had 9/25/0, a 2.8 average, in contrast). Considering that the Panthers were 10th in rushing attempts last season (with 487 rushes) and Foster's career average of 4.1 yards per carry (he's been at 4.3 over the past 2 seasons that he played), Foster should do well as long as the injury bug stays away. He'll get more chances to score TDs with Davis gone, too.

The Falcons ranked 22nd in the NFL last season, allowing an average of 325 yards per game (total) and were 26th vs. the rush, coughing up 126.8 yards per game on average - and an embarrassing 4.7 yards per carry. That's not too strong, folks. Tennessee could only manage 19/54/0 vs. them during the week 3 pre-season game (when the starters generally play deeper into the contest than other exhibition games), though, so it appears that free agent import John Abraham and the return of MLB Edgerton Hartwell may have helped in this phase.

Carolina didn't have a good ypc average last year (3.4), but that was largely due to Davis' 3.0 ypc average. The Falcons may not be quite as soft as they were last year, but at home we think the Panthers' unit has the edge in this matchup.

Weather: The forecast for Bank of America Stadium calls for a high of 86F with a low of 66F and a 20% chance for precipitation. It should be a great day to open up the season in Charlotte.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Chicago Bears Rushing Offense at Green Bay Packers Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Thomas Jones held off the challenge of Cedric Benson, largely due to Benson's shoulder woes and an attitude problem on Benson's part, and was named the opening day starter. Jones is respected on the team as a blue-collar, get-it-done guy - he had 314/1335/9 rushing and 26/143/0 receiving over 15 games last year, and carried the offense while the passing game struggled through a succession of under-powered outings. The team's 4.3 yards-per-carry average from last year is very impressive, given that almost every game the passing threat was not very legitimate.

Green Bay's defensive statistics from last year are anomalous, as they were the top-ranked pass D in terms of yards allowed per game (167.5), but 23rd in the number of passing TDs surrendered (22). They were 23rd in rush defense, giving up an average of 125.6 yards per game on the ground, but 8th in defending against rushing scores (10 allowed). Basically, once teams got into the red-zone, they passed to score - but they ran the ball to get to that position. Part of the strangeness is due to a lot of short fields being awarded to the opposition (Favre threw a horrible 29 interceptions, and the rushing offense was literally down to the last man standing by the end of the season, with Ahman Green, Najeh Davenport and then finally Samkon Gado all sidelined by injury). Rookie linebackers A.J. Hawk (5th overall pick) and third-rounder Abdul Hodge will hopefully help solidify the rush defense.

Even though this game is to be held at Lambeau Field, we see this as a good matchup for the Bears' rushing attack.

Weather: The forecast for Lambeau Field calls for a high of 66F and a low of 53F, with a 30% chance for rain. If the rain comes down hard at game time, footing and ball handling could be bigger issues than usual.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Cleveland Browns Rushing Offense vs New Orleans Saints Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Reuben Droughns had a rough off-season, with several brushes with the law. However, he is atop the depth chart in Cleveland and ready to help power the Browns' offense. There is a big depth problem at center on the OL, where the Browns lost LeCharles Bentley to a season-ending knee injury, Bob Hallen retired and then Alonzo Ephraim was handed a 4-game suspension for violating the league's substance-abuse policy. Ross Tucker is the 4th player to man the starting C position, so there is a lack of continuity along the line. Droughns didn't look too strong in the 3rd pre-season game, either, rushing for 8/17/0 and grabbing 1/2/0 in a limited appearance. He'll have to do better than that to repeat his season of a year ago (309/1232/2 rushing and 39/369/0 receiving). Jerome Harrison is the backup now that the team disposed of Lee Suggs (cut) and William Green (IR).

New Orleans suffered through a very difficult, nomadic season last year, ranking 14th in total yards allowed (312.1 per game), but 27th in rushing yards given up (134.1 per game on average). They gave up 16 rushing scores to rank 23rd in that department. They have added Scott Fujita to the LB corps, which might help some, but lost free agent Tommy Polley to IR before the season even began. It remains to be seen if this unit is able to better their miserable 2005 performance - they did hold the Edgerrin James-less Colts to 38/60/1 in the 3rd pre-season game, which is a somewhat hopeful sign.

Droughns has a good matchup to exploit this week, if his OL can open up some holes for him to run through.

Weather: Cleveland Browns Stadium expects a high of 72F with a low of 61F and a 30% chance for rain on Sunday. Depending on the timing and volume of any precipitation, footing and ball handling could be larger-than-usual issues for players in this game.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Denver Broncos Rushing Offense at St. Louis Rams Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Owning a Denver running back is the fantasy equivalent of going in for a weekly root canal - you know it's gonna be painful, but you just have to do it because the alternative is worse. This year is no different, with coach Shanahan playing coy yet again about who is going to tote the rock. One thing is apparent - a guy named Bell will get at least some of the work on Sunday. The only question is, will it be Mike Bell or Tatum Bell who rises to the top of the heap in terms of carries and production. After training camp and pre-season, it's a close call. Going into week 1, we're betting Mike Bell gets the majority of the work - but who ends up with the most yards and touchdowns remains to be seen. None of these guys (Cedric Cobbs is also in the mix) has solidified the top spot as of week 1.

Luckily for whoever ends up running the ball, St. Louis rush defense was pathetic last year. They ranked 28th with 136.1 rushing yards allowed per game last season, and were dead last in rushing TDs allowed (22). Free agents MLB Will Witherspoon and DT LaRoi Glover were brought in to help slow down opposing rushers this year - they limited the Chiefs to 39/110/1 during week 3 of the pre-season, but starter Larry Johnson plunked down 9/37/1 in a short appearance vs. the first team - there is still work that needs to be done in St. Louis.

This looks like a good matchup for the Broncos' squad of runners.

Weather: Inside the Edward Jones Dome, weather won't be an issue for either team.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Houston Texans Rushing Offense vs Philadelphia Eagles Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Domanick Davis is out for the season on IR due to his knee injury, so in his place the Texans will be starting rookie Wali Lundy and adding a heavy dose of Vernand Morency to try and form an adequate replacement for Davis. Lundy played college ball at Virginia and was a 6th round draft pick this year. The good news for Lundy owners is that the Texans' line, though they can't pass block, are decent run blockers, tying for 9th in the NFL while averaging 4.2 yards per carry during 2005. We'll see how he does in live, regular season action - during pre-season week 3, Lundy managed 10/44/0 rushing and 3/17/0 receiving vs. the tough Broncos' defense, while Morency posted 13/36/0 rushing and 3/20/0 receiving. The pair may fill in for Davis quite nicely.

The Eagle's rush defense was sub-par last year, ranking 21st in the NFL while allowing 117.7 rushing yards per game - they also coughed up 15 rushing scores, which was 21st in the NFL. Pittsburgh slapped down 30/108/0 on this unit during week 3 of the pre-season - the Eagles are still a work in progress, with aging linebackers (Dhani Jones and Jeremiah Trotter, to name 2) at #1 on the depth chart. We'll see if free-agent import DL Darren Howard and DT Brodrick Bunkley can help shore up the trenches.

In the Texans' house, this looks like a good matchup for the young tandem of Lundy/Morency.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

New England Patriots Rushing Offense vs Buffalo Bills Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

The big news on the eve of the season opener is that Laurence Maroney suffered a knee injury during the week 3 pre-season game, and did not play in the exhibition finale. The team is being its' usual tight-lipped self about the exact nature and severity of the injury, and some are speculating that Maroney may not play in the opener. However, he was spotted practicing with a brace on the leg during Monday's practice, so the bottom line is that early in the week, we don't know his prospects for playing. Corey Dillon figures to start in any case - he had 5/12/0 rushing in the week 3 pre-season game vs. Washington, and many feel that Dillon has lost a step. We'll know more as the week progresses, and Dillon/Maroney owners will want to keep an eye on the late-week injury updates and news as this situation plays itself out leading up to the 10th. Prior to his injury, Maroney had looked pretty impressive in his chances.

Buffalo's defense was pathetic last year, ranking 29th in the NFL allowing an average of 343.5 total yards per game, and 31st in the rushing phase, turnstiling at a clip of 137.8 yards per contest. Although that was without Takeo Spikes for much of the season. It's no wonder that the Bills spent their first 5 picks in the draft on defense, including two first round selections (DT John McCargo (1st) and DT Kyle Williams (5th) were among the players selected - neither projects to start week 1, though). This is a rebuilding year for the Bills on defense.

If the starter is Dillon with no Maroney, then we think this matchup is a good one for the Patriots. If Maroney has a shot to get in the game, this looks like an even better opportunity for the rushing offense to get off to a strong start.

Weather: Fans at Gillette Stadium can expect a high of 74F with a low of 56F on Sunday, and a 20% chance for rain. That sounds like great weather for watching and playing in a football game.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

New York Giants Rushing Offense vs Indianapolis Colts Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Tiki Barber and backup Brandon Jacobs look ready to roll entering the 2006 season. Jacobs has been getting reps with the first team during training camp as the team plans to give him the ball more in 2006, giving the Giants a powerful 1-2 punch. Said coach Coughlin of Jacobs, "From a confidence standpoint, there’s no doubt that he’s improved. I watched him pass-protect today and he did a nice job with that, so I’m very confident that he is much further along than he was a year ago and can handle more parts of the offense." Jacobs has scored 3 rushing TDs during pre-season, all from the 1 yard line. He's a perfect compliment to Barber (357/1860/9 rushing and 54/530/2 receiving last year). Barber slapped down 11/60/0 rushing and 2/6/0 in the week 3 pre-season tune-up for regular season, showing he's not quite out the door yet.

The Colts ranked 16th vs opposing ball carriers last season, coughing up an average of 110.3 rushing yards per game. The were stubborn in the red zone, though, with only 9 rushing scores surrendered over 16 games (6th in the NFL) - the Colts are a well-rounded, top shelf defense. Cato June is a solid OLB, but the team is somewhat shaky at MLB with Gary Brackett and Rob Morris - we'll see how they hold up in the middle. During the 3rd pre-season game against New Orleans, starter Deuce McAllister slashed them up for 6/62/1 - more work is needed in this area heading into regular season.

Barber and Jacobs are rolling into regular season, while the Colts don't seem to have a full head of steam. In Giants' stadium we think this is a good matchup for New York.

Weather: The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 82F with a low of 60F and a 20% chance of precipitation. It sounds like great football weather is on tap for Sunday.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

New York Jets Rushing Offense at Tennessee Titans Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Curtis Martin is on the PUP list due to his balky knee, leaving newly-arrived Kevan Barlow, Cedric Houston and Derrick Blaylock in a three-headed running back by committee. By the way, the Jets were 28th in the NFL last year with a 3.5 yards per carry average. This is one ugly situation to be caught up in if you are a fantasy owner. Look elsewhere for your starters at least until we get some clarity on the pecking order in New York, if possible.

The Titans were 22nd against opposing rushers last season, averaging 118.4 yards allowed per game. They coughed up 12 rushing scores to rank 16th in the NFL in that department. They are a young, rebuilding unit that has yet to put together all the pieces of their team. During the 3rd pre-season "tune-up" game, the Atlanta Falcons trampled these guys to the tune of 42/262/1 rushing, a 6.2 yards-per-carry average. Ouch.

If only the Jets had a settled running back depth chart, this would be an inviting matchup from a fantasy perspective.

Weather: The weather service predicts a high of 81F with a low of 68F and a 20% chance for rain at LP Field. That sounds like great football weather from where we sit.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Pittsburgh Steelers Rushing Offense vs Miami Dolphins Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Jerome Bettis is retired, and Willie Parker is the featured back for the Steelers heading into regular season. Parker led the team in rushing last year, with 255/1202/4 and 18/218/1 receiving, Bettis and Verron Haynes scored 12 TDs between them, though, limiting his goal-line chances. This year, Haynes is the #2 RB and may get some of Bettis goal-line touches - Parker owners hope that he sees some more scoring chances, too. With starting QB Ben Roethlisberger out due to an emergency appendectomy, the team will be handing off early and often to their backs in week 1.

The Dolphins swam in the middle of the NFL pod last year, ranking 17th against opposing rushers allowing an average of 110.7 yards per contest. They gave up 11 rushing TDs, 14th in the NFL - they were respectable but not outstanding during 2005. Dom Capers joins the team as defensive coordinator and is a respected defensive coach regardless of his train-wreck in Houston. They held to Panthers to 26/76/0 rushing during the week 3 exhibition game - it looks like their defensive front has got it going heading into regular season.

Pittsburgh will pound the ball all night long, so the Dolphins better be ready to play some smash-mouth football. In Pittsburgh, we think the champs have an edge in this matchup.

Weather: The forecast for Hienz Field calls for a high of 75F with a low of 60F, and a 20% chance of rain. It should be a great night to play some football.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Washington Redskins Rushing Offense vs Minnesota Vikings Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Clinton Portis hurt his left shoulder (partially dislocating it) early in pre-season and hasn't played since. On September 5th, coach Gibbs described him as day-to-day with the injury and stated he doesn't know if Portis will play on Monday: "The decision will be pretty much up to them (Portis and injured CB Shawn Springs)". If Portis is ruled out, or rules himself out, then we expect newly arrived T.J. Duckett to see a good bit of the work land on his plate with a healthy helping of Ladell Betts on the side, although there are reports on Tuesday that Betts will get the starting nod if Portis can't play (which would make Duckett the "healthy side helping"). Anyway, those two will see the most work in Portis' absence, if it happens. The Redskins averaged 4.2 yards per carry last year, so whoever gets in the game should find some holes to hit.

The Vikings were 19th against the rush last season, allowing an average of 115.1 rushing yards per game, and 18th in rushing TDs surrendered, with 14. NT Pat Williams anchors this average defensive front. During the week 3 exhibition game, the Ravens managed 25/85/1 against the Vikings defenders.

At FedEx Field, we think the Redskins' stable has the edge in this matchup.

Weather: The forecast for FedExField calls for a high of 78F and a low of 59F with a 60% chance of rain. If the precipitation falls thickly around game time, footing and ball handling will be more of an issue than usual.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Cincinnati Bengals Rushing Offense at Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Here's the bad news for Cincinnati fans: Rudi Johnson spent the entire 2005 season fighting through a knee injury. Here's the good news for Cincinnati fans and Johnson's fantasy teams: Rudi Johnson spent the entire 2005 season fighting through a knee injury and put up 337/1458/12 rushing and 23/90/0 receiving - now that the knee is healed, he is even MORE explosive and powerful than he was during 2005. It looks like the sky is the limit for Johnson this season - teams have to respect Palmer/Johnson/Houshmandzadeh and simply can't crowd the line unless they want to get burned. Johnson is ready for an outstanding season.

The Chiefs defense lived in the cellar last year, allowing an average of 328.1 total yards per game (25th in the NFL) - they were 7th vs. the run, though, giving up less than 100 yards per game over the season (98.1 per game on average). They gave up 11 rushing scores last year (13th in the NFL) - in aggregate, the rush defense was fairly respectable. St. Louis could only manage 25/65/0 during the third pre-season game, so it looks like rush defense could be a strength again this year.

Johnson is a fantasy stud and the Bengals offense is lethal - at Arrowhead, we think this is an even matchup thanks to the "12th Man".

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Jacksonville Jaguars Rushing Offense vs Dallas Cowboys Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Fred Taylor has missed some practices recently with a sore shoulder, but looks like he is on track to start on Sunday as of early this week. He's been up and down during training camp, but posted decent numbers during the week 3 pre-season tune up, with 9/37/0 rushing and 2/18/0 receiving. He's the best option the Jaguars have, so look for him to get the ball a lot in the opener, while being spelled by #2 Maurice Jones-Drew (10/42/0 rushing during week 3 of pre-season). The Jaguars tied for 16th in the NFL last season, averaging 3.9 yards per carry, while Taylor appeared in 11 games for 194/787/3 rushing and 13/83/0 receiving. He'll need to stay healthier this year if he is to exceed those numbers during 2006.

Dallas' rush D ranked 15th in the NFL last year, giving up an average of 108.2 rushing yards per game, while surrendering 13 rushing scores (17th in the league). As you can see, they're a pretty average lot in this phase of the game. Free agent import Akinola Ayodele (from Jacksonville, by the way) will help solidify the middle of the defense this year, and should be very familiar with Taylor's tendencies.

The Jaguars offense is mediocre in this phase, as are the Cowboys. At Jacksonville, this looks like a fairly even matchup.

Weather: The forecast for Alltel Stadium in Jacksonville calls for a high of 89F and a low of 72F with a 30% chance for rain. If the sky opens up during the game, footing and ball handling could become issues for the players in this contest.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Minnesota Vikings Rushing Offense at Washington Redskins Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Chester Taylor has been unimpressive during the pre-season, with a 2.8 yards per carry average through 3 contests. When asked about his start with his new team, he replied "I'm not concerned. We still have two weeks to work out some things." Work out some things? During the week 3 exhibition game that is traditionally a "tune-up" for regular season, Taylor managed 10/27/0 rushing and 1/6/0 receiving. Color us unimpressed. We'll see how well the coaches can motivate Taylor and company come Monday for the national debut of ESPN's Monday Night Football.

The Redskins were ranked 13th in rushing defense last season, averaging 105.4 yards allowed per contest. They were 22nd in rushing scores allowed, with 15 surrendered in 16 games - this is an average defensive front. LB LaVar Arrington is now a Giant. The team added LB Rocky McIntosh via the draft and DE Andre Carter to the line, but he's noted more for his pass rush. During the week 3 exhibition game, New England abused the Redskins for 38/170/4 on the ground, a 4.5 yards per carry average - however, Corey Dillon and Laurence Maroney only managed 9/24/1 between the two of them early in the game (a 5 yard TD run by Maroney). It remains to be seen if the Redskins have improved or regressed in this phase of the game.

At FedExField, this looks like a neutral matchup to us, with neither team holding a clear edge.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

New Orleans Saints Rushing Offense at Cleveland Browns Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Reggie Bush has made some impressive big plays during pre-season, flashing his considerable talents. However, he has also played like a rookie at points, including a 5/22/0 rushing and 5/20/0 receiving outing vs. the Colts during week 3 of the exhibition season. Deuce McAllister posted 6/62/1 rushing in that same game, and looked like he is recovering well from last year's knee injury. This is going to be interesting and fun to watch as the Saints work to optimize the mix between these 2 backs (from a football fans point of view), but may turn into a frustrating RBBC situation for those who have invested in either Bush or McAllister. We'll see how each performs once the full defensive schemes are in place and the starters play on every down during regular season.

Cleveland held Willis McGahee and company to 22/56/1 rushing during their week 3 pre-season game, giving their fans some hope that last year's 30th-place finish against opposing rushers (137.6 yards per game allowed) is a thing of the past. The team went through an extensive off-season remodeling of the defensive personnel, including 6 defensive draft picks yielding probable opening-day starters DQwell Jackson at ILB and Kamerion Wembley at OLB. Free agents NE Ted Washington and OLB Willie McGinest also arrived via free-agency, and it looks like the team is headed in the right direction in the rushing phase of the game.

Cleveland's revamped defense will have the "12th Man" behind them on Sunday, but the talented tandem of Bush and McAllister will put everyone to the test. We think this is a fairly even matchup.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Oakland Raiders Rushing Offense vs San Diego Chargers Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Lamont Jordan had a great 2005 season, with 272/1025/9 rushing and 70/563/2 receiving, and enters 2006 firmly atop the depth chart. In the week 3 exhibition game, Jordan slapped down 6/30/1 rushing and 1/15/0 receiving vs. the Lions, showing us his multi-faceted game once again. He'll be ready to rock on Monday Night Football.

The Chargers were first against the rush during 2005 as far as yards allowed is concerned (yielding just 84.3 rushing yards per contest), but they were softer in the red-zone with 14 rushing scores surrendered (19th in the NFL). During the week 3 pre-season game, they held Seattle to 23/96/1 (the TD went to Shaun Alexander, 6/25/1), so they seem to be about where they were last year in this phase - pretty stout, but not a shut-down type unit.

This is a neutral matchup for Jordan.

Weather: The forecast for McAfee Coliseum calls for a high of 71F with a low of 57F and a 0% chance for precipitation. It should be a nice, cool night to play a game of football.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Atlanta Falcons Rushing Offense at Carolina Panthers Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

The Falcons sported one of the top rushing teams in the NFL last year, and led the league averaging 4.8 yards per carry. Warrick Dunn returns as the starter, after posting 280/1416/3 rushing (a 5.1 yards per carry average) and 29/220/1 last year. Rookie RB Jerious Norwood played well enough during pre-season (including an impressive 9/104/1 game vs. the Titans in the 3rd pre-season contest) that T.J. Duckett was judged expendable and traded to Washington. It looks like the Falcons are reloaded and ready to rock in this phase again during 2006.

This week, though, Atlanta runs into one of the NFL's elite defenses in Carolina. The Panthers ranked 3rd in the NFL in total yards allowed last year, and were 4th vs. the rush averaging 91.6 yards allowed per game. Dunn managed 16/80/0 rushing and 1/6/0 receiving (week 13) and 7/29/0 rushing and 2/10/0 receiving (week 17) vs. Carolina last year. During week 3 of pre-season, the Panthers held Miami to 25/70/0 on the ground. They are very tough to move the football against.

This is a battle of two top units - in Charlotte, we think it's an uphill battle for Atlanta to have success against Carolina's defense.

Weather: The forecast for Bank of America Stadium calls for a high of 86F with a low of 66F and a 20% chance for precipitation. It should be a great day to open up the season in Charlotte.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Buffalo Bills Rushing Offense at New England Patriots Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Willis McGahee is the unquestioned starter in Buffalo, and the team expects him to carry a large load this year. He had trouble getting into some games at the end of last season, but that coaching staff is out and coach Jauron's staff intends to run McGahee a lot. The fact remains that the team averaged 3.75 rushing yards per carry last year (23rd in the NFL) so there needs to be some help from the guys up front if McGahee is going to live up to the lofty expectations of the Bills and his fantasy owners. During the week 3 pre-season game vs. Cleveland, there was still clearly work that needed to be done in this area as McGahee had 11/29/0 rushing (a 2.6 average) and 3/5/0 receiving during a shortened appearance. We'll have a much better feel for McGahee's prospects after watching him for a full, regular season game, but right now the Bills clearly need to do a better job opening holes for him.

The New England defense is on it's 3rd coordinator in 3 years, Dean Pees, and the personnel is in flux as Tedy Bruschi has been out most of pre-season due to a broken bone in his wrist - the team signed Junior Seau to help out at MLB, and they have a dominant defensive front anchored by Richard Seymour. The Patriots were 8th against the rush last season giving up an average of 98.8 rushing yards per game, with 11 rushing scores surrendered in 16 games (12th) - they always seem to be tough no matter who is lining up for the New England D. The Portis-less Redskins managed 18/74/0 vs. the Patriots during their week 3 exhibition game.

McGahee is a talented guy, but in Foxboro he'll face an above-average rush defense with his below-average blockers. Advantage, New England.

Weather: Fans at Gillette Stadium can expect a high of 74F with a low of 56F on Sunday, and a 20% chance for rain. That sounds like great weather for watching and playing in a football game.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Dallas Cowboys Rushing Offense at Jacksonville Jaguars Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

The worst-case scenario for Julius Jones' fantasy owners is playing out this pre-season, as the team is planning on going with a running back by committee between Jones and Marion Barber III. Said Jones late in August "I think we're going to do what we did last year as far as the reps. I think whoever the hot back is or has the hot hand, then we're going to leave him in there. It's my job to produce, or I'm not going to be playing." The initial plan is to have Jones in for 1st and 2nd down, with Barber taking the 3rd-down and short-yardage situations. A RBBC, in which last year Jones produced 257/993/5 rushing and 35/218/0 receiving, while Barber posted 138/538/5 rushing and 18/115/0 receiving. It looks like more of the same is on tap heading into 2006, at least for week 1.

Jacksonville enjoys a just reputation for being a dominant defense, but last year they were merely average vs. opposing rushers as far as yards allowed was concerned, handing over an average of 106.8 rushing yards per game (14th in the NFL). However, in the red-zone they put up a brick wall, allowing a mere 4 rushing TDs over 16 games (1st in the NFL). One concern for the star-packed lineup is that MLB Mike Peterson suffered a sprained MCL during the 3rd pre-season game, but the team is optimistic that he'll be ready for this home season-opener. DT Marcus Stroud also sat out the final pre-season game, but coach Del Rio commented on 9/2/06 that "We believe we're going to get them all back" for the opening game.

The Cowboys were tied for 25th in the league last year with a 3.6 yards-per-carry average as a team - their committee approach didn't yield huge results. The approach continues week 1, though - against the hard-nosed Jaguars in the Jaguars' house, we think this is a tough matchup for Jones and Barber.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Detroit Lions Rushing Offense vs Seattle Seahawks Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Kevin Jones enters a new era this season, playing in Mike Martz's offense. He is said to be in great shape entering regular season, and has been on track during pre-season games according to Martz's plans. "Any back - Marshall was no different - you need to get 11-15 reps in one of these games where you just kind of get into your groove so to speak so you get ready for the season.", Martz stated just before Jones went out and gained 11/43/0 rushing and 3/27/0 receiving vs. Oakland in the week 3 pre-season prep for regular season. Hopefully, Jones has gotten past the nagging injuries that marred his 2005 campaign and can flourish in his new role in Detroit.

Jones has a stern test in front of him this week, though, as Seattle was 5th in the NFL vs. the rush last season, allowing an average of 94.4 yards per game, and they were 2nd in rushing scores allowed, with a miniscule 5 surrendered over 16 games. That's stout! OLB Julian Peterson arrives via free agency hoping to recover his pre-Achilles injury form - if he's back to 100% this group gets even more imposing. They stumbled during week 3 of the pre-season, giving up 45/171/3 to the Chargers, but most of the damage came after the first team left the field.

This is a tough matchup for the Lions, even though they are opening at home in Ford Field.

Weather: Inside Ford Field, there will be no weather-related issues.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Indianapolis Colts Rushing Offense at New York Giants Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Dominic Rhodes has kept Joseph Addai at #2 on the depth chart throughout pre-season, though neither has looked like a world-beater on paper(Dominic Rhodes has 17/46/0 and Joseph Addai has 21/32/0 during pre-season, neither appeared in the exhibition finale). "I think we'll run when we get looks to run," coach Tony Dungy said back on August 26th. "This preseason, people have given us (defensive) looks to take away the run and we've done a pretty good job moving up and down the field on them. My sense is people will play us differently in the regular season. We're going to see more safeties deep, more soft coverage, and we're going to have to run." One thing is certain, if teams ignore the passing game they'll be dead meat, as Manning and company have been lethal in the pre-season. Rhodes will get opportunities to carry the ball and Addai will play in a situational role as he learns to play at the pro level.

The Giants were 12th in the NFL last year allowing 103.5 rushing yards per game, and surrendered a total of 12 rushing scores to their opponents in 2005 (15th). In a word, they were mediocre vs. opposing rushing attacks. This year, the team added LB LaVar Arrington to the defense, and DE Mathias Kiwanuka to the defensive line via the draft. The starting tandem of Osi Umenyiora and Michael Strahan at DE is as good as they come, too - this is a very solid looking group who need to take their game to the next level during 2006.

Rhodes and Addai have been underwhelming to date, and they'll be in the Giants house for this one. We think this will be a tough test for the Colts' stable.

Weather: The forecast for Giants' Stadium calls for a high of 82F with a low of 60F and a 20% chance of precipitation. It sounds like great football weather is on tap for Sunday.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Miami Dolphins Rushing Offense at Pittsburgh Steelers Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Miami's Ronnie Brown has been rid of the competition of Ricky Williams, and is now positioned as the team's unquestioned featured running back entering his second season. He had 207/907/4 rushing and 32/232/1 receiving in a committee role last year - this year, fantasy owners are expecting great things from Brown as he carries the full load for Miami. In his week 3 exhibition appearance against the hard-nosed Panthers, Brown ground out 13/27/0 rushing but added a nice 20 yard catch to round out a respectable outing against an elite defensive front.

The Steelers' defensive front is rock solid, allowing an average of 86 rushing yards per game last year (3rd in the NFL), with only 10 rushing scores allowed over 16 games (7th in the NFL). They make things very tough on opposing backs, as Philadelphia found out during their week 3 exhibition game (20/44/0 as a team that night).

Brown is in a great position to succeed, but this first game is a bear.

Weather: The forecast for Hienz Field calls for a high of 75F with a low of 60F, and a 20% chance of rain. It should be a great night to play some football.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

San Francisco 49ers Rushing Offense at Arizona Cardinals Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

The training camp battle between Frank Gore and Kevan Barlow was won by Gore, who is now the entrenched starter in San Francisco (Barlow was traded to the Jets). In limited appearances during pre-season, Gore has run strongly, including 9/49/0 against the Cowboys during week 3 of the pre-season. He averaged 4.8 yards per carry against opponents last season (127/608/3 rushing) and is a decent receiver, too (15/131/0 last season). Now we're set to see him in his first full game as a featured rusher.

The defense lining up across from Gore this week ranked 8th in total yards allowed per game last year (averaging 295.6 given up per contest) - Arizona was 10th in the league vs. the rush, giving up an average of 102 yards on the ground per game. Vs. Chicago in week 3 of the pre-season, the Cards held the Bears to 17/52/0 on the ground, a 3.1 yards-per-carry average. Coach Green has one of the better rush defenses around in the NFL entering 2006.

Gore proved he could find room to run behind the 49er line last year, and has continued to do so this year so far. However, this will be one of his tougher matchups this season as the Cardinal's D is no joke in this phase.

Weather: Inside Cardinals Stadium, there will be no weather-related issues.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

St. Louis Rams Rushing Offense vs Denver Broncos Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Steven Jackson is playing in a new offense that emphasizes the run (compared to bygone years in the pass-happy Mike Martz offense), which should help him reach the top tiers of fantasy production during 2006. However, the first team offense did not score a TD during pre-season, and in part to address this concern the team has signed power-running veteran Stephen Davis (formerly of Washington and Carolina). Davis practiced for the first time on Saturday, September 3rd, and coach Linehan commented afterwards "The first time we actually handed him the ball - I think we had the second group in there - he hit it up in there. My first statement was, 'Who's that?' Steven came back and kind of tapped me on shoulder and said, 'I'm back.' I know he's real excited to be here, and he'll be a great addition to our team." Davis scored 12 TDs for the Panthers last season before being sidelined by a knee injury, so he may depress Jackson's fantasy value somewhat in relation to goal-line opportunities. We'll see how big an impact Davis can have soon enough. One thing is clear, though - the Rams intend to run the ball consistently this season. They ground out 25/65/0 during the week 3 pre-season tuneup game vs. Kansas City (Jackson was 10/22/0 rushing with 2/20/0 receiving in a limited appearance).

Denver was stout in the rushing phase of the game last year, holding opponents to an average of 85.2 yards per game (2nd in the NFL) and gave up only 10 rushing scores over 16 games (10th in the NFL). Their LB corps is very solid, featuring Ian Gold and Al Wilson, and they held Houston to 26/89/0 rushing in the week 3 pre-season game - these guys are ready to be a dominant unit again in 2006.

St. Louis' Jackson and Davis face a tough matchup to open the season.

Weather: Inside the Edward Jones Dome, weather won't be an issue for either team.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Offense vs Baltimore Ravens Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Cadillac Williams has been held out of most of the pre-season games in order to preserve him for regular season. The team didn't want to risk a guy who put up 290/1178/6 rushing and 20/81/0 receiving over 14 games in his rookie campaign - he is simply too valuable for their squad. Given that Williams is the star of the RB stable, you can be sure that he'll see plenty of carries now that the games count.

Baltimore's defense isn't quite as feared as it once was, but they are still very good against the run, ranking 9th in rushing yards allowed (1591)last year, and 3rd with only 8 TDs given up on the ground during 16 games. They held Minnesota to 24/86/0 during week 3 of the pre-season, with starter Chester Taylor eking out a mere 10/27/0. They are not a pushover in this phase of the game.

This matchup will be a tough one for Williams and company.

Weather: The weather service expects a high of 89F with a low of 75F and a 20% chance for rain at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday. It should be a great day to tailgate and watch a game.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Baltimore Ravens Rushing Offense at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

Both Jamal Lewis (strained hip flexor) and Mike Anderson (foot sprain) have been missing time during training camps, so we haven't seen much from either during pre-season. Anderson managed 7/11/0 rushing during the week 3 pre-season game. Last year, Lewis really struggled to be effective (269/906/3 rushing and 32/191/1 receiving), managing a paltry 3.4 yards per carry. Given his poor showing last season and the injury issues this season, it's hard to get a read on his chances in the season opener. During the week 3 pre-season game, the team averaged 3.4 yards per carry and had just 1 rushing score (from backup QB Kyle Boller) - Baltimore's rushing attack doesn't look too scary right now.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers sported the league's 6th ranked rushing D last year, allowing 94.7 rushing yards per game and only 10 rushing scores over 16 games - Monte Kiffen's defense is excellent in all phases, ranking 1st overall allowing a mere 277.8 total yards per contest last year. They did give up 37/149/2 against the Jags during week 3 of the pre-season, but none of the TDs were surrendered during the first half to the Jags' 1st team offense. Make no mistake, Tampa has an "A" list rush defense.

This is a bad matchup for Lewis and Anderson.

Weather: The weather service expects a high of 89F with a low of 75F and a 20% chance for rain at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday. It should be a great day to tailgate and watch a game.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Green Bay Packers Rushing Offense vs Chicago Bears Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

Can Ahman Green get back to form after missing most of pre-season recovering from his catastrophic quadriceps-tendon injury? If not, can Samkon Gado be the man in Green Bay, after flashing potential in the late stages of last year's disastrous season (143/582/6 rushing and 10/77/1 receiving over 8 games)? These are the questions that will start to be answered on Sunday, at Lambeau field.

One thing is for certain, the Bear's defense won't make it easy. #2 last season in total yards allowed (281.8). #11 vs. opposing rushers, giving up 102.3 yards on the ground on average. They were 5th in the NFL allowing only 9 TDs, and gave up an average of 12.6 points per game. This is one hard-nosed unit, headlined by MLB Brian Urlacher.

Green and Gado will have their work cut out for them on Sunday with this bad-news matchup against Chicago.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

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