Fantasy Football Info For Serious Players
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Week 9 Rushing Matchupsby Mark Wimer and Joe Bryant, Exclusive to Footballguys.com[ATL] [BAL] [BUF] [CHI] [CIN] [CLE] [DAL] [DEN] [DET] [GB] [HOU] [IND] [JAX] [KC] [MIA] [MIN] [NE] [NO] [NYG] [OAK] [PIT] [SD] [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.
Jacksonville Jaguars Rushing Offense vs Tennessee Titans Rushing Defense (Great Matchup) Jacksonville's backs kicked the Eagles around the block last week, posting 46/209/1. Fred Taylor led the team with 15/103/1 rushing (1/2/0 receiving), while Maurice Jones-Drew gained 21/77/0 rushing and 3/20/0 receiving. David Garrard hustled for 8/36/0 during the game - the Jags had no trouble moving the ball on Philly. Taylor has amassed 31/187/1 rushing and 2/21/0 receiving during the past 2 games (3 weeks) to rank 14th in fantasy points per game; Jones-Drew has posted 29/87/1 rushing and 10/78/0 to rank 22nd during the same span. They have got the Jaguars rolling. The Titans average 162.1 rushing yards allowed per game, 31st in the NFL, and have handed over 10 rushing TDs to date (3rd most in the NFL this season). They coughed up 26/148/0 to the Texans last week, and average 136.5 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 weeks. They are weak. This is a great matchup for the Jag's tandem. Weather: Alltel Stadium expects a high of 70F with a low of 50F with a 10% chance of precipitation. That sounds like great football weather to us.
JAX Injuries: QB Byron Leftwich (Probable), RB Fred Taylor (Probable), RB Maurice Jones-Drew (Probable), RB Derrick Wimbush (Out), WR Ernest Wilford (Probable)
Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Offense at St. Louis Rams Rushing Defense (Great Matchup) Larry Johnson dominated the Seahawk's usually-stout defense last week, with 39/155/3 rushing and 2/26/1 receiving. He has really revved up his engine in the past 3 weeks, amassing 82/313/6 rushing and 7/61/1 receiving, to rank 2nd only to LaDainian Tomlinson during that span. He's hot - start him. Speaking of Tomlinson, the Rams just finished getting trampled by Tomlinson and the Chargers to the tune of 35/216/3 rushing last week. They now rank 27th in the NFL allowing an average of 134.9 rushing yards per game, with 9 rushing scores given away to date - this is a vulnerable unit that is reeling from last week's debacle. Johnson must be smiling in anticipation of this matchup - you know his fantasy owners are doing so. Advantage, K.C. Weather: Inside the Edward Jones Dome, weather won't be an issue for either team.
KC Injuries: QB Trent Green (Out)
Minnesota Vikings Rushing Offense at San Francisco 49ers Rushing Defense (Great Matchup) The Vikings got lambasted on Monday Night Football by New England, and Chester Taylor couldn't do a thing about it with only 10/22/0 rushing and 3/27/0 receiving on the night - the Vikings offense smashed into a brick wall this past week. Taylor had been pretty productive prior to the rout, with 36/191/1 rushing and 7/46/0 receiving over the past 2 games (3 weeks), but he was stuffed last week. Happily for Taylor, the San Francisco 49ers defense is a cure for most any ailing offense. They are dead last in the NFL allowing 235 points so far this season, and have coughed up 11 rushing TDs to date (while ranking 22nd against opposing backs, yielding an average of 123.3 rushing yards per contest). Last week, Chicago stuffed 35/145/2 rushing down the 49ers throats - the nightmare never ends for the 49ers defensive coaches. This is a great matchup for Taylor and the Vikings. Weather: The high at Monster Park is projected to be 61F with a low of 53F with a 30% chance of rain. As long as the sky doesn't dump buckets of rain, the conditions should be decent on Sunday - owners of Vikings and 49ers will want to check a shorter-term forecast later in the week.
MIN Injuries: WR Marcus Robinson (Questionable)
New England Patriots Rushing Offense vs Indianapolis Colts Rushing Defense (Great Matchup) During the 2004-05 playoffs, the Patriots defeated the Colts 20-3 in Gilette Stadium (January 16th). In November last year, the Colts visited Gillette again but came out on top, 40-21 on their way to 8-0. Since then, the arrival of Laurence Maroney has changed the complexion of the Patriot's backfield, with Maroney notching 94/395/3 rushing and 9/110/0 receiving to date, while Corey Dillon has posted 85/333/4 rushing and 3/49/0 receiving - they are 29th and 30th in fantasy points per game among all fantasy RBs. The running back stable is a true tandem as we hit the middle of the 2006 schedule. Neither guy has been too impressive during recent weeks - Dillon racked up 17/52/2 rushing and 1/27/0 receiving over the past 2 games, while Maroney has handled 16/63/0 rushing and 3/34/0 receiving. Last week in particular the team relied on Tom Brady's arm much more than their running backs (15/85/0 rushing as a team). The Colts' rush defense is horrid, averaging 167.9 yards allowed per game this season (32nd in the NFL), with 8 rushing scores allowed to date. They have coughed up 170.5 rushing yards per game during the last 3 weeks (2 games), with Denver ringing up 36/227/3 against them last week. They are just as bad as Denver made them look. This is a great matchup for Maroney and Dillon to exploit - they should bounce back this week. Weather: Gillette Stadium expects a high of 49F with a low of 30F and a 10% chance of rain on Sunday - unless the conditions change for the worse, it should be a decent night for a game of football, if on the chilly side.
NE Injuries: QB Tom Brady (Probable), RB Kevin Faulk (Questionable), WR Reche Caldwell (Questionable), WR Jabar Gaffney (Questionable), WR Chad Jackson (Questionable), TE Daniel Graham (Questionable), TE Dave Thomas (Questionable), TE Garrett Mills (Questionable)
New York Giants Rushing Offense vs Houston Texans Rushing Defense (Great Matchup) The Giants' tandem of Barber/Jacobs continues to chew up and spit out opposing defenses, most recently Tampa Bay (35/108/1 rushing on Sunday). Barber posted 26/68/0 rushing and 2/20/0 receiving, while Brandon Jacobs rumbled in another TD (7/41/1). Barber has compiled 79/367/0 rushing and 10/94/0 receiving over the past 3 weeks, while Jacobs has plowed in 28/134/3 during the same span. They are a very effective 1-2 punch (Barber is the 8th ranked fantasy back in that span; Jacobs the 24th). The Texans' defense is 26th in the NFL vs. opposing rushers, allowing an average of 134.6 yards per game, with 8 rushing scores allowed so far. Last week, the Titans found a way to generate 27/111/1 even though starter Travis Henry was stymied by Houston (15/29/0). With 182 points allowed this season, the Texans are among the most generous defensive units in the NFL. This is a great matchup for Barber and Jacobs. Weather: Giants'Stadium expects a high of 52F with a low of 34 and a 10% chance of precipitation on Sunday. As we saw last week, high winds can be an issue in this venue at this time of year, so owners of Texans and Giants will want to keep an eye on a shorter-term forecast before pulling the trigger on your lineups this week.
NYG Injuries: RB Jim Finn (Probable), WR Plaxico Burress (Probable), WR Amani Toomer (Probable), WR David Tyree (Questionable), WR Sinorice Moss (Doubtful)
San Diego Chargers Rushing Offense vs Cleveland Browns Rushing Defense (Great Matchup) LaDainian Tomlinson during the past 3 weeks: 61/320/6 rushing; 16/193/2 receiving; and 1/1 for 1 yards and 1 TD passing. Got Tomlinson on your roster? Start him. Michael Turner chipped in with 5/28/1 last week while Tomlinson ripped off 25/183/2 rushing and 3/57/1 receiving against the Rams. Tomlinson is a fantasy points geyser coming into this matchup. In case you were wavering about starting Tomlinson, the Browns are currrently 28th against the rush allowing an average of 136.1 rushing yards per game, with 4 rushing scores given up to date. They have averaged 119 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 weeks (2 games) including 27/88/0 given up to the Jets last week. They've been up and down in this phase in recent weeks. This is a great matchup for Tomlinson and the Chargers. Weather: The Chargers and the Browns can expect a high of 72F with a low of 59F and a 10% chance for rain on Sunday - it should be a great day for some football at Qualcomm Stadium.
SD Injuries: none
Baltimore Ravens Rushing Offense vs Cincinnati Bengals Rushing Defense (Good Matchup) With coach Billick calling the plays, Jamal Lewis finally found a way to grind out a 100+ yards rushing game, posting 31/109/0 against the Saints. Now, if he can just find his way back into the end-zone (he hasn't scored since week 1 of regular season), his fantasy owners will feel like they've got something going again. In any case, the spike in touches and production are a good sign for Lewis' owners heading into the second half of the season. Cincinnati's rush D is not impressive, ranking 25th in the NFL allowing an average of 129.3 yards per contest, with 7 rushing scores surrendered to date. Over the past 3 weeks, they average 109.6 rushing yards allowed per contest, including last week's total of 38/143/0 handed over the Falcons' top-ranked unit. The Bengals roll out the welcome mat for opposing backs more often than not. Lewis has a good shot at maintaining his momentum this week against the Ravens' division rivals. Weather: M and T Bank Stadium expects a high of 54F and a low of 39F with a 10% chance of precipitation. Unless the wind kicks up, it should be a nice day to play some football.
BAL Injuries: WR Clarence Moore (Questionable), TE Quinn Sypniewski (Questionable)
Dallas Cowboys Rushing Offense at Washington Redskins Rushing Defense (Good Matchup) These teams clashed in week 2, with Dallas winning the game 27-10. Julius Jones (20/94/0 rushing) and Marion Barber III (8/39/1 rushing and 1/26/0 receiving) led the team to a fine afternoon rushing the football, totaling 31/138/1 as a team. Over the past 3 weeks, Jones has 58/229/1 rushing and 1/25/0 receiving to rank 25th among all fantasy RBs in points per game, while Barber III has 25/135/3 rushing and 2/24/0 receiving to rank 20th. The two are tearing up the opposition. Washington's defense isn't stellar against the run, allowing an average of 110.7 rushing yards per game (15th in the NFL) with 3 rushing scores given up to date. They gave up 25/110/0 to the Colts before their week 8 bye, and average 152 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 weeks (2 games). Not much is going right for the Redskins in this phase of the game. This is a good matchup for the Cowboys, who have already proven they can grind out a lot of yards against the downward-trending Redskins. Weather: At FedEx Field, the Redskins and the Cowboys can expect a high of 52F with a low of 33F and a 10% chance of precipitation. As long as the forecast holds up, it should be a great day to play some football.
DAL Injuries: RB Tyson Thompson (Out)
Detroit Lions Rushing Offense vs Atlanta Falcons Rushing Defense (Good Matchup) Kevin Jones has put together a solid season despite Detroit's win-loss record, posting 110/474/4 rushing and 37/266/1 receiving as the featured back (7th best fantasy RB in the land to date in points per game). During the team's close loss to New York, he cranked out 15/86/0 rushing and 6/57/1 receiving - the Lions' offense is not the problem this year, folks. Their defense, though, is another matter... Atlanta's defense hasn't been stellar in recent weeks, allowing 92 points and averaging 129 rushing yards allowed per game during their last 3 contests. The Bengals threw down for 18/73/1 against this unit last week, with starter Rudi Johnson averaging 3.8 yards per carry (12/46/1). The Falcons are allowing a lot of TDs right now, folks. Jones has a good matchup to work with here, and should put on a show for the home crowd on Sunday - he'll also contribute in the other phase of the game and that should spell a very respectable fantasy outing for Jones. Weather: In Ford Field, weather won't be an issue.
DET Injuries: none
Green Bay Packers Rushing Offense at Buffalo Bills Rushing Defense (Good Matchup) The Packers' rushing attack blew up against the hapless Cardinals last week, notching 39/203/3 against the perennial NFC doormat, but they suffered a blow when Vernand Morency (11/101/0 rushing) went down with a lower back injury. He's been ruled out of week 9 as of Wednesday, and may miss a few weeks due to the injury. Ahman Green was great on Sunday in his own right, posting 21/106/2 rushing and 2/27/0 receiving, and he'll probably carry a bigger load with Morency shelved. Noah Herron figures to pick up some of the carries, too. The Buffalo rush D is in the middle of the NFL herd, with an average of 113.9 rushing yards allowed per game, and 7 rushing scores given up to date. Over the past 3 weeks, they have averaged 114.5 rushing yards given up per contest, surrendering 27/94/2 to the Patriots during their week 7 contest. They are a mediocre bunch of defenders, week in and week out. This is a good matchup for the rejuvenated Green. Weather: Ralph Wilson expects a high of 38F with a low of 32F and a 50% chance for precipitation on Sunday. At this time of year, precipitation could mean rain, sleet, snow - or some mix of all of this. If there is a major storm brewing on Sunday, visibility, footing and ball-handling could all be issues for the Bills and the Packers, although both teams are cold-weather teams that face tough conditions on their home-fields during the fall/winter.
GB Injuries: RB Ahman Green (Probable), RB Brandon Miree (Doubtful), RB Vernand Morency (Out), WR Greg Jennings (Questionable)
New Orleans Saints Rushing Offense at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Defense (Good Matchup) These teams faced off on October 8th, with the decision going to New Orleans 24-21. Deuce McAllister trampled the Bucs to the tune of 15/123/1 rushing with 1/8/0 receiving, while Reggie Bush showed off his all-around threat capabilities with 9/23/0 rushing but 11/63/0 receiving and a 65 yard punt return for a TD to cap the game for the Saints. Bush did tweak an ankle last week, but the team has indicated that the injury is only minor. It's worth monitoring his practice participation this week, but as of mid-week the ankle doesn't look like a serious issue. Over the past 3 weeks, McAllister has posted 17/75/0 rushing and 8/44/0 receiving to rank 36th at his position in fantasy points per game, while Bush has 16/41/0 rushing and 8/40/0 receiving to rank 54th. The New Orleans rushing attack has hit a lull, folks. The Ravens held their team to 14/35/0 rushing last week - not too good. Tampa's defense has allowed 1062 total yards over the past 3 weeks, with an average of 123 rushing yards allowed per contest during that span. The Giants ground out 35/108/1 against the Bucs last week - these guys just aren't playing very good on the defensive side of the ball most of the time. This looks like a good matchup for the Saints' tandem - hopefully they can pull out of their funk and get back to scoring fantasy points for their weary fantasy owners. Weather: Raymond James Stadium expects a high of 80F with a low of 62F and a 20% chance for rain on Sunday. That sounds like nice football weather to us.
NO Injuries: RB Reggie Bush (Questionable), WR Michael Lewis (Probable), WR Joe Horn (Questionable), TE Ernie Conwell (Out)
St. Louis Rams Rushing Offense vs Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Defense (Good Matchup) Steven Jackson continues to be a workhorse for the Rams, handling 18/84/1 rushing and 3/55/0 receiving for St. Louis last week. He's piled up 38/140/2 rushing and 10/95/0 receiving during the last 3 weeks (2 games), to rank 5th among all fantasy RBs in points per game during that span. He's been a solid play most weeks for his fantasy owners. When he gets in the end-zone, he produces at elite levels - which is something he's been doing lately. The Chiefs are in the middle of the NFL vs. opposing rushers, giving up an average of 112.7 rushing yards per game to date, with 5 rushing scores handed over to the opposition. Over the past 3 weeks they have handed over yardage at a 121 yards-per-game clip, and they've given up 100 total points during that span - the D has been giving up points in chunks lately. Seattle's understudy Maurice Morris and company could only come up with 18/47/0 on the ground last week, though. Most weeks, the Chiefs are more generous to opposing running backs. This is a good matchup for Jackson and the Rams. He should find some success catching the ball against the Chiefs, too - Jackson is one of the top dual-threat backs in the NFL as of mid-season. Weather: Inside the Edward Jones Dome, weather won't be an issue for either team.
STL Injuries: TE Aaron Walker (Probable)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Offense vs New Orleans Saints Rushing Defense (Good Matchup) This game is a rematch of these divisional-rivals' October 8th contest, in which the Saints came out on top 24-21. Carnell Williams had a solid outing vs. New Orleans, with 20/111/0 rushing and 3/14/0 receiving during the game. In the games following, Williams has posted 19/94/0 rushing and 3/10/0 receiving (vs. Cincinnati); 23/82/0 rushing and 2/11/0 receiving (vs. Philly); and 8/20/0 with 5/34/0 receiving (@ NYG). He hasn't been finding the end-zone recently, as you can see (and has only 1 TD this year) - the Buc's offense is not what anyone would call "explosive". The Saints' rush D has faded somewhat coming into the middle of the season, giving up an average of 122.1 rushing yards per game (21st in the NFL), with 5 TDs given up to date. The Ravens crammed 39/137/1 down New Orleans' throat last week; over the past 3 weeks, the Saints have averaged 118 yards given up per contest. They are mediocre-to-subpar in this phase from week to week. Williams and company are struggling right now (especially in the red-zone), so it's hard to be too excited about Williams but this is a good matchup for him - he did well against the Saints earlier this season. Weather: Raymond James Stadium expects a high of 80F with a low of 62F and a 20% chance for rain on Sunday. That sounds like nice football weather to us.
TB Injuries: QB Chris Simms (Out)
Atlanta Falcons Rushing Offense at Detroit Lions Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup) During recent weeks, the Falcons have adjusted their game planning to accommodate Michael Vick's passing game, and this shift has tended to de-emphasize their fine rushing attack. Last week, against the Bengal's unimpressive rush D, the team posted a respectable 38/143/0 on the ground, but the work was split three ways, with Warrick Dunn leading the charge (20/55/0), while Vick posted 9/55/0 and Norwood handled 9/31/0. Dunn added 2/16/0 receiving to his totals, while Norwood hauled in 3/39/0 through the air. Neither of the running backs is explosive in fantasy terms at the moment. The Lions went into the bye week with their tail between their legs after being handed a 42/221/3 drubbing by the Jets' stable of backs during week 7. Detroit is usually made of sterner stuff, averaging 112.4 rushing yards allowed per game this season (16th in the NFL) with only 4 rushing scores surrendered to date, but the Jets certainly exposed weaknesses in the Lions' unit. We'll see if the result in week 7 was an outlier or the start of a trend this week, but realize that Atlanta leads the NFL at 5.7 yards per carry this year - the loss to New York was an ominous development for Detroit. The Falcons' rushing offense is still very powerful even though the passing game is more to the forefront in recent weeks, while the Lions fell off their usual pace during their last contest. We think this is a neutral matchup for Atlanta in this phase of the game (both Dunn and Norwood are accomplished receivers and the Lions are very soft vs. the pass - look for both guys to have some opportunities to make good things happen in the other phase of the game this week). Weather: In Ford Field, weather won't be an issue.
ATL Injuries: RB Fred McCrary (Probable)
Buffalo Bills Rushing Offense vs Green Bay Packers Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup) Willis McGahee continues to underwhelm his fantasy owners, with 37/125/0 rushing and 4/75/0 receiving over the past 3 weeks (2 games) - he's the 26th ranked fantasy RB during that span in points per game. He did manage a 100+ yards combined effort vs. the Patriots in week 7 (20/59/0 rushing and 2/61/0 receiving), but it's been 4 games since he went over 100 yards rushing, and the team averages 3.7 yards per carry this year (23rd in the NFL). The Bills rushing attack just isn't scaring anybody during 2006. The Packers are tied for 9th in the NFL allowing an average of 94.9 rushing yards per game (with 6 rushing scores allowed to date). However, even the punchless Cardinals could move the ball on this unit (25/86/1) - the relatively low yards-allowed average probably has more to do with the sub-basement pass D (averaging 270.3 yards allowed per game, 32nd in the NFL) rather than any particular virtue along the Packers' defensive front. This is a neutral matchup for the struggling McGahee, with neither unit holding a big edge over the other. Weather: Ralph Wilson expects a high of 38F with a low of 32F and a 50% chance for precipitation on Sunday. At this time of year, precipitation could mean rain, sleet, snow - or some mix of all of this. If there is a major storm brewing on Sunday, visibility, footing and ball-handling could all be issues for the Bills and the Packers, although both teams are cold-weather teams that face tough conditions on their home-fields during the fall/winter.
BUF Injuries: WR Sam Aiken (Questionable)
Chicago Bears Rushing Offense vs Miami Dolphins Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup) The Bears' backs bounced back in a big way against the super-soft 49ers, as expected, posting 35/145/2 as a team with 23/111/1 rushing and 4/23/0 receiving for Thomas Jones, and 8/26/1 rushing with 1/3/0 receiving for Cedric Benson. Over the past 3 weeks, Jones is the 17th ranked fantasy RB in points per game, with 34/150/1 rushing and 7/37/0 receiving to his credit; Benson is 40th with 9/30/1 rushing and 2/11/0 receiving. Jones improved upon the team's sub-par 3.4 yards per carry average quite a bit last week (4.8 yards per carry) - the 49ers have helped a lot of rushing attacks get back on track this year. Miami's rush D has been so-so to date, averaging 102.1 yards allowed per game (13th in the NFL), but holding most comers out of the end zone (only 2 rushing scores given up to date). They gave up 25/155/1 to the Packers 2 weeks ago, though, and have averaged 129 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 weeks (2 games). They come out of the bye week fairly cold in this phase of the game. This is a neutral matchup for the Bears' stable. Weather: Soldier Field expects a high of 45F with a low of 33F and a 10% chance of rain on Sunday. This is one of the venues where high, swirling winds can really play havoc with a passing game - owners of Dolphins or Bears will want to check a shorter-term forecast for projected wind conditions before pulling the trigger on their lineups this weekend.
CHI Injuries: none
Oakland Raiders Rushing Offense at Seattle Seahawks Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup) With LaMont Jordan still limited by his sore lower back, Justin Fargas led the team in rushing with 18/55/0 on the ground (Jordan chipped in 7/21/0) - with the passing game producing a mere 51 yards, there just isn't much to get excited about on the Raiders' offense right now, folks. Jordan owners will want to keep an eye on his practice status/injury status as the week goes along before inserting him into your roster this week. Seattle's rush defense has been backsliding lately, and they got torched by Larry Johnson and the Chiefs last week, giving up 53/191/3 to K.C. They are now the 14th ranked rush D in the land, allowing an average of 106.3 yards per contest with 7 rushing scores allowed so far. Over the last 3 weeks, they average 141.6 rushing yards given up per contest, and have given up 94 total points (2nd most in the league during that time-span). The Raiders offense is faltering and limited by injury, they have a neutral matchup to work with this week. Weather: The forecast for Qwest Field calls for a high of 52F with a low of 47F and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down thickly around game time, footing and ball handling could be more tricky than usual for both teams.
OAK Injuries: QB Aaron Brooks (Doubtful), RB Justin Fargas (Probable)
Cleveland Browns Rushing Offense at San Diego Chargers Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup) With a new OC, Jeff Davidson, Reuben Droughns posted his best game of the season, with 33/125/1 rushing and 2/7/0 receiving while facing off against the soft Jets. Although some of that had to be attributed to the Browns going to the run in the windy conditions. Part of the name of the game in the NFL is performing well against beatable teams, and the Browns did that last week. We'll see if he can sustain the momentum coming into Qualcomm Stadium, but it was a promising beginning to a new regime. San Diego is 6th in the NFL allowing an average of 84.7 rushing yards per contest, with 4 rushing scores given up to date. Over the past 3 weeks, they have allowed an average of 109 rushing yards per game. Last week, St. Louis managed 21/101/1 against San Diego - they have fallen away from their strong start in recent weeks. The San Diego defense also took a huge hit this week when star LB Shawne Merriman dropped his appeal of a positive test for steroids and started serving a 4-game suspension "It's one of those things where I'm almost a victim of the policy and I have to accept what happened and move on," Merriman said. "I know I made a mistake. I didn't do it knowingly and I'm willing to take full responsibility for whatever happens." San Diego hasn't been a shut-down unit in recent weeks, but they aren't pushovers, either. The loss of Merriman isn't going to help, though. Droughns is just starting to find his pace - this looks like a tough matchup for him on balance, but the loss of Merriman helps his chances. Weather: The Chargers and the Browns can expect a high of 72F with a low of 59F and a 10% chance for rain on Sunday - it should be a great day for some football at Qualcomm Stadium.
CLE Injuries: WR Dennis Northcutt (Questionable), TE Kellen Winslow Jr (Questionable)
Denver Broncos Rushing Offense at Pittsburgh Steelers Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup) Tatum Bell (13/27/0) had to pull himself out of the game last week when one (or maybe both) of his sprained big toes (turf toe) rendered him unable to make the cuts necessary for executing the offense. Mike Bell stepped in with a big second half (ending up with 15/136/2 rushing and 1/7/0 receiving), and lifted the stable to 36/227/3 (Jake Plummer tucked the other TD into the end zone with 5/22/1). It wasn't the running backs fault that the team fell a tad short (31-34 loss to Indianapolis). It looks like Mike Bell will need to carry the load while Tatum Bell's toes heal - Tatum Bell commented "It was hurting pretty bad. I was going to try it, but it just didn't hold up. Good thing Mike got in there and got off." The Broncos are 3rd in the NFL averaging 4.8 yards per carry this season, so whoever gets the ball the most (likely Mike Bell this week) is highly probable to succeed. The Steelers' defense is 8th in the NFL vs. the rush, allowing an average of 92.3 yards per game, with 4 rushing TDs given up to date. Over the past 3 weeks, they have averaged 97.3 rushing yards given up per contest, including last weeks totals of 29/81/0 allowed to the Raiders. They are a very hard-nosed unit regardless of how their offense is playing. This is a tough matchup for the Broncos' stable.
Weather: Heinz Field expects a high of 43F and a low of 33F with a 20% chance for rain - it'll be a crisp day for watching and playing football.
DEN Injuries: RB Tatum Bell (Probable), RB Cedric Cobbs (Probable), RB Kyle Johnson (Probable), TE Tony Scheffler (Probable)
Houston Texans Rushing Offense at New York Giants Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup) The Texans appear to have rediscovered a starting RB in Wali Lundy, who followed up his strong game against the Jags (19/93/0 rushing with 4/15/0 receiving) with a solid 18/116/0 rushing and 5/33/0 receiving vs. the Titans last week. He is getting the job done which none of the other backs on the roster could seem to do earlier in the year - he is cementing his hold on the top job with such solid performances. The Giants average 96.9 rushing yards allowed per game this season, with 6 rushing scores allowed to date. They crushed Tampa's rushers last week, holding the team to 13/40/0 on the ground, and didn't ever look challenged by the Tampa attack. They are playing very solid football heading into this matchup. Lundy will have a tough hill to climb this week in Giants Stadium - advantage, New York. Weather: Giants'Stadium expects a high of 52F with a low of 34 and a 10% chance of precipitation on Sunday. As we saw last week, high winds can be an issue in this venue at this time of year, so owners of Texans and Giants will want to keep an eye on a shorter-term forecast before pulling the trigger on your lineups this week.
HOU Injuries: none
Indianapolis Colts Rushing Offense at New England Patriots Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup) During the 2004-05 playoffs, the Patriots defeated the Colts 20-3 in Gilette Stadium (January 16th). In November last year, the Colts visited Gillette again but came out on top, 40-21 on their way to 8-0. However, both those games were played with Edgerrin James on the squad - a lot has changed during 2006. Lately, Joseph Addai has been outproducing Dominic Rhodes - Addai has posted 28/178/0 rushing and 6/57/0 receiving over the last 3 weeks (2 games), while Rhodes has contributed 16/26/0 rushing and 4/49/0 receiving during those 2 games. However, coach Dungy insists that the team is going to stick with a rotation despite the disparity in production, saying on Tuesday "In most places, a lot of backs play, sometimes more than two. I don't think it's unusual and I think we'll continue to do that." It does appear that the larger share of the pie is landing on Addai's plate these days, though - we'll see how closely the Colts stick to Dungy's plan if Rhodes continues to struggle. The Patriots rank 3rd in the NFL vs. opposing rushers, allowing an average of 78.3 rushing yards per game, with only 3 rushing TDs allowed all season long. They have given up only 13 points during their most recent two games, while averaging 60 yards rushing allowed per contest. Chester Taylor and company could only manage 15/45/0 against the Pats on Monday Night Football - these guys are good. This is a tough matchup for the Colt's tandem of backs. Weather: Gillette Stadium expects a high of 49F with a low of 30F and a 10% chance of rain on Sunday - unless the conditions change for the worse, it should be a decent night for a game of football, if on the chilly side.
IND Injuries: RB Dominic Rhodes (Questionable), RB Joseph Addai (Questionable), WR Aaron Moorehead (Questionable), WR Brandon Stokley (Questionable), WR Terrence Wilkins (Questionable), TE Ben Utecht (Questionable)
Miami Dolphins Rushing Offense at Chicago Bears Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup) Ronnie Brown did what he could to help out the Dolphins after they got down big to Green Bay in week 7, gaining 15/59/0 rushing and adding 5/63/0 receiving to the team effort. It was a decent outing in fantasy terms, but not an explosive game-breaker. He has scored 1 TD in 2 of his last 3 games, which is a good thing for his fantasy owners - we'll see if he can find pay dirt again this week. Brown will have a hard time finding pay dirt against the Bears, who have only allowed 1 rushing score all year long, while ranking 5th vs. the rush in yards allowed (82.4 yards per game). Over the past 3 weeks, they have averaged 98 rushing yards allowed per game, including last week's totals of 18/130/0 given up to the 49ers. They are one of the premier defenses in the NFL. This is tough matchup for Brown and the Dolphins. Weather: Soldier Field expects a high of 45F with a low of 33F and a 10% chance of rain on Sunday. This is one of the venues where high, swirling winds can really play havoc with a passing game - owners of Dolphins or Bears will want to check a shorter-term forecast for projected wind conditions before pulling the trigger on their lineups this weekend.
MIA Injuries: QB Daunte Culpepper (Doubtful)
Pittsburgh Steelers Rushing Offense vs Denver Broncos Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup) Willie Parker posted 22/83/0 rushing and 2/28/1 receiving last week to score the only TD that Pittsburgh managed last week. He was the fantasy bright spot on an otherwise horrible afternoon for the Steeler offense. Backup Verron Haynes suffered a knee injury and has been lost for the season (IR), which will likely elevate Duce Staley onto the active list during the second half of the season (he's been a healthy inactive most weeks during 2006). Parker is the featured back for the Steelers, now more than ever. He should see plenty of touches in the weeks to come. Starting C Jeff Hartings will be out on Sunday due to a sprained MCL, putting Chukky Okobi in the starting spot and costing the team some depth along the OL. The Broncos have allowed exactly 0 rushing TDs this season, while ranking 7th in rushing yardage allowed per game (90.6). Over the past 3 weeks, they have averaged 70.3 yards per game, including last weeks' total of 21/92/0 handed over to the Colts. The Broncos are as tough as they come vs. opposing RBs. This is a tough matchup for Parker and the Steelers, who will have to adjust to a new mix along the OL this week to boot. Weather: Heinz Field expects a high of 43F and a low of 33F with a 20% chance for rain - it'll be a crisp day for watching and playing football.
PIT Injuries: RB Dan Kreider (Probable), WR Sean Morey (Probable), WR Santonio Holmes (Probable), WR Willie Reid (Out)
Seattle Seahawks Rushing Offense vs Oakland Raiders Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup) Shaun Alexander has been ruled out of the game vs. Oakland this week: "The medical people are reluctant to give me the green light on Shaun after what they saw on the (MRI, X-rays)," HC Mike Holmgren said. "He is getting better. He is feeling better." The Seahawks haven't been productive without Alexander in the backfield, gaining 18/47/0 last week (12/25/0 for Morris on the ground). Morris has totaled 52/148/0 rushing and 4/15/0 receiving during the last 3 contests, ranking 39th among all fantasy RBs. Expect more modest production this week as the team continues to lurk in the bottom of the NFL in terms of yards-per-carry at 3.4 yards per tote - Morris isn't getting much help from the big guys up front. The Raiders are 24th in the NFL vs. opposing rushers this season, averaging 126.3 yards given up per week, with 4 rushing scores allowed to date. Last week, though, they handed over only 28/89/0 to the Steelers, and they have averaged 94.3 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 weeks - the Raiders' defenders are moving in the right direction. The Seahawks' attack is stuck in neutral, while the Raiders' defense has stiffened quite a bit entering the middle of the NFL season - this looks like a tough matchup for Morris and the underpowered Seahawk run blockers. Weather: The forecast for Qwest Field calls for a high of 52F with a low of 47F and a 30% chance for precipitation. If the rain comes down thickly around game time, footing and ball handling could be more tricky than usual for both teams.
SEA Injuries: QB Matt Hasselbeck (Out), RB Shaun Alexander (Out), WR Bobby Engram (Questionable)
San Francisco 49ers Rushing Offense vs Minnesota Vikings Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup) Frank Gore continues to be a bright spot for the 49ers, with 12/111/0 rushing last week (2/9/0 receiving) and 22/166/0 rushing with 7/44/0 receiving over the past 3 weeks (2 games). If he could just find the end-zone more often, he'd be in the elite ranks at his position. However, he is generating a lot of fantasy points even as the team struggles - hopefully when he's not facing a D like Chicago's he'll have even more of a fantasy impact. In Minnesota, Gore faces another stubborn run defense that averages 72.9 rushing yards allowed per game (4 rushing scores given up to date). They limited the Patriots to 15/85/0 last week (although to be fair, the Patriots came at Minnesota with a pass-happy game plan), and average 69 rushing yards allowed per game over the past 3 weeks (2 games). The Vikings play well against opposing running backs. It looks like a tough matchup is on tap for Gore again this week. Weather: The high at Monster Park is projected to be 61F with a low of 53F with a 30% chance of rain. As long as the sky doesn't dump buckets of rain, the conditions should be decent on Sunday - owners of Vikings and 49ers will want to check a shorter-term forecast later in the week.
SF Injuries: RB Maurice Hicks (Questionable), TE Vernon Davis (Doubtful)
Tennessee Titans Rushing Offense at Jacksonville Jaguars Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup) The Titans' latest starter, Travis Henry, flamed out vs. Houston, posting a lame 15/29/0 effort against the Texans. Vince Young (4/44/1) and LenDale White (7/35/0) both outgained Henry, who got manhandled by the Houston defensive front. We'll see if he can bounce back to the form he flashed the previous two weeks, or if Henry has lost the rhythm all of a sudden. ' The Jaguars are not giving to opposing rushers, ranking 11th in the NFL allowing an average of 96.7 yards per game, with 4 rushing scores surrendered to date. They stumbled against the Texans two weeks ago as the unit made adjustments to the linebacking corps, but came back to full strength against Philly, limiting the team to 20/85/0 and denying the Eagles any TDs on the day. Most weeks, these guys are very hard-nosed. This is a tough matchup for the on-again, off-again Henry and company. Weather: Alltel Stadium expects a high of 70F with a low of 50F with a 10% chance of precipitation. That sounds like great football weather to us.
TEN Injuries: WR David Givens (Questionable), WR Bobby Wade (Questionable), WR Roydell Williams (Questionable), TE Ben Hartsock (Questionable)
Washington Redskins Rushing Offense vs Dallas Cowboys Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup) Back in week 2, Washington was without Clinton Portis when they faced off against the Cowboys. Ladell Betts led the team with 11/40/0 rushing (and his 7/57/0 receiving was second on the team that night). It is possible that Washington will face a similar scenario this week, as Portis missed practice on Tuesday due to his injured left ankle and did only a light individual workout (ditto for top receiver Santana Moss (left hamstring injury)). If the Redskins have to face Dallas without their top 2 offensive weapons, it could be a long night for the Washington faithful in FedEx Field. Betts led the team in rushing against the Colts back in week 7 (10/52/0) and added 5/41/0 receiving in relief of Portis - he can rack up some nice yardage numbers when he gets in the game. We'll see if Betts is the man for Washington later in the week - Portis owners will want to monitor his practice participation/injury status later in the week. Dallas sports the league's 4th ranked rush D, allowing an average of 80.9 rushing yards per game, with 7 rushing scores handed over to date. They limited the Panthers to 17/76 on the ground last week, but were scored against twice - over the past 3 weeks, the Cowboys have averaged 88.3 rushing yards allowed per contest. They are a good but not great unit in this phase of the game. On balance, we think this looks like a tough matchup for the limping Redskins.
Weather: At FedEx Field, the Redskins and the Cowboys can expect a high of 52F with a low of 33F and a 10% chance of precipitation. As long as the forecast holds up, it should be a great day to play some football.
WAS Injuries: QB Mark Brunell (Probable), RB Clinton Portis (Probable), WR David Patten (Probable), WR Antwaan Randle El (Probable), WR Santana Moss (Out)
Cincinnati Bengals Rushing Offense at Baltimore Ravens Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup) Rudi Johnson has been in a lull during recent weeks, with 55/199/1 rushing and 3/12/0 receiving over the past 3 contests. He handled 12/46/1 (2/8/0 receiving)last week - Chris Perry only touched the ball 4 times (2/11/0 rushing and 2/12/0 receiving - the drop off for Johnson hasn't been due to a sudden shift of touches to Perry. During 2 of the last 3 games, Johnson hasn't gotten over 20 touches - the losses of C Rich Braham and LT Levi Jones to injury may have shifted some of the focus away from the running game in recent weeks. Both have been ruled out of the lineup for this game as of Wednesday - the Cincy OL is in a weakened state right now. Whatever is the case, Johnson's fantasy production has dropped off heading into the middle of the season. It'll be hard for Johnson to jumpstart his numbers this week as the Ravens lurk waiting for him at M and T Bank Stadium - they are #1 in the NFL vs. opposing rushers averaging 66 rushing yards allowed per game, and #1 in TDs allowed in this phase with only 1 rushing score given up to date. Reggie Bush and Deuce McAllister's Saints could only scrape up 14/35/0 against the Ravens last week - Baltimore is playing D on an elite level this year. This is a bad matchup for the off-pace Johnson. Weather: M and T Bank Stadium expects a high of 54F and a low of 39F with a 10% chance of precipitation. Unless the wind kicks up, it should be a nice day to play some football.
CIN Injuries: QB Anthony Wright (Probable), WR Kelley Washington (Out)
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