Passing Matchups

Week 1 Rushing Matchups

by Mark Wimer and Joe Bryant, Exclusive to Footballguys.com

[ARI] [ATL] [BAL] [BUF] [CAR] [CHI] [CIN] [CLE] [DAL] [DEN] [DET] [GB] [HOU] [IND] [JAX] [KC] [MIA] [MIN] [NE] [NO] [NYG] [NYJ] [OAK] [PHI] [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.

Denver Broncos Rushing Offense at Buffalo Bills Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

Travis Henry looks like a perfect fit for the Bronco's offensive philosophy. He is a one-cut runner and that should work well in Denver, but we have a problem. Henry sprained his left knee during training camp and hasn't appeared during the final 2 games of the preseason. While he's expected to be fine for the season opener vs. Buffalo, there's still some uncertainty. Last year, he ground out 270/1211/7 rushing and 18/78/0 receiving while with the moribund Titans - in Denver's attack, he should produce much better numbers.

Buffalo was 28th against the rush last year, averaging 140.9 yards allowed per game (14 rushing TDs given up). Tennessee shoved 30/132/1 down the Bills throats during week 3 of the preseason - a 4.2 yards per carry average. There isn't much room for optimism on Tennessee's part entering the season opener.

Advantage, Denver.

Weather: Ralph Wilson Stadium expects a high of 66F with a low of 57F and a 10% chance of rain. That's great football weather - neither team has worries if the forecast holds up.

DEN Injuries: TE Stephen Alexander (Questionable)
BUF Injuries: DL Ryan Denney (Out), LB Keith Ellison (Out)

Pittsburgh Steelers Rushing Offense at Cleveland Browns Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

Willie Parker was awesome last year, with 337/1494/13 rushing and 31/222/3 receiving in his first season out from under Jerome Bettis' shadow. There was some rearranging along the OL this offseason as C Jeff Hartings retired (Sean Mahan is the starter there heading into regular season) and LG Alan Faneca was unhappy with his contract entering training camp - he's probably hitting the road after this season. We'll see how the unit jells once the games start counting, but if Faneca wants to cash in during free agency he needs to play well during 2007. Parker posted 10/32/1 rushing and 3/40/0 receiving during the week 3 preseason contest vs. Philly, and looks like he's ready to rock during 2007, despite the knee sprain that limited him early during training camp/preseason.

Cleveland averaged 142.2 rushing yards allowed per game last year (29th in the NFL) and coughed up 31/157/1 to the Travis Henry-less Broncos during week 3 of the preseason. Starting DE Orpheus Roye missed most of preseason due to an arthroscopic knee surgery; starting LB Andra Davis missed a significant amount of time due to a concussion and then an ankle injury. The Cleveland defensive front is not a pretty picture entering regular season.

Pittsburgh's Parker has the edge this week - advantage, Steelers.

Weather: The forecast for Cleveland Browns Stadium calls for a high of 64F and a low of 60F with a 10% chance for rain. Weather won't be an issue for either team in those conditions.

PIT Injuries: QB Brian St. Pierre (Probable)
CLE Injuries: DL Orpheus Roye (Probable), LB Andra Davis (Probable), LB Willie McGinest (Out), DB Mike Adams (Probable), DB Gary Baxter (Questionable)

Carolina Panthers Rushing Offense at St. Louis Rams Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Contrary to the wishes of many fantasy football owners, it appears that DeShaun Foster is the starter in Carolina again this season. However, we think that the workload will be split up between Foster and DeAngelo Williams in a frustrating running back by committee again during 2007. Foster looks like he'll handle more of the load, but Williams will do just enough to make Foster compromised in fantasy terms. To further complicate the situation/worry his fantasy owners, Foster was completely stuffed vs. New England during week 3 of the preseason (3/0/0 rushing and 1/8/0 receiving) while Williams fared a tad better (9/29/0 rushing and 1/9/0 receiving). This attack hasn't gotten on track entering 2007, folks.

The good news is that the Rams coughed up 46/172/1 rushing to the Raiders during week 3 of preseason, and enter 2007 after averaging 145.4 rushing yards allowed per game during 2006 (31st in the NFL) with 21 rushing TDs surrendered. This isn't a top rush defense to say the least, and it looks like there is still a lot of room for improvement.

Look for the Panthers to spread the ball around between Foster and Williams, but in aggregate they should have good results against the soft Ram defensive front.

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

CAR Injuries: none
STL Injuries: DB Oshiomogho Atogwe (Probable)

Dallas Cowboys Rushing Offense vs New York Giants Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Dallas has a new head coach (Wade Phillips) with a new attitude - but assistant head coach Tony Sparano is still in charge of the running game, and it looks like the RBBC will continue. Phillips stated on 8/29/07 "It used to be you had one running back. Now it's changed where a lot of teams have been able to utilize two good backs. That's the situation I've walked into and I think it's a good situation... So we're going to try to utilize both of them." That means that Julius Jones will run the ball between the 20's (he posted 267/1084/4 rushing with 9/142/0 receiving last year in this role), while Marion Barber III will attempt to recreate his 135/654/14 rushing and 23/196/2 receiving campaign again this year. It is worth while to note that Barber had 138/538/5 rushing and 18/115/0 receiving during 2005 - we'll soon see which direction he's leaning under new head coach Wade Phillips.

The Giants welcomed Michael Strahan back to the team over the weekend, but it remains to be seen if he is in football shape or not. Last year, the Giants were in the middle of the NFL averaging 114.4 rushing yards allowed (14th in the league), and surrendered 19 rushing TDs (on the high end of the scale in the NFL - St. Louis was the worst last year with 21 rushing TDs given away). The Jets threw down 28/85/2 against the Giants during week 3 of the preseason - without their top back Thomas Jones.

The Cowboys have the backs to pound the ball, while the Giants are suspect in this phase. Advantage, Cowboys.

Weather: The forecast for Texas Stadium calls for a high of 92F and a low of 73F with a 30% chance of rain. If the precipitation falls heavily at game-time, footing and ball handling could be issue for both teams.

DAL Injuries: WR Terry Glenn (Out)
NYG Injuries: DL Adrian Awasom (Probable), LB Gerris Wilkinson (Out), DB Sam Madison (Probable)

Detroit Lions Rushing Offense at Oakland Raiders Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

The situation in Detroit as it stands week 1 is this: Tatum Bell is the starting RB, keeping Kevin Jones' roster spot warm, while backup T.J. Duckett is the wild card (he may be the goal-line "plunge back"). Jones did not go on the PUP List as had been feared and is on the active roster. Coach Rod Marinelli would not rule out Jones playing this week, but it seems unlikely. Remember that last year the Lions were dead last in the NFL in rushing yards and 26th in rushing TDs (304/1129/9 as a team) - Bell will be the guy week 1, but the question for fantasy owners is "what will he do with his chance?". We haven't seen a lot of Bell during preseason (for example, he posted 3/12/0 rushing during week 3 of the preseason), so it's unclear how effective Bell will be as the "Martz back" while Jones gets healthy.

However the Lions opt to parse out the carries this week, Bell and Duckett should find room to roam vs. Oakland's 25th-ranked rush D (the Raiders averaged 134 yards allowed per game on the ground last year, with 15 TDs given up). St. Louis posted 17/96/0 against this unit during week 3 of preseason (5.6 yards per carry) - there is a lot of room for improvement along the Raiders' defensive front.

This is a good matchup for the Lions' stable of backs.

Weather: The forecast for McAfee Coliseum calls for a high of 71F and a low of 57F with a 10% chance for rain. It should be a perfect opening day in the city by the bay.

DET Injuries: QB Dan Orlovsky (Questionable), RB Kevin Jones (Doubtful)
OAK Injuries: LB Isaiah Ekejiuba (Out), DB Duane Starks (Questionable)

Houston Texans Rushing Offense vs Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Ahman Green relocated to Houston during the offseason, part of the offensive makeover that the Texans have carried out entering 2007. He rejoins Mike Sherman (now OC in Houston), giving him an instant rapport with the offensive coaching staff. During week 3 of the preseason, Green ripped up the Dallas Cowboys with 8/65/0 rushing and 1/13/0 receiving - he looks primed to have a solid season with his new team.

Kansas City ranked 18th against the run last season (120.5 rushing yards allowed per game) and handed over 14 rushing scores during 2006. Herm Edwards and company weren't thrilled with their week 3 preseason contest vs. New Orleans, when the Saints piled up 37/197/2 on the ground - there is a lot of work to do if the Chiefs' defensive front is to hold up against the likes of LaDainian Tomlinson and Travis Henry.

This is a good matchup for the home-team Texans.

Weather: Under the retractable roof at Reliant Stadium, both teams shoud be comfortable despite the high of 88F and a low of 74F with a 30% chance for precipitation.

HOU Injuries: none
KC Injuries: DB Jon McGraw (Questionable)

Indianapolis Colts Rushing Offense vs New Orleans Saints Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Joseph Addai is the man in Indianapolis now, with Dominic Rhodes cooling his heels in Oakland on suspension. He's positioned to be the featured back on one of the best offenses in the NFL. During week 3 of the preseason, Addai and company nuked Detroit 37-10 and Addai flashed his dual-threat talents with 5/18/0 rushing and 5/48/0 receiving during a part-game appearance. It looks like the lights are all green for Addai entering 2007.

New Orleans visits the RCA Dome with the 23rd ranked rush D from a year ago, averaging 128.9 yards allowed per game - they handed over a scant 10 rushing TDs last year, though. Without Larry Johnson during week 3 of the preseason, the Chiefs mustered 18/54/1 rushing against the Saints - but going into a game without Larry Johnson is like going mountain climbing with only 1 boot. The jury is out on the Saints' defense this year - Addai will test them on Thursday.

This looks like a good matchup for Addai and the Colts.

Weather: Inside the RCA Dome, neither team will have weather concerns on Thursday night.

IND Injuries: none
NO Injuries: none

Jacksonville Jaguars Rushing Offense vs Tennessee Titans Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

With the upheaval at QB this week, look for Tennessee to attack the line of scrimmage and dare the Jaguars to throw the ball. The Titans were cellar dwellers vs. the running game last year - 30th in the NFL, averaging 144.6 yards allowed per game (with 20 rushing scores handed over) - but this is a special circumstance. During the week 3 preseason game (when the starters play the deepest into the game), Tennessee held the Bills to 28/94/1 on the ground (a 3.4 yards per carry average).

Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor need to play large this week while the team settles in with David Garrard as the starting QB. Between the 2 backs (with a little help from others on the team), Jacksonville ranked 3rd in the NFL with 2541 rushing yards and 2nd in the league with 23 rushing TDs last year. We'll get our first glimpse of the new attack on Sunday - hopefully, Garrard can present a credible enough threat in the passing game to open up the field for Jones-Drew and Taylor.

This looks like a good matchup, but realize Tennessee is going to force the issue in this phase of the game.

Weather: Alltel Stadium expects a high of 91F with a low of 76F on Sunday, with a 30% chance of rain. If the skies open up around gametime, footing and ball handling could be a challenge for both teams. The muggy heat will also test the conditioning of both teams.

JAX Injuries: none
TEN Injuries: none

Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Offense at Houston Texans Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Larry Johnson and the Chiefs finally found common ground and concluded a contract. Johnson's stats the last 2 years speak for themselves - he is easily a top 5 running back and some missed practices shouldn't impact him too much at this stage of his career. He worked out extensively during his contract negotiations, which should help maintain his stamina and conditioning now that he's back on the squad.

The Texans were pretty weak vs. the rush last year, allowing an average of 122.3 rushing yards per game (20th in the NFL) and handed over 16 rushing TDs. They gave up a mere 21/57/0 rushing to the Cowboys during week 3 of the preseason - it looks like the rush defense is ready to rock entering regular season.

Johnson is an all-world back, and he's a guy you almost have to start just because of who he is, but at Reliant Stadium and coming off a long lay-off we're going to guardedly call this a good matchup for Johnson and the Chiefs.

Weather: Under the retractable roof at Reliant Stadium, both teams shoud be comfortable despite the high of 88F and a low of 74F with a 30% chance for precipitation.

KC Injuries: none
HOU Injuries: none

Miami Dolphins Rushing Offense at Washington Redskins Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Ronnie Brown has some company in the Miami backfield entering 2007 - Jesse Chatman looks like a threat for some playing time, and Lorenzo Booker is going to get his chances on third downs. The situation has degenerated (from a fantasy football perspective) into a running back by committee. Brown commented on 8/28/07 "I think [the competition] will continue. We're going to come out and compete each day and try to make each other better. We're both going to be in there and have the same goals as far as winning football games. So if I can come out and make him better by competing, and he does the same for me, I think it will help the team throughout the season." This week, we think Brown will do the heavy lifting for the Dolphins vs. Washington, while Chatman figures in as a change of pace/stand in for Brown.

The Redskins were 27th in the NFL last year allowing an average of 137.3 yards on the ground per game. However, they were tougher in the red zone, with only 9 rushing scores handed over. During week 3 of preseason, Washington held Baltimore to 11/55/0 on the ground - we'll see if they can hold down the Dolphins at home this week.

This looks like a good matchup for the Dolphins' crowded backfield.

Weather: FedEx Field expects a high of 79F and a low of 66F with a 10% chance of rain - neither team should have problems in those conditions.

MIA Injuries: RB Reagan Mauia (Probable)
WAS Injuries: LB Khary Campbell (Probable), LB Marcus Washington (Probable)

Minnesota Vikings Rushing Offense vs Atlanta Falcons Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

One of the raging fantasy football debates of the 2007 NFL preseason will begin to be resolved during week 1, when the Vikings face off against the Falcons. How much will the Vikings play Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson? During the critical week 3 preseason game, Taylor toted the ball 8/61/0 and Peterson posted 10/41/0 (neither guy had a reception). Entering week 1, it appears that the Vikings will go with a RBBC, with Taylor starting but Peterson seeing a significant number of touches. Artose Pinner was cut during the final rush to a 53 man roster, leaving Mewelde Moore as the 3rd back/punt returner.

The Falcons were respectable against the rush last year, averaging 103.6 yards allowed per game (that was 9th in the NFL - they gave up 14 rushing TDs last year). The Bengals managed 17/86/0 vs. this unit during the week 3 preseason contest, with starter Rudi Johnson gaining 13/69/0 (a 5.3 yards-per-carry average) during the contest. Overall, Mike Zimmer's 4-3 front has underwhelmed during preseason.

With home-field advantage at the Vikings' backs, we think this is a good, but not great, matchup for the home team. We'll see how all the pieces of the Vikings' puzzle perform now that the games count.

Weather: Inside the MetroDome, weather won't be a factor.

MIN Injuries: WR Bobby Wade (Probable), WR Robert Ferguson (Questionable)
ATL Injuries: DL Grady Jackson (Questionable), DL Rod Coleman (Out), DB Chris Crocker (Out)

New England Patriots Rushing Offense at New York Jets Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

After a tense offseason/preseason spent wondering about Laurence Maroney's shoulder injury/surgery/rehab, it appears that he is set to go for week 1. There is some speculation that Sammy Morris may see goal-line duty for the Patriots, but we think that with Maroney's shoulder in good shape, he'll be the workhorse for New England with Morris in a secondary/support role. Kevin Faulk figures to be the 3rd down back, as usual. During his extended appearance in preseason, Maroney posted 15/58/0 rushing vs. Carolina. He looks set to roll into regular season action.

The Jets were 24th in the NFL last year, allowing an average of 130.3 yards per game, with 14 rushing TDs surrendered. They handed over 30/136/0 to their cross-town rivals during week 3 of preseason - there just hasn't been much improvement on this unit from last year to this.

Maroney has a good matchup to work with in the season opener.

Weather: The Meadowlands expects a high of 71F with a low of 65F and a 10% chance of rain on opening weekend. It should be a great day to play some tackle football.

NE Injuries: QB Tom Brady (Probable), TE David Thomas (Questionable)
NYJ Injuries: DL Dewayne Robertson (Probable), DB Andre Dyson (Questionable), DB Justin Miller (Questionable), DB Eric Smith (Questionable)

New Orleans Saints Rushing Offense at Indianapolis Colts Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Reggie Bush and Deuce McAllister are a scary 1-2 punch. McAllister has been productive in his opportunities during preseason (6/14/0 rushing and 4/32/0 receiving vs. K.C. during week 3; 3/15/1 rushing and 1/10/0 receiving in a cameo appearance vs. Cincy during week 2). Reggie Bush posted 6/51/0 vs. K.C. during the week 3 preseason tilt. It looks like the Saints will once again field one of the most dominant rushing attacks in the league.

Indianapolis was very porous during the regular season last year (32nd in the NFL averaging 173 rushing yards allowed per game, with 20 rushing scores surrendered), but they did manage to clamp down during post season. Having safety Bob Sanders on the field made a huge difference. Detroit could only manage 14/32/0 rushing against the Colts during preseason week 3 - has Indy brought their "post-season" mentality to regular season this year? Only time will tell - on August 23rd, key S Bob Sanders was activated off the PUP and commented "I feel strong, I feel fast, and I'm ready to go." With Sanders on the field, the Colts' rush D is much more effective.

The Colts have home field advantage in this game, but they also have a suspect defensive front that lost Anthony McFarland (a key run stuffer at NT) during preseason to a knee injury. This looks like a good matchup for the Saints' dynamic duo.

Weather: Inside the RCA Dome, neither team will have weather concerns on Thursday night.

NO Injuries: none
IND Injuries: none

Oakland Raiders Rushing Offense vs Detroit Lions Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

With Michael Bush on the PUP list and Dominic Rhodes serving a 4-game suspension, LaMont Jordan has a clear path to prove his worth to new head coach Lane Kiffin and OC Greg Knapp. Knapp prefers a ball-control approach to offense, so Jordan should see a lot of opportunities this week. He posted 18/41/1 rushing and 1/49/0 receiving during week 3 (vs. St. Louis) - Jordan looks like he's primed to explode after a frustrating and injury-riddled season during 2006.

Detroit was 21st in the NFL last year, averaging 125.6 rushing yards allowed per game (18 rushing scores allowed). Indy posted a mere 19/48/0 rushing vs. this unit during week 3 of the preseason, but they tossed 39/50 for 360 yards, 5 TDs and 0 interceptions in that contest - Joe Barry is having some troubles installing his Cover-2 scheme during preseason.

Jordan has home field advantage at his back and a soft defense will line up in front of him - sounds like a good matchup to us.

Weather: The forecast for McAfee Coliseum calls for a high of 71F and a low of 57F with a 10% chance for rain. It should be a perfect opening day in the city by the bay.

OAK Injuries: none
DET Injuries: DL Jon Bradley (Probable)

Philadelphia Eagles Rushing Offense at Green Bay Packers Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Brian Westbrook and Correll Buckhalter are at it again this year, with new addition Tony Hunt looking to contribute in short-yardage situations. Both Westbrook and Buckhalter have missed some practices during camp due to soreness in their legs/knees, but entering week 1 it looks like more of the same from Philly in this phase of the game. In late August, Westbrook was agitating for more carries during 2007: "I think to be a very good running back and put up the numbers that the great running backs, the good running backs in the game, are putting up, you have to have at least 20 to 25 carries per game to put those types of numbers up." We'll see if coach Reid will grant Westbrook's wish, but however he ends up getting the ball, we think Westbrook will be a top 10 back during 2007. This week, he's projected to post 100+ yards combined and to have a solid shot at finding the end zone.

The Packers were 13th in the NFL last year, allowing an average of 114.1 yards per game on the ground (12 TDs handed over). They coughed up 26/104/1 to the Jaguars during week 3 of preseason - a slight improvement over their 2006 pace. We'll see which direction the unit is heading entering 2007 when Westbrook and company test the defensive front this weekend.

Some talented backs face off against a mediocre defense in this game, but home-field advantage is at the Packer's backs. We'll give the nod to Westbrook and company, but this one won't be a slam dunk for the Eagles.

Weather: Lambeau Field expects a high of 64F and a low of 55F on Sunday, with a 10% chance of rain. That sounds like great football weather to us.

PHI Injuries: QB A.J. Feeley (Probable), TE L.J. Smith (Probable)
GB Injuries: DL Aaron Kampman (Probable), DL Mike Montgomery (Out), DB Aaron Rouse (Doubtful)

Seattle Seahawks Rushing Offense vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Shaun Alexander has worked his way back into the lineup after his 2006 foot injury - during week 3 of preseason, he managed 8/30/1 rushing and 1/5/0 receiving against the Vikings' defensive front (which was #1 vs. the rush last year, averaging 61.6 rush yards allowed per game). Alexander is just two years removed from an awesome 370/1880/27 rushing campaign (2005 - he had 15/78/1 receiving that year) - we'll soon see if he can recapture his top form this year.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have fallen on hard times since their Super Bowl year - they were 17th vs. the rush last year (119.8 yards allowed per game, with 11 rushing scores given up), and enter 2007 without some old stalwarts of years past (Simeon Rice was the most recent defensive player let go). During week 3 of preseason they did manage to limit Miami to 21/69/1 - a 3.3 yards-per-carry average. We'll see if the Bucs can maintain that level of rush D now that the games count.

Alexander and company have home-field advantage at their back, and should do well vs. the diminished Bucs.

Weather: Qwest Field expects a high of 73F with a low of 56F and a 10% chance for rain. That sounds like great football weather!

SEA Injuries: WR Ben Obomanu (Doubtful)
TB Injuries: LB Patrick Chukwurah (Out)

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

Frank Gore, the all-everything back for San Francisco, had to sit out preseason due to a broken hand. He was the 4th best fantasy back last year, posting 312/1695/8 rushing and 61/485/1 receiving - he carried the team last year. Unfortunately, we haven't seen him during preseason due to the broken hand - but, coach Nolan intends to run Gore hard during regular season: "If he has to carry 500 times for us to win a lot of games, he'll carry 500 times." Nolan stated in mid August. As Nolan noted during an interview August 24th: "I think Frank, with 300 carries last year, knows where the holes are." Gore was medically cleared to play in the final pre-season game, but the coaching staff elected to hold him out until the season opener. He looks great this week in camp and has "fresh legs".

Under the guidance of DC Clancy Pendergast, the Cards were fairly stout against the run last season, with 1897 rushing yards allowed (16th in the NFL) and 16 rushing TDs surrendered (26th). However, they lost DE/LB Chike Okeafor due to torn left biceps tendon (IR) during preseason, and gave up 32/106/1 to the Chargers (with LaDainian Tomlinson on the sidelines) during week 3 of the preseason. Entering 2007, it's fair to say the Cards rush D isn't a top unit.

This looks like a good matchup for Gore and company - advantage, San Francisco.

Weather: Walsh Field at Monster Park expects a high of 77F and a low of 57F with a 10% chance of rain on Monday Night. It should be a nice cool evening to play tackle football - weather doesn't look like a concern for this matchup.

SF Injuries: none
ARI Injuries: DL Ross Kolodziej (Out), DL Alan Branch (Out)

St. Louis Rams Rushing Offense vs Carolina Panthers Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Steven Jackson is a stud - he posted 346/1528/13 rushing and 90/806/3 receiving last season. If he's on your team, you spent a top 3 draft pick to land Jackson - he's a must start every week (barring injury). Draftee Brian Leonard may see some action spelling Jackson this year, but Jackson is going to carry the load for the Rams again during 2007.

The Carolina defensive front slipped last year, averaging 108.6 rushing yards allowed per game (only 10 rushing scores allowed, though) - they were 11th in the NFL vs. the rush last year. New England found plenty of room to roam during their week 3 clash with Carolina (36/148/1 rushing) - the D has been without MLB Dan Morgan for most of the preseason (and last year) due to concussion problems, and Mike Rucker hasn't played or practiced much to date - we'll see how the Panthers jell once the games start to count.

This is a good matchup for the home team Rams.

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

STL Injuries: WR Drew Bennett (Questionable)
CAR Injuries: DL Stanley McClover (Questionable), LB Jason Kyle (Probable), DB Chris Gamble (Questionable), DB Nate Salley (Out)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Offense at Seattle Seahawks Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Cadillac Williams disappointed a lot of fantasy owners last year with his 225/798/1 rushing and 30/196/0 receiving season - but this is a new year, and he should start on the path to redemption at Qwest Field on Sunday. He posted a solid 4/25/0 rushing vs. the Dolphins during week 3 of preseason, and has reportedly been strong throughout training camp. Coach Gruden insists that despite the light workload during preseason, the coaching staff is happy with Williams "We like what we see out of him out here. The guy is a rookie of the year who set an NFL record exploding on the scene there. If we can just give him 15 to 18 quality looks a week, he'll be just fine." We're about to find out just how fine Williams will be during 2007.

The Seattle rush D isn't impressive, averaging 126.8 yards allowed per game last year (22nd in the NFL) and surrendering 12 rushing scores over 16 games. They were trampled by the Vikings during preseason week 3 for 34/152/0 (a 4.5 yards per carry average) - there is room to roam when a back faces the Seahawks, although TDs aren't plentiful in general.

This looks like a good time for Tampa to unleash Cadillac Williams.

Weather: Qwest Field expects a high of 73F with a low of 56F and a 10% chance for rain. That sounds like great football weather!

TB Injuries: none
SEA Injuries: none

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

James' first season with the Cards was unremarkable (337/1159/6 rushing and 38/217/0 receiving), but with the arrival of head coach Ken Whisenhunt (formerly of the Pittsburgh Steelers), assistant head coach Russ Grimm, and the drafting of new RT Levi Brown (among other personnel moves), the team aims to do a lot better than the 3.4 yards per carry that James averaged during 2006. James commented early in September "Everything is on-point now. These coaches know exactly what it takes to win and how to accomplish it. Denny was more of a veteran's coach, but for this team, which hasn't won yet, Coach Whisenhunt is a much better fit. He's very detailed, and everything is done a certain way until we do it the way he wants." James was inactive for the week 3 preseason game, so we have yet to see him in a substantial numbers of snaps under game-time conditions. Week 1 of regular season will tell us a lot about how far the Cardinals have been able to turn around their running game - vs. the Houston Texans in week 2, James only managed 5/11/0 rushing, but he did grab a TD pass from Matt Leinart.

The 49ers were the league's worst defense in points allowed last year (412 points given up), and ranked 19th vs. the rush with 1936 yards allowed during the season. During the week 3 preseason game vs. Chicago, the 49ers were ground down to the tune of 45/146/2, although they did limit starter Cedric Benson to 19/33/1 rushing (1.7 yards per carry average). We'll see if new defensive coordinator Greg Manusky and his 3-4 defensive front can improve once the games count for real.

James and the Cardinals struggled last year, and haven't looked impressive during preseason. The same could be said for the 49ers - this looks like a neutral matchup to us, with neither team holding an edge over the other.

ARI Injuries: none
SF Injuries: DB Donald Strickland (Probable), DB Dashon Goldson (Out)

Baltimore Ravens Rushing Offense at Cincinnati Bengals Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

As of August 25th, Willis McGahee had only gained 23 yards on 10 carries for his new team. He managed 4/12/0 rushing during the 3rd preseason game of the year (vs. Washington), when the starters put in the most time on the field. Considering that McGahee averaged 3.8 yards per carry during his final 2 seasons with Buffalo, and that the Ravens averaged 3.4 yards per carry last year, it looks like McGahee has an uphill battle vs. Cincy ahead of him. The return of LT Jonathan Ogden late in training camp is a positive development for the Ravens' offense but it's unclear how healthy he'll be. We'll see if Ogden can make the difference during the (early game) Monday Night Football opener.

Cincinnati was 16th in the NFL last year vs. the rush, allowing 118.6 rushing yards per game and 15 rushing TDs. They averaged 4.19 yards allowed per attempt - this defensive front didn't scare folks during 2006. Atlanta's new offense did struggle to run the ball during preseason week 3, with 32/74/1 - it appears that the Bengals have moved in the right direction in this phase of the game.

An underpowered rushing attack clashes with a mediocre rush D in this matchup - we think it's a neutral matchup for the Ravens when they visit Cincy in the opener.

Weather: Paul Brown Stadium expects a high of 87F with a low of 65F on Monday - there is a 40% chance of precipitation, so the field may be damp at gametime. If the rainfall is heavy, footing and ball handling could be issues for both teams.

BAL Injuries: WR Mark Clayton (Probable), TE Daniel Wilcox (Probable)
CIN Injuries: DL Frostee Rucker (Out), LB Rashad Jeanty (Out), DB Johnathan Joseph (Questionable)

Green Bay Packers Rushing Offense vs Philadelphia Eagles Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

The post-Ahman Green era hasn't gone well in Green Bay - Vernand Morency is hobbled by a knee injury that dogged him throughout training camp, while Brandon Jackson is shaking off a concussion entering regular season. Jackson is probably going to be the starter this week, but he is very much a rookie adjusting to the NFL level. Jackson discussed his experiences with RB coach Edgar Bennett on Wednesday, September 5th "You know, he puts so much on me in the meeting rooms. At times it gets to me. He drills me -'What's this, what's that? You've got to know this, you've got to know that!' It's like, man . . . But when we're on the field, I see why. Then he comes back to me and says, 'I know you're mad,' but I am not mad. The guy is expecting a lot out of me." We'll see if Jackson can step into Green's shoes during week 1.

Philly fielded the 26th ranked rush D last year, averaging 136.4 rushing yards allowed per game - they were more stubborn in the red-zone, though, with only 12 rush TDs given up over 16 games. Pittsburgh only managed 23/76/2 vs. the Eagles during week 3 of the preseason - a 3.3 yards per carry average (but the 2 TDs aren't a good sign). It'll be interesting to see how the new LB corps (MLB Omar Gaither, OLB Takeo Spikes and Chris Gocong) handles themselves now that the games count.

Jackson has been out of the lineup for a while with a concussion, and Morency is far from a sure thing due to his patellar tendon strain/conditioning issues. This looks like a neutral matchup to us with neither team significantly stronger than the other.

Weather: Lambeau Field expects a high of 64F and a low of 55F on Sunday, with a 10% chance of rain. That sounds like great football weather to us.

GB Injuries: RB Brandon Jackson (Probable), RB Ryan Grant (Questionable), RB Vernand Morency (Questionable), WR Donald Driver (Probable), WR Greg Jennings (Questionable)
PHI Injuries: DL Jevon Kearse (Probable), DL LaJuan Ramsey (Probable)

New York Giants Rushing Offense at Dallas Cowboys Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

It appears that Brandon Jacobs is cementing his hold on the #1 RB job within the Giants organization. Reuben Droughns sounded resigned to his backup role on August 10th when he stated "I understand they're going to want him to get the majority (of carries). But at the same time, whatever it takes to be on the field and help this team, I'm willing to do." Jacobs has always been a good goal-line back (95/423/9 rushing and 11/149/0 receiving last year), but we have yet to see him handle the ball 20+ times per game. He threw down 11/43/0 rushing vs. the Jets during preseason week 3 - it looks like Jacobs is headed in the right direction opening 2007.

Dallas averaged 103.7 rushing yards allowed per game last year (10th in the NFL), and handed over 12 rushing scores over 16 games. However, the Texans posted 26/142/0 during week 3 of the preseason. Ahman Green posted 8/65/0 (a 8.1 yards-per-carry average, and backup Samkon Gado gained 4/32/0 rushing (a 8.0 YPC average). Based on the preseason (which is usually a shaky assumption), this unit looks a little suspect.

Jacobs has a neutral matchup to work with opening day.

NYG Injuries: RB Robert Douglas (Out), WR David Tyree (Out)
DAL Injuries: LB Kevin Burnett (Questionable), LB Greg Ellis (Out), DB Terence Newman (Questionable)

Buffalo Bills Rushing Offense vs Denver Broncos Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Marshawn Lynch comes into the league playing for a team that averaged 3.7 yards per attempt rushing the ball during 2006 (28th in the NFL, with 420/1552/9 rushing as a team). While it's true Buffalo made moves during the offseason to upgrade the OL, the stark truth is that Tennessee's weak D held them to 28/94/1 during week 3 of the preseason (9/9/0 rushing and 1/3/0 receiving for Lynch, with no carries by veteran Anthony Thomas). "We clearly have to run the ball better," HC Dick Jauron said after the game. "We're definitely concerned. You always want to play better. There are clearly things we need to improve on." We think Lynch will be the primary RB soon enough but it looks like the Bills will go with a RBBC with Thomas and Lynch splitting carries for week 1.

Denver ranked 12th vs. the rush last year, averaging 113.3 yards allowed per game (13 TDs). The Broncos imported Jim Bates during the offseason to become defensive assistant head coach - he's going to run a 4-3 scheme that aims to limit opponents' rushing attacks. Cleveland managed 28/102/1 against Denver during the week 3 preseason game. We'll see if Bates' philosophy improves or degrades the Broncos' rush D soon enough.

The Bills have home-field advantage at their back, but the by-committee approach doesn't make us excited for either Lynch or Thomas. This looks like a tough matchup for whoever totes the rock on Sunday.

Weather: Ralph Wilson Stadium expects a high of 66F with a low of 57F and a 10% chance of rain. That's great football weather - neither team has worries if the forecast holds up.

BUF Injuries: none
DEN Injuries: DL Tim Crowder (Questionable), DB Karl Paymah (Questionable)

Chicago Bears Rushing Offense at San Diego Chargers Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Thomas Jones is out (a New York Jet now), and Cedric Benson is the featured back in Chicago. So far, Benson hasn't been very impressive, posting 19/33/1 rushing (1/2/0 receiving) vs. the undistinguished San Francisco D during week 3 of the preseason. We'll see how Benson progresses once the games count, but right now it is hard to be too excited about his chances.

San Diego was 7th in the NFL last year averaging 100.8 rushing yards allowed per game (with 13 rushing scores given away). However, the team was raided of defensive coaches this past offseason, with Wade Phillips, Greg Manusky and Brian Stewart all departing for new jobs - the current staff is headed by Ted Cottrell. Arizona could only post 21/64/2 rushing during week 3 of the preseason (a 3.0 yards-per-carry average) but the 2 rushing TDs are not what the Chargers wanted to see. The jury is out when it comes to the Chargers' rushing defense.

San Diego was tough against the run last year and we think they'll clamp down again now that the games count. This is a tough matchup for Benson and company.

Weather: The forecast for Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego calls for typically beautiful southern California with high of 75F and a low of 64F with a 20% chance for rain. Opening day should be great - weather doesn't look like an issue for either team.

CHI Injuries: WR Muhsin Muhammad (Probable), TE Greg Olsen (Doubtful)
SD Injuries: none

New York Jets Rushing Offense vs New England Patriots Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Thomas Jones has been fighting through a calf injury during the final weeks of preseason, but it appears that he'll be ready to go on opening day. On September 5th, Jones confirmed his readiness to start in the season opener according to the New York Daily News: Jones said he feels "a lot better," and he expects to practice Wednesday and Thursday and to "see how it goes" in the game. If Jones can't finish the game, the Jets will call on backup Leon Washington (151/650/4 rushing and 25/270/0 receiving last year for the Jets). Washington posted 7/6/0 rushing and 3/86/1 receiving during the preseason week 3 showdown with the New York Giants.

The Patriots were 5th in the NFL last year allowing an average of 94.2 rushing yards per game (11 rushing TDs given up). They limited Carolina to 18/57/0 during their week 3 preseason contest (the "tune-up" game for regular season when the starters stay on the field the longest during preseason) - it looks like the Pats are staying on track for a top 10 finish again this year even though they'll be without Richard Seymour and Rodney Harrison for this game.

In this divisional grudge match, it looks like the Jets' backs have a some tough customers to handle September 9th - advantage, New England.

Weather: The Meadowlands expects a high of 71F with a low of 65F and a 10% chance of rain on opening weekend. It should be a great day to play some tackle football.

NYJ Injuries: QB Chad Pennington (Probable), RB Stacy Tutt (Probable), RB Thomas Jones (Questionable), WR Chansi Stuckey (Probable)
NE Injuries: DL Mike Wright (Questionable), DB Rashad Baker (Questionable)

San Diego Chargers Rushing Offense vs Chicago Bears Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

LaDainian Tomlinson doesn't play during preseason. He posted 348/1815/28 rushing and 56/508/3 receiving to blow away the competition at running back in fantasy circles (and real NFL circles) last year. If Tomlinson is on your fantasy squad, you spent pick 1.01 on him. Play him all year, in rain, in snow, against Jacksonville in week 11 and against the Ravens week 12. Just start him (as if you needed this advice).

Chicago's Brian Urlacher and company may beg to differ with the above opinion. The Bears averaged 99.4 rushing yards allowed per game last year (6th in the NFL) and only allowed 7 rushing TDs (tied for 2nd-least in the NFL). San Francisco (without Frank Gore due to his broken hand) posted a mere 24/67/1 rushing during week 3 of the preseason. The Bears' defensive front is no joke.

This is a tough matchup for Tomlinson, but he is still a must-start player regardless of the opposing defense.

SD Injuries: RB Michael Turner (Probable), WR Eric Parker (Out)
CHI Injuries: none

Washington Redskins Rushing Offense vs Miami Dolphins Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Will Clinton Portis be effective this week or not? That's the big question. On September 3rd, coach Gibbs indicated that Portis would start on Sunday, September 9th, but that Betts would also see significant action: "He'll start off and he and Ladell [Betts] will take the load." That's as clear as mud... Anyway, as of Wednesday we think that Portis and Betts will pretty much split the carries between the two of them - it's another running back by committee, folks. Neither guy looks like a lock for 100+ yards (combined).

The Dolphins were 8th vs. the rush last year (allowing 101.1 yards per game) and tied for 2nd with only 7 rushing TDs given up over 16 games. This team has a hard-nosed defensive front. Tampa Bay did manage to post 28/133 vs Miami during week 3 of the preseason, but they did not score a rushing TD. It looks like the Dolphins' D is back for more of the same during 2007.

Washington has a tough matchup here, despite their home-field advantage.

Weather: FedEx Field expects a high of 79F and a low of 66F with a 10% chance of rain - neither team should have problems in those conditions.

WAS Injuries: RB Clinton Portis (Probable), TE Cody Boyd (Out)
MIA Injuries: DL Keith Traylor (Probable), LB Derrick Pope (Probable), LB Joey Porter (Probable), DB Andre' Goodman (Out)

Atlanta Falcons Rushing Offense at Minnesota Vikings Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

Last year, the Falcons led the NFL in rushing yards, yards per carry, and rushing attempts. The bad news for the Falcons' rushing attack is that Michael Vick is out of the equation. It's a new era for the Falcons, and due to the nagging back injury/corrective surgery to Warrick Dunn (which kept him out of most of the pre-season action), the picture at RB is unsettled entering week 1. Dunn played briefly against the Bengals during week 3 of the preseason schedule, but only managed 6/8/0 rushing before exiting the game. Jerious Norwood had a better showing, with 9/25/0 rushing and 2/17/1 during his time on the field. Dunn did not appear in the preseason finale, while Norwood threw down 7/11/0 rushing and 3/29/1 against the tough Baltimore defense.

Minnesota was very tough against the run last year (1st in the NFL averaging 61.6 rushing yards allowed per game, with only 9 rushing scores given up), and they look stout again this year. They gave up 23/75/1 rushing to the Seahawks during week 3 of preseason. The defensive front of Pat Williams, Kevin Williams and Kenechi Udeze is a veteran unit and figures to cause problems for opponents all season long.

This looks like a bad match up for the in-transition Falcons.

Weather: Inside the MetroDome, weather won't be a factor.

ATL Injuries: none
MIN Injuries: DL Darrion Scott (Probable), LB Vinny Ciurciu (Probable), LB E.J. Henderson (Probable), DB Tank Williams (Probable), DB Michael Doss (Out)

Cincinnati Bengals Rushing Offense vs Baltimore Ravens Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

The Bengals drafted Kenny Irons to spell/compete with Rudi Johnson for playing time (but Irons was injured during preseason and will miss this year). Chris Perry is on the injured list again (PUP), leaving Johnson and Kenny Watson to handle the ball carrying duties - it's not an ideal situation from a real world NFL standpoint, but it is almost ideal from the fantasy perspective - Johnson is the featured back in this attack, and will once again shoulder a huge load for the Bengals. Last year, that meant 341/1309/12 rushing and 23/124/0 receiving.

However, it is not easy to move the ball against the Ravens' defensive front. They were #1 in the NFL last year in rushing TDs allowed (a mere 5) and 2nd in yards allowed (1214) and yards per carry allowed (3.31). That's a hard-nosed defense, folks. Washington eked out 13/32/0 rushing during their week 3 preseason tilt vs. Baltimore - enough said.

We like Rudi Johnson and he's still a starter for many teams but this is a bad matchup for the Bengals. To make your final roster decisions, check our cheat sheets.

CIN Injuries: WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Probable), WR Ethan Kilmer (Out)
BAL Injuries: DL Gary Stills (Probable), DL Trevor Pryce (Questionable), LB Antwan Barnes (Questionable), DB Samari Rolle (Probable)

Cleveland Browns Rushing Offense vs Pittsburgh Steelers Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

Jamal Lewis relocated to Cleveland after several tough seasons in Baltimore. He joined a team that averaged 3.59 yards per carry last year, and was 31st in the NFL with 1335 yards rushing total. During the week 3 preseason game vs. Denver, Lewis managed 15/46/1 rushing (a 3.1 yards-per-carry average with a long run of 9 yards) and 2/30/0 receiving. We'll see if Lewis can better his season totals of 314/1132/9 rushing and 18/115/0 receiving from last year, but it looks like he is in for a tough season given what we've seen so far.

Pittsburgh was 3rd in the NFL last year, allowing an average of 88.3 rushing yards per game. OLB Joey Porter departed for Miami in the offseason, a loss for the unit, and they are still working through the transition - James Harrison has Porter's spot now. The Steelers allowed 30/125/0 to the Eagles' stable during week 3 of the preseason - they were not up to their usual standards.

Lewis has changed his uniform, and the Cleveland line has improved from 2006, but it isn't much better than the Ravens unit he left behind. This looks like a bad matchup for the Browns' backs.

Weather: The forecast for Cleveland Browns Stadium calls for a high of 64F and a low of 60F with a 10% chance for rain. Weather won't be an issue for either team in those conditions.

CLE Injuries: RB Lawrence Vickers (Probable)
PIT Injuries: LB Marquis Cooper (Out)

Tennessee Titans Rushing Offense at Jacksonville Jaguars Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

The situation in Tennessee's backfield is muddled - LenDale White started off slowly showing up out of shape to OTAs and then getting injured early during training camp. Chris Brown was resigned as insurance after White underwhelmed the coaching staff - heading into week 1, it looks like White will get more of the work than Brown (15 carries for 50ish yards and maybe a TD for White, 8 carries for 30ish yards for Brown) - obviously, neither guy excites us too much in the season opener.

The Jaguars sport the 4th best rush D in the NFL, averaging 91.3 rush yards allowed per game last year, with 14 rushing scores given up over 16 games. With Marcus Stroud and John Henderson in the middle, surrounded by Reggie Hayward and Bobby McCray, it is just tough to move the ball on the ground vs. this team. Green Bay managed 25/84/1 against Jacksonville during their preseason week 3 tilt - just slightly below the Jaguars' stellar average from 2006.

This is a bad matchup for the Titans' backs.

TEN Injuries: RB Casey Cramer (Doubtful)
JAX Injuries: DL Reggie Hayward (Probable), DL John Henderson (Probable), DL Brent Hawkins (Probable), DL Tony McDaniel (Out), LB Kenneth Pettway (Out), LB Clint Ingram (Out)