Week: PRE-1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-P1-P2-P3-P4

MyFBG Support

Week 2 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.

Baltimore Ravens Rushing Offense at Houston Texans Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

Willis McGahee suited up but couldn't play vs. Cincinnati (the team wanted to let him get closer to 100% healthy), so youngsters Le'Ron McClain (19/86/0 rushing with 2/24/0 receiving) and Ray Rice (22/64/0 rushing with 3/19/0 receiving) got their chance to shine during week 1. Rice was workmanlike in his chances, while McClain added some sizzle to the attack in his time on the field. With rookie Joe Flacco guiding the offense, look for McClain and Rice to see a lot of carries whether or not McGahee can play (obviously, they'll see more if he's sidelined, but last week the team rushed the ball 46 times so McGahee could see 25ish carries and still leave around 10 each for the younger guys). The team averaged 5.0 yards per carry vs. Cincy (46/229/2 - Joe Flacco and Mark Clayton scored the TDs, Clayton on a 42 yard double-reverse).

The Texans ranked 19th in rushing yards allowed per game last season (114.1 on average), and were 25th in the league with 15 TDs given up. Dallas posted 27/111/1 rushing against Houston in the 3rd preseason game, which was a walk in the park for the Texans compared to what Pittsburgh had in store for them during week 1 of the regular season. Pittsburgh ran over Houston last week amassing 39/183/3 on the ground. Houston didn't have any answers in this phase of the game last week, folks.

The Ravens have a great matchup ahead of them against the embarrassed Texans.

Weather: The forecast for Reliant Stadium calls for a high of 83F with a low of 67F and a 60% chance for rain. If the weather is stormy, the retractable roof will be closed - weather shouldn't play a big role in this contest.

The official NFL injury report with Probable, Questionable, Doubtful and Out designations will be available by Saturday. Please refer to the week 2 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Green Bay Packers Rushing Offense at Detroit Lions Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

Ryan Grant had no problems playing through his tweaked hamstring, and gained 12/92/0 rushing vs. Minnesota (a 7.7 per carry average) - quite a feat considering that the Vikings were #1 vs. opposing rushers during 2007, allowing an average of 74.1 rushing yards per game. The Packers almost doubled that mark, with 27/139/1 as a team. Aaron Rodgers used his legs for some nice gainers and a score (8/35/1) - only Brandon Jackson struggled, with 7/12/0 rushing (3/18/0 receiving). However, the reason for Jackson's woes may be related to a concussion he sustained at some point: "Brandon Jackson showed up today and was having some trouble yesterday. I would classify it as minor. Hopefully he'll work out [Thursday] and complete the test that's in place for concussions. That was a little bit of a surprise to all of us this morning." commented coach Mike McCarthy on Wednesday. Detroit's rush defense was embarrassingly bad during week 1 of the regular season. They gave up every kind of run a team can allow (long TD runs, one of 66 yards by Michael Turner; short TD runs, one of 5 yards by Michael Turner; a medium-length TD run, one of 10 yards by Jerious Norwood) - in the end, they handed over 42/315/3 rushing (a 7.6 yards allowed per attempt average). The defense was nuked by Atlanta so badly that they are still glowing at mid-week.

This is a great matchup for Ryan Grant and his fantasy clubs.

Weather: Inside Ford Field the weather won't affect either team.

Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Offense vs Oakland Raiders Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

No matter who is running the ball, the Chiefs have scored at least 3 rushing TDs vs. Oakland in every season since 2005. Last year, Larry Johnson rushed for 24/112/1 and caught 6/21/0 vs. Oakland, while Kolby Smith posted 31/150/2 vs. the Raiders. Johnson didn't set the world on fire vs. the Patriots' tough front 7 last week (22/74/0 rushing with 1/12/0 receiving), but he didn't embarrass himself, either. Jamaal Charles was adequate in a change-of-pace role when it came to rushing the ball (blocking was another matter), posting 5/28/0.

The Raiders were, well, Raider-like vs. the Broncos, looking like the spitting image of their former 2007 selves (and that's a bad thing). Back then, they averaged 145.9 rushing yards allowed per game, with a league-worst 24 rushing TDs handed over. This past Monday, they coughed up 34/142/3 to their rivals, on a pace to shatter last year's league-worst mark in rushing TDs allowed.

This is a great matchup for Johnson and his fantasy franchise owners.

Weather: Arrowhead Stadium expects a high of 66F with a low of 55F and a 30% chance of rain. If the sky opens up at game time, footing and ball handling will become trickier than usual for both teams.

New Orleans Saints Rushing Offense at Washington Redskins Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

The New Orleans' stable seems to have been rearranged for 2008 - Reggie Bush is still the starter and lead back, but Pierre Thomas has emerged as the "between the tackles" back - a role that used to belong to Deuce McAllister. Thomas led the team in rushing yards (10/52/0) last week and also had the best yards-per-carry average (5.2). Bush had more chances last week, with 14/51/0, but didn't do as much on a per-carry basis. However, as a pass receiver Bush exploded for 8/112/1 on 9 targets, while Thomas gained 2/11/0 as a pass catcher. As a team, the Saints ran for 27/101/0, a 3.7 yards-per-carry average.

The Redskins were bowled over by Carolina in the 3rd preseason game (the Panthers gained 32/228/2 on the ground), and the bad play by Washington's defensive front continued into regular season as the Giants hit them for 32/154/1 in week 1. Right now, the Redskins' rush D is among the league's worst.

This is a great matchup for Bush and Thomas.

Weather: FedEx Field expects a high of 80F with a low of 66F on Sunday, and a 50% chance of rain is forecast. If the rain comes down thickly at game time, footing and ball handling will be trickier than usual for both teams.

New York Giants Rushing Offense at St. Louis Rams Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

The Giants' backs had a solid outing in game 1 of the season, with 32/154/1 ground out as a team - Brandon Jacobs led the way with 21/116/0, while Derrick Ward helped out with 9/39/0 (Eli Manning garnered the TD with 2/-1/1 during the game). With a 4.8 yards-per-carry average (5.5 per tote for Jacobs), it is clear the big guys up front have come to play during 2008.

The Rams were destroyed 38-3 by Philadelphia last week, allowing 32/108/2 to the opposition on the ground. The Rams' rushing D was not impressive last year either, ranking 20th in the NFL last year allowing an average of 115.3 yards per contest. They handed over 16 rushing scores last year (tied for 27th in the NFL) - it looks like they'll be even easier to score on this year if last week is any indication.

This is a great matchup for the Giants' tandem of Jacobs and Ward.

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

Oakland Raiders Rushing Offense at Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

The Raiders' rushing attack was a lone bright spot during the 41-14 drubbing they endured at the hands of Denver. Justin Fargas was solid as the lead back of the committee, with 18/97/0 rushing, while Darren McFadden gained 9/46/0 in his time on the field. Both added reception yardage to their contributions (1/11/0 for McFadden, 2/12/0 for Fargas). So far, this plan is working out for Oakland (even if it is the only one going well).

Kansas City, who averaged 130.8 rushing yards allowed per game during 2007, with 11 TDs given up (tied for 12th in the NFL), handed over 28/126/1 to New England, a 4.5 yards allowed per carry average, in the season opener. This despite the Patriots losing Tom Brady early in the game and going with his backup, Matt Cassel. It looks like more of the same is in store for Chiefs' fans during 2008.

The Raiders can run the ball. K.C. can't do much to stop that - advantage, Oakland.

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

Worries of Willie Parker's demotion in favor of Rashard Mendenhall were vastly overblown, it appears. Parker rushed for 5.5 yards per carry on Sunday, cramming 25/138/3 down the Texans' throats, while Mendenhall averaged 2.8 yards per carry in mop-up duty late in the game (10/28/0). Parker went into the game determined to prove he should be the teams' goal-line back, and with scores of 7, 13 and 4 yards he proved that last year's 2 rushing TDs were a fluke. It looks like Parker is all the way back from his broken leg, folks.

The Browns' rush D was at the bottom of the league last year, ranking 27th in the NFL allowing an average of 129.5 yards per game. However, they were stubborn at the goal-line, with only 8 rushing scores handed over (6th in the league). During week 3 of the preseason, Detroit took advantage of the Browns' soft defensive front to the tune of 30/129/1, which was an ominous sign of things to come in week 1. Dallas exploded all over the Browns on Sunday, posting a whopping 31/167/3 rushing - Shaun Rogers wasn't able to stem the tide for Cleveland, at least not during week 1. In fact, it appears this unit may have regressed from last seasons' low standard - they gave up a lot of TDs in week 1, something they managed not to do in this phase during 2007.

This is a great matchup for the visiting Steelers.

Weather: Cleveland Browns Stadium expects a high of 74F with a low of 63F on Sunday - but there is a 40% chance of rain. If the rain pours down in buckets at game time, footing and ball handling will be larger issues than usual for both teams.

San Diego Chargers Rushing Offense at Denver Broncos Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

Tomlinson played well in the season opener, with 21/97/0 rushing (a 4.6 yards per carry average) and 3/15/0 receiving. It wasn't his most impactful fantasy outing ever thanks to the lack of TDs, but considering it was his first game time of the year, he did well.

The Broncos rush D was not good last year, averaging 142.6 yards allowed per game (30th in the NFL), with 14 rushing scores allowed last season (23rd). Green Bay posted 32/94/2 rushing against this unit during the 3rd preseason game, and then Oakland blasted through the defensive front for 31/150/0 on opening day - it isn't hard to run on these guys.

This is a great matchup for LaDainian Tomlinson and company.

Weather: Mile High Stadium expects a high of 72F with a low of 50F and a 20% chance of rain on Sunday - it should be a great day to play some football up near the Rockies.

Tennessee Titans Rushing Offense at Cincinnati Bengals Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

The Titans' rushing attack took giant strides in week 1, led by rookie Chris Johnson's 15/93/0 rushing (with 3/34/1 receiving). LenDale White added 15/40/1 to the mix on the ground, resulting in a "W" for Tennessee and some nice fantasy points for Johnson and White owners. The team averaged 4.2 yards per carry during the game, with 32/137/1, total.

Cincinnati's rush D was in the middle of the NFL pack last year, averaging 118.3 rushing yards allowed per game (21st in the NFL) with 11 rushing scores surrendered (tied for 12th in the NFL). The Saints stomped the Bengals for 145 rushing yards in the 3rd preseason game, though (29/145/0 - a 5.0 yards per carry average), and that theme continued in week 1 when Baltimore punished Cincy with 46/229/2 rushing during the game. This unit dropped off a cliff last week, folks.

The Titans have a head of steam up while their opponents this week are reeling - advantage, Tennessee.

Weather: Cincinnati's Paul Brown Stadium expects a high temperature of 76F with a low of 62F on Sunday, with a 50% chance for rain. If the storm front dumps a lot of rain on the field at game time, footing and ball handling will become issues for both teams on Sunday.

Arizona Cardinals Rushing Offense vs Miami Dolphins Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Edgerrin James ground out 100 yards rushing on the ground vs. San Francisco (26/100/0) while sidekick Tim Hightower handled the goal-line work (8/13/1) and also hauled in 3/21/0 receiving in his change-of-pace role. James had a sub-par (but not awful) average of 3.6 yards per carry, while Hightower dragged the team average down with his 1.6 yards per carry. Overall, it was an effective-but-not-spectacular opening day for this tandem.

The Dolphins were the league's worst rush D last year, averaging 153.5 yards allowed per game, and they were 30th in the NFL with 18 rushing scores given up last year. Against the Chiefs (during the 3rd exhibition contest), Miami limited Larry Johnson and company to 25/90/0 on the ground and shut the Chiefs out on the scoreboard. The Jets' stable managed 31/112/1 rushing during week 1 (a 3.6 yards allowed per carry average for Miami) - the Dolphins have managed to stem the bleeding in this department in the early going, but they aren't a shut-down type of defense entering week 2.

The Cardinals have a decent attack, while the Dolphins field a suspect-but-improving unit. At home in the desert, we think the Cardinals have an edge.

Weather: The forecast for University of Phoenix Stadium calls for a high of 103F on Sunday (low of 76F that evening) with a 10% chance for rain. In heat that oppressive, it's likely that the retractable roof will be closed. Weather shouldn't play a huge role in this game unless the roof is open, in which case hydration will be of great importance and cramps are likely to afflict both teams.

Atlanta Falcons Rushing Offense at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Michael Turner entirely justified the Falcons' move to add him to the team last week, blasting Detroit for a ridiculous sum of 22/220/2 (a 10.0 yards-per-carry average), while adding a lone reception for 1 yard. Backup/sidekick Jerious Norwood almost gained 100 yards too (14/93/1 rushing, a 6.6 yards-per-carry average, with 2/6/0 receiving) as the Falcons' RB stable laid waste to Detroit. They are the hottest tandem in the NFL entering week 2.

The Buccaneers were in the middle of the league last year in both rushing yards allowed per game (107.9, 17th) and rushing scores allowed (11, tied for 12th). They stonewalled Jacksonville during the 3rd preseason contest, limiting their backs to 26/37/0 during the game (1.4 yards per carry) - the followup last week against New Orleans wasn't so good, though. Reggie Bush and company posted 27/101/0 rushing against the squad, and Bush turned a bunch of short passes into big numbers (8/112/1 receiving). It's fair to say that Tampa is reeling into this game after being exploited for 438 total yards of offense by New Orleans. Compounding the trouble for Tampa is the iffy status of LB Derrick Brooks (hamstring injury) for this game.

The Bucs kept a handle on the Saints' rushing attack last week (they averaged 3.7 yards per carry), but showed a vulnerability to short passing that happens to be a forte of Norwood (he led the team last week in targets (4 for 2/6/0)). This looks like a good matchup for the red-hot Falcons despite the home field crowd in Raymond James Stadium.

Weather: Raymond James Stadium expects a high of 88F on Sunday (with a low around 77F) and a 30% chance of rain. It'll be hot and humid in any case, which means proper hydration will be of prime importance to both teams, and cramps a likely problem for players who don't pay attention to hydration. If the sky opens up at game time, footing and ball handling could be bigger issues than usual for both teams.

Buffalo Bills Rushing Offense at Jacksonville Jaguars Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Buffalo ground out 29/106/ vs. the Seahawks defensive front last week, led by Marshawn Lynch's 18/76/1 rushing (with 3/18/0 receiving). Fred Jackson was also heavily involved last week, with 10/31/0 rushing to his credit - all in all, the RB stable was effective but not spectacular in week 1.

The Jaguars were the 11th ranked rush D in the land last year, averaging 100.3 yards allowed per game. The Jags gave up 12 rushing TDs (tied for 17th) during '07, in the middle of the league's range. Tampa Bay was held to 20/75/0 rushing vs. Jacksonville back in week 3 of preseason - starter Earnest Graham only managed 5/7/0 rushing. However, the Titans were more productive on Sunday, with 32/137/1 to their credit (a 4.3 yards-per-carry average)- Jacksonville's defense stumbled in the season opener, as you can see.

Lynch was solid in his season debut (4.2 yards per carry) and should have Jason Peter back on the OL to run behind this week - which will be a boost. Jacksonville sputtered into the season with a whimper last week - this looks like a good matchup for Lynch and company.

Weather: The forecast for Jacksonville Municipal Stadium calls for a high of 90F with a low of 77F and a 20% chance for rain. In Florida's heat and humidity, proper hydration will be key for both teams, with cramping being a likely problem for players who ignore the hydration issue.

Denver Broncos Rushing Offense vs San Diego Chargers Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Denver destroyed the soft Raiders on Monday Night Football, posting 34/142/3 as a team. The Broncos were led by Andre Hall's 10/61/0 rushing, but the TDs were scored by Selvin Young (7/36/1) and Michael Pittman (7/13/2) - it was a committee effort that didn't decisively anoint a clear-cut starter for week 2.

The Chargers' defense has been impacted by the knee injury to SLB Shawne Merriman, and it showed against the Seahawks during the 3rd preseason game (32/162/0 rushing allowed during the game, with 13/61/0 posted by the starting tandem of Maurice Morris and Julius Jones). Merriman tried to play through his injury in week 1 but was limited in effectiveness and has now been shut down for the year (season ending knee surgery). Also, NT Jamal Williams couldn't play throughout the game last week as he slowly returns from an offseason knee surgery. Carolina exploited the weakened Chargers for 29/142/0 rushing on opening day. Last year, the Chargers were in the middle of the NFL pack averaging 107 rushing yards allowed per game (16th) and they allowed 11 rushing TDs (tied for 12th in the league) - this year, they don't look very strong at all in the early going.

This is a good matchup for the hard-charging Broncos - the San Diego defense is not doing well during 2008.

Weather: Mile High Stadium expects a high of 72F with a low of 50F and a 20% chance of rain on Sunday - it should be a great day to play some football up near the Rockies.

Minnesota Vikings Rushing Offense vs Indianapolis Colts Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Adrian Peterson was, well, Adrian Peterson on Monday Night Football, gashing the Packers for 19/103/1 rushing and 1/11/0 receiving - another week, another 100+ yardage performance. Change of pace runner Chester Taylor posted 9/65/0 rushing and 3/21/0 receiving, helping the team to a 5.7 yards-per-carry average on the night. These guys are the best tandem in football right now.

The Colts' defense failed to rise up vs. Chicago, and went home with a "L" after giving up 39/183/2 to the Bears (23/123/1 for Matt Forte, a 5.3 yards-per-carry average). The entire team looked flat and uninspired for the opener, frankly. Last year, the Colts were in the middle of the NFL range, averaging 106.9 rushing yards allowed per game (15th), with 10 rushing scores allowed (tied for 9th in the NFL). This year, they don't look that good after one contest.

The Vikings have all the cards stacked in their favor - home field advantage and an under performing defense on the way to town. Advantage, Minnesota.

Weather: Inside the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome weather won't be an issue for either team.

San Francisco 49ers Rushing Offense at Seattle Seahawks Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Frank Gore led the 49ers in rushing (14/96/1) and receiving (4/55/0) last week - he's their Mr. Everything entering week 2 of the season. As a team, the 49ers managed 20/108/1 rushing (DeShaun Foster chipped in 4/11/0, and J.T. O'Sullivan gained 2/1/0), but Gore is clearly the engine that is going to make this car go. Whether the car will be a Cadillac or a Yugo by the end of 2008 remains to be seen - but he's going to make his fantasy owners happy during the journey, it appears.

The Seahawks were responsible for allowing 29/106/1 to the Bills last week (a 3.7 yards per carry average) - they did a decent job of containing Marshawn Lynch and company during the contest. That was about par for the course compared to last year's unit - 12th in the NFL averaging 102.8 yards allowed per game, but handing over 16 rushing scores over 16 regular season games (tied for 27th in the NFL). The Seahawks are mediocre rush defenders on their good days.

Gore has his engine revved up entering week 2, while Seattle has serious problems on offense - that may mean a lot of playing time for the 49ers' offensive unit this week. Advantage, San Francisco.

Weather: The forecast for Qwest Field doesn't include rain! The weather service calls for a high of 75F on game day with a low of 58F and a 10% chance of precipitation. Enjoy the rare sunny day, Seahawks fans (if the forecast holds up).

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Offense vs Atlanta Falcons Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Earnest Graham started earning his new contract against the Saints, with a nice 9.1 yards-per-carry average (10/91/0) - he also grabbed 3/27/0 during the game. However, the team had to throw 41 balls last week (vs. 20 rushes) as they had a see-saw battle with the explosive Saints last week, limiting the number of carries Graham handled. Backup/change of pace runner Warrick Dunn also ran the ball well during the game, with 9/54/0 (a 6.0 yards-per-carry average) while adding 1/11/0 receiving to his totals. Overall, the 1-2 Tampa combination got off to a solid start in week 1.

Atlanta's rush D was not strong during 2007, with an average of 127.1 rushing yards allowed per game (26th in the NFL) and 12 rushing scores handed over during 16 games (tied for 17th in the NFL). However, their new coaching staff has brought in a lot of new talent to the mix, and last week they played well limiting the Lions to 21/62/1 rushing during the season opener. So far, so good for Atlanta. We'll see if they can maintain such strong play in the hostile confines of Raymond James Stadium.

Graham and Dunn worked well together in week 1 - against their divisional rivals and at home this week, we think they have a decent matchup to work with.

Indianapolis Colts Rushing Offense at Minnesota Vikings Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

The Colts had a hard time getting their offense on track during week 1 (the loss of C Jeff Saturday and G Ryan Lilja obviously degraded the run blocking) - as a result, Joseph Addai had a poor game (12/44/0 rushing and 1/3/0 receiving) and he was also sidelined due to a hard blow to the head which "rang his bell". Backups Mike Hart (1/7/0) and Dominic Rhodes (2/2/0 rushing and 4/30/0 receiving) didn't mend matters for the Colts, as they sputtered to 15/53/0 rushing on the day.

Minnesota's rush D was overpowering last year (they were 1st in the NFL allowing a mere 74.1 yards per game, with only 7 rushing TDs given up in 16 contests (tied for 3rd)). They looked impressive vs. Pittsburgh in week 3 of the preseason, too, holding starter Willie Parker to 10/18/0 rushing and 2/2/0 receiving during the game - but when the games started to count on Monday, the result was different. Green Bay broke out for 27/139/1 rushing vs. Minnesota, led by Ryan Grant's 12/92/0 effort. The Vikings' defense faltered out of the gates, friends.

The Colts' rushing attack looked poverty-stricken in week 1, while the Vikings' defenders were softer than expected. Both teams are usually better than this - look for a rebound on both sides of the ball in this fairly even matchup.

Weather: Inside the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome weather won't be an issue for either team.

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

With the season-ending injury to Tom Brady forming a back drop this week, look for the Patriots to lean heavily on their well-stocked RB cupboard - last week, Sammy Morris led the team with 10/53/1 rushing and 5/34/0 receiving, while Laurence Maroney posted 10/51/0 and LaMont Jordan chipped in 2/6/0 on the day. It would be no surprise to see another 10-15 carries tacked onto last week's total of 28/126/1 vs. the Jets as the team integrates their new starting QB in his first NFL start.

The Jets ended 2007 ranked as the 29th rush D in the land, averaging 134.8 yards allowed per game. They handed over 14 rushing scores last season (23rd in the NFL) - in short, the defensive front wasn't very good. However, in week 1 they put the brakes on the Miami tandem of Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown, holding the Dolphins to 17/49/0 on the ground. It is a small sample size of only one game, but the early indications are that the Jets have improved in this phase of the game over last year. We'll see how "real" they are after facing the Patriots' talented stable of backs.

The Patriots' offense is making adjustments on the fly, but averaged 4.5 yards per carry last week despite losing Tom Brady early in the game. The Jets appear to be an improved unit, but we'll know more about their field presence after this game. On balance, we think this is a neutral matchup between two teams in transition - neither team likes the other much, so expect a hard-fought contest.

Weather: The Meadowlands expects a high of 78F on Sunday, with a low of 66F and a 50% chance of rain. If the winds are gusty and the skies open up at game time, footing and ball handling could be more problematic than usual for both teams.

Washington Redskins Rushing Offense vs New Orleans Saints Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Washington's Clinton Portis was adequate but not spectacular vs. New York in the season opener, posting 23/84/0 on the day (Portis handled all but 1 of the carries, with 1/0/0 going into Ladell Bett's column). Jason Campbell had trouble generating much in the passing game and that allowed the Giants to zero in on Portis and keep him boxed in - a game plan you can bet the Saints are studying closely this week in preparation for the matchup. "A team held us to three and out for over half the game," commented Clinton Portis after the loss. "We have to be better than that."

Speaking of the Saints, they had trouble keeping a lid on Tampa Bay's backs, handing over 20/146/0 to the squad (a 7.3 yards-per-carry average). They averaged 102.9 yards allowed per game last year (tied for 13th in the NFL) while handing over 7 rushing scores over 16 games (tied for 3rd in the league with New England and Minnesota). Though Tampa didn't score last week, there are clearly some issues that the Saints need to address before this game - 146 rushing yards is not a good effort.

Portis had trouble finding room to roam while the short passing game of Washington sputtered - New Orleans stumbled in the opener vs. Tampa Bay. That sounds about even to us.

Carolina Panthers Rushing Offense vs Chicago Bears Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

The Panthers ground out 29/142/0 vs. the Chargers' middle-of-the-pack defense last week, headlined by DeAngelo Williams' 18/86/0 rushing (1/4/0 receiving). Rookie Jonathan Stewart contributed 10/53/0 rushing to the mix, helping the team to average 4.9 yards per carry on Sunday. The Panthers' rushing attack looked as good as advertised in week 1, folks. This is an impressive unit.

The Bear's once-feared D faltered last year and ended up in the bottom of the league vs. opposing running backs, allowing an average of 122.9 yards per game (24th in the NFL). They also handed over 17 rushing scores last year (29th in the NFL). However, in week 1 Indianapolis ran into a different unit, one that held Joseph Addai and company to 15/53/0 on the ground (Indy attempted 49 passes). It appears the Bears have recovered their 2006 form, at least through one game. We'll see how well they hold up against the Panthers' potent new tandem on Sunday.

The Bears have bounced back to top form if week 1 is any indication, but the Panthers are bringing the heat in this phase of the game. At home in Bank of America Stadium, we think the Panthers will have a tough matchup against the resurgent Bears.

Weather: Bank of America Stadium expects a high of 88F with a low of 70F on Sunday, and forecasters are calling for a 30% chance of precipitation. If the weather is stormy at game time, footing and ball handling will become larger-than-usual issues for both teams.

Chicago Bears Rushing Offense at Carolina Panthers Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Matt Forte made the fans quickly forget about Cedric Benson, posting 23/123/1 running behind a surprisingly effective offensive line (he also had 3/18/0 receiving). Kevin Jones spelled Forte at points with 13/45/0 rushing to his credit - the new-look Chicago RB stable is looking good after one game, folks.

The Panther's defense gave up 13 rushing TDs last year (21st in the NFL) and averaged 110.7 rushing yards allowed per game (18th in the league). During the week 3 preseason game vs. Washington, the team limited Clinton Portis and company to 22/79/0 - they followed up by keeping LaDainian Tomlinson and company contained in Qualcomm Stadium in week 1 (San Diego mustered 27/105/0, for a 3.9 yards-per-carry average - Tomlinson had 21/97/0 to his credit). Anytime a team keeps Tomlinson under triple digits in the rushing department, the defense has done a great job.

The Bears' rushing attack looks like they mean business in 2008, while Carolina gutted out a tough win vs. the best running back in the business last week. At the Panthers' stomping ground, this looks like a fairly tough mathcup to us.

Dallas Cowboys Rushing Offense vs Philadelphia Eagles Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Marion Barber exploited the turnstile Browns in week 1, posting 16/80/2 rushing and 3/21/0 receiving before a minor rib injury sidelined him (the Cowboys were far ahead at the time and decided to shut Barber down and get his backups some game time). Barber practiced fully on Wednesday and had no extra protection on his ribs - he appears to be fine. Even the backups gashed Cleveland - Felix Jones posted 9/62/1 rushing and Tashard Choice contributed 5/26/0 on the way to a laugher over Cleveland. The Cowboy's offense is revved up to full speed entering week 2.

The Eagles' rush D was 7th in the NFL last year, averaging 95.8 yards allowed per game, and handed over only 10 rushing TDs in 16 games (they were tied for 9th in that category). New England managed to post 20/65/0 against the Eagles in the 3rd exhibition game, and the Eagles didn't allow a single TD to the Rams in the season opener, while choking off Steven Jackson and the Rams to a mere 15/36/0 rushing during the game. The Eagles are on top of their game entering this divisional showdown.

Two outstanding units clash in this game - in Texas Stadium on Monday Night Football, we think this is a tough matchup for a very good Dallas team.

Weather: Texas Stadium expects a low of 61F on Monday (this game is at night, so the temperatures will be close to the cool end of the scale) with a 40% chance of rain. If the rain comes down thickly at game time, footing and ball handling will be larger issues than usual for both teams on Monday Night Football.

Detroit Lions Rushing Offense vs Green Bay Packers Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Detroit's defense put them in a hole early (down 21-0 after 1 quarter), and the Lions spent the balance of the game chasing the Falcons from behind. Those aren't optimum conditions for a balanced offense with lots of rushes, and thus Kevin Smith posted modest numbers (16/48/1 rushing with 4/32/0 receiving) - he did a decent job with the 20 chances he was afforded (the OL didn't generate much in the way of holes for Smith). Rudi Johnson got his feet wet in his Detroit debut, with 3/14/0 - reportedly, nobody stole his bag from the locker room during the game, which was a nice bonus for Johnson.

The Packers were tied for 13th in the NFL last year in rushing yards allowed per game (102.9) and gave up a mere 6 rushing TDs all year long. They kept Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor contained and only allowed a single rushing TD to Peterson on Monday Night Football (33/187/1), though they gave up several long runs to Peterson. Teams tend to do so when they face the #1 offensive line in football (the team averaged 5.3 yards per carry last year and cranked it up to a ridiculous 5.7 yards per carry on Monday).

The Lions' offense doesn't run the ball particularly well, while the Packers defense is usually pretty hard on opposing rushers not wearing purple and yellow. This looks like a tough matchup for the Lions.

Weather: Inside Ford Field the weather won't affect either team.

Jacksonville Jaguars Rushing Offense vs Buffalo Bills Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

The Jaguars' line lost 2 starters last week (RG Maurice Williams is out for up to 2 months with a torn bicep, and LG Vince Manuwai is on IR with a knee injury) and has been doing without C Brad Meester so far - the high toll of injuries killed the rushing attack last week. Maurice Jones Drew eked out 5/13/0 rushing (4/37/0 receiving) while Fred Taylor could only gut out 9/18/0 rushing with 1/9/0 receiving. Right now, this unit looks awful from a fantasy perspective.

Buffalo limited the Seahawks' RB stable to 21/85/0 on the ground last week. This follows their 3rd exhibition showing of only 32 yards given up to the Colts - in short, the Bills are playing great rush defense this season. Forget last year's mediocre-to-poor rankings - with MLB Paul Posluszny back in the lineup and a new season in front of them the Bills' defenders look impressive entering week 2.

This is a tough matchup for the home team.

Miami Dolphins Rushing Offense at Arizona Cardinals Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Miami's rushing attack got stuffed like a sausage last week, managing only 17/49/0 as a team against a suspect Jets' front seven. Ricky Williams gained a mere 10/24/0, with 4/15/0 receiving, while Ronnie Brown managed 6/23/0 rushing and 3/28/0 receiving - neither guy was a fantasy owners' dream last week, as you can see. The Dolphins' rushing attack is off to a slow start entering week 2.

The Cardinals' rush defense was fairly stout last year, averaging 97.9 rushing yards allowed per game (it was partly due to a weak secondary that encouraged teams to pass, though), while handing over 13 rushing TDs (tied for 21st in the NFL in that category). In the week 3 preseason game vs. Oakland, the Cards limited the Raiders' stable of backs to 19/54/0 on the ground, and appeared headed for a strong beginning to 2008. Frank Gore and company exposed some flaws in the defensive front last week, though, posting a 5.4 yards-per-carry average on the way to 20/108/1 (Gore averaged 6.9 yards per carry in his time on the field). Last week was not a strong showing for the Cardinals' front seven.

The Cardinals were not outstanding in this department last week, but the Dolphins were plain awful. At home in University of Phoenix Stadium, the Cardinals have an advantage over Miami.

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

Thomas Jones rebounded from his disappointing 2007 season to start '08, with 22/101/1 rushing and 3/2/0 receiving during the opener at Miami. Leon Washington could only manage 6/9/0 rushing (2/17/0 receiving), putting a damper on those who expected more of a committee approach from the Jets. Right now, it looks like Jones will get the lions' share of carries for New York.

The Patriots were 10th in the NFL last year, averaging 98.3 rushing yards per game allowed. They handed over only 7 rushing TDs (tied for 3rd in the league) last year - the Pats' defensive front is among the league's best, as you can see. They limited Larry Johnson and company to 27/102/0 in the season opener - right on pace for this stout unit.

Jones had the devils' time with the Patriots last year (23/61/0 rushing, with 3/19/0 receiving), but his new-look OL and lead-blocking FB Tony Richardson helped open up more room for him last week. However, there is no question that this is a tough matchup for Jones.

Philadelphia Eagles Rushing Offense at Dallas Cowboys Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Brian Westbrook had a very solid outing vs. the Rams, posting 19/91/1 rushing and 2/1/1 receiving (backup Tony Hunt also scored, with 2/3/1 to his credit). With Donovan McNabb and Kevin Kolb combining for 414 yards passing and 3 TDs, the Eagles didn't need to lean as heavily on Westbrook as they have in seasons past, but he is far from forgotten in the attack.

Cleveland managed 18/91/0 rushing vs. Dallas last week (a good 5.1 yards-per-carry average for the Browns), but the team still lost 28-10. The Cowboys' rush D was among the league's best last year, allowing an average of 94.6 yards per game (6th in the NFL), while ranking 17th in rushing TDs given up (12) - they remain on their top-10 pace as of week 2 2008, as you can see.

Westbrook is usually effective the Cowboys - he ground out 34/146/1 rushing and 23/153/0 receiving vs. Dallas during 2007 - but the Cowboys won't make it easy for him on Monday Night Football in Texas Stadium. On balance, this looks like a fairly tough matchup between top-shelf units.

Seattle Seahawks Rushing Offense vs San Francisco 49ers Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Seattle absorbed two big blows to their offense last week, and one of those hits damaged their RB rotation. Maurice Morris is out for a few weeks due to a knee injury sustained vs. the Bills, leaving Julius Jones (13/45/0 rushing last week) and Leonard Weaver (2/9/0) as the best 2 remaining options (T.J. Duckett hasn't been in the mix since arriving from Detroit). However, there is worse news - all of Seattle's veteran receivers are down due to injury (Nate Burleson went on IR last week), leaving just Courtney Taylor and Logan Payne to man the WR position as of mid-week. Yikes - Seattle will see a lot of 8 man fronts in this paradigm, folks.

The 49ers averaged 118.5 rushing yards allowed per contest last year, with 9 rushing scores handed over during 16 contests (tied for 7th-least in the league). During week 1, Arizona ground out 39/109/1 against the defensive front, right in line with last year's numbers (although the team only had a 2.8 yards per carry average, starter Edgerrin James managed 3.8 per rush (26/100/0)). This is a respectable, but not elite, unit as of week 2, 2008.

The Seahawks will be juggling personnel and praying that their young WRs surprise in week 2 - this looks like a tough matchup for the RB stable that could only muster 21/85/0 as a unit last week.

Cincinnati Bengals Rushing Offense vs Tennessee Titans Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

Cincinnati was awful vs. Baltimore in both phases of the offense. New starter Chris Perry could only manage 18/37/0 rushing and 1/5/0 receiving, while his backup Kenny Watson eked out 16 total yards on the day. The entire offense looked uncoordinated and lost.

The Titans stomped the Jaguars' running backs in week 1, holding them to 17/33/0 as a unit. Last year, the Titans were a top-5 defensive front vs. opposing rushers, limiting opponents to an average of 92.4 rushing yards per game.

This is an ugly matchup with some hideous on the side for Perry and Watson owners.

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

Jamal Lewis battled through his sore hamstring last week to post 13/62/0 rushing and 1/14/0 receiving vs. the Cowboys - he was very effective in his time on the field, averaging 4.8 yards per carry. After the game, he indicated that his leg felt fine and that he expected to be able to continue to work through his soreness. Derek Anderson added 4/24/0 to the team's rushing total, while Jason Wright eked out 1/5/0 rushing (and didn't catch either of the 2 balls that were thrown his way). Lewis' strong running was the one bright spot for the Cleveland offense last week.

Houston was limited to 20/75/1 by the Steelers last week, which was slightly less than Pittsburgh's defense averaged last year (89.9 rushing yards allowed per game, 3rd in the NFL during 2007). The Steelers were tied for 1st in the NFL last year with only 6 rushing TDs given up - as you can see, they are very stout run defenders.

Lewis struggled to move the ball against the Steelers last season (he managed 27/70/0 rushing and 5/19/0 receiving vs. Pittsburgh) - Pittsburgh looks just as strong again this year. Lewis and company have a bad matchup in store on Sunday.

Houston Texans Rushing Offense vs Baltimore Ravens Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

The Texans' running back by committee was decent in week 1, with 20/75/1 as a unit against the hard-nosed Steelers. Steve Slaton led the way with 13/43/0, while Ahman Green chipped in 5/28/0. Matt Schaub handled the scoring himself, punching in a TD with 2/4/1 rushing. They weren't world-beaters in fantasy terms, but the Texans' backs weren't awful in real-world terms. However, fantasy football is what we care about, and this committee doesn't look inviting from that perspective. In news that will shock no one, Texans' RB Ahman Green is still in a protective boot for his sprained ankle as of Wednesday, and is not expected to be ready in time to play in the team's week 2 game. It looks like the team will activate Darius Walker from the practice squad to back up Steve Slaton and Chris Taylor for the week 2 game.

The Ravens destroyed Cincinnati's offense last week, holding their backs to 23/65/0 on the ground. That showing just continues the usual theme of dominance Baltimore grinds out year after year in this phase of the game - they gave up an average of 79.3 rushing yards per game last year (2nd best in the NFL) with only 9 rushing TDs given up (7th best in the NFL).

This is a bad week to try and experiment with the Texans' RB stable. Stay away.

St. Louis Rams Rushing Offense vs New York Giants Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

Steven Jackson stunk it up in the season opener, being allowed practically no room to run by his injury-riddled offensive line. With 14/40/0 rushing and 3/34/0 receiving to his credit, Jackson checked in at #32 fantasy RB overall last week. Ouch. The worse news is that the passing game has disappeared (see the passing matchup), which will allow teams to key on Jackson in a similar way week in and week out.

The Giants contained Clinton Portis in week 1, limiting him to 23/84/0 on the ground. Last year, the Giants were 8th in the NFL vs. opposing rushers, averaging 97.7 yards allowed per game. They tied for 17th in the league with 12 rushing TDs given up - this year, they are playing at an even better level, which is bad news for opposing running backs.

This is a bad matchup for Jackson and the Rams despite their home dome advantage.

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

Sitemap Advertise With Us Help/Support Privacy Policy

Inside HomeClose

Subscription Services

RSS Feeds

Inside ArticleClose

Reports

Other

ForumsClose