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Week 1 Rushing Matchups

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

Great Matchups: [BAL] [JAX] [MIN] [NE] [NO] [SD]
Good Matchups: [CHI] [CIN] [MIA] [NYJ] [PHI] [SEA] [SF] [STL]
Neutral Matchups: [ARI] [DAL] [DET] [GB] [HOU] [IND] [NYG]
Tough Matchups: [ATL] [BUF] [CAR] [DEN] [OAK] [PIT] [TB] [WAS]
Bad Matchups: [CLE] [KC] [TEN]

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 vs Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

Baltimore's offense averaged almost 150 yards rushing per game during 2008 (148.5) and returns it's top three backs Ray Rice, Willis McGahee and Le'Ron McClain to begin 2009. The big guys up front allowed the team to average a respectable 4.0 yards per carry (tied for 21st in the NFL last season). The team is talking to FB Lorenzo Neal about signing to lead-block for the trio, but that won't come into play for week 1. Right now, we expect to see Ray Rice in the lead role, with Willis McGahee and LeRon McClain sprinkled into the mix liberally. Remember, this is a team that rushed the ball 592 times last year for 2376 yards and 20 TDs - there is plenty of work to go around. Rice posted 10/32/0 rushing and 8/67/0 receiving vs. the Panthers in the third preseason game (McGahee had 6/16/1 rushing and 3/8/0 receiving; McClain gained 2/3/0 rushing and 1/1/0 receiving that day).

The Chiefs' rush D was atrocious last season, averaging 158.9 yards allowed per game on average, with 25 rushing TDs surrendered (the team averaged 27.5 points allowed per game, 29th in the NFL). The new DC Clancy Pendergast joins Haley from Arizona, where Pendergast served as defensive coordinator during 2008 until being fired after the Super Bowl. His defenses in Arizona had been bottom-tier for several years, so it is unclear if his 3-4 front and new scheme will help improve a shaky unit. The team coughed up 38/112/0 to Seattle back in week three of the preseason (a 2.9 yards per carry average), so perhaps this unit is improving. We'll see how they look when a real game plan comes at the Chiefs.

The Ravens have a steam-roller rushing attack, while the Chiefs field a very suspect defense. This looks like a great matchup for the home-team Ravens.

Weather: M and T Bank Stadium expects a high of 80 F on Sunday, with a low of 68 F and a 20% chance of rain. That sounds like great weather for playing and watching football to us.

BAL Injuries: QB Marc Bulger (Probable), WR Anquan Boldin (Questionable)
KC Injuries: CB Brandon Flowers (Questionable)

Jacksonville Jaguars Rushing Offense at Indianapolis Colts Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

The Jaguars tied for 14th in the NFL last year, with an average of 4.2 yards per carry and 110.9 rushing yards per game. This year, Maurice Jones-Drew becomes the featured back (Fred Taylor is a Patriot now), with young Rashad Jennings and FB Greg Jones as his primary backups. The Jaguars will lean heavily on Jones-Drew in the rushing phase of the game. He posted 197/824/12 rushing and 62/565/2 receiving last year and looks up to the task. In limited time against the Eagles in the third exhibition, Jones-Drew gained 5/12/0 rushing and 2/58/0 receiving - he's ready to go.

The Colts were fairly soft against the run last year, averaging 122.9 rushing yards allowed per game (24th in the NFL), with 18 rushing scores given up during the season. However, the team was 7th overall in the NFL in points allowed, with an average of 18.6 given up per game, due to their outstanding pass D. They coughed up 8/50/0 rushing to Kevin Smith, the Lions' starter, in week three of the preseason, and handed over 35/151/0 to the Lions as a whole - with S Bob Sanders out for several weeks, this unit looks like they are going to struggle. New DC Larry Coyer has his work cut out for him this year.

This is a great matchup for Jones-Drew despite playing in front of a hostile crowd.

Weather: At Lucas Oil Stadium, the retractable roof may be closed this week as there is a 40% chance for rain in the Indianapolis area. If it doesn't rain, the high is forecast to be 78 F during the afternoon.

JAX Injuries: TE Zach Miller (Out)
IND Injuries: DT Fili Moala (Questionable), S Bob Sanders (Out), S Jamie Silva (Out)

Minnesota Vikings Rushing Offense at Cleveland Browns Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

The Vikings just missed making the top-5 last season in terms of yards per carry (they were sixth with 4.5 per tote), but they shoved around their opponents for an average of 145.8 yards per game (5th in the NFL last year). There is a reason that Adrian Peterson (363/1760/10 rushing last season, with 21/125/0 receiving) is the near-unanimous #1 pick in most fantasy leagues. As a team, the Vikings rushed for 519/2332/15, with Chester Taylor providing most of the other touches out of the backfield. The Vikings will stick with what works again this year - look for a lot of Adrian Peterson with Chester Taylor providing change-of-pace again during 2009.

The Browns' defense was awful last year, averaging 151.9 rushing yards allowed per game, with 16 rushing TDs handed over during 16 games. They were tied for 16th in the NFL with an average of 21.9 points allowed per game as a unit. Eric Mangini and new DC Rob Ryan will do their utmost to improve on those numbers with a 3-4 defensive front, but they've got their work cut out for them this year. The D got off on the right foot in the third week of preseason, holding Tennessee to 21/83/0 on the ground. We'll see how they look now when the games count.

Peterson and Taylor face a suspect defense in transition in this matchup - advantage Minnesota.

Weather: Cleveland Browns Stadium should see beautiful weather on Sunday, with a high near 78F and a low around 63 F - there is a 20% chance for rain. Weather shouldn't play a big role in deciding this game.

MIN Injuries: WR Bernard Berrian (Questionable), TE Jim Kleinsasser (Probable)
CLE Injuries: DT Shaun Rogers (Questionable), CB Kenny Wright (Questionable)

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

New England's running back corps had injury issues aplenty last season, starting with Laurence Maroney's broken shoulder and extending to knee issues for LaMont Jordan and Sammy Morris - yet despite the rotation of backs that was forced on the team, the Patriots averaged 4.4 yards per carry (7th in the NFL, tied with Atlanta and Washington) and they also averaged a robust 142.4 rushing yards generated per game. This year, it looks like the team will go with a RBBC again, led by Kevin Faulk, free agent import Fred Taylor and Sammy Morris. Maroney is still with the team, but saw a lot of special teams play during preseason - assuming that wasn't a subterfuge by coach Bill Belichick, Maroney is the buried man on the depth chart. We'll see how it turns out week 1. Last year Faulk led the backs in total yardage with 83/507/3 rushing and 58/486/3 receiving, while Sammy Morris led the team in rushing yardage with 156/727/7 rushing and 17/161/0 receiving. With Taylor in the fold now, any way you slice it this looks like a massive RBBC.

The Bill's rush D was 22nd in the NFL last year, averaging 121.6 rushing yards allowed per game, with 18 rushing TDs given up over 16 games (the team handed over an average of 21.4 points per game last year). Pittsburgh was constrained to 38/81/1 by the Bills in the third preseason game, which may bode well for the direction of the unit entering regular season. Unfortunately, their offense looks so anemic that we expect to see the Bills' defenders on the field often during September. This looks like a great matchup for the Patriots' stable of backs.

Weather: Gillette Stadium expects a low temperature near 57F on Monday night, with a 10% chance for rain - it should be a nice, cool evening to play (and watch) pro football.

NE Injuries: none
BUF Injuries: none

New Orleans Saints Rushing Offense vs Detroit Lions Rushing Defense (Great Matchup)

The Saints tied for 21st in the NFL last season, while posting a respectable 4.0 yards per carry - however, the team averaged under 100 yards rushing a game (99.6 - 28th in the NFL). This year, Deuce McAllister is gone and Pierre Thomas (if he can overcome his sore right MCL sprain) will be the lead rusher in the stable. Regarding week 1, however, Thomas stated on Friday, September 4th: 'My main focus is trying to get back for the first game. But if it's not ready, it's not ready. I can't push it.' Thomas estimated his injured knee to be at '65 percent' full strength. Reggie Bush, the dual-threat back, has fought through swelling in his surgically repaired knee and a calf strain during preseason - he claimed on Tuesday, September 1st that he was 100% healthy, but his spotty participation during preseason is a red flag here. Owners of Bush and Thomas will want to scrutinize the official injury report and their practice participation leading up to the season opener vs. Detroit (one of the worst rushing defenses, ever, during 2008, averaging 172.1 yards allowed per game, and coughing up almost two rushing TDs per game last year (31)) at the Superdome on Sunday, September 13th. Mike Bell, the #3 RB in New Orleans, has looked solid during preseason and would have a large role in the event that Thomas misses week 1. Stay tuned to the late-week reports in Footballguys.com's Players In The News feature to get all the latest on Thomas, Bush and Bell.

The Lions' D was the worst in the league at defensing the rush last year, allowing an average of 172.1 yards on the ground, with an astronomical 31 rushing TDs handed over as well. They were also 32nd in the NFL with an average of 32.3 points given up per contest - it wasn't hard to beat the Lions last year. With a new head coach Jim Schwartz and new DC Gunther Cunningham working to reform the defense into a more aggressive, high pressure unit it remains to be seen if the holes in the defensive front have been adequately addressed this year. The Colts only managed 19/50/1 rushing vs. the Lions in the third exhibition game; while the Bills were held to 29/87/0 in the fourth - so far, so good.

With so much uncertainty about the lineup this week, it would be wise of fantasy owners to closely monitor the Saints' practice/injury reports later this week - whoever does get in the game has a great matchup against a suspect (though perhaps improving) Detroit D.

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

NO Injuries: RB Pierre Thomas (Out), TE Jeremy Shockey (Probable)
DET Injuries: none

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

The Chargers' rushing attack ran in the middle of the NFL pack last season, averaging 4.1 yards per carry (18th in the NFL), with an average of 107.9 rushing yards per game. This year, LaDainian Tomlinson (292/1110/11 rushing with 52/426/1 receiving last year over 16 games) is said to have rededicated himself to excellence after suffering from injuries at the tail end of the last two seasons which helped derail the Chargers' playoff hopes. 'I'm feeling good,' Tomlinson said after the second preseason game. 'I'm feeling really good, actually. I haven't had any problems. I'm healthy. Not even sore at all, either. So I'm pretty encouraged by the way I feel.' Tomlinson was held out of the later preseason games to preserve him for the regular season - his sidekick Darren Sproles handled the starting duties in the third preseason game, and both sat out in the finale.

The Raiders' rush D was embarrassing last year, averaging 159.7 yards allowed per game (only the Lions were worse) - and they coughed up 23 TDs during the season. Overall, the team was 24th in the NFL with 24.3 total points handed over per game. The Raiders have allowed a 100-yard rusher in over 50% of their games over the last three years - they just don't seem to have any answers in this phase of the game. New DC John Marshall has his work cut out for him, obviously. The team attempted to trade for Richard Seymour over the Labor Day weekend, but he has yet to report to the Raiders. On Monday, September 7th HC Tom Cable said 'We have attempted to make a deal,' Cable said Monday. 'There are some issues still between him and the Patriots that are being worked out. I'm hoping that that will get resolved as quickly as possible. We know that the player wants to be here, but we have really no control over those issues.' The Raiders were embarrassed by the Saint's backup RBs in the third week of preseason, allowing an astronomical 46/232/3 to the New Orleans' scrubs.

This is a great matchup for Tomlinson and the Chargers.

Weather: McAfeee Coliseum expects a low of 57F on Monday night, with a 0% chance for rain - it should be a great evening to be at the late nightcap game out in Oakland.

SD Injuries: none
OAK Injuries: none

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

The Bears will rely heavily on Matt Forte in the wake of the season-ending injury to his counterpart, Kevin Jones (torn ligament in his left ankle). Forte carried a heavy load last year (316/1238/8 rushing, with 63/477/4 receiving), while playing on a team that ranked 26th in the NFL in yards-per-carry (3.9 per tote on average, with 104.6 rushing yards per game, on average). Forte amassed his 4th-best fantasy back finish as a featured back - he'll be in a similar situation/facing a similar workload again this year thanks to the Jones injury. In the third preseason contest Forte racked up 9/21/1 rushing and 4/11/1 receiving (granted, vs. Denver's anemic D, but two TDs is two TDs).

The Packers' defensive front didn't perform very well last year, with an average of 131.6 rushing yards allowed per game (26th in the NFL) and 20 rushing TDs handed over to the opposition. The first team coughed up 7/46/2 rushing to Chris Wells back in week three of the preseason (22/108/2 as a team), and followed up with 43/174/1 handed over to the Titans' reserves in week four. Obviously, there is still a lot of hard work that needs to be done in Green Bay regarding this phase of the game. New DC Dom Capers intends to address this problem by installing his 3-4 front/defensive scheme in Green Bay, and the team drafted DT B.J. Raji and LB Clay Matthews with that end in mind - unfortunately Matthews has been banged up with a bad hamstring for a lot of training camp and is behind the learning curve - he is getting some playing time at ROLB recently, though.

Chicago comes into hostile Lambeau Field in this matchup, but they still have the edge over the soft Packer rush D.

Weather: Lambeau Field expects some rain on Sunday, with a 40% chance of precipitation for the night game (low of around 52 F). If the rain falls in buckets at game time, footing and ball handling will be larger issues than usual for both teams - this venue can be very windy when the weather is stormy, as well. Owners of Bears and Packers will want to check a shorter-term forecast before setting their lineups this week.

CHI Injuries: WR Devin Aromashodu (Questionable)
GB Injuries: DT B.J. Raji (Questionable), CB William Blackmon (Questionable)

Cincinnati Bengals Rushing Offense vs Denver Broncos Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Cedric Benson resurrected his career last season in Cincinnati, leading the team in rushing with 214 /747/2 rushing and 20/185/0 receiving after taking over for bust Chris Perry. However, the team only averaged 3.6 yards per rush last season (30th in the NFL) while Carson Palmer was sidelined most of the campaign - there is lots of room for improvement on this unit during 2009. So far Benson hasn't been overwhelming in the preseason cameos, with 5/17/0 rushing vs. St. Louis in week three of the preseason - he did bust off a long run vs. the Colts in week four, and ended up with 2/35/0 rushing and 1/9/0 receiving during that game.

Denver's defense was in shambles during 2008, with an average of 146.1 rushing yards allowed per game (27th in the NFL) and a total of 26 rushing TDs coughed up as well. They didn't do much of anything right in this phase of the game last year. Chicago ground out 28/114/2 rushing vs. Denver in week three of the preseason - new DC Mike Nolan has his work cut out for him during 2009.

Benson was steady but not outstanding last year - against the soft Broncos, he has a shot at a nice game to start out 2009. Advantage, Cincinnati.

Weather: Paul Brown Stadium should see a high around 82 F at 1 PM when the game starts - there is a 30% chance for rain, so if the precipitation falls heavily at game time, footing and ball handling could become issues for both teams. Keep your eye on a shorter-term forecast before setting your lineup if you have players in this one.

CIN Injuries: QB Carson Palmer (Probable), RB Cedric Peerman (Doubtful), WR Chris Henry (Probable)
DEN Injuries: DT LeKevin Smith (Out), S Brian Dawkins (Probable)

Miami Dolphins Rushing Offense at Atlanta Falcons Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

The Dolphins were tied for 14th in the NFL last season, averaging a healthy 4.2 yards per carry (118.6 rushing yards per game). Ronnie Brown figures to be the lead back of the Dolphins' committee this year (he's now 2 years removed from reconstructive knee surgery and has ran strongly during preseason - we've only seen glimpses of his game to date (4/12/0 rushing and 2/15/0 receiving vs. the Bucs in the third preseason game; 3/14/0 rushing and 2/8/0 receiving in the fourth), and all reports out of training camp indicated he's more involved in the offense, not less. Ricky Williams has been steadily productive as well and seems ready to reprise his change-of-pace role from 2008.

The Falcons' rush D ranked 25th in the NFL last year, averaging 127.5 yards allowed per game, with 17 rushing TDs surrendered during 16 games - the defensive front was not impressive last season, as you can see. Overall, the defense surrendered an average of 20.3 points per game (11th-best in the NFL). With problems in the secondary, too, the team elected to draft DBs and brought in free agent Mike Peterson to shore up the linebacking corps and also drafted hefty DT Peria Jerry to solidify the middle of the line. So far the results have been mixed - San Diego rushed for 30/118/1 vs. the Falcons in the third preseason 'tune up' game, and the team still needs to work out the kinks with their new personnel.

Brown and Williams form a formidable tandem at the RB position, while the Falcons are in the process of trying to establish a stronger unit - advantage, Miami.

Weather: Inside the Georgia Dome, weather conditions won't affect this contest.

MIA Injuries: none
ATL Injuries: DE John Abraham (Probable), DE Chauncey Davis (Probable), S William Moore (Out)

New York Jets Rushing Offense at Houston Texans Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Although Eric Mangini is out and Rex Ryan is in, the offense, coordinated by Brian Schottenheimer, has essentially remained in place. As Ryan is a defense-minded coach who wants to control the clock (and he has a rookie QB at the helm), look for a heavy dose of Thomas Jones and Leon Washington again during 2009. Shonn Greene, the rookie, hasn't shown us much to date due to a variety of nicks and dings (most recently, he's suffered from a rib injury). Last year, the Jets featured the AFC's leading rusher (Thomas Jones, with 290/1312/13 and 36/207/2 receiving) and averaged 4.7 yards per carry (fifth in the NFL), with a healthy average of 125.3 rushing yards per game generated by the RB stable. Jones scored a TD vs. the Giants in the third preseason game (12/16/1 with 1/7/0 receiving), but Washington was the guy who moved the sticks, with 9/62/0 rushing and 3/7/0 receiving vs. the hard-nosed Giants. Washington gained 76/448/6 rushing and 47/355/2 receiving in the change-of-pace role last year and should at least duplicate that effort in 2009 if the chips fall right for him.

Houston's rush D was 23rd in the NFL last year, averaging 122.6 rushing yards allowed per game (18 rushing TDs given up during the season). The D handed over 24.6 points per game on average, landing at 27th in the league in that category. New DC Frank Bush was promoted from within the organization after Richard Smith was fired, and intends to put more guys in the box and play more man coverage in order to stem the opposing rushers during 2009. That didn't work against the Vikings and Adrian Peterson in week three of preseason (30/180/1 given up to the Vikings), but few defensive schemes stand up to Peterson's talents.

The Jets have proven, effective backs while the Texans are trying to improve but still have evident weaknesses - advantage, New York.

Weather: The forecast for Houston calls for a high of 91 F and a low of 73F with a 40% chance of rain - if it looks stormy at game time, the retractable roof at Reliant Stadium will probably be closed.

NYJ Injuries: QB Kellen Clemens (Probable), RB Shonn Greene (Probable), TE Dustin Keller (Probable)
HOU Injuries: S Eugene Wilson (Out)

Philadelphia Eagles Rushing Offense at Carolina Panthers Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

The Eagles managed to average 4.0 yards rushing per carry (tied for 21st in the league last year), but they didn't impress with 106.1 rushing yards per game (22nd in the NFL) - the team did punch in a respectable 15 rushing TDs during the course of the season. Brian Westbrook had knee and ankle surgery during the offseason, and as a result we haven't seen him in game-situation action during preseason. Rookie LeSean McCoy has played well during preseason in Westbrook's place (he had 11/31/1 rushing and 5/17/0 receiving vs. the Jaguars in week three of the preseason), so much so that the Eagles cut Lorenzo Booker on September 5th. All indications are that Westbrook will suit up and play vs. Carolina in week 1.

The Panthers ran into big trouble with their defensive line on the first day of training camp, when DT Ma'ake Kemoeatu tore an Achilles tendon and went down for the seaason. Then, further misfortune struck on Thursday, September third when third-round pick Corey Irvin suffered a season-ending knee injury (he's now on IR). The center of the Panthers' line is very shaky - they haven't looked at all good during preseason, with 28/118/1 allowed to Baltimore during the regular-season tune-up game in week three of the preseason, and 30/137/1 handed over to the Pittsburgh reserves in week 4 of the preseason. Damione Lewis and Louis Leonard (by way of a trade from Cleveland) will try to man the center along with Nick Hayden - the center of the line is pretty weak entering the first game of the season, folks. MLB Jon Beason was also banged up for most of training camp with a sore knee, but he's expecting to play in the season opener. New DC Ron Meeks has a personnel challenge to overcome in this phase of the game.

Both teams have injury issues entering week 1 - the Panthers have home field advantage, but the weakness in the middle of their defense can't be ignored - advantage, Philly.

Weather: Bank of America Stadium expects a high of 84 F with a low of 67 F and a 30% chance of rain on Sunday afternoon. If the rain comes down thickly, footing and ball handling will be more of a concern than usual for both teams.

PHI Injuries: RB Leonard Weaver (Probable)
CAR Injuries: DT Derek Landri (Probable), S Sherrod Martin (Questionable)

Seattle Seahawks Rushing Offense vs St. Louis Rams Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

Despite a disappointing season a year ago, the Seahawks' rushing attack was respectable, with an average of 4.2 yards per carry and 110.5 rushing yards per game - however, their OL has suffered serious injury woes during the preseason this year. The ambiguous status of LT Walter Jones could negatively impact the new-look rushing attack featuring Edgerrin James, Julius Jones and Justin Forsett (T.J. Duckett was cut recently). Jones appears to be mired in a three-headed RBBC since the arrival of James - we'll see how the team apportions carries in week 1, but right now we're not enthusiastic about starting any of the backs in this committee. If we had to go with one of the backs this week, Jones is highest on our RB board at #25 this week.

St. Louis was one of five teams to allow more than 150 rushing yards per game on average during 2008 (154.7, 29th in the NFL last year), while also coughing up 26 rushing TDs to their opponents. They were 31st in the NFL averaging 29.1 total points allowed per game (only Detroit was worse during 2008). HC Steve Spagnuolo and DC Ken Flajole are expected to turn up the heat with the Rams' blitzing schemes during 2009, but there is a long way to go before the Rams are even average in this phase of the game. The Rams handed over 32/141/1 to the Bengals in the third exhibition game (4.4 yards per game) - as we said, there is a long way to go.

The committee of backs in Seattle devalues this good matchup from a fantasy perspective, but as a team Seattle should do well against the Rams' weak defensive front.

Weather: Qwest Field has only a 10% chance for rain on Sunday (a rarity for Seattle), with a high near 74 F and a low approaching 57 F in the evening. It should be a temperate autumn afternoon which is perfect football weather.

SEA Injuries: WR Deion Branch (Questionable)
STL Injuries: S Craig Dahl (Out)

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

The 49ers rushing attack was adequate last season (4.0 yards per carry, on average, with 99.9 rushing yards per game to their credit), but with only 10 rushing scores they didn't quite live up to fantasy owners' lofty expectations for Frank Gore (240/1036/6 rushing with 43/373/2 receiving last year). This year, the team has added rookie Glen Coffee from Alabama, and he's played well during the preseason, giving the team a decent backup/change of pace option to deploy alongside Gore. With a new focus on rushing the ball with OC Jimmy Raye replacing pass-happy Mike Martz, Gore should see ample opportunities to rack up 25+ touch outings during 2009. Gore had 5/19/0 rushing and 2/8/0 receiving vs. the Cowboys in week 3 of the preseason, while Coffee ran 8/34/0 and caught three balls for 27 yards.

Last year, the Cardinals were 16th vs. the opposing rushers, averaging 110.3 yards per game on the ground. They were 28th in the NFL in points allowed per game (26.6), with 13 rushing TDs surrendered over 16 games. Green Bay had their way with the Cardinals in week 3 of the preseason, rushing for 25/123/1 during the contest - even though the team switched out DC Clancy Pendergast for Bill Davis during the offseason, not a lot appears to have changed in Arizona. We'll see how they do with a real game-plan and preparation this week in the home opener.

Gore has to face a hostile crowd in this matchup, but he's up to the task - advantage, San Francisco.

Weather: University of Phoenix Stadium expects a high of 105 F on Sunday, so with a kickoff set for 4:15 PM it would be no surprise to see the retractable roof closed. There is a 0% chance of rain at this venue.

SF Injuries: RB Brian Westbrook (Probable), TE Tony Curtis (Probable)
ARI Injuries: CB Matt Ware (Probable)

St. Louis Rams Rushing Offense at Seattle Seahawks Rushing Defense (Good Matchup)

The Rams were tied with five other teams for 21st in the NFL last season, averaging 4.0 yards per carry as a team, and they managed just eight rushing scores altogether through 16 games. However, with a new HC in town (Steve Spagnuolo) and a new OC in Pat Shurmur, the team is expected to rely heavily on Steven Jackson while they try to build around him this year and in future years. Jackson had 254/1043/7 rushing with 62 targets for 40/379/1 receiving (in 12 games) last year, and figures to get even more touches this year.

Seattle was in the middle of the NFL pack last year, with an average of 118.7 rushing yards allowed per game and 13 rushing scores handed over during the season. The team averaged a hefty 24.5 total points allowed per game (25th in the NFL). New DC Gus Bradley is expected to stick with a cover-2 defense, but with a more attacking style of defense. K.C. was able to move the ball efficiently against the Seahawks in the week three 'tune-up' game, posting 20/108/0 rushing (a 5.4 yards per carry average). There is plenty of room for improvement in Seattle this year, as you can see.

Jackson is on the road, but he has a suspect defense in front of him which should present opportunities to make good things happen in week 1. Advantage, St. Louis.

STL Injuries: none
SEA Injuries: DE Derek Walker (Doubtful), CB Travis Fisher (Doubtful)

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

Last year, the Cardinals were 31st in the NFL averaging a mere 3.5 yards per rush, although they did score 14 rushing TDs during the season. The poor showing led to Edgerrin James departing the team and rookie Chris Wells joining the squad - Wells missed a large chunk of training camp due to an ankle issue that eventually cleared up (he posted 7/46/2 rushing during the third preseason game after his ankle quit flaring up). Tim Hightower is currently #1 on the depth chart (143/399/10 rushing last year, with 34/237/0 receiving), but if Wells can replicate his effort from the third preseason game against real-live NFL defenses, that could change shortly. For now, they'll be deployed in a RBBC.

The Niners averaged 106.8 rushing yards allowed per game last year (13th in the NFL), with 14 rushing TDs handed over during the season. They were not great, but not horrid, either. The D as a whole averaged 23.8 total points allowed (23rd in the NFL), but they tightened up significantly once coach Singletary took the helm. We expect to see some intense play out of the 49ers this week. During week 3 of the preseason (when the starters play the longest), the 49ers handed over 28/125/1 to the Dallas Cowboys - there is still work that needs to be done in this phase of the game.

Two units in transition meet in this matchup - with the home field advantage at the backs of the NFC Champs, we'll call this pretty even.

ARI Injuries: QB Brian St. Pierre (Questionable), WR Steve Breaston (Probable), WR Early Doucet (Questionable)
SF Injuries: none

Dallas Cowboys Rushing Offense at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

The Cowboys were 10th in the NFL last year averaging 4.3 yards per carry, with an average of 107.7 rushing yards generated per game. This year, they return to the field with a healthy Felix Jones to complement big back Marion Barber, with now-veteran Tashard Choice also in the mix for touches at RB. Head Coach Wade Phillips said on Tuesday the 8th of September, 'Hopefully we'll get a lot of carries with him [Jones] and Marion. I wouldn't be surprised if they were back there together some.' During the week three preseason game, Barber led the trio with 13 carries (for 47 yards), but Choice led the team in rushing with 8/55/0 - Jones posted 5/23/1 rushing in the contest. The Cowboys will employ the RBBC extensively during 2009, with Barber figuring to be the lead back in the trio.

The Bucs slipped into the middle of the NFL pack last season as far as rushing yards allowed per game, landing at 18th in the NFL (average of 118.8 yards per carry). However, they handed over just 8 rushing TDs during Monte Kiffen's swan song season (he's now at the University of Tennessee, with Jim Bates taking over at DC). It'll be interesting to see how the combination of Raheem Morris and Bates works out as the season goes along - the defense is in a retooling mode entering 2009. Miami was held to 25/79/0 in the third exhibition game, so the Bucs are off on the right foot entering regular season - we'll see if the improvement continues.

Dallas is on the road this week and faces a unit with a proud tradition that slid somewhat last year - this looks like a neutral matchup from where we're sitting.

Weather: The forecast for Raymond James Stadium calls for a high of 89 F and a low of 77 F with a 40% chance of rain. In the tropical clime of Florida, rain showers can be quite intense at this time of year - if the rain comes down in sheets at game time or during the game, footing and ball-handling will be more problematic than usual. Owners of Cowboys and Buccaneers will want to check a shorter-term forecast before setting their lineups this week.

DAL Injuries: QB Stephen McGee (Questionable)
TB Injuries: DT Ryan Sims (Probable), DE Kyle Moore (Questionable), CB E.J. Biggers (Out)

Detroit Lions Rushing Offense at New Orleans Saints Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

The Lions' pathetic offense could only muster 83.3 rushing yards per game last season, with an average of 3.8 yards per rush (28th in the NFL). During the season/after the season, the front office and coaching staff were purged, leaving Tennessee's long-time defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz charged with rebuilding the team from scratch. Kevin Smith (238/976/8 rushing and 39/286/0 receiving last season) was productive under adverse circumstances last year and he was already in place when Schwartz arrived to anchor the rushing attack. We'll see if the 2009 version of the team can overcome the stigma of going 0-16 last year. They have won three of the four exhibitions played during August and early September - at least they enter regular season with a little momentum. Smith ran for 8/50/0 and caught 3/33/0 in the third contest vs. Indianapolis and looks rearing to go as of regular season.

The Saints were 17th in the NFL last season averaging 117.8 rushing yards allowed per game, with 14 rushing TDs handed over through 16 contests. Overall, New Orleans was 26th in the NFL averaging 24.6 total points given up per game. They absolutely stomped the Raiders in week 3 of the preseason (45-7) and held Oakland to 11/52/0 on the ground in the lopsided affair. A 4.7 yards-per-carry isn't something to boast about, but limiting any NFL team to under 100 yards rushing is worth noting.

Smith has all the skills to be a top NFL back, but he'll garner a lot of attention as the rookie Matthew Stafford will be under center from the get-go this year. Against the Saints' so-so defense, this looks like a neutral matchup to us.

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

DET Injuries: QB Drew Stanton (Doubtful)
NO Injuries: CB Usama Young (Probable)

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

The Packers rushed for 112.8 rushing yards per game last year, averaging 4.1 yards per carry in the course of the season (11 rushing TDs scored last year). This year, Ryan Grant will have the benefit of a full and focused training camp (he held out the first year he was in the league, and then he suffered a hamstring injury early in his second campaign which limited him for most of 2008 training camp). Reports out of Green Bay indicate that Grant has looked very good during preseason practices and appears to have regained his 'top gear' which should help with his explosiveness (Grant rushed for 312/1203/4 last year and caught 18/116/1). Brandon Jackson (who is currently nursing an injured ankle, and unable to practice) and DeShawn Wynn provide depth on the unit.

The Bears' rush D ranked fifth in the NFL last year, averaging just 93.5 rushing yards allowed per game, but they weren't very stout at the goal line, giving up 16 rushing TDs (and averaging 21.9 points allowed per game as a defensive unit (16th in the NFL)). The Broncos checked in right in line with those parameters in the third preseason game vs. Chicago, rushing for 28/93/2 vs. the Bears. Chicago needs to get tougher at the goal line in this phase of the game.

Grant looks strong entering the regular season, and the Packers enjoy home-field advantage in this matchup - although the Bears can be tough against the run. We're calling this one pretty even.

GB Injuries: QB Matt Flynn (Probable), RB Brandon Jackson (Doubtful)
CHI Injuries: DE Israel Idonije (Probable), CB Charles Tillman (Questionable), S Chris Harris (Questionable)

Houston Texans Rushing Offense vs New York Jets Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

The Texans tied for 10th in the NFL last year averaging 4.3 yards-per-carry, with 16 rushing scores over 16 games played. They were sparked by then-rookie Steve Slaton (268/1282/9 rushing, with 50/377/1 receiving last year) who exploded for a top-5 fantasy finish out of nowhere. This year, Chris Brown is expected to play more of a role as a change-of-pace and short yardage back (if he can stay healthy, that is - he's played in 0 ('08), 12 ('07) and 5 ('06) games over the last three years). During the third exhibition game against the Vikings, the team fed Slaton the ball extensively during his time on the field, and he rewarded their persistence with a rare rushing TD vs. Minnesota (12/27/1 rushing with 3/20/0 receiving for Slation while in the game - Brown had 4/11/0 rushing and 1/5/0 receiving in the same contest).

The Jet's rush D was solid during 2008, with an average of 94.9 yards allowed per game during the year - they handed over just 10 rushing TDs during the year, as well. The defense landed in the middle of the NFL field in terms of total points allowed per game, with 22.3 given up per contest on average (18th in the league). This year, under new HC Rex Ryan and new DC Mike Pettine, the Jets will meld free agent importees LB Bart Scott, S Jim Leonhard and CB Lito Sheppard with the quality talent already on the roster (like OLB Calvin Pace, though he is currently on suspension) to attack, attack, attack the opposition in a style similar to the Baltimore Ravens (from whence Ryan and Pettine came to New York).

Rex Ryan has the personnel and the scheme to make things tough on just about any team - but Houston has a solid attack and home field advantage. On balance, this one looks about even from where we sit.

HOU Injuries: QB Matt Schaub (Probable), WR Kevin Walter (Questionable)
NYJ Injuries: DE Mike DeVito (Questionable)

Indianapolis Colts Rushing Offense vs Jacksonville Jaguars Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

The Colts' rushing attack was worst in the NFL last year averaging just 3.4 yards per carry, with a mere 79.6 rushing yards per game to boast of at the end of the season. Joseph Addai struggled to stay on the field and only managed 155/544/5 rushing and 25/206/2 receiving over 12 games. To address the deficiencies in the rushing attack, the team drafted Donald Brown out of Connecticut in the first round (pick 27) back in April - he will play in a committee with Addai this season and may supplant Addai as the lead back sooner, rather than later. Against the woeful Lions in the preseason tilt week three, Addai managed 7/22/0 rushing with 1/21/0 receiving while Brown posted 5/16/1 rushing and 0 receptions. We'll have a better idea of the workload ratio between these two after week one.

The Jaguars tied for 13th in the NFL last year averaging 106.8 rushing yards allowed per game, with 14 rushing scores handed over during 16 games. Overall, the defense was 21st in the NFL allowing an average of 22.9 points per game. The team imported a new DC this offseason, Mel Tucker, who joins the Jaguars staff from Cleveland, where he served as defensive coordinator last season and coached defensive backs from 2005-2007. Jack Del Rio will have lots of input into the scheme as well - so far, the rush D has responded to the new scheme, with 19/66/1 (a 3.5 yards per carry average) allowed to Philadelphia in the third exhibition and 19/57/1 yielded to Washington in the fourth. The D is off on the right foot entering regular season, anyway.

Addai didn't impress last season, and the Colts' rushing attack hasn't been notable during preseason - meanwhile, the Jaguars look like they are improving in this phase of the game. At Lucas Oil Stadium, this looks like a neutral matchup between divisional rivals.

IND Injuries: none
JAX Injuries: none

New York Giants Rushing Offense vs Washington Redskins Rushing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

The Giant's rushing attack led the league last year, averaging an astounding 5.0 yards per carry, with 19 rushing TDs over 16 games (157.4 rushing yards per game, as well, #1 in the NFL). This year, Danny Ware will try to replace Derrick Ward in the utility back role, but Brandon Jacobs (219/1089/15 rushing last year with 6/36/0 receiving) and and Ahmad Bradshaw (67/355/1 and 5/42/1 receiving) return to enjoy another season behind their fine OL. During the third preseason game, the Giants posted 27/134/0 rushing vs. the Jets, with 8/47/0 (2/5/0 receiving) rushing for Bradshaw, 9/43/0 for Ware and 6/24/0 receiving (1/8/0 receiving) for Jacobs. Jacobs has worked hard to improve his pass-catching abilities during the preseason and hopes to play a bigger role in the passing game this season. With a new-look receiving corps, the team may rely on the backs more than in the past in the passing game.

The Redskins were eighth in the NFL last year, averaging 95.4 rushing yards allowed per game, with 12 rushing TDs handed over during the course of the schedule. The team ended up sixth in points allowed per game, with 18.5 allowed each week on average. This is a quality unit, though they did surrender 24/110/0 rushing to the Patriots during the third preseason contest. The addition of DT Albert Haynesworth during the preseason should increase the unit's prowess.

Two top-notch units clash in this divisional rivalry - home field advantage will help the Giants but this matchup looks pretty even entering week one.

Weather: Giants Stadium expects a high of 79 F with a low of 63 F on Sunday, with a 20% chance for rain - it should be a great day for the Giants and the Redskins to renew their divisional rivalry.

NYG Injuries: none
WAS Injuries: CB Carlos Rogers (Probable), CB Phillip Buchanon (Questionable)

Atlanta Falcons Rushing Offense vs Miami Dolphins Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

The Falcons' RB corps performed well throughout training camp/preseason, with Michael Turner looking to be in mid-season form while Jerious Norwood played well in his change-of-pace role, too. Unfortunately, Norwood suffered a left knee sprain during the third preseason game and was held out of the fourth contest, but he's expected to be ready to play in the opener. Of course, Atlanta's rushing offense during 2008 was outstanding, ranking 7th in the NFL while averaging 4.4 yards per carry, with 23 rushing TDs scored over 16 games. Turner posted 376/1699/17 rushing and 6/41/0 receiving while Norwood contributed 95/489/4 rushing and 36/338/2 receiving to the cause. Expect more of the same from Atlanta's duo this year.

The Dolphins' rush D was top-10 last season, holding their opponents to an average of 101.3 rushing yards per game, and they only allowed 11 rushing TDs during the 16 game regular season - not too shabby. Overall, they were ninth in the NFL averaging 19.8 points allowed per game. In the third preseason game, the Buccaneers managed 26/127/0 rushing vs. the Dolphins (4.9 yards per carry), so there is room for concern entering 2009. New Orleans eked out 23/89/0 against the Dolphins in the fourth preseason game, but none of the Saints top backs appeared in that contest.

Atlanta has an awesome attack and home field advantage, but the Dolphins are tough in this phase of the game. We love the Falcons run game but this is a tough matchup.

Weather: Inside the Georgia Dome, weather conditions won't affect this contest.

ATL Injuries: RB Jerious Norwood (Probable)
MIA Injuries: CB Vontae Davis (Probable)

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

The Bills were tied for 14th in the NFL last year. averaging 4.2 yards per carry and they also punched in 16 rushing TDs over 16 games. Unfortunately, the offense has been in turmoil throughout the preseason, though, to the extreme extent that their offensive coordinator, Turk Schonert, was fired on Friday, September fourth. Former QB coach Alex Van Pelt is the team's new offensive coordinator - the offense has been anemic and unimpressive so far. We'll see if Van Pelt can generate some positive momentum. While Marshawn Lynch serves his suspension, the team will rely on Fred Jackson (assuming his sore thumb and wrist are up to the task) and Xavier Omon - Dominic Rhodes was cut in the purge down to 53 players last weekend. There really isn't a lot of reason to be excited about the Bills' rushing attack entering week 1, folks. They were blanked by Pittsburgh in the third preseason game (13/49/0 rushing as a team, with 3/3/0 rushing and 1/4/0 receiving by Omon - Jackson didn't play).

The Patriots were 15th in the NFL last season, averaging 107.6 rushing yards allowed per game, with only 8 rushing scores given up during the 16 game season (they tied for 4th in the NFL in this category). Overall, the Patriots were 8th in the NFL allowing only 19.3 points per game during the season, on average. New England's defense hasn't shone in the preseason this year, though, with 31/116/2 handed over to the Redskins in the third exhibition and 25/118/0 put up by the Giants in the fourth. They have also inexplicably traded DE Richard Seymour to Oakland although Seymour is refusing to report for the physical until he gets a long-term deal on the table. But he won't be playing for New England in week 1, that's for sure.

The Bills' offense looks like it is in a world of hurt, while the Patriots enjoy home field advantage. We give the nod to the Patriots in this one.

Weather: Gillette Stadium expects a low temperature near 57F on Monday night, with a 10% chance for rain - it should be a nice, cool evening to play (and watch) pro football.

BUF Injuries: none
NE Injuries: none

Carolina Panthers Rushing Offense vs Philadelphia Eagles Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Carolina's rushing attack was superb during 2008, averaging 152.3 rushing yards per game, with an astronomical 4.8 yards-per-carry average. The dynamic duo of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart also punched in an amazing 30 rushing TDs last year. However, Stewart has suffered from an Achilles tendon injury throughout preseason and rarely practiced (he never appeared in a preseason game), while newcomer Mike Goodson has staked his claim to a change-of-pace role with solid play throughout preseason. DeAngelo Williams has looked very strong in his preseason appearances, but unfortunately tweaked a knee and had to miss the third preseason contest - all the backs are expected to be ready for the season opener, though.

The Eagles were stout vs. opposing rushers last year, averaging 92.3 rushing yards allowed per game (4th in the NFL), with only 7 rushing TDs handed over during the season. They were also fourth in the NFL averaging just 18.1 points allowed per game - the Eagles were tough to face last year. Unfortunately, the NFL lost one of it's premier defensive coordinators over the summer when Jim Johnson lost his fight with cancer. However, according to Footballguy and Eagles fanatic Jason Wood 'Sean McDermott will take over the job, and if things go according to plan, nothing will change. McDermott has been groomed as Johnson's replacement and was going to have a heavy hand in running the defense this year anyway. Despite being only 35, McDermott was one of the longest-tenured assistant coaches in Philadelphia, and he has experience coaching both the secondary and the linebackers.' Results during the preseason have been high-scoring affairs, with Philly defeating Jacksonville 33-32 in the third 'tune-up for regular season' game (with only 27/64/0 rushing put up by the Jaguars) and then a 38-27 loss to the Jets (Philly's backup D crumbled vs. the Jets, handing over 25/191/2 rushing to the New York team). When the starters have played, though, the Eagles have looked solid in this phase of the game for the most part.

The Panthers have a top-tier attack and home field advantage, but the Eagles bring a top-ranked D to the dance. We love Carolina but this is going to be a tough matchup for them.

CAR Injuries: WR Wallace Wright (Probable)
PHI Injuries: DT Mike Patterson (Probable), CB Dimitri Patterson (Probable)

Denver Broncos Rushing Offense at Cincinnati Bengals Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Denver had a nightmare season at the RB position last year. with a rash of injuries that landed six players on IR - during the nightmare, the team averaged an astounding 4.8 yards per carry despite the carnage, with an average of 116.4 rushing yards per game generated. This year, after replacing Mike Shanahan with Josh McDaniels, the team drafted Knowshon Moreno to anchor their new RB corps, but unfortunately he missed a lot of training camp/preseason due to a MCL sprain. Moreno is 'getting better every day, doing everything he can do to be ready to go' during Week 1. 'He is not totally there yet, but he is getting better every day. Hopefully we will have him ready to go on Sunday,' McDaniels said on Tuesday, September 8th. Right now, it looks like the team will go RBBC with Moreno, Correll Buckhalter, Peyton Hillis and LaMont Jordan all potentially in the mix (Jordan is also nursing a sore knee as of the first week of regular season). The offense is in transition among the coaching staff, at QB, and is in flux in the running back stable entering 2009. It could be a bumpy first few weeks as the team settles in under the new regime.

The Bengals' rush D was sub-par during 2008, averaging 120.1 rushing yards allowed per game (21st in the NFL), with 15 rushing TDs handed over during the season. The defense as a whole was 19th in the league, averaging 22.8 points allowed per game - this is not one of the league's premier units. However, they drafted Ray Maualuga to help shore up the LB position and brought in Tank Johnson from Dallas to help solidify the center of the DL - we'll see if the moves help improve the unit's performance. The Rams ground out 31/102/1 rushing vs. this bunch back in the third preseason game - the Bengals are entering regular season on the right note in this phase of the game, anyway.

The Broncos' RB stable is unsettled, and they are playing on the road this week - the 11th man tilts this one in favor of the home team. Advantage, Cincinnati.

DEN Injuries: QB Kyle Orton (Questionable), RB Knowshon Moreno (Questionable), WR Jabar Gaffney (Questionable)
CIN Injuries: S Roy Williams (Probable)

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

The Raiders were pretty respectable as a rushing team last year, posting a team average of 4.3 yards per carry (10th in the NFL) and 124.2 rushing yards per game - however, at the goal line they struggled, with only 9 rushing TDs to their credit as a team. Oakland figures to start Darren McFadden (who is fully healthy this year and looks like he's regained his explosiveness) as the lead back with a heavy dose of Michael Bush as well - Justin Fargas has struggled with a sore hamstring for much of training camp and didn't practice on Sunday, September 6th - he may be out of the picture this year except as a reserve/veteran depth option.

The Chargers were on the cusp of the top-10 regarding rushing D last year, averaging 102.6 yards allowed per game (11th in the NFL), while handing out just 11 rushing TDs over the course of the season. Overall, the Chargers were 15th in the NFL allowing 21.7 points per game last year. Ron Rivera, who took over the DC duties mid-season last year, is in charge of keeping the San Diego defense solid in this area. Atlanta was limited to 24/88/1 by the Chargers D in week three of preseason, so they seem to be on the right track entering regular season.

The Raiders have some talented young backs, but they face a stout defensive front this week - advantage, San Diego.

Weather: McAfeee Coliseum expects a low of 57F on Monday night, with a 0% chance for rain - it should be a great evening to be at the late nightcap game out in Oakland.

OAK Injuries: WR Yamon Figurs (Questionable), WR Chaz Schilens (Out)
SD Injuries: none

Pittsburgh Steelers Rushing Offense vs Tennessee Titans Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

The Steeler's rushing attack was not impressive last year (Willie Parker was in and out of the lineup due to injury, and Rashard Mendenhall was lost in preseason due to a broken bone in his shoulder) - they averaged a mere 3.7 yards per carry as a team, and only 105.6 rushing yards per game. However, this year Parker has reclaimed his 'featured back' role (Mendenhall has been mostly pedestrian during training camp and preseason, although he had a strong outing vs. the Bills (48 yards rushing and a TD) on Saturday, August 29th)). Coach Tomlin has made it clear that Parker (210/791/5 rushing with 3/13/0 receiving over 11 games played) will be the team's lead back during 2009, with Parker reporting on Monday, September 7th that: 'We got a two-back system now, so when they call my number I just got to be ready. Coach Tomlin told me 30 carries (per game), but I don't know about that. I've just got to be ready.'

The Titans were sixth in the NFL last year, averaging just 93.9 rushing yards allowed per game, with 12 rushing TDs given up over the season. They were second in the league in points allowed per game, with only 14.6 handed over - this unit is stout in both phases of the game. New DC Chuck Cecil takes over for the departed Jim Schwartz, but isn't expected to make major changes to the successful scheme (he was promoted from within the Titans' organization). The loss of DT Albert Haynesworth to Washington is obviously a blow, but Tony Brown and Jovan Haye are adequate replacements. During the third exhibition game, Tennessee held the Browns to 27/75/0 rushing - the defense enters regular season on the right foot.

The Titans aren't pushovers in this phase of the game, and they will make things tough for Parker and his sidekick Mendenhall.

Weather: The forecast for Thursday night calls for a 50% chance of rain at Heinz Field, with a low approaching 57F. If the precipitation comes down thickly at game time, footing and ball handling will be more difficult than usual - keep an eye on shorter-term forecasts as the game nears if you'll be starting players in this one.

PIT Injuries: QB Dennis Dixon (Probable)
TEN Injuries: CB Ryan Mouton (Questionable)

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Offense vs Dallas Cowboys Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Heading into regular season, the Buccaneers fired their first-year OC Jeff Jagodzinski as first-year HC Raheem Morris struggles to jell his coaching staff. The team has promoted quarterbacks coach Greg Olson to offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach. Also, the return of Cadillac Williams to full health has shaken up the depth chart, with Williams landing at lead back in a 3-headed RBBC heading into week 1, although no-one is sure exactly what the breakdown of carries will be. As you can see, a lot of elements are in flux for the Buccaneers entering week 1 of the regular season. How well Derrick Ward and Earnest Graham can produce fantasy points with Williams in the mix is the concern for many fantasy owners. We think the three headed RBBC is going to knock all three backs out of the top 24 this week.

Dallas' rush D ranked 12th in the NFL last year averaging 106.6 rushing yards allowed per game, and they handed over 11 rushing TDs over the 16 game season. The D was 20th in the NFL averaging 22.8 points given up each game - the unit was mediocre but not horrible. The 49ers sliced up the defensive front for 2 late scores in the third preseason game (both came in the second half), but the starter Frank Gore and his backup Glen Coffee were held out of the end zone.

The Cowboys have a respectable rush D that is stingy at the goal line, while the Buccaneers are juggling personnel and have turmoil among the offensive coaching staff entering the first game of the year - advantage, Dallas.

TB Injuries: TE John Gilmore (Doubtful)
DAL Injuries: DE Curtis Johnson (Out), S Michael Hamlin (Out)

Washington Redskins Rushing Offense at New York Giants Rushing Defense (Tough Matchup)

The Redskins were among the seven-best rushing teams last year, averaging 4.4 yards per carry (tied with the Patriots and the Falcons) - they also averaged a healthy 130.9 rushing yards per game. Clinton Portis shouldered a lot of the load last year, with 342/1487/9 rushing and 28/218/0 receiving, while change-of-pace back Ladell Betts played in 13 games but only managed 61/206/1 and 22/200/0. The team is starting out 2009 saying that Betts will get more touches during the regular season, but they said that last year, too and you can see the results. Portis is the man in this attack. Portis played sparingly in the preseason as the team wished to preserve him for games that count.

Despite numerous injuries on the DL (Osi Umenyiora missed the entire season, for example), the Giants still managed to finish among the top-10 rush D's in the league (95.8 rushing yards allowed per game, ninth in the NFL, with 14 rushing TDs given up over 16 games). Overall, the Giants were 5th in the NFL averaging 18.4 points allowed per game - this is one tough nut to crack if you are an opposing running back, friends. The Jets eked out 29/99/1 vs. the Giants in the third preseason game, but starter Thomas Jones could only rack up 12/16/1 on the ground vs. this defensive front. So far, new DC Bill Sheridan (promoted from within) looks like he is maintaining the high bar set by Steve Spagnuolo.

Portis is a great back, but running the ball in Giants stadium at this defensive front is no easy task. Advantage, New York.

Weather: Giants Stadium expects a high of 79 F with a low of 63 F on Sunday, with a 20% chance for rain - it should be a great day for the Giants and the Redskins to renew their divisional rivalry.

WAS Injuries: none
NYG Injuries: none

Cleveland Browns Rushing Offense vs Minnesota Vikings Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

There were a lot of rumbling that Jamal Lewis (279/1002/4 rushing last year, with 23/178/0 receiving) was going to be cut in the final purge down to 53 players, but it didn't turn out to be what happened - however, rookie James Davis is mounting a serious challenge for playing time here and he could supplant Lewis as the top back in this attack at any time. 'I'm looking forward to seeing him [Lewis] as we go throughout the season,' new head coach Eric Mangini said on Monday. 'I think one thing that happens during any transitional time in the league is that there's always speculation on a lot of different topics.' Jerome Harrison has also played competently during preseason and looks set as the third-down/change-of-pace back. Last year, the Browns averaged 3.9 yards per carry (100.3 rushing yards per game), which landed them at 26th among all NFL teams. During the third preseason game, Lewis posted 10/23/0 rushing and 4/36/0 receiving while Davis led the team in rushing with 5/28/0 and added 4/27/0 receiving. Right now, we think Lewis is still the starter but expect to see Davis get his share of touches, too.

The Vikings field the league's sternest rush D when it comes to yards allowed per game (76.9 on average last year), although they were more porous than three of the other top-5 rushing defenses last season when it came to goal-line situations (10 rushing TDs given up, vs. four allowed by Baltimore, and seven allowed by both Pittsburgh and Philadelphia). The Vikings were 13th in the NFL in terms of total points allowed per game last year, with 20.8 handed over per contest. They choked the Texans in week three of the preseason, holding the team to 23/61/1 on the ground - the Vikings are as stubborn as ever entering regular season.

Anytime you face the Vikings' defensive front, you're in for a long day. Advantage, Minnesota.

CLE Injuries: RB Jerome Harrison (Questionable)
MIN Injuries: none

Kansas City Chiefs Rushing Offense at Baltimore Ravens Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

The Chiefs were actually tied for 2nd in the NFL last season (with Carolina and the Broncos) averaging 4.8 yards per carry rushing (113.1 rushing yards per game). Of course, the team turned over the coaching staff during the off-season and is installing a new attack under HC Todd Haley, but there is no doubt that the big guys up front got the job done for K.C. last year in the rushing phase of the game. Unfortunately for continuity's sake, the team fired OC Chan Gailey on the eve of the NFL regular season (he was held over from Herm Edward's regime until August 31st) - it remains to be seen how the offense will respond to suddenly answering to directly to Haley, who has assumed the play calling duties and is also now the team's QB coach. Larry Johnson appears to have retained the lead role in the RB stable under the new regime, and should see more action than he did under the Herm Edwards' staffs. He rushed for 8/36/0 vs. Seattle in week three of the preseason, while his sidekick/change-of-pace counterpart Jamaal Charles gained 7/54/0 rushing and 1/7/0 receiving in the tune-up game.

The Ravens' rush D was third in the NFL last season, averaging a mere 81.4 rushing yards allowed per game (3.6 yards per carry), and only allowed 4 rushing TDs through 16 games. The defensive unit as a whole was third in the NFL averaging only 15.3 points allowed per game - it is very hard to stuff a rushing TD into the end-zone when facing Baltimore. Baltimore didn't face the Panther's top backs in week three of the preseason due to injury woes in Carolina, but the starters have looked impressive throughout preseason when on the field.

This is a bad matchup for Johnson and company.

Weather: M and T Bank Stadium expects a high of 80 F on Sunday, with a low of 68 F and a 20% chance of rain. That sounds like great weather for playing and watching football to us.

KC Injuries: QB Matt Cassel (Questionable), WR Terrance Copper (Questionable)
BAL Injuries: DT Haloti Ngata (Probable)

Tennessee Titans Rushing Offense at Pittsburgh Steelers Rushing Defense (Bad Matchup)

Tennessee tied for 10th in the NFL last year, averaging 4.3 yards per carry (and posting an average of 137.4 rushing yards per game). The combination of Chris Johnson (251/1228/9 rushing last season, with 43/260/1 receiving) and LenDale White (200/773/15 rushing and 5/16/0 receiving) returns this season - White is said to be in much better condition than he was entering 2008 and both players appear highly motivated entering week 1 of the regular season. With an unsettled WR corps (#1 WR Nate Washington is nursing a sore hamstring and may miss a few games to start the season), expect the Titans to feed the ball to their RBs early and often. Lendale White made sure to fire up the Steelers in advance of their game on Thursday, declaring 'If it happens to be there, I'm going to stomp all over that [towel], man,' White said. 'If there's a towel in the stands, I will stomp on it. I don't care who gets mad... If they throw a towel at me, I'm going to kick it and stomp all over it. If they don't want their towel stomped on, keep it out my face.'

The Steelers were second in the NFL last year, handing over only 80.3 rushing yards per game, and also holding the opposition to just seven rushing TDs during the season. They were #1 in the NFL last year averaging just 13.9 points allowed per game - this is one hard-nosed unit, folks. Just ask Buffalo, who eked out 13/49/0 vs. the Steelers during week three of the preseason. The Titans may want to stomp on towels, but they need to concentrate on bashing through the super-stout Steel Curtain - advantage, Pittsburgh.

TEN Injuries: WR Nate Washington (Questionable), TE Jared Cook (Questionable)
PIT Injuries: none

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