Rams @ Seahawks (Eakin)
Marc Bulger/Torry Holt/Dane Looker/Randy McMichael
Steven Jackson (vs. SEA)

Passing Game Thoughts: My thought is where did it go? The Rams two major problems are protection and the lack of a second WR with skill. Neither problem seems to have an immediate remedy. Orlando Pace is playing, but they still have issues at other places on the line. Marc Bulger was sacked six times last week by the Giants. Bulger has thrown 1 TD this year and it was a tip drill, circus grab that fell in to Holt’s arms while lying on the ground. Before you jump off the cliff on all Rams, keep in mind they have played the Eagles and the Giants, two of the three best teams in the NFL to this point. Wait another week just in case and then jump if they lose to the ‘hawks. The Rams should expect allot of blitz and will counter by getting Stephen Jackson and TE McMichael on hot routes.

It must have been a big disappointment to Seattle to give up over 300 passing yards and home turf to division rival San Francisco. Neither has happened since 2006. There are eight teams worse than the Seattle’s pass defense after two games. Teams are averaging 272 yards and 1 TD against them. Seattle should use the same plan that worked for Philly and NY which is blitz early and often. Pressure will force Bulger into turnovers and prevent them from getting the ball downfield. The ‘hawks had four sacks against the 49ers so they have been able to generate pressure at times, but they have given up big pass plays as well. Much of the pressure has come from their defensive ends Patrick Kearney and former USC star Lawrence Jackson. Seattle has only created one turnover so if that changes this week, then their win column total will follow.

Running Game Thoughts: Like most struggling teams with star RBs (see Kansas City) Steven Jackson has been vocal about not enough carries and giving up on the run too soon. In most cases really intuitive writers will then point out the difficulty in pounding the rock while behind several possessions. However, the Rams were still close with the Giants through three quarters so his point may be valid with only 13 carries for 53 yards. That’s over four yards a carry so the coaches will likely make an effort to change that and Jackson will see a steady diet of runs. Memo to HC Linehan: When desperate for a win and fighting for your job, make sure you go down swinging with your best hitter at the plate. That’s Jackson.

Seattle has been solid against the run, giving up 84 yards per game thanks to a good core of young linebackers in Tatupu, Peterson, and Hill. They are athletic and flow well so it will be relied upon to stop Jackson. Jackson has averaged around 80 yards per game against the Seahawks over the last two years so that is a reasonable number to project for him.

Projections:
Marc Bulger: 185 yards passing/1 TD/1 INT
Torry Holt: 75 yards receiving/1 TD
Dane Looker: 30 yards receiving
Randy McMichael: 45 yards receiving
Steven Jackson: 80 yards rushing/35 yards receiving/1 TD

Matt Hasselbeck/Billy McMullen/Courtney Taylor/Koren Robinson/John Carlson
Julius Jones (vs. STL)

Passing Game Thoughts: I remember thinking last season that the Rams string of offensive line injuries was about the worst I can ever remember. Just one year later, it has been surpassed by the Seahawks WR position. The situation was bad enough to bring in their back-up QB and play McMullen off the street. Their starters had a career total of eight catches. Surely it couldn’t get worse right? Not so. Seneca Wallace went down with a strained calf in pre-game warm-ups and first time player Logan Payne blows his knee out while making his first career catch. This week’s lucky contestants include Keary Colbert whom Seattle traded away from Denver this week, and the enigma that is Koren Robinson. Robinson was kicked off the team in 2004 for numerous off-field issues and suspended by Green Bay only to have Brett Favre make a stand to get him resigned. Now the Hawks are inviting him back with their tail between their legs. Robinson was talented at one time and knows the system, but it remains to be seen what skills are left. Colbert was buried on the depth chart in Denver but has the benefit of training camp under his belt. It’s best to avoid all of them at this point as Branch and Engram are expected back in a few weeks. By the time these new players are ready for an impact they will be replaced by starters. TE John Carlson (6 for 78) should lead the attack again followed by Billy McMullen (3 for 48) vs. S.F. in week two.

St. Louis has had trouble stopping the pass. McNabb and co. torched them in week one with three WRs going over 100 yards. Last week Eli Manning threw for three more TDs. The only thing that limited him from another 300-yard day was 200 yards of worth of rushing. Their best pass rusher Leonard Little is questionable with a hamstring and safety Cory Chavous has been accused of often being out of position. This will be the battle between the easily resistible force and the very movable object.

Running Game Thoughts: I was very critical of Julius Jones for his poor YPC average last season. He proved me wrong by taking advantage of the opportunity putting up 127 yards on 26 carries and a TD. The Ram defense he faces this week is worse against the run than the 49ers to this point. Since Seattle has such a limited pass game, Jones is their best hope for production and will be heavily leaned on once again. Expect Jones to be a good starting option.

For the first time this season the Rams will face a team that doesn’t have a potent pass attack. This will be their best chance to stack the line and stop the run provided their secondary can limit the receiver-less Seahawks. If they don’t accomplish it this week they are unlikely to all year. They allowed 200 yards on the ground to the Giants potent rush attack last week.

Projections:
Matt Hasselbeck: 175 yards passing/1 TD
John Carlson: 70 yds/1 TD
Billy McMullen: 40 yards
Courtney Taylor: 30 yards
Julius Jones: 110 yards rushing/25 yards receiving/1 TD

Lions @ 49ers (Eakin)
Jon Kitna/Calvin Johnson/Roy Williams/Shaun McDonald/Mike Furrey
Kevin Smith (vs. SF)

Passing Game Thoughts: Kitna is currently 8th in fantasy points for QBs. This week Detroit sees their old coach Mike Martz. The offense will be eager to give an impressive performance. Calvin “Megatron” Johnson has not disappointed expectations and has emerged as Kitna’s clear cut first option and the 2nd most productive WR this year. Roy Williams hasn’t been as successful and has voiced his wish to return to spreading the defense out as they did last year under Martz. Detroit claims they want to be a run based offense, but their personnel doesn’t play to that desire. They have invested in pass protecting offensive linemen and first round WRs the last few years. Until this changes they will need to continue passing the ball to be effective. Kitna needs to cut down on the INT’s as he was picked twice by Charles Woodson last week and they need to pass from the start rather than wait until they are trailing which is the main cause of Roy’s complaints.

The 49er pass defense has been good to this point. While slowing down Seattle in week two doesn’t prove greatness they did hold Warner and the Cards to a lackluster day in week one. They will be tested by a pair of excellent WRs once again. CB Walt Harris is big and physical and should be effective matching up against Roy Williams’ size. Nate Clements is one of the better CBs in the league and will try to contain Johnson with the help of safeties rolling over to his side. He scored twice last week against a Packer tandem many consider to be the league’s finest duo so they will have trouble slowing him down. The 49ers will need a good pass rush to limit the big plays which is expected to come from DE Justin Smith and 3-4 OLB Parys Haralson. The Lions have had problems protecting Kitna for several years and that has not changed to this point in ’08.

Running Game Thoughts: Rookie Kevin Smith has 26 carries for 88 yards and 1 TD on the season. That’s a good line for one game but not so hot for two. He needs more carries and they should come in this match-up. If they are to be a run team now is a good time to start. The Lions have reportedly signed Chicago castoff Cedric Benson this week after already getting Rudi Johnson. I’m not sure who should be more depressed, Shaun Alexander for being passed over in favor of Benson or Rudi Johnson for already having his backup role jeopardized after one week? If you ran out to get Johnson despite advice to the contrary, learn your lesson and wait for Benson to show up on a field of play and produce something positive before heading to the waiver wire. Smith will continue to be the only relevant back until further notice and should produce his best game this week.

Both Edgerrin James and Julius Jones have rushed for a 100 yards vs. the 49ers. One reason Patrick Willis racks up tackles by the bucket load is perhaps due to the fact that no one else is tackling anyone. However even Willis only has 13 in two games. Their linebacker core is talented, but young and inexperienced. They need better penetration at nose tackle to tie up blockers from making it to the pursing LBs.

Projections:
Jon Kitna: 285 yards passing/2 TDs/1 INT
Calvin Johnson: 100 yards/1 TD
Roy Williams: 75 yards/1 TD
Shaun McDonald: 40 yards
Mike Furrey: 35 yards
Kevin Smith: 85 yards rushing/20 yards receiving/1 TD

J.T. O’Sullivan/Bryant Johnson/Isaac Bruce/Arnaz Battle/Vernon
Davis Frank Gore (vs. DET)

Passing Game Thoughts: O’Sullivan played well last week going over 300 yards and getting a touchdown against Seattle. He was able to hook up with Isaac Bruce (who I pounded on last week) for a couple big plays. It was the first 49er QB to throw for 300-plus since 2004. So Martz may be getting the offense going. Johnson is still the most targeted receiver on the team and the safest play. They have done a good job of getting Gore involved but Vernon Davis has been nonexistent with only three catches in two games. This could very well be the second 300-yard day for O’Sullivan.

The Lions spent their money on two Tampa Bay defensive backs, Dwight Smith and Brian Kelly, to shore up their pass defense, but it has yet to pay off. They have been burned by Green Bay and allowed Rookie QB Matt Ryan to hit a seam on his first NFL pass. Smith was once thought to be an up and coming star that was a big hitter yet good in coverage. They need him to step up and prevent plays from getting behind him. Safety Gerald Alexander is questionable with a concussion so they may have to rely on back up Kalvin Pearson. For pass rush the Lions rely on another former Buc DE DeWayne White. He has played well but they haven’t gotten any production from his DE mate Jared Devries.

Running Game Thoughts: Gore has been a top-five producer so far and is off to a good start. He has been able to break some long runs up the middle from the spread formation. He is averaging 4.8 YPC and looks fast and strong. He is in line for a big game against a weak Detroit front line. Expect big things this week as he is a must start stud.

Detroit plays Cory Redding and yet another former Buc Chartric Darby at the tackle positions. Both players began their careers as ends so they are smallish for the DTs. Detroit has speed at linebacker behind them but again they are not big so they can be moved off the ball. The speed of their lineup could actually work well against the 49er spread because they will need to play well in space and may get matched up on Gore or Davis or even zone up on Arnaz Battle. The 49ers were clicking on the road in Seattle so it will take a supreme effort to slow them down and keep Gore in check.

Projections:
J.T. O’Sullivan: 305 yards passing/2 TDs
Bryant Johnson: 85 yards receiving/1 TD
Isaac Bruce: 75 yards receiving
Arnaz Battle: 50 yards receiving
Vernon Davis: 35 yards receiving
Frank Gore: 90 yards rushing/40 yards receiving/2 TDs

Saints @ Broncos (Eakin)
Drew Brees/David Patten/Devery Henderson/Robert Meacham/Jeremy Shockey
Reggie Bush/Pierre Thomas (vs. DEN)

Passing Game Thoughts: Drew Brees threw for 343 yards and 3 TDs with Marcus Colston, but he only posted 216 yards and a TD without him. It would be hopeful to chalk it up to matchups, but the Redskin defense wouldn’t seem to be far superior to Tampa Bay’s. I’m going to need to see a breakout performance without him in the line-up before being convinced they can be dominant without him. While Colston didn’t have a great game in week one he certainly drew focus away from the secondary options, allowing them to hit big plays. It was expected that Shockey and Bush would benefit from Colston’s absence, but Shockey only caught two balls and Bush’s performance remained about the same. A minor bright spot last week was Robert Meacham getting a 19-yard TD pass, it was his only reception. He’ll need to show more before he becomes fantasy relevant, but at least there are signs of life now.

Denver allowed Phillip Rivers to join them in a shootout last week which was great to watch, but left one wondering what happened to the great cover corners of Dre Bly and all-world Champ Bailey. The Broncos were hurt badly by RBs Darren Sproles and Mike Tolbert catching balls out of the backfield. This is not the news you like to hear with Reggie Bush coming to town. The safeties and LBs will need to do a better job covering or they could get burned again.

Running Game Thoughts: Other than one big play in week one I’m not sure much has changed with Bush. He is still averaging 3.3 YPC this season. All the off season leg strengthening doesn’t seem to have improved his motivation to avoid hitting holes up the middle. Pierre Thomas is still playing the role of Deuce McAllister, who has two carries for ten yards on the year. Thomas has not been as effective as he was last year, averaging only 3.8 YPC. The Saints were at their best when they were able to run up the middle for balance so they should look to pound it a little more against the suspect Denver run defense.

Denver was poor against the run last year and to date they rank 21st in points allowed for fantasy RBs. While Oakland and San Diego aren’t teams that will bolster your rush defense ranking by any means, no defensive tackle for the Broncos has more than three tackles on the year. The linebackers and safeties have to make all the stops so they will need improvement up front if they expect to improve those trends.

Projections:
Drew Brees: 240 yards/2 TDs
David Patten: 60 yards
Devery Henderson 50 yards
Robert Meacham: 35 yards
Jeremy Shockey: 55 yards/1 TD
Reggie Bush: 50 yards rushing/ 50 yards receiving/1 TD
Pierre Thomas: 40 yards
Deuce McAllister: 35 yards

Jay Cutler/Brandon Marshall/Eddie Royal/Brandon Stokley/Tony Scheffler
Selvin Young/Andre Hall/Michael Pittman (vs. NO)

Passing Game Thoughts: A star was born in Denver and his name is Jay Cutler. Selected third after the allegedly depressed Vince Young and the definitely benched Matt Leinart, it seems the adversity playing at lowly Vanderbilt in the SEC has paid dividends. Cutler made Eddie Royal the darling of Monday Night in the opener and followed it up by getting Brandon Marshall enough catches (18) to make up for missing a game. An impressive fact is that Denver has yet to give up a sack this year, including the preseason.

Most avid NFL fans can still picture poor Jason David getting turned and burned repeatedly last season till you felt nothing but sorrow for him. The Saints brought in Randall Gay and Aaron Glenn to help remove those vivid memories. They played well teaming with Mike McKenzie in week one, but injuries have hit hard. McKenzie is probable to return, but Gay and Glenn as well as both starting safeties Roman Harper and Josh Bullocks are limited in practice and questionable to play. Expect big numbers once again for Cutler and crew.

Running Game Thoughts: Few teams rotate backs as much as Denver. Fewer, if any, are as unpredictable from week to week. So far none of the RBs Young, Hall, and Pittman has been starter worthy. Young has been the most effective between the 20s (15 for 114) and Pitman has been getting the goal line carries with three TDs on the year. As a unit they are effective, ranking 8th in total fantasy points.

The Saints drafted Sedrick Ellis and acquired Jonathan Vilma to get stronger against the run. Vilma has been racking up the tackles and Ellis has been impressive, but as a unit they allow the 10th most points to fantasy RBs through two games. Both Saint OLB starters are also questionable. There are so many new faces on the defense that they should gel over time, but the Denver pass threat will take focus from the run and allow yardage to be had.

Projections:
Jay Cutler: 320 yards/3 TDs
Brandon Marshall: 110 yards/2 TDs
Eddie Royal: 70 yards
Brandon Stokely: 40 yards
Tony Scheffler: 75 yards/1 TD
Selvin Young: 60 yards rushing
Andre Hall: 40 yards
Michael Pittman: 10 yards/1 TD

Jets @ Chargers (Eakin)
Brett Favre/Jerricho Cotchery/Laveranues Coles/Chansi Stuckey/Chris Baker
Thomas Jones/Leon Washington (vs. SD)

Passing Game Thoughts: Lost in all the Favre hype is that their new starter has yet to crack 200 yards passing in a game, even against the lowly Dolphins. His physical skills don’t seem any different, so it must be a combination of chemistry and lack of playbook knowledge. Controversy in play calling arose last week when the Jets dialed up three straight goal line runs and were stuffed at critical point in a close ball game. Coles and Cotchery have both had one impact game and one dud. They will struggle until both of them can get some consistency at play off one another. They will remain stagnant until that occurs. To everyone’s surprise except his mother’s, Chansi Stuckey has hit big plays in both games and is second behind Cotchery in total yards so far. The TE position which Favre has usually had success in finding has yet to produce.

The Charger secondary was beat up by Carolina and laid to rest by Denver. Normally, Brett Favre coming to town wouldn’t warrant a sigh of relief, but the task seems less daunting than last week. They have been unable to generate pressure without Merriman so the DBs cannot take all the blame. With Favre’s experience it may not be wise to blitz all day to compensate. His experience will make them pay by hitting some big plays if they do not get to him. They are more likely to dare them force them to run for victory or just blitz linebackers leaving a safety in center field.

Running Game Thoughts: Both Thomas Jones and Leon Washington have been effective, but unspectacular running the ball behind the newly purchased offensive line. As a team they are only 22nd in fantasy points scored by rushing mostly because of only one TD. Jones has been the workhorse runner while Washington is utilized on third downs for his receiving ability. They will want to establish the run first so Favre can do damage off play action passes.

Jamal Williams is nursing a sore knee and has not occupied blockers and made penetration with the same success that earned him some Pro Bowl appearances. Derek Smith at ILB has not played well and needs to help Wilhelm shore up the run defense that is 15th in fantasy points allowed, but expected to be a top-five or top-ten unit.

Projections:
Brett Favre: 220 yards/1 TD
Jerricho Cotchery: 70 yards
Laveranues Coles: 70 yards
Chansi Stuckey: 35 yards
Leon Washington: 20 yards rushing/35 yards receiving
Thomas Jones: 90 yards/1 TD

Philip Rivers/Chris Chambers/Vincent Jackson/Antonio Gates
LaDainian Tomlinson/Darren Sproles (vs.NYJ)

Passing Game Thoughts: In my initial breakdown of the Chargers passing attack I said Phillip Rivers will never be a top-five or top-ten option due to the system in which Tomlinson is the focus. I still hold that opinion despite his fast start, because to this point Tomlinson has been slowed with a toe injury and not been the offensive focus. After last week’s shootout with Denver River’s ranks second in fantasy points scored at the QB position. This trend should continue this week as I don’t see Tomlinson being recovered yet. Chambers, Jackson, and Gates each have around 120 yards receiving on the year, but Chambers has three Tds to their one. Rivers has done an excellent job of keeping balanced attack including using the RBs.

The Jets are 14th in fantasy QB points allowed. Starting CB Justin Miller may return from injury although rookie Dwight Lowery has played well in his place. The Jets were exploited by Miami TEs in their first game so the league’s top TE may be able to make some plays against Jet safeties. OLB’s Calvin Pace and Bryan Thomas will be relied upon to create sacks while Kris Jenkins gets push up the middle.

Running Game Thoughts: San Diego will run the ball with some success, but it’s unclear who will be doing the majority of it. L.T. has a bad toe and those are never good. Several players have never been the same once they had significant toe injuries. Tomlinson hopes to play and seems mildly confident, but his exuberance seems to be decreasing as the week carries on. As of Wednesday night it almost seemed he is counting on divine healing. He is listed as questionable and has not been practicing. He will suit up and play as he did last week, but if he once again checks out after a quarter then it’s time to really start worrying how long this may linger. His main handcuff is Sproles who has been every bit as explosive as Michael Turner once was in that role. Sproles is small, but lightning quick and unstoppable in the open field.

The Jets have been fairly stout against the run this year with the addition of ultra talented defensive tackle Kris Jenkins form Carolina. They are currently ranked 8th in fantasy RB points allowed. Their 3-4 system relies on defensive lineman to tie up blockers while their underrated linebacker core shoots the gaps to stuff the run or get QB pressure.

Projections:
Phillip Rivers: 300 yards/2 TDs
Chris Chambers: 85 yards/1 TD
Vincent Jackson: 60 yards
Antonio Gates: 70 yards/1 TD
LaDainian Tomlinson: 90 yards rushing/35 yards receiving/1 TD

Chiefs @ Falcons (Dhawan)
Matt Ryan/Roddy White/Michael Jenkins/ Laurent Robinson
Michael Turner/ Jerious Norwood (vs. KC)

Passing Game Thoughts: After a skyrocket journey into the heavens with a stellar career opener, Matt Ryan came back down to earth upon a divisional meeting with the Tampa Bay Cover Two. He took his lumps, and looked as if he learned enough to improve in the next meeting. Ryan should get great balance from the ground game this week, so his stats will be better than week one. Expect some long TD tosses to both Roddy White and Laurent Robinson and Michael Jenkins should remain in the mix as a solid PPR fantasy play.

Running Game Thoughts: Michael Turner learned what being a starting running back is all about last week. You cannot always have your best game, and must stay focused for a long season. He will need the short memory of a good starting cornerback after last week’s crash from his 220-yard, 2-TD opening effort. The Chiefs are fresh off allowing 300 yards to division rival Oakland last week, so Turner will be jacked up and looking for the running lanes and post a great game. Expect nothing less than 150 yards and 2 TDs.

Projections:
Matt Ryan: 200 pass/2 TD/0 INT
Roddy White: 80 rec/1 TD
Michael Jenkins: 60 rec
Laurent Robinson: 20 rec
Michael Turner: 155 rush/40 rec/2 TD
Jerious Norwood: 40 rush

Tyler Thigpen/ Dwayne Bowe/ Tony Gonzalez/Devard Darling
Larry Johnson/Jamaal Charles (vs. ATL)

Passing Game Thoughts: How bad can it be in this chapter of the Herm Edwards KC-saga? Starter Brodie Croyle is out with an injured shoulder, and backup Damon Huard has also folded like a bad poker hand. In comes Tyler Thigpen, a mini-gunslinger from Coastal Carolina (alma mater of Bengals rookie deep threat Jerome Simpson) to run the offense and impress for a starting job in the Chiefs near future. Tony Gonzalez will rack up the short if not meaningful receptions, but TDs will surely be hard to come by. Dwayne Bowe is probably not a suitable start until further notice.

Running Game Thoughts: Larry Johnson is fresh off a terrible 20-yard effort and 20-ton tongue lashing of his organization. His desire to be the bell-cow back of his team and receive 20-30 weekly carries prompted him to question the manner in which he is being utilized as well as the message it sends him regarding his place in the team’s future. Pundits predict his cap number and attitude are punching his ticket out of town in 2009, so Jamaal Charles may get looks in an effort to solidify positions for the future. Expect less than spectacular stats this week despite a weaker defense, as the lead will push the passing game.

Tyler Thigpen: 185/1TD/3 INT
Tony Gonzalez: 80 rec
Dwayne Bowe: 60 rec/1 TD
Devard Darling: 30 rec
Larry Johnson: 60 rush
Jamaal Charles: 60 rush

Texans @ Titans (Dhawan)
Matt Schaub/Andre Johnson/Kevin Walter/Andre Davis/Owen Daniels
Steve Slaton/Chris Taylor (vs. TEN)

Passing Game Thoughts: Only the New Orleans Saints know more about dealing with catastrophic devastation to lives and community than the Houston Texans. Hurricane Ike swept the Galveston coast and Houston in its path of destruction, leaving millions without power, water, and homes. Players returned to work this week after having their home opener cancelled. Now it seems they may utilize collegiate Rice Stadium as the Reliant Stadium has sustained damages and may not be ready for the scheduled October 5th home opener. The Katrina ravaged Saints responded with heroic play to inspire fans and citizens. Expect a Herculean effort by Coach Gary Kubiak to motivate his players to deliver a similar inspiring performance for all Texans. All of us would love to see a razor sharp, feel good performance by the offense; but, no one will blame Matt Schaub if he loses focus versus a rugged Titans defense that has clamped down on its past two opponents handedly.

Running Game Thoughts: An already weak link has the dubious mission of facing among the strongest forces in the league. Albert Haynesworth and the Titans defense has been the stingiest run defense league wide, they maul opponents into submission. It might be cathartic for Texans linemen to release there current frustrations by run blocking, so look for some early rushing lanes and a semi-solid performance by rookie slasher Steve Slaton.

Projections:
Matt Schaub: 225 pass/1 TD/2 INT
Andre Johnson: 70 rec/1 TD
Kevin Walter: 50 rec
Andre Davis: 50 rec
Owen Daniels: 40 rec
Steve Slaton: 50 rush
Chris Taylor: 40 rush

Kerry Collins/Justin Gage/Justin McCareins/Brandon Jones/LaVelle Hawkins/
LenDale White/Chris Johnson (vs. HOU)

Passing Game Thoughts: Veteran Kerry Collins assumes the role of starter for HC Jeff Fisher’s team that looked playoff capable even with a struggling Vince Young. He is not mobile, but he brings leadership and stability to the pass game and team. All of the sudden Justin Gage has fantasy value! Collins did well in the 30-plus mile per hour winds in Cincinnati last week. Look for another confident and solid fantasy performance this week versus a reeling, heavy-hearted Texans team in the midst of turmoil.

Running Game Thoughts: The early September reviews on the dual running threats are sensational. Rookie Chris Johnson (‘Super Jets’) is 7th in total scrimmage yards league wide, and the Titans rush attack is ranked 6th overall. His speed was evident again when last week one of his 19 carries went for 51 yards. LenDale White continues his battering ram role, gaining the tough inside yardage and blasting his way to 2 TDs thus far this season. Houston yielded a monster 130-yard, 3-TD outing to Steelers Willie Parker in week one, so the runners will post great numbers this week. Look for both to approach the century mark, and each reaching the end zone.

Projections:
Kerry Collins: 225 pass/1 TD/0 INT/
Justin Gage: 60 rec/1 TD
Justin McCareins: 30 rec
Brandon Jones: 30 rec
LaVelle Hawkins: 50 rec
LenDale White: 110 rush/1 TD
Chris Johnson: 100 rush/35 rec/1 TD

Jaguars @ Colts (Dhawan)
David Garrard/Jerry Porter/Troy Williamson/Dennis Northcutt/Reggie Williams/Matt Jones
Fred Taylor/Maurice Jones-Drew (vs. IND)

Passing Game Thoughts: The season has started terribly for the chic Super Bowl contender Jaguars. The offensive line is battered, the quarterback is abnormally unsteady, and the running game is putrid. David Garrard has tossed 3 INTs this season already, after having that tally all of last season. Matt Jones was again his only reliable receiver. Where is Jerry Porter? Can he save this quarterback and passing game? All-Pro safety Bob Sanders is out of the Colts lineup, so going deep may be possible.

Running Game Thoughts: The injuries to the offensive line have taken its biggest toll in this phase of the Jaguars offense. Normally dominant and punishing, the rushing attack has become feeble and unspectacular. Fred Taylor was averaging better than five yards per carry his past two seasons, but is running at below three yards per carry clip now. Maurice Jones-Drew has not been the compact wrecking ball we are used to seeing, and now he has a mysterious foot injury limiting his running. The team was beaten up the past two weeks by very physical teams, so this week’s match-up with the Colts could be a bright spot, since as mentioned, safety Sanders is out. The Jags have had monster rushing days in the past versus this defense, but temper the monster expectations in view of the injuries.

Projections:
David Garrard: 250 pass/1 TD/0 INT
Jerry Porter: If he plays, 45 yards rec
Troy Williamson: 10 rec
Dennis Northcutt: 40 rec
Reggie Williams: 60 rec/1TD
Matt Jones: 70 rec
Fred Taylor: 90 rush/1TD
Maurice Jones-Drew: 40 rush/ 25 rec

Peyton Manning/ Marvin Harrison/ Reggie Wayne/ Anthony Gonzalez/ Dallas Clark
Joseph Addai/ Dominic Rhodes (vs. JAX)

Passing Game Thoughts: All-world quarterback Peyton Manning is slowly getting back his patented touch, while continuing to display his normal savvy. His come-from-behind victory last week versus a tough Vikings defense was just what the doctor ordered to shake off his rust. After missing Reggie Wayne on a TD pass in week one, he found the pinpoint touch last week on a beautiful skinny post for a TD. Anthony Gonzalez continues his ascent as a skilled receiver further building deep ball rapport with Manning, racking up huge stats versus the Vikings secondary. Dallas Clark returned to practice this week, and should play meaningful snaps with production. Expect a good game from Manning, Wayne, Gonzalez, and Clark. It is only week three, but this author seems justified in his preseason skepticism in future HOFer Marvin Harrison, who simply seems too hesitant with a clear lack of confidence in his health, particularly his scoped knees/legs. Short curls followed by fumbles during any defensive contact merit little substantial contribution in the reality pass game and fantasy score sheet.

Running Game Thoughts: The loss of C Jeff Saturday has impacted this part of the offense, especially the patented stretch play (also contributing is Manning’s recovering knee as he positions himself for the reaching handoff). Joseph Addai has just over 60 yards and a TD on the season, but the injury depleted Jaguars are a welcome sight. They perennially rank among the top five rush defenses, but two weeks into 2008 sees them ranked 18th. Look for Addai and Rhodes to post solid stats, with Addai hitting close to 100 yards and a score.

Projections:
Peyton Manning: 280 pass/2 TD/0 INT
Marvin Harrison: 30 rec
Reggie Wayne: 110 rec/ 1 TD
Anthony Gonzalez: 80 rec/1TD
Dallas Clark: 60 rec
Joseph Addai: 90 rush/2 TD
Dominic Rhodes: 40 rush

Patriots @ Dolphins (Marcoccio)
Matt Cassell/Randy Moss/Wes Welker/Benjamin Watson
Laurence Maroney/Sammy Morris/Lamont Jordan (vs. MIA)

Passing Game Thoughts: Matt Cassell played game manager last week and rarely attempted to throw the ball deep downfield which limited Randy Moss’ role and final stats. The pair did come close to a deep strike, which likely would have gone for a TD, but Cassell’s pass was under-thrown and Darrell Reavis managed to catch up to Moss and break it up. Instead, the Pats relied on a dink and dunk, check down offense to the benefit of Wes Welker (7 receptions for 72 yards) and Kevin Faulk (4 receptions for 50 yards). The Patriots will likely look a lot more like the 2001 model than the 2007 model for the rest of the season, but Moss should get more involved as he is simply the most dangerous player on offense for New England.

The Dolphins finished 2007 as the fourth best pass defense (which may be misleading based on the ability of teams to run at will against them), but have been very bad in 2008, giving up 570 yards and 5 TDs through the air in two games, albeit against two aging former league MVPs. Without Jason Taylor they have been unable to generate much of a pass rush and cornerback Will Allen and Jason Allen have been unable to handle bigger and stronger wide receivers like Jerricho Cotchery, Larry Fitzgerald, and Anquan Boldin. Boldin a WR similar in size, but not nearly as fast as Randy Moss, torched the Miami defense for 140 yards and 3 TDs last week.

Running Game Thoughts: Good luck to fantasy players owning New England running backs. This past week the Patriot carries were split up evenly between three running backs with Lamont Jordan (11 carries for 62 yards) joining Laurence Maroney (8 carries for 16 yards) and Sammy Morris (8 carries for 0 yards, TD) in the mix. Maroney injured his shoulder but returned in the fourth quarter. The Patriots offensive line is more effective in pass blocking than run blocking but wore down the Jets in the fourth quarter. On one hand, the Patriots are likely to continue trying to control the clock with short passes and a consistent running game which is good for Patriot running backs, but like I said last week in this space, it’s tough to gauge what the HC of the NEP will do from week to week with his running backs.

Miami’s run defense has been a little better statistically in 2008 (13th) than in 2007 (32nd), but it’s still a rather weak unit. Miami has given up 193 yards and 2 rushing touchdowns the first two weeks, but have yet to face a dynamic running back. Luckily for them New England doesn’t have a dynamic running back either, but with three strong running backs it could still be a long day for Channing Crowder and company if they don’t step up.

Projections:
Matt Cassell: 215 yds passing 1 TD, 1 INT
Randy Moss: 90 yds receiving, 1 TD
Wes Welker: 80 yds receiving
Benjamin Watson: 15 yds receiving
Laurence Maroney: 35 yds rushing
Sammy Morris: 60 yds rushing, 1 TD / 15 yds receiving
Lamont Jordan: 55 yards rushing. 1 TD

Chad Pennington/Greg Camarillo/Ted Ginn, Jr./Anthony Fasano/David Martin
Ricky Williams/Ronnie Brown (vs. NE)

Passing Game Thoughts: Chad Pennington was very ineffective in Week 2 and was benched for rookie Chad Henne, but Tony Sparano has announced that there is no quarterback controversy and Pennington will start against New England. After throwing for 250+ yards and 2 TDs in Week 1, Pennington regressed to 112 yards and no TDs in Week 2. Greg Camarillo has stepped up and become the go to guy for Miami but he does not really possess any skills that will keep opposing defensive coordinators up at night. The Dolphins and Pennington need second year WR Ted Ginn to step up and find openings in the defense that will allow him to showcase his run after the catch abilities. Anthony Fasano and David Martin have split reps at TE, decreasing each one’s fantasy value. Both have performed adequately and may find themselves on fantasy rosters.

Brett Favre looked a little rusty against the New England defense, but then again Belicheck has always found a way to make great quarterbacks look average against New England. The Patriots are very familiar with Pennington’s strength’s and weaknesses, but Chadwick has performed relatively well against them in the past. New England has allowed 387 yards passing and 2 touchdowns through two weeks and has picked off both Damon Huard and Brett Favre in those contests. Adalius Thomas sacked both Brett Favre and RB Leon Washington on the same play last week at the Meadowlands and could apply some more pressure against a weak Miami o-line which has given up six sacks already in 2008.

Running Game Thoughts: Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown have only rushed for 100 yards combined between them during the first two weeks and face a still tough New England run defense in Week 3. Williams received raves all off-season from the Miami front office and coaching staff but has looked mediocre thus far. Ronnie Brown, who did punch in a touchdown last week, has looked a little quicker and more decisive than Ricky, but has had his carries limited in an effort to make sure his knee is healed properly and to keep him healthy. Expect that arrangement to continue through the next couple of weeks, but Brown may be a good buy low candidate if you can stash him on your bench.

The Patriots have played the run effectively in 2008, allowing only 206 yards while not allowing an opposing RB to cross the goal-line. They stopped Thomas Jones on three carries from the three yard line last week to the dismay of 76,000+ fans at the Meadowlands. You know that Miami Head Coach Tony Sparano would love to run the ball effectively, so I’d expect the ‘Phins to keep trying, but I’d also expect another sub par effort in Week 3.

Projections:
Chad Pennington: 225 yds passing, 2 TDs, 1 INT
Greg Camarillo: 40 yds receiving
Ted Ginn, Jr.: 35 yds receiving, 1 TD
Anthony Fasano: 45 yds receiving
David Martin: 30 yds receiving, 1 TD
Ricky Williams: 35 yds rushing / 10 yds receiving
Ronnie Brown: 45 yds rushing / 30 yds receiving

Oakland @ Buffalo (Marcoccio)
JaMarcus Russell/Ashley Lelei/Javon Walker/Zach Miller
Darren McFadden/Michael Bush (vs. BUF)

Passing Game Thoughts: The Raiders’ coaching staff has really babied former first round pick JaMarcus Russell thus far in his first season as a starter. In Week 1 Russell didn’t really start throwing the ball until the game was out of reach for the Raiders, but he did end up tossing two touchdowns in garbage time. In Week 2 he only threw 17 passes and finished with 55 yards passing. Ashley Lelie who has bounced around the league in recent years has been the best Oakland wide receiver thus far – which is like saying Rob Schneider was the best part of I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry. High-priced free agent signee Javon Walker has yet to catch a pass due to off-season injuries and is the bust many expected him to be. Tight End Zach Miller may be the only Oakland pass catcher worth owning as he has a nice report with Russell, but until Oakland starts opening up the playbook he probably isn’t worth starting. With Justin Fargas out and McFadden questionable perhaps Russell will be forced to throw more, but until that happens fantasy owners would be wise to sit anyone associated with the Raider passing game.

Buffalo’s defense is young, talented and has shown much improvement from last season leading the team to a 2-0 record. Rookie CB Leodis McKelvin has helped shore up the secondary as the Bills rank 8th in passing yards allowed, yielding 355 yards and only 1 TD thus far. The pass rush has been fierce with seven sacks in two weeks with only DT Marcus Stroud garnering more than one. Aaron Schoebel has contributed a sack and looks like he will build on his fine 2007 and become an elite pass rusher.

Running Game Thoughts: Justin Fargas injured his groin during Week 2 opening the way for a pair of young backs to put up some impressive numbers in their first real shot in the NFL. Darren McFadden has been a message board lightening rod for criticism, but looked decent in Week 1 in limited action and exploded in Week 2 for 164 yards and a TD. Michael Bush who spent all of 2007 recovering from a bad broken leg contributed 90 yards and a TD in support of McFadden. The Raiders o-line has been much maligned but has helped produce nice numbers in the running game over the last two seasons. As of now McFadden’s status is uncertain as he is dealing with a toe injury, but he says he will play.

The Bills are ranked 12th against the run and look improved in that regard as well. They have yielded 193 yards rushing and 2 TDs in 2008 and have for the most part shut down some decent backs in Maurice Jones-Drew, Fred Taylor and Julius Jones. Marcus Stroud has helped shore up the middle of the line. Facing Oakland will test the run defense this week, but with the home crowd behind them I expecting them to pass the test.

Projections:
JaMarcus Russell: 145 yds passing, 1 TD, 2 INT
Ashley Lelie 45 yds receiving
Javon Walker: 15 yds receiving
Zach Miller: 45 yds receiving, 1 TD
Darren McFadden: 70 yds rushing, 1 TD / 20 yds receiving
Michael Bush: 25 yds rushing / 5 yds receiving
Trent Edwards/Lee Evans/James Hardy/Robert Royal
Marshawn Lynch/Fred Jackson (vs. SEA)

Passing Game Thoughts: Trent Edwards seems to have made great strides in his development in his second year as a starter. He put up an impressive stats line against a strong Jaguars defense (20-25-239 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT), finding rookie James Hardy in the endzone late in the fourth quarter to put the Bills ahead. This came after he led the Bills to victory over another tough defense (Seattle) in Week 1 where he also threw a touchdown without throwing an interception. Lee Evans should be a lot more consistent in 2008 than in than past and as Edwards grows more comfortable – and more importantly the staff grows more comfortable with Edwards – more big plays downfield to the speedy Evans should follow. Robert Royal was a hot waiver wire pickup after a strong Week 1, but smart owners ignored him as he’s just not used that often and returned to fantasy irrelevance with no catches in Week 2. To the dismay of his owners all the talk of Marshawn Lynch being used more in the passing game seemed to have been just coach speak as its been Fred Jackson in on third downs and he’s been very effective (7 receptions for 83 yards in Week 2).

So which Oakland pass defense is the real deal? The one that was torched by Jay Cutler in Week 1 or the one that made Damon Huard and Tyler Thigpen look like….well Damon Huard and Tyler Thigpen. In Week 2 the Chiefs managed just 135 yards passing and one touchdown against the Raiders, but the Raiders were exposed in Week 1 where the Broncos gained 300 yards through the air and scored twice. Last season Oakland finish 8th against the pass so its likely Week 1 was just a good old fashioned butt whopping and the unit should be better going forward.

Running Game Thoughts: Marshawn Lynch has 135 yards rushing and two TDs and as mentioned he hasn’t been used much in the passing game only catching 4 passes so far. Lynch is a tough inside runner with the speed to bounce outside, but is not helped by the sub par Buffalo o-line. With Buffalo relying a little more on the passing game in 2008 and Lynch being replaced by Jackson on passing downs the second year back out of Cal may disappoint those that touted him as a first round pick this off-season, but he should still be solid contributor nevertheless.

Oakland has been a middle of the road rushing defense thus far after being one of the worst in 2007. They have given up 196 yards and three touchdowns through the first two weeks but shut down Larry Johnson last week. DT Tommy Kelly was busted on an alleged DUI this week but he should play on Sunday as the league will likely not look into the matter until more information comes out.

Projections:
Trent Edwards: 235 yds passing, 1 TD, 1 INT
Lee Evans: 80 yds receiving, 1 TD
James Hardy: 35 yds receiving
Robert Royal: 15 yds receiving
Fred Jackson: 10 yds rushing / 55 yds receiving
Marshawn Lynch: 85 yds rushing, 1 TD / 15 yds receiving

Bengals @ Giants (Marcoccio)
Carson Palmer/Chad Ocho Cinco/TJ Houshmanzadeh/Reggie Kelly
Chris Perry (vs. NYG)

Passing Game Thoughts: The Bengals pass offense has been as effective as Britney Spears was trying to convince the family court judge that she was a fit mother while sporting a shaved head. Carson Palmer failed to break 100 yards passing in Week 1, and only threw for 134 yards in Week 2. He has yet to throw a TD pass. The artist formerly known as Chad Johnson has been much more Stinko than Cinco and TJ Houshmandzadah has done nada. I make these lame jokes because there’s really not much to write about under a section entitled “Passing Game Thoughts” when discussing the Bengals. Cincinnati has faced two very tough defenses in Baltimore and Tennessee and last week’s game was played in heavy winds so all hope is not lost.

By all rational thought the Giants’ pass rush should have felt the retirement of Michael Strahan and the loss of Osi Umenyiora, but surprisingly it has not. Jason Tuck who in my opinion was the real MVP of last season’s Super Bowl has elevated his game to elite status. He even picked off a pass and ran it back to for TD last week. The Giants pass defense ranks 6th so far helped in part by the fierce pass rush that has already achieved 7 sacks and the solid play of Sam Madison and Aaron Ross.

Running Game Thoughts: As stated the Bengals have faced some solid defenses and particularly Baltimore and Tennessee are very tough against the run. Chris Perry has managed to stay healthy thus far and last week had a pretty solid game after a very slow start, rushing for 64 yards and a TD. The former Michigan Wolverine has a great combination of size and speed and seems to have the commitment of the Bengal staff. If the passing game starts clicking it could only mean good things for Perry as not only would it create more running room, but Perry is a very adept pass catcher.

As good as New York has been against the pass it has been even better against the run. The Giants rank 5th in the league in run defense and have only given up 152 yards through two weeks and have not allowed a rushing TD. Antonio Pierce has once again been a solid field general taking down all runners who get through the interior defense of the Giants o-line led by Fred Robbins and Barry Coefield. The task gets no easier for Chris Perry this week unfortunately.

Projections:
Carson Palmer: 205 yds passing, 2 TDs, 2 INT
Chad Ocho Cinco: 45 yds receiving
TJ Houshmandzadeh: 85 yds receiving, 1 TD
Reggie Kelly: 25 yds receiving
Chris Perry: 60 yds rushing / 35 yds receiving, 1 TD

Eli Manning/Plaxico Burris/Amani Toomer/Kevin Boss
Brandon Jacobs/Derrick Ward/Ahmad Bradshaw (vs. CIN)

Passing Game Thoughts: Eli Manning looked exceptionally sharp to open game one, but stalled in the later part. Last week he put up 260 yards and three TDs – he even completed a pass left handed. Plaxico Burris has cemented a spot among the elite WRs in the league and Amani Toomer has been his solid steady self. Kevin Boss has been a disappointment. His stock soared after Jeremy Shockey was shipped to New Orleans, but has yet to catch a pass in 2008. He’s probably a hold in dynasty leagues, but those in redrafts have probably already kicked him to the curb. The Giants have solid depth at the skill positions and a quarterback who seems ready to be talked about in the same breath as his older brother – as such the passing game should be a lot more “hit” than “miss” in 2008.

It would be an interesting experiment to pit Cinncy’s offense against its defense – the immovable offense against the unresisting defensive force. Statistically their pass defense has been good but when an opposing team’s unheralded fullback and awkward looking quarterback alone are able to run for 133 yards against your defense and your team’s offense has managed only 17 points in two games, there isn’t much need to throw the ball against your team. Cincinnati has given up only 257 yards and 1 TD through the air so far, but in addition to the prior points one also has to remember that they have faced a rookie in Joe Flacco and a washed up veteran in Kerry Collins thus far.

Running Game Thoughts: The Giants offensive line is probably the most under-rated unit in the league and it has consistently churned out a successful running game no matter who is in the backfield. Brandon Jacobs has rushed for 202 yards so far, Derrick Ward has stepped in effectively and has gained 97 yards and last week it was Ahmad Bradshaw’s turn. Bradshaw, who did not see a carry in Week 1, came in during the fourth quarter against the Rams and rushed for 52 yards and a TD and also scored on an 18 yard reception. It’s hard to say if that performance guarantees him more carries this week, but my thoughts are that his talent will require the Giants to work him in more and more.

As implied above the Bengal’s run defense has been terrible, putrid, crap, [insert more vulgar terms here]. They have allowed 406 yards on the ground against them and 3 TDs over the first two games. The Bengal line backing corp. is simply embarrassing and Keith Rivers will need to develop quickly for that to even change slightly. Needless to say, any running back facing the Bengals is a must start.

Projections:
Eli Manning: 225 yds passing, 2 TDs
Plaxico Burris: 70 yds receiving, 1 TD
Amani Toomer: 40 yds receiving, 1 TD
Kevin Boss: 15 yds receiving
Brandon Jacobs: 95 yds rushing, 1 TD / 5 yds receiving
Derrick Ward: 30 yds rushing, 1 TD /15 yds receiving
Ahmad Bradshaw: 35 yds rushing / 30 yds receiving

Cardinals @ Redskins (Marcoccio)
Kurt Warner/Larry Fitzgerald/Anquan Boldin/Leonard Pope
Edgerrin James/Tim Hightower (vs. WAS)

Passing Game Thoughts: Kurt Warner who was left for dead after his brief stint in New York has risen like the Phoenix in Phoenix and has given hope to the Arizona faithful that the Cards will return to the playoffs for the fist time since Slick Willie was in the White House. Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin are arguably (but no argument from me) the most dominant starting wide receiver combination in the NFL. Both are complete players that have size, strength, speed, route running ability, and intelligence. Both come off a monster game (6-140-3 for Boldin and 6-153-0 for Fitzgerald) and teams will have to pick their poison when deciding which to double or attempt to take out of the game plan. Leonard Pope has good size and is an effective red zone target, but there aren’t a lot of balls thrown his way after the dynamic duo and slot WR Steve Breaston get theirs. He’s also being pushed by Ben Patrick for playing time.

Washington’s pass defense has been very average (16th in passing yards allowed in 2007, 19th in passing yards allowed in 2008) despite having talents like Carlos Rodgers, Fred Smoot, Shawn Springs, and LaRon Landry in the secondary. They have given up 432 yards thus far, but have allowed only one passing TD and have picked off opposing QBs three times. A healthier Jason Taylor should help the pass rush, but the Cardinals should be able to move the ball through the air in Week 3.

Running Game Thoughts: Edgerrin James is a shell of his former self and the burst is no longer there, but he still gets by on his experience and hard running style. The fact that he gets a decent number of carries means he still has some value in fantasy circles, he loses goal-line carries to rookie Tim Hightower and it means his value is waning.

The Washington run defense struggled mightily during the pre-season and continued to do so during Week 1 of the regular season. It did come around in Week 2 against New Orleans. Last week the Skins only gave up 55 yards rushing and only allowed Saints’ running back Pierre Thomas to find the end-zone (well technically Saint RB Reggie Bush found the end-zone as well, but that was during his duty as a punt returner).

Projections:
Kurt Warner: 295 yds passing, 3 TDs, 1 INT
Larry Fitzgerald: 120 yds receiving, 2 TDs
Anquan Boldin: 90 yds receiving, 1 TD
Leonard Pope: 15 yds receiving
Edgerrin James: 65 yds rushing / 15 yds receiving
Tim Hightower: 25 yds rushing / 20 yds receiving

Passing Game Thoughts: Jason Campbell played much better against the Saints than he did against the Giants, which is understandable given the fact that he’s new to the system and the disparity of the two defenses. Campbell has nice mobility and the arm to make all the necessary throws. He sometimes struggles with his decision making, but as stated in a prior version of this article he’s practically had to learn a new offensive system almost every year of his collegiate and NFL career. The rookie wide-outs have yet to step up for Washington but Santana Moss and Antwaan Randle-El have performed well thus far and are well equipped for the West Coats Offense. Chris Cooley was much more involved in the offense last week and contributed 5 catches for 72 yards.

Arizona is the 11th ranked pass defense so far in 2008 yielding 374 yards through the air, but have not yet allowed a TD and have generated a nice pass rush led by Bertrand Berry (2 sacks) that has gotten to the QB six times in two weeks. They have faced JT O’Sullivan and Chad Pennington two quarterbacks that are limited in abilities and by the weapons at their disposal so the lack of passing TDs allowed may be a little misleading at this point.

Running Game Thoughts: Clinton Portis has 206 total yards and a TD on the season so far. Numbers which seem in line with last season where he did not have many spectacular games but when all was said and done, he finished as a top 10 fantasy RB. There is no doubt Portis will be a big part of every Redskins game plan as he is one of the better all around backs in the NFL.

Arizona is ranked 10th in rushing yards allowed with 180 yards in two games. They have allowed both Frank Gore and Ronnie Brown to find the end-zone. Karlos Dansby is developing into one of the better young line-backers in the league and leads the Cardinals with 12 tackles on the season. With the way the defense has played and with the expected high scoring offense, this could be the year that Arizona finally takes the West after a few years as being the sexy dark horse pick.

Projections:
Jason Campbell: 195 yds passing, 1 TD / 20 yards rushing
Santana Moss: 70 yds receiving
Antwaan Randle El: 40 yds receiving
Chris Cooley: 50 yds receiving, 1 TD
Clinton Portis: 90 yds rushing, 1 TD / 15 yds receiving

Steelers @ Eagles (Marcoccio)
Ben Roethlisberger/Hines Ward/Santonio Holmes/Heath Miller
Willie Parker (vs. PHI)

Passing Game Thoughts: Big Ben Roethlisberger is already reported to have a banged up shoulder and the turnstile offensive line that was in effect in 2007 has remained in effect in 2008. Roethlisberger has been sacked five times on only 33 pass attempts. He has made the most of those attempts however, accruing 323 yards and 3 TDs in the first two weeks. Veteran Hines Ward grabbed two TDs in Week 1 to put the fantasy world on notice that his demise had been greatly exaggerated. Meanwhile, off-season breakout darling Santonio Holmes got off to a slow start in Week 1, but bounced back a little last week.

The Eagles and their famous blitz packages are probably the last thing Roethlisberger needs to see on the schedule. Last week’s shoot out with the Dallas Cowboys would have normally skewed the Eagles pass defense statistics but they were so skewed in the other direction based on their Week 1 match up with the inept Rams that they are probably just right where they belong – 21st in the league. While big ticket free agent acquisition Assante Samuel did manage to pick off Tony Romo last week, he also managed to get beaten rather badly by Terrell Owens on more than one occasion.

Running Game Thoughts: Fast Willie Parker has been the steal of fantasy football drafts thus far in 2008, as perceived threat first round pick Rashard Mendenhall has taken a back seat to the undrafted Parker. Parker has gained 243 yards rushing and has scored 3 TDs (all in Week 1). He has yet to catch a pass out of the backfield, but I don’t hear many of his owners complaining about that. Mendenhall has not received much work, but if the Steelers want to keep Parker healthy one would imagine the former Illinois back will be worked into the offense more and perhaps see some short yardage duty.

The Eagle defense is ranked 2nd in the league in rushing yards allowed, having only given up 104 yards rushing and one TD to date. The impressive part of this stat is that they have faced two very good backs in Stephen Jackson and Marion Barber III. The Steelers like to think of themselves as a smash mouth type of team (although not sure if their recent incarnation really fits that bill), so they are likely to challenge the tough Eagle defense. The young line-backing crew has been up to the task thus far and will look to keep it going in the battle for Pennsylvania bragging rights this weekend.

Projections:
Ben Roethlisberger: 185 yds passing 2 TDs, 1 INT
Hines Ward: 55 yds receiving
Santonio Holmes: 80 yds receiving, 1 TD
Heath Miller: 20 yds receiving, 1 TD
Willie Parker: 95 yds rushing, 1 TD / 10 yds receiving

Donovan McNabb/Hank Baskett/DeSean Jackson/LJ Smith
Brian Westbrook (vs. PIT)

Passing Game Thoughts: Donovan McNabb is looking like he wants to return the Eagles back to the playoffs, a place they’ve been during most of his years in Philly. He has 642 yards passing and 4 TD already and as most people know that TD number should be increased by one were it not for a boneheaded play by rookie DeSean Jackson. Despite the brain fart by Jackson, his rookie year has been quite impressive as he is only the second rookie ever to start off with two straight 100-yard games. Reggie Brown has yet to play in 2008 and I wouldn’t be counting on him until we see him on the field, so what McNabb has done without his top 2 WRs (Kevin Curtis being the other) is even more impressive. LJ Smith’s health adds another playmaker to the Eagles’ offense and while he was quite in Week 2 he should be a startable TE most weeks.

Pittsburgh’s defense has stopped two supposedly up and coming passing games in the first two weeks, allowing only 368 passing yards and 1 TD and most of those passing yards coming in garbage time against Houston. Last week, albeit in heavy winds, Derek Anderson, Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow, Jr. could get nothing done against the Pittsburgh secondary. McNabb should test this unit in Week 3.

Running Game Thoughts: Brian Westbrook has surprisingly scored 5 total TDs in only two weeks while amassing 195 total yards. Westbrook has only once been pulled at the goal-line which was a concern for many potential fantasy owners. Don’t be surprised given Tomlinson’s injuries and Peterson’s lack of passing game support if Westy ends the season as the top fantasy running back.

The steel curtain is back. The Steelers are the 4th ranked rush defense and have allowed a meager 104 yards rushing and one TD in two weeks. Troy Polamanu is perhaps second to only Bob Sanders in run support from the safety position. James Harrison and James Farrior have been devastating run stoppers as well from the line backing position. The match up with Pitt’s defensive front seven against Westbrook should be one of the more interesting aspects of Sunday’s game.

Projections:
Donovan McNabb: 245 yds passing 2 TD / 1 INT, 15 yards rushing
Hank Basket: 40 yds receiving
DeSean Jackson: 70 yds receiving
LJ Smith: 35 yds receiving, 1 TD
Brian Westbrook: 105 yds rushing / 45 yds receiving, 1 TD

Buccaneers @ Bears (Mack)
Brian Griese / Ike Hilliard / Michael Clayton / Antonio Bryant / Alex Smith
Earnest Graham / Warrick Dunn

Passing Game Thoughts: Head coach Jon Gruden has decided to keep QB Brain Griese the starter even though Jeff Garcia is healthy. Griese is neither flashy nor explosive and his best days are clearly behind him, but he is an efficient game manager who can dink and dunk his way to a quietly productive game. Tampa’s offensive line, with its lack of a true big time player, will have a daunting task keeping the aggressive Chicago Bear defense off of Griese. The Bears’ defense looks a lot faster compared to last year, and that is due in no small part to the return of DT Tommie Harris and safety Mike Green. The first order of business for the Bucs is to keep Chicago’s never-stop DEs Adewale Ogunleye and Alex Brown from harassing Griese.

Tampa Bay’s receiving corps is a pedestrian group, and with the injury to veteran Joey Galloway, the collection of Ike Hilliard, Michael Clayton and Antonio Bryant will put little worry in the minds of defensive coordinators league wide. No one in this group has the speed on the outside to pressure Chicago’s defense, so the Bucs will incorporate a lot of short to intermediate throws which, schematically, plays right into the hands of the Cover 2 defense employed by the Bears. Starting a Tampa receiver this week is a desperate move, and if you are in this unenviable position, certainly your expectations should be tempered greatly. This will be a low scoring defensive struggle with very little production coming through the air from either team.

Running Game Thoughts: I will admit that I thought Warrick Dunn’s return to Tampa was some kind of feel good gesture and PR ploy by the Bucs’ front office for a player who was productive when he played there from 1997 – 2001. Dunn’s stats haven’t been bad for a player who was essentially a fantasy draft-day afterthought. Surprisingly, and much to the chagrin of Earnest Graham owners, Dunn’s production is on par with the Bucs’ starting running back. Through the first two games this year, their stats are almost mirror images of one another, with four having only four more carries. Graham has 100-plus more yards on the ground, but the point is Dunn has been given as many opportunities as Graham, and that says a lot about 1) what his team thinks of him, and 2) his fantasy value as a Graham handcuff.

All that being said, Chicago fields the #6 rated defense and running on them, especially with Tampa’s average passing game, will be tough. But in order for Tampa to have a chance in this game, Graham and Dunn have to put up numbers. The Bucs’ running backs, however, should see plenty of defenders close to the line of scrimmage. That will render their ground attack useless, so I suspect that any amount of productivity from the Bucs’ back field will come via the air. In that scenario, that makes Dunn, with his receiving ability, a fairly attractive option for those desperate PPR fantasy owners.

Projections:
Brian Griese: 165 yards passing / 1 TD / 1 INT
Michael Clayton: 55 yards rec.
Antonio Bryant: 35 yards rec.
Ike Hilliard: 20 yards rec.
Earnest Graham: 45 yards rushing / 15 yards rec.
Warrick Dunn: 35 yards rushing / 35 yards rec. / 1 TD

Kyle Orton / Marty Booker / Rashied Davis / Desmond Clark
Matt Forte

Passing Game Thoughts: Upon his departure from Chicago during the off season, current Carolina Panther WR Muhsin Muhammad commented that Chicago is the place where receivers go to die. Well, one look at the current group of receivers leads one to believe that they were probably dead before they arrived in the Windy City. Marty Booker, Rashied Davis, Brandon Lloyd, et al are dreadfully average NFL players with minimal fantasy value.

Further proof of Chicago’s low octane passing game is the fact that QB Kyle Orton has as many TD passes this season than you or I—ZERO. In his defense, their scheme is not centered on whether he tosses scoring throws on Sunday; rather, he’s asked to play mistake-free football while not putting the defense in compromising positions. That virtually eliminates any fantasy value he may have. This game will probably be a defensive struggle anyway, and Chicago will ride the shoulders of its sensational rookie running back.

Running Game Thoughts: After two games, rookie RB Matt Forte has made Chicago fans forget that enigmatic RB Cedric Benson was once the centerpiece around which the Bears planned to build. Forte has shown burst, patience and great vision, not to mention uncanny speed for someone of his size. He’s currently the league’s forth leading rusher and has an attention-getting 4.7 yards per carry. Chicago will rely on him heavily to control the clock and keep the game Orton’s hands.

This game sets up nicely for the rookie. Chicago has a really good offensive line and the Bucs will more than likely play without their leader, LB Derrick Brooks. Tampa held Atlanta’s RB Michael Turner to 42 yards last week after he torched Detroit for more than 200 yards in the season opener. So they are capable of stuffing the run, but let’s see what they can do against a team whose identity is grinding out games on the ground. If nothing else, know that Forte will probably see 25 – 30 carries this week.

Projections:
Kyle Orton: 145 yards passing
Marty Booker: 55 yards rec.
Rashied Davis: 40 yards rec.
Desmond Clark: 35 yards rec.
Matt Forte: 135 yards rushing / 1 TD

Panthers @ Vikings (Mack)
Jake Delhomme / Steve Smith / Muhsin Muhammad / Dante Rosario
Jonathon Stewart / DeAngelo Williams

Passing Game Thoughts: QB Jake Delhomme opened the season against San Diego with a strong performance, but he was brought back to earth last week against Chicago when he threw for only 128 yards. Carolina welcomes back suspended WR Steve Smith. The Panthers have developed a well-rounded passing attack in his absence, as someone named Dante Rosario—who?—showed flashed. That bodes well for Smith and Delhomme, the only true and consistently relevant fantasy players in the passing game on the team. Although Smith is certainly the most dangerous offensive weapon on team, others such as Rosario, Muhsin Muhammad and DJ Hackett have shown they can get the job done.

Anytime a team goes up against the Vikings, the first order of business is keeping their fierce pass rush off the QB. Minnesota only has two sacks through as many weeks, but they’ve been relentless in pressuring the QB (just ask Peyton Manning). Carolina’s passing attack will undoubtedly focus on giving help to Jordan Gross as he attempts to keep DE Jared Allen at bay. I believe this will be a fun game to watch from a fantasy standpoint. A lot of points should be scored in this contest and Steve Smith will reward those patient fantasy owners with an eye-popping game.

Running Game Thoughts: Even though rookie RB Jonathan Stewart outperformed starter DeAngelo Williams last week, head coach John Fox insists that Williams is still the starter. That being said, it shouldn’t matter who gets the start. Stewart showed the burst and power last week that made him a hot commodity in last April’s draft, and it is those skills that prompt many pundits to say it’s only a matter of time before he takes over the starting spot. But Williams can’t be discounted entirely. He too has displayed explosive skills and has become a viable RB2 in his own right.

Minnesota’s run defense looked vulnerable in week one when Ryan Grant ran for 92 yards, but the unit returned to its formidable self last week, holding Indy’s Joseph Addai to 20 yards. The Panthers will have their hands full trying to make a living on the ground and trying to contain DTs Pat and Kevin Williams. I think the Vikings will contain the running game most of the afternoon, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Stewart slips through the front seven for a long gain—especially after Delhomme softens the defense with the passing game.

Projections:
Jake Delhomme: 225 yards passing / 2 TD / 1 INT
Steve Smith: 130 yards rec. / 1 TD
Muhsin Muhammad: 45 yards rec. / 1 TD
Dante Rosario: 20 yards rec.
Jonathan Stewart: 75 yards rushing / 1 TD
DeAngelo Williams: 50 yards rushing / 35 yards rec.

Gus Frerotte / Bernard Berrian / Bobby Wade / Visanthe Shiancoe
Adrian Peterson / Chester Taylor

Passing Game Thoughts: I’m sure Tarvaris Jackson is a fine, upstanding American citizen, but he is a train wreck at QB. Head coach Brad Childress saw enough of third year QB to realize—finally—that at least for the foreseeable future, Gus Frerotte gives the Vikings a better chance to win. It should be interesting to see how the passing game picks up under Frerotte’s leadership. It certainly can’t get much worse. The Vikings invested a lot of cash in free agent WR Bernard Berrian and all they’ve gotten back is three catches for 38 yards. Is it Berrian or was it Jackson’s fault? The next several weeks should answer that question.

If nothing else, Frerotte brings a level of experience that Jackson simply doesn’t have yet. The passing game should open up now and allow the WRs become threats once again. There’s a good chance that starting WR Sidney Rice will sit this game out, meaning Bobby Wade will see plenty of action. Wade had an ok season last year and showed that he can be a productive player in the league. Anyone who owns a Minnesota receiver or tight end should keep them shelved this week if possible until it is revealed how the offense responds with Frerotte at the helm.

Running Game Thoughts: As of this writing, there’s a 50-50 chance that Adrian Peterson sits this game out. He practiced on a limited basis on Wednesday but did not practice at all on Thursday, leaving Childress to say he “is concerned” about his all-world RB’s availability for Sunday. If Peterson is unable to go, back-up Chester Taylor has enough skill to allow Minnesota to not miss a beat. Although he’s not as explosive as Peterson, Taylor is an effective runner and would warrant a start as a RB2 should he get the nod.

Carolina has not been able to contain RBs so far this year. LT ran for 97 yards in week one and Matt Forte chalked up 92 yards last week, and San Diego, Chicago and Minnesota have one thing in common—great run blocking offensive lines. Minnesota will undoubtedly attempt to impose its will on Carolina with a power run game, regardless of who starts at running back. If Peterson starts and is healthy throughout the contest, it could get ugly for Carolina’s run defense. As a Chester Taylor owner, I’d like to see him get a shot this week. But if I were a betting man, I’d say Peterson plays and plays well.

Projections:
Gus Frerotte: 165 yards passing / 1 TD / 1 INT
Bernard Berrian: 55 yards rec / 1 TD
Bobby Wade: 50 yards rec.
Visanthe Shiancoe: 25 yards rec.
Adrian Peterson: 155 yards rushing / 20 yards rec. / 2 TDs
Chester Taylor: 35 yards rushing

Browns @ Ravens (Mack)
Derek Anderson / Braylon Edwards / Syndric Steptoe / Kellen Winslow
Jamal Lewis

Passing Game Thoughts: The team that was the darling of the league heading into the season, the Cleveland Browns are now on the brink of an 0-3 start with a struggling offense and a defense that couldn’t stop anyone if its life depended on it. QB Derek Anderson has played more like Pamela Anderson, and WR Braylon Edwards has resorted back to his days at the University of Michigan when he routinely dropped the easy passes but made the spectacular ESPN highlight quality passes. He leads the league with five drops and he looks like he lacks concentration at times. This team’s passing attack has been painful to watch. They’ve scored only one TD through the two games and looked average doing that. Edwards and Winslow are dynamic players at their respective positions, but they still lack quality depth. Syndric Steptoe has shown nothing and Donte’ Stallworth should be locked up for stealing Cleveland’s money. How can someone injure a quad during pre-game warm-ups to the point where he misses the next three games? That’s where Stallworth finds himself; no wonder he’s on his fourth team in four years.

The Browns were the only team in the league to start the season with two home games, but they did nothing to take advantage of that. Now they make a visit to Baltimore to meet the well rested Ravens. This should prove to be another rough outing for the Browns. The Ravens will bring the heat early and often against Anderson and force him to make plays, which so far this season he has not. It will be interesting to see how long Anderson, Edwards and Winslow owners will stay patient with this group.

Running Game Thoughts: Heading into this season, Jamal Lewis was the perfect RB2 in fantasy football. There was no threat of a RBBC, he was to get all the goal line carries and he played on a supposed explosive offense. Well, two games into the season and Lewis has put the onus on his fantasy owners as they ponder whether or not to start him. It’s not that he has looked terrible, but a combination of dropped passes by receivers, questionable play-calling last week in a wind storm and surprisingly average play by the offensive line have all contributed to Lewis stumbling out the gate. He still runs with speed and power but he hasn’t had a true shot to display his skills so far. Going up against his former teammates should give him the extra motivation to come out of his rut.

Due to Hurricane Ike that ripped through Houston last week, Baltimore got a bye week after only one game. So in essence, this may seem to them as if it’s opening week once again. Consequently, they’ve had two weeks to prepare for a running game in Cleveland that has played poorly and shown little fire or creativity. Don’t look now, but it seems the clock is getting preciously close to midnight for the Browns, and all those who bought into the hype by making a Cleveland Brown a member of your fantasy team (myself included) may turn into a pumpkin along with the entire Browns team. But seriously, don’t look at this week being the week when they awaken from their summer-long slumber.

Projections:
Derek Anderson: 165 yards passing 1 TD / 1 INT
Braylon Edwards: 70 yards rec.
Kellow Winslow: 65 yards rec. / 1 TD
Syndric Steptoe: 25 yards rec.
Jamal Lewis: 65 yards rushing / 1 TD

Joe Flacco / Derrick Mason / Mark Clayton / Todd Heap
Willis McGahee / Ray Rice

Passing Game Thoughts: It’s hard to put a gauge on rookie Joe Flacco from week one. He went up against an anemic Cincinnati defense that so far has proven it can stop no one. Flacco goes up against another defense that lacks quality at all three levels. Both Dallas and Pittsburgh were able to move the ball against the Browns, and while there’s a good chance head coach John Harbaugh probably won’t have his young signal caller drop back to pass many times, there seems to be no tangible evidence that the Browns are capable of doing anything to stop it if they do.

Cleveland’s secondary has been less that stellar to start the season. Opposing receivers during the first two games have been running wide open through their secondary and little pressure has been put on the QB. The Ravens are far from being Dallas or Pittsburgh, but the point remains that Cleveland’s defense leaves much to be desired at this point in the season and is vulnerable to downfield throws. Flacco and Co. may find themselves at the end of this game with respectable numbers that may warrant a start for Mason and Heap.

Running Game Thoughts: The tandem of Ray Rice and fullback Le’Ron McClain filled in nicely for McGahee in week one. McGahee should return this week and give patient fantasy owners their money’s worth. Baltimore has a big, physical offensive line, and the Browns have already shown this year that big, offensive lines give them fits. The game will be put in McGahee’s hands to the tune of about 25 carries. The Ravens will attempt to slow the game down and keep Cleveland’s offense off the field by incorporating a ground attack that Cleveland will have difficulty containing.

This will be a low scoring game to be sure. Baltimore very well could have twice as many rushing attempts in this game as they do passes, meaning Rice and McClain could get some action as well. Either way, the rushing attack for the Ravens will be successful and anyone starting McGahee this week will be happy with his results.

Projections:
Joe Flacco: 160 yards passing / 1 TD / 1 INT
Derrick Mason: 60 yards rec. / 1 TD
Todd Heap: 55 yards rec.
Mark Clayton: 25 yards rec.
Willis McGahee: 130 yards rushing / 1 TD
Ray Rice: 25 yards rushing

Cowboys @ Packers (Mack)
Tony Romo / Terrell Owens / Patrick Crayton / Jason Witten
Marion Barber / Felix Jones

Passing Game Thoughts: This is the game of the week in the NFL and it should be a hotspot for fantasy production in week three. Romo and the Cowboys have gotten off to a sizzling start. The passing game has clicked and Romo has incorporated the usual suspects in the Cowboys’ aerial assault. Jason Witten and T.O. have torched Dallas’ opponents, and Witten, to no one’s surprise, has continued to emerge as a bona fide superstar at the tight end position. Witten leads all tight ends in receiving yards and is fifth overall in the league in receiving yards, regardless of position. He is a true threat in the passing game and Romo incorporates him beautifully—almost, it seems, to the exclusion of T.O.

But T.O. owners needn’t worry. He will whine his way into getting action in the passing game if he absolutely had to. But make no mistake about it; Witten is the #1 receiving option in Big D. The athletic tight end makes his money abusing slower LBs or smaller DBs down the middle of the field and Romo finds him and gets him the ball so he can do his thing. Green Bay has a really good set of LBs to challenge Witten, so it should be a nice showdown at Lambeau.

Running Game Thoughts: I never tire of watching Marion Barber run the football. He runs with so much attitude, anger, and passion, which all seem to be in short supply in today’s running backs. He battled back from a minor rib injury suffered in week one to post a dynamite game in week two. Barber had a good but not great game on the ground against Philly, but he did manage to score through the air as well. The bottom line is Barber continues to solidify his place as an undisputed RB1 with boundless limits, and those fortunate enough to have drafted him in the middle of the first round should be feeling great right now.

Dallas will use its physical offensive line to establish Barber and attempt to take an emotional Sunday night crowd out of the game. Rookie RB Felix Jones has shown that every time he gets his hands on the ball he does something special. It’s going to be increasingly difficult for Dallas to keep Jones on the bench, which is why they decided to use him on kick-offs. Certainly, he’s no threat to unseat Barber as the starter, but at least Jones has proven that he’s the ultimate Barber handcuff.

Projections:
Tony Romo: 285 yards passing / 2 TDs / 1 INT
Terrell Owens: 125 yards rec. / 1 TD
Patrick Crayton: 45 yards rec.
Jason Witten: 90 rec. / 1 TD
Marion Barber: 95 yards rushing / 1 TD
Felix Jones: 25 yards rushing

Aaron Rodgers / Donald Driver / Greg Jennings / Donald Lee
Ryan Grant / Brandon Jackson

Passing Game Thoughts: Aaron Rodgers has quickly stepped out of Brett Favre’s shadow to show the NFL world that he too is a very good QB. The result is a QB with four TD passes, no interceptions and a confident demeanor custom built for the rigors of an NFL season. Dallas will be the Packers’ toughest opponent to date, so Rodgers will have a chance really carve a name out for himself in fantasy circles. Green Bay’s running game has done nothing, so if the Pack hope to be productive in this game, they may have to do so through the air. If there is a weakness on the Cowboys, one could consider their secondary and Rodgers has the offensive weapons to take advantage of it in Greg Jennings and Donald Driver.

As in any NFL game, it’s going to be important that the offensive line protects Rodgers. The Packers may take several chances throwing deep with their speed on the outside, so protection is key. Dallas safety Roy Williams is likely out for this contest and there may be some who say that’s addition by subtraction regarding the Cowboys’ ability to defend the pass. We’ll see.

Running Game Thoughts: Ryan Grant was the free agent gem of 2007 but he hasn’t exactly picked up where he left off. He’s still battling through a hamstring injury and his poor play against Detroit last week opened the door for fellow running back Brandon Jackson to be relevant again. Grant has practiced sparingly this week, so his status remains in question for this game. I believe he will play. Whether or not he’s effective remains to be seen, but I think he gives it a shot. Meanwhile, Jackson should have opportunities to put up numbers against an otherwise stingy run defense. Dallas has yet to allow a runner to run for more than 62 yards this year and there’s little reason to believe that will change this week.

Projections:
Aaron Rodgers: 195 yards passing / 1 TD
Greg Jennings: 85 yards rec.
Donald Driver: 60 yards rec. / 1 TD
Donald Lee: 35 yards rec.
Brandon Jackson: 65 yards rushing
Ryan Grant: 35 yards rushing