Chargers @ Dolphins (Marcoccio)
Philip Rivers/Chris Chambers/Vincent Jackson/Antonio Gates
LaDanian Tomlinson/Darren Sproles (vs. MIA)

Passing Game Thoughts: Philip Rivers has thrown for 1,024 yards and 10 TDs in his first four games and is a top-three quarterback in almost every fantasy league scoring system. His grittiness shown in leading the Chargers to a near victory in the AFC Championship Game - despite tearing his ACL the week before - earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates and the experience seems to have carried over into 2008. TE Antonio Gates started the year off slowly while recovering from a nagging toe injury but seems to be rounding back into form and has grabbed touchdowns the last two weeks. Rivers also has two very talented wide receivers in Vincent Jackson and Chris Chambers. Chambers has grabbed four TDs so far this season and is thriving after finally being teamed up with a legit quarterback. Vincent Jackson has finally lived up to his message board hype with 15 receptions for 246 yards and a TD through four weeks. The Chargers may soon return to their “Air Coryell” roots after a near decade of being “Ground Tomlinson”.

The Dolphins have allowed 227.3 yards passing and two passing TDs per game during their first three contests. They have allowed 23.6 fantasy points per game (“fppg”) to opposing fantasy QBs (5th most among all teams) and they are the best defense statistically to start your wide receivers against having allowed 31.1 fppg to wide receivers. Will Allen and Jason Allen have not got the job done against big wide receivers like Jerricho Cotchery, Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, but did shut down Randy Moss during their shellacking of the Patriots in Week 3. While they have yet to face a TE the caliber of Antonio Gates (in fact they have faced teams without any real TE threats at the time so far) they are one of the tougher teams on opposing TEs allowing only 3.6 fppg.

Running Game Thoughts: Like Antonio Gates, Ladanian Tomlinson was also slowed by a toe injury, but has recently shown signs of turning it around. He had his best game of the season so far in Week 4 against Oakland, breaking 100 total yards and scoring twice on the ground. Mighty Mite Darren Sproles has spelled LT very successfully and is one of the more dynamic players in the NFL with the ball in his hands. His quickness and balance is unmatched and he has shown surprising ability to break tackles despite weighing less than 185 pounds.

Miami’s run defense has been much better statistically in 2008 (5th, allowing only 90.3 yards per game) than in 2007 where they were ranked dead last in the NFL, but it’s still not overly impressive when you realize the Patriots were limited in what they could do on the ground with the Miami offense running wild against them. Miami has only allowed opposing running backs to score 13.6 fppg against them, but have yet to be tested like they will when San Diego comes to the land of Crockett and Tubbs.

Projections:
Philip Rivers: 305 yds passing 2 TDs
Chris Chambers: 110 yds receiving, 1 TD
Vincent Jackson: 75 yds receiving
Antonio Gates: 65 yds receiving, 1 TD
LaDanian Tomlinson: 75 yds rushing, 1 TD / 20 yds receiving
Darren Sproles: 40 yds rushing / 25 yds receiving

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

Passing Game Thoughts: Chad Pennington was incredibly efficient in Week 3, but did little for his fantasy owners as the Dolphins were able to score at will on the ground. Pennington was 17/20 for 226 yards but had fewer TD passes than RB Ronnie Brown (1). Pennington isn’t asked to carry the Dolphins and therefore should not be asked to carry your fantasy team. Uninspiring Greg Camarillo has been Miami’s top wide-out thus far, but the tight end combination of Anthony Fasano and David Martin have been the only reliable fantasy players one would even want to consider from the Dolphins’ aerial attack. Ted Ginn Jr has been a major disappointment, but the coaching staff seems determined to make him a weapon on offense at the expense of their special teams where he has relinquished his return duties to rookie Devone Bess so he can concentrate on offense.

The San Diego passing defense has been an oasis for fantasy owners who have had players facing the unit thus far. They are the No. 1 defense in fantasy points allowed against QBs (26.0 fppg) and TEs (16.4 fppg), and the 8th worst against WRs (22.6 fppg). This seems to bode well for the Miami passing attack which as previously mention features its TEs, but bear in mind Pennington is not Jay Cutler who’s amazing Week 2 has skewed the stats against San Diego to some degree. The Chargers certainly miss Shawn Merrimen’s pass rush but CB Antonio Cromartie has started to turn things around after a slow start.

Running Game Thoughts: There is very likely no one reading this article that is not aware of the show Ronnie Brown put on in the Darren McFadden role of Miami’s version of the Wild Hog offense run against NE (113 yards and 4 TDs on the ground with one passing TD), but they may have missed the fact that Ricky Williams in the Felix Jones role also had a nice game, rushing for 98 yards. The single wing offense is likely not going to be a staple of the Dolphins attack now that the cat is out of the bag (not to mention that most other defenses are not as slow as New England’s) but it’s hard to imagine that it will be abandoned altogether. Ronnie Brown has obviously recovered well from his torn ACL, but Ricky Williams should still have a rather significant role as well which means fantasy owners cannot really expect games like Week 3 from Brown too often.

San Diego has been a pretty solid run defense, having allowed 400 yards with only one score on the ground thus far. In that light one would imagine that fantasy RBs have not fared well against them and one would be correct in that line of thinking. San Diego is the 26th ranked defense in allowing fantasy points to opposing RBs with only 15 fppg. Those owners salivating in being allowed to finally get Ronnie Brown in their line-ups after his bye week and having likely had him on their bench during his blow-up week may end up a little disappointed Sunday evening.

Projections:
Chad Pennington: 230 yds passing, 1 TD, 1 INT
Greg Camarillo: 40 yds receiving
Ted Ginn, Jr.: 35 yds receiving
Anthony Fasano: 75 yds receiving
David Martin: 30 yds receiving, 1 TD
Ricky Williams: 65 yds rushing / 10 yds receiving
Ronnie Brown: 55 yds rushing, 1 TD / 10 yds receiving

Redskins @ Eagles (Marcoccio)
Jason Campbell/Santana Moss/Antwaan Randle El/Chris Cooley
Clinton Portis (vs. PHI)

Passing Game Thoughts: Jason Campbell who looked absolutely lost in Week 1 running his fifty-second new offense in his short career (disclaimer “fifty-second” was pure hyperbole and the actual number is slightly lower) is now looking like one of the better young QBs in the NFL. He has worked his way into the ranks of a fantasy starter. He now has 878 yards passing and 6 TDs without an interception in 2008. Santana Moss who was once the poster boy for inconsistent fantasy WRs has been nothing short of spectacular and sits behind only Anquan Boldin in the WR rankings. He has been consistently productive each week. Antwaan Randle El doesn’t get many targets but has been a solid contributor when called upon and fits in well with the WCO scheme run by Jim Zorn. Chris Cooley has yet to find the end zone but has been a solid fantasy TE with 17 receptions for 179 yards. Rookie Devin Thomas should start finding his way into the offense a little more as the season progresses.

After pummeling Ben Roethlisberger in Week 3, the Eagles defense surprisingly allowed Kyle Orton to put up numbers never seen by fantasy owners from the “Great Neck beard”, as Orton tossed three TDs. On the season the Eagles have allowed 767 yards passing and 6 TDs through the air, but have got to the QB an amazing 17 times. In terms of fantasy production Philly has been a middle of the road option to have your fantasy QB face off against as they sit at the No 17 position is fantasy points allowed to opposing QBs (17.8 fppg). However WRs have fared poorly against this defense as only seven teams have allowed fewer point production to opposing WRs than the Eagles, as they have allowed only 16.1 fppg to wide-outs. While Assante Samuel, Sheldon Brown and Lito Sheppard have been getting the job done the Philly linebackers and safeties have been exploited by opposing TEs. The Eagles have allowed the second most production to opposing TEs, 9.4 fppg.

Running Game Thoughts: Clinton Portis just keeps getting it done and has 369 rushing yards and 3 TDs after four weeks. He has received the bulk of the work as Ladell Betts has seen very little playing time and has only 22 carries. Portis has been one of the easiest RBs to project as he’s been a virtual lock for 85-100 yards and should score double digit TDs.

The Eagles were a top-ten run defense in 2007 and have been even better in 2008. They are behind only Baltimore in rushing yards allowed (215 yards) and have played one more game than the Ravens. They have also allowed only one rushing TD on the season. Based on that it’s safe to say that one should consider benching any RBs facing the Eagle defense if one has a decent replacement option. They have allowed opposing fantasy RBs to score only 11.5 fppg making them the worst possible match up. Perhaps Portis isn’t quite the lock for his usual steady production.

Projections:
Jason Campbell: 265 yds passing, 2 TD / 15 yards rushing
Santana Moss: 85 yds receiving, 1 TD
Antwaan Randle El: 65 yds receiving
Chris Cooley: 45 yds receiving, 1 TD
Clinton Portis: 65 yards rushing / 15 yards receiving

Donovan McNabb/Reggie Brown/DeSean Jackson/Hank Baskett/LJ Smith
Brian Westbrook/Correll Buckhalter (vs. WAS)

Passing Game Thoughts: Donovan McNabb has likely won back the fans in the City of Brotherly love as he’s had a stellar season despite injuries to his two starting WRs. Reggie Brown finally played last week after missing time with a hamstring injury and stepped right in and contributed 70+ yards. Rookie sensation DeSean Jackson has been dynamic thus far and scored his first TD last week – this time crossing the goal line with the ball rather than dropping it a yard short. Tight end LJ Smith missed last week with a back injury and his status for Week 5 is unclear, but he has practiced this week.

Washington’s pass defense is ranked 25th in the league, having allowed 892 yards and 6 TDs in the first four weeks. They have not generated much of a pass rush with Jason Taylor hurting and the secondary loaded with high draft picks has been disappointing. Washington has allowed opposing QBs to put up 19.9 fppg, while WRs have scored 22.7 fppg and TEs 5.0 fppg, making the Skins a good match up to exploit.

Running Game Thoughts: Brian Westbrook missed last week’s game with a ankle injury and is questionable for this Week 5 match up. Correll Buckhalter stepped in and contributed adequately for his fantasy owners going for just over 60 yards rushing and finding the end zone, but is not nearly as dynamic a player as Westbrook is. There have been some conflicting reports about the severity of Westbrook’s injury – one coming from his brother who happens to play CB for Washington – so his owners will have to play the waiting game that has become all too familiar during Westbrook’s career.

So maybe the Giants’ rushing attack is just that good as they dominated the Redskin defense during Week 1. Since then the Skins have been extremely difficult to run on, allowing only 92 yards per game on the season, which includes the 155 yards, they allowed to New York. Only 5 teams in the NFL have been worse match ups for opposing RBs this season as the Skins have only allowed 15.0 fppg to the RBs they have faced. Westbrook may be able to change that a little but as of now his prospects of playing aren’t that high.

Projections:
Donovan McNabb: 315 yds passing 2 TDs / 15 yards rushing
Reggie Brown: 75 yds receiving
Hank Basket: 60 yds receiving, 1 TD
DeSean Jackson: 105 yds receiving
LJ Smith: 55 yds receiving, 1 TD
Correll Buckhalter: 55 yds rushing / 35 yds receiving

Bengals @ Cowboys (Marcoccio)
Ryan Fitzpatrick/Chad Ocho Cinco/TJ Houshmanzadeh/Reggie Kelly
Chris Perry (vs. DAL)

Passing Game Thoughts: The Bengals pass offense, which came alive a little in Week 3 against the Giants, fell back apart in Week 4 when Carson Palmer’s elbow injury forced him to miss the game. Harvard’s own Ryan Fitzpatrick played more like a Wall Street CEO than an NFL QB, getting picked off three times and not leading his team to the end zone. Carson Palmer may or may not be back this week, but according to Head Coach Marvin Lewis (the next coaching casualty?) the team is preparing as if Fitzpatrick is getting the start – and Palmer has been limited to handing off the ball in practice so far this week. I don’t think I really need to tell anyone this, but since FFToday Mike is paying me those big bucks for my contributions – sit all Bengal skill players this week if the Ivy Leaguer is under center.

The Dallas defense has allowed teams to move the ball through the air on them so far in 2008. Opposing QBs have managed 20.4 fppg while throwing for 916 yards and four TDs. They have allowed WRs to score 19.3 fppg and TEs to score 5.4 fppg – which places them about middle of the pack in those categories. My guess is those numbers will be much improved after this week however.

Running Game Thoughts: Poor Chris Perry. In one of the few times he’s managed to string together a couple of injury free games in a row he has faced the following highly ranked run defenses: Baltimore (1st), Tennessee (10th) and New York (3rd). However even against Cleveland (24th) he failed to impress and surprisingly (please note sarcasm) he is now nursing a hamstring injury. To add insult to injury, this week the Bengals signed noted underachiever Cedric Benson (didn’t the Bengals hear he was CLEARED of all criminal charges) to possibly compete for carries.

The Dallas defense is ranked 16th against the run this season allowing 414 rushing yards and 3 TDs. From a fantasy perspective, they have been a difficult match up for opposing RBs, ranking 22nd on the list of fppg allowed to RBs with only 16.1.

Projections:
Ryan Fitzpatrick: 145 yds passing, 2 INT / 20 yards rushing
TJ Houshmandzadeh: 80 yds receiving
Chad Ocho Cinco: 35 yds receiving
Reggie Kelly: 15 yds receiving
Chris Perry: 65 yards rushing, 1 TD / 15 yards receiving

Tony Romo/Terrell Owens/Patrick Crayton/Miles Austin/Jason Witten
Marion Barber III/Felix Jones (vs. WAS)

Passing Game Thoughts: Uh-oh, guess who doesn’t think he’s getting the ball enough in Dallas? Terrell Owens who was targeted 17 times and even received two carries in Week 4, said after the Redskin game that he isn’t involved in the offense enough to give his team a chance to win. Perhaps TO does not realize that he isn’t even the best option on his team, since TE Jason Witten is the tougher assignment matching up against opposing linebackers. Third WR Austin Miles had a nice game again last week and could start cutting into inconsistent Patrick Crayton’s playing time – although Crayton stepped up last week as well. My second no-brainer call of this piece is to say in no uncertain terms: “GET ALL COWBOY’S IN YOUR LINE-UP.”

Cincinnati’s pass defense’s best friend is their run defense. Statistically the Bengals pass defense has been decent (684 yards and 3 TDs), but it’s the old story of teams running at will on a team that can’t stop the run and who can’t score offensively. Opposing fantasy QBs have not fared all that well in games against the Bengals (15 fppg) and WRs have fared even worse (13.2 fppg). Expect that to change this week against the high powered Dallas air attack and expect an especially big game form Jason Witten as the Bengal line backers are pathetic.

Running Game Thoughts: Marion Barber has been one of the more impressive backs in 2008, but was surprisingly not a factor against the Redskins as the Cowboys inexplicably abandoned the run (10 carries for Barber, no carries for Jones). Wade Phillips and Jason Garrett must rectify that this week and luckily for them they face the perfect opponent to do just that against.

The Bengals are the 30th ranked defense against the run and have allowed a staggering 657 yards rushing in four games with five TDs. This team simply doesn’t seem to realize that line backer is a position on the football field – although they did draft USC’s Keith Rivers so perhaps that’s a small exaggeration. Opposing RBs have averaged 22.4 fppg against the Bengals. Start both Barber and Jones with confidence this week.

Projections:
Tony Romo: 285 yds passing 2 TDs
Terrell Owens: 65 yds receiving, 1 TD
Patrick Crayton: 20 yds receiving
Miles Austin: 45 yds receiving
Jason Witten: 95 yds receiving, 1 TD
Marion Barber: 115 yds rushing, 2 TDs / 5 yds receiving
Felix Jones: 65 yds rushing / 35 yds receiving

Seahawks @ Giants (Marcoccio)
Matt Hasselbeck/Deion Branch/Bobby Engram/John Carlson
Julius Jones/Maurice Morris (vs. NYG)

Passing Game Thoughts: Throw out all we know about the Seattle passing game this season, because Matt Hasselbeck finally gets his weapons back. Last year’s leading pass catcher Bobby Engram is expected to start alongside expected No. 1 WR, Deion Branch. This could be the week that the Hawks finally move the ball though the air. With that said, I’d expect some rust on the WRs and a cross-country trip surely will not help the team either. Rookie TE John Carlson who has been quite effective thus far may be the best option as Hasslebeck will need to get the ball out quick against a feared pass rush and the young TE who he has worked with him all season will likely be the “hot” read.

Even with the retirement of Michael Strahan and the loss of Osi Umenyiora, the Giants pass rush has reached and taken down the QB 13 times in three games. Jason Tuck has elevated his game to elite status and is almost unstoppable. The fierce pass rush and solid play of Sam Madison and Aaron Ross may make things difficult for Matt Hasselbeck as he gets used to his veteran WRs again after throwing to some youngsters all year. Opposing QBs have only managed 16.3 fppg against the G-Men on the season so temper your expectations for Matt the Bald.

Running Game Thoughts: Color me surprised by the numbers Julius Jones has put up thus far. Watching him with Dallas last season he showed a lack of any heart and an average burst, at best, while running behind the impressive Cowboy line. The Great Northwest must agree with him as he has shown the burst and vision, which put him on the fantasy radar in the latter half of his rookie campaign. He has likely established himself enough to hold off Maurice Morris who started the year as the starting RB in a RBBC with Jones but has missed the last two games with injury. Morris may be limited to a third down role until Jones cools off.

As good as New York has been against the pass it has been even better against the run. The Giants rank 3rd in the league in run defense, although having their bye already inflates them a little. They allow only 84.6 rushing yards per game and have allowed only Chris Perry to cross the stripe on the ground. It could be tough sledding for Jones as the Giants allow only 11.5 fppg (tied for the best in the league).

Projections:
Matt Hasselbeck: 205 yds passing, 1 TD, 1 INT
Deion Branch: 35 yds receiving, 1 TD
Bobby Engram: 55 yds receiving
John Carlson: 75 yds receiving
Julius Jones: 55 yds rushing
Maurice Morris: 15 yds rushing / 15 yds receiving

Eli Manning/Dominek Hixon/Amani Toomer/Steve Smith/Kevin Boss
Brandon Jacobs/Derrick Ward/Ahmad Bradshaw (vs. SEA)

Passing Game Thoughts: Eli Manning will need to get it done this week without his best weapon. Plaxico Burris will serve a team-imposed suspension. Veteran Amani Toomer who has long been Eli’s safety valve will likely play a bigger role this week and should be great bye week filler for those in need of one. Kevin Boss finally came alive last week and caught a TD pass against the Bengals and will also be asked to play a bigger role with Burris’ absence. Dominek Hixon would had a nice pre-season will get the start as the team prefers to keep Steve Smith in his slot receiver role. Smith has stepped up his game and is a smooth receiver with sticky hands. In my opinion he is the player that owners looking for a Week 5 sleeper should target, despite Hixon getting the start.

Seattle’s pass rush is almost as effective as the team they will see on the other side of the field this Sunday. They have sacked the QB 10 times in 3 weeks, but they have given up 647 yards and 4 TDs this season in three games. From a fantasy perspective they are neither an exceptionally tough nor an exceptionally easy match up for QBs, WRs or TEs as they allow 18.4, 21.3 and 4.1 fppg respectively.

Running Game Thoughts: The Giants’ three headed rushing attack (a/k/a Earth, Wind and Fire) makes it difficult to rely on any of the RBs from a fantasy perspective – but at the same time makes them all useful. HC Tom Coughlin rides the hot hand and all possess feature back skills and run behind a top offensive line. Brandon Jacobs is a beast with the ball in his hands but has dropped some very catchable balls making him a third down liability. Derrick Ward is a complete back but is not a dynamic runner that will break many big plays. Ahmad Bradshaw seems to have everything in one package but hasn’t completely earned the trust of the staff, despite his solid playoff run last year. As I said it’s tough for a fantasy owner to make the call but all are solid options in a pinch.

The Seahawks’ run defense ranks right behind the Giants’ at No. 4 but they have enjoyed their bye week as well. Still with one of the best young line backing corps in the league they should remain tough all year. Opposing RBs have averaged a modest 16.4 fppg in 2008 so owners with better options may wish to not take a chance on which element to start.

Projections:
Eli Manning: 225 yds passing, 2 TDs
Dominek Hixon: 30 yds receiving
Amani Toomer: 40 yds receiving, 1 TD
Steve Smith: 75 yds receiving
Kevin Boss: 25 yds receiving, 1 TD
Brandon Jacobs: 45 yds rushing, 1 TD / 5 yds receiving
Derrick Ward: 10 yds rushing / 15 yds receiving
Ahmad Bradshaw: 45 yds rushing / 30 yds receiving

Buccaneers @ Broncos (Eakin)
Brian Griese/Antonio Bryant/Ike Hilliard/Alex Smith
Earnest Graham (vs. DEN)

Passing Game Thoughts: Brian Griese is 20th among fantasy QBs with 17.2 FPTs/g. That ranking figures to rise after facing the defense challenged Broncos this week. Joey Galloway has missed a couple starts with a sprained foot and his status in uncertain as of Wednesday night. Former Pitt star Antonio Bryant has done well in his place as the deep passing threat but he is no Joey Galloway. Ike Hilliard runs precise possession routes and has good hands similar to Amani Toomer. The Buccaneers offense is unpredictable as they pass 60 times one week and run heavily the next. Given the Broncos explosive offense it is a good bet that Tampa will deflate the ball and eat clock as much as they can.

The Denver pass defense had a tough start to the season facing three of the league’s best passing offenses. As expected, they got back on track last week against the Chiefs holding them to 160 yards and one TD. They should be able to hold the Tampa attack to typical numbers this week but their defensive woes will not improve until they find a pass rush. They had no sacks against a poor Chief offensive line last week.

Running Game Thoughts: The Bucs will want to control possession and be pound the ball against the poor Denver run defense. While Warrick Dunn has had resurgence this year his speed may not be as effective as Earnest Graham’s muscle. Denver is small and fast so Graham’s power can wear down Bronco defenders and keep Cutler’s cutlery off the field.

OLB D.J. Williams may have another of those 14-16 tackle games against the steady stream of Tampa’s RBs running free through Denver’s Maginot Line. Brush up on your French WWII history if you missed that. Anyways, Williams and MLB Nate Webster will rack up the stops but wear down in the second half so Broncos fans will hope for Cutler to get back in track to keep them fresh. The Denver defensive line will be referred to as the Donkeys rather than Broncos until they start making a better showing of themselves.

Projections:
Brian Griese: 175 yds passing/1 TD/1 INT
Antonio Bryant: 65 yds receiving/1 TD
Ike Hilliard: 50 yds receiving
Alex Smith: 35 yds receiving
Warrick Dunn: 40 yds rushing/25 yds receiving
Earnest Graham: 115 yds rushing/2 TD

Jay Cutler/Brandon Marshall/Eddie Royal/Brandon Stokely/Tony Scheffler
Selvin Young/Michael Pittman (vs. TB)

Passing Game Thoughts: Jay Cutler will have to show the patience and maturity of the elite QBs he wants to be to have a successful day. The Tampa Cover Two defense is based on keeping safeties deep and preventing big plays on the outside. So Cutler can complete a lot of balls but he will have to be willing to sustain drives on underneath routes, which he did not do against the Chief safeties that also focus on taking away deep routes. Tony Scheffler has a tough matchup this week. The cover two defense relies on linebackers to cover the deep third and TBs do an excellent job of shutting down TEs in this area.

Second year MLB Barrett Ruud has an interception the in the last three games. Cutler needs to be aware of forcing throws in to TE Tony Scheffler or it may extend to four. Safeties Tanard Jackson and Jermaine Phillips will try to stay deep and lay big hits to discourage Denver Receivers on the underneath routes. DE Gaines Adams is pressure on QBs and even had an INT last week. He is showing the gifts that made him a 1st round pick last year.

Running Game Thoughts: As the season wears on it appears that Selvin Young is getting the love over Andre Hall but it may have some to do with Hall’s sprained wrist. This comes a week after HC Mike Shanahan announced a five on five off rotation of Hall and Young. It’s typical of the games he likes to play through the media to mask his game plans and why fantasy players the world over despise him. Young has been more effective and Michael Pittman who was labeled the short yardage back is getting more carries as well.

Tampa Bay’s tough run defense is due in large part to their three excellent LBs Barrett Ruud, Derrick Brooks, and Cato June. They have good speed and tackle well. They blitz gaps to stuff the run more than get after the QB. They can do this because of the effective job their defensive line does in getting to the QB. Their cornerbacks play short zone and must tackle well in this system, which they do. If they don’t make the tackle they turn the opposing RBs inside for the LBs to feed on. Every level of the defense works in unison to stop the run. Expect Denver to have better luck moving the chains through the air than the ground this week.

Projections:
Jay Cutler: 265 yds passing/2 TD/1 INT
Brandon Marshall: 90 yds/1 TD
Eddie Royal: 40 yds
Tony Scheffler: 35 yds
Selvin Young: 45 yds rushing/25 yds receiving
Michael Pittman: 30 yds rushing/1 TD

Bills @ Cardinals (Eakin)
Trent Edwards/Lee Evans/Josh Reed/Robert Royal
Marshawn Lynch (vs. ARI)

Passing Game Thoughts: The Bills are playing their second game in as many weeks out west. Trent Edwards is 11th in FPTs/g. He is a heady QB that is completing 65% with 4 TDs to his 2 INTs and has played beyond the average second year QB. Lee Evans is the big play receiver averaging 23.7 yards per catch while his battery mate Josh Reed is playing his best ball and leads the team in receptions. TE Robert Royal and RBs Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson all contribute evenly in the passing game showing a good balance in their offensive pass attack.

The Cardinals thought to be improved secondary got torched by Favre for six TDs last week. Ouch. This may bode well for some Lee Evans getting loose deep on some blown assignments. All Pro safety and leader of defense Adrian Wilson is slowed by a hamstring and their best rush lineman Bertrand Berry is out indefinitely with a torn groin. They have some promising young talent but desperately lack experience. This should mean lots of high scoring shootouts for Arizona this year, lots of high scores for fantasy players, and lots of high blood pressure for Ken Whisenhunt.

Running Game Thoughts: Playing the Rams was supposed to boost Marshawn Lynch beyond his three yards per carry and be his break out game. It didn’t happen with his meager 57 yards on 19 carries. Despite my contrary belief last week, backup Fred Jackson is not only eating in to his carries but averaged 6.6 YPC in doing so. Don’t hit the panic button just yet but if Lynch has another off day against a poor defense than I would start to get a little concerned.

Karlos Dansby and Geno Hayes team up with NT Darnell Dockett do a good job against the run up the middle but need more help on the outside. Overall Arizona has done a decent job holding down the likes of Clinton Portis, Thomas Jones, and Ronnie Brown. Frank Gore gashed them in week one on the road but there is evidence of steady improvement as the season progresses. That evidence will become a trend should they slow down the Bills solid rushing.

Projections:
Trent Edwards: 205 yds passing/2 TD/1 INT
Lee Evans: 90 yds/1 TD
Josh Reed: 40 yds
Robert Royal: 25 yds
Marshawn Lynch: 85 yds rushing/25 yds receiving/1 TD
Fred Jackson: 30 yds rushing/25 yds receiving/1 TD

Kurt Warner/Larry Fitzgerald/Anquan Boldin/Steve Breaston
Edgerrin James/Tim Hightower (vs. BUF)

Passing Game Thoughts: When you have three turnovers in one half during the preseason you lose your job. When you have six turnovers in one half during the regular season there is not even a whisper of controversy. The message here...thank the lord every chance you get and don’t take photos with college coeds because perception is everything. Such is the case with the Warner vs. Leinart question. Apparently no one is concerned with Warner since he came back with two TD passes? His fumble problems harkens me back to the glory days of Dave Krieg and Warren Moon; 300-400 yards, 3-4 turnovers, and 3-4 ulcers per game. Love it! On a more serious note, all seems well so far with Anquan Boldin after suffering a left upper cut from “Iron” Eric Smith. It looked to me like the extreme violence of the collision was mostly because Kerry Rhodes was hitting Boldin from behind the head right as Smith went helmet to helmet from the front allowing no recoil upon impact. It was just bone chilling to watch and thank goodness everyone is o.k. Boldin is resting and is questionable for this week. If he sits expect Steve Breaston to step up with a pretty solid game.

Jabari Greer stepped up in place of injured starter Terrance McGee to return a 4th quarter INT TD return that put the Rams on ice. Ashton Youboty plays the other corner and has looked like he did in his Ohio State collegiate days. The Bills will need McGee to get back to slow down Warner’s new really good show on grass. The Bills Defensive front is physical and this game comes down to whether or not the Cardinals can block them. The Bills have played a soft schedule so this week will be their first real good defensive test.

Running Game Thoughts: Edgerrin James looked better in the fantasy box score last week than he did on the field thanks to a couple late TDs. It could have been three but the impressive rookie Tim Hightower continues to poach goal line carries from him. Their carries continue to get more balanced weekly and it won’t be a shock if Hightower becomes the leading ball carrier in the second half of the season.

Steven Jackson became the first RB to reach the century mark on the ground against the Bills. The timing was poor after I went on a tangent explaining how great Marcus Stroud has been for the Bills this year. Hightower runs more like Jackson than James but neither back will reach those numbers this week, as they are not in Jackson’s time zone.

Projections:
Kurt Warner: 290 yds passing/2 TD/1 INT
Larry Fitzgerald: 110 yds/1 TD
Anquan Boldin: 80 yds/1 TD
Steve Breaston: 65 yds
Edgerrin James: 65 yds rushing/15 yds receiving
Tim Hightower: 30 yds rushing/20 yds receiving/1 TD

Patriots @ 49ers (Eakin)
Tom Brady (bad joke?)/Matt Cassel/Wes Welker/Randy Moss
Lawrence Maroney (vs. SF)

Passing Game Thoughts: The Bye should help the Patriots get back on track with new QB Matt Cassel and the passing game given his limited reps before being thrust in to a starting role. Belichick needs to find a way to get Randy Moss more involved before he loses interest. Sometimes great talent is not self-motivated and bores of mediocrity. I see Moss as that type of player. He needs to be re-inspired by a big game. Cassel has enough arm to throw some high balls down field and the coaches need to see to it that it happens this week. They also need the offensive line to give a little more time for deep routes. Wes Welker on the other hand is blue collar and has remained effective catching lots of short balls from Cassel.

San Francisco is 14th in QB fantasy points allowed. The 49ers defense may be improved against the pass but their ranking reflects the high-powered offenses they have faced. They have a good defensive back end but a poor line. They didn’t get to Drew Brees last week and the result was a lot of big plays and big yardage. Cassel is no Brees but almost any QB good enough to make the NFL can do well with time to throw. For this reason I like the Patriots chances of hitting Moss on a couple game breakers.

Running Game Thoughts: Until someone steps forward there is just no defined good play at RB for the Pats. Lawrence Maroney gets a perfect opportunity to play the talent he was dealt but can’t shake the injury bug. He is questionable with a shoulder injury and no one can ever get a read on the severity of injuries out of the CIA of professional sports franchises. Sammy Morris has been the most carries and the only two rushing TDs on the year and therefore the best fantasy play. Lamont Jordan and third down specialist Kevin Faulk have been the most productive in YPC. The all have their specialties and it’s up to the whims of Belichick. You got to believe Maroney is still the best chance at fantasy relevance but keep an eye out this week to see who they lean on.

The 49ers rush defense is 20th for RB fantasy points allowed. Right about where they were last year. Young players like Manny Lawson expected to take a step forward have been inconsistent or in his case, battled injury. Their free agent acquisitions are built more for improving their pass defense. Patrick Willis and Michael Lewis continue to rake up the tackles and new starter Takeo Spikes is beginning to make his presence felt.

Projections:
Matt Cassel: 220 yds passing/2 TD/1 INT
Randy Moss: 80 yds/1 TD
Wes Welker: 75 yds
Kevin Faulk: 35 yds rushing/35 yds rec
Lawrence Maroney: 75 yds rushing

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

Passing Game Thoughts: J.T. O’Sullivan has done well in the starting role by most accounts though he had his first real setback last week with a couple turnovers trying to come back against the Saints. He continues to develop chemistry with Isaac Bruce and Arnaz Battle but Bryant Johnston cooled off nursing a strained muscle. The slot receiver has always done well in the past under Martz so I expect Battle to continue catching a lot of balls through the rest of the year. This offense appears on the verge of clicking and will go as far as health of often-sacked O’Sullivan allows.

The focus of the Patriots in the leading up to the season was their perceived weakness in pass coverage. Unexpected production from Denver castoff Deltha O’Neil has gone a long ways to patch that up so far. He has won a starting job and actually played better than their best CB Ellis Hobbs. Perhaps it’s a great argument for an effective pass rush being more important than great cover corners.

Running Game Thoughts: Frank Gore continues to be an all-around fantasy beast supporting our “Don’t get Martzed” article chronicling the rise in production for RBs in the Martz spread offense. Even in an off week he has over 100 all-purpose yards. It’s great to have a back that’s involved in the passing game and can still claw out a decent day even when playing from behind.

The Patriots will surely have spent a few minutes during the bye week reviewing the finer points of stopping the run after their red carpet treatment of Ronnie Brown in week 3. The last thing they want is a curtain call from Frank Gore. They may just blitz LBs heavily all day to get Gore in the backfield or put give O’Sullivan an Irish wake.

Projections:
J.T. O’Sullivan: 240 yds passing/1 TD/1 INT
Isaac Bruce: 65 yds
Bryant Johnson: 50 yds/1 TD
Arnaz Battle: 45 yds
Frank Gore: 65 yds rushing/35 yds receiving/1 TD

Chiefs @ Panthers (Dhawan)
Jake Delhomme/Steve Smith/Muhsin Muhammad/ D.J. Hackett/ Dwayne Jarrett/ Dante Rosario
DeAngelo Williams/Jonathan Stewart (vs. KC)

Passing Game Thoughts: It looks like Jake Delhomme found the range last week, flashing back to old times by hitting both Steve Smith and Muhsin Muhammad for TD strikes. The team is winning, with a 3-1 record, and the play calling balance has been superb [29 throws with 33 runs last week]. There seem to be no ill effects from the off season Tommy John surgery, and the QB has slowly but surely raised the level of his play and stats throughout this first quarter of the season. Look for continued success against the Chiefs, despite their surprising exposure of young Jay Cutler last week by rolling coverage to Brandon Marshall and watching the gunslinger force throws with his big time arm.

Running Game Thoughts: There is still no clear-cut favorite as a starting running back in Carolina. Much like HC Jeff Fisher in Tennessee, Coach John Fox has utilized both his backs in a near split of carries, with the shiftier player garnering long runs, and the tougher player reaping the goal line scores. The Chiefs shutdown the Broncos running game last week, but it was also a product of 49 passes by Cutler. Expect Williams and Stewart to continue the split, with each posting nice yardage and score.

Projections:
Jake Delhomme: 275 pass/2 TD/0 INT
Steve Smith: 110/1 TD
D.J. Hackett: 40 rec/1TD
Muhsin Muhammad: 70rec
Dwayne Jarrett: 10rec
Dante Rosario: 20 rec
DeAngelo Williams: 80 rush/1TD
Jonathan Stewart: 70 rush/1TD

Damon Huard/ Dwayne Bowe/ Tony Gonzalez/Devard Darling
Larry Johnson/Jamaal Charles (vs. CAR)

Passing Game Thoughts: In the carousel that is Herm Edwards’ QB stable, Damon Huard won the sweepstakes to start against the Broncos last week, and did not disappoint. Most forget that Huard actually had a very nice 2006 campaign, with a 60% completion rate, 11TDs, only 1INT, and a 98 QB Rating. He managed week4 well, darting 75% of his passes with no turnovers. Handing off to a rejuvenated Larry Johnson always helps the cause. Tony Gonzalez was a bit miffed that he did not get an opportunity to break Shannon Sharpe’s all-time tight end receiving yards record, especially after catching a beautifully arched 4th quarter jump ball for a TD. The seam will be open for the tight end, as Carolina has allowed 2 tight end TDs [Gates in week1, Shiancoe in week3] in their four contests.

Running Game Thoughts: Well, all it took was a tongue lashing to get star running back Larry Johnson what he and namesake author Keyshawn Johnson always wanted---the damn ball. He has more than 50 carries the past two weeks, breaking long runs in each contest to propel his season yards per carry [YPC] to 4.8 [the previous three campaigns had seen his YPC decline from 5.2 to 4.3 to a mediocre 3.5 last year]. Now chime in the skeptics, who are dissecting both Johnson and Atlanta’s Michael Turner as a dilemma: good against bad defenses, or just plain good? LJ should continue his production this week, and now with back to back good performances, he should remain in your lineup.

Projections:
Damon Huard: 200/2TD/1INT
Tony Gonzalez: 60 rec/1TD
Dwayne Bowe: 80rec/1TD
Devard Darling: 30rec
Larry Johnson: 100 rush/1TD
Jamaal Charles: 40 rush

Vikings @ Saints (Dhawan)
Gus Frerotte/Bernard Berrian/Sidney Rice/Bobby Wade/Aundrae Allison/Visanthe Shiancoe
Adrian Peterson/Chester Taylor (vs. NO)

Passing Game Thoughts: Veteran Gus Frerotte was the first to blink in a mammoth slugfest contest last week with 4-0 Tennessee. He did toss multiple 20-yarders, but had two crucial turnovers, including an INT in the shadow of his own goalpost which led to a Titans TD. Frerotte is still the best option for this team to complement their playoff caliber running game and defense. Receivers Bobby Wade and Bernard Berrian are coming to life and tight end Visanthe Shiancoe continues to be a tight end option. Although Berrian has yet to connect with Frerotte for a score, the drought will end this week against a porous Saints secondary minus Randall Gay, although rookie Tracy Porter has played admirably after being thrust into the lineup. Expect a long TD bomb off play action and a short jump ball TD to Sidney Rice.

Running Game Thoughts: Superstar HB Adrian Peterson handled his big test versus the impenetrable Titans defense with flying colors, posting 80 yards and 2 TDs. He should have lots of room against a bad New Orleans defense. In addition, Peterson gets star left tackle Bryant McKinnie [previously suspended 4 games for the violation of the league’s personal conduct policy] back in the lineup, which is even more devastating for expectations. We have not seen one of AP’s signature multi-big play games yet this season, and this match up with a team bringing a bad defense with a high scoring offense preferring shootouts bodes well for fireworks.

Projections:
Gus Frerotte: 250pass/2TD/1INT
Bernard Berrian: 100rec/1TD
Sidney Rice: 60rec/1TD
Bobby Wade: 30rec
Aundrae Allison: 30rec
Visanthe Shiancoe: 30rec
Adrian Peterson: 180rush/2TD
Chester Taylor: 30rush/30rec

Drew Brees/Devery Henderson/David Patten/Robert Meachem/ Lance Moore/Billy Miller
Reggie Bush/Pierre Thomas/Deuce McAllister (vs. MIN)

Passing Game Thoughts: The passing machine that is the Saints offense continued to roll last week, posting another stellar stat line with even newer faces entering the limelight. Now, it is WR Lance Moore [as predicted last week] reaping the benefits of star WR Marques Colston’s absence, posting 2 TDs last Sunday, while young Robert Meachem delivered his predicted bomb-TD. Even unnerving Devery Henderson caught an 81-yarder [how you catch an 80 yard pass and not score as a WR is beyond me]. Reggie Bush owners were left wondering whether his lack of production was a result of pass distribution, individual defensive containment, or the return of Deuce McAllister. Do not expect Bush to disappoint this week, as the monster rush defense of the Vikings will prompt a continued aerial assault by Brees and company.

Running Game Thoughts: The Deuce McAllister mystery is solved. Yes, he was suited up the first month of the season; no, Coach Sean Payton was not playing him on situational runs in games; yes, he returned to the lineup and posted great stats. Deuce’s power running is the engine that powers this prolific offense. Much like the Cowboys, the Saints set up their offense with power running between the tackles, allowing a very good offensive line to lean onto and wear out defenses. This key ingredient allows Brees and Bush to utilize spaces and routes to get open and make big plays. This week will be tough to run, as the Vikings sport a top-five rush defense, with colossal Kevin and Pat Williams anchoring the middle. Commitment to the run will be the key for the Saints, even though the Vikings secondary is ill equipped for a all out air assault.

Projections:
Drew Brees: 375 pass/3 TD/0 INT
Devery Henderson: 55 rec
David Patten: 50 rec
Robert Meachem: 90 rec/1TD
Lance Moore: 45 rec/1TD
Billy Miller: 30rec
Reggie Bush: 20 rush/100 rec/1TD
Deuce McAllister: 40 rush
Pierre Thomas: 20rush

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

Passing Game Thoughts: Owners were finally rewarded when Matt Schaub broke out against the Jaguars defense last week, posting an elite 300 yards and 3 TDs. He utilized everyone in his arsenal, including rookie RB Steve Slaton [8 catches, 80 yards, 1 TD], TE Owen Daniels [7 catches, 90 yards], and lesser-known WR Kevin Walter [8 catches, 80 yards, 2 TD]. The only player not racking up the points was star WR Andre Johnson. Owners should not despair, as the Texans start a four-game home stretch, with favorable pass defense matchups; start or trade for AJ now, with confidence that his time to breakout is here.

Running Game Thoughts: after a great game two weeks ago, rookie Steve Slaton didn’t get the opportunities against the slumping Jaguar rush defense. The Colts are poised to stiffen up after a run game walloping their last outing. The Texans offensive line continues to learn the zone blocking scheme, and will try to keep Peyton Manning and the Colts offense off the field, so running will be key to ball control. Expect a nice outing for the rookie runner and continued use in the pass game.

Projections:
Matt Schaub: 245 pass/2 TD/1 INT
Andre Johnson: 95 rec/1 TD
Kevin Walter: 40 rec
Andre Davis: 50 rec/1TD
Owen Daniels: 30 rec
Steve Slaton: 70 rush/30rec
Chris Taylor: 40 rush

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

Passing Game Thoughts: Peyton Manning has to be miffed at this point of the season. Thus far, two home games and no victories to christen Lucas Oil Stadium. Now they go on the road to face division rival and upstart Houston, indoors at Reliant Stadium. Manning has had two weeks to perfect timing and touch with his receivers; the offensive line has had time to heal and shuffle its complicated protection schemes. This should be a coming out party---expect big numbers for all positions. Playing the Texans defense will help answer Eminem’s eternal question, “will the real Peyton Manning please stand up, please stand up?”

Running Game Thoughts: it was clear that the running game had suffered with the injuries to the offensive line. HB Joseph Addai did not find the holes to which he was accustomed. He did slide into the bye week off of a 78-yard, 2-TD performance. Now, with two weeks time to heal, the line should be better, and Manning getting back to his usual galactic level of play will keep defenders off of Addai. He should post nice stats this week, as he has tallied four TDs in four career contests against the Texans.

Projections:
Peyton Manning: 270 pass/4 TD/0 INT
Marvin Harrison: 35 rec
Reggie Wayne: 90 rec/ 1 TD
Anthony Gonzalez: 80 rec/1TD
Dallas Clark: 60 rec/1TD
Joseph Addai: 90 rush/30rec/2 TD

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

Passing Game Thoughts: The Jaguars survived a spirited contest last week at home against division rival Houston. David Garrard made calm plays with his arm and legs, throwing and rushing for scores. He continued to find WR Matt Jones, with free agent acquisition Jerry Porter logging a single reception. This is a rematch of two fabulous late 2007 games, both at Pittsburgh, one in December and the other wildcard weekend in January. Garrard passed for 3 TDs the first time, 1 TD the second, with sub-200 yardage both times. His legs proved the difference in the playoffs, when he scampered for a long gain on a 4th down and 2 yards to go late to seal the win. Expect another physical game, with Garrard using his big, tall receivers on the average corners of the Steelers.

Running Game Thoughts: The Jaguars righted the ship versus the Colts, but came back down to earth against lowly Houston. Neither Fred Taylor nor Maurice Jones-Drew had opportunity [only 17 totes between them] or production. That will not be the case in a physical battle at Pittsburgh. Expect both runners to be used early and often to take control of the line of scrimmage, and soften S Troy Polamalu over the top for chances in the passing game.

Projections:
David Garrard: 250 pass/2 TD/0 INT
Jerry Porter: 40rec
Mike Walker 30 rec
Dennis Northcutt: 10 rec
Reggie Williams: 50 rec/1TD
Matt Jones: 70 rec/1TD
Fred Taylor: 75 rush/1TD
Maurice Jones-Drew: 60 rush/60rec

Ben Roethlisberger/Santonio Holmes/Hines Ward/Nate Washington/Heath Miller
Mewelde Moore/Najeh Davenport (vs. JAX)

Passing Game Thoughts: As if QB Ben Roethlisberger wasn’t already getting battered and bruised due to a sieve of an offensive line, now he loses starting right guard Kendall Simmons (torn right Achilles tendon). Some analysts predict the Steelers to utilize the no-huddle offense that was effective during the second half of the Monday night game against the Ravens [3 sacks first half, none in the second half]. The key for success will still be the QB making quicker reads and throws while his protection disintegrates in front of him. Play action passing is out of the question, as there is no run game component to fear; thus, Santonio Holmes will have to do his damage on slants and broken plays. Hines Ward was shutdown by CB Chris McAlister on MNF, less an errant busted coverage [not by McAlister] that led to a 50-yard gain. In the previous two meetings, the Jaguars defensive line rotation harassed Roethlisberger into 11 sacks and 5 turnovers.

Running Game Thoughts: Does anyone have Bob Costas or Cris Collinsworth on speed dial? If so, send the number to the Steelers so that they may get one of those two to tap Jerome Bettis on the shoulder and ask him to “pull a Brett Favre” and come out of retirement. Starter HB Willie Parker is still nursing a sprained knee, and rookie hopeful Rashard Mendenhall got popped by Ray Lewis and Bart Scott after the “text message scandal”. The result: a broken shoulder and IR. Ex-Viking Mewelde Moore came to the rescue, catching key passes on the game winning drive in overtime, but can he carry a rushing load? The Jaguars will probably think not. If he does not perform, it will be a field day for the pass rush on Roethlisberger. Temper expectations and waiver pickups as the line is underperforming and further injured. Reports are that Najeh Davenport was resigned, but his availability and performance are questionable.

Projections:
Ben Roethlisberger: 215 pass/1TD/2INTs
Santonio Holmes: 65rec
Hines Ward: 55rec
Nate Washington: 30rec
Heath Miller: 40rec/1TD
Mewelde Moore: 40rush/30rec
Najeh Davenport:

Titans @ Ravens (Mack)
Kerry Collins / Justin McCariens / Brandon Jones / Justin Gage / Bo Scaife
LenDale White / Chris Johnson (vs BAL)

Passing Game Thoughts: Since Kerry Collins replaced the injured Vince Young in week one, he has been an unspectacular and average fantasy QB. There’s nothing to his game that should scare fantasy opponents, nor is there anything to his game that should instill confidence in his owners. He is nothing more than a bye-week fill-in for those desperate owners who find themselves in QB purgatory. And things aren’t going to get any better this week with the ball-hawking, #1 rated pass defense of the Baltimore Ravens next on the schedule.

It doesn’t help Collins much that the receivers in Tennessee leave a lot to be desired. The combination of Justin McCariens, Brandon Jones and Justin Gage is arguably the least talented in the league, and as such, fantasy owners should be leery about inserting any one of them in their line-up. It’s a 50-50 shot if Gage will play. That will allow the Baltimore defense to put even more attention on McCariens and Jones, and both should be on lock in week five. TE Bo Scaife, however, may have the best chance for success in the passing game. But know this: If you have to rely on a Titan WR, good luck.

Running Game Thoughts: If the Titans are to have a shot at moving the ball offensively, they will have to do so with the very capable LenDale White and sensational rookie Chris Johnson. This dynamic duo is perhaps the best one-two punch in the league, and they will be counted on greatly in week five. It won’t be easy, however. Baltimore ranks #2 in the league against the run, yielding a miniscule 70 yards per game on the ground.

The Titans should attempt to soften the Ravens’ defense with the battering-ram White between the tackles, complemented by the lightening-quick Johnson on the edge and perhaps even in the passing game. Tennessee will have to keep down-and-distance in their favor if they are to keep the running game in play. One too many 3rd and longs will spell doom for the Titans’ running game and thus their chances of moving the ball. This will be a low scoring game for sure and the running backs for both teams will earn their pay this week.

Projections:
Kerry Collins: 130 yards passing / 0 TDs / 1 INT
Brandon Jones: 55 yards rec.
Justin McCariens: 30 yards rec.
Bo Scaife: 40 yards rec.
Chris Johnson: 55 yards rushing / 1 TD
LenDale White: 45 yards rushing

Joe Flacco / Derrick Mason / Demetrius Williams / Todd Heap
Willis McGahee / Le’Ron McClain (vs TEN)

Passing Game Thoughts: All things considered, rookie Joe Flacco played quite well last week during the overtime loss to Pittsburgh. He showed tremendous poise in the pocket and displayed good accuracy in the passing game. To perform that well on a national stage on Monday night against a tough divisional foe on the road speaks volumes to his long-term potential. The going will be just as tough this week against the league’s eighth-ranked pass defense. Tennessee’s eight interceptions tie them for first in the league in that category, so Flacco must protect the football against the Titans’ opportunistic defense.

Derrick Mason was a one man wrecking crew in week four vs. Pittsburgh. He hauled in half of Flacco’s 16 completions, and with the disappearing act of fellow receiving options Demetrius Williams and Todd Heap, Mason will continue to be counted on to deliver some level of productivity in the passing game. Heap only has three receptions through three games and Williams has five. If the development of young Flacco is to continue, he must have Heap and Williams show up at some point. This week, though, probably won’t be the week. Mason is the only option in the passing game worth starting for the Ravens.

Running Game Thoughts: Willis McGahee had a tough game last week. Injuries sidelined him twice against Pittsburgh, the second of which took him out of the game for good. He was bottled up while in the game, rushing for only 42 yards on 13 carries. Now the Titans come to town with their eighth ranked run defense. As of this writing, McGahee is listed as questionable and his chance of playing is up in the air. If he is not able to go, Le’Ron McClain will get the bulk of the carries, and if the first three games of this season are any indication, he is certainly capable of giving the Ravens a productive running game.

Baltimore relies heavily on its ground attack. It averages 161 yards on the ground and the team depends on productivity from its RBs, especially as the passing game matures with a rookie QB. McClain and McGahee (if healthy) should look to get 40 combined carries in week five. This will be a rough and tumble defensive struggle with both teams relying on the ground attack.

Projections:
Joe Flacco: 135 yards passing / 1 TD / 2 INT
Derrick Mason: 60 yards rec. / 1 TD
Demetrius Williams: 30 yards rec.
Todd Heap: 40 yards rec.
Le’Ron McClain: 65 yards rushing
Willis McGahee: 40 yards rushing

Falcons @ Packers(Mack)
Matt Ryan / Roddy White / Michael Jenkins / Laurent Robinson
Michael Turner / Jerious Norwood (vs GB)

Passing Game Thoughts: Rookie QB Matt Ryan has so far this season been a different player on the road versus at home. In the confines of the Georgia Dome, Ryan has a 67 percent completion percentage with two TDs and zero interceptions; on the road, his production drops to a 45 percent completion percentage with zero TDs and two interceptions. The Falcons visit Lambeau this week to battle a defense that ranks 26th in the league, but yet is tied for the league lead with eight interceptions. The Packers’ big-play D also leads the league with four defensive TDs, so Ryan has to be very protective of the ball.

Green Bay will be without starting CB Al Harris and fellow CB Charles Woodson has battled foot problems most of the season but has continued to play stellar football. The Falcons’ Roddy White really the team’s only explosive player in the passing game, as the last two weeks prove. Woodson should shadow white all over the field and make life tough for the four-year veteran. Meanwhile, Packer DE Aaron Kampman will provide pressure off the edge in an attempt to rattle the young signal caller into making mistakes.

Running Game Thoughts: Free agent pick-up Michael Turner has been an absolute beast so far this season. He leads the league in rushing with 422 yards, but much like Ryan, he’s a different player on the road than at home. He has a dreadful 3 ypc average on the road with zero TDs, but a gaudy 7.2 ypc with five TDs at home. I believe that trend continues this week. Sure the Packers rank 26th against the run so far in 2008, but keep in mind that two of the four games Green Bay has played include Minnesota (Peterson) and Dallas (Barber).

Turner has been good, no question. But on a team starting a rookie QB with only one viable receiving option, look for Green Bay to keep an extra defender in the box in an attempt to keep Turner in check. And with active and athletic LBs such as Nick Barnett and AJ Hawk, Turner will have a very difficult time breaking free the way he’s done in the Detroit and Kansas City games.

Projections:
Matt Ryan: 180 yards passing / 1 TD / 2 INT
Roddy White: 80 yards rec. / 1 TD
Michael Jenkins: 55 yards rec.
Laurent Robinson: 35 yards rec.
Michael Turner: 60 yards rushing / 1 TD
Jerious Norwood: 25 yards rushing

Aaron Rodgers / Matt Flynn / Greg Jennings / Donald Driver / Donald Lee
Ryan Grant / Brandon Jackson (vs ATL)

Passing Game Thoughts: Aaron Rodgers entered the season with the fragile label plastered on his forehead and four weeks in, it has come to past. A shoulder injury suffered last week threatens to keep Rodgers on the sidelines and if that indeed happens, the value of all Packers’ for week five will plummet. Let’s assume he plays; will he be effective? That’s the primary focus. He struggled last week against a swarming Tampa Bay defense, but he played lights out through the first three weeks. A shoulder injury is nothing to sneeze at, especially for a QB. That’s why I believe head coach Mike McCarthy will sit Rodgers this week.

As a result, owners of Donald Driver and Greg Jennings will have to reign in their expectations for this week. Rookie Matt Ryan should get his first NFL start one-quarter into the season. Certainly, the offense will lose some of its aggressiveness and efficiency with the rookie under center. McCarthy may choose to feature the run game more, which has struggled so far. Driver and Jennings are electric on the outside, but they will find it difficult to put up the kind of numbers they and their fantasy owners are accustomed to with Flynn playing QB.

Running Game Thoughts: Ryan Grant has been a bust so far this season. He has battled minor injuries, but his 3.4 ypc and zero TDs are not what his fantasy owners had in mind when they spent a top 20 pick on him. He burst onto the scene last season, but so far in 2008 we have not seen the vision, speed or quickness that characterized his ascent in 2007. Atlanta is the 23rd ranked run defense in the league, so they can be had. And with a rookie possibly getting the start, the Packers’ run game will be a major factor if Green Bay is to do much offensively.

If Grant continues to struggle, don’t be surprised to see Brandon Jackson get more playing time. Jackson, in fact, has looked better in most instances than Grant. Jackson averages more than 5 ypc and has displayed the burst that was evident in last year’s preseason. I think if Flynn gets the nod, McCarthy takes the air out of the ball and goes to a more controlled offensive attack via the ground game. If that scenario plays itself out, keep an eye on Jackson. He could prove to be valuable, especially if Grant continues to be underwhelming.

Projections:
Matt Flynn: 130 yards passing / 1 TD / 2 INT
Greg Jennings: 60 yards rec.
Donald Driver: 50 yards rec. / 1 TD
Donald Lee: 15 yards rec.
Ryan Grant: 75 yards rushing
Brandon Jackson: 60 yards rushing / 1 TD

Bears @ Lions (Mack)
Kyle Orton / Brandon Lloyd / Marty Booker / Rashied Davis / Devin Hester / Greg Olson
Matt Forte / Kevin Jones (vs DET)

Passing Game Thoughts: Kyle Orton played his best football in 2008 during last week’s game vs. Philadelphia. He tossed three first half TDs and looked good doing it. Now he gets a crack at one of the league’s worst pass defenses in Detroit. Orton will probably be without both Brandon Lloyd and Marty Booker, but the way the Lions’ have been playing, Rashied Davis and do-everything Devin Hester may still pose a considerable threat to Detroit.

As good as Orton looked in the first half last week, he was only able to generate three points in the second half. Again, it should be a different story against Detroit. The Lions have proven that they can stop no one. What’s more, the three QBs that have torched them so far have started a combined 10 games in the NFL. The Bears should be able to do what they want offensively, and in typical Lion fashion, they may make nobodies, such as Rashied Davis, a hot free agent fantasy pick-up early next week. Stranger things have happened.

Running Game Thoughts: Make no mistake about it: Chicago’s offense runs (literally) through rookie Matt Forte. He’s their leading rusher and receiver and he’s been every bit dynamic as Lovie Smith made him out to be during preseason. This will be Forte’s coming out party. The Lions are not very good up front and their LBs are suspect as well; that’s not a good thing when you’re facing a running with the skills of Forte. Forte will get 25 carries and should see another six to eight catches. He will be all over the field.

What the Lions may do is attempt to incorporate a heavy run game of their own as they try to keep their overmatched defense on the sideline. With the recent announcement that Rudi Johnson is now the starting RB, they now have the talent in the backfield to employ such a strategy. It won’t matter, though. Chicago has proven that they’re simply more talented and better coached than Detroit, and it will be on display for all to see on Sunday.

Projections:
Klye Orton: 185 yards passing / 1 TD / 1 INT
Matt Forte: 100 yards rec. / 1 TD
Devin Hester: 40 yards rec.
Rashied Davis: 60 yards rec. / 1 TD
Greg Olsen: 40 yards receiving

Jon Kitna / Calvin Johnson / Roy Williams / Shaun McDonald
Rudi Johnson / Kevin Smith (vs CHI)

Passing Game Thoughts: For those not in the know, the countdown has begun in Detroit on when Jon Kitna will be benched in favor of second year player Drew Stanton. Stanton is a raw QB who, by virtue of his second round draft selection last year, was anointed the franchise’s future signal caller. With the season spiraling out of control at warp speed, it’s only a matter of time before the call is made. Kitna is safe for this week, however, but it doesn’t matter because he’s played miserably this season.

Surprisingly, Chicago has the 28th ranked pass defense in the league. Plus, DT Tommie Harris is out this week (team suspension) which should give a reprieve to the underachieving offensive line. But the Bears’ defense is healthy now this year and will give Detroit fits all afternoon. Calvin Johnson, though, is better than advertised. His size and athleticism almost makes him indefensible, so why Roy Williams isn’t doing much on the other side is one of the major questions one-quarter of the way through the season. Now Williams is battling a knee injury and is listed as questionable. Needless to say, Williams has been a vast disappointment so far and his owners have taken note.

Running Game Thoughts: Out goes rookie Kevin Smith, in comes Rudi Johnson. Johnson was the only offensive player to do anything against San Francisco several weeks ago (before the bye), and that gave head coach Rod Marinelli enough proof to bench Smith in favor of Johnson. Johnson brings a more physical element to the game, not to mention more experience, and he should be an okay bye-week fill-in if need be.

Here’s the caveat with starting a Detroit running back: they’ve been down 21-0, 21-0 and 21-3 early in their first three games, rendering the running game useless. It’s going to be essential that the game stays close so that the running game remains relevant. Marinelli has said as much; translation: Look for plenty of clock-chewing run plays early and often in an attempt to not allow the game to get out of control.

Projections:
Jon Kitna: 175 yards passing / 1 TD / 1 INT
Calvin Johnson: 110 yards rec. / 1 TD
Roy Williams: 45 yards rec.
Shaun McDonald: 30 yards rec.
Rudi Johnson: 60 yards rushing / 1 TD
Kevin Smith: 35 yards rushing