Tennessee @ Pittsburgh (Eli Mack)

Kerry Collins / Chris Johnson / LenDale White
Nate Washington / Justin Gage / Kenny Britt / Bo Scaife (vs. Pittsburgh)

Passing Game Thoughts:: Heading into last season, many thought the epitaph had been written on QB Kerry Collins’ career. After all, he entered the 2008 campaign as a 36-year-old signal-caller who had only started four games the previous two seasons. But Collins replaced an injured Vince Young in week one and never relinquished the position. He now comes into 2009 a low-end #2 fantasy QB, and while many may look at his week one match-up against the defending champs as a no-brainer relative to keeping him on the bench, consider that Collins went 20 of 29 against Pittsburgh in 2008, throwing for 215 yards and a score.

The limitations of the Titans’ passing game in 2009 are the same as they were in 2008. They lack a big-time pass-catcher on the outside to complement the team’s aggressive ground attack. Former Steeler WR Nate Washington returns, but he’s been nothing more than a deep threat his entire career. With the pressure the Steelers are sure to put on Collins, Washington won’t have much of a chance to run his time-consuming patterns. WRs Justin Gage and rookie Kenny Britt round out the receiving corps, but neither appear poised to do much, especially the youngster Britt. A dink-and-dunk passing attack may be in order for the Titans, meaning TE Bo Scaife will be the best of a bad collection of players to choose from. Temper all expectations regarding Tennessee’s passing game.

Running Game Thoughts: Chris Johnson is a dynamic runner with great vision and even better speed. I think he picks up where he left off last year, but it may have to wait until at least week two. Pittsburgh’s stout defense will make sledding tough for the second year RB, although Johnson did run for 69 yards and a score in the season finale last year against the Steelers. I do believe if Tennessee has any chance of doing well offensively in this game, Johnson will have to be the table-setter. He should be utilized early and often on short dump-offs and screen passes to counter a predictably aggressive Pittsburgh pass rush.

The beauty of Tennessee’s running game from a fantasy perspective is the roles are clearly defined. Johnson gets all the love between the 20s and on third downs, while LenDale White gets the short yardage and goal line work. However, seeing White trot into the game when the Titans work the ball inside the 5 yard line after Johnson did most of the heavy lifting remains a source of frustration for Johnson owners. But like last year, both should still get their share of scores in 2009—just not in week one. This will be a low-scoring affair, with the two-heading RB monster being the key to Tennessee’s offensive success. You drafted Johnson as your starter, so you have to start him. Hope for a long run (or two) and about a half-dozen receptions, but don’t expect a score from him.

Projections:
Kerry Collins – 175 yards / 0 TDs / 1 INT
Nate Washington – 35 yards rec.
Justin Gage – 25 yards rec.
Kenny Britt – 20 yards rec.
Bo Scaife – 50 yards rec.
Chris Johnson – 55 yards rushing / 30 yards rec.
LenDale White – 20 yards rushing / 1 TD

Ben Roethlisberger / Willie Parker / Rashard Mendenhall
Hines Ward / Santonio Holmes / Limas Sweed / Heath Miller (vs. Tennessee)

Passing Game Thoughts: I have gone on record in a few preseason articles that Ben Roethlisberger will rebound big time in 2009 from (statistically) a sub-par performance in 2008. Roethlisberger was a stylish pick coming into last year after a dynamic 2007 season but stumbled at various intervals in 2008. He’s going to have a tough time, however, in his debut this season, what with 75 percent of the Titans’ secondary being 2008 Pro Bowl selections. He threw 2 INTs against them last year but still managed to throw for more than 300 yards and 2 TDs.

I have also gone on record as saying this is the year that Santonio Holmes overtakes Hines Ward as Pittsburgh’s best and most dangerous WR. His below-average 2008 season notwithstanding, Holmes is simply too talented to remain a second fiddle to Ward. Holmes’ speed and growing understanding of what’s expected of him should catapult him into a great season. Tennessee CBs Corland Finnegan and Nick Harper will make Holmes and Co. work for everything they get, but Holmes should get loose a few times for big gains. Ward will be his steady self, but Limas Sweed remains a work in progress. TE Heath Miller should be a prime target in the red zone and could consequently end up with minimal receptions but finish the game with a score.

Running Game Thoughts: Head coach Mike Tomlin this week said that Willie Parker is the team’s lead dog in the running game, and that he will get the bulk of the carries in 2009. Tomlin also said that Parker is the team’s goal line back. That’s great news for those who drafted Parker as a RB2. Although the chances are great that he won’t duplicate his 138 yard, 3 TD performance from last year’s first game against Houston, Parker should receive 20-25 carries this week and do well enough to warrant a start. With the vote of confidence from Tomlin to Parker, the next question is what’s Rashard Mendenhall’s role in the offense? There won’t be much left after Parker takes all the carries that mean anything. If nothing else, what this does is render Mendenhall as nothing more than a Parker handcuff at this point.

Even with the departure of DT Albert Haynesworth, the Titans still possess a formidable front four. They rotate up to eight linemen during the game, keeping each fresh and energized to make running the ball a tough proposition for their opponent. We all know the hallmark of the Steelers is running the football, so whether or not they’re successful should be the game within the game on Thursday night.

Projections:
Ben Roethlisberger – 210 yards / 1 TD / 1 INT
Willie Parker – 70 yards rushing / 1 TD
Santonio Holmes – 80 yards rec.
Hines Ward – 65 yards rec.
Limas Sweed – 20 yards rec.
Heath Miller – 40 yards / 1 TD

Prediction: Pittsburgh 20, Tennessee 10

Kansas City @ Baltimore (Eli Mack)

Matt Cassel / Larry Johnson / Jamaal Charles
Dwayne Bowe / Bobby Engram / Sean Ryan (vs. Baltimore)

Passing Game Thoughts: What a way for QB Matt Cassel to get his first taste of what life is going to be like away from the comfy confines of the New England franchise. He gets to take his overblown and overhyped reputation as a bona fide starting NFL QB into Baltimore to battle a defense that no doubt is determined to prove it was the players and not former defensive coordinator Rex Ryan that made the team a force. The O-line in KC is nothing special, as Cassel will figure out early and often on Sunday. He will have Baltimore Raven defenders in his grill all afternoon. And his still-healing knee makes him even more of a statue in the pocket.

Cassel won’t have Randy Moss or the steady and reliable Wes Welker to bail him out of situations. Instead, he will have an emerging Dwayne Bowe but little else beyond that. Bobby Engram seems like he’s been in the league since the 1970s and the only place where little-known TE Sean Ryan is a household name is in his own household. KC’s passing game has disaster written all over it. They’re on the road, with minimal offensive weapons and playing against a hungry opponent. Ouch. This could—and will—get ugly quickly for Cassel and Co.

Running Game Thoughts: If the passing game struggles the way many think it will, the running game has no shot. The Chiefs’ offensive line will find it difficult to open running lanes for Larry Johnson. Frustration is sure to build quickly for the often disgruntled RB whose best days as a fantasy stud are in the rearview mirror. KC may try to rely on the running game to loosen the defense a bit as Cassel settles into the passing game. Neither will be successful, meaning LJ and the running game will be stymied all afternoon.

Second string RB Jamaal Charles is a nice complement to Johnson and looks to have a bigger role this season. He’s a smaller, shiftier runner who’s best suited in the short passing game. That may be the best option for KC to move the ball. But any way you slice it, Kansas City and its new head coach Todd Haley are in line for a tough day at the office offensively on Sunday. This will not be pretty.

Projections:
Matt Cassel – 140 yards / 0 TDs / 2 INTs
Larry Johnson – 40 yards rushing
Jamaal Charles – 20 yards rushing / 25 yards rec
Dwayne Bowe – 55 yards rec
Bobby Engram – 35 yards rec
Sean Ryan – 15 yards rec

Joe Flacco / Ray Rice / Willis McGahee
Derrick Mason / Mark Clayton / Todd Heap (vs. Kansas City)

Passing Game Thoughts: Perhaps no other team asked less of its QB than Baltimore did with Joe Flacco in 2008. The rookie QB was the ultimate game manager, asked simply to hand the ball off to one of the three RBs and get out of the way. The team ultimately ran the ball 159 more times than they threw it. Don’t look for that kind of ratio in 2009, as Flacco’s experience last season should give the coaching staff more confidence in the strong-armed QB.

The Ravens lack a proven deep threat, but that didn’t prevent them from going deep on countless occasions last year. I think they will attempt to do more of that in 2009. Mark Clayton is really the only one on the roster that’s capable of being the beneficiary of that approach, but he’s been too inconsistent his entire career. Derrick Mason, although long in the tooth and teetering on the edge of his productive career, remains a brilliant route-runner, and he should abuse Kansas City CBs Brandon Flowers and Brandon Carr. Todd Heap always seems to have nagging injuries, but he should play a huge part in the team’s red zone game plan. There won’t be many attempts through the air in this one, as the Ravens will look to be physical from the opening whistle.

Running Game Thoughts: Let’s be honest here. When’s the last time Willis McGahee had a big season? I’ll tell you. It was five years ago during his rookie season, in which he scored a career high 13 TDs. Those days are long gone, and the Baltimore’s coaching staff realized it this preseason when they tapped Ray Rice as the team’s starting tailback. It’s obvious when he’s in the game that he has a much better spring in his step and is better in the passing game than McGahee. He didn’t have a TD last year, but he will more than make up for it this year, and that starts this week.

There could be some growing pains with Kansas City’s new 3-4 defensive alignment. Rookie Tyson Jackson starts at LE, Tamba Hali moves from DE to OLB and there could be issues with how much Mike Vrabel has left. This new defensive philosophy could prove to be worth something this season, but I don’t see KC’s defense being anything more than a speed bump this week. Rice should get his 20-25 carries and should finish as one of the top 20 backs by week’s end. McGahee won’t get enough action to warrant a spot in your line-up.

Projections:
Joe Flacco – 190 yards / 1 TD
Ray Rice – 110 yards rushing / 1 TD / 25 yards rec
Willis McGahee – 30 yards rushing
Derrick Mason – 65 yards rec / 1 TD
Mark Clayton – 30 yards rec
Todd Heap – 55 yards rec

Prediction: Baltimore 23, Kansas City 9

Denver @ Cincinnati (Eli Mack)

Kyle Orton / Knowshon Moreno
Eddie Royal / Brandon Marshall / Tony Scheffler (vs. Cincinnati)

Passing Game Thoughts: Denver faithful will quickly learn that Kyle Orton is not Jay Cutler. Sure, Cutler pouted his way out of town, but he is clearly one of the top half-dozen QBs in the league, and for the Broncos to get rid of him for an inferior player speaks volumes to how the season will be for Denver. Orton surprised many last year with his superb first half of 2008, but injuries derailed any chance of him continuing at that level all year. He now finds himself in Denver with a better surrounding cast of playmakers than what he had in Chicago. What he does with them will be the story that follows this team all year.

Brandon Marshall could be a top 5 WR in fantasy football, but his poor attitude and sense of entitlement makes it tough to have him on your roster. His unpredictable, powder keg mentality, coupled with Orton’s arrival in Denver, has to be a tenuous feeling for Marshall owners. But while Marshall does his best Terrell Owens impersonation, Eddie Royal will turn into a very reliable and productive WR. Royal will serve as a good borderline WR2/WR3 all season. In week one, however, it should be fun to watch Royal and Marshall go up against Cincy’s young CBs Leon Hall and Johnathan Joseph.

Running Game Thoughts: Knowshon Moreno. The name just sounds like a running back, doesn’t it? I will say this: there’s a reason why Denver moved up to the #12 position to select the Georgia RB. Teams don’t do that unless they really like a player. And that’s the case with Denver. Forget all this talk about the team incorporating other RBs such as Peyton Hillis, Correll Buckhalter and (gulp!) Lamont Jordan into the mix. Moreno will own this backfield in 2009, and it could start as soon as this week. If Moreno is healed from his slight knee injury from the preseason, he should be the bell cow for this team staring in week one and be the dual threat that they expect him to be.

Maybe the only worry I would have as a Moreno owner is whether or not he will serve as the team’s goal line back. With his injury in the preseason, we never got a chance to see the game plan relative to that scenario. This much is certain: he will get the third down action and get the accompanying receptions which are gravy in PPR leagues. Also, Denver’s O-line is a nice mix of aged veterans and young, talented studs. This will not be a deterrent to any success on the ground for the Broncos. Moreno should have a nice debut into the NFL.

Projections:
Kyle Orton – 200 yards / 1 TD / 1 INT
Knowshon Moreno – 75 yards rushing / 1 TD / 40 yards rec
Eddie Royal – 75 yards / 1 TD
Brandon Marshall – 60 yards
Tony Scheffler – 20 yards

Carson Palmer / Cedric Benson
Chad Ochocinco / Laveranues Coles / Chris Henry / Chase Coffman (vs. Denver)

Passing Game Thoughts: Carson Palmer returns after missing three-quarters of last season with arm trouble. Gone is his most trusted target in TJ Houshmandzadeh, but in his place is Lavernues Coles, a poor man’s version of TJ. Even though the Broncos had a laughable defense last season, Palmer may still find it difficult to throw the ball with any sustained success against a secondary that includes two future Hall of Famers in CD Champ Bailey and S Brian Dawkins. Neither is the player they were just several years ago, but each is capable of making life miserable for their opponent.

And such will be the case this week for Cincy. Coles may find success on underneath routes and short curls, but Chad Ochocinco and Chris Henry will be locked down for most of the game by Bailey and CB Andre Goodman, of whom Bailey has given high praise this preseason. The one player Palmer better keep an eye on is Denver OLB Elvis Dumervil. The undersized but cat-quick defender will be coming off the edge with bad intentions, and Palmer had better know it. I’ve got a feeling this is going to be a low-scoring affair, so look for modest numbers from the Bengals bunch in this one.

Running Game Thoughts: If the game is low-scoring, that stands to reason that the running game will play a huge factor in its outcome. Cedric Benson dusted off the cobwebs last year and ended with respectable numbers. The job is undoubtedly his, so it will be interesting to see how he responds. Denver is not very big up front, so Cincinnati will look to pound Benson between the tackles with regularity. There isn’t much quality nor depth behind Benson, so whatever success they enjoy on the ground will come courtesy of the former Chicago Bear. I think he will deliver.

Benson has never been much of a receiver out of the backfield, so don’t expect extra production via the passing game from him. And with the aforementioned lack of depth behind him, the next logical question is will Benson hold up for the entire year? Who knows, but I think, for this week anyway, that Benson is a sneaky start and should produce respectable numbers on Sunday.

Projections:
Carson Palmer – 210 yards / 1 TD / 1 INT
Cedric Benson – 90 yards / 1 TD
Chad Ochocinco – 75 yards rec
Chris Henry – 60 yards rec / 1 TD
Laveranues Coles – 45 yards rec
Chase Coffman – 15 yards rec

Prediction: Denver 20, Cincinnati 17

Minnesota @ Cleveland (Eli Mack)

Brett Favre / Adrian Peterson / Chester Taylor
Bernard Berrian / Percy Harvin / Visanthe Shiancoe (vs. Cleveland)

Passing Game Thoughts: Well boys and girls, here we go—the return of #4 after another off-season of drama-filled hoopla. The non-football stuff aside, even we Brett Favre bashers have to acknowledge that he makes the Vikings an even stronger force than they were just one month ago. He knows the offense, he’s complemented by the best running game he’s ever had, plus he has dynamic and explosive WRs to throw to. There’s little not to like about the potential of the Vikings offensively in 2009. Cleveland has a non-descript secondary that Favre can exploit while tossing darts to Bernard Berrian and rookie Percy Harvin.

It’s been said that the Vikings may incorporate more of a ball control passing attack, complete with short dump offs to the TEs and RBs and throws to WRs running crossing routes. Yeah, right. We all know that’s not Favre. Look for Favre to go deep to Berrian on throws several times during the game, and also look for short WR screens to the play-making rookie Percy Harvin. Turnovers are always a concern with Favre, so if he throws a pick (or two), just know that that’s part of having him on your team.

Running Game Thoughts: Adrian Peterson is a joy to watch. Seeing him take off on that long run against the Houston Texans in the pre-season is all anyone needs to see to know that AP is the best RB in the league. Chester Taylor is one of the best #2s in the league, and his presence keeps Peterson fresh. LT Bryant McKinnie and LG Steve Hutchinson are two of the best at their respective positions. They should carve out avenues through which Peterson can run while stacking up fantasy points like a 1980s arcade video game.

Outside of DL Shaun Rogers, Cleveland lacks a proven run defender. That spells trouble going against Peterson. They finished 26th in the league in 2008 and did little to fortify this obvious weakness. Minnesota will have its way with the Browns on the road, and the running game will be the primary reason. Also, look for a few end-arounds with Harvin in an attempt to keep the defense from keying on Peterson.

Projections:
Brett Favre – 180 yards / 1 TD / 1 INT
Adrian Peterson – 155 yards / 1 TD
Chester Taylor – 35 yards rushing
Bernard Berrian – 80 yards rec
Percy Harvin 45 yards rec / 30 yards rushing
Visanthe Shiancoe – 50 yards rec / 1 TD

Brady Quinn / Jamal Lewis / Jerome Harrison
Braylon Edwards / Mike Furrey / Robert Royal (vs. Minnesota)

Passing Game Thoughts: One of the bigger head-scratching moments of the pre-season came when Cleveland head coach Eric Mangini kept it a secret who his starting QB would be. What a joke. Is there a big difference between Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson? I think not. Both are bound to struggle this season with the dearth of offensive weapons at their disposal. The team got rid of TE Kellen Winslow and was allegedly shopping Braylon Edwards. Not sure what that would have proven, but I’m sure both Anderson and Quinn are appreciative.

I had to double check Cleveland’s roster just to make sure I wasn’t making a mistake. Let’s see. They have Edwards playing alongside Mike Furrey, Josh Cribbs and rookies Brian Robiskie and Mohamed Massaquoi? Wow. The Browns’ passing game is going to be an embarrassment this year. And frighteningly enough, it may be the best way in which they move the ball this week. They’re certainly not going to run against Minnesota. Look for the Vikings to get creative with their blitzes and bring the house against the overmatched Brady Quinn. The only player worth starting on this team is the all-thumbs Braylon Edwards, and that’s debatable at this point. Proceed with caution.

Running Game Thoughts: As a Jamal Lewis owner last year, I have to say it was very frustrating counting on him week after week, only to have him provide single digit fantasy points more often than not. Not once did he reach the 100 yard mark in a game, and each of his careers was more painful to look at than the previous one. Now rumblings have begun regarding rookie James Davis and whether he will still some carries away from Lewis. If Lewis plays like he did in 2008, that’s certainly not out of the realm of possibilities.

But what does it matter anyway this week? Minnesota has one of the best run-stuffing defenses in the NFL, and no cement cleat-wearing runner like Lewis is due to crack the code. The Browns’ running game will be on lock all game long, perhaps advancing the rumblings of disgruntled fantasy owners and Cleveland fans alike to get Jerome Harrison and Davis into the game. Keep Lewis under lock and key this week.

Projections:
Brady Quinn – 160 yards / 0 TDs / 1 INT
Jamal Lewis – 45 yards rushing
Jerome Harrison – 15 yards rushing / 20 yards rec
Braylon Edwards – 50 yards rec
Mike Furrey – 35 yards rec
Brian Robiskie – 20 yards rec
Robert Royal – 25 yards rec

Prediction: Minnesota 23, Cleveland 6

Chicago @ Green Bay (Eli Mack)

Jay Cutler / Matt Forte / Adrian Peterson
Devin Hester / Earl Bennett / Greg Olsen (vs. Green Bay)

Passing Game Thoughts: Jay Cutler’s first taste of the NFC North will be on national television against the Bears’ arch nemesis. Cutler will quickly find that it’s vastly different not having Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal on the outside. What he will have at his disposal is a WR (Devin Hester) still learning the nuances of the position and another one (Earl Bennett) whose last reception worth anything was in college. Needless to say, the pickings are slim. But Cutler is way too talented to be a fantasy afterthought. While his WRs leave much to be desired, he has an up and coming TE in Greg Olsen to throw to. Olsen will battle a talented group of Packer LBs, but he will get his share of receptions and be will be productive.

New Green Bay defensive coordinator Dom Capers’ more aggressive style of defense should bring an interesting twist to this long-time rivalry. CBs Charles Woodson and Al Harris present a formidable obstacle for any QB, much less a QB with unproven, unpolished WRs. Cutler, however, should do enough to keep his team in the game but probably not enough to warrant a fantasy start with any confidence.

Running Game Thoughts: Matt Forte led the team in both rushing and receiving, and chances are he will repeat that feat. Forte is one of only a few RBs in fantasy football who can be counted on for all the money carries with no threat of a RBBC. As mentioned above, Green Bay’s revamped defense is tailored to cause havoc. That’s not good news for Forte. He struggled in the two games last year against the Packers. He scored a TD but was held to a total of 137 yards on the ground in the two contests.

Back-up Kevin Jones injured his ankle in preseason and is lost for the season, meaning “the other” Adrian Peterson will back-up duties. Forte rarely comes out the game, so Peterson’s affect will be nil. LBs Nick Barnett and AJ Hawk will be a force in the middle of the defense. They must be accounted for if the Bears are to enjoy any level of success on the ground.

Projections:
Jay Cutler – 210 yards / 1 TD / 1 INT
Matt Forte – 85 yards rushing / 1 TD / 35 yards rec
Adrian Peterson – 15 yards rushing
Devin Hester – 45 yards rec
Earl Bennett – 35 yards rec
Greg Olsen – 80 yards / 1 TD

Aaron Rodgers / Ryan Grant
Greg Jennings / Donald Driver / Jermichael Finley (vs Chicago)

Passing Game Thoughts: Listen to most prognosticators and you’ll hear many of them touting Aaron Rodgers as a possible league MVP this year. That’s a 180 degree turn from 12 months ago when many of those same talking heads expected him to fall on his face after replacing Brett Favre. Rodgers was good, no doubt. And it certainly didn’t hurt having one of the league’s best receiving tandems. Greg Jennings and Donald Driver are both productive fantasy options and should be in your line-up. They will give CBs Nathan Vasher and Trumaine McBride all they can handle.

Rodgers had two good games last year against Chicago. He averaged 243 yards passing and totaled 4 TDs and 2 INTs. There’s little reason to believe he won’t have a similar game on Sunday. There’s a good chance that Rodgers will finish the season as one of the top three QBs in fantasy football. That journey starts this weekend.

Running Game Thoughts: Ryan Grant entered last season a hot commodity after his blazing season of 2007. He seems to be coming into this season with the same high expectations. Grant has no real threat of other RBs vulturing his carries, so that makes him a valuable prospect in fantasy world. Green Bay’s young, unknown, yet productive offensively line is a true asset in the running game, and it should allow for a stellar game by Grant. Grant has done well recently against the Bears. He has three TDs and two 100 yard performances over his last three vs. Chicago.

With the explosive potential of Green Bay’s passing attack, Grant will see seven-man fronts all day long. It is that approach that should allow Grant to have not only a good game, but a good season. More than likely Grant was drafted as a RB2, but he has the potential to produce solid RB1 numbers on Sunday night. With only 18 receptions last season, don’t expect much from Grant through the air.

Projections:
Aaron Rodgers – 240 yards / 2 TDs / 1 INT
Ryan Grant – 85 yards rushing / 1 TD
Greg Jennings – 120 yards rec / 1 TD
Donald Driver – 65 yards rec / 1 TD
Jermichael Finley – 35 yards rec

Prediction: Green Bay 27, Chicago 14

Washington @ N.Y. Giants (Marcoccio)

Jason Campbell/Santana Moss/Malcolm Kelly/Antwaan Randle El/Chris Cooley
Clinton Portis (vs. NYG)

Passing Game Thoughts: As most in the fantasy football community know, Jason Campbell enters the 2009 NFL season with the same offensive system in place for the first time since his early days at Auburn. While that is good news for Campbell, the bad news is that he will be facing the fierce pass rush of the New York Giants who had 42 sacks last season - and that was without DE Osi Umenyiora. Campbell has nice mobility and the arm to make all the necessary throws, but he sometimes struggles with his decision making and has been terribly inconsistent throughout his 5 NFL seasons. Last season he threw for 3,245 yards and only 13 TDs. Surely most of you have better options to start at QB in Week 1 – or you are likely in for a very long season. Last season’s rookie wide-outs failed to step up for Washington due mostly to injuries and inexperience. Coach Jim Zorn has finally committed to a starter opposite Santana Moss, Malcolm Kelly but Devin Thomas could rotate in and out of the line-up as well. Antwaan Randle-El performed reasonably well last season and is well equipped to be a good slot WR in the West Coast Offense, but isn’t really a fantasy option. The aforementioned Moss and last season’s somewhat disappointing Chris Cooley were likely the only two Washington pass catchers drafted as potential starters, and Moss catches a break with CB Aaron Ross likely to miss the game.

Osi Umenyiora, Justin Tuck, Fred Robbins, Barry Coefield, Mattias Kiwanuka, and Rocky Bernard give the Giants incredible front line depth - and that’s with Chris Canty and Jay Alford out for Week 1. The Giants pass defense ranked 8th last season allowing 196.2 yards per game and only 17 TDs. This unit should be able to dominate the uninspiring Washington passing game. Although the Washington offensive line starts the season reasonably healthy, with a healthy Osi, the Giants should be able to get consistent pressure on Jason Campbell forcing him into a few mistakes.

Running Game Thoughts: Clinton Portis continues to be one of the more under-rated fantasy RBs in this hobby, year in and year out. Incredibly he went in the fourth round of my only re-draft league (two picks before me :angry:). He did wear down a little as the season wore on last year, but still played well for most of the year – 1,487 yards with 9 TDs on the ground. He suffered a rib injury this preseason, but is expected to be fine for Week 1. Portis is one of the “safest” running backs in fantasy football since he is one of the few true feature backs left (Zorn claims that Betts will see more time this season than last, but we’ll see) and the Redskins have one of the top run blocking offensive lines in the NFL. Despite the tough matchup, he’s a must start this week and every week.

New York ranked 7th in the league in run defense in 2008 and only gave up 95.8 yards per game and 14 rushing TDs. Antonio Pierce is 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. Portis did only manage to gain 106 yards against this unit in his two games last season.

Projections:
Jason Campbell: 195 yds passing, 1 TD, 2 Ints. / 20 yards rushing
Santana Moss: 65 yds receiving, 1 TD / 15 yards rushing
Malcolm Kelly: 15 yds receiving
Antwaan Randle El: 30 yds receiving
Chris Cooley: 55 yds receiving
Clinton Portis: 95 yds rushing, 1 TD / 15 yds receiving

Eli Manning/Dominek Hixon/Steve Smith/Mario Manningham/Kevin Boss
Brandon Jacobs/Ahmad Bradshaw (vs. WAS)

Passing Game Thoughts: Eli Manning has a ring on his finger but likely hasn’t placed any rings on his fantasy owners’ fingers. He’s been steady but unspectacular each and every season during his career. This year may be his biggest test as a leads a group of virtual unknowns in the New York Giants passing offense. Dominek Hixon and steady Steve Smith are the opening day starters, while second year Michigan alum Mario Manningham earned the No. 3 role this summer. When the Giants go with three wide outs, Manningham will man the flanker position while Steve Smith shifts to the slot. Steve Smith should hold some value in point per reception leagues as he has steady hands and can get open in a phone booth while Hixon could be on the verge of a break out campaign if he holds onto the ball. Last season TE Kevin Boss was a red zone threat but did little else after replacing Jeremy Shockey who was shipped to New Orleans. Given the lack of experience in the receiving corps., he should take on a bigger role in the offense this season. The Giants do have solid depth at the skill positions with third year player Sinorice Moss and rookies Hakeem Nicks (who was spectacular at times this preseason and the 6’6” Ramses Barden – as such the passing game may not be as bad as most fantasy footballers seem to think.

Washington’s pass defense came on strong in 2008 after starting out as a very average unit – finishing 7th in passing yards allowed (193.4 ypg). Their secondary is talented with Carlos Rodgers, Fred Smoot, and LaRon Landry in the secondary and their pass rush should be much improved. In addition to landing prize free agent Albert Haynesworth to shore up the interior D-line, the Skins drafted pass rusher Brian Orakpo with the 13th overall pick in the draft. Orakpo who was a defensive lineman at Texas will be used as a strong side OLB this season and should help a Washington team that only recorded 24 sacks last season.

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 and Derrick Ward tore up the league last year. Third year RB Ahmad Bradshaw should easily replace the departed Ward, and his strong preseason indicates he could be on the verge of making it the second year in a row that the Giants produce two 1,000 yard rushers. Word in New York is that the Giants want to get Brandon Jacobs more involved in the passing game adding further value to the massive wrecking ball.

Washington was very quietly an extremely tough run defense in 2007, finishing 8th in yards allowed with 95.4 yards per game and only allowing 12 rushing TDs. An unheralded line-backing corp. featuring veteran London Fletcher and Rocky McIntosh make it very difficult for opposing runners to find much room. The Giants were able to run on everyone last season, but this should still be a tough match-up and a good litmus test to see if the loss of Ward sets the team back at all.

Projections:
Eli Manning: 235 yds passing, 1 TD, 1 Int.
Steve Smith: 68 yds receiving, 1 TD
Dominek Hixon: 75 yds receiving
Mario Manningham: 15 yds receiving
Kevin Boss: 45 yds receiving
Brandon Jacobs: 95 yds rushing, 1 TD / 5 yds receiving
Ahmad Bradshaw: 68 yds rushing, 1 TD / 22 yds receiving

Prediction: Giants 24 Redskins 14

Buffalo @ New England (Marcoccio)

Trent Edwards/Lee Evans/Terrell Owens/Shawn Nelson
Fred Jackson (vs. NE)

Passing Game Thoughts: Get your popcorn ready! It’s time for 81 versus 81 once again. Although, this time it better be some Jiffy Pop, because this one should be over in a jiffy. While Trent Edwards looked to have made some great strides in his development to start off his second year as a starter, things fell apart after he got his bell rung in Week 5. Speaking of which, do the names Demetrius Bell, Andy Levitr, Geoff Hangartner, Eric Wood and Bard Butler sound familiar to you? Yeah, me neither. Unfortunately for Trent Edwards these are the guys that will be protecting him in 2009. The Bills arguably have the worst starting offensive line in the NFL. Things could get very ugly in Buffalo this year if they don’t come together quickly to at least be an adequate unit. Trent Edwards doesn’t have the big arm to be a consistent downfield passer anyway, but if the line doesn’t give him any time the starting WR tandem of T.O. and Lee Evans - which looks strong on paper - may not be worth the paper it’s written on. The Bills recently fired OC Turk Schoenert and replaced him with QB coach Alex Van Pelt, but are still expected to run the no huddle offense they experimented with this preseason. Perhaps by tiring the opposing defense out their o-line issues can be masked a little.

Bill Belicheck has always found a way to make great quarterbacks look average against New England, so one could imagine what he will make a below average QB look like. In all seriousness the Pats secondary was not very good last season. While they were a very respectable 11th on a yards per game basis (201.4 ypg), only the Arizona Cardinals allowed more passing TDs than the 27 allowed by New England. Adelius Thomas had a very nice first season in New England but will need Oakland Raider cast off Derrick Burgess to help apply pressure to opposing QBs – especially after DE Richard Seymour was shipped to the Raiders in a separate deal - in order to slow down opposing passing games.

Running Game Thoughts: Marshawn Lynch will of course miss the first three games of the NFL season having been suspended by the league following his second run-in with the law. Fred Jackson finally gets the opportunity that many have been waiting for but will not be helped by the sub par Buffalo o-line (I’m starting to feel bad for bashing them so I’ll call them “subpar” instead of “terrible”. It just sounds nicer). Jackson who replaced Lynch on passing downs last season, could still be solid contributor for his fantasy owners as he should see a decent amount of dump off passes as Edwards tries to avoid getting creamed.

The Patriots played the run effectively in 2009 allowing 107.6 yards per games and only 8 TDs on the season. Rookie Jerod Mayo was a force in his first season but the aging linebacker unit steadily lost bodies during the offseason, so teams may be able to take advantage of this run defense in 2009. Vince Wilfork is still a big body in the middle of the line and the recent scuttlebutt is that the Patriots will use the 4-3 defense more often due to the aforementioned loss of linebackers which should help clog the middle of the field and keep opposing RBs from running wild.

Projections:
Trent Edwards: 205 yds passing, 1 TD, 2 Ints. / 10 yards rushing
Lee Evans: 80 yds receiving
Terrell Owens: 35 yds receiving, 1 TD
Shawn Nelson: 15 yds receiving
Fred Jackson: 62 yds rushing / 55 yds receiving

Tom Brady/Randy Moss/Wes Welker/Joey Galloway/Chris Baker
Laurence Maroney/Sammy Morris/Kevin Faulk/Fred Taylor (vs. BUF)

Passing Game Thoughts: He’s back. Tom Brady makes his return to regular season play after missing virtually all of 2008. He did not look limited at all in the preseason, so expect him to battle Drew Brees for the top spot in the final fantasy QB rankings this season. One thing that could throw a small monkey wrench into the Pats passing machine is the availability of slot WR Wes Welker. Welker was limited most of the preseason due to a mysterious injury, but is now listed as probable for Week 1. The fact that Greg Lewis was released this week probably means that Welker will play on Sunday but with the Pats you never know. Randy Moss should welcome the return of Brady, as Matt Cassell’s lack of deep ball accuracy limited Moss’ role and final stats last season. It seems that former Jet TE Chris Baker has passed the talented but underachieving Ben Watson on the depth chart and he could be an effective red zone target and a real sleeper at the position. Keep an eye on him.

Buffalo’s defense is young but talented and should improve as they gain experience. The passing defense was ranked 13th in yardage allowed last season (204.4) and only gave up 14 TDs through the air. CB Leodis McKelvin was effective as a rookie and will team up with fellow youngsters Terrence McGee and Donte Whitner to form a nice secondary. Aaron Schoebel has the ability to terrorize opposing o-linemen but has been inconsistent. The Bills will certainly need him to put some pressure on Brady if they have any hope of stopping the Patriots. However, I’m betting against any stoppage of the Patriots’ passing game.

Running Game Thoughts: Good luck to fantasy football players who own New England running backs. Heck, I have to be honest here. I’m just guessing when it comes to projecting their stats – especially in Week 1. The Patriots were very effective overall running the ball last season but none of their backs were really all that helpful to fantasy owners because it’s just too damn tough to gauge what the HC of the NEP will do from week to week with his running backs. Laurence Maroney should be back in the mix after another disappointing season, but so should Sammy Morris and Kevin Faulk and lets not forget the Pats brought in Fred Taylor this offseason as well. If the Patriots get out to an early lead, which I’m assuming they will, my guess is that Sammy Morris will be used more than the other backs to help grind away the clock. However Morris isn’t a safe option and my advice is to look elsewhere for RB help.

The Bills were ranked 22nd against the run last season, but may improve a little in 2009 if Paul Posluszny can stay healthy – which hasn’t been easy for him so far during his brief career. Marcus Stroud didn’t make the impact that most thought he would after signing with the Bills last offseason after much success with the Jaguars. Bills fans will hope he can bounce back a little this season or the defense may find itself spending more time on the field than it would like.

Projections:
Tom Brady: 335 yds passing 3 TDs
Randy Moss: 125 yds receiving, 2 TDs
Wes Welker: 40 yds receiving
Joey Galloway: 70 yds receiving
Chris Baker: 35 yds receiving, 1 TD
Laurence Maroney: 35 yds rushing
Sammy Morris: 55 yds rushing, 1 TD / 15 yds receiving
Fred Taylor: 25 yards rushing
Kevin Faulk: 10 yds rushing / 35 yds receiving

Prediction: Patriots 37 Bills 13

St. Louis @ Seattle (Eakin)

Marc Bulger/Donnie Avery/Laurent Robinson/Randy McMichael
Steven Jackson (vs. SEA)

Passing Game Thoughts: The Rams offense is perhaps undervalued coming into the season because of their horrendous showing in ’08 but no team suffered more injuries than St. Louis last year. Bulger’s protection will improve markedly with a new free agent center Jason Brown and second overall pick Jason Smith stepping in at right tackle. The Rams main concern leading in to week one is QB Marc Bulger’s right hand. He dislocated his right pinky finger during a practice and took snaps from center for the first time in two weeks Wednesday. He is set to start and teammates claim he is throwing well. The receiving core is unproven with 2nd year WR Donnie Avery as the top threat and Falcon backup Laurent Robinson as the number two. Given that all eyes will key on Steven Jackson, expect a speedy Avery to slip behind the shaky Seahawk secondary on some play actions for big gains and have one of his best fantasy games of the year this week.

Seattle’s best cover corner, Marcus Trufant, is out. Not good news for team the ranked dead last in fantasy point allowed versus the pass last year unless you are a starting Donnie Avery on your fantasy team. The Seahawks will try to overcome their backend weakness by getting pressure with their front seven. First round pick Aaron Curry and veteran pass rusher Patrick Kearney will be the key elements in creating havoc for Bulger and crew. I f they cannot get pressure, Bulger has the precision to move the chains this game may turn into a high scoring affair.

Running Game Thoughts: Steven Jackson is healthy and just one year removed from leading the NFL in yards from scrimmage. He has the talent to repeat, but the Rams must establish a downfield passing threat for him to find the running room. HC Steve Spagnuolo inherits the run the football and play defense mentality of his former regime, the Giants, so Jackson will be in line for 25-30 touches and see some success.

Seattle has been solid against the run thanks to a good core of young linebackers in Tatupu, Curry, and Hill. They are very athletic, flow well, and are critical in slowing Jackson. Jackson has averaged around 80 yds per game against the Seahawks over the last two years so that is a reasonable number to project for him.

Projections:
Marc Bulger: 185 yds/1 TD/1 INT
Donnie Avery: 75 yds/1 TD
Laurent Robinson: 40 yds
Randy McMichael: 45 yds
Steven Jackson: 90 yds rushing/35 yds rec/1 TD

Matt Hasselbeck/T.J. Houshmandzadeh/Nate Burleson/John Carlson
Julius Jones (vs. STL)

Passing Game Thoughts: While everyone is excited about the prospects of a healthy Matt Hasselbeck and the free agent addition of Houshmandzadeh, remember that pass heavy HC Mike Holmgren has been replaced by the more conservative Jim Mora. While he may still play to the strengths of his team, he has stated his wish to become more of a running oriented team. Housh will catch 80 balls this year but he will not be a top ten yardage or scorer among WRs. When the ‘Hawks get in the redzone they will look for TE John Carlson or Nate Burleson.

St. Louis has had trouble stopping the pass. They just cut their 2006 first round draft choice CB Ty Hill to Atlanta in a surprise move. Their 2007 pick Adam Carriker was placed on IR. Chris Long has not shown his father’s prowess as a QB menace so the Rams have a mixed up secondary to go along with a lack luster pass rush. However, Seattle’s offensive line may be in even worse shape with all World left tackle Walter Jones out indefinitely. The result, a lot of Rams blitzing and many short passes hoping for YAC.

Running Game Thoughts: Julius Jones is set to start over Edgerrin James and former Cal standout Justin Forsett though I’m not sure what he’s done to deserve it. He has a good matchup here and this will likely be his best fantasy game all year since I predict him losing his starting job at some point during the season. The combination being the 46th best fantasy RB last year, a poor offensive line, a veteran RB with much better talent, and a backup whose name rhymes with Dorsett will be too much to overcome. At the very least, Jones will be removed in favor of the Edge in short yardage situations and the goal line.

Projections:
Matt Hasselbeck: 265 yds/3 TD
John Carlson: 70 yds/1 TD
T.J. Houshmandzadeh: 100 yds/1 TD
Nate Burleson: 80 yds/1 TD
Julius Jones: 90 yds rushing/25 yds rec

Prediction: Seahawks 27 Rams 20

San Francisco @ Arizona (Eakin)

Shaun Hill/Josh Morgan/Isaac Bruce/Vernon Davis
Frank Gore (vs. ARI)

Passing Game Thoughts: Shaun Hill finished 10th in QB fantasy points per game last season. He is underrated and capable of making plays. The key will be HC Mike Singletary’s desire to throw the ball. It’s no secret he favors a smash mouth approach. Isaac Bruce and Josh Morgan make up a nice combination of veteran savvy and young athleticism. Bruce enters as the top target but expectations are for Morgan to take over. He has all the tools but lacks consistency. Ultra athletic TE Vernon Davis enters the last year of his contract and seems to have finally matured. He was underutilized last year and is expected to run routes rather than block in passing downs. This will be his most productive year in what may be “the year of the Tight End” in 2009. Seriously, have there ever been so many potentially stellar tight ends in the league?

The Cardinals tied for second most QB FPTs surrendered in ’08. Emerging end Darnell Dockett is their best pass rusher and will be in a critical match-up against 49ers right tackle Adam Snyder. The Cards want to mimic the Steelers defense and will dial up blitzes to limit Hill’s time in the pocket if their four man rush can’t get it done.

Running Game Thoughts: The mantra of the offense is Gore left, Gore middle, and Gore right with an occasional spell by rookie Glenn Coffey. The O-line was physical and impressive all preseason which bodes well for Gore owners. The concern is how long the Niner’s defense can keep the high flying Cards under wraps. Most high volume rushing attacks need a legit defense to back them up and keep games close. The two must feed of one another making stops and grinding out possession keeping the defense fresh. San Francisco was 10th in FPTs allowed last season and will need to improve for Gore to reach elite production.

Arizona ranked ninth from the bottom in RB FPTs allowed last season. They are healthier up front to start the year and should improve entering the second year in the system. LB Karlos Dansby led them in tackles and will be relied upon to make life difficult for Gore. Frank the Tank got his at home against them but was held in check at ‘Zona last year. The crowd will be frothing with high expectations coming off the Super Bowl so while I am not sold on the Cards this year, I think they manage to keep Gore to solid but unspectacular opening day.

Projections:
Shaun Hill: 220 yds/1 TDs/1 INT
Isaac Bruce: 60 yds
Josh Morgan: 65 yds/1 TD
Vernon Davis: 40 yds
Frank Gore: 95 yds rushing/20 yds rec/1 TD

Kurt Warner/Larry Fitzgerald/Anquan Boldin/Steve Breaston/
Tim Hightower (vs. SF)

Passing Game Thoughts: There is no question the Cards have the talent to produce big numbers. That said, they have a lot to overcome. Warner is 40, coming off hip surgery, and looked poor during the preseason. Boldin (22.2FPTs/G), who people forget was better on a per game basis than Fitzgerald (19.5 FPTs/G) last season, is battling a hamstring problem. Now, their top insurance, Steve Breaston, is also banged up. Add all of that with Madden curse, (Fitz is on the cover with Polamolu whom already sprained a knee week one) and the pattern of teams that lose the Super Bowl tanking the following year and you have yourself a recipe for disappointment. Fitz and Boldin owners only solace is that Leinart appears to have turned the corner and should be respectable when Warner goes down and they have a really good fantasy playoff schedule.

Nate Clements is one of the better cover guys in the league and has success in keeping Fitz in check. OLBs Manny Lawson and Parys Haralson will be relied upon to get pressure off the edge. Both are athletic enough but unproven.

Running Game Thoughts: Tim Hightower will start over Chris Wells. Hightower runs well North/South but needs blocking help to move the chains. He started last year strong but hit the proverbial rookie wall and lost his job to Edgerrin James to close out 2008. The same may happen this year if Wells can stay out of the infirmary. Until then, both will remain RB3s with sporadic big days.

The Niner is finished last season 22nd in RB FPTs allowed. They ran the Martz offense last year, which isn’t great for running time off the clock or keeping a defense rested. Their new grind it out approach will serve to improve their overall defensive rankings. If HC Mike Singletary can help a team improve in any category, one would expect it to be stopping the run.

Projections:
Kurt Warner: 290 yds/2 TDs/1 INT
Larry Fitzgerald: 100 yds/1 TD
Anquan Boldin: 80 yds/1 TD
Steve Breaston: 45 yds
Tim Hightower: 65 yds rushing/20 yds rec/1 TD

Prediction: Arizona 24 San Francisco 17

San Diego at Oakland (Eakin)

Phillip Rivers/Vincent Jackson/Chris Chambers/Antonio Gates
LaDainian Tomlinson (vs. OAK)

Passing Game Thoughts: Phillip Rivers has become a top echelon if not elite passer. His growth as a QB will mirror Tomlinson’s decline as an elite rusher. The Chargers will have to become a pass first team if L.T. declines. Vincent Jackson has taken over as his top WR Threat but will be blanketed by the best corner in the league, Nnamdi Asomugha. Chris Chambers may outperform Jackson opening day but don’t jump to conclusions and expect it to last all year. Jackson is the talent and will be more reliable throughout. The Chargers will just avoid Asomugha’s side of the field and use dump offs to Gates, L.T., and Sproles.

Running Game Thoughts: Bell cow RB LaDainian Tomlinson has been the subject of much debate this preseason. Talk of his demise are a little overblown. He played almost the entire year with dud big toe and still finished fifth among all RBs in FPTs scored. Now people expect him to finish worse at full health because he aged 7 months? Sometimes people just over think things or rely too heavily on statistics. Tomlinson will be elite barring injury. Sproles is dynamic in spurts of relief.

Oakland will not have the help of Richard Seymour so little has changed for the fourth poorest defense in RB points allowed (43.3/g). The Chargers offensive line is not a dominant unit anymore but is better than Oakland’s front.

Predictions:
Phillip Rivers: 320 yds/2 TDs
Vincent Jackson: 60 yds
Chris Chambers: 85 yds/1 TD
Antonio Gates: 70 yds/1 TD
LaDainian Tomlinson: 90 yds rushing/45 yds rec/2 TDs

JaMarcus Russell/Darius Heyward-Bey/Louis Murphy/
Darren McFadden (vs. SD)

Passing Game Thoughts: I am curious to know if any team has ever started two rookie WRs opening day? Oakland plans to. The Raiders are big on setting precedents these days, most not good. Even the most seasoned organizations would be hard pressed to pull it off, and I don’t see the Raiders as well seasoned. Do you? Rookie WR Louis Murphy has outplayed first round pick WR Darius Heyward-Bey in camp thus far, so while neither is should be starting in fantasy, Murphy is the better option until proven otherwise. Russell finished last year strong while relying on TE Zach Miller as his safety net. Miller remains the only worthy starter in their pass attack.

Running Game Thoughts: Darren McFadden should be in for a great year. There was concern that he was a little bit of a straight-line runner last season but like L.T., he was battling big toe issues that are critical for change of direction. He may not ever be an elite between the tackles runner but he’s been explosive in preseason and his history at Arkansas show that he is a game breaker in space. Oakland needs to be creative in using his talent ala New Orleans and Reggie Bush. Michael Bush is a talent that may finally get a chance to shine. He has extremely quick feet for a back of his size. He should replace Fargas as their bruiser.

San Diego was 12th in RB FPTs allowed despite missing Shawn Merriman. Jamal Williams was once an elite run stuffer but also battled injury last year. With both of them healthy, they may move in to the top ten. They are aggressive and do a good job of creating penetration. They will miss Igor Olshansky’s toughness against the run and will look for Jacques Cesaire to help replace him.

Projections:
JaMarcus Russell: 170 yds/1 TD
Louis Murphy: 40 yds
Darius Heyward-Bey: 30 yds
Zach Miller: 65 yds/1 TD
Darren McFadden: 60 yds rushing/35 yds rec
Michael Bush: 70 yds/1 TD

San Diego 31 Oakland 17

Dolphins @ Falcons

Chad Pennington / Ronnie Brown / Ricky Williams
Ted Ginn Jr. / Greg Camarillo / Davone Bess / Brian Hartline / Anthony Fasano (at Atlanta)

Passing Game Thoughts: Can the team that re-introduced the league to the single-wing (ie. wildcat) formation and added more celebrity owners than impact players this offseason recapture the magic of their 2008 run?

Chad Pennington returns to lead the fish and is a very good game manager, but will rarely light up the stat sheet. His arm strength limits what Ted Ginn, and his 4.2 speed in the forty might be able to accomplish. Ginn is the consensus #1 receiving option, but keep in mind, last season Ginn (56), Camarillo (55), and Bess (54) were only separated by 2 catches. Add Brian Hartline into the mix, and there’s a good chance none of the Miami receivers playing opposite Ginn will make a real fantasy impact even against a mediocre Atlanta’s pass defense. Fasano should receive the bulk of the tight end looks now that David Martin has been released.

Running Game Thoughts: Ronnie Brown may be the best player on either side of the ball. He looked ready for a big season before tearing his ACL in 2007. After splitting time with Ricky Williams in ’08, word from Miami indicates Brown is healthy and is set to resume his feature back role in 2009. Ricky Williams is still in the picture though and is likely to get work spelling Brown especially on 3rd downs and short yardage.

Expect Atlanta to stack the box with eight men, daring Chad Pennington to beat them through the air. As a good Parcells protégé will do, Tony Sparano will stay committed to the run as long as possible, but I expect them to be playing from behind much of the game thus limiting the opportunities for both Brown and Williams.

Projections:
Chad Pennington – 220 yards / 1 TDs / 1 INT
Tedd Ginn Jr. – 75 yards rec.
Greg Camarillo – 45 yards rec.
Davone Bess – 40 yards rec.
Brian Hartline – 30 yards rec.
Anthony Fasano –20 yards rec.
Ronnie Brown – 50 yards rushing / 20 yards rec. 1 TD
Ricky Williams – 20 yards rushing.

Matt Ryan / Michael Turner / Jerious Norwood
Roddy White / Michael Jenkins / Tony Gonzalez (vs. Miami)

Passing Game Thoughts: Can Matt Ryan avoid a sophomore slump? The guy who lived up to his draft position now has to settle in and show he can maintain a high level of play over a career and lead his team to greater heights.

The passing game for Atlanta should be even better this year due to the genius move of adding Tony Gonzalez at tight end. Gonzalez is one of those players that forces defensive coordinators to do thingsthey don’t necessarily want to do, like committing their strong safety to man coverage. His presence means fewer double teams on the very talented Roddy White and Michael Jenkins.

Miami’s defense was considerably stronger against the run than the pass last year. Jason Taylor was brought back to up the pressure on opposing QBs however; Ryan showed a veteran presence as a rookie and Michael Turner’s 1700 yards go along way to keeping Ds honest. I look for Ryan and his assorted weapons to give the home crowd a lot to cheer about in their opener.

Running Game Thoughts: Michael Turner showed flashes of fantasy brilliance when backing up LT in San Diego. Those previews became a full-length feature film blockbuster last year. Turner and the Atlanta offensive line, deserve a lot of credit for Matt Ryan’s smooth transition into the league last year. Turner punished opposing defenses for 1700 yards and 17 TDs last season and look for him to show more of the same this year. Atlanta will get a lead early and give Miami a healthy dose of Turner and spot duty for the not quite 100% Jerious Norwood .

Projections:
Matt Ryan – 210 yards / 2 TD
Michael Turner – 120 yards rushing / 1 TD
Jerious Norwood – 30 yards rushing
Roddy White – 80 yards rec.
Michael Jenkins – 60 yards rec. / 1 TD
Tony Gonzalez – 40 yards / 1 TD

Prediction: Atlanta 24, Miami 17

Philadelphia @ Carolina

Projections:
Donovan McNabb – 250 yards / 2 TD
Brian Westbrook – 70 yards rushing / 1 TD; 45 yards receiving
LeSean McCoy – 20 yards rushing; 10 yards receiving
DeSean Jackson – 75 yards rec / 1 TD.
Kevin Curtis – 40 yards rec
Jeremy Maclin – 30 yards rec
Brent Celek – 40 yards / 1 TD

Projections:
Jake Delhomme – 220 yards / 2 TD
DeAngelo Williams – 90 yards rushing / 1 TD; 25 yards receiving
Mike Goodson – 25 yards rushing; 10 receiving
Steve Smith – 110 yards rec, 1 TD
Muhsin Muhammad – 40 yards rec. / 1 TD
Kenneth Moore – 40 yards / 1 TD

Prediction: Philadelphia 28, Carolina 27

New York Jets @ Houston

Projections:
Mark Sanchez – 190 yards / 1 TD
Thomas Jones – 80 yards rushing / 1 TD; 10 yards receiving
Leon Washington – 40 yards rushing; 25 yards receiving
Jerricho Cotchery – 50 yards rec.
David Clowney – 30 yards rec
Chansi Stuckey – 30 yards rec
Dustin Keller – 40 yards / 1 TD

Projections:
Matt Schaub – 255 yards / 2 TD
Steve Slaton – 70 yards rushing; 30 yards receiving
Chris Brown – 30 yards rushing
Andre Johnson – 110 yards rec, 1 TD
Andre Davis – 20 yards rec
Owen Daniels – 50 yards / 1 TD

Prediction: New York Jets 24, Houston 20

Jacksonville @ Indianapolis

Projections:
Peyton Manning – 270 yards / 1 TD
Joseph Addai – 70 yards rushing; 20 yards receiving
Donald Brown – 35 yards rushing; 10 yards receiving
Reggie Wayne – 80 yards rec / 1 TD.
Anthony Gonzalez – 60 yards rec
Dallas Clark – 65 yards / 1 TD

Projections:
David Garrard – 195 yards / 2 TD; 20 yards rushing
Maurice Jones-Drew – 85 yards rushing; 40 yards receiving
Rashad Jennings – 25 yards rushing; 10 receiving
Torry Holt – 65 yards rec, 1 TD
Troy Williamson – 40 yards rec.
Marcedes Lewis – 40 yards / 1 TD

Prediction: Indianapolis 26, Jacksonville 20

Detroit @ New Orleans

Projections:
Matthew Stafford – 250 yards / 2 TD
Kevin Smith – 70 yards rushing / 1 TD; 45 yards receiving
Calvin Johnson – 75 yards rec / 1 TD.
Dennis Northcutt – 40 yards rec
Bryant Johnson – 30 yards rec
Brandon Pettigrew – 40 yards / 1 TD

Projections:
Drew Brees – 300 yards / 3 TDs
Reggie Bush – 45 yards rushing; 45 yards receiving, 1 TD
Mike Bell – 65 yards rushing, 1 TD; 10 receiving
Marques Colston – 100 yards rec, 1 TD
Lance Moore – 70 yards rec. / 1 TD
Robert Meachem – 30 yards
Jeremy Shockey – 35 yards

Prediction: New Orleans 31, Detroit 17

Dallas @ Tampa Bay

Projections:
Tony Romo – 245 yards / 2 TD
Marion Barber – 65 yards rushing / 1 TD; 15 yards receiving
Felix Jones – 40 yards rushing; 20 yards receiving
Roy Williams – 65 yards rec / 1 TD.
Patrick Crayton – 40 yards rec
Sam Hurd – 20 yards rec
Jason Witten – 50 yards / 1 TD
Martellus Bennett – 10 yards

Projections:
Byron Leftwich – 215 yards / 2 TD
Derrick Ward – 95 yards rushing / 10 yards receiving
Earnest Graham – 25 yards rushing; 10 receiving
Cadillac Williams – 30 yards rushing; 10 receiving
Antonio Bryant – 70 yards rec,
Michael Clayton – 30 yards rec.
Kellen Winslow – 45 yards / 1 TD

Prediction: Dallas 21, Tampa Bay 13