Jets @ Bills - (Marcoccio)

Passing Game Thoughts: So it seems Mark Sanchez can play a little. Sanchez who was being mentioned in conversations about “the worst starting QB in the NFL” after his first game of the season has thrown for 6 TDs in the last two weeks. Going forward it may be hard for a fantasy owner to stick him in his/her lineup with tremendous confidence, as the Jets do wish to be a “ground and pound” offense, but he should be on your radar at least. Sanchez has great mobility and is at his best when he rolls out and looks for his TE Dustin Keller, who is usually in a favorable matchup with either a LB that is too slow to keep up with him or a CB that is too small to stop him. Keller has grabbed 3 TDs in the last two weeks and is looking like a safe bet to finish the year as a top 5 TE. Braylon Edwards sat out the first quarter of last week’s game as a punishment for his latest transgression but made his presence felt once he entered the game scoring a 67-yard TD on his first catch. Now that Sanchez has the poise and confidence that he lacked as a rookie, the Jets passing attack is no longer a fantasy wasteland.

The Bills pass defense has not been as effective as last season when they finished second in the league against the pass allowing only 184.3 ypg and 14 TDs with 29 interceptions. In 2010 they are allowing 221 ypg with 5 TDs through the air and no interceptions on the season. They have put minimal pressure on opposing QBs which has been a large part of the problem, but in fairness facing Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers in consecutive weeks can make any pass defense’s numbers look less than respectable.

Running Game Thoughts: LaDainian Tomlinson has looked like the LT of old as he sliced through and over the Patriots’ and Dolphins’ run defenses the last two weeks. The burst that seemed to abandon him the last two seasons has returned and he must be pleased to see the holes the superior Jet o-line creates in front of him. Even Dustin Keller known more as a pass catcher than run blocker chipped in last week where he made a few key blocks on the Miami DEs that sprang LT for big gains. Rex Ryan has slowly phased LT into the lead back role in the Jets RBBC. He received 15 carries to Shonn Greene’s 10 and is much more involved in the passing game than the “hands of stone” Greene. Shonn Greene should eventually become a vital part of the rushing attack, but it’s tough for his owners to insert him into the line-up when he’s not seeing enough carries to do much damage.

The Bills’ run defense hasn’t been quite as bad as last season, but owners should still see a huge green light when they have a running back on their roster that faces the Bills. Buffalo is allowing 141 ypg and 5 TDs on the ground this season.

Projections:
Mark Sanchez: 235 yds passing, 1 TD, 1 Int. / 20 yards rushing
Braylon Edwards: 65 yds receiving, 1 TD
Jerricho Cotchery: 35 yds receiving
Dustin Keller: 80 yds receiving
Shonn Greene: 55 yds rushing, 1 TD
LaDainian Tomlinson: 70 yds rushing, 1 TD / 25 yds receiving

Passing Game Thoughts: I have to admit that former Harvard QB Ryan Fitzpatrick did provide the spark that HC Chan Gailey was looking for when he benched (and subsequently released Trent Edwards) after Week 2. Unfortunately for the Bills, they still lost the game. Also unfortunately for the Bills, Fitzpatrick has a history of showing flashes of being a competent QB only to once again show why he is an NFL journeyman the following week. Perhaps Fitzpatrick can keep the Bills aerial attack relevant for a while longer, but history tells us otherwise.

Darrelle Revis is likely to miss one more week in order to let his hammy fully heal. Without Revis, the Jets passing defense allowed Chad Henne to look like Dam Marino as he picked their secondary apart. In fairness to Antonio Cromartie, he played very well against Brandon Marshall, but at times Marshall just looked unstoppable. The Jets should be able to afford to let Revis heal one more week though as despite a good effort last week, the Buffalo passing game just isn’t very good.

Running Game Thoughts: Marshawn Lynch was once again the featured back in the Buffalo running game in Week 3 and he once again ran really well. Lynch should continue to see a heavy workload as they showcase him for a potential deal, although this week the “showcase” may not be so spectacular. The Jets are only allowing 67.1 ypg and have allowed only Ronnie Brown to cross the goal line on the ground. Simone Pouha and Mike DeVito had admirably replaced NT Kris Jenkins and inside lie-backer David Harris continues to get the job done in virtual obscurity while in the shadow of the bigger names on the Jets’ defense.

Projections:
Ryan Fitzpatrick: 215 yds passing, 1 TD, 2 Ints.
Lee Evans: 40 yds receiving
Steve Johnson: 60 yds receiving, 1 TD
Jonathan Stupar: 25 yds receiving
C.J. Spiller: 35 yds rushing / 40 yds receiving
Fred Jackson: 15 yds rushing / 15 yds receiving
Marshawn Lynch: 75 yds rushing

Prediction: Jets 24 Bills 13 ^ Top

Redskins @ Eagles - (Marcoccio)

Passing Game Thoughts: Donovan McNabb will make the trip back to Lincoln Financial Field as an opponent for the first time. McNabb was of course traded from Philadelphia to division rival Washington this offseason. With that trade, McNabb traded in his young up and coming talent in Philly for gray-beards Santana Moss and Joey Galloway. McNabb has played reasonably well so far in 2010 (833-2-1), but really only has Moss and TE Chris Cooley as legitimate targets to work with in the passing game. Expect the Shanahans to eventually work TE Fred Davis into the offense a little more in 2 TE sets, as he’s a better pass catching option than the hodgepodge of WRs behind Moss.

The Eagles are allowing 183.3 ypg game and 4 TDs through the air, but most of that damage came against Aaron Rodgers in Week 1. The defense (as it should) all but shut down Shaun Hill and David Garrard in subsequent weeks. CB Asante Samuel is a dangerous playmaker and could become a thorn in McNabb’s side this weekend. Do look for the Eagles to come after McNabb early in the game, because they know better than anyone that a shaken McNabb is an ineffective McNabb.

Running Game Thoughts: The Shanahan RB carousel has followed him from Denver to Washington. Already jettisoned is Larry Johnson and last week in a surprise move, it was Ryan Torain, who was just called up from the practice squad, that got the majority of the second half carries against the Rams. Clinton Portis might have sustained a wrist injury that kept him on the bench, but Portis has stated that he would have been able to get back into the game if called upon. Torain jumped past No. 2 RB Keiland Williams who now seems relegated to a pass catching role. It’s hard to recommend any back right now until we see how things shake out – but for now I’ll assume that Portis keeps his role as the main ball carrier.

The Eagles have allowed 125.7 ypg and 3 TDs on the ground through three weeks, and did allow rookie RB Jahvid Best a big day receiving in Week 2. Stewart Bradley suffered a concussion in Week 1, but is back and makes a big difference in the middle of the Philly run defense. The matchup for the Skin’s RBs would be tough enough to give one pause anyway, but due to the mystery that is Mike Shanahan, one would be better off finding an alternative runner for your squad if possible.

Projections:
Donovan McNabb: 265 yds passing, 1 TD, 1 Int. / 25 yards rushing, 1 TD
Santana Moss: 75 yds receiving, 1 TD
Joey Galloway: 35 yds receiving
Chris Cooley: 85 yds receiving
Clinton Portis: 60 yds rushing / 15 yds receiving
Ryan Torain: 45 yds rushing

Passing Game Thoughts: Michael Vick has been one of the biggest surprises this season and would likely be the fantasy MVP (and possibly the NFL MVP) if the season ended today – which thankfully it does not. Vick is still a dynamic runner but has surprisingly developed into a more than adequate passer as well. He is finding DeSean Jackson downfield and letting him do his thing – “his thing” of course is being the second most exciting player in the league with the ball in his hands. Maclin and Celek have not been hurt by Vick’s presence either, although both would likely benefit from having more of a pure passer under center, as they rely more on running precise shorter routes and Vick is more of an improviser.

Washington is statistically the second worst pass defense in the NFL allowing 325.7 ypg and 5 passing TDs on the season. Of course a good amount of those stats are due to the Week 2 shootout with Houston, but rookie Sam Bradford didn’t fair too poorly against them in Week 3. The Skins have a very talented secondary so perhaps they will turn it around eventually, but as of now they should signal a “must start” for your fantasy WR who is facing them.

Running Game Thoughts: Rookie LeSean McCoy was a guy that I just did not like heading into the 2010 season. Last year he appeared to be a “dancer” who made moves on top of moves and never really went anywhere. This year he is running a lot more decisively and I have to admit I’m impressed. McCoy now runs with some authority and maybe he just might be the Westbrook clone that many thought he’d automatically become. He’ll likely never be the inside presence that Westbrook could be as he just doesn’t have the balance and deceptive strength that Westbrook possessed, but he is a dynamic runner with adequate speed and good hands in the passing game.

Because teams have passed so easily against the Redskins, it’s hard to tell if their effectiveness against the run (98 ypg and 2 TDs) is due more to schemes and talent or lack of attempts against them. Given that teams are only averaging 3.5 yards per carry against them, it’s probably more of the former. The Washington linebackers are led by Rocky McIntosh and crafty veteran London Fletcher, but its hard hitting safety LaRon Landry that really keeps the box small and the sledding tough.

Projections:
Michael Vick: 245 yds passing 1 TD, 1 Int. / 55 yds rushing
Jeremy Maclin: 50 yds receiving
DeSean Jackson: 85 yds receiving, 1 TD
Brent Celek: 45 yds receiving
LeSean McCoy: 75 yds rushing, 1 TD / 30 yds receiving

Prediction: Eagles 17 Redskins 14 ^ Top

Bears @ Giants - (Marcoccio)

Passing Game Thoughts: Jay Cutler has thrived thus far under the Mike Martz led offense. He has cut down his grotesque interception rate from 2009 – although he was bailed out a couple of times during the Packer game. Cutler is much more mobile than many think, and behind the Bears o-line and with the Martz offense not being big on pass protection, that mobility comes in handy. While the Bears don’t have a true No. 1 type WR, between WRs Devin Hester, Johnny Knox, Earl Bennett and TE Greg Olsen there’s plenty of speed and guile at Cutler’s disposal. Second year WR Johnny Knox seems best suited for the system and has great deep speed to run under those Cutler downfield bombs. Those that were worried about Martz’ lack of using a TE in past offenses can now rest easily as Greg Olsen has been as involved and as productive as ever.

The Giants’ pass defense has looked much improved over the disastrous 2009 season, but they were carved up against the only real passer they have faced so far. They are the 4th ranked pass defense in the NFL and if not for the Manning Bowl they could be higher. On the flip side had they not faced Matt Moore and Vince Young the other two weeks they could be much lower. So basically I’m being no-committal here due to the limited sample size. What I will commit to though is that this game sets up really nicely for the Giants pass rush and expect them to pressure Cutler all night which of course can lead to the turnover prone Cutler rearing his ugly head.

Running Game Thoughts: Matt Forte was more of a compiler of stats during his very nice rookie season than an elite talent – but once again he’s set up to end the season with good numbers. He’s a great route runner, with soft hands and is a vital part of the passing game. To steal a joke from Mike Tirico, while the only thing Matt Forte has in common with Marshall Faulk is his initials, we all know how a RB is able to thrive in a Martz offense.

The Giants gave up 136.7 ypg and 3 TDs on the ground during the first three games of 2010, and have not been able to shut down the running game of any team they have faced so far. Even the Colts who are reluctant to run the ball took advantage of the Giants soft middle. Once Kenny Phillips gets up to speed in his injury recovery, the Giants run defense may improve a bit but right now it’s a defense that can be taken advantage of.

Projections:
Jay Cutler: 285 yards, 2 TDs, 2 Ints. / 20 yds rushing
Johnny Knox: 85 yds receiving, 1 TD
Devin Hester: 70 yds receiving
Greg Olsen: 55 yds receiving, 1 TD
Matt Forte: 85 yds rushing, 1 TD / 30 yds receiving
Chester Taylor: 35 yds rushing / 10 yds receiving

Passing Game Thoughts: Eli Manning needs to buy some stick ‘em for his WRs. Most of his 6 interceptions would be eliminated if they weren’t bouncing off his WR’s hands first. With that said, he’s also made a few bad decisions, most notably his left-handed shovel pass into the endzone that was picked off. Mario Manningham was diagnosed with a concussion so he may miss this game- keep an eye on the prognosis, as he’s been a dependable option for fantasy teams thus far. If he should need to sit out, preseason hero Victor Cruz cold see hid first significant regular season action.

Julius Peppers has been playing like a man possessed thus far, putting some teeth back into the Bears’ pass rush. They have allowed 279.5 ypg on the season but only 2 passing TDs and as good as their run defense has been, teams have been forced to throw on them thus inflating the yardage totals.

Running Game Thoughts: Despite two costly mistakes, Ahmad Bradshaw was the lone bright spot during the trashing of the Giants by the Titans. Bradshaw ran really hard and gave some great efforts and even his “chop block” penalty in the endzone that was called for a “safety” was forgivable in that he couldn’t see that the Giant’s o-lineman had his hand on the defender’s helmet and that defender was thus engaged. Brandon Jacobs only received four carries and is now an afterthought in the Giants offense and is on the verge of being waiver wire fodder in fantasy leagues.

Speaking of playing like a man possessed, Brian Ulracher has been a force for the 2010 Bears. He and Lance Briggs lead the No. 1 run defense that is giving up a mere 39.7 yards per game. They have forced their opposition to abandon the run as it’s been a useless pursuit. If you have a better option it may be a good idea to sit Bradshaw – although I wouldn’t absolutely count him out.

Projections:
Eli Manning: 275 yds passing, 2 TDs
Steve Smith: 80 yds receiving
Mario Manningham: 30 yds receiving
Hakeem Nicks: 95 yds receiving, 1 TD
Kevin Boss: 35 yds receiving, 1 TD
Brandon Jacobs: 15 yds rushing / 5 yds receiving
Ahmad Bradshaw: 70 yds rushing, 1 TD / 20 yds receiving

Prediction: Giants 27 Bears 24 ^ Top

Patriots @ Dolphins - (Marcoccio)

Passing Game Thoughts: Tom Brady loves his new toys, namely the pair of rookie TEs that Pats drafted this spring. Rob Gronkowski is being used as a nice red zone option and Aaron Hernandez is being used as a hybrid slot WR ala Dallas Clark. Hernandez, surprisingly, is leading the Patriots in receiving yards and is a smooth open field runner. Randy Moss and Wes Welker were relatively quiet last week, but obviously they are plug and play type players that can carry your squad during any given week. Tom Brady is starting to resemble his early days where he had no Moss or Welker and was forced spread the ball around to whichever of his mediocre receiving crew was open. Only now he seems to have a stud talent everywhere he looks, enabling him to once again spread the ball around, but with far better results than when he was throwing to guys like Troy Brown, Reche Caldwell, Jabar Gaffney and Ben Watson.

Miami was very poor against the pass in 2009 (24th ranked, allowing 234.6 ppg and 23 TDs through the air), but look far better during the first two weeks of 2010. They shut down Trent Edwards in Week 1 (which wasn’t unexpected) and then forced a rusty Bret Favre into a miserable three-interception game in Week 2 in Minnesota. However, Mark Sanchez made the mediocre secondary, look mediocre in Week 3. Dustin Keller in particular ate up the middle of the secondary and Jason Allen had no answer for Braylon Edwards – so what is he going to do against Randy Moss?

Running Game Thoughts: Once again it was BenJarvis Green-Ellis who was the primary ball carrier in the Pat RB rotation – especially in the second half after Fred Taylor reinjured the toe that gave him trouble the week before. It should be noted that the Pats signed Thomas Clayton off of their practice squad this week, which could be an indication that Taylor will be unable to go Monday Night. In that case, Green-Ellis will be a decent start for those with bye week issues. There’s nothing fancy about Green-Ellis, but he’s a serious downhill runner that falls forward and inflicts punishment on opposing teams.

Miami has played the run poorly thus far, giving up 186 yards and a TD to Adrian Peterson and then allowing LaDainian Tomlinson and Shonn Green to go over 100 yards combined with a score. While the Pats do not have a back as talented as Peterson or even the aging Tomlinson, they have been very effective running the ball season in and season out. With the defense obviously needing to concentrate on the Pats passing attack, there could be a lot of open lanes for Green-Ellis.

Projections:
Tom Brady: 315 yds passing, 3 TDs
Randy Moss: 120 yds receiving, 2 TDs
Wes Welker: 60 yds receiving
Rob Gronkowski: 35 yds receiving, 1 TD
Aaron Hernandez: 70 yds receiving
Fred Taylor: 5 yds rushing
Sammy Morris: 25 yds rushing / 35 yds receiving
BenJarvis Green-Ellis: 90 yds rushing, 1 TD / 5 yds receiving

Passing Game Thoughts: Chad Henne finally woke up last week and looked possessed by the ghost of Dan Marino as he lit up the Jets’ pass defense minus Darrelle Revis. Despite a fine effort from Antonio Cromartie, Brandon Marshall finally had his breakout game with the Dolphins as well. He appeared uncoverable at times as he hauled in 10 catches for 166 yards and a TD. Even the bit players, Anthony Fasano, Brian Hartline and Davone Bess got into the act. Don’t be surprised if this a preview of what’s to come as the Phins turn into an aerial attack – as Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams looked like a guy coming off of a lis fanc injury and a 33 year old RB, respectively.

The Pats secondary was abused for much of 2009, allowing 25 passing TDs and 209.7 ypg through the air and has looked even worse in 2010. The Pats start a very inexperienced secondary, second year player Darius Butler and rookie Devin McCourty and they have struggled after a decent effort in Week 1. Mark Sanchez threw for 225 yards and 3 TDs in Week 2 against them, which was followed up with journeyman Ryan Fitzpatrick put up 247 yards and 2 TDs on them. When Mark Sanchez and Ryan Fitzpatrick are tossing 5 TDs on you, it could be a long season.

Running Game Thoughts: The “Wild Cat” was famously debuted in an early season thrashing of the New England Patriots in 2008. Perhaps it should die against them in 2010. It has not been very effective for Miami so far and it seems more disruptive to Chad Henne’s rhythm than it’s probably worth. As I said earlier, Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams don’t see to be running as effectively as they had been the last two seasons and the Jets actually looked better using Brad Smith in the formation than the Phins did last week.

Projections:
Chad Henne: 285 yds passing, 3 TDs, 1 Int.
Brandon Marshall: 105 yds receiving, 1 TD
Brian Hartline: 60 yds receiving
Davone Bess: 30 yds receiving
Anthony Fasano: 50 yds receiving, 2 TDs
Ronnie Brown: 55 yds rushing / 10 yds rec.
Ricky Williams: 40 yds rushing / 10 yds receiving

Prediction: Patriots 34 Dolphins 24 ^ Top

Lions @ Packers - (Autry)

Passing Game Thoughts: Shaun Hill is slated to start his third consecutive game in the absence of Matthew Stafford. As fantasy options go, Hill is as least favorable an option as one could get. He’s one of those players whose numbers at the end of games don’t give his poor play much justice. In last week’s game, he completed 67 percent of his passes (raise your hand if your league awards points for completion percentage). But his 29 completions went for an average of only eight yards. And TE Tony Scheffler led the team with 60 receiving yards. Needless to say, it’s a stretch at this point to even consider Hill having a spot on your roster.

Calvin Johnson will at some point live up to all the hype, right? He’s currently ranked as the 32nd-ranked fantasy WR in standard scoring leagues and has guys such as Jabar Gaffney, Nate Washington, Eddie Royal and Roy Williams ahead of him. Problem is he’s tough to bench, so you have to start him and live with the results. TEs Tony Scheffler and Brandon Pettigrew give Detroit a nice one-two punch and both are borderline starters each week in deep leagues. The #2 WR on this team, though, remains a question mark. Nate Burleson probably won’t play this week with an ankle injury, and Bryant Johnson continues to be the big disappointment he’s been his entire eight-year career. Green Bay has the 3rd-ranked pass defense, making the possibility of a Lions aerial assault a more daunting task. Expect Detroit’s passing attack will be stonewalled by the Packers this week.

Running Game Thoughts: The Jahvid Best owner in my league had him planted on his bench during the first two weeks of the season when Best blew up, only to start Best in week 3 when he implodes. That in a nutshell is the chance you take when relying on a Detroit Lion as a viable fantasy starter. Now a toe injury puts his availability for this game in jeopardy. But let’s face it; that kind of injury affects a speedy, shifty RB perhaps more than any other position. If Best doesn’t play, look for Maurice Morris to get the bulk of the carries. As of Thursday afternoon, though, Best mentioned that he’s a go this week. But does it really matter? Even though the Packers have a middle-of-the-road defense statistically, Detroit will be behind by so much so fast, the running game will be rendered useless before halftime.

Projections:
Shaun Hill – 210 yards / 1 TD / 2 TD
Jahvid Best – 40 yards rushing / 20 yard rec
Maurice Morris – 30 yards
Calvin Johnson – 90 yards
Derrick Williams – 35 yards
Brandon Pettigrew – 35 yards / 1 TD
Tony Scheffler – 30 yards

Passing Game Thoughts: In the dictionary next to ‘Get-Right Game’ is a picture of this contest. After a heartbreaking loss last week against divisional foe Chicago, Green Bay will look to make quick work of an overmatched Detroit team. Aaron Rodgers was expected to be one of fantasy football’s most electric QB, and so far he hasn’t disappointed. Seven total TDs through three games is a nice start. But what’s more, the Packers are without a running attack after Ryan Grant’s injury in week 1, meaning the productivity of the offense rests squarely on Rodgers’ shoulders. So far, he’s been up to the challenge.

Here’s a question: Who’s the #1 receiver for the Pack? Greg Jennings was the odds-on favorite coming into the season. But his 10 receptions put him third on the team behind Donald Driver and Jermichael Finley. That has to be a frustrating situation for Jennings owners. But this may be one of those games where everyone makes up for lost production. The Lions are 26th in the league against the pass with a secondary that seems worse than that. Green Bay must keep Detroit’s front-four off Rodgers. If Green Bay’s O-line is able to keep a clean pocket its QB, expect Rodgers’ best game of the young season.

Running Game Thoughts: How frustrating was it to have Brandon Jackson in your line-up last week, only to see John Kuhn trot onto the field to start the game? For Mike McCarthy to morph into a RBBC-endorsing head coach seemingly overnight is a sign that, indeed, this approach is here to stay in the NFL. The juggling of his RBs makes all RB options in Green Bay totally useless. This match-up would ordinarily bring excitement, as Detroit has the league’s worst rushing defense. They surrender a collegiate-like 5 ypc. But who do you trust at RB for Green Bay to exploit that weakness? Jackson has twice as many attempts than does Kuhn, but averages 2 yards less per carry. Crapshoot indeed. If I were forced to decide between these two, I’d lean toward Jackson for the mere fact that he’s more involved in the passing game.

Projections:
Aaron Rodgers – 310 yards / 3 TDs
Brandon Jackson – 55 yards rushing / 30 rec / 1 TD run
John Kuhn – 45 yards
Greg Jennings – 120 yards / 2 TD
Donald Driver – 65 yards / 1 TD
Jermichael Finley – 70 yards

Prediction: Green Bay 31, Detroit 13 ^ Top

Ravens @ Steelers - (Autry)

Passing Game Thoughts: This time last year, Joe Flacco had six TDs and two INTs; in 2010, it’s four TDs and five INTs. That discrepancy aside, it was good to see Flacco back to his old self last week against Cleveland. A 262 yard game with three TDs and zero turnovers has a way of making fantasy owners believe once again. But let’s slow down a bit. The Ravens visit Pittsburgh this week, a team with the 6th-ranked defense. What’s more, the Steelers have only given up one TD pass so far. Those wide open receivers Flacco saw against a porous Cleveland secondary will be a thing of the past this week.

Anquan Boldin last week displayed the reason why he was perhaps the biggest free agent acquisition this off-season. His second 3-TD performance of his career was a combination of precise route-running and pinpoint accurate passing. Like Flacco, the going will be much tougher this week for Boldin and the entire receiving group. Derrick Mason has gotten off to a slow start, and TJ Houshmandzadeh is a complete nonfactor. Only TE Todd Heap has been a significant complement to Boldin this season. Expect Boldin to be the center of attention for Pittsburgh’s defense, leaving potential openings in the secondary for Mason and Heap to take advantage of. But keep your expectations under control this week.

Running Game Thoughts: Ray Rice remains a question mark heading into this week’s contest. A bruised knee limited his playing time last week, but even before then, the concerns I had about Rice appear to be a reality. His lack of quality scoring opportunities means owners have to rely on him to break long runs or chock up “cheap” points with short dump-off passes. While the former has yet to happen this season, the latter remains an option. Willis McGahee is expected to play in Rice’s place if he’s unable to go this week. Pittsburgh’s 3rd-ranked rush defense will prove to be a tough out regardless of who plays. They’ve only given up one rushing TD and surrenders only 2.6 ypc. This will be your typical bloody nose, low scoring, AFC North divisional showdown. Don’t expect much fantasy production from either side.

Projections:
Joe Flacco – 185 yards / 1 TD / 1 INT
Willis McGahee – 45 yards rushing
Ray Rice – 40 yards rushing / 25 yards rec
Anquan Boldin – 70 yards
Derrick Mason – 40 yards
Todd Heap – 35 yards / 1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: Old man Charlie Batch saw extended playing time last week for the first time since the end of the 2007 season. Many said he played well against Tampa Bay, and all things considered, I suppose he did. But two of his three TD passes were fluky receptions by Mike Wallace with a defender draped all over him. This team, especially in Ben Roethlisberger’s absence, is a run-first, run-often squad that has won in spite of the play of its QB in the first three games. Batch will continue to be the game manager he’s been his entire career with zero fantasy relevance.

The conservative approach to the offense so far this season has left Hines Ward and the rest of the receivers practically useless. Ward leads the team in receptions with 10. This kind of average production was to be expected without Roethlisberger. And the two long TD catches by Wallace notwithstanding, the explosiveness in the offense is nonexistent. With the Ravens’ top-ranked pass defense posing as the opposition, this is a no-brainer that you keep your expectations low relative to Pittsburgh receivers this week.

Running Game Thoughts: We all knew the Steelers would dedicate themselves to the running game during the first part of the season, and they haven’t veered from that strategy. Rashard Mendenhall has averaged 21 carries a game so far in 2010, and he’s shown a tremendous burst. He’s a surefire fantasy starter who gives his owners consistent production. As tough as Baltimore is against the pass, they’re in the bottom-third in run defense. Cleveland RB Peyton Hillis, for goodness sakes, ran for 140 yards last week against them.

Pittsburgh no doubt will use a similar approach in trying to decode the Baltimore run defense. As a result, expect Mendenhall to get his customary 20-plus attempts and be the bellcow the Steelers need him to be. That kind of dedication to the run should allow enough opportunities for Mendenhall to be a solid start this week.

Projections:
Charlie Batch – 130 yards / 0 TD / 1 INT
Rashard Mendenhall – 95 yards / 1 TD
Hines Ward – 55 yards
Mike Wallace – 30 yards
Heath Miller – 35 yards

Prediction: Baltimore 13, Pittsburgh 10 ^ Top

Bengals @ Browns - (Autry)

Passing Game Thoughts: Isn’t it interesting to witness the stagnation of Carson Palmer’s career? His fantasy relevance has been circling the drain for a few years now—this after the hullabaloo this off-season surrounding the signing of Terrell Owens. Many thought we’d see the rebirth of Palmer. Instead, we’ve seen so far this year a continuation of the same old average play. His exemplary week 1 game against New England already feels like it was eons ago—a game, interestingly enough, in which he threw for 300-plus yards for only the second time since the end of the 2007 season. Three TDs and three INTs after three games is not the stuff of fantasy production.

Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens, for all their smack-talking, have barely had anything to bark about this season. They have 34 catches and 1 TD between them, although Ochocinco’s 12-catch performance in week 1 was a glimpse into what he’s capable of. Owens on the other had appears like the second-rate fantasy WR he’s been the last couple years. For all the big-name recognition that surrounds this passing attack, the production that comes from it pales in comparison.

Running Game Thoughts: Cedric Benson is the only real fantasy bright spot on this offense. He’s been every bit the workhorse so far in 2010 that he was in 2009. Benson has had 50 carries combined over the last two weeks, and while the production hasn’t been over the top, his physical running style helps the offense stay afloat. Believe it or not, Cleveland has yet to give up a rushing TD. They give up their fair share of yards but have been stingy when it comes to scores. That streak could end this week. Benson has scored in two of the three games this year, both of which were on the road. Expect a solid game from Benson.

Projections:
Carson Palmer – 210 yards / 1 TD / 1 INT
Cedric Benson – 95 yards / 1 TD
Chad Ochocinco – 80 yards
Terrell Owens – 50 yards / 1 TD
Jordan Shipley – 25 yards
Jermaine Gresham – 40 yards

Passing Game Thoughts: Here’s the ugly truth about Cleveland’s passing game: they have no receiver on the roster that has caught more than five catches this season. FIVE. That’s it. Whatever production this team gets out of its passing attack it’s by throwing to TEs and RBs. RB Peyton Hillis actually leads the team in receptions, but TE Ben Watson and the versatile Josh Cribbs also see plenty of action through the air. Cincy has the 11th-ranked pass defense but only has two sacks on the season. Jake Delhomme remains very questionable as to whether he will play this week. If he doesn’t, Seneca Wallace will start once again. Wallace is much more elusive than Delhomme and therefore better equipped to evade the up-to-this-point inadequate Bengals pass rush.

The Browns will go nowhere offensively until they start getting production from their outside weapons. It’s a travesty that Mohamed Massaquoi, Chansi Stuckey and the like, have been so unproductive in 2010. Truth be told, only Ben Watson and Josh Cribbs deserve any real consideration for starting this week—and starting either of them is a stretch at this point. The recent history of the Browns dictates that you proceed with caution when it comes to deciding whether or not to start someone on this team.

Running Game Thoughts: – Who would’ve ever thought that a 6-1, 241 lbs. converted FB would lead a team in both rushing AND receiving after three games? Well, look no further. Peyton Hillis has turned into the do-everything battering ram for the Cleveland Browns. He steamrolled his way to 140 yards against Baltimore last week, making him a hot waiver wire commodity. That kind of production against that kind of opponent helped solidify in head coach Eric Mangini’s mind that, indeed, Hillis is the starting RB for Cleveland—even when Jerome Harrison returns fully from injury.

Cincy is not known for its tough run defense so far in 2010. Hillis could have a repeat performance from last week, especially when you consider the way in which Cleveland’s passing game appears so inept. If you’re struggling with RB bye weeks or injury, you could do a lot worse than Hillis. Give him another shot and see what he does with the opportunity. I think he will reward you.

Projections:
Seneca Wallace – 160 yards passing / 35 yards rushing / 1 TD pass / 1 INT
Peyton Hillis – 75 yards / 1 TD
Mohamed Massaquoi – 35 yards
Chansi Stuckey – 25 yards
Josh Cribbs – 30 yards rushing / 25 yards rec
Ben Watson – 60 yards / 1 TD

Prediction: Cincinnati 20, Cleveland 14 ^ Top

Seahawks @ Rams - (Eakin)

Passing Game Thoughts: QB Matt Hasselbeck and the Seahawks have proved to be a tough out at home beating the Niner’s and Chargers thus far. If they want to make the season a success, they need to pull out some road wins. Who better than the Rams? The Hawks pass attack needs some consistency. Their win was the result of two fluky TDs returns. Hasselbeck only threw for 220 yards and a TD. TE John Carlson was the leading target. Deion Branch is more of a threat for big plays than Mike Williams, who has not done much since the opener. Williams will remain in the game plans as their only WR with size, but Golden Tate is slowly working his way to relevance. As Tate adjusts, he will become a playmaker. The CBs for the Rams are big and athletic, so I think the damage will be done on short timing routes and over the middle. That favors Carlson, Tate, Forsett, and Washington. In that order.

Running Game Thoughts: Last week was the first time it looked as though Justin Forsett was heading towards the lead role in the running game. He rushed 17 times for 63 yards and caught three balls for 31 yards. Signs are great that he is on his way. However, as a point of caution, coach Pete Carroll said he wants to get Leon Washington more involved in the offense this week due to his two big kickoff return TDs. Best guess means that Forsett takes first and second downs while Washington get third downs.

Projections:
Matt Hasselbeck: 250 yds/2 TDs/1 INT
Deion Branch: 50 yds
Mike Williams: 45 yds/1 TD
John Carlson: 70 yds/1 TD
Justin Forsett: 65 yds rushing/20 yds rec/1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: The Rams get Seattle at home following a nice win last week over the McNabb led Redskins. I repeat. They beat the Redskins, led by a potential Hall of Fame QB. The Same Rams that had lost 27 of 28 games previously. QB Sam Bradford is becoming a star. One player has made them a competitive team. He barely lost his first game ever, the home opener, or else they’d be at (2-1). No reason to think Danny Amendola won’t continue catching his 6-8 balls per game either. In fact, with the questionable status of star RB Steven Jackson, St. Louis is going to throw the ball a ton, in the 40-50 attempts range. That means 35 completions, with ten to each WR. Play the passing triumvirate with confidence.

Running Game Thoughts: RB Steven Jackson has a balky groin. He is not practicing. He will be limited if he plays at all. The Seahawks have been strong against the run. Do not play Steven Jackson this week. His replacement is Kenneth Darby. Darby has never been highly regarded but did run with some burst last week. If he gets the start, he’s a marginal RB3 flex play at best. The Rams will throw it all game long.

Projections:
Sam Bradford: 300 yds/2 TDs/2 INT
Mark Clayton: 80 yds/1 TD
Danny Amendola: 75 yds
Daniel Fells: 45 yds
Steven Jackson/Kenneth Darby: 65 yds rushing/30 yds rec/1 TD

Prediction: St. Louis 24 Seattle 20 ^ Top

Texans @ Raiders - (Eakin)

Passing Game Thoughts: The leagues eighth ranked pass offense is on shaky ground with Andre Johnson’s sprained ankle. While Johnson did return to play after the tweak, he was less effective. He already had a strike against him facing Raider CB Nnamdi Asomugha. He is not a player you can ever bench, but it’s a week to lower expectations. The good thing for the Texans is that they have other passing options. WRs Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones are both very cable of producing big games. They are worth starting, as WR2 is this with the added targets they will see to give Johnson a break.

Running Game Thoughts: Arian Foster continues to impress by topping 100 yards against a Cowboy defense that only twice gave up 100 yards last year. The Raiders are giving up 133 yards on the ground. Foster has a chance at that if the passing game stalls at all with Johnson banged up. Captain obvious suggests playing Foster and reaping the rewards.

Predictions:
Matt Schaub: 275 yds/2TDs/1 INT
Andre Johnson: 75 yds
Kevin Walter: 85 yds/1 TD
Jacoby Jones: 90 yds/1 TD
Arian Foster: 120 yds rushing/1 TDs

Passing Game Thoughts: The change from Jason Campbell to Bruce Gradkowski has made the Raiders a more aggressive passing style. Campbell was always a safe passer who completes a high percentage of passes. Gradkowski meanwhile is forcing the ball outside and getting love along the way. It has been so long since the Raiders had worthy WRs. I find it interesting to compare Gradkowski and Cardinal QB Derek Anderson. Gradkowski remains in his honeymoon period from fans and press alike, while completing just fifty percent of his passes, the same number held up to disparage Anderson. Amazing how past performance, JaMarcus Russell and Kurt Warner, affect the opinion of two relatively equal performers. That said, this is a game to love the Raider passing attack. The Texans rank at the bottom of yards allowed passing. New gunslinger Gradkowski has a great chance to hit some big play actions to WRs Murphy and Heyward-Bey. Murphy has been the most productive, but DHB has been heavily targeted and just missed. The only thing that can stop them is Mario Williams and a hefty dose of ball control from Foster and the Texans.

Running Game Thoughts: The Texans rank near the top at run defense thus far. Some of that is due to their offense getting teams in a hole. McFadden enters this week four as a top five RB and has yet to be slowed down. Playing at home and having an injured Andre Johnson will help them stay in the game, giving Run DMC another 100-yard day. I think he gets there but some of it comes through the Raiders desire to get him more involved as a receiver.

Projections:
Bruce Gradkowski: 240 yds/2 TD/2 INT
Darrius Heyward-Bey: 60 yds/1 TD
Louis Murphy: 80 yds/1 TD
Zach Miller: 50 yds
Darren McFadden: 80 yds/25 rec/1 TD

Prediction: Texans 27 Raiders 24 ^ Top

Cardinals @ Chargers - (Eakin)

Passing Game Thoughts: The Cards are struggling to get going the passing attack going ranked just 25th in the league. The health of the WR core hasn’t helped. Fitz entered the year with a strained knee that is just now healing. Both Breaston and Doucet are out and won’t be back for several weeks. Stephen Williams, whom the organization is very high on, is expected to start in Breaston’s absence on the outside with Max Komar operating in the slot. A big problem with this offense is the lack of a TE. They have three receptions for thirty yard in three games, making it easier for teams to defend the outside.

The Chargers are not a desirable matchup for a team looking to breakout. They rank fifth in the NFL against the pass and will have the home field advantage. Down the road, Williams may be a sleeper target but for now, Fitzgerald is the only player worthy of fantasy lineups.

Running Game Thoughts: To combat their WR core depth problems the Cards will turn to their run game. They have the steady Hightower who excels at receiving and pass protection, and most importantly, a healthy Wells. Wells looked strong at fast with no sign of knee trouble last week. The y has stated their plan to bring him along gradually, but he carried for 17 times last week and looked fine so that total could rise to the low twenties. Hightower should see around 10-12 making him a flex RB3 with a few receptions.

Projections:
Derek Anderson: 205 yds/1 TD/2 INTs
Larry Fitzgerald: 70 yds/1 TD
Stephen Williams: 50 yds
Max Komar: 30 yds
Tim Hightower: 35 yds/35 rec
Chris Wells: 75 yds/20 rec/1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: The Chargers enter this home game as the leading offense facing an underperforming Cardinal defense. The Chargers talked a lot about getting their run game going but they are a finesse passing offense. Two impressive games in a row by Malcom Floyd show he is the preferred outside weapon for Rivers. That’s a great position for big production when one of the NFLs best deep passers is looking your way often. As productive as Floyd may be on the year, this may be one of his better weeks facing an elite CB in Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. Most teams have avoided Cromartie and picked on CB Greg Toler. Toler is one of the league’s leading tacklers for defensive backs for exactly that reason. Rivers will find Toler on Naanee and target him throughout the day, making this a great time to start Naanee as a WR2 this week. TE Antonio Gates is near matchup proof, but I could see the Cards locking Rodgers-Cromartie on him instead of Floyd. He can still use his size to be a redzone target and if you play him, you’re starting him anyways but it would limit his big play potential and make Floyd a much better option.

Running Game Thoughts: Thanks for filling in admirably Mike Tolbert. It was fun while it lasted. First round rookie and top RB in the draft Ryan Mathews appears to be a go this week after spraining his ankle. Mathews will have a big day. The Cards aren’t without talent on the front line so it is concerning that they are second to last at stopping the run almost after three games. Inside LBs Paris Lenon and promising rookie Daryl Washington is among the league leaders in tackles because, the defense can’t get off the field. If the Cards can get their run game going, their defense will begin creeping back to the middle of the pack statistically, which is where they belong from a talent standpoint. It won’t happen this week though.

Projections:
Philip Rivers: 290 yds/2 TD/1 INT
Malcom Floyd: 65 yds
Legedu Naanee: 100 yds/1 TD
Antonio Gates: 85 yds/1 TD
Ryan Mathews: 90 yds/25 rec/1 TD

Prediction: Chargers 34 Cardinals 17 ^ Top

Panthers @ Saints - (Caron)

Passing Game Thoughts: The first installment of the Jimmy Clausen experiment can only be considered a failure. Though Clausen threw for a moderate 188 yards, he threw an interception, failed to throw a touchdown, and fumbled the ball three times in a tough matchup against the Bengals. The plug was pulled perhaps a bit early on previous quarterback Matt Moore, and Clausen may not be given a much longer leash. Head coach John Fox hasn’t named the starter for this Sunday’s game yet, though you have to expect that Clausen will be given at least two games to prove himself.

Regardless of the quarterback, the Panthers passing game has been bad this season. Though the Saints pass defense isn’t anything spectacular, and they do allow quarterbacks to throw for a good amount of yardage, they also have a reputation for making opponents pay when they make mistakes. And whether it’s Clausen or Moore behind center, mistakes will be made.

Running Game Thoughts: Perhaps no backfield duo in the league has been more disappointing than Carolina’s DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Once thought to be one of the few multi-headed backfields where more than one player was fantasy relevant, neither Williams nor Stewart has done much of anything in 2010. With just 248 rushing yards through three games between the two of them, it’s easy to see why the Panthers are 0-3 and staring 0-4 in the face this week.

If the Panthers hope to get on track, they will have to start by running the ball directly at the Saints, who have struggled mightily to stop opposing running backs so far. Yielding nearly 400 yards on the ground and an additional 134 through the air to opposing backs, the Saints currently rank 31st in stopping the run. Carolina smashed New Orleans on the ground in 2009, as each back was given one of the two starts against the Saints and each ran for over 125 yards. They also scored a combined three touchdowns in those two contests.

Projections:
Jimmy Clausen – 190 yards passing / 0 TD / 3 INT
DeAngelo Williams – 105 yards rushing / 1 TD / 10 yards receiving
Jonathan Stewart – 55 yards rushing / 0 TD
Steve Smith– 50 yards receiving / 0 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: The Saints are coming off a disappointing and frustrating loss at home to division rival Atlanta, so it may be time for Drew Brees and the passing game to run up the score in Week 3. The Panthers are vulnerable to the pass, particularly the deep ball—a specialty of Brees and the Saints offense. In his past two games against Carolina, Brees has thrown for 716 yards and five touchdowns.

New Orleans doesn’t really have a specific, guaranteed “top” receiver thus far in 2010. Even Marques Colston, a usual fantasy stud, has been relatively unproductive and has yet to make his first end zone appearance. Oddly enough, receiver Lance Moore leads the team’s wide receivers in fantasy scoring after a 2009 season which saw him all but erased from the stat sheets. Moore may be the beneficiary of Reggie Bush’s injury, making him a surprising fantasy value and a potentially vital part of the Saints offense.

Running Game Thoughts: Pierre Thomas got just nine carries in the Saints loss last week. Though one game is certainly not indicative of the future, it is worth noting that rookie running back Chris Ivory took seven carries in the same game. It appears that the Saints aren’t going to use Thomas as a workhorse back while Reggie Bush is out, and they seem to be content spelling him with mediocre backs like Ivory in the meantime. On a positive note, the Saints have used Thomas more in the passing game–he has already caught 17 passes (he caught just 39 during the entire 2009 season).

Aside from linebacker Jon Beason, the Panthers front seven is weak and has already allowed four touchdowns and nearly 400 total yards to opposing running backs. The big question in this game is the health of Pierre Thomas. He injured his ankle in Sunday’s loss and has not practiced this week. Though he is hobbled, the Saints have a severe lack of depth at running back right now, and they are likely trying to rest Thomas in an effort to keep him as healthy as possible for this weekend’s contest. Look for Thomas to start and get plenty of touches, but don’t be surprised to see more of Ivory, and possibly even veteran Ladell Betts.

Projections:
Drew Brees– 270 yards passing / 3 TD / 1 INT
Pierre Thomas – 60 yards rushing / 1 TD / 40 yards receiving
Lance Moore – 70 yards receiving – 1 TD
Marques Colston – 55 yards receiving / 1 TD
Devery Henderson – 50 yards receiving / 0 TD
Robert Meachem – 20 yards receiving / 0 TD
Jeremy Shockey – 20 yards receiving / 1 TD

Prediction: Carolina 13, New Orleans 31 ^ Top

Colts @ Jaguars - (Caron)

Passing Game Thoughts: What can I say that hasn’t already been said? Peyton Manning makes everyone around him look like a stud. Any receiver in this offense is a potential fantasy start on any given week. Peyton proved that in Week 3 when he threw a touchdown pass to recently activated rookie Blair White, who was replacing the injured Pierre Garcon. Furthermore, Manning has turned second-year wideout Austin Collie into fantasy gold. Collie currently leads the NFL in every receiving statistic—receptions, yards, and touchdowns. Though Reggie Wayne is still expected to be the Colts’ top fantasy receiver going forward, with Collie, Garcon, and Dallas Clark all on the same roster, there is little doubt that the Indianapolis passing game remains among the very best in the league.

This appears to be a matchup made for fantasy dominance by the Colts—the Jaguars defense currently ranks 31st in the league in points allowed to opposing quarterbacks. Having allowed more than 290 yards to every passer they’ve faced—along with a total of seven touchdowns—it’s scary to think about what Peyton Manning might do.

Running Game Thoughts: If there has been a weak point to this high-powered Indianapolis offense in 2010, it has been a slow start for the running game. You can’t really expect any back to be wildly productive considering how often the Colts pass, but Joseph Addai has just 165 yards over three games, while Donald Brown has just 81. The only touchdown between the two players has come in Week 2 against the Giants when Brown ran a ball in from near the goal line, much to the chagrin of Addai owners.

The Jaguars have been better against the run (but still not great), as they are currently ranking 18th in points allowed to opposing running backs. Addai usually has a game or two each season where he breaks out with a bunch of fantasy points, but his track record against the Jaguars isn’t particularly great. Addai has rushed for an average of just 53 yards per game and has scored just three touchdowns in seven career games against Jacksonville.

Projections:
Peyton Manning – 355 yards passing / 4 TD / 1 INT
Joseph Addai – 50 yards rushing / 0 TD / 20 yards receiving / 1 TD
Donald Brown – 25 yards rushing / 0 TD / 5 yards receiving
Reggie Wayne – 120 yards receiving / 1 TD
Austin Collie – 90 yards receiving / 1 TD
Dallas Clark – 70 yards receiving / 1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: The season started off strong for David Garrard when he threw three touchdowns and no interceptions in a Week 1 victory over the Broncos. Unfortunately, Weeks 2 and 3 have been significantly worse. Garrard has thrown just one touchdown to five interceptions over the Jaguars’ past two games—both losses—while failing to reach even 200 yards passing in either. He appears to be out of sync with Mike Sims-Walker and Mike Thomas, having completed a mere four passes combined to them in Week 3.

The Colts passing defense has long been very good against opposing quarterbacks—but I suppose that’s to be expected when you practice against Peyton Manning every day. They held both Matt Schaub and Eli Manning to single-digit fantasy days in Weeks 1 and 2. There was a momentary lapse in that success in Week 3, when Kyle Orton threw for nearly 500 yards. Impressively, though, they held Orton to just one touchdown. With the Jaguars struggling at the moment to pass the ball, don’t expect much more than a touchdown from Garrard. This is not a good matchup for him.

Running Game Thoughts: With defenses giving little to no respect to Garrard and the passing game, the Jaguars’ usual bread and butter, the running game has been very unsuccessful. Having scored zero touchdowns with just 217 yards rushing, Maurice Jones-Drew has been a fantasy failure so far—especially considering that he was taken as a top-four pick in almost every league.

Fortunately, the cure for Jones-Drew’s fantasy illness may very well be a matchup against the Colts. Indianapolis’ defense was exposed in Week 1 as they allowed newfound Texans fantasy sensation Arian Foster to rush for 231 yards and three touchdowns. They have been increasingly better against the Giants and Broncos, but Maurice Jones-Drew has an excellent track record against Indy. In his eight-game career against the Colts, Jones-Drew has rushed for an impressive 778 yards, caught passes for 240 yards, and scored a total of nine touchdowns. If the Jaguars have a chance in this game, they’ll need a big day from Jones-Drew.

Projections:
David Garrard– 170 yards passing / 1 TD / 2 INT / 15 yards rushing
Maurice Jones-Drew – 95 yards rushing / 1 TD / 40 yards receiving
Mike Sims-Walker – 50 yards receiving / 0 TD
Mike Thomas – 35 yards receiving / 1 TD
Marcedes Lewis – 35 yards receiving / 0 TD

Prediction: Indianapolis 34, Jacksonville 17 ^ Top

Broncos @ Titans - (Caron)

Passing Game Thoughts: It’s not hard to believe that Philip Rivers currently leads the NFL in passing yardage—but what if I told you that the guy behind him is none other than his inner-division rival, Denver quarterback Kyle Orton? Orton has been on an absolute tear this season, throwing for over 1,000 yards across three games, including a near 500-yard game in Week 3 against a tough Colts pass defense.

Receivers Eddie Royal, Jabar Gaffney, Demaryius Thomas, and Brandon Lloyd have all been productive, causing headaches for opposing defenses as they are unable to key in on stopping any one receiver. Each receiver has caught 10 or more passes for at least 140 yards, and each has scored a touchdown. Going into the season, it would have been hard to imagine this passing attack being this productive, but Orton and his receivers have given us every reason to believe it now.

The Titans pass defense will be the best competition thus far for the Broncos passing attack. Currently ranked fourth in the league in points allowed to quarterbacks, the Titans have allowed just one passing touchdown against them this season. They have also intercepted three passes and forced six fumbles from opposing quarterbacks. This looks like a matchup of strength versus strength and it will be entertaining to see who wins out.

Running Game Thoughts: As productive as the Broncos passing game has been, their running game has been equally unproductive. Second-year running back Knowshon Moreno has scored in each of the first two games, but has averaged just 2.8 yards per carry. He missed the team’s Week 3 matchup against the Colts, leading the way for recently acquired, former Patriot Laurence Maroney to get plenty of carries. Maroney, however, was even less successful, rushing for an even 2 yards per carry while failing to reach the end zone.

Moreno is still battling the hamstring injury that kept him out last week, but head coach Josh McDaniels has not ruled him out for this Sunday’s game. Regardless, this matchup is not a good one for Moreno or any other Broncos running back. The Titans have allowed just one touchdown on the ground against significantly better running teams in the Raiders, Steelers, and Giants.

Projections:
Kyle Orton – 285 yards passing / 2 TD / 2 INT
Knowshon Moreno – 35 yards rushing / 0 TD / 10 yards receiving
Laurence Maroney – 40 yards rushing / 0 TD / 15 yards receiving
Demaryius Thomas – 40 yards receiving / 1 TD
Eddie Royal – 90 yards receiving / 0 TD
Brandon Lloyd – 65 yards receiving / 0 TD
Jabar Gaffney – 50 yards receiving / 0 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: No one would proclaim that Vince Young is a prolific passer, but even the most vigilant Young hater would have expected him to have more than 338 yards passing through three games. The Titans are 2-1, but there has to be some concern brewing that the passing game just isn’t working. Of course, Kerry Collins didn’t fare much better when he came into the game during the blowout loss to the Steelers in Week 2, so perhaps all the blame can’t be placed on Young’s shoulders. No Titans receiver has truly stepped out as an excellent fantasy play this season. Nate Washington, who has caught just 10 passes (two for touchdowns), is the team’s leading receiver and the Titan’s only real fantasy-relevant option at this point.

This week’s game is Young’s chance to turn things around. The Broncos currently rank 30th in the league in fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks, having been beaten up by David Garrard, Matt Hasselbeck, and Peyton Manning. An additional positive note for the Titans passing game is that All-Pro cornerback Champ Bailey is currently listed as questionable and will likely be a game-time decision. Bailey is a player who can shut down any receiver in the league, so without him the Broncos may be in even worse trouble.

Running Game Thoughts: Chris Johnson may very well be the most talented running back in the league, and he has produced even when defenses have stacked the box with eight defenders. Johnson has had two big fantasy games already, and his one bad game came against an excellent Steelers defense that has shut down everyone they’ve faced.

Unfortunately for the Titans and their all-world running back, the Broncos have done a great job shutting down opposing running games so far this year. Over three contests, Denver has allowed just 253 yards rushing and has not allowed a touchdown either on the ground or through the air to an opposing running back. Johnson is no ordinary back, however, and could very well put an end to that streak this week.

Projections:
Vince Young– 170 yards passing / 1 TD / 1 INT / 15 yards rushing
Chris Johnson – 130 yards rushing / 2 TD / 30 yards receiving
Javon Ringer – 20 yards rushing / 0 TD
Nate Washington – 40 yards receiving / 1 TD
Justin Gage – 30 yards receiving / 0 TD
Bo Scaife – 20 yards receiving / 0 TD

Prediction: Denver 14, Tennessee 17 ^ Top

49ers @ Falcons - (Caron)

Passing Game Thoughts: Offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye was the head on the chopping block and was fired Monday, just one day after San Francisco’s lop-sided loss to the Chiefs. The team’s quarterback coach, Mike Johnson, will take over as the offensive coordinator moving forward. The promotion of Johnson may end up being a great thing for quarterback Alex Smith. Johnson has worked extensively with Smith since being hired in 2009 and likely has a better understanding of the quarterback’s strengths and weaknesses than did his predecessor.

The Falcons defense currently ranks 6th in fantasy scoring against quarterbacks, so expecting a big game out of Alex Smith, who currently ranks 19th among fantasy quarterbacks, is probably too much at this point. It will be interesting to see how Johnson uses receivers Michael Crabtree and Josh Morgan this week, as both players had been struggling to produce in Raye’s offense. In this passing game, Vernon Davis is likely the only startable player in most leagues, and even that is mostly due to his reputation.

Running Game Thoughts: The only positive in this offense so far in 2010 has been the play of running back Frank Gore. Gore has been a fantasy stud, despite being in an offense that has struggled mightily to move the ball and has not even amassed 400 yards of total offense over the first three weeks. Gore’s 22 receptions are a league-best among running backs, and the 49ers appear to be content giving him 25 touches per week. Given that much opportunity, a player with Gore’s talent is a certain every-week starter.

Week 4 will be no different, and Gore should be started in every league. While their passing defense has been surprisingly good early in the season, Atlanta’s rush defense has been decidedly average, yielding 15.7 points per game to opposing running backs—all of whom are less talented than Gore.

Projections:
Alex Smith – 190 yards passing / 1 TD / 2 INT
Frank Gore – 90 yards rushing / 1 TD/ 55 yards receiving
Michael Crabtree – 60 yards receiving / 0 TD
Josh Morgan – 40 yards receiving / 0 TD
Vernon Davis – 50 yards receiving / 1 TD

Passing Game Thoughts: We are witnessing the maturity of third-year quarterback Matt Ryan. Ryan currently sports a tidy 5-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio with over 700 yards passing through the first three games. He struggled in Week 1 against the Steelers (and who doesn’t?), but he quickly bounced back in Weeks 2 and 3. Though he appears to stare down Roddy White more often than he should, there is little doubt that the two are establishing one of those elite QB/WR connections. Ryan has thrown a league-high 41 passes to White, which have turned into 258 yards and two touchdowns.

While everyone focuses on the 49ers’ offensive woes, very little attention is being paid to the other side of the ball. San Francisco’s defense, which allowed just 13 passing touchdowns against them last season, has already allowed 7 touchdowns in 2010. The play in the secondary has been mediocre and the pass rush has been practically non-existent. The 49ers are doing very little to prove that their defensive stats in 2009 weren’t a fluke. Look for Matt Ryan and the Falcons passing attack to exploit these defensive shortcomings and have a productive fantasy day.

Running Game Thoughts: The Falcons running game has been extremely productive through the first three weeks. Running backs Michael Turner and Jason Snelling have combined for over 425 yards rushing, along with four total touchdowns. Turner suffered a groin injury in Week 2, but returned healthy in Week 3, taking more than 30 carries in a win over the Saints. The Falcons relied heavily on Turner’s punishing running style late in the fourth quarter as they attempted to put away the game in New Orleans. They may need more of the same this week.

Though the 49ers have been better against the run than they have the pass, they are still 8th worst in the league, allowing 19 points per game to opposing running backs. Of course, the majority of these yards came last week as the Chiefs smacked them around for over 270 total rushing yards. The Chiefs running game is more finesse than Atlanta’s, but the same basic principle remains—Patrick Willis needs to get the rest of the front seven playing better. If he can’t do that, and soon, they will be punished all day by Turner and Snelling.

Projections:
Matt Ryan– 205 yards passing / 2 TD / 0 INT
Michael Turner – 90 yards rushing / 1 TD / 5 yards receiving
Jason Snelling – 40 yards rushing / 25 yards receiving
Roddy White – 120 yards receiving / 1 TD
Tony Gonzalez – 40 yards receiving / 1 TD

Prediction: San Francisco 17, Atlanta 27 ^ Top