Changing the format a little bit this week as I try to include more
players for you. Drop me a line and tell me what you think of this
new style and if you find it useful.
Passing Game Matchups:
Here's how I see the matchups this
week. Please note, see the cheatsheet for exactly where I rank
players. Just because one matchup may be more favorable than another,
that doesn't necessarily mean I'd start the player with the best matchup.
The matchup info is meant to be just one more tool in your box when it
comes to deciding between players.
-LOCKS:
These games heavily favor
the offense.
Dallas Passing Game vs
49er Defense
Jerry Jones gives Troy Aikman the honor of returning against the worst
pass defense in the league. San Francisco is not just bad, they're a couple
hundred yards worse than the next to last passing defense.
Atlanta Passing Game vs Ram Defense
Seems awfully strange to see teams roll up yards on the defending Super
Bowl Champs. But the truth is the defense is a little soft. Coupled with
the fact teams are forced to play catch-up almost from the opening kickoff
and teams are compiling some nice passing yardage. Rams have yielded 803
yards in 3 games.
Cleveland Passing Game vs Raider Defense
Tim Couch and company look to continue the roll. He's put those scary
"tendonitis" worries to rest as he's lit up the field. Kevin Johnson seems
to be coming along from the hamstring injury and David Patten looks great.
St. Louis Passing Game vs Falcon Defense
Atlanta's given up 727 yards passing thus far. Look for the Rams to hang
another 300+ on that total. Kurt Warner seems to have picked up right
where he left off and the Rams are clicking. RB Marshall Faulk continues
to be a huge part of the passing game in addition to the great WR corps
the Rams roll out.
-PRIME MATCHUPS: These games favor the Offense.
Tennessee Passing Game vs Steeler Defense
It takes an awfully poor defense to push the Titan passing game into the
"Prime" matchup category, but Pittsburgh fills the bill. Still up in the
air whether it'll be McNair (bruised sternum) or O'Donnell but either
should be very successful. 4 teams gave up fewer total passing yards in
3 games than Pittsburgh has in 2 games.
Oakland Passing Game vs Brown Defense
The Browns are improved on defense over 1999 but they're still not too
good. Probably a good thing as the Raiders could only manage 140 passing
yards last week against the Broncos. They should have much better luck
against Cleveland. Tim Brown is still the solid pro and we keep waiting
for Andre Rison to make consistent contributions. TE Ricky Dudley continues
to disappoint as he's failed to get into the flow of the game plan.
Cincinnati Passing Game vs Raven Defense
Baltimore brings one of the best rush defenses in the league as they've
only allowed 182 yards on the ground over 3 games. Perhaps because of
that dominance against the rush, teams choose to throw the ball where
the Ravens have been much more vulnerable allowing 720 yards passing.
This ought to be the case Sunday. If Corey Dillon can't run against Cleveland,
I seriously doubt he'll have much success against the Ravens.
Kansas City Passing Game vs Bronco Defense
Don't look for QB Elvis Grbac to hang 5 TDs on Denver (or anyone else)
but clearly, the Chiefs are playing with confidence right now and that
always helps. The Broncos feature some solid CBs in Ray Crockett and Terrell
Buckley and it'll be interesting to see how they handle rookie Sylvester
Morris. Both play a gambling style that could lead to some big plays.
The Bronco LB corps is strong so look for another day where Tony Gonzalez
has 2 guys on him most of the day. Although the Chargers did that last
week and Grbac made them pay in other areas.
Seattle Passing Game vs Charger Defense
The Chargers are still pretty strong against the rush but their pass defense
is suddenly shaky. At least some of Kansas City's passing explosion last
week has to be blamed on the San Diego Defense. Last week, CBs Scott Turner
and Darryl Lewis were burned by a usually conservative Chiefs offense.
The team desperately needs DeRon Jenkins, who is listed as day-to-day,
to return to the lineup. Jenkins did practice Thursday. If Jenkins can't
go, the Seahawks could have a very nice day exposing the pass defense.
Tampa Bay Passing Game vs Jet Defense
The Jets gave up 274 passing yards to a Buffalo team Sunday that could
mount very little in the way of rushing. The Jets have yet to see RBs
the quality of Mike Alstott and Warrick Dunn and with these guys, the
secondary should be even softer. Don't look for huge numbers from Tampa
as Offensive Coordinator Les Steckel's offense is still a ball control
system but look for QB Shaun King to pick his spots. And you know Keyshawn
Johnson would love to hang some gaudy numbers on his old team.
Baltimore Passing Game vs Bengal Defense
Look for the Ravens to get their passing game back on track after a tough
game in Miami battling a very good defense and the fog / rain / smoke
/ mud. I'm liking what I see in Tony Banks more this year than ever before.
Coach Brian Billick adds to his Guru reputation with every good game Banks
puts together.
-EVEN MATCHUPS: These games feature no real advantage either way.
Washington Passing Game vs Giant Defense
The Giants have yielded 667 yards passing this season. But they've only
allowed a league best 147 yards rushing. So not unlike the Ravens, teams
are forced to throw simply because they can't run. The Giants shut down
Cade McNown and the Bears passing game last week holding them to 174 yards.
The Redskins are coming off a very disappointing Monday Night loss to
Dallas. I've got to think the Jeff George watch is underway as QB Brad
Johnson looked less than sharp Monday.
Denver Passing Game vs Chief Defense
Whether its Brian Griese or Gus Frerotte, I don't think either have much
advantage facing a Chief defense coming off a big win. Granted, facing
the Broncos is far from going up against the Chargers offense as they
did last Sunday but I think they could give Denver a little trouble. On
the other hand, the Broncos could quickly bring Kansas City back to Earth.
Detroit Passing Game vs Bear Defense
The Lions will find the going a good bit easier this week as they face
the Bears after a week of horror vs. the Buccaneers. Chicago hasn't stopped
anyone giving up 594 yards through the air. This could be the week Detroit
gets the offense in gear.
Miami Passing Game vs New England Defense
Remember when the Miami / New England game used to be good for about 1200
yards passing between the two teams? Times change. The Patriots have struggled
to show much on pass defense as Ty Law's done his best to prove he's human.
They're still solid though. And the Dolphins are still the Dolphins with
Jay Fiedler under center. Looks to be a pretty even match to me.
Chicago Passing Game vs Lion Defense
The Lion's have been good but not great on Defense. The Bears are searching
for that week 1 magic where their offense did what was planned. Coach
Dick Jauron could have the short hook if McNown struggles so be careful.
I'm looking for new starting WR Eddie Kennison filling in for the injured
Bobby Engram to make some nice plays opposite Marcus Robinson.
Indianapolis Passing Game vs Jaguar Defense
The Jags have been playing solid pass defense only allowing 554 yards
through the air. But give Peyton Manning an extra week in the film room
and I like him against just about any defense. WR Terrence Wilkins looks
to return this week after missing the first two games recovering from
a concussion. Marvin Harrison is probable with a sore shoulder but should
be ok. Edgerrin James should be fine as well after a hamstring tweak.
Both can pay major dividends in the passing game.
Green Bay Passing Game vs Cardinal Defense
Arizona doesn't stop anyone through the air or on the ground and I don't
see that changing this week vs Green Bay. On the other hand, this is clearly
not the Green Bay of yesteryear that would punish defenses that weren't
on top of their games. Cardinal DE Simeon Rice is getting back into the
swing of things and could be a factor if the Packers aren't able to adjust
their blocking schemes.
Jacksonville Passing Game vs Colt Defense
I think week 3's version of Mark Brunell and the Jaguar passing game is
closer to the true picture than was the monster game in week 2. The long
awaited return of RB Fred Taylor will be a huge boost for the offense
but will most certainly cut into the passing game stats. I'd think that'll
have to make grind it out coach Tom Coughlin happy.
-DOWNSIDE MATCHUPS: These games favor the Defense.
San Francisco Passing Game vs Cowboy Defense
The 49ers compile some nice passing numbers primarily due to the lack
of defense they play. The Cowboys will offer a good challenge fresh off
a huge victory against the Redskins. The Cowboys handled Brad Johnson
and the Washington Passing attack which is more talented than what San
Francisco's Jeff Garcia will bring.
San Diego Passing Game vs Seahawk Defense
Seattle's game against the Rams drives their passing yardage up but they're
not bad. And this week, they should benefit from a week of Ryan Leaf at
QB. Leaf is playing with very little to lose and could surprise if the
Seahawk's don't take them seriously.
New York Giants Passing Game vs Redskin Defense
I'm not convinced the Redskin defense is as inept as Randall Cunningham
made them look Monday Night. Between Deion Sanders, Darryl Green and Champ
Bailey, Washington features some solid corner play. QB Kerry Collins has
more weapons than Dallas but they won't have the scrambling QB of Randall
Cunningham that created so much havoc. The Giants are solid but look for
the Redskin pass defense to make a statement.
New Orleans Passing Game vs Eagle Defense
The Eagles have only allowed 477 yards passing in 3 games and look to
put a damper on the Saints Sunday. New Orleans only managed 147 passing
yards against the Seahawks Sunday and the Eagles bring a tougher defense
than Seattle. Philadelphia will lineup some solid Cornerbacks in Bobby
Taylor and Troy Vincent and look to put the pressure on QB Jeff Blake
forcing mistakes.
Philadelphia Passing Game vs Saints Defense
The Saints have one of the best defenses in the game thus far allowing
374 yards passing and 296 rushing over 3 games. But they've yet to face
a high powered offense. That won't happen again this week and I look for
New Orleans to continue the strong Defensive play.
-DEFENSIVE SLAM DUNKS: These games heavily favor the Defense.
New England Passing Game vs Dolphin Defense
Drew Bledsoe looks to get battered again this week against a very good
Miami Defense. Sam Madison and Patrick Surtain are outstanding cover men
and usually take their WRs on in single coverage allowing more options
in the pass rush. That could spell disaster for the suspect Patriot offensive
line.
New York Jets Passing Game vs Buccaneer Defense
It's only been 3 games, but I've seen more than enough to tell me I bench
any questionable players against the Bucs each week. Unless one of your
Jets is heads and shoulders above your other options, I'd advise sitting
them. Tampa Bay is just killing people with that Defense.
Pittsburgh Passing Game vs Titan Defense
Part of this is the Titans and part of it's the ineptness of the Steeler
offense. Regardless, I don't look for much of anything this week from
a Steeler passing game that'll be facing one of the best pass defenses
in the league.
Rushing Game Matchups:
Here's how
I see the matchups this week. Please note, see the cheatsheet for exactly
where I rank players.
Just because one matchup may be more favorable than another, that doesn't
necessarily mean I'd start the player with the best matchup. The matchup
info is meant to be just one more tool in your box when it comes to deciding
between players.
-LOCKS: These games heavily favor the Offense.
(Det) James Stewart vs Bear Defense
Little Man Stewart owners, take heart. This could be the game you're looking
for. If you've got a Stewart owner in your league that's panicked, this
is the time to trade for him. Chicago's given up 514 yards on the ground
through 3 games and I see little that makes me think they won't give up
plenty to Detroit.
(GB) Dorsey Levens vs Cardinal Defense
Levens shook off the rust last week and this Sunday gets to pound the
Swiss cheese Arizona defense. The Cardinals are getting better as they
get healthier but it's still a soft defense. Look for Levens to play well.
(Dal) Emmitt Smith vs 49er Defense
The 49ers are horrible against the pass. Against the run, they're merely
bad. With QB Troy Aikman making his way back after his concussion, I'd
expect to see a steady diet of Emmitt this and Emmitt that. No sense risking
Aikman to a pass rush if you don't have to.
-PRIME MATCHUPS: These games favor the Offense.
(SD) Jermaine Fazande vs Seahawk Defense
With Robert Chancey injured, it looks like Fazande gets the start and
he could do well. Seattle's been susceptible to the rush and Fazande has
the size to pound the ball.
(Oak) Tyrone Wheatley / Napoleon Kaufman vs Brown Defense
The Browns aren't the worst rush defense in the league this year. In fact,
they're markedly improved from the awful unit of 1999. Still though, they're
not very good and the Raiders should find success on the ground. Coach
Jon Gruden realizes the spark Napoleon Kaufman brings and will look to
utilize him when possible.
(Cle) Errict Rhett / Travis Prentice vs Raider Defense
The Raiders have fallen of late in the rush defense category ( a game
vs Edgerrin James will do that...) They have been shown to be vulnerable
against the rush though and will need to stiffen up there if they're to
make a serious push for contention. The Browns are struggling to find
the right RB and look to give Prentice more opportunity. The Oakland defense
is averaging giving up more than 120 yards per game on the ground so this
week may be a great place to see what Prentice can do.
(Atl) Jamal Anderson vs Ram Defense
All preseason, the speculation was that Terrell Davis seemed further along
in his rehab work and you'd see Davis contribute well before Anderson
did. So much for speculation. Anderson continues to improve and looks
better with each game. If the Falcons can stay somewhat in this game,
look for them to feed Anderson the ball. If the Rams jump out early though,
they could take Anderson out of the game.
(Mia) Lamar Smith vs Patriot Defense
The Pats have struggled with rush defense allowing 353 yards in 3 games.
Lamar Smith seemed intent on proving his earlier performance was no fluke
as he led the Dolphins to victory Sunday night against a tough Raven Defense.
Running against New England will be a cakewalk in comparison.
(SF) Charlie Garner / Fred Beasley vs Cowboy Defense
Dallas held the Washington Rushing game to 107 yards Monday but I still
think they can be run on. Maybe not like Duce Staley did in week 1 with
201 yards, but they're still vulnerable. Fred Beasley and Charlie Garner
provide the poor man's version of the Giant's "Thunder and Lightning"
backfield of Ron Dayne and Tiki Barber. They should continue to roll up
numbers this week. The trouble lies in choosing which guy to start.
(NYG) Tiki Barber / Ron Dayne vs Washington Defense
This could be ugly for the Redskins if they don't come to play. Because
you know Barber and Dayne will be ready. It's a Sunday night matchups
so the lights will be on. Washington has allowed just a shade under 110
yards per game rushing.
-EVEN MATCHUPS: These games feature no real advantage either way.
(Stl) Marshall Faulk vs Falcon Defense
Atlanta plays the run pretty tough and it'll be no picnic Sunday for Faulk.
The Rams will be too much though and he should have tons of opportunities
to score. He continues to be highly involved in the passing game and that
shouldn't change.
(NO) Ricky Williams vs Eagle Defense
The Eagles are a tough team to figure as they've held some teams in check
on the ground while letting others pile up a few yards. Williams is running
as well as he ever has for the Saints so they'll have their work cut out
for them in stopping him.
(Phi) Duce Staley vs Saints Defense
To the surprise of some, New Orleans continues to play solid defense.
They've only allowed 296 yards on the ground and 374 passing. Staley is
certainly a talent but we've seen after a few weeks that the week 1 performance
was an aberration. He's a solid back and an excellent pass receiver playing
against a pretty darn good team this weekend.
(Arz) Thomas Jones vs Packer Defense
The Packers are another team tough to predict as they refuse to go quietly.
The defense has held it's own and it'll be interesting to see how rookie
Thomas Jones fairs there. Center Mark Gruttadauria is finally healthy
and makes his debut for Arizona. He'll get an instant challenge Sunday
vs Green Bay DT Santana Dotson.
(Ind) Edgerrin James vs Jaguar Defense
James is a top 2 back with Marshall Faulk but this isn't a great matchup
for him. The Jaguars feel like their back is against the wall facing a
solid Indy team and would dearly love to make a defensive statement by
limiting what the Colts are able to do. The key will be how well Jaguar
LBs Lonnie Marts and Hardy Nickerson can handle the running game.
(Jac) Fred Taylor vs Colt Defense
All signs point to a Fred Taylor start but coach Tom Coughlin has yet
to name Taylor the starter. Keep an eye on this one. The Colts are susceptible
to the run and to the big play as was evidenced by the remarkable collapse
of the defense against Oakland 2 weeks ago. If Taylor goes, I'd expect
him to get his yards but not to go wild.
(Bal) Jamal Lewis / Priest Holmes vs Bengal Defense
Jamal Lewis should get the bulk of the work this week as he and Holmes
reverse roles. The Bengals are not nearly as bad on defense as they've
been in year's past allowing 189 yards in 2 games. We'll see if they can
continue that trend. Lewis will be running hard in his first start as
he looks to justify his early round draft selection.
(Ten) Eddie George vs Steeler Defense
The loss of WR Kevin Dyson is a major concern. George now will likely
be asked to pick up some slack as the titans find themselves thin at WR.
The Steelers give up more than 100 yards per game rushing and I bet that
number goes higher in the next few days.
-DOWNSIDE MATCHUPS: These games favor the Defense.
(KC) Running Backs vs Bronco Defense
FB Tony Richardson may get some carries but it looks like rookie Frank
Moreau will be the primary ball carrier. Moreau will find it pretty tough
going against a solid Bronco Defense keyed by MLB Al Wilson. Denver is
allowing less than 100 yards per game through 3 games thus far.
(Sea) Ricky Watters / Shaun Alexander vs Charger Defense
The San Diego defense has been slipping a bit when it comes to giving
up passing yardage but they're as tough as ever against the run. Watters
and the rookie Alexander will find the yardage hard to come by against
this team.
(TB) Mike Alstott / Warrick Dunn vs Jet Defense
The Jets are playing excellent rush defense right now and look to challenge
the Buc running game this weekend. Should be a classic game of strength
against strength. The QB play of Shaun King will be key as he'll have
to prove he can throw the ball to keep the defense honest.
(NYJ) Curtis Martin vs Buccaneer Defense
I do not like this matchup for Martin. The Bucs fly to the ball and make
up with speed and aggressiveness whatever they lack in size. This is a
team that limited Detroit to 17 yards rushing last week.
-DEFENSIVE SLAM DUNKS: These games heavily favor the Defense.
(Pit) Jerome Bettis vs Titan Defense
With a passing attack that's suspect, I'd look for the Titans to bring
the house in an effort to shut down Bettis and the rushing game. They've
been effective in the past with this aggressive defense and they'll likely
use it again. They know full well that Bettis may be the only weapon they
need to be worried about.
(Cin) Corey Dillon vs Raven Defense
Dillon hasn't been getting anything done against other defenses, I sure
don't see him doing much against a top unit like Baltimore. The Ravens
did yield some yards to Lamar Smith last week but that was in unique conditions.
I think with a "normal" game setting, the Ravens roll.
(Was) Stephen Davis vs Giant Defense
The Giants have allowed a league low 147 yards rushing in 3 games. That's
not much. Davis is a fine player and a near certain starter in just about
any league, but I do not like this matchup. The Giants are starting to
believe in themselves while the Redskin's confidence is heading downward.
I like the Giants in this matchup.
