Passing Game Matchups:

Green Bay Passing Game vs Panther Defense
Brett Favre on a roll can be a dangerous thing. And he’s most definitely on a roll. 301 yards and 2 TDs last week and he should build from there against a Panther pass defense that’s been disappointing. They rank # 28 in passing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. The odd thing is WR Antonio Freeman has been just good and not great. Favre is spreading the ball around and #2 WR Bill Schroeder in particular has been playing well. Their TE situation is frustrating. Bubba Franks had reportedly moved a good bit ahead of Tyrone Davis yet it was Davis catching the TD Sunday. I still think Franks is the guy there. RB Ahman Green continues to get more comfortable catching the ball.

Seattle Passing Game vs Bronco Defense
Brock Huard gets the start this week. (Jon Kitna gets the hook after his 22 for 33 (67%) 231 yard day with 3 TDs and no interceptions. Not that there’s anything wrong with that…) One has to wonder how effective he’ll be after the time off shaking the cobwebs out. But he’s got a great Matchup this week with an awful Denver Defense. Let’s put it this way—these guys gave up 311 yards and 3 TDs to Ryan Leaf last week. (I actually like Leaf but it sounds good to make the point like that) Seriously, these guys have struggled and they’ll be struggling even more with CB Ray Crockett out after nastily tearing a hamstring while he gave up about 60 of those 311 yards Sunday. Huard’s a gamble but he could pay off big. The WR corps looks more back to normal with Derrick Mayes and Sean Dawkins starting. Hotshot Darrell Jackson has faded badly. TE Christian Fauria should be good to go as the #1 guy while Itula Mili may get a look or two.

New York Giant Passing Game vs Cardinal Defense
QB Kerry Collins looks to be gaining confidence and draws a nice matchup this week against a Cardinal team that’s struggling. Arizona ranks # 26 in passing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. They’ve only registered 7 sacks in the last four games so clearly, they’re not putting a lot of pressure on the QB. And when Collins has time, he can be dangerous. WR Amani Toomer is the clear cut #1 guy. He played very well last week after there were some questions how effective he’d be coming back from a concussion. Joe Jurevicius steps in for Ike Hilliard (bruised chest) and could be a nice reach if you’re thin at WR. Pete Mitchell is the #1 TE although Dan Campbell did catch the TD last week. I think Mitchell is the guy though for the TE.

-PRIME MATCHUPS: These games favor the Offense.

St. Louis Offense vs Saints Defense
New Orleans received a great deal of attention for their defensive resurgence but the truth is they rank # 24 in passing yards allowed per game over the last four games. These are two teams that are struggling a bit after great starts. One was expected to be great, the other was not. St. Louis looks to get back on track after a tough loss to Washington at home. I look for Trent Green to again be at QB. Everything coming from Mike Martz and the staff points toward Warner beginning to throw mid week and not even taking a snap until next Monday for fear of reinjuring the finger. Warner offers a slightly different view and is still holding out hope. I think it’s Green. Although don’t forget, Mike Martz was the guy saying last week that Marshall Faulk wasn’t ready to return from his knee surgery and that if he played Monday night, he’d be very limited. We know how that went. Although to be fair, there’s more urgency to get Faulk healthy when Justin Watson is the replacement compared to the job Trent Green is doing filling in for Warner. As far as weapons go, WR Isaac Bruce is still the prime guy but Torry Holt isn’t far behind. I really like Holt a lot. Az-zahir Hakim is also worth a play if you’re rolling the dice. When this offense is clicking, all the WRs can score. The Saints will have their hands full here.

Pittsburgh Passing Game vs Bengal Defense
I use the word “passing” game here just to be consistent with the other teams… Truthfully, QB Kordell Stewart is looking better each game. Granted, he had little place to go besides up but he is making progress and I have to credit him for that. Fantasy number wise, he actually had a great game last week with the 2 rushing TDs. I’m not banking on that again but the Bengal defense is weak defending the pass. They rank # 25 in passing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. Hines Ward is the only WR that should draw your interest. I doubt you’ve been starting Courtney Hawkins, Bobby Shaw, Plaxico Burress or TE Mark Bruener if you’re still in the playoff hunt.

Miami Passing Game vs Colt Defense
The Colts can be thrown upon. They seem intent on digging themselves a hole each week to let Peyton Manning throw his way out of. They rank # 27 in passing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. QB Jay Fiedler is questionable and I’m thinking you probably should look elsewhere given the uncertainty. If your league let’s you turn in rosters later this week, he might be worth a shot if he looks healthy enough to go. WRs Oronde Gadsden and Tony Martin will likely carry the load on the receiving end. The status of RB Lamar Smith (hamstring) is still not decided but you can expect a little more passing if Fiedler is healthy but Smith is not.

San Diego Passing Game vs Chief Defense
Will the real Ryan Leaf please stand up? Is it the guy who threw 3 TDs and 311 yards (with an eye popping 23.9 average) or the guy who went from one crisis to another for as long as we can remember? I’m thinking he’s closer to the guy who played well Sunday. I said Leaf got a raw deal way back early in the season when he was benched for Moreno and now he’s getting revenge. How ironic would it be if Leaf plays well enough to get a job somwhere else and goes on to good things while the Chargers received just two years of frustration for their trouble? The Chiefs are weak against the pass ranking # 22 in passing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. For the year, they rank # 23 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing QBs. Jeff Graham and Curtis Conway handle the WR duties while TE Freddie Jones is still the teams best receiver. San Diego is a team no one wants to play and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them score some points against the Chiefs.

Chicago Passing Game vs Jets Defense
QB Shane Matthews has another chance to see what he can do with this offense. Don’t discount the huge boost winning a tough game over Tampa Bay gives this team, even if they did struggle offensively. Matthews and the Bears face a much friendlier defense this week in New York. The Jets rate # 21 in passing yards allowed per game over the last four games. Marcus Robinson is still the # 1 WR but Eddie Kennison got plenty of looks as well. I’d expect both to have success.

Dallas Passing Game vs Viking Defense
This game certainly doesn’t have the anticipation it did back in September. But then, you didn’t know the Cowboys would shuffle half their roster by now. Even with all the Cowboy’s troubles, this is a nice matchup for QB Troy Aikman. The Vikings rank # 23 in passing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. For the year, they rank # 22 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing QBs. James McKnight and Wayne McGarity handle the WR duties. I lean toward McKnight for the # 1 guy but they both get roughly the same number of looks. TE Jackie Harris has done very little after a great start.

New Orleans Passing Game vs Rams Defense
I can’t put a finger on it but I’ve got a nice feeling about new QB Aaron Brooks. He looked extremely comfortable in the pocket Sunday and I was impressed with what I saw. Sometimes you see that where the backup doesn’t have time to be nervous when he’s thrust into the game. We’ll see how he does with a full week under the spotlight but I like his chances. You know the Rams will put up points and it’s not like Brooks has Ricky Williams to hand the ball to every play. Like it or not, the Saints’ chances ride on the shoulders of new QB. Joe Horn is the #1 WR but Willie Jackson has burst onto the scene. He may fade just as quickly but I’m one to ride the hot hand so I’d feel fine starting him in larger leagues. TE Andrew Glover is too inconsistent to depend on for much.

-EVEN MATCHUPS: These games feature no real advantage either way.

Atlanta Passing Game vs Raider Defense
Here are two teams with old QBs heading in dramatically different directions. The Raiders are obviously on the upswing but they still sport a defense that gives up lots of passing yards. Over the last four weeks, they rank # 29 in passing yards allowed per game. Chris Chandler will try to get it done but he’s struggled behind his OL. And the Raiders have logged 11 sacks over the last 4 games. It really could go either way. Catching the ball will be Terrance Mathis who was shut out last week. He’s still a better option than Shawn Jefferson. TE Reggie Kelly isn’t worth it.

New England Passing Game vs Lion Defense
The Patriot passing game obviously hinges on Drew Beldsoe’s thumb but assuming he can go, he’s got a chance to do some damage. The Lions are rolling on offense after last week’s wakeup game against the Giants and they should be able to score. This could force the Patriots to the air. The Lions rank # 20 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing QBs for the year so they can be thrown on. CB Bryant Westbrook is playing great but I wouldn’t be surprised to see Terry Glenn go off. He’s been receiving tons of looks from Bledsoe lately. Troy Brown does a nice job too but I think Glenn is clearly the better WR. TE Rod Rutledge hasn’t done much.

Buffalo Passing Game vs Buccaneer Defense
The Bucs would have you believe they’re the most dominant defense in the league. It’s just not that way. Over the last four weeks, they rank # 19 in passing yards allowed per game. And their 8 sacks over the last 4 games don’t terrify anyone. Rob Johnson had a very nice game last week coming back for Doug Flutie. Eric Moulds is by far the prime receiver with Jeremy McDaniel and Peerless Price taking the scraps. TE Jay Reimersma is making some noise and should be an integral part of the passing game.

Carolina Passing Game vs Packer Defense
The Packers pass defense is definitely vulnerable ranking # 25 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing QBs for the year. The question though is how much adversity can QB Steve Beuerlein handle? His favorite target, TE Wesley Walls is gone. His RB Tshimanga Biakabutuka is iffy this week and his WR Donald Hayes is questionable with a groin injury. Beuerlein can’t do it all. Muhsin Muhammad is relatively healthy but even he’s nicked. RB Chris Hetherington had 6 receptions for 59 yards Sunday. Let’s see if he can keep that up. TE Kris Mangum is healthy now and he’s ready to contribute.

Kansas City Passing Game vs Charger Defense
San Diego’s improving on defense but their shootout with Denver where they allowed Frerotte to throw for half a career Sunday show they can still be thrown on. For the last four weeks, they rank # 16 in passing yards allowed per game. The big question this week is Elvis Grbac’s finger and hand. Coach Gunther Cunningham wasn’t giving us a lot to work with and it looks like it’ll be decided later this week. If you made me put a number on it, I’d say it’s 60% he plays effectively. The Chiefs desperately need this game. WR Derrick Alexander continues to make plays along with rookie (who’s not really a rookie this late in the season) Sylvester Morris. But of course, TE Tony Gonzalez is the teams featured receiver. The Chargers rank # 25 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing TEs so he could do some damage.

Tampa Bay Passing Game vs Bills Defense
We’ll see how the loss of RB Mike Alstott affects things. On one hand, it would appear to not be a huge loss as Alstott wasn’t getting all the carries many thought he would. On the other hand, just the threat of him in the backfield likely caused enough impact. The Bills are average against the pass lately ranking # 14 in passing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. QB Shaun King must get untracked for this offense to go. 91 yards passing last week won’t get it done. Keyshawn Johnson is still the #1 threat and he should probably be started just on potential. TE Dave Moore is a decent play as well although he’s nothing to get too excited about.

Tennessee Passing Game vs Jaguar Defense
Jacksonville handled Pittsburgh last week and that’s possible trouble for the Titans as they’re offense is a little bit like the Steelers in the fact they feature, power RBs, a mobile QB with a somewhat suspect passing game (very suspect in the Steeler’s case) I’m not sure the Sunday night performance was for real though so we’ll see. Over the last four weeks, Jacksonville ranks # 13 in passing yards allowed per game. QB Steve McNair may score on the ground if the Pittsburgh game and Stewart was any indication of what they’ll give him as Stewart scored twice on the ground. McNair will be throwing to Derrick Mason for his #1 WR and after that, it’s a roll of the dice for WRs. TE Frank Wycheck’s production has dropped somewhat from his normal outstanding level back to just good.

Arizona Passing Game vs Giant Defense
With Jake Plummer still having trouble with his ribs, it looks to me like it could be Dave Brown at QB this week and that’s not a bad thing. He was more effective than Plummer in relief Sunday. The Giants secondary have been a little vulnerable and for the year, they rank # 24 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing QBs. Over the last four weeks, they rank # 11 in passing yards allowed per game. Brown will have David Boston and Frank Sanders to throw to but Sanders has been so inconsistent, it’s tough to really consider him. Boston on the other hand, is showing some nice flashes and might be worth a gamble.

Minnesota Passing Game vs Cowboy Defense
Anything I might write here would be fluff for the obvious. It’s not a great matchup but you start Daunte Culpepper, Cris Carter and Randy Moss no matter who they’re playing. The Cowboys don’t give up a lot of yards passing. They rank # 10 over the last four weeks in passing yards allowed per game. But that doesn’t matter. I’d start these three against the AFC Pro Bowl team (something you may very well see…) With RB Robert Smith, they’re the best set of skill position players in the NFL.

New York Jets vs Bear Defense
The Bears may be feeling their oats (do bears eat oats?) after the big win vs Tampa Bay last week. Holding Shaun King to under 100 yards isn’t exactly like shutting down Peyton Manning but it’s a confidence builder. As an aside, LB Brian Urlacher may be my favorite player in the league right now. He makes plays everywhere. Vinny Testeverde struggled a bit last week and he could have problems again especially without field stretcher WR Laveranues Coles. Wayne Chrebet will try to pick up the slack but he sometimes struggles with the extra attention. TE Anthony Becht is still a frustration and could have trouble against Urlacher.

-DOWNSIDE MATCHUPS: These games favor the Defense.

Philadelphia Passing Game vs Redskin Defense
After handling St. Louis, the Redskins look to be able to take care of the much less potent Eagle offense. QB Donovan McNabb is doing a great job with smoke and mirrors I believe. His WRs are hardly a factor yet he’s still moving the offense. All three TEs Chad Lewis, Jeff Thomason and Luther Broughton were productive Sunday so you could roll the dice there if you’re thin at TE. McNabb is always a threat to rush for a TD but I’m worried how long he can keep this up.

Cincinnati Passing Game vs Steeler Defense
I never thought I’d say it but I hope QB Scott Mitchell plays Sunday. Seriously, I thought he gave the team a nice spark. The Lions gave him all that money for a reason way back when. Don’t get too excited, but they’ve got some serious talent on offense with Corey Dillon and Peter Warrick. Mitchell could be the last piece there. But he’s got to get healthy with the knee and he faces a Steeler defense that’s tough against the pass even if they did let Fred Taylor run over them Sunday. Keep an eye on Mitchell but I’d say he’s just backup material this week given the situation.

Detroit Passing Game vs Patriot Defense
You have to like the way Charlie Batch played Sunday but this week he draws a tough early game vs Bill Belichick and the Pats. New England ranks # 7 over the last four weeks in passing yards allowed per game. Batch will be throwing to Johnnie Morton and the rejuvenated Herman Moore but I wouldn’t be surprised to see Bill Belichick hold them down. All three of these guys are worth a shot probably I’m not expecting a miracle.

Oakland Passing Game vs Falcon Defense
Rich Gannon continues to put together a great season. He’s still a starter in most leagues this week even with a fairly tough draw in Atlanta. The Falcons rank # 5 over the last four week in passing yards allowed per game although for the year, they’re just # 18 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing QBs. WR Tim Brown still defies age and is the clear cut prime choice. Andre Rison and James Jett mop up the scraps. TE Ricky Dudley remains the cause of mass consumption of Rolaids among Fantasy GMs. He’ll be just as unpredictable this week as ever. It’s probably worth noting the Falcons rank # 6 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing TEs for the year. But he’s the kind of guy that as soon as you sit him, he’ll score 2 TDs.

-DEFENSIVE SLAM DUNKS: These games heavily favor the Defense.

Indianapolis Passing Game vs Dolphin Defense
Make sure to understand, Peyton Manning is still a likely starter in your league but this is tough matchup for him. Patrick Surtain and Sam Madison make one of the best CB pairs in the league I think. They’re both tough and should give the WRs trouble. For the last four games, Miami ranks # 1 in passing yards allowed per game. For the year, they rank # 4 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing QBs. Still though, Harrison is a must start no matter who he’s playing. Looks like Jerome Pathon will be the #2 WR. Ken Dilger and Marcus Pollard should continue their steady play.

Cleveland Passing Game vs Raven Defense
Forget about it. If this were a college game, this would be Homecoming for Baltimore. If you’re a contender this late in the season, Doug Pederson is not likely a regular part of your FF arsenal. I’d avoid all Browns this week against a sky high Raven team coming off a 27-0 shellacking of Dallas.

Jacksonville Passing Game vs Titan Defense
Given the Jaguar’s Sunday Night performance, this game becomes suddenly very interesting. The Titans are human and the Jags showed surprising power rushing for record numbers against Pittsburgh. For Mark Brunell owners, it should be noted most of the damage Sunday night was from Fred Taylor as Brunell failed to crack 200 yards passing. You can bet Jacksonville will try more of the same. Few coaches will pass when the running game is clicking. When they do throw, Jimmy Smith and Keenan McCardell will be the recipients. Tennessee ranks # 3 over the last four weeks in passing yards allowed per game so it’ll be a tough matchup.

Washington Passing Game vs Eagle Defense
Looks like we’ll see another round of Jeff George with Brad Johnson’s knee still less than 100%. Another solid game from George and this will get very interesting. The Eagles are tough defending the pass ranking # 4 over the last four weeks in passing yards allowed per game. For the season, they rank # 2 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing QBs. George is still likely worth a start, just know that it’s a tough matchup. WR Albert Connell seems to work with George pretty well and James Thrash is a decent option too. TE Stephen Alexander gives up too many catches to FB Larry Centers for my liking.

Balitmore Passing Game vs Brown Defense
Believe it or not, but the Browns play solid pass defense as we’ve been telling you for a while. They rank # 6 over the last four week in passing yards allowed per game and for the year they, rate # 5 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing QBs. So if you’re on the fence with Trent Dilfer, you might want to think about it. Qadry Ismail and Patrick Johnson are the WRs but TE Shannon Sharpe is the primary focus. I think what you’ll likely see is a steady diet of RB Jamal Lewis running the ball.

Rushing Game Matchups:

Jamal Lewis (Bal) vs Brown Defense
I told you the Browns are tough against the pass. It’s probably more accurate to say they don’t give up many yards to the pass. That’s because it’s so easy to run on them. Most every coach will prefer to run if they can. Even Brian Billick. Cleveland ranks # 30 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks.

Stephen Davis (Was) vs Eagle Defense
This is assuming Davis can play with the hairline fracture in his forearm. I’m guessing he does play effectively. As I mentioned in the email updates Wednesday, with Darrell Green gutting out a tough game with a torn calf muscle, the bar has been raised a bit for toughness. The Eagles are vulnerable to the run ranking # 27 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. For the year, they rank # 17 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs.

James Stewart (Det) vs Patriot Defense
Stewart looks like he’ll be good to go Thursday and he should do well against a New England rush defense that’s struggled. They rank # 26 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. They’re a little better for the year ranking # 15 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Bill Belichick throw enough at QB Charlie Batch to limit the passing game and force the Lions to the ground.

Ron Dayne / Tiki Barber (NYG) vs Cardinal Defense
Arizona continues to struggle defending the run ranking # 25 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four games. For the year, they weigh in at #31 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs. Barber is usually pretty solid but Dayne could be a factor here too. Remember, the Giant’s usually go away from Dayne when trailing but it’s hard to see them not being in control here.

-PRIME MATCHUPS: These games favor the Offense

Corey Dillon (Cin) vs Pittsburgh Defense
I’m not convinced the Fred Taylor performance was a fluke. For the year, Pittsburgh ranks # 7 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs but with the Taylor game factored in, they rank # 29 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. There could be some soft spot in this defense the Bengals to exploit. I like Dillon more if QB Scott Mitchell can be ready to play.

Lamar Smith (Mia) vs Colt Defense
If Lamar Smith were 100% healthy, this would make the “lock” section of this list as Indy has struggled on defense. They rank # 24 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks and rank # 21 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs. It’s a nice defense for making Peyton Manning throw the ball but it’s tough on Colts fans. I’m beginning to be a little more worried about Smith’s health as a hamstring injury isn’t something you just bounce back from. If you had another option, I’d take a hard look at it.

Terrell Fletcher / Jermaine Fazande (SD) vs Chief Defense
The Chargers are much better than a winless football team. The rushing game still isn’t there but one of these guys might do well against this defense that’s struggled vs the run. Kansas City ranks # 28 over the last four weeks in rushing yards allowed per game. For the year, they rank # 24 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs. Of the two, it’s tough to pick who’ll do well but either might be worth a shot if you’re thin at RB or Charlie Garner (bye) is your normal guy.

J.R. Redmond (NE) vs Lion Defense
If Redmond can go, he could do some damage against a Lion rush defense that’s less than stellar. They rank # 23 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. For the year, they’re # 22 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs. Detroit seems to be fired up in the wake of the Bobby Ross departure so this is far from a sure thing.

Eddie George (Ten) vs Jaguar Defense
George rumbled for 165 yards on 30 carries in their matchup earlier this year but the Jags may have new found confidence after the big win against Pittsburgh. Eddie George is the kind of guy who’ll take the confidence right out of you though. Over the last four games, Jacksonville ranks # 22 in rushing yards allowed per game. And for the year, they rank # 20 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs. George is still trying to find the right shoe to accommodate his injured toe but he should be ok for the game.

Curtis Martin (NYJ) vs Bear Defense
Coach Al Groh is sticking to the “if he plays, he plays” mantra on Martin although as we told you about in the email updates, the New York Daily News reported that Martin was telling folks he’d play. I’m still saying the odds are 75% he plays effectively. The Bears are pretty soft against the run ranking # 21 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. For the year, they rate # 19 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs. If Martin can’t go, it’ll be Bernie Parmalee.

Ahman Green (GB) vs Panther Defense
The physical skills of Ahman Green are finally getting some exposure as he settles into the full time role. This game is so mental at this level and it’s clear Green is getting comfortable there as well. Carolina ranks # 26 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs so they’re certainly beatable.

-EVEN MATCHUPS: These games feature no real advantage either way

Chad Morton / Jerald Moore (NO) vs Rams Defense
These guys did just about what we expected last week with Morton playing a Tiki Barber type role catching the ball and breaking longer runs and Moore playing the Ron Dayne power running role. It’ll be interesting to see how they fare against a decent Ram defense. St. Louis ranks # 19 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. Newly signed Terry Allen could further muddy the waters but I think Morton / Moore will be given a little more time first.

Edgerrin James (Ind) vs Dolphin Defense
This isn’t the best matchup for James especially if LB Zach Thomas is back but who are you kidding if you think you’re going to bench James? Start him and forget about it. If you’re loaded enough to consider benching him, you probably don’t need any help here…

James Allen (Chi) vs Jets Defense
The Bears could be hard to handle in this one after a big win last week. Allen could have some success against a Jets team that’s been average against the run ranking # 17 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last 4 weeks. He’s not as valuable in TD leagues but his speed could be a problem for New York and he ought to be able to roll up some yards.

Marshall Faulk (StL) vs Saints Defense
Like Edgerrin James, this may not be the best matchup but you’re loopy if you don’t start Faulk every week he’s not on crutches. (And I’d consider him on crutches…) As much as coach Jim Haslett tries to convince you otherwise, the Saints are a different team less Ricky Williams and Jeff Blake. They won’t control the ball in the same way as they had and Faulk will be fine.

Mike Anderson (Den) vs Seahawk Defense
I’m guessing Terrell Davis sits this one out again. I'd say the chances of Davis playing effectively this week are in the 40% range. Mike Anderson had 138 total yards Sunday. He ran for 97 yards on 19 carries for a 5.1 yard per carry average. And that was against a San Diego rush defense that was ranked # 2 at that time in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four games. In other words, the running game isn't a big problem for Mike Shanahan right now. He's got other things to worry about (like replacing CB Ray Crockett). The fact they haven't been able to nail down Davis’ exact problem is worrisome to me. Bottom line is I'm thinking Anderson as of right now. And facing an average Seahawk rush defense, he should fare pretty well.

Tshimanga Biakabutuka (Car) vs Packer Defense
I’m getting less enthused about Biakabutuka’s chances as the days go on but if he can play, it’s a pretty good matchup vs Green Bay. The Packers rank # 20 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks so they can be run on. I’ll try to stay on top of this one for you but if you made me choose right now, I’d probably shy away from Biakabutuka.

Napoleon Kaufman (Oak) vs Falcon Defense
Tyrone Wheatley looks to miss another game and Kaufman carries the load. He could give the Falcons trouble but they’re decent defending the rush ranking # 12 in rushing yards allowed per game. I can see him having an impact on the passing game as well.

Emmitt Smith (Dal) vs Viking Defense
Minnesota’s become a regular Steel Curtain on rush defense ranking # 11 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. They’re # 13 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs for the year. Conventional wisdom has many shying away from Emmitt but I’m not sure that’s the right play. He’s facing a pretty tough matchup but big players come through in big games. Although one could make the argument that Dallas doesn’t have any big games left as they play out the season.

-DOWNSIDE MATCHUPS: These games favor the Defense

Michael Pittman (Ari) vs Giants Defense
Assuming he doesn’t get a hangnail between now and gametime, Pittman should be able to go this week. His injuries are maddening. Remember way back when we used to deride Robert Smith for stuff like this? Seems odd that guy with (reported) 20” biceps can be nicked so much. Coach McGinnis loves the guy though and will get him the carries. The Giants rush defense is tough though. They rank # 10 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks and for the year, rank # 2 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs. So while I like Pittman, I’m a little leery about the matchup.

Warrick Dunn (TB) vs Bills Defense
Dunn gets the spotlight and I’m anxious to see how he does without Alstott back there. Alstott hadn’t been carrying the ball a ton but his mere presence forced the defense to do some things they may not do with Dunn. He has a tough draw for his first “solo” game in the Bills who rank # 9 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks. For the year, they’re even tougher ranking # 3 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs.

Shawn Bryson / Sammy Morris (Buf) vs Buccaneer Defense
Morris is still a question mark so I’d look for Bryson to get the carries. Although he’s been a real disappointment lately. It won’t help matters that the Bills are facing a nasty Buc defense fresh off a spanking by the hapless Bears. Tampa ranks # 8 in rushing yards allowed per game over the last four weeks and # 8 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs for the year. It could be rough going for these guys.

Jerome Bettis (Pit) vs Bengal Defense
The Bengals play a tough rush defense that they receive little credit for. Over the last four weeks, they rank # 7 in rushing yards allowed per game. For the year, they rank # 11 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs. Jerome Bettis is a guy who will pound out his yards but this isn’t a cakewalk by any stretch. New Coach Dick LeBeau seems to be doing a great job keeping the players motivated and they’re playing hard.

Fred Taylor (Jac) vs Titan Defense
The Titans are very solid against the rush but so were the Steelers. Taylor put together one of the better performances by a RB in league history Sunday night destroying a Pittsburgh unit that was highly ranked. Even with a tough matchup, he’s a must start.

Ricky Watters (Sea) vs Bronco Defense
It appears the Corey Dillon meltdown was an aberration as the Broncos have played tough run defense ever since then. Over the last four weeks, they rank # 4 in rushing yards allowed per game. For the year, they’re still at # 18 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs. I like the ageless Ricky Watters but he’ll have his hands full here. Although you could make the case that with a rusty Brock Huard starting, they’ll lean on Watters a little more than usual.

-DEFENSIVE SLAM DUNKS: These games heavily favor the Defense

Kimble Anders / Tony Richardson / Christian Okoye vs Charger Defense
Allright, Okoye may be a reach but with the way Kansas City distributes the carries, he’s as good a guess as any. Seriously, I’d shy away from any of these guys as not only is coach Gunther Cunningham tough to read, they face a San Diego defense that’s getting back to Charger defense. Over the last four weeks, they rank # 5 in rushing yards allowed per game.

Travis Prentice / Jamel White (Cle) vs Raven Defense
Both of these guys have struggled lately. I don’t think facing one of the best rush defenses in the NFL is the game I’d pick for them to breakout. James Stewart against Tampa this year taught me to never say never but the odds are definitely stacked against these guys this week.

Jamal Anderson (Atl) vs Raider Defense
. Anderson is playing better so this isn’t so much a knock on him as it is praise for the Raider defense. Over the last four weeks, they rank # 2 in rushing yards allowed per game. With Chris Chandler struggling in the passing game, Oakland will be able to focus on Anderson. He’s still a starter in many leagues, but it’s a tough matchup.

Darnell Autry / Stanley Pritchett (Phi) vs Redskin Defense
Like their QB Donovan McNabb, the Eagle RBs have been working magic with smoke and mirrors lately but I think that’s about to come to a halt against Washington. Over the last four weeks, they’re ranked # 1 in rushing yards allowed per game and for the season, they’re # 5 in Fantasy Points allowed to opposing RBs.