Dolphins @ Panthers (Kilroy)

Chad Henne / Pat White / Ricky Williams / Lex Hilliard
Davone Bess / Greg Camarillo / Joey Haynos / Kory Sperry (vs. Carolina)

CAR FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -11.2%
CAR FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: +1.2%
CAR FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: -25.1%
CAR FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -6.8%

Passing Game Thoughts: Chad Henne will make his seventh start of the season against a Panthers secondary that has defended the pass pretty well this year. Carolina currently ranks fourth in the NFL allowing an average of just 186.4 passing yards per game. They’ve also allowed 11 touchdown passes (18th most in the league) and come away with 11 interceptions (6th most in the league).

For his part, Henne has been fairly productive as a starter for Miami in leading them to a 4-2 record. His statistics haven’t done all that much for fantasy owners (he’s thrown for more 220 yards in a game only once thus far), but he’s kept his turnovers at a minimum (3 interceptions) while finding targets in the end zone on five separate occasions.

Tight end, Anthony Fasano, will miss a second straight start for the Dolphins due to an injured hip. Working in his place will be back-ups Joey Haynos and Kory Sperry. Haynos has been active the past three weeks and recorded 8 receptions for 66 yards and 2 touchdowns during that span. Sperry was activated off the practice squad for the first time last Sunday and came away with 3 receptions for 31 yards and a touchdown in Miami’s 25-23 victory against the Buccaneers. Davone Bess and Greg Camarillo are expected to see the most looks at wide receiver although Brian Hartline and Ted Ginn Jr. could net a few receptions themselves.

Running Game Thoughts: With Ronnie Brown placed on the IR Wednesday due to an injured right foot (“believed” to be a Lisfranc fracture), Ricky Williams takes over as the primary ball carrier in the Miami backfield. Williams has had a very successful campaign up to this point in the season, totaling 7 touchdowns (6 rushing, 1 receiving) and 751 yards (558 rushing, 193 receiving) on 123 touches (carries plus receptions). At 32 years of age however, it remains to be seen how well he will function as the Dolphins lead back for the remainder of the year, but he should find success Thursday night against a Panthers unit that has allowed 9 rushing touchdowns on the season and yields an average of 128.1 rushing yards per game to opponents.

Possibly factoring into the backfield equation as the result of Brown’s injury will be second year player, Lex Hilliard. Hilliard is yet to carry the ball during the regular season of his young NFL career, but the opportunity for him to get some action has now arrived. Fullback, Lousaka Polite, may also receive a few more touches while rookie quarterback, Pat White, is expected to handle more snaps from the Dolphins Wildcat package due to the loss of Ronnie Brown.

Projections:
Chad Henne – 170 yards passing / 1 TD
Pat White – 20 yards rushing / 0 TDs
Ricky Williams – 95 yards rushing / 2 TDs / 25 yards receiving
Lex Hilliard – 20 yards rushing / 0 TDs
Davone Bess – 55 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Greg Camarillo – 30 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Joey Haynos – 25 yards receiving / 1 TD
Kory Sperry – 25 yards receiving / 0 TDs

Jake Delhomme / DeAngelo Williams / Jonathan Stewart
Steve Smith / Muhsin Muhammad / Dante Rosario / Jeff King (vs. Miami)

MIA FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +13.5%
MIA FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -14.1%
MIA FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +9.0%
MIA FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: +29.2%

Passing Game Thoughts: Jake Delhomme comes off his best game of the season (195 yards passing, 2 TDs, 0 INTs) to face a Dolphins secondary ranked 27th in the league against the pass, allowing an average of 239.4 passing yards per game. Last Sunday, Delhomme made the most of the return of Muhsin Muhammad to the starting line-up as the two connected six times for 91 yards. Muhammad had missed the two previous games with a sprained right knee.

The return of Muhammad also opened things up a bit for lead receiver, Steve Smith. Smith finished the afternoon with just 4 receptions for 34 yards, but two of those grabs went for touchdowns that guided the Panthers to a 28-19 victory against the Atlanta Falcons. The win could prove to go a long way in keeping the 4-5 Panthers alive amongst the playoff hunt.

Delhomme also managed to make use of tight ends Jeff King and Dante Rosario, as the two combined for 3 receptions and 33 yards against the Falcons. The two could factor into this week’s contest as well considering Miami is at a +43.0% in fantasy football points allowed to tight ends in comparison to the NFL average.

Running Game Thoughts: DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart are officially listed as questionable for the Thursday night game, but both running backs are expected to play. Williams went into last Sunday’s contest with an injured knee that had him listed as questionable before tallying 92 yards on 19 carries, along with a 30 yard reception. It’s that same knee injury that has him listed as questionable for Thursday’s match-up with the Dolphins. Williams did not participate in the Panthers practice on Wednesday, but Jon Fox summed it up by stating the Panthers leading rusher was “just resting.” Be sure to check in before kickoff however to make certain he is active.

Jonathan Stewart meanwhile is considered questionable with a chronically sore Achilles. This injury has had Stewart on the injury report throughout the season however, and he practiced in full on Wednesday after missing the Monday and Tuesday sessions, so he should be a go on Thursday night.

Presuming both backs are healthy, expect them to have a moderate level of success against the Dolphins. Miami has performed admirably against the run this season, ranked 7th in the league with an average of 97.4 rushing yards allowed per game, but the Panthers backfield duo has been on a tear in recent weeks and climbed to 3rd in the league with an average 156.6 yards per game on the ground. And while Miami has done a good job limiting opponents rushing yardage, the 10 rushing touchdowns they’ve allowed is 8th most in the league, which means scoring opportunities should be there for at least one of the two Panthers backs.

Projections:
Jake Delhomme – 185 yards passing / 2 TDs
DeAngelo Williams – 80 yards rushing / 1 TD / 15 yards receiving
Jonathan Stewart – 45 yards rushing / 1 TD / 10 yards receiving
Steve Smith – 75 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Muhsin Muhammad – 45 yards receiving / 1 TD
Dante Rosario – 20 yards receiving / 1 TD
Jeff King – 10 yards receiving / 0 TDs

Prediction: Carolina 28, Miami 21 ^ Top

Saints @ Buccaneers (Kilroy)

Drew Brees / Pierre Thomas / Reggie Bush / Mike Bell
Marques Colston / Devery Henderson / Robert Meachem / Jeremy Shockey (vs. Tampa Bay)

TB FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +18.6%
TB FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: +19.8%
TB FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +26.1%
TB FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: +6.1%

Passing Game Thoughts: The Saints 4th ranked passing offense (275.0 yards per game) travels to Tampa Bay to face a Buccaneers secondary that has given up 19 touchdown passes (3rd most in the league) while allowing 211.9 passing yards per game (15th most in the NFL). Premier red zone target, Marques Colston, who’s totaled just 3 receptions for 62 yards in his last two outings, should come away with at least one score and some decent yardage in this one. Robert Meachem, who has scored in each of the last two games, may also come away with a touchdown, although tight end Jeremy Shockey may prove to be the safer bet in that category. Needless to say, Drew Brees should be in for another strong outing as well.

Running Game Thoughts: With Reggie Bush nursing a sore left knee throughout practice this week, there may be a few more touches than usual for Pierre Thomas and Mike Bell this Sunday against the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay currently ranks second to last in the league against the run, allowing an average of 167.3 yards per game on the ground. The 10 rushing touchdowns they’ve surrendered also happens to be 8th most in the NFL. In facing such a weak run stopping unit Pierre Thomas should have himself a field day this week in Tampa Bay.

Projections:
Drew Brees – 240 yards passing / 3 TDs
Pierre Thomas – 110 yards rushing / 1 TD / 30 yards receiving
Reggie Bush – Possible Game Time Decision
Mike Bell – 35 yards rushing / 0 TDs
Marques Colston – 85 yards receiving / 2 TDs
Devery Henderson – 55 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Robert Meachem – 25 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Jeremy Shockey – 45 yards receiving / 1 TD

Josh Freeman / Carnell “Cadillac” Williams / Derrick Ward
Antonio Bryant / Maurice Stovall / Kellen Winslow (vs. New Orleans)

NO FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -12.6%
NO FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: +8.3%
NO FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +4.6%
NO FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -31.1%

Passing Game Thoughts: Rookie Josh Freeman has thrown 4 touchdown passes to only 2 interceptions during the first two starts of his career, but his completion percentage is lacking and his yardage totals have suffered as a result. He has shown the ability to scramble for decent gains as he has ran 11 times for 56 yards during Tampa Bay’s last two contests. Those numbers he’s produced on the ground could serve to offset the lack of passing yards he’s compiled so far.

Expected to return to the field this Sunday is Buccaneers lead receiver, Antonio Bryant. It will mark the first time Bryant and Freeman have started a game together this season and his presence should prove beneficial for Tampa Bay’s young signal caller. He may also open things up a bit more for Maurice Stovall and Kellen Winslow. After going four straight contests without recording a stat, Stovall has produced 93 yards and a touchdown on 7 receptions the last two weeks.

Running Game Thoughts: Cadillac Williams continues to plug away as the primary ball carrier in Tampa Bay, although his statistics have been less than stellar. For the season he is averaging 3.9 yards per rush on 105 carries (413 yards rushing) with 3 rushing touchdowns. He also has a touchdown reception amongst his 17 catches for 117 yards. Derrick Ward, signed in the offseason as a free agent expected to make an immediate impact with the club, continues to be an afterthought in the offense.

The Saints defense ranks 20th in the league against the run, allowing just over 115 yards per game on the ground. They’ve also allowed 12 rushing touchdowns this season, which is 5th most in the league. That being the case Williams should have some success rushing the ball this week, but if Tampa Bay falls behind earlier on it could limit the number of touches he receives.

Projections:
Josh Freeman – 200 yards passing / 1 TD / 20 yards rushing
Carnell “Cadillac” Williams – 60 yards rushing / 1 TD
Derrick Ward – 30 yards rushing / 10 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Antonio Bryant – 60 yards receiving / 1 TD
Maurice Stovall – 40 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Kellen Winslow – 65 yards receiving / 1 TD

Prediction: New Orleans 34, Tampa Bay 21 ^ Top

Bills @ Jaguars (Kilroy)

Ryan Fitzpatrick / Marshawn Lynch
Fred Jackson / Terrell Owens / Lee Evans (vs. Jacksonville)

JAC FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +12.1%
JAC FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -6.2%
JAC FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +37.0%
JAC FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -37.4%

Passing Game Thoughts: Ryan Fitzpatrick returns as the starter for Buffalo after Trent Edwards was pulled late in last week’s contest following his return to the field after a three week layoff due to a concussion. In his two previous starts, Fitzpatrick has completed 57.7% of his attempts for 240 yards with 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions. Needless to say, this move hardly inspires any confidence amongst the Bills passing attack.

If Fitzpatrick is to succeed, however, than a match-up against the Jacksonville Jaguars is about the best he can ask for. Jacksonville currently ranks 26th in the league against the pass with an average of 238.9 passing yards allowed per game. The 16 touchdown passes they’ve allowed is 5th highest in the NFL.

Going against a defense like that, one might expect Terrell Owens to be a safe start this week. Problem is Buffalo ranks 29th in the league with an average of just 160.6 passing yards per game. Lee Evans, with 4 touchdown receptions in his last 4 outings, may prove yet again to be the better play this week.

Running Game Thoughts: For as bad as Jacksonville has been in defending the pass, they’ve only been slightly better against the run. They rank 22nd in the league with an average of 118.7 yards per game allowed on the ground, although they have limited opponents to just 6 rushing touchdowns this season.

Buffalo’s running backs meanwhile have punched it into the end zone just twice this year and the unit has not performed all that well since the return of Marshawn Lynch in Week 5. Neither Fred Jackson nor Lynch has handled more than 9 carries in their last two games and the lack of consistent repetitions for either back has sunk their value considerably.

Projections:
Ryan Fitzpatrick – 190 yards passing / 1 TD
Marshawn Lynch – 55 yards rushing / 10 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Fred Jackson – 45 yards rushing / 15 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Terrell Owens – 75 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Lee Evans – 70 yards receiving / 1 TD

David Garrard / Maurice Jones-Drew
Mike Sims-Walker / Torry Holt / Mike Thomas / Marcedes Lewis (vs. Buffalo)

BUF FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -21.5%
BUF FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: +58.3%
BUF FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: -37.2%
BUF FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: +8.0%

Passing Game Thoughts: David Garrard is coming off of one of his better outings of the season (aided by his 2nd rushing touchdown on the year), but don’t expect him to duplicate that success this week against the Bills. It’s true that Buffalo’s defense has been horrendous against the run, but they’ve done a solid job defending the pass. Opposing offenses are averaging just 200 passing yards per game against them (9th in the NFL) and have thrown 16 interceptions with just 7 touchdown passes. Given this, and the fact Buffalo defends the run so poorly, expect Garrard’s passing attempts to be limited as the Jaguars feed Maurice Jones-Drew the ball on a consistent basis throughout the day. As a result, Garrard’s production will be capped, although he may be able to come away with a touchdown pass in this one.

Running Game Thoughts: Buffalo ranks dead last in the NFL in both rushing yardage allowed per game (173.0) and rushing touchdowns allowed (14). By contrast, the Jaguars offense ranks 6th in the league with an average of 140.1 rushing yards per game. Their 15 rushing touchdowns also happen to be the second most through 10 weeks. Basically, this is a match-up of one team’s biggest strength going against another team’s biggest weakness.

The only way the Bills could possibly hold Maurice Jones-Drew in check is if Ryan Fitzpatrick were to have a surprise outing and move the ball consistently through the air against the Jaguars suspect secondary. This in unlikely to occur however, so start Jones-Drew in this contest with confidence and expect to be rewarded kindly.

Projections:
David Garrard – 185 yards passing / 0 TDs / 15 yards rushing
Maurice Jones-Drew – 125 yards rushing / 3 TDs / 25 yards receiving
Mike Sims-Walker – 70 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Torry Holt – 30 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Mike Thomas – 35 yard receiving / 0 TDs
Marcedes Lewis – 15 yards receiving / 0 TDs

Prediction: Jacksonville 27, Buffalo 13 ^ Top

Titans @ Texans (Kilroy)

Vince Young / Chris Johnson / LenDale White
Nate Washington / Kenny Britt / Bo Scaife (vs. Houston)

HOU FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -6.1%
HOU FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: +2.6%
HOU FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: -6.5%
HOU FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -1.0%

Passing Game Thoughts: Tennessee’s three game winning streak has coincided with Vince Young’s return to the starting line-up. Young hasn’t done anything spectacular, but he has been consistent in his performances, limiting his number of turnovers while completing a very efficient 70.9% of his passes. For fantasy purposes however, he’s averaged just 169 yards passing per outing during that three game stretch, with 3 touchdowns (2 passing, 1 rushing) and 1 interception.

In the Houston Texans, Young will be facing an opponent that allows 223.6 passing yards per game and has surrendered 10 touchdown passes on the season. This should translate into another solid outing for Young, but don’t expect him to be any more productive than he has been to this point. It should simply be another outing where he posts 1 touchdown and 150-175 yards through the air.

Running Game Thoughts: The Texans defense has tightened considerably against the rush in recent weeks, but they’ll still have their hands full this Monday night as they try to contain Chris Johnson. In his last four games, Johnson has exploded for 623 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns. For the season he is averaging an incredible 6.4 yards per carry. It’s hard to predict he’ll keep at his pace of 120 plus yards on the ground like he has in his last four outings, but nonetheless he has a very realistic chance of doing so. Keep Johnson in your starting line-up and expect another big outing from him.

Projections:
Vince Young – 155 yards passing / 1 TD / 20 yards rushing
Chris Johnson – 130 yards rushing / 2 TDs / 20 yards receiving
LenDale White – 10 yards rushing / 0 TDs
Nate Washington – 30 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Kenny Britt – 45 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Bo Scaife – 35 yards receiving / 1 TD

Matt Schaub / Steve Slaton / Ryan Moats
Andre Johnson / Kevin Walter / Joel Dreessen / James Casey (vs. Tennessee)

TEN FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +43.1%
TEN FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -6.2%
TEN FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +60.8%
TEN FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -38.0%

Passing Game Thoughts: The loss of Owens Daniels for the season a few weeks back has left a big void to be filled in the Texans passing attack. Back-up tight end, Joel Dreessen, has been elevated to the starting position in his absence, but rookie James Casey is better equipped to fill Daniels’ role in the passing game. Casey missed Week 9 due to arthroscopic knee surgery during that week, but is now said to be fully healed and will be worth keeping an eye on Monday night.

Aside from Casey however, expect Andre Johnson to be in for a very strong outing this week as Tennessee ranks 31st in the league against the pass, yielding 270.4 yards per game through the air. The 23 touchdown passes they’ve allowed also happens to be most in the league, so look for Matt Schaub to have a good outing as well. Kevin Walter should also factor into the equation as he comes off his best outing of the season since returning to action in Week 3 after missing the first two games of the year with a hamstring injury.

Running Game Thoughts: Houston’s offense has been driven by their passing game this season and there is little reason to expect that to change this week. As a team they average a dismal 3.3 yards per carry (2nd worst in the league) and rank 28th in the NFL at 90.8 rushing yards per game. The storyline here will be to keep an eye on the repetitions given to Ryan Moats and Steve Slaton. Moats will be making his second straight start, but if he doesn’t perform well than Slaton will have the opportunity to regain his place atop the depth chart. At the moment it’s difficult to consider either player a reliable option, although a slight edge should be given to Slaton given his ability to factor into the offense as a receiver out of the backfield.

Projections:
Matt Schaub – 285 yards passing / 2 TDs
Steve Slaton – 40 yards rushing / 25 yards receiving / 1 TD
Ryan Moats – 45 yards rushing / 15 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Andre Johnson – 110 yards receiving / 1 TD
Kevin Walter – 75 yards receiving / 0 TDs
Joel Dreessen – 15 yards receiving / 0 TDs
James Casey – 30 yards receiving / 0 TDs

Prediction: Tennessee 24, Houston 20 ^ Top

Steelers @ Chiefs (Eakin)

Ben Roethlisberger/Hines Ward/Santonio Holmes/ Mike Wallace/Heath Miller
Rashard Mendenhall (vs. KC)

KC FF Points Allowed vs. QB: +8.6%
KC FF Points Allowed vs. RB: +16.7%
KC FF Points Allowed vs. WR: +19.5%
KC FF Points Allowed vs. TE: -17.4%

Passing Game Thoughts: The Steelers should be frothing to get back to their winning ways after losing control of their division in last week’s field goal fest with the Bengals. A game in which they were held out of the end zone for the first time all year. The Steelers will try to get an early lead by spreading the Chiefs out and running no huddle. Hines Ward is Big Ben’s lead target but recent weeks has Santonio Holmes getting more looks so both can be counted on as low end WR2’s this week. Ward runs shorter routes and may get slight bump in PPR leagues. In the spread, speedy third WR Mike Wallace has done damage on deep routes. The Steelers offensive line should keep the toothless Chief pass rush at bay long enough for Holmes and Wallace to hit some big plays.

Running Game Thoughts: The Steelers need to more balance on offense. It may not matter much against weaker opponents like the Chiefs but it has bit them at times. They have struggled to hold leads and they failed to establish continuity against the Bengals by continuing to pass when it wasn’t working. I think they will recognize this and Mendenhall will have success running over the Chiefs, especially if they jump out to a sizeable lead. The Chiefs give up the seventh most (22.6) FPTs per game.

Projections:
Ben Roethlisberger: 315 yds/3 TDs/1 INT
Hines Ward: 80 yds/1 TD
Santonio Holmes: 70 yds
Mike Wallace: 55 yds/1 TD
Heath Miller: 45 Yds/1 TD
Rashard Mendenhall: 80 yds/1 TD

Matt Cassel/Chris Chambers/Lance Long/Sean Ryan
Jamaal Charles (vs. PIT)

PIT FF Points Allowed vs. QB: -13.9%
PIT FF Points Allowed vs. RB: -41.3%
PIT FF Points Allowed vs. WR: -6.1%
PIT FF Points Allowed vs. TE: -15.5%

Passing Game Thoughts: The big news here is the four game suspension of lead WR Dwayne Bowe for testing positive for a banned substance. Chris Chambers will step in to the lead role and should produce as a high as a borderline WR2 in Bowe’s absence. The Chiefs are not a dynamic offense but they do like to pass the ball and will be playing from behind most weeks. Little known possession WR Lance Long will start opposite Chambers. Long has twelve grabs for 112 yards over the last three games and could help a needy owner for a fill-in WR3 in PPR leagues. If you haven’t seen him play, think of him as a Davone Bess, 6-8 catches per game with marginal yardage and little chance of scoring.

None of the Chiefs offensive players is particularly attractive this week against a tough and angry Pittsburg defense. The Steelers secondary will not be at full strength with Troy Polamalu expected not to play due to a knee strain. To compensate, they will blitz LBs more aggressively and put more pressure on the Chiefs O-line than they can handle. Cassel will lean on his hot routes of RB Jamaal Charles, TE Sean Ryan, and WR Lance Long but will struggle to sustain drives.

Running Game Thoughts: The Chiefs could struggle to run on the Steelers. Kolby Smith didn’t look good last week behind the struggling O-line. Jamaal Charles ran well hitting the outside but the Steelers have the speed at LB to keep containment. The best chance for Charles is through screens and swing routes as a receiver. The Steelers give up the fewest RB FPTs per game. The Chiefs score the second least RB FPTs per game. Sometimes it’s just that easy.

Projections:
Matt Cassel: 160 yds/2 INT
Chris Chambers: 50 yds/1 TD
Lance Long: 40 yds
Sean Ryan: 30 yds
Jamaal Charles: 40 yds/35 rec

Prediction: Steelers 31 Chiefs 10 ^ Top

Cardinals @ Rams (Eakin)

Kurt Warner/Larry Fitzgerald/Anquan Boldin/Steve Breaston
Tim Hightower/Beanie Wells (vs. STL)

STL FF Points Allowed vs. QB: +11.0%
STL FF Points Allowed vs. RB: +27.2%
STL FF Points Allowed vs. WR: -4.7%
STL FF Points Allowed vs. TE: +27.2%

Passing Game Thoughts: Kurt Warner should be jacked returning to St. Louis where he led the “Greatest Show on Turf”. The Cardinals come in a hot streak. Warner shredded the Seahawks for 340 yards and two TDs last week. After sitting out a week to rest his sore ankle, Anquan Boldin looked refreshed catching eight balls for 108 yards. Breaston and Fitzgerald both went over 70 yards and scored. Besides the daunting task of slowing down the Cards WR core, Warner added 75 yards to his RBs.

The Rams will have their hands full for certain but they deserve credit for playing hard and continuing to improve despite a lost season. They played the Saints similar high-flying attack tough at home last week. The Rams at home have only surrendered an average of 240 yards passing to Rodgers, Favre, P. Manning, and Brees. Safety O.J. Atogwe is an effective center fielder. His stats are down partially because he has earned respect and QBs avoid challenging him down the middle of the field. The Rams are getting good pass pressure led by Leonard Little, James Hall, and Chris Long. They will get enough penetration to keep Warner focused on underneath routes. In an interview this week, Larry Fitzgerald surprisingly mentioned Ram CB Ronald Bartell with Revis and Asomugha as his toughest match-ups league wide. That’s high praise for an unheralded CB and perhaps explains Marques Colston’s poor showing last week.

Running Game Thoughts: Rookie Beanie Wells continues to impress. He rushed 16 times to Hightower’s 10 and scored twice. He rarely goes down at first contact and has quick feet for his size. A great sign for Wells owners was his two catches for 32 yards, showing the Cards are beginning add him in passing situations.

Prediction:
Kurt Warner: 275 yds/2 TDs/1 INT
Larry Fitzgerald: 85 yds/1 TD
Anquan Boldin: 90 yds/1 TD
Steve Breaston: 55 yds
Tim Hightower: 35 yds/30 rec
Beanie Wells: 60 yds/20 rec yds/1 TD

Marc Bulger/Donnie Avery/Brandon Gibson/Randy McMichael
Steven Jackson (vs. ARI)

ARI FF Points Allowed vs. QB: +11.7%
ARI FF Points Allowed vs. RB: -4.8%
ARI FF Points Allowed vs. WR: +13.4%
ARI FF Points Allowed vs. TE: +29.8%

Passing Game Thoughts: Marc Bulger played his best game of the year against the Saints throwing for 298 yards and two TDs. Inconsistent big-play threat Donnie Avery caught both scores and may be ready to put his slow start to the year behind him. Avery is worth a look since the Rams have a pass friendly schedule from here on out. He has a tough match-up this week in Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie who blanketed Nate Burleson all day last week and forced Seattle to shy away from their top target. This week’s rotating partner for Avery will be rookie WR Brandon Gibson whom the Rams acquired in the Will Witherspoon trade with Philadelphia. Gibson was praised throughout the preseason by the Eagles and proved his accolades by leading the Rams with seven receptions for 98 yards in his first ever start last week stepping in for injured Keenan Burton. Before crowning Avery and Gibson keep in mind that the Saints were missing three of four starters in their secondary including S Darren Sharper and top CB Jabari Greer. The Cardinals don’t rank as well as the Saints in pass defense but will be much healthier.

Running Game Thoughts: As was the case last week, the Rams best weapon against elite offenses is Steven Jackson. Jackson ran 26 times for 131 yards and limited Saints possessions by eating clock. The key to this game will be the ability for Jackson to keep Warner and co. off the field. The Cards are a stingy run defense but were burned by Justin Forsett last week. The difference is the Game plan last week was defending the pass. The game plan this week will be defending the run. The Cards are undefeated on the road and will limit Jackson enough to pull out a tougher than expected victory.

Projections:
Marc Bulger: 220 yds/1 TD/1 INT
Donnie Avery: 70 yds
Brandon Gibson: 70 yds/1 TD
Randy McMichael: 30 yds
Steven Jackson: 100 yds/25 rec/1 TD

Prediction: Cardinals 27 Rams 17 ^ Top

Bengals @ Raiders (Eakin)

Carson Palmer/Chad Ochocinco/Laveranues Coles
Bernard Scott (vs. OAK)

OAK FF Points Allowed vs. QB: -9.2%
OAK FF Points Allowed vs. RB: +37.9%
OAK FF Points Allowed vs. WR: -3.9%
OAK FF Points Allowed vs. TE: -39.1%

Passing Game Thoughts: The Bengals have been very balanced on offense, thanks to Cedric Benson, but with him likely sidelined this week, look for them to lean on Carson Palmer more. WR 85 in Espanol, is making the plenty of plays and should do damage working the middle of the field against the inconsistent Oakland safeties. Don’t overlook WR Laveranues Coles. In two games since their bye, Palmer has been targeting Coles more, and Coles has delivered 11 receptions for 157 yards. Rookie slot WR Andre Caldwell is second on the team in receiving and has three scores on the year. You have to like his chances of hitting a big play or finding the end zone this week TD the Bengals open it up.

*Breaking news has Laveranues Coles on injury report with a head issue. Keep an eye on the inactive list Sunday morning for his status.

Running Game Thoughts: Bernard Scott is expected to start in place of Cedric Benson and handle the majority of first and second down duties. At 5’10” 200 lbs., Scott is not the powerhouse of a Benson. He could still thrive thanks to the ability of Cincy’s O-line to plough lanes. His 98-yard kickoff return for a TD to beat the Steelers proved his open field prowess. Expect Brian Leonard and newly signed former Chief RB Larry Johnson to shoulder some of the load as well. Leonard in passing situations and Johnson in short yardage and game icing carries.

Projections:
Carson Palmer: 275 yds/2 TDs/1 INT
Chad Ochocinco: 70 yds/1 TD
Laveranues Coles: 60 yds
Andre Caldwell: 50 yds/1 TD
J.P. Foschi: 20 yds
Bernard Scott: 75 yds/20 rec/1 TD

Bruce Gradkowski/Chaz Schilens/Johnnie Lee Higgins/Zach Miller
Darren McFadden/Justin Fargas/Michael Bush (vs. CIN)

CIN FF Points Allowed vs. QB: +4.0%
CIN FF Points Allowed vs. RB: -18.7%
CIN FF Points Allowed vs. WR: -10.8%
CIN FF Points Allowed vs. TE: -2.4%

Passing Game Thoughts: The JaMarcus Russell debacle has been shelved for the foreseeable future. Russell has completed 49 percent of his passes while managing only two TDs with nine INTs. Enter Bruce Gradkowski and his 44.2 season passer rating with zero TDs and two INTs. The “Grad” isn’t viewed as a legitimate starting QB by most NFL scout but he is more accurate then Russell completing 56 percent of his passes thus far. Chaz Schilens and Zach Miller are the two most reliable targets in the Oakland air attack but it’s always tough to know whom a new QB will develop chemistry with.

Your best bet is to avoid all Oakland players if possible. The Bengals CB duo of Leon Hall and Jonathan Joseph are among the finest in the league and just shut down a much better Pittsburg pass attack.

Running Game Thoughts: Oakland’s rushing attack looked much improved with the return of G Robert Gallery and T Cornell Green, managing 180 yards versus the Chiefs. Betting on the NFL is tough, betting on the Raiders rushing roles is nearly impossible. With Justin Fargas unexpectedly taking the lead role from Michael Bush during McFadden’s absence, it was perplexing to see Bush lead the team with 14 carries for 119 yards upon DMac’s return. Huh? There’s no rhyme or reason here and none of the three are reliable options against a very good Bengal run defense.

Cincinnati DT Domata Peko and rookie LB Rey Maualuga are the keys to shutting down opposing RBs. Peko is a one-man pocket crusher that will force Oakland RBs off tackle where physical tackler Maualuga waits. A great match-up of each team’s strength. The Bengals should neutralize the Raiders rushing enough for Palmer to outscore them.

Projections:
Bruce Gradkowski: 170 yds/1 INT
Chaz Schilens: 45 yds/1 TD
Johnnie Lee Higgins: 35 yds
Zach Miller: 40 yds
Michael Bush: 45 yds/1 TD
Justin Fargas: 35 yds

Prediction: Cincinnati 24 Oakland 13 ^ Top

Chargers @ Broncos (Eakin)

Philip Rivers/Vincent Jackson/Malcom Floyd/Antonio Gates
LaDainian Tomlinson (vs. DEN)

DEN FF Points Allowed vs. QB: -23.4%
DEN FF Points Allowed vs. RB: -12.9%
DEN FF Points Allowed vs. WR: -13.5%
DEN FF Points Allowed vs. TE: -27.2%

Passing Game Thoughts: The Charger’s offensive versatility was on display versus the Eagles at home in week 10. When the Eagles limited top target Vincent Jackson to one catch for 10 yards, the Chargers were able to ride Antonio Gates, Malcom Floyd, Legedu Naanee and others to a win. Along with Gates, the Chargers like to utilize Darren Sproles and FB Mike Tolbert as receivers out of the backfield. In doing so, they limit Denver’s ability to blitz LBs.

The Broncos allow the third least QB FPTs per game and have CB Champ Bailey to slow down the River’s to Jackson connection. Pass rush specialist Elvis Dumervil recorded two sacks last time these teams played so the Chargers may be forced to max protect in order for them connect on deep routes. Don’t expect a shoot-out in this division rivalry game. The teams know each other well. Three of the six TDs in their week seven tilt were punt and kickoff returns, two by Eddie Royal, and one by Darren Sproles.

Running Game Thoughts: This looked like a tough match-up for LaDainian Tomlinson earlier in the year when the Broncos were stuffing the run and L.T. was nursing various injuries. Now the Broncos have lost three straight while giving up 416 yards on the ground and Tomlinson is hitting his stride coming off a 24-98 two TD performance against a tough Philly run defense. The Chargers were hoping to get starting C Nick Hardwick back this week to bolster their run blocking but he suffered a setback in practice this week and is expected to sit out another week. Even without Hardwick, L.T. should get enough carries to warrant must start status for fantasy owners.

Projections:
Philip Rivers: 260 yds/2 TDs/1 INT
Vincent Jackson: 60 yds/1 TD
Malcom Floyd: 40 yds
Antonio Gates: 70 yds/1 TD
LaDainian Tomlinson: 90 yds/20 rec/1 TD

Chris Simms/Brandon Marshall/Eddie Royal/Tony Scheffler
Correll Buckhalter/Knowshon Moreno (vs. DEN)

SD FF Points Allowed vs. QB: -7.7%
SD FF Points Allowed vs. RB: +5.0%
SD FF Points Allowed vs. WR: -11.2%
SD FF Points Allowed vs. TE: +20.0%

Passing Game Thoughts: All signs indicate QB Kyle Orton will be a scratch due to his bum ankle. He hasn’t practiced all week. If Simms starts, bump down expectations for all Denver receivers since he didn’t look good in his 3 for 13 relief effort at Washington. One possible exception could be TE Tony Scheffler. Inexperienced QBs often rely on TEs. Furthermore, the Chargers are one of the leagues poorest defenses in covering TEs, and Scheffler burned them for 101 yards earlier in the year. The Bronco’s HC Josh McDaniels likes screens and will utilize them to give Simms some easy throws. Buckhalter could get more action than normal as the preferred receiver out backfield.

Running Game Thoughts: Knowshon Moreno saw most of the action after Buckhalter’s early fumble in Washington. When asked, McDaniels gave no indication that Moreno would continue to carry most of touches moving forward. They have split evenly all year so until proven otherwise, treat both as marginal RB2 starts. McDaniels comes from the Belichick model of riding the hot hand and making life as difficult as possible for fantasy owners.

Projections:
Chris Simms: 170 yds/1 INT
Brandon Marshall: 55 yds
Eddie Royal: 40 yds
Tony Scheffler: 60 yds
Correll Buckhalter: 40 yds/35 rec
Knowshon Moreno: 60 yds/1 TD

Prediction: San Diego 24 Denver 16 ^ Top

Colts @ Ravens (Mack)

Peyton Manning / Joseph Addai
Reggie Wayne / Pierre Garcon / Austin Collie / Dallas Clark (vs. Baltimore)

BAL FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -7.1%
BAL FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -17.7%
BAL FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: -3.9%
BAL FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -27.2%

Passing Game Thoughts: Dating back to last year, Peyton Manning has thrown for 300-plus yards in 10 of the last 12 games, and one of those sub-300 yard games came in the 2008 finale when he played only one quarter. We are witnessing one of the greatest QBs to ever play, and from a fantasy perspective, a player who has been as steady and reliable as any player has ever been. And this week’s opponent, the Baltimore Ravens, seems to have fallen off a bit defensively. That’s not a good thing going up against the Colts’ passing game. But even when their defense was playing better in 2008, Manning ripped them for 271 yards and 3 TDs with no INTs.

Baltimore’s secondary will have its hands full trying to contain the dynamic duo of Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark. The Ravens are ranked 13th defensively against the pass, but some of that can be attributed to two games against the offensively-challenged Cleveland Browns and the equally inept Kansas City Chiefs. Certainly, the usual suspects should be in your line-up; both Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie have been hit or miss recently. If you’re willing to gamble, put them in. Both should see one-on-one coverage all game. My suggestion would be to keep them benched. This is too crucial a time of the season to risk getting minimal points from a starter.

Running Game Thoughts: Think about this: only once in his last 29 games has Joseph Addai had more than 100 yards rushing. That’s a stunning revelation, yet Addai remains an important component to any fantasy team. Addai almost certainly will make it one in 30 this week against a Baltimore defense that’s ranked 5th in the league against the run. But he’s scored in six straight games, and with Donald Brown’s return, Addai should remain healthy and fresh and productive for your team.

Whatever production Addai doesn’t get on the ground, he can make up for it as a receiver. He hasn’t been big in the passing game recently, but he did have a 10-catch effort this year in week 5 against Tennessee. The Ravens will encounter a vastly different offense than the Cleveland squad they shut out last week. Addai is a complementary player in Indy’s scheme, but he should again put up respectable RB2 numbers for you this week.

Projections:
Peyton Manning – 310 yards / 3 TDs / 1 INT
Joseph Addai – 65 yards rushing / 40 yards rec
Reggie Wayne – 120 yards / 1 TD
Dallas Clark – 80 yards / 2 TDs
Pierre Garcon – 55 yards
Austin Collie – 35 yards

Joe Flacco / Ray Rice
Derrick Mason / Mark Clayton / Todd Heap (vs. Indianapolis)

IND FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -12.7%
IND FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -6.9%
IND FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +3.0%
IND FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -47.2%

Passing Game Thoughts: Is the bloom starting to fade from the rose that is Joe Flacco? His recent production (or lack thereof) says so. Flacco threw 8 TDs through the first four games of the season, but has thrown only 4 TDs in the last five games, including no TDs in the last two. Now he gets to go up against a Colt defense that has allowed the fewest points in the league. What’s more, Indy has allowed only 7 TD passes all season long, 2nd best in the NFL. Keep in mind that three of those seven came last week against Tom Brady.

Whether it’s Flacco’s ineffectiveness, the receivers’ struggles or an inconsistent offensive line, the passing game just has not recaptured the firepower and consistency it started the season with. And at some point in the game this week, the passing game will be called to produce. The Colts are sure to put up points, and it will be up to Flacco to match that production. It will be tough, so consequently Flacco should remain on your bench this week. Same goes for his receiving corps. Derrick Mason has been average, with just 10 receptions in the last 3 games. And the Ravens are still waiting for Mark Clayton to show up this year. Bench all Baltimore passing/receiving players, unless of course you have no other options.

Running Game Thoughts: Ray Rice remains the lone every-week starter on a Baltimore offense that struggled last week against Cleveland. His 89 rushing yards on Monday night were the most since his week 4 performance of 103 yards against New England. Rice continues to lead the team in both rushing and receiving, making him a gem in the fantasy world. His reception totals have gone down every week since he totaled 10 catches in week 6, but you can best believe he will get a boat load of targets this week. There’s a good chance the Colts go up fast in the game, rendering the Ravens’ running game useless at some point. Once that happens, the illegally-fast defensive ends of the Colts will be foaming at the mouth chasing Flacco. Rice will be used as an outlet in the passing game to help supplement his potentially miniscule production in the running game.

Here’s an interesting tidbit: Willis McGahee’s 13 carries last week were as many as he’s had in the last four games combined. I wouldn’t read too much into that. McGahee remains a second fiddle to Rice, as Rice is one of the more solid RB2s in fantasy football.

Projections:
Joe Flacco – 185 yards / 1 TD / 2 INTs
Ray Rice – 55 yards rushing / 1 TD / 60 yards rec
Derrick Mason – 50 yards
Mark Clayton – 35 yards
Todd Heap – 30 yards / 1 TD
Prediction: Indianapolis 27, Baltimore 14 ^ Top

Seahawks @ Vikings (Mack)

Matt Hasselbeck / Justin Forsett
T.J. Houshmandzadeh / Nate Burleson / John Carlson (vs. Minnesota)

MIN FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +10.9%
MIN FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -31.2%
MIN FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: -4.8%
MIN FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: +65.2%

Passing Game Thoughts: Matt Hasselbeck has been steady, yet vastly unspectacular this year, a week 4, 4 TD explosion against Jacksonville notwithstanding. Hasselbeck has thrown the ball 142 times over the last 3 weeks, and while that’s not conducive to winning games in the NFL, it gives him more than enough opportunities to put up solid numbers. In that stretch, Hasselbeck has 4 TDs and 3 INTs, which, obviously is not really the stuff of fantasy gold. But he is what he is: a fairly reliable #2 fantasy QB who only should play in good match-ups.

Minnesota, though, has been average against the pass this year. While they remain a force rushing the QB, the back end of the defense has been scorched in 2009. It certainly doesn’t help that CB Antoine Winfield has been injured since October 18. The Vikings are hopeful for his return this week. That should bolster the defense and make for a nice one-on-one battle between Winfield and TJ Houshmandzadeh. Houshmandzadeh has been up and down this season, but he’s still a solid option this week. Nate Burleson has been inconsistent as well, going without a catch last week. He’s a good WR3 this week.

Running Game Thoughts: Justin Forsett takes over for an injured Julius Jones. Forsett did well last week against Arizona after Jones got injured, and that performance led to Forsett being a hot waiver wire commodity earlier this week. He has a tall order this week trying to maneuver around a solid front-7 in Minnesota. It’s unclear how he will be utilized in the offense, but there isn’t much behind him so he should see the lion’s share of the carries. He’s typically the 3rd down back, so we should expect to see him in that role. But whether his slight build precludes the coaching staff from putting him in on goal line situations remains to be seen. One thing is certain: he is a starting RB on an NFL team with little threat of a RBBC. That alone makes him a valuable asset in fantasy circles. You could do a lot worse than having Forsett in your line-up.

Projections:
Matt Hasselbeck – 225 yards / 1 TD / 1 INT
Justin Forsett – 55 yards rushing / 40 yards rec.
TJ Houshmandzadeh – 90 yards / 1 TD
Nate Burleson – 40 yards
John Carlson – 35 yards

Brett Favre / Adrian Peterson
Sidney Rice / Bernard Berrian / Percy Harvin / Visanthe Shiancoe (vs. Seattle)

SEA FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +2.2%
SEA FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: +0.5%
SEA FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +23.7%
SEA FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -20.7%

Passing Game Thoughts: Last week’s game against Detroit was predictably light on TD passes by Brett Favre. But the 40-year-old continues to have his best statistical season of his career through nine games, which has many fantasy owners happy. Seattle’s pass defense is nothing special, as its 22nd ranking indicates. Favre has thrown for more than 300 yards in two of the last three games, and that hot streak should continue. And Favre’s 3 INTs on the season are by far the fewest through nine games of his career. So not only has he been ultra productive, but he hasn’t hurt fantasy owners with the careless turnovers that have marred so many of Favre’s games throughout his career.

Thanks to Favre’s arrival in Minnesota, Sidney Rice has turned himself into a reliable and solid #2 fantasy WR. Rice’s size and athleticism, coupled with Favre’s seemingly unflinching trust in him, has made Rice one of the biggest surprises in 2009. He’s a must-start each week regardless of the opponent. Rookie Percy Harvin is a match-up play most weeks; he could be a viable option against Seattle. Bernard Berrian is too inconsistent and Visanthe Shiancoe’s production has dipped since his early-season play. Both are questionable starts this week.

Running Game Thoughts: It’s certainly no surprise that Adrian Peterson is one of the top backs in all of fantasy football, but what is most surprising is his 21 receptions through nine games. That number matches his total from all of last year and is two more than his rookie season. As if his owners needed any more reason to believe their #1 overall pick was well worth the investment. Seattle’s run defense had trouble corralling Beanie Wells last week, so Peterson should have a field day. Chester Taylor is a non-factor in the running game, but he does play a role in the passing game. With Peterson’s continued maturation, Taylor’s fantasy relevance takes a hit each week. Outside of insurance for Peterson, Taylor’s spot on your roster should be scrutinized.

Projections:
Brett Favre – 270 yards / 2 TDs / 1 INT
Adrian Peterson – 120 yards / 1 TD
Sidney Rice – 90 yards / 1 TD
Percy Harvin – 65 yards rec
Bernard Berrian – 50 yards
Visanthe Shiancoe – 60 yards / 1 TD

Prediction: Minnesota 24, Seattle 13 ^ Top

Browns @ Detroit (Mack)

Brady Quinn / Jamal Lewis
Mohamed Massaquoi / Mike Furrey / Steve Heiden (vs. Detroit)

DET FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +27.0%
DET FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: +22.6%
DET FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +19.5%
DET FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: +47.1%

Passing Game Thoughts: Could there be a more laughable offensive team than the Cleveland Browns? They’ve scored 5 TDs in their last 15 games, an unheard of statistic. And when you think about New Orleans having 7 TDs on defense so far this year, it becomes even more absurd. After the coaching staff played Hot Potato with the two QBs, they’ve found out that both stink and are useless from an NFL perspective as well as a fantasy perspective. It never ceases to amaze me how the Browns thought they’d be better on offense by getting rid of their two top targets from last year in Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow. I bring that up every week with this team, but the sheer incompetence of those decisions is the foundation of this team’s struggles offensively. It goes without saying that no Cleveland Brown should be on your roster. This team is an offensive embarrassment.

Running Game Thoughts: I’m not sure which is worse in Cleveland, the horrid passing attack or the inept running game. Jamal Lewis is the primary ball carrier and he’s so far removed from being the relevant fantasy option he once was it’s not even funny. And perhaps the coaching staff realizes this too, because even with the unprecedented struggles at QB, Lewis has only one game this season with more than 16 carries. You’d think that he would be the centerpiece of an offense with obvious limitations. But considering Lewis hasn’t scored a TD since week 9 of 2008, perhaps there’s ample reason not to build the offensive scheme around him. Either way it goes, Lewis is nothing more than a #4 fantasy RB who should be stashed away deep on your bench.

Projections:
Brady Quinn – 165 yards / 0 TD / 2 INTs
Jamal Lewis – 50 yards
Mohamed Massaquoi – 65 yards
Mike Furrey – 40 yards
Steve Heiden – 35 yards

Matt Stafford / Kevin Smith
Calvin Johnson / Bryant Johnson / Brandon Petttigrew (vs. Cleveland)

CLE FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -3.1%
CLE FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: +37.9%
CLE FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +0.7%
CLE FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -1.8%

Passing Game Thoughts: The Lions’ coaching staff felt Matt Stafford played well last week against Minnesota despite being pressured relentlessly by an aggressive Vikings defense. Perhaps they were right, but from a simple eyeball test, the rookie looked a bit lost and confused against the swarming front-7 of Minnesota. He didn’t throw any interceptions, but his play and that of the porous offensive line stymied the entire offense. Cleveland brings its 32nd ranked defense to town, but while they’re statistically the worst in the league overall, they have been fairly productive against the pass. They only have 10 TD passes against them, but those numbers could be misleading because everyone seems to be able to run against them.

Calvin Johnson has been one of the bigger disappointments in fantasy football this year. The consensus top-5 WR in preseason has not scored since week 2. Whether that can be attributed to the struggles of those around him is debatable, but those same struggles were present during last year’s winless season when he produced regularly, so that’s not a valid excuse. He’s a hit or miss player, but the high pick you invested in him warrants a weekly start regardless. Rookie TE Brandon Pettigrew is starting to develop, but he’s a long way from becoming a “startable” fantasy option. The other receiving options on this team have no fantasy value.

Running Game Thoughts: Kevin Smith continues to be one of the more unspectacular starting RBs in the NFL. He hasn’t scored since week 4 and just his simple lack of explosive plays makes it difficult to even watch him play. His only saving grace is his involvement as a receiver, but even those numbers have started to slip. He has only 9 receptions in the last four games. But if there is any time when you can start him with a moderate level of confidence is this week. Cleveland has one of the league’s worse run defenses and has given up 13 rushing TDs this season. With the rash of injuries that hit RBs last week, Smith is not too bad an option to fall back on. Start him and expect nice production.

Projections:
Matt Stafford – 195 yards / 1 TD
Kevin Smith – 70 yards rushing / 1 TD / 30 yards rec
Calvin Johnson – 80 yards / 1 TD
Bryant Johnson – 40 yards
Brandon Pettigrew – 30 yards

Prediction: Detroit 17, Cleveland 9 ^ Top

49ers @ Packers (Mack)

Alex Smith / Frank Gore
Michael Crabtree / Josh Morgan / Vernon Davis (vs. Green Bay)

GB FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +4.6%
GB FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -29.7%
GB FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +0.7%
GB FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: +9.7%

Passing Game Thoughts: Alex Smith came back to earth with a thud last week. His ugly game against Chicago in which he threw for 118 yards with no TDs and 1 INT came on the heels of a three game stretch that saw him throw 6 TDs. He also tossed 5 INTs during that time, but at least those mistakes were masked by his scoring output. As good as Green Bay has been against the pass (currently ranked 6th), only three teams have given up more than the 17 TD passes they’ve allowed. With that, look for rookie Michael Crabtree to haul in his first professional TD at Lambeau this week.

TE Vernon Davis is having a breakout season. His 7 receiving TDs lead the team, with the next closest teammate—Jason Hill—having only two. Davis is the centerpiece of the passing game and should be the primary target on most passing plays. Josh Morgan remains a work in progress, but head coach Mike Singletary chose to keep Morgan as the starter even though veteran Isaac Bruce has returned from injury. Keep Morgan benched, however, for this contest.

Running Game Thoughts: Frank Gore had his first 20-plus carry game since the season opener, and he rewarded owners with a solid performance against the Bears. Gore has scored in three straight games and his role as a dynamic receiver out of the backfield only solidifies his place as your #1 RB. However, it will be difficult for Gore to keep up that kind of production this week. Green Bay has the 4th-ranked run defense and has surrendered only 3 rushing TDs all year. His greatest asset this week may be as a receiver. The Packers are sure to clog the running lanes and prevent Gore from being productive. Consequently, Gore will be most effective as a receiver on screen passes and check-downs. Start him with confidence.

Projections:
Alex Smith – 190 yards / 1 TD / 2 INTs
Frank Gore – 55 yards rushing / 45 yards rec
Michael Crabtree – 60 yards / 1 TD
Josh Morgan – 20 yards
Vernon Davis – 50 yards

Aaron Rodgers / Ryan Grant
Donald Driver / Greg Jennings / Donald Lee (vs. San Francisco)

SF FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -0.5%
SF FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -3.2%
SF FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +1.2%
SF FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -15.5%

Passing Game Thoughts: Talk about consistency…dating back to last year, Aaron Rodgers has thrown at least one TD in 16 consecutive games, including at least two TDs in six of the last seven contests. And with the 29th ranked pass defense of the Niners coming to town, there’s a good chance that his multiple TD streak starts anew this week. Rodgers is a top-5 fantasy QB in standard scoring leagues and is as solid and consistent as anyone at that position.

As productive a duo as Greg Jennings and Donald Driver have been over the last 3½ year, they only have three 100-plus yard games between them in 2009. Now, whether that’s a by-product of Rodgers’ tendency to spread the wealth is debatable, but neither has really had the kind of consistent season most expected. Driver has been the more consistent of the two, with a couple scores over the last four games. Jennings, on the other hand, only has one TD in the last seven weeks. Both are solid starters every week; just be mindful of their recent history and keep your expectations under control.

Running Game Thoughts: Ryan Grant is the bell cow in Green Bay. He’s solid, but painfully unspectacular. There are no extra style points in fantasy football for the spectacular, obviously, but Grant bores me to tears. My jaded opinion aside, he has turned into a nice complementary RB2 fantasy back. You certainly can’t frown on that. Green Bay has a commitment to the run, which helps Grant with opportunities. He has at least 21 carries in four games this year and the Pack have won three of those four. Translation: give Grant the ball and Green Bay wins. Expect that kind of commitment to the ground game this week, and look for Grant to do his usual unspectacular damage.

Projections:
Aaron Rodgers - 225 yards / 2 TDs
Ryan Grant – 80 yards / 1 TD
Donald Driver – 90 yards / 1 TD
Greg Jennings – 65 yards / 1 TD
Donald Lee – 50 yards

Prediction: Green Bay 24, San Francisco 13 ^ Top

Eagles @ Bears (Mack)

Donovan McNabb / LeSean McCoy
DeSean Jackson / Jeremy Maclin / Brent Celek (vs. Chicago)

CHI FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +6.3%
CHI FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -5.8%
CHI FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +3.8%
CHI FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: +6.0%

Passing Game Thoughts: The Philadelphia coaching staff had one of those moments last week when they believe it’s illegal to run the football. They had 13 called runs and 57 called passes. That’s unfathomable in a game where the score was never completely out of hand. Donovan McNabb owners surely loved it, as he had the most passing yards in a game since a 2004 contest against Green Bay. He would enjoy more success, though, if the offensive attack was more balanced. The 8th-ranked Chicago pass defense will see plenty of #5 dropping back to pass. McNabb owners must hope that those called pass plays are more balanced with the running place; only then will McNabb’s potential to throw TDs be increased.

As explosive as DeSean Jackson has been, and as surprising as rookie Jeremy Maclin has been, the guy who routinely gets lost in the shuffle is TE Brent Celek. Celek not only leads the team in receptions, but he also has the most TD catches on the team with five. I can’t say if McNabb will have another game with more than 50 attempts, but however many he throws there’s a good chance Celek will be the target on a vast majority of them.

Running Game Thoughts: If Brian Westbrook plays again this season, I’ll be shocked. Multiple concussions in less than a month have to be alarming. The Eagles drafted LeSean McCoy for this inevitability and here we are. McCoy entered the year as a poor man’s version of Westbrook—a slightly-built, quick-footed running back with superb receiving skills out of the backfield. I won’t go so far as to say McCoy will give you or the Eagles everything at the same level that Westbrook did, but McCoy should be a serviceable replacement who’s entering the most critical part of the fantasy season with fresh legs and an eager attitude.

The one issue that may be of concern to those who start McCoy is the presence of Leonard Weaver. Weaver has been valuable this season and could steal those precious goal line carries. This is speculation on my part, but I think the coaches believe Weaver has earned an opportunity to see some action. McCoy will still get the majority of the carries, but a 70-30 split is not out of the realm of possibility. McCoy owners (myself included) just need to be patient and see how this scenario plays out. Like most of you, my roster is filled with injured and/or ineffective RBs and someone like McCoy represents a fresh start. He’s going to be in my line-up for sure, and he should be in yours.

Projections:
Donovan McNabb – 245 yards / 2 TDs
LeSean McCoy – 60 yards rushing / 1 TD / 35 yards rec
DeSean Jackson – 80 yards
Jeremy Maclin – 50 yards / 1 TD
Brent Celek – 45 yards / 1 TD

Jay Cutler / Matt Forte
Devin Hester / Earl Bennett / Johnny Knox / Greg Olsen (vs. Philadelphia)

PHI FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +1.0%
PHI FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -3.9%
PHI FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: -17.7%
PHI FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: +46.8%

Passing Game Thoughts: If he’s not careful, Jay Cutler will be labeled the modern-day Jeff George—a QB with the million dollar arm but a two dollar head. His decision-making ability in the pocket leaves a lot to be desired. Cutler has thrown 12 INTs in the last five games. That’s simply way too turnover-prone to be counted on at this point of the season. Sure, he’s thrown for 300-plus yards in two of the last three games, but his bone-head decisions seem to come in bunches, leaving many fantasy owners wondering why they even drafted him to begin with.

Don’t look now, but Devin Hester is turning into a reliable receiving option. He has at least 6 receptions in five straight games. His TD totals aren’t eye-popping, but he’s been money in PPR leagues. It’s good that Hester has elevated his game because we all know that Johnny Knox has fallen off the map, and Earl Bennett has been sleepwalking through the entire season. Greg Olsen has come out of his early-season shell. He has twice as many TD receptions as anyone else on the team. He and Hester are 1 and 1a in the pecking order of receiving targets and both should be in your line-up.

Running Game Thoughts: Matt Forte is one of the biggest disappointments in fantasy football. Although he salvaged a poor effort running the ball last week with 8 catches for 120 yards, as a whole Forte has been awful. Take away his two best games against Cleveland and Detroit and his best rushing effort is a paltry 66 yards in week 3 against Seattle. And to think this guy was picked #3 overall in my league ahead of guys like Chris Johnson, Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, etc. Wow. It won’t get any easier for Forte this week, as the Eagles have the 9th best rush defense in the league. His rushing yards will once again frustrate his owners; just hope for opportunities in the passing game much like last week.

Projections:
Jay Cutler – 210 yards / 2 TDs / 2 INTs
Matt Forte – 55 yards rushing / 40 yards rec
Devin Hester – 65 yards / 1 TD
Earl Bennett – 30 yards
Johnny Knox – 25 yards
Greg Olsen – 40 yards / 1 TD

Prediction: Philadelphia 27, Chicago 14 ^ Top

Jets @ Patriots (Marcoccio)

Mark Sanchez/ Thomas Jones/Shonn Greene
Braylon Edwards/Jerricho Cotchery/David Clowney/Dustin Keller (vs. NE)

NE FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -9.7%
NE FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -8.2%
NE FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: -7.7%
NE FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -19.7%

Passing Game Thoughts: Rookie QB Mark Sanchez struggled in the first half of last week’s game against a poor Jacksonville pass defense, but bounced back in the second half of the game. He looked particularly bad throwing an interception right into the chest of a pass rushing defender who should have returned the pass for a TD, but tripped and fell inside the 5 yard line. However, he looked equally good in leading the Jets to a go ahead TD late in the 4th Quarter. As I said in past installments of this piece, most rookie QBs are inconsistent, at best, and you never know what you are going to get from them each week. Jerricho Cotchery was back into game shape after a hamstring injury cost him a few weeks, and made some very nice grabs including Sanchez’ lone TD pass. This passing offense will not be truly dangerous until Sanchez gains some consistency and Braylon Edwards does the same. Edwards can be spectacular at times and maddeningly frustrating at other times. Sometimes he’s both on the same play as evidenced by a tremendous catch and run that ended with a fumble when he failed to secure the ball when meeting up with a defender.

Bill Belicheck showed little faith in his pass defense last week when he chose to go for it on 4th and 2 from his own 28 yard line at the end of the game rather than punt the ball away to Peyton Manning and the Colts. The Pats defense had given up 3 Manning TDs prior to that decision but did force the Colts to punt the ball 9 times during the contest so it was a curious decision at the very least. The Pats are the 7th ranked pass defense, allowing only 194.6 ypg and 13 TDs through 9 games. Look for the Pats to disguise their blitzes and coverage schemes in order to force Mark Sanchez into a few more rookie mistakes.

Running Game Thoughts: Thomas Jones has gained 781 yards and has scored 8 TDs so far this season. The chiseled Jones has obviously taken care of his body, allowing him to defy the odds stacked against RBs once they surpass 30 years of age. The Jets will continue to rely on him and rookie Shonn Greene to move the chains and protect their prized rookie QB.

The Patriots have played the run very well despite losing many impact players to offseason migrations and to in-season injuries. So far this season they are allowing only 110.0 yards per game and have only allowed 3 rushing TDs. It will be important for C Nick Mangold to tie up Vince Wilfork if the Jets are going to be able to control the middle of the line and run their power rushing attack. On sweeps and screens LT D’Brickashaw Ferguson has shown tremendous athletic ability to get out in front of runners making up for his lack of size which at times hinders him against bull rusher type DEs. The Pats will likely move some safeties up into the box and try and contain the NFL’s leading rushing team so the Jets may counter with a few more screens and sweeps than usual.

Projections:
Mark Sanchez: 195 yds passing, 1 TD, 1 int. / 10 yards rushing
Braylon Edwards: 70 yds receiving, 1 TD
Jerricho Cotchery: 45 yds receiving
David Clowney: 15 yds receiving
Dustin Keller: 40 yds receiving
Thomas Jones: 85 yds rushing, 1 TD / 10 yds receiving
Shonn Greene: 30 yds rushing

Tom Brady/ Laurence Maroney/ Kevin Faulk
Randy Moss/Wes Welker/Ben Watson (vs. NYJ)

NYJ FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -28.3%
NYJ FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -9.7%
NYJ FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: -35.3%
NYJ FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -21.5%

Passing Game Thoughts: Tom Brady lost the battle of future Hall of Fame QBs last week against Peyton Manning, but wasn’t too shabby while throwing for 375 yards and tossing 3 TDs. Outside of Randy Moss and Wes Welker, the Pats really haven’t established any other threat in the passing game – but when you have two guys of that caliber, a team can manage to get by with minimal supporting production. Ben Watson has had some big games against the Jets in the past and with safety Brian Leonard likely missing the game while recovering from thumb surgery he had this week, he could be a sneaky start for those thin at the TE position.

The Jets totally shut down Brady, Moss and the New England passing game in Week 2, but that was without Wes Welker and might as well have been 100 years ago based on the direction the two teams have gone since then. CB Darrelle Revis blanketed Moss in that game and held him to 4 harmless catches. While Revis should still be able to make plays defending Moss, don’t count Moss out and more importantly don’t take Moss out of your line-up.

Running Game Thoughts: Laurence Maroney has done a very good job since being thrust into the role as main ball carrier in New England by default in Week 6. However, while he did score a TD against the Colts he was outgained by veteran Kevin Faulk in that game. It’s always hazy over the New England running game it seems. Maroney does seem better suited to take on the Jets up the middle however, a place they’ve been vulnerable since Kris Jenkins went out.

The Jets stuffed the Dolphins running game in Week 8 before their bye, but did not do the same to Maurice Jones-Drew after their bye. The loss of NT Kris Jenkins was evident against Jacksonville as MJD did a lot of his running right up the middle. Poor tackling also played a role in Drew’s big day. Expect Rex Ryan to try and get things right for the Jets run defense, although it’s likely that the Pats will make that unnecessary by putting most of their efforts into an aerial attack.

Projections:
Tom Brady: 305 yds passing 2 TDs
Randy Moss: 85 yds receiving, 1 TD
Wes Welker: 95 yds receiving
Ben Watson: 55 yds receiving, 1 TD
Laurence Maroney: 45 yards rushing
Kevin Faulk: 40 yds rushing / 20 yds receiving

Prediction: Patriots 21, Jets 17 ^ Top

Falcons @ Giants (Marcoccio)

Matt Ryan/Jason Snelling/Jerious Norwood
Roddy White/Michael Jenkins/Tony Gonzalez (vs. NYG)

NYG FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -4.3%
NYG FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -4.4%
NYG FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: -14.2%
NYG FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: +25.1%

Passing Game Thoughts: Matt Ryan had a very strong rookie season, and started off his sophomore season the same way, but has struggled in recent weeks. He has thrown more interceptions this season (12) than all of last season (11) and six of them have come in the last three weeks. Roddy White tried to play it off as just Ryan’s “competitive nature” that drives him to try and make throws that other QBs would not. However if “competitive nature” turns into “Cutleresque delusions” regarding his ability, the Falcons could be in trouble.

The injury depleted Giants secondary is likely getting CB Aaron Ross back this week just in time. In recent weeks the unit has been torn up by Drew Brees, Donovan McNabb, Kurt Warner and Philip Rivers. While those QBs have done serious damage against many opponents the Giants need to be concerned about the direction their season is heading after starting off 5-0. A resurgent pass rush would go a long ways in covering up any deficiencies in the secondary, as the Giants just haven’t been able to get the pressure with their four man fronts that they have in past seasons. Perhaps they have worked out some of those issues during their bye week and can keep Matt Ryan on his downward spiral. If you own Tony Gonzalez, you’re likely planning on starting him anyway, but a look at the above numbers that show what opposing TEs have done against the Giants defense, has to make those owners even more excited.

Running Game Thoughts: Each year Jerious Norwood is fawned over by fantasy football message board visitors who dream of an expanded role and big stats, due to his elusiveness and speed which allows some eye popping long runs. Perhaps with Michael Turner nursing a high ankle sprain Norwood will finally get his chance to shine. It’s more likely however that the bulk of Turner’s carries will go to second year back Jason Snelling, a hard runner who drives forward for positive yardage, but does not possess the speed flashed by the Burner. Snelling did a fine job replacing Turner last week rushing for 60 yards and a score in the second half after Turner went down. Someday Norwood supporters will have to come to realize what two different coaching staffs have – Norwood is a career change of pace back.

New York is ranked 11th in the league in run defense (104.3), but has allowed 12 TDs in 9 games. Antonio Pierce has not been the force this season that the team is used to from its emotional leader, and can only hope that the bye week did him some good. The Giants caught a break when Turner went down last week. They need to capitalize on that break by not allowing a backup RB to make a difference against them this week.

Projections:
Matt Ryan: 235 yds passing, 1 TD, 1 Int.
Roddy White: 80 yds receiving
Michael Jenkins: 20 yds receiving
Tony Gonzalez: 65 yds receiving, 1 TD
Jason Snelling: 55 yds rushing, 1 TD / 15 yds receiving
Jerious Norwood: 20 yds rushing / 30 yds receiving

Eli Manning/ Brandon Jacobs/Ahmad Bradshaw
Steve Smith/Mario Manningham/Hakeem Nicks/Kevin Boss (vs. ATL)

ATL FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +10.4%
ATL FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: +7.0%
ATL FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +0.3%
ATL FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: +35.5%

Passing Game Thoughts: Eli Manning bounced back against San Diego after turning in three poor performances in a row during the weeks heading into that contest. If the Giants have any chance of turning their season around they will need Eli to turn back into the elite QB he was in Weeks 1-5. Steve Smith has been a top 5 fantasy WR so far this season statistically and will need to keep that pace up while youngsters Marion Manningham and Hakeem Nicks get further seasoned. What was thought to be a weakness during the offseason has become the strength of the offense as each of the three WRs possess a different skill set that compliment the others nicely. Atlanta has allowed opposing TEs to rack up stats, so it could be a week where Kevin Boss shines.

Atlanta has stud DE Jonathan Abraham to get after opposing QBs. He will try and replicate what Sean Merrimen did to Eli in Week 9, namely harass the heck out of him. The Falcons are giving up 240.7 passing yards per game thus far and have allowed 13 TDs. If the o-line can protect Eli better than they did two weeks ago he should be able to pass effectively against this unit – although that may not be necessary if the Giants can exploit the even better matchup it has against Atlanta’s run defense.

Running Game Thoughts: Hopefully the time off did wonders for Ahmad Bradshaw who was looking like one of the better backs in the league before being diagnosed with a cracked metatarsal bone. The local buzz is that the Giants want to get Brandon Jacobs back into power rushing mode instead of using him on passing downs which required him to run too many sweeps and draws – as they did not trust Bradshaw’s blocking in those situations. In order to accomplish that, the Giants plan on working Danny Ware into the offense as the 3rd down back now that he’s fully recovered from his elbow injury.

Atlanta is the 26th ranked rushing defense allowing 130.3 ypg and 8 TDs on the season. The Giants should look to get its ground attack going early and often. Doing so will allow them to control the clock which in turns helps keep their depleted defense fresh.

Projections:
Eli Manning: 275 yds passing, 2 TDs, 1 Int.
Steve Smith: 60 yds receiving, 1 TD
Mario Manningham: 65 yds receiving
Hakeem Nicks: 40 yds receiving
Kevin Boss: 20 yds receiving
Brandon Jacobs: 95 yds rushing, 1 TD / 5 yds receiving
Ahmad Bradshaw: 55 yds rushing / 15 yds receiving

Prediction: Giants 24, Falcons 17 ^ Top

Redskins @ Cowboys (Marcoccio)

Jason Campbell/Ladell Betts
Santana Moss/Devin Thomas/Antwaan Randle El/Fred Davis (vs. DAL)

DAL FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: +7.1%
DAL FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -12.9%
DAL FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: +4.9%
DAL FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -2.0%

Passing Game Thoughts: Perhaps punter Hunter Smith should get the start at QB for Washington this week. After all he did throw as many TDs and for nearly as many yards as starting QB Jason Campbell against Denver. OK, Campbell did throw for far more yards than Smith, 193 to 34, but it wasn’t a big day for Campbell. Yet the Redskins did pull off an upset victory. Second year WR Devin Thomas finally got involved a little in the offense while second year TE Fred Davis led the team in receptions and receiving yards so perhaps the 2008 draft wasn’t a total waste for the Skins after all.

Dallas is allowing 227.4 ypg and has given up 14 passing TDs in 9 games so it is a very vulnerable unit. Luckily for them this week, the Redskins just don’t have the horses to win that race. Dallas should be able to pressure on Campbell with its resurgent pass rush coupled with an injury depleted Washington o-line. A pressured Campbell has been a mistake prone Campbell in 2009.

Running Game Thoughts: Clinton Portis suffered a concussion two weeks ago and did not play against Denver last week – in my opinion he really stopped playing long before that however. As I correctly opined last week, the loss of Portis was actually a boost to the Skins’ offense, in that Ladell Betts showed to be a very capable runner who came in with fresh legs against a tired Broncos defense traveling on a short week. If you picked Betts up off waivers it will probably be tough to sit him this week coming off his 114 yards and a TD performance, even though the Dallas defense does not present a very favorable matchup.

Dallas has been playing the run very well this season, allowing 103.1 ypg, and only 4 rushing TDs. Line backers Keith Brooking and Bradie James lead the team in tackles and FS Ken Hamlin has offered strong run support from the secondary. Betts comes in running hard on his fresh legs, but will face a defense that will be fired up after losing on the road last week in Green Bay. It will be a risky start for Betts’ owners, but often reward often comes with risk.

Projections:
Jason Campbell: 200 yds passing, 1 Int. / 25 yards rushing
Santana Moss: 30 yds receiving
Devin Thomas: 40 yds receiving
Antwaan Randle El: 45 yds receiving
Fred Davis: 65 yds receiving
Ladell Betts: 95 yds rushing, 1 TD / 25 yds receiving

Tony Romo/Marion Barber/Felix Jones
Roy Williams/Miles Austin/Jason Witten (vs. WAS)

WAS FF Points Allowed vs. QBs: -23.8%
WAS FF Points Allowed vs. RBs: -19.3%
WAS FF Points Allowed vs. WRs: -15.4%
WAS FF Points Allowed vs. TEs: -35.9%

Passing Game Thoughts: Tony Romo struggled last week, but was playing really well up until then. He has been spreading the ball around nicely and taking advantage of talented youngster Miles Austin. Austin burst on the scene after a few years where he flashed some talent but never earned a big enough role to really showcase his wares. TE Jason Witten surprisingly has not done very much this season after many (including myself) thought he would take on an even bigger role in the offense with Terrell Owens’ departure. Perhaps he is not truly healthy. That is mere speculation on my part, but it’s very curious that the talented TE should just disappear from the offensive scheme, after being Romo’s favorite target last season.

Washington’s pass defense got off to a poor start last week and allowed Orton to throw two long TD passes to Brandon Marshall. They settled down a little after (or perhaps because) Chris Simms had to enter the game when Orton went down with injury. Washington’s pass defense is still ranked 1st in the NFL – as the unit has allowed only 162.7 ypg and 9 TDs on the season. The Redskins are starting to generate some pressure on opposing passers (24 sacks), and will try and get after Romo in order to bring out the carless version of the Dallas QB.

Running Game Thoughts: Despite having three extremely talented RBs, the Dallas running game has not been able to get on track in recent weeks. Perhaps Marion Barber and Felix Jones are not completely healthy after suffering major injuries earlier in the season, as neither has shown the explosive burst they are capable of. If that’s the case, you’d think that the Boys would get Tashard Choice more involved, but the opposite has been true as Choice has seen very little carries since all 3 backs have been “healthy”.

Washington’s run defense was amongst the best earlier this season, but in recent weeks they have allowed a bunch of yards to Michael Turner and Knowshon Moreno. Perhaps this is the week that the Dallas running game gets back on track.

Projections:
Tony Romo: 285 yds passing 1 TD, 1 Int. / 15 yds rushing
Roy Williams: 55 yds receiving
Miles Austin: 80 yds receiving, 1 TD
Jason Witten: 60 yds receiving
Felix Jones: 40 yds rushing / 25 yds receiving
Marion Barber: 85 yds rushing, 1 TD / 15 yds receiving

Prediction: Cowboys 17, Redskins 10 ^ Top