QBs: (1 pt per 25 yds passing; 6 pts for all TDs, -2 pts/INT)
WRs/TEs: (1 point per 10 yards rushing/receiving, 6 points per TD)

Note: Teams that have a fantasy relevant TE will be included. Otherwise, the numbers will reflect WR performance.

Passing

Brad Johnson/ MIN receivers (vs. ARI)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Cardinals this season: Chiefs, Raiders
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 17.3
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 22
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 17.2/19

Notes: Please heed this warning: DO NOT PLAY ANYONE ASSOCIATE WITH THE VIKINGS PASSING GAME!!! It’s that simple. They have scored a combined one TD in the last 3 weeks and the top yardage WR changes from week to week.

Drew Brees/Joe Horn/Marques Colston/Devery Henderson (vs. ATL)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Falcons this season: Saints, Bengals
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 14.5
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 25.4
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 13/16.8

Notes: Brees has become about as good of a start as Peyton as he’s been on fire lately (mostly because the defense has been so bad). As much as it probably hurts his owners, sit Colston unless you hear some very encouraging news late Friday or Saturday. This makes Horn and Henderson (with the Colston injury) solid plays. The Falcons defense is a shell of what it was to start the season.

Ben Roethlisberger/Hines Ward/Santonio Holmes (vs. BAL)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Ravens this season: Panthers, Broncos
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 15.9
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 29.1
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 14.4/17.1

Notes: When’s the last time this game figured to be a shootout? That time is now, as the Steelers pass defense has been terrible lately and the Ravens have shown they can be had in the air as well. And with both run defenses still as dominant as they have been in recent years, both teams figure to score via the air. Ward hyper-extended his knee last weekend, which makes him questionable for this game. It’s hard to imagine Ward sitting this one out, but if he does, look out for a suddenly hot Holmes, Heath Miller, and even Nate Washington to do damage. The Steelers will probably end up spreading it around, which makes Roethlisberger the best play of the bunch, followed closely by Ward if he is good to go.

David Garrard/Ernest Wilford/Matt Jones/Reggie Williams (vs. BUF)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Bills this season: Texans
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 10
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 14.8
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 12.9/16.5

Notes: Over the last five weeks, the Bills are allowing opposing QBs to complete nearly 69% of their passes. Garrard showed last Monday night that he can be accurate if his receivers will just hold on to the ball. Garrard seems to trust Wilford the most at this point, so look to both players as being somewhat sneaky good plays this weekend. Williams and Jones both seem to be fighting the ball which means they should not be fighting for a spot on your starting lineup.

Jason Campbell/Santana Moss/Brandon Lloyd/Chris Cooley (vs. CAR)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Panthers this season: Browns
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 2.1
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 8.4
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 7.6
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 4.3/8.6/1.2

Notes: The Panthers defense fell apart in Week 8 vs. Dallas, but they have absolutely shut down the Bucs and the Rams in the two games since their bye week. The Redskins don’t figure to do much better, despite a nice debut by Jason Campbell. Cooley still figures to have an acceptable game by fantasy TE standards, but just about everybody else associated with the Redskins passing game needs to take a seat this weekend. Moss has been upgraded, but it’s likely his owners have found a viable alternative by this point. Sit him again this week until he gives everyone a reason to take notice.

Tom Brady/Reche Caldwell/Troy Brown/Ben Watson (vs. CHI)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Bears this season: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 7/17/1.2

Notes: Perhaps the best preparation the Bears could have asked for before heading to Gillette Stadium this weekend was to get the Jets the week before. Ben Watson will certainly pose a matchup problem; however, the Bears have allowed only 17.8 fantasy points to TEs all season. Cover 2 can generally be exploited by TEs or WRs that live in between the hashmarks, so, if Watson does not figure to be the man, the Pats will have to turn to a WR that doesn’t mind running across the middle, so Caldwell once again could have the best game by a Patriots WR. It would be wise, however, to temper expectations on Brady. The most yards the Bears have allowed to a QB over the last four games is 162 and the defense has intercepted two passes from each of the three previous QBs it has faced. This should be a low-scoring game.

Charlie Frye/Braylon Edwards/Joe Jurevicius/Kellen Winslow (vs. CIN)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Bengals this season: Browns
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 10.8
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 13.9
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 5.5
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 22.7/27.4/10.9

Notes: Things certainly have changed since Week 2, when these teams met at Paul Brown Stadium. The Browns have a new play caller and the Bengals have been ravaged by injuries in their back seven. Bear in mind that while the three week numbers look awful, they have come at the hand of two of the league’s best offenses (Chargers, Saints). Expect numbers resembling the first meeting with Edwards a distinct possibility to top 100 yards and a score. Winslow should be good for about 70 yards himself. However, what will determine the outcome of this game (and the overall success of the Browns offense) will be whether or not Frye can avoid turning the ball over. Monitor the weather as well, as high winds have been forecasted. This would make Winslow and Jurevicius slightly better plays than Edwards.

Carson Palmer/Chad Johnson/Doug Houshmandzadeh (vs. CLE)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Browns this season: Bengals
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 22.2
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 42.5
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 14.1/19.3

Notes: Johnson and Houshmandzadeh each scored 13.8 and 13.7 points, respectively, back in Week 2 when these two teams met for the first time. Since that time, the Browns have not allowed that many points to any one WR. This may not mean much this Sunday, because as of now, there are strong wind gusts forecasted for this game. This would benefit the running game more than anyone, but in the passing game, Houshmandzadeh would be the better play in such a scenario. Obviously, Johnson will not sit for any owner for the rest of the season, but high winds will impact his numbers more so than they would Houshmandzadeh.

Matt Hasselbeck/Darrell Jackson/Deion Branch (vs. GB)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Packers this season: Saints, Cardinals
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 15.1
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 24.4
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 18.2/17.9

Notes: It’s time to face the fact that the running game isn’t going to fuel the Seahawks’ run to the playoffs this season. Hasselbeck has fueled many a fantasy playoff run over the years. Start him with extreme confidence (and the same goes for Wallace if Hasselbeck’s knee takes a turn for the worse.) If you are fortunate enough to have Branch and Jackson, feel free to start both of them, but either way, both WRs are great plays this week.

Chad Pennington/Laveranues Coles/Jerricho Cotchery (vs. HOU)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Texans this season: Redskins
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 16.4
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 18.9
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 15.6/19.7

Notes: As juicy as this matchup is for Pennington, it is hard to start him with much confidence. He hasn’t scored more than 12 fantasy points in his last four outings. Coming off the heels of Lee Evans’ mind-blowing performance, it would appear fellow speedster Laveranues Coles is poised for a great game, too. However, Pennington has really become a caretaker in this offense and is not likely to air it out like Losman did last week-nor does he have Losman’s arm. Both WRs are worth starting in deeper leagues, but it would be hard to expect for a huge game from either one.

Jeff Garcia/Donte Stallworth/Reggie Brown/LJ Smith (vs. IND)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Colts this season: Texans, Jets
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 18.3
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 21.1
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 9.4
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 3.3/11.6/3.4

Notes: Carr had his way with the Colts back in Week 2 fantasy-wise, but remember most of those numbers were piled up as they played from behind for most of the game. Getting to this game, the Colts have only allowed four double-digit performances to WRs all season, so don’t look for the Eagles to go off in this one and none since Javon Walker in Week 8. QBs have likewise struggled as the Colts defense has not allowed a double-digit performance in that same time. All in all, the numbers say the Eagles better be prepared to run with the Colts recent play vs. opposing passing games. Look for the Eagles passing game to struggle with Smith the likely main target in the short passing game outside of Brian Westbrook.

JP Losman/Lee Evans/Roscoe Parrish (vs. JAX)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Jags this season: Redskins
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 29.2
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 37
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 10.2/12.3

Notes: While the Redskins game appears to be an aberration, what is disturbing is when the Jags take their defense on the road. They simply aren’t very predictable, as they have played to the level of their competition time after time. They have gone 1-3 on the road and allowed all their big games to opposing QBs away from home. That said, it’s hard to like the matchup for anyone in the passing game despite their explosion against Houston last week. Rashean Mathis should limit Evans most of the day and the Bills simply just don’t have enough weapons outside of Evans to repeat last week’s outburst. But it wouldn’t be a total shock to see the Jags let down once again, so if you have been using Evans as your #2 WR to this point, continue to do so. Just don’t expect much from this passing game this week.

Matt Leinart/Anquan Boldin/Larry Fitzgerald (vs. MIN)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Vikings this season: Seahawks, Packers
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 18.4
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 31.5
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 14/19.3

Notes: Perhaps the most interesting insight on this matchup is that the top route-runners this defense have faced (Darrell Jackson, Donald Driver) have been the WRs to burn the Vikings, each on plays of 70+ yards. Cedric Griffin replaces Fred Smoot in the Vikes defensive backfield for now, which could mean the Cardinals will see if he can hang with either member of this talented WR corps. (Boldin SHOULD be matched up with Griffin and WRs similar to Boldin have been pretty successful recently breaking for a long score vs. this defense recently.) The Cardinals figure to have no success running the ball in this game, which means they should air it out most of the day. That said, Leinart has only thrown for two scores in the last four games and this defense is not one to try to get those issues worked out.

Rex Grossman/Muhsin Muhammad/Mark Bradley/Desmond Clark (vs. NE)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Pats this season: Broncos
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 23.1
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 37
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 2.4
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 12.4/20.2/4

Notes: The best TE the Pats have faced thus far is probably Dallas Clark, so matching up with this Clark will be a new challenge. However, road games have not been kind to those counting on the Bears passing game. It’s hard to see that changing this weekend. Also, keep in mind that the Patriots are laying down a completely new carpet on their home field, so expect the unexpected (including injuries). The Pats have struggled from time to time with bigger WRs (Cotchery, Javon Walker), so Muhammad may make some noise. Nevertheless, expect a low scoring, low yardage game from this passing game.

Michael Vick/Michael Jenkins/Ashley Lelie/Alge Crumpler (vs. NO)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Saints this season: Falcons
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 11.2
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 7.1
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 4.9
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 24.7/33.7/4.3

Notes: We all remember the Week 3 MNF game where the Saints did New Orleans proud in their return to the Superdome. Since that game, however, the Saints have allowed 2+ passing TDs in each game while only intercepting one pass. Yet, this is Vick we are talking about and the Saints certainly had him game-planned for in the first meeting. Keep expectations modest for Vick although there is reason to expect a huge game from him. As many may remember, Crumpler dropped a lot of passes in that game, not to mention at least one TD opportunity. Expect Crump to play MUCH better this time. Jenkins has scored in four of his last five and is a pretty good bet to do it again.

Vince Young/Drew Bennett/Brandon Jones (vs. NYG)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Giants this season: Falcons, Jaguars
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 14.1
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 10.9
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 18/20

Notes: With all the Giants injuries, they can be had via the air. Unfortunately, fantasy owners should want no part of the Titans passing game. This offense is all about the running game. Young is probably good for 40 yards rushing and 125 yards passing with a score included in there somewhere, in other words, nothing big will be happening here.

David Carr/Andre Johnson/Eric Moulds/Owen Daniels (vs. NYJ)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Jets this season: Browns
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 11.5
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 3.5
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 15.9
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 12.1/15/6.1

Notes: One gets the distinct feeling opposing teams pass against the Jets when offensive coordinators want to give their RB a breather. That said, the Jets have still allowed a fantasy WR a double-digit performance in just about every game AND they have allowed each QB since Week 1 to reach double digits as well. Don’t look for either trend to change here. Lastly, for those that need a sneaky play at TE this week, Daniels could find himself in position for a short yardage score.

Philip Rivers/SD receivers/Antonio Gates (vs. OAK)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Raiders this season: Chargers
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 10.5
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 5.6
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 9.4
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 12.5/17.2/1.8

Notes: Many will remember the 8-for-11 performance Rivers delivered in Week 1 against the Raiders. My, how this season has changed! While it is not advisable to play any Chargers receivers at this point because there are about 4-5 receivers who may lead the team in receiving any given week (amazing for such a high-scoring team), the Raiders have allowed a score to each top TE they have faced. Expect Gates to continue that streak. The Raiders defense has actually been pretty fair over the course of the season, but this game should be all Chargers as the Raiders continue their year-long ineptitude on offense. The scoring by the Chargers will once again be mostly by Tomlinson, but expect something resembling the 27-0 result in Week 1 rather than the 40 points the Bolts have been putting up lately, meaning Rivers will probably find Gates for a score and put up around 200 yards. In other words, expect another average performance for Rivers.

Peyton Manning/Marvin Harrison/Reggie Wayne/Dallas Clark (vs. PHI)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Eagles this season: Giants, Saints
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 27.9
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 39.8
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 2.9
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 8.4/4.8/3.9

Notes: Don’t be fooled by the modest averages you see over the past three weeks, as the offenses they have faced are far from respectable (JAX, WAS, TEN). This game appears to be a fantasy points bonanza for Manning and his receivers as teams such as the Giants (earlier in the year) and the Saints have absolutely had their way. Clark may be good for a score, but expect Harrison and Wayne to each play like the #1 fantasy WRs they are. Expect Harrison to be the highest scoring WR this time around.

Steve McNair/Derrick Mason/Mark Clayton/Todd Heap (vs. PIT)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Steelers this season: Chiefs, Broncos
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 16.1
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 25.6
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 0.8
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 20.2/27.2/1.3

Notes: The Steelers pass defense has been under fire for most of the season and it figures to be no different this weekend. Clayton’s recent play has moved him above Mason as far as being the #2 option in this passing game behind Heap. Heap continues to deal with injuries, so while fellow top TEs like Crumpler and Gates scored well vs. the Steelers, don’t expect more than an average Heap performance. This matchup looks particularly good for Clayton and McNair as it would be surprising for Clayton not to score at least once. This game may be more of a shootout than one would expect in such a defensive rivalry.

Aaron Brooks/Randy Moss/Ronald Curry (vs. SD)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Chargers this season: Raiders
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 5
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 8.0
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 17.9/29.2

Notes: Plain and simple, this is a BAD matchup. The Raiders defense will determine if and how long this game stays close. The Raiders are seemingly preparing for life post-Moss. If you have to play a Raider WR, play Curry.

Marc Bulger/Torry Holt/Isaac Bruce (vs. SF)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the 49ers this season: Rams
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 11.3
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 18.8
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 10.3/14.7

Notes: The 49ers have really stepped on defense over the past three weeks, fueling their current 3-game winning streak. And lately, meeting the Rams has been music to Mike Nolan’s ears. If the Rams hope to change that, they need to find a way to re-establish Holt in the passing game. And while the Rams’ top priority this week is re-establishing the run, they will need Holt if they hope to stretch this improved Niners defense. As a result, expect Holt to pick up his fantasy owners this week, possibly fueling a late season surge for his owners.

Brett Favre/Donald Driver/Greg Jennings (vs. SEA)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Seahawks this season: Cardinals, Rams (2)
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 17
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 25.7
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 10.9/13.9

Notes: Expect Favre to play as you have for nearly 15 years. What is of more concern to owners involved with the Packers passing game was how off-target Favre looked before his elbow injury. Given the amount of success the Pats had in blanketing Driver, it wouldn’t be a total shock to see the Seahawks try it too, although that is doubtful as the Seahawks typically trust their corners to go one-on-one with opposing receivers. Either way, play all the aforementioned Packers and look for a major contribution from Jennings on Monday night as the Seahawks have struggled defending their opponents’ deep threat all season.

Alex Smith/Antonio Bryant/Arnaz Battle (vs. STL)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Rams this season: 49ers
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 15.2
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 28.3
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 17.6/15.5

Notes: The Rams defense started out the season like a ball of fire, but they have been doused repeatedly since. While the Niners have committed heavily to Frank Gore and the ground game, there is still plenty of room to get at least one receiver some decent fantasy numbers. Lately, that receiver has been Battle. However, Bryant lit up the Rams in Week 2 and since the Rams haven’t done well defending the deep ball, expect him to do well again. Keep expectations modest on Smith, but if you are in a pinch and need a fill-in starter this week, Smith should be good for a few rushing yards, 175 passing yards, and a score.

Eli Manning/Plaxico Burress/Tim Carter/Jeremy Shockey (vs. TEN)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Titans this season: Chargers, Redskins
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 17.7
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 13.3
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 7.3
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last 3 weeks: 23.7/25/8.6

Notes: This may be a game for the younger Manning to get his “confidence” back. No one in the Titans secondary matches up well with Burress and the numbers suggest they don’t cover the TE very well either. While you can expect the Giants to re-establish the running game after taking a siesta on MNF last week, they would be foolish to ignore the obvious mismatches they have going for them in the passing game. This should be a good week to be a Manning, Shockey, and Burress owner.

Jake Delhomme/Steve Smith/Keyshawn Johnson (vs. WAS)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Redskins this season: Cowboys (2)
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 22.5
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 27.5
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs over the last 3 weeks: 21/22.4

Notes: This defense just allowed a 20-point performance to a QB making his first start. And while there is a lot to like about Jason Campbell, he was without Santana Moss. Now comes fantasy’s best WR to make things worse for the Redskins. It wouldn’t be a total shock to see Smith score a couple times and go well over 100 yards. Johnson warrants play in 3 WR leagues or maybe as a flex player, but nothing more. Delhomme makes for one of the better starts of the week, despite his somewhat inconsistent play from week to week.

Rushing

RBs: (1 pt per 10 yards rushing/receiving; 6 pts for all TDs)

Chester Taylor (vs. ARI)
Similar RBs that have faced the Cardinals this season: Steven Jackson, Thomas Jones, Marion Barber
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 10.4
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 24

Notes: All-purpose backs are the way to go in fantasy, that much has been known for some time. However, the Cardinals have really struggled defending the every-down RBs this season. Taylor is coming off a good game (fantasy-wise) last week vs. a tough Miami run defense. It also helps the Cardinals lost their best defensive player, DE Bert Berry, for the year. Because no one can run on the Vikings and the Cardinals passing game is struggling, this game should remain close throughout, which will allow Taylor his 25+ touches. Expect 120 total yards and at least one score from Taylor this week.

Deuce McAllister/Reggie Bush (vs. ATL)
Similar RB committees that have faced the Falcons this season: McAllister/Bush
FF Points vs. similar RB committees: 16.6
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 23

Notes: In their first meeting, the Saints were very content in running the ball and using Bush as the decoy to spring players such as Devery Henderson. The defense also played lights out and schemed very well for the seemingly unbeatable Falcons. Since that time, the Saints defense has lost the ability to stop any offense and it is questionable whether they can recapture the magic for this game-a game both teams desperately need to win. In part because of the defense’s ineptitude, Bush has seen much more action as of late as the Saints have needed to pass often, a trend we should expect to continue. So while Bush is not a great bet to score in this one, he will pile up the yards. Expect Deuce to score, but keep the yardage expectations low. This will be a fairly high scoring game, but the Saints will do most of the damage via the passing game once again.

Willie Parker (vs. BAL)
Similar RBs that have faced the Ravens this season: N/A
FF Points vs. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 13.6

Notes: Parker has really thrived at home and been slightly above average on the road. This one is on the road, but lately, Parker has been doing everything he can to cement his place as a top 5 pick in next year’s fantasy drafts. The Ravens have only allowed three double-digit performances to RBs all season, but two of those have come in the past three weeks. And Parker should make that three of four. In what should be a surprisingly high scoring affair between these two defensive teams, look for Parker to get at least one score. He’ll likely be held in check yardage-wise, but he’s been too good all season to sit in any league.

Fred Taylor/Maurice Jones-Drew(vs. BUF)
Similar RBs that have faced the Bills this season: Corey Dillon/Laurence Maroney (2), Kevan Barlow/Leon Washington
FF Points vs. similar RB committees: 18.2
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 25.7

Notes: The Bills have given up the third-most fantasy points to opposing RBs, so both players are excellent #2 RBs this week. Actually, both RBs have been solid fantasy starters most of the season despite the fact they are sharing the workload. And despite being underrated most of his career, the committee is in place for good reason. Taylor’s fumble on MNF vs. the Giants once again reminded us all why Taylor sits on those all-important goal line carries most of the time. Either way, expect Taylor to push 100 total yards. However, given the choice between the two this week, opt for Drew as the chances he scores more than once is likely.

Ladell Betts (vs. CAR)
Similar RBs that have faced the Panthers this season: N/A
FF Points vs. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 3.6

Notes: If the Panthers are going to play defense like they did last week vs. the Rams, the Redskins may get shut out too. It’s hard to get excited about any Redskins offensive player this weekend, as the Rams have superior players at every position. We’ll chalk a little bit of that dominance the past couple weeks to home cookin’, but the fact is that Washington should not put up much more than a touchdown on this defense. Doug Duckett figures to get any goal-line carries and Chris Cooley is likely the #1 option in the red zone, so Betts’ best bet is as a flex play at best this weekend. Portis owners who have been using him to fill in for their stud should continue to do so, but 60-70 total yards is the most that should be expected this weekend.

Corey Dillon/Laurence Maroney (vs. CHI)
Similar RB committees that have faced the Bears this season: N/A
FF Points vs. similar RB committees: N/A
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 18.6

Notes: The first true committee RB situation the Bears faced was last week vs. the Jets. The Pats’ duo is much better, the line is better, and they will stick with the run longer. This game should be close throughout, allowing both teams to run the ball about 30 times. It’s hard to figure either back will do very well against this defense, but Maroney better fits the profile of RBs that have had some degree of success vs. the Bears (Ronnie Brown, Frank Gore). Understanding that most fantasy owners are counting on one or both of these backs as their #2 RB, you almost have to play them despite the matchup. Also, bear in mind that the Pats may opt for the same strategy they did vs. the Vikings and spread the Bears out in 4-and-5 wide formations. Just keep your expectations for the Pats running game very modest this weekend.

Reuben Droughns (vs. CIN)
Similar RBs that have faced the Bengals this season: Reuben Droughns
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 12.2
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 28.2

Notes: It’s unclear at this time if Droughns will be able to play this weekend either. As his owners likely know by now, Jason Wright will line up in the backfield if Droughns cannot go. Regardless of which player goes, this matchup is not the greatest for the Browns RBs. Because despite better play calling over the past few weeks, the run game has struggled to muster 8 fantasy points a week over the last 3 weeks even though the passing game has improved. And with the exception of the huge game Tomlinson put on them, the Bengals defense has been pretty respectable vs. opposing RBs over the past five weeks. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see whichever RB that starts put up 60 total yards, but counting on a Browns RB to score is risky business. Look elsewhere this week if at all possible.

Rudi Johnson (vs. CLE)
Similar RBs that have faced the Browns this season: Rudi Johnson
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 26.8
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 24.5

Notes: It may be hard to expect greatness from Rudi the rest of the way considering the schedule, but this is one game you should. Rudi has absolutely torn up the Browns in his career (642 yards and 6 TDs in his last four starts vs. CLE). Because he is missing still missing some important pieces on the offensive line, do not expect Rudi to carry your fantasy team to victory this week. That said, he should eclipse the century mark yet again and score at least once, making him a pretty safe #1 RB play this weekend.

Shaun Alexander (vs. GB)
Similar RBs that have faced the Packers this season: Deuce McAllister, Corey Dillon, Anthony Thomas
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 14.8
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 22

Notes: (One quick point: the current Alexander resembles Deuce, Dillon, and A-Train. Obviously, when fully healthy, Alexander is much better.) A-Train’s 16.1 point performance vs. the Packers is pretty much the ceiling of what Alexander owners should expect this week from their #1 pick. It’s probably too much to ask Alexander to return to the 16 TD-stud form we have come to know and love over the years THIS season. The Seahawks will win this game through the passing game on Monday night, so keep your expectations realistic on Alexander this week and for the rest of the season.

Jets RBs (vs. HOU)
Similar RB committees that have faced the Texans this season: N/A
FF Points vs. similar RB committees: N/A
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 20.6

Notes: The good news for the Texans is that the Jets’ committee is the worst of the bunch they will face. The bad news for fantasy owners is that Cedric Houston returned last week and garnered the most carries, further muddying the waters. For the most part, the power back in each committee they have faced has done the best, making (Cedric) Houston the best play for this week’s game. Expect Kevan Barlow to continue getting phased out, making Leon Washington the next best play.

Brian Westbrook (vs. IND)
Similar RBs that have faced the Colts this season: Tiki Barber
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 17.1
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 21.3

Notes: With the injury to McNabb, it is pretty clear where the Eagles will get their offense each week. What makes this difficult is that opposing defenses know this as well, so it is hard to expect pre-McNabb injury numbers from Westbrook. And considering his extensive injury history, he’s far from a sure thing to stay injury-free, especially if he continues to see the 34 touches he did last week. However, his owners should get a bit of a reprieve this week. Westbrook should be good for his typical 130+ total yards again this week. Something to keep in mind though…Indy’s defense is built on speed. It sounds as if Bob Sanders will be out again this week. That is big news for Westbrook owners as Sanders is HUGE in the Colts ability to stop opponents’ running games. If he is somehow able to play, knock your expectations of Westbrook down a couple notches.

Anthony Thomas/Willis McGahee (vs. JAX)
Similar RBs that have faced the Jags this season: Travis Henry
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 6.7
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 11.7

Notes: Quite honestly, there is little reason for McGahee to rush coming back from broken ribs and fantasy owners should be in no rush to play him if he chooses to play this week. That said, when teams have run well vs. the Jags, they have done so when the Jags are visiting-this game is in Buffalo. The Bills running game has been solid, but far from spectacular, this season if you have been counting on it for #2 RB production. It should be more of the same in this one, as A-Train will have a hard time reaching 70 yards on Sunday. (The few times the Jags defense has allowed a good fantasy game to a RB, the back has been more of a speedy/shifty type.) And given the fact that the Jags defense has allowed only 4 rushing scores all season, it’s probably not wise to expect Buffalo to raise that number. Play Thomas/McGahee if you must, but don’t expect a whole lot.

Edgerrin James (vs. MIN)
Similar RBs that have faced the Vikings this season: Thomas Jones, Willis McGahee
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 10.4
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 7.2

Notes: The Vikes have been very solid against their opponents’ running games all season. James is running behind a terrible line, as most of the country knows by now. A 1-yard scoring plunge is always possible, but not likely as the Vikings have not allowed a rushing score since Week 4. This is another week to hardly get excited about James. He’ll be fortunate to top 60 total yards.

Thomas Jones (vs. NE)
Similar RBs that have faced the Pats this season: Willis McGahee (2), Chester Taylor
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 8.8
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 11.7

Notes: Jones has found a little bit of fantasy consistency in recent weeks, with 93 total yards being his worst output over the past four weeks. That should change this week, although Jones and Cedric Benson should each get their share of 35+ carries. Continue to use him as a #2 RB, but Jones is not the type of runner that figures to have a great deal of success against the Pats run defense. (At the very worst, this is a game where it wouldn’t be a bit surprising if the Pats spread the field and tried to throw all day. They have been successful against defenses like the Bears doing that, which, in turn, would force Grossman to throw all day to keep up, limiting the Bears ground game.) The likelihood is great for a poor fantasy day by Jones.

Warrick Dunn (vs. NO)
Similar RBs that have faced the Saints this season: Dunn
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 4.6
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 19

Notes: Since that unforgettable Week 3 meeting in the Superdome, the Saints defense has not been the same. The passing defense woes were documented have been well-documented, but the run defense hasn’t performed much better, allowing five 100-yard rushers in that time. And while Dunn (and the Falcons offense, for that matter) has struggled as of late, this is a game Dunn should have some success in, assuming the Falcons defense can keep Drew Brees somewhat in check early on. Expect Dunn to push the 100-yard mark and score on a long run in this all-important divisional game.

Travis Henry (vs. NYG)
Similar RBs that have faced the Giants this season: Cadillac Williams, Thomas Jones
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 10.9
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 16.4

Notes: There are reasons to like both sides of the matchup. The Giants defense, even with their recent injuries, are still only allowing 3.4 yds/carry on the season. On the other hand, because the Giants offense has been down lately, teams that want to stick to the run can continue running, which has been the case the past two weeks. And given the chance, the Titans will run all day. So, despite the tough matchup, Henry makes a decent #2 RB play as he stands to see 30+ touches if the Giants cannot overcome their offensive woes. With that many touches, 90 yards and a short TD run are realistic expectations. Keep in mind, though, that Henry has disappointed on more than one occasion this season when the matchup looked favorable.

Wali Lundy/Samkon Gado (vs. NYJ)
Similar RB committees that have faced the Jets this season: N/A
FF Points vs. similar RB committees: N/A
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 11.7

Notes: This is a good week to own a Texans RB (How many times this year have you been able to say that?), but the question remains whether Lundy or Gado is the better Texan to own. In their favor is the fact that the Jets have allowed every opponent to record a double-digit point producer at the RB position this season. Additionally, the Jets are allowing over 5 yards/carry to opposing RBs over the past three weeks. Since Lundy will start the game, he gets the nod as the best Texans RB to play. Lundy may be good for around 80 total yards and Gado may check in at about 50 yards and a score.

LaDainian Tomlinson (vs. OAK)
Similar RBs that have faced the Raiders this season: Tomlinson
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 20.9
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 21

Notes: Settle down, LT owners. As much as we would like these 4 TD outings to continue, at some point they will go back down to the 2-3 score levels we are used to seeing from him. Expect that to happen this week. He should have a better game than the 20.9 game he hung on the Raiders during the first meeting, but keep expectations in the 140 total yards, 2-score range. The Raiders have been playing better defense than many are giving them credit for, but this game figures to see some Michael Turner in mop-up duty when the Oakland offense (once again) cannot score.

Joseph Addai/Dominic Rhodes (vs. PHI)
Similar RBs that have faced the Eagles this season: Julius Jones/Marion Barber, Fred Taylor/Maurice Jones-Drew
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 23.6
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 14

Notes: It’s a tired old song that Addai continues to outperform Rhodes, but Tony Dungy is making good on his promise to not overload the rookie this season. And while Addai will outperform Rhodes yet again, this game will belong to the Colts passing game. If you have been using Addai as a #2 RB and Rhodes as a flex option, continue to do so. However, this week does not figure to be a great week for either of them to blow up. Addai will be in the 60-70 total yard neighborhood with a garbage time score an outside possibility and Rhodes will struggle to hit 50 total yards.

Jamal Lewis (vs. PIT)
Similar RBs that have faced the Steelers this season:
Rudi Johnson, LaMont Jordan, Deuce McAllister
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 6.5
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 16.5

Notes: The Steelers have not allowed more than 13 points to a single RB since Week 1. And considering the intensity and familiarity of this rivalry, don’t expect it to happen here. The scoring in this game figure to be air-based or via a turnover or a special teams return. Because he will see 25 carries, pencil Lewis in for 80 yards. Don’t figure on anything more than that.

Justin Fargas (vs. SD)
Similar RBs that have faced the Steelers this season: Fargas
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 3.5
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 21.1

Notes: To be fair, the Chargers only saw Fargas in garbage time in Week 1, but the Chargers have the benefit of having seen him several times over the years as a division rival. Also, there will be a fair amount of ReShard Lee and Zach Crockett in this game. Either way, there doesn’t figure to be many rushing attempts for the Raiders in this one, as the Raiders will be forced to throw more often in this game. Fargas is a desperation play this week in every sense of the word.

Steven Jackson (vs. SF)
Similar RBs that have faced the 49ers this season: Jackson
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 12.4
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 11.7

Notes: The Niners have really struggled with RBs this season that can catch the ball out of the backfield. Jackson qualifies, so even though the Niners have raised their level of play considerably over this current 3-game winning streak, Jackson should have at least match the 12.4 number he put up in Week 2. And considering the Rams have publicly stated their intention to “stick with the run” this week, expect Jackson to receive a workload that would make Larry Johnson proud. Target 120-140 total yards this week with a score being a high possibility.

Ahman Green (vs. SEA)
Similar RBs that have faced the Seahawks this season: Kevin Jones, Tiki Barber, Frank Gore
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 11.9
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 19

Notes: What can explain how two backs that most teams have struggled with this season, the Seahawks have contained (Jones, Barber)? Those games were in the first three weeks. Since that time, Seattle has really struggled against opposing RBs. Until we see contrary evidence, assume Green will follow suit and rough the Seahawk defense up. Gore absolutely had his way last week, so if things don’t change, Green could ring up this defense for another 150 yards. Feel very good about playing Green this week.

Frank Gore (vs. STL)
Similar RBs that have faced the Rams this season: Gore
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 17.7
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 21.7

Notes: This game sets up well for Gore to put up another 200 yards…seriously. The Rams have allowed 7 of their opponents to feature a 100-yard rusher this season through 10 games. Gore will have another big game this week, something close to the 21.7 average the Rams have allowed opposing RBs over the past three weeks.

Tiki Barber (vs. TEN)
Similar RBs that have faced the Titans this season: LaDainian Tomlinson, Clinton Portis, Brian Westbrook
FF Points vs. similar RBs: 19.5
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 17.5

Notes: Two things to note: 1) Barber’s 10 carries last week were his fewest since Week 1 of the 2004 season. 2) Barber openly questioned the play-calling after the game. Don’t look for a repeat of last week. Barber will get his touches this week. Barber does not figure to be a good bet to score for the rest of the year, but he will put up his all-around numbers once again despite the fact that the Titans have picked it up lately on defense.

DeShaun Foster/DeAngelo Williams (vs. WAS)
Similar RB committees that have faced the Redskins this season: Julius Jones/Marion Barber, Fred Taylor/Maurice Jones-Drew, Joseph Addai/Dominic Rhodes
FF Points vs. similar RB committees: 15.8
FF Points vs. all other teams’ running games over the last 3 weeks: 22.6

Notes: Foster left early during last week’s win vs. the Rams. Williams didn’t disappoint, topping 100 yards for a team that has struggled to run the ball this season (Williams 100-yard game was only the third this season for the Panthers). We have seen this before (where Williams impressed in relief of Foster) and Fox has stood firm in continuing to give Foster the majority of the carries. As a result, expect Foster to get the majority of carries assuming he is healthy this week. In each of the aforementioned three “committee matchups”, the power back has been the better fantasy play. So, even though he is not a “power back” per se, the numbers suggest Foster is in line for a nice #2 RB performance.