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

Note: Teams that have a fantasy relevant TE will be included. Also, for the first weeks, projected fantasy points allowed will be used as teams have yet to establish any trends. After the first month of the season, this column will take on the look it had last season as there will be enough information to start analyzing trends.

ARI @ BAL | SF @ PIT | STL @ TB | DET @ PHI | MIA @ NYJ | BUF @ NE | MIN @ KC | IND @ HOU
SD @ GB | CIN @ SEA | CLE @ OAK | JAX @ DEN | CAR @ ATL | NYG @ WAS | DAL @ CHI | TEN @ NO

Cardinals @ Ravens
Matt Leinart/Anquan Boldin/Larry Fitzgerald
Edgerrin James (vs. BAL)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Ravens this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Ravens 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 17.5/25.3
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 8.4

Passing Game Thoughts: The Cardinals got a small taste of Baltimore when they faced San Francisco in Week 1 (HC Mike Nolan was the Ravens’ last DC). However, the Niners defense is not nearly on the same level as the Ravens. For that reason, expect a Week 1-like performance from Leinart & Co. Fitzgerald figures to draw CB Chris McAlister while Boldin should be paired up against CB Samari Rolle most of the time – advantage: Boldin, by a bit.

Running Game Thoughts: For those folks that enjoyed the James thrill-ride the first two weeks, expect a temporary reprieve. The Ravens are allowing 2.8/carry to the RB position and do not figure to give up much more to the Cardinals. Don’t expect the game plan to change much for Arizona, though, as the Cardinals have to be enjoying life with balance in their offense.

Projections:
Matt Leinart: 200 pass/1 TD/2 INT
Anquan Boldin: 65 rec/1 TD
Larry Fitzgerald: 55 rec
Edgerrin James: 60 rush/30 rec

Steve McNair/Mark Clayton/Derrick Mason/Todd Heap
Willis McGahee (vs. ARI)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Cardinals this season: 49ers
Similar running attacks that have faced the Cardinals this season: 49ers
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 9.9
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 9.6
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. similar RBs: 14.1
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 14.3/19.7/0.2
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 16.5

Passing Game Thoughts: Kyle Boller filled in about as well as could have been expected for an injured McNair (groin) in Week 2. But the offense was installed this season with McNair in mind, so it will be nice to get him back. So far, the early surprise has to be the production of Mason, who has seen the fourth-most targets among WRs, good for 15 catches. Chalk some of this up to an injured Clayton (foot), so keep watch as to when Clayton starts looking healthier (as this could be a good sell-high situation on Mason and buy-low opportunity on Clayton). All that said, I expect a healthy dose of the running game in this contest, making every Raven in the passing game an average play at best. (Of course, you’re not going to sit Heap, just don’t expect a huge game from him.)

Running Game Thoughts: McGahee has 50 total touches through two weeks – don’t expect things to change in this contest. Expect another 25-30 touches for McGahee as neither team figures to pull all that far ahead of the other. He may be buoyed by the return of LT Jonathan Ogden, who sat out last week due to his injured toe. With McNair still nursing his own injuries, expect the former Cane to receive his heaviest workload as a Raven.

Projections:
Steve McNair: 200 pass/1 TD/1 INT/15 rush
Mark Clayton: 50 rec/1TD
Derrick Mason: 65 rec
Todd Heap: 55 rec
Willis McGahee: 100 rush/1TD/15 rec

Niners @ Steelers
Alex Smith/Darrell Jackson/Arnaz Battle/Vernon Davis
Frank Gore (vs. PIT)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Steelers this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Steelers 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 13.2/10.6/6.1
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 10.5

Passing Game Thoughts: With all due respect to the Rams and Cardinals, the Niners have yet to face a defense the caliber of the Steelers – and bear in mind they have topped 200 total yards in either one of their first two games. They will need to rely on the right arm of Alex Smith in this contest, a responsibility he has not shown that he able to handle quite yet. San Francisco will run the ball with little-to-moderate success – for the most part – meaning Smith will need to find rediscover Davis as the blitz will bear down on the QB faster than did the pass rushes of Arizona and St. Louis. Since Kellen Winslow was able to find some success late in the Week 1 meeting against the Steelers, it is not too much to expect Davis to be the go-to guy in this matchup.

Running Game Thoughts: All things considered, Marshawn Lynch did a fine job compiling 85 total yards on the Pittsburgh defense, considering JP Losman barely managed 150 yards of passing in Week 2. This bodes well for Gore, who has a better line and is a better back than Lynch at this point. The Steelers will keep Gore bottled up for the most part, though, so while his owners cannot bench him, it may be reasonable to expect #2 RB numbers from him this week.

Projections:
Alex Smith: 165 pass/1 TD/2 INT/20 rush
Darrell Jackson: 35 rec
Arnaz Battle: 40 rec
Vernon Davis: 60 rec/1 TD
Frank Gore: 75 rush/20 rec

Ben Roethlisberger/Hines Ward/Santonio Holmes/Heath Miller
Willie Parker (vs. SF)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the 49ers this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the 49ers 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 17.5/21.8/3.5
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 15.8

Passing Game Thoughts: The Niners defense is improved, but it’s a sad statement that after three weeks, it will be the toughest defense the Steelers have faced to this point. At this point, the supposed #1 WRs for each of the first two teams the Niners have faced (Larry Fitzgerald, Torry Holt) have combined for 94 yards and one score. Ward is more like Anquan Boldin than any other WR San Francisco has faced to this point, so expect Ward to have a fair game. However, it has been the #2 WR of the Niners opponents (Boldin, Isaac Bruce) that has given them the most problems, so we may have to wait and see if Holmes turns that into a trend. (Also, we discovered late in the week that pass rushing LB Manny Lawson was lost for the season for the Niners, meaning the pass rush will fall off somewhat dramatically.)

Running Game Thoughts: This game figures to be a fairly good test of the state of the Pittsburgh running game. The Niners have held RBs to 3.3 yds/carry so far (Steven Jackson, Edgerrin James). Parker is a different style of RB, though, which is what makes the matchup intriguing. Is the Steeler offensive line that was supposedly in disarray that good or is the San Francisco run defense that good? Expect Parker to break off one long run, but for him to have his worst rushing total of the season thus far.

Projections:
Ben Roethlisberger: 210 rush/2 TD/1 INT
Hines Ward: 70 rec/1 TD
Santonio Holmes: 55 rec
Heath Miller: 25 rec/1 TD
Willie Parker: 85 rush/1 TD/15 rec

Rams @ Bucs
Marc Bulger/Torry Holt/Isaac Bruce/Drew Bennett/Randy McMichael
Steven Jackson (vs. TB)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Bucs this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Bucs 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 16.9/18/3.3
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 25.8

Passing Game Thoughts: There are a few guarantees in life: the first two I can think of are bad. The third one may very well be Holt putting up big numbers against the Bucs. Holt has posted a 100-yard game each of the four times he has faced Tampa Bay – he added two scores in the last meeting. This obviously means good things for Bulger as well. Dial down expectations for the rest of the Rams passing game as their battered offensive line gels. That fact makes every player besides Holt and Bulger a risky play. So does the knowledge that HC Scott Linehan is going to start wearing out Steven Jackson just about any day now.

Running Game Thoughts: As the aforementioned offensive line begins to adapt to its injuries (three starters were out in Week 2) and gets one or two of them back, expect Jackson to rediscover his role in the offense. Initial expectations may need to be dialed down on him, but there is also no reason he can’t get on a run like he did towards the end of last season. The Bucs have been allowing considerable receiving yards to the RB position through two weeks, so expect Linehan to get Jackson to do likewise, getting the big back out in the open on some quick passes out in the flat to keep the pressure off the line.

Projections:
Marc Bulger: 280 pass/2 TD/1 INT
Torry Holt: 115 rec/1 TD
Isaac Bruce: 45 rec
Drew Bennett: 40 rec/1 TD
Randy McMichael: 30 rec
Steven Jackson: 80 rush/1TD/50 rec

Jeff Garcia/Joey Galloway/Ike Hilliard
Cadillac Williams (vs. STL)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Rams this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Rams 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 14.7/20.2
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 21.8

Passing Game Thoughts: Don’t be fooled by the numbers from Week 2 from the Rams’ passing defense. San Francisco only attempted 17 passes. It’s almost a lock HC Jon Gruden will have called that many passes called midway through the third quarter, with a lot of them going in Galloway’s direction. Look for Garcia and Galloway to put up numbers similar to the ones they posted in Week 2. At this point, the #2 WR from week to week is a mystery, meaning that despite a juicy matchup, there is nobody else to play from the Bucs’ WR corps.

Running Game Thoughts: Surely a matchup against the soft Rams pass defense means an off-day for the Cadillac, right? His yards haven’t exactly been awe-inspiring, but he will get some cracks at the end zone again (much like he did in Week 2). Gruden’s love affair with Williams is still strong, so expect him to get at least 20-plus carries in this game as well. The Rams run defense is permitting 4.6 yds/carry this season, so Caddy should push 100 total yards if the Bucs defense can keep this game close.

Projections:
Jeff Garcia: 230 pass/2 TD/0 INT/20 rush
Joey Galloway: 100 rec/2 TD
Ike Hilliard: 55 rec
Cadillac Williams: 85 rush/1 TD/15 rec

Lions @ Eagles
Jon Kitna/Roy Williams/Calvin Johnson/Mike Furrey
Tatum Bell/Kevin Jones (vs. PHI)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Eagles this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Eagles 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 14.2/12.1
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 14.3

Passing Game Thoughts: Considering the state of the Eagles’ defensive backs, OC Mike Martz may not have much reason to run the ball in this contest. CB Lito Sheppard is out and S Brian Dawkins may not be able to go after a neck stinger in Week 2. Defending Detroit was going to be a tall order with their full complement of starting defensive backs as it was. In short, Kitna is a top-five QB start for this week and just about every WR is worthy of a start in three-WR leagues. If the Eagles offense can keep pace – like they should be able to – well, this game could very well be a shootout.

Running Game Thoughts: Week 2 was a bit more of what we expect from a Detroit RB in Martz’s offense – 35 rushing yards, 44 receiving yards. Now, it appears Jones will be making his return from his Lisfranc injury and steal 15-20 plays from what is already a messy backfield situation. Keep in mind, however, just how productive Jones was when he was healthy last season. We shouldn’t expect to see the 2006 version of Jones for at least a month – if at all – which just happens to be about the same time the schedule eases up for the Lions. The Eagles run defense appears to be much better than last season, but they can be had in the passing game, so look away from the Detroit running game until after their Week 6 bye – or until Jones shows his owners that he is nearing 100% and receiving the bulk of the work.

Projections:
Jon Kitna: 315 pass/3 TD/2 INT
Roy Williams: 90 rec/1 TD
Calvin Johnson: 70 rec/1 TD
Mike Furrey: 50 rec
Shaun McDonald: 65 rec/1 TD
Tatum Bell: 35 rush/10 rec
Kevin Jones: 40 rush/20 rec

Donovan McNabb/Kevin Curtis/Reggie Brown/Jason Avant/LJ Smith
Brian Westbrook (vs. DET)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Lions this season: Raiders
Similar running attacks that have faced the Lions this season: Raiders
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 24
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 23
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 3.3
FF Points Allowed vs. similar RBs: 31.9
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 20.6/15.8/2.2
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 26.5

Passing Game Thoughts: There may be no better cure for what ails McNabb (besides the fact that he doesn’t appear to trust his knee yet, which was expected) than to bring in the Lions defense, who made Raiders QB Josh McCown look pretty darn good in Week 1. With Detroit very likely to score 20+ points, it wouldn’t be a bit surprising to see McNabb flash a bit of his 2006 form as he finds Brown, Avant and Smith on a fairly regular basis. However, expect Westbrook to go crazy out of the backfield.

Running Game Thoughts: Given the struggles of the Eagles offense so far, Detroit comes along at the right time. As a result, Westbrook may see more work than usual (read: more catches). The former Villanova standout may even push 100 yards rushing and receiving as a result. This is a great matchup for the Eagles and if there was a game that could rival Browns-Bengals from last week, this may be the one…that is, if McNabb can take advantage.

Projections:
Donovan McNabb: 270 pass/3 TD/1 INT
Kevin Curtis: 75 rec
Reggie Brown: 60 rec/1 TD
Jason Avant: 60 rec/1 TD
LJ Smith: 25 rec
Brian Westbrook: 95 rush/1 TD/75 rec/1 TD

Dolphins @ Jets
Trent Green/Chris Chambers/Marty Booker
Ronnie Brown/Jesse Chatman (vs. NYJ)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Jets this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Jets 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 22.6/22.7
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 20.4

Passing Game Thoughts: Any fears that Chambers could/would not adapt to Green or the new offense can be quieted. His 27 targets after two weeks are tied with Doug Houshmandzadeh for second place in the NFL while his 201 yards receiving have him in ninth place among receivers. The Green-to-Chambers connection has needed to flourish quickly due to the ineptitude of the running game. This is one game the Dolphins may have a fair chance of getting things ironed out as the Jets have not exactly been a defensive juggernaut so far. Keep away – for now – from Booker, Derek Hagan or any other WR from this attack as Miami has not provided much offensive output besides Chambers.

Running Game Thoughts: Yuck. It’s bad enough Brown is averaging 3 yds/carry. It’s worse he isn’t seeing the ball at least 15 times/game. Brown owners who haven’t already picked up Jesse Chatman may want to in case HC Cam Cameroon decides to really take the next step with Chatman’s comeback story. The fact is that if Brown was just getting the work Chatman is getting – like most expected – he would be an adequate #2 RB. Although it’s really hard to recommend him as anything more than a flex player, Brown’s power should serve him well if he can manage 15-plus carries for the first time in 2007. For what it is worth, Brown eclipsed the century mark in both meetings against the Jets last season.

Projections:
Trent Green: 230 pass/2 TD/0 INT
Chris Chambers: 110 rec/1 TD
Marty Booker: 45 rec
Ronnie Brown: 45 rush/1 TD/35 rec
Jesse Chatman: 55 rush/15 rec

Chad Pennington/Laveranues Coles/Jerricho Cotchery
Thomas Jones (vs. MIA)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Dolphins this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Dolphins 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 17.5/18.3
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 26.1

Passing Game Thoughts: Clemens handled himself pretty well in his first start for the most part against a tough Ravens defense. For the time being, however, this offense needs Pennington operating it for the Jets to win this season. One look at Pennington’s Week 1 numbers vs. the Patriots plus his track record against Miami (9 TD, 2 INT) speaks well to his ability to play well in this contest. Coles and Cotchery alternated good fantasy performances last season, with Coles’ coming at home and Cotchery’s on the road two months later. Both are solid low-#2 WR or high #3 plays this week.

Running Game Thoughts: Jones hasn’t had much of a chance in the season’s first two weeks. No matter the situation in Week 3, expect Doug to have his best game as a Jet. The Dolphins are allowing an un-Miami-like 4.3 yds/carry to opposing RBs (up about a full yard from 3.5 last season). They have also been gashed for three rushing scores as well. On the flip side, New York will want to run this week because either Pennington will be less than 100% (ankle) or Clemens will be making just his second start. Last week, Clemens’ first start allowed Jones to touch the ball 26 times, producing 87 total yards against the Ravens. Miami is already showing its defense is slipping from previous seasons’ standards. Get Doug in the lineup this week and enjoy the ride with him as the schedule eases up for the next two months.

Projections:
Chad Pennington: 215 pass/1 TD/0 INT
Laveranues Coles: 90 rec/1 TD
Jerricho Cotchery: 75 rec
Thomas Jones: 90 rush/1 TD/20 rec

Bills @ Patriots
JP Losman/Lee Evans/Roscoe Parrish
Marshawn Lynch (vs. NE)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Patriots this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Patriots 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 18/15.9
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 11.5

Passing Game Thoughts: Don’t say that we didn’t see this coming, that is, Evans and Losman starting off slow. It’s going to continue this week. That said, this week is probably the last time to buy low on the duo. A schedule that appeared fairly menacing at the beginning of the season now reveals that one team between now and middle of November possesses a great defense (Baltimore in Week 6). The great thing is that owners that go after him now will be getting him for the price that he should be acquired at – a boom-or-bust #2 or high #3 WR. In that spot, his valleys won’t be so painful and his plateaus are good enough to win fantasy games single-handedly. As for the matchup itself, Evans has only had two (out of six) decent fantasy games against the Pats and has yet to score in his career against New England.

Running Game Thoughts: Lynch has impressed so far. He averaged 4.5 yards/carry against an overrated Broncos run defense in Week 1 and put together 85 total yards against the Steelers. Thus, another good buy-low opportunity exists as it is likely few realize that the Cal rookie is putting up fair fantasy numbers despite the Bills offensive struggles. The Patriots have yet to allow 60 rushing yards in a game yet, so get offers ready for him after Week 3 is completed. Running on New England will be a similar to the effort in Week 2 against the Steelers in which Lynch averaged 3.5 yds/carry.

Projections:
JP Losman: 180 pass/1 TD/3 INT/25 rush
Lee Evans: 40 rec/1 TD
Roscoe Parrish: 40 rec
Marshawn Lynch: 50 rush/30 rec

Tom Brady/Randy Moss/Donte Stallworth/Wes Welker/Ben Watson
Laurence Maroney/Sammy Morris (vs. BUF)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Bills this season: Steelers
Similar running attacks that have faced the Bills this season: Steelers
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 16.9
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 18
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 10.4
FF Points Allowed vs. similar RBs: 25.4
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 19/23.8/6.4
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 22.6

Passing Game Thoughts: At this rate, Brady will push the all-time passing yardage and passing TD marks. As long as Moss continues to get a free release off the line of scrimmage, Brady-to-Moss will be a prolific combination. Point is that the Patriots’ passing game is easy pickings for any fantasy player that owns either player as long as the best deep threat in the game isn’t touched within the first five yards. Defenses will pick up on this sooner than later, one has to think. However, I don’t expect it to start this week as Buffalo allowed a similar deep threat (Javon Walker) to have a 119-yard game in Week 1. Welker has fast become a Brady favorite as well, so don’t expect his numbers to go down. Now is no time to get cute, play everybody listed above that is associated with the Patriots passing game. Stallworth may even be a worthwhile play this week in deeper leagues.

Running Game Thoughts: For all the success the offense has experienced, the running game has not followed the example of the passing game – at least as far as Maroney owners are concerned. His yds/carry are there (4.3) but he is getting replaced near the goal line, which makes one wonder if the Pats are hiding an injury (long a New England trick). I’m not terribly surprised Morris is taking a fair number of carries each week, but I am surprised the coaching staff saw him as the guy to fill the Corey Dillon role in the offense. Either way, he is worth a pickup for Maroney owners and if Maroney is truly hurt, then Morris is worth a pickup for just about any owner. All that said, both Travis Henry and Willie Parker have exceeded the 100-yard mark pretty easily against the Bills, so Maroney may have his best shot in three weeks to do so vs. the Bills as well.

Projections:
Tom Brady: 285 pass/2 TD/1 INT
Randy Moss: 110 rec/1 TD
Donte Stallworth: 25 rec
Wes Welker: 75 rec/1 TD
Ben Watson: 35 rec
Laurence Maroney: 90 rush/1 TD
Sammy Morris: 40 rush/1 TD/15 rec

Vikings @ Chiefs
Tavaris Jackson/Troy Williamson/Bobby Wade
Chester Taylor/Adrian Peterson (vs. KC)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Chiefs this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Chiefs 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 13.4/16.9
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 13.6

Passing Game Thoughts: This game may be a tough one to watch. Neither passing game inspires all that much confidence and each defense is good enough to shut the other one down. Jackson is unlikely to throw for over 200 yards many times this season – and with the defense playing as well as it has – they may not need to all that often. For the first part of this season anyway, the Vikings are going to turn back the clock on offense 40-50 years. This will be a team that will lose if they need to throw 30 times and more than happy if Jackson passes 20 times. They will play the field position game, trusting in their rushing attack and leaning on what has quickly become a very good overall defense. Expect that strategy to be on display once again on Sunday.

Running Game Thoughts: If Taylor is able to play this Sunday, downgrade Peterson. Otherwise, feel free to set expectations at around 100 total yards for A.D. (Peterson) once again if Taylor needs to continue the healing process. Do expect a heavier dose of the running game than in any Viking game this season, especially on the heels of a four-turnover game by Jackson in Week 2. The Chiefs have surrendered 136 total yards/game to the RB position through two weeks, a fair number to expect this week as well.

Projections:
Tavaris Jackson: 165 pass/20 rush/1 INT
Troy Williamson: 35 yds
Bobby Wade: 45 yds
Chester Taylor: 40 yds rushing/35 yds receiving
Adrian Peterson: 65 yds rushing/1 TD/10 yds receiving

Damon Huard/Dwayne Bowe/Samie Parker/Tony Gonzalez
Larry Johnson (vs. MIN)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Vikings this season: Falcons
Similar running attacks that have faced the Vikings this season: Falcons
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 10.8
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 8.8
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 5.8
FF Points Allowed vs. similar RBs: 14.1
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 19.4/25.6/4.8
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 11.1

Passing Game Thoughts: It was honestly a surprise to see the Chiefs score an offensive TD against the Bears. It’s hard to tell if that is a sign of growth or an illusion. Either way, they will need to step up if Kansas City wants to avoid a 0-3 start because the running game will not do all that much. At some point, the Chiefs will need to lean on Gonzalez once again to get them to where they need to go in the passing game. Bowe will likely be a very good player one day but Kansas City needs to let Gonzo be Gonzo once again if they hope to unleash Johnson and, thus, find any kind of consistent offense.

Running Game Thoughts: LJ owners who are not panicking yet may be after a third straight setback in Week 3. Games against San Diego and Jacksonville don’t exactly inspire a lot of confidence either over the next two weeks. So it may not be a bad idea if – for those owners of a low first-round RB (Maroney, for example, if he has a good week this week) – put together a package of their RB and another mid-tier player for Johnson. The Chiefs offense is horrid, but Johnson will not be bottled up all season long either. LJ will be by far the best RB the Vikings have faced yet, but it may not matter if Minnesota’s opportunistic defense puts the game out of reach early. It figures to be another subpar day for Johnson.

Projections:
Damon Huard: 175 pass/1 TD/2 INT
Dwayne Bowe: 40 rec
Samie Parker: 40 rec
Tony Gonzalez: 35 rec/1 TD
Larry Johnson: 55 rush/55 rec

Colts @ Texans
Peyton Manning/Marvin Harrison/Reggie Wayne/Dallas Clark
Joseph Addai (vs. HOU)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Texans this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Texans 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 18.5/24.9/3.2
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 10.7

Passing Game Thoughts: As it is every year, facing the Colts usually is the litmus test on just how much a defense has truly improved. They shut down a below average attack (Chiefs), but got beat up fairly good by a slightly above average one with a great WR (Panthers). All this means is that the Texans can turn a lot of heads if they rebound from Steve Smith’s 3-TD performance to hold Harrison, Wayne and Clark in check. Entering the year, it was surmised here that the Texans pass defense would be in question while the run defense would be improved. That opinion has not changed and even though this game is being played on the road, it will be inside the dome, meaning it may feel like home to the Colts.

Running Game Thoughts: I think the blueprint has been laid out pretty solidly for the Colts. They will make sure to get the ball in the hands of Addai about 25 times a game (roughly 20 rushes and five catches). Figuring in that no team in their right mind can load the box against Indy, it’s generally safe to assume that Addai will eclipse 100 total yards each week (until they face the Jags and Ravens later in the season). The Titans did a better job than the Saints did of limiting Addai, and the Texans run defense is on par with Tennessee’s, so I expect a similar performance to the one Addai gave his owners in Week 2.

Projections:
Peyton Manning: 260 pass/3 TD/1 INT
Marvin Harrison: 85 rec/1 TD
Reggie Wayne: 70 rec/1 TD
Dallas Clark: 60 rec/1 TD
Joseph Addai: 85 rush/1 TD/30 rec

Matt Schaub/Jacoby Jones/Kevin Walter/Owen Daniels
Ahman Green/Ron Dayne (vs. IND)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Colts this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Colts 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 14.3/16.7/3.3
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 14.6

Passing Game Thoughts: Johnson’s knee injury really makes everyone involved in the passing game a question mark this week. The nice thing is that Schaub will not lose his quick decision-making skills with Johnson out, so all hope is not totally lost. Something to recognize in Week 2’s win was that all seven of Daniels’ targets – and thus, all five of his catches – came before Johnson was injured. Another good sign is that the Texans’ TEs figured to be active this week anyway due to Indy’s Cover 2 anyway. That’s not to say Johnson won’t be missed – because he will be – but if they had to pick a week where the TE was going to carry more than his usual share of the passing game, this would be the one. If there is an owner looking for a one-week fix for a disappointing TE he/she drafted, they could do worse than Daniels. And it is not as if he doesn’t have a fairly high upside for the rest of the season.

Running Game Thoughts: I would have expected a heavy dose of Green and Dayne as it was before Johnson’s injury. I expect no fewer than 35 carries between the two again this week if the defense can keep Indy close. The Colts are allowing just south of 4 yds/carry to RBs while Green is averaging over 4.6 yds/carry. Expect Houston to execute the same kind of game plan it used to defeat the Colts in Week 16 last season. (Dayne had 32 carries in that contest.) Green is a solid play for as long as he can do what he is doing right now.

Projections:
Matt Schaub: 175 pass/2 TD/2 INT
Jacoby Jones: 40 rec
Kevin Walter: 35 rec
Owen Daniels: 60 rec/2 TD
Ahman Green: 80 rush/1 TD/25 rec
Ron Dayne: 40 rush

Chargers @ Packers
Philip Rivers/Vincent Jackson/Malcolm Floyd/Antonio Gates
LaDainian Tomlinson (vs. GB)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Packers this season: Giants
Similar running attacks that have faced the Packers this season: Eagles
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 16.3
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 18.9
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 6.5
FF Points Allowed vs. similar RBs: 14.3
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 15.2/18.5/4
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 14.2

Passing Game Thoughts: Week #3 for the Chargers and their series of the league’s best defenses, especially against the pass. People can talk all they want about HC Norv Turner, but until this team can get a chance to execute against someone besides the Bears, the Patriots and the Packers, it will be tough for anyone except Gates and LT to stick out, which explains just what San Diego fans are seeing so far this season. As such, Gates will once again be a great play, unless the Packers decide to stick CB Charles Woodson on Gates, which would be a very entertaining matchup. Either way, Gates can put numbers up even against some of the better CBs in the league, although Woodson would limit him somewhat. Since I don’t expect that to happen, expect a high percentage of ball thrown to Gates (Jeremy Shockey had 11 targets vs. GB last week). Once again, Jackson and the rest of the WR corps make for marginal plays at best.

Running Game Thoughts: Owners who didn’t jump ship on LT after back-to-back games against Baltimore and Pittsburgh last year should remember that lesson this season. LT has a decent chance to start putting up LT-like numbers starting this week. Both Brian Westbrook and Derrick Ward have fared pretty well on the ground and through the air, meaning there is little reason Tomlinson cannot do so as well. Green Bay will keep this game close because they do have a good defense, but LT starts rewarding his owners this week.

Projections:
Philip Rivers: 200 pass/1 TD/0 INT
Vincent Jackson: 40 rec
Malcolm Floyd: 30 rec
Antonio Gates: 65 rec/1 TD
LaDainian Tomlinson: 100 rush/2 TD/40 rec

Brett Favre/Donald Driver/Greg Jennings/James Jones/Donald Lee
Brandon Jackson/Vernand Morency/DeShawn Wynn (vs. SD)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Chargers this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Chargers 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 16.7/21.6
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 15.2

Passing Game Thoughts: Where exactly is the Chargers secondary? They keep Rex Grossman out of the end zone in Week 1 and seemingly let Tom Brady in it at will the next week. The truth – as it usually is – comes somewhere in between. The fact is that the Chargers are more Week 1 than Week 2, meaning Favre will need to be on his game and will need Driver to be in top form. Getting Jennings back in the near future would open up the passing game even more, something they will need if they want to get balance on offense; a quality they will need to have to beat the Chargers. Since both Bernard Berrian and Randy Moss have fared well against the Pack, Jennings would be in for a good game if healthy.

Running Game Thoughts: I’m not all that surprised by Jackson’s struggles as his preseason did nothing to distinguish himself from the competition, because most of it (the competition) was injured. That said, I’m not all that convinced Wynn is the answer either. Of his 50 rushing yards in Week 2, 38 came on one run late in a blowout. I think Wynn – who will see more work this week – will eventually make room for Morency, who was the supposed “lead dog” going into the preseason. Morency is certainly, in my mind, the most gifted runner of the three. However, it shouldn’t matter all that much as the Chargers will limit Green Bay on the ground – no matter who is carrying the ball. The Packers have yet to face a defense as stout as the Chargers’ unit. Until a RB stands out from the bunch, the most any of these backs should be used for is as a bye-week fill-in or as a flex player.

Projections:
Brett Favre: 250 pass/1 TD/1 INT
Donald Driver: 75 rec/1 TD
Greg Jennings: 50 rec
James Jones: 40 rec
Donald Lee: 20 rec
DeShawn Wynn: 55 rush/15 rec
Brandon Jackson: 25 rush

Bengals @ Seahawks
Carson Palmer/Chad Johnson/Doug Houshmandzadeh
Rudi Johnson (vs. SEA)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Seahawks this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Seahawks 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 15.1/17.4/10.8
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 18.7

Passing Game Thoughts: It’s fair to say the Bengals offense travels well. And it also fair to say after two TDs against the Ravens and six against the Browns, Cincinnati has set the bar pretty high in terms of what they can do in the passing game. So while the Seahawks have allowed just one TD pass through two games, expect Palmer, Johnson and Houshmandzadeh to increase that total by two or three times. Overall, the game plan didn’t change that much from Week 1 to Week 2 for the Bengals despite a dramatic change in defensive schemes, so owners of some part of the Cincy passing game should figure on stellar numbers just about every week from the three main members until further notice.

Running Game Thoughts: Much like the Colts and Addai, the Bengals and Rudi Johnson should never have to face more than seven men in the box. It’s a reasonable expectation that if Edgerrin James could pile up 120-plus rushing yards and a score against Seattle, Rudi should be able to do likewise. Moreover, Rudi’s owners are seeing their guy get more work in the passing game, making him all the more appealing. It would not be too much to ask for him to repeat Week 2’s numbers as Cincinnati doesn’t figure to shut down Seattle or vice versa.

Projections:
Carson Palmer: 290 pass/2 TD/1 INT
Chad Johnson: 100 rec/1 TD
Doug Houshmandzadeh: 85 rec/1 TD
Rudi Johnson: 95 rush/1 TD/25 rec

Matt Hasselbeck/Deion Branch/Nate Burleson/Marcus Pollard
Shaun Alexander (vs. CIN)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Bengals this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Bengals 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 23.8/28.1
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 25.8

Passing Game Thoughts: All except a handful of teams in the league would instantly test the Bengals pass defense early and often, seeing if the same breakdowns that occurred against Cleveland would be present for them as well. While Seattle is an above-average passing team, though, don’t expect that to happen as much as one would expect with HC Mike Holmgren, who believes in balance on offense. Expect slightly above-average numbers – but not Week 2 ridiculous – numbers from the passing game once again while Holmgren insures that Alexander also sees his 25 touches. The only way that does not happen is if the Bengals jump out early. Branch should be a high #2 WR play this week and Pollard is an above-average play as well. While it didn’t show against Cleveland, the Cincy defense is better than it appeared in Week 2. Expect a more solid effort from it in Week 3.

Running Game Thoughts: There’s no reason Alexander can’t put up his second 100-yard game of the season. And quite honestly, Alexander’s owners weren’t going to sit him regardless of what I say. He should post his usual numbers.

Projections:
Matt Hasselbeck: 220 pass/2 TD/1 INT
Deion Branch: 90 rec/1 TD
Nate Burleson: 50 rec
Marcus Pollard: 40 rec/1 TD
Shaun Alexander: 105 rush/2 TD/10 rec

Browns @ Raiders
Derek Anderson/Braylon Edwards/Joe Jurevicius/Kellen Winslow
Jamal Lewis (vs. OAK)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Raiders this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Raiders 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 22.7/34.9/2.8
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 22

Passing Game Thoughts: Unlike Week 2, the Raiders should be a pretty fair test of just how much Anderson’s presence has increased the “fantasy marketability” of Edwards, Jurevicius and Winslow. Oakland has allowed as many TDs as they have gathered INTs (4), so turnovers may rule the day. Now, if the Browns’ pass defense is as leaky as it has been through two weeks, Cleveland may need to throw all day once again to keep up with the Raiders. Anderson isn’t the greatest play this week, but Edwards makes an intriguing play considering the success of Javon Walker last week. Assuming he draws CB Fabian Washington, the former Wolverine may be able to use his height to outmaneuver the smaller Washington a time or two. Conversely, Jurevicius will likely draw CB Nnamdi Asomugha. That matchup will likely keep JJ pretty quiet. Winslow, as always, should be in his owners’ lineups.

Running Game Thoughts: I hope Lewis owners are selling high on Lewis over this week and next, because another he will struggle to approach those numbers anytime shortly after this week, as the Ravens and Patriots await before meeting Miami in Week 6. Do expect Lewis to get a lot of work early to take the pressure off Anderson, but invariably get phased out as the game gets to be fairly high scoring. He’s not going to touch 215 yards and a TD again anytime soon, but half of the yards are possible.

Projections:
Derek Anderson: 235 pass/2 TD/2 INT/20 rush
Braylon Edwards: 85 rec/1 TD
Joe Jurevicius: 40 rec
Kellen Winslow: 60 rec/1 TD
Jamal Lewis: 70 rush/1 TD/15 rec

Josh McCown/Jerry Porter/Ronald Curry/Zach Miller
LaMont Jordan (vs. CLE)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Browns this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Browns 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 34.6/38.5/8.4
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 19.2

Passing Game Thoughts: It would be foolish to expect another track meet just because the Browns defense is involved, but Cleveland could go three weeks and not surrender another TD pass and still be permitting two passing scores per week. This makes everyone involved in the Raiders passing game an above-average play, with Porter a likely bet to have his best game of the year. Curry should get a ton of looks, but early evidence suggests Porter is the best play this week. Miller should get 5-6 targets of his own, meaning he could find the end zone for the first time in his rookie year.

Running Game Thoughts: Jordan is certainly making the case that he deserves all the work in the running game. Kiffin’s track record suggests he will go RBBC once Dom Rhodes returns in Week 5, but for the here and now, Jordan should have a field day against a Browns defense that is yielding 162 total yards per game to the RB position. Much like Cleveland, expect Jordan to get a lot of work on the ground early to keep this game from getting out of hand in either direction early, but once one team gets 7-10 points behind, look out. Since Jordan has shown he is adept once again at being a key contributor in the passing game, he makes for one of the best plays of the week at the RB position.

Projections:
Josh McCown: 290 pass/3 TD/1 INT/20 rush
Jerry Porter: 85 rec/1 TD
Ronald Curry: 90 rec/1 TD
Zach Miller: 30 rec/1 TD
LaMont Jordan: 110 rush/1 TD/50 rec

Jaguars @ Broncos
David Garrard/Dennis Northcutt/Ernest Wilford
Fred Taylor/Maurice Jones-Drew (vs. DEN)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Broncos this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Broncos 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 11.2/9.2
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 16.8

Passing Game Thoughts: There’s not much to say here. The Jags really should only pass about as much as they need to keep Denver honest while they look to exploit what has been a disappointing Bronco run defense so far. CBs Champ Bailey and Dre Bly are better than any receiver Jacksonville can send out to the field, so sit all players associated with the Jags’ passing game, unless you get the feeling Garrard will rush for a couple scores himself.

Running Game Thoughts: I really did not expect to be saying this phrase this season, but the Broncos don’t appear to be all that adept at stopping the run, so a trip to Denver may not be the worst thing for a struggling Jaguar offense that is trying to establish a more balanced identity on offense. What OC Dirk Koetter is doing with the running game is a mystery to me though. Taylor has 23 total touches, Jones-Drew 22 through two weeks. For what it’s worth, Jacksonville’s running game started out slow last season too before finishing with 22 TDs. However, a key difference was that last season’s Jaguars RBs averaged 30-plus touches per game. The 2007 version? 24. Doesn’t sound like much, but with explosive players like Taylor and Jones-Drew, it is probably costing them the one big play a game that can make their owners happy they put either one in the starting lineup. With the Bronco secondary playing great so far, expect the ground game to take center stage, possibly setting the stage for a breakout performance from Taylor, Jones-Drew or both.

Projections:
David Garrard: 175 pass/0 TD/2 INT/30 rush
Dennis Northcutt: 35 rec
Ernest Wilford: 40 rec
Fred Taylor: 70 rush/1 TD/25 rec
Maurice Jones-Drew: 45 rush/25 rec

Jay Cutler/Javon Walker/Rod Smith/Daniel Graham & Tony Scheffler
Travis Henry (vs. JAX)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Jaguars this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Jaguars 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 8.3/8.7/3.6
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 20.7

Passing Game Thoughts: Jacksonville has yet to see a QB attempt more than 20 passes in a game against them. It’s a good bet Cutler will eclipse that mark, but that doesn’t mean anyone associated with the Bronco passing game is a #1 play. Walker will start on just about every fantasy team regardless, but if owners have better options than Marshall, play them. Jacksonville is too talented to not return to their regular perch as a stellar defensive unit.

Running Game Thoughts: The Jags don’t appear to be nearly as menacing against the run as they have been in years past. After getting gashed by the Titans in Week 1, Atlanta did more than on the ground than they should have been able to do in Week 2. So a game that looked like a tough matchup early on looks to be another possible 100-yard game for Henry. It’s tough to say right now if Henry’s TD-less string of games will continue, but figure he will break into that category in a big way sooner or later. While we wait for his first foray into the end zone, his owners should be plenty happy with his 160 total yards/game in the meantime.

Projections:
Jay Cutler: 250 pass/1 TD/1 INT
Javon Walker: 90 rec/1 TD
Brandon Marshall: 55 rec
Daniel Graham & Tony Scheffler: 30 rec/35 rec
Travis Henry: 125 rush/2 TD/10 rec

Panthers @ Falcons
Jake Delhomme/Steve Smith/Drew Carter/Jeff King
DeShaun Foster/DeAngelo Williams (vs. ATL)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Falcons this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Falcons 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 16.4/15.7
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 19.1

Passing Game Thoughts: Delhomme-to-Smith has started out like a ball of fire. However, do keep in mind that St. Louis and Houston are not defensive juggernauts against the pass. With Atlanta’s offensive struggles, I expect less production from the passing game as HC John Fox and OC Jeff Davidson take the conservative approach – score just enough to win – so the rushing attack can get more work. With that said, Smith isn’t going away anytime soon – even if he will be facing CB DeAngelo Hall with some safety help. Just dial back the expectations of Delhomme and everyone else.

Running Game Thoughts: Atlanta is permitting right at four yds/carry through the first two weeks to Minnesota and Jacksonville, so Carolina shouldn’t be expected to do all that much better. Even though the Panthers’ rushing attack is averaging around 4.5 yds/carry, they could be doing more. The Falcons’ woeful offense may provide the opportunity to get that facet of the offense ironed out. As long as Carolina uses the “start Foster and see how he does” approach, he remains the RB of choice for fantasy owners from this backfield. It works well for this matchup as well, as the more powerful RBs they have faced (Adrian Peterson, Fred Taylor) have fared better than their speedier counterparts.

Projections:
Jake Delhomme: 230 yds passing/2 TD/1 INT
Steve Smith: 85 yds receiving/1 TD
Keary Colbert: 40 yds
Jeff King: 35 rec/1 TD
DeShaun Foster: 65 yds rushing/1 TD/20 yds receiving
DeAngelo Williams: 50 yds rushing/20 yds receiving

Joey Harrington/Joe Horn/Michael Jenkins/Alge Crumpler
Warrick Dunn/Jerious Norwood (vs. CAR)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Panthers this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Panthers 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 16.9/21.4/4.4
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 14.6

Passing Game Thoughts: The Falcons defense has allowed two total touchdowns this season – both passing. This runs contrary to their offense, which has yielded the same number of scores the defense has allowed to opposing offenses. What has become clear after 13 sacks allowed and 10 total points scored through two weeks is that the Falcons are pretty much a fantasy wasteland. Crumpler should get open a handful of times, but until this offense can sustain drives and capitalize on them, well, it’s going to be painful for Atlanta fans to watch.

Running Game Thoughts: It appears Dunn is HC Bobby Petrino’s guy for the time being. One has to wonder how much longer that will last with the former Seminole averaging 3 yds/carry. Of course, this isn’t exactly unexpected, with Dunn’s recovery from back problems and the offensive line transitioning from a zone-blocking scheme to a more physical, punch-you-in-the-mouth running style. The Falcons will continue to struggle on the ground as long as the passing game fails to top 200 yards passing, too. As a result, Dunn is a flex play at best, while Norwood should not be in lineups yet.

Projections:
Joey Harrington: 180 yds passing/1 TD/2 INT
Joe Horn: 25 rec
Michael Jenkins: 40 rec
Alge Crumpler: 40 rec/1 TD
Warrick Dunn: 40 yds rushing/25 yds receiving
Jerious Norwood: 40 yds rushing/15 yds receiving

Giants @ Redskins
Eli Manning/Plaxico Burress/Amani Toomer/Jeremy Shockey
Brandon Jacobs/Derrick Ward (vs. WAS)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Redskins this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Redskins 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 14.2/12/5.2
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 16.1

Passing Game Thoughts: After two weeks, I’ll admit I was wrong about Burress. I thought with the upgrade of talent around him at his position, he would be the victim of “too many mouths to feed”. However, Manning seems to trust him (and his size) in just about every key situation. Washington gave up quite a few yards to Chris Chambers in Week 1, so Burress should experience similar success. Toomer appears to get just about every other look that goes to a Giants WR and since they have been trailing a lot early, Shockey is getting a high number of targets as well. Couple that with a pathetic defense and you have a recipe for a lot of “garbage time” yards. While Ward is doing an admirable job filling in for Jacobs, one should figure that New York will look to Burress and Shockey at the goal line at least until the big man (Jacobs) returns.

Running Game Thoughts: Be prepared, Jacobs owners: Ward is playing well enough to earn a split with Jacobs when he returns. Gaining 125 total yards against a pretty good Packers defense is impressive as it is. Washington is not in Green Bay’s class defensively – they are fairly close in some areas – so there is little reason to expect a drop-off from last week’s numbers for Ward. For the Giants, it would be wise to keep the ball on the ground as much as possible to keep the defense off the field…as much as possible (just emphasizing the point, not stuttering). Sooner or later, they will realize that as well. Until then, look for good all-around numbers from Ward.

Projections:
Eli Manning: 245 pass/2 TD/1 INT
Plaxico Burress: 85 rec/1 TD
Amani Toomer: 55 rec
Jeremy Shockey: 50 rec/1 TD
Derrick Ward: 80 rush/40 rec

Jason Campbell/Santana Moss/Antwan Randle El/Chris Cooley
Clinton Portis/Ladell Betts (vs. NYG)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Giants this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Giants this season: Cowboys
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. similar RBs: 23.1
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 33.2/28.9/17.6
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 25

Passing Game Thoughts: Quarterbacks are completing over 70% of their passes per game against the Giants. The secondary has surrendered seven TD passes and collected just two INTs. Don’t think Campbell, Moss, Randle El and Cooley want a piece of that pie? Cooley doesn’t look to be piling up the yards yet, but he should be in line for a score vs. a team that has allowed three TE scores already. Lead WRs (Donald Driver, Terrell Owens) have done well too, meaning Moss should get his. Washington should post nearly 30 points, so expect better-than-usual numbers from just about every Redskin.

Running Game Thoughts: We could see this situation was getting bad quickly, but for the Giants defense to basically plummet like it has was surprising. As such, just about everybody involved in either the passing or running game is at least a flex option. Portis should have his best game of the young season while Betts should be able to match his success from Week 1 (75 total yards). The G-Men can score some points, so Washington can’t stick with the run ALL game, but it will try. Early returns look like the Redskins would like to keep Portis under 20 carries in most games – at least early in the season – so plan accordingly if you own Betts.

Projections:
Jason Campbell: 225 pass/2 TD/0 INT/20 rush
Santana Moss: 85 rec/1 TD
Antwan Randle El: 50 rec
Chris Cooley: 35 rec/1 TD
Clinton Portis: 100 rush/1 TD/10 rec
Ladell Betts: 60 rush/1 TD/20 rec

Cowboys @ Bears
Tony Romo/Terrell Owens/Patrick Crayton/Jason Witten
Julius Jones/Marion Barber (vs. CHI)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Bears this season: Chargers
Similar running attacks that have faced the Bears this season: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 9.4
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 4.3
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 17.1
FF Points Allowed vs. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 12.5/10.2/12.4
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 15.6

Passing Game Thoughts: So far, Romo has easily dispatched of a woeful Giants defense and an overrated Dolphins unit. One has to hope they were good warm-up games for Romo, who faces one of the best defenses the NFL has to offer this week. To wit, neither Philip Rivers nor Damon Huard has passed for more than 190 yards against them. Romo should top those numbers, but it may not be the worst idea in the world to bench Romo if you have another top option to turn to on your team. The Bears may allow a scoring drive or two, but expect the Dallas offense to struggle, especially at Soldier Field. Owens’ and Witten’s owners will play their guys regardless of opponent – as they should – but Crayton owners need to look elsewhere for a #3 option this week.

Running Game Thoughts: As good as the Cowboys have been running the ball, they don’t yet compare to LaDainian Tomlinson and Larry Johnson, the two backs the Bears have held to a combined total 163 yards and one TD (not including LT’s passing score). This means Romo, Owens and Witten will have to carry most of the weight of the offense. Barber continues to be the best play as he can always break off the short yardage score and, quite honestly, he’s been the better RB so far.

Projections:
Tony Romo: 210 pass/1 TD/2 INT/20 rush
Terrell Owens: 65 rec/1 TD
Patrick Crayton: 40 rec
Jason Witten: 45 rec
Julius Jones: 35 rush/10 rec
Marion Barber: 40 rush/1 TD/20 rec

Rex Grossman/Bernard Berrian/Muhsin Muhammad/Desmond Clark
Cedric Benson (vs. DAL)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Cowboys this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Cowboys 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 27.8/38.6/2.8
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 15.9

Passing Game Thoughts: I don’t expect there to be many supporters on the Grossman bandwagon because, honestly, he has not looked all that good so far. And it’s probably just part of his makeup that he will take risks – a lot that will backfire – but it is probably that same mentality that endears him to HC Lovie Smith, the belief he can make any play at any time. As far as the matchup is concerned, the question is not whether Grossman will find Berrian deep (Chris Chambers and Plaxico Burress have excelled against Dallas so far), it’s whether he will make the same silly one or two mistakes he has made on an all-too-often basis. Muhammad, Clark and Olsen (if he plays) are average plays at best.

Running Game Thoughts: If Benson is the RB we have seen after two games, it looks like he will be an average RB at best. Now, we all know better than to write a player’s story after a couple starts, but he doesn’t seem to possess the same burst through the hole he did at Texas. What he has shown is to be a bull and the type of back that will punish tacklers. Brandon Jacobs is a similar type of back, but Jacobs only carried the ball six times against the Cowboys in Week 1, hardly enough to get them ready for Benson. Signing DT Tank Johnson will help the Dallas defense late in the season, but not while the Cowboys continuing rotating backups to fill in for NT Jason Ferguson. In the meantime, it will be hard for Dallas to keep backs like Benson out of the end zone one time a game.

Projections:
Rex Grossman: 235 pass/3 TD/2 INT
Bernard Berrian: 85 rec/1 TD
Muhsin Muhammad: 40 rec/1 TD
Desmond Clark: 30 rec
Greg Olsen: 20 rec
Cedric Benson: 85 rush/15 rec

Titans @ Saints
Vince Young/Brandon Jones/Eric Moulds/Roydell Williams/Bo Scaife
Chris Brown/LenDale White (vs. NO)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Saints this season: N/A
Similar running attacks that have faced the Saints 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. similar RBs: N/A
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 23.6/19.9/5.6
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 22.3

Passing Game Thoughts: This matchup brings up an interesting dilemma for OC Norm Chow and Young: attempt to torch a highly questionable secondary with the deep ball or stick with the run? In the end, I expect the latter to happen, but not without at least one successful long TD strike. The last time the Saints faced someone like Young was Michael Vick last season. Vick was not highly successful against them passing, but had a lot of success running the ball. It is very likely Young will have a similar type of game. I like Williams and Scaife as sneaky matchup plays this week as Williams may be establishing himself as something of a go-to WR (or as much of a go-to WR as this offense can have).

Running Game Thoughts: The first two RBs to face the Saints and have success against them were slashing-type runners (Brown) and not the bowling-ball type (White). As such, I think the case can be made to plug Brown in as a strong flex play this week, if not a #2 RB. The New Orleans defense will give up the yards regardless, but Brown is the better play most weeks until he get injured (which is almost inevitable for him, it seems). Either way, the Titans offensive line is one of the better ones in the league, meaning 35-40 carries may be reasonable this week between Brown, White and Young.

Projections:
Vince Young: 185 pass/2 TD/1 INT/55 rush
Brandon Jones: 40 rec
Eric Moulds: 25 rec
Roydell Williams: 65 rec/1 TD
Bo Scaife: 35 rec/1 TD
Chris Brown: 70 rush/1 TD/15 rec
LenDale White: 60 rush

Drew Brees/Marques Colston/Devery Henderson/Eric Johnson
Deuce McAllister/Reggie Bush (vs. TEN)
Similar passing attacks that have faced the Titans this season: Colts
Similar running attacks that have faced the Titans this season: Jaguars
FF Points Allowed vs. similar QBs: 19.4
FF Points Allowed vs. similar WRs: 20.6
FF Points Allowed vs. similar TEs: 16
FF Points Allowed vs. similar RBs: 7.6
FF Points Allowed vs. QBs/WRs/TEs over the last two weeks: 18/34.2/9.9
FF Points Allowed vs. RBs over the last two weeks: 11.3

Passing Game Thoughts: Who are these Saints and what did they do with the 2006 version? There are some questions that don’t readily available answers. However, I tend to believe the Saints have went away from what got them to the NFC Championship last season, that is, pounding Deuce McAllister 20 times a game and sprinkling in Bush here and there. It looks like HC Sean Payton, in his zest to get Bush more work, is breaking up the continuity of the offense. With their run of improved and fast Cover 2 defenses out of the way for a while now, I do expect Brees & Co. to start picking up where they left off last season although Tennessee has shown they are no pushover. They (the Titans) will control the clock on offense and make teams work hard when they are on defense, so keep expectations in check for Brees, Colston, et al for one more week. However, by “in check”, I mean their production will not be unreal, but it should be the best it has been yet this season.

Running Game Thoughts: As long as Bush is getting as many carries as Deuce, this offense isn’t going to be as effective as it can be. In my honest opinion, the more that Payton can get Bush on the perimeter, the better. (In essence, quit trying to make Bush an inside runner for now!!) While no coach wants to get his backs pigeonholed into “this guy is my inside guy and this guy is my outside guy”, Bush does not figure to excel running in between the tackles anytime soon. I believe in time, he will become every bit as good as Brian Westbrook, but it will take time for him to truly learn that not every play is the “big play”. In terms of this MNF battle, playing at home for the first time this season should help this offense. Look for the Saints to remember who they are and find a fair amount of success on the ground, with Deuce leading the way.

Projections:
Drew Brees: 270 pass/2 TD/0 INT
Marques Colston: 85 rec/1 TD
Devery Henderson: 45 rec
Eric Johnson: 40 rec
Deuce McAllister: 75 rush/1 TD
Reggie Bush: 40 rush/40 rec/1 TD