Matchups to Exploit - Week 11
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November 15, 2007 @ 14:59:48
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By Hot off the Wire Network Contributors
Edited by Nicholas Minnix
Browns RB Jamal Lewis vs. Ravens run defense
Lewis, the Ravens' all-time leading rusher, will have a tough challenge against the NFL's second-ranked run defense. It will be an emotional game for Lewis, who is playing his first game in Baltimore since being cut by the Ravens in March. Lewis understands that he won't get much room to run against the Ravens, though. He only had 64 yards on 23 carries (2.8-yard average) against the Ravens in Week 4, and most of those yards came on a 28-yard burst. Lewis has struggled the past two weeks, failing to gain more than 37 yards in either contest. At this point in his career, Lewis is a pure power back. The Ravens traditionally don't have much trouble with big backs.
Browns WR Braylon Edwards vs. Ravens cornerbacks
Edwards' breakout year has slowed down. He was held without a touchdown versus Seattle and had just one catch versus the Steelers Sunday, but it was an acrobatic 16-yard touchdown. He still ranks among league leaders with 43 catches for 752 yards, a 17.5-yard average and 10 touchdowns. Edwards has the opportunity to get back on track this week, as the Ravens' starting cornerbacks have been out with injuries. If cornerback Chris McAlister (knee) doesn't play, Corey Ivy would likely be asked to stop Edwards. At 5-foot-9, Ivy would be giving up seven inches to Edwards, who had a 78-yard touchdown versus McAlister in Week 4.
Ravens QB Kyle Boller vs. Browns pass defense
The Baltimore offense has been dismal with quarterback Steve McNair, who managed just two touchdown passes in six starts. But Boller will get the start versus the Browns, who have allowed 22 touchdown passes and have the second-worst pass defense. Boller is 2-1 as a starter this year; he is averaging 186.6 yards passing with three touchdowns and one interception. He played well in relief of McNair last December in a win over the Browns, going 13-for-21 for 238 yards, two scores, an interception and a 112.8 quarterback rating. He's 6-0 in his last six home starts, completing 63 percent of his passes for 1,272 yards, nine touchdowns, three interceptions and a 90.4 rating. He gives the Ravens more scrambling ability and a stronger arm. It could be more difficult for Boller Sunday, though, if tight end Todd Heap (hamstring) and No. 3 receiver Demetrius Williams (ankle) can't play because of injuries.
Ravens RB Willis McGahee vs. Browns run defense
McGahee has been a victim of the Ravens falling behind in games. When the Ravens trail, they abandon the run. If the Ravens can keep the game close, McGahee should be effective against a Browns defense that has allowed seven 100-yard rushers in nine games. When given at least 19 carries, McGahee has gained over 75 yards in five of six games. He also has been the Ravens' most consistent scoring threat, producing a touchdown in four straight games. Cleveland has 27th-ranked run defense.
Giants RB Brandon Jacobs vs. Lions front seven
Jacobs had 95 yards on 23 carries and had a touchdown erased on a dubious holding call last week against a run defense (that of the Dallas Cowboys) that was worlds better than Detroit's. The reason the Lions' run defense is ranked eighth is because opponents pass so much against their defense. If the Giants get out early, Jacobs could become the second individual 100-yard rusher allowed by the Lions this year, joining Philadelphia Eagles halfback Brian Westbrook. Jacobs got the majority of snaps last week, as running back Reuben Droughns took only three snaps in short-yardage situations.
Giants WR Plaxico Burress vs. Lions CBs Fernando Bryant and Travis Fisher
This could get interesting, since Burress' (ankle) sprained right ankle is in terrible shape. His production, once outstanding, has dropped to 11 catches for 81 yards and no touchdowns in the last three games. Dallas kept a couple of defensive backs deep to take away the deep game, successfully, as Burress caught just four passes for 24 yards. He appears unable to outrun anybody anymore, but he must play at this point because the Giants have no other legitimate deep threat. He can still outleap people, though, and if he gets matched up one-on-one with either the 5-foot-11 Bryant or the 5-foot-10 Fisher, he'll win that jump ball. Bryant and Fisher have just three interceptions between them; the Lions' pass defense is ranked 30th in the league.
Lions WR Roy Williams vs. Giants CBs Aaron Ross and Sam Madison
Williams leads quarterback Jon Kitna's balanced passing attack with 49 catches for 613 yards and a team-high five touchdowns. He's fast, and, at 6-foot-3, will have a distinct height advantage over both of the Giants' starting corners. Ross will be looking for redemption after a horrible outing against the Cowboys. During that one he missed a tackle on wide receiver Patrick Crayton's touchdown catch and had an illegal-hands-to-the-face penalty to extend an eventual fourth quarter touchdown drive. Madison was burned by wideout Terrell Owens on a third quarter go-ahead touchdown. Both will come into play as they try to jam Williams and force Kitna to go to either receiver Shaun McDonald or receiver Mike Furrey. Expect to see mostly nickel coverage, with a big helping of the four-defensive end front to pressure Kitna. Williams said he knows Ross well. They're both from the University of Texas. If Williams gets this matchup and has any inside knowledge, he needs to use it to his advantage over the rookie. He needs to make more plays to stretch the field and take some pressure off the running game. Williams hasn't surpassed 100 receiving yards since Week 2 and Week 3.
Lions OT George Foster vs. Giants DE Michael Strahan
Foster has taken nine false-start penalties this season, most in the NFL, and has been missing blocking assignments, too. Now he must face Strahan, the NFL's active sacks leader, and Green Bay Packers defensive end Aaron Kampman within five days. Foster is still making the transition from Denver's relatively simple blocking schemes to offensive coordinator Mike Martz's complex offense.
Saints QB Drew Brees vs. Texans pass rush
The Texans have struggled immensely this season to put pressure on quarterbacks. Defensive tackle Amobi Okoye leads the team with five sacks. Brees has shown that he gets easily rattled if defenses pressure him too much. The Texans must rely on Okoye and defensive ends Mario Williams and N.D. Kalu to shake up Brees.
Saints RB Reggie Bush vs. Texans run defense
Houston, with an interior defensive line that features Okoye and third-year DT Travis Johnson, ranks among the poorest group in the NFL versus the run this season. Houston ranks 24th of 32 teams against the run, allowing opponents 124.2 yards per game on the ground. Bush, still growing comfortable in his role as the Saints' primary running threat, has yet to run for 100 yards this season, 97 his best effort in 19 carries against Seattle. Last week against St. Louis, Bush ran for just 17 yards on seven carries, and actually had a pair of 7-yard runs against the Rams. It's vital for the Saints to have a running game on which they can depend and it's time for Bush to have a break out game. It could come this week against the Texans.
Saints WRs Marques Colston and David Patten vs. Texans CBs Fred Bennett and Von Hutchins
Bennett, a rookie, recently became a starter. Hutchins, not corner DeMarcus Faggins, is expected to start in place of the injured Dunta Robinson (knee), who sustained multiple knee injuries in the Texans' last game, against the Oakland Raiders. That could be an eye-opening matchup for a Saints passing attack that for three quarters struggled last week against the St. Louis Rams. It wasn't until the fourth quarter that the Saints finally found their rhythm in the passing game. Colston caught eight passes for 129 yards, his second straight 100-yard effort, and averaged 16.1 yards per catch. Patten was limited to three catches for 37 yards against the Rams. The Saints will be looking to get him more involved in the offensive game plan this week against Houston and could look in his direction if matched up against the rookie Bennett. Bennett made his first start against the Raiders and had an interception and three passes defensed.
Texans WR Andre Johnson vs. Saints secondary
Johnson (knee) will be making his first appearance in seven weeks, and it's clear he's not going to be 100 percent. He's still working to get back into the shape he was in earlier this year. He's also unsure how his knee will feel when he gets hit for the first time. The Texans helped him out by not rushing him back before the bye week, but now the focus will be on how long it takes him and quarterback Matt Schaub to build up the same trust they had before. Expect a good game for Johnson, but not likely a 100-yard receiving day yet.
Chiefs QB Brodie Croyle vs. Colts pass defense
Croyle's debut as a starter might go a lot better if he didn't have to face a superior pass defense like that of the Colts inside a noisy dome and if the Chiefs had more things working for them offensively. With the Chiefs struggling in so many other areas, it's unrealistic to think he's going to light it up immediately. Croyle throws on the move much better than quarterback Damon Huard, so he could make some throws outside of the pocket. Chiefs head coach Herman Edwards says he wants to see what they've got in the second-year passer because he knows what to expect from Huard. Croyle must first figure out a way to avoid the pressure to make solid throws. The Chiefs have allowed 29 sacks. Although the Colts will be without their franchise sack leader, defensive end Dwight Freeney (foot), it's still a formidable rush that forces quarterbacks to make quick decisions. The defensive end Robert Mathis has a team-high five sacks. If Croyle has time, he's up against the NFL's No. 2 pass defense, which allows 164.6 yards per game. The Colts held San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers to just 104 yards passing, intercepted him twice and recovered his league-leading 10th fumble for a touchdown.
Chiefs RB Priest Holmes vs. Colts run defense
Holmes showed last week in his first start in more than two years that he still has plenty of ability. Holmes not only showed he hasn't lost much of his elusiveness, but he also displayed good durability. As long as the Chiefs don't get too far behind, look for the Chiefs to get the ball to Holmes in some manner as much as 25 times. The Colts have played the run well but are depleted by injuries and could be a soft target for Holmes.
Colts OT Tony Ugoh vs. Chiefs DE Jared Allen
The NFL's No. 1 sack guy has been making up for lost time. Suspended the first two games of the season for charges of driving under the influence, Allen has a league-high 9.5 sacks and could add to that total against a left side of the Colts line that has endured troubles recently. Offensive lineman Michael Toudouze, a former practice squad player, was surprisingly successful in blocking Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman. Ugoh (neck), a talented rookie, could be returning this week, though, and that means Toudouze goes back to the bench as a backup. The Colts have allowed 10 sacks, and they're usually among the league leaders in fewest allowed. They gave up 15 sacks last season.
Raiders WR Ronald Curry vs. Vikings CB Cedric Griffin
Griffin is coming off a tough game last Sunday at Green Bay - the Vikings lost 34-0, so that could be said for many of their players - but there is little doubt the Raiders are going to try to get their leading receiver matched up on the second-year corner. That especially will be the case if left cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) returns after a two-game absence because of a hamstring injury. Winfield said he expects to be back to play in this game.
Raiders TE Zach Miller vs. Vikings SS Darren Sharper
Miller is tied for the NFL lead among rookie tight ends with 21 receptions but has yet to make a catch of 20 yards or longer. After looking, early in training camp, like the sort of tight end that could find open areas in the middle of a defense, only to have a lack of production, Miller has been turned loose more often of late. He had four receptions for 43 yards against the Chicago Bears. Sharper, who has 36 tackles and two interceptions for Minnesota, provides Miller his best test - a savvy veteran strong safety that knows all of the tricks. In 39 games with the Vikings, Sharper has nine interceptions.
Vikings RB Chester Taylor vs. Raiders run defense
With running back Adrian Peterson (knee) out because of a knee injury, Taylor will return to his starting role with an offense that is No. 1 in the NFL in rushing. Oakland's run defense is among the worst in the league, so Taylor stands to have a big day. Remember, Taylor ran for 1,216 yards and six touchdowns on 303 carries in 15 games last season, so this guy definitely knows what he's doing when he gets the ball in his hands. He's not nearly as flashy as Peterson, but he's certainly effective and could give the Raiders fits.
Vikings WR Troy Williamson vs. Raiders CB Stanford Routt
Williamson will be watched not only by Routt but by every camera imaginable after having a fine of a game check rescinded. He had the audacity (sarcasm, of course) to tend to his family and the funeral of his grandmother rather than play in Green Bay against the Packers. Williamson has just nine receptions for 159 yards. It just so happens that the Raiders, including Routt, have played excellent pass defense except for the one or two plays per game that have spelled the difference.
Dolphins QB John Beck vs. Eagles pass defense
Beck, a rookie, makes his firs start against a team known for exotic blitzes. Defensive coordinator Jim Johnson's line hasn't been getting great pressure lately, and its ranking against the pass has dropped from ninth to 23rd in less than a month, but that has been without blitzing much lately. You can be sure the Birds will blitz Beck. Defensive end Trent Cole has nine sacks.
Eagles RB Brian Westbrook vs. Dolphins LB Channing Crowder
Westbrook is one of the NFL's most versatile tailbacks. He's just as dangerous running between the tackles as he is catching passes out in the flat. He's presently responsible for nine of the Eagles' 20 touchdowns; he is averaging 4.8 yards per carry and 9.6 yards per reception. Every week he is accounting for 152.4 yards per game, so it has been a challenge for any team to keep up with him. Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder has taken over for Zach Thomas (migraine), manning the middle of the Dolphins defense, and it's his responsibility to call out the defense's adjustment. If Crowder, who is traditionally a weakside linebacker, struggles figuring out what Philadelphia is doing when Westbrook goes in motion the Dolphins defense, which is allowing 149 rushing yards per game, could be in for a long day. Crowder is second on the team with 48 tackles, but none of them have had a significant impact since he has yet to force a fumble or record a sack this season. The Fish are ranked 30th against the run. (They're fifth against the pass.) Westbrook has accounted for more than 38 percent of the Eagles' offensive yards this season, even though he missed one game.
Dolphins OT Vernon Carey vs. Eagles DE Trent Cole
Cole's ability to use his speed to come off the edge or drop back into coverage increases the versatility of Philadelphia's defense, and it has increased his productivity. Coles has been credited with nine sacks this season. He's also fourth on his team with 67 tackles, which means he's very productive in defending against the run. Despite being a converted right tackle, Carey is steadily growing into his left tackle role. Coles has gone two games without registering a sack or a hurry. Carey has allowed three of the Dolphins' 17 sacks. The offensive line also runs predominantly to his side, which means Cole, who is all of 6-foot-3 and 270 pounds, will be challenged to hold up at the point of attack. The Eagles will likely put added pressure on Miami's offensive line to protect Beck, who will be making his first start in his NFL debut.
Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Jaguars run defense
Like most teams, Jacksonville is expected to put eight men in the box to try to silence Tomlinson and force quarterback Philip Rivers to beat them with his inconsistent arm. For the most part, it is a strategy that has worked. since Tomlinson has been held to 67 or fewer yards five times this season, and the reigning MVP has just two 100-yard games. A week after Jaguars running back Fred Taylor reached the 10,000-yard career rushing mark, Tomlinson is about to become the 22nd player to reach that plateau, needing just 91 yards. He'll need to improve on his per-game average of less than 82 yards per game. Tomlinson has not had much success against the Jaguars in two games, rushing for 38 yards in 10 carries in 2003 and gaining 56 yards in 19 attempts a year later. The Jaguars are missing defensive tackle Marcus Stroud (suspension) but have another top-notch run-stuffing defensive tackle in John Henderson. They will focus on keeping Tomlinson in check. Middle linebacker Mike Peterson will be following Tomlinson most often. He has been the Jaguars' top tackler this year and has double-digit stops in seven of their nine games. The Jaguars have held three opponents to 26 yards or less in the last 24 games dating back to last season.
Chargers TE Antonio Gates vs. Jaguars secondary
Gates had three 100-yard games in the first five weeks of the season, but he has now gone four weeks without reaching that mark. He needs two more 100-yard games to tie the team record of five set by retired tight end Kellen Winslow Sr. (twice). At 6-foot-4, 260 pounds, Gates will be tough for the Jaguars' small defensive backs to handle. They may have to utilize a linebacker that can match Gates' size, but he would struggle to keep up with Gates if he goes deep. The Jaguars' secondary got a boost last week with the return of cornerback Brian Williams, who missed two games due to a hamstring injury. He has come through with an interception in each of the last three games in which he has played to tie a team record.
Jaguars QB David Garrard vs. Chargers secondary
Garrard (ankle) could be rusty after having missed the last two games due to a high ankle sprain. He'll be challenged to keep alive his streak of games without an interception this season. The Chargers defense has played at a high level thus far; it's tied for the league lead with a plus-11 turnover ratio. More importantly, to Garrard, they lead the NFL with 17 interceptions. In his first full season as a starter, Garrard has a passer rating of 102.9, having hit the triple digit mark in four of the six games in which he has played and never finishing below an 82.0 mark. Chargers cornerback Antonio Cromartie has gained recognition twice this season - for a 109-yard return of a missed field goal and a three-interception day against Colts passer Peyton Manning last week.
Jaguars RBs Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor vs. Chargers run defense
The Chargers defense rebounded from a horrible effort against Minnesota to hold Indianapolis to 75 rushing yards. That's 303 fewer yards than they yielded to the Vikings one week earlier. Colts halfback Joseph Addai had just 56 yards on 22 carries. Jacksonville uses two backs, and both are faring well. Last week the veteran Taylor went over the 10,000-yard mark for his career, and second-year man Jones-Drew is an all-purpose threat. The two complement each other well and help wear down opposing defenses. Jones-Drew has two 100-yard games this season; Taylor's high game is 90 yards. Jones-Drew has turned out to be the team's most effective and dangerous weapon on offense. After his first 100-yard rushing effort of the year last week, he has supplanted Taylor as the team's top rusher and has an impressive 5.3 yards-per-carry mark. He's also just one catch behind wideout Dennis Northcutt for the team lead in receptions and is a threat on kickoff returns, as evidenced by 569 yards in 19 returns, including a 100-yarder for a touchdown. San Diego will be watching for Jones-Drew's cutbacks, which he has used so effectively to gain a lot of yards beyond the line of scrimmage.
Cardinals RB Edgerrin James vs. Bengals run defense
As he did as Steelers offensive coordinator, Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt wants to run the ball behind a powerful offensive line. Results this season are mixed. James has rushed for 678 yards and five touchdowns on 182 carries. He ran 18 times for 60 yards against the Lions last week. He will probably get the ball more, especially early in the game. The Bengals are 3-0 when holding an individual runner to less than 100 yards and 0-6 when a back gets 100. Now into his second season with the Cardinals, James has reached 100 yards in a game four times, and the team is 4-0 in those games.
Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin vs. Bengals CBs Deltha O'Neal and Johnathan Joseph
Boldin has struggled ever since he returned from his hip injury; he and Whisenhunt have said a couple of times that he won't be 100 percent this season. Boldin has been frustrated, and it would seem as if the Cards may make an effort to get him the ball this weekend - especially against a Bengals secondary that can be beaten.
Bengals QB Carson Palmer vs. Cardinals LB Karlos Dansby
Palmer couldn't get his team into the end zone against Baltimore and now faces a Cardinals defense playing at a high level, even with the loss of defensive end Bertrand Berry (triceps). The catalyst in an NFL-record setting day against the rush last week was Dansby (knee), who came off of an injury to personally cause three turnovers (two picks and a forced fumble). He is a playmaker in the truest sense of the word. The Cards need a big game from Dansby to short-circuit the Bengals' offense.
Bengals WRs Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chris Henry vs. Cardinals secondary
The key to get downfield for the Bengals will start with the offensive line, which has allowed just 13 sacks this season. Arizona comes in with 24. If Palmer gets time, he has plenty of targets with the return from suspension of Henry, in addition to Houshmandzadeh (68 catches) and Johnson (51, 16.7-yard average). The Cardinals might be without their best defensive player, strong safety Adrian Wilson (calf), because of a calf injury.
Buccaneers WR Joey Galloway vs. Falcons CB DeAngelo Hall
Hall may be one of the few players in the league who can actually keep pace with Galloway. Hall has tremendous speed and coverage skills; he also does an excellent job of recovering from his mistakes. He may not need a lot of help defending Galloway, which is why Galloway has to have a big game against him. Galloway may not lure a second defender on a lot of the routes he runs, so he has to win the one-on-one matchups early to force double teams that create opportunities for other receivers. Galloway, who passed the 10,000 yards receiving mark earlier this season, is a crafty old veteran who still has the jets to burn you deep, though. Hall will have to maintain his coverage against scrambling quarterback Jeff Garcia and not bite on any of Galloway's fakes. If Hall bites on a double move, say while trying to get an interception, Galloway may end up in the end zone with a touchdown grab.
Buccaneers RB Michael Pittman vs. Falcons defense
Pittman (ankle) is raring to go after missing a month of games with an ankle sprain. He figures to get the ball a lot as a runner between the tackles, but the place the watch Pittman is in the passing game. The Bucs are expected to use a lot of dink-and-dunk throws this week, and that's where Pittman excels. He may not be their go-to guy in the red zone, but as their most dependable pass-catching back, he'll play a huge role in getting them there.
Falcons RB Warrick Dunn vs. Buccaneers LB Derrick Brooks
The two former teammates and best friends like to butt heads. Dunn, who needs just 58 yards to reach the 10,000-yard mark for his career, would like nothing more than to eclipse the mark against his old team and his good friend, Brooks. Dunn has shaken off the effects of back surgery and has returned to his shifty, nifty running style. He'll likely get plenty of carries to reach said mark, as the Falcons are now running their offense through him.
Panthers WR Steve Smith vs. Packers CB Al Harris
Smith's fantasy value has dropped dramatically over the last month because of the team's uncertain quarterback situation. That's not going to change any time soon with both Vinny Testaverde (Achilles') and David Carr (back) banged up. The Panthers have no consistency in the running game, and none of the other receivers are producing. That has led defenses to devote at least two, and sometimes three, defensive backs to Smith. Injured quarterback Jake Delhomme (elbow) frequently forced balls into coverage; Smith would go and get them. Carr and Testaverde don't take those chances nearly as often, and the Packers are likely to continue the trend of devoting heavy coverage to Smith. Even with cornerback Charles Woodson starting at the other cornerback spot, the Packers put Harris on the opponent's best receiver on most downs if they have a clear-cut No. 1, which certainly is the case here. Harris is excellent at jamming receivers and knocking them off their routes, although Smith is an especially tough cover because he's strong for a small (5-9, 185), quick receiver. The last time the teams played, in 2005, Smith had only two catches for 12, with Harris as his primary cover man.
Packers WR Donald Driver vs. Panthers CB Ken Lucas
Lucas has been one of the few bright spots of the season for Carolina. He has stayed healthy, hasn't given up much in the passing game and is coming up with some big plays. He'll need to be at his best against Driver, though, because he may have to handle him in single coverage. Green Bay quarterback Brett Favre is doing an excellent job of distributing the ball among all his receivers, and the Panthers may not be able to give Lucas much help from the safeties.
Packers OT Mark Tauscher vs. Panthers DE Julius Peppers
Peppers' numbers are way down this year (1.5 sacks through eight games), but he's capable of having a monster game at any time. Tauscher (ankle) sprained his ankle last week and probably won't practice until Friday, but he is still expected to play. The Packers have been going with five-man protections much of this season, and that has helped open up their offense. Tauscher is a sound pass blocker that has performed well against top rush ends in the past. Peppers breaks loose, though, and he could force Favre into a key turnover or two. He could also force the Packers to keep extra blockers in, which would take some options away from Favre in the passing game and cut down his numbers.
Steelers RB Willie Parker vs. Jets run defense
The Jets are 32nd in the NFL against the run. In their last game, they allowed 196 yards rushing to Washington's Clinton Portis, who this season hadn't rushed for more than 98 yards in a game until that game. Parker is second in the NFL in rushing with 873 yards. He rushed for 105 yards against the Browns last week.
Jets QB Kellen Clemens vs. Steelers LB James Harrison
For those of you who have stashed Clemens at the end of your fantasy roster, don't rush him into your starting lineup this week. Clemens, a second-round draft choice last year, will make his second consecutive start since replacing veteran passer Chad Pennington two weeks ago. Clemens has done the near impossible: His yards-per-attempt average of 5.8 is worse than that of the spaghetti-armed Pennington's 6.9. Plus, Clemens has completed only 51.5 percent of his 101 throws. Harrison has become a force on the NFL's highest-ranked defense (229.4 yards per game and 126 points allowed), with 6.5 of the team's 25 sacks, six quarterback hurries, five forced fumbles, two recoveries and one interception. Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau has proven through the years that he will employ his most aggressive pass-rushing schemes against the league's least experienced quarterbacks.
Jets KR Leon Washington vs. Steelers special teams
If there ever was a reason for using a return man on your fantasy team because of his opponent, this is it. Washington leads the NFL with a team record of three kickoff returns for touchdowns and is averaging 33.5 yards per return. Meanwhile, the Steelers are 27th in kickoff coverage (26.0). They allowed one touchdown as well as 90- and 100-yard (the touchdown) returns by Browns kick returner Josh Cribbs last Sunday. The Steelers have allowed five touchdown drives of four plays or fewer, including the past three, because of poor tackling and poor field position. The result was the Browns - a 34-7 loser in the teams' first matchup in September - nearly upset the 7-2 Steelers. The same could happen Sunday against the 1-8 Jets, because there isn't much head coach Mike Tomlin can do about improving his coverage units - short of using some starters. Two of his special teams players - backup linebackers LaMarr Woodley (hamstring) and Andre Frazier (groin) - are questionable for the game Sunday. Consider that, because of the bye, Jets special teams coordinator Mike Westhoff had an extra week to break down film of the Pittsburgh kick coverage unit.
Bears QB Rex Grossman vs. Seahawks pass defense
Of the Seahawks' 26 sacks, 21 have come in their wins, which explains how erratic they've been. Grossman is the quarterback this week, so it makes things very interesting. He has been so shaky all season, but keep in mind that he did beat the Seahawks twice last season, including once in the playoffs, and he beat them deep. This is where the new Seahawks safety duo of Deon Grant and Brian Russell has been so significant. As poorly as the Bears have played this season, the Seahawks defense knows it has to make a statement early against the Bears offense, or memories of last season will haunt them.
Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck vs. Bears CB Trumaine McBride
The Seahawks are as good as any team in the league at game planning to attack certain areas and weaknesses. They will no doubt try to follow on what the Raiders tried to do but at which they failed. The Raiders worked to isolate wideout Jerry Porter on McBride, a smallish rookie seventh-round pick, but they had little success. Hasselbeck is a far more polished passer than Oakland's Josh McCown and will no doubt try to work on McBride. The Bears often provide safety help over the top for him, but they used a lot more eight-man fronts versus the Raiders. They cannot always be in the Tampa 2 as a base defense. Expect the Seahawks to look for favorable matchups versus McBride as well as strong safety Adam Archuleta.
Seahawks running backs vs. Bears run defense
With problems on the offensive line, plus the injuries to Shaun Alexander (knee, wrist), the Seahawks had gone seven games without a rushing touchdown until running back Maurice Morris scored on a six-yard run Monday night. The team is 21st in rushing offense, with Morris having gained just 87 yards on 28 carries; however, that was still one of the best games of the season by a Seahawks back. Alexander remains questionable for this week. The interesting part of the equation is that the Bears defense is 26th against the run this season. Essentially, this week will be a classic matchup that will finally produce the answer of which team is worse at their respective weaknesses on these sides of the football. The Seahawks have to prove they can make big plays to beat the Bears.
Bears OT John Tait vs. Seahawks LB Julian Peterson
Pass protection has been spotty at times this season for the Bears. Playing in noisy Qwest Field will be a challenge for the Bears' front, particularly Tait, who ought to get more than his share of matchups with the talented rush linebacker, Peterson. Tait's play has dropped off some this season, as he has come back from offseason ankle surgery and battled a separate ankle sprain. It has been a challenging season for him. He will need to rise up against Seattle, which uses a variety of pressure packages and will no doubt try to get after Grossman, who can be flustered.
Redskins TE Chris Cooley vs. Cowboys SS Roy Williams
For all his effectiveness playing run defense, Williams has yet to prove he can cover with any consistency. He is not as comfortable in man coverage as he is in zone. Last week, the Giants went right after Williams, creating matchups that had him one-on-one against Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey. Shockey had 12 catches for 129 yards and a touchdown. Especially without receivers Santana Moss (heel), who appears unlikely to play, and James Thrash (ankle), who's out, Cooley will probably be a big part of the game plan. If they can find ways to get him against Williams, the Redskins could move it down the field. In six games versus Dallas, Cooley has 17 catches for 226 yards and four touchdowns. Cooley's five touchdown catches lead the Redskins, and he is quarterback Jason Campbell's security blanket.
Cowboys WR Terrell Owens vs. Redskins CB Fred Smoot
Owens is on a roll, with eight touchdown catches and three straight 100-yard games. The Cowboys are moving him around and getting him the ball in different situations. Smoot will have a difficult time matching up with Owens at the line of scrimmage, and Smoot isn't afraid to take chances. If the Cowboys use a lot of three-wide formations, then the Redskins will really feel the loss of cornerback Carlos Rogers (knee) and free safety Sean Taylor (knee). In eight games versus Washington, Owens has 28 catches for 308 yards and three touchdowns.
Cowboys OT Flozell Adams vs. Redskins DE Andre Carter
It took awhile for Carter to get going upon his arrival in Washington (only two sacks in the first 11 games of 2006). In his last 14 games, though, dating back to last year, Carter has 11 sacks. He has already eclipsed last year's 6.5 sacks with a team-high seven this season. Carter excels when he can use his athleticism in one-on-one matchups. Adams is a 10-year pro and gigantic (6-foot-7, 340 pounds). He is part of a Dallas offensive line that has been efficient in picking up blitzes.
Rams QB Marc Bulger vs. 49ers pass defense
Bulger passed for a season-high 368 yards against San Francisco in Week 2, but he paid a steep price. He was pounded by the blitzing 49ers' pass rush, getting hit 13 times, including six sacks. Rams receivers, particularly Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce, ran free all day against the San Francisco secondary. If Bulger is given time by the Rams' patchwork offensive line, the Rams must feel they can do the same thing this time around - but with fewer bumps and bruises to Bulger.
49ers RB Frank Gore vs. Rams run defense
After yielding a season-low 43 yards rushing against New Orleans, the Rams need to stop Gore in order to win their second game of the season. The Rams rank 27th in the NFL in run defense, though. Gore had two 100-yard rushing games against the Rams last season; he had 81 yards on 20 carries when the teams met in Week 2 this year. Gore scored both of San Francisco's touchdowns in a 17-16 victory, including one on a 43-yard run on fourth down. The strength of the 49ers' offense is its running game. However, the 49ers have run the ball just 37.6 percent of the time this season. That is the fourth-lowest in the NFL. Monday night Gore returned from an ankle sprain. He rushed for 72 yards on just 13 carries. The 49ers have to come to the conclusion that they have to do a better job of sticking with the running game. Gore does not have a rushing touchdown in the past seven games - coincidentally, since that Week 2 victory over the Rams.
49ers TE Vernon Davis vs. Rams pass defense
Davis saw just two passes come his way in Monday's game against the Seahawks. He had only one reception for four yards. Head coach Mike Nolan admitted that it was a mistake. Generally, after the team admits that it didn't use a player properly, they make a big effort to get the player involved in the next game. In the previous two games, Davis caught 13 passes for 148 yards. The 49ers will undoubtedly make it an emphasis to get the ball in the hands of Davis against the Rams.
Patriots WR Wes Welker vs. Bills CBs Ashton Youboty and Jerametrius Butler
Youboty (ankle) has not played in the last five games due to injury, but head coach Dick Jauron believes he may be healthy enough to play nickel corner this week. If that's the case, Youboty will be trying to contain Welker, who has built quite a rapport with quarterback Tom Brady and has proven to be a pest for opposing defensive backs. Welker has a team-high 61 catches for 651 yards and seven touchdowns. Youboty, a second-year player, posted 13 tackles in three-plus games before hurting his ankle against the Jets in September. Against Welker, the Bills may also have to use Butler, who has seen limited duty in the secondary since being signed Sept. 25. Butler is not very physical.
Bills WR Lee Evans vs. Patriots CB Asante Samuel
Don't expect much out of Evans this week. The Pats usually blanket him with double coverage, and it has been effective. In seven career games against New England, Evans has just 14 catches for 237 yards and no touchdowns. In five of the seven games, he has been held to either one or two catches. The Bills have not been able to make the Patriots pay on the side of the field opposite Evans.
Patriots OT Matt Light vs. Bills DE Aaron Schobel
Schobel has sacked Brady 11 times in his career, including 6.5 times over the teams' last five meetings. Light generally has difficulty with speedy players like Schobel, but the defensive end had just half of a sack in their September meeting. Light will probably get help from tight end Kyle Brady to keep Schobel off Brady. Keeping Brady upright and giving him plenty of time to throw has been a big key for New England's explosive offense this season.
Titans running backs vs. Broncos front seven
The Broncos' have gotten a tad better at stopping the run. Their season highlight came Sunday in Kansas City when they held the Chiefs to 67 yards rushing, which is a season low for Denver. The Broncos even escaped the NFL cellar on run defense. They're now giving up 151 yards per game and are ranked No. 31. Still, they are clearly struggling, but with running backs LenDale White (knee) and Chris Brown (ankle) both banged up, Denver's success against the run has a chance of continuing to show improvement.
Titans wide receivers vs. Broncos CB Champ Bailey and Dre' Bly
The Broncos have a fairly solid pass defense, with Bailey and Bly being a very solid tandem. The Titans do not have much of a passing game. Their receivers are below average, and quarterback Vince Young is struggling through the air. Watch for Denver to clamp down and not allow Tennessee much in the air. Wideout Justin Gage has emerged as one of Young's favorite targets in the passing game, though. He is coming off a seven-catch, 90-yard game against the Jaguars and has shown that he's capable of getting open downfield. Bailey is one of the NFL's top corners and has proven capable of shutting down streaks in a hurry. This could be a game in which Tennessee tries to run at Denver because the Titans likely won't have much success in the passing game.
Broncos WR Brandon Marshall vs. Titans CB Cortland Finnegan
Marshall leads the Broncos with 51 catches for 694 yards and two touchdowns. He has turned into quarterback Jay Cutler's go-to guy with wideout Javon Walker (knee) out. Marshall had six catches for 85 yards last week versus Kansas City. He's averaging 13.6 yards per catch. Finnegan has been matched up against some of the league's top receivers. He's physical and good in coverage; he could give Marshall a tough time.
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