Matchups to Exploit - Week 14
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December 6, 2007 @ 06:41:02
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By Hot off the Wire Network Contributors
Edited by Nicholas Minnix
Bears QB Rex Grossman vs. Redskins LB London Fletcher
Grossman is 2-5 as the Bears' starter this season. He was benched after a 1-3 start but reassumed the job after subbing for an injured Brian Griese at Oakland on Nov. 11 and throwing a game-winning touchdown pass. He is still a player that throws more interceptions (seven) than touchdowns (four) and still a quarterback that gets sacked (25 times). Fletcher is not a big threat as a blitzer, but he directs traffic. He also makes it possible for linebackers Rocky McIntosh and Marcus Washington as well as strong safety LaRon Landry to blitz. Fletcher will also be important in forcing Grossman into tough decisions when the passer looks for tight ends Desmond Clark and Greg Olsen (a combined 69 catches).
Bears WR Bernard Berrian vs. Redskins CBs Fred Smoot and Shawn Springs
Grossman has been looking deep since returning from his benching, and the man he goes to is the speedy Berrian. Berrian made a terrific one-handed grab for a 50-yard gain last week versus the Giants, but then he chose not to lay out for a ball that would have resulted in another big play. He has been an enigmatic figure this season, but he is the best weapon the Bears have for a quick strike, something they desperately need with the ground game going nowhere. Springs is a crafty veteran that has lost a step along the way, and Smoot is a wily performer as well. It should be an interesting matchup. Look for Grossman to try it three to four times.
Redskins TE Chris Cooley vs. Bears LB Hunter Hillenmeyer and SS Brandon McGowan
Cooley has been the most consistent big-play threat for the Redskins this season and has developed into the favorite target of quarterback Jason Campbell. He has 21 catches and two touchdowns in the last three games. He enters with a team-high 53 catches for 584 yards and seven touchdowns. However, it's only recently he has been used on a regular basis. Teams have tried to limit his effectiveness down the middle of the field, but it hasn't mattered. Look for the Redskins to seek ways to match him up in one-on-one coverage versus the inexperienced McGowan, who is a big hitter with decent range. McGowan is ultra-aggressive and can be fooled at times and caught out of position badly. Hillenmeyer is third on the team with 60 tackles. The Redskins are 15th in passing. The Bears rank 25th in pass defense. If Campbell has time to throw, he could find Cooley downfield on deep crossing routes and score big.
Panthers QB Vinny Testaverde vs. Jaguars CBs Rashean Mathis and Brian Williams
Last month Testaverde turned 44, the same age as Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio. In five starts this year, Testaverde has thrown for more than 170 yards just twice. That's why he may welcome the opportunity to go against the Jaguars secondary, where Mathis and Williams have been burned often this year. Jacksonville has allowed a league-high 47 completions of 20 yards or more this season. After the fourth week of the season, the Jaguars ranked third in pass defense, 26th in rushing defense. They have since flipped those numbers and are now 27th in pass defense and eighth in stopping the run.
Panthers RBs DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams vs. Jaguars DT Marcus Stroud
Foster and Williams provide the Panthers with a strong one-two running combo, which has helped take the pressure off the erratic play at the quarterback position. The duo has combined for 1,196 rushing yards, the third best two-man total in the NFC. How successful they'll be against the Jaguars front with the return of Stroud remains to be seen. Back in the lineup after a four-game substance abuse suspension, Stroud's presence means teams will not be able to double team defensive tackle John Henderson. That should make the team's run defense, which already ranks No. 8 in the NFL, even more effective. Stroud's return means the Jags can now alternate five defensive tackles, keeping everyone fresher.
Panthers WR Steve Smith vs. Jaguars CB Brian Williams
The Panthers were very creative with Smith last week and found news ways to get him the ball. That's likely to continue because the team wants the ball in the hands of its most dangerous player. Smith and Testaverde have good chemistry; Smith will likely get more passes thrown to him than he did when quarterback David Carr was playing. That puts pressure on Williams, who is aggressive and physical; he can stay with Smith in the short game. But Williams doesn't have the speed to turn and run with Smith. Williams will need help from free safety Reggie Nelson in the deep game.
Jaguars RBs Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Panthers Panthers LB Jon Beason and DEs Mike Rucker and Julius Peppers
Taylor and Jones-Drew are running behind last year's average yards per game of 76.4 and 58.8, respectively. However, their 1,443 yards ranks as the best combined total in the AFC and No. 2 overall in the league. Taylor has turned in his two best efforts of the season in the last two weeks and is running like he did in his first couple of years in the league instead of this, his 10th season. The two will test Carolina's defensive front that is anchored by Rucker and Peppers. Both ends will on the watch for cutbacks by Taylor and Jones-Drew, who have used that method to accumulate some big gains this season. Peppers and Rucker rank first and second among Panthers defensive linemen in tackles. Beason has had an outstanding rookie season and seems to get better each week. The Jaguars are likely to come right at Beason, and he'll need defensive tackles Kris Jenkins and Ma'ake Kemoeatu to keep blockers off him. Beason is at his best when he's able to run free. The Jaguars will probably try to get offensive linemen on him whenever possible to keep him from going sideline to sideline.
Jaguars TE Marcedes Lewis vs. Panthers FS Deke Cooper and SS Chris Harris
Lewis has enjoyed the most productive time in his short two-year NFL career. In each of the past two weeks he has grabbed career-matching bests of five passes for a total of 99 yards and one touchdown. With veteran tight ends George Wrighster (knee) and Greg Estandia (shoulder) both out for the year, Lewis has taken on a more valuable role at that position, as newcomers Richard Angulo and Isaac Smolko have yet to prove their value. Cooper would like nothing more than to shut down his former teammates. He played three full seasons in Jacksonville from 2003-05, starting 22 of the 46 games he appeared in. Harris and Cooper have combined to play a role in 11 of Carolina's 26 takeaways. They rank second and third on the team in total tackles with 74 and 70, respectively.
Bills RB Fred Jackson vs. Dolphins LB Channing Crowder
Jackson showed he is no average undrafted no-name by rolling up 151 combined yards against the Washington Redskins. He did a good job of pushing forward and gaining the extra yard between the tackles. He also did a good job of making the first defender miss when he caught passes in the flat. He doesn't have breakaway speed, but he has good hands. If running back Marshawn Lynch (ankle) sits out another week, Jackson is good for six or seven catches and 20 carries. If Lynch doesn't sit, Jackson is still expected to receive a portion of the touches. Miami's run defense ranks 32nd in the NFL.
Bills WR Lee Evans vs. Dolphins CBs Michael Lehan and Will Allen
Evans leads the Bills with 15.3 yards per reception, but he has scored only two touchdowns so far this season. During the month of December, Evans has proven to be one of the NFL's most productive receivers, contributing 1,111 yards, 63 receptions and 14 touchdowns. Five of his nine career 100-yard games have come from his 14 starts in December. Lehan is growing into his new role as a starter. Last week he recovered a fumble and returned it 43 yards for a touchdown. This season he has contributed 42 tackles, one sack and five pass deflections, but he hasn't recorded an interception. Allen has transitioned to the nickel spot, and he's used often as a blitzing cornerback, which means it is Lehan's job to handle many of the tough man-to-man assignment these days. If Lehan is physical enough to knock Evans off his routes, the timing of Buffalo's passing game could get disturbed, which would negatively impact rookie quarterback Trent Edwards. The last time these two teams faced, Evans led the Bills with four catches for 65 yards - with J.P. Losman at quarterback. Miami is weak at the safety position, so the opportunity is there to go downfield. One encouraging sign last week was that Edwards hit Evans for a 29-yard pass on a go route against the Redskins last week. It has become clear that you can't expect fireworks from Evans this season, though, with the Bills' other weapons struggling and defenses focusing on him. The forecast calls for 38 degrees and a rain-snow mix Sunday, probably not ideal for passing.
Bills PR Roscoe Parrish and KR Terrence McGee vs. Dolphins special teams
Parrish and McGee will be a difficult tandem for Miami's weak coverage units to contain, especially without special teams standout Cameron Worrell (knee), who suffered a season-ending ACL injury last week. Worrell was the special teams' second best tackler and the leader of that unit. The Dolphins are ranked 32nd in field position for opponents, allowing teams to start their average drives on the 33.8-yard line. Parrish leads the NFL with a 19-yard average on punt returns, including a 74-yard touchdown. Against the Dolphins in last month's 13-10 victory over Miami, Parrish returned a fourth quarter punt 40 yards, setting up the game-winning touchdown. McGee had a 103-yard touchdown against the Cowboys, his fifth career touchdown return. Dolphins linebacker Edmond Miles will need to step it up to contain the two. Miles is the top tackler on the Dolphins' special teams unit.
Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Titans run defense
The Chargers are at their best when the running game is clicking, which was apparent as Tomlinson rushed for 177 yards against the Kansas City Chiefs last Sunday. He's a matchup problem for any team because of his abilities as a receiver. He is averaging 109 rushing yards per game with three touchdowns in two career games versus the Titans. This year, though, the Titans will likely be a much sterner test as long as mammoth defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth (hamstring), who is having a terrific season, is able to play. Tennessee allows just 93.9 rushing yards per game. The Titans will likely try and match up the speedy Bulluck against Tomlinson, too, but it will probably take all 11. Whether Tomlinson finds running room likely depends on how left offensive guard Kris Dielman and center Nick Hardwick fare against Haynesworth, who has five sacks and five tackles for losses on running plays despite missing three games with a hamstring injury.
Chargers TE Antonio Gates vs. Titans LB David Thornton
Gates leads the Chargers with 61 catches, and his 13.7-yard average is higher than that of any of the Titans' receivers. Gates had four catches for 55 yards in the last meeting against the Titans, last September. The Titans have done a solid job defending tight ends this year, but they haven't faced anyone like Gates yet this year.
Titans QB Vince Young vs. Chargers pass rush
The Chargers had a season-high nine sacks against Kansas City, but Chiefs quarterbacks Damon Huard and Tyler Thigpen move like statues when compared to the highly athletic Young. The Tennessee quarterback has rushed for 341 yards and isn't shy about scrambling if a pattern isn't open. The Chargers need to stay in their containment lanes and try to keep Young in the pocket since his passing success has been very sporadic this season. Young has thrown just seven touchdown passes while being intercepted 14 times and is prone to making poor decisions. Outside linebacker Shawne Merriman had three sacks last week and is playing his best football of the season.
Texans DE Mario Williams vs. Buccaneers QB Jeff Garcia or QB Luke McCown
Williams is coming off a 2.5-sack day, but he's unlikely to keep up that pace with the Tampa Bay offensive line separating him and the quarterback. The Bucs allowed just 11 sacks this season. Williams is on a hot streak, though. Of his sacks this season, 5.5 have come in the last five games. Garcia's (back) chances to play are improving, but either Tampa Bay passer may have trouble avoiding Williams.
Buccaneers RB Earnest Graham vs. Texans run defense
Graham will get the majority of the work in the running game, but it will be his ability to make plays in the passing game that could make a difference. Graham is a good pass catcher, and he can make some extra yardage with his maneuverability in the open field. He'll be a key this week because the Texans are good enough to cover the Bucs' wideouts and force the quarterback to throw underneath and in the flats to his backs.
Buccaneers WR Joey Galloway vs. Texans CBs Von Hutchins and Fred Bennett
Galloway is in the midst of a great season, ranking second in the league in yards per catch with 18.2. The Texans have two new, young starting cornerbacks who are still learning as they go. Bennett has three interceptions in the last four games. He and Hutchins, however, each gave up big plays last week. They can't allow Galloway to have much space this week. Galloway will definitely enter with the upper hand.
Buccaneers TE Alex Smith vs. Texans LB DeMeco Ryans
Smith should be used a lot in this game. With the Texans working to get to the passer, they'll leave some holes open in the middle of the field. The Bucs will try to exploit those holes as well as the onrushing Texans linemen and linebackers by getting the ball to Smith. Smith works very well over the middle, but Ryans is quick to diagnose plays, shed blocks and make tackles. He'll keep the Bucs from making big plays over the middle, but he may not be able to keep them from chipping away at them there.
Raiders RB Justin Fargas vs. Packers LBs A.J. Hawk and Nick Barnett
Fargas has been productive since becoming the Raiders' starter five games ago. He is averaging 4.3 yards per rush and has rushed for 530 yards in that span. However, he plays behind a relatively weak offensive line; he will also be playing in a cold climate and possibly on a snowy field against a defense that will be shooting to slow him down. The Raiders don't have a lot of weapons in the passing game, so the Packers probably will do everything to make sure Fargas isn't a major factor.
Raiders TE Zach Miller vs. Packers SS Atari Bigby
Miller has enjoyed a solid rookie season and, in the past two games, has begun to show the kind of receiving skill on medium-range passes the Raiders were hoping for. His three longest gains (28, 26 and 19 yards) have come in the last two games. Miller also had a 13-yard touchdown catch against the Denver Broncos. He could be a weapon in bad weather. Bigby was a castoff in Miami and with the New York Jets before he starred in training camp and earning a spot with the Packers. He has only one interception, though, and he struggled in coverage against tight end Jason Witten of the Dallas Cowboys.
Packers WRs Donald Driver and Greg Jennings vs. Raiders CBs Nnamdi Asomugha and Stanford Routt
Driver and Jennings have combined for 1,610 receiving yards. Although quarterback Brett Favre is capable of striking with the occasional rainbow, the real danger for Asomugha and Routt comes after the short reception. Both Raiders corners have struggled at times with one-on-one tackling. Driver and Jennings have combined for 664 yards after the catch.
Packers RB Ryan Grant vs. Raiders run defense
Grant has rushed for 561 yards and is averaging 4.9 yards per carry since becoming the Packers' primary halfback for the past six games. He's a tough, physical runner who appears to have the makings of a mudder and bad-weather runner. Oakland, meanwhile, ranks 30th in the league in rushing yards allowed and last in yards allowed per carry. With snow a possibility at Lambeau Field Sunday, this has the makings of a good day for Grant.
Cowboys WR Terrell Owens vs. Lions secondary
Owens needs one more touchdown catch to establish a single-season team record with 15 and tie a personal high with a score in eight straight games. He is having perhaps the best season of his career, and the Lions secondary has been shredded the past two games by Green Bay's Brett Favre and - gasp - Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson. Owens is a far superior athlete to anybody the Lions have in their secondary, and he will present matchup problems all day. Expect the Lions to play a lot of Cover 2 - with veteran strong safety Kenoy Kennedy, whose tackling has been poor lately, and rookie free safety Gerald Alexander. Cornerback Fernando Bryant does not have Owens' speed, but his size could make him a good matchup. The Cowboys have done a great job of moving Owens around to make it difficult for corners to get a lock on him, though. The Lions have the 31st-ranked pass defense.
Lions QB Jon Kitna vs. Cowboys LB Bradie James and CB Terence Newman
Kitna lit into James and Newman as the Cowboys concluded the regular season and prepared for the playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks. Kitna threw four touchdown passes versus the Cowboys last year. He said it looked like James did not know what he was doing and Newman was not a top corner. Both players remember Kitna's words and want some redemption. James is having the best year of his career, and Newman has a pick in three straight games.
Lions RB Kevin Jones vs. Cowboys run defense
The Lions' running game has been historically bad lately. Offensive coordinator Mike Martz hasn't even tried to run the ball at times. But the Lions might try to attack the Cowboys like they did the Packers on Thanksgiving Day, hoping to keep the ball away from Dallas quarterback Tony Romo the way they wanted to keep it away from Favre. Against Green Bay, Jones had 20 carries for 93 yards, his second best total of the season.
Giants QB Eli Manning vs. Eagles pass rush
Manning has committed seven turnovers in the last two weeks, including six interceptions and a fumble caused when a wet ball slipped out of his hands against the Bears. A lot of that has to do with the pass rush he has been under, something that won't subside when he faces a blitzing Eagles team whose 30 sacks rank ninth in the league. Manning has taken some punishment, getting sacked 12 times in the last four games. He moved around the pocket well in the final quarter of his comeback win over the Chicago Bears, though. The Eagles will blitz from anywhere on the field, but defensive end Trent Cole has the team lead with 9.5 sacks.
Giants WR Plaxico Burress vs. Eagles CB Sheldon Brown
Burress (ankle, knee) has tortured Brown the last couple of years. It's unlikely Burress will be able to get behind Brown this time, though, because of the sprained right ankle and bruised left knee that have hindered his mobility. He can still out-jump the 5-foot-10 cornerback, however, and that could be the game plan. Burress caught just three passes for 36 yards in Chicago, but one of them was a 15-yarder while he was being plowed under by cornerback Charles Tillman. That set up running back Reuben Droughns' game-winning touchdown run from the 2-yard line. The Eagles rank 19th in pass defense, allowing an average of 220.5 yards per game. Even though Burress is no longer a deep threat, he can still maneuver into holes in the defense and is still agile enough to cut underneath a cornerback.
Eagles RB Brian Westbrook vs. Giants run defense
The Giants rank fifth in the NFL against the run, but Westbrook, who missed the first meeting with an abdominal strain, has had some memorable games against them over the years. The Eagles will need to run effectively to minimize the Giants' ability to tee off on quarterback Donovan McNabb (ankle), who is coming back from two weeks off with an ankle injury. Giants middle linebacker Antonio Pierce (ankle) will have a busy day trying to defend this all-around threat. If Pierce can hold Westbrook to respectable yardage, the Giants will have a good chance at winning. Westbrook is the league's fifth leading rusher with 994 yards and seven touchdowns on 216 carries. He is also the conference's eighth leading receiver with 69 receptions for 604 yards and four touchdowns. Pierce, battling a sore right ankle the last two weeks, had three tackles against the Bears, and he leads the Giants with 89 tackles. Westbrook is having his second career season in a row.
Eagles OT William Thomas vs. Giants DE Osi Umenyiora
The last time these teams met, at the Meadowlands Sept. 30, Thomas was out with a knee injury and Umenyiora victimized inexperienced backup left tackle Winston Justice for six sacks. The Giants sacked McNabb a team-record 12 times in a 16-3 win. Thomas has fared much better against Umenyiora (one sack allowed in six regular season meetings), though. Justice's biggest problem that day seemed to be getting used to the silent snap count in a loud road environment; he was basically a step slow getting off the ball. That won't be a problem for Thomas, especially at home.
Rams QB Marc Bulger vs. Bengals pass defense
Bulger (concussion) is expected to play after missing the Atlanta Falcons game last week with a concussion. With a young secondary and a makeshift linebacker corps that has been decimated by injuries and suspension, the Bengals have been vulnerable to the pass - and the big play - all season. If Bulger is on his game, wide receivers Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce and Drew Bennett, as well as tight end Randy McMichael, could have a field day.
Rams WRs Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce vs. Bengals CBs Johnathan Joseph and Leon Hall
Joseph (foot) is playing more like he did as a rookie in the past few weeks as he heals further from a stress fracture suffered in June minicamp; he will be aiming for his third consecutive week with an interception. His explosive first step is returning. He and Hall will have their hands full with Holt (72 receptions for 944 yards) and Bruce (a 14th-year player with 83 career touchdowns and 13,911 yards). Hall leads the Bengals with four interceptions; Joseph has three. Head coach Marvin Lewis noted that the Rams have their vertical pass offense back.
Bengals WRs Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chris Henry vs. Rams secondary
With cornerback Tye Hill (wrist) out for the season following wrist surgery, the Rams secondary could be vulnerable to the Bengals' passing game. Minus Hill, cornerback Ron Bartell moves into the starting lineup, and unproven rookie Jonathan Wade comes off the bench as the third cornerback. Brown and Bartell have been playing very well lately. He is a physical cornerback that has seen a lot of action this season as a part-time starter and full-time nickel man. He has 55 tackles and one interception. With Johnson, Houshmandzadeh and Henry all possessing good size and speed, Wade will get one of them on just about every play. Bartell is likely to need help from a safety, but that helps to create space for the other wideouts. Despite their improved play recently, the Rams gave up a season-high 356 yards passing last week against the Falcons. Johnson has been getting his yards and catches lately. He is playing with a chip on his shoulder. He has shut out most media for the past month.
Cardinals QB Kurt Warner vs. Seahawks pass defense
The Seahawks have a history of blitzing Warner unmercifully because of his general lack of mobility; it was quarterback Matt Leinart (collarbone) who beat the Seahawks with big plays. That's what makes this interesting. Warner had plenty of success against the Seahawks when he was in St. Louis, but that hasn't been the case in Arizona. The big question going into the game will be the health of his supreme wide receiver duo: Larry Fitzgerald (groin) didn't play last week; Anquan Boldin (toe) left last week's game with a dislocated toe and is contemplating surgery. The Cardinals also received big yardage from running back Edgerrin James on the ground and in the air.
Cardinals RB Edgerrin James vs. Seahawks LB Lofa Tatupu
James is coming off his second best game of the season (114 yards), behind only the 128 yards he gained against the Seahawks in Week 2. It's a good time for the running game to play well, since injuries to Boldin and Fitzgerald put into question both wide receivers' availability Sunday. Tatupu is coming off a three-interception game, but his worth will be shutting down James, who has had an uncanny knack for getting at least an extra two to three yards after contact.
Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck vs. Cardinals pass defense
Running back Shaun Alexander didn't hear the dummy audible that caused a fumble in the final minute of that first game. The result was a tough 23-20 loss at Arizona in the second game of the season. The Cardinals always throw wild defenses at the Seahawks, and they were more effective than ever in the first meeting between the two. But the Seahawks' erratic offense has calmed down during their recent winning streak, and the opportunity to clinch the division is particularly significant. Alexander's ability to complement the passing combination of Hasselbeck and wide receiver Bobby Engram (72 catches) would seem to be the key to the game.
Seahawks wide receivers vs. Cardinals CB Roderick Hood
The Seahawks are passing more often, and they have turned multiple receiving threats (Will it be Bobby Engram? Nate Burleson? Deion Branch? Someone else?) into an art form. Hood is coming off his second two-interception game of the season, but he has also found a way to get lost on deep passes a couple of times. That includes on one against Cleveland wideout Braylon Edwards last week. Hood and fellow corner Antrel Rolle have to hold up, especially early.
Vikings RBs Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor vs. 49ers LBs Patrick Willis and Derek M. Smith
This is a matchup pitting the two runaway favorites for NFL offensive and defensive rookies of the year. Willis leads the NFL with 128 tackles. Peterson leads the NFL with 1,197 rushing yards. The Vikings' top-ranked rushing attack will draw plenty of attention from the 49ers' front seven, including Smith and Willis. Last Sunday against Detroit, Peterson (knee) and Taylor combined to rush for 186 yards and three touchdowns on 29 carries. The game was Peterson's first since suffering a partially torn lateral collateral ligament in his right knee Nov. 11. Peterson and Taylor figure to split carries for the remainder of the season, keeping both fresh. The 49ers rank 26th in the league in rushing yards allowed per game, although the average yards per rushing attempt (3.8) against them ranks seventh in the NFL. Willis has good speed and is a steady tackler. Three opposing running backs - the Steelers' Willie Parker, the Giants' Brandon Jacobs and the Falcons' Warrick Dunn - have rushed for more than 100 yards against the 49ers this season. The matchup of top rookies - Peterson and Willis - should be interesting.
Vikings WR Sidney Rice vs. 49ers CB Nate Clements
If the Vikings have a true receiving threat, it's this rookie, and thus the 49ers might want to make sure Clements covers Rice as much as possible. Minnesota will try to get Rice away from Clements, but this could be a fun matchup to watch with Rice attempting to use his 6-foot-4 frame against the 6-foot-1 Clements. Rice is second on the Vikings with 28 receptions for 365 yards but leads the team with four touchdown catches and can be especially dangerous in the red zone. His four touchdown receptions make him the only Vikings receiver with more than one this season.
49ers WR Arnaz Battle vs. Vikings CB Cedric Griffin
Assuming veteran cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring) returns after missing four of the past five games because of a hamstring injury, the 49ers likely will try to get Battle (ankle) matched up on Griffin throughout the afternoon. Several teams have gone right at Griffin this season, and San Francisco is likely to do the same with its top receiving threat. Griffin has frequently put up good battles but is prone to giving up a few big plays. Battle leads the 49ers in receptions (43), receiving yards (545) and touchdown catches (four) this season. In the Vikings' favor is that Battle has a sprained ankle that could slow him.
49ers TE Vernon Davis vs. Vikings pass defense
Davis' contributions have been up-and-down this season. The 49ers have alternated weeks of trying to get Davis involved and then forgetting about him. He has complained often about his role in the offense. Davis caught just one pass for 19 yards last week against the Panthers. Although he was disappointed he wasn't used much in the game, he said he resisted the urge to complain again. Davis has 37 receptions for 371 yards and two touchdowns this season. Look for the 49ers to try to get Davis involved. The Vikings have the No. 1 run defense in the league, so the 49ers might think they'll have an easier time through the air.
Chiefs RB Kolby Smith vs. Broncos run defense
Smith has had two impressive games since becoming a starter, and that should continue against Denver's generous. The Chiefs' run blocking has improved little if any since Smith joined the lineup, so Smith is earning every yard he gets. The Chiefs rushed for only 67 yards when they played the Broncos last month, but look for that total to increase, particularly if the Chiefs keep the game close and the run remains a realistic option.
Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe vs. Broncos secondary
Bowe should benefit from quarterback Brodie Croyle's (back) return to the starting lineup. He and Croyle were developing a solid rapport before Croyle left the lineup for last week's game. Bowe has developed as Croyle's favorite receiver, and Croyle seems to look his way first on many patterns. Bowe had a big game against Denver last month, catching nine passes for 105 yards. Even if protection is a problem for the Chiefs, look for Croyle to throw some quick passes to Bowe, who runs well after the catch and could turn one or more of them into big plays.
Broncos QB Jay Cutler vs. Chiefs pass defense
One of the reasons wideout Brandon Marshall will likely have a big game against Kansas City is his quarterback, Cutler. The two have a nice working relationship, and Cutler is having a good season, sans a lackluster game at Oakland last week. Cutler is the type of passer that can bounce back, though, so expect him to continue to try to throw deep. That's something he has done in recent games. Cutler is going to challenge Kansas City, and a lot depends on whether he wins more than he loses.
Broncos WR Brandon Marshall vs. Chiefs cornerbacks
Marshall is getting better as the season goes on, and the Chiefs have a weak secondary. The unit has been had all season, and Denver had success in Kansas City four weeks ago. Marshall had a team-high six catches for 85 yards in that one. He is terrific after the catch. Expect Marshall, who is closing in on a 1,000-yard season, to have a big day.
Steelers RB Willie Parker vs. Patriots run defense
The Patriots have the AFC's third-ranked run defense waiting for the Steelers next Sunday. New England gives up an average of only 92.8 yards per game on the ground. Their defensive line is a prideful group and doesn't often give up big days: Baltimore Ravens running back Willis McGahee and Indianapolis Colts running back Joseph Addai are the only two 100-yard rushers against the Patriots this season. But the Ravens gashed it for 166, including 138 on 30 carries by McGahee. After a week of both internal and external questions about the Pats' performance against the Ravens, it would be a surprise if the unit repeats its performance against Parker and the Steelers. Statistically, the Steelers have a much better running game than the Ravens (third in the league, 138.7 yards per game, compared to 17th, 104.2, for Baltimore). However, Parker, whose 3.8 yards-per-carry average is worst among the top 16 rushers in the league, has been largely ineffective in recent weeks. He carried 28 times for 87 yards against the Bengals' 23rd-ranked defense. Now, the Steelers have lost nearly as many fumbles (six) as they have scored touchdowns on the ground (seven). Parker's four lost fumbles are tied for last in the AFC. That is decidedly not Steelers football. Parker is still averaging more than 90 yards per game, with six games over 100 yards rushing this season. If the Steelers can't keep quarterback Tom Brady off the field with their running game, they won't win.
Patriots WRs Randy Moss and Wes Welker vs. Steelers secondary
The Ravens were able to put heat on Brady Monday. It was not because the New England offensive line imploded, but because Baltimore cornerbacks - like Eagles defensive backs in the previous week - threw a blanket on Patriots receivers. The Steelers don't have the same talent at cornerback as Philadelphia and Baltimore. However, cornerbacks Deshea Townsend and Ike Taylor had good games against the Bengals. Cincinnati wideouts Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh were held to 128 and no touchdowns; they are fourth and ninth, respectively, in the NFL in yards receiving with a grand total of 2,041. Townsend moves to the inside in the Steelers' nickel package and will probably see a lot of Welker. Although Welker's numbers were down against Baltimore - he had just three catches for 18 yards, a season low - on replay it is clear that Welker was frequently held and at times mugged against the Ravens. Brady still trusts him and will be looking for him again this week. Take away Brady's outlets, though, and the Steelers' pass rush eventually will get him on the ground.
Browns WR Braylon Edwards vs. Jets CB Darrelle Revis
Edwards continues to pile up the stats. He has 62 catches for 1,043 yards, a 16.8-yard average and 12 touchdowns (all career highs). He had seven catches for 149 yards, including a 67-yard touchdown, versus the Cardinals. Revis has looked good in his rookie season, starting all 12 games. He has 75 tackles, two interceptions, four quarterback pressures and eight passes defensed. He gives up four inches to Edwards, who's at his best when he's jumping over defenders.
Browns TE Kellen Winslow vs. Jets SS Kerry Rhodes
Rhodes has become more active with his blitzing in recent games, but he may have to stay at home more often to try to contain Winslow. The Jets use a lot of Cover 2, which has made them vulnerable to opposing tight ends like Baltimore's Todd Heap and Washington's Chris Cooley. Winslow has 65 receptions and five touchdowns this season. He should bounce back from a three-catch game at Arizona last week.
Jets RB Thomas Jones vs. Browns run defense
Cleveland's run defense is ranked 28th in the league, and in the cold, possibly windy Meadowlands, the Jets will probably look to pound it right at the Browns. Jones has three 100-yard games this season and could get a fourth against the Cleveland defense. In 12 games, individual opposing runners have rushed for at least 100 yards against Cleveland nine times, with Pittsburgh's Willie Parker and Baltimore's Willis McGahee accomplishing it twice.
Jets KR/PR Leon Washington vs. Browns ST Josh Cribbs
This could be the battle that decides an AFC Pro Bowl spot. Cribbs, a tall, straight-ahead runner, leads NFL kickoff returners with a 31.2-yard average and has two touchdowns. Washington, who's smaller but more elusive and explosive, is second at 30.5 yards per kick return and has three return touchdowns. He also has three offensive touchdowns. Cribbs can help his Pro Bowl cause in two ways. Not only will he get the chance to return kicks, but he leads the Browns with 17 special teams tackles.
Colts QB Peyton Manning vs. Ravens pass defense
Manning is coming off his first four-touchdown pass game of the season. He faces a Ravens defense that can put pressure on the pocket with unusual blitzes, although the Ravens' sack number is well down from last year's. Manning is known to force a throw here and there. With their secondary intact for the first time since Week 2, the Ravens contained New England's high-powered passing attack. The Ravens' cornerbacks, Chris McAlister and Samari Rolle, can play tight man-to-man. Their safeties, Ed Reed and Dawan Landry, can cover ground deep. In last season's playoff game, the Ravens limited Manning to 15-for-30 passing for 170 yards and no touchdowns. Reed picked him off twice, and he dodged a bullet on a couple more. He must be wary of Reed and just manage the game well, mixing the run with the smart pass. No need to take too many chances against a proud group of defenders that has to be deflated from Monday night's loss. The Colts' pass protection has also been an issue, and Manning has shown his pocket presence by stepping up or outside the pocket. He'll need to do that again against Baltimore. The Colts' passing offense has improved dramatically the past two weeks with rookie Anthony Gonzalez taking over at Marvin Harrison's (knee) wide receiver spot. That and tight end Dallas Clark is healthy after being a bit sluggish upon returning from a concussion that sidelined him for the San Diego loss. Those two factors, coupled with wideout Reggie Wayne having his best year as a pro, make the Colts' passing attack difficult to defend. Look for the Ravens to blitz hard, like they did against New England's Tom Brady.
Ravens QB Kyle Boller vs. Colts pass defense
Boller is playing with confidence and could surprise again against the Colts. Looking poised in the pocket and completing some difficult passes, Boller is coming off his best game of the season against New England. He completed 65.2 percent of his passes and threw two touchdown passes for a 105.3 passer rating. Boller also has played his best when at home. The Colts' pass defense has allowed seven touchdown passes in its past five games but has made seven interceptions over that same span. With Indianapolis playing Cover 2, Boller has to remain patient and not force throws downfield. He will be hurt by the fact that he likely won't have tight end Todd Heap (hamstring) and receiver Demetrius Williams (ankle).
Ravens RB Willis McGahee vs. Colts run defense
Much is made of how the Ravens need Boller to play well, but the Ravens' problem against the Colts in last year's playoffs was a failure to run the ball for big chunks of yardage. That's why the Ravens went out and got McGahee, who is over 1,000 yards on a team having a bad year and showed against New England Monday that he can get the tough yards. That was his best game as a Raven. He has been the most consistent part of the Ravens' offense. McGahee has gained at least 77 yards rushing in eight of 12 games and has scored a touchdown in seven straight games. The Colts allow 108.3 yards rushing per game, which is 18th in the NFL. Last week, to Jacksonville, the Colts gave up 168 yards rushing, the second-worst effort of the season for a vastly improved group of run defenders. Colts head coach Tony Dungy said it was because his tacklers didn't play smart, that they reverted to some bad habits. Jacksonville is just a strong rushing team. McGahee could have another solid game because Baltimore will need to run the ball to keep Manning off the field.
Saints RB Reggie Bush vs. Falcons LB Demorrio Williams
Bush was kept in check in the previous meeting, rushing for only 54 yards and catching five passes for just 19 yards. Williams has enough speed to stay with Bush and keep him in front of him on short passing plays. Williams also had an interception in the first game.
Saints WR Marques Colston vs. Falcons CB DeAngelo Hall
The longwinded Hall, who stands just 5-foot-10, gives up nearly a half-foot to the 6-foot-4 Colston, who last week was cooled off by the Buccaneers. Nevertheless, Colston remains the Saints' go-to wide receiver in critical situations, and Hall is the Falcons' shutdown corner. Colston has done most of his damage this season underneath deep coverage and across the middle of the field in front of extended zone defenses. Look for the Saints to try to isolate Colston just past the linebackers and in front of the secondary. Colston has caught 70 passes for 896 yards and six touchdowns, but he was held to just two catches last week against the Bucs. Hall leads Atlanta with four interceptions. Additionally, he has knocked down 11 passes this year.
Falcons QB Chris Redman vs. Saints pass defense
Redman is expected to become the third quarterback to attempt to fill Michael Vick's shoes this season. Redman sparkled last week against the Rams in the fourth quarter, completing 10 of 12 passes during one stretch and nearly leading an improbable rally. Redman gets the ball out quickly and spreads it around, allowing defenses not to key on wide receiver Roddy White.
Falcons WRs Roddy White, Joe Horn and Michael Jenkins vs. Saints CBs Mike McKenzie and Jason David
McKenzie and David, a heralded free-agent acquisition from the Colts, have not provided the lockdown coverage the Saints had anticipated. Their play is a big reason the Saints give up nearly 250 yards passing per game and rank 28th in the league against the pass. In nine games this season, David has allowed nine touchdown passes. He didn't allow a touchdown pass last week against Tampa Bay, though, a surprise given the success that Buccaneers receiver Joey Galloway has had against New Orleans. Nevertheless, White, Jenkins and Horn the former Saints wideout, would love nothing more than to victimize David on Monday Night Football. White is the Falcons' favorite target, leading the team with 62 catches for 920 yards and four touchdowns, including a long catch of 69 yards. White and Jenkins combined for 14 catches and 179 yards in the first matchup, with quarterback Byron Leftwich making his first start at quarterback for the Falcons. Jenkins has been productive in the slot. While he has only caught 22 passes this season, Horn wouldn't mind exacting a little revenge on the team that allowed him to get away last season when he refused to take a pay cut. He is healthy again after missing three games with injuries. The Falcons will be looking to see where David is at all times and throwing in his direction.
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