Week 1 Passing Matchups

PLEASE NOTE: This does NOT replace the Cheatsheet ranking. The Cheatsheet rankings are the final say on where we see a player for that week. The Matchup Breakdowns are simply one more tool in the box when it comes to helping choose your lineup.

Also note, just because a player has a "bad" matchup, it does NOT mean he's not a starter in your league. If Peyton Manning is playing the toughest pass defense in the league, that just means he's got a tough matchup that week. He's also your starter unless you're loaded at QB. In the same way, if the worst QB on your roster has a "great" matchup that week, it doesn't necessarily mean he's your starter. It means we think he'll fare better than normal that week.

Bottom line is that the cheatsheets are the final say.

New England Patriots Passing Offense vs Oakland Raiders Passing Defense (Great Matchup)

Tom Brady has a wealth of weapons to throw at (Deion Branch, David Givens, Daniel Graham, to name only three) - They may not be big names, but Brady's got as many quality targets as almost any QB in the league. With 288/474 for 3690 yards, 28 TDs and 14 interceptions to his credit last year, he's looking solid again. The big question will be how much they miss departed OC Charlie Weis. The company line is that it'll be business as usual so we'll have to see. If there's a team that can handle change, our money is on New England.

Oakland was horrible at defending the pass last year, ranking 30th in the NFL while allowing 245.3 yards per game in this phase (they also gave up 30 passing TDs during the year). Kurt Warner threw for 11/18 for 118 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception during a partial game in the week 3 preseason contest vs. the Raiders. They aren't considered a top secondary heading into the season.

The NFL released an early injury report for Oakland/New England. WR Andre Davis (foot), WR David Givens (chest), and WR Bethel Johnson (thigh) are questionable for Thursday. Tom Brady (right shoulder) is probable. The forecast for Gillette stadium calls for a high of 85F and a low of 59F with a 20% chance of precipitation. It should be a great evening to play some football.

The Patriots are quite good in this phase of the game, while the Raiders are rebuilding a shattered pass D. Advantage, New England.

Carolina Panthers Passing Offense vs New Orleans Saints Passing Defense (Good Matchup)

Jake Delhomme enjoyed a top ten fantasy season last year, with 310/533 for 3886 yards, 29 TDs and 15 interceptions. He hooked up with Muhsin Muhammad many times during the second half of the season. However, 2005 has arrived and Muhsin Muhammad is catching balls for Kyle Orton in Chicago. Is Steve Smith back at 100%? He seems to be, grabbing 3/59/1 during the week 3 preseason tune-up game. With Keary Colbert, Rod Gardner and Ricky Proehl in the mix, Delhomme enters 2005 with a solid stable of WRs.

The Saints are in a tough situation - they've been evacuated from their home town, and will understandably struggle to keep up intensity in the face of the disaster that has devastated their home town and fans. On the flip side, players like Joe Horn have stated the disaster has sparked the team with a desire to give the affected people something positive to hold onto.

The game goes on and it is a fact that the Saints field a suspect pass D. They were the 27th ranked secondary last year, giving up an average of 243 passing yards per game, with 24 TDs surrendered in 16 games. The woeful Ravens managed to rack up 17/28 for 140 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception against this squad.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The forecast for Bank of America Stadium calls for a high of 86F and a low of 69F with a 0% chance of rain -- it should be a great day to play some football.

Delhomme and company are in good shape, while the Saints are still trying to find their rhythm with a weak pass defense in the face of a natural disaster and the resulting dislocation. Advantage, Carolina.

Dallas Cowboys Passing Offense at San Diego Chargers Passing Defense (Good Matchup)

Drew Bledsoe has looked pretty good during the preseason. He tossed 11/18 for 113 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions during the preseason week 3 tune-up - he's been very poised in the pocket this year. With Terry Glenn, Keyshawn Johnson and Jason Witten to shag his passes, Bledsoe should enjoy a renaissance season during 2005. Recently added Peerless Price will help as well, although how soon depends on how quickly he picks up the system.

San Diego's pass D was among the league's worst last year, coughing up 253.3 passing yards per contest (they did make things tougher in the red-zone, with 19 TDs surrendered over 16 games). Not a whole lot has changed since last year - San Diego allowed 22/32 for 309 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions to the Vikings during their game week 3 of the preseason. The Chargers remain a work in progress in this phase of the game.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

San Diego is noted for it's mild climate, and this Sunday is no different. Qualcomm Stadium should have a high of 78F and a low of 62F with a 10% chance of rain. Both teams will benefit from playing in such mild conditions.

The Chargers are not strong in this phase of the game, while the Cowboys seem to be jelling. Advantage, Dallas.

Detroit Lions Passing Offense vs Green Bay Packers Passing Defense (Good Matchup)

Well, one thing is for sure - Lions fans are hoping that Joey Harrington doesn't get injured now that Jeff Garcia is sidelined for 8 weeks (or more). Harrington is the clear-cut starter now, and he has an impressive array of talent to throw at (Roy Williams, Charles Rogers, Mike Williams). Harrington hasn't been overwhelming during preseason (he threw 9/18 for 106 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions vs. St. Louis on Monday Night Football), but he hasn't been awful either. Now we'll get to see how much he has progressed since 2004.

Green Bay was horrible in this department last year, allowing 33 passing scores (the most in the league) and an average of 228.9 passing yards per game (25th in the NFL). The team drafted Nick Collins in the second round this year, and he is set to start at FS for the Packers - hopefully, he'll help shore up the shaky secondary. Tom Brady tossed 14/21 for 127 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions against this group during week 3 of the preseason - it appears that the Packers might have improved in this area. Time will tell.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

This game will be played in Ford Field's dome, so weather won't be a factor.

Harrington has home field advantage at his back - while the Packers continue to integrate youngsters into their secondary. Advantage, Detroit.

Kansas City Chiefs Passing Offense vs New York Jets Passing Defense (Good Matchup)

The Chiefs expect Trent Green to start as usual, which is good news for owners of the Chiefs' primary receivers. Green has been excellent over the past few seasons, with 369/556 for 4589 yards, 27 TDs and 17 interceptions to his credit last year. Tony Gonzalez (102/1258/7 during 2004)and Eddie Kennison (62/1086/8) figure to be his top targets again this year.

The Jets were mediocre in this phase of the game last year, coughing up 207 passing yards per game (14th in the NFL) while surrendering 21 passing TDs during the season. The Giants (sans Eli Manning, sidelined by an elbow injury), managed 16/29 for 169 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception during the week 3 preseason game. It looks like Ty Law and company are clamping down on the pass this year.

Trent Green had a "minor" surgery to improve circulation in his leg last week. The Chiefs have downplayed his surgery and he is expected to play on Sunday, but any time a player is operated on, we'll caution his owners to check the latest injury report possible before starting the player. The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium calls for a high of 87F and a low of 64F with a 0% chance of precipitation. You couldn't ask for better weather on opening day.

The Jets are an improving pass D, but the Chiefs are an outstanding offense and they have home-field advantage.

New York Jets Passing Offense at Kansas City Chiefs Passing Defense (Good Matchup)

The Jets are hoping and praying that Chad Pennington's shoulder will hold up under the strain of a complete game. With Laveranues Coles and Justin McCariens to run routes, the Jets would appear to be set in the passing game - but we've only seen Pennington throw 3 passes for 27 yards during preseason.

Kansas City was dismally bad in this phase of the game last year, allowing a league-worst 262.7 passing yards per game with 32 passing scores allowed (tied for second-worst in the NFL). The retooled secondary features ex-Dolphin Patrick Surtain (a hard-hitting CB) -- they allowed a 36 yard TD to Darrell Jackson during the week 3 game of pre-season, with a total of 30/45 for 358 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions given away to Matt Hasselbeck (22/33 for 254 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions) and Seneca Wallace. Regardless of Surtain's addition, this group looks pretty suspect as of the week 1 regular season matchups.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The forecast for Arrowhead Stadium calls for a high of 87F and a low of 64F with a 0% chance of precipitation. You couldn't ask for better weather on opening day.

Pennington and the Jets field a better unit than the Kansas City secondary does. Advantage, Jets.

Philadelphia Eagles Passing Offense at Atlanta Falcons Passing Defense (Good Matchup)

Donovan McNabb and estranged receiver Terrell Owens put on quite a show during week 3 of the pre-season (McNabb threw for 14/23 for 256 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions ; Owens caught 5/131/1) vs. Cincinnati. They may not go to dinner after the game, but they looked impressive in their appearance together. Coach Reid, at least for now, seems to have diffused this situation. That's a good thing for Eagles fans, as the rest of the WR stable is undistinguished. Greg Lewis, the starter across from Owens, has all of 23/278/0 to his credit during his 2-year career.

Atlanta sported a sub-par pass D last year, giving away an average of 220.4 passing yards per game (22nd in the NFL) and a total of 19 passing scores. Not much has changed for this group since last year. They allowed 20/40 for 287 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception to the Jaguars during the week 3 preseason tune up. The squad plays the pass in a bend-but-don't break mode.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The weather inside the Georgia Dome is expected to be perfect. No weather concerns during this matchup, folks.

McNabb and Owens should have a lot of fun playing pitch-and-catch vs. the Falcons mediocre pass D. Advantage, Philadelphia.

Pittsburgh Steelers Passing Offense vs Tennessee Titans Passing Defense (Good Matchup)

Ben Roethlisberger hasn't been very good during preseason. His passes have been off target (high, most of the time) and his mechanics look sloppy. Now that Hines Ward has his new contract, one source of distraction has been taken out of the equation. However, it's up to Roethlisberger to deliver a catchable ball to Ward, Randel-El and company. We'll see if Roethlisberger can settle down and do that this week.

Tennessee's defense was gutted by salary cap constraints and enters 2005 youthful and inexperienced. Pacman Jones starts at one corner, and there is little in the way of depth behind him and Andre Woolfolk (or behind the starting S's Lamont Thompson and Tank Williams). Tim Rattay of the 49ers managed 13/25 for 132 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions against this group - and nobody mistakes Brandon Lloyd for Hines Ward.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Heinz Field is forecast to have a 0% chance for rain, a high of 80F and a low of 65F on Sunday -- practically perfect football weather, in our opinion.

Pittsburgh has struggled this summer but we feel they have the advantage over a reeling Tennessee defense.

San Diego Chargers Passing Offense vs Dallas Cowboys Passing Defense (Good Matchup)

Drew Brees surprised us all last year with 262/400 for 3159 yards, 27 TDs and 7 interceptions passing. This year, he'll have the benefit of spending a training camp with Keenan McCardell, and Eric Parker/Reche Caldwell as his #2A and #2B receivers. Brees and McCardell hooked up for a score during the preseason week 3 game vs. Minnesota, and it looks like that's only the beginning for the Chargers. Oh yeah, after this week a guy named Antonio Gates gets into the mix...

Dallas was unexpectedly porous last year in this phase of the game, giving up an average of 220.1 passing yards per game (21st in the NFL) along with a total of 31 passing scores over the 16 game slate. However, the Texans found the going rough against their instate rivals during week 3 of the pre-season, managing a mere 15/37 for 145 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions during the game. If the Cowboys can continue to play at that level, they will be greatly improved during 2005.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

San Diego is noted for it's great weather, and this Sunday is no different. Qualcomm Stadium should have a high of 78F and a low of 62F with a 10% chance of rain. Both teams will benefit from playing in such mild conditions.

Brees has plenty of talent at the WR position, and he proved his quality as a starting QB last year. The Cowboys were not good last year, and need to prove themselves before we count them among the league's upper echelon. Advantage, San Diego.

Seattle Seahawks Passing Offense at Jacksonville Jaguars Passing Defense (Good Matchup)

Matt Hasselbeck is on the cusp of becoming a top ten fantasy QB this year. Last year, he wound up 12th in fantasy points per game (279/474 3382 passing yards, with 22 TDs and 15 interceptions (27/96/1 rushing)). His #1 target is definitely Darrell Jackson (Jackson grabbed 7/99/1 during the week 3 preseason tune-up), and now that Koren Robinson is out of the picture, perhaps Bobby Engram, newly signed Peter Warrick or Joe Jurevicius can haul in some TDs for Hasselbeck during 2005.

Jacksonville ran in the middle of the NFL pack last year in this phase, giving up an average of 209.8 passing yards per game (16th in the league) and 18 total passing scores over 16 weeks. They come into 2005 with some strikes against the secondary - the Falcons tossed a 13/24 for 78 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception performance against the Jags during week 3 of the preseason. Michael Vick and backup Matt Schaub both found pay-dirt through the air in that game.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The forecast for Alltel Stadium calls for a high of 91F with a low of 77F and a 30% chance of rain. The heat and humidity may take a toll on the players, and if the rain comes down heavily at game time, the field could become treacherous.

Hasselbeck is a top-tier QB challenging for elite status, while the Jaguars are a mediocre group in this phase. Advantage, Seattle.

St. Louis Rams Passing Offense at San Francisco 49ers Passing Defense (Good Matchup)

Marc Bulger, Torry Holt, Isaac Bruce (with Marshall Faulk and Steven Jackson catching dump-offs and flares) - what's not to like? Bulger was the 4th best fantasy QB in the land last year, averaging 21.1 fantasy points per game (321/485 for 3964 yards, 21 TDs and 14 interceptions with 19/89/3 rushing). The Ram's offense actually looks stronger coming into 2005 than it did last year - start your Rams if you were smart enough to draft them.

San Francisco was sub-par in this phase last year, allowing an average of 217.9 passing yards per game (19th in the league) with 27 passing scores given up over 16 games. Not a lot has changed since then - Tennessee rang up 26/38 for 236 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception against the 49ers during their preseason week 3 contest. It's more of the same out by the Bay, we're afraid.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The forecast for San Francisco boils down to: perfect football weather. 69F for a high, 56 F for a low, with a 10% chance for rain on Sunday.

If RB Steven Jackson doesn't hoard all the TDs for himself, Bulger and company should have a solid game on Sunday. Advantage, St. Louis.

Arizona Cardinals Passing Offense at New York Giants Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Now it's time to see to what extent Kurt Warner can exploit the vast potential of his top 3 WRs. Anquan Boldin, Bryant Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald combine to form a formidable stable. How much magic is left in Warner's throwing arm? He was steady but unspectacular vs. Oakland during week 3 of the preseason (11/18 for 118 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception). He should put up better numbers than that during a complete game, given the supporting cast around him. A huge factor will be his offensive line. You know that Warner isn't a mobile guy and if he doesn't have time to throw, it'll be ugly.

The Giants were mediocre in this department last year (they had a lot of injuries to work through in the secondary - entering this year both CBs Will Allen and William Peterson are healthy), averaging 189.4 passing yards allowed per game (8th in the NFL) while surrendering 28 passing scores over the season (near the bottom of the league - Green Bay gave up the most passing scores last year with 33 allowed). The Jets eked out 8/20 for 63 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions vs. this unit in week 3 of the preseason, but Chad Pennington did not play in the contest.

Anquan Boldin seems to have overcome his broken nose and should be good to go on Sunday. The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Giants' Stadium is forecast to be a great place to play a football game on Sunday -- 85F for a high, 70F for a low, with a 0% chance for rain.

Warner is a crafty veteran with a stellar cast of receivers, while the Giants bring a healthy and talented secondary to the table. With home field advantage behind the defense, we call this one an even matchup.

Baltimore Ravens Passing Offense vs Indianapolis Colts Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Kyle Boller is facing the proverbial "make or break" season as it's time for him to live up to expectations. He's continued to struggle through the preseason. In a 21-6 victory over the Saints during preseason week 3, Boller managed 5/11 for 53 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception - and that was the highpoint of his preseason appearances (he did have 10/15 for 88 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions vs. Philadelphia, but the interceptions offset his close call on reaching 100 yards passing).

The Colts were bottom feeders in this phase of the game last year, ranking 28th in the league (allowing 243.3 passing yards per game) and surrendering 26 passing scores in the course of 16 games. Key S Mike Doss is suspended for 2 games, and fellow S Bob Sanders has battled a leg injury for much of the preseason. Denver hit 13/22 for 193 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions on these guys during their week 3 preseason showdown - there isn't much improvement visible among the Colts' pass defenders right now.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

This game will be played in near-perfect conditions: the forecast calls for a high of 84F and a low of 72F -- this is the Sunday night game, so the temperature will be in the low 70's -- with a 0% chance for rain. Weather won't be a factor in this matchup unless things change quickly.

The key will be how Kyle Boller handles the pressure. We'll see on Sunday night as he faces off against a sub-par pass defense. It's hard to give the Colts defense an edge, so we call this one an even matchup.

Buffalo Bills Passing Offense vs Houston Texans Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

J.P. Losman hasn't wowed the faithful in Buffalo this year (11/19 for 88 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions vs. Indianapolis being his strongest outing of the preseason). So far, he looks exactly like a new starter usually does when playing for the first time in the NFL: Not too good.

Houston's pass D was very poor last year, giving up the second-most passing TDs in the league (32 TDs in 16 games) and ranking 24th in the league in yards allowed per game (225.9). The Cowboys ran the ball at will during week 3 of the preseason on this squad, but the Texans still contrived to give up 16/26 for 176 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions in this phase of the game. The Texans do not field a feared defense at this point of the season.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The forecast for Ralph Wilson Stadium is ideal -- 78F for a high, 60F for a low on Sunday, with a 0% chance for rain. Weather shouldn't be a factor in this matchup.

With an inexperienced QB under center, we figure that the Bills will rely on Willis McGahee a lot. That won't add up to big fantasy points for Losman, Eric Moulds and company. Against the Texans, though, there will be room for Losman to grow. We think this matchup will be pretty even.

Cincinnati Bengals Passing Offense at Cleveland Browns Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Carson Palmer has been erratic during the preseason. At times, he's looked good (12/24 for 152 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception vs. Washington), while at other times he's been stifled (13/25 for 136 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions vs. Philadelphia). The quality of his starting receivers is unquestionable (Chad Johnson and T. J. Houshmandzadeh are among the league's best starting duos) - this is a situation that Palmer needs to work through.

Cleveland ranked 5th in the NFL last year, allowing an average of 181.3 passing yards per game, but this statistic is somewhat misleading -- the Browns were the league's worst rush defense, so teams didn't need to throw the ball a ton. The team's management retooled the defense during the off-season, so it'll be interesting to see how the 2005 edition plays vs. the pass and the run.

Cornerbacks Daylon McCutcheon (migraines), Gary Baxter (concussion) and Mike Lehan (hamstring injury) have all been injured for stretches of the preseason -the Browns' starting secondary hasn't been on the field together very much. The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Brown's Stadium expects near-perfect weather on Sunday -- 80F for a high, 64F for a low, with a 0% chance of rain. Weather shouldn't be a factor in this contest.

Palmer comes into this game unsettled, while the Browns have suffered from injury woes and don't have a lot of reps together in the secondary. This one looks like an even matchup from where we sit.

Cleveland Browns Passing Offense vs Cincinnati Bengals Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Trent Dilfer has a solid stable of receivers in Cleveland (Antonio Bryant, Braylon Edwards, Dennis Northcutt) and a suspect running game. The Browns need to be able to throw the ball. How well Dilfer can accomplish this task remains to be seen - he tossed 15/23 for 168 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception vs. the Panthers during the week 3 preseason contest. Dilfer has a Super-Bowl ring on his hand, so don't count him out - but be realistic with your expectations -- he is entering his 12th year in the league.

Cincinnati was mediocre vs. the pass last year (they averaged 206.4 passing yards allowed per game, 13th in the NFL), and during the week 3 preseason game vs. Philadelphia Donovan McNabb embarrassed them with 14/23 for 256 yards, 3 TDs and 0 interceptions in only part of a game. It appears that the Bengals aren't a top unit once again this year - time will tell.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Brown's Stadium expects near-perfect weather on Sunday -- 80F for a high, 64F for a low, with a 0% chance of rain. Weather shouldn't be a factor in this contest.

Dilfer and company hope to notch a win on Sunday -- they'll have an even chance at doing so vs. their division rivals.

Denver Broncos Passing Offense at Miami Dolphins Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Jake Plummer and Ashley Lelie are on the same page. During their preseason week 3 grudge match vs. Indianapolis, Lelie snagged 5/104/1, including a beautiful 40 yard TD reception. With fellow WR Rob Smith and TEs Stephen Alexander and Jeb Putzier also in the mix, Plummer has multiple weapons to throw at - this team looks scary good coming into regular season.

Miami ranked second in the NFL last season, allowing 162 passing yards per game -- but they have reshuffled their defense coming into 2005. Patrick Surtain is knocking people silly for K.C. this year, and his anticipated replacement Will Poole is on the PUP list to start the season. The new cast performed well during week 3 of the pre-season, holding Tampa to 16/28 for 171 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception - the Dolphins may be picking up 2005 where they left off.

Both squads come into this game in decent shape, with no injuries of note aside from Poole's. The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The forecast for Dolphin's Stadium calls for a high of 91F and low of 79F with a 30% chance of precipitation. That forecast translates into "hot and muggy, with possibly poor field conditions". Weather could adversely affect both squads, especially if the rain comes down hard around game time. Keep an eye on the weather if you are planning on starting a Bronco or Dolphin.

Plummer and company should be up to the challenge that Miami poses, but it probably won't be easy to walk away with a win.

Green Bay Packers Passing Offense at Detroit Lions Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Brett Favre throwing to Javon Walker and Donald Driver. That sounds like an awesome trio, but the reality during preseason hasn't been so rosy. Favre managed 9/21 for 69 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions vs. the World Champion Patriots in week 3 of preseason, and he followed that performance up with 4/8 for 49 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions during the final week of preseason.

Detroit's pass D was sub-par during 2004, allowing an average of 219.6 passing yards per game (20th in the NFL) and 29 passing scores. The Rams tore up this defense during week 3 of the preseason, to the tune of 19/25 for 286 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception. The Lions did not look ready for prime time, to say the least.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

This game will be played in Ford Field's dome, so weather won't be a factor.

Two struggling squads hook up in this game - this one looks even to us before the fact.

Jacksonville Jaguars Passing Offense vs Seattle Seahawks Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Byron Leftwich completed 2004 as the 21st ranked fantasy QB in points per game (15.96 points per game, 267/441 for 2941 yards, 15 TDs, 10 interceptions with 39/148/2 rushing). This year, he's throwing at essentially the same cast of characters with mediocre results. During the preseason week 3 clash with Atlanta, Leftwich managed 11/20 for 179 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions. He clearly has the potential for excellence, but he's not wowing anyone entering the regular season.

Seattle fielded a sub-par pass D last year, coughing up an average of 224.4 passing yards per game (23rd in the NFL) with 24 passing scores given up during 16 regular season games. The Chiefs managed 17/30 for 211 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception vs. this squad during the week 3 preseason game. Things haven't changed much since last year. Defensive Coordinator Ray Rhodes was hospitalized on Monday, which won't help things any come Sunday.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Jacksonville's attack is mediocre, and so is Seattle's defense. That sounds about even to us.

Minnesota Vikings Passing Offense vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

They're without Randy Moss, but Minnesota has plenty of WRs, with Nate Burleson, Travis Taylor and Troy Williamson ready to chase down Daunte Culpepper's bombs. The Vikings' signal caller tossed 379/549 for 4717 yards, with 39 TDs and 11 interceptions (89/406/2 rushing) last year, and he's looking forward to matching those numbers during 2005. Whether he can do it without Moss is one of the more interesting questions this season.

Tampa Bay led the league in pass yards allowed per game last season, averaging 161.2 yards surrendered per game in this phase. However, they gave up 21 passing TDs, which placed them in the middle of the pack in this category. The unimpressive Miami tandem of Gus Frerotte and A.J. Feely threw for a combined 17/39 for 193 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception against this squad during week 3 of the pre-season...what will Daunte Culpepper and company do?

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

This game will be played in the Metrodome, so weather won't be a factor.

Minnesota has home-field advantage, which should help them overcome a stiff Tampa D. This one looks pretty even to us.

New York Giants Passing Offense vs Arizona Cardinals Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Eli Manning is going to practice as if he had never hurt his throwing arm elbow this week - which is an encouraging sign. However, we won't know until later in the week how his arm is responding to the required 70+ passes per day - Manning owners will want to watch the official NFL injury reports closely.

Due to his injury, we didn't get to look at Manning during the 3rd week of preseason (when most teams play their starters for a half and change) - the best we can do is to say that he has looked steadier and surer in his early chances during 2005, although the Panthers roughed him up somewhat (6/8 for 53 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions vs. Cleveland; 3/9 for 150 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions vs. Carolina). How his chemistry is developing with Plaxico Burress, Amani Toomer and Jeremy Shockey will become apparent during the game on Sunday.

Arizona played top-ten pass D last year (averaging 189.8 passing yards allowed per game, 9th in the league, with 18 passing scores surrendered during the year). They didn't fare well against Kerry Collins and the Raiders' starters in week 3 of the preseason (Collins racked up 17/25 for 189 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions) - it remains to be seen if the Cards are a top-tier pass D again this year.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Giants' Stadium is forecast to be a great place to play a football game on Sunday - 85Ffor a high, 70F for a low, with a 0% chance for rain.

The Cardinals' defense was good last year, but hasn't been particularly sharp to date. New York will come into the game with high hopes for a QB who is shaking off the rust - that sounds about even to us.

Oakland Raiders Passing Offense at New England Patriots Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Kerry Collins is now the commander and chief of the Raiders' offense. He entered preseason as the unquestioned #1 QB (unlike last year) and has quickly built up a synergy with free agent import Randy Moss. While Jerry Porter has been slowed by a nagging hamstring, Collins and Moss have hooked up for a 40 yard TD pass during week 3 of the preseason, and a 27 yard TD during week 4. They made it look pretty easy, too.

Last year, with a wounded and limping secondary, the Patriots ranked 17th in the league allowing 212.5 passing yards per game, with 18 thrown TDs surrendered in 16 games. During the preseason week 3 "shakedown", though, Brett Favre was held to 9/21 for 69 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions -- Aaron Rodgers added a third interception to the talley in his chances. It appears that the Patriots are set with Asante Samuel and Randall Gay at the corners, with Rodney Harrison and Eugene Wilson manning the center of the secondary.

The NFL released an early injury report for Oakland/New England. WR Doug Gabriel is out due to his thumb injury, while Jerry Porter is questionable for the Raiders. The Patriots list S James Sanders (ankle); CB Duane Starks (thigh) as questionable.

The forecast for Gillette stadium calls for a high of 85F and a low of 59F with a 20% chance of precipitation. It should be a great evening to play some football.

Collins and Moss look like they are in tune with each other, while the Patriots appear to have reloaded in the secondary after last year's struggles. We call this an even matchup.

San Francisco 49ers Passing Offense vs St. Louis Rams Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Tim Rattay held off Alex Smith and has now earned his starting job at QB. At least for now. 13/25 for 132 yards, 0 TDS and 0 interceptions may not sound like much, but it was enough to help Rattay gain his old job back after week 3 of the preseason. Rattay had a rough season last year (in 9 games for 198/325 2169 passing yards, 10 TDs and 10 interceptions), but appears to be the best option in San Francisco despite high-dollar rookie Alex Smith. Arnaz Battle and Brandon Lloyd figure to headline the receiving corps.

St. Louis lurked just outside the top ten in this phase of the game last year (ranking 11th in the NFL allowing an average of 198.4 passing yards per game, with 24 TDs surrendered during the season). They looked impressive during their lambasting of Detroit on Monday Night Football during preseason week 3, holding the Lions to 17/36 for 191 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions (9/18 for 106 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions for starter Joey Harrington).

The Rams suffered a huge blow during preseason when CB Jerametrius Butler went down to a season-ending knee injury. The 49ers are unsure if starting TE Eric Johnson will be able to play in the season opener due to a foot injury. The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The forecast for San Francisco boils down to: perfect football weather. 69 F for a high, 56 F for a low, with a 10% chance for rain on Sunday.

Both squads are mediocre, and both teams have injury issues. This one looks pretty even to us.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Passing Offense at Minnesota Vikings Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

Brian Griese hasn't lit the world on fire during preseason (he tossed 7/11 for 48 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions during week 3), but he hasn't been bad. Michael Clayton (80/1193/7 during 2004) and Joey Galloway (33/416/5) are his top options in the passing phase this year -- we'll see how everything works out for the Bucs soon enough.

Minnesota coughed up an average of 243.5 passing yards per game last season - 29th in the NFL - (with 30 passing scores surrendered). During the off-season, 2 starting DBs were added -- Fred Smoot migrated from Washington, and Darren Sharper defected from Green Bay. With 22/36 for 219 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions allowed to San Diego during week 3 of the preseason, there hasn't yet been a big improvement in this area, though.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

This game will be played in the Metrodome, so weather won't be a factor.

Tampa has some quality receivers, while the Vikings appear to still be in the process of jelling. With home field behind the defense, we call this an even matchup.

Washington Redskins Passing Offense vs Chicago Bears Passing Defense (Neutral Matchup)

The Redskins have settled on Patrick Ramsey to run their 2005 offense. He threw down 169/272 for 1665 passing yards, 10 TDs and 11 interceptions last year after taking over for the ineffective Mark Brunell. Now it's Ramsey's turn on the hot-seat. Free agent imports Santana Moss and David Patten are his top two WRs, with Chris Cooley playing the hybrid TE/HB position. Ramsey threw 12/19 for 141 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception during the preseason game vs. Pittsburgh (Moss had 2/68/0, Patten snagged 4/37/0) - he looks like he's comfortable with the new receivers heading into regular season.

The Bears' secondary is set to go with the "Mikes" at safety (Mike Brown, Mike Green) and Charles Tillman/Jerry Azumah at corner back in the starting lineup. It's a veteran bunch, which allowed 21/34 for 201 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions to the Bills during week 3 of the preseason. Last year, the Bears sported a mediocre secondary (minus Brown, who suffered an early Achilles injury during 2004, and lacking Tillman and Azumah for a majority of the year), giving up 208.8 passing yards per game with 23 total TDs surrendered -- they weren't getting much help from the offense during 2004, and were banged up in a big way, so a mediocre 2004 finish was pretty good, all things considered.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Fed Ex Field expects a high of 83F and a low of 68F with a 0% chance of precipitation on Sunday -- perfect football weather appears to be on tap.

Washington is still finding their rhythm, while the Bears are recovering from last year's implosion. This looks like a fairly even matchup to us.

Chicago Bears Passing Offense at Washington Redskins Passing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Kyle Orton comes into this game as green as the grass. He beat out Chad Hutchinson for the starting job in Chicago, true, but that doesn't mean he deserves to start for your fantasy squad. Rookie QBs rarely have great success in the NFL, regardless of who is the #1 wide receiver (sorry Muhsin Muhammad owners). When the games start to count, the gloves come off and that is usually a problem for youngsters like Orton. Still, we all have enough fresh memories of Ben Roethlisberger last season to have hope.

Washington was a top-ten pass D last year (7th, to be precise) allowing a mere 186.1 passing yards per game with only 17 passing scores given up during the 16 regular season games. However, they lost Fred Smoot to free agency (Minnesota) during the off-season, and the secondary has been injury-ravaged during the preseason (CB Carlos Rogers missed almost all of the reps during camp; Matt Bowen the starting SS was also injured). The bottom line here is that the 'Skins' starting lineup has very little experience working together entering regular season.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Fed Ex Field expects a high of 83F and a low of 68F with a 0% chance of precipitation on Sunday -- perfect football weather appears to be on tap.

Orton faces one of the better NFL defenses in this game, and he's a rookie. Advantage, Washington.

Indianapolis Colts Passing Offense at Baltimore Ravens Passing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Peyton Manning. 336/497 for 4557 yards passing, 49 TDs and 10 interceptions last year. Marvin Harrison (86/1113/15), Reggie Wayne (77/1210/12) and Brandon Stokley (68/1077/10) were all among the top 15 fantasy WR's last year. Manning threw for 18/25 for 206 yards, 2 TDs and 0 interceptions in the teeth of a hard-charging Bronco defense during week 3 of the preseason. Do we need to say more? Start your Colts.

Baltimore fields one of the upper-echelon defenses in the NFL. They were 10th in the NFL in passing yards allowed per game (195.1) but tied for first in passing scores allowed (14 TDs in 16 games). It's just hard to score on Baltimore, period. CB Chris McAlister and S Ed Reed are two of the best in the business right now.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The Colts have to face a hostile crowd week 1, and the Ravens are very solid in the passing phase of the game. It's tough to ever sit your Colts, but this is a tough matchup.

Miami Dolphins Passing Offense vs Denver Broncos Passing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Gus Frerotte and A.J. Feeley have been disappointments so far - Feeley so much so that he is now 3rd string behind Sage Rosenfels. Frankly, Frerotte has been so erratic that you'll want to think twice before starting Chris Chambers or Randy McMichael this week - give yourself a week to evaluate the situation in Miami at QB. Can Frerotte deliver the ball on target vs. a full speed NFL defense? We'll find out on Sunday.

Denver fielded a top-ten secondary last year, averaging 184.2 passing yards allowed per game (6th in the NFL) while surrendering only 17 passing scores over 16 games. They now have John Lynch to police the middle of the field, which will make some AFC West players ache. However, Peyton Manning still tore them up for 18/25 for 206 yards and 2 TDs in part of a game during the week 3 preseason game - the Broncos are still a work in progress in this phase of the game.

Denver traded away Clinton Portis to get Champ Bailey, but they haven't seen much of him during preseason due to a hamstring injury that has kept him on the sidelines. His availability for this week's opener is unclear. The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Frerotte has a lot to prove. Unless you're just bare at quarterback, we'd suggest starting another QB while we see if Frerotte has "it" or not during a game that counts.

New Orleans Saints Passing Offense at Carolina Panthers Passing Defense (Tough Matchup)

Aaron Brooks was a top ten fantasy QB in points per game last year (309/542 for 3810 yards, 21 passing scores and 16 interceptions, with 57/199/4 rushing), and Joe Horn was 5th in the league in fantasy points per game (94/1399/11). They have played together for years, and are very instinctive together. However, we haven't seen explosiveness from this duo during preseason (Brooks tossed 10/20 for 139 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions during the week 3 preseason game, and Horn hauled in 5/63/0 during the contest).

Carolina played poorly to open 2004, and played very well to close the season. Their 2004 statistics reflect this in the passing phase -- Carolina was 18th in the NFL due to allowing an average of 217.4 passing yards per game ( with 18 passing TDs given up over the 16 week season). Trent Dilfer and company didn't fare too well vs. this secondary during week 3 of the preseason, managing only 20/36 for 211 yards, 0 TDs and 1 interception in the game.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The forecast for Bank of America Stadium calls for a high of 86F and a low of 69F with a 0% chance of rain -- it should be a great day to play some football.

Carolina has a very tough and aggressive defense that is looking to redeem itself after last year's tough times - meanwhile, the Saints are still adjusting to post-Katrina reality. Advantage, Panthers.

Atlanta Falcons Passing Offense vs Philadelphia Eagles Passing Defense (Bad Matchup)

Michael Vick generates as much hype as any QB in the game. He is a phenomenon. At times, he shows an incredible arm, and he obviously can elude the rush like no one else. He'll also contribute with his legs running the ball. However, he just doesn't have much proven talent at wide receiver. No Falcon WR has ever had a 1,000 yard season. Michael Jenkins, one of the starters this year, has all of 7/119/0 on his pro resume. When the Falcons beat the Jags 23-7 during week 3 of the preseason, they threw 13/24 for 78 yards, 2 TDs and 1 interception as a team (Vick had 5/10 for 44 yards, 1 TD and 0 interceptions), while rushing the ball 31 times for 176 yards - the team averaged 3.3 yards per pass attempt, and 5.7 yards per rush. Which phase of the game do you think the coaching staff will favor?

Philadelphia played solid pass D last year, giving up an average of 200.8 passing yards per game (12th in the league) while surrendering only 16 passing scores (Pittsburgh and Baltimore led the league with 14 scores allowed). They held Carson Palmer to 13/25 for 136 yards, 0 TDs and 0 interceptions during the first part of the week 3 preseason game. Philadelphia looks like they are going to be very tough in this phase of the game again in 2005.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The weather inside the Georgia Dome is expected to be perfect. No weather concerns during this matchup, folks.

Philadelphia brings an experienced, elite pass D to the table. The Falcons have an unproven crowd at WR. We saw in the playoffs last year what can happen when the Eagles force Vick to throw the ball. Philly has a solid edge despite the hostile environs.

Houston Texans Passing Offense at Buffalo Bills Passing Defense (Bad Matchup)

Houston's Carr has been less than stellar during preseason. He came up small vs. the Cowboys in week 3 (7/19 for 52 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions) and was abysmal during week 4 vs. Tampa Bay ( 1/5 for 4 yards, 0 TDs and 2 interceptions). He was the 18th ranked fantasy QB during 2004 (286/467 for 3539 passing yards, 16 TDs and 14 interceptions, with 72/303/0 rushing), but he looks like he is regressing rather than progressing during 2005. That's bad news for Andre Johnson owners.

Buffalo fields one of the premier defenses in the league. They ranked 3rd in the NFL last year in this phase, allowing 164 passing yards per game (with 20 passing scores allowed over 16 games). During week 3 the Bears' motley crew of journeymen/rookie QB's eked out 14/33 for 157 yards, 1 TD and 2 interceptions against this group. It looks like Buffalo is picking up 2005 where it ended 2004 in this phase - on top of their game.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

The forecast for Ralph Wilson Stadium is ideal -- 78F for a high, 60F for a low on Sunday, with a 0% chance for rain. Weather shouldn't be a factor in this matchup.

Buffalo has a top-tier pass D, while the Texans are struggling to find a rhythm. Advantage, Buffalo.

Tennessee Titans Passing Offense at Pittsburgh Steelers Passing Defense (Bad Matchup)

Tennessee has a great QB in Steve McNair and an excellent backup QB in Billy Volek. WR Drew Bennett is talented - but after these 3 players, the question marks start to add up quickly. Is Tyrone Calico back to 100% after reconstructive knee surgery? (he snagged 3/29/0 in the preseason finale) Will TE Ben Troupe play anytime soon? (left foot injury). Even McNair needs targets to hit in order to excel.

Pittsburgh boasted the 4th ranked pass D in the land last year, averaging 177.2 passing yards allowed per game. They also allowed a league-low of 14 passing TDs during the season. It's not easy to move the ball on this Pittsburgh squad. Washington's cadre of QBs managed 18/28 for 201 yards, 1 TD and 1 interception during the week 3 preseason contest - the Steelers enter 2005 looking as tough as ever.

The official NFL injury report will not be available until after our deadline to post the week 1 matchups. Please refer to the week 1 injury report for the latest injury news regarding your players.

Heinz Field is forecast to have a 0% chance for rain, a high of 80F and a low of 65F on Sunday -- practically perfect football weather, in our opinion.

McNair's supporting cast is thin and inexperienced - the Steelers are hard nosed and veteran. Advantage, Pittsburgh.

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