BustedKnuckles
Footballguy
Michael Harmon / FOXSports.com
Posted: 15 minutes ago
We're less than 48 hours from the kickoffs of early games, so it's time to gaze back into my crystal ball to release my rankings for Week 2.
Fantasy owners are anxious to see whether Steve Smith suits up for the Panthers. Sorry folks, it's another game-time decision, so Jake Delhomme owners should be eyeing a second quarterback just in case.
But that's not the only story of the week. The Cowboys and Redskins rivalry will take center stage on Sunday night. Shaun Alexander and Larry Johnson will look to notch their first touchdowns of the year. And we may see the return of Ben Roethlisberger Monday night against the Jaguars.
With those stories as the backdrop, I reveal my picks for the top performers, sleepers and flops for Week 2.
Top 10 Quarterbacks
Peyton Manning vs. Houston: Manning misfired on a couple throws in the red zone last week against the Giants. Look for him to be on target this week against a Houston defense that allowed over 300 yards and three touchdowns to McNabb in Week 1.
Marc Bulger vs. San Francisco: San Fran will stuff the box in hopes of containing Steven Jackson this weekend, leaving Bulger to work on a secondary that was exposed by Arizona all day in Week 1.
Matt Hasselbeck vs. Arizona: Hasselbeck and the Seahawks are anxious to rebound from their power outage against Detroit. I expect Shaun Alexander to have his normally huge day against the Cardinals, which will give Hasselbeck ample room to exploit the secondary.
Daunte Culpepper vs. Buffalo: The Bills defense played well in Week 1, but are hurting with the loss of Troy Vincent and could possibly see Takeo Spikes out of the lineup. Culpepper and the Dolphins should get the offense humming against the youthful Bills defense this weekend.
Kurt Warner vs. Seattle: The Seahawks defense is certainly a tough draw, but I suspect Warner is forced to throw the ball upward of 30 times this weekend while playing from behind.
Drew Brees vs. Green Bay: The emergence of rookies Marques Colston and Reggie Bush make Brees a strong play this weekend against a suspect Packers secondary. The attention afforded Bush makes Colston and Joe Horn solid sleeper plays.
Donovan McNabb vs. New York Giants: Peyton Manning and the Colts had ample opportunity to put heavy points on the board last weekend, but had to settle for Vinatieri field goals. I expect McNabb to have similar success this weekend with his array of targets and quickly forged relationship with Donte' Stallworth.
Carson Palmer vs. Cleveland: Palmer didn't need to pile on points in the rain last weekend against the Chiefs. Rudi Johnson shouldered the load. I expect the Bengals to step on the throttle this weekend with T.J. Houshmandzadeh back in the lineup.
Tom Brady vs. New York Jets: Though we have to temper the yardage expectations for Brady with the running back tandem of Laurence Maroney and Corey Dillon running well and a lack of a true No. 1 receiver, the Patriots will move the ball on the Jets. I expect Brady to fight tight ends Ben Watson and Daniel Graham with regularity and to put two scores on the board.
Eli Manning vs. Philadelphia: Eli represented himself quite well in the much anticipated matchup against his brother. He's certainly got the weapons to put up yardage and points, and the loss of Lito Shepherd in the Philadelphia secondary should help Manning to find holes in the defense.
Sleeper Candidates
Michael Vick vs. Tampa Bay: Vick surprised many, myself included, with his efficient effort against the Panthers. He's always performed well against Tampa Bay and threw four touchdowns against zero interceptions in their 2005 meetings. He'll play well at home.
Steve McNair vs. Oakland: McNair brought Ravens fans precisely what they expected last weekend. The Ravens had a balanced attack, and McNair found his tight ends as you would expect. Baltimore's swarming defense will create advantageous field position all day.
Rex Grossman vs. Detroit: Grossman came out firing against the Packers last weekend, and I expect more of the same this Sunday. Lovie Smith would like to see that offensive balance carry forward each week, and I believe he'll take shots downfield with speedster Bernard Berrian again early. Grossman is a sleeper starter for leagues requiring two quarterbacks.
Flop Candidates
Aaron Brooks vs. Baltimore: For those who turned the television off to stop the carnage, I'll recap it quickly. Brooks left with more sacks (seven) than completions (six) against San Diego. Baltimore will bring the heat again this weekend. I'd stay far away.
Jake Plummer vs. Kansas City: Plummer had limited success against the Chiefs last season, and new coach Herman Edwards will not let him get comfortable. After his four turnovers in Week 1, he has to be on the pines this weekend. Watch Mike Shanahan work his running backs hard.
Chris Simms vs. Atlanta: I'm not sure how a 6-foot-5 quarterback has that many passes tipped at the line, but it doesn't project to a big effort against Atlanta. Even though the Falcons may be without John Abraham and Patrick Kerney, I still expect a rough road for Simms this weekend. Look for the Falcons to come out with some creative blitzes Sunday.
Top 10 Running Backs
Shaun Alexander has made a career out of playing the Cardinals, so he should be in for a big game Sunday.
Shaun Alexander vs. Arizona: Alexander always torments the Arizona defense, and Sunday will be no different. He's anxious to put a lackluster season debut behind him and shake off the Madden jinx. Look for a monster game this weekend.
Larry Johnson vs. Denver: Johnson very quietly amassed 148 total yards in Week 1, but fantasy owners still lament the fact he didn't score. With Damon Huard under center, Herman Edwards will work his tailback hard this weekend. Denver will be sitting eight in the box, but Johnson will be up to the task.
Jamal Lewis vs. Oakland: Lewis turned in a nice performance last weekend, rushing for 78 yards and a score in the opener. The Chargers ran all over the Raiders in Week 1, and I expect Lewis to do the same this week.
Steven Jackson vs. San Francisco: Scott Linehan wasn't kidding when he said he'd run Jackson hard. I suspect his touch total tops 25 again this weekend against the lower-tier San Francisco defense. A second straight 100-yard game is virtually a lock.
LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Tennessee: Tomlinson had a huge week against the Raiders before turning things over to Michael Turner. He'll do the same again this week against a lackluster Tennessee defense.
Ronnie Brown vs. Buffalo: Brown and the mechanics of the Miami running game was somewhat disconcerting in the loss to Pittsburgh, but fantasy owners can take some consolation that Brown will be THE guy in every type of situation. He'll dominate this week against the injured and youthful Bills defense.
Tiki Barber vs. Philadelphia: Barber started the 2006 season with another huge effort, posting 171 total yards against Indianapolis. Even though Eli progressed over the off-season, the offense still runs through Tiki.
Rudi Johnson vs. Cleveland: Johnson shouldered a heavy load in Week 1 in rainy conditions in Kansas City. He'll be called upon to do so again this weekend against a Cleveland run defense that is a work in progress. Johnson tops 100 yards with a score again this Sunday.
Mike Bell vs. Kansas City: Bell silenced the doubters with 88 total yards and a touchdown last weekend in the workload split. I expect another big day at Kansas City as Mike Shanahan reins in quarterback Jake Plummer.
Clinton Portis vs. Dallas: Portis made a phenomenal comeback in Week 1, shaking off the shoulder injury to carry the ball 10 times for 39 yards and a score. Look for a heavier workload this weekend against the Cowboys.
Sleeper Candidates
Deuce McAllister vs. Green Bay: Reggie Bush got the attention for Week 1 of this highly anticipated rookie campaign, and deservedly so. But McAllister quietly piled up 90 yards last weekend. The Saints will deploy their two-back offense against a weak Packers unit this weekend. I'm looking for him to run to the century mark.
Laurence Maroney vs. New York Jets: Bush may have gotten the hype, but rookie Maroney was no slouch himself. Maroney rushed for 86 yards in a workload split with Corey Dillon. Dillon is likely to keep the goal-line carries short-term, but Maroney is a threat to break a big run on every carry.
Chester Taylor vs. Carolina: Warrick Dunn put forth a huge effort in Week 1 with several scampers over 20 yards. I don't expect many of those from Taylor, but I am encouraged by the heavy workload Brad Childress gave him in Week 1. He touched the ball 34 times in Week 1 and will likely be a big factor again this week.
Tatum Bell vs. Kansas City: The second Bell quietly rushed for 103 yards last week in the workload split with Mike Bell. I'm expecting the split to continue in Week 2 with Jake Plummer under heavy scrutiny. Look for Tatum to get a shot around the goal-line.
Flop Candidates
LaMont Jordan vs. Baltimore: His yards per carry average will be better than the abysmal 2.0 he put up against San Diego, but don't expect much from the Raiders offense against the attacking Baltimore defense. Haloti Ngata will eat up space in the center of a questionable Raiders offensive line and allow Ray Lewis to fly to the ball.
Fred Taylor vs. Pittsburgh: Taylor put up a nice effort against the Cowboys in Week 1. I suspect he takes a step back in Week 2 against a much better Steelers offense. Taylor will need to work for every yard against the elaborate defensive schemes of #### LeBeau.
Thomas Jones vs. Detroit: Jones averaged a meager three yards per carry against the Packers last weekend, and second-year back Cedric Benson is champing at the bit to prove he can run the rock. The Lions did well in containing Shaun Alexander last week, and I expect more of a workload split in the Bears backfield to limit Jones's impact.
Top 10 Wide Receivers
Torry Holt will have the whole world in his hands this week against the 49ers' secondary.
Torry Holt vs San Francisco: The Cardinals defense moved the ball all day long against the 49ers. I expect St. Louis to do the same this week with Holt demonstrating why he's been one of the game's best for years.
Marvin Harrison vs. Houston: Donte' Stallworth went wild in Week 1 after only two weeks of work with Donovan McNabb. What happens when you have the type of connection Manning and Harrison have? You get a day in excess of 100 yards and a score against the Houston secondary. Houston won't get to Manning if Umenyiora and Strahan couldn't, and he'll slowly pick them apart.
Larry Fitzgerald vs. Seattle: The Seattle defense makes for a difficult matchup against Arizona this week, but the Seahawks will score points to force Warner to throw early and often. To put it as simply as I can, you can't stop Larry Fitzgerald.
Terrell Owens vs. Washington: Owens exploded in the fourth quarter to nab his first touchdown of the season. Now the lights will shine brighter in the Sunday night marquee matchup, and I expect a strong comeback effort from Drew Bledsoe. Just look at all the near-misses in the Monday night game with Minnesota throwing the ball. I mean no disrespect to Brad Johnson and the Minnesota receivers, but I have to like the Cowboys' attack in this rivalry matchup.
Chris Chambers vs. Buffalo: The Buffalo secondary will be filled with young players after the loss of Troy Vincent. Chambers was taken out of the Pittsburgh game by Ike Taylor. That won't happen again this week. Look for Culpepper to go to his No. 1 receiver with great regularity.
Chad Johnson vs. Cleveland: The Bengals will throw the ball more after a quiet week against the Chiefs. I do wonder whether Johnson checked off the defensive backs on his board last weekend in a quiet effort. He went for nine catches and 91 yards in his last effort against Cleveland. I expect similar numbers and his highly anticipated first touchdown celebration of 2006.
Hines Ward vs. Jacksonville: There were times against Miami when we wondered whether Ward's hamstring had acted up, and then he returned to the field to catch a touchdown pass. The Steelers find ways to get him open, and he knows how to sit down in coverage to make a play. As an added bonus, Ben Roethlisberger may return to action.
Reggie Wayne vs. Houston: Wayne pops into the Top 10 with Houston on the board. McNabb picked the Texans apart last weekend and Peyton Manning will undoubtedly do the same. Look for a big week for the Colts offense all around.
Darrell Jackson vs. Arizona: Jackson played the whole game in Week 1 and nearly sneaked into the end zone. I expect the Seattle offense to get back to full speed this weekend. With Deion Branch now looking as though he'll play on Sunday, Jackson will find himself in more advantageous coverages.
Donte' Stallworth vs. New York Giants: Stallworth was the breakout star of Week 1 with an amazing day after just two weeks preparation with McNabb. He'll find space in the revamped Giants secondary as McNabb works to get his playmakers the ball.
Sleeper Candidates
Donald Driver vs. New Orleans: Driver was one of the lone bright spots in the Week 1 effort against the Bears with seven catches for 96 yards. Fantasy owners are certainly nervous about the prospects of the Packers offense going forward, but Driver is a must start. He'll be targeted upward of 10 times every week by the gunslinging Favre, and the law of averages say the Packers need to score sometime.
Drew Bennett vs. San Diego: Forget about the drops in Week 1. Bennett had 17 balls tossed to him by Kerry Collins in the loss to the Jets. He'll continue to be the No. 1 target in this offense as Collins tends to focus on one receiver, and the running back situation remains sticky. San Diego will put up points against the Titans defense, meaning Collins will be forced to throw quite a bit again.
Kevin Curtis vs. San Francisco: Curtis sneaks onto the radar this weekend with the 49ers defense forced to contend with bruising back Steven Jackson and top receiver Torry Holt. Those weapons leave Curtis open to exploit the 49ers secondary in one-on-one coverage.
Marques Colston vs. Green Bay: Colston got on the board with four catches, 49 yards and a touchdown. The 6-foot-4 rookie creates matchup issues and knows how to eat space down the middle. I expect Drew Brees to make him a frequent target.
Flop Candidates
Lee Evans vs. Miami: Evans was virtually non-existent in Week 1, posting weak totals of two receptions for 25 yards. I don't expect much more production out of the Buffalo passing attack this weekend. He's always a threat for a deep ball, but I expect the Miami defense to rebound from their Week 1 loss to Pittsburgh.
Javon Walker vs. Kansas City: The inefficiency of Jake Plummer in Week 1 forces me to downgrade Walker this weekend as Mike Shanahan looks to play ball control against the Chiefs, who will be playing without Trent Green. I suspect Plummer's shots downfield will be limited, thereby limiting Walker's opportunities.
Laveranues Coles vs. New England: Coles had a huge game last week in Chad Pennington's triumphant return to the field. I expect the team to throw the ball to Coles with great regularity, but I'm not optimistic that Pennington meets with the same success against a Patriots defense slowly starting to get healthy.
Top 5 Tight Ends
Tony Gonzalez has already turned out to be Damon Huard's favorite target, so roll with him again in Week 2.
Tony Gonzalez vs. Denver: Damon Huard connected with Gonzalez seven times after taking over for Green last week. I expect more of the same this weekend as Herman Edward looks to control the ball with short passes and a heavy reliance on Larry Johnson. Gonzalez will be the main target in the red zone.
Ben Watson vs. New York Jets: The Patriots finally dealt Deion Branch, leaving Watson as the chief pass receiving target for Tom Brady. He had 50 yards in the first game of the year, and I suspect his looks will be expanded this weekend. He creates matchup problems when split wide.
Todd Heap vs. Oakland: As we expected with the arrival of McNair, Heap was targeted frequently in the opener. The Oakland defense ceded a touchdown to Antonio Gates after a quiet game when they were unable to force Philip Rivers into passing downs. I suspect Baltimore moves the ball well and that Heap finds several red zone looks.
Antonio Gates vs. Tennessee: Gates gets a slight downgrade this weekend with San Diego taking on Tennessee. I'm not convinced the Chargers will need to change their offense at all this week and that Tomlinson and Turner rule the day again. With that said, Gates is the man in the red zone.
Kellen Winslow, Jr. vs. Cincinnati: Winslow caught eight balls in his first game in two years. I expect him to see even more looks with Joe Jurevicius on the sidelines. Charlie Frye will be forced to throw often to keep up with Palmer and the Cincy offense.
Sleeper Candidates
Desmond Clark vs. Detroit: Grossman targeted Clark 11 times in Week 1 as the Bears try to find balance in the offense. He knows how to settle into space and is very sure-handed. I look for Lovie Smith to employ the same gameplan this weekend.
Dallas Clark vs. Houston: I anticipate the Colts put up a mountain of points against Houston. Clark found the end zone in Week 1, and the Colts coaching staff has been adamant about wanting to up his involvement in the offense this year.
Marcedes Lewis vs. Pittsburgh: Lewis missed the opener and still has some questions about his availability with Pittsburgh on the docket. However, the 6-foot-6 tight end knows how to operate in close quarters and will win every jump ball.
Flop Candidates
Chris Cooley vs. Dallas: Cooley was targeted seven times last weekend, but finished with just two catches for negative three yards. I don't expect much productivity this weekend with Clinton Portis ready for a full workload and the new-found toys in the wide receiving corps.
Ben Troupe vs. San Diego: Kerry Collins has never been one to make the best use of a tight end. Troupe finished with just one catch for 23 yards despite the Titans' need to take to the air. Collins is more likely to focus on Bennett and Givens, so the former sleeper pick's stock takes a nosedive.
Top 5 Team Defenses
Baltimore vs. Oakland: Did you see the Monday night game? I expect the Ravens to pick on the Raiders offensive line and follow the San Diego blueprint.
Chicago vs. Detroit: The Bears defense rolled over the Packers and will now face a Lions offense that generated six points against Seattle. Look for them to fly to the ball once again.
Indianapolis vs. Houston: Dwight Freeney won't be contained for a second week. Look for the Colts to bring the heat against a Houston offensive line that surrendered five sacks last weekend.
Pittsburgh vs. Jacksonville: The Polamalu injury is somewhat worrisome, but #### LeBeau knows to change up his looks and rattle opposing quarterbacks. I expect Leftwich to be forced to throw on the run all day.
Miami vs. Buffalo: Miami didn't get much of a push on Charlie Batch in Week 1. I'm expecting a rebound effort against the Bills and great pressure on J.P. Losman to force errant throws.
Sleeper Candidates
Cincinnati vs. Cleveland: The Bengals turned in a big effort against Kansas City last weekend. Look for them to bring the heat on Damon Huard. Lost in the brilliance of their Week 1 effort was that they produced big numbers without second-year linebacker Odell Thurman.
San Diego vs. Tennessee: The San Diego pass rush overwhelmed the Raiders on Monday night. They'll bring the same effort against the Titans and force Kerry Collins into hurried throws. We know how that normally ends.
St. Louis vs. San Francisco: The rebuilt Rams defense under Jim Haslett held the Broncos to 10 points last week. I expect Haslett to change up his looks and apply the pressure to Alex Smith the Cardinals couldn't sustain.
Flop Candidates:
New York Giants vs. Philadelphia: The Giants secondary was exposed by Peyton Manning last weekend. Though they held the Colts to field goal attempts, they were just milliseconds away from several of those balls being intercepted or going for touchdowns. The Giants need a better push from Umenyiora and Strahan upfront or McNabb will find the holes in the secondary.
Washington vs. Dallas: The Cowboys are looking for a big bounce-back effort at home in the rivalry matchup to cap Sunday's action. The Redskins' secondary is hurting, and the combination of Owens, Glenn and Witten will be too much for them.
Jacksonville vs. Pittsburgh: The Steelers just chip away at opposing defenses, looking for the opening and then busting out the big play. Jacksonville should be able to get more pressure on the quarterback, but the Steelers are stingy with the ball and always seem to score their points.
Top 5 Kickers
Adam Vinatieri vs. Houston: He went from a questionable tag to four field goals in Week 1. Some of those field goal attempts will turn to PATs this weekend, but there's no doubt Vinatieri will put big points this weekend.
Jeff Wilkins vs. San Francisco: Talk about an opener! He won't go for six field goals this weekend, but three field goals and three PATs is still a huge effort.
Josh Brown vs. Arizona: Seattle gets back on track this weekend against an Arizona defense that ceded 27 points to the 49ers. Seattle's sputtering against Detroit was Brown's gain, as he kicked three field goals. I expect Brown to see even more scoring chances this week.
Shayne Graham vs. Cleveland: The Bengals offense is one of the most efficient in the game and will put up points against the Browns. I suspect the Browns put up a fight for at least the first half with their rebuilt defense to force several attempts for Graham.
Neil Rackers vs. Seattle: This will be a week where Rackers' big leg comes into play. With Seattle putting up big points against the Cardinals defense, Dennis Green will think long and hard on those attempts from 50-plus.
Sleeper Candidates
Jon Carney vs. Green Bay: The Bears put up 27 points last weekend against the Packers. Look for New Orleans to move the ball and put up points as well. Carney is a big play this weekend, as Brees will efficiently work them into his range.
Matt Stover vs. Oakland: As with virtually all Ravens players, Stover comes onto the radar against a Raiders team that appears to be in shambles. The Ravens defense should give Steve McNair and company ample scoring options.
Lawrence Tynes vs. Denver: The shift from Green to Huard makes Tynes' leg that much more valuable. Larry Johnson will be able to get them into range, but throwing downs may be a problem. Look for a big effort from Tynes.
Flop Candidates
Jay Feely vs. Philadelphia: The Philly defense is anxious to reclaim it's place among the game's best. They got good pressure against the Texans last week and will try to force Eli Manning into bad throws. Feely has a spotty record on longer attempts.
Jeff Reed vs. Jacksonville: Reed missed his only attempt last week badly. He's never been a huge threat from longer distances, so I believe you'll find a better play elsewhere
Posted: 15 minutes ago
We're less than 48 hours from the kickoffs of early games, so it's time to gaze back into my crystal ball to release my rankings for Week 2.
Fantasy owners are anxious to see whether Steve Smith suits up for the Panthers. Sorry folks, it's another game-time decision, so Jake Delhomme owners should be eyeing a second quarterback just in case.
But that's not the only story of the week. The Cowboys and Redskins rivalry will take center stage on Sunday night. Shaun Alexander and Larry Johnson will look to notch their first touchdowns of the year. And we may see the return of Ben Roethlisberger Monday night against the Jaguars.
With those stories as the backdrop, I reveal my picks for the top performers, sleepers and flops for Week 2.
Top 10 Quarterbacks
Peyton Manning vs. Houston: Manning misfired on a couple throws in the red zone last week against the Giants. Look for him to be on target this week against a Houston defense that allowed over 300 yards and three touchdowns to McNabb in Week 1.
Marc Bulger vs. San Francisco: San Fran will stuff the box in hopes of containing Steven Jackson this weekend, leaving Bulger to work on a secondary that was exposed by Arizona all day in Week 1.
Matt Hasselbeck vs. Arizona: Hasselbeck and the Seahawks are anxious to rebound from their power outage against Detroit. I expect Shaun Alexander to have his normally huge day against the Cardinals, which will give Hasselbeck ample room to exploit the secondary.
Daunte Culpepper vs. Buffalo: The Bills defense played well in Week 1, but are hurting with the loss of Troy Vincent and could possibly see Takeo Spikes out of the lineup. Culpepper and the Dolphins should get the offense humming against the youthful Bills defense this weekend.
Kurt Warner vs. Seattle: The Seahawks defense is certainly a tough draw, but I suspect Warner is forced to throw the ball upward of 30 times this weekend while playing from behind.
Drew Brees vs. Green Bay: The emergence of rookies Marques Colston and Reggie Bush make Brees a strong play this weekend against a suspect Packers secondary. The attention afforded Bush makes Colston and Joe Horn solid sleeper plays.
Donovan McNabb vs. New York Giants: Peyton Manning and the Colts had ample opportunity to put heavy points on the board last weekend, but had to settle for Vinatieri field goals. I expect McNabb to have similar success this weekend with his array of targets and quickly forged relationship with Donte' Stallworth.
Carson Palmer vs. Cleveland: Palmer didn't need to pile on points in the rain last weekend against the Chiefs. Rudi Johnson shouldered the load. I expect the Bengals to step on the throttle this weekend with T.J. Houshmandzadeh back in the lineup.
Tom Brady vs. New York Jets: Though we have to temper the yardage expectations for Brady with the running back tandem of Laurence Maroney and Corey Dillon running well and a lack of a true No. 1 receiver, the Patriots will move the ball on the Jets. I expect Brady to fight tight ends Ben Watson and Daniel Graham with regularity and to put two scores on the board.
Eli Manning vs. Philadelphia: Eli represented himself quite well in the much anticipated matchup against his brother. He's certainly got the weapons to put up yardage and points, and the loss of Lito Shepherd in the Philadelphia secondary should help Manning to find holes in the defense.
Sleeper Candidates
Michael Vick vs. Tampa Bay: Vick surprised many, myself included, with his efficient effort against the Panthers. He's always performed well against Tampa Bay and threw four touchdowns against zero interceptions in their 2005 meetings. He'll play well at home.
Steve McNair vs. Oakland: McNair brought Ravens fans precisely what they expected last weekend. The Ravens had a balanced attack, and McNair found his tight ends as you would expect. Baltimore's swarming defense will create advantageous field position all day.
Rex Grossman vs. Detroit: Grossman came out firing against the Packers last weekend, and I expect more of the same this Sunday. Lovie Smith would like to see that offensive balance carry forward each week, and I believe he'll take shots downfield with speedster Bernard Berrian again early. Grossman is a sleeper starter for leagues requiring two quarterbacks.
Flop Candidates
Aaron Brooks vs. Baltimore: For those who turned the television off to stop the carnage, I'll recap it quickly. Brooks left with more sacks (seven) than completions (six) against San Diego. Baltimore will bring the heat again this weekend. I'd stay far away.
Jake Plummer vs. Kansas City: Plummer had limited success against the Chiefs last season, and new coach Herman Edwards will not let him get comfortable. After his four turnovers in Week 1, he has to be on the pines this weekend. Watch Mike Shanahan work his running backs hard.
Chris Simms vs. Atlanta: I'm not sure how a 6-foot-5 quarterback has that many passes tipped at the line, but it doesn't project to a big effort against Atlanta. Even though the Falcons may be without John Abraham and Patrick Kerney, I still expect a rough road for Simms this weekend. Look for the Falcons to come out with some creative blitzes Sunday.
Top 10 Running Backs
Shaun Alexander has made a career out of playing the Cardinals, so he should be in for a big game Sunday.
Shaun Alexander vs. Arizona: Alexander always torments the Arizona defense, and Sunday will be no different. He's anxious to put a lackluster season debut behind him and shake off the Madden jinx. Look for a monster game this weekend.
Larry Johnson vs. Denver: Johnson very quietly amassed 148 total yards in Week 1, but fantasy owners still lament the fact he didn't score. With Damon Huard under center, Herman Edwards will work his tailback hard this weekend. Denver will be sitting eight in the box, but Johnson will be up to the task.
Jamal Lewis vs. Oakland: Lewis turned in a nice performance last weekend, rushing for 78 yards and a score in the opener. The Chargers ran all over the Raiders in Week 1, and I expect Lewis to do the same this week.
Steven Jackson vs. San Francisco: Scott Linehan wasn't kidding when he said he'd run Jackson hard. I suspect his touch total tops 25 again this weekend against the lower-tier San Francisco defense. A second straight 100-yard game is virtually a lock.
LaDainian Tomlinson vs. Tennessee: Tomlinson had a huge week against the Raiders before turning things over to Michael Turner. He'll do the same again this week against a lackluster Tennessee defense.
Ronnie Brown vs. Buffalo: Brown and the mechanics of the Miami running game was somewhat disconcerting in the loss to Pittsburgh, but fantasy owners can take some consolation that Brown will be THE guy in every type of situation. He'll dominate this week against the injured and youthful Bills defense.
Tiki Barber vs. Philadelphia: Barber started the 2006 season with another huge effort, posting 171 total yards against Indianapolis. Even though Eli progressed over the off-season, the offense still runs through Tiki.
Rudi Johnson vs. Cleveland: Johnson shouldered a heavy load in Week 1 in rainy conditions in Kansas City. He'll be called upon to do so again this weekend against a Cleveland run defense that is a work in progress. Johnson tops 100 yards with a score again this Sunday.
Mike Bell vs. Kansas City: Bell silenced the doubters with 88 total yards and a touchdown last weekend in the workload split. I expect another big day at Kansas City as Mike Shanahan reins in quarterback Jake Plummer.
Clinton Portis vs. Dallas: Portis made a phenomenal comeback in Week 1, shaking off the shoulder injury to carry the ball 10 times for 39 yards and a score. Look for a heavier workload this weekend against the Cowboys.
Sleeper Candidates
Deuce McAllister vs. Green Bay: Reggie Bush got the attention for Week 1 of this highly anticipated rookie campaign, and deservedly so. But McAllister quietly piled up 90 yards last weekend. The Saints will deploy their two-back offense against a weak Packers unit this weekend. I'm looking for him to run to the century mark.
Laurence Maroney vs. New York Jets: Bush may have gotten the hype, but rookie Maroney was no slouch himself. Maroney rushed for 86 yards in a workload split with Corey Dillon. Dillon is likely to keep the goal-line carries short-term, but Maroney is a threat to break a big run on every carry.
Chester Taylor vs. Carolina: Warrick Dunn put forth a huge effort in Week 1 with several scampers over 20 yards. I don't expect many of those from Taylor, but I am encouraged by the heavy workload Brad Childress gave him in Week 1. He touched the ball 34 times in Week 1 and will likely be a big factor again this week.
Tatum Bell vs. Kansas City: The second Bell quietly rushed for 103 yards last week in the workload split with Mike Bell. I'm expecting the split to continue in Week 2 with Jake Plummer under heavy scrutiny. Look for Tatum to get a shot around the goal-line.
Flop Candidates
LaMont Jordan vs. Baltimore: His yards per carry average will be better than the abysmal 2.0 he put up against San Diego, but don't expect much from the Raiders offense against the attacking Baltimore defense. Haloti Ngata will eat up space in the center of a questionable Raiders offensive line and allow Ray Lewis to fly to the ball.
Fred Taylor vs. Pittsburgh: Taylor put up a nice effort against the Cowboys in Week 1. I suspect he takes a step back in Week 2 against a much better Steelers offense. Taylor will need to work for every yard against the elaborate defensive schemes of #### LeBeau.
Thomas Jones vs. Detroit: Jones averaged a meager three yards per carry against the Packers last weekend, and second-year back Cedric Benson is champing at the bit to prove he can run the rock. The Lions did well in containing Shaun Alexander last week, and I expect more of a workload split in the Bears backfield to limit Jones's impact.
Top 10 Wide Receivers
Torry Holt will have the whole world in his hands this week against the 49ers' secondary.
Torry Holt vs San Francisco: The Cardinals defense moved the ball all day long against the 49ers. I expect St. Louis to do the same this week with Holt demonstrating why he's been one of the game's best for years.
Marvin Harrison vs. Houston: Donte' Stallworth went wild in Week 1 after only two weeks of work with Donovan McNabb. What happens when you have the type of connection Manning and Harrison have? You get a day in excess of 100 yards and a score against the Houston secondary. Houston won't get to Manning if Umenyiora and Strahan couldn't, and he'll slowly pick them apart.
Larry Fitzgerald vs. Seattle: The Seattle defense makes for a difficult matchup against Arizona this week, but the Seahawks will score points to force Warner to throw early and often. To put it as simply as I can, you can't stop Larry Fitzgerald.
Terrell Owens vs. Washington: Owens exploded in the fourth quarter to nab his first touchdown of the season. Now the lights will shine brighter in the Sunday night marquee matchup, and I expect a strong comeback effort from Drew Bledsoe. Just look at all the near-misses in the Monday night game with Minnesota throwing the ball. I mean no disrespect to Brad Johnson and the Minnesota receivers, but I have to like the Cowboys' attack in this rivalry matchup.
Chris Chambers vs. Buffalo: The Buffalo secondary will be filled with young players after the loss of Troy Vincent. Chambers was taken out of the Pittsburgh game by Ike Taylor. That won't happen again this week. Look for Culpepper to go to his No. 1 receiver with great regularity.
Chad Johnson vs. Cleveland: The Bengals will throw the ball more after a quiet week against the Chiefs. I do wonder whether Johnson checked off the defensive backs on his board last weekend in a quiet effort. He went for nine catches and 91 yards in his last effort against Cleveland. I expect similar numbers and his highly anticipated first touchdown celebration of 2006.
Hines Ward vs. Jacksonville: There were times against Miami when we wondered whether Ward's hamstring had acted up, and then he returned to the field to catch a touchdown pass. The Steelers find ways to get him open, and he knows how to sit down in coverage to make a play. As an added bonus, Ben Roethlisberger may return to action.
Reggie Wayne vs. Houston: Wayne pops into the Top 10 with Houston on the board. McNabb picked the Texans apart last weekend and Peyton Manning will undoubtedly do the same. Look for a big week for the Colts offense all around.
Darrell Jackson vs. Arizona: Jackson played the whole game in Week 1 and nearly sneaked into the end zone. I expect the Seattle offense to get back to full speed this weekend. With Deion Branch now looking as though he'll play on Sunday, Jackson will find himself in more advantageous coverages.
Donte' Stallworth vs. New York Giants: Stallworth was the breakout star of Week 1 with an amazing day after just two weeks preparation with McNabb. He'll find space in the revamped Giants secondary as McNabb works to get his playmakers the ball.
Sleeper Candidates
Donald Driver vs. New Orleans: Driver was one of the lone bright spots in the Week 1 effort against the Bears with seven catches for 96 yards. Fantasy owners are certainly nervous about the prospects of the Packers offense going forward, but Driver is a must start. He'll be targeted upward of 10 times every week by the gunslinging Favre, and the law of averages say the Packers need to score sometime.
Drew Bennett vs. San Diego: Forget about the drops in Week 1. Bennett had 17 balls tossed to him by Kerry Collins in the loss to the Jets. He'll continue to be the No. 1 target in this offense as Collins tends to focus on one receiver, and the running back situation remains sticky. San Diego will put up points against the Titans defense, meaning Collins will be forced to throw quite a bit again.
Kevin Curtis vs. San Francisco: Curtis sneaks onto the radar this weekend with the 49ers defense forced to contend with bruising back Steven Jackson and top receiver Torry Holt. Those weapons leave Curtis open to exploit the 49ers secondary in one-on-one coverage.
Marques Colston vs. Green Bay: Colston got on the board with four catches, 49 yards and a touchdown. The 6-foot-4 rookie creates matchup issues and knows how to eat space down the middle. I expect Drew Brees to make him a frequent target.
Flop Candidates
Lee Evans vs. Miami: Evans was virtually non-existent in Week 1, posting weak totals of two receptions for 25 yards. I don't expect much more production out of the Buffalo passing attack this weekend. He's always a threat for a deep ball, but I expect the Miami defense to rebound from their Week 1 loss to Pittsburgh.
Javon Walker vs. Kansas City: The inefficiency of Jake Plummer in Week 1 forces me to downgrade Walker this weekend as Mike Shanahan looks to play ball control against the Chiefs, who will be playing without Trent Green. I suspect Plummer's shots downfield will be limited, thereby limiting Walker's opportunities.
Laveranues Coles vs. New England: Coles had a huge game last week in Chad Pennington's triumphant return to the field. I expect the team to throw the ball to Coles with great regularity, but I'm not optimistic that Pennington meets with the same success against a Patriots defense slowly starting to get healthy.
Top 5 Tight Ends
Tony Gonzalez has already turned out to be Damon Huard's favorite target, so roll with him again in Week 2.
Tony Gonzalez vs. Denver: Damon Huard connected with Gonzalez seven times after taking over for Green last week. I expect more of the same this weekend as Herman Edward looks to control the ball with short passes and a heavy reliance on Larry Johnson. Gonzalez will be the main target in the red zone.
Ben Watson vs. New York Jets: The Patriots finally dealt Deion Branch, leaving Watson as the chief pass receiving target for Tom Brady. He had 50 yards in the first game of the year, and I suspect his looks will be expanded this weekend. He creates matchup problems when split wide.
Todd Heap vs. Oakland: As we expected with the arrival of McNair, Heap was targeted frequently in the opener. The Oakland defense ceded a touchdown to Antonio Gates after a quiet game when they were unable to force Philip Rivers into passing downs. I suspect Baltimore moves the ball well and that Heap finds several red zone looks.
Antonio Gates vs. Tennessee: Gates gets a slight downgrade this weekend with San Diego taking on Tennessee. I'm not convinced the Chargers will need to change their offense at all this week and that Tomlinson and Turner rule the day again. With that said, Gates is the man in the red zone.
Kellen Winslow, Jr. vs. Cincinnati: Winslow caught eight balls in his first game in two years. I expect him to see even more looks with Joe Jurevicius on the sidelines. Charlie Frye will be forced to throw often to keep up with Palmer and the Cincy offense.
Sleeper Candidates
Desmond Clark vs. Detroit: Grossman targeted Clark 11 times in Week 1 as the Bears try to find balance in the offense. He knows how to settle into space and is very sure-handed. I look for Lovie Smith to employ the same gameplan this weekend.
Dallas Clark vs. Houston: I anticipate the Colts put up a mountain of points against Houston. Clark found the end zone in Week 1, and the Colts coaching staff has been adamant about wanting to up his involvement in the offense this year.
Marcedes Lewis vs. Pittsburgh: Lewis missed the opener and still has some questions about his availability with Pittsburgh on the docket. However, the 6-foot-6 tight end knows how to operate in close quarters and will win every jump ball.
Flop Candidates
Chris Cooley vs. Dallas: Cooley was targeted seven times last weekend, but finished with just two catches for negative three yards. I don't expect much productivity this weekend with Clinton Portis ready for a full workload and the new-found toys in the wide receiving corps.
Ben Troupe vs. San Diego: Kerry Collins has never been one to make the best use of a tight end. Troupe finished with just one catch for 23 yards despite the Titans' need to take to the air. Collins is more likely to focus on Bennett and Givens, so the former sleeper pick's stock takes a nosedive.
Top 5 Team Defenses
Baltimore vs. Oakland: Did you see the Monday night game? I expect the Ravens to pick on the Raiders offensive line and follow the San Diego blueprint.
Chicago vs. Detroit: The Bears defense rolled over the Packers and will now face a Lions offense that generated six points against Seattle. Look for them to fly to the ball once again.
Indianapolis vs. Houston: Dwight Freeney won't be contained for a second week. Look for the Colts to bring the heat against a Houston offensive line that surrendered five sacks last weekend.
Pittsburgh vs. Jacksonville: The Polamalu injury is somewhat worrisome, but #### LeBeau knows to change up his looks and rattle opposing quarterbacks. I expect Leftwich to be forced to throw on the run all day.
Miami vs. Buffalo: Miami didn't get much of a push on Charlie Batch in Week 1. I'm expecting a rebound effort against the Bills and great pressure on J.P. Losman to force errant throws.
Sleeper Candidates
Cincinnati vs. Cleveland: The Bengals turned in a big effort against Kansas City last weekend. Look for them to bring the heat on Damon Huard. Lost in the brilliance of their Week 1 effort was that they produced big numbers without second-year linebacker Odell Thurman.
San Diego vs. Tennessee: The San Diego pass rush overwhelmed the Raiders on Monday night. They'll bring the same effort against the Titans and force Kerry Collins into hurried throws. We know how that normally ends.
St. Louis vs. San Francisco: The rebuilt Rams defense under Jim Haslett held the Broncos to 10 points last week. I expect Haslett to change up his looks and apply the pressure to Alex Smith the Cardinals couldn't sustain.
Flop Candidates:
New York Giants vs. Philadelphia: The Giants secondary was exposed by Peyton Manning last weekend. Though they held the Colts to field goal attempts, they were just milliseconds away from several of those balls being intercepted or going for touchdowns. The Giants need a better push from Umenyiora and Strahan upfront or McNabb will find the holes in the secondary.
Washington vs. Dallas: The Cowboys are looking for a big bounce-back effort at home in the rivalry matchup to cap Sunday's action. The Redskins' secondary is hurting, and the combination of Owens, Glenn and Witten will be too much for them.
Jacksonville vs. Pittsburgh: The Steelers just chip away at opposing defenses, looking for the opening and then busting out the big play. Jacksonville should be able to get more pressure on the quarterback, but the Steelers are stingy with the ball and always seem to score their points.
Top 5 Kickers
Adam Vinatieri vs. Houston: He went from a questionable tag to four field goals in Week 1. Some of those field goal attempts will turn to PATs this weekend, but there's no doubt Vinatieri will put big points this weekend.
Jeff Wilkins vs. San Francisco: Talk about an opener! He won't go for six field goals this weekend, but three field goals and three PATs is still a huge effort.
Josh Brown vs. Arizona: Seattle gets back on track this weekend against an Arizona defense that ceded 27 points to the 49ers. Seattle's sputtering against Detroit was Brown's gain, as he kicked three field goals. I expect Brown to see even more scoring chances this week.
Shayne Graham vs. Cleveland: The Bengals offense is one of the most efficient in the game and will put up points against the Browns. I suspect the Browns put up a fight for at least the first half with their rebuilt defense to force several attempts for Graham.
Neil Rackers vs. Seattle: This will be a week where Rackers' big leg comes into play. With Seattle putting up big points against the Cardinals defense, Dennis Green will think long and hard on those attempts from 50-plus.
Sleeper Candidates
Jon Carney vs. Green Bay: The Bears put up 27 points last weekend against the Packers. Look for New Orleans to move the ball and put up points as well. Carney is a big play this weekend, as Brees will efficiently work them into his range.
Matt Stover vs. Oakland: As with virtually all Ravens players, Stover comes onto the radar against a Raiders team that appears to be in shambles. The Ravens defense should give Steve McNair and company ample scoring options.
Lawrence Tynes vs. Denver: The shift from Green to Huard makes Tynes' leg that much more valuable. Larry Johnson will be able to get them into range, but throwing downs may be a problem. Look for a big effort from Tynes.
Flop Candidates
Jay Feely vs. Philadelphia: The Philly defense is anxious to reclaim it's place among the game's best. They got good pressure against the Texans last week and will try to force Eli Manning into bad throws. Feely has a spotty record on longer attempts.
Jeff Reed vs. Jacksonville: Reed missed his only attempt last week badly. He's never been a huge threat from longer distances, so I believe you'll find a better play elsewhere
