This article is part of our NFL Game Previews series.
Tampa Bay (+6.5) at Atlanta, Thursday, 8:25 p.m. EST
Comments:Matt Ryan went from hero to zero in a hurry with just 13 points against Cincinnati last week. While Tampa Bay is above average defensively, this matchup should be nowhere near the struggle the Falcons faced against one of the league's best defenses in week 2. Roddy White (hamstring) is banged up, which is more concerning considering the quick turnaround. Julio Jones gets a boost if White sits. Whether a product of game flow or offensive philosophy, Steven Jackson isn't getting enough touches (no more than 13 in either game). It's hard to feel confident until he's a bigger part of the game plan because he has to score to make a fantasy impact. If Gerald McCoy (broken hand) misses this contest, Jackson becomes more interesting as a flex. ... Unfortunately for Doug Martin (knee), it's a four-day turnaround, and Bobby Rainey was stellar vs. STL with 144 yards. The Bucs will go back to Martin, but every time another running back plays, he looks better than Martin. If Martin plays and doesn't run well against a dreadful 26th-ranked Falcons run D, he never will. I said last week Vincent Jackson and Mike Evans wouldn't both be held under 40 yards often. However, respective 51 and 49 totals weren't exactly what I had in mind. Jackson failed to score in 10 of his last 11 games. We knew he would be closer to the journeyman backup than his 2013 self, but maybe Josh McCown really has turned back into a pumpkin. If ever you were excited about the Tampa Bay passing game, it would be this week against Atlanta'a 31st-ranked pass defense. With the Falcons last in total yards (472 YPG) and 28th in points (29 PPG) allowed, this is as good a matchup the Bucs will get.
Predictions:Josh McCown throws for 252 yards and touchdowns to both Vincent Jackson and Mike Evans. In the same building he suffered the torn labrum, Doug Martin finally looks like the guy we drafted with 124 total yards and a score. Matt Ryan rebounds with 289 yards and two scoring strikes. Steven Jackson rushes for his first TD of the year during an 87-yard game. Julio Jones keeps his 100-plus YPG average intact with 96 but the Falcons can't quite cover the spread. Atlanta, 28-24.
San Diego (+2) at Buffalo, Sunday, 1 p.m. EST
Comments: San Diego was more physical in a surprising 30-21 victory against Seattle. The offensive line's protection of Philip Rivers (one sack) was key to the victory, but it will have its hands full this week against an underrated front four of Marcell Darreus, Kyle Williams and Mario Williams. Ryan Mathews will miss the next month or so with a sprained MCL, giving Donald Brown starting job. Danny Woodhead's role will also expand in Mathews' absence. At least we know we've seen Antonio Gates' best game of the season after the hat trick, so we can't be wrong about him again. Ladarius Green continues to be an underutilized weapon, but hard to argue with Gates' results. Those either patient with Keenan Allen or who bought low on him this week are about to reap the rewards the next five games. The west-coast Chargers need to avoid a sluggish start traveling east for 10 a.m. PST kickoff. ... One of the more unexpected 2-0 teams, Buffalo sits atop the division by virtue of last week's 29-10 victory over Miami. However, many of us still need to see more before fully buying in with 2011 still fresh in our minds (lost 10 of last 14 after 2-0 start). EJ Manuel has played much better than his fantasy numbers suggest, but still in QB2 territory. Manuel would be wise to avoid Pro Football Focus' fifth-rated cornerback, first-round pick Jason Verrett. Expect OC Nathaniel Hackett to use Sammy Watkins to test Brandon Flowers' gimpy groin with a double-move routes. If you had any confidence in Robert Woods or Mike Williams as consistent fantasy options, last week should've dispelled that notion -- both talented players, but highly inconsistent complementary pieces. C.J. Spiller has been fairly quiet in terms of yards, but has scored twice already. Both Spiller and Jackson are viable starts facing a Chargers defense allowing 5.6 YPC, second-most in the NFL. Dan Carpenter has as many points (28) as the Giants.
Predictions:Keenan Allen takes advantage of his first decent matchup of the year with 119 yards and a touchdown. Antonio Gates comes back to earth, and Ladarius Green scores. C.J. Spiller notches his first 100-yard game thanks to a 61-yard TD. Mike Williams catches a goal-line fade for six. Could easily see a San Diego letdown coming off statement victory, but just can't imagine Buffalo going 3-0. San Diego, 26-23.
Dallas (-1) at St. Louis, Sunday, 1 p.m. EST
Comments: These 1-1 teams also met in Week 3 last year, with Dallas cruising, 31-7. DeMarco Murray, the NFL's leading rusher, had 175 yards. It wouldn't be surprising if he went off against a Rams team that allowed 144 yards to Bobby Rainey last week. The way to beat STL is on the ground (30th vs.. the run), so expect another heavy dose of Murray. Tony Romo won't have to worry about Chris Long (ankle surgery), but the defensive line is a big reason the Rams are a top-five pass defense. It will serve as a great litmus test for a vastly improved Cowboys offensive line. Romo was effective (3:0 TD/INT, 70.8%, 8.8 YPA, 137.2 rating) in last year's meeting, in large part because his line was so dominant (sacked once). Dez Bryant survived a second injury scare in as many weeks after coming down hard on his shoulder in Dallas' 26-10 victory over Tennessee. He's a blast to watch, but that physical style of play leaves him susceptible to injury. Jason Witten (4/32) and Terrance Williams (2/20) were quiet last week but could take advantage if the Rams double Bryant or stack the box against the run. ... Zac Stacy owners have to be thrilled with his usage against Tampa (19 carries to Benny Cunningham's six). Unfortunately for Tavon Austin and Kenny Britt, Brian Quick has emerged as the No. 1 target with seven catches on nine targets in each of the first two games. For the most part that's come with Austin Davis at quarterback, so stay tuned if and when Shaun Hill (thigh) returns. If you are one of the 15 percent of Yahoo users that own Jared Cook, you might want to start him. Dallas has been TORCHED by tight ends so far, giving up two touchdowns to Vernon Davis in the opener and 10/142/1 to Delanie Walker this past weekend. Other than covering TE, the Cowboys have been better on defense than expected (14th or better in all three major defensive categories).
Predictions: Dallas' offensive line passes the test, giving DeMarco Murray room and Tony Romo time. Murray rushes for 100-plus for the third straight time while Romo has his first 20-plus fantasy-point game of the year. Dez Bryant proves too physical for Janoris Jenkins. Zac Stacy has a solid but unspectacular day with 79 yards on the ground. Jared Cook is the third consecutive TE to light up Big D with 99 yards and a TD. 'Boys notch back-to-back road wins. Dallas, 27-17.
Washington (+6.5) at Philadelphia, Sunday, 1 p.m. EST
Comments: The 41-10 beatown of Jacksonville was nice, but Washington was hurt by injuries to stars Robert Griffin III (ankle) and DeSean Jackson (shoulder). While Griffin is sidelined, Kirk Cousins is a steaming option. Remember, Jay Gruden turned Andy Dalton into a top-five fantasy QB. Jackson has a sprained AC joint but hopes to play against his former team. Given how that marriage ended in Philly, you can be sure Jackson had this game circled on his calendar. If D-Jack is unavailable, the passing game will revolve around Pierre Garcon similar to last season. Alfred Morris is the NFL's third-leading rusher and should be the focal point of the offense. Niles Paul filled in admirably for Jordan Reed (hamstring) and will start the next few games. Against a below-average defense and trying to keep pace with Philly's offense, those Redskins are solid starts this week. ... With Monday night's 30-27 comeback victory in Indianapolis, Philadelphia became the first team in NFL history to win its first two after trailing by 14-plus points in the second half of each. Chip Kelly undoubtedly would prefer better starts. Nick Foles has been productive (thanks Darren Sproles) but hasn't looked sharp in either game, already matching his 2013 interception total. His offensive line needs to protect him against a Washington front that recorded 10 sacks against Jacksonville. Zach Ertz and Jeremy Maclin haven't disappointed in larger roles but will have to deal with the (shockingly) third-ranked Redskins pass defense. Jordan Matthews and Riley Cooper have done next to nothing in two games, but will be needed. LeSean McCoy faces the league's fourth-ranked run defense. Darren Sproles has been everything the Eagles hoped for and more. While it would be unreasonable to expect his 131.5 total YPG to hold up, he's absolutely a must-start.
Predictions:DeSean Jackson toughs it out and shreds his former team for a 58-yard bomb en route to 134 yards. Alfred Morris delivers another solid day with 82 yards and a touchdown. Captain Kirk Cousins finishes as a top-10 quarterback for the week. The Eagles O-line dominates up front, helping LeSean McCoy rush for 128 yards and two scores. Redskins D, while improved, no longer leads NFL in total yards allowed come Monday. Washington hangs tough but the better team wins. Philadelphia, 30-22.
Houston (-2.5) at New York Giants, Sunday, 1 p.m. EST
Comments: Houston is 2-0 for a fifth straight season. The Texans have been lights-out defensively, though it's come against two poor opponents (OAK, WAS). As long as Ryan Fitzpatrick sticks with the game-manager role, they should be in most games. He could be tempted to revert back to his old ways against a pass defense allowing 8.4 YPA, third-most in the league. Arian Foster is the NFL's second-leading rusher, opening with back-to-back 100-yard games. The matchup to watch is Andre Johnson and DeAndre Hopkins against Giants corners Prince Amukamara and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. Johnson recorded six receptions in each game, and Hopkins already matched his 2013 TD total (2). If the Texans spread it out and force nickel/dime coverage, they could take advantage of the loss of Walter Thurmond (IR: torn pectoral). ... The 0-2 Giants looked like less of a mess offensively vs. Arizona than they did Week 1. Eli Manning, despite two more INT, played considerably better. Manning will try to expose a Texans defense allowing a league-low 10.0 PPG but just 24th in passing yards allowed. Rashad Jennings has been terrible on a per-carry basis (3.2), albeit against two of the top three run defenses in football, but could bump that against a Texans defense allowing a league-high 5.8 YPC. Larry Donnell might be slower than some offensive lineman (4.91 forty), but he's been productive. Victor Cruz has battled drops during a slow start, but could jumpstart his season here- -- neither Johnathan Joseph or Kareem Jackson can stay with him if Manning has time. Time to throw is the key when facing J.J. Watt and company. Tom Coughlin quashed reports that Odell Beckham Jr. will make his debut this week. Rueben Randle starts again opposite Cruz.
Predictions:Arian Foster fails to reach the century mark for the first time, but has 91 total yards and a touchdown. Andre Johnson scores his first TD of 2014 on a flag pattern during an eight-catch, 101-yard day. Victor Cruz, who's reached 90-plus receiving yards just once in his last 12 games, finally breaks out with 113 yards. Rashad Jennings still can't crack 4.0 YPC because he's not talented enough. Giants win -- because Texans aren't good enough to be 3-0 and Giants aren't bad enough to be 0-3. New York, 20-17.
Minnesota (+10) at New Orleans, Sunday, 1 p.m. EST
Comments: Vikings' chances went from slim to none without Adrian Peterson again this week, and likely for a while (unless they change their mind again) after putting him on the exempt/commissioner's permission list. Unimpressive Matt Asiata will start, but explosive rookie Jerick McKinnon should get a longer look against New Orleans. McKinnon may be inexperienced (triple option QB at Georgia Southern), but he's one of the freakiest athletes walking the planet with a 147.5 SPARQ rating (reference: Julio Jones 144.3, Calvin Johnson 155.9). Without a respectable threat in the backfield, Matt Cassel will throw another four INT. Cordarrelle Patterson needs to get better as a route runner to make a consistent impact, though it would help to have a better quarterback. Kyle Rudolph the Redzone Reindeer won't help unless he scores (70-plus yards ONCE in 41 career games). ... Don't be alarmed by the slow start as Drew Brees (now fourth all-time in passing yards) and Saints offense struggle on the road. Mark Ingram (hand) will miss 4-6 weeks; what a horrible break, no pun intended. And just when he was hitting his stride with 143 yards and three TD (6.0 YPC) through two games. With Ingram gone, Pierre Thomas and Khiry Robinson will see more snaps. Sean Payton still wants to use a platoon backfield so don't expect either to carry the full load. Even more than usual, Jimmy Graham is an absolute mismatch for the linebackers/secondary. Don't count on Marques Colston being shut out again as last week was his first without a catch in 87 games. Kenny Stills' presence contributed to a down game from Brandin Cooks against Cleveland. If both play, they will be inconsistent because Brees spreads it around so well.
Predictions:Mike Zimmer gets tired of Matt Asiata pounding straight ahead two yards at a time and gives a shot to Jerick McKinnon, who totals 86 yards on just 12 touches and hits pay dirt. Rob Ryan blitzes Matt Cassel into submission. Cordarrelle Patterson manages 78 total yards. Drew Brees comes out on fire, leading all in fantasy points with a 367-yard, four-score day. Touchdowns are spread one each to Jimmy Graham, Pierre Thomas, Marques Colston and Kenny Stills. Not a chance Saints fall to 0-3. New Orleans, 37-13.
Tennessee (+7) at Cincinnati, Sunday, 1 p.m. EST
Comments: Tennessee, one of the pleasant surprises of opening weekend, was one of the bigger letdowns in week 2. Many of us starting Titans against a depleted Cowboys defense were severely disappointed. Jake Locker, fresh off that poor performance, could struggle again with an elite Cincinnati defense allowing just 13 PPG (third in NFL). Locker has a strong offensive line but Geno Atkins and Carlos Dunlap can get after it in a hurry. Shonn Greene and Bishop Sankey will have Ray Maualuga and Vontaze Burfict in pursuit on every touch. Delanie Walker was the lone bright spot last Sunday with a career-high 141 yards on 10 catches. Walker is far more athletic than most realized before that 61-yard touchdown. Justin Hunter and Kendall Wright will almost certainly play better as neither topped 31 yards. However, the Bengals boast easily the deepest secondary in the league -- their top five corners are all either former Pro Bowlers or first-round picks. ... Well, it appears OC Hugh Jackson will be even more run-heavy than expected with the potential loss of A.J. Green (turf toe). With a bye week coming, expect Marvin Lewis to be cautious and hold their biggest asset out regardless of Green's desire to play. Giovani Bernard, fresh off a sensational 169 total yards meets a defense that DeMarco Murray just abused for 167 rushing yards. After 17 touches against Atlanta, backup Jeremy Hill could be playable in deeper leagues with the possibility Cincy leads again throughout. Andy Dalton should be benched, as he's without his three top pass-catchers (Green, Marvin Jones, Tyler Eifert) and playing the NFL's No. 1 pass defense (163 YPG). Mohamed Sanu and Brandon Tate will be his primary targets outside if Green sits. Jermaine Gresham should also see his role expand given the lack of playmakers out wide.
Predictions: Both teams resort to "three yards and a cloud of dust" philosophy as neither is efficient passing. Shonn Greene and Bishop Sankey both get at least 10 touches, neither does much. Jake Locker throws for 212 yards and two more interceptions. Justin Hunter scores the Titans' only touchdown on a skinny post as part of a 71-yard day. Giovani Bernard has another outstanding game, finishing with 103 yards rushing to go with 42 receiving. Jermaine Gresham scores on play-action at the goal line. Cincinnati, 20-16.
Baltimore (-1.5) at Cleveland, Sunday, 1 p.m. EST
Comments: To my surprise, Baltimore gave it to Bernard Pierce 22 times last week while expected starter Justin Forsett received just eight carries. Forsett looked like the better player (7.0 YPC). Expect a similar result against Cleveland if/when Baltimore plays with a lead to grind clock. Forsett's skillset is more conducive to playing from behind (more explosive, better receiver). Strangely, Steve Smith was targeted twice as much (10) as any other Raven against Pittsburgh after leading the team with 15 targets week 1. On the flip side, Torrey Smith has been thrown to just 10 times (three times last Thursday). That distribution won't continue. Last year No. 2 receivers had big games against the Browns as teams avoided Joe Haden. While first-round draft pick Justin Gilbert should alleviate that effect somewhat, the second option still could fare better than the primary in many weeks. Can't see Mike Pettine assigning Haden to 35-year-old Steve Smith. If Torrey Smith gets that honor and is shut down for a third straight game, he could be best buy-low candidate in fantasy. Dennis Pitta is still the Ravens TE to own, Owen Daniels' two-TD game was a fluke. ... Cleveland is riding high after a 26-24 upset of New Orleans. Go figure this team being 1-1 without its three best players: Josh Gordon, Ben Tate and Jordan Cameron. Browns figured to be built around strong defense and running game, but the defense has severely disappointed (allowing 27 PPG and 25th or lower in all major defensive categories). The "Baby Backs" have carried the offense while Brian Hoyer has played turnover-free football, doing just enough to move the chains. Terrance West is fourth in the NFL in rushing, but he's better suited as a change-of-pace back. More prototypical Isaiah Crowell has looked great (5.4 YPC) when called upon. However, Baltimore presents a much stiffer test than New Orleans or Pittsburgh. If Cameron (shoulder) is inactive again, there isn't a Cleveland pass-catcher worth starting unless it's Andrew Hawkins in a deep PPR league.
Predictions:Joe Haden puts the clamps on Torrey Smith (3-41-0). Dennis Pitta leads the team in targets, hauling in seven for 81 yards. Bernard Pierce reminds us why he's terrible. Snaps split almost evenly between Terrance West and Isaiah Crowell as the pair total 148 yards. Lardarius Webb intercepts Brian Hoyer late to seal it. Baltimore, 20-17.
Green Bay (+2.5) at Detroit, Sunday, 1 p.m. EST
Comments: In a potential shootout, first place is on the line as both teams (and all in the NFC North) enter 1-1. Green Bay looked like it would join New Orleans and Indianapolis as the most disappointing 0-2 clubs before squeaking out a win over the Jets with a closing 28-3 run. If he gets adequate time in the pocket, Aaron Rodgers could lead quarterbacks in fantasy points for a second straight week (27 vs. NYJ). Rodgers is 9-1 in his last 10 starts against the Lions. Jordy Nelson (first 200-yard game of 2014) and Randall Cobb (two TD) both finished among the week's top-three WR and should have little trouble with a poor Lions secondary. Eddie Lacy, on the other hand, has a third straight brutal matchup (all top-10 against the run) and has yet to exceed 43 yards rushing in a game. He faces a Detroit defense allowing a league-low 2.5 YPC and a measly 57.5 YPG (second in NFL). ... Detroit, far better at home, returns to Ford Field after a tough day in Carolina. Matthew Stafford scored 16 fewer points last week than his openign 29, but should bounce back. (Stafford threw for 330 yards and three touchdowns in their last meeting.) Both Reggie Bush and Joique Bell should be started with confidence against a Packers defense allowing 176.5 rushing yards/game (at least 146 in each). Calvin Johnson, has eclipsed the century mark four consecutive games against the Pack. Expected barnburners like this are the reason Detroit signed Golden Tate and drafted Eric Ebron.
Predictions:Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford each throw for 300-plus yards. Eddie Lacy is limited to 52 yards rushing by Ndamukong Suh and the Lions' front seven, but punches one in at the goal line. Golden Tate scores for the first time as a Lion while Calvin Johnson provides 143 yards. Reggie Bush and Joique Bell account for 218 total yards and two touchdowns. Packers win a wild one. Green Bay, 34-31.
Indianapolis (-7) at Jacksonville, Sunday, 1 p.m. EST
Comments: Hard to fault Indy for being 0-2 considering its first two opponents, but shocking nonetheless. Trent Richardson looked like an NFL-caliber running back against a stout Eagles run defense. Richardson should receive another hefty workload as Inday leads throughout. Some view Ahmad Bradshaw as the better runner, but durability concerns likely restrict him to his current role. Both are flex options facing the NFL's 28th-ranked run defense (168 YPG). Based on Kirk Cousins' performance, Andrew Luck should destroy Jacksonville's 25th-ranked pass defense, rebounding from an out-of-sync MNF performance. Either Reggie Wayne or T.Y. Hilton will lead the team in targets most weeks, relegating Hakeem Nicks to third wheel. Oddly enough, Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen were targeted just once each week 2. Unfortunately, the fantasy value of both is inhibited by the presence of the other. Have confidence starting any Colt against a Jaguars team allowing 37.5 PPG (last in the league). Correction: anyone but TY Hilton, who is terrible outdoors for whatever reason. ... Jacksonville, outscored 55-0 over one stretch, looks a lot like last year's disaster. If Chad Henne continues completing 53.5 percent of his passes, Gus Bradley may turn to Blake Bortles sooner than anticipated. Henne's matchup looks decent on paper, but you can throw out Indianapolis' defensive rankings as it's played the two best offenses in football, Denver and Philadelphia. Entering the season, I was perhaps lower on Toby Gerhart than anyone, but he's failed to meet even my modest expectations. The O-line's inability to block anyone is a factor, but his paltry 2.0 YPC is inexcusable. Sheer volume was the reason, but not sure why we projected Gerhart as an RB2 after watching MJD in the same role last year. Allen Hurns, as expected, regressed last week. Marqise Lee could miss this game after re-tweaking his hamstring Wednesday, and Cecil Shorts' return (hamstring) could be another week away. Allen Robinson will start if both are inactive. Jacksonville will be without the services of TE Marcedes Lewis (ankle) for at least the next eight weeks (short-term IR).
Predictions:Andrew Luck shreds Jacksonville for 308 yards and touchdowns to Reggie Wayne and Coby Fleener. Trent Richardson notches his first 100-yard game as a Colt after being given 20-plus carries for second straight week, scoring twice in the process. He also exceeds 4.0 YPC for the first time since the trade. Playing without his three top pass-catchers, Chad Henne is awful and picked off three times. Toby Gerhart rushes for just 47 yards but scores. Colts, another strong Survivor-pool play, dominate throughout. Indianapolis, 28-13.
Oakland (+14) at New England, Sunday, 1 p.m. EST
Comments: There's a growing narrative that Tom Brady is done as a fantasy QB. Brady is just 3-of-20 on passes traveling 15-plus yards. The Miami game was awful (2-of-18 over 15 yards, 4.4 YPA), but he barely threw downfield vs. MIN. A legitimate fear in this game is NE getting out in front early and going to a ball-control offense, which has happened twice to the Raiders already. Oakland is ranked second against the pass, but opponents have attempted just 24 passes per game (second-fewest) and its 7.5 YPA-allowed is bottom of the barrel. Stevan Ridley should be started against an Oakland team allowing 200 rushing YPG, last in the league. Evidently, Ridley will be heavily involved when New England's ahead whereas Shane Vereen will when behind. After a second straight 100-yd game, trade Ridley at peak value before he fumbles again. Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski continue to be the only Patriot pass-catchers to trust. ... Darren McFadden started with Maurice Jones-Drew (hand) sidelined and dominated touches in the backfield despite OC Greg Olsen saying Latavius Murray would get a look. MJD "didn't sound optimistic" about his week 3 status speaking to reporters Monday. McFadden is a flex option if Jones-Drew is inactive. Despite shutting down Matt Asiata (maybe the least talented RB to start an NFL game), Knowshon Moreno showed the Patriots can be run on. In spite of minimal upside, James Jones seems to be the Raiders receiver to own as Derek Carr targeted him double (14 times) anyone else against Houston. Denarius Moore will start opposite Jones with Rod Streater (hip flexor) out.
Predictions:Tom Brady is a top-10 QB for the first time this season with 276 yards and two touchdowns. Stevan Ridley runs for 111 yards and a score. With MJD inactive, Darren McFadden again scores double-digit fantasy points. Even at home, the 14-point spread is just too big. Raiders backdoor-cover as Derek Carr finds Denarius Moore in the end zone late. New England, 30-17.
San Francisco (-3) at Arizona, Sunday, 4:05 p.m. EST
Comments: If you can avoid it, don't start anyone from this game. Featuring two of the best defenses in football, this one has low-scoring defensive struggle written all over it. Colin Kaepernick, who protects the ball well historically, is looking to rebound from a four-turnover performance against Chicago (maybe three of the best INT we see all year). Even though you can move the ball on Arizona through the air (at least better than on the ground), sit Kaepernick if you can. Frank Gore and Carlos Hyde have a brutal matchup against the NFL's third-ranked run defense allowing 66.5 YPG. Even though he's coming off a nice game, Michael Crabtree should be benched in week 3. Patrick Peterson is that good. No. 1 receivers Keenan Allen and Victor Cruz (both on Crabtree's level) have scored six fantasy points or less against the Cards. Anquan Boldin could also struggle with a corner that can match his physicality, Antonio Cromartie. Don't count on seeing Vernon Davis (ankle) in this one. ... The NFC West-leading Cardinals are 2-0, getting it done with super glue and duct tape. Still dealing with a nerve issue in his shoulder, Carson Palmer's status is uncertain. Drew Stanton will start again if Palmer can't go despite how awful he was (14/29, 167 yards) against the Giants. If so, downgrade Michael Floyd and Larry Fitzgerald. Andre Ellington is averaging 5.1 YPC, totaling at least 80 yards from scrimmage in both games despite a foot injury. More concerning than the injury a 49ers defense that held Matt Forte to just 36 total yards on 17 touches. Stepfan Taylor is now the handcuff to Ellington following Jonathan Dwyer's deactivation.
Predictions: The defenses don't disappoint as just 30 total points are scored. Aided by a rushing score, Colin Kaepernick finishes with 17 fantasy points. Frank Gore and Carlos Hyde are both swallowed in the run game, combining for just 59 yards. Drew Stanton plays even worse than he did a week ago. Andre Ellington has a decent day, all things considered, tallying 82 total yards. Michael Floyd and Larry Fitzgerald are both held to less than 60 yards receiving, but Floyd scores the lone Cardinal touchdown. San Francisco, 17-13.
Denver (+5) at Seattle, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. EST
Comments: How is this Super Bowl rematch not on Sunday night or Monday night? Both are playing their third straight game against a 2013 playoff team. Denver has yet to resemble last year's juggernaut but enters 2-0 after twice jumping out to big leads and staving off comebacks. Peyton Manning hasn't thrown for 300 yards, and Demaryius Thomas has yet to top the century mark. We all remember how poor Manning was in the 43-8 Super Bowl loss, constant pressure from the Seahawk D-line perhaps the biggest reason. So much of the Legion of Boom's success is derived from its ability to get to the QB rushing four. However, if Seattle pressures Manning as poorly as it did Philip Rivers last Sunday (one sack), it won't matter how great the secondary is. Julius Thomas is off to a hot start with four touchdowns, but hard-hitting Kam Chancellor and rangy Earl Thomas held Thomas in check (4-27-0) in February. Wes Welker rejoined the team Wednesday after his suspension was reduced. His availability is huge, allowing Manning to get the ball out of his hands quickly to a reliable option underneath. Eric Decker was nonexistent in the last meeting, so anything Emmanuel Sanders provides is a bonus. Montee Ball could be the X-factor if effective on early downs. Keeping Denver ahead of the chains and Manning in 3rd-and-short will open up the playbook and neutralize the pass rush. ... Seattle has a chip on its shoulder coming off the loss in San Diego. Good news for the 12th man: last time the Seahawks gave up 30-plus points in a road loss (week 5, 2013) they went on to win their next seven. Russell Wilson and the offense weren't terrible, but time of possession was the real issue last Sunday (less than 18 minutes TOP). Wilson was typically efficient in the Super Bowl, completing 72 percent of his passes for a 123.1 passer rating (8.2 YPA). Expect the same if Denver again fails to record a sack. Marshawn Lynch receiving just six carries in San Diego was a factor of game flow and won't happen again. Despite facing a top-10 run defense, Lynch should have a greater impact after just 39 yards in February. Similar to Lynch's six carries, Percy Harvin's one target against the Chargers was inexcusable, particularly trailing throughout. Seattle's offense is considerably better than it was last season, but so is Denver's defense. Seattle now has to contend with Aqib Talib, T.J. Ward, DeMarcus Ware and Von Miller, none of which were on the field in the Super Bowl.
Predictions:Peyton Manning redeems himself with 284 yards and two touchdowns. Demaryius Thomas matches his Super Bowl total with 118 yards and a TD. Montee Ball accounts for 93 total yards and scores from the 2-yard line. Marshawn Lynch churns out 97 yards and a touchdown. Russell Wilson once again is the difference, driving his team the length of the field for the game-winning FG. Maybe a different story in Denver or on neutral turf. Seattle 27-24.
Kansas City (+4.5) at Miami, Sunday, 4:25 p.m. EST
Comments: So Jamaal Charles has a high-ankle sprain, but Andy Reid claims it "doesn't look to be a severe one." Yeah, tell that to anyone who owned C.J. Spiller in 2013. With Charles out, Knile Davis (105 total yards, 2 TD vs. DEN) will be the bellcow. By no means Jamaal Charles' equal, he possesses the physical tools (5-10, 227, 4.37 40) to be the centerpiece of the offense in his absence. Davis has 292 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns in the three games Charles has missed all or most of over the last two seasons. Volume is there, as well: Davis averaged 28.3 touches in those contests. Davis is a top-10 back until Charles' return. As promised, high-upside Travis Kelce was more involved (32 snaps) than in the opener (18 snaps). He's a TE1 if Reid benches Anthony Fasano. Alex Smith was better against Denver but faced a pass defense allowing a league-low 5.5 YPA. Dwayne Bowe was quiet in his debut (3-40 on six targets) but should be more involved. ... Lamar Miller gets an opportunity to prove himself as a primary ballcarrier with Knowshon Moreno (dislocated elbow) out. Averaging 4.8 YPC in a limited role, this just might be the break he needs to become the RB2 we expected this summer. Mike Pouncey returned to practice this week and said he is ready to play. Ryan Tannehill continues to disappoint as the eighth overall pick in 2012, failing to exceed 5.6 YPA (5.2 overall in 2014) or an 80.0 passer rating in either game this year. Tannehill, who's battled accuracy issues, isn't great against the blitz; which doesn't bode well for this game against Tamba Hali, Justin Houston and Dee Ford. Pass protection is where Miami will miss Knowshon Moreno most, this game in particular. Thanks to a strong start (11-plus fantasy points in both games) and finally catching touchdowns again, Mike Wallace just might be ready to reclaim WR1 status (top-10 in 2010, 2011) after a two-year hiatus. Charles Clay has been quiet with just 58 yards through two games, but was targeted at least six times in each.
Predictions:Knile Davis takes full advantage of his opportunity with 104 yards and a touchdown. Dwayne Bowe reminds us why the Chiefs paid him $56 million, finding the end zone during a 91-yard day. Lamar Miller finally shows a glimpse of the player he could be if Joe Philbin ever gave him 20 touches a game, totaling 122 yards. Charles Clay looks more like the 2013 version with six catches for 68 yards. Alex Smith outplaying Ryan Tannehill is the difference as the 0-2 Chiefs pull an upset on the road to get off the schneid. Kansas City, 21-20.
Pittsburgh (+3) at Carolina, Sunday, 5:30 p.m. EST
Comments: Pittsburgh is coming off a pathetic 26-6 loss to division-rival Baltimore. Now Ben Roethlisberger, who looked terrible, faces a defense allowing 10.5 PPG, second-fewest in the NFL. Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown were the two bright spots against the Ravens. Bell now has 304 total yards through two games (152 per), and Brown is averaging 103 YPG. Although the vaunted Carolina D is no cakewalk (sixth against the run), Bell is virtually matchup-proof because of his receiving ability. Antonio Brown could have a decent game as the way to attack the Panthers is through the air, exploiting their below-average secondary -- as long as Roethlisberger has time to throw. Fortunately for the Steelers, they won't have to (try to) block Greg Hardy. Heath Miller is still just a bye-week fill-in. Markus Wheaton looks promising but is not a weekly start in standard leagues. ... Cam Newton alleviated many concerns by totaling 300 yards (19 rushing) in his 2014 debut. Super Cam could be in for a game on SNF against a slow Steelers defense allowing 26.5 PPG. Panther running backs have a tasty matchup this week: the sieve-like Pittsburgh run defense allows 170 rushing yards per game (340 total and at least 157 in each) through two games, against poor running teams at that (CLE, BAL). Look for Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams to take advantage. Stewart started with Williams (thigh) sidelined but did little to prove he deserves any more than a split role with a 15-carry, 37-yard day, albeit against a tough Lions front seven. Kelvin Benjamin had just two catches but remained heavily involved with a team-leading eight targets. As expected, he and TE Greg Olsen are the clear-cut primary options in the passing attack. Olsen is basically Jason Witten the last few years.
Predictions:Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams rewind the clock to 2009, their "Double Trouble" days, as the pair accounts for 144 of Carolina's 187 yards on the ground. Cam Newton goes over the top of the pile at the goal line for one of his scores. The other is of the passing variety to red-zone target Kelvin Benjamin. Ben Roethlisberger, like every quarterback that plays Carolina, struggles mightily. Le'Veon Bell scrapes together 89 total yards, a good portion coming through the air. Antonio Brown has another solid game with seven receptions for 81 yards. Panthers ride another strong defensive performance to a 3-0 start. Carolina, 21-18.
Chicago (+2.5) at New York Jets, Monday, 5:30 p.m. EST
Comments: Chicago is riding high after Sunday's 28-20 comeback victory in San Francisco. Unfortunately for many owners, Brandon Marshall's three-TD performance took place on your bench after reports had he and Alshon Jeffrey sitting. Fortunately for Marshall (ankle) and Jeffrey (hamstring), they have an additional day to rest. Both wideouts had to be excited seeing Jordy Nelson rip that secondary apart for 209 yards. They'll be downright giddy any time they line up across Dee Milliner (recovering from a high-ankle sprain) in particular after the corner allowed five receptions for 137 yards on eight targets. Jay Cutler, coming off a four-score night, is a strong start given the Jets just gave up 346 yards and three touchdowns to Aaron Rodgers. Marc Trestman shouldn't even run against the Jets' top-ranked run D that allows a mere 52.5 YPG; that defensive line is just too good. David Harris and Calvin Pace erase the few holes that Muhammad Wilkerson and Sheldon Richardson allow. Martellus Bennett has now caught at least seven balls and scored in each of the first two games, reminding us that he still deserves low-end TE1 consideration. ... Were it not for a mistakenly called timeout, the Jets could be 2-0. No secret, the way to attack Chicago is on the ground. The Bears were last in the league a year ago by a mile and have given up at least 127 yards in each game (which easily could've been 181 with Frank Gore's 54-yard TD called back). Chris Johnson and Chris Ivory headline the NFL's No. 1-rated rushing attack and will exploit that mismatch behind a terrific offensive line. Rex Ryan has been vague about Eric Decker's (hamstring) status. Considering the drop-off from him to their next-best receivers, this could be a real issue. Geno Smith, 34th in Total QBR last season at 35.9, has played much better in the early going. However, he needs all the help he can get against a line that features Jared Allen and Lamarr Houston coming off the edge. Rookie Kyle Fuller sure looked like an upgrade over Charles Tillman (IR, torn pectoral) with two sensational interceptions vs. the 49ers.
Predictions:Jay Cutler continually picks on Dee Milliner during a 321-yard game. New York's front four continues to dominate opposing running backs, allowing just 46 yards on the ground to Matt Forte. Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffrey, looking much healthier, out-physical the Jets secondary as each wideout hauls 80-plus yards and a TD. Chris Johnson breaks his first long run of the season with a 64-yarder in the second quarter and tops the century mark for the first time as a Jet. NFC Defensive Player of the Week Kyle Fuller intercepts Geno Smith to seal the game. Chicago, 27-23.
