NFL 2008 RSS
Meanwhile, in the midst of such upheaval, the Tennessee Titans (coming off a bye) have been traveling along somewhat quietly and sit as the NFL’s lone undefeated team at 5-0, their best start ever. "We know this is a long stride ahead of us with 11 games," says Titans cornerback CORTLAND FINNEGAN. "They’re all big for what we want to do."
NFL FACTOID
FOURTH-QUARTER / OVERTIME DECIDERS:
If it seems like more and more games are being decided in the fourth quarter and overtime --
they are.
Through Week 6 of the NFL 2008 Season, 36.4 percent of games have been decided in those periods. If that
percentage holds, it would be the highest in the past five years (33.2 in 2004 and 2006).
The next "carnival or crisis" is coming up. Some of the NFL 2008 Week 7 games sure to produce such histrionics:
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (3-3) at BUFFALO BILLS (4-1)
STORYLINE: Fourth-quarter aces square off.
That would be QBs TRENT EDWARDS of the Bills and PHILIP RIVERS of the Chargers, who sit in the top five in the league in fourth-quarter passer rating. Edwards has led Buffalo to three fourth-quarter victories. Rivers – who has thrown three TD passes in each of four games this year – is the NFL’s top-rated QB (109.4) and ranks third in the fourth quarter (129.5, right behind Edwards at No. 2, 136.6). He has led San Diego to wins in three of its last four games after starting the season at 0-2.
And, sure, San Diego and Buffalo have the RBs such as LA DAINIAN TOMLINSON and MARSHAWN LYNCH, respectively, who can control the game on the ground, but a good part of their success comes from special teams earning good field position. San Diego ranks first in the league in kickoff-return average (28.3) and Buffalo ("Best special teams in the NFL," says ESPN’s TRENT DILFER) sits third in punt-return average (15.5).
The Chargers play their second in a row against the AFC East (topping New England Sunday night, 30-10) and will depart directly from Buffalo after the game for their one-week stay in London, England where they take on New Orleans on October 26.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (3-3) at CAROLINA PANTHERS (4-2)
STORYLINE: Brees and Bush vs. No. 3.
Can the Cats put a damper on the Saints? New Orleans QB DREW BREES and RB REGGIE BUSH are lighting up the league with their production. Brees – he of the raucous pregame peptalk – leads the NFL in passing yards (1,993) and
completions (159) and ranks No. 2 in rating (105.0). Last Sunday against Oakland, he completed 26 of his 30 attempts, parceling them out to three wide receivers, three tight ends and three running backs.
One of those RBs is Bush, who has the second-most catches in the league (41, two behind NFL leader BRANDON MARSHALL). "Fortunately for me, Drew likes to check the ball down to the running backs," says Bush. "It helps when you have a guy like that who can see the field and see the open guy."
Of course, Carolina has its own hookup duo in QB JAKE DELHOMME and WR STEVE SMITH – coming off a 112-yard production against Tampa Bay -- but they also pack a defensive wallop that can contain the Saints. The Panthers boast the NFL’s No. 3-ranked red-zone defense, allowing only four touchdowns, tying for second-fewest in the league. They gave up their first 100-yard rush game last week (WARRICK DUNN, 115 yards), and will now try to shut down veteran RB DEUCE MC ALLISTER -- rounding back into shape after injury -- who rumbled for 65 yards on 13 carries last week.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (3-2) at GREEN BAY PACKERS (3-3)
STORYLINE: Looks like the ol’ Colts are back…and so’s the Pack!
Both come off impressive victories. The Colts’ offense took on its long-ball look of the past against Baltimore last week with multiple PEYTON MANNING-to-REGGIE WAYNE-and-MARVIN HARRISON completions. Meanwhile, Indy’s defense turned in the opportunistic performance – eight takeaways, counting the last five minutes of their comeback game against Houston in Week 5 -- that reminded everybody of last year when it allowed the fewest points in the NFL (262).
"It’s a little more like what we expect around here," says Manning, who is 20-6 lifetime against the NFC.
Green Bay, after winning its first two, then losing three in a row, topped Seattle 27-17 last Sunday behind a gutsy performance by QB AARON RODGERS. Despite not practicing last week (and the week before) due to a sprained shoulder, Rodgers showed no skittishness, held the ball as long as necessary (and took one humungous hit from Seattle DE PATRICK KERNEY) while completing 21 of 30 passes for 208 yards with two TDs and no interceptions.
Watch out, Peyton: Packers DE AARON KAMPMAN, tied for the third-most sacks in the league (6.0), has posted the most sacks in the NFL since 2006 (33.5).
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (1-4) at TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (4-2) (Sunday night, NBC, 8:15 PM ET)
STORYLINE: Jeff should start, so should Seneca.
That’s the quarterback situation Sunday night. A rejuvenated Bucs QB JEFF GARCIA, making his first start since Week 1 in place of injured BRIAN GRIESE, lifted Tampa Bay into a tie for first place in the NFC South last week with a controlled 15 of 20 completions for a TD and no interceptions. He starts this week. And thereafter? "If he continues to play like Jeff Garcia -- he’s a Pro Bowl-caliber guy, OK?" says Bucs head coach JON GRUDEN. "I’ll put it that way."
For the Seahawks, SENECA WALLACE is slated to start for MATT HASSELBECK (knee) and can provide mobility that can complement Seattle’s run game. With their season-long limitations to their receiving corps due to injuries, the Seahawks have concentrated on their rush attack, with good payoff. Offseason UFA JULIUS JONES (417 yards) has helped Seattle to a No. 5 NFL rushing rank.
Right behind Seattle is Tampa Bay at the No. 6 spot. The Bucs are the only team with two players ranked in the top-15 of rushers – EARNEST GRAHAM (404 yards) and WARRICK DUNN (386).
DENVER BRONCOS (4-2) at NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (3-2) (Monday night, ESPN, 8:30 PM ET)
STORYLINE: Moss vs. Marshall and Shanahan vs. Belichick.
Monday night will not be lacking for drama.
The Patriots’ RANDY MOSS is one of only three players in NFL history (minimum, 10 games) to average at least one touchdown per MNF game in his career (14 in 13 games). He joins AHMAN GREEN (15 in 14) and ERIC DICKERSON (14 in 14) in the unique category. The Broncos’ third-year WR BRANDON MARSHALL leads the NFL in catches with 43. "They have a good guy in Brandon," says Dallas WR TERRELL OWENS, who Marshall has been compared to in size and ability. ‘He’s going to be a guy that will be around there for a while."
The two head coaches Monday night – Denver’s MIKE SHANAHAN and New England’s BILL BELICHICK – have been around for a while and have won five Super Bowls between them. Yet Shanahan has the upper hand when the teams meet. Since Belichick became coach of the Patriots in 2000, Shanahan’s Broncos are 5-2 against New England, including a Divisional Playoff victory. How do you do it, Mike? "If I did have the answer," smiles Shanahan, "I certainly wouldn’t share it."
NFL 2008 Big Plays Make Big Impact
NFL 2008 offenses are racking up hefty yardage on "big plays" that not only electrify the crowd, but also
provide the offense with a bevy of options. The "big play" is often considered to be a 30 or more yard gain
that results in a score or sets the tone against NFL aggressive defenses.
"The big play kills you in the National Football League," says New England Patriots safety RODNEY HARRISON,
who has been a factor in erasing big plays throughout his 15-year career.
Denver Broncos head coach MIKE SHANAHAN, who directs the AFC’s top-ranked offense, is no stranger to big
plays. Shanahan’s rushing attack ranks third in the NFL since 2000 with 52 rush plays of 30 or more yards
and says long gains are a must for dynamic offenses.
"Big plays obviously are an important part of keeping defenses off balance," says Shanahan. "They make
defenses cover the field and open things up for us offensively. A big play creates opportunities for the
rest of the offense."
St. Louis Rams All-Star wide receiver TORRY HOLT, who ranks fourth in the NFL with 65 plays from scrimmage of
30 or more yards since 2000, is a believer.
"No question," says Holt. "You hit the defense for a long one early and often, and now they’re anticipating
the long ball and you can run the more intermediate routes that set up the offense where now you can have those
8-, 9-, 10-, 11-, 12-play drives because you’re hitting the team for long balls all game. The long ball
definitely sets up the short ball."
Following are the players with the most plays from scrimmage of 30 or more yards since 2000:
Players | Most Plays from Scrimmage
of 30+ Yards Since 200 |
|
Terrell Owens | 75 |
|
Randy Moss | 72 |
|
Marvin Harrison | 68 |
|
Torry Holt | 65 |
|
Plaxico Burress | 58 |
|
The Indianapolis Colts have certainly been beneficiaries of opportunities that the big play creates. Since 2000, the Colts lead the NFL with 185 passing plays of 30-plus yards. Head coach TONY DUNGY gives all the credit to his playmakers on offense.
"We have some real talented guys, some guys who have been big-play players for us, and that’s the way our offense is set up," says Dungy. "We have complimentary plays to set things up and then look for that big play. That’s been important to our offense over the years. It’s really more of having guys who can make that big 30-yard play."
The teams that totaled the most 30-plus-yard rushing and passing plays since 2000:
Team | 30+ Yards Rushing Plays Since 200 |
|
Atlanta Falcons | 59 |
|
San Diego Chargers | 54 |
|
Denver Broncos | 52 |
|
New York Giants | 50 |
|
Green Bay Packers | 46 |
|
Team | 30+ Yards Pass Plays Since 200 |
|
Indianapolis Colts | 185 |
|
New Orleans Saints | 168 |
|
Philadelphia Eagles | 165 |
|
St. Louis Rams | 165 |
|
Minnesota Vikings | 164 |
|
Every yard is earned in the NFL and long gains are not only important in scoring, but have bearing on other areas of the game.
"It really changes the field position around," says Dungy. "Even if you don’t score on that drive, it gives you a chance to move the ball into their end. Defenses are so tough nowadays that you really do need those big plays to score. The 30-yard plays help you have high scoring totals.
"Sometimes, that’s what it takes -- one big play -- to get you in a ball game or to make the difference between winning and losing."
A look at the most 30-plus-yard gains through Week 6 of this NFL 2008 season:
Team | 30+ Yards Pass Plays NFL 2008 |
|
Dallas Cowboys | 13 |
|
Atlanta Falcons | 12 |
|
Houston Texans | 11 |
|
New Orleans Saints | 11 |
|
New York Giants | 11 |
|
NFL 2008 Teams Find Success Pounding the Ball
Six weeks into the NFL 2008 season, NFL clubs are successfully running the ball. The NFL per-game rushing
average at this point in the season is among the highest in the league in 20 seasons, and rushing touchdowns
are at a 24-year high.
The highest rushing averages through the first six weeks of a season since 1989:
Season | Rushing Yards Per Game |
|
1989 | 235.0 |
|
1998 | 229.6 |
|
2004 | 229.2 |
|
2008 | 225.4 |
|
1997 | 225.2 |
|
Arizona Cardinals running backs coach MAURICE CARTHON believes that the increase in rushing yardage comes
from an influx of talent at the position.
"This last draft brought in a bunch of good, young running backs," says Carthon. "Teams are giving the
younger guys chances to run the ball. They are being given opportunities."
NFL Network analyst STEVE MARIUCCI agrees.
"The rookie running back class has been spectacular this season," says Mariucci. "This class is a great addition to the NFL. Mix that in with the veterans and this group of talent has made teams willing to spread out the defense to give these backs running room."
Atlanta Falcons head coach MIKE SMITH, who has the league’s second-leading rusher in MICHAEL TURNER (597 yards), believes it is all one process. "When you couple the talent at the running back position with detailed running schemes and offensive lines which have developed great chemistry, you are going to have success," says Smith.
Arizona offensive coordinator TODD HALEY has noticed that teams are implementing different schemes and systems to utilize their skill players.
"Certain teams use a system with multiple backs," says Haley, noting that the Cardinals are one of those teams with veterans EDGERRIN JAMES and J.J. ARRINGTON and rookie TIM HIGHTOWER. "If you have multiple backs with different styles, as we do here in Arizona, you can force defenses to prepare for more than one guy and that is where the advantage lies."
Carthon knows that finding each player’s strength and finding the best way to utilize each back is a recipe for success.
"There are good situations to give your running backs a chance to play," says Carthon. "For us, Tim Hightower has shown he can do some things in short yardage. Edgerrin is durable and can be counted on. And J.J. has ability with his speed. All three of these guys have specific talents and deserve an opportunity to play. So we try to get them in the game and use them as much as we can. They all go out and do whatever is asked of them – whether it is running, blocking or catching the ball."
Across the league, teams are also finding success by running the ball into – where else? – the end zone. This season, there have been 159 rushing touchdowns, the most through the first six weeks since 1984 (167).
"Our rushing touchdowns are up this year," says Haley. "For us, having a couple of big-time wide receivers that are good in the red zone helps our statistics in terms of rushing touchdowns. That has had the biggest impact for us. Defenses have had to involve extra players in the pass game, which gives us extra room to run the ball.
"That is why we have (wide receiver) LARRY FITZGERALD on our goal-line formations. He is one of our 11 best players and defenses have to account for him. They have two sets of eyes on him and that gives us an opportunity to run the ball. And if they decide instead to try and stop the run, Larry is good enough to beat most in one-on-one situations."
yyy
NFL 2008 WEEK 6 RESULTS (OCTOBER 12 - 13)
(Home team in CAPS)
Byes: Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans
ATLANTA 22, Chicago 20
Jacksonville 24, DENVER 17
HOUSTON 29, Miami 28
ARIZONA 30, Dallas 24 (OT)
INDIANAPOLIS 31, Baltimore 3
Philadelphia 40, SAN FRANCISCO 26
MINNESOTA 12, Detroit 10
Green Bay 27, SEATTLE 17
NEW ORLEANS 34, Oakland 3
SAN DIEGO 30, New England 10
N.Y. JETS 26, Cincinnati 14
TAMPA BAY 27, Carolina 3
St. Louis 19, WASHINGTON 17
CLEVELAND 35, N.Y. Giants 14
WEEK 7 SCHEDULE – OCTOBER 19-20
(All times local)
Byes: Arizona, Atlanta, Jacksonville, Philadelphia
Sunday, October 12
San Diego at Buffalo, 1:00 PM
Detroit at Houston, 3:05 PM
New Orleans at Carolina, 1:00 PM
Indianapolis at Green Bay, 3:15 PM
Minnesota at Chicago, 12:00 PM
N.Y. Jets at Oakland, 1:15 PM
Pittsburgh at Cincinnati, 1:00 PM
Cleveland at Washington, 4:15 PM
Tennessee at Kansas City, 12:00 PM
Baltimore at Miami, 1:00 PM
San Francisco at N.Y. Giants, 1:00 PM
Dallas at St. Louis, 12:00 PM
Seattle at Tampa Bay, 8:15 PM (NBC)
Monday, October 20
Denver at New England, 8:30 PM (ESPN)
NFL 2008 WEEK 5 RESULTS (OCTOBER 5 - 6)
(Home team in CAPS)
Byes: Cleveland Browns, N.Y. Jets, Oakland Raiders, St. Louis Rams
Tennessee 13, BALTIMORE 10
DENVER 16, Tampa Bay 13
CAROLINA 34, Kansas City 0
ARIZONA 41, Buffalo 17
Chicago 34, DETROIT 7
DALLAS 31, Cincinnati 22
Atlanta 27, GREEN BAY 24
New England 30, SAN FRANCISCO 21
Indianapolis 31, HOUSTON 27
Pittsburgh 26, JACKSONVILLE 21
MIAMI 17, San Diego 10
N.Y. GIANTS 44, Seattle 6
Washington 23, PHILADELPHIA 17
Minnesota 30, NEW ORLEANS 27 (MNF)
Weekend 7: NFL 2008 Week 7 Matchups & Game Capsules
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (3-3) AT BUFFALO BILLS (4-1)
The San Diego Chargers lead the series with a commanding 20-9-2 record against the Bills and have won 3 of the past
4 games. The Chargers and Bills last played each other on 12/3/2006 in Buffalo. In that game, the Chargers
won 24 to 21. San Diego Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson rushed for 178 yards & scored 2 TDs, including a 51-yarder.
Chargers TE Antonio Gates added 90 receiving yards & 1 TD.
Last week the Buffalo Bills did not play as it was their bye week, while the San Diego Chargers beat the
Patriots at home in a convincing fashion by a score of 30 - 10.
SERIES
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (3-3)
For his career against the AFC, QB PHILIP RIVERS has a 22-7 (.758) record as starter with 43 TDs vs. 24
INTs & 88.7 passer rating. In 1 career start against the Buffalo Bills, Rivers completed 17 of 29 passes (58.6
pct.) for 160 yards with 1 TD vs. 0 INTs & 85.4 passer rating RB LA DAINIAN TOMLINSON has 100+ rushing yards in 2 of past
3 vs. Buf. & is averaging 118.3 rush yards in past 3 against Bills (355 total). Tomlinson has 4 TDs in past 3
& aims for 4th consecutive game with TD against Buf In 2008, RB-KR DARREN SPROLES is averaging 5 yards per carry (28 attempts, 139 yards) & 21 yards per catch
(7 rec., 147 yards). Ranks 3rd in NFL with 30.4 KR avg TE ANTONIO GATES aims for 3rd game in row with 5+ receptions with 70+ yards & TD rec. vs. Bills. Gates
has 3 TD rec. in past 4 WR VINCENT JACKSON had career-high 134 receiving yards (26.8 avg.) on 5 receptions with TD last week. WR
MALCOM FLOYD posted career-long 49-yard TD-reception last week Since 2007, CB ANTONIO CROMARTIE leads NFL with 12 INTs. Club is 7-0 when Cromartie has INT
BUFFALO BILLS (4-1)
The Buffalo Bills are 13-6 (.684) after bye week & 2-0 under head coach DICK JAURON after bye Team aims for 3rd consecutive win at home In 4th quarter this season, QB TRENT EDWARDS has
completed 27 of 35 passes (77.1 pct.) for 350 yards with 3 TDs vs. 0 INTs & 136.6 passer rating. Edwards has
9-5 (.642) record as starter with 11 TDs & 9 INTs & 79.6 passer rating. Team is 7-0 when Edwards has 80+ passer
rating RB MARSHAWN LYNCH averages 89.7 rush yards per game at home (808 total) & aims for 4th
consecutive game with TD at home WR LEE EVANS aims for 6th consecutive game with rec. of 30+ yards.
Evans averages 27 yards per catch in 2008 (16 receptions, 432 yards). Evans averages 94 receiving yards per
game in past 2 (188 total) Club is 11-2 (.846) under head coach DICK JAURON when holding opponents
to 300 yards or fewer Since 2003, DE AARON SCHOBEL ranks 2nd in NFL with 53 sacks (JASON TAYLOR, 60)
LB PAUL POSLUSZNY leads team with 34 tackles.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (3-3) AT CAROLINA PANTHERS (4-2)
The Carolina Panthers have 4 of the 5 past games against the New Orleans Saints and hold 14 to 12 edge in the
series.
The teams last played on 11/25/2007 at Carolina. The Saints defeated the Panthers 31 to 6.
New Orleans QB Drew Brees threw 3 TD passes & ran for another. The New Orleans Saints defense forced 4
turnovers & limited the Carolina Panthers to 195 total net yards.
Last week the Saints defeated the Raiders 34-3 at home, while the Panthers defeated the Tampa Bay Buccanneers
27 -3 on the road.
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (3-3)
In past 2 starts at Carolina, QB DREW BREES has completed 52 of 74 (70.3 pct.) for 609 yards with 4 TDs
vs. 1 INT for 107.3 passer rating. When Brees has 100+ rating, his teams are 27-6 (.818). Since joining Saints
in 2006, Brees has passed for 10,834 yards, most in NFL. Aims for 5th consecutive game with 320+ yards & has
1,434 yards (358.5 per game) in past 4. In past 4 vs. division, Brees has completed 92 of 132 (69.7 pct.)
for 1,110 yards with 11 TDs vs. 2 INTs for 116.7 rating RB-PR REGGIE BUSH leads NFC with 41
receptions. Bush had rush & rec. TD last week & has 4 TDs in past 2 (2 PR, 1 rush, 1 rec.). RB DEUCE MC
ALLISTER aims for 4th in row vs. Carolina with rush TD. Has 4 TDs in past 3, including 2 TDs in 9/11/05 meeting.
Saints are 11-3 (.786) when McAllister has 2+ rush TDs WR DEVERY HENDERSON averages 32.1 yards per
catch this year (12 for 385 yards). WR LANCE MOORE had TD catch in last meeting DE WILL SMITH has
7.0 sacks in past 14 games. Has 4.5 sacks, 3 FFs & 2 FRs in 7 games vs. Carolina S ROMAN HARPER had INT &
FF in last meeting. DE BOBBY MC CRAY had 2.0 sacks last week
CAROLINA PANTHERS (4-2)
PANTHERS: QB JAKE DELHOMME is 6-2 (.750) vs. the New Orleans Saints, his former team. Aims for 3rd in row vs. the New Orleans Saints with 100+
rating. In past 2 vs. the New Orleans Saints, Delhomme has completed 42 of 56 (75.0 pct.) for 376 yards with 4 TDs vs. 0 INTs for
116.4 rating. As starter, when Delhomme has 110.0+ rating, his teams are perfect 13-0. Has won 6 of past 7 starts
vs. division, posting 95.1 rating & throwing 11 TDs vs. 4 INTs. Team is 7-0 when RB DE ANGELO WILLIAMS
rushes for 80+ yards. Rookie RB JONATHAN STEWART (1st round) has 4 rush TDs in past 5. Ranks 2nd among NFL
rookies with 4 rush TDs WR STEVE SMITH has 7 TDs (6 rec., 1 rush) in past 6 meetings. Had 6 catches
for 112 yards (18.7 avg.) last week. WR MUHSIN MUHAMMAD has 22 catches for 388 yards (97.0 per game) & 3 TDs in
past 4 vs. the New Orleans Saints DE JULIUS PEPPERS ranks 1st in team history with 59.0 sacks & 21
FFs. Had INT in last meeting. S CHRIS HARRIS had INT in 10/7/07 meeting & had FF vs. the New Orleans Saints in
2006 NFC Championship (with the Chicaco Bears). CB CHRIS GAMBLE has 2 INTs in past 4 meetings, including 18-yard
INT-TD.
MINNESOTA VIKINGS (3-3) AT CHICAGO BEARS (3-3)
The Vikings lead the series against the Bears with a 50-41-2 record head-to-head. The Vikings also won both
games in 2007.
During the NFL 2007 season, the Vikings first beat the Bears in Chicago (10/14/07) 34 to 31 as
Minnesota RB rookie Adrian Peterson ran for a then Vikings record of 224 yards & K Ryan Longwell connected on
a 55-yard FG as time expired. In their second game of the NFL 2007 season the Vkings beat the Bears at home
20 to 13. In that game, Minnesota rookie RB Adrian Peterson scored 2 2nd-half TDs as the Vikings won their
5th consecutive game.
Last week the Vikings beat the Detroit Lions at home 12-10 while the Bears lost on the road to the Atlanta
Falcons 22 - 20.
MINNESOTA VIKINGS (3-3)
QB GUS FREROTTE has won 3 of 4 starts vs. Bears. Passed for 296 yards last week & has won 3 of 4 starts
this year RB ADRIAN PETERSON averaging 95.2 rush yards per game since entering NFL in 2007, best in
NFL. In last meeting at the Chicaco Bears, Peterson rushed 20 times for 224 yards (11.2 avg.) & 3 TDs. In past
7 vs. division, Peterson has 5 100-yard games. Has rushed for 789 yards (112.7 per game) & 8 TDs. When RB
CHESTER TAYLOR has 100+ rush yards, his teams are 7-1 (.875) WR BERNARD BERRIAN was 3rd round pick
by the Chicaco Bears in 2004 & spent 4 seasons with Bears (2004-07). Including playoffs, Berrian has 17 career TD
catches & 12 have been 30+ yards, including career-long 86-yarder last week DE JARED ALLEN has 46.0 sacks
since 2004, 2nd most in NFL. CB ANTOINE WINFIELD has 2 INTs in past 4 meetings, including INT-TD. DT KEVIN WILLIAMS
has 7.0 sacks in 10 meetings. Had career-best 4.0 sacks last week. S DARREN SHARPER has 48 INTs since 2000,
most in NFL. Had INT in last meeting & has 8 INTs in career vs. Chi
CHICAGO BEARS (3-3)
QB KYLE ORTON has won 14 of his past 20 starts. In career, Orton is 10-2 (.833) in home starts. Has
6-2 (.750) mark as starter vs. NFC North RB MATT FORTÉ (2nd round) leads NFL rookies with 459
rushing yards. Ranks 4th in NFL with 665 scrimmage yards. Leads team with 27 receptions & is 1 of 4 RBs to
lead club in rush yards & receptions. Tied for NFL lead among rookies with 5 TDs (3 rush, 2 rec.) -
Pro Bowl PR-KR-WR DEVIN HESTER has 3 TDs in past 3 vs. Min. In those 3, has 2 PR-TDs (45 and 89 yards) &
1 rec. TD (81). Has 15 career TDs & averages 76.7 yards per TD. Had 6 catches for 87 yards last week. WR
RASHIED DAVIS had 17-yard TD catch last week LB BRIAN URLACHER had 2.0 sacks, INT & FR in last
meeting. Has INT in 2 of past 3 meetings. CB CHARLES TILLMAN has 2 INTs (1 TD) & 2 FFs in 6 games this year.
DE ADEWALE OGUNLEYE has 5.0 sacks, 3 FFs & 2 FRs in 8 games vs. Vikings. When Ogunleye has 2+ sacks, his teams are 10-2
(.833). CB NATHAN VASHER had INT in last meeting.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS (4-1) AT CINCINNATI BENGALS (0-6)
The Steelers have won the past 3 meetings and lead the series over the Bengals 45 - 30.
Last season the division rivals faced off in October & December.
The first game was played in Pittsburgh
on 10/28/2007. The Steelers won 24 - 13. In that game, Steelers RB Willie Parker rushed for 126 yards & 1 TD
& Hines Ward caught 2 1st-half TDs from QB Ben Roethlisberger.
The second game was played in Cincinnati on December 2, 2007. The Steelers won 24 - 10 as
Pittsburgh WR Hines Ward caught his 64th career TD to pass John Stallworth as the Steelers all-time franchise
leader. The Steelers improved their record to 7-0 at home.
Last week the Steelers were off for their bye week, while the Bengals lost to the Jets on the road
26-14 and remain winless for the 2008 NFL season.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS (4-1)
The Steelers aim for their 7th consecutive win at Cincinnati Including playoffs, QB
BEN ROETHLISBERGER is 10-0 in his home state of Ohio (5-0 at Cincinnati., 5-0 at the Cleveland Browns). In 2 AFC North games in
2008, Roethlisberger has completed 27 of 44 passes (61.4 pct.) for 370 yards with 2 TDs vs. 1 INT & 93.9 passer
rating. Including playoffs, team is 28-2 (.933), when Roethlisberger has 100+ passer rating RB
WILLIE PARKER aims for 4th consecutive 100-yard rush game at Cincinnati. & is averaging 130.3 rush yards per
game at Cincinnati. Last game, RB MEWELDE MOORE gained 99 yards on 17 attempts with 5.8 average yards per
carry (most since 122 yards on 11/21/05 w/Min.) WR HINES WARD aims for 3rd game in row with 2 TDs
against Cincinnati. & has totaled 19 receptions for 178 yards in past 2 WR SANTONIO HOLMES averages
105.5 yards per game in past 2 against Bengals Defense ranks 2nd in NFL allowing 231.6 yards per game
in 2008 Club is 11-3 (.786) when S TROY POLAMALU has INT LB LA MARR WOODLEY has 4.5 sacks
in past 3 games
CINCINNATI BENGALS (0-6)
QB RYAN FITZPATRICK posted 1st rush TD as Bengal last week RB CHRIS PERRY (450) needs 50
receiving yards to reach 500 for career. RB KENNY WATSON averages 5.2 yards per carry against the Pittsburgh Steelers (28
attempts 146 yards) WR T.J. HOUSHMANDZADEH aims for 5th consecutive game with 6 or more receptions.
Houshmandzadeh has 5 TD receptions in past 5 vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers For career, WR CHAD JOHNSON averages
15 yards per catch vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers (65 rec., 977 yards). Johnson aims for 99th consecutive game
with reception. In last start at home vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers (12/31/06), WR CHRIS HENRY totaled 4
receptions for 124 yards (31.0 avg.) with 1 TD Since 2003, team is 21-7 (.750) when defense has 2+
INTs LB DHANI JONES leads team with 59 tackles S MARVIN WHITE & rookie S COREY LYNCH
(6th round, No. 177) posted 1st career INTs last week WR-KR GLENN HOLT ranks 1st in NFL with 744
KR yards (26.6 avg.).
TENNESSEE TITANS (5-0) AT KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (1-4)
The undefeated Titans have won 2 of the past 3 meetings, but the Chiefs still lead the all-time series
25 - 19. The Titans won the last meeting (12/16/1007) played in Kansas City 26 to 17. In that game,
Tennessee QB Vince Young completed 2 TD passes to WR Roydell Williams & K Rob Bironas kicked 4 FGs as the Titans
kept their Wild Card playoff hopes alive.
Last week both teams had a bye.
TENNESSEE TITANS (5-0)
The Titans aim for their 1st 6-0 start in franchise history Dating back to 12/16/07, the Titans
have 8 consecutive regular season wins (longest current streak in NFL) the Tennessee Titans are 11-8
(.578) after bye Since ’99, club is 33-5 (.868) when posting 30+ rush attempts on road In
past 2 against the Kansas City Chiefs (w/Oak.), QB KERRY COLLINS completed 42 of 75 passes (56.0 pct.) for 438
yards with 3 TDs vs. 1 INT & 80.9 passer rating Rookie RB CHRIS JOHNSON (1st round, No. 24) ranks
3rd in AFC with 381 rush yards RB LEN DALE WHITE has rush TD in 4 of past 5 games WR
BRANDON JONES has 5 1st-down receptions in past 2 TE BO SCAIFE led team with 7 receptions for
72 yards (10.3 avg.) last game Since ’06, team is 15-2 (.882) when it records 2 or more INTs Defense ranks 1st in AFC with 10 INTs CB CORTLAND FINNEGAN (4) & S MICHAEL GRIFFIN (4) are
tied for league lead with 4 INTs apiece (CHARLES WOODSON, 4) CB NICK HARPER aims for 3rd consecutive
game with INT DTs ALBERT HAYNESWORTH (5) & TONY BROWN (3.5) have totaled 8.5 of Titans 15 sacks
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (1-4)
The Kansas City Chiefs are 12-7 (.631) after bye QB BRODIE CROYLE set career highs in comp.
(25), passing yards (217) & TD passes (2) in last meeting vs. Ten In 1 career meeting vs. the
Tennessee Titans (12/13/04), RB LARRY JOHNSON gained 104 yards (14.9 avg.) on 7 attempts with 2 TDs.
Johnson is averaging 98 rush yards per game in past 4 at home (392 total) & aims for 100+ yards in consecutive
games at home. Chiefs are 22-7 (.759) when Johnson has 100+ rushing yards. the Kansas City Chiefs is 12-1
(.923) when Johnson has 30+ att TE TONY GONZALEZ (10,075) surpassed SHANNON SHARPE (10,060) for
most receiving yards by TE in NFL history last game. Gonzalez extended reception streak to 120 in last game –
streak is 2nd in NFL history among TEs (OZZIE NEWSOME, 150) WR DWAYNE BOWE averages 87.5 receiving
yards per game in 2008 at home Chiefs are 5-1 (.833) under Edwards when opponents score 10 or fewer
points Rookie DT GLENN DORSEY (1st round, No. 5) posted 1st FF in last game Rookie CB
BRANDON CARR (5th round, No 140) is tied for 1st in AFC with 2 FR.
BALTIMORE RAVENS (2-3) AT MIAMI DOLPHINS (2-3)
The Dolphins lead the series with a 5 and 1 record against the Ravens. The teams ;ast played each other on
12/16/2007. In that game, the Dolphins defeated the Ravens 22 to 16 in overtime as Miami WR Greg Camarillo
scored on a 64-yard pass from QB Cleo Lemon in OT. It was the Dolphins 1st win of the NFL 2007 season.
Last week both teams lost on the road. The Ravens lost to the Colts 31-3. The Dolphins lost 29-28 to the
Texans.
BALTIMORE RAVENS (2-3)
Rookie QB JOE FLACCO (1st round, No. 18) posted career-high 73.7 completion pct. (28 of 38) last week In 7 career meetings against Dolphins, RB WILLIS MC GAHEE averages 91.8 rush yards per game (643 total).
McGahee attended Central HS in Miami & aims for 5th consecutive game with 80+ rush yards at Miami. Rookie RB RAY
RICE (2nd round, No. 55) totaled career-high 7 receptions for 64 yards (9.1 avg.) last week. FB LE’ RON MC
CLAIN leads team with 4 TDs & has 4 TDs in past 4 games For career, WR DERRICK MASON averages 17.1
yards per catch against Miami (15 receptions, 256 yards). Since 2003, Mason ranks 3rd in NFL with 475 receptions
(TORRY HOLT, 519; CHAD JOHNSON, 481) TE TODD HEAP (3,988) needs 13 receiving yards to surpass 4,000
Defense ranks 1st in NFL allowing 220.8 yards per game Ravens have not allowed RB to
gain 100+ rush yards in 24 games (longest current streak in NFL) LB TERRELL SUGGS aims for 3rd
consecutive game with sack against Dolphins Since ’02, S ED REED leads NFL safeties with 35 INTs LB RAY LEWIS leads team with 36 tackles
MIAMI DOLPHINS (2-3)
The Miami Dolphins are 4-0 against Ravens at home Offense aims for 350+ total yards in 4 games
row QB CHAD PENNINGTON aims to become 1st Dolphins QB since DAN MARINO (10/10/93-9/18/94) to record
100+ passer rating in 4 consecutive games. Including playoffs Pennington’s teams are 19-7 (.730) when has 100+
passer rating. RB RONNIE BROWN is averaging 96 rush yards per game in past 3 & aims for 5th consecutive game
with 1 or more TDs. RB PATRICK COBBS posted career-high 138 receiving yards (46 avg.) on 3 rec. with 2 TDs
last week In 2 career games vs. the Baltimore Ravens, RB RICKY WILLIAMS averages 103.5 rush yards per game & aims
for 3rd consecutive 100-yard rush game against the Baltimore Ravens. Last week, Williams recorded 1st rush TD
since 1/1/06 against the New England Patriots WR GREG CAMARILLO totaled career-high 109 yards on 3 rec. (36.3 avg.) in last
mtg., including 64-yard TD in OT TE ANTHONY FASANO averages 13.9 yards per catch (15 rec., 209 yards) Defense has 8 sacks in past 3 games LB JOEY PORTER is tied for 2nd in NFL with 6.5 sacks &
aims for 4th game in row with sack.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (2-4) AT NEW YORK GIANTS (4-1)
The all-time series between the two is tied at 13 wins apiece as the Giants have won the past 2 games.
LAST GAME
10/21/07: 49ers 15 at Giants 33. New York Giants defense registered 6 sacks & forces 4 turnovers, including
DE Osi Umenyiora’s 75-yard TD of a fumble recovery.
Last week, the 49ers lost to the Eagles at home 40-26. The Giants lost on MNF to the Browns 35-14 at Cleveland.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (2-4)
QB J.T. O’SULLIVAN aims for 3rd consecutive road start with 250+ yards & 1+ TD pass. Has 578 yards
(289.0 per game) in 2 career road starts When RB FRANK GORE has 20+ attempts, 49ers are 12-2 (.857).
Leads NFL with 720 scrimmage yards (524 rush, 196 rec.). Has 4,438 scrim. yards since start of 2006, 2nd in
NFL. In last meeting, Gore had 111 scrimmage yards (88 rush, 23 rec.) WR ISAAC BRUCE ranks 3rd in
NFL history with 14,412 rec. yards & tops active players. In last game vs. NYG (9/7/03 with StL), Bruce had 8
catches for 120 yards. WR ARNAZ BATTLE had 17-yard TD & led club with 6 catches in last meeting LB
TAKEO SPIKES has INT in 3 consecutive games for 1st time in career. Aims for 4th in row with INT. CB DONALD
STRICKLAND had 41-yard TD return off blocked FG last week. CB WALT HARRIS has 17 FFs since entering NFL in
1996, tied for most among CBs in that span. CB NATE CLEMENTS, who entered NFL in 1998, also has 17 FFs.
Clements had 58-yard INT-TD in 12/10/06 game at Giants Stadium (with Buf. vs. NYJ). LB PARYS HARALSON leads
club with career-high 3.5 sacks
NEW YORK GIANTS (4-1)
QB ELI MANNING is 18-5 (.783) in past 23 starts (including playoffs). Is 2-0 in career as starter vs. SF When RB BRANDON JACOBS has 100+ yards, Giants are 6-1 (.857). When Jacobs has 10+ attempts (including playoffs), Giants are 16-4 (.800). Has rushed for 4 TDs in past 3. Has 3 TDs in 2 career meetings. Rushed 18 times for 107 yards in last game vs. SF. RB DERRICK WARD rushed 10 times for 101 yards (10.1 avg.) last week, 2nd career 100-yard game WR PLAXICO BURRESS had TD catch last week. WR AMANI TOOMER had 8 catches for 136 yards (17.0 avg.) & club postseason record 3 TDs in 2002 WC meeting. WR STEVE SMITH had career-high 9 catches & 94 yards last week Defense had 6 sacks in last meeting. DE JUSTIN TUCK has 5.0 sacks in past 6 (including SB XLII). Had 1.5 sacks in last meeting. When Tuck has 1.0+ sack, Giants are 8-3 (.727). DT FRED ROBBINS has 4.0 sacks in past 4. Giants have won 11 of past 13 when DE MATHIAS KIWANUKA plays. LB ANTONIO PIERCE had INT in last meeting. CB AARON ROSS had 1st career sack in last meeting.
DALLAS COWBOYS (4-2) AT ST. LOUIS RAMS (1-4)
The all-time series between the two is tied at 10 wins apiece as the Dallas Cowboys have won 2 of the past 3 games.
LAST GAME
9/30/07: Rams 7 at Cowboys 35. Dallas QB Tony Romo passed for 3 TDs & runs for another as Cowboys remained
undefeated. The Cowboys defense limited the St. Louis Rams to 187 total net yards.
Last week the Dallas Cowboys lost 30-24 (OT) at the Arizona Cardinals, while the Rams won their first
game of the NFL 2008 season defeating the Redskins 19 - 17 on the road.
DALLAS COWBOYS (4-2)
QB BRAD JOHNSON has not lost as starter vs. Rams & is perfect 4-0 When RB MARION BARBER has
11+ carries, Cowboys are 23-2 (.920). Has 34 TDs (28 rush, 6 rec.) in past 37. Had career-high 11 catches &
128 rec. yards last week, including 70-yard TD. Rookie RB-KR FELIX JONES has 4 TDs (3 rush, 1 KR) in 1st 6
games WR TERRELL OWENS has TD catch in 2 of past 3 meetings. Has TD in 4 of 6 games this year
(5 TDs). TE JASON WITTEN has 352 catches & 4,133 yards since 2004, most by TE in NFC. Aims for 3rd meeting
in row with TD. Leads NFL with 17 receptions on 3rd down (199 yards, 11.7 avg.). In last meeting, WR PATRICK
CRAYTON had career-best 184 rec. yards & tied career-highs with 7 catches (26.3 avg.) & 2 TDs. Aims for 3rd in
row with TD catch. WR MILES AUSTIN has TD reception in 3 of past 4 LB DE MARCUS WARE had sack last
week & aims to tie NFL record with 10th game in row with sack. Aims for 3rd meeting in row with sack. LB GREG
ELLIS has 14.5 sacks in past 19. Had 1.5 sacks in last meeting & has 2.5 sacks & INT in 3 games vs. StL. S KEN
HAMLIN aims for 3rd game in row vs. StL with INT. Had INT last week
ST. LOUIS RAMS (1-4)
In 37 career starts at home (min. 10 attempts), QB MARC BULGER is 23-14 (.622). Has completed 859 of 1,338 (64.2 pct.) for 10,409 yards with 69 TDs vs. 33 INTs for 94.9 passer rating. Has passed for 300+ yards in game 26 times, including 14 games with 350+ yards RB STEVEN JACKSON has 8 100-yard rush games at home in career & Rams have won 6 of those 8. When Jackson has 22+ carries, Rams are 15-6 (.714). In those 21, Jackson has rushed for 2,332 yards (111.0 per game) & 14 TDs Since 2000, WR TORRY HOLT leads NFL with 773 receptions & 11,286 yards. Had 9 catches for 106 yards in 9/29/02 meeting S O.J. ATOGWE has 8 INTs in past 13. Aims for 3rd meeting in row with INT. Has 2 INTs (73 yards) & FR in past 2 vs. Dal. Had 75-yard FR-TD last week. DE LEONARD LITTLE has 3.5 sacks & FF in 3 meetings. DT LA’ROI GLOVER spent 4 years with Dal. (2002-05). Rookie DE CHRIS LONG has sack & FR in past 2 games K JOSH BROWN had game-winning 49-yard FG last week as time expired.
DETROIT LIONS (0-5) AT HOUSTON TEXANS (1-4)
In their only meeting, the Lions defeated the Texans at home 28 to 16 (9/19/04) as
Detroit QB Joey Harrington threw 3 TDs, including 2 to WR Roy Williams (31, 14). Lions KR Eddie Drummond added
a 99-yard kick return for a TD in the 3rd quarter.
Last week the Lions lost to the Vikings in Minnesota 12 - 10, while the Texans defeated the Dolphins
29 to 28 in Houston.
DETROIT LIONS (0-5)
QB JON KITNA is 2-0 in career as starter vs. the Houston Texans In those 2, Kitna has completed 40 of
53 (75.5 pct.) for 445 yards with 5 TDs vs. 1 INT for 123.5 passer rating. In only game at the Houston Texans
(11/3/02 with Cincinnati.), Kitna completed 22 of 27 (81.5 pct.) for 263 yards with 4 TDs vs. 0 INTs for
career-high 146.8 rating. QB DAN ORLOVSKY made 1st NFL start last week & threw 1st TD RB KEVIN
SMITH (3rd round) leads team in rushing with 195 yards. Is 1 of 5 rookies to lead club in rushing. In 2 games
vs. the Houston Texans, RB RUDI JOHNSON has 270 rush yards (135.0 per game) & 2 TDs. In 11/9/03 meeting,
Johnson had career-high 43 attempts for 182 yards & 2 TDs. When Johnson has 25+ attempts, his teams are 18-1
(.947) WR CALVIN JOHNSON had 4 catches for 85 yards & 1 TD last week. WR ROY WILLIAMS had 4 catches
for 73 yards (18.3 avg.) & 2 TDs in only career meeting. Has TD catch in 4 of past 5 road games vs. AFC Defense had 5 sacks in last meeting. DE JARED DE VRIES had sack last week. DE DEWAYNE WHITE has sack in
3 of 5 games this year. CB KEITH SMITH had 1st career INT in last game vs. Texans K JASON HANSON
has 391 FGs, 6th most in NFL history & 4th among active players
HOUSTON TEXANS (1-4)
The Texans have won 5 of past 6 at home dating back to 11/18/07 In past 2, QB MATT SCHAUB has averaged 343 passing yards per game with 4 TDs vs. 2 INTs & 94.9 passer rating Rookie RB STEVE SLATON (3rd round, No. 89) ranks 3rd in NFL among rookie RBs with 343 rush yards (4.8 avg.) on 72 attempts & 3 TDs In 13 career meetings against Lions (w/GB), RB AHMAN GREEN averages 82.3 rush yards per game (1,070 total). In past 7 against NFC, WR ANDRE JOHNSON averages 104.7 receiving yards per game (733 total) & aims for 4th consecutive game with TD. Johnson posted career high 178 receiving yards last week & aims for 3rd consecutive 100-yard receiving game (131, 178). Johnson is averaging 116.1 receiving yards in past 7 at home TE OWEN DANIELS averages 13.4 yards per catch in 2008 (23 receptions, 308 yards) DE MARIO WILLIAMS aims for 3rd consecutive game with 2 sacks & is tied for most in NFL with 20 sacks (DE MARCUS WARE, 20) since 2007.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (3-2) AT GREEN BAY PACKERS (3-3)
The Indianapolis colts lead the series with a 20-19-1 record and have won 2 of the past 3 meetings.
They last played each other on 9/26/2004 when the Colts defeated the Packers at home by a score of 45 to 31.
In that game, Indianapolis QB Peyton Manning threw TD passes, as the Colts outlasted Green Bay. Colts’ offense
produced 4 TDs on 1st 4 drives (66, 60, 72, 94).
Last week both teams won as the Colts defeated the Ravens at home 31 - 3 and the Packers won on the road
27-17 against the Seattle Seahawks
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (3-2)
Colts are 20-6 (.769) under head coach TONY DUNGY against NFC Colts aim for 14th consecutive win in October In 2 career meetings against Packers, QB PEYTON MANNING has completed 53 of 84 passes
(63.1 pct.) for 687 yards with 8 TDs vs. 1 INT & 115.5 passer rating. Since’ 04, Colts are 38-6 (.863) when Manning has 2 or more TD passes. For career, RB JOSEPH ADDAI has 9 rush TDs in 9 games against NFC.
Including postseason, Colts are 10-2 (.833) when Addai has 20+ carries In 2008, WR REGGIE WAYNE is averaging 93.3 receiving yards per game & has TD reception in 4 of past 5. WR MARVIN HARRRISON posted
season-high 83 receiving yards last week on 3 rec., including 67-yard TD reception. Has TD in 2 of past 3 vs. GB Club is tied for 3rd in NFL with +4 turnover differential Colts are 13-2
(.867) when DE DWIGHT FREENEY records 2+ sacks DE ROBERT MATHIS tied career high with 3 sacks last week & aims for 3rd in row with sack S MELVIN BULLITT aims for 3rd
consecutive game with INT
GREEN BAY PACKERS (3-3)
Under head coach MIKE MC CARTHY, the Green Bay Packers won 20 of past 26 games QB AARON RODGERS aims for 4th in row with 2+ TDs. Has completed 65 of 98 (66.3 pct.) for 781 yards with 4 TDs vs. 1 INT for 99.9 rating in 3 starts at home In past 3 vs. AFC, RB RYAN GRANT has 315 rush yards (105.0 per game) & 1 TD. When Grant has 19+ attempts (including playoffs), Packers are 7-0 WR DONALD DRIVER has reception in 101 consecutive games, 2nd-longest streak in team history (STERLING SHARPE, 103). Had 27-yard TD catch in last meeting. WR GREG JENNINGS aims for 5th in row vs. AFC with rec. TD. Has 15 catches for 408 yards (102.0 per game) & 5 TDs in past 4 vs. AFC. Has 18 career rec. TDs & 10 have been 40+ yards. Leads NFL with 653 rec. yards & has 84+ yards in all 6 games this year DE AARON KAMPMAN has 33.5 sacks since 2006, most in NFC. Has 4.5 sacks in past 4 vs. AFC. In past 5, S NICK COLLINS has 3 INTs, including INT-TD. CB CHARLES WOODSON has 4 INTs in past 5, including 2 INT-TDs. CB TRAMON WILLIAMS aims for 4th in row with INT.
NEW YORK JETS (3-2) AT OAKLAND RAIDERS (1-4)
The New York Jets have won the past 3 games against the Raiders. However, the Oakland Raiders leadd the series
between them with 19-14-2 record. The teams last met in Giants Stadium on New Year's Eve 2006 as the Jets won 23 to 3.
In that game, the New York Jets defense limited the Oakland Raiders to 209 total net yards & forced 3 turnovers
(2 fumble recoverys , 1 INT). Jets K Mike Nugent added 3 FGs (35, 22, 35).
NEW YORK JETS (3-2)
The Jets aim for their 4th consecutive win against Raiders QB BRETT FAVRE has 4-0 record
against Raiders & has completed 79 of 128 passes (61.7 pct.) for 1,188 yards with 11 TDs vs. 4 INTs & 107.8
passer rating. Favre’s teams are 85-8 (.913) when he posts 100+ passer rating RB THOMAS JONES
totaled career-high 3 TDs last week (2 rushing, 1 receiving). Jones’ teams are 26-13 (.667) when he records
20+ att WR LAVERANUES COLES aims for 3rd consecutive game with 8 receptions. Aims for 3rd
consecutive game with 100+ receiving yards at Oakland & is averaging 134.5 receiving yards per game in past 2 at
Raiders (269 total) WR JERRICHO COTCHERY has 22 receptions in past 3 games Defense aims
for 3rd consecutive game with 5 sacks LB CALVIN PACE aims for 3rd game in row with sack -
DE SHAUN ELLIS has sack in 4 of past 5 games KR-RB LEON WASHINGTON leads NFL with 31.5 KR avg.
Since ’01, Jets lead NFL with 10 KR-TDs
OAKLAND RAIDERS (1-4)
The Raiders are 6-2 (.750) at home against Jets In 3 career starts at home, QB JA MARCUS RUSSELL has completed 62 of 94 passes (66.0 pct.) for 681 yards with 4 TDs vs. 2 INT & 92.6 passer rating...RB JUSTIN FARGAS is averaging 103.4 rush yards (517 total) with 3 TDs in past 5 at home. Rookie RB DARREN MC FADDEN (1st round, No. 4) ranks 3rd in AFC among rookies with 302 rush yards (5.1 avg.) on 59 attempts with 1 TD In last meeting against Jets (w/Den. on 11/20/05), WR ASHLEY LELIE totaled 4 receptions for 81 yards (20.3 avg.). In 2008, WR-KR JOHNNIE LEE HIGGINS averages 25.7 yards per catch (6 receptions, 154 yards). TE ZACH MILLER averages 71 receiving yards per game in past 3 at home (213 total) Defense totaled 8 sacks in past 3 games Since 2007, LB THOMAS HOWARD (6) ranks 1st & LB KIRK MORRISON (5) ties for 2nd in NFL for most INTs among LBs DE KALIMBA EDWARDS has sack in 3 of past 4 games DE DERRICK BURGESS has 2 sacks in 2 games against NYJ Since ’05, CB DE ANGELO HALL is tied for 3rd in NFL with 17 INTs.
CLEVELAND BROWNS (2-3) AT WASHINGTON REDSKINS (4-2)
The Cleveland Browns lead the series with a 33-9-1 record and have beaten the Redskins 2 of the past 3 times.
The Browns and Redskins last played each other in Cleveland on 10/3/04 with the Browns winning 17 - 13. Cleveland QB Jeff Garcia
threw for 195 yards & 1 TD & RB Lee Suggs added 82 yards rushing, including a 3-yard TD to seal the Browns victory.
Last week, the Cleveland Browns stunned the then undefeated Giants 35 - 14 on MNF in Cleveland, while the
the Redskins were stunned at home and lost to the then winless Rams 19 - 17.
CLEVELAND BROWNS (2-3)
The Browns have won 7 of past 8 at Washington Club is 6-0 under head coach ROMEO CRENNEL when
scoring 30+ points For career QB DEREK ANDERSON is 1-1 (.500) on road against NFC & has completed 39
of 66 passes (59.1 pct.) for 552 yards with 5 TDs vs. 2 INTs & 98.8 passer rating. Team is 5-0 when Anderson
has 100+ passer rating In last meeting vs. the Washington Redskins (w/the Baltimore Ravens on
10/10/04), RB JAMAL LEWIS gained 116 yards (4.1 avg.) on 28 carries. Browns are 5-0 when Lewis has 25+
carries Since 2007, WR BRAYLON EDWARDS averages 94.6 rec. yards per game against NFC & has 5 TDs in
past 6 vs. NFC. Edwards posted career-high 154 rec. yards (30.8 avg.) on 5 rec. with TD last week. WR DONTE’
STALLWORTH has 2 TDs in past 3 vs. Was CB ERIC WRIGHT aims for 3rd game in row with INT & had 94-yard
INT-TD last week LB ALEX HALL leads rookies with 3 sacks & aims for 4th consecutive game with sack
WASHINGTON REDSKINS (4-2)
QB JASON CAMPBELL has not thrown INT this season (6 TDs vs. 0 INTs). Has won 5 of past 8 starts at home,
completing 153 of 226 (67.7 pct.) for 1,596 yards with 8 TDs vs. 2 INTs for 96.0 passer rating RB
CLINTON PORTIS aims for 3rd in row vs. the Cleveland Browns with rush TD. In 12/14/03 meeting (with Den.), Portis rushed for 139 yards & 2 TDs. Aims for 4th consecutive 100-yard game. When Portis has 100+ yards, his teams are 30-10 (.750). When Portis rushes for 2+ TDs, his clubs are 14-5 (.737) TE CHRIS COOLEY has 28 TDs since 2004, most in NFC among TEs. WR SANTANA MOSS has 24 catches for 376 yards (94.0 per game) & 3 TDs in past 4 at home. Including playoffs, WR-PR ANTWAAN RANDLE EL has 26 career TDs (14 rec., 6 PR, 5 pass, 1 KR). Had TD pass in last game vs. the Cleveland Browns (11/13/05 with the Pittsburgh Steelers) & in career (including playoffs) has completed 20 of 26 (76.9 pct.) for 307 yards with 5 TDs vs. 0 INTs for 155.0 rating LB-DE JASON TAYLOR has 118.0 sacks, most among active players. Has sack in 2 of 3 career meetings. DE ANDRE CARTER had 0.5 sack in only career game vs. the Cleveland Browns (9/21/03 with SF).
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (1-4) AT TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (4-2)
The Seahwaks have defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7 of 8 times. They played each other last
season on September 9th in Tampa Bay. The Seahawks won 23 to 7.
Seattle Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck threw for 222 yards & 1 TD & RB Shaun Alexander ran for 105 yards & scored 1 TD.
Seahawks Coah Mike Holmgren has a 15 - 4 record versus the Buccaneers.
Last week, the Seahawks lost at home to the Packers 27-17 and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Carolina
Panthers at home 27 - 17.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (1-4)
QB CHARLIE FRYE passed for 2 TDs last week RB JULIUS JONES has 372 rush yards (93.0 per game)
& 2 TDs in past 4. RB T.J. DUCKETT has 3 rush TDs in 3 of past 4 games. Has 4 rush TDs in past 6 vs. TB WR BOBBY ENGRAM averaged 21.3 yards per catch in last meeting (3 catches, 64 yards). TE JOHN CARLSON
(2nd round) leads rookie TEs with 16 catches & 190 yards. Had TD last week. WR KEARY COLBERT had career-high
2 TD catches vs. TB on 11/28/04 (with Carolina). Had TD reception last week DE PATRICK KERNEY has
7.0 sacks in career vs. TB. Has 5.0 sacks in past 6 meetings. LB JULIAN PETERSON has 24.5 sacks in 41 games
with Sea. (including playoffs). In 5 career meetings (including playoffs), Peterson has 4.0 sacks, 3 FF, 2
FR & INT. Had sack & FF last week. LB LOFA TATUPU had 2 FFs in last meeting. Has 3 FFs in 2 games vs. TB
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (4-2)
Under head coach JON GRUDEN, the Bucs are 18-0 since 2002 when not committing turnover QB JEFF GARCIA completed 19 of 27 (70.4 pct.) for 201 yards for 91.7 passer rating in last meeting RB EARNEST GRAHAM aims for 7th in row at home with rush TD. Has 516 rush yards (86.0 per game) & 6 TDs in past 6 at home. Bucs are 5-0 when Graham has 20+ att WR JOEY GALLOWAY was 1st round pick (No. 8) by Sea. in 1995. Spent 5 years with Sea. (1995-99). Has 24 catches for 334 yards (83.5 per game) & 2 TDs in 4 meetings. TE JERRAMY STEVENS was 1st round pick (No. 28) by Sea. in 2002 & played 5 years there (2002-06). TE ALEX SMITH had TD last week LB DERRICK BROOKS has sack & 2 INTs in past 4 meetings. LB BARRETT RUUD has INT in 2 of past 4. Team had 3 INTs last week: S TANARD JACKSON, S JERMAINE PHILLIPS & rookie CB AQIB TALIB. Rookie LB GENO HAYES blocked punt & returned it for 1st career TD last week.
MONDAY NIGHT, OCTOBER 20
DENVER BRONCOS (4-2) AT NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (3-2)
The Denver Broncos are the series leader 24-15 and have won 4 of the past 5 against the New England
Patriots. Broncos Head Coach Mike Shanahan is 9-3 versus the Patriots while Patriots Head Coach Bill
Belichick has 2-9 lifetime record versus the Broncos.
The Broncos and Patriots last played on 9/24/2006 in New England. The Broncos won 17 to 7.
Denver Broncos WR Javon Walker had 3 catches for 130 yards, including 2 TD passes from QB Jake Plummer (32, 83),
as the Broncos outlasted the New England Patriots for the win.
Last week both the Broncos and Patriots lost. The Broncos lost at home to the Jaguars 24-17. The Patriots
lost 30-10 to the San Diego Chargers on the road.
DENVER BRONCOS (4-2)
The Denver Broncos (399) need 1 win to reach 400 franchise victories Club has won 5 of past 6 at the New England Patriots. Including postseason, Denver has 9-3 (.750) record against Patriots under head
coach MIKE SHANAHAN QB JAY CUTLER has 9 TDs vs. 4 INTs & 94.9 passer rating against AFC in 2008.
Cutler has 2-2 (.500) record on MNF with 5 TDs vs. 2 INTs & 94.4 passer rating. Club is 7-0 when Cutler has
100+ passer rating RB MICHAEL PITTMAN gained 109 rush yards (5.5 avg.) on 20 attempts last week &
posted 1st 100-yard rush game since 10/16/05 WR BRANDON MARSHALL is averaging 104.2 receiving yards
per game this season & leads AFC with 43 receptions. Marshall (43 receptions, 521 yards) & Rookie WR EDDIE
ROYAL (30 receptions, 321 yards) have combined for 73 receptions for 842 yards TE DANIEL GRAHAM
spent 5 seasons with Patriots & totaled 120 rec. for 1,393 yards with 17 TDs CBs CHAMP BAILEY (43)
& DRE’ BLY (38) rank 1st & 2nd among CBs for most INTs since ’99 DT KENNY PETERSON has 3 sacks
in past 4 vs AFC K MATT PRATER leads AFC with 56 points
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (3-2)
Since 2003, Patriots are 10-1 (.909) in October at home Club aims for 5th consecutive win on MNF In 2 games at home in 2008, QB MATT CASSEL has completed 32 of 49 passes (65.3 pct.) for 283 yards with 2 TDs vs. 1 INT & 85.7 passer rating RB KEVIN FAULK averages 5.4 yards per carry in 2008 (19 attempts, 102 yards). RB SAMMY MORRIS aims for 3rd consecutive game with TD vs. Den In 2 seasons with the New England Patriots, WR RANDY MOSS averages 83.8 rec. yards per game at home (761 yards in 10 games) Including postseason, WR WES WELKER aims for 10th consecutive game with 6+ receptions & ranks 2nd in NFL with 148 rec. since 2007 (T.J. HOUSHMANDZADEH, 150 rec.) S RODNEY HARRISON has 5 career INTs vs. Den. (tied for most vs. any opponent) CB-KR ELLIS HOBBS ranks 2nd in NFL with 30.8 KR avg CB DELTHA O’NEAL spent 4 seasons in Denver (2000-03).
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RELATED: NFL 2008 Week 7
"We still have a chance to go 4-12," says Titans linebacker KEITH BULLUCK.
Another team – that other club in New York, the Super Bowl champion Giants who were quiet in their bye week while BRETT FAVRE was throwing six touchdown passes -- will look to up their record to 4-0 for the first time since 1990.
NFL 2008 Week 4: AFC & NFC Players of the Week
AFC & NFC Players of the Week - Jets QB Brett Favre AFC Player of the Week For 6 TD Passes Against Cardinals
Quarterback BRETT FAVRE of the New York Jets, linebacker DERRICK JOHNSON of the Kansas City Chiefs and kicker
JEFF REED of the Pittsburgh Steelers are the Week 4 AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for
games played the fourth week of the NFL 2008 season (September 28-29)
Quarterback JAKE DELHOMME of the Carolina Panthers and linebacker DERRICK BROOKS and kicker MATT BRYANT of the
Tampa Bay Buccaneers are the Week 4 NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played the fourth week of the NFL 2008 season (September 28-29)
NFL 2008 Week 4:
The Pressure is Already On with Big Division Matchups & Old Rivalries
In the National Football League, whether it is Week 4, like this week, or
Week 14 of the NFL 2008 season, the pressure is always on.
Sure, you’d rather be undefeated – as six NFL teams are – or at least have a winning record as the last
weekend of September looms.
But all those teams on the downside of the won-loss ledger should remind themselves of the
2007 San Diego Chargers.
The Chargers began last season at 1-3, won their final six games then took an 11-5 record into the
playoffs, advancing all the way to the AFC Championship Game.
"It doesn’t matter whether you’re the favorite now or the least favorite," says quarterback TONY ROMO of the 3-0 Dallas Cowboys. "The reality of it is you’ve got to keep playing games. You’re not trying to be the favorite now, you’re trying to be the favorite at the end of the year."
NFL 2008 Week 3: AFC & NFC Players of the Week
RB Michael Turner of the Falcons Earns 2nd Player of Week Honor in Young Season
Running back MICHAEL TURNER of the Atlanta Falcons, safety BRIAN DAWKINS of the Philadelphia Eagles and kicker
JOHN CARNEY of the New York Giants are the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for
games played the third week of the NFL 2008 season (September 21-22).
Running back RONNIE BROWN of the Miami Dolphins, cornerback ANTONIO CROMARTIE of the San Diego Chargers and kicker JOSH SCOBEE of the Jacksonville Jaguars are the AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played the third week of the NFL 2008 season (September 21-22).
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Kurt Warner QB, Arizona Cardinals
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NFL 2008 Week 3: Fall's Coming Up & the NFL is Heating Up!
NFL 2008 WEEK 3 TOPS OFF WITH ROMO VS. RODGERS, FAVRE VS. RIVERS
Great way to start. Great way to come back.
That easily summarizes developments in the NFL so far this NFL 2008 Season that have already packed a season's worth of
surprise and suspense into the league’s first two weeks. As autumn looms on Monday, who can imagine what's in store?
Look at things so far.
Three of the 2-0 teams (Buffalo, Carolina and Denver) won only seven games apiece last year. So things are looking up for them.
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But, hold on. Just look at last year. The Giants started 0-2
and won the Super Bowl. The Chargers began 1-3 and reached the AFC Championship Game. It’s two weeks down –
and a long way to go!
NFL 2008 Week 2: AFC & NFC Players of the Week
Saint Louis Rams QB Kurt Warner named NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his perfect performance
In the NFC, Quarterback KURT WARNER of the Arizona Cardinals, safety CHRIS HORTON of the Washington Redskins
and kick returner-running back FELIX JONES of the Dallas Cowboys are the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special
Teams Players of the Week for games played the second week of the NFL 2008 season.
Wide receiver BRANDON MARSHALL of the Denver Broncos, safety TROY POLAMALU of the Pittsburgh Steelers and
linebacker KEITH BULLUCK of the Tennessee Titans are the AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of
the Week for games played the second week of the 2008 NFL season (September 14-15).
NFL 2008 Week 2: Big Division Games Highlight Week 2
It's only Week 2 of the 2008 NFL season & already "big games" is a term that will be heard repeatedly.
On top of them being key division games, the matchups have intriguing storylines as well. It is only Week 2
of the 2008 NFL season and already "big games" are on tap.
"It's a rival game every time we play in our division," says linebacker BRADIE JAMES of the Dallas Cowboys,
who play NFC East foe Philadelphia on Monday night. "Everybody approaches it like it's a playoff game."
So after a Kickoff week that saw such thrills as a TD on a first pass (Atlanta rookie MATT RYAN on his first
NFL attempt) and one on a last pass (by Carolina quarterback JAKE DELHOMME to win a game with no time left),
here comes Week 2 of what promises to be another memorable NFL season.
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Willie Parker of the Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC Offensive Player of the Week
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NFL 2008 Week 1: AFC & NFC Players of the Week
Willie Parker, Cortland Finnegan, Roscoe Parrish, Michael Turner, Adewale Ogunleye & Will Blackmon
Running back Willie Parker of the Pittsburgh Steelers, cornerback Cortland Finnegan of the Tennessee Titans
and wide receiver - punt returner Roscoe Parrish of the Buffalo Bills are the AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played on NFL Kickoff 2008 Weekend.
In the NFC, Running back Michael Turner of the Atlanta Falcons, defensive end Adewale Ogunleye of the Chicago Bears and punt returner - kick returner Will Blackmon
of the Green Bay Packers are the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games
played on NFL 2008 Opening Weekend.
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Adrian Peterson, NFL Rookie of the Year & Pro Bowl MVP
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NFL 2008
Rookie of the Year & Pro Bowl MVP Adrian Peterson Ready to Pick Up Where He Left Off
2008 NFL Football Player Profile: Adrian Peterson Running Back Minnesota Vikings
During the NFL 2007 Regular season, Minnesota Vikings rookie sensation ADRIAN PETERSON ranked second in the NFL (and first in the NFC) with
1,341 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, carried the ball 238 times and led the league rushing for 95.8
yards per game.
Adrian Peterson also rushed for 296 yards rushing against the San Diego Chargers (November 4, 2007), setting
the single-game rushing record. Peterson also made 19 receptions for 268 yards including a 60 yard touchdown,
and amassed 2,021 combined net yards.
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NFL 2008: Chargers' Running Back La Dainian Tomlinson Closes in On Records
2008 NFL Football Player Profile: La Dainian Tomlinson Running Back San Diego Chargers
In 2008, San Diego Chargers running back La Dainian Tomlinson can pass Pro Football Hall of Famer ERIC
DICKERSON and become the only player in history to begin a career with eight consecutive 1,200-yard rushing
seasons. Tomlinson can also extend his streak of consecutive seasons to start a career with at least 10 rushing
touchdowns to eight. With nine rushing touchdowns, Tomlinson (currently 115) will pass Pro Football Hall of Famer MARCUS ALLEN
(123) to move into second place all-time.
Atlanta Falcons running back MICHAEL TURNER, who served as Tomlinson's understudy for four seasons in San Diego, observed Tomlinson's attributes firsthand.
NFL 2008 Quarterbacks Review & Preview
Last Season 7 QBs threw for 4,000 yards, the most ever in a single season
The NFL has a long history of excellence at the quarterback position, but the recent influx of poised
and accurate passers has been steady and remarkable. Coaches' schemes continue to grow more
and more complex, taking advantage of the unique talents of today's QBs. Last season Seven quarterbacks threw
for 4,000 yards, the most ever in a single season; PEYTON MANNING continued to rise to the top of
the NFL's record books; Tom Brady was named the 2007 AP NFL MVP after a record-shattering regular season
who set or tied nine NFL records; and Eli Manning took charge and marched the Giants to Super Bowl Victory and
was named Super Bowl XLII MVP.
NFL 2008: Peyton Manning Colts QB Continues Rising to Top of NFL Record Books
Peyton Manning can become 1st to throw 25 TDs 11 years in a row & pass for 4,000 yards in 9 different seasons.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback PEYTON MANNING continues to rise to the top of
the NFL's record books. In 2008, Manning can become the first QB in NFL annals to
throw 25 touchdowns in 11 years in a row as well as become the first to pass for 4,000
yards in nine different seasons. Manning's success has been attributed to his superior
work ethic, preparation, focus, dedication and competitive spirit.
NFL 2008 Kickoff & Punt Returners: Thank Devin For Many Happy Returns
Devin Hester of the Chicago Bears is Widely Considered the King of Return Specialists
With six combined kick-return touchdowns in 2007 (four punt and two kickoff), Chicago's DEVIN HESTER -- a Pro Bowl All-Star in each of his two NFL seasons -- is widely considered the
king of the return specialists. But there are several worthy adversaries to his throne. Though Hester's kick-return touchdown total set an NFL record, he led in neither kickoff nor
punt return average.
NFL 2008: Double Trouble Running Backs & Big Play Excitement Wide Receivers
Momentum comes in the form of a big play in the running or passing game.
Double-Trouble Running Backs seem to be all over the NFL. Guys like La Dainian Tomlinson, Brian Westbrook,
Joseph Addai and others. These are the running backs that can hurt you two ways: rushing or catching the ball.
Wide Receivers such as Torry Holt and Braylon Edwards produce momentum-changing exhilaration from their
teammates and the crowd.
NFL 2008: Active Streaks & Individual Accomplishments on the Horizon
Patriots & Colts Active Win Streaks; Peyton Manning & La Dainian Tomlinson Headline Individual Accomplishments
The National Football League's 2008 Season should be a year full of major individual and team record-breaking
performances. The New England Patriots look to continue building upon their regular season all-time winning streak
while the Indianapolis Colts are on track to extend their consecutive 12 or victories per season to six. Peyton Manning and La Dainian Tomlinson continue to expand on their Hall of Fame in the making individual
performances. Plus other NFL Players are likely to set or build upon great individual accomplishments.
NFL 2008 Running Backs: Tandem Backfields - Good Things Come in Pairs
Last season, 12 clubs boasted 2 running backs with at least 500 rushing yards apiece, including 5 playoff teams
"Tandem" backfields continue to grow! Last season, 12 clubs boasted two running backs with at least 500 rushing yards apiece, including five
playoff teams – the New York Giants, Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars and Seattle Seahawks.
Additionally, the Super Bowl XLII champion Giants became the fifth Super Bowl winning team since 2000 to feature
two running backs with more than 500 rushing yards each (2006 Colts, 2003 Patriots, 2002 Buccaneers, 2000 Ravens).
In the eight prior seasons, only one such team won the coveted Lombardi Trophy (1996 Packers)
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