1.  Pittsburgh Steelers At Tennessee Titans

2.  Philadelphia Eagles At Washington Redskins

3.  Dallas Cowboys Vs. Baltimore Ravens

4.  New York Giants Vs. Carolina Panthers

5.  Baltimore Ravens At Dallas Cowboys

6.  New York Jets At Seattle Seahawks 

7.  Minnesota Vikings Vs. Atlanta Falcons 

8.  Tennessee Titans Vs. Pittsburgh Steelers 

9.  New England Patriots Vs. Arizona Cardinals 

10.  Chicago Bears Vs. Green Bay Packers 

11.  Carolina Panthers At New York Giants 

12.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers Vs. San Diego Chargers 

Defense/Special Teams Week 15

1. Pittsburgh Steelers At Baltimore Ravens

2. Philadelphia Eagles Vs. Cleveland Browns

3. Indianapolis Colts Vs. Detroit Lions

4. New York Giants At Dallas Cowboys

5. Baltimore Ravens Vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

6. Tennessee Titans At Houston Texans

7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers At Atlanta Falcons

8. New York Jets Vs. Buffalo Bills

9. New England Patriots At Oakland Raiders

10. Green Bay Packers At Jacksonville Jaguars

11. Minnesota Vikings At Arizona Cardinals

12. Chicago Bears Vs. New Orleans Saints

Defense/Special Teams Week 13

1. Baltimore Ravens At Cincinnati Bengals

2. Tennessee Titans At Detroit Lions

3. New York Giants At Washington Redskins

4. Dallas Cowboys Vs. Seattle Seahawks

5. Pittsburgh Steelers At New England Patriots

6. Minnesota Vikings Vs. Chicago Bears

7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Vs. New Orleans Saints

8. Miami Dolphins At St. Louis Rams

9. Chicago Bears At Minnesota Vikings

10. Green Bay Packers Vs. Carolina Panthers

11. New England Patriots Vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

12. Buffalo Bills Vs. San Francisco 49ers

1. Carolina Panthers Vs. Detroit Lions

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Vs. Minnesota Vikings

3. Miami Dolphins Vs. Oakland Raiders

4. Tennessee Titans At Jacksonville Jaguars

5. Philadelphia Eagles At Cincinnati Bengals

6. New York Giants Vs. Baltimore Ravens

7. Pittsburgh Steelers Vs. San Diego Chargers

8. Green Bay Packers Vs. Chicago Bears

9. New York Giants Vs. Baltimore Ravens

10. New England Patriots Vs. New York Jets

11. Baltimore Ravens At New York Giants

12. Chicago Bears At Green Bay Packers.

The following teams are on bye this week: Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Redskins

1. Carolina Panthers At Oakland Raiders

2. Tennessee Titans At Chicago Bears

3. Baltimore Ravens At Houston Texans

4. Jacksonville Jaguars At Detroit Lions

5. Chicago Bears Vs. Tennessee Titans

6. Miami Dolphins Vs. Seattle Seahawks

7. New York Giants At Philadelphia Eagles

8. Pittsburgh Steelers Vs. Indianapolis Colts

9. San Diego Chargers Vs. Kansas City Chiefs

10. New England Patriots Vs. Buffalo Bills

11. Philadelphia Eagles Vs. New York Giants

12. Minnesota Vikings Vs. Green Bay Packers

If Rex Grossman starts for the Bears (I've heard conflicting reports on Orton) In love the Titans defense here as Grossman doesn't have the nickname Turnoverasaurus Rex for nothing. Grossman played in 8 games in 2007 and had 7 interceptions & 6 fumbles. In 2006 when he was "playing well" he had a QB rating of 73.8 and 20 interceptions and 8 fumbles in 16 games. I can't find the stats but I would not be surprised if Grossman is high in the history books when it comes to pick sixes as well as I remember seeing a lot of them over the years. The Titans might have a great day if Rex plays and is not on his game.

Of course if Orton starts I see a totally different game (although I'd still start the Titans in most cases anyway).

The following teams are on bye this week: Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, San Diego Chargers, San Francisco 49ers

1. Chicago Bears Vs. Detroit Lions

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers At Kansas City Chiefs

3. New York Giants Vs. Dallas Cowboys

4.. Jacksonville Jaguars At Cincinnati Bengals

5. Baltimore Ravens At Cleveland Browns

6. Philadelphia Eagles At Seattle Seahawks

7. Tennessee Titans Vs. Green Bay Packers

8. Pittsburgh Steelers At Washington Redskins

9. Buffalo Bills Vs. New York Jets

10. Atlanta Falcons At Oakland Raiders

11. Minnesota Vikings Vs. Houston Texans

12. Green Bay Packers At Tennessee Titans

While the Bucs have quite a resume this year (15 ppg allowed 2nd best in the NFL) and KC may be without Larry Johnson however still like the Bears D & special teams against a Lions offense without Kitna and Roy Williams. The Bears secondary had plenty of time to heal up on their bye and should be able to not just dominate but also a very good chance to score again on defense (they scored twice on D week 7). The Giants also should have a good Sunday against Brad Johnson at QB and should add to their pretty impressive sack total for the year (26). I do worry about the Vikings & Bills this week as we know every once in awhile #4 is capable of going crazy racking up fantasy yards and scores and the Vikes are going up against one of the hottest offenses right now in the Texans led by Schaub/Johnson/Slaton.

The following teams are on bye this week: Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings

1. Baltimore Ravens Vs. Oakland Raiders -- The Raiders have shown some quick flashes on mediocrity this season (such as their win over Brett & his Jets last week) however the Ravens should make this a very long day for them in Baltimore. The Ravens rank first against the run in the NFL and average giving up less than 17 points per game. This will be a big test for JaMarcus Russell but I'm thinking he doesn't do very well and the Ravens D racks up some fantasy points.

2. Buffalo Bills At Miami Dolphins -- The Bills D re-emerged last week after its hiccup against the Cards to shut down LT & the Chargers holding them to only 14 points. It will be interesting to see how the ultra-conservative Dick Jauron handles "The Wildcat" formation but I don't think any Dolphin except maybe Ronnie Brown has much success Sunday.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers At Dallas Cowboys -- I must preface this ranking with the fact that I believe Brad Johnson plays much better than he did last week but the Bucs only allow just over 2 touchdowns (15.8 avg 4th best in the NFL) and are solid against the run and the pass. I think the Cowboys score more than last week but I think the Bucs contain them and get a few turnovers & sacks for a decent performance.

4. Washington Redskins At Detroit Lions -- The Skins bounced back after their loss to the Rams to beat the Browns and should be able to contain the Lions who are now without Roy Williams and Jon Kitna. The Skins rank 6th in the league in yards allowed and really just need to contain Calvin Johnson to stop the Lions.

5. New York Jets Vs. Kansas City Chiefs -- While the Jets D is pretty mediocre the Chiefs are in bad shape as it sounds like Larry Johnson might be suspended even further due to his off the field activities and beyond him this offense is pretty weak.

6. Tennessee Titans Vs. Indianapolis Colts -- A tough start for one of the best if not the best D in the NFL right now. The Colts looked pretty bad against the Pack but lit up a better D a week before in the Ravens. While I never like to bank on Peyton Manning struggling I do like the fact that the Titans powerfull running game should destroy the Colts terrible run D and help keep their defense off the field as much.

7. Pittsburgh Steelers Vs. New York Giants -- A tougher match up for the Steelers as the Giants offense is pretty well balanced but Pitt is too good a D to bench as they should give up some points but also gets some sacks and turnovers.

8. Philadelphia Eagles Vs. Atlanta Falcons -- The Falcons have looked pretty goos especially considering having a rookie QB but the Eagles are a high pressure defense and should give Matty Ice(Matt Ryan) a decent challange. I do think Turner struggles as well as the Eagles rank 9th best in the NFL vs. the run.

9. New York Giants At Pittsburgh Steelers -- I don't think this D rattles Big Ben as it seems impossible to really knock him off his game but the Steelers are fighting some injury issues and I expect the Giants to have a decent fantasy game with at least a few sacks and a turnover.

10. Houston Texans Vs. Cincinnati Bengals -- The Texans D is pretty bad but at the same time the Bengals offense has become nearly the worst in the lague and even in Palmer does play through his elbow injury I don't see them improving much.

Other D's Worth A Good Look: New England Patriots Vs. St. Louis Rams, Carolina Panthers Vs. Arizona Cardinals, Jacksonville Jaguars Vs. Cleveland Browns

The following teams are on bye this week: Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Jacksonville Jaguars, Philadelphia Eagles

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Vs. Seattle Seahawks -- With Holmgren announcing that Hasselbeck will definitely miss Week 7 means the Bucs defense at home should have no excuse not to dominate the Seahawks who will be led by Seneca Wallace it sounds like for now. The Bucs rank 4th in the NFL in points allowed and have 11 sacks, 11 interceptions and 3 forced fumbles in 6 games this year.

2. Tennessee Titans At Kansas City Chiefs -- The Titans have played well against some good offenses this year and also have scored their fair share of defensive/special teams touchdowns. They currently rank 1st in points allowed and 4th in yards allowed and have 15 sacks and have forced 18 turnovers in 5 games thus far. KC has LJ who is always capable of having a great game but beyond that they have nothing else (ranked dead last in passing offense) and the Titans shuld have another great fantasy outing no matter who is starting at QB back there.

3. Pittsburh Steelers At Cincinnati Bengals -- Carson Palmer looks like he is going to miss yet another week meaning the Steeler defense should have a field day making Ryan Fitzpatrick's day a living hell. The Steelers have been solid all year ranking as the 2nd best defense in the NFL (in virtually every category) and also have 18 sacks and forced 11 turnovers in 5 games.

4. Baltimore Ravens At Miami Dolphins -- While I am starting to have some more respect for Miami's high school formations as they continue to bewidler defensive coordinators everywhere, I really don't see the Fins having a ton of success against this tough defense looking to rebound after the Pasting Peyton Manning dropped on them last week. The Ravens (despite the damage the Colts did) rank 6th best in points allowed and still rank first in total yards allowed, rushing yards allowed and passing yards allowed.

5. Houston Texans Vs. Detroit Lions -- While the Texans defense has been pretty bad (16th vs. the pass 24th vs. the rush) but the Lions offense is a mess (29th in the NFL) and Orlovsky is not helping the situation much (especially when he's on his own goal line). If Kitna plays I downgrade this defense but if its Happy Feet Orlovsky I like this start this week. Update: As if it couldn't get any worse for the Lions Kitna is out for the year and Roy Williams has been traded to the Cowboys.

6. New York Jets At Oakland Raiders -- The Jets defense has quietly been pretty decent as they rank 3rd best vs. the run and 11th in total yards given up and the Raiders offense really hasn't come together under the leadership of JaMarcus Russell.

7. Chicago Bears Vs. Minnesota Vikings -- The Bears secondary is pretty banged up but I still think they fare well against Gus and the weak Vikings pass attack. I do see them having trouble containing Adrian Peterson as he has hurt the Bears in the past but despite the match up the Bears are a good enough defense to keep from benching them.

8. Washington Redskins Vs. Cleveland Browns -- The Skins didn't look that great against the struggling Rams despite how good they looked vs. the Cowboys 7 Eagles previously. Despite Anderon & Edwards success on Monday Night I still think this Browns offense will struggle a bit as the Skins play much better than last week and might even get Jason Taylor back from injury.

9. Miami Dolphins Vs. Baltimore Ravens -- While the Fins defense has been bad against the pass (29th) they have been pretty good against the run (8th) which is the ravens strength even though I doubt McGahee plays as he is planning to get injured 16 different ways this season. Even though I like McClain and love the rookie Ray Rice I see the Fins not having much trouble from Flacco and keeping this a low scoring game as they stack up against the run.

Other D's Worth A Good Look: Buffalo Bills Vs. San Diego Chargers, New York Giants Vs. San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys At St. Louis Rams, Carolina Panthers Vs. New Orleans Saints.

The following teams are on bye this week: Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Tennessee Titans.

1. Chicago Bears At Atlanta Falcons -- If I were Matt Ryan I might come down with a serious case of the flu Saturday night as this will be the toughest defense he will face all year. The Bears defensive unit has been untouched by injuries so far this year (which is a rarity) making this a great match up for them against a rookie QB. One plus Atlanta has is Michael Turner, who at times has looked fantastic, but the Bears rank 4th in the league versus the run but should be able to key in on Turner making this a very tough game for the Atalnta Falcons offense. The Bears defense and special teams this year has scored 3 touchdowns (int. return, fumble return, blocked punt return) and has forced 11 sacks & 11 turnovers in 5 games. They are a must start this week.

2. Carolina Panthers At Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- The Panthers defense started out the year pretty quiet but after the shut out performance they pitched last week against KC (holding Larry Johnson to a mere 2 Yards!) it seems they are starting to come alive. They haven't been very flashy about it but this defense has been very solid (9 sacks, 7 turnovers) and they now rank 3rd in the NFL in points against and are very solid against the run & pass. The Bucs look like they might be bringing Garcia back in to start at QB but their offense does not scare me at all. The Panthers won't shut them out but they should make it a long day for Chucky.

3. Minnesota Vikings Vs. Detroit Lions -- Despite getting rid of Millen the Lions still looked pretty harmless although some credit must be given to the Bears D. Kitna was kocked out of the game and if he can't go the Vikings should have a field day against Orlovsky. Even if Kitna is healthy it seems to me that Roy Williams is disinterested in the game which makes sense why he has been dropping so many balls and being outshined by Calvin Johnson. The Vikings D might have started a little slow but definitely one of the better units in the NFL (3rd vs. the rush, 9th in yards against) and the Lions should have issues this game no matter who is behind center.

4. New York Giants At Cleveland Browns -- No Strahan, No Umenyiora, No Plaxico, No problem, at least so far. Despite my predictions the Giants are still one of the top defenses in the league as they rank 2nd in the NFL only allowing 12.2 points per game. Next week they should have Plaxico back and they'll face the Browns who were looking better before their bye but still had some major issues. I expect the Browns offense to put up more of a fight than the Seahawks (which isn't saying very much) but the Giants should do pretty well against this struggling offense.

5. Washington Redskins Vs. St. Louis Rams -- Its been interesting to see the Skins play so well the last 2 weeks with Jason Taylor unable to go. They've played 2 very good teams in the Cowboys & Eagles and surprisingly won both of them. The Rams come into this game almost last in the league on every offensive category as they have been unable to score 11 points per game on average. With Linehan out and Hasslett in Marc Bulger will be back behind center again so we might see some new things and I again expect a decent game from Steven Jackson but the Skins defense should have another good outing at home.

6. Baltimore Ravens At Indianapolis Colts -- A risky start as Manning can be very dangerous especially at home, however the Colts offense has not looked like the Colts offense all year (currently 18th in the NFL & dead last in rushing yards). The Ravens D while not spectacular has been very solid as they rank 4th in the NFL in points against and 1st in all other categories (total yards, rush yards, & pass yards). The Ravens also have caused 11 turnovers in 4 games but Manning in his last 2 meetings with the Ravens has thrown for 6 TD's and no picks so it should be interesting to see if the Colts have some success against this top ranked D.

7. Philadelphia Eagles At San Francisco 49ers -- It looks like the honeymoon may be over with Martz and the Niners as the offense has come back to Earth somewhat and ranks near the middle in the NFL but they still are a somewhat dangerous offense that should continue to center around Frank Gore. The Eagles have been tough on the run (8th in the NFL) and will bring a lot of pressure on JTO Sullivan so I expect some sacks and turnovers but I also expect the Niners to have some success in a close game.

8. Indianapolis Colts Vs. Baltimore Ravens -- This should be an interesting match up as the Colts rank last in the NFL vs the run and are still without Safety Bob Sanders however the Ravens have struggled to throw the ball under Flacco and have only had some success running the ball. I predict this much maligned defense has a nice game as they bunch up to stop the run (Ravens rank 4th in the NFL running the ball) and force Flacco to try and beat them Despite the Ravens running success they rank 27th in the NFL in points scored and next to last in passing yards. Its a risky start as the Ravens are a good running team but in a week where many good D's are on bye I see Dungy's defensive unit stepping up and containig the run.

9. Green Bay Packers At Seattle Seahawks -- While the Packers D hasn't been great, the Seahawks offense has been pretty anemic (ranked 28th in passing yards). While the Seahawks do have some excuses from injuries, after seeing Hasselbeck still struggle despite getting a few receivers back healthy makes me worry this might be a long year in Seattle. The Packers are pretty mediocre (their best rank is 13th vs. the pass) however I see them getting some turnovers and possibly yet another defensive touchdown (11 sacks, 4 fumbles recovered, 9 picks & 3 int. returns for a TD). Not a D I would start every week but in a week where 3 of the best NFL defenses are on bye this is a decent start.

10. New England Patriots At San Diego Chargers -- Whiles its very hard for me to recommend this defense again after that fiasco against Miami however LT looks like his injuries have taken a turn for the worse and if LT is not playing or playing while injured (The Fins held him to 57 yards last week), this offense will struggle. I don't expect domination as the Pats have been pretty mediocre this year but I think that bye week helped the whole team get on the same page after losing their team leader in Brady.

11. New York Jets Vs. Cincinati Bengals -- A dangerous game if you are penalized for yards against as I expect the Bengals to put up some passing yards but the Jets looked great the first half of their game against Kurt Warner. The second half of that game is a different story but the Jets showed us they are capable of being a pretty good defense if they get it together. They have accrued 10 sacks and 8 turnovers in 4 games so I expect some fantasy scoring there but I do think Palmer is healthy enough to put some points and yards up against this D.

12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Vs. Carolina Panthers -- This is a tough match up as the Bucs D ranks 8th in points given up but 16th is yards against (that whoole bend but don't break Tampa Two philosophy looks to be working) however the Panthers are very hot right now with Steve Smith back in full swing and 2 very dangerous running backs in Williams and Stewart. As 've mentioned above I'd normally bench the Bucs here but with 3 of the top 10 defenses in the NFL on bye this week I think this is a good start despite how hot the Panthers are. I see the Panthers gaining yards but kicking more field goals than scoring touchdowns.

The following teams are on bye this week: New York Jets, Oakland Raiders, St Louis Rams, & Cleveland Browns

1. Tennessee Titans At Baltimore Ravens -- The Titans D has carried the team on its back to its 4-0 record and continues to play very well as they held the Vikings (w/ a healthy Peterson) to only 80 rushing yards while getting a pick, 3 fumbles & 4 sacks. The Ravens offense is pretty limited and as we saw last Monday night Flacco might be a solid talent but still has a lot to learn and can be exploited by a good defense.

2. Chicago Bears At Detroit Lions -- After being abused by Brian Griese the week before (maybe he's still mad the Bears had Rex Grossman ranked above him on the depth chart for so many years) the Bears looked like their former selves as they harassed McNabb and the Eagles. Watch to see how banged up they are as some defensive starters did not finish that Eagles game due to injuries. The Bears will need their starting corners to contain Roy Williams & Calvin Johnson. Another plus Hester is back and is playing at or near 100% and the Bears averaged 5 sacks and over 2 turnovers vs. the Lions last season.

3. Buffalo Bills At Arizona Cardinals -- An offense capable of putting up some points however Warner was a turnover machine the week before and Boldin might not play this week after getting his bell rung. Only downside here is if your league penalizes for yards given up as Warner has the potential for big fantasy games from time to time. But the Bills (currently ranked #5 in points against & #6 vs. the pass) are still a top ranked defense and have the ability to get turnovers which should be a big plus against Warner especially after last week.

4. New England Patriots At San Francisco 49ers -- Yes the Miami Browns just toasted this D two weeks ago however Belichick is scary good coming out of bye weeks. The Pats have won their last 10 games with 2 weeks of prep by an average of 13.6 points (that includes playoffs) which is a scary thought if you are a NIner fan.

5. Green Bay Packers Vs. Atlanta Falcons -- Turner seems containable unless you have a very bad run D and Matt Ryan is still learning on the job making the Pack a good start at home. The Packers D & special teams have also made some plays this year (9 sacks, 3 fumbles recovered, 8 interceptions, & 4 touchdowns).

6. Dallas Cowboys Vs. Cincinnati Bengals -- The Bengals have looked a little better these last two weeks but nothing near the offensive team we had gotten used to these last few years. It will be an even better start if Carson Palmer can't go again as Ryan Fitzpatrick will have a much tougher day than he had vs. the Browns. The Cowboys D hasn't shownus anything great this year but should be a solid start here.

7. Pittsburgh Steelers At Jacksonville Jaguars -- Garrard looked pretty hard to stop last week but that was against the Texans. The Steelers defense should make things much more difficult for Garrard and the Jags running game still hasn't taken off this year like in previous years.

8. San Diego Chargers At Miami Dolphins -- Yes the Miami Browns made the Pats look bad with that college formation but the Chargers should be expecting the unexpected and we should expect the Miami Browns to come back to earth this week.

9. Indianapolis Colts At Houston Texans -- Yes the Texans are looking better lately with Slaton greatly improving their running game and the Colts are still without team leader and run stuffing safety Bob Sanders I however think Dungy's unit steps up after their bye week and has a decent fantasy day making it tough for Schaub and limiting Slaton's success on the ground.

10. New York Giants Vs. Seattle Seahawks -- Hasselbeck gets a few receivers back this week however the Giants should return from their bye week to put a lot of pressure on Hasselbeck and get at least a few sacks and turnovers.

11. Philadelphia Eagles Vs. Washington Redskins -- The Eagles defense has been very hot and cold this year however I like them at home in this yet another tough divisional rivalry game.

12. Seattle Seahawks At New York Giants -- Without Plaxico I see the possibility of Eli having a pretty bad game as the Seahawks rank #9 vs. the run right now and have the potential for a big fantasy game.

13. Carolina Panthers Vs. Kansas City Chiefs -- The Panthers D has been looking a little better every week (now ranked #6 in points against) and really only has to contain Larry Johnson in order to have a good fantasy game.

14. Baltimore Ravens Vs. Tennessee Titans -- The Ravens D has been tough to run on this year but I see theTitans dominating time of possession and running on the Ravens this week with a nice dose of Lendale White & Chris Johnson, 2 backs who run very differently but are both hard to contain. I also don't see Collins making too many errors making me bench the Ravens on one of my fantasy teams this week.

The following teams have a bye week 4: Detroit Lions, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, N.Y. Giants, Seattle Seahawks, New England Patriots

1. Buffalo Bills At St Louis Rams -- The Bills showed us some flaws against the Raiders however this is still a very solid defense and with Hester likely out another week Parrish, McKelvin & McGee give the Bills the best return game in the NFL right now. The Rams are usually more dangerous at home in their dome however the O line continues to struggle for them and Jackson/Holt/Bulger has been unable to break out at all as the O is avergaing less than 10 points a game. The greatest show on turf is definitely on hiatis right now.Update: Trent Green will be starting for the Rams now as Bulger has been benched for his bad play. The good news is the O line is still just as bad and the Rams should still struggle.

2. Pittsburgh Steelers Vs. Baltimore Ravens -- Even with McGahee apparently healthy now this offense still looks very flawed. The Steelers swarming defense will be rookie QB Flacco's first real test as so far the Ravens have played 2 terrrible defenses (Cin, Cle). The modern day "Steel Curtain" is averaging 3.3 sacks and 2 picks per game (only 2 fumbles recovered this year) against some pretty good offenses. It definitely sets this Monday Night game up to be a possible defensive clinic.

3. Philadelphia Eagles At Chicago Bears -- While Kyle Orton is a definite improvement at QB for the Bears, I see the O line having all sorts of problems with the pressure the Eagles will bring. The Eagles have surprised many with how good their defense has played (despite those 40+ points they gave up on last Monday Night). They exploded for 9 sacks last weeks against the Steelers meaning Orton might be in for a very long game.

4. Tennessee Titans At Minnesota Vikings -- The Titans D continues to carry the Titans who have had bad QB play from Young & Collins. The defense/special teams has scored a touchdown in their last two games and they continue to rack up turnovers (8, 7 of them interceptions) and sacks (11). I do think the Titans give up some yardage on the ground (Titans are reanked 10th vs. the run) as Peterson is pretty hard to contain but Gus Ferotte will have a tough day. The Titans will give up more than their less than 10 points per game average but they should still be one of the better units to start this week.

5. Jacksonville Jaguars At Houston Texans -- The Jags D has been pretty mediocre this season but put up a nice showing against the Colts. Schaub and Johnson have success when they can hook up with the long ball and rookie Slaton is showing this Texans offense does have some teeth, however I think Del Rio's unit continues to improve and they take advantage of this low end to mediocre offense and show us that their performance against the Colts was not just a fluke.

6. Chicago Bears Vs. Philadelphia Eagles -- Despite how bad the Bears defense looked last week they almost literally had to play 5 quarters to lose that game to the Bucs as the Bears offense continues to be very bad. The Bears defense is still very strong and dangerous to opposing teams, only problem is they have shown they are vulnerable these last fews weeks as Jonathon Stewart and Brian Griese can attest to. Bad new for the Bears Westbrook appears to be only with minor injury to his ankle and will most likely play (McNabb as well) and Devin Hester might miss a second straight week with his rib injury. I expect the Eagles to put some points on the board but I also expect the Bears to get a few sacks and turnovers and maybe even a defensive score.

7. Carolina Panthers Vs. Atlanta Falcons -- The Panthers defense has looked pretty good against some good running teams (they've faced LT, Peterson, & Forte) but haven't really done too much fantasy scoring besides their week one defensive touchdown. The good news is rookie Matt Ryan is coming to Carolina and as long as they keep a cap on Michael "Burner" Turners like the Bucs did week 2 (only 42 rush yards) they should be able to take advantage of the rook's inexperience.

8. Minnesota Vikings At Tennessee Titans -- This should be a very interesting match up as the Vikings vaunted run defense (#4) collides with the running attack of Lendale White & rookie Chris Jones (6th best in the NFL). While I see the Vikes having trouble stopping the Titans running success, the Titans have really been carried by their defense so far and Kerry Collins will continue to make a few mistakes the Vikings D can capitalize on. I don't see a huge fantasy day for the Vikes D but I see a solid game as both teams run out the clock.

9. Dallas Cowboys Vs Washington Redskins -- Since their atrocious start to start the season the Redskins have looked much stronger however Campbell continues to make many errors and this Cowboys D is still playing pretty well against some pretty high octane offenses. The Cowboys might give up some points and yards but are a solid start here.

OIther Defenses Worth A Good Look: San Diego Chargers At Oakland Raiders -- No Merriman but it is the Raiders, Baltimore Ravens At Pittsburgh Steelers -- Big Ben has an injured hand and the Ravens have been solid this year. Watch for reports on Ben's hand as it will greatly affect this game, Denver Broncos At Kansas City Chiefs --This much maligned unit will get their chance to show they aren't as bad as their stat lines, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Vs. Green Bay Packers --The Bucs are a tough defense to play at home and the Packer running game has been very slow to get off the ground.

1. New York Giants Vs. Cincinnati Bengals -- The Giants look as strong as ever despite no Strahan and no Osi (I'm not even trying to spell his last name) and the Bengals offense is a mess right now. The Bengals have only scored two touchdowns this season one on the ground and the other by their defense. The Bengals have the weapons for an offensive explosion but right now they are a mess.

2. New England Patriots Vs. Miami Dolhins -- Pennington gives some more credibility to this offense but the highly touted running game of Ronnie and Ricky have been bad and the Patriots are playing even tougher now that Brady is out.

3. Chicago Bears Vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- The Bears continue to score from their D & special teams play but not getting much help from their offense. Griese was a former Bear so this should be interesting to watch but this game should be a defensive struggle. It appears Hester may be injured but not much news so far and Luvie is usually pretty tight lipped about things like that. I expect Hester to play in a limited role Sunday.

4. Buffalo Bills Vs. Oakland Raiders -- The Bills defense has looked solid and the Raiders offense will struggle.

5. Tennessee Titans Vs. Houston Texans -- 2 weeks in row the Titans D has played solid and also scored a defensive touchdown in each game so far.

6. Tampa Bay Buccaneers At Chicago Bears -- The Bucs won't get many turnovers this game as Orton has been playing well and Forte is looking like he might be for real, but I do expect a low scoring affair this game

7. Seattle Seahawks Vs. St Louis Rams -- The Seahawks are struggling but so are the Rams and the Seahawks are at home, a place they were tough to beat last year (although someone forgot to tell the Niners).

8. Minnesota Vikings Vs. Carolina Panthers -- The Vikes will face a Panthers team reinforced with Steve Smith (back from suspension) and a running game gaining strength but they should keep the Panthers somewhat in check and should control the clock with Peterson's running attack.

9. Pittsburgh Steelers At Philadelphia Eagles -- The Eagles offense looked solid but so does Pitt's D this year. The Steelers will give up some points but should also score some fantasy points via a few sacks, maybe a few picks and/or fumbles.

Other D's to consider: Atlanta Falcons Vs. Kansas City Chiefs -- Who's playing QB now for the Chiefs?, Dallas Cowboys At Green Bay Packers -- Rodgers and crew look strong but Cowboys are coming off a big win, Baltimore Ravens Vs. Cleveland Browns -- Browns offense has struggled so far this year

1. Chicago Bears At Carolina Panthers -- Just ask Peyton Manning, then throw in no Steve Smith (suspension) and throw in the chance Hester might get a ball kicked his way.

2. Seattle Seahawks Vs. San Francisco 49ers -- The Seahawks will have to contain Frank Gore and they should have no worries beyond that as I'm not sold on JT O'Sullivan.

3. New York Giants At St. Louis Rams -- Rams play much better on turf but that pass rush looks just as dangerous despite not having both starting ends on the field anymore.

4. Carolina Panthers Vs. Chicago Bears -- Orton manages the game much better than Turnoverasurus Rex however Forte's performance was a fluke and the Bears will again need help from defense and special teams to pull out a win.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Vs. Atlanta Falcons -- I think the Bucs load up on Turner and take advantage of any rookie mistakes Ryan most likely will make.

6. Buffalo Bills At Jacksonville Jaguars -- Dick Jauron's defensive unit looked tough against the Seahawks and Roscoe Parrish also adds to the equation.

Other D's worth a look: New England Patriots At New York Jets, Tennessee Titans At Cincinatti Bengals, Indianapolis Colts At Minnesota Vikings, Pittsburgh Steelers At Cleveland Browns.

1. New England Patriots Vs Kansas City Chiefs -- Brodie Croyle

2. Chicago Bears At Indianapolis Colts -- Manning might shred the D but Hester can hurt them right back. The Colts might even take a big enough lead that they'll foolishly kick to him.

3. Minnesota Vikings At Green Bay Packers -- Rodgers is very unproven and the Vikings defense is very opportunistic.

4. Indianapolis Colts Vs. Chicago Bears -- Orton manages the game better than Turnoverasaurus Rex however the Bears offense is terrible.

5. Pittsburgh Steelers Vs. Houston Texans -- I like Schaub running the Texans offense but they still have a lot to improve upon.

6. Jacksonville Jaguars At Tennessee Titans -- Titans might have a good ground game but their passing attack is very flawed.

Other D's worth a good look: San Diego Chargers Vs. Carolina Panthers (minus Steve Smith), Detroit Lions At Atlanta Falcons, Seattle Seahawks At Buffalo BIlls, Philadelphia Eagles Vs. St Louis Rams, Dallas Cowboys At Cleveland Browns, Tennessee Titans At Jacksonville Jaguars

I've ranked these defenses based on defense and their special teams units. Many fantasy leagues greatly vary in the way defenses score so make sure to learn your system and maybe check some stats before selecting your defense this year. For example if your league doesn't allow special team points The Bears lose some value as Devin Hester will do you no good. For the most part my key drafting strategies is to let a few owners overpay for the overly hyped units of the year and then find some value late. Its somewhat of a crapshoot when you draft defenses later in the draft but its a huge error to jump the gun and draft those Bears way too early (every league has one guy who does it). I'd rather keep loading up on running backs or receivers as those first D's are taken. Those bye weeks and injuries can decimate a great fantasy starting line up.

1. Chicago Bears Bye: 8

2. MInnesota Vikings Bye: 8

3. San Diego Chargers Bye: 9

4. New England Patriots Bye: 4

5. Dallas Cowboys Bye: 10

6. Jacksonville Jaguars Bye: 7

7. Pittsburgh Steelers Bye: 6

8. New York Giants Bye: 4

9. Seattle Seahawks Bye: 4

10. Indianapolis Colts Bye: 4

11. Green Bay Packers Bye: 8

12. Washington Redskins Bye: 10

13. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Bye: 10

14. Philadelphia Eagles Bye: 7

15. Baltimore Ravens Bye: 10

16. Buffalo Bills Bye: 6

17. Oakland Raiders Bye: 5

18. New York Jets Bye: 5

19. Tennessee Titans Bye: 6

20. Denver Broncos Bye: 8