NFL Preview - Washington (1-0) at Philadelphia (0-1)
(Sports Network) - Donovan McNabb returns to the scene of his devastating knee injury on Monday night, when the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback leads his team into the latest installment of a division rivalry with the Washington Redskins.
McNabb will be playing his first meaningful game at Lincoln Financial Field since last Nov. 19th, when he tore his right ACL after being nudged out of bounds by Tennessee Titans defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch. The five-time Pro Bowl honoree would miss the final eight games of the 2006 campaign, and would watch as backup Jeff Garcia rallied Philly from a 5-5 start to a 10-6 record and a division title.
Garcia is now a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and McNabb is attempting to work himself back to 100 percent health.
After appearing sparingly in the preseason, the Syracuse product played to mixed reviews in last week's 16-13 loss at Green Bay.
McNabb completed just 15-of-33 passes for 184 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the defeat, running his career record to 3-5 in Week 1 starts.
On Monday, McNabb will be trying to keep Philadelphia from its first 0-2 opening since 2003.
The Redskins, meanwhile, will be attempting to build on last week's 16-13 overtime win over the Dolphins, and will also be trying to reverse some dismal recent history against the Eagles.
Washington is 2-9 in its last 11 meetings with Philadelphia, and has averaged just 14.2 points per game over that span.
SERIES HISTORY
The Redskins hold a 74-64-5 lead in their all-time series with the Eagles, but were swept in a home-and-home by their NFC East rival last season. Washington was a 27-3 loser at Lincoln Financial Field in Week 10, and dropped a 21-19 decision at FedEx Field in Week 14. Washington swept a 2005 home-and-home with Philly, including a 31-20 road win.
In addition to their regular season advantage, the Redskins won the only postseason meeting between the clubs, a 20-6 road triumph in a 1990 NFC First- Round Playoff.
Washington head coach Joe Gibbs is 19-12 against the Eagles in his career, including the aforementioned playoff victory. Philadelphia's Andy Reid is 11-5 versus the Redskins since taking over in 1999, including 4-2 against Gibbs.
WHEN THE REDSKINS HAVE THE BALL
The strength of the Redskins offense in their win over the Dolphins was the running game, which saw Clinton Portis and Ladell Betts combined for 157 yards and a touchdown on 34 combined carries. Portis led the way with 98 yards and a score on 17 totes, in what was his first action since his 2006 ended prematurely due to a broken hand. The former Pro Bowler scored Washington's only touchdown of the day, a 19-yarder in the third quarter. Quarterback Jason Campbell was not at his sharpest, finishing the day 12-of-21 for 222 yards with two interceptions, and failing to throw a touchdown pass in a start for the first time in his young career. The club did see some progress in the receiving game however, with Antwaan Randle El turning in a career-best 162- yard day. Usual top targets Santana Moss (3 receptions, 28 yards) and tight end Chris Cooley (1 reception, 10 yards) were not as productive, however. Washington also lost right tackle Jon Jansen for the season due to a broken ankle in the victory.
A new-look Eagles linebacking corps looked good in the season-opening loss to Green Bay, but will face a much tougher task in facing Washington's stronger running game. New starters Takeo Spikes (9 tackles), Omar Gaither (3 tackles), and Chris Gocong (3 tackles) were at the heart of a unit that allowed just 46 ground yards on the day, while third-year man Mike Patterson contributed 10 stops and a sack from his interior line position. The pass rush received high marks against the Packers as well, with ends Trent Cole and Jevon Kearse combining for two of the team's four sacks on the day. In the secondary, cornerback Sheldon Brown was credited with his first interception of the season, but the Eagles took a hit when corner Lito Sheppard was lost for up to a month with a knee problem.
WHEN THE EAGLES HAVE THE BALL
Though McNabb will garner most of the headlines for Philadelphia in the build- up to Monday's contest, Washington will likely be just as focused on stopping running back and D.C-area native Brian Westbrook. The former Pro Bowler highlighted the Eagles' Week 1 loss, leading the Birds in both the ground (20 carries, 85 yards) and pass-catching games (6 receptions, 46 yards). McNabb will try to get his receivers more involved this week, specifically Reggie Brown (1 reception, 14 yards), Kevin Curtis (2 receptions, 53 yards), and tight end L.J. Smith (2 receptions, 14 yards), who were all mostly quiet in defeat. McNabb's most productive target was second-year man Jason Avant, who hauled in three passes for 54 yards and scored the club's lone touchdown of the day on a nine-yard play in the second quarter. McNabb was sacked just once against Green Bay.
A Redskins defense that had major trouble making plays in 2006 made a bit of progress against the Dolphins, managing to pry a turnover away from Miami and even getting to quarterback Trent Green for a couple of sacks. Linebacker Rocky McIntosh forced a Jesse Chatman fumble that was recovered by cornerback Shawn Springs in the second quarter, though the Redskins were unable to turn the miscue into any points. The sacks went to the blossoming McIntosh and defensive end Andre Carter, who built on a strong final month of '06 with his first QB takedown of the year. New faces in the Washington defensive lineup included middle linebacker London Fletcher, who made a team-best 12 tackles, and rookie safety LaRon Landry, the club's first-round draft pick who contributed three sacks to the proceedings. The Skins allowed just 273 yards of total offense in the win, including 66 on 20 carries in the ground game.
FANTASY FOCUS
McNabb and Portis were both seen as risky Week 1 fantasy plays, since managers weren't sure what either player would do coming off of their injuries. Those that started McNabb were likely disappointed, while those who put Portis in the lineup were largely rewarded for the risk. McNabb should get better from Week 1 to Week 2, and is worth starting. Elsewhere for the Eagles, Westbrook always puts up numbers, David Akers is a reliable kicker, and the defense tends to turn in a few big plays. Stay away from this team's receivers, however. Washington has little to recommend besides perhaps Portis and maybe hot-and-cold tight end Chris Cooley, though kicker Shaun Suisham (three field goals last week) might get some consideration in a few leagues. Those who start Randle El based on last week's performance are likely to get burned - last Sunday was just the second 100-yard receiving game of the wideout's six- year pro career.
OVERALL ANALYSIS
Though these opponents experienced opposite results in Week 1, both showed a great deal about the teams they will likely become. The Redskins barely beat a pretty poor Dolphins club, not displaying much offensive consistency and still searching long and hard for big plays on defense. The Eagles lost to an inferior Packers team based mainly on special teams gaffes, but played reasonably well on defense and showed most of their rust on offense, where McNabb is not 100 percent. As he gets closer to full health, look for the quarterback to begin looking like himself again, and for Philly to restore its winning ways. Meanwhile, look for the same old Washington team to begin receding into its familiar place in the darkness with a loss on Monday night, setting suffering Skins fans up for yet another journey to the land of sub-.500.
Sports Network Predicted Outcome: Eagles 28, Redskins 10
Key NFL line moves
Covers.com
Green Bay Packers at New York Giants: +1 ½ to – 2 ½
Oddsmakers were scrambling all week to find the latest news on New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning. The fourth-year pro fell awkwardly on his throwing shoulder during Sunday night’s game. There were whispers Manning might miss four weeks with a shoulder separation. However, the latest reports suggest he’ll be a game-time decision.
“I opened the game at –2 and that’s where we’re at right now,” says John Avello, director of race and sports operations for Wynn Las Vegas. “I was probably about one point or 1 1/2 points higher than anybody else. My thinking was Manning would play.”
There’s a significant drop off between Manning and backup Jared Lorenzen. The hefty Lorenzen (285 pounds) has never started a game in his three pro seasons.
New York Jets at Baltimore Ravens: -9 ½ to –12 ½
This is another contest where injuries play a major role in the betting line. Chad Pennington, New York’s top signal caller, has a badly bruised ankle and may have to sit out.
“He’s got leadership skills and he can move the offense,” Avello says of Pennington. “The thing you have to worry about if the backup plays (Kellen Clemens) is turnovers. Young quarterbacks get the jitters. Turnovers are killers.”
The Ravens have medical issues of their own. Quarterback Steve McNair (groin) is not expected to play and Pro Bowl left tackle Jonathan Ogden is out indefinitely with a sore toe.
Seattle Seahawks at Arizona Cardinals: +3 to +2 ½
Some sports books moved this game off the key number of three despite Arizona’s poor offensive performance last Monday. Avello says he’s unconcerned about Seahawks running back Shaun Alexander who will be wearing a protective brace over his wrist.
“He should be fine. The thing that worries you about the Seahawks is that they’re a great home team, but just average on the road. I think Arizona can hang around in this game.”
The Cards beat Seattle the last time the two clubs met, 27-21
Atlanta Falcons at Jacksonville Jaguars: -10, to –11 ½
The Jags aren’t the league’s most offensively gifted team and the sports books keep taking more and more points from them. Though Jacksonville didn’t impress last week, Avello says many bettors have high expectations for the club.
“I set the over/under season win total for them at nine, and I got a lot of people taking the over. I think most people see this as a bounce-back game for them. Plus, nobody likes Atlanta right now. I’m not getting much action on Atlanta’s side.”
Jacksonville has failed to cover the last five times it’s been listed as a double-digit favorite.
Between the 20's
By ASA
Highest Total
According to the Sports Books: San Diego at New England (47 total)
In Reality: Seattle at Arizona. Both of these offenses struggled in their season openers but expect the kinks to be worked out by the time kickoff rolls around. Seattle and Arizona totaled 48 points in their second meeting last year and could very well match, if not surpass, that total this time around. Quarterbacks Matt Hasselbeck and Matt Leinart each have numerous weapons at their disposal and will use those weapons accordingly. The Seahawks and Cardinals combined to go 20-12 in the over last year with the over going 5-1 in the last six meetings between the franchises. That trend could easily hold true in this meeting
Lowest Total
According to the Sports Books: New York Jets at Baltimore (33.5 total)
In Reality: Washington at Philadelphia. The Redskins and Eagles combined for just 29 total points in the season's opening week and they might not eclipse that total in this game. The under is 5-1-1 in the last seven meetings between these NFC East rivals with an average total of just 35.8 points per game. Donovan McNabb didn't look fully recovered from his knee surgery last week against the Packers and could struggle again versus a Redskins defense that allowed just 13 points and 273 total yards to the Dolphins a week ago. Washington did most of its damage last week on the ground, running for 191 yards. The Eagles are extremely tough against the run, though, as evidenced by their 46 rushing yards allowed to Green Bay last week. Jason Campbell can't carry the offense quite yet.
Widest Spread
According to the Sports Books: Chicago (-12) vs. Kansas City
In Reality: Cincinnati (-7) at Cleveland. The Bengals have dominated in-state rival Cleveland recently and could very well continue to do so in this year's first meeting. Cincinnati has won the last five meetings in the series, going 4-1 ATS in those games, and has won by an average margin of 14.8 points. The Bengals swept the two-game series last season, winning by a combined total of 64-17 for an average margin of victory of 23.5 points a game. The Browns are in absolute disarray right now and will struggle against an extremely confident Cincinnati squad.
Most Influential Injury
Chad Pennington's ankle: The cheering of Pennington's injury last week in the Meadowlands not only showed a lack of class, it also showed a lack of a clue. Pennington was 16-of-21 with two touchdowns before leaving with an injury and his absence will be felt this week against the Ravens. He may not have the strongest arm but Pennington manages a game as good as any other quarterback in the league. That's exactly what teams need against a defense like Baltimore's. Now the Jets must send second-year quarterback Kellen Clemens, who will be making his first career start, up against what will be an angry Ravens defense.
Biggest Mismatch
Pittsburgh running attack vs. Buffalo front seven: The Buffalo front seven was picked on in this space last week and it did nothing to discourage me from doing so again. The Bills surrendered 171 rushing yards on 5.3 yards per carry against the Broncos last week and will face an even more difficult task this week. The Steelers are second in the NFL in rushing after totaling 206 rushing yards against the Browns last week. The entire Pittsburgh offense is predicated on a successful running game so the Steelers will go to Willie Parker early and often in order to set up the passing attack. Expect the Buffalo front seven to get pushed around once again.
Most Important Player
Colts safety Bob Sanders: The Tennessee offensive line absolutely dominated the trenches in last year's two meetings with Indianapolis, tallying 433 yards on 6.6 yards per carry. The Titans proved their running game is just as dangerous this year, totaling 282 rushing yards against a supposedly stout Jacksonville stop unit last week. Tennessee has three viable running options with varying styles in backs Chris Brown and LenDale White and quarterback Vince Young. Sanders, who will likely be the eighth man in the box in this game, needs to make an impact along the line of scrimmage if the Colts are to have any chance of slowing Tennessee's running game. Containing Young will be especially important as he scrambled six times on third downs - resulting in six first downs - in last seasons' 20-17 Tennessee win.
Potential ATS Upset of the Week
Tennessee (+7) over Indianapolis: No team in the NFL played the Colts tougher than the Titans last year, not even the Patriots. Indianapolis won 16 games last year and did so by an average of more than eight points per game. In two games against Tennessee, the Colts were actually outscored 33-31, including a 20-17 loss at the Titans. Indy looked extremely impressive in its first defense of its Super Bowl title but Tennessee looked strong in its season opener as well. The Titans covered by an average of 13.3 points per game in last year's meetings and could very well cover the spread again in this one.
Sunday Morning Scoop
Houston vs. Carolina
Texans
Jason Simmons (S)—Simmons will miss the remainder of the 2007 campaign after tearing his left patella tendon in last week’s victory over the Chiefs.
On the defensive front, the Texans have listed Amobi Okoye, Ndukwe Kalu and Travis Johnson as questionable. If all three of the linemen cannot go, the Panthers’ rushing game could be upgraded even more.
Panthers
Chris Gamble (CB)—Gamble, who had been injured with ankle problems, played in Sunday’s opener against the Rams, registering six solo tackles. He is not expected to miss the battle with the Texans.
Stanley McClover (DE) – A thigh injury has McClover listed as doubtful for today’s game.
Deke Cooper (S) – With Nate Salley out, the Panthers can’t really afford to lose much more in the defensive backfield, but Cooper is listed as questionable.
Nate Salley (S) – Salley is out with a knee injury.
Indianapolis vs. Tennessee
Colts
Joseph Addai (RB) – Addai left after the Colts’ first offensive play against the Saints, but was able to return to the game. Fantasy owners should have no concern about Addai’s status heading into this week’s game against the Titans – which is a very favorable fantasy match-up for the second year player.
Freddy Keiaho (LB) – Keiaho suffered an elbow injury against New Orleans, but commented on Monday – “it feels a lot better…I’ve been getting a lot better.” Head coach Tony Dungy commented he thought Keiaho would play earlier in the week, but the linebacker is listed as doubtful.
Charlie Johnson (OT) – Coach Dungy commented Johnson is still needing some time off before returning to the field. Don’t expect Johnson to play this week.
Rob Morris (LB) – Morris is listed as questionable with a rib injury. With Keiaho hurting, it is important to have Morris on the field.
Titans
Chris Henry (RB) – Henry missed Sunday’s game against Jacksonville with a hamstring injury, but the Titans have not listed him on the injury report for week two.
New Orleans vs. Tampa Bay
Saints
Mark Campbell (TE) – Campbell is out with a back injury. Campbell wasn’t much of a fantasy option, but it will mean more playing time for Eric Johnson.
Buccaneers
Patrick Chukwurah (LB)—Chukwurah will not play Sunday due to a torn MCL in his right knee.
Brian Kelly (CB)—Kelly strained his groin against the Seahawks and is listed as doubtful in week two. He could be out several weeks.
Cadillac Williams (RB)—Williams suffered bruised ribs in the third quarter of week one. He is listed as questionable for week two.
Jeff Garcia (QB)—Garcia was shaken up briefly in week one, but there is no injury concern for the veteran quarterback.
Chris Hovan (DT) – Hovan is listed as questionable with an ankle injury.
San Francisco vs. St. Louis
49ers
The 49ers don’t have any significant injuries, but defensive backs Dashon Goldson, Marcus Hudson and Shawntae Spencer are probable for today’s game against the Rams. With the Rams passing attack, it is critical that the defensive secondary is 100 percent.
Rams
Orlando Pace (OT)— Pace will miss the rest of the 2007 season with a shoulder injury.
Drew Bennett (WR)—Bennett did not play Sunday due to his hamstring injury, but has been upgraded to probable for Sunday.
Richie Incognito (OT)—Incognito did not play last Sunday due to his high ankle sprain and has been ruled out for today’s game.
Pisa Tinoisamoa (LB)—Pisa was on crutches Monday following an ankle injury. He is questionable for week two.
Tye Hill (CB) – Hill injured his back earlier this week in practice and could be out four to six weeks.
Buffalo vs. Pittsburgh
Bills
Jason Webster (CB) – Webster suffered a broken forearm against Denver and the cornerback is out for the year. With Webster out, the Bills defensive secondary is thinned out even more. This definitely makes the Steeler passing game an even more attractive option for week two.
Coy Wire (LB) – Wire left the field in the first quarter, but never returned to the game. Wire left under his own power, but suffered a grade 2 sprain of his MCL and head coach Dick Jauron has said he will be out indefinitely.
Ko Simpson (FS) – The Bills had a tough day with injuries against the Broncos, as Simpson suffered a broken ankle in the first quarter. Simpson is likely done for the year and had surgery on his injury on Monday.
Kevin Everett (TE) – Everett suffered a cervical spine injury during the loss to Denver, which is a serious injury. Everett had to undergo emergency surgery last week, but has made progress. Everett is out this week and will be out for the remainder of the season.
Ryan Denney (DE) – Denney underwent foot surgery in the preseason and will return around week six or seven.
Josh Reed (WR) – Reed is questionable with a thigh injury, but doesn’t have much fantasy value against a tough Steeler defense.
Steelers
Ben Roethlisberger (QB) – The Steelers quarterback took a couple of shots on Sunday against the Browns, but don’t expect it to keep him out of any action. Roethlisberger was able to shake off an ankle and arm injury to stay into the game and have his way with the Browns secondary. Roethlisberger would make a nice start against Buffalo.
Green Bay vs. N.Y. Giants
Packers
Vernand Morency (RB) – Morency was inactive for Sunday’s game against Philadelphia and the Packers aren’t sure if he will be able to go this week. Morency is battling a knee strain suffered earlier this offseason and the Packers running game was not all that impressive against the Eagles. Morency wouldn’t be too much of an upgrade, but he would help. Morency will be a gametime decision.
Greg Jennings (WR) – Jennings sat out Sunday’s game with a hamstring injury and is a likely gametime decision. If Jennings does not go, upgrade James Jones against a lackluster Giants defense.
Al Harris (CB) – Harris returned to action on Sunday, after suffering a hyperextended right elbow. The cornerback should be able to play next week.
Aaron Rouse (S) – Rouse is listed as questionable with a hamstring injury.
Donald Lee (TE) – Lee is listed as probable with a knee injury, but expect him to play. Lee is a sleeper tight end for fantasy owners.
Giants
Brandon Jacobs (RB) – Jacobs is listed as out for today’s game with a MCL sprain. Jacobs was originally thought to be out three to five weeks, but some reports indicate he could return next week. Upgrade Derrick Ward with Jacobs on the bench.
Eli Manning (QB) – Manning had a solid fantasy outing going on last Sunday night, but was unable to finish the fourth quarter with what the team was calling a bruised shoulder. Monday reports began to circulate that the quarterback suffered a separated shoulder and would be out about a month. However, later this week, Giants indicated if Manning can play through the pain of a sprained AC joint – he could play this weekend. He’ll be a gametime decision – check back with the Sunday Morning Scoop live updates.
Kevin Dockery (DB) – Dockery suffered an ankle injury and was carted off the field in last week’s contest with the Cowboys. Dockery is listed as doubtful for today’s game with an ankle injury.
Osi Umenyiora (DL) – Umenyiora was originally believed to be out two months with a MCL injury, but is listed as probable for today’s game.
Lawrence Tynes (K) – Tynes is listed as questionable with a calf injury, but the Giants have not brought in any other kickers. Don’t consider Tynes much of a fantasy option this week.
William Joseph (DT) - NJ.com is reporting Joseph has been placed on injured reserve with a back injury and will miss the remainder of the 2007 season.
Cincinnati vs. Cleveland
Bengals
Dexter Jackson (S) – A thigh injury has placed Jackson on the injury list for this week, but the Bengals expect him to play.
Deltha O’Neal (CB) – A knee injury has O’Neal listed as probable for today’s game. Expect to him to play.
Shayne Graham (K)—Graham was shaken early in Monday’s contest, missing a long field goal attempt and yielding an extra point attempt to the punter, Kyle Larson. He returned to the game and is expected to play Sunday.
Rashad Jeanty (LB) – Jeanty is out for today’s game with a shin injury.
Ethan Kilmer (S) – Kilmer is out with a knee injury.
Willie Anderson (OT)—Anderson played sparingly Monday night, keeping his games started streak alive, and is listed as probable against the Browns.
Eric Ghiaiuc (C) – The Bengals offensive line could be a concern on Sunday, as Ghiaiuc is listed as doubtful with a thumb injury.
Nedu Ndukwe (S) – Ndukwe will be questionable for today’s game with a hamstring injury.
T. J. Houshmandzadeh (WR)—T. J., suffering from a slight knee injury, played Monday night, catching nine balls for fifty yards and the game-winning score. He is probable for the Browns game.
Frostee Rucker (DE) – Rucker has been ruled out for today’s game with a hamstring injury.
Browns
Willie McGinest (LB) – McGinest missed week one with a back injury and is out for week two.
Daven Holly (CB) – Holly is trying to recover from a concussion suffered last week against the Steelers. Holly is listed as probable, but he could get toasted by Chad Johnson and the Bengals receivers.
Leigh Bodden (CB) – With Holly also battling injuries, the Browns could be in for a tough defensive outing. Bodden is questionable with a groin injury.
Antwan Peek (LB) – Peek is questionable with a foot injury.
David Zastudil (P)—Zastudil may see a lot of work, as the Browns offense is terrible. He missed the Steelers game with back problems. His status for today’s game is questionable.
Atlanta vs. Jacksonville
Falcons
D. J. Shockley (QB) — Shockley underwent successful surgery on his ACL this week. He is placed on the injured reserved list and will miss all of the 2007 season.
Rod Coleman (DT) — Coleman, who posted twenty-six total tackles in 2006, is out for three to four weeks following knee surgery.
Chris Crocker (S) — Fifth year safety Chris Crocker missed last week’s game against the Vikings and is listed as doubtful for today’s game.
Laurent Robinson (WR) – After a solid week one performance, Robinson is listed as questionable with a hamstring injury. Robinson looks like he could be making some ground on the depth chart, so an injury would be costly.
Jaguars
Josh Scobee (K) – Scobee suffered a quad injury in pregame warm-ups against Tennessee, but managed to kick a field goal and an extra point. Scobee is out for this week’s game against the Falcons and John Carney has been signed to kick for the Jaguars.
Brad Meester (C) – Meester is out for Sunday’s game with an ankle injury.
The Jaguars defense has a rash of injuries listed on this week’s injury report – defensive tackles John Henderson, Marcus Stroud and Tony McDaniel (questionable) are listed, as well as ends Reggie Hayward and Bobby McCray. Linebacker Clint Ingram is questionable, while safety Gerald Sensabaugh is probable.
Miami vs. Dallas
Dolphins
Yeremiah Bell (S)—Bell will miss the remainder of the season with an Achilles injury.
Jesse Chatman (RB)—Chatman suffered a slight knee injury Sunday, but is listed as probable for the Sunday game against Dallas.
Cowboys
Terry Glenn (WR)—Glenn underwent arthroscopic knee surgery this week and will miss four to six weeks. Glenn will try and return after that time, but upgrade Patrick Crayton until then.
Terence Newman (CB)—Newman is listed as questionable for this week’s match-up due to plantar fascitis.
Jason Ferguson (DT)—Ferguson is out for the season with a torn biceps.
Greg Ellis (LB)—Ellis is still listed as out with the foot injury that threatens his career.
Kevin Burnett (LB) – Burnett is listed as probable with an ankle injury, but the Cowboys expect to have him on the field.
Minnesota vs. Detroit
Vikings
Chester Taylor (RB) – Taylor left Sunday’s game against the Falcons with a hip injury and did not return to action. NFL.com reports the injury is a hip contusion and on Monday, the Vikings indicated Taylor could play this week against Jacksonville. If Taylor does not go, upgrade Adrian Peterson. Taylor will be a gametime decision – check Sunday Morning Scoop live updates for more information.
Mike Doss (S) – Vikings coach Brad Childress indicated Doss did some jogging this week, but indicated he did not know if the safety would play in today’s game against the Jaguars.
Robert Ferguson (WR) – Ferguson was a late signing to the Vikings and his ankle ended up keeping him out of the season opener. The Vikings are listing him as probable for week two.
Tony Richardson (RB) – Richardson is listed as questionable with a forearm injury.
Lions
Kevin Jones (RB) – The Lions made Jones one of their Sunday afternoon inactives, but the running back continues to make progress and will return in the coming weeks. Don’t expect Jones to play this week, but several reports indicated throughout the week he will be on the field for week three.
Dan Orlovsky (QB) – Orlovsky was inactive for Sunday’s game, but isn’t expected to be a fantasy option – he could be the team’s third quarterback most of the year. Orlovsky is questionable this Sunday.
T.J. Duckett (RB) – Duckett has been ruled out for Sunday’s game. Tatum Bell should see goal-line carries with Duckett out of the lineup.
Seattle vs. Arizona
Seahawks
D.J. Hackett (WR) – The Seahawks caught a tough break in week one, as Hackett suffered a high ankle sprain against the Bucs. Hackett will likely be out several weeks and while he is out, look for Nate Burleson to emerge as the Seahawks number two receiver.
LeRoy Hill (LB) – Hill is listed as doubtful with a foot injury.
Ben Obomanu (WR) – Obomanu is listed as doubtful with a hamstring injury, but he wasn’t expected to be much of a fantasy factor this Sunday.
Maurice Morris (RB) – Morris is doubtful with a hip injury and if he cannot go, Alvin Pearman will step into the number two role.
Cardinals
Chike Okeafor (DE/LB) – Suffered a torn left biceps in the preseason and has been placed on injured reserve.
Ross Kolodziej (DT) – Kolodziej is out for Sunday’s game against the Seahawks with a knee injury.
Alan Branch (DT) – Branch missed the season opener with a hand injury and has been ruled out for week two action against the Seahawks.
Al Johnson (C) – Johnson left Monday night’s game with a sprained knee and the Cardinals have declared him out for their week two match-up against the Seahawks.
Bryant Johnson (WR) – Johnson is listed as questionable with a hamstring injury. If he cannot go, Sean Morey will step up into the number three receiver position, but he has little fantasy value.
Chicago vs. Kansas City
Bears
Muhsin Muhammad (WR)—The star Bears receiver had only one catch for eight yards against the Chargers, but is listed as probable to play this week against the Chiefs.
Dusty Dvoracek (DT)—Dvorcek has been placed on injury reserve for a torn ACL.
Mike Brown (S)—Brown has likewise been placed on injury reserve for a torn ACL.
Brad Maynard (P) – Maynard is questionable with a groin injury.
Greg Olsen (TE) – Olsen missed week one with a knee injury and is listed as questionable for week two. Olsen isn’t much of a fantasy option this week.
Brian Urlacher (LB) – Don’t expect Urlacher to miss this week’s game, but he is listed as probable with a back injury.
Chiefs
Eddie Kennison (WR)—Kennison will miss the Bears game Sunday due to a hamstring injury and could be out a couple of weeks.
Keyaron Fox (LB) – Fox is listed as questionable with a back injury.
Jon McGraw (S) – McGraw is listed as questionable with a hamstring injury.
Baltimore vs. New York Jets
Ravens
Mark Clayton (WR)—Clayton played Monday night, and is listed as questionable with a toe injury against the Jets. If Clayton does not go, upgrade Demetrius Williams.
Jonathan Ogden (OT)—Ogden played Monday night against the Bengals, but left the game early with his toe injury. He is listed as doubtful for this Sunday.
Steve McNair (QB)—McNair suffered a groin injury Monday night and is listed as questionable in this AFC battle. The Ravens starter is likely a gametime decision for Sunday’s game. Check the Sunday Morning Scoop live updates for more info.
B. J. Sams (CB)—Sams will miss the rest of the Ravens 2007 season with a knee injury.
Ray Lewis (LB)—Lewis suffered a triceps injury in the first quarter Monday night. It was reported to be torn, but turned out to be only a minor injury. Lewis is questionable, but it will be hard to keep him off the field.
Daniel Wilcox (TE) – The Ravens second tight end is questionable with an ankle injury.
David Pittman (CB) – Pittman is listed as questionable with an ankle injury.
Ed Reed (S) – Reed is listed as questionable with an ankle injury. Just like Lewis, it will be difficult to keep Reed off the field.
Samari Rolle (CB) – The Ravens secondary is the walking wounded this week, as Rolle is also questionable with a foot injury.
Demetrius Williams (WR) – Williams is questionable with a chest injury.
Jets
Chad Pennington (QB)—Pennington suffered an undisclosed ankle injury Sunday against the video-phile Patriots. He is listed as questionable against the Ravens and most sources close to the team think Kellen Clemens will get his first start.
Brandon Moore (G) – Moore is listed as questionable with a shoulder injury. The Jets have a few key injuries on offense this week and losing Moore would be a pretty significant setback.
Eric Smith (S) – Smith is listed as questionable with a thigh injury. This makes three defensive backs listed as questionable for Sunday.
Thomas Jones (RB)—Jones didn’t look impressive against the Patriots, but is listed as questionable against the Ravens. He better be prepared to work hard and work often – assuming he can go later today.
Andre Dyson (CB)—Dyson did not play Sunday and is questionable this week.
Justin Miller (CB) – Miller is listed as questionable with a thigh injury.
Oakland vs. Denver
Raiders
Jeremy Newberry (C) – Newberry suffered a hamstring injury against the Lions and could miss a couple of games.
Josh McCown (QB) – The Raiders list McCown as doubtful for today’s match-up against the Broncos, but he wouldn’t be a good fantasy start against a tough defense. Daunte Culpepper is expected to start.
Michael Bush (RB)—Bush, the draft pick sensation from Louisville, has been placed on the physically unable to perform list and will not play against Detroit. Bush’s knee problems come at a terrible time for Oakland, which is currently reeling over the quarterback situation and the four-game suspension of expected starting back Dominic Rhodes.
Dominic Rhodes (RB) – Rhodes is out the first four games of the 2007 season due to a league suspension.
Isaiah Ekejiuba (LB) – Ekejiuba missed the first game of the year with a foot injury and won’t play in week two.
Broncos
Javon Walker (WR) – The Broncos top target took a couple of hard hits late in the game against the Bills, but continued to return to action after each hit. Walker does not seem to be in any jeopardy of missing next week’s game against Oakland.
Domonique Foxworth (DB) – DenverBroncos.com is reporting Foxworth suffered a sprained ankle against the Bills and he is listed as questionable for today’s game.
Ben Hamilton (C) – Due to a concussion, Hamilton missed the opening week game against the Bills and is out for week two.
Ryan Harris (T) – Harris is out four to six weeks, after undergoing back surgery in August.
Karl Paymah (CB) – Paymah missed the opening week game with a concussion and is listed as questionable for today’s game.
The Broncos have listed Tim Crowder, John Lynch and Javon Walker as probable for week two and we expect them all to play.
San Diego vs. New England
Chargers
Eric Parker (WR) – Parker is out for the first couple of weeks of the 2007 season, as he is battling a toe injury. Parker could miss around five to six games and while he is out, you can upgrade rookie Craig Davis.
The Chargers are listing Antonio Gates, Luis Castillo, Stephen Cooper and Shawne Merriman as probable – but there’s no reason to be concerned any of these players will miss time.
Patriots
David Thomas (TE) – Thomas was inactive for week one and the Patriots have listed him as questionable for today’s game. Thomas will likely be a gametime decision.
Jarvis Green (DE) – Green is questionable with a shoulder injury.
Steve Neal (G) – Neal is listed as questionable with a shoulder injury.
Tom Brady (QB) – The Patriots weekly injury diagnosis on Brady is in – and it’s the same – probable with a shoulder injury. No worries here.
Philadelphia vs. Washington
Eagles
A.J. Feeley (QB) – Feeley is listed as questionable with a hand injury and the backup quarterback underwent hand surgery on Friday. If he can’t go, Kevin Kolb will be the team’s number two guy.
L. J. Smith (TE)—Smith played through a groin injury against the Packers last Sunday, catching two balls for fourteen yards. He is listed as probable for the division match-up against the Redskins.
Lito Sheppard (CB)—Sheppard left Sunday’s game with a sprained right knee and is out for Monday night’s matchup.
Jevon Kearse, Greg Lewis, Joselio Hanson and Matt Schobel are listed as probable for Monday night’s game and the Eagles expect to have them on the field, barring a last minute setback.
Redskins
Jon Jansen (OT)—Jansen fractured his right fibula and dislocated his right ankle in Sunday’s victory over Miami. He is scheduled for surgery and will miss the rest of 2007.
Phillip Daniels (DE)—Daniels sprained his right foot Sunday. He is wearing a walking boot at this point and is listed as doubtful for Monday night’s match-up against the Eagles.
Vernon Fox (S)—Fox strained his groin in week one. He is listed as doubtful for week two.
Pierson Prioleau (S)—The Redskins safety corps was further nicked up last week with Prioleau’s hamstring injury. He left the game in week one and is questionable for the Eagles contest.
Phillip Daniels (DE) – Daniels is listed as doubtful for Monday’s game against Philadelphia – don’t expect him to play.
Colts deactivate 2 starting linebackers against Titans
September 16, 2007
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -The Indianapolis Colts deactivated starting linebackers Freddy Keiaho and Rob Morris for Sunday's game against the Tennessee Titans.
Keiaho, who played with a dislocated right elbow last week against New Orleans, made seven tackles and had an interception against the Saints. Tyjuan Hagler made his first NFL start in Keiaho's place. Hagler appeared in nine games in 2006, playing mostly special teams.
Morris had been listed as questionable with a rib injury. Former Titans linebacker Rocky Boiman started in his place.
Being short-handed at linebacker could hurt against the Titans, who boast one of the best rushing attacks in the league.
The Titans combined for 433 rushing yards last season against the Colts and are coming off a 282-yard performance in a season-opening win against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Titans deactivated defensive end Bryce Fisher, who was acquired in a trade with the Seattle Seahawks on Tuesday. Tennessee also deactivated defensive tackle Randy Starks, who did not play for the first time since his rookie season in 2004. Starks' absence leaves open more playing time for Corey Simon, a former Colts lineman who was picked up Aug. 28.
Eli Manning starts despite injury
September 16, 2007
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) -Eli Manning will start at quarterback for the New York Giants against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday after bruising his shoulder a week ago.
Manning's status had been uncertain because of his injury against Dallas last Sunday. The Giants announced about an hour before gametime there would be no changes to their starting lineup, meaning Manning would start his 41st consecutive regular-season game.
Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora also was in the lineup after bruising a knee in the 45-35 loss to Dallas.
Manning walked on the field at Giants Stadium a little more than two hours before kickoff. He threw softly with backup Jared Lorenzen about 15 minutes later and then started throwing to his receivers.
Manning threw a variety of passes, including a couple of 20-yard crossing patterns and some fade passes to the corner of the end zone. He later spent time talking with Packers quarterback Brett Favre.