The Fantasy Football Blog

Is there a Madden Cover Curse?

Now that Shaun Alexander (SEA-RB) is injured after gracing the 2007 edition, there’s more talk about the cover jinx than ever. Let’s take a year-by-year look at the game’s cover guy and what happened.

Reminder, the game names itself one year ahead, so the 2001 cover was for the 2000 season.

2001 (first year without Madden on cover) - Eddie George: Curse may have taken an extra year to take effect. George rushed for 1,509 yards and 14 TDs in 2000. Then had 939 yards and five TDs in 2001. It was his only year under 1,000 rushing yards aside from his last year when he moved to Dallas. He bounced back with 1,165 yards and 12 TDs in 2002.

2002 - Daunte Culpepper: After a tremendous 2000 (3,937 yards, 33 TDs), Culpepper struggled through an injury plagued 2001 with 2,612 yards and 14 TDs (13 INTs) in 11 games.

2003 - Marshall Faulk: Went from 2,000 combined yards and 21 TDs in 2001 to less than 1,500 and 10 TDs. Was never the same back and never reached 1,000 yards rushing after 2001.

2004 - Michael Vick: Appeared on track to stardom in 2002 with nearly 3,000 passing yards (16 TDs/8 INTs) and 800 rushing yards (8 TDs) in 15 games. Played just five games in 2003 after suffering a broken bone in his leg during the preseason (the day after the game was released).

2005 - Ray Lewis: Maybe the curse doesn’t count for defensive players?

2006 - Donovan McNabb: 2005 was a terrible year for McNabb. The T.O. saga. The sports hernia. Bad, bad year.

2007 - Shaun Alexander: Was already struggling in the first two weeks of the season before suffering a broken bone in his foot in Week 3. We’ll see when he returns.

NFL Injury Report
NEW YORK (AP) — The National Football League injury report for this week’s games, as provided by the league:

Sunday
MIAMI DOLPHINS AT HOUSTON TEXANS — Dolphins: QUESTIONABLE: G Joe Berger (Foot); LB Derrick Pope (Hamstring). PROBABLE: CB Travis Daniels (Ankle); CB Eddie Jackson (Toe). Texans: OUT: CB Demarcus Faggins (Foot). QUESTIONABLE: C Mike Flanagan (Foot); DE Antwan Peek (Groin).

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS AT KANSAS CITY CHIEFS — 49ers: OUT: G Larry Allen (Knee); TE Vernon Davis (Fibula). QUESTIONABLE: TE Delanie Walker (Shoulder); RB Frank Gore (Ribs); WR Taylor Jacobs (Hamstring); RB Maurice Hicks (Ankle). PROBABLE: RB Michael Robinson (Shoulder). Chiefs: OUT: QB Trent Green (Head). PROBABLE: T Kyle Turley (Lower Back).

DALLAS COWBOYS AT TENNESSEE TITANS — Cowboys: QUESTIONABLE: WR Terrell Owens (Hand). Titans: OUT: TE Erron Kinney (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: C Eugene Amano (Ankle); P Craig Hentrich (Back); G Benji Olson (Calf); G Zach Piller (Ankle); DT Robaire Smith (Hamstring); RB Ahmard Hall (Ankle); DE Antwan Odom (Knee); LB Robert Reynolds (Thigh); RB Chris Brown (Toe).

ARIZONA CARDINALS AT ATLANTA FALCONS — Cardinals: QUESTIONABLE: LB James Darling (Calf). PROBABLE: TE Fred Wakefield (Back). Falcons: QUESTIONABLE: DE John Abraham (Groin); LB Edgerton Hartwell (Knee). PROBABLE:: DE Patrick Kerney (Tricep); CB DeAngelo Hall (Calf).

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS AT BALTIMORE RAVENS — Chargers: OUT: S Bhawoh Jue (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: T Leander Jordan (Neck); G Kris Dielman (Hamstring); DE Igor Olshansky (Knee); WR Keenan McCardell (Hamstring); TE Ryan Krause (Hamstring). Ravens: QUESTIONABLE: WR Demetrius Williams (Arm); LB Terrell Suggs (Thigh); TE Todd Heap (Ankle); G Edwin Mulitalo (Arm); LB Bart Scott (Foot).

MINNESOTA VIKINGS AT BUFFALO BILLS — Vikings: DOUBTFUL: QB Tarvaris Jackson (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: LB Ben Leber (Knee); DT Pat Williams (Ankle). Bills: QUESTIONABLE: S Matt Bowen (Shin); LB Takeo Spikes (Hamstring); CB Kiwaukee Thomas (Back).

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS AT CAROLINA PANTHERS — Saints: OUT: S Bryan Scott (Thigh); DE Rob Ninkovich (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: CB Fred Thomas (Hip); WR Devery Henderson (Shoulder); LB Danny Clark (Hip). Panthers: OUT: LB Dan Morgan (Concussion); TE Mike Seidman (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: T Todd Fordham (Shoulder); C Justin Hartwig (Groin); S Shaun Williams (Foot). PROBABLE:: CB Ken Lucas (Neck); RB Nick Goings (Thigh); WR Steve Smith (Thigh).

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS AT NEW YORK JETS — Colts: DOUBTFUL: DT Corey Simon (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: G Jake Scott (Knee); S Bob Sanders (Knee); DT Darrell Reid (Elbow); G Ryan Lilja (Knee); DT Dan Klecko (Low Back); LB Freddie Keiaho (Knee); CB Tim Jennings (Knee); CB Marlin Jackson (Concussion); CB Kelvin Hayden (Groin); CB Nick Harper (Ankle); C Dylan Gandy (Abdomen); K Adam Vinatieri (Right Groin); TE Ben Utecht (Groin); DE Josh Thomas (Hip); WR Brandon Stokley (Ankle); T Ryan Diem (Thumb); LB Gary Brackett (Thigh). PROBABLE:: RB De De Dorsey (Ankle). Jets: QUESTIONABLE: WR Laveranues Coles (Calf); WR Tim Dwight (Hamstring); G Pete Kendall (Thigh); S Kerry Rhodes (Thigh); CB Derrick Strait (Thigh); C Trey Teague (Ankle); CB David Barrett (Thigh). PROBABLE: DE Bobby Hamilton (Knee); QB Chad Pennington (Calf); DT Kimo Von Oelhoffen (Knee); DE Shaun Ellis (Hip); DE Dave Ball (Hand); RB Kevan Barlow (Calf); LB Matt Chatham (Foot); T Anthony Clement (Shin); CB Drew Coleman (Hand).

CLEVELAND BROWNS AT OAKLAND RAIDERS — Browns: QUESTIONABLE: LB Willie McGinest (Calf); RB Reuben Droughns (Shoulder); DE Orpheus Roye (Shoulder); S Brian Russell (Elbow); DE Simon Fraser (Shoulder); TE Kellen Winslow (Knee); DE Nick Eason (Ankle); CB Gary Baxter (Pectoral); TE Darnell Dinkins (Hamstring); WR Joe Jurevicius (Ribs); G Cosey Coleman (Hand). Raiders: OUT: QB Aaron Brooks (Right Shoulder). QUESTIONABLE: DE Kevin Huntley (Foot); LB Sam Williams (Ankle); LB Grant Irons (Back). PROBABLE:: CB Fabian Washington (Hamstring); T Robert Gallery (Calf); CB Nnamdi Asomugha (Foot).

DETROIT LIONS AT ST. LOUIS RAMS — Lions: OUT: S Kenoy Kennedy (Foot); LB Alex Lewis (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: CB Fernando Bryant (Ankle); T Barry Stokes (Hamstring); T Rex Tucker (Knee); G Ross Verba (Hamstring). PROBABLE:: DT Shaun Rogers (Knee). St. Louis Rams QUESTIONABLE: T Orlando Pace (Concussion).

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS AT WASHINGTON REDSKINS — Jaguars: DOUBTFUL: RB Derrick Wimbush (Knee); DE Marcellus Wiley (Groin). QUESTIONABLE: CB Rashean Mathis (Knee); DT Marcus Stroud (Ankle); G Chris Naeole (Knee). PROBABLE:: WR Chad Owens (Ribs); S Donovin Darius (Back); WR Matt Jones (Groin); DE Paul Spicer (Groin). Redskins: DOUBTFUL: CB Shawn Springs (Abdomen). PROBABLE:: QB Mark Brunell (Left Elbow); DT Joe Salave’a (Calf).

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS AT CINCINNATI BENGALS — Patriots: QUESTIONABLE: S Artrell Hawkins (Thigh); CB Ellis Hobbs (Wrist); WR Chad Jackson (Hamstring); T Nick Kaczur (Shoulder); S Eugene Wilson (Hamstring). PROBABLE:: QB Tom Brady (Right Shoulder); WR Doug Gabriel (Hamstring); T Matt Light (Knee); T Ryan O’Callaghan (Head). Bengals: OUT: C Rich Braham (Knee); S Dexter Jackson (Ankle); WR Tab Perry (Hip); DE Frostee Rucker (Shoulder). DOUBTFUL: LB A.J. Nicholson (Ankle). QUESTIONABLE: WR Antonio Chatman (Groin); LB Rashad Jeanty (Foot). PROBABLE:: DT Sam Adams (Knee); S Kevin Kaesviharn (Neck); LB Brian Simmons (Knee); DE Justin Smith (Foot); T Levi Jones (Ankle); WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Foot).

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS AT CHICAGO BEARS — Seahawks: OUT: G Floyd Womack (Knee); DT Marcus Tubbs (Knee); TE Jerramy Stevens (Knee). DOUBTFUL: RB Shaun Alexander (Foot); DE Joe Tafoya (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: CB Jordan Babineaux (Concussion); G Chris Gray (Knee); T Sean Locklear (Knee). Bears: QUESTIONABLE: S Chris Harris (Ankle); TE Desmond Clark (Foot); WR Mark Bradley (Ankle).

Monday
GREEN BAY PACKERS AT PHILADELPHIA EAGLES — Packers: OUT: DT Kenderick Allen (Foot). DOUBTFUL: DT Ryan Pickett (Ankle). QUESTIONABLE: CB Will Blackmon (Foot); T Junius Coston (Knee); G Jason Spitz (Thigh). PROBABLE:: RB Ahman Green (Rib); DE Aaron Kampman (Head). Eagles: DOUBTFUL: CB Roderick Hood (Heel); CB Lito Sheppard (Ankle). QUESTIONABLE: S Brian Dawkins (Concussion); WR Donte’ Stallworth (Hamstring); RB Brian Westbrook (Knee). PROBABLE:: S Sean Considine (Hip); G Shawn Andrews (Shoulder); WR Reggie Brown (Shoulder); DE Darren Howard (Knee); S Michael Lewis (Quadricep); RB Reno Mahe (Ankle); LB Matt McCoy (stinger); TE L.J. Smith (Shoulder); T Tra Thomas (Foot); DT Darwin Walker (Quadricep).

See you Monday with the reactions.

Short reactions this week, but I'll be back on track next weekend. Promise.

Figures, as soon as I write a little something about Frank Gore (SF-RB), he gets injured. You should all email me and beg me not to write about your players in this spot. It may save your season.

PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Points-wise, it would probably be Brian Westbrook (PHI-RB), but I'm going with Brett Favre (GB-QB). Not to sound like Peter King (and really, it's clear that he's going to write 2,500 words on Favre in his Monday Morning Quarterback later today), but it's just nice to see the old man (Favre, that is) have a great game now and again.

GOAT OF THE DAY: Donte Stallworth (PHI-WR). Did anyone know he wasn't going to be active for today's game? So many owners got killed by that surprise this week.

AND YET: Then Steve Smith (CAR-WR) played. I would have put the odds of him suiting up at about 3 percent on Saturday night. Crazy, crazy day.

MONDAY, MONDAY: The NFL returns to New Orleans for the first time since Hurricane Katrina as the Saints host the Atlanta Falcons and two of the most hyped rookies of the past 25 years (Reggie Bush (NO-RB) and Michael Vick (ATL-QB) meet up for the first time ever.

Should be worth watching.

Sorry about the blackout last Friday, my wife went into labor late Thursday night just as I was working on my blog entry. Anyway, we should be back on schedule from here on out with Monday morning reactions and Friday extras with some other updates sprinkled in during the week here and there.


(AP)

Who's the early breakout star of the 2006 NFL season? That's easy, the man above, Frank Gore (SF-RB), who has exploded onto the scene with 214 rushing yards and three TDs in two games.

Gore has been huge in fantasy leagues because he wasn't drafted as anything more than a late No. 2 or early No. 3 back, but he's produced as well as the very best at his position. His fantasy owners are looking like geniuses and I'm kicking myself for not recommending him higher during the preseason. The key, of course, was Kevan Barlow (NY Jets-RB) being traded late in the preseason, which meant the Niners staff saw enough in Gore to decide to give him the keys instead of going with the committee.

The thing is, there are still many reasons he shouldn't be posting such impressive numbers. His quarterback is Alex Smith (SF-QB) who defenses aren't going to be too scared of. That means they can play against the run first and stuff guys in the box to stop Gore. Also, the offensive line isn't exactly the Redskins Hogs of old, and they've been fighting injuries, but they are doing enough to spring Gore.

Sometimes, logic doesn't have a place in prognostication and that certainly seems to be the case here. I'll be interested to see what Gore does in the next few weeks. He's got Philadelphia, Kansas City and Oakland coming up. Shouldn't he be able to post strong numbers in at least two of those games?

NFL Injury Report
NEW YORK (AP) — The National Football League injury report for this week’s games, as provided by the league:

Sunday
WASHINGTON REDSKINS AT HOUSTON TEXANS — Washington Redskins: QUESTIONABLE: CB Shawn Springs (Abdomen); RB Clinton Portis (Shoulder); DT Joe Salave’a (Calf). PROBABLE: TE Todd Yoder (Concussion). Houston Texans: OUT: CB Demarcus Faggins (Foot). QUESTIONABLE: CB Phillip Buchanon (Ankle); C Mike Flanagan (Foot); DE Antwan Peek (Groin). PROBABLE: LB Morlon Greenwood (Ankle).

CHICAGO BEARS AT MINNESOTA VIKINGS — Chicago Bears: QUESTIONABLE: DE Israel Idonije (Ankle); S Cameron Worrell (Knee). Minnesota Vikings: QUESTIONABLE: WR Marcus Robinson (Hamstring); G Artis Hicks (Shoulder); WR Troy Williamson (Shoulder).

NEW YORK JETS AT BUFFALO BILLS — New York Jets: DOUBTFUL: C Trey Teague (Ankle). QUESTIONABLE: CB David Barrett (Hip); WR Laveranues Coles (Calf); WR Tim Dwight (Thigh); G Pete Kendall (Thigh). PROBABLE: DE Dave Ball (Thigh); LB Matt Chatham (Foot); QB Chad Pennington (Calf); S Kerry Rhodes (Ankle); DT Kimo Von Oelhoffen (Knee). Buffalo Bills: QUESTIONABLE: LB Takeo Spikes (Hamstring); S Matt Bowen (Shin).

GREEN BAY PACKERS AT DETROIT LIONS — Green Bay Packers: DOUBTFUL: T Junius Coston (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: CB Al Harris (Shoulder); TE David Martin (Knee); CB Will Blackmon (Foot); G Jason Spitz (Thigh). Detroit Lions: OUT: WR Shaun Bodiford (Knee); S Kenoy Kennedy (Foot); LB Alex Lewis (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: T Barry Stokes (Hamstring); G Ross Verba (Hamstring); T Rex Tucker (Knee). PROBABLE: DE Cory Redding (Ankle); DT Shaun Rogers (Knee).

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS AT INDIANAPOLIS COLTS — Jacksonville Jaguars: QUESTIONABLE: RB Derrick Wimbush (Knee); S Donovin Darius (Back); WR Matt Jones (Groin); TE Marcedes Lewis (Ankle); CB Rashean Mathis (Knee); G Chris Naeole (Knee); WR Chad Owens (Ribs); LB Mike Peterson (Knee); S Gerald Sensabaugh (Ankle); DE Paul Spicer (Groin); DT Marcus Stroud (Ankle); LB Patrick Thomas (Ankle); DE Marcellus Wiley (Groin). Indianapolis Colts: QUESTIONABLE: LB Gary Brackett (Calf); RB Ran Carthon (Finger); T Ryan Diem (Hand); RB De De Dorsey (Ankle); DE Dwight Freeney (Buttock); LB Gilbert Gardner (Hand); CB Nick Harper (Ankle); TE Ben Hartsock (Hamstring); LB Freddie Keiaho (Knee); DE Ryan LaCasse (Foot); G Ryan Lilja (Knee); DT Montae Reagor (Knee); DT Darrell Reid (Elbow); S Bob Sanders (Shoulder); G Jake Scott (Knee); DT Corey Simon (Knee); QB Jim Sorgi (Right Shoulder); WR Brandon Stokley (Ankle); DE Josh Thomas (Hip); TE Ben Utecht (Concussion); K Adam Vinatieri (Right Groin).

TENNESSEE TITANS AT MIAMI DOLPHINS — Tennessee Titans: OUT: TE Erron Kinney (Knee); DE Antwan Odom (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: T Jacob Bell (Toe); RB Ahmard Hall (Ankle); RB Travis Henry (Toe); CB Reynaldo Hill (Knee); LB Robert Reynolds (Thigh); DT Robaire Smith (Hamstring). Miami Dolphins: OUT: G Joe Berger (Foot); G Bennie Anderson (IR/Triceps). QUESTIONABLE: CB Travis Daniels (Ankle); LB Derrick Pope (Hamstring); WR Marty Booker (Ankle).

CINCINNATI BENGALS AT PITTSBURGH STEELERS — Cincinnati Bengals: OUT: C Rich Braham (Knee); S Dexter Jackson (Ankle); LB A.J. Nicholson (Hamstring); WR Tab Perry (Hip). DOUBTFUL: WR Antonio Chatman (Groin); WR Antonio Chatman (Groin). QUESTIONABLE: WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Heel); WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Heel) DT Sam Adams (Knee); LB Brian Simmons (Knee); CB Deltha O’Neal (Knee); G Eric Steinbach (Back); WR Chris Henry (Groin); T Levi Jones (Ankle). Pittsburgh Steelers: QUESTIONABLE: WR Santonio Holmes (Foot); S Troy Polamalu (Shoulder);. PROBABLE: CB Bryant McFadden (Quadricep); LB Larry Foote (Groin); WR Hines Ward (Hamstring); WR Nate Washington (Finger).

CAROLINA PANTHERS AT TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS — Carolina Panthers: OUT: LB Dan Morgan (Concussion). DOUBTFUL: S Shaun Williams (Foot). QUESTIONABLE: CB Ken Lucas (Neck); WR Steve Smith (Thigh); WR Drew Carter (Hand); RB Nick Goings (Thigh); C Justin Hartwig (Groin). PROBABLE: LB Jason Kyle (Shoulder). Tampa Bay Buccaneers: OUT: G Davin Joseph (Knee); TE Dave Moore (Rib). QUESTIONABLE: DT Chris Hovan (Ankle); CB Brian Kelly (Foot); DT Anthony McFarland (Hip); LB Ryan Nece (Knee).

NEW YORK GIANTS AT SEATTLE SEAHAWKS — New York Giants: OUT: RB Derrick Ward (Foot). QUESTIONABLE: S James Butler (Knee); WR Sinorice Moss (Quadricep). PROBABLE: WR Tim Carter (Ankle); TE Jeremy Shockey (Ankle). Seattle Seahawks: OUT: TE Jerramy Stevens (Knee); G Floyd Womack (Knee). QUESTIONABLE: TE Itula Mili (Knee). PROBABLE: RB Shaun Alexander (Foot).

ST. LOUIS RAMS AT ARIZONA CARDINALS — St. Louis Rams: DOUBTFUL: T Orlando Pace (Concussion). QUESTIONABLE: LB Pisa Tinoisamoa (Elbow). Arizona Cardinals: QUESTIONABLE: LB James Darling (Calf); CB Eric Green (Groin).

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES AT SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS — Philadelphia Eagles: DOUBTFUL: CB Roderick Hood (Heel); CB Lito Sheppard (Ankle). QUESTIONABLE: TE L.J. Smith (Shoulder); RB Brian Westbrook (Knee); TE Mike Bartrum (Knee). PROBABLE: G Shawn Andrews (Shoulder); DE Darren Howard (Knee); S Michael Lewis (Quadricep); S Quintin Mikell (Thumb); RB Reno Mahe (Ankle). San Francisco 49ers: OUT: G Larry Allen (Knee); TE Delanie Walker (Shoulder). DOUBTFUL: WR Taylor Jacobs (Hamstring. QUESTIONABLE: DT Anthony Adams (Ankle). PROBABLE: DE Ronald Fields (Shoulder); T Jonas Jennings (Ankle); G Justin Smiley (Shoulder).

BALTIMORE RAVENS AT CLEVELAND BROWNS — Baltimore Ravens: QUESTIONABLE: LB Adalius Thomas (Foot); DT Aubrayo Franklin (Thigh); T Jonathan Ogden (Knee); CB Samari Rolle (Ankle); RB Musa Smith (Knee); LB Ray Lewis (Neck); DT Haloti Ngata (Back); RB Jamal Lewis (Thigh). Cleveland Browns: OUT: DE Nick Eason (Ankle). DOUBTFUL: TE Darnell Dinkins (Hamstring); CB Gary Baxter (Pectoral); DE Orpheus Roye (Shoulder); WR Joe Jurevicius (Ribs). QUESTIONABLE: LB Willie McGinest (Calf); S Brian Russell (Elbow); RB Reuben Droughns (Shoulder). PROBABLE: TE Kellen Winslow (Knee).

DENVER BRONCOS AT NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS — Denver Broncos: OUT: RB Cedric Cobbs (Ankle). DOUBTFUL: DE Courtney Brown (Knee). PROBABLE: RB Mike Bell (Finger); WR Rod Smith (Head). New England Patriots: QUESTIONABLE: S Artrell Hawkins (Thigh); WR Chad Jackson (Hamstring); T Nick Kaczur (Shoulder). PROBABLE: QB Tom Brady (Right Shoulder); T Matt Light (Knee); WR Doug Gabriel (Hamstring).

Monday
ATLANTA FALCONS AT NEW ORLEANS SAINTS — Atlanta Falcons: QUESTIONABLE: WR Roddy White (Shoulder); LB Edgerton Hartwell (Knee); DE John Abraham (Groin). PROBABLE: DE Patrick Kerney (Tricep); S Kevin Mathis (Hamstring); G Kynan Forney (Shoulder); T Wayne Gandy (Groin). New Orleans Saints: DOUBTFUL: RB Mike Karney (Calf). QUESTIONABLE: DT Brian Young (Shoulder). PROBABLE: C Jeff Faine (Foot); LB Terrence Melton (Hamstring)

See you Monday morning for the Sunday reactions.

You may have heard that Deion Branch (WR) was traded to Seattle this week. Here are Peter King's thoughts on the deal. Sounds like Branch will not play this weekend.

The Packers traded Samkon Gado (RB) to Houston for Vernand Morency (RB). Gado could be the starter there eventually.

Sounds like Steve Smith (Carolina-WR) is still a big question mark this week. This could get old in a hurry for his owners.

Joe Jurevicius (Cleveland-WR) is out this weekend.

Pete Prisco has the NFL power ratings.

Some big names didn't perform up to par this weekend and their fantasy owners are licking their wounds heading into Monday night.

Shaun Alexander (SEA-RB) looked like a guy suffering from a (Madden cover) jinx, going for just 51 yards and no scores. Larry Johnson (KC-RB), the guy even rookie Reggie Bush (NO-RB) said he'd take No. 1, was ok (68 rushing yards, 80 receiving yards) but not exactly up to the lofty expectations he carries. He's got to score touchdowns. We'll see if the third of the "Big 3" LaDainian Tomlinson (SD-RB) can do better tonight.

PLAYER OF THE DAY: There were plenty of candidates, but Donovan McNabb (PHI-QB) showed that there's life without Terrell Owens (DAL-WR) and that he'll be back among the NFL MVP candidates this season after a nightmarish 2005. McNabb hooked up with recently acquired Donte Stallworth (PHI-WR) for six catches, 141 yards and a touchdown in the Eagles win over Houston. McNabb finished with 314 yards and three TDs.

SPEAKING OF T.O.: He had a pretty good Cowboys debut despite his and Drew Bledsoe's (DAL-QB) timing clearly being off. Owens finished with six catches for 80 yards and a touchdown.

GOAT OF THE DAY: Alexander. Killed a bunch of fantasy teams this week.

GORE!: Frank Gore (SF-RB) may just be the breakout back of 2006. After Kevan Barlow (NYJ-RB) was traded in the preseason, Gore was given featured-back status and finished Sunday's loss to Arizona with 87 rushing yards, 83 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Now, if he can just keep from losing two fumbles every game, we might have something (and the Niners might actually win).

ROOKIE BACKS: Reggie Bush (NO-RB), Laurence Maroney (NE-RB), Jerious Norwood (ATL-RB) and Mike Bell (DEN-RB) all looked great in their regular season debuts. Bush got plenty of touches (14 carries, eight receptions for a total of 119 yards) despite splitting time with Deuce McAllister (NO-RB), who finished with 22 carries for 90 yards. Maroney looked like a superstar en route to 86 exciting rushing yards and Bell (58 rushing yards, 30 receiving, one TD) was solid while splitting duty with Tatum Bell (Denver-RB, 103 rushing yards). More on Norwood later.

TEAM DEFENSE THAT CARRIED/KILLED YOU: If your league gives extra points for shutouts both Chicago and Baltimore were HUGE for or against you this week. Isn't it great to have your league come down to that! or worse (see below).

KICKER THAT CARRIED/KILLED YOU: Did you face off against someone with Jeff Wilkins (STL-K) this week? If so, I'm sorry. He had a mere six field goals, including a 51 yarder and was likely the difference in a handful of fantasy matchups. And if you own him, be sure to act like you knew he was going to do that all along.

BIG INJURY: Trent Green (KC-QB) took a vicious hit in the third quarter and was carted off the field. It sounds like he'll eventually be ok, but he said he doesn't even remember the play. Scary stuff. Damon Huard (KC-QB) finished the game.

IF ONLY: I'm absolutely dying to know what super backups Norwood (10 carries, 66 yards) and Brandon Jacobs (NYG-RB, eight carries, 54 yards, one TD) would do with 20-25 carries per game.

GOOD 'D' OR BAD 'O'?: I'm not sure if the Seahawks offense, which managed just nine points on three field goals, is bad this year, or if the Lions defense is good. Detroit plays Chicago next week. That one has 3-0 written all over it. I'll say this, the Lions offense still stinks.

MONDAY, MONDAY
It's a double dip on ESPN. Have you heard that they are doing Monday Night Football now? You might have heard that somewhere.

Minnesota at Washington, 7 p.m.
I want to know two things from this game. 1) Can Tony Kornheiser knock one out of the park as an announcer and 2) Is Chester Taylor (MIN-RB) going to be a solid No. 2 back. Hopefully, we'll have the answer to both questions after tonight.

San Diego at Oakland, 10:15 p.m.
The big question here is, will the game be interesting enough to keep normal people (i.e. non-reporters who actually work 9 to 5 and have to work in the morning) up until halftime. Doubt it. I just hope you're fantasy matchup doesn't go to the wire in this one. That just wouldn't be fair, especially if you are like me: completely unable to sleep with a key fantasy player going. Good luck L.T. fans!

We’re finally in the regular season and there are always a ton of question going into Week 1. Let’s take a look at what to watch for in each game Sunday.

Seattle at Detroit, 1 p.m. — How does the Lions offense look under new offensive coordinator Mike Martz? Can they sling the ball around the way Martz’s Rams teams did? They don’t seem to have the same amount of talent as those teams in St. Louis, but Jon Kitna (DET-QB), Kevin Jones (DET-RB) and Roy Williams (DET-WR) will all be posting good fantasy numbers if they can come close to Martz’s old offenses.

NY Jets at Tennessee, 1 p.m. — Who the heck is running the ball for the Jets and just how many touches is he getting?

Denver at St. Louis, 1 p.m. — I’m wondering what the Rams offense will look like under new coach Scott Linehan and whether Steven Jackson (STL-RB) will finally get 27-30 carries per game. We’ll start to find out here.

Buffalo at New England, 1 p.m. — Looks like Laurence Maroney (NE-RB) will play Sunday. Interested in how much the Pats use him and newly acquired Doug Gabriel (NE-WR).

Philadelphia at Houston, 1 p.m. — How do both offenses look? The Eagles, of course, have Donovan McNabb (PHI-QB) back, but their receivers are question marks. Also, Houston has questions all over the field. Does Wali Lundy (HOU-RB) deserve to be a starter?

Atlanta at Carolina, 1 p.m. — Will the Falcons use preseason star Jerious Norwood (ATL-RB) much to spell Warrick Dunn (ATL-RB)?

Cincinnati at Kansas City, 1 p.m. — Larry Johnson (KC-RB) was unstoppable last season. Is he the same guy with a new coaching staff and revamped offensive line?

Baltimore at Tampa Bay, 1 p.m. — Will Steve McNair (BAL-QB) look like an old man or a seasoned veteran?

New Orleans at Cleveland, 1 p.m. — How do the Saints break up the touches between Deuce McAllister (NO-RB) and Reggie Bush (NO-RB)? Does Charlie Frye (CLE-QB) take another step toward being a solid NFL QB?

Chicago at Green Bay, 4:15 p.m. — Do the Bears actually do anything offensively? Is Greg Jennings (GB-WR) actually a good rookie sleeper or just a guy who looked good in camp/preseason?

Dallas at Jacksonville, 4:15 p.m. — How do the Cowboys break up the touches between Julius Jones (DAL-RB) and Marion Barber (DAL-RB)? Is Terrell Owens (DAL-WR) healthy?

San Francisco at Arizona, 4:15 p.m. — Can the Cardinals run the ball with Edgerrin James (ARZ-RB)? Can Alex Smith (SF-QB) stay upright long enough to get the ball to Antonio Bryant (SF-WR) and Vernon Davis (SF-TE)?

Indianapolis at NY Giants, 8:15 p.m. — Mentioned this in the column, but I’m mostly wondering how the Mannings will react to playing against each other. Also, is it Dominic Rhodes (IND-RB) or Joseph Addai (IND-RB) running the ball?

Here’s the complete NFL Injury Report with key guys bolded:

Sunday
CINCINNATI BENGALS AT KANSAS CITY CHIEFS — Bengals: OUT: WR Antonio Chatman (groin). QUESTIONABLE: CB Deltha O’Neal (knee); LB David Pollack (hamstring). PROBABLE: DT Sam Adams (knee); LB Ahmad Brooks (neck); WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (heel). Chiefs: PROBABLE: T Kevin Sampson (hamstring).

DENVER BRONCOS AT ST. LOUIS RAMS — Broncos: QUESTIONABLE: DE Courtney Brown (knee). PROBABLE: DE Patrick Chukwurah (ankle); WR Brandon Marshall (knee); T Adam Meadows (shoulder); T Erik Pears (finger); RB Cecil Sapp (hamstring); DT Gerard Warren (toe). Rams: No injuries to report.

NEW YORK JETS AT TENNESSEE TITANS — Jets: OUT: C Trey Teague (lower leg). QUESTIONABLE: CB David Barrett (upper leg); WR Tim Dwight (upper leg). PROBABLE: LB Matt Chatham (lower leg); G Pete Kendall (lower leg). Titans: OUT: TE Erron Kinney (knee); DE Antwan Odom (knee). QUESTIONABLE: T Jacob Bell (back); WR David Givens (hamstring); G Benji Olson (hamstring); S Lamont Thompson (ankle); RB LenDale White (ankle).

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES AT HOUSTON TEXANS — Eagles: DOUBTFUL: RB Reno Mahe (ankle). PROBABLE: DE Jerome McDougle (rib); S Quintin Mikell (thumb); DT Darwin Walker (rib). Texans: OUT: CB Demarcus Faggins (foot). PROBABLE: RB Ron Dayne (toe).

ATLANTA FALCONS AT CAROLINA PANTHERS — Falcons: DOUBTFUL: LB Edgerton Hartwell (knee). QUESTIONABLE: RB Fred McCrary (foot). Panthers: QUESTIONABLE: DT Jordan Carstens (elbow); LB Na’il Diggs (knee); WR Steve Smith (thigh). PROBABLE: G Evan Mathis (shoulder); S Kevin McCadam (shoulder); S Shaun Williams (ankle).

BALTIMORE RAVENS AT TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS — Ravens: QUESTIONABLE: RB P.J. Daniels (thigh); DT Aubrayo Franklin (thigh); RB Jamal Lewis (hip); WR Derrick Mason (thigh); CB Chris McAlister (thigh). Buccaneers: QUESTIONABLE: G Dan Buenning (ankle); G Davin Joseph (knee); LB Shelton Quarles (groin).

BUFFALO BILLS AT NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS — Bills: QUESTIONABLE S: Matt Bowen (lower leg). Patriots: QUESTIONABLE: LB Tedy Bruschi (wrist); WR Chad Jackson (hamstring); T Nick Kaczur (shoulder). PROBABLE: QB Tom Brady (right shoulder); WR Doug Gabriel (hamstring); G Steve Neal (ankle).

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS AT CLEVELAND BROWNS — Saints: DOUBTFUL: DT Rodney Leisle (knee); S Bryan Scott (hamstring). QUESTIONABLE: CB Dejuan Groce (hamstring); RB Aaron Stecker (ankle). Browns: OUT: CB Daylon McCutcheon (knee). DOUBTFUL: S Brian Russell (elbow). QUESTIONABLE: G Joe Andruzzi (ankle); CB Gary Baxter (pectoral); CB Leigh Bodden (pectoral); TE Darnell Dinkins (knee); T Nat Dorsey (ankle); CB Antonio Perkins (groin); G Isaac Sowells (ankle); LB Mason Unck (knee).

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS AT DETROIT LIONS — Seahawks: OUT: TE Jerramy Stevens (knee). PROBABLE: DT Russell Davis (foot); WR Darrell Jackson (knee); T Walter Jones (shoulder). Lions: OUT: WR Shaun Bodiford (knee); TE Casey Fitzsimmons (wrist). PROBABLE: DT Shaun Cody (shoulder).

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS AT ARIZONA CARDINALS — 49ers: OUT: TE Delanie Walker (shoulder). DOUBTFUL: DE Parys Haralson (foot). QUESTIONABLE: CB Shawntae Spencer (hamstring). Cardinals: OUT: LB Karlos Dansby (toe); T Oliver Ross (knee). PROBABLE: QB Matt Leinart (right shoulder).

CHICAGO BEARS AT GREEN BAY PACKERS — Bears: QUESTIONABLE: RB Cedric Benson (shoulder); WR Mark Bradley (hip); S Mike Brown (Achilles); DE Alex Brown (shoulder); WR Justin Gage (rib); DE Israel Idonije (ankle); TE Gabriel Reid (back); RB J.D. Runnels (ankle). Packers: OUT: T Junius Coston (knee). DOUBTFUL: CB Will Blackmon (foot). QUESTIONABLE: RB William Henderson (knee).

DALLAS COWBOYS AT JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS — Cowboys: QUESTIONABLE: T Flozell Adams (calf); LB Bradie James (groin); K Mike Vanderjagt (right groin). Jaguars: QUESTIONABLE TE Marcedes Lewis (ankle); LB Mike Peterson (knee) PROBABLE S Gerald Sensabaugh (ankle); CB Scott Starks (ribs).

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS AT NEW YORK GIANTS — Colts: OUT: RB De De Dorsey (ankle). QUESTIONABLE: LB Gary Brackett (knee); TE Dallas Clark (concussion); CB Jason David (groin); S Mike Doss (lower leg); LB Gilbert Gardner (hand); CB Nicholas Harper (ankle); TE Ben Hartsock (hamstring); CB Tim Jennings (ankle); T Charlie Johnson (knee); LB Freddie Keiaho (knee); G Ryan Lilja (knee); LB Rob Morris (shoulder); DT Montae Reagor (knee); DT Corey Simon (knee); P Hunter Smith (right groin); QB Jim Sorgi (right shoulder); WR Brandon Stokley (ankle); DE Josh Thomas (hip); K Adam Vinatieri (left foot). Giants: OUT: RB Derrick Ward (foot). QUESTIONABLE: WR Sinorice Moss (quadricep); G Rich Seubert (toe). PROBABLE: LB LaVar Arrington (knee).

Monday
MINNESOTA VIKINGS AT WASHINGTON REDSKINS — Vikings: QUESTIONABLE: RB Mewelde Moore (knee); CB Fred Smoot (ribs). Redskins: DOUBTFUL: CB Shawn Springs (abdomen). QUESTIONABLE: RB Clinton Portis (shoulder). PROBABLE: DE Renaldo Wynn (ankle).

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS AT OAKLAND RAIDERS — Chargers: DOUBTFUL: TE Aaron Shea (back). QUESTIONABLE: T Leander Jordan (neck). PROBABLE: CB Cletis Gordon (wrist); T Marcus McNeill (hand). Raiders: DOUBTFUL: C Jake Grove (shoulder); TE John Madsen (ankle). QUESTIONABLE: DE Lance Johnstone (shin). PROBABLE: TE James Adkisson (knee); WR Alvis Whitted (groin).

See you Monday morning for reactions for Sunday and previews for Monday night.

Tonight!

Miami Dolphins at Pittsburgh Steelers, 8:30 p.m., NBC

Just last week, this seemed like the perfect way to open the season. The trendy AFC "sleeper" pick against the defending champs. I guess that's still the case, but Ben Roethlisberger's (PIT-QB) emergency surgery has left this feeling a little less important. It's also made Miami's schedule ridiculously easy. Somehow, Culpepper vs. Batch doesn't quite match Culpepper vs. Big Ben on the excitement scale.

Still, the regular season is finally here. Take tonight as a nice appetizer for Sunday/Monday.

Here are a few things to look out for:

1) Does Ronnie Brown (MIA-RB) take the first step toward superstardom. He's never been THE guy. Not last year as a rookie and not at Auburn. He's certainly got the talent, but can he take that level of punishment? Can he get stronger as the game goes on and keep the chains moving in the fourth quarter?

2) Daunte Culpepper (MIA-RB) sure looked all the way back during the preseason. But this is different. This is four quarters of everyone trying to crush him. Is he all the way healthy? If he is, is he the superstar from two years ago or the Joe Average from last year (pre-injury)?

3) How do the Steelers use their backs in short-yardage situations? Will Willie Parker (PIT-RB) get some looks near the goal-line or will he be replaced by someone else all the time?

4) How far from 100% healthy is Hines Ward (PIT-WR)? This could decide his fantasy status for Week 2.

See you Friday for the Week 1 extras and then check back Monday morning for the first of the Sunday game reactions/Monday game previews.

With cut down day and the true injury news finally coming out, so much has changed since Friday.

Let's take a look at what you should know after a hectic few days around the NFL.

Ben Roethlisberger (PIT-QB) is out for at least one week after an emergency appendectomy. ... Thomas Jones (CHI-RB) is starting for Chicago. ... Doug Gabriel (NE-WR) was traded from the Raiders to the Pats. ... Donte Stallworth (PHI-WR) was moved from the Saints to the Eagles. ... Ron Dayne (HOU-RB) was cut by the Broncos and picked up the Texans, who will likely use him as their short-yardage back. ... Najeh Davenport (GB-RB) cut. Samkon Gado (GB-RB) now No. 2 for Packers. ... Kerry Collins (TEN-QB) could very well be the Titans starter very soon. ... Lawrence Maroney (NE-RB) is out for Week 1.

Links:
Dave Richard of CBS Sportsline does a nice job of breaking things down.

Terrell Owens (DAL-WR) says he's ready to go for the season opener.

Peter King does his division-by-division picks in this week's Monday Morning Quarterback, which is a must read.

Programming note: I'll be working out a new blogging schedule now that the preseason is over. My next post will be Thursday morning for a preview of the opener between Pittsburgh and Miami. Then, I'll have the normal Friday extras to go with the weekly Friday column.

The following week, it'll get into the pattern of a post late Sunday night with some reactions from that days games and a quick Monday Night preview. Then, I'll update the week's news at some point during the week (probably Wednesday or Thursday) before doing the Friday extras.

See you Thursday.

Alright, I’m officially DYING for some games that actually mean something. With the Red Sox now unwatchable, this feels like the pre-baseball season drought that hits after the Final Four.

Anyway, time to break out final top 20s to round out the projections.

TIGHT ENDS
1. Antonio Gates, SD
2. Jeremy Shockey, NYG
3. Todd Heap, BAL
4. Tony Gonzalez, KC
5. Alge Crumpler, ATL
6. Jason Witten, DAL
7. Randy McMichael, MIA
8. Ben Troupe, TEN
9. Chris Cooley,WAS
10. Ben Watson, NE
11. L.J. Smith, PHI
12. Heath Miller, PIT
13. Kellen Winslow, CLE
14. Dallas Clark, IND
15. Jermaine Wiggins, MIN
16. Vernon Davis, SF
17. Erron Kinney, TEN
18. Marcus Pollard, DET
19. Jeb Putzier, HOU
20. Alex Smith, TB

KICKERS
1. Adam Vinatieri, IND (injury is making me nervous, though)
2. Mike Vanderjagt, DAL
3. Jay Feely, NYG
4. Josh Brown, SEA
5. Jeff Reed, PIT
6. Lawrence Tynes, KC
7. Jason Elan, DEN
8. Shayne Graham, CIN
9. Neil Rackers, ARZ
10. John Kasay, CAR
11. Matt Stover, BAL
12. Josh Scobee, JAX
13. Rob Bironas, TEN
14. Matt Bryant, TB
15. Stephen Gostkowski, NE
16. David Akers, PHI
17. Michael Koenen, ATL
18. Ryan Longwell, MIN
19. Olindo Mare, MIA
20. Jeff Wilkins, STL

TEAM DEFENSES
1. Chicago Bears
2. Jacksonville Jaguars
3. Pittsburgh Steelers
4. Carolina Panthers
5. Miami Dolphins
6. Indianapolis Colts
7. Seattle Seahawks
8. Tampa Bay Bucs
9. Denver Broncos
10. New York Jets
11. Cincinnati Bengals
12. Baltimore Ravens
13. San Diego Chargers
14. Atlanta Falcons
15. Cleveland Browns
16. New England Patriots
17. Washington Redskins
18. Philadelphia Eagles
19. Kansas City Chiefs
20. Arizona Cardinals