1. Adrian Peterson vs. Green Bay Packers
Peterson was kept in check by the 49ers but that’s not going to happen on Monday Night. The Packers haven’t been nearly as strong vs. the run (Benson 141 yards, S Jackson 127 yards) and the Vikings will lean heavily on Peterson in this one. Expect over 120 yards and one, maybe two TDs. He’s our top fantasy football RB of Week Four.
2. Chris Johnson vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Johnson had an off day vs. the Jets and still managed 97 yards on the ground. He wasn’t able to have the sort of impact we’ve become accustomed to due to the circumstances surrounding the game. He should have a much easier go of it this week and we think he’ll light up the Jags defense with another 100 plus yard, one TD effort on Sunday.
3. Cedric Benson vs. Cleveland Browns
The Browns have been terrible against the run in 2009 and teams have imposed their will on its defense. Benson has been a nice surprise for the Bengals and look for his hot beginning to continue when they head to the Dawg Pound. 100 yards and one TD at a minimum.
4. Clinton Portis vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Now I know Portis has struggled, but this is a perfect opportunity to bounce back after their embarrassing loss to the Lions on Sunday. The Bucs might have the worst defense in football and we expect Portis, uncertain offensive line and all, to come up with a 100 yard game and one TD on Sunday.
Sleepers
1. Ahmad Bradshaw vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Bradshaw is being given between 10-14 carries per game and is showing what he is capable of. He had 104 yards on just 14 carries vs. the Bucs and the Chiefs present an easy match-up as well. Look for another 90-100 yard effort with the possibility of a long TD.
2. Willie Parker vs. San Diego Chargers
Parker began to find his stride against the Bengals and now gets the San Diego Chargers, a team that’s been unable to stop the run after the loss DT Jamal Williams. Look for another 15-18 carries and for “Fast” Willie to have another big day on the ground. He’s a great fantasy sleeper in Week Four.
Others We Like
Steve Slaton vs. Oakland Raiders
Slaton’s off to a very slow start in 2009 but the Raiders are just what the doctor ordered. They’ve been unable to stop anyone on the ground and QB JaMarcus Russell doesn’t provide his defense any help with his constant three and outs and turnovers. This is the game Slaton breaks 100 yards.
Brandon Jacobs vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Jacobs still hasn’t run like he did in 2008 but he had a nice afternoon vs. the Bucs with 92 yards and a TD. He has another easy match-up vs. the Chiefs and should top the 100 yard mark with at two TDs.
Marion Barber vs. Denver Broncos
The Broncos 3-0 start is nothing more than smoke and mirrors. They’ve feasted off inferior teams the past two weeks but will have problems with the Cowboys and their massive offensive line. If Barber is back from his leg injury, he’ll have a big afternoon and score at least one TD.
A few more
Darren McFadden vs. Houston Texans
Ronnie Brown vs. Buffalo Bills
Matt Forte vs. Detroit Lions
