1. Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Denver Broncos
The Baltimore Ravens showed the blueprint for keeping the Broncos offense in check: pressure. Since Orton’s not adept to throwing deep, if you bring the Safeties closer to the line, it limit’s Denver’s effectiveness. Look for Polamalu to play close to the line and the Steelers front seven to pressure Orton into sacks and turnovers. They’re our top ranked fantasy football D/ST in Week Nine.
2. Green Bay Packers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
It appears that the Buccaneers are handing the reins over to rookie Josh Freeman and you can bet that DC Dom Capers will bring continuous pressure to confuse the young QB on Sunday. Look for a multi sack/turnover performance as the Packers should dominate defensively.
3. San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans
The only player the Niners need to keep an eye on at all times is RB Chris Johnson. And while that’s not an easy thing to do, the 49ers do have a defensive weapon who we think matches up well: MLB Patrick Willis. Vince Young will be ineffective on the road and the Niners will take advantage of a few mistakes.
4. Atlanta Falcons vs. Washington Redskins
The Redskins are about as bad as they come on offense. Their offensive line is horrendous and Jason Campbell consistently makes poor decisions. Look for the Falcons to be opportunistic on Sunday and force multiple turnovers.
Sleepers
1. Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs offensive woes are well documented and all start with the problems along the offensive line. It neither gives Cassel the time to throw or the running game holes to run through. Expect Del Rio’s unit to play a physical game in Week Nine and for our top D/ST fantasy sleeper to create havoc all day.
2. Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens
The Bengals defense completely dismantled the Bears two weeks ago and are well rested coming off their bye week. The Ravens are a tougher test than the Bears but these AFC North Divisional battles tend to be physical and close. Look for the Bengals corners to intercept a pass or two.
Others We Like
Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals
The Ravens defense made adjustments over their bye week and completely stifled the Denver Broncos on Sunday. While the Bengals are a different beast offensively, namely due to their vertical passing game, the Ravens should be able to provide pressure up front and keep this a low scoring affair.
New England Patriots vs. Miami Dolphins
The Patriots allowed a total of seven points over their last two games and are well rested coming off their bye week. Look for their focus to be on stopping the Wild Cat because Belichick knows that Henne and the passing game will struggle against his third ranked pass defense.
New Orleans Saints vs. Carolina Panthers
The opportunistic Saints have already returned six TDs on defense this season. And facing Jake Delhomme in the Superdome, there’s should be an opportunity for their seventh. If the Saints take a commanding lead expect multiple sacks and a few turnovers.
A Few More
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys
Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans
Seattle Seahawks vs. Detroit Lions
