1. Adrian Peterson vs. Carolina Panthers
The Panthers strength of its defense lies in stopping the pass, not the run. Adrian Peterson will receive 25 carries and easily top the 100 yard mark with 2 TDs on Sunday Night.
2. Ray Rice vs. Chicago Bears
Ryan Grant took the 1st hand off in Week 14 to the house for a 62 yard TD. Overall, he finished with 137 yards and 2 TDs. Rice is hot right now (166 yards, 1TD vs. Det) and the Ravens will use their 2nd year back heavily against the Bears.
3. Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Indianapolis Colts
There’s a great possibility that the Colts will not play their starters the entire game. This would be excellent for Jones-Drew, who will receive between 20-25 carries and be utilized as a receiver out of the backfield. Look for a big game with another return trip to the end zone.
4. Cedric Benson vs. San Diego Chargers
San Diego has shored up its run defense over their eight game winning streak but can still be hurt on the ground. The Bengals, in a bit of an offensive funk themselves, will look to re-establish the running game and Benson, who totaled 96 yards vs. the Vikings, will top the century mark with a score on Sunday.
Sleepers
1. Justin Forsett vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers have consistently worn down late in games against the run and make most opposing RBs look like fantasy football stars. The Seahawks will win big on Sunday and Forsett will top 100 yards with a TD.
2. Chris Wells vs. Detroit Lions
“Beanie” Wells ran with authority against the Niners (79 yards, 1TD) and has a considerably easier task against the Lions. He’ll top the 100 yard mark with a TD in round two of the playoffs and is an excellent fantasy sleeper.
Others We Like
Chris Johnson vs. Miami Dolphins
CJ is easily the top fantasy football RB in 2009 and is dominating this season as DeAngelo Williams did last year. He’s now run for over 100 yards in eight straight games and scored nine rushing TDs over that span. While Miami’s pretty good against the run and might slow Johnson a little, he’ll be hard to keep under wraps the entire game.
Frank Gore vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Gore’s improved running between the tackles has helped his overall game. He rushed for 167 and a TD on Monday Night in an impressive effort against Arizona. This week he gets Philly, whose defense pales in comparison to the days when Jim Johnson was running the show. Expect a solid game from No. 21.
Thomas Jones vs. Atlanta Falcons
The Jets are wisely taking the ball out of their QB’s hands and placing it into the hands of Thomas Jones. He has five 100 yard games in his last eight and 6 rushing TDs. The Jets offensive line should have its way against a smaller Falcons defense so look for another big game from Jones.
A Few More
Steven Jackson vs. Houston Texans
Jamaal Charles vs. Cleveland Browns
Brandon Jacobs vs. Washington Redskins
