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Quarterbacks
Top - Drew Brees vs Detroit Lions
Brees led the league in passing yards in 2008, and was without top target Marques Colston for some of that time. Look for him to pick up where he left off last year against a improved, but still very weak Detroit team.
Sleeper - Matt Hasselbeck vs St. Louis Rams
Hampered by injuries in most of 2008, I expect Hasselbeck to be back this year. A good acquisition in TJ Houshmanzadeh, and he's going against what could end up being the worst team this season.
Running Backs
Top - LaDainian Tomlinson vs Oakland
Injured and still tops 1000 yards and 8 touchdowns. I don't see how this is a bad thing. LT is playing a weak defense in Oakland and should return to his old self.
Sleeper - Cadillac Williams vs Dallas Cowboys
I've always been a Cadillac fan. He had a stellar rookie season, and then was hit with two knee injuries. He looked really good in the preseason and was in-turn named the starter. He might be the only form of offense for the Bucs outside of fellow RB Derrick Ward, so look for a big day.
Wide Receivers
Top - Terrell Owens vs New England
If there is one weakness on this New England team, it's the secondary. Expect the Patriots to jump out to a lead, which will force the Bills to pass if they haven't already settled on passing with the absence of Marshawn Lynch.
Sleeper - Anthony Gonzalez vs Jacksonville Jaguars
With Marvin Harrison gone, Gonzalez steps into the starting role opposite of Reggie Wayne. He looked fantastic in the preseason and should step into that role quite smoothly. He looks to have the trust of Peyton Manning.
Tight Ends
Top - Tony Gonzalez vs Miami Dolphins
He's finally on a championship caliber team, and I expect him to take full advantage. Roddy White has his breakout season last year, but he's still only one year removed from being notorious for drops. I expect Matt Ryan to use Gonzalez as his "safety blanket" and Tony G will be in for a big day.
Sleeper - Jeremy Shockey vs Detroit Lions
Well, if Drew Brees is the top QB, he needs to throw to somebody, no? Shockey was acquired last season by the Saints, and after being a standout NFL tight end in New York, he disappeared last year. He looked like he settled into the Saints offense a little bit more in the preseason and finally looks comfortable. He still has the skills to be a great TE, and I expect to see it.
Defense
Top - Baltimore vs Kansas City
Baltimore is well known for it's stellar defenses, and 2009 is no different. KC has a brand new QB, and this brand new QB has lost his best weapon (who is also this weeks top TE) in Tony Gonzalez. I expect Baltimore to have a great day.
Sleeper - Washington vs NY Giants
A real stretch here, but I just like the match-up for Washington. The Giants WR's don't scare me, so I'm sure the 'Skins feel the same way. Big Albert Haynesworth will sure up the middle and help shut down the Giants run game. Besides, NFC East games never have high offensive output.
