All it took was a rusty, post-retirement Daunte Culpepper to open things up for running back Kevin Smith. Well, maybe not. But last week something sure got into the Lions rookie, who turned in his first 100-yard game against a very good Carolina defense.
Smith faces another tall task Sunday when the Bucs come to town. Tampa Bay has allowed just one rushing touchdown this season, but you can tack on another: I think Smith will be up for the challenge. He has rushed for 245 yards and two scores in his last three games.
What's up, Wildcat? Back in Week 3 against the Patriots, Ronnie Brown had the single best game of the fantasy season: 113 yards rushing with four TDs and another score passing when the Dolphins unleashed the "Wildcat" formation.
Don't expect a repeat in the rematch, but I still like Miami's players. The running combo of Brown and Ricky Williams will open things up for quarterback Chad Pennington and multi-talented receiver Ted Ginn Jr. New England has allowed 16 passing TDs.
Extra pointer: Will Brian Westbrook get off the schneid? Nope. He's still hurting and the Ravens' defense will be revved up after last week's debacle.
ecavanaugh@tribune.com
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