5 Minute Fantasy

MATCHUP OF THE WEEK
GENE MENEZ

Their careers have followed similar paths: Each has made one Pro Bowl, but neither has been there since. Both could very well be back in Hawaii this February. But who will have the advantage on Sunday?

ANDRE JOHNSON
WR TEXANS

Through four games ( Houston had a bye last week) few receivers were more productive than this 6'3", 219-pound Terrell Owens clone (without the baggage). Benefiting from the improved play of quarterback David Carr and the desperation of a Texans team that has been forced to throw, the fourth-year wideout is averaging 102.5 receiving yards.

VS.

TERENCE NEWMAN
CB COWBOYS

In three-plus seasons Newman has played in 52 straight games and established himself as one of the league's stickiest cover corners. The 5'11" 195-pounder has allowed just one touchdown since 2004, and in a big win over the Panthers last year he held Steve Smith to one catch for 18 yards. Coach Bill Parcells thought Newman should have made the Pro Bowl last year.

THE VERDICT Newman obviously doesn't succeed without help from some very talented friends, i.e., strong safety Roy Williams and fellow corner Anthony Henry. Johnson's size and speed make it difficult to shut him down completely, but a touchdown catch against this defense is too much to ask.

THE INSIDE MAN
JEFFRI CHADIHA

Still Rush Hour