T D’Brickashaw Ferguson vs. DE Julius Peppers
Considering Jake Long was injured when the Bears and Dolphins played, Ferguson will be the best pass blocker Peppers has seen all season. This is a matchup of two elite players. Peppers is unlikely to get any cheap sacks. If he keeps hustling and doesn’t give up on plays, Peppers might be able to wear down Ferguson. It’s likely the Jets will leave Ferguson one-on-one with Peppers. The Bears might want to flip Peppers to left end more than usual to avoid this matchup.
RB LaDainian Tomlinson vs. LB Brian Urlacher
These are two old-timers in the midst of career resurgences. The Chargers gave up on Tomlinson, but he has rediscovered his burst. Tomlinson’s average per carry of 4.3 yard is his best in three years. He also is contributing on nickel downs as a receiver and pass protector. Urlacher matches up better against bigger, more physical backs. He will have his hands full with the shifty, low-to-the-ground Tomlinson.
— Dan Pompei
