VW Passat 2.8l starts but runs for only a quick second then dies

helpMy 2.8L Volkswagen Passat is having some
issues. It ran great prior to me leaving on vacation
for three weeks. When I got home my Passat had a
dead battery, I charged the battery just to find that
it wouldn't start. It turns over but no fire. If I give it
a little bit of gas on peddle I can get it to fire but it
runs at really low rpm( 500rpm) for oNLY a few
seconds then dies. If I give it more pressure on the
gas pedal it dies if I don't give it any pedal it won't
fire. I checked spark plugs and they are black but
not fouled out and wet with fuel like it's trying to
flood out maybe. Is my problem the maf, throttle
position or a fuel issue? I am about to check the
fuel filter and pump but thought I'd try here first.plz