NFL Fearless
Predictions
Week 1 |
Week 2
Detroit at
Philadelphia
1:00 pm FOX September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: Who had the Lions at 2-0 and the Eagles at 0-2 coming into
this game? Even the most diehard Lion fan and most cynical Eagle fan couldn’t
have seen this coming. But, the Lions outscored Oakland 36-21 and outlasted the
Vikings at home in overtime 20-17. The Eagles haven’t played well in losses to
the Packers and to the hated Redskins, and they certainly can’t afford another
loss. A sense of urgency is on the their side, but then again, if quarterback
Jon Kitna is some sort of Nostradamus, the Lions are a team worthy of ten wins
and perhaps a team of destiny as they look to stay atop the division.
Why Detroit Might Win: The Lions passing game is as good as any in the
league right not. Kitna and J.T O’Sullivan combined for 393 yards passing
against the Vikings and are averaging 322 yards per game. Philly’s secondary is
giving up 208 yards per game through the air, but hasn’t faced a unit this
potent. The Lions utilize all their receivers – Roy Williams, Calvin Johnson,
Shaun McDonald and Mike Furrey – giving credence to that Greatest Show on Turf,
part deux moniker. These four combined for 23 catches against the Vikings and
present all kinds of problems for the Eagle secondary.
Why Philadelphia Might Win: Brian Westbrook. The Eagle running back led
the Eagles in rushing with 96 yards on 17 carries, while also leading them in
receiving with eight receptions for 66 yards. He does it all for Andy Reid’s
offense; he gives the Eagles a chance to be effective offensively, especially
with quarterback Donovan McNabb struggling. Now, his health is in question – he
missed practice on Wednesday, but if he gets on the field, he changes the entire
complexion of the game. Defensively, the Lions are giving up an average 253
through the air and 108 yards on the ground, an improvement over last year, but
Westbrook should still have 150 yards total offense to lead the Eagles in this
matchup.
Who to Watch: Eagle safety Brian Dawkins is such a vital component to
Philly’s ‘D’, but he injured his neck against the Redskins on Monday night. No
unit has more pressure on Sunday than the secondary and with Dawkins potentially
out, the Eagle secondary is under an even hotter spotlight.
What Will Happen: The Eagles have to bounce back this week or it could be
a playoff-less year for the Eagles. McNabb has taken a lot of heat for his
comments this week on HBO about African-American quarterbacks, but it should
work to motivate him to have a solid week and take some pressure off of
Westbrook. Expect McNabb to have a great game, leading to a Philly win.
CFN Prediction: Eagles 27 … Lions 20.. Line:
Philadelphia -6
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 3
Miami
at New York Jets
1:00 pm CBS September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: It’s desperation time for the two winless teams, with the
loser all but out of the playoff race before the end of September. Miami lost a
close opener on the road 16-13 to Washington and then got hammered by Dallas at
home 37-20. The Jets were involved in the SpyGate loss in the opener and then
lost to Baltimore in game two 20-13. One team will leave with the first win of
the season, while the other will be left in the AFC East cellar.
Why Miami Might Win: If the Baltimore Ravens Kyle Boller can throw for
185 yards and two touchdowns, there’s no telling what Miami’s Trent Green can do
against the Jets secondary. The Patriots did pretty much what they wanted in
the passing game, too, but that’s the best unit in the game. The Ravens?
Boller?!? Green should be drooling. He threw for 287 yards and two touchdowns
against Dallas, so he should have a big day against the Jets.
Why New York Jets Might Win: Quarterback Kellen Clemens had a solid
showing against the Ravens secondary, one of the best in the league. He
completed over 50% of his throws (19 of 37) for 260 yards and a touchdown.
That’s his first start against Ed Reed, Chris McAlister and company. Miami’s
secondary played better against the Cowboys Tony Romo (14 of 29 for only 186),
but that quartet still yielded two big touchdowns to Romo.
Who to Watch: Miami has gotten virtually nothing out of running back
Ronnie Brown in the first two games. He had 33 yards on 11 carries in the
Dallas game and 32 yards on 11 carries in the opener against Washington. Sure,
he’s getting his touches with receptions out of the backfield, but if he can’t
produce more than 33 yards on the ground, the Dolphins have no shot at winning
this game.
What Will Happen: In his second start, Clemens continues to flourish,
throwing for 250+ yards and a couple of touchdowns. The Jets run defense will
bottle up Brown and force Green to have to beat them through the air. He’ll
turn the ball over a couple of times to give the Jets field position and golden
opportunities to score. The Jets ‘O’ will take advantage of the gifts.
CFN Prediction: Jets 17 … Dolphins 13 ..
Line: NY Jets -3
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 2.5
Buffalo
at New England
1:00 pm CBS September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: It might be an 0-2 team against a 2-0 super power, but it’s
also a chance for Buffalo to turn things around in a hurry and make a big
statement. Tom Brady’s offense slices and dices opposing defenses with so much
ease, that anything from the Bill defense would be a positive step forward. The
San Diego Chargers were supposed to provide the Patriots with a test, but they
ended up being no more than a speed bump. The Bills, on the other hand, were
dissected by the 2-0 Pittsburgh Steelers 26-7 in the Steel City and have the
daunting task of coming up with the impossible road win to get the season going.
Why Buffalo Might Win: The game is moved to Saturday and the Patriots
aren’t notified? Tom Brady and Randy Moss have a Visa commercial to shoot at 1
PM on Sunday? Honestly, the Bills are in way over their heads, but then again,
this is the NFL, so (cliché alert) anything can happen. Rookie running back
Marshawn Lynch isn’t piling up huge yardage, but he’s a load for the Patriots to
stop on the ground. He finished with 64 yards on 18 carries against the
Steelers, and will need to be more involved on Sunday.
Why New England Might Win: They’ll show up. This team didn’t need any
more motivation against the Chargers, as they waxed San Diego 38-14. And, it
wasn’t even that close. The Patriots are averaging 38 points per game and Moss
has a total of three touchdowns in those games. Brady is putting on a clinic
every time he drops to throw; against the Chargers, he finished 25 of 31 for 279
yards and three touchdowns.
Who to Watch: New England receiver Wes Welker might’ve been an unknown a
few years ago in the NFL draft, but he’s the perfect complement to Moss in the
Patriots passing game. He’s tough, physical and catches the ball across the
middle. He’s the one player who does the “little things” to keep the chains
moving, catching eight passes for 91 yards against the Chargers.
What Will Happen: The Patriots will roll. Again. Brady will throw for
275+ yards, while Laurence Maroney will have a big game against the Bills weak
defensive front. The run/pass combination on offense, combined with another
strong performance by the defense, led by Roosevelt Colvin and Adalius Thomas,
will put the Bills to bed early.
CFN Prediction: Patriots 31 … Bills 17 ..
Line: New England -16
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 2
Arizona
at Baltimore
1:00 pm FOX September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: After a gut-wrenching loss on the road at San Francisco in
the team’s opener, Arizona fought back against defending NFC West champion
Seattle to win in overtime 23-20. Baltimore was in the same position last week
against the Jets, losing a heart-breaking game to Cincinnati on Monday night
with a short week to prepare; however, it won 20-13. A second consecutive win
is at stake for both teams, which will give the winner a much-needed boost for a
playoff run.
Why Arizona Might Win: Any coach, at any level, would love to have a
300-yard passer and a 100 yard rusher in the same game. Head coach Ken
Whisenhunt nearly got that on Sunday against the Seahawks as Matt Leinart threw
for 299 yards through the air and Edgerrin James ran for 128 yards on 24
carries. When the Cardinals get that type of production in the air and on the
ground, they’re going to be nearly impossible to beat. The Ravens gave up 260
yards passing to a first time starter, so Leinart should be just as productive
as he was against Seattle if he gets a little time to operate.
Why Baltimore Might Win: No matter how many yards the defense yielded to
Jets QB Kellen Clemens, the Ravens defense can still rattle a young
quarterback. The 49ers rocked Leinart in the opener and forced him into a
difficult day, so the Ravens defense has a directive. Running back Willis
McGahee ran for 97 yards against the Jets, providing the offense with a running
game that it had lacked last year.
Who to Watch: Baltimore’s Ray Lewis is still the face of the Ravens
defense, but Bart Scott is taking over as the star. Scott led the team with
eight tackles against the Jets and is the key to stopping James on the ground.
If the Ravens hope to control this game, shutting James down is a must. That
pressure is squarely on Scott and the front four.
What Will Happen: The Ravens won’t ever look pretty winning, but that’s
what they do and will do. McGahee will have a 100 yard day and the defense will
hold James under 75 yards. Leinart will have a large day, 300+ yards through
the air, but a couple of picks will halt Cardinal drives. The Ravens win ugly,
if there is such a thing.
CFN Prediction: Ravens 20 … Cardinals 10 ..
Line: Baltimore -7.5
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 3
St. Louis
at Tampa Bay
1:00 pm FOX September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: Although the Buccaneers struggled in Seattle in the opener,
they came back home and made a statement with a 31-14 victory over the 2006 NFC
South champion Saints. The Rams, on the other hand, can’t buy a win, losing to
Carolina 27-13 and last week to San Francisco 17-16. With two consecutive
losses at home, the Rams appear to be on the ropes, but then again, so did the
Buccaneers last week with the Saints on the horizon.
Why St. Louis Might Win: Eventually this Rams offense is going to hit
its stride. Running back Steven Jackson is averaging only 59 yards per game on
the ground, and that should change this week against Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers
are 20th in the league stopping the run, giving up 119 yards per
game. The Buccaneer secondary is giving up 224 yards per game, so quarterback
Marc Bulger should be able to have success against the 20th ranked
pass defense in the league.
Why Tampa Bay Might Win: Someone’s got to tell quarterback Jeff Garcia
that he’s washed up and finished. Oh, that’s right, he isn’t. A number of
critics thought that last year’s run at Philadelphia was a little bit of a
fluke, but Garcia proved last week that he wasn’t ready for the trash heap. He
completed 10 of 16 passes for 243 yards and two touchdowns to another ageless
wonder receiver Joey Galloway. Considering the fact that Steve Smith from
Carolina torched the Ram secondary in the opener, Garcia and Galloway should
have a strong showing in this one. Defensively, the line should get into the
backfield without a problem. The banged up Ram O line has been awful.
Who to Watch: Galloway proved that he’s still worthy of being the number
one target in Tampa. He only caught four passes, but two of them went for
touchdowns (a 69 yarder and a 24 yarder). Smith lit up the Rams for 118 yards
and a touchdown, so the Rams have to find a way to stop Galloway and keep him
from another 100-yard receiving day.
What Will Happen: The 0-2 Rams have to win. Have to. The Buccaneers
would like to win, but the sense of urgency is a bit less dramatic than it is
for the Rams. Jackson will get back on track this week, rushing for 125+ yards
and a couple of touchdowns, while Bulger should do the same with 250+ yards
through the air.
CFN Prediction: Rams 24 … Buccaneers 17 ...
Line: Tampa Bay -4
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 2
San Francisco
at Pittsburgh
1:00 pm FOX September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: It’s one of only two matchups of undefeated teams. The
Niners haven’t played exceptionally well, but they’ve still come out on top in
both games, knocking off the Cardinals 20-17 and the Rams 17-16. Four points
are all that stand in the way of them being 0-2, but a win is a win. The
Steelers, on the other hand, have been dominant in wins over the Browns 34-7 and
last week against the Bills 26-3. Two 2-0 teams coming into this game from
completely different directions make this an intriguing week three matchup.
Why San Francisco Might Win: The Niners are only averaging 90.5 yards
per game on the ground and they’re second to last in the league in passing,
registering less than 100 yards per game through the air. However, they’ve
won. Imagine what happens when this young, inexperienced offense starts to get
on track. Running back Frank Gore only had 81 yards rushing, but showed his
explosiveness on a 43 yard touchdown run that gave the Niners the win in St.
Louis.
Why Pittsburgh Might Win: What’s the cliché? Defense wins
championships. Well, in that case, the Steelers need to be fitted for ring
number six. The Steelers are ranked third in the NFL, giving up only 148 yards
per game through the air and are ranked fifth in the league against the rush,
yielding a paltry 74 yards per game. Considering the troubles that the Niners
have moving the ball effectively on offense, this should be a statement game for
the Steeler D.
Who to Watch: Niner quarterback Alex Smith hasn’t killed his team’s
chances the first two weeks, but he hasn’t been a huge factor in the either game
(excluding the late drive against Arizona). He’s not the type of guy who’ll
ever put up the Peyton Manning-Carson Palmer type numbers, but he needs to throw
for 200 yards per game, utilizing his weapons on the perimeter – Vernon Davis
and Darrell Jackson. Gore can’t continue to carry this offense, if that’s what
you want to call what he’s done lately, and Smith needs to pick up the rest of
the slack.
What Will Happen: Two straight road games are one thing, but traveling to
St. Louis and back and then cross country to Pittsburgh will prove to be San
Francisco’s undoing. Well, that and the fact that the Steelers are playing as
really, really well. Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger doesn’t have to be and
isn’t flashy, but he’s efficient. He’ll keep that going with a 200 yard passing
day, while “Fast” Willie Parker will have another 100+ yard rushing day. The
Steelers win in a blowout.
CFN Prediction: Steelers 27 … Niners 7 ...
Line: Pittsburgh -9
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 4
Indianapolis
at Houston
1:00 pm CBS September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: The Texans opened the season 2-0 for the first time in the
short history of the franchise and has the city of Houston buzzing. Add the
fact that the Colts are coming to town and there’s no tougher ticket to get this
week…outside of Hannah Montana tickets, but that’s another story. The Colts’
road trip was predictably difficult last week in Nashville, but they emerged
from Tennessee with a 22-20 win. The Texans fell behind early to Carolina 14-0,
but roared back with 34 unanswered points to pick up arguably the biggest win in
the franchise’s history 34-21. Not many people anticipated this early season
matchup to have AFC South championship implications, but that’s exactly the
case, even in week three.
Why Indianapolis Might Win: Peyton Manning continues to be Peyton
Manning. He lit up the Saints in the opener, and then completed 28 of 42 passes
for 312 yards and a touchdown against the Titans last week. The Texan corners –
DeMarcus Faggins and Dunta Robinson – are solid, but the safeties have been a
mash unit all season long. Manning typically eats safeties alive with his ball
fakes, even more so with some inexperience in the defensive backfield. The
Texans aren’t stellar against the pass, yielding 300+ yards to Carolina’s Jake
Delhomme, so there will be problems.
Why Houston Might Win: The quarterback play for the Texans in 2006 and
2007 has been night and day different. Just ask the offensive line. Last year
(and all years prior), the Texans’ offensive line was ridiculed for being a
sieve, not providing the proper protection for David Carr. Well, it’s no
coincidence that since Matt Schaub has taken snaps under center for the Texans
that the offensive line has yielded only two sacks all season. Miraculously,
the Texans offensive line is now an asset. Wonder why? Well, much of the
credit goes to Schaub, who is sixth in the league with a 111 passer rating. He
throws the ball on time, throws it well on the run and knows when to throw it
away. Against the Colts, his poise in the pocket is a major factor in this
game.
Who to Watch: The Texans’ receiving corps. After the first two games of
the year, Andre Johnson is fourth in the league with 262 yards receiving, and
more importantly, has become Schaub’s go-to guy. However, he’s out with a knee
injury this week, putting more pressure on Kevin Walter, Jacoby Jones and Andre
Davis to make plays in his stead. His loss may mean, though, more emphasis on
the tight ends – Owen Daniels and Jeb Putzier; regardless, another receiving
threat must step up for Schaub.
What Will Happen: The last time these two teams met, Manning was still
the quarterback that couldn’t win the big one and Schaub was a back-up in
Atlanta. The Texans won a close one at home 27-24 to kick start a strong finish
to 2006. This is a different Texans organization – it’s proven that in its
first two games and, behind a strong performance by Schaub and the running game,
it’ll shock the world with a huge upset on Sunday.
CFN Prediction: Texans 24 … Colts 21 ..
Line: Indianapolis -7
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 4.5
San Diego
at Green Bay
1:00 pm CBS September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: These two teams appear to be going in opposite directions
and perhaps it’s a bit unexpected. The surprising Packers are 2-0 after a
decisive victory over the New York Giants, which included a 21 point fourth
quarter. The Chargers are 1-1, but haven’t played a complete game on both sides
of the ball. New England knocked San Diego silly last Sunday night 38-14, but
more importantly may have exposed some major weaknesses on this Charger squad.
Now, one week after flying cross country, the Chargers get back on the plane to
fly to Green Bay, a tough task made even more difficult by the scheduling gurus.
Why San Diego Might Win: It’s not possible to hold LaDainian Tomlinson
to under two yards a carry for more than games, is it? Of course not. Although
the Packers are 13th in the league in rush defense, Tomlinson will
find his usual rushing output of 100+ yards in this game. Similar to
Tennessee’s Vince Young, any time LT is in the game, he gives his team the
opportunity to win any game the Chargers play. Furthermore, the Packers aren’t
as potent offensively as the Patriots and when the defense faced Rex Grossman
and the Bears, it held the Bears without a touchdown.
Why Green Bay Might Win: How old is Brett Favre? 27, right? There’s no
way that this guy is 37 years old; he is throwing the ball with as much zip as
he did a decade ago. At New York, Favre was 29 of 38 for 286 yards and three
touchdowns. He’s making great decisions and without Ahman Green in the
backfield, has to carry the offense…for now. Add in the fact that power back
DeShawn Wynn is beginning to emerge (10 carries, 50 yards and two touchdowns)
and this Packers offense is getting tougher to stop.
Who to Watch: The Packers’ linebackers. AJ Hawk and Nick Barnett aren’t
well known throughout the league, but this duo is strong from tackle to tackle
and flies sideline to sideline. However, tracking and shadowing LT for a full
60 minutes is tough. These two will have to get some help from the safety
position and tackle extremely well to keep LT under 100+ yards on the ground.
What Will Happen: The Chargers are going to be road weary and the Packers
are going to be energized by the 2-0 start. Favre will be continue to be
productive, without the turnovers and the running game will do enough to keep
the Charger defense honest. If the Packer offensive line keeps defensive end
Shawne Merriman out of the backfield, Favre should have a banner day. It won’t
happen. This will be when San Diego looks like San Diego, and Green Bay plays
like Green Bay.
CFN Prediction: Chargers 21 … Packers 17 ..
Line: Green Bay -5
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 4
Minnesota
at Kansas City
1:00 pm FOX September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: The Vikings get back on the road, heading to Kansas City
after losing to Detroit 20-17 in a key NFC North battle. Kansas City, on the
other hand, finally takes the field at Arrowhead after traveling to Houston and
Chicago. Unfortunately, both games ended up in the L column for KC – 20-3 to
Houston and 20-10 to Chicago. Super Bowl IV it is definitely not, but any game
featuring Larry Johnson and Adrian Peterson is required viewing
Why Minnesota Might Win: In two short weeks, Peterson has become the
legs, the face and the future of the Vikings’ organization. He’s 12th
in the league in rushing, averaging 84.5 yards per game and provides the Vikings
with some pop in the running game. The Chiefs are middle of the pack, 15th
in the league, stopping the run, yielding 108 yards per game, so Peterson can be
as, or more, productive as he’s been against the Chiefs.
Why Kansas City Might Win: Getting to play in Arrowhead after two weeks
on the road will be like finding your favorite blanket – there’s a comfort zone
for the Chiefs playing at home. Although the Chiefs run defense isn’t stellar,
the defense is still sound – yielding only 20 points per game. Even with
Peterson carrying the football, the Vikings offense is only ranked 25th
in the league in passing, so the Chiefs can take him out of the game and put the
pressure on likely Vikings starting QB Kelly Holcomb.
Who to Watch: Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez only has nine catches through two
games. With no distinct receiving threat ready to step up, Gonzalez has to be
the number one option in the passing game. Four and a half catches per game
won’t cut it as the go-to guy in this offense. Now, it’s not all his fault,
that’s for sure – he’ll need some help from a better running game, but keep an
eye on No. 88.
What Will Happen: There won’t be a lot of points scored in this matchup,
but the Vikings have shown they can move the ball offensively better than the
Chiefs. The Vikings are sixth in the league against the run, so Johnson will
have to work to get to 50 yards rushing at best. Peterson will have a solid 85
yards and a touchdown on the ground, leading the Vikes to an ugly win.
CFN Prediction: Vikings 16 … Chiefs 10 …
Line: Kansas City -4
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 1.5
Cleveland
at Oakland
4:05 pm CBS September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: There are now 51 reasons why to watch the Cleveland
Browns. Who would’ve thought after this pre-season (when Romeo Crennel was
flipping a coin to determine his starting quarterback) that the Browns would be
the first team in the league to hit 50+ points in a game? The Raiders, on the
other hand, are snakebit. They lose at home to the upstart Lions 36-21 in the
opener. Then, Sebastian Janikowski blasts a 52-yard field goal to win…um, well
that was before the time out. You know the rest. Oakland is much improved
offensively under head coach Lane Kiffin, but can the Raiders outscore the
Browns? Wait, did that sentence just get written?
Why Cleveland Might Win: Well, when a team proves that it can put 51
points up on the board, it gains one thing: confidence. Now that Braylon
Edwards and Kellen Winslow are healthy and Jamal Lewis is conjuring up images of
2003, the Browns look to be an offensive juggernaut. Okay, it’s two games, but
the Browns are eighth in the league in passing yards (253 yards per game) and
ninth in the league in rushing yards (136 yards per game). That’s rarefied
offensive air. Furthermore, the Raiders defense is a half step behind where it
was last year, 26th against the rush, 144.5 yards per game and 29th
against the pass, 272 yards per game.
Why Oakland Might Win: Run to daylight may have been Vince Lombardi’s
slogan for the Green Bay Packers, it applies to the Kiffin-led Raider offense.
Although he was a relative bust in 2006, LaMont Jordan is making a statement
early this season. He’s fourth in the league, rushing for 115 yards per game
(5.7 yards per carry). Both Willie Parker of Pittsburgh and Rudi Johnson ran
for over 100 yards on the Browns, so expect a big day for Jordan this weekend.
Who to Watch: Oakland wide receiver Ronald Curry is emerging as one of
the better receivers in the AFC. He’s 12th in the league in
receptions, but provides a balance for Jordan and the running game. Add to that
the fact that he’s facing a Browns secondary that yielded six touchdowns to
Bengals receivers last week and Curry could be the Raiders ace in the hole.
What Will Happen: Points, points and more points. These two teams can
score and neither defense is reminiscent of the ’85 Bears…or the ’05 Texans for
that matter, so get the lightbulbs ready. At home, though, the Raiders are
going to get their first win of the year. The Browns won’t score another 51,
and the Raiders will be more productive against a unit that yielded 45 last
weekend. Just win, baby. Okay, whatever you say.
CFN Prediction: Raiders 31 … Browns 24 ..
Line: Oakland -3
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 2.5
Jacksonville
at Denver
4:05 pm CBS September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: Kicker Jason Elam might be the most popular Bronco in
Denver after winning the last two games for the Broncos with last second kicks.
Elam hit the game winner as time wound down in Buffalo for a 15-14 win and last
Sunday in overtime over Oakland 23-20. The Broncos haven’t played exceptionally
well in those wins, but then again, a W is a W. Jacksonville got a win last
week with a dominating pass rush leading the way over Atlanta. Behind seven
sacks of Joey Harrington, the Jaguars beat the Falcons 13-7. A Jacksonville
visit to Denver reminds the locals of the 1996 AFC playoffs, so the new Mile
High will be rocking on Sunday afternoon.
Why Jacksonville Might Win: The Jaguars offense is still struggling to
find its stride, but the defense rebounded last week with a huge performance
against the Falcons. The ‘D’ sacked Harrington seven times and held the Falcons
to 248 total yards, one week after getting rolled by Tennessee. Last weekend’s
performance was more indicative of what this defense can do. Stopping Denver is
tough, but this defense is ready to get back to its form of prior years.
Why Denver Might Win: This is a simple equation for the Broncos.
Denver’s offense is third in the league in rushing, averaging 176 yards per
game, while the last time Jacksonville faced a running game with a pulse, it
yielded 282 yards rushing to Tennessee. The Jags are ranked 32nd in
the league, dead last, against the run, so Bronco running back Travis Henry,
first in the league in rushing, should add another C note worth of rushing to
his season total after this meeting.
Who to Watch: It may sound like a broken record, but defensive tackles
John Henderson and Marcus Stroud are the ultimate key in this game. Stopping
Henry completely isn’t going to happen, but holding him in check is a must for
the Jaguars to win this game. Tennessee found little resistance in the middle
against these two, but if these two are motivated to get it done, Denver could
have some trouble moving the ball on the ground.
What Will Happen: Denver is going to control the ball with a healthy
balance of Henry and quarterback Jay Cutler throwing the ball. Jacksonville has
to travel across country and play in the high altitude against the league’s
leading rusher. Not a formula for success this week.
CFN Prediction: Broncos 24 … Jaguars 14 ...
Line: Denver -3.5
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 3
Cincinnati
at Seattle
4:05 pm CBS September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: Both teams went on the road last week, entering a division
game 1-0 against opponents each team had dominated the past few years…and left
1-1. The Bengals couldn’t stop a Pop Warner offense, much less the high-powered
Cleveland Browns, losing 51-45. The Seahawks had their own problems, like
handing the ball to a running back, which was instrumental in their loss to
Arizona 23-20. A loss won’t end playoff hopes this early in the season, but a
second consecutive loss won’t paint a pretty picture in either city.
Why Cincinnati Might Win: How good is Carson Palmer right now? Palmer
didn’t do much last week against Cleveland, just throw for over 400 yards and
six touchdowns in a single game. Man, that happens, like, what once every three
years? Well, it helps to have receivers like T.J and Ocho Cinco, the number one
and four receivers in the league in receiving, respectively. Seattle’s
secondary gave up 299 yards passing to Matt Leinart and the Arizona passing
game. Cue the drool on Palmer’s mouth.
Why Seattle Might Win: Seattle’s Shaun Alexander is still Shaun
Alexander. Last year’s injury hasn’t put #37 on the shelf. He’s tenth in the
league, averaging 87.5, but one week after Cincinnati gave up 215 yards to
Cleveland’s Jamal Lewis, Alexander should raise that average into triple
digits. Arizona held Seattle’s run game in check, but Cincinnati’s run defense
is the fifth worst in the league.
Who to Watch: The secondary. Pick either team’s back four. The back
four that plays the best in this game will lead its team to victory. Derek
Anderson from Cleveland and Leinart from Arizona lit up these two units last
week, so each quartet needs a bounce back game. The one that bounces back best
will be victorious.
What Will Happen: Although each team will light up the airways with
footballs, it’ll be Alexander who carries the Seahawks to victory. He should
have a 100 yard day, while the Seahawks will control Bengals running back Rudi
Johnson. The Seahawks have a distinct advantage at Qwest Field, especially
against a Cincinnati team that has to travel out to the Pac-Northwest.
CFN Prediction: Seahawks 31 … Bengals 24 ..
Line: Seattle -3.5
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 3.5
New York Giants
at Washington
4:15 pm FOX September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: Giants head coach Tom Coughlin couldn’t have had a worse
start to the season. A divisional loss to the Cowboys in which the G-Men gave
up 45 points. A loss to Green Bay in which the Pack scored three touchdowns in
the fourth quarter. Not the best start for a guy who needed one to maintain his
job. On the other hand, Joe Gibbs couldn’t have asked for a better start. The
Redskins needed to start 2-0 and did, beating the Dolphins at home in overtime
and taking care of business against the Iggles at the Linc 20-12.
Why New York Giants Might Win: Uh, because they have to? If any team
throughout the league HAS to win this week, it’s got to be the Giants. This
team has the potential to head south in a big hurry and without a win this week,
it could get even uglier for NY and Coughlin. The only true bright spot for the
Giants has been running back Derrick Ward who’s averaging over six yards per
carry on the ground.
Why Washington Might Win: Quarterback Jason Campbell is progressing
nicely as the starter for the Redskins. Even with the injuries on the offensive
line, Campbell is still productive. Last week, he was 16 of 29 for 205 yards,
but it wasn’t the numbers as much as the clutch throws he made, in particular
the 16-yard touchdown to Chris Cooley right before the half. The Giants are
last in the league against the pass, giving up 311 yards per game, so Campbell
is due to have another strong game.
Who to Watch: Where is the Giants’ pass rush? One sack for a loss of one
yard against the Packers??? Two for the season, both by Justin Tuck. Pressure
on Campbell is a necessity this week or the Redskins will win by two touchdowns.
What Will Happen: The Redskins will win by two touchdowns. Campbell is
capable in the passing game, but in combination with Clinton Portis and LaDell
Betts in the running game, the offense has good balance. The Giants’ proverbial
house of cards continues to fall after a loss in D.C.
CFN Prediction: Redskins 28 … Giants 14 ..
Line: Washington -4
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 2.5
Carolina
at Atlanta
4:15 pm FOX September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: Boy, have things changed. Over the last few years, Mike
Vick facing the talented Carolina defense was must viewing; however, Joey
Harrington against an aging, less talented Carolina defense isn’t quite the
calling card that it used to be. However, with two 1-1 teams and two 0-2 teams
in the NFC South, this game still has division championship ramifications.
Carolina jumped out to a 14-0 lead against the Texans, but gave up 34 unanswered
in its first loss of the year. Atlanta is still looking for the win column
after losing to Minnesota and Jacksonville, scoring a total of ten points in the
process.
Why Carolina Might Win: How good is Steve Smith? Really, how good is
he? The guy seems to get better every single week, even though every defense
knows that he’s the only offensive weapon on the field. He followed up a seven
catch, 118-yard one touchdown performance at St. Louis with an eight catch, 153
yard, three touchdown performance against Houston. Atlanta’s secondary is
ranked 15th in the league stopping the pass, so expect to see a lot
of Smith.
Why Atlanta Might Win: As much as the departure of the Falcons former
quarterback could’ve killed this team, it hasn’t. The Falcons went into the
fourth quarter, on the road, against the Jaguars leading 7-3. They couldn’t
hold on for the win, but Bobby Petrino’s team is still competitive. An
offensive playmaker needs to emerge, but Warrick Dunn still has something left
in him. He just needs a little bit of help.
Who to Watch: The Atlanta offensive line. The numbers aren’t pretty. 13
sacks in two games. The Panthers didn’t end up with a sack last week, but this
week that could change in a big way. The Falcons do have major problems and it
starts with the protection up front. If Harrington is on his wallet, that’s
trouble. It’s not always the OL’s fault, but it does mean that the protection
must be at a premium.
What Will Happen: Carolina is going to roll. Big. Running backs DeShaun
Foster and DeAngelo Williams will combine for over 175+ yards rushing and Smith
will have another six catch, 100 yard game. The only question is how long
Atlanta will stay in the game.
CFN Prediction: Panthers 27 … Falcons 10 ..
Line: Carolina -4
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 1.5
Dallas
at Chicago
8:15 pm NBC September 23, 2007
Why to Watch: The best NFC matchup of the weekend, and perhaps the best
of the whole weekend, including the two showdowns of 2-0 teams. The Cowboys are
averaging 41 points per game after hammering the Giants and the Dolphins to
start the season. The result? 2-0. The Bears have one of the best defenses in
the league, holding the Chargers and the Chiefs to 14 and ten points,
respectively. The result? 1-1. Who says that Defenses win championships?
Why Dallas Might Win: Offense. The Cowboys are first in the league in
scoring (41 points), fourth in total yards (415 yards), seventh in passing yards
(261 yards) and fifth in rushing yards (154 yards). The numbers are staggering,
but it’s the number of weapons that should worry the Bears defense, ranked fifth
in the league in total yards (272 yards). This week, the tight ends become the
X factor with so much focus on T.O and the receivers and the dynamic duo at
running back (Marion Barber III and Julius Jones).
Why Chicago Might Win: Defense. You think the reason should be Rex
Grossman? There isn’t much drop off from previous years on the defensive side
of the ball. Brian Urlacher and company held Charger superstar LaDainian
Tomlinson to 25 yards rushing and Chief superstar Larry Johnson to 55 yards
(less than four yards per carry), as well. There’s no secret with this Bears
team – win with defense, unleash the front seven on Tony Romo and the running
game, forcing the Cowboys into third and long throughout.
Who to Watch: Grossman, Grossman, Grossman. It’s hard to know how many
chances are left, but he’s the 33rd ranked quarterback in the league
with a 55.1 passer rating. There are 32 teams, so what does that tell you about
where Rex is headed. At least last year, he started off the season with some
positive performances. Maybe the bright lights of a nationally televised game
against this Dallas team will be the perfect tonic. On the other hand, maybe
it’s time for Brian Griese.
What Will Happen: The Cowboys won’t score 41 points in this one, but 20
points will suffice. T.O. is a tough matchup for the two Bears corners Charles
Tillman and Nathan Vasher and he should have a touchdown or two in this one.
Grossman will turn the ball over again and we’ll see Griese in the second half,
but it’ll be the Bear defense that comes away with the win.
CFN Prediction: Bears 23 … Cowboys 17 ..
Line: Bears -3
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 4
Tennessee
at New Orleans
8:30 pm ESPN September 24, 2007
Why to Watch: If you live in Houston, Texas, you may not want to watch
the two guys that your organization passed on in the 2006 NFL Draft. However,
the rest of the nation will focus in on Vince Young and Reggie Bush. Former
Heisman Trophy winner Bush hasn’t gotten on track this year, and, unfortunately,
the Saints have followed suit, losing their first two games. Young continues to
amaze, keeping this team competitive against any team the Titans face. Although
the Titans lost 22-20 last week to the Colts, VY kept it close and exciting
against the defending Super Bowl champs.
Why Tennessee Might Win: The Titans have no receiving corps, yet VY
keeps giving them a shot to win. Want to know why stats don’t tell the whole
story? VY is the 19th ranked quarterback in the league with a 76.3
passer rating and averages only 131 yards passing per game. Yet, there aren’t
many other quarterbacks in the league who you’d want the ball in his hands late
in a game more than Young. The Saints defense is 26th in the league
against the pass, giving up 266 yards per game, so expect a strong game from
No.10.
Why New Orleans Might Win: Playing at home is the best asset for the
Saints this week. That, and the fact that this offense is due to break out
after two subpar games on the road. Quarterback Drew Brees is much better than
most of the 28 other quarterbacks ahead of him in the passer rankings, and he
should prove that this week. Tennessee is 24th in the league against
the pass and gave up 312 yards to Colt star QB Peyton Manning last week in
Nashville. Bush is much better than three yards per carry. This offensive line
is the same line it was last year, so it’s just a matter of time before this
offensive machine hits its stride.
Who to Watch: Bush and McAllister. The two have combined for just 152
yards on 42 carries, less than four yards per carry. Obviously, their success
relies heavily on the production of the offensive line, but these two have got
to produce on the ground. They can take solace in the fact that Colts RB Joseph
Addai ran for 81 yards last week, over half the total of Bush and McAllister on
the season.
What Will Happen: The Saints will use the emotion and the energy of the
home crowd to silence the Titans and get their first victory of the year. Bush
and McAllister will combine for over 125+ yards, while Brees will have his first
300 yard game of the year. Young won’t get the help he needs this week.
CFN Prediction: Saints 24 … Titans 16 ..
Line: New Orleans -4.5
Must See Rating: (5 Curb Your Enthusiasm - 1 Kid Nation)
... 4