NFL Fearless
Predictions
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Week 3
Houston at
Atlanta
1:00 pm CBS September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: The Texans have turned the corner as a relevant
organization, even in losing last week to the Colts, 30-24. At 2-1, the Gary
Kubiak-led Texans are one of the most improved teams in the NFL, while the
Falcons, well, they’re heading the other direction in Bobby Petrino’s inaugural
season. The Falcons lost to Carolina 27-20 in the Georgia Dome, a third
straight loss. Adding intrigue to this one is the return of former Falcon
backup turned Texan starting quarterback Matt Schaub, who has been nothing short
of sensational in his three starts.
Why Houston Might Win: Schaub. With Andre Johnson out, Jacoby Jones
injured in the third quarter, both running backs on the sideline and his
starting center out with an ACL tear, the Schaub put the Texans on his back and
carried them to the finish line. He completed 15 passes in a row in the fourth
quarter and finished 27 of 33 for 236 and a touchdown. Even with a makeshift
lineup around him, Schaub made a statement about his play and his leadership.
Why Atlanta Might Win: Could it be that Joey Harrington has finally
grown up as a quarterback in the NFL, one worthy of the third pick of the 2002
NFL Draft? Perhaps he’s not to that point, but Harrington proved last week
against the Panthers that he’s capable of managing an offense, a competitive
offense. The former ‘Joey Heisman’ completed 31 of 44 for 361 yards and two
touchdowns, and he has the pressure to keep on producing with Byron Leftwich
waiting in the wings. Houston’s defense yielded 273 passing yards to Peyton
Manning, so expect Harrington to light up the airways on Sunday.
Who to Watch: The Houston training staff. The Texans were a mash unit
last weekend, having at least five players injured at one point, in addition to
Johnson and Dayne already out. Somehow the Texans remained competitive, but
another week of seeing the trainers on the field more than the players will lead
to another Texans loss.
What Will Happen: This one will be close, but Harrington will morph into
the Harrington of old as he turns the ball over to the Texan defense a couple of
times. Those extra possessions for the Texans will turn into ten or more points
for Schaub and company. The Texans get a much needed bounce-back win on the
road.
CFN Prediction: Texans 27 … Falcons 20
... Line: Houston -3
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 2.5
New York Jets
at Buffalo
1:00 pm CBS September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: The Jets got their first win of the year, a 31-28 win over
Miami at home, while the Bills struggled at New England and are still trying to
find themselves and an identity. Not only did the Bills lose 38-7 on the road,
but the price paid was steeper than that of a singular loss to New England. The
Bills lost QB J.P Losman and rookie star linebacker Paul Posluszny to injuries,
adding injury to the insult of an 0-3 record. It’s a desperate time for both
teams, with each to play with a sense of urgency.
Why New York Jets Might Win: After a narrow defeat to Baltimore in which
the offense couldn’t get the ball in the end zone, the Jets offense scored three
times against the Dolphins. Running back Thomas Jones ran for 110 yards on 25
carries against Miami and is facing a Bills defense that gave up100+ yards to
all three running backs it’s faced: Travis Henry, Willie Parker and Laurence
Maroney. With quarterback Chad Pennington still not completely 100% healthy,
the Jets will need for Jones to follow in the steps of the aforementioned trio
of running backs.
Why Buffalo Might Win: Mr. Lynch is coming to dinner. Get used to
seeing Bills rookie running back Marshawn Lynch because he is the Bills
offense. With an injured Losman on the bench and a rookie quarterback taking
snaps, Lynch should carry the load for the Bills offense. He had 74 yards on 20
carries against a stout New England defense. The Jets defense gave up 112 yards
rushing to Ronnie Brown in last week’s win, so Lynch won’t find as much
resistance as he experienced last week.
Who to Watch: Rookie quarterback Trent Edwards is facing the 28th
ranked pass defense in the league, but he’s still a rookie starting for the
first time. Edwards completed ten of 20 passes against the Patriots, but he’ll
have to be even more productive against the Jets to keep them from loading the
box to stop Lynch and the running game.
What Will Happen: The Bills will ride the emotion of the home folks, but
the Jets have the better offense. Jones will have 100+ yards rushing and
Pennington will post a couple of scores through the air. The Jets win to even
their record at 2-2.
CFN Prediction: Jets 28 … Bills 13 ... Line:
New York -3.5
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 2
Baltimore
at Cleveland
1:00 pm CBS September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: The Ravens have won two in a row, including a last second
26-23 victory over the Cardinals on a last second Matt Stover field goal. The
Browns, on the other hand, drilled a game winning field goal against Oakland,
only to be denied by the ‘en vogue’ late last second time out. After the time
out, the Browns’ field goal attempt was blocked and Cleveland left the Bay Area
with an unfortunate 26-24 loss. Cleveland is 1-0 at home; expect the Dawg Pound
to be ready for the Ravens.
Why Baltimore Might Win: Can a two headed quarterback monster in the NFL
produce wins? That’s not possible, right? Think again. Steve McNair and Kyle
Boller combined to go 28 of 37 for 281 yards and a touchdown in the win over
Arizona. McNair played much of the game, but Boller led the Ravens on the game
winning drive. Considering the fact that the Browns have the 24th
ranked pass defense in the league, these two should be as productive as they
were last weekend.
Why Cleveland Might Win: Tight end Kellen Winslow and wide receiver
Braylon Edwards didn’t produce near the numbers that they did the week prior
against Cincinnati, but these two are potent in the passing game. They combined
for ten catches for 171 yards and a touchdown against Oakland and should be
chomping at the bit to have a day like Anquan Boldin had against the Ravens (14
receptions, 181 yards and two touchdowns).
Who to Watch: The starting running backs. The free agent signing of
Willis McGahee in Baltimore made Jamal Lewis a former Raven and a current
Brown. Both backs have plenty to prove, in particular Lewis against his former
teammates. Lewis ran for 215 yards against Cincinnati, but was held in check by
the Raiders (15 carries for 56 yards). McGahee ran for 98 yards in the Arizona
win. The back who can establish himself early in this game will be the one
carrying the ball for the winning team.
What Will Happen: Cleveland’s offense has picked up the slack for the
struggling defense, but not this week. Ray Lewis and company will harass
quarterback Derek Anderson into a couple of turnovers and the McNair/Boller
combination will take advantage of the errors. The two Ravens will throw for
250+ yards and McGahee will have a 100 yard game in a decisive Ravens win.
CFN Prediction: Ravens 27 … Browns 14 ...
Line: Baltimore -4.5
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 3
St. Louis
at Dallas
1:00 pm FOX September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: One team is 3-0 and the best team in the NFC. One team is
still looking for its first win of the season. The Cowboys are coming off of a
convincing 34-10 win over the defending NFC champion Chicago Bears, while the
Rams lost their third in a row, a 24-3 Tampa Bay rout. “Must win” doesn’t even
begin to describe the situation for the struggling, banged up Rams, while the
Cowboys hope to stay hot by winning at home. This can be when Dallas cements its
spot as the class of the league, while St. Louis can jump-start its season.
Why St. Louis Might Win: With running back Steven Jackson out for this
week, ‘impending doom’ might appear to be the operative for the Rams offense,
meaning QB Marc Bulger will have to bomb away. He’s averaging 217 yards per
game through the air, even though he struggled last week at Tampa (three
interceptions and no touchdowns). Dallas’ secondary, ranked 23rd in
the league in pass defense, will have trouble stopping Bulger if he gets hot
early.
Why Dallas Might Win: Pick something. Anything. Quarterback Tony Romo
had perhaps his best game as a Cowboy against the Bears. The running back duo –
Marion Barber and Julius Jones – combined for 128 yards. Tampa Bay ran all over
the Rams 28th ranked rush defense, piling up 171 yards in the
process. Furthermore, the defense picked off Rex Grossman three times and gave
up a lone rushing touchdown. Playing at home, the Cowboys have every
advantage in this matchup.
Who to Watch: Rams rookie running back Brian Leonard is a solid second
running option for St. Louis, but against the Cowboys, he’ll have to be the main
ball carrier. With Jackson injured and out for the week, Leonard becomes the
number one option in the running game for the offense. He only has 21 yards
rushing on the year, but needs to at least triple that number in this one game
to keep the Rams competitive.
What Will Happen: The Cowboys will dominate this matchup from start to
finish. The Cowboys are on such a roll that a Steven Jackson-less Rams squad
has no chance of beating them in Dallas. Romo has another three touchdown game,
as long as his receivers catch the football – do you hear me Patrick Crayton?
Either way, it won’t really matter.
CFN Prediction: Cowboys 34 … Rams 20 ...
Line: Dallas -13
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 2
Chicago
at Detroit
1:00 pm FOX September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: A Bear-Lion matchup conjures up visions of Dick Butkus in
the mud and grime against Greg Landry and Mel Farr. Uh, well, not so much
anymore playing inside on fake grass, but it’s still an important divisional
matchup. The Bears have struggled offensively and now has to deal with a slew
of injuries. The Lions sit at 2-1, however, that one loss was a 56-21 debacle
in Philly last weekend. Another loss for either team could initiate the descent
to the NFC North cellar, while the Bears can’t afford another loss if they have
any playoff hopes.
Why Chicago Might Win: Quarterback change. This seemingly simple move
from Rex Grossman to Brian Griese will have more of an effect on every aspect of
this team. The Bears defense has mediocre numbers this season - 15th
in the league in scoring defense (19.3 points per game), 12th against
the pass (232.3 yards per game) and 12th against the run (92 yards
per game). This defense is better than that, but with the extra possessions
provided by the turnovers, the Bears defense has suffered. Griese can’t do much
worse than 45.2 passer rating and six picks, especially against the 28th
ranked scoring defense in the league.
Why Detroit Might Win: Can you win with the third ranked offense in the
league? 413 yards per game. The number one passing offense in the league?
Detroit’s. Quarterback Jon Kitna is holding up his end of the bargain, throwing
for 326.7 yards per game and 97.0 passer rating, and his receivers are doing the
same. The Cowboys’ Tony Romo proved that it’s possible to light up the Bears
secondary, throwing for 329 and two touchdowns, so expect Kitna to do much of
the same this weekend.
Who to Watch: Safety Adam Archuleta has 19 tackles and a pick this year,
proving that he’s far from being done with his career. However, he’ll be the
team’s X factor this week. As much as the corners will have the focus on them
facing the Lions receiving quartet, Archuleta must provide the physical presence
across the middle. The Lions receivers, in particular Roy Williams, can’t run
free with, or without, the ball across the middle and Archuleta is the key to
denying Williams, et al. access.
What Will Happen: Griese won’t be sublime, but he’ll be enough. He’ll
throw for 150+ yards, but he won’t turn the ball over. THAT is the penultimate
key to this game and it’ll give the Bears defense the opportunity to get rest
and play less. Kitna turns it over a couple of times and the Bears use the
errors to get back on top.
CFN Prediction: Bears 23 .. Lions 17 ...
Line: Chicago -3
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 3
Oakland
at Miami
1:00 pm CBS September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: The former 1970s powers have disintegrated into 2000s
also-rans, combining for one win in six games. The Raiders were the
laughingstock of the NFL last year, but are much improved in 2007. The 26-24
win over the Browns last week should actually have been the second win for the
Raiders; regardless, it’s evident that head coach Lane Kiffin has made a
significant difference for this organization. The Dolphins? Uh, not so good.
Three consecutive losses, although two of those losses were by three points
each. Losing another home game will effectively end the honeymoon for head
coach Cam Cameron…in the month of September.
Why Oakland Might Win: Those 1970s Raiders were blessed with one of the
best passing games in the league, but the 2007 Raiders are utilizing the running
game to be successful. Running back LaMont Jordan is second in the league in
rushing, averaging 116.7 yards per game, having registered 121 yards on 29
carries against the Browns last weekend. Add in the fact that Miami is third to
last in the league against the run; Jordan should have a big day. Real big.
Why Miami Might Win: Eventually the defense is going to get out of its
doldrums and have a strong performance. When it does, the team should be in
better shape because the offense is starting to click. Running back Ronnie
Brown accounted for 211 yards of total offense (112 rushing, 99 receiving) and
three touchdowns, while quarterback Trent Green threw for 318 yards on 23 of 36
passing and a touchdown. Against the Jets, the Dolphins accounted for 424 yards
total offense, so …
Who to Watch: …if the defense can keep it together, just once, the
Dolphins might win a game. Now, the defense gave up only 256 yards total
offense to the Jets, but remains one of the worst scoring defenses in the NFL
(26th in the league). With Green and Brown hitting their stride,
it’s on the Dolphin defense to pull it out of the fire.
What Will Happen: Miami will get victory number one. Green and Brown
will play well, accounting for nearly 350 yards total offense, but the defense
will come up large and hold Jordan in check. The Raiders defense won’t get off
the field and whoever plays quarterback Culpepper in his first start (in Miami,
mind you) will struggle against a focused Miami secondary. Even so, the Raiders
will pull it off.
CFN Prediction: Raiders 20 … Dolphins 17 ...
Line: Miami -3
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 2.5
Green Bay
at Minnesota
1:00 pm FOX September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: Looky here. Guess who’s sitting on top of the NFC North?
Mr. Brett Favre and the Green Bay Packers. What were people saying about him a
couple of years ago? Get those clips out and review. “He’s washed up”.
“Favre’s done”. Well, if that’s washed up, then Tony Romo is scrubbing up right
now. Favre has led the Pack to three consecutive wins over the Eagles, Giants
and Chargers. But, no matter how good he’s been in his career, he struggles in
the Metrodome. The Vikings won game one in the Dome, but have lost two in a row
on the road to the Lions and the Chiefs. NFC North foes are hoping Adrian
Peterson and the Vikes can bring the Packers back down to earth, or better yet,
keep them from running away with the division.
Why Green Bay Might Win: Can Favre be any better? He’s averaging 287
yards passing with six touchdowns and, most importantly, only two
interceptions. But, Favre has never been about the numbers, it’s been his
clutch throws that have always highlighted his career. His game winning 57-yard
touchdown throw to Greg Jennings was a vintage Favre ‘rope’. Considering the
fact that he Vikings are giving up 243 yards per game through the air, Favre
should have another solid performance.
Why Minnesota Might Win: Playing at home in the Dome is a distinct
advantage for the Vikings, but the Dome doesn’t play defense. It doesn’t have
to. The Vikings are fourth in the league in scoring defense, giving up only 12
points per game. Furthermore, the defense is third in the league in rush
defense and should render the weak Packer running game completely useless.
Who to Watch: Minnesota receivers. The Vikings receivers have done
little to nothing this season and don’t have a receiving touchdown this season.
The leading receiver for the Vikings is Bobby Wade, averaging a paltry 32.3
yards per game, so production out of this unit is tantamount for a Vikings win.
What Will Happen: The Vikings will keep it close, but Favre will continue
his run of magical finishes. He’ll riddle the Vikes’ secondary for 250+ yards
and a couple of touchdowns, including one late to seal the deal. The Packers
front seven will bottle up Peterson in the second half, rendering the running
game useless in the end game.
CFN Prediction: Packers 20 … Vikings 10 ...
Line: Green Bay -2
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 3
Seattle
at San Francisco
4:05 pm FOX September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: The Seahawks are 2-1 following a 24-21 victory over the
Bengals and sit atop the NFC West standings. The 49ers are 2-1 following a
37-16 loss to the Steelers and are tied for the NFC West lead with the
aforementioned Seahawks. The winner steps to the front of the division by
itself. Nothing like a fierce NFC West battle in week four, huh? Both teams
will point back to this game at the end of the season as the key to the season,
win or lose.
Why Seattle Might Win: The Seahawk offense isn’t going to remind anyone
of the 1999 Rams, but there’s plenty of balance with running back Shaun
Alexander and the passing game. Last week, the Seahawks ran for 102 yards and
threw for 248 against the Bengals, which isn’t good news for a 49ers defense
that was shredded by the Steelers.
Why San Francisco Might Win: The 49ers have played poorly in the first
three games and are still 2-1; imagine what’ll happen when they start to play
well. Although the defense gave up 37 points last week to the Steelers, it’s
ranked 11th in the league against the pass, giving up 192 yards per
game. That number can be attributed to a solid pass rush, led by Bryant Young
who has four sacks on the season, second in the NFL.
Who to Watch: 49ers quarterback Alex Smith was expected to follow the
road marked “third year quarterback on his way to greatness” but has,
unfortunately, been on the road labeled “third year quarterback losing his way
on the way to greatness”. He’s ranked 29th in the NFL in passer
rating, throwing for only 153.7 yards per game with only one touchdown. He
doesn’t turn the ball over, but he’s not doing anything to help the offense move
the ball effectively. That must change quickly.
What Will Happen: The 49ers will come out of the blocks on fire and make
a statement that the NFC West crown won’t have Seattle’s name on it. Smith will
have a solid 225+ yard passing day and running back Frank Gore will have a sound
rushing day to lead San Francisco past the Seahawks.
CFN Prediction: 49ers 23 … Seahawks 17 ...
Line: San Francisco -2
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 3.5
Tampa Bay
at Carolina
4:05 pm FOX September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: With Atlanta and New Orleans winless on the season, the AFC
South battle will be a two team race between Tampa Bay and Carolina, both teams
at 2-1. The Buccaneers have won two in a row, including last week’s dominating
24-3 win over the Rams, while the Panthers bounced back from a loss to the
Texans with a 27-20 win over the Falcons on the road. The winner will take sole
possession of the NFC South.
Why Tampa Bay Might Win: In a monsoon last week against the Rams, the
Bucs proved they could run the ball effectively, rushing for 182 yards on 32
carries (a whopping 5.7 yards per carry). The Bucs’ young offensive line is
starting to mature and improve more than could be expected, and the Panthers
haven’t produced the number of sacks commensurate with the number of superstars
on their defensive line.
Why Carolina Might Win: Not to be outdone, the Panthers can run the
football just as well as the Buccaneers, if not better. Running backs DeShaun
Foster and DeAngelo Williams combined for 169 yards against the Falcons and the
Panthers rank sixth in the league with 146.3 yards per game. Tampa Bay allowed
star running back Steven Jackson to rush for 115 yards last week, so the
Panthers should have plenty of room to run against the Buccaneer defense.
Who to Watch: Buccaneer linebacker Barrett Ruud is blossoming into the
late 2000s version of Derrick Brooks. He leads the league in tackles with 35
and had his first interception of the year last week against the Rams. Although
he’s not as well known as his running mate Brooks, Ruud is starting to take
control of the Buccaneer defense. He’ll be a key factor in this game stopping
the Panthers powerful ground attack.
What Will Happen: The Panthers front seven will hold the Buccaneer
running game in check and not allow quarterback Jeff Garcia to hurt them
throwing the football downfield. Wide receiver Steve Smith will have 100+ yards
receiving and a touchdown, in addition to 100+ combined yards on the ground by
Foster and Williams. The Panthers will move to 3-1 and take a big step toward
claiming the NFC South crown.
CFN Prediction: Panthers 28 … Buccaneers 20 ...
Line: Carolina -3
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 3.5
Pittsburgh
at Arizona
4:15 pm CBS September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: The first annual Ken Whisenhunt-Russ Grimm Bowl takes place
in Glendale, and they have something to prove. The former Steeler offensive
coordinator Whisenhunt is the current Cardinal head coach and beloved former
offensive line coach Grimm joined him after feeling snubbed when he was not
named the Steelers head coach. However, the Steelers aren’t complaining about
the man who eventually replaced retired head coach Bill Cowher – Mike Tomlin.
The Steelers have been nothing but dominant in the first three games of the
season but head out on the road this week to take on a team that must win to
stay in the NFC West race.
Why Pittsburgh Might Win: The formula for winning games in the NFL has
never really changed – if a team can run the football and play solid defense, it
has a chance to win. A lot. Well, Pittsburgh leads the NFL in rushing,
averaging 198.3 yards per game, led by “Fast” Willie Parker who leads the league
with 122.7 yards per game. Add in the fact that the Steelers lead the league in
scoring defense, yielding less than nine points per game and it’s obvious that
the Steelers have the formula.
Why Arizona Might Win: Whisenhunt decided to take former NFL MVP Kurt
Warner out of mothballs last weekend and it paid off in a major way. Warner
completed 15 of 20 passes for 258 yards and two touchdowns, all the while not
turning the ball over to the Ravens. The major recipient of Warner’s return was
star receiver Anquan Boldin. All Boldin did was catch 14 passes for 181 yards
and two touchdowns, setting off joyous celebration by fantasy owners
everywhere. The Cardinals can exploit the Steelers secondary unlike any team
that the Steelers have faced this season, no matter whether Warner or starter
Matt Leinart is under center.
Who to Watch: Steeler safety Troy Polamalu is the key to the Steeler
defense this weekend for a couple of reasons (which isn’t different from any
other week really). First of all, he has to be a physical presence downfield
against the Cardinals stud receivers – Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald. But, he’s
always been a factor on the blitz and must get to Warner and/or Leinart early in
the game. Considering the fact that the only knock on Warner his whole career
has been his ability to take a hit and that Leinart’s confidence is fragile at
this moment, a Polamalu blitz could wreak havoc on both of those two.
What Will Happen: The Cardinals will have more success on offense, mixing
up the run game with play action downfield, but eventually the Steelers defense
will force mistakes in the passing game. Steelers quarterback Ben
Roethlisberger will have another efficient ball game, throwing for right around
200 yards, while Parker runs for 100 for the fourth consecutive week.
CFN Prediction: Steelers 34 … Cardinals 20 ...
Line: Pittsburgh -6
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 3
Kansas City
at San Diego
4:15 pm CBS September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: In the preseason, there were a number of prognosticators
who had the Chiefs at 1-2 at this point in the season. However, there wasn’t a
soul on this earth who had the Chargers at 1-2. The Chiefs aren’t the playoff
them they were last season, but have steadily gotten better over the first three
weeks, while the Chargers have regressed after an opening day 14-3 win over the
Bears. It’s hard to believe but this one will determine who will own the AFC
West cellar and what team has a shot to still win this division.
Why Kansas City Might Win: Although star running back Larry Johnson has
struggled mightily, his troubles have allowed rookie receiver Dwayne Bowe to
emerge as a go-to perimeter weapon. Last week, the rookie from LSU had five
catches, including his first NFL touchdown, a sublime grab if there ever was
one, to lead the Chiefs to the win over Minnesota. His continued improvement is
vital for this offense, in particular Johnson, who must get back on track.
Why San Diego Might Win: They have to? This team isn’t used to
struggling, especially on offense. Superstar LaDainian Tomlinson has yet to get
the train rolling, but that should change this weekend. The Chiefs are 18th
in the NFL against the run and haven’t faced an offense with a pulse. Even last
week, they gave up 102 yards to rookie Adrian Peterson, so this should be the
week that LT hits his stride.
Who to Watch: The Chiefs have a young, emerging defensive line, one that
can provide ample pressure on Charger quarterback Philip Rivers. Defensive ends
Jared Allen and Tamba Hali have combined for four sacks on the season and
defensive tackle Alphonso Boone is tough as nails in the middle of the line.
This defensive line can make things rough for Rivers this weekend.
What Will Happen: As much as the Chiefs have improved, the Chargers have
a sense of urgency to get back into the playoff race, even this early in the
season. Tomlinson will have his first good game of the year, rushing for 85+
yards and have 85+ receiving as well. Rivers will have another solid game
leading the Chargers to a much needed victory.
CFN Prediction: Chargers 27 … Chiefs 10 ...
Line: San Diego -12.5
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 2.5
Denver
at Indianapolis
4:15 pm CBS September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: The Colts departed Houston last weekend 3-0 and fully in
charge of the AFC South race, while the Broncos were getting beat by the
Jacksonville Jaguars at home. Heard that before, Bronco fan? Regardless, the
Colts were precise, like a surgeon performing his or her magic in the operating
room, beating the Texans 30-24. Meanwhile, the Broncos lost their first game of
the year 23-14, ruining any hope for the only matchup of 3-0 teams in week four.
Why Denver Might Win: NFL football is all about matchups. In most
cases, the Colts’ passing game has no peer on defense. However, the Broncos
have one of the best secondaries in the league and the defense is ranked first
in the league in passing defense, giving up a miniscule 88.3 yards per game
through the air. For the first time all season, Peyton Manning and crew will
have their work cut out for them against Champ Bailey, Dre Bly and John Lynch.
Why Indianapolis Might Win: No matter how good the Bronco secondary is,
Manning is still a surgeon. When he has the ball, you don’t ever think he can
be stopped. Nearly every drive against Houston turned into points. After a
Texans kickoff return for a touchdown on the first play of the game, Manning led
the Colts right back down the field on a 15 play, 74 yard drive that consumed
over eight minutes. That drive took the wind right out of Reliant Stadium and
it’s not the first time that’s happened with him under center.
Who to Watch: Indianapolis tight end Dallas Clark doesn’t get near as
much credit as the key to the Colts offense. He can line up anywhere on the
field and creates a mismatch regardless of who’s covering him. Down in the red
zone, he’s a monster and the Broncos must try to limit his effectiveness to have
any shot at winning this game.
What Will Happen: The Colts have owned the Broncos in years past,
especially in the Dome. This year won’t be much different. Manning will be his
proficient self and running back Joe Addai will pile up another couple of
touchdowns on the ground. The Colts defense will harass Bronco quarterback Jay
Cutler into a couple of mistakes and that will be the nail in the coffin for
Denver.
CFN Prediction: Colts 31 … Broncos 23 ...
Line: Indianapolis -10
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 4
Philadelphia
at New York Giants
8:15 pm NBC September 10, 2007
Why to Watch: It didn’t look good for NBC going into last weekend as both
teams could easily have been 0-3 entering this NFC East battle. However, both
teams made statements in completely different ways. The Eagles offense took the
Lions defense out behind the woodshed, hammering them into submission 56-21,
while the G-Men fought back from a 17-3 deficit to beat the Redskins 24-17. The
results made the NBC brass, well, they’re not smiling, but not frowning nearly
as much as they would have if two 0-3 teams were taking the field.
Why Philadelphia Might Win: The man dubbed “White Lightning” by
quarterback Donovan McNabb finally got on track last week and it couldn’t have
come at a better time. Wide receiver Kevin Curtis caught eleven passes for 221
yards and three touchdowns against the Lions and is McNabb’s go-to weapon deep
downfield – something he’s been looking for since TO left the City of Brotherly
Love. The blend of Curtis behind the secondary and running back Brian Westbrook
running and receiving is the right one for McNabb and this offense.
Why New York Giants Might Win: If you were to name the eight best
running backs in the NFL, would Derrick Ward’s name be mentioned? Presumably
not, but the former backup is ranked eighth in the league in rushing, averaging
91 yards per game on the ground and over five yards per carry. The Eagles are
fourth in the league against the rush, so Ward will have his hands full, but he
more than gives the Giants a chance to establish the run on the Eagles.
Who to Watch: Philadelphia defensive end Trent Cole leads the league with
five sacks and is a major key for the Eagle defense on Sunday night. Giants
quarterback Eli Manning isn’t a clinician like his brother and will let the pass
rush eat him alive at times. Cole must ensure that Sunday night is one of those
times. The Redskins had a couple of sacks, but Cole and company must double
that number against Manning.
What Will Happen: Westbrook may not be completely healthy, but he’ll be
the key in the game. He’ll have another 150+ yards total offense and have a
couple of touchdowns against the Giants defense. McNabb has found his rhythm
and should have a solid game against the 29th ranked pass defense in
the NFL.
CFN Prediction: Eagles 27 … Giants 20 ...
Line: Philadelphia -2.5
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 3.5
New England
at Cincinnati
8:30 pm ESPN September 30, 2007
Why to Watch: Is there any limit to how good this Patriots team is
currently and potentially can be this season. Three straight wins. Three
straight games scoring 38 points. The Patriots hammered the Buffalo Bills 38-7
in Foxboro, while the Bengals struggled on the road, losing to Seattle 24-21.
The loss dropped the offensively potent/defensively deficient Bengals to 1-2 and
in a must win situation against the best team in the league. Uh oh.
Why New England Might Win: The Patriots are first in the NFL in total
offensive yardage, averaging 441 yards per game, while they’re first in the NFL
in total defensive yardage, yielding a mere 207 yards per game. That’s a
234-yard difference in what they’re gaining and what they’re giving up. Last
week against Buffalo, the Patriots gained 485 yards and gave up 193 on defense.
Numbers don’t typically tell the full story, but in this case, the stats are so
obscene, it says everything.
Why Cincinnati Might Win: Remember 1985 when the undefeated Bears went
to down to Miami to face the Dolphins? The only guy that season that could beat
the Bears was Dan Marino and he did. Carson Palmer isn’t Dan Marino and the
Patriots aren’t the 1985 Bears (well, not yet anyway), but the similarities are
there, especially with a Cincinnati home game. Palmer is the only quarterback
in the league averaging more than 300 yards passing (312.3) and is second in the
league in touchdown passes with nine. He can’t beat the Patriots by himself,
but the Bengals can beat the Patriots because of him.
Who to Watch: The Bengal secondary has made a habit out of getting burned
this season. First, Derek Anderson of the Browns made mincemeat of the back
four, then Matt Hasselbeck followed suit throwing for three touchdowns against
them last week. Quarterback Tom Brady and his receivers have eaten secondaries
for lunch. Good ones. Cincinnati’s isn’t good. Oy vey.
What Will Happen: The Patriots could be stopped by a team with a balanced
offense and an aggressive, physical defense. That’s not a guarantee, but can
happen. Uh, that’s definitely not going to happen this week. Brady will
complete 75% of his throws for 285+ yards and another couple of touchdowns to
Randy Moss and Wes Welker. The Bengals will score more than seven points, but
not enough to overcome the 38 the Patriots will score.
CFN Prediction: Patriots 38 … Bengals 17 ...
Line: New England -7.5
Must See Rating: (5 Ken Burns' The War - 1 The Big Bang Theory)
... 3