NFL Fearless
Predictions
Week 1 |
Week 2 |
Week 3 |
Week 4
Week 5 |
Week 6 |
Week 7 |
Week 8 |
Week 9 |
Week
11
Week 12
Chicago
at Washington
8:00 pm NFL Network December 6, 2007
Why to Watch: The NFL Network hit the proverbial jackpot with last week’s
Green Bay v. Dallas game, but this week it’s handed a matchup of two
underachieving NFC playoff wannabees. The Bears are a shell of the 2006 team
that won the NFC Championship, sitting at 5-7 after a 21-16 loss to the
Washington’s NFC East rival New York Giants last weekend. The Redskins sent out
ten guys on the first play as a tribute to the late Sean Taylor, then lost the
game after head coach Joe Gibbs called two consecutive time outs before a
lengthy Bills field goal. Rian Lindell banged home the shorter field goal
attempt and sent the Redskins to the showers with loss number seven. A four
game winning streak could put one of these teams in playoff contention, but four
won’t fit into three, if you catch my drift.
Why Chicago Might Win: Quarterback Rex Grossman hasn’t lit the world on
fire – I mean, he is Rex Grossman, by god, but this week he faces a secondary
that has struggled with injuries and key players being out. The result is a
defense that is 17th in the NFL in pass defense, yielding 216.8 yards
per game. Unfortunately for the Redskins, Grossman was a respectable NFL
quarterback last weekend. He completed 25 of 46 passes for 296 yards and a
touchdown, and most importantly, with no picks. Another performance like that
and the Redskins defense may be in trouble. Again.
Why Washington Might Win: The Redskins have done everything lately but
win a game. Last week, the defense was stellar for three quarters of the game
against the Bills. But, in this game, expect the difference to be Clinton
Portis and the Redskin running game. The once vaunted Bear defense is 27th
in the NFL against the run, yielding 130.8 yards per game, so expect a strong
game from Mr. Portis (or one of his different character names). He only rushed
for 50 yards on 25 carries last week, but the Bears defense gave up 154 to
Derrick Ward last week.
Who to Watch: Redskin tight end Chris Cooley is a guy who has to be
involved in this football game for the Redskins to have a chance. Cooley is the
team’s leading receiver and should be the number one guy due in large part to
the Bears inability to stop the run. Huh? Well, what’s the perfect play call
off of the running game? Play action. Who to? Cooley. He’s caught 53 balls
for 584 yards and increase that number significantly on Thursday night.
What Will Happen: The Redskins are desperate for a win. Pure and
simple. Quarterback Jason Campbell will have a solid game, throwing for 225+
yards and a couple of touchdowns, while Portis pounds out a C note worth of
yardage on the ground. However, the Redskins have had a short week with no time
whatsoever to prepare after missing a day of practice to attend the Sean Taylor
funeral. Washington simply won't be prepared.
CFN Prediction: Bears 24 ... Redskins 17 ...
Line: Washington -3
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...2
Carolina
at Jacksonville
1:00 pm Fox December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: The former expansion partners face off on the banks of the
St. John’s River this week, all be it, heading in opposite directions. Although
the Jaguars lost last week to the defending champion Colts 28-25 on the road,
Jack Del Rio’s gang has won two of its last three and is sitting pretty for a
wild card position in the tough AFC. The Panthers, on the other hand, have a
losing record and without a visit from the putrid 49ers would be on a five game
losing streak. Thank god for Trent Dilfer, huh? Well, Dilfer or Vinny
Testaverde, the 44-year old starting quarterback. Now that the Panthers are
playing a true NFL team, we’ll see if the losing continues.
Why Carolina Might Win: The Panthers secondary and linebackers had one
of the best performances of the weekend, picking off 49er quarterback Dilfer
four times, including a pick six by Richard Marshall. Jaguar quarterback David
Garrard threw his first pick of the season last week at Indianapolis, so maybe
this group can come up with another solid performance. The Panthers are tenth
in the league in pass defense, giving up 207.2 yards per game and will be a
stern test for Garrard.
Why Jacksonville Might Win: The Jaguars run the football as well as any
offense in the league. The offense is second in the league rushing the
football, piling up 141.0 yards per game on the ground. But, it’s not one guy.
One week Maurice Jones-Drew is a star. The next, Fred Taylor finds the fountain
of youth. Last week, Taylor ran for 104 yards on 14 carries, while MJD ran for
52 yards and a touchdown on eleven carries. With the running game leading the
way, Garrard rides the coattails, completing a high percentage of passes, 24 of
29 for 257 yards and a touchdown last week against the Colts.
Who to Watch: Jaguar rookie safety Reggie Nelson had a pick last week
against the Colts and is a key figure in the Jaguar defense. This unit has
struggled mightily against the pass, ranking 27th in the league, but
the Panthers don’t quite remind anyone of the Colts. However, Testaverde will
test Nelson deep down the middle of the field.
What Will Happen: The Jags, at home, one week after a tough loss, will
bounce back against the Panthers in a big way. The offense will produce 175+
yards on the ground, while Garrard completes a high percentage of his 20 to 25
throws against the Panthers defense. The Panthers will score late when the
result is no longer in doubt.
CFN Prediction: Jaguars – 31…Panthers – 17
Line: Jacksonville -10.5
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...3
Miami
at Buffalo
1:00 pm CBS December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: If the Dolphins actually had won a game prior to this week,
this game would have very little to no intrigue at all. But, the 1976
Buccaneers and the rest of the nation will be watching to see if the current
Dolphin squad can make history, a different sort of history than what the 1972
Dolphins made 35 years ago. With only four games left, the Dolphins lost a
golden opportunity to win a game last week against the two win Jets.
Unfortunately, the Jets left with win number three, a 40-13 loss for Miami.
Loss number 12. Ouch. The Bills had no business beating the Redskins, but did
just enough to keep it close in the fourth quarter to win on Rian Lindell’s last
second field goal (a gift from Joe Gibbs).
Why Miami Might Win: The Bills are starting a rookie quarterback who has
been solid, if not spectacular (QB Trent Edwards was 22 of 36 for 257 yards, no
TDs, no picks), but the Dolphin defense is third in the league against the pass,
yielding a paltry 178.3 yards per game. Without Marshawn Lynch at running back,
the passing game has been more a part of the offense, which plays right into the
Dolphins’ hands.
Why Buffalo Might Win: They have to, don’t they? Can the Bills, at 6-6,
actually lose to one of the worst teams in recent memory? There might be a bit
more pressure on the Bills in this one; in fact there’s a ton more pressure on
the Bills not to lose to an 0-12 football team. The thing about this Bills team
is that there’s not one thing that it does well, but it still shows up and wins
games. The emergence of Edwards throwing the football makes them a bit more
diverse on offense, a unit that is 31st in the league in total
offense (274.8 yards per game). Considering that Edwards threw for 257 last
week, perhaps that total offense number is trending upward.
Who to Watch: Without Lynch, the Bills running game hasn’t suffered
completely. Last week, running back Fred Jackson averaged over five yards a
carry, rushing for 82 yards on 16 carries. The Dolphins are dead last in the
league against the run, giving up 149.7 yards per game, so Jackson and the Bills
running backs could have a field day, no pun intended.
What Will Happen: The Bills will take advantage of a beat up, physically
and mentally whipped Miami squad. Edwards won’t need to throw for 200 yards,
but he’ll do that and then watch his running game dominate the fourth quarter.
Buffalo wins game number seven to stay in playoff contention, while the Dolphins
lose unlucky number 13.
CFN Prediction: Bills – 24…Dolphins – 10
Line: Buffalo -7
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...1.5
San Diego
at Tennessee
1:00 pm CBS December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: If the season ended today, these two would have the same
record. One would be a division champ, while the other would be at home
watching the playoffs (well, given the right tiebreaker). Luckily for the
Titans, the season doesn’t end for another four weeks. The 28-20 win over the
Texans last week stopped the bleeding and put them in a tie with the Cleveland
Browns for the last wild card spot in the AFC with a record of 7-5. The
Chargers are also 7-5, but fortunately, play in the AFC West where nine wins
might lock away a division title. Norv Turner’s crew beat the Chiefs last week
24-10 to maintain a secure grip on the division lead.
Why San Diego Might Win: Mr. Tomlinson is back on track in a big way.
Last week against the Chiefs, he went large. How about 177 yards rushing
large. The Titans aren’t likely to give up 177 yards on the ground, but last
week against the Texans, Tennessee gave up 86 rushing yards to Ron Dayne. This
is a Texans rushing game that couldn’t run its way out of a paper bag earlier in
the season, yet it moved the ball on the ground effectively. Expect #21 to get
plenty of touches on Sunday.
Why Tennessee Might Win: Could it be that Merrill Hoge’s favorite
whipping boy is actually becoming a competent NFL quarterback? Yes, Vince Young
has made significant strides, now that he’s as close to 100% as he’s been since
injuring his leg down in Tampa. Against the Texans, Young completed 21 of 31
for 248 yards and a couple of touchdowns to lead the Titans to the 28-20
victory. The Chargers are only 22nd in the league against the pass,
giving up 222.8 yards per game. VY should have ample opportunity to hurt this
secondary as he did last week to the Dunta Robinson-less Texans.
Who to Watch: The biggest key to stopping Tomlinson is literally the
biggest guy on the field, defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth. Arguably the
best interior defensive player in the league, Haynesworth proved that he’s the
key cog for this front seven. He hasn’t been on the field 100% of the time and
it’s obvious when he’s off the field. You’ll know whether he’s on the field
early or when looking at LT’s numbers on the stat sheet.
What Will Happen: Young will take charge in the most physical battle of
the weekend (not including the Patriots-Steelers tete-a-tete). He’ll have a
couple of vital scrambles early in the game that’ll set up deep throws downfield
late in the game. Tomlinson will have 100+ yards on the day, but Young will be
the star down the stretch, leading the Titans to win number eight.
CFN Prediction: Titans – 21…Chargers – 20
Line: San Diego -1
Must See Rating: (5 Hef wants you to take his place on The Girls Next
Door, but you can’t because you have to
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...4.5
Tampa Bay
at Houston
1:00 pm Fox December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: The Bucs lead the NFC South due in large part to a
dominating defense. Surprise, surprise the Bucs are winning with defense, yet
again? Yep, heard that one before? The Bucs lead the NFC South division by
three games with an 8-4 record. Well, Texan fan, heard this one before – the
Texans lost to the Tennessee Titans 28-20 last week, although that one was as
gut-wrenching as the previous meeting, or the one before that or the one before
that, or…you get the point. The Texans’ loss left them at 5-7 with a monster
four game schedule remaining and it’s plausible that this team that had designs
on, at a minimum, a .500 record, might be looking at seven wins at best. With
no playoff hopes remaining, the Texans must prove they can be competitive
against a strong team in this league or it’s back in the top ten, in the NFL
Draft for 2008.
Why Tampa Bay Might Win: As noted above, the Bucs, known for their stout
defensive units in the past, have another one this season. The defense is
second in the league in scoring defense (15.6 points per game), fourth in total
defense (291.8 YPG) and fourth in pass defense (185.8 YPG). The Texans have
been up and down all season on offense, but one consistent aspect about this
offense has been the inability to move the football effectively against active,
aggressive defenses.
Why Houston Might Win: The Texans are a different ball club playing at
home. They’re 3-2 at home and the two losses have been to the Colts and the
Titans by a combined eight points. One of the best aspects of the previous
three games has been the emergence of the running game, especially Ron Dayne.
He’s still the three yards and a cloud of dust back that he was at Wisconsin,
but the last three weeks, he ran for 89 yards, 78 yards and 86 yards, which
seemed all but impossible after watching this team try to run the ball all
season long. The Bucs only Achilles heel on defense is run defense – 16th
in the league, so keep an eye on the Dayne Train.
Who to Watch: The Bucs defensive ends Greg White, Jovan Haye and Gaines
Adams. White was drafted by the Houston Texans, but cut before his rookie
campaign. Good thing that he’s nearly impossible to block and is coming back to
Houston to make a point. The trio of pass rushers has 15 sacks combined and
could wreak serious havoc on a passing game that won’t have starting quarterback
Matt Schuab under center.
What Will Happen: The Texans are going to compete hard, especially after
two straight road losses, however, there’s only so much they’re going to be able
to do against the Buc defense. The Buccaneer offense will rely on running back
Earnest Graham in the run game and receiver Joey Galloway to stretch the
depleted Texans secondary throughout the game. Bucs win a physical,
hard-hitting battle.
CFN Prediction: Bucs – 20…Texans – 13
Line: Tampa Bay -3
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...2
Oakland
at Green Bay
1:00 pm CBS December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: Could the streak be over? Green Bay quarterback Brett
Favre has played in 248 consecutive games, but left last week’s game in Dallas
with a shoulder separation. So, the most intriguing reason to watch this game
is whether Favre can make it 249 games in a row. The Packers lost their second
game of the season, a 37-27 track meet in Dallas, while the Raiders won their
second in a row – a 34-20 win over the Denver Broncos. The win put the Raiders
at 4-8, doubling their win total of last year, and only three games back in the
AFC West division race. Wait, uh, no, that can’t happen, can it? Well, it’s
game 13 and they’re still mathematically alive, so anything is possible.
Why Oakland Might Win: Number one draft pick JaMarcus Russell made his
first appearance of the season and proved why he was drafted number one and why
he’s not the full-time starter going into the last quarter of the season.
However, this team has won the last two weeks behind a bruising running game
that averages 135.0 yards per game (fourth in the NFL). Running back Justin
Fargas followed up his stellar game at Kansas City with a 33 carry/146 yard/one
TD performance against the Broncos.
Why Green Bay Might Win: The passing game didn’t miss a beat last week
after Favre went out of the game. Rodgers replaced Favre in the second quarter
and completed 18 of 26 passes for 201 yards and a touchdown. So, perhaps Favre
can do his best Aaron Rodgers imitation. However, the Raiders have struggled to
stop the run all season long – 30th in the league, giving up 148.0
yards per game – and Ryan Grant is one of the biggest surprises of the season.
He ran for 94 yards and two touchdowns on 14 carries against Dallas and with
Favre not 100%, he could see twice that number of carries on Sunday.
Who to Watch: Raider quarterback Josh McCown sat for a spell on Sunday to
allow Russell to get his feet wet, but his time on the field was time well
spent. He completed 14 of 21 passes for 141 yards and three touchdowns in one
of his best performances of the season or of his career. The Packers had
trouble slowing down Tony Romo last week, so if McCown has success early, he’ll
see a lot of heat late. If McCown can get his confidence early and be
effective, alongside Fargas’s running, the Raiders might be tough to stop.
What Will Happen: The Raiders are going to jump out front and wake up the
sleeping giant, if you will. Grant is going to pound on the front seven for
125+ yards and a couple of touchdowns to put the Raiders to sleep.
CFN Prediction: Packers – 27…Raiders – 17
Line: Green Bay -10
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...2.5
Dallas
at Detroit
1:00 pm Fox December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: The Patriots loss notwithstanding, the Cowboys are rock
solid and definitively the best team in the NFC. The 37-27 win over Green Bay
put the Cowboys at 11-1 and in the driver’s seat for home field advantage
throughout the playoffs. For as good as the Cowboys have played lately, the
Lions have been the complete opposite. Last week’s loss to the Vikings was the
fourth in a row and it was probably the worst loss of the four. The Vikings
scored 28 second quarter points en route to a 42-10 butt-kicking of the Lions.
The Lions need four straight wins to fulfill Jon Kitna’s ten win prediction,
which, yes, would mean a win over the Cowboys this week.
Why Dallas Might Win: What didn’t the Cowboys do last week against the
Packers, huh? The defense picked off Brett Favre twice. Quarterback Tony Romo
completed 19 of 30 passes for 309 yards and four touchdowns. Marion Barber
averaged nearly five yards per carry on 17 carries. T.O. had a stellar game (7
catches for 156 yards and a touchdown), while Patrick Crayton had two touchdown
grabs. Add to the fact that the Cowboys had a couple of additional days of rest
after a Thursday night game and the Cowboys are as tough as they’ve been in a
good long time.
Why Detroit Might Win: Because they’re not supposed to? That’s about
the only reason with the way this team has played lately and the team they’re
facing on Sunday. However, the Lions can still throw the football, eighth in
the league at 249.4 yards per game, although receiver Roy Williams is out for
the rest of the season. The Cowboys secondary picked off Favre twice, but Aaron
Rodgers lit them up for the rest of the game. So, what you’re saying is there’s
hope? Yep, hope.
Who to Watch: Let’s be clear about this – Marion Barber is a beast. A
flat running stud beast. The Cowboys are flashy - a quarterback who dates
Hollywood starlets, T.O (enough said), but it’s Barber who provides the
punishment and scares opposing defensive coordinator. He runs like Laurence
Maroney is coming to take his job and his former Gopher teammate is up in New
England. He’s sharing time with Julius Jones and still has nearly 800 yards
rushing (796 yards) and averages nearly five yards a carry and has seven
touchdowns.
What Will Happen: The Lions will do the unexplainable – they’ll force
this one into the fourth quarter. Romo won’t be on his game early and will
throw a couple of picks to help keep the Lions in the game (not quite the Bills
game, but similar). However, in the fourth, Barber’s punishing running will
wear down the 31st ranked defense in the league and Romo will make
one key throw to win this game.
CFN Prediction: Cowboys – 28…Lions – 23
Line: Dallas -11
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...4
New York Giants
at Philadelphia
1:00 pm Fox December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: The last time we saw these two in the Meadowlands, the
Eagles hadn’t figured out how to block the Giants defensive line and quarterback
Donovan McNabb was sacked a dozen times. Suffice it to say, the Giants won the
game handily 16-3. Since that game, the Giants have made a strong bid for a
wild card, while the Eagles are tied in the NFC East cellar with the Washington
Redskins. Last week, quarterback Eli Manning threw a late touchdown to Amani
Toomer to lead the Giants to win number eight 21-16. The Eagles, on the other
hand, suffered loss number seven at the hands of the Seattle Seahawks, a 28-24
loss, at the Linc.
Why the Giants Might Win: With the struggles quarterback Eli Manning has
had this season, it’s a good thing that the running game has picked up the
slack. The Giants are sixth in the league in rushing, averaging 127.5 yards per
game. Last week, Derrick Ward ran for 154 yards, but was lost late in the game
with an injury. No worries. Starting running back Brandon Jacobs is due back
this week after missing a pair of games with a hamstring injury.
Why Philadelphia Might Win: Donovan’s back. Donovan’s back! The Eagles
starting quarterback is ready to get back on the field after injuries kept him
out of the last two weeks. For as good as A.J. Feeley was against New England,
he threw four interceptions (seven in two weeks) against the Seahawks that
killed any hopes of winning the game. As long as the Eagles protect the edge,
they’ll move the football against the Giants defense. The Giants are 12th
in the league against the pass, giving up 210.2 yards per game, so the Eagles
can move the football through the air, with McNabb or Feeley, no matter who
starts.
Who to Watch: Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey has always been a tough
matchup for the Eagles, due in large part to the fact that the Eagles bring so
many blitz looks to the party. The Eagles safeties or linebackers have serious
man-to-man cover issues with Shockey in the passing game. He’s second on the
team in receptions with 54 grabs for 597 yards and three touchdowns. Keep an
eye on #80 on Sunday.
What Will Happen: The Giants running game will take over and be the
reason why they win this game. Jacobs and the offensive line will pound on the
salty Eagles defense, wearing them down by the fourth quarter. No matter who
plays quarterback for the Eagles, he’ll throw a pick or three to kill any Eagle
hopes for a win.
CFN Prediction: Giants – 23…Eagles – 20
Line: Philadelphia -3
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...3.5
St. Louis
at Cincinnati
1:00 pm Fox December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: Try to find a good reason to watch this game this weekend.
The Rams are a three win, underachieving squad coming off of a 28-16 win over
the hapless Falcons. The Bengals are a four win, underachieving squad coming
off of a 24-10 loss to the Steelers. The sweepstakes for Darren McFadden starts
here, well, okay that’s if Miami passes on him like Houston passed on Reggie,
wait, let’s not bring that up again. Anyhow, these two are playing out the
string and hoping that a number two or three draft spot is waiting for them come
April 2008.
Why St. Louis Might Win: Rams quarterback Gus Frerotte lit up the
Falcons last week for 311 yards, but takes a seat this week with the starting
quarterback Marc Bulger returning to the lineup. If Frerotte can throw for 311
yards, what is Bulger going to do against the Bengals defense. The Bengals are
29th in the league in total defense giving up 357.2 yards per game
and more importantly, give up 238.2 yards per game through the air – 26th
in the league.
Why Cincinnati Might Win: Although Rudi Johnson is back in the
backfield, quarterback Carson Palmer is going to have pitch it around the yard
for the Bengals to win this game. Against Pittsburgh, he struggled mightily
against the number one pass defense in the league (17 of 44 for 183 yards, no
touchdowns/no picks). However, the Rams aren’t the Steelers in the secondary.
The Rams are 20th in the league, giving up 220.9 yards per game
through the air, so Palmer should be much better than last week.
Who to Watch: Rams running back Steven Jackson is healthy and rolling. He
ran for 96 yards on 20 attempts and a touchdown against the Falcons. The
Bengals aren’t that much better defending the run (23rd in the league
– 118.9 yards per game), so watch Jackson pile up triple digits in rushing
yardage on Sunday.
What Will Happen: Palmer goes off early and often on the Rams secondary.
He’ll throw for 300+ yards and four touchdowns after his meager showing last
weekend in Pittsburgh.
CFN Prediction: Bengals – 34…Rams – 20
Line: Cincinnati -6.5
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...2
Arizona
at Seattle
4:05 pm Fox December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: The Seahawks have separated from the rest of the NFC West
after a four game winning streak, including last week’s 28-24 win over Philly on
the road. At 8-4, the Seahawks have a two game lead on the Cardinals, but a
Cardinal win moves them one game closer to the Seahawks. Plus, a Cardinal win
gives Arizona the tiebreaker advantage over Seattle, as the Cardinals won the
first game in week two 23-20 in Glendale. Even with a two game lead, this game
is vital for the Seahawks in this NFC West race. The Cardinals beat the Browns
last weekend, hanging on for a 27-21 win. This might be the best non-Patriots
game of the weekend.
Why Cardinals Might Win: When Matt Leinart went out of the lineup, the
Cardinals passing game was left in the hands of former MVP Kurt Warner, a shell
of his former self. Well, that was the thought. Warner has been solid nearly
every time out, including last week’s 18 of 30/169 yard/two touchdown
performance. The Cardinals offense is 11th in the league in passing
offense, averaging 239.8 yards per game and much of that has to do with the fact
that Warner has been effective all season long.
Why Seahawks Might Win: With running back Shaun Alexander either inactive
with an injury or ineffective on the field, quarterback Matt Hasselbeck has
become the focal point of the offense. Last week in Philly, Hasselbeck was 21
of 38 for 249 yards and a touchdown and is eighth in the league with 3,074
passing yards. The Cardinals is 24th in the league against the pass,
giving up 223.2 yards, so Hasselbeck should have another strong game against
this defense.
Who to Watch: With Warner resurrecting his career, so to speak, Cardinal
running back Edgerrin James is trying to do the same. Last weekend against the
Browns, James was the difference, rushing 24 times for 114 yards in the win.
Provided he can have similar output against the 14th ranked rush
defense in the league, the Cardinals should win this game. If not…
What Will Happen: …the Seahawks will win the game by stopping James early
and picking off Warner late. Hasselbeck will have a decent game, but Maurice
Morris will run for 95+ yards against the Cardinals defense to lead the ‘Hawks
to an important win.
CFN Prediction: Seahawks – 31…Cardinals – 21
Line: Seattle -7
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...4
Minnesota
at San Francisco
4:05 pm Fox December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: These two teams are following the exact paths expected of
these two teams at the outset of the season. Most thought that one team would
be emerging as a young, up-and-coming team that could make some playoff noise.
Most thought that other team would be playing out the string at this time of the
year. It’s just that most of us thought that the Vikings would be playing out
the string and the 49ers would be playoff bound. However, the Vikings have been
a pleasant surprise this year at 6-6 and right in the thick of the wild card
playoff race. The 42-10 win over Detroit last week might’ve been the Vikings
most impressive win of the season, while the 49ers loss to the Panthers might’ve
been their most disappointing loss of the year.
Why Minnesota Might Win: When the Vikings’ running back Adrian Peterson
hurt his knee in a 34-0 loss at Green Bay, the prevailing thought was that the
Vikes were in serious trouble. However, that’s not the case. In fact, the
offense has been nothing but potent over the last few weeks. Peterson returned
last week and along with Chester Taylor, ran for 186 yards on 29 carries and
three touchdowns (two for Peterson and one for Taylor). The Vikings possess the
number one rushing offense in the NFL, rushing for 176.8 yards per game.
Why San Francisco Might Win: The 49ers are playing at home? Trent
Dilfer is still at quarterback? It’s tough to find some reasons why this team
will win again this season, but the Vikings might be ripe to be had. The 49ers
must rebound from the debacle that was last week’s visit to Carolina. Dilfer
can’t be much worse than he was last weekend against the Panthers (four
interceptions), especially against a Vikings defense that is last in the league
against the pass (278.7 yards per game).
Who to Watch: Vikings receiver Sidney Rice has been overshadowed by
fellow rookie Peterson; however, the rookie from South Carolina is developing
into one heck of a target. Last week Rice had five catches for 53 yards and a
touchdown. He’s thrown for touchdowns and caught touchdowns in recent weeks and
will be a top notch go-to receiver by season’s end.
What Will Happen: The Vikings are a legitimate playoff threat, the type
of team you don’t want to see in the postseason. They’ll prove that to the
49ers in a definitive win on the road. Taylor and Peterson will charge through
the 49ers porous front seven, while quarterback Tarvaris Jackson continues to
improve (28 for 36 combined over his last two weeks) with a solid 200+ yard/one
touchdown performance. The Vikings win with relative ease.
CFN Prediction: Vikings – 28…49ers – 14
Line: Minnesota -8.5
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...2
Kansas City
at Denver
4:15 pm CBS December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: The AFC West race isn’t quite over yet, so these two still
have some hope. It might be a small glimmer of hope, but hope nonetheless.
It’s more plausible that these two are playing for draft positioning and pride.
The Broncos took one on the chin last week, losing 24-10 to the Raiders to fall
to 5-7 on the season, while the Chiefs are still removing LaDainian Tomlinson’s
cleat marks from their chests after a 24-10 loss. The Chiefs loss leaves KC at
4-8 on the season and desperate for a road win. The Broncos beat the Chiefs
27-11 in Kansas City earlier this season.
Why Kansas City Might Win: The Chiefs season hasn’t gone according to
plan – they’ve not played well enough to win the games, as Herman Edwards would
say. However, it’s not for lack of effort by the Kansas City defense. The
defense gave up 177 yards rushing to Tomlinson, however, the defense is still
ranked ninth in the league in total defense, giving up 313.2 yards per game, and
it’s eighth in the league in scoring defense, yielding 19.2 points per game.
With an offense that is one of the worst in the league, the defense has kept the
Chiefs competitive, last week’s performance against LT, notwithstanding.
Why Denver Might Win: Young quarterbacks have ups and downs throughout a
season or career, but the good ones typically don’t follow one bad game with
another. Quarterback Jay Cutler completed only 50% of his passes and threw two
interceptions against the Raiders, one of his worst games in a four game span.
The offense is ninth in the league rushing the football, picking up 120.8 yards
per game, but Cutler’s passing acumen has helped move the offense up to 13th
due to his throwing accuracy. With his bad game out of the way, expect the
Broncos to move the ball effectively through the air against the Chiefs defense.
Who to Watch: The two tight ends. Broncos tight end Tony Scheffler isn’t
Tony Gonzalez, but he’s a definite weapon for Cutler, especially in the red
zone. He’s third on the Broncos in receptions with 29 and has three touchdowns,
but he only had one catch last week against the Raiders. Gonzalez, on the other
hand, had 140 yards receiving to add to record breaking career numbers. Chiefs
quarterback Damon Huard or Brodie Croyle won’t, and don’t have trouble finding
him in the passing game.
What Will Happen: The Broncos will get a much better game from Cutler,
but it’ll be the Bronco running game that will take advantage of the Chiefs 21st
ranked rush defense. Running back Travis Henry won’t run for 177 yards, but
he’ll pick up 100+ yards and a touchdown to celebrate his winning appeal.
CFN Prediction: Broncos – 27…Chiefs – 23
Line: Denver -7
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...3
Pittsburgh
at New England
4:15 pm CBS December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: Steeler defensive back Anthony Smith would tell you to not
even watch because it won’t even be close – the Steelers will win. He
guarantees it. Really, why would you want to watch a game of which you know the
outcome? Honestly, though, every game from here on until the Patriots lose a
game is must see television. The Patriots found another way to win on Monday
night in Baltimore, beating the Ravens 27-24 after taking the best shot the
Ravens could muster. Although many have touted this 12-0 Patriots as the best
of all-time, the Steelers are definitely not afraid of the big, bad wolf. The
9-3 Steelers squad is making sure the Patriots know exactly who they are, isn’t
that right Mr. Smith?
Why Pittsburgh Might Win: Willis McGahee - 138 yards rushing. That one
sentence gives not only the Steelers, but all three teams left on the schedule,
hope that the invincible Patriots could go down. McGahee ran over, around, past
and through the Patriots and allowed the Ravens the luxury of keeping the ball
out of quarterback Kyle Boller’s hands. That’s not a huge concern this week
with Ben Roethlisberger, but the ability to control the ball on the ground, in
this offense, is problematic for the Patriots. The Steelers want to pound
Willie Parker 25 times behind one of the league’s best offensive lines and if
they do, Roethlisberger could have a field day on play action.
Why New England Might Win: They’re destined to win them all, icebergs be
damned? Honestly, the Patriots have found different ways to win all season.
Last week against Baltimore, nothing really clicked on offense, yet Tom Brady
and company found the way to the end zone. Brady’s still the number one passer
in the league and although the Steelers have the number one defense in the
league (230.8 total yards per game), the teams that have beaten the Steelers
have thrown the ball well against them. And, don’t think Brady won’t go after
Smith at safety either and test Mr. Guarantee.
Who to Watch: Earlier this season, outside linebacker James Harrison had
one of the best defensive games of the season against the Ravens. No matter
whether he dropped back in coverage or rushed the quarterback, he had a profound
effect on that game. However, in this game, the ability to rush the quarterback
and put pressure on Brady throughout is a major key to winning this game.
What Will Happen: The Steelers formula for winning plays well in this
game. Brady needs to be pressured - that they can do. The Steelers can run the
football. Roethlisberger can make any throw he needs to make without turning
the ball over. It still won’t be enough to stop this Patriot team. Brady will
carve up the zone blitz scheme in the second half for win number 13.
CFN Prediction: Patriots – 31…Steelers – 28
Line: New England -10.5
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ... 5
Cleveland
at New York Jets
4:15 pm CBS December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: The Browns, the most surprising team of the season, ran
into an Arizona buzz saw last week. After winning four of its previous five
games, the Browns lost in a nailbiter 27-21 as a Kellen Winslow touchdown catch
was ruled out of bounds as time expired. The Jets finally got win number three,
but it took going to Miami to get a 40-13 win. The Browns’ loss didn’t knock
them out of the playoff race, but a loss here could really make the road to a
wild card berth even more arduous. A win for the Jets moves one step further
away from Darren McFadden, if he declares for the NFL Draft, that is.
Why Cleveland Might Win: The Browns are one of the most potent offenses
in the league. The Jets have one of the worst defenses in the league (25th
in total defense – 351.3 YPG). That should be a formula for success this
weekend for the Browns. Last week, Browns quarterback Derek Anderson had
another 300 yard passing game against the Cardinals in a losing effort.
Why the Jets Might Win: Quarterback Kellen Clemens has improved by leaps
and bounds in his short starting quarterback career. Against the Dolphins,
Clemens completed 15 of 24 passes for 236 yards and a touchdown, while the
running game cranked out over four yards a carry on 40 carries.
Who to Watch: The Jets lost linebacker Jonathan Vilma for the season
earlier in the campaign. However, rookie David Harris has made up for his
absence and then some. The former Michigan star leads the Jets in tackles with
91, 19 more than the next closest defender. Although the Browns don’t run the
ball as well as they throw it, Harris is key in stopping running back Jamal
Lewis.
What Will Happen: Surprise, surprise. The Jets will pull the upset as
the home underdog. Clemens will throw the ball effectively and not turn it
over, piling up 200+ yards, while running backs Leon Washington and Thomas Jones
combine for 125+ yards on the ground. Anderson will struggle with the Jets 11th
ranked pass defense as the Jets defense plays one of its best games of the year.
CFN Prediction: Jets – 27…Browns – 26
Line: Cleveland -3.5
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...2.5
Indianapolis
at Baltimore
8:15 pm NBC December 9, 2007
Why to Watch: If the Ravens couldn’t beat the Patriots, maybe they can
knock off the defending Super Bowl champions? Maybe. The Ravens lost a
gut-wrenching 27-24 contest to the Patriots, a game that could have potential
lingering effects with the emotion that was involved in the game (note Bart
Scott’s meltdown late in the game). The Colts had their own physical, emotional
battle with divisional foe Jacksonville, but the results were a stark contrast
to that of the Ravens. Peyton Manning’s bunch beat the Jaguars 28-25. The best
tonic for the frustrated Ravens will be to see the Colts across the field.
Perhaps.
Why Indianapolis Might Win: Don’t look now, but even without Marvin
Harrison, Peyton Manning is back, well, he never really left. The fact of the
matter is that Manning has seriously struggled until a few weeks ago and last
Sunday’s game was his best of the season. He threw four touchdown passes
against the Jags, accounting for every touchdown on the day. The Ravens gave up
287 yards passing to Tom Brady last week and are 15th in the NFL in
pass defense, giving up 215.3 yards per game. Meaning? Meaning that Manning
may have a big day.
Why Baltimore Might Win: How good was running back Willis McGahee last
Monday night? McGahee has been in the league since 2003, but really since 2004
and that Monday night game was the first time that he looked like the 2002 Miami
Hurricane that set the college world on its ear. He ran with power, burst and
looked like the type of back who could carry the Baltimore offense the rest of
the season. The Colts have not shut down good running backs this season and are
18th in the league against the run, giving up 108.3 yards per game.
McGahee, running as he did, could have a big day.
Who to Watch: Ravens pass rushers. When the Patriots got in second and
third and long, the Ravens pass rushers gave Brady all kinds of problems.
Antwan Barnes had the first sack of his career, while Terrell Suggs also sent
his best regards to the Patriots quarterback. The Pats struggled blocking the
Ravens edge rushers and the Colts still aren’t completely healthy at tackle.
Keep an eye on how much pressure Barnes, Suggs and company generate on Manning.
What Will Happen: The Ravens will reduce the penalties this week and get
a 100+ yard game from McGahee. But, Manning will counter with another 275+
yard/three touchdown performance to lead the Colts to victory number eleven.
CFN Prediction: Colts – 27…Ravens – 24
Line: Indianapolis -9
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...4
New Orleans
at Atlanta
8:30 pm ESPN December 10, 2007
Why to Watch: For some reason, the Falcons get a second opportunity to
prove their wares on a Monday night broadcast, although some may not call it an
opportunity with the way this team is playing. The Falcons’ losing continued
last week, as Atlanta lost to St. Louis 28-16. The Saints bungled a reverse
late in the fourth quarter in a 27-23 loss to Tampa Bay. Earlier this season,
the Saints beat the Falcons 22-16 in New Orleans. The loss to Tampa Bay cost
the Saints any chance, a slim chance at that mind you, to overtake the Bucs in
the NFC South. The Falcons loss just pushed them closer to the top of the 2008
NFL Draft order.
Why New Orleans Might Win: After getting shredded by one of the Flying
McCowns last week, the Saints get some sort of reprieve facing the Falcons Joey
Harrington or even Chris Redman. The former Oregon Duck has been in and out of
the lineup all season long, partly because the offense has done nothing with him
under center. Redman was better last week against the Rams but he’s been a
career back-up. The Falcons are 26th in total offense, averaging
just under 300 yards per game. As such, the Saints have a better opportunity to
be successful against this offense than Tampa Bay’s. However…
Why Atlanta Might Win: …even though the Falcons haven’t moved the ball
effectively this season, the Saints defense is one of the worst in the league.
The Saints are 26th in the league in total defense, giving up 351.7
yards per game and in the last meeting, the Falcons generated more offense (334
yards vs. 310 yards) in the first meeting between these two and piled up 435
yards of offense against the Rams.
Who to Watch: Falcons running back Jerious Norwood was finally named the
starter and it’s been a long time coming. It took only eight carries for
Norwood to hit 94 yards rushing, providing some home run hitting ability in the
running game. Norwood will be a key figure in this week’s matchup against the
Saints run defense.
What Will Happen: This is actually going to be a little more entertaining
game than first expected. Quarterback Drew Brees will throw for over 300 yards
and three touchdowns to lead the Saints to a vital win for their playoff hopes.
CFN Prediction: Saints – 34…Falcons – 30
Line: New Orleans -4.5
Must See Rating: (5 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show - 1 Margot At The
Wedding) ...2