We'll learn more about how several divisions could shake out this weekend because there are several intradivisional matchups highlighting the schedule.
GAMES OF THE WEEK:
Dallas (7-1) at New York Giants (6-2): Can the Giants run their winning streak to seven and avenge a season-opening loss? Their defense is vastly improved, particularly against the pass, since the Cowboys beat them. The combination of a hostile environment, possible adverse weather and the Giant's ferocious pass rush will pose a stiff test for QB Tony Romo. However, Dallas' defense also is improving, and QB Eli Manning must avoid mistakes as well because the Cowboys can strike quickly.
Jacksonville (5-3) at Tennessee (6-2): This should be the week's most punishing game, with each team trying to establish the run to overcome awful passing games. The Titans have the top run defense in the NFL and some momentum. The Jaguars, who already have lost to the Titans this season, badly need a victory here.
GAMES WORTH A PEEK:
Cleveland (5-3) at Pittsburgh (6-2): Think this is a black-and-blue game? Think again. These teams both have top-10 offenses. Both can run or pass, and both have physical offensive lines. The difference? The Steelers have the league's top-ranked defense, while the Browns' is ranked 31st.
Indianapolis (7-1) at San Diego (4-4): How will the Colts bounce back from their loss to the Patriots? The guess here is by running the ball because WR Anthony Gonzalez is out, and TE Dallas Clark and WR Marvin Harrison are questionable. The Colts will have to slow RB LaDainian Tomlinson. A key matchup will be how San Diego protects QB Philip Rivers, who has been rattled more this season, against Indy's speedy defensive line.
Denver (3-5) at Kansas City (4-4): The Broncos' problem isn't picking up yards (they're 12th in the NFL), but scoring (they're 28th). The Chiefs have allowed the eighth-fewest points, have a potent pass rush and play the run well. KC can really helps its cause with a win. Denver, which has a banged up QB in Jay Cutler, must win or its season could go down the drain in a hurry.
GAME OF THE WEAK:
Buffalo (4-4) at Miami (0-8): The Bills have the 31st-ranked offense and the 29th-rated defense yet they're .500. Welcome to the awful AFC East.
UPSET SPECIAL
Atlanta, which has shown a pulse recently, knocks off Carolina, which has struggled at home and been unable to get the ball in the hands of its best player, WR Steve Smith.
Year-to-date record on upsets: 6-3
1 comment:
You didn't cover this one but how about the Pack putting 9 in the box all day against the Vikings? The Vikes have no one who can throw or catch and Adrian Peterson is a monster. 3 Dt's, 2 DE's and 4 linebackers???? Maybe 4 or 5 dt's on some plays? Clog the field.
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