The Titans have shown us maybe they don't belong on that top tier with some of the other teams. They definitely seem to have some vulnerable spots in their game. Steve McNair has hit the point in the season that comes around every year, when he's playing every Sunday and unable to play the other 6 days of the week. Last season the Titans went 5 & 0 in games when McNair failed to make practice during the week. They've already picked up two losses this season as they start along the same road. You could say the health of McNair is a concern. You could also say the lack of a running game is a concern. Eddie George continues to struggle, as he is unable to add the element of a solid rush attack to his team. One might argue (actually, in case you haven't figured it out, when I say "one" might argue, that "one" would be yours truly) that this is the biggest problem the Titans battle. McNair is a stud, but he can carry the team only so far. This guy is not the picture of NFL health as it is, and then you give him 80% (if not more) of the offensive load and it's not a surprise that he has to be nurtured onto the field with 6 full days of rest. If he weren't so talented and so driven, this team wouldn't have been in those "best team in the league" conversations to begin with. Now, the games for this team are going to be hard to gauge. McNair was announced on Monday as "Questionable" due to an ankle sprain, and it's not going to be known, with 100% certainty, if he will play. The thought could be that this team could rest him and let Billy Volek take his shots. However, this team is not a lock for the playoffs just yet. Last week's loss to Indy lost the division for them, and if the Titans were to lose out, they could potentially miss the postseason! I REALLY doubt that will happen, but now is not the time to take things for granted. McNair is as tough as they make 'em, so plan on him being out there, and thus I'm going with Tennessee. I realize the Buffalo D has proven to be very tough against the pass (ranked 1st in the NFL), and I also realize the Titans are struggling. If this was an objective world, I'd guess the line on this game is very low, maybe even a pick 'em. However, the Titans are at home, and they should be able to pull out the defensive stops necessary to win this game. If the Titans can pull out a couple of turnovers from Bledsoe, then they should win this game. It won't be pretty, but this is the time of year to go with the better team, and put your money on the team playing for something other than pride.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Steve McNair (Questionable), Travis Henry, Derrick Mason, Gary Anderson, Titan Defense

2nd String: Eric Moulds, Justin McCareins, Drew Bledsoe, Tyrone Calico, Eddie George, Chris Brown, Josh Reed, Bobby Shaw, Rian Lindell, Buffalo Defense

Prediction: Bills 17, Titans 24

Atlanta (3-10) at Indianapolis (10-3) 1:00 PM
I read a funny comment on the Fan Forum Board this weekend. Someone (sorry I don't remember your moniker!) claiming that this last weekend's games could make you wonder if the Almighty was playing the old Tecmo Bowl with the NFL. Made me laugh, but then I realized something: if this was Tecmo Bowl, then Michael Vick would have been running around like the old Tecmo Bo Jackson! C'mon, you remember! You would have seen Vick running 30 yards back to his own end zone, then running 100 yards the other way, breaking 38 tackles on the way (and throwing those would-be tacklers back 15 yards), and picking up his 10th TD of the game (as I would have been hittin' my tenth bong, just to put an age tag on myself!). Well, it wasn't that good (for me or Vick), but Vick was impressive: 141 yds rushing, 179 passing, 1 rush TD. The Falcons picked up an impressive win over the Panthers. It was nice to see Vick back on field, but if you think it's good that he was running so much then you might be mistaken. The Dirty Birds have TJ Duckett for a reason, and if Vick needs to run for 140+ yards in order to get a win, then the Falcons are presented with several problems: (1) their running game is still insufficient, (2) Vick is putting himself in harms way too often, and (most importantly), (3) the Birds are not really utilizing Vick's cannon arm. This guy has the arm of ….. I don't even know what to compare him to. He's going to need his full bag of tricks this weekend in Indy. The Colts have vaulted to the 2nd spot in the AFC, and if you want to challenge the Colts then you better put up some points (at least 28, as the Colts AVERAGE this many points a game). I'd like to mention this as well: Vick will have a great match up with young gun Dwight Freeney, who is enjoying a great year for Indy thus far. Freeney has the speed to at least challenge Vick, and his play in recent weeks can be described as stellar.

So, I hear I need to add Peyton Manning to my list of MVP candidates. Damn, I put a small handful of guys down on record as being, in my humble opinion, worthy of consideration, and I get bombarded with emails suggesting everybody from Peyton Manning (yes, he is deserving) to Anquan Boldin (no, he is not deserving, but he is great player). Anyway, the entire Colts' offense has been playing well. Did you see that freakin' catch by Marvin last week? He's still, in my book, the best WR out there (ok Moss fans, let me have it). Edge James has been a great RB for this team since returning from injury. I keep hearing fellow football media types saying the same thing, "he may not be the Edgerrin of old, but he's getting it done." I thought the Edge of old got it done too, and he's still one of the league's best weapons. This team is loaded, and they are starting to click at the best time of the season. In their last 4 games they have scored an average of 30 points. Pretty impressive, yet they have to be concerned as they also allow points (21.6 pts on average). Let's be honest: last week's win over the Titans was huge, and the Colts were approximately 3 Dwight Freeney fingers away from being beat (the potential TD pass he tipped kept the Titans from turning the game around). Mike Vick could take the heat to just about any team out there when he's on his game. The Colts have to keep him somewhat under wraps. There are many teams Vick could beat on his own, but the Colts are not one of those teams. You may believe the Falcons would have a much better record if Vick had been healthy; I would say the Falcons would have better record and leave it at that, as the defense is still pretty awful. They are capable of making plays (I love Keith Brookings, great player no one talks about), but this Colts team is just way too much. Factor in the home field advantage and the Colts ongoing battle to gain that advantage for the playoffs, and you have to give the Colts a big advantage. Vick is awesome, but he can't overcome all of that.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Peyton Manning, Edge James, Marvin Harrison, Mike Vick (Questionable), Peerless Price (Questionable), Mike Vanderjagt, Jay Feeley, Alge Crumpler

2nd String: Colt Defense, Marcus Pollard, Reggie Wayne, TJ Duckett, Brian Finneran, Atlanta Defense

Prediction: Falcons 20, Colts 37

Detroit (4-9) at Kansas City (11-2) 1:00 PM
One step forward, two steps back. That seems to be the mode of progress for the Lions this season. After winning 3 in a row at home, the came out last week and let LaDainian Tomlinson tear 'em up for a loss. It looks like Charles Rogers may be done for the season. It was believed he would miss only 4 to 6 weeks with the broken collarbone, but he is not healing as quickly as hoped. He may make the season finale, but don't count on him being out there. Therefore, the Lions will be without any support for Joey Harrington once again. I had hoped rookie RB Artose Pinner could take advantage of the weak San Diego defense and give the Lions some hope, but once again I was off the mark on that one (he was reported as available and news out of Detroit was that he might even start, but he didn't see a single snap). Pinner may need more time, but I KNOW Steve Mariucci needs more. He'll get this team turned around, but not this year and definitely not in this game. He's taking his team into Arrowhead, one of the league's toughest venues, to play a KC team that will likely be a bit upset. They are still searching for a large chunk of their left ass cheek…….. wait, there it is (I live in Denver). The KC defense is definitely suspect, but the Lions lack the offensive weapons to take advantage. Look for the Chiefs to take out their frustrations on the Lions, and maybe we should take this moment to remind the Chiefs that this isn't college ball and the margin of victory isn't a factor.

The Chiefs are making us all wonder if they are really as good as their record would indicate. I personally wonder if they are becoming just a bit too enamored with the passing of Trent Green. Green is a nice QB, and the word "solid" could be considered an insult when describing Green's performance this year (20 TD's, 9 INT's; forget impressive, that's freakin' awesome). However, the run is the way to go, and Priest Holmes may be having a great year but I would suggest his numbers could be considered a little disappointing. Remember last year when Holmes was charging full force at Marshall Faulk's season TD record, then his attempt was thwarted by injury? He should be going at the same pace this year: he's still one of the best RB's in the game, he's still racking up plenty of yards, and he's still in the end zone more often than many TEAMS in the NFL. However, he's on pace for about 22 TD's this season, and this would leave him 4 short of the record and puts his current pace significantly short of last season's run. I don't blame the Chiefs for expanding the offense and using the arm of Green more often, but don't serve the meal with the bread and butter. Holmes is still the key to this team's success. If they had come out of the half, up 21-17 on the Broncos, they could have found plenty of yards and likely would have controlled the pace and clock much better. Holmes may get a crack at getting his numbers back on track this weekend. He can do it through the air and on the ground, so Detroit's lackluster defense had better be rested, as they will be doing plenty of chasing. This is an easy pick: the Chiefs, and the only concern may be that the second string players for the Chiefs may struggle a bit versus the Lions.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Priest Holmes, Trent Green, Tony Gonzalez, Morten Andersen, Joey Harrington, Jason Hanson

2nd String: Eddie Kennison, KC Defense, Johnnie Morton, Shawn Bryson, Az-Zir Hakim, Bill Schroeder, Mikhael Ricks, Detroit Defense

Prediction: Lions 17, Chiefs 34

Minnesota (8-5) at Chicago (5-8) 1:00 PM
How about it Viking fans, the big win over Seattle got you back in the win column and has the confidence flowing through the State o' Lakes once again! Minnesota is the State of Lakes, right? Well, whatever, all I know is you have to be happy to be back in the positive side of things, especially since the Packers are keeping pace. Mike Tice starts the season 6 & 0 and the praises were flowing like the troft at halftime. Now, after losing 5 of their last 7, most have written off not only the Vikes but also the entire division. One must admit that Culpepper has been rather human in recent weeks: before breaking out 3 TD's and 0 INT's versus Seattle this last weekend, he had thrown 5 INT's and only 2 TD's in his last 3 games. Randy Moss had it working as usual, and Michael Bennett appears to be close to full strength for the stretch run as he too played well versus Seattle. This game may not seem too important to the Vikes on the surface, but realize this: Green Bay is back by only 1 game and they are sporting a division record of 4 & 2 (exactly one loss more than the Vikes, with the same amount of division wins). The Vikes are also sporting 2 less conference losses than the Packers. If the cheese are able to play well and stay in the hunt, the Vikes would love to own the tie-breaking situations such as these. Here's another tidbit to think about: the Vikes have lost their last 3 road games, and those opponents (Chargers, Raiders, and St. Louis, or as I like to call them, "the exception.") are essentially not as promising as this Chicago team. The Vikes could have tons of trouble, but they need a win in a major way. If Culpepper can just avoid the turnovers, the Vikes should come out on top.

There are things in life that are just hard to admit: peeing your pants, watching that show "Average Joe" (fellas, if you missed it, it's basically a show that proves every bad truth about our existence, in which the attractive species will always choose their own kind even when the option guy is a freakin' millionaire), secretly lusting for NBA cheerleaders (face it, they are not in the same league as the girls in the mighty NFL). It's also true that while some things are hard to admit, the pride involved often is too much to keep the truth down: farting and burping at the same time without any major injuries (not as easy as it sounds), watching "Average Joe," and being a fan of Chicago sports. This class of fan has struggled through the lows and highs, rarely rewarded for the efforts but often surprised and comforted by the companionship. I was ready to come into this preview, after the Vikings loss to Seattle (wishful hoping), and proclaim that the Bears would in fact win the division. They were two games back of Minny and had this game on the board to serve as my prognosticated "turning point." Now, the Bears are 3 games back with 3 to play, and the prospects of the miracle drive by the Bears were all for nothing! NOTHING! That said, the Bears are still very capable of competing and playing spoiler. And as I stated before, the Vikings have struggled in recent weeks to win on the road. However, despite the facts already presented, I worry that the Vikes will win this game and also win the division. Here are some facts: (1) these two teams have met this season and the Vikes won, 24-13, with Randy Moss gaining only 27 yards and the RB Michael Bennett on the sidelines; (2) the Bears have only 1 win versus a division foe (Detroit), and (3) the Bears are reportedly looking to get rookie QB Rex Grossman some snaps as the season winds down and the Bears are essentially giving this kid some game day experience now that they are "officially out of playoff contention." Unless Grossman can do some amazing things (he has the receivers, and Minnesota does give up 227 yards passing a game, so don't think it couldn't happen), the Bears are likely to take another loss. They may put up some points, but the game will be decided by Moss and Culpepper. If the Vikes' defense shows up to play at all, then the Vikes will win easily.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Randy Moss, Daunte Culpepper, Michael Bennett, Anthony Thomas, Aaron Elling, Paul Edinger, Marty Booker

2nd String: Rex Grossman, Dez White, Justin Gage, Chicago Defense, Moe Williams, Kelly Campbell, Desmond Clark, Nate Burleson, Jim Kleinsasser, Minnesota Defense

Prediction: Vikes 27, Bears 23

San Francisco (6-7) at Cincinnati (7-6) 1:00 PM
Now I'm completely baffled. Not only am I in left field, but I've been put there via a 50-foot drop from the third level. Jeff Garcia comes out last week and looks like some kind of football god, throwing or 4 TD's and running for 2 more versus Arizona last weekend. OHHHHH…. Arizona. Go figure. Saying your team lit up the Cardinals is like bragging that you just got laid by Paris Hilton. "Really, what number were you in line, 'cause I've got number 85 and the Now Serving light has said 75 for a while now." Besides, the Niners were just exacting revenge for the 16-13 loss to Zona in Week 8. I'm going to admit something, something that I rarely every admit to anyone: I didn't watch one stinking minute of that forsaken game! A worthless game with worthless results unless you had Garcia going in your fantasy league (yeah, right! "Hey, Garcia has sucked ass all year, but I'm going with him 'cause he's due!" I know some of you lucky bastards had him in, but I'd guess you account for maybe 10% of his owners!). The Niners will have a much tougher task this week as they come to the cold in Ohio to visit the Bengals. The Bengals currently rank 19th versus the pass, so the Niners could find some success. However, this won't be easy pickin's for TO or Garcia. This isn't Zona or California. It's going to be cold (high of 36 predicted) and Cincy won't roll over like a freshly beaten pet either. The Bengals are playing for their postseason lives, and the Niners had better appreciate the situation and plan on playing a tough team.

I have to admit that I feel guilty for being disappointed in the Bengals! I really thought they would take the Ravens to the mat last weekend and they got drummed. Kitna wasn't on, Dillon and Rudi did little of importance, and the defense couldn't stop the Ravens from moving the chains. I'd like to put this notion out there as well: the Ravens made a concerted effort to shut down Chad Johnson, and this may have hurt the Bengals more than anything. Peter Warrick had a decent performance, but CJ is clearly the go-to guy in this offense and without him making big plays the Bengals struggled to do anything. I realize I stated last week the belief that Kitna should get some MVP consideration, but maybe I should have put the accolades at the feet of Chad Johnson. He's a great receiver with an amazing work ethic and the abilities to match. He's going to be the key again this week for the Bengals. The Niners have a pretty decent defense, and they excel versus the pass (less than 200 yards allowed per game, 34 sacks, 19 INT's). They have given up more than a few passing TD's (20, tied for 3rd most in the NFL), but if you make a mistake with the ball the Niners can make you pay. Tony Parrish and Ahmed Plummer are having great years and they will draw the task of coving CJ and Warrick. San Fran can be pretty good against the run as well, allowing less than 100 yards rushing a game and only 8 rushing TD's allowed thus far. It'd be nice to see Corey Dillon put out a nice game for once, but the Bengals may come with the running back by committee once again. Brandon Bennett had some nice carries last week for the Bengals versus Baltimore, having gained just two yards less (43) than Dillon on half as many carries. Regardless of how the Bengals attack this team, it is obvious they need win in a major way. After losing their first two home games, they have moved on to win their last 4 at home, scoring an average of 30 points in those wins. They will need a similar effort this week, and I believe Johnson and Kitna are capable of such numbers once again. It's hard to imagine CJ getting shut down two weeks in a row, and although the Niners have two nice backs to cover down field, they may not have such a good time with Johnson and Warrick. By the way, the Niners haven't won a game on the road yet this season! When the Niners are visiting, their scoring average drops to 13 points a game. It's impossible to ignore this lack of production on the road, and with the Bengals' bringing their A game in order to reach stay in the playoff hunt, I'm taking Cincy.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Chad Johnson, Terrell Owens, Jon Kitna, Kevan Barlow, Peter Warrick, Jeff Garcia

2nd String: Corey Dillon, Rudi Johnson, Tai Streets, Brandon Bennett, Cincy Defense, 49er Defense, Matt Schobel, Shayne Graham

Prediction: Niners 20, Bengals 23

Seattle (8-5) at St. Louis (10-3) 1:00 PM
What in the name of Lane Staley happened to Seattle last week?! They had come to Minnesota, playing on the carpet in the dome against a defense that was giving up about 24 points a game, and they laid a big fat 7 on 'em, and that 7 was a close call as Shaun Alexander barely clawed his way into the end zone. Turnovers are a killer no matter who you face, and 2 interceptions and a lost fumble will kill your chances pretty quick, especially when the ball goes into the hands of Randy Moss on those turnovers. Regardless, the Seahawks are another team that can't get it done on the road: their only road win is against Arizona in Week 2. Since then they have dumped 5 consecutive road games, and traveling to St. Lou this week isn't necessarily looking like a good remedy. These teams are very similar: they both score a ton (the Rams average just under 29 pts/game, the Hawks 25) and they both give up a fair share of points as well (they each give up an average of 21 pts/game). Both teams live and die by the pass but have good running backs as well (and neither team runs the ball enough to make me happy, but who am I?). The key for both teams is to protect the football. Turnovers can kill any team's chances of winning, but it is especially true of teams that allow so much scoring in an average situation. With this in mind, you could give the advantage to Seattle: Marc Bulger has 17 TD's versus 19 picks, whereas Hasselback has only 11 picks versus 22 TD's. The numbers suggest, correctly, that Hasselback is the more stable arm and team leader. He will need to find his receivers, ALL of his receivers, in this one if Seattle hopes to break that road loss streak.

Now, looking at this game, I would give you two "X" factors: Marshall Faulk and the backfield tandem of Aeneas Williams and Adam Archuleta. Defensively, Williams is a solid veteran that showed the Browns how to get it done last week (2 picks, one returned for a TD). Archuleta is the Rams' equivalent to a roving pit bull: he can cover, he can attack the QB, he can do almost anything. If they can keep Hasselback in turnovers and keep him under pressure, the Rams will greatly improve their chances of winning. The real key to this game is Marshall. Will the Rams run the ball or not? Faulk has been getting his carries (around 25 a game), but I get the feeling its used more as a protection for Bulger rather than an offensive attack: they seem to run in weird spots (like 2nd and 15, or 3rd and 20) and even though Faulk has put up good numbers I don't know that he's getting the ball in spots where he can do his best work. That said, I do believe Faulk will have a great game in this one. The Hawks give up about 120 yards rushing a game, and Marshall is more than capable of taking advantage. It also seems logical that with the strong Seattle backfield (Trufant and Springs) guarding the long ball, the short passing game will have a good day as well, thus making Faulk look even better as he is an excellent short yardage receiver. You know Holt is going to get open regardless, but if the Rams want to control the clock and keep the Seahawks from turning this into a sprint rather than a marathon, they had better give the Ball to number 28. I love the Rams in this game, and here is why. First, they are at home, a huge advantage for this Rams squad, working both for themselves and their strength at home as well as the failure of Seattle to produce as a visiting team. Second, the NFC battle for home field advantage is critical. The race for the #1 spot is now down to the Rams and the Eagles, both at 10 & 3, with the Eagles having a one-game lead in conference play. Both of these teams will have a huge advantage with home field: the Eagles would love to see their opponents come play in the cold of Philly, and the Rams are much better in their home dome on the turf. This is a battle that could come down to the wire, and this makes every game left much more crucial than you would think for teams with their divisions leads. Take the Rams in this one, and though the Hawks could keep it respectable, make sure you have Marshall in your lineup.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Marshall Faulk, Torry Holt, Matt Hasselback, Marc Bulger, Shaun Alexander, Darrell Jackson, Koren Robinson, Rams Defense, Jeff Wilkins

2nd String: Bobby Engram, Isaac Bruce, Dane Looker (Questionable), Itula Mili, Josh Brown, Seattle Defense, Maurice Morris, Brandon Maneamula

Prediction: Hawks 24, Rams 32

Jacksonville (4-9) at New England (11-2) 1:00 PM
I'd have to say the Jags are the most improved team I've watched in the last few weeks (besides the Jets, and that is due to the return of Chad Pennington). They have won 3 of their last 5, and those two losses were both by 3 points. The most impressive aspect of this team, in my humble view, is the defense. I think this team is capable of being a top tier defensive power. Names like John Henderson, Tony Brackens, Hugh Douglas (just starting to get the hang of his new role), Marcus Stroud, and Donovin Darius are all potential Pro Bowl roster candidates. This team has stepped it up big time against very good teams (Indy, Tennessee) as well as some not so good teams (Tampa, Jets, Houston). In their last 5 games, the Jags are allowing an average of 183-pass yds/game, 70-rush yds/game (that is impressive, regardless of the opponent), and only 11 points/game (damn that number looks too good to be right, but I double checked it!). When you consider those numbers include games with Indy, Tennessee, and the Jets (hey, they've been playing much better since Penny came back), you'd have to give me some form of agreement: the Jags are vastly improved and the biggest sign of progress has been on the defensive side of the ball. They will have their work cut out for them against the Patriots. Granted, the Pats don't pack much of a punch with the running game, but Tom Brady is going to throw. Whether he's successful or not, he's going to try and throw all over the field. He's on the MVP short list for many of the professional writers/media types out there, and he will put this defense to the test. The match up of the game is Brady versus Tony Brackens & Marcus Stroud. Brackens has 6 sacks total, including two he picked up versus Houston last week, and Stroud has a total of 4.5 sacks thus far. These two guys will have to get pressure on a QB that has been very well protected thus far (the offensive line in New England is STELLAR, and they don't get enough credit). Brady may have 12 INT's thus far, but he's also got over 3,000 yards already. If the Jags can't contain and pressure him, they will suffer the consequences.

OK, I picked the Patriots last week, they won, and now I don't have to live with either the "you never pick us" tag or the "you mo***r fu***n' jinx" tag. Where do you want to start with this Patriots review? They've won 9 straight games. They are the first team to clinch their division title (and it is not because their division is weak, as the AFC-East is the only division not sporting a team with only 3 or 4 wins). Their defense ranks great all over the board: #4 in scoring allowed, #4 in rushing yards allowed, #14 in passing yards allowed (may sound bad, but the difference between this ranking and the top 10 is less than 10 yds/game), tied for #1 in passing TD's allowed (10), tied for #3 for interceptions (20), #9 for sacks recorded (32), tied for #4 in rushing TD's allowed (8), tied for #1 in runs of 20 yards or more allowed (2), they are +9 for turnover margin (4th in the NFL), tied for #1 in interceptions returned for TD's (4), and during this 9 game winning streak they are giving up an average of only 14 points a game. If you stat heads are satisfied with that, then let's look at it this way: this team is tied for the best record in the NFL, and the 3 teams that are left on the board have a combined record of 15 & 24. They can win out, they should be considered the NFL favorite to gain home field advantage throughout the playoffs (a HUGE advantage for so many reasons: the cold weather in New England, the desire to not play teams like the Indy and Kansas City on the road, and the great fans they have in Boston), and this game is likely to be the next step in the road to the Lombardi Trophy. They have clearly separated themselves from the rest of the pack, and they still aren't 100% healthy (it would be nice to have Mike Vrabel and Troy Brown back, and it looks like my favorite "defensive" rookie of the year, Dan Klecko, could return this week). You can't really say enough for this team and how they've performed. The Jags are playing good ball right now, but not good enough. Fred Taylor won't go off for 160+ yards against this team, Byron Leftwich won't throw for multiple TD's, Jimmy Smith won't roam the field creating havoc and moving the chains, and the Jags won't win whether the game is low or high scoring. The Pats have won every type of game you can imagine this season, and the game planning of Coach Bill Belichick is the ultimate difference maker in this game.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Patriot Defense, Tom Brady, Deion Branch, Fred Taylor

2nd String: Jag Defense, Byron Leftwich, Jimmy Smith, David Givens, Kevin Faulk, Troy Brown (Questionable), Daniel Graham, Kevin Johnson, Kyle Brady, LaBrandon Toefield, Seth Marler, Adam Vinatieri

Prediction: Jags 13, Pats 23

Pittsburgh (5-8) at NY Jets (5-8) 1:00 PM
I came to a realization this weekend: watching the Jets is very similar to the scrambled porn situation. You know it's there, you may struggle to understand what is going on or why, it may give you a headache to have it on, but you can't take your eyes off it because you never know when it will come in! The Jets were brutal last week versus the Bills, but I kept watching. When Pennington is on the field, you never know when the Jets will snap to it and start scoring on long TD's and exciting plays. I realize I come off as a big time supporter of the Jets, and I am, but (a) you could say I do the same for several teams, (b) you cannot deny this team has a tendency to make things exciting, and (c) you also have to admit that any true football fan has to love watching Chad Pennington. He's a great passer, and any football fan that knows anything has to appreciate it. I appreciate the athleticism and arm strength of Mike Vick, I appreciate the consistent tenacity of Ray Lewis, I appreciate the speed and skill of Priest Holmes, and I appreciate the accuracy and beauty of Chad Pennington. He's the only consistent aspect of this team. The Jets are going to leave it all on the field every week, and this week it will take a big effort as they are visited by the Steelers. The Steel Curtain started off the year with some great defensive play, but that has not been so in recent weeks. They seem to have a knack for allowing just enough scoring and just enough yards to avoid winning. They are still in the top half of both the rushing and passing defensive rankings, but they are not as high on either as they were just 6 or 7 short weeks ago. Want to know the real secret to beating the Steelers: own a hot wideout. Just look it up! Week 4: Justin McCareins picks up 81 yds and a TD to help the Titans win. Week 6: Rod Smith gathers 70 yds and 1 TD and Shannon Sharpe adds 55 yds and 1 TD to help the Broncos defeat the Steelers. Week 8: Torry Holt goes for 174 yds and a TD in the rout by the Rams. Week 9: Darrell Jackson gets 85 yds and a TD in helping the Seahawks win. Week 11: the Niners are led by the subdued Terrell Owens, who gathers 155 yds and a TD to help his team win. Week 13: Chad Johnson goes for 117 and a TD. Notice a pattern yet? The Pitt pass D is ok, but they can't cover the big dogs. Santana Moss is a big dog when Pennington is on the field, so you are welcome to come to conclusions at this point in the preview.

Pittsburgh has managed to keep me guessing all damn season. I never know what offense is going to show, I never know what defense is going to show, I never know if they will run Amos or Bettis, and if it's even going to matter. I think there are several "patterns" and stats worth noting. First, Tommy Maddox is still throwing picks: 4 TD's and 3 picks in his last 4 games. Second, Hines Ward seems to have cooled off, having scored only 1 TD in his last 4 games. Third, Plaxico Burress is still the most troubled fantasy player this season (at least in my book). He has a grand total of 2 TD's this year, he has broken the 80 yard mark in only 4 games thus far, he has stayed under 50 yards just as many times, and his status as a top notch WR has to come into question. Fourth, I noticed the Bus was featured in many of the highlight films last week as he racked up 106 yds and a TD. Considering it's the first time he's broken 100 in the last NINETEEN GAMES he's appeared in, I'm not too stoked about him (granted, if he gets 20+ carries he can keep things respectable, but I doubt even the poor Jets' defense is too worried about him). And, finally, since Pennington's return the Jets are scoring an average of 21 points a game, and in that same span of time the Steelers are averaging about 19 points. This game looks to be a good battle, though I don't see how the Steelers can keep up if the Jets get their offense going. Key stat: the turnover margin for the Jets (despite not having Pennington) is at +4, and the Steelers are sitting directly opposite at -4. Key stat #2: in Pennington's 7 games back thus far, he has not thrown multiple TD's only 3 times. Santana Moss will tear these guys up and keep that fancy receiving streak for the Pittsburgh opposition in tact. I don't believe the Steelers are stable enough to beat this team, but they could keep it close. It's as simple as this: if you call the rushing games of these teams a wash (and, essentially, it is), than the onus of scoring falls to the QB's, and I'll put my money on Pennington over Maddox 11 times out of 10 (and yes, that is exactly what I meant to say).

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Santana Moss, Chad Pennington, Hines Ward, Anthony Becht, Jeff Reed, Doug Brien

2nd String: Curtis Martin, Jerome Bettis, Curtis Conway, Tommy Maddox, Plaxico Burress, Pitt Defense, Jet Defense, LaMont Jordan, Amos Zereoue, Jay Riemersma, Antwaan Randle El

Prediction: Steelers 16, Jets 21

Houston (5-8) at Tampa Bay (6-7) 1:00 PM
The Texans….. well, guess you could compare last week's game to a … a … random cavity search while trying to catch a flight. The whole thing was brutal, horrible to experience, bad from any view, and left me feeling violated and unclean. 0 points? I understand all the components of the final score: an up and coming Jacksonville defense, the lack of David Carr or Tony Banks at QB for Houston, RB Domanick Davis out with injury, defensive stud Aaron Glenn out for the year, and the lack of any pertinent defense other than Glenn. So where do the Texans go from here? At time of print, Carr is still questionable, and if he can't go you'll see rookie Dave Ragone come in once again (hey, you can at least say that Ragone put forth a great effort as he was the leading rusher as well as the QB). Also, it looks like Davis could miss another week, and Tony Hollings gives Houston fans nothing to be optimistic about (18 carries, 19 yards). This offense is in shambles, and Andre Johnson is watching his Rookie of the Year hopes get flushed down the crapper (I think Anquan Boldin gets it) as he has no one to get him the ball. This team doesn't have any offense unless Carr and/or Davis can get healthy, and if you want an honest look you would say they need both guys to make them both effective. This Tampa team may be struggling, but this rag-tag unit from Houston doesn't present too many challenges. We could pour over stats, but why bother as the bulk of the guys that create those numbers are out with injury?!

The Bucs are down and out, but they are not quitting. They pulled out a tough victory over a Saints team they have struggled to beat in recent history. None of the numbers coming from this team is very impressive (with the exception of the year Keenan McCardell is having, and I suppose if you want to add Brad Johnson I wouldn't argue too much). However, this team could still pull out a 500 season: they have this game against the battered Texans, they have the Falcons at home next week (Vick is back, but the game could still go either way), and they finish the season at Tennessee. One thing to watch with this team is the revised approach to running the ball. Thomas Jones is getting a chance to show his abilities, and last week he was solid. Also of note, the Bucs did manage to stifle the rushing streak of Deuce McAllister last week, holding Deuce under 100 yards for the first time in 10 games. As long as we are at it, I should mention the Bucs have picked up a takeaway on defense in 54 consecutive games, the longest streak in the NFL. OK, I'm out of interesting stuff to talk about in this game. Sorry, I've got nothin'. The combined cheerleading units should provide plenty of attractive entertainment, the likes of which hasn't been seen since Dallas played Miami two weeks ago. Seriously, what the hell do you folks want me to say about this game? Two sub-par teams, one with 90% of the offense on the injured list, and the other team with a defense that may have struggled thus far but is still respectable. If Carr and Davis don't play, take the Bucs in a barnburner. Ragone will have to handle the veteran defense of Tampa, and with guys like Sapp and Rice barking at you it will be hard for this young rookie to find his confidence. If Carr and Davis play, the game could be interesting. I think Davis is a stud, and he could do some damage versus this Tampa defense. However, it isn't looking good for either player to make the start (why bother?) so I'm going with Tampa, and I'm leaving Andre Johnson in the 1st String just for the sake of argument.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Keenan McCardell, Buc Defense, Brad Johnson, Chris Lee, Martin Gramatica, Andre Johnson

2nd String: David Carr (Questionable), Dave Ragone, Domanick Davis (Questionable), Tony Hollings, Michael Pittman, Thomas Jones, Jabar Gaffney, Billy Miller, Kris Brown, Texan Defense, Todd Yoder

Prediction: Texans 10, Bucs 21

Dallas (8-5) at Washington (5-8) 4:15 PM
Well, the Boys seem to be on the slide. They've lost 3 of their last 4 games, including the 26-point butt kicking they just received from Philly. Let's be honest: Bill Parcells saw this kind of play coming. He's not sitting in press conferences talking about all the problems and flaws of this team because he thinks he's funny. He's right, and those mistakes are costing this team games. The last two games, losses to Miami and Philly, are both indicative of the problems this team will encounter when they get behind a sizeable point margin. Philly and Miami jumped on Dallas (Philly didn't jump on them until the second half, but the point is still valid), got a decent lead, and then Quincy Carter starts to stress and starts turning the ball over. He's picked up 5 picks to only 3 TD's in these two losses. He's still young and still unproven and still in need of molding and structure. Parcells will provide it, but it won't happen overnight. The real weakness of this Cowboy team, the one thing that really has to eat at Parcells, is the running game and lack thereof. Hambrick is a decent runner, but he's not even close to capable of taking a game over, or of running for 100 yards consistently, or of being the rusher Parcells needs and desires to make this team his own. Will he let Hambrick go? Who knows, but the RB-by-committee approach will continue to be the norm, and this aspect of the Boys' offense will continue to be a point of concern until the season is over. It's no secret the Washington defense can cover the pass: any self-respecting football fan has heard of Champ Bailey. However, the rush D is horrible: currently ranked 25th in the NFL, allowing 132 yds/game, and having allowed 16 rush TD's thus far. I'd be nice if the Boys could take advantage, but under the current roster constraints that is no better than a gamble.

The Redskins have been another team that has hit the skids in the second half of the season. They have lost 4 of their last 6 games, and they are looking to turn things around with a backup QB with a total of 3 whole games under his belt. Tim Hasselback is the talk of the Skins' fans, having thrown for 154 yds and 2 TD's in the win over the hated Giants last week. Now, did you read that correctly? AGAINST THE GIANTS. The Giants would give up 150+ yards passing to Sebastian. No, not Janikowski, I'm talking the animated lobster from Disney fame. This is Dallas, and the one constant is defense. Currently ranked 6th versus the run (92 yds/game), 1st against the pass (169 yds/game), and 7th in points allowed, the Boys are going to be all over this guy. The offensive line of the Skins is not up to this challenge: Patrick Ramsey was the most sacked QB in the NFL before someone FINALLY broke his foot and relieved the pain. How is Hasselback going to find any kind of comfort zone behind this offensive line? How is going to find an open receiver against the best passing D in the game? In his games thus far, he's gotten some relief from the running game (Trung Candidate has averaged about 85 yards in these games). However, Candidate will have his hands full, and he's not likely to run too much or too far against this defense. The only hope the Skins have to move the chains is Laveranues Coles. If Coles can find some holes in this defense, he could help his team stay in what is looking like a low scoring slugfest. However, the truth of the matter is this: the Boys are in the midst of a tough fight for the postseason, and whether they are able to catch the Eagles (won't happen) or capture the wild card (will happen), this game means so much more for this young Dallas team. The Skins are fighting not to be the worst team in their division, and they are doing it with an inexperienced QB that is not up the challenge this defense will provide. Take the Cowboys.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Dallas Defense, Laveranues Coles, Joey Galloway, John Hall, Jason Witten

2nd String: Quincy Carter, Terry Glenn, Antonio Bryant, Tim Hasselback, Troy Hambrick, Richie Anderson, Trung Candidate (Questionable), Rod Gardner, Darnerien McCants, Billy Cundiff, Rock Cartwright, Redskin Defense

Prediction: Boys 20, Skins 13

Cleveland (4-9) at Denver (8-5) 4:05 PM
The Browns can't seem to decide on who is their QB. Now, it looks like Couch is getting the start on Sunday, and most fans would probably ask if it really matters. Let's take a look! Holcomb thus far: 63.9% completion rate (I'm not bring yards into this, not a fair determinate), 6.0 yds/att, 10 TD's to 12 INT's, 74.6 QB rating. Couch thus far: 64.2% completion rate, 6.4 yds/att, 5 TD's to 4 INT's, 82.3 QB rating. Guess Couch's numbers are slightly better, but maybe the move is motivated by money. Or maybe it's just a change for change's sake. Or maybe I'm screwed. Got an email from a big time Cleveland fan that was rather upset with my "praise" of Coach Butch Davis, and he made a very solid argument. I was still a little skeptical, until I saw this move. I was impressed the Browns hung with the Rams on Monday night. They still lost, but they kept it exciting and close. But the constant QB switches and the inability of Davis to stick with one guy through tough times is getting old, and it is definitely a sign that Davis is looking to "pass the buck" for the struggles of this team. Regardless, this team suffered several major injuries in the loss to the Rams, injuries that will hurt this team for the rest of the year. Courtney Brown is gone for the year (he was having a nice season), James Jackson is done (Jamel White could fill in nicely, but neither is a major threat), Phil Dawson is done (broken arm), and Chad Beasely is also gone for the season. All of these injuries hurt the team, and this Browns team is struggling as it is. They will have a tough time versus Denver this week. Denver comes in with a 5th ranked rush defense and a 6th ranked pass defense. Cleveland has trouble scoring most weeks regardless of the opponent, and the Broncos are sure to give them problems as well.

The Broncos are hoping. They really need a playoff berth, as it's been since #7 roamed the field when this team had a postseason game. Coach Mike Shanahan would love to shake the tag, and he's got a hill to climb to get there. This game should be a win, but after this they close the schedule with two road games: Indy and Green Bay (great team and the Frozen Tundra in late December, part of which could come after dark as it is a late game!). With that in mind, this game becomes CRUCIAL. The Denver Broncos are a good team, but they are more than capable of laying a fat egg without notice (loss to Chicago didn't help). Clinton Portis woke up some people last week as he tore up KC for 218 yards and 5 TD's. Portis has shown he's capable of big numbers with regularity, and he'll have a chance again this weekend. Cleveland's defense is a little different: ranked 5th versus the pass (only 181 yds/game) and 19th versus the run (120 yds/game, nothing to brag about), they don't give up too many points (ranked 9th in the NFL, giving up only 19 pts/game). It would be hard to make an argument that they will contain Denver, at Mile High (sorry, but I'm not calling it "Invesco"), while Denver is in the hunt. I believe Plummer will pass well, I believe Clinton will run well, I believe Shannon Sharpe will be a big time factor and Ashley Lelie will drop plenty of passes, and the Broncos will win (regardless of Lelie's hands). This game is too big, and Denver's offense is too big, for Cleveland to pull this off. They may keep the scoring respectable, and their knack for staying close could continue, but they don't have the weapons to pull out this upset.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Clinton Portis, Jake Plummer, Shannon Sharpe, Rod Smith, Jason Elam, Denver Defense

2nd String: Tim Couch, Andre Davis, Quincy Morgan, Jamel White, Ashley Lelie, Dennis Northcutt, Brett Conway, Cleveland Defense

Prediction: Browns 13, Broncos 27

Baltimore (8-5) at Oakland (3-10) 4:05 PM
The Ravens are fighting hard to make the playoffs. They won the big match with Cincy last week, and they won with defense once again. They shut down Chad Johnson, they took the pressure to Jon Kitna, and they put up plenty of offense. The Ravens seem to have discovered lightning in a beer can with QB Anthony Wright. He didn't do so hot versus the Bengals, but he's been plenty good to win. The Ravens are riding a 3 game winning streak and they look to go to 4 against the struggling Raiders this week. Jamal Lewis continues to awe us all with his abilities. It looks like 3 RB's are heading towards 2,000 yards: Jamal Lewis, Deuce McAllister, and Ahman Green. Of those in the hunt, Lewis seems like the best bet to reach the mark (400 yards in 3 games, no problem! He's averaging 124 yds/game, so it may be close.). Baltimore has a pretty favorable schedule to help them keep their division title in grasp: this game with Oakland (um, they suck), at Cleveland (could be, but likely won't be, trouble), and Pittsburgh at home. As I've stated a couple of times already, this is not the time of year to be complacent. The Ravens need to make a statement with this game. They need to take care of business and they need to wipe the mat with Oakland. The Raiders have no shot at stopping Jamal Lewis, and even containing him could prove to be tough. The Black and Silver give up 150 rush yards a game, 2nd worst in the NFL. The Boston Marathon gives away less rushing yards than the Raiders. Have you watched any Baltimore games this year? This will look very familiar: "the handoff the Lewis, and he breaks a tackle, he hits the hole and he's through for 12."

"We must be the worst team in America." Yep. "We just give games away." Yep. "And I apologize, for such a horrible product." Don't bother, I quit watching weeks ago. All those quotes from Bill Callahan were cool, but not nearly as funny as that time Jim Mora went off about making the playoffs. Anyway, Callahan is a goner and his team has all but quit dressing out for games. The only reason these guys continue to show is either (a) they realize this may be one of few shots left to actually play, or (b) they want to pad their numbers. This team has some talent, but very little has shown through and even less has bonded as a team. This week, and games like this, mark the part of the season I've come to hate. All I want is to provide a nice, informative preview for all of you to use for your fantasy teams and to help you follow your favorite team, and games like this just make me want to vomit. How do I make this game interesting? I have interest, but it all lies on Baltimore's side of the ball. I'd like to see Tyrone Wheatley continue his recent success. I'd like to see rookie Tyler Brayton (local Colorado product) do some more damage (he's picked up one sack and 15 tackels in the last two games). However, for a Raider's fan, I don't have much encouragement to offer. This game doesn't look good. Baltimore's defense is tough, and Rick Mirer is likely to struggle through this one (yet another team with major injuries too numerous to count). Feel sorry for Jerry Porter. The guy is a bonafide killer at WR, and he can't get enough looks to prove it this season. Wheatley may have the right style to take the fight to Baltimore, but he won't be enough. Chris McAllister will shut down any passing game the Raiders might have hoped to use, Ray Lewis may kill Rick Mirer and eat his liver, and the Raiders are not likely to put up nearly enough offense to compete in this game.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Jamal Lewis (Questionable), Baltimore Defense, Todd Heap, Tyrone Wheatley, Sebastian Janikowski, Matt Stover

2nd String: Anthony Wright, Travis Taylor, Marcus Robinson, Jerry Porter, Rick Mirer, Charlie Garner, Teyo Johnson, Raider Defense

Prediction: Ravens 28, Raiders 17

Carolina (8-5) at Arizona (3-10) 4:15 PM
The Panthers are starting to worry their fans. The loss to Atlanta isn't helping their playoff position, and this week they had better be careful. The Cards are returning home after going on the road through hell, losing 5 in a row (4 of those on the road) and getting beat by an average of 23 points in those games. Carolina would love to pile on, but the task at hand may prove to be tougher than you might expect. Arizona gives up 22 points a game at home, and though the number doesn't look great it is much better than the 30 pts/game they give up overall. Zona's 3 wins have all been at home, and there is something to the "trend." Carolina needs to step up the defense this week. The unit as a whole is solid, but they have struggled in recent weeks to keep the scores down. They've lost 3 in a row, they've given up at least 20 points in each of those losses, and they have introduced the potential to lose the division despite owning a huge lead just 3 short weeks ago. I doubt it happens, but the difference between 2 losses and 5 is huge in this league, and this game is surprisingly important for Carolina to stop the bleeding and get the ship righted before they enter the postseason. The defense that seemed so tough to start the season has proven to be vulnerable in recent weeks, especially to the rush. They gave up 124 rush yards to Philly's committee and they gave up 224 total rush yards to Atlanta last week (one should note, giving up big rush yards to Michael Vick is as common as me giving up years of my life to McDonald's, Jim Beam, and Skoal). The Panthers better find a way to keep this Arizona team out of the end zone. The Cards have a propensity (if you can call 3 times a "propensity") for surprising teams at their house, and this would be a bad time for the Panthers to become victim #4.

The guess of many is that this is not a good game to play Stephen Davis for your fantasy team. Arizona currently ranks 17th versus the run, giving up 118 yards a game. Those numbers could be a little deceiving as teams tend to perform a little below average at Arizona. I would argue that many teams seem to hurt themselves with the pass in Arizona. In Green Bay's loss at Arizona, Favre threw the rock 33 times to 8 different receivers, but only one of them broke it into the end zone. Ahman Green picked up only 21 carries, and most of those carries came late in very early and very late in the game. Green deserves at least 25-30 carries and has proven he can do major damage with as much. In Cincy's loss at Arizona, the Bengals ran the ball only 18 time with 4 different players! Rudi Johnson, the starting RB, picked up only 8 carries! Point being, Stephen Davis is known as a player that wears down the opposition. His QB gives him the ball plenty, and he will get plenty of opportunities to do his thing this weekend. Besides, if anyone tells you the Carolina offense is carried by Jake Delhomme, they don't really watch these games. Jake is nice, but Davis makes the world go around for the Panthers, and that is why he should perform just fine against this Arizona squad. This is likely to be a game right up Carolina's alley. It sounds like 2nd year QB Josh McCown will get the start (first start of his career), and this plays right into the hands of Carolina. Their strongest game facet is the front four on the defensive line, and they could give this kid all kinds of trouble. With a young QB in there, you have eliminated the main force of offense for this team. Marcel Shipp can do some work, but he can't do it alone and this defense will be looking for it. I'm taking the Panthers and screw the "experts." I think they win, I think they need to win, and I think they won't lose 4 straight with the capper coming from Arizona.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Stephen Davis, Steve Smith, Carolina Defense, Marcel Shipp, Anquan Boldin

2nd String: Jake Delhomme, John Kasay, DeShaun Foster, Muhsin Muhammed, Josh McCown, Bryant Johnson, Freddie Jones, Arizona Defense

Prediction: Panthers 28, Cardinals 14

Green Bay (7-6) at San Diego (3-10) 4:15 PM
Ah, the Packers are in front of me and all can think is choke. Not the Packers, I mean me! I suggested a little while ago that the Packers could make the playoffs and make a run so as to possibly send Brett Favre on his way in style. You cheeseheads were big fans of that sentiment: you'd think, based on the emails, that you'd rather lose the season and keep Favre rather than win an Super Bowl and let him retire on top. They are still in it, but they are hanging on by a thread. It's looking like the Wild Card won't be coming out of the NFC North: Seattle and Dallas look like solid teams for the WC, but we'll see what happens. If Green Bay has any hope, they have to go for the ring and chase Minnesota for the division title. They are one game back, and the schedule is looking favorable: Bolts this week, Oakland next week, close out with Denver at home. The key to winning this week should be simple: stop LaDainian Tomlinson. Well, easier said than done! Tomlinson is a stud and he can light up just about any team out there. With the Packers giving 107 yards rushing a game, you might think they look capable of containing him. However, I would ask that you take last week's win over Detroit as a sign: Tomlinson has never been properly recognized as the receiving threat he truly can be. He lit up Detroit for 148 receiving yards last week, and with the Pack giving up 213 yards a game you had better believe Tomlinson will be out for blood. Can the Packer's defense step it up? They have had trouble all year (allowing an average of 21 points a game) and Tomlinson is the player that could turn this season sour in a hurry for the Packers.

Who is going to play at QB for the Chargers? Brees or Flutie? It sounds like Brees is coming back, and that makes me wonder. Some of the fans out there are wondering why change now. First of all, let's be realistic: Flutie has won two games, and Brees is only one behind him! Flutie has started 5 games and is averaging 197 yds/game with 9 TD's and 4 INT's; Brees has started the others (I'm throwing out the game versus Chicago when Flutie took over at the half), averaged 200 yds/game, had 7 TD's versus…. THERE IT IS! 12 INTERCEPTIONS!!! Ok, so the real reason is this: Brees is not only the future, but he's the trade bait of the two. No one is going to trade for Flutie and his AARP account, so you've got to give the kid a chance. It really doesn't matter, as I'm going to guess that Ahman Green will have a big game. The Bolts are giving up 140 rush yards a game, so how do you think the league's second best rusher (at least in term of yards thus far) will do? He should have 48 carries and 300 yards, but it won't happen. Favre likes to throw, and he should as he's one of the best of all time. I'd warn against too much passing. One aspect of the Bolts that has improved as the season has worn on is the pass defense. Quentin Jammer has started to play to his abilities, and he's capable of making plays. This is what is making me think. Javon Walker has played nicely in recent weeks, but he's yet to be dominating. Solid, not dominating. Donald Driver still plays with one of the biggest hearts and guts in the NFL, but he's not putting up big numbers either. Favre has also struggled with some turnovers: he says the thumb is fine and all, but if I watch him drop one more pass in mid throw behind his head, I will laugh. As much as I like Green, as much as Green Bay needs to win, I have to pick an upset. Every week there is a team that wins that has no right competing, much less winning. The aspects of this game are intriguing. I think Green vs. Tomlinson is going to be awesome, and with both defensive units lacking any consistency this could be a real battle. I have to pick an upset, and I can't keep saying, "well, this team needs a win so I'm picking them." I'm going with the Bolts. It may be stupid, it may be unconventional, it may make you wonder if I've gone over the edge. I think they can do it: rally behind Brees, just keep handing off the Tomlinson and setting him up with short passes, and the Bolts pull out a tight one! Call me crazy, but give me the Chargers!

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: LaDainian Tomlinson, Ahman Green, Bubba Franks, Ryan Longwell

2nd String: Brett Favre, Javon Walker, Drew Brees, David Boston (Questionable), Donald Driver, Packer Defense, Eric Parker, Steve Christie, Bolt Defense

Prediction: Packers 16, Bolts 23

NY Giants (4-9) at New Orleans (6-7) 8:30 PM
Can I let you all in on a secret? The Giants really suck. I mean they suck. I will apologize now to all the Giant fans out there, but I have one good work buddy who is a huge Giants fan, and he has told me, "Bryan, damn we really suck." They have lost 5 straight games, and have lost 8 of their last 10. One of those wins was an OT game over the Jets by 3 points. This team was the pick of many in the sports industry as a preseason favorite to go deep in the playoffs. They have scored 14 points in their last two games against Buffalo and Washington. Pathetic. Just pathetic. Why did I let myself get sick earlier during the Oakland preview? I'm going to pass out….. I'm ok. Quick look at the defensive numbers, as it seems obvious this team will struggle to put up any points and thus the offensive averages are worthless: giving up 120 yards rushing a game (LEAVE DEUCE IN YOUR LINEUP), giving up 210 passing yards a game, 36 sacks (tied with St. Louis for the best number in the league, lots of good it's doing 'em), and giving up 22 points a game. I'm going out on a limb: this could be the last chance for the Giants to salvage a win (they go to Dallas next week and finish with Carolina). That could be good or bad, depending on if you want the #1 pick in next year's draft. Sounds like Kerry Collins, who has started 67 consecutive games, will miss the game with an ankle injury. Thus, star nobody Jesse Palmer will get the start. Here's his career numbers (I will provide them as they are short and won't take long): 12 of 19, 122 yards, 0 TD's, 0 INT's, 0 starts, 0 wins, 0 points of interest other than he's a former Gator. Have fun Giant fans! You never know, maybe he's the next Tim Hasselback!

Technically, the Saints are not eliminated from playoff contention. Realistically, this season is done for them. Once again they will be making tee times and not hotel reservations. If and when this does come to fruition, you can officially give the award for the biggest waste of talent and production to Deuce McAllister. His 9 consecutive games with 100 yards was broken last week, and the Saints didn't even have the decency to win. So we basically have a game for pride, something the Giants left at home about 5 weeks ago. We've covered the fact that Deuce will ride these guys to start a new 100 yards a game streak. I know a lot of fantasy players were happy to see Joe Horn step back over the nice side of the century yardage marker last week, and he could do it again this week. Brooks has been fairly solid this year, and though he's not as long as you might like and he may struggle with turnovers, he's been a decent QB for a team that has just struggled to win games. You look at the schedule: 3 losses by a TD or less. That is the difference between the wild card and the couch. Regardless, I will not say I have any confidence in the Giants putting up a fight on offense, I don't see them stopping Deuce or Horn on defense, and this game should go to the Saints. They have more to gain from the pride, and they are more deserving of the win.

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Deuce McAllister, Aaron Brooks, Joe Horn, Amani Toomer, Boo Williams, John Carney

2nd String: Tiki Barber, Ike Hilliard (Questionable), Donte Stallworth (Questionable), Saint Defense, Giant Defense, Jesse Palmer, Matt Bryant

Prediction: Giants 18, Saints 24

Philadelphia (10-3) at Miami (8-5) Mon 9:00 PM
At least we get to end the week with a nice game. Philly is one of the hottest teams in the league. I remember back in Weeks 3 & 4 when we were all wondering if this team could survive the season, and now they are one of four teams to have already clinched a playoff spot. I've said it before, but it bares repeating: give credit to Andy Reid. I understand Bill Belichick deserves to win coach of the year, and so does Bill Parcells and Marvin Lewis, but don't leave Reid out of the conversation. He's been a great leader, and though it hasn't been pretty he's done an excellent job and they've won games under numerous restraints and conflicts. I said two weeks ago, when I picked Carolina to beat this team (incorrectly), that if the Panthers didn't beat this team they would win out. They will, and it's so important that they do for several reasons. First, I believe no team would benefit more from home field advantage in the NFC than the Eagles (maybe St. Louis, but I'd like the Eagles chances more in St. Lou than I would like the Rams' chances in Philly). Second, and most importantly, it is very important for teams to go into the playoffs hot and winning. The Super Bowl winners always win almost all of their games in December, and the Eagles look poised to make that run. They will come at Miami with the normal game plan: let's get the receivers out there, give McNabb a few looks, let him run if necessary, and throw in a heavy dose of Brian Westbrook, Correll Buckhalter, and Duce Staley. Miami has shown their defense is tough, but they haven't done the job against the top teams and Philly fits that mold. The Eagles don't need a lot of big plays to win, and they will grind it out against this Fins team if necessary.

Much like I stated the Eagles could win out two weeks ago, I also stated the Fins could LOSE out. They have a stigma for losing in December, and as I predicted the Fins would lose to New England last week (correctly), I said that loss would start the string of losses that would lead to the demise of Dave Wannstedt, the demise of the Dolphins once again, and the demise of their playoff hopes. Now they have to face the other hot team in the NFL, and once again I don't know if the Dolphins have the weapons to beat this Eagles team. Let me rephrase that: I believe the Dolphins have the weapons, I don't believe the weapons are managed or employed properly. I do not consider Jay Fiedler to be a threat, though he is solid, but Chris Chambers is, but it seems Ricky Williams has taken a fall in the second half of this season. He's still one of the NFL's best, yet he's not getting his "normal" production any more. It's fairly simple: teams stack the line, they shove the defense down Ricky's throat, and they let Fiedler take his shots. The Eagles are pretty much healthy on defense (it's nice to see Brian Dawkins back on the field, this gives the Eagles a big-time play maker all over the defensive field), and they could do the same while covering the receivers, thus making it even tougher on Fiedler. I could be wrong, I could be off the mark, but I just don't see any team led by Wannstedt ever doing anything when it really matters. The teams he coached in Chicago are not vastly different than the teams now, and he stunk it up in Chicago (hey, the Bears are competitive now! Good, no; competitive, yes!), and he's sucking it up in Miami. Get ready Fin fans: after this game, you have to travel to the cold in Buffalo (the Fins always play well in the cold), then they finish the season at home with the Jets. It's looking like either you, Denver (they have Indy and Green Bay on the road left, so it's not easy for them either), or Buffalo (they have to win out and get help from you and Denver; they have your Fins and New England left, good luck Bills!). So it's either you or Denver, both with tough schedules, and Denver owns the tiebreakers!

Key Fantasy Players

1st String: Ricky Williams, Chris Chambers, Randy McMichael, Donovan McNabb, Brian Westbrook, David Akers, Philly Defense

2nd String: Correll Buckhalter, LJ Smith, Fin Defense, Jay Fiedler (Questionable), James McKnight, James Thrash, Todd Pinkston, Olindo Mare

Prediction: Eagles 27, Fins 17