GJ Sports Blog - 2012 NFL Regular Season Results

NFL PREDICTIONS - RESULTS

For the regular readers of my blog, you will know I posted predictions in my preview's.  Here is the complete list of results on a weekly basis.

Week 1 - 13-3

Week 2 - 11-5

Week 3 - 5-11

Week 4 - 11-4

Week 5 - 10-4

Week 6 - 8-6

Week 7 - 9-4

Week 8 - 7-7

Week 9 - 12-1 (Forgot to predict Thursday Night Football)

Week 10 - 11-3

Week 11 - 7-7

Week 12 - 10-6

Week 13 - 10-6

Week 14 - 11-5

Week 15 - 7-9

Week 16 - 13-3

Week 17 - 11-5

Total = 166-89 (forgot one game)

Percentage = 0.651

Overall, I think I could have done better but just under two thirds isn't a bad record and I now have a target to aim for next season.




As well as the weekly game by game predictions I also done a preview before the start of the season were I predicted each teams record for the year.  The full article can be found here:
http://gjsportsblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/nfl-2012-season-preview.html


Below is a summary of how I got on.


Exactly correct - 2 (Buccaneers, Titans)

One win away - 4 (Bears, Cardinals, Jets, Raiders)

Two wins away - 8 (Packers, Giants, Cowboys, Falcons, Saints, Ravens, Browns, Jaguars)

Two and a half wins away - 2 (49ers, Rams)

Three Wins Away - 5 (Panthers, Patriots, Bills, Dolphins, Chargers)

Four Wins Away - 4 (Steelers, Bengals, Texans, Colts)

Five Wins Away - 2 (Broncos, Chiefs)

Six Wins Away - 3 (Eagles, Redskins, Seahawks)

Seven Wins Away - 1 (Vikings)

Eight Wins Away - 1 (Lions)


Again I'm not really sure how good or bad that is as I have nothing to compare it to but I will try to better it next season.



The one thing I do have something to compare is the teams I picked to qualify for the playoffs and my Superbowl prediction.  I saved the predictions of five writers from a well known Football website and have compared my result with theirs.

I managed to pick out six (Packers, Falcons, 49ers, Patriots, Texans, Ravens) of the twelve playoff teams.  Of the six I got wrong (Steelers, Chargers, Bills, Giants, Lions, Bears), only three of them got close (Steelers, Giants, Bears).  The other three I was miles off with.

The six teams I did not predict to reach the playoffs were Seattle, Washington, Minnesota, Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Denver.  For four of those teams I overestimated how quickly things can turn around in the NFL.  The Colts and the Redskins both got there with rookie quarterbacks who I highly rated but I just didn't think they would turn things around so quickly.

The Seahawks also got there with a rookie quarterback.  I had read a lot about Russell Wilson in preseason about how great this kid was, mostly Bill Simmons, so I watched him in the first few games and to be honest I wasn't impressed.  I remember in previous years about Eagles fans getting excited about Mike Kafka in preseason games and I had Wilson filed in the same bracket.  It took him a few games to get settled but slowly his performances have improved and he has worked his way right up to the rookie of the year conversation.

The other team I overestimated was the Cincinnati Bengals.  They made the playoffs last year but I expected the Steelers and Ravens to be a little bit ahead of them and I expected it would be another year on the learning curve for Andy Dalton and AJ Green.  However, those two have stepped it up on offense along with BenJarvus Green-Ellis and with the defense also having a good year the Bengals managed to pick up the AFC's sixth seed.

The one team of the six who I would have given no chance to would have been the Minnesota Vikings.  The Vikings were poor last year and with Adrian Peterson coming off serious knee surgery I had them wrote off this year.  I wasn't impressed with Christian Ponder in his rookie season either but he has shown a lot of improvement this year.  His accuarcy has increased by 7.8% and he has thrown less interceptions in more games.  He's far from perfect but if he can keep increasing those numbers, he may well turn out to be a decent quarterback for the Vikings.  The biggest surprise though was Adrian Peterson.  People just don't suffer career threatening injuries and then get to within 9 yards of breaking the single season rushing record.  His performances have been exceptional and I am delighted to see him back in the playoffs where he belongs.

The final team I missed out is the worst and most embarrassing mistake I have made in my blogs this season.  There's one thing any NFL fan, blogger, journalist, pundit should not do and I made a rookie mistake by doing it.  I wrote off a Manning!!!  Nobody should ever do that.  I knew it then and I done it anyway.  These guys seem to save their best for when people are writing them off.  I am convinced that the reason the Giants didn't make the playoffs this year is because nobody was writing off Eli after his excellent performances last year when he won his second Superbowl.  No doubt people will write him off this off season and he'll come back and lead the Giants on a deep playoff run.

As I said, I wrote off Peyton Manning.  He had some pretty serious surgery last year and I just didn't think he was going to be the same guy but he has lost nothing and will be right up there when this years MVP is decided.  Right now, I'd put him behind Adrian Peterson in that race but I've learned my lesson and I am certainly not going to rule him out.


The final prediction I made was my Superbowl pick.  At the start of the season, I predicted the 49ers would beat the Patriots which I am happy to say is still a possibility.  My thoughts have changed to be honest but at least I still have the chance of being correct.


In comparison to the five writers I compared myself against, I haven't done great.  Of the other five, one predicted eight teams correctly, two predicted seven correctly  and the other two predicted six correctly.  I never beat any of them but at least I done as well as two of them.

In the Superbowl predictions, I am still in contention to be correct along with four of the five writers.  The one who is already wrong predicted a repeat of last year's Superbowl with the Giants once again beating the Patriots.


My predictions aren't done for the season and I will continue to do my previews and predictions for every playoff game, including the Superbowl.  I will also complete a playoff bracket, showing how I think this years championship will be won and lost.


Finally, for anyone interested, I have set up a NFL Playoff Challenge League for readers of the blog.  I will be in it so why don't you and your friends enter too.  if you are already playing it is easy to join.  Just click this link and join the league.  It is open to the public and no passwords are required.  Good luck.


http://playoffchallenge.fantasy.nfl.com/group/22047/join

NFL Week 16 - Preview and Predictions

New Orleans Saints (6-8) @ Dallas Cowboys (8-6)

The Saints and Cowboys go head to head in Dallas in what could be a big game in the NFC's playoff race.  The Saints are technically still alive although there is too long a list of things they need to go their way for their playoff chances to be seriously considered.  The Cowboys on the other hand, have a very good chance of a playoff spot.  They are part of a three way tie at the top of the NFC East, so they may even win the division.  As things stand they are outside the playoffs but two wins would most likely be good enough to see them into the playoffs.  Both sides will look to throw the ball on offense.  The Saints are 2nd in passing and the Cowboys are 4th.  The Cowboys are better in pass defense, ranking 14th compared to the Saints who are 31st.  Ultimately the game will be won by whichever quarterback does a better job of taking care of the football.  Tony Romo has 22 touchdown passes and 16 interceptions.  Drew Brees has 36 touchdowns and 18 interceptions.

Prediction - I can't side with Tony Romo against Drew Brees and think the Saints will win this one.


Tennessee Titans (5-9) @ Green Bay Packers (10-4)
This game won't have a huge impact on the season other than deciding what seed the Packers have in the NFC playoffs.  The Packers are just behind the San Francisco 49ers in the race for the number two seed.  The 49ers face a tough trip to Seattle this week and if they slip up, I expect the Packers to pounce and secure the first round bye.  The Titans have had a poor year and I expect we will see changes in the franchise before too long.  Green Bay had a bad start but they have come good and have won eight of their last nine games.  They clinched the division last week and they should be too strong for the Titans this week.  Green Bay will try to pass the ball and if the offensive line holds up, Aaron Rodgers can beat any team in the NFL.  The Packers offensive line has been the weakness all year and Rodgers has been sacked 45 times, which is more than any other NFL quarterback.  Chris Johnson has had a good year after a slow start and is now averaging 4.8 yards per carry.  If Johnson can get the running game going, he can trouble the Packers.

Prediction - The Packers should have enough to win this one.   


Indianapolis Colts (9-5) @ Kansas City Chiefs (2-12)       
The Colts can clinch a wildcard place with a win in Kansas City over the struggling Chiefs.  Kansas have had a bad season and are currently in position for the number one draft pick in 2013.  The number one pick will be between the Chiefs and the Jaguars who are both 2-12 at present.  The Chiefs strength of schedule is currently weaker and they will therefore get the first pick but it is very close and subject to change.  The Colts have got this far thanks to rookie quarterback, Andrew Luck, who has linked up very well with Reggie Wayne.  The Colts are 8th in passing but will need to be at their best as the Chiefs are good against the pass and rank 7th.  The Chiefs will look to win the game on the ground.  They rank 7th in rushing and should be able to get some joy against the Colts who are 23rd against the run. 

Prediction - The match ups in this one suit the Chiefs but I would think they are at the stage of the year were they want the number one pick.  If the Chiefs put 100% into this one they can win it but I expect they will be half hearted and the Colts will win.


Buffalo Bills (5-9) @ Miami Dolphins (6-8)
The Bills and Dolphins look to be battling it out with the New York Jets for the positions in the AFC East behind the New England Patriots.  The Dolphins still have an outside chance of the playoffs but it is a very long shot and I can't see it happening.  Miami have struggled with inconsistency this year.  They have had some big wins over good teams like the Seahawks and the Bengals.  The trouble is the defeats to the likes of the Jets, the Bills and the Titans.  A bit more consistency and the Dolphins could have been in the playoff mix.  Both sides will look to win the game on the ground.  The Bills are 6th in rushing and the Dolphins are 16th.  The Dolphins are better in defending the run and rank 8th.  The Bills have struggled against the run and rank 30th in the NFL.

Prediction - Miami should win this one. 


San Diego Chargers (5-9) @ New York Jets (6-8)
This game is a dead rubber between two teams who will have had high hopes at the start of the season but they have underachieved.  The Chargers are a bad team and they have not beat anyone with a winning record.  The best win they have had came against the Steelers who are 7-7 for the season.  The Jets have also had a bad year.  I've made no secret of the fact that I don't think Mark Sanchez is a good quarterback.  He has had a terrible season and Rex Ryan has finally decided to bench him.  However, he still hasn't got it right and for some reason he has decided to overlook Tim Tebow and pick Greg McElroy at quarterback.  I can't understand why Tebow is being treated this way.  He's not the conventional NFL quarterback but he could do a job for the Jets.  From what I can see, it appears that Rex Ryan has wasted draft picks on him as he hasn't used him and the media are reporting that he will be released at the end of the year. 

Prediction - This is a tough one to call but I'll side with the Chargers to win this one.


Washington Redskins (8-6) @ Philadelphia Eagles (4-10)
The Redskins need to win this one to keep their place at the top of the NFC East.  They should be boosted by the return of Robert Griffin III at quarterback.  He is listed as probable but the Redskins are saying that there is a very good chance he will play.  The Eagles have had a horrible year.  I am looking forward to this game though to see what way the Eagles line up.  Most of the players who have missed out in recent weeks are fit again so I am very interested in seeing how much action LeSean McCoy will see.  The Eagles have already made it clear that Michael Vick is third on the depth chart behind Nick Foles and Trent Edwards.  I think this will be Andy Reid's last game in charge of the Eagles in Philadelphia and I would like to see him receive a positive reception but I do hope that it isn't misinterpreted as a show of support for him getting another year.  As an Eagles fan, we have two games left and if I'm totally honest I wouldn't mind losing this one and winning next week to knock the Giants out of the playoffs.  Not all Eagles fans will agree but in my time following the NFL, the Redskins have had a bad side so I don't feel the same level of rivalry with them as I do wit the Giants and Cowboys. 

Prediction - If RG3 plays he'll have a big day and the Redskins will win.


Cincinnati Bengals (8-6) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7)
This game is technically a playoff game as it is do or die time for both sides.  If the Bengals win, they are in the playoffs.  If the Steelers win this one, they will need to beat the Cleveland Browns next week to secure a playoff place.  The Steelers have been on a bad run and have won just one of their last five games.  The Bengals are in much better form and have won five of their last six games.  This will be the best game to watch in the early games and it should be a cracker.  The Steelers will be looking to pass the ball as they are 10th in passing and 26th in rushing.  The Bengals defense are 12th in pass defense and 9th against the run so they should be able to match the Steelers offense.  The Bengals have quite a balanced offense, ranking 17th in passing and 11th in rushing.  The Steelers have a good defense, ranking 1st against the pass and 4th against the run.  It looks like the game will be quite low scoring and in my opinion will come down to one play.  It could be a vital interception, a missed tackle etc.  The game is on a knife edge and every play could be the difference in winning and losing.

Prediction - They don't come any tighter than this.  My heart says Cincinnati but my head says Pittsburgh.  I'm going with my heart and will be rooting for the Bengals.


St Louis Rams (6-7-1) @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-8)
These two face off in a game that won't effect playoff places.  The Rams are still alive but there are too many teams ahead of them in the race for a wildcard.  At one stage the Bucs looked likely to reach the playoffs but four straight defeats has killed off their playoff hopes.  Both of these franchises are stuck in the middle of the league in the bracket were they aren't quite good enough for the playoffs but they are too good to be getting an early draft pick.  There is potential in both franchises though and I have no doubt they will both be looking forward to next season with high ambitions. 

Prediction - The Bucs will officially end the Rams playoff hopes with a win.


Oakland Raiders (4-10) @ Carolina Panthers (5-9)
I would imagine the only people who care about this game are people in Fantasy leagues.  Neither side got close to the playoffs and both will have relatively early picks in the draft.  Oakland have gone backwards this year after consecutive 8-8 finishes.  The franchise has been giving away draft picks in recent years but they will have their first rounder this year so I am quite interested in seeing what they do with it.  I wouldn't be surprised if they decided to trade down to try and get a few extra picks.  The Panthers have been disappointing.  I expected more from them as they have some good talent on offense but it took them a while to click.  They have won three of their last four games and oddly the defeat came against the 2-12, Kansas City Chiefs. 

Prediction - The Panthers should have too much for the Raiders.


New England Patriots (10-4) @ Jacksonville Jaguars (2-12)
The Patriots travel to Jacksonville in the penultimate game of the regular season, needing a win to keep themselves in contention for a bye in the first round of the playoffs.  It doesn't look good for the Patriots as the Broncos and Texans have favourable schedules to get the job done but two wins from the Pats would at least put the pressure on them.  Jacksonville have had another bad year and are only playing for a draft pick now.  As things stand they would pick second as the Chiefs have had an easier schedule but it is tight and still subject to change.  The match ups are all favourable for New England and the only place Jacksonville could get some joy is against their pass defense.  Having said that I can't see the Jaguars passing game being good enough to trouble the Pats.  The Pats offense could win this one in the air or on the ground.  They are 3rd in passing and 8th in rushing.  The Jags defense are 24th against the pass and 32nd against the run so it's hard to see how they will stop New England.

Prediction - The Patriots should be too good.


Minnesota Vikings (8-6) @ Houston Texans (12-2)
On paper this looks like another very good game.  The Vikings need the win to keep their playoff hopes alive.  It doesn't get much tougher than going to Houston to face the Texans who need the win to secure the top seed in the AFC.  The Texans are very good on the ground and rank 5th in the NFL.  As good as the Texans running game is, they aren't as good as the Vikings who have been led by Adrian Peterson.  Peterson has a chance of breaking the single season rushing yards record.  He needs 294 yards in his last two games to break the record but he won't get it easy as the Texans are 5th against the run.  We have already saw Calvin Johnson break the receiving yards record but for me, this record would be more impressive.  The league has moved more towards a passing league which accommodates receivers but there has never been a tougher time to run the ball than now.  Defenses are bigger, stronger and faster than they ever were but this hasn't stopped Peterson and he has took it in his stride and I for one would love to see him break the record. 

Prediction - Peterson to get less than 100 yards and the Texans to win easily. 


Cleveland Browns (5-9) @ Denver Broncos (11-3)
The Browns travel to Denver to take on Peyton Manning's Broncos in their penultimate game of the season.  It has been another mixed year for the Browns.  They are 5-9 and won't be in the playoffs but there has been some positives.  They picked up good wins against divisional rivals, the Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers.  Rookie running-back, Trent Richardson has also had a good year.  He needs just 103 yards to get 1000 yards in his rookie season and he has 11 touchdowns which is a good return.  The Broncos have built on last year's divisional win and with Peyton Manning at quarterback, the franchise has gone from strength to strength.  If they win their last two games they will get a bye in the first round of the playoffs and will host a game in the divisional round of the playoffs. 

Prediction - The Broncos should have too much on offense for the Browns and will go a step closer to that playoff bye.


Chicago Bears (8-6) @ Arizona Cardinals (5-9)
These two both started well but have since suffered huge collapses.  The Cardinals were 4-0 but lost nine in a row before beating the Detroit Lions last week.  The Bears were 7-1 but have lost five of their last six to drop to 8-6 and as things stand they are outside the wildcard spots.  The Bears have a lot of talent but they have been very poor recently and they need a quick turnaround or they will miss the playoffs which seems remarkable after such a good start.  The Bears will aim to run the ball with Matt Forte and Michael Bush sharing the load.  The Cardinals are very poor against the run so the Bears should be able to have some success in that area.  The Bears will also be hoping that receiver, Brandon Marshall is fit to play.  He has been struggling with a hamstring injury but they will need to be at full strength in what is a must win game.

Prediction - The Bears will win this one.


New York Giants (8-6) @ Baltimore Ravens (9-5)

Just like the Bears and Cardinals game, this game is also between two teams who have suffered a collapse in form.  The Giants were cruising towards another NFC East title at 6-2 but they have gone 2-4 in their last six and the Redskins and the Cowboys have put together winning runs to reach 8-6.  The Giants are currently outside the playoff places and this game is must win for them.  The Ravens have hit their own slump and have lost their last three in a row.  Luckily for them, they had already done enough to guarantee a playoff spot but they are now in serious danger of losing the divisional title and therefore having to start their playoff campaign on the road.  I've made no secret of the fact I don't really fancy this Ravens team and think they are not using Ray Rice to his full potential.  If they give Rice 20-25 carries a game, he could win them games but it's almost as if Coach Harbaugh is scared to play him and wants to keep him under wraps for the playoffs. 

Prediction - It all depends on Harbaugh, if he gives Rice the ball, he will put up big numbers and win the game.  If not, Eli will throw the deep bomb and Victor Cruz will catch enough of them to win the game for the Giants.  I'm going with the latter and a Giants win.


San Francisco 49ers (10-3-1) @ Seattle Seahawks (9-5)
This game had the potential to be a cracker and it still might be but a little of the edge was taken out of it with the 49ers win in New England last week.  It now means that the 49ers can afford to lose this game and as long as they win next week at home to the Cardinals they will win the division.  Seattle have been one of the surprises of the season.  When they signed free agent quarterback, Matt Flynn from Green Bay, I didn't know what to expect.  He had done well in his few appearances in Green Bay but so had Kevin Kolb for Philadelphia and he is far from a good quarterback.  I didn't expect the rookie, Russell Wilson to step in and take the starting job and actually do a very good job of it.  Wilson has been very good and obviously time will tell how good he really is but he has certainly shown all the signs of being a top player.  San Francisco have their own issues at quarterback.  I still don't think they have done the right thing by benching Alex Smith in favour of Colin Kaepernick.  Smith isn't a great quarterback but he is a better fit than Kaepernick in the 49ers offense.  Kaepernick is a totally different style of player and he changes the identity of the team.  The 49ers were doing well with Smith and I don't think it was a good idea to change the team's identity midway through the season.

Prediction - I'm going with Russell Wilson and the Seahawks to get the win here. 

     

NFL Week 15 - Preview and Predictions

New York Giants (8-5) @ Atlanta Falcons (11-2)

This game could be the first of two meetings between these sides this year as both look to be playoff bound and they could meet again at some stage in the post season.  They met last year in the playoffs and the Giants picked up a dominant win.  The Giants seem to have the edge over the Falcons and have won the last four in the series.  New York started the season well and looked to be running away with the NFC East but they had a bad run of results which has allowed Washington and Dallas back into the race for the division.  The Falcons have guaranteed themselves a playoff place and regardless of Sunday's results will still hold the NFC's number one seed.  They have a great record but the performances have been poor in recent weeks and they will need to improve if they want to give Matt Ryan his first victory in a playoff game.  Both sides will prioritise the passing game but the Giants have the better backup if they need to resort to their running game.

Prediction - I like this match up for the Giants and think they will get the win.   



Green Bay Packers (9-4) @ Chicago Bears (8-5)
I've been looking forward to this one for a while now.  Recent results have gone against the Bears but they have a chance to get themselves equal with the Packers on Sunday.  A Bears win at Soldier Field would leave both sides at 9-5 with just two games to go.  Both sides should win in week 16 which would mean the Packers would have to go to Minnesota in week 17 and win as long as the Bears win in Detroit.  A Bears win would be the best result for the neutral and would lead to an exciting finale.  If the Packers win it would secure the NFC North and a guaranteed home game in the playoffs.  The Bears would be right in the mix of the wildcard race at 8-6 and would have work to do to secure a playoff place.  Two of the most important players in this game are listed as questionable.  The Bears need Jay Cutler to play but he left last weeks game with a neck injury and might not be available.  In most recent meetings between these teams the best player on the field has been Green Bay linebacker, Clay Matthews.  Matthews has a hamstring injury and is also doubtful for this game.  He would be a big loss for the Packers as he usually spends this game lying on top of Jay Cutler after yet another sack.

Prediction - If Cutler plays and Matthews doesn't the Bears have a chance but I don't think it will work out for the Bears and the Packers will get the win to clinch the division.


Washington Redskins (7-6) @ Cleveland Browns (5-8)
This game will depend on the availability of the Washington Redskins rookie quarterback, Robert Griffin III.  RG3 left Sunday's win over the Ravens late on with a knee injury but thankfully it was nothing too serious and he will be back this season, although there are question marks over his status for this game.  At present he is listed as questionable and it seems like the decision will be left until Sunday.  The Redskins are on a four game winning streakand it has lifted them into the playoff race but they really do need RG3 to be at his best to keep the run going.  The Browns are in the middle of their own winning streak and have won three in a row.  It's too late for the playoffs but I do think there could be a bright future in Cleveland within the next few years.  The Redskins lead the NFL in rushing and should be able to pick up yards against a Browns defense that ranks 18th against the run.  The Redskins are good against the run, ranking 8th in the league but they will have their hands full with Trent Richardson.  The Redskins big weakness is on pass defense and they rank 31st.  The Browns are 18th in passing and can exploit the Redskins in this area. 

Prediction - It's very hard to make a call on this one without knowing RG3's status.  I suspect he is struggling and if he plays, he won't be at full strength so I'm going for a Browns win.


Minnesota Vikings (7-6) @ St Louis Rams (6-6-1)
The Vikings head to St Louis on Sunday needing a win to keep their playoff hopes alive.  The Vikings have got themselves into this position thanks to a fantastic season from star running-back, Adrian Peterson.  Peterson is just 160 yards away from his career best and with three games remaining he will be looking beyond his personal best and he will be aiming to get as close to the all-time record as he can.  The Rams still have an outside chance of the playoffs but they can settle for no less than three wins.  Even that probably won't be enough but the Rams will at least try to push their rivals as far as they can.  The Vikings are all about the running game and they rank 32nd in passing.  Their Rams defense are 13th against the run so I would expect Adrian Peterson to have another big day.  The Rams will also try to run the ball and will be hoping Steven Jackson can play.  He is listed as probable but will more than likely play.

Prediction - I think Adrian Peterson will lead the Vikings to a big road win and keep their playoff dream alive.


Jacksonville Jaguars (2-11) @ Miami Dolphins (5-8)
Miami and Jacksonville meet on Sunday in a game that means little more than local bragging rights and next years draft order.  The Jags have had a bad year and will have an early pick in the 2013 draft.  The Dolphins were in with a chance of the playoffs but they have hit a bad run and are no longer in contention.  They won three in a row which got them to 4-3 for the season but they have won just one of their six games since then and it has killed off their playoff hopes.  Both sides are a bit away from being serious contenders and early draft picks should help in the future.

Prediction - The Dolphins should have enough to pick up the win.    


Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-7) @ New Orleans Saints (5-8)
This game between two NFC South rivals had the potential to be a cracker a few weeks ago but both teams have hit bad form and neither will be in this years playoffs.  Tampa Bay look like a team on the up.  I'm a fan of Josh Freeman and after a slow start, he finally found his form.  He has linked up well with Vincent Jackson in recent weeks, who on his day, is one of the best receivers in the league.  Doug Martin has also had a great year and if he can improve on his rookie season, he will be a huge asset to the Bucs.  This season was always going to be tough for the Saints in the aftermath of Bountygate.  They have a lot of good players though and I expect them to be competitive again next year.  I like the match ups in this one.  The Saints are 2nd in passing and the Bucs are 32nd in pass defense.  The Bucs are 13th in passing and 12th in rushing.  The Saints defense are 30th against the pass and 32nd against the run.  The Bucs are 1st against the run and the Saints are 26th in rushing so it looks like the Saints will have to rely on the pass.

Prediction - This game should be high scoring but I think the Bucs are the all round better team and will win.


Denver Broncos (10-3) @ Baltimore Ravens (9-4)

A few weeks ago this looked like a must win game for the Broncos to give themselves an outside chance of a top two seed and a bye in the first round of the playoffs.  The Broncos have kept winning and their streak now stands at eight wins in a row.  The Ravens have lost their last two games and it leaves them needing a win here to have any chance of getting the number two seed. In my opinion, the Broncos are the real deal.  They were a good side last year and won a playoff game before eventually falling to the New England Patriots in the divisional round of the playoffs.  They have made a huge upgrade at quarterback by replacing Tim Tebow with Peyton Manning and right now it looks as though it may be the difference between a good team and a potential Superbowl winning team.  The Ravens have not impressed me.  They are 9-4 but six of those nine wins have been by a touchdown or less.  They deserve credit for winning a lot of tight games but they could so easily have gone the other way.  The opponents in those tight wins weren't always good sides either, with the Chiefs, the Browns and the Chargers all taking them the distance. 

Prediction - The Broncos have a good defense and should find it easier to stop the Ravens than the Ravens will find it to stop Peyton Manning and the Broncos passing game.  Denver will win this one.


Indianapolis Colts (9-4) @ Houston Texans (11-2)

This game will go a long way in deciding who will win the AFC South and guarantee themselves at least one home playoff game.  A Texans win on Sunday would guarantee the division and would take them a step closer to the AFC's number one seed.  The Colts have had a great year and I don't think there was many people outside Indianapolis who predicted they would be 9-4 at this stage of the season.  The Colts have embraced new quarterback, Andrew Luck and the team seem to have a great spirit about them which I imagine has come about due to Coach Pagano's illness.  Thankfully Pagano is on the mend and he will be delighted that the Colts are doing him proud.  The Texans are 11-2 for the year but their form has dropped in recent weeks.  They started off very well and were blowing out everything in front of them but they haven't looked as good since their big win over Baltimore in week 7.  If the Texans rediscover their early season form they are Superbowl contenders, if not, then they will not get past the Patriots or Broncos in the AFC. 

Prediction - The Texans will clinch the division with a win over the Colts.     


Seattle Seahawks (8-5) @ Buffalo Bills (5-8)
The Seahawks head to Toronto to face the Buffalo Bills who look like missing out on the playoffs for the 13th year in a row.  The Seahawks on the other hand have a great chance of a playoff place and might still be able to win the division.  A win here and a 49ers defeat in New England would leave the Seahawks and the 49ers on nine wins each.  The teams meet in Seattle next week and the NFC West would be very much up for grabs.  The Seahawks have one of the best defenses in the league and their biggest challenge on Sunday will be stopping the Bills running game.  The Bills are 6th in rushing and could be even higher if they decided to go with CJ Spiller instead of splitting carries between him and Fred Jackson.  Spiller has 6.6 yards per carry and Jackson has 3.8 yards per carry.  The Bills defence will also have to deal with a good running game.  The Seahawks are 4th in rushing and Marshawn Lynch has been having a great year.  He has ran for 1266 yards this season which is 2nd in the league. 

Prediction - The Seahawks will take another step closer to the playoffs with a win in Toronto.


Detroit Lions (4-9) @ Arizona Cardinals (4-9)
Arizona have set an NFL record by becoming the first team to lose nine games in a row after a 4-0 start to the season.  Things don't look like improving either if last weeks 58-0 defeat in Seattle is anything to go by.  Quarterback, Kevin Kolb has been placed on injured reserve and I would be surprised if they win any of their remaining games.  The Lions have been a huge disappointment.  They have drafted well in recent years and I thought this would be the year that they moved up the next level and became a serious competitor in the NFC.  It hasn't materialised though and they are heading towards another top ten draft pick.  The Cardinals offense is very poor and the only thing they do well is turnovers.  The Lions lead the NFL in passing but when required Mikel Leshoure is capable of carrying the offense.  He might have to do it this week as the Cards are 5th in pass defense and 30th in run defense so it may be in the Lions best interests to try to win this one on the ground.

Prediction - The Lions will extend Arizona's misery to ten defeats in a row.     


Carolina Panthers (4-9) @ San Diego Chargers (5-8)
Neither of these teams will be in the playoffs this year but they have both shown glimpses of being good teams.  They have both lacked the consistency required to be a playoff contender though.  The Panthers have had good wins against potential playoff teams, like Washington and Atlanta but defeats to teams like Kansas City has cost them.  The Chargers had a big win last week over the Steelers but the damage had already been done with the seven defeats in eight games that went before it.  I expect this to be Norv Turner's last year in charge and if the rumours are true, Andy Reid could be heading to San Diego next year.

Prediction - I think the Chargers are a better team if both play to their potential and they will win this one.      


Pittsburgh Steelers (7-6) @ Dallas Cowboys (7-6)
The Steelers and the Cowboys face off in Dallas on Sunday in a game both sides need to win.  Both sides are just outside the playoffs as things stand and can't afford many slip ups if they are to push on and clinch a spot in the post season.  The Steelers were in the sixth seed in the AFC until the Bengals beat the Eagles in Philadelphia on Thursday.  A win would put them back in a playoff spot ahead of a meeting between the two in Pittsburgh next week.  The Cowboys are 7-6 and just a game behind the Giants in the NFC East.  They are also just one win behind the Bears and Seahawks in the wildcard race.  Both sides will look to pass the ball, with the Cowboys ranked 3rd and the Steelers ranked 11th.  Pittsburgh's numbers have suffered a little due to Ben Roethlisberger's injury and they should be higher.  Both sides also have decent pass defenses, with the Steelers the best in the league and the Cowboys ranked 10th.  It promises to be a tight game and neither side will find it easy to get the win. 

Prediction - I trust Roethlisberger more than I trust Tony Romo so I will side with the Steelers.  


Kansas City Chiefs (2-11) @ Oakland Raiders (3-10)
This battle between the AFC West's weakest teams will play a big part in deciding the order of the 2013 draft.  These two will be picking early and as things stand, they would both be picking in the top three.  Obviously one of them will pick up a win on Sunday which could change the order but I can't see either of them winning their week 16 or week 17 fixtures so they should still be in the first few picks.  I expect the Chiefs to have a good day on the ground.  They rank 5th in rushing and the Raiders are 26th on the ground.  If the Chiefs can take care of the ball, there's no reason why they can't pick up a win against an Oakland team who have been struggling this year.  The Chiefs have the worst record in the league but I don't think they are the worst team in the league.  Their numbers are pretty good in all areas except turnovers.  They have turned the ball over 33 times this year and their defense has only forced 11 turnovers so their differential stands at -22 which is tied with the Eagles as the worst in the league.

Prediction - I'm going to take a punt on the Chiefs having a turnover free day and getting the win.   


San Francisco 49ers (9-3-1) @ New England Patriots (10-3)

The television companies haven't always got it right this year but on this occasion they are bang on the money.  This game will be shown nationally on Sunday Night Football and it looks like being an absolute cracker.  These two are polar opposites in terms of style.  Sometimes it ruins games but on this occasion I think it will make it one not to be missed.  The Pats are an explosive offense and although they will try to pass first, they can also give the ball to Stevan Ridley and attack on the ground.  The 49ers are a run first offense and rank 2nd in the league behind the Washington Redskins.  Frank Gore and Kendall Hunter were doing a good job.  Hunter has since gone down with a bad ankle sprain and the 49ers seem to have changed styles in recent weeks.  Since Alex Smith got injured against the Rams in week 10, they have gone with Colin Kaepernick at quarterback.  He has had his good moments but I don't think he is the man for the job.  I believe if it's not broke, don't fix it.  The 49ers offense was fine but Kaepernick is a mobile quarterback and the style of play has changed because of it.  The 49ers are still run heavy but Kaepernick is taking carries away from Frank Gore and his passing isn't as good as Alex Smith's so in my opinion, the 49ers are worse off because of it.

Prediction - The Patriots will get another comfortable win over a potential Superbowl rival.  

NFL POWER RANKINGS - WEEK 15

1 (3) New England Patriots (10-3) - The Patriots just keep doing this year after year.  There is usually an early season blip from New England which leads to their critics claiming they are finished and the Brady/Belichick era is coming to an end.  By December, the critics are usually having those words rammed down their throats.  The Patriots seem to have the timing of the playoff run down to a fine art.  They have been AFC Champions five times in the last eleven years and went on to win three Superbowl's.  It would take a brave man to go against the Patriots reaching another Superbowl in their current form.  The 42-14 win over the Texans will have sent out a message to the rest of the NFL that the New England Patriots are looking for another title.  Tom Brady threw for 296 yards and 4 touchdowns.  Brandon Lloyd and Aaron Hernandez were the leading receivers.  Lloyd caught 7 passes for 89 yards and a touchdown.  Hernandez caught 8 passes for 52 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Stevan Ridley had another good day, running for 72 yards and a touchdown.             

2 (4) Denver Broncos (10-3) - The Denver Broncos kept their winning run going by picking up a win over divisional rivals, the Oakland Raiders.  The Broncos are looking good and on current form the AFC Championship should be decided between them and the New England Patriots.  I have no loyalties in the AFC and as a neutral I would love to see the Broncos and Patriots go head to head for a place in the Superbowl.  Peyton Manning v Tom Brady is always a big game but for them to meet in a Championship game at this stage of their careers would be mouth watering. On Thursday, Manning threw for 310 yards, a touchdown and an interception.  His leading receivers were Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas.  Decker had 8 catches for 88 yards and Thomas had 5 catches for 83 yards.  Knowshon Moreno had a big day on the ground, rushing for 119 yards and a touchdown.

3 (1) Houston Texans (11-2) - The Texans have looked poor in recent weeks against teams who aren't in the playoff race.  Once they came up against a team who could challenge them for supremacy in the AFC, they were beaten off the field.  The Texans had a great start to the season but in the last month or so they haven't been impressive.  I don't know whether they are holding a little bit back for the playoffs but this is a dangerous time of the year to hit bad form.  On current form, I'd put the Patriots and Broncos ahead of them in the AFC.  Houston need to sort themselves out quickly as they have two big games with Indianapolis coming up and if they can't win one of those, they will find themselves in the wildcard places.  On Monday, Matt Schaub threw for 232 yards and an interception.  Arian Foster and Ben Tate both ran for 46 yards.  Foster also picked up a touchdown.  Andre Johnson was the leading receiver, catching 8 passes for 95 yards.          

4 (5) Green Bay Packers (9-4) - The Packers picked up a win over divisional rivals, the Detroit Lions, on Sunday night.  That win and the Bears loss in Minnesota means that a Packers win in Chicago, next Sunday, would hand the Packers another NFC North title.  The Packers have won seven of their last eight games and will be a danger to any team when the playoffs start.  Aaron Rodgers threw for just 173 yards but he did pick up a rushing touchdown.  Randall Cobb was the leading receiver, catching 7 passes for 102 yards. 

5 (7) San Francisco 49ers (9-3-1) - The 49ers got back to winning ways with a routine victory over the Miami Dolphins.  The win keeps the 49ers just ahead of the Green Bay Packers in the NFC playoff seeding.  As things stand the 49ers would have the two seed and a first round bye but they travel to New England and Seattle in the next two weeks so they are far from guaranteed the bye and a defeat to Seattle could even result in them having to start their playoff campaign on the road, as a wildcard.  Colin Kaepernick got the nod ahead of Alex Smith again and threw for 185 yards.  He also scored a touchdown after a 50 yard run.  Frank Gore led the running game with 63 yards and a touchdown.  Michael Crabtree was the star receiver, catching 9 passes for 93 yards.

6 (2) Atlanta Falcons (11-2) - The Falcons lost their second game of the year after a defeat to the Carolina Panthers.  The final score flattered the Falcons and they never really looked like winning.  The Falcons have already secured their playoff place and they still hold the NFC's number one seed.  The Falcons are 11-2 for the year and their closest rivals, San Francisco and Green Bay, have nine wins.  The Falcons have a tough schedule but should still be able to do enough to get a bye in the playoffs.  Matt Ryan threw for 342 yards, 2 touchdowns and an interception.  Roddy White led the receivers with 9 catches for 117 yards and a touchdown.  The Falcons abandoned the running game and ran the ball just eleven times. 

7 (6) Baltimore Ravens (9-4) - The Ravens lost their second game in a row on Sunday, losing in overtime to the Washington Redskins.  The two defeats have saw the Ravens drop from the number two seed in the AFC to number four.  The Ravens face a tough finish to the season and still have three games to come against potential playoff teams.  They host the Broncos and the Giants before finishing with a trip to Cincinnati.  I think the Ravens will have to win at least one of those to guarantee themselves a playoff place.  Joe Flacco threw for 182 yards, 3 touchdowns and an interception.  Anquan Boldin caught 3 passes for 78 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Ray Rice had another good day on the ground, running for 121 yards and a touchdown.

8 (10) New York Giants (8-5) - The Giants picked up a blow out win over the New Orleans Saints to keep themselves ahead in the NFC East.  With Washington and Dallas both winning the pressure was on the Giants but they responded well and won easily.  The Giants face a tough finish to the regular season with trips to Atlanta and Baltimore before finishing at home to the Eagles who despite having a bad year, have a great record against the Giants and would take great pleasure in killing off their playoff hopes.  Eli Manning threw for 259 yards, 4 touchdowns and 2 interceptions.  Victor Cruz led the receivers with 8 catches for 121 yards and a touchdown.  David Wilson had a great day for the Giants.  He ran for 100 yards and 2 touchdowns but it was his kick returns that done the most damage.  Wilson returned four kicks for a total of  227 yards including a 97 yard touchdown.

9 (9) Indianapolis Colts (9-4) - The Colts picked up yet another win and are now 9-4 for the season thanks to a big second half comeback.  The Colts were 13 behind at one stage but fought back to take a 27-23 victory.  The Colts are almost guaranteed a playoff place and if they can win there last three games, they will be crowned AFC South champions.  They face the Texans twice in their last three games and two wins would have the teams level but the Colts would take the tie breaker due to having the better head to head record.  Three wins is a big ask but it is certainly not beyond this Colts team.  Andrew Luck had a poor game on Sunday, completing less than half his passes for 196 yards, a touchdown and 2 interceptions.  Reggie Wayne caught 6 passes for 64 yards and a touchdown.  Vick Ballard led the rushers with 94 yards from 19 carries.   

10 (12) Seattle Seahawks (8-5) - The Seahawks maintained their perfect home record with a blowout victory over the Arizona Cardinals.  The final score was 58-0 to the Seahawks and it truly was one way traffic for the whole game.  The Seattle defense will take much of the credit as they forced eight turnovers and scored two touchdowns from them.  The offense finished the job off in what was a remarkable display.  Russell Wilson had a quiet game and only played for 35 minutes of it.  He threw for 148 yards, a touchdown and an interception.  Anthony McCoy was the leading receiver, catching 3 passes for 105 yards.  It was the Seattle running game that done the bulk of the damage.  Their rushers combined for 284 yards at 6.8 yards per carry.  Marshawn Lynch ran for 128 yards and 3 touchdowns.  Robert Turbin also picked up 108 yards in what was a dominant display. 

11 (8) Chicago Bears (8-5) - The Bears have lost four of their last five games and find themselves right in the middle of a battle for their playoff future.  At 8-5 they are currently in position for the NFC's sixth seed but they are only one game ahead of the three teams who have 7-6 records.  The Bears have a huge game this weekend, when the Green Bay Packers come to Soldier Field.  A win would see the Bears level the Packers at 9-5 although the Packers would still lead the division courtesy of a better divisional record.  In Sunday's game, Jay Cutler threw for 260 yards, a touchdown and 2 interceptions but had to leave the game after a head injury.  Brandon Marshall was the leading receiver, catching 10 passes for 160 yards and a touchdown.  Matt Forte led the ground game, rushing for 85 yards.

12 (14) Washington Redskins (7-6) - The Redskins picked up a huge overtime win over the Baltimore Ravens to reach 7-6 for the season and keep their playoff hopes alive.  The win came at a price though as explosive quarterback, Robert Griffin III picked up a knee injury.  It's still not clear how serious the injury is but early indications are that RG3 will miss this weeks trip to Cleveland.  Kirk Cousins will start at quarterback and although he isn't as good as RG3, he also arrived with a big reputation.  On Sunday, RG3 threw for 246 yards and a touchdown.  The leading receiver was Pierre Garcon with 5 catches for 87 yards and a touchdown.  Alfred Morris had another good rushing game, picking up 122 yards and a touchdown.   

13 (15) Minnesota Vikings (7-6) - The Vikings picked up a big win over the Chicago Bears to keep themselves in the race for the playoffs.  I didn't expect much from the Vikings last year but they have been one of the surprise packages.  Many people wrote off running-back, Adrian Peterson after he suffered such a serious injury last year.  There are players who have had that injury who have never played again and most who have played on after it, have never been able to reach the same level of performance.  Adrian Peterson is different though and he looks even better than he was before the injury.  He has ran for 1600 yards this year and needs another 506 yards to break the record for the most rushing yards in a season.  506 yards in three games is a big ask but if anyone can do it, it's Peterson.  On Sunday, Christian Ponder threw for 91 yards and an interception.  Once again, the Vikings star man was Peterson who ran for 154 yards and 2 touchdowns.

14 (11) Pittsburgh Steelers (7-6) - The Steelers lost at home to the San Diego Chargers on Sunday but they still hold the sixth seed in the AFC playoff race as the Bengals also lost.  The Steelers are 7-6 and they play Cincinnati in week 16 which looks like being a decider for the AFC's final playoff slot.  The Steelers have had injuries to key players all year but they should have most of their team back if they make the playoffs.  Ben Roethlisberger threw for 285 yards, 3 touchdowns and an interception.  His leading receiver was Mike Wallace who caught 7 passes for 112 yards and 2 touchdowns.

15 (17) Dallas Cowboys (7-6) - The Dallas Cowboys kept their season alive with a last gasp comeback win over the Cincinnati Bengals.  The Bengals led by 9 midway through the 4th quarter but a Dez Bryant touchdown and a Dan Bailey field goal won the game for the Cowboys.  The win keeps the Cowboys one win behind NFC East leaders, the New York Giants and they are also just one game behind Seattle and Chicago in the wildcard places.  Tony Romo threw for 268 yards, a touchdown and an interception.  Jason Witten led the receivers with 4 catches for 62 yards.

16 (13) Cincinnati Bengals (7-6) - Cincinnati conceded ten points in the last 6:35 of the game to lose 20-19 to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.  The Browns looked like they had the game won but Dez Bryant scored a touchdown and then Dan Bailey kicked the game winning field goal as time expired to send the Bengals to 7-6 for the year.  Fortunately for the Bengals, the Pittsburgh Steelers also lost so nothing has changed in the race for the final playoff place in the AFC.  Andy Dalton threw for 206 yards, a touchdown and an interception.  BenJarvus Green-Ellis had another good game, rushing for 89 yards at 7.4 yards.  The Bengals offensive coordinator will have to explain why he was restricted to just 12 carries. 

17 (19) St Louis Rams (6-6-1) - The Rams picked up a win over the Bills in Buffalo on Sunday.  At 6-6-1 the Rams still have an outside chance of the playoffs but it looks very unlikely as their is a lot of teams ahead of them.  The Rams can take some positives from this season.  Sam Bradford is growing into a good quarterback and they also have some good young talent on both sides of the ball.  Bradford threw for 209 yards, a touchdown and an interception.  Brandon Gibson caught 6 passes for 100 yards and a touchdown.  Steven Jackson led the rushers with 64 yards.

18 (23) New York Jets (6-7) - The New York Jets won in Jacksonville on Sunday to reach 6-7 for the season and they are just one win behind the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals who are currently battling it out for the sixth seed in the AFC playoff bracket.  Those two have to meet so one is guaranteed at least eight wins but the Jets could certainly give themselves a chance if they can win their last three games.  Their last three games are all against losing teams so they have every chance of getting to 9-7 and at least making the Bengals and the Steelers earn the wildcard.  Mark Sanchez threw for 111 yards but it was the running game that done the damage.  The Jets picked up 166 yards on the ground.  Bilal Powell ran for 78 yards and a touchdown.  Shonn Greene had 77 yards and also picked up a touchdown.

19 (16) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-7) - The Bucs gave away an eleven point lead in the last four minutes and lost to the Philadelphia Eagles by a score of 23-21.  The defeat leaves the Bucs at 6-7 and will most likely mean the end of their playoff chances.  Officially they are still alive but the list of results they need to go their way looks to be too long and I don't think they will be in the playoffs this year.  Josh Freeman threw for 189 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Vincent Jackson caught 6 passes for 131 yards and a touchdown.  Doug Martin had another good day, running for 128 yards and a touchdown. 

20 (25) San Diego Chargers (5-8) - The Chargers snapped their four game losing streak with a good win over the Steelers in Pittsburgh.  The Steelers got two late touchdowns to add some respectability to the score line but it was a dominant and fully deserved win for the Chargers.  At 5-8 they are still mathematically alive but it would take three wins and a lot of other results to go their way to secure a playoff spot.  It's highly unlikely but performances like this will give the team a boost ahead of next season.  Philip Rivers threw for 200 yards and 3 touchdowns.  His star receiver was Danario Alexander who caught 7 passes for 88 yards and 2 touchdowns.

21 (18) New Orleans Saints (5-8) - The New Orleans Saints feint playoff hopes died on Sunday with a heavy defeat to the New York Giants.  The Saints had a bad start to the year and got themselves into too deep a hole.  Next year the Saints should be back to normal after Bountygate and I would expect them to be competing at the top end of the NFC.  Drew Brees threw for 354 yards, a touchdown and 2 interceptions.  The Saints had a good day on the ground with their rushers picking up 142 yards at 5.9 yards per carry.  Unfortunately for the Saints, they fell behind early and had to abandon the run. 

22 (21) Detroit Lions (4-9) - The Lions suffered another tough loss on Sunday night, this time to the Green Bay Packers.  The Lions started well and went 14-0 up early in the second quarter.  The Packers got it back to 14-10 by the half and then outscored the Lions in the second half to run out 27-20.  The Lions have been hugely disappointing this year and I had predicted a playoff spot for them.  On Sunday, Matthew Stafford threw for 264 yards, a touchdown and an interception.  His leading receiver was Calvin Johnson who caught 10 passes for 118 yards.

23 (24) Cleveland Browns (5-8) - The Browns are having a great run late in the season and have now won three in a row after their win over the Kansas City Chiefs.  Cleveland have some good young players and I believe they will be competing for the playoffs within a season or two.  They have had a good return from Trent Richardson in his rookie year and I genuinely believe he will go on to have a very good NFL career.  On Sunday, Brandon Weeden threw for 217 yards.  Trent Richardson picked up two touchdowns on the ground.  Josh Gordon had another good game, catching 8 passes for 86 yards.       

24 (20) Buffalo Bills (5-8) - The Bills lost to the St Louis Rams on Sunday and the defeat all but ends their playoff hopes.  The Bills were winning inside the last minute but the Rams scored a touchdown with just 0:48 left and hung on for the win.  Buffalo won't be in the playoffs and this season will be best remembered as CJ Spiller's breakout season.  Ryan Fitzpatrick threw for 247 yards, a touchdown and an interception.  Steve Johnson was the leading receiver and caught 6 passes for 71 yards.  Spiller ran for 37 yards but only got 7 carries. 

25 (27) Carolina Panthers (4-9) - The Panthers bounced back from a bad loss to the Kansas City Chiefs with a big win over divisional rivals, the Atlanta Falcons.  The Panthers were excellent and fully deserved their win.  They were very unlucky not to have beat the Falcons in Atlanta but they made sure there would be no late comebacks this time.  Cam Newton was the star of the show.  He threw for 287 yards and 2 touchdowns.  He was even better on the ground, running for 116 yards and a touchdown from 9 carries.  Steve Smith also had a good game, catching 7 passes for 109 yards.

26 (22) Miami Dolphins (5-8) - The Dolphins are now 5-8 for the year after a defeat to the 49ers in San Francisco.  They kept the game tight for a long time but their offense struggled to pick up yards against a tough San Francisco defense.  Miami ended the game with 227 yards of offense which isn't enough to win games in this league unless your defense are picking up turnovers and on this occasion they weren't.  Ryan Tannehill completed just over half his passes for 150 yards and a touchdown.  Reggie Bush had a decent day on the ground, running for 65 yards from 14 carries.  Bush also caught 5 passes for 38 yards which gave him 103 yards from scrimmage. 

27 (26) Tennessee Titans (4-9) - The Tennessee Titans suffered a tough loss in Indianapolis on Sunday.  The Titans led by thirteen at half time and after the Colts came back in the third quarter, they took another lead in the fourth quarter.  It wasn't to be though as Adam Vinatieri kicked two late field goals to win the game for the Colts.  At 4-9 the Titans are done for the year but they will fancy their chances of picking up a win or two in their remaining fixtures.  Jake Locker threw for 262 yards, a touchdown and 2 interceptions.  He also led the rushers with 51 yards from 4 carries.  Titans receiver, Kenny Britt had a big day, catching 8 passes for 143 yards. 

28 (32) Philadelphia Eagles (4-9) - The Eagles won their first game since week 4 and as an Eagles fan, my first reaction was how will this affect next years draft pick?  Maybe that's not the right attitude but I genuinely believed the players had given up and were destined to finish 3-13.  This has been a bad year to be an Eagles fan and I was hoping for as early a draft pick as possible. Having said that, we got the win and there is no doubt positives to be taken from that.  Rookie quarterback, Nick Foles, had an excellent game, throwing for 381 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Foles has been improving and if we can get a decent offensive line ahead of him I think he could be the man to lead the Eagles in the future.  On Sunday, his leading receivers were Jason Avant and Jeremy Maclin.  Avant caught 7 passes for 133 yards and Maclin caught 9 passes for 104 yards and a touchdown.

29 (28) Kansas City Chiefs (2-11) - The Chiefs have dropped to 2-11 after a heavy defeat to the Cleveland Browns.  The Chiefs took the lead on the opening play of the game but the Browns scored 30 unanswered points to run out 30-7 winners.  As things stand the Chiefs would have the number one pick in the 2013 draft and unless they win in Oakland this week, I can't see them picking up anymore wins. They finish with Indianapolis and Denver so Oakland looks like their last chance of a win.  Brady Quinn threw for 159 yards and an interception.  The Chiefs star player was Jamaal Charles who ran for 165 yards and a touchdown.  

30 (30) Jacksonville Jaguars (2-11) - The Jags suffered a defeat at home to the New York Jets that sends them to 2-11 for the season.  The Jags have had a bad year and things haven't worked out for them at quarterback.  They started the year with Blaine Gabbert and then replaced him with Chad Henne.  Henne started well but has returned to the player I remember in Miami in the last two weeks.  In Sunday's game he threw for 185 yards and 2 interceptions.  Montell Owens was their best player and ran for 91 yards and a touchdown.   

31 (31) Oakland Raiders (3-10) - The Raiders suffered yet another defeat, this time at the hands of Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos.  The Raiders are 3-10 now and as things stand they would have the third pick overall in the 2013 draft.  This franchise has suffered for a long time and I would like to see them improve in the coming years as the Raiders are one of the most storied franchises in the NFL.  Carson Palmer threw for 273 yards, 2 touchdowns and an interception.  His leading receiver was Rod Streater who caught 4 passes for 100 yards. 

32 (29) Arizona Cardinals (4-9) - There's not much you can say about Arizona's latest defeat.  They lost 58-0 to the Seattle Seahawks in what is now their ninth defeat in a row.  The Cardinals were terrible and I know if I was a Cardinals fan I would be questioning the players desire.  They turned the ball over a remarkable eight times in what must have been one of the most humiliating days in the history of the franchise.  John Skelton was horrible and threw for 74 yards and 4 interceptions.  He also fumbled the ball which resulted in another turnover.  Ryan Lindley came in and wasn't much better, completing less than half his passes for 59 yards and he too had a fumble which was recovered by the Seahawks.  The future looks bleak in Arizona and at this point I'd imagine even the fans want this season to be over. 

NFL Week 14 Preview and Predictions

St Louis Rams (5-6-1) @ Buffalo Bills (5-7)

The winner of this game will still have a slim chance of making the post season but for the loser, it will be the end of their playoff hopes.  Both sides are in that bracket were they are close to being .500 teams and a run of four wins would give them a chance of the playoffs but 3-1 would most likely not be good enough.  Neither side has a good passing game and the Rams rank 22nd in the NFL.  The Bills are even worse and rank 26th.  The Bills big strength is their running game.  They are averaging 148 yards per game and they rank 4th in the league.  The Rams are also better on the ground and rank 13th.  It looks as though this game will be decided by the rushers.  Of the defenses, St Louis are better against the run but the Bills have improved a lot in recent weeks and should be able to restrict Steven Jackson.

Prediction - Home advantage and the improvement in the Bills run defense, makes me side with them for the win.


Dallas Cowboys (6-6) @ Cincinnati Bengals (7-5)
These two are right in the middle of the playoff race and the winners of this game will receive a boost to their hopes of clinching a wildcard spot.  The losers will find themselves in a difficult situation.  They will still be outside the wildcard places and have just three games left to put together a playoff push.  The Cowboys are a pass heavy offense.  They are 2nd in passing and 29th in rushing.  The Bengals have a much more balanced offense.  They are 13th in passing and 14th in rushing.  The running game has improved in recent weeks and BenJarvus Green-Ellis has been very impressive.  He has ran for over 100 yards in three consecutive games and is providing a dual threat to opposing defenses which means defenses can't always concentrate on covering AJ Green.  Defensively there's not much between the sides.  Neither could be described as a shut down defense but they are both strong enough and have no glaring weaknesses.  The game will most likely be high scoring and could turn into a shootout. 

Prediction - I think the Bengals have more options on offense and I trust Dalton more than Tony Romo not to lose the game for his team.  Bengals win.


Kansas City Chiefs (2-10) @ Cleveland Browns (4-8)

The Chiefs got their second win of the season last week in a game that was full of emotion after the tragic events of last Saturday.  The Chiefs players deserve a lot of credit for being able to take the field last Sunday and they some how managed to compose themselves enough to win the game.  This game also sees a few former Browns returning to Cleveland for the first time.  Peyton Hillis, Brady Quinn and Romeo Crennell all return to their former team and it will be interesting to see what kind of reception they get.  I imagine it won't be anything like the reception LeBron James got after his move to Miami.  The Chiefs have a good running game, ranking 5th in the NFL.  The Browns aren't great on offense, ranking 20th in passing and 25th in rushing.  On defense the Chiefs are poor against the run and rank 26th in the league.  The Browns are 16th against the run and should be able to make things tough for Jamaal Charles.

Prediction - Tough one to call and it will come down to whoever takes care of the football.  I'll side with the Browns.


Tennessee Titans (4-8) @ Indianapolis Colts (8-4)

While Robert Griffin III is getting all the headlines, Andrew Luck is quietly going about things in Indianapolis and setting new records for a rookie quarterback.  He has already beat Peyton Manning's record for 300 yard passing games as a rookie and he has more wins than any quarterback who was a number one draft pick.  Luck looks like a special player and although he isn't as exciting as RG3, he looks like the quarterback more likely to win a title.  The Titans won't be in the playoffs this year but I've no doubt they'll still put everything into this game so they might stop the Colts reaching the playoffs too.  The Colts are 5th in passing and 18th in rushing.  The Titans defense is poor and is ranked 25th against the pass and 27th against the run.  The Titans will look to run the ball and Chris Johnson has the potential to win games on his own.  He had a reasonable game the first time round, picking up 117 yards from scrimmage.  The Colts defense will have to contain him and if they do it should be a routine victory.

Prediction - The Colts should win this one.


Chicago Bears (8-4) @ Minnesota Vikings (6-6)
This is a huge game in the NFC North and it will have big playoff implications.  The Bears are currently in the wildcard places but they are tied with Green Bay for the lead in the division and the two meet again in week 15.  The Vikings have done well to get themselves into this position but there's not much room for error at this point.  They are one of four teams at 6-6 in the NFC and they trail Seattle (7-5) and Chicago (8-4) for the wildcard spots.  To have any chance of the playoffs they will need to get to 9 wins and even that probably won't be enough.  The Vikings will be looking for Adrian Peterson to have a big day.  Peterson is on pace for a career year which is remarkable considering he tore his ACL and MCL less than a year ago.  He is a medical marvel but he will have to be at his best to pick up yards against this Bears defense. 

Prediction - I sense a spanner in the works of the NFC North playoff race with a Vikings win here. 


San Diego Chargers (4-8) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (7-5)
The Steelers picked up a huge win last weekend without Ben Roethlisberger to keep their playoff hopes alive and now the big man is back, the Steelers can put together a serious run for the AFC title.  They were in great form before the injury and have managed to keep themselves in the race so I expect them to do enough to guarantee themselves a playoff spot.  The Chargers have had yet another bad year and there has been a lot of rumours going around that they will finally fire Norv Turner at the end of the year.  Turner had a good team in San Diego but they have definitely underachieved in his time as head coach.  The Steelers were a top ten passing offense until Roethlisberger's injury and they should be able to get back to that level.  The running game has been hit and miss this season and the Chargers are 7th against the run so the game will be in Roethlisberger's hands.  The Chargers have been poor offensively, averaging just 322 yards per game.  I can't see them breaking out offensively against the Steelers defense so they will have a tough day ahead of them. 

Prediction - The Steelers should win this one.


Philadelphia Eagles (3-9) @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-6)

The Philadelphia Eagles take their lack of effort and sub par performances to Tampa Bay this week.  The Bucs are still in with a chance in the NFC but they are running out of time and need to be winning this one.  The wildcard race in the NFC is very tight and one of five teams could clinch that sixth seed.  The Bucs are in with a chance of getting it but with trips to New Orleans and Atlanta still to come, it looks like being a big ask.  As an Eagles fan I am feeling a bit of apathy towards the team this year.  It's hard to put a finger on what happened when it could be so many things.  The season has been a disaster and I'm ready for an off season which will hopefully see a lot of change.  2013 is going to be our year... Truthfully, even I don't believe that.  The way this season has gone, I can't see how the Eagles are going to stop Doug Martin and Vincent Jackson.  The defense can't seem to stop anyone and it's hard to see how they will stop players as good as these pair.

Prediction - Bucs win.


Baltimore Ravens (9-3) @ Washington Redskins (6-6)

This game looks like being a cracker and could be one of the games of the year.  The Ravens have lost their number two seed in the AFC after last weeks loss to the Steelers.  The Redskins have been a different team after their bye week and sit on the edge of a playoff place.  They went into the bye at 3-6 but have won their last three to reach 6-6.  Robert Griffin III has been excellent and he has been supported by Alfred Morris who is also having a great rookie year.  The Redskins are the leading rushers in the league and the Ravens will find it tough to contain them.  The Ravens are 23rd in run defense and will have to do something different to stop the Redskins on the ground.  The Redskins are 31st in pass defense and the game will hinge on what Joe Flacco shows up. 

Prediction - I think the Redskins will get the win here and continue their push to the playoffs.


Atlanta Falcons (11-1) @ Carolina Panthers (3-9)
The Falcons face a tough trip to Carolina to face the Panthers.  The Panthers very very unlucky in week 4 and it took a field goal with just five seconds left to win the game for the Falcons.  The Falcons defense struggled with the Panthers rushers.  Carolina ran for 199 yards in that game.  In the end Matt Ryan was able to lead the Falcons to a win but I expect they will face another tough game this week.  The Falcons can afford a few slip ups as they are well clear in the NFC and have a 2.5 win lead over the 49ers in second.  This match should be tight and if the Panthers can look after the football, they will have every chance of winning this game against their NFC South rivals.

Prediction - I think the Panthers will get the upset victory here.


New York Jets (5-7) @ Jacksonville Jaguars (2-10)
I've always had my suspicions about Rex Ryan.  Some of the pre and post match interviews gave me an idea but it is official, Rex Ryan is completely insane.  Just one week after he showed signs of clear thinking by benching him, he has lost the plot completely and decided to stick with Mark Sanchez.  When the Jets finally decide to cut Sanchez he won't get another team and will go and talk to Jamarcus Russell about their glittering college careers and how they made millions from their brief NFL careers for not really doing anything.  It might be harsh but I just don't think Sanchez is the answer and any success the Jets had in recent years was more to do with the defense.  The match up looks like it will come down to the Jets running game against the Jags run defense.  Shonn Greene has been having a decent year and he could lead the Jets to the win here.

Prediction - This is a tough one, neither side have had a good year but I think Shonn Greene will be the difference and lead the Jets to the win.


Miami Dolphins (5-7) @ San Francisco 49ers (8-3-1)

These two have had a few good battles over the years as two of the NFL's most celebrated franchises but on this occasion, it looks as though only one of them is a serious contender.  The 49ers currently hold the number two seed in the NFC playoff race and another few wins will guarantee their playoff spot.  I will be watching the performance of Colin Kaepernick very closely.  There has been a bit of a mixed bag from him since he replaced Alex Smith and a lot of people are questioning whether it was a wise move to start a quarterback controversy at a team who had a great chance of a title.  The Dolphins are 5-7 and still have an outside chance of the playoffs but even four wins might not be enough.  Both teams will look to run the ball and both have good run defenses.  It looks as though this game will be low scoring and come down to Frank Gore v Reggie Bush.

Prediction - Gore v Bush?  It has to be Gore for me, 49ers win.


New Orleans Saints (5-7) @ New York Giants (7-5)

This should be another great game and it's must win time for both sides.  The Saints need four wins to give themselves any chance of a playoff spot and the Giants have dragged themselves down into a race for the NFC East with just one win in their last four.  Both teams can be explosive but they can also be terrible too.  The game will be pass heavy with New Orleans 3rd in passing and the Giants are 9th.  Neither side are good on pass defense with the Saints ranked 30th and the Giants ranked 22nd.  This game will be high scoring and could come down to turnovers or who has the last possession.  Eli Manning and Drew Brees are similar in the fact they can both single handedly win games and single handedly lose games.  For me Brees is the better quarterback and that could be the difference here.

Prediction - I think the Saints can win this one.


Arizona Cardinals (4-8) @ Seattle Seahawks (7-5)

The Arizona Cardinals must be close to a record for the worst turnaround in a season in NFL history.  After a 4-0 start they have now lost eight in a row to reach 4-8.  Many teams before them have suffered a drop in form but the Cardinals have took that to a new level.  They almost ended the run last week but once Rex Ryan benched Sanchez, the comeback was on.  The Seahawks will be feeling very good about their chances after last weeks road win over the Chicago Bears.  They now return to Seattle to defend their unbeaten home record against a struggling divisional rival.  The Seahawks have been led in recent weeks by rookie quarterback, Russell Wilson.  Wilson has had a good year, quietly going about his business and getting the job done.  I have criticised him in the past but he is showing good form and if he keeps it up he should take the Seahawks into the playoffs.

Prediction - The Seahawks have to win this one.


Detroit Lions (4-8) @ Green Bay Packers (8-4)

At the start of the season I expected this game to be a battle between two sides looking to win the NFC North.  I was half right and the Packers are right in the middle of the battle to win the division but I was way out with the Detroit Lions.  The Lions have been poor and although there has been some good flashes, they simply haven't got the wins on the board.  Green Bay don't look as good as they did last season but they should make the playoffs and once they get there they are capable of beating any team in the league.  Aaron Rodgers has taken a lot of punishment this season and the Packers need to protect him better so he can do what he does best and win football games.  This game will be pass heavy and should be a high scoring affair. 

Prediction - It looks like a shootout between Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford and for me, there's only one winner.  Green Bay Packers to win.     

Thursday Night Football - Denver Broncos (9-3) @ Oakland Raiders (3-9)

This weeks Thursday Night Football sees two AFC West rivals face off in what is more or less a dead rubber.  Denver have won the division and will be in the playoffs.  Oakland are playing for next years draft pick.  Denver are tied with New England and Baltimore at 9-3 so the game will mean more to them as every victory increases their chance of a bye in the first round of the playoffs.

The Denver Broncos have had a great year and the move to bring Peyton Manning to Denver is now looking like a masterstroke.  Manning didn't make a great start to his Denver career but seven wins in a row has more than made up for the 2-3 start.  Manning's numbers are impressive and he is on pace for a career best in passing yards.  His current average would leave him just shy of the 4700 yards he had in 2010.  He should also post the second highest total touchdown passes of his career.  He has 29 touchdowns with four games left and his second best season was 33 touchdown passes which he has done on three occasions.  His pass completion percentage is currently 68% and his career best was 68.8% in 2009.  For a quarterback to be getting close to career numbers at 36 years old is exceptional but to be doing it with a brand new team and after missing a season to what was a potentially career ending injury, is something only one of the truly great quarterbacks of all time could do. 

Every great quarterback needs receivers who can catch the ball and Manning has that in abundance with the Broncos.  Demaryius Thomas in particular has had a great season and he has already smashed his career best in every statistic.  Eric Decker, Jacob Tamme and Brandon Stokley are also playing their part and Peyton Manning is making their jobs as easy as he possibly can. 

The one weakness in Denver is the running game and they are averaging just over 100 yards per game.  Their leading rusher, Willis McGahee is out injured and although he may be back later in the year, it would only be deep into the playoffs.  The Broncos will have to find some sort of a running game to take the pressure off Peyton Manning or they will be out of the playoffs before he is back.  Knowshon Moreno had a decent game against the Chiefs but in the playoffs, the Broncos won't be able to beat the best teams in the AFC unless they can get some help for Peyton Manning. 

Defensively, the Broncos are up there with the best teams in the NFL.  They are giving up just over 300 yards per game, they have sacked the opposing quarterback 38 times, which is 2nd in the NFL and they have 4 defensive touchdowns, which is 3rd in the NFL.  Overall, the Broncos are a very serious contender.  They were a playoff team last year with Tim Tebow at quarterback and even won their first game in the wildcard round over the Pittsburgh Steelers.  They were comfortably beaten by the Patriots in the divisional round but they have significantly improved at quarterback and only time will tell if that is enough to take them to the next level.

Oakland have had a bad year.  Things looked to be improving in Oakland recently with two consecutive 8-8 seasons but they have gone backwards and at 3-9 they are in position for a top 5 pick in the 2013 draft.  They had a bad start and dropped to 1-4 but won two in a row to get back to 3-4 but they have lost five in a row since. 

The Raiders have been very poor on defense and are giving up over 380 yards per game.  They have had a lot of key players out through injury but the performances still haven't been good enough.  The Raiders will pick early in the draft and most of the top guys are defensive players so they should receive a boost as long as they get their pick right. 

The one positive for the Raiders this year has been the passing game.  They are averaging just under 280 yards per game and rank 8th in the league.  Carson Palmer has had a good year and should reach a career best in passing yards within the next two or three games.  Tight end, Brandon Myers has been his go to guy and he has been supported by Denarius Moore, Darrius Heyward-Bey and Marcel Reece.  The passing game is good fine and if the Raiders can hold onto everyone, the passing unit should be every bit as good next year.

The match up in this game favours the Broncos.  As I've said, the Raiders only strength is passing but the Broncos have a good pass defense.  The Broncos should be able to get their passing game going against a Raiders pass defense that ranks 25th in the NFL and should have too many weapons for a struggling Oakland Raiders.   

Prediction - I can only see Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos picking up the win here.  

NFL WEEK 13 PREVIEW AND PREDICTIONS

Jacksonville Jaguars (2-9) @ Buffalo Bills (4-7)

Despite having one of the worst records in the NFL there is a bit of a feel good factor around the Jacksonville Jaguars at the moment.  Since Chad Henne has come in they have took the Houston Texans to overtime and followed it up with a win over the Tennessee Titans.  Sometimes a change at quarterback can provide a team with a boost and it has certainly helped the Jags.  Having said that, in the long term, I don't think Chad Henne is the answer and a few good games doesn't make him a good quarterback.  He was poor in his time at Miami and I can't see him maintaining this form for long.  The Bills have had a disappointing year.  I expected more from them but they have struggled and the playoffs look to be beyond them.  The one positive has been the form of running-back, CJ Spiller.  Spiller has had an excellent year and is averaging an outstanding, 6.7 yards per carry.  The Jags are 29th in run defense and I wouldn't be surprised if Spiller has another big day. 

Prediction - Whilst the Jags have looked better in recent weeks, I think the match ups suit the Bills better and it will be a home win.


Seattle Seahawks (6-5) @ Chicago Bears (8-3)

The Bears host the Seattle Seahawks in a big game for both sides and one that will effect the NFC playoff picture.  The Seahawks still have a chance of a wildcard spot and for the Bears it could mean the difference in winning the division or settling for a wildcard.  The Seahawks look like losing their starting corner backs, Brandon Browner and Richard Sherman after they violated the NFL's policy on performance enhancing drugs.  They are appealing the decision though so both will be available for the trip to Chicago.  Both sides have injuries to key players but most are listed as probable so should make it.  The teams are remarkably similar in their style and the match ups are quite intriguing.  They rank 31st and 32nd in passing and in pass defense they are 3rd and 6th so the game should be decided on the ground.  In run defense the Bears are 8th and the Seahawks are 12th.  The Bears running game is 10th and the Seahawks are 8th.  The match ups are very tight and it should lead to a close game. 

Prediction - It's a tough call but the one thing that makes up my mind is the Bears are 5-1 at home and the Seahawks are 1-5 on the road so I will have to side with the Chicago Bears. 


Indianapolis Colts (7-4) @ Detroit Lions (4-7)

Way back in September when I wrote my NFL Season Preview ( http://gjsportsblog.blogspot.co.uk/2012/09/nfl-2012-season-preview.html ), I may have been looking at this as a game between a 7-4 team and a 4-7 team but it wouldn't have been the Lions at 4-7.  I predicted the Lions would reach the playoffs after a 12-4 year and I had the Colts struggling along to finish 7-9.  Sometimes you have to accept you were wrong and in this occasion I have to admit I got these two wrong by quite a bit.  The Colts have been very good to reach 7-4 and are doing Coach Pagano proud.  They are in pole position in the AFC wildcard race and another two or three wins should secure their place.  The Lions have had a disappointing year and have lost a lot of close games.  Only one of their seven defeats came by a margin of more than one score but ultimately it doesn't matter how close the games are and it's only wins and losses that count.  The Lions lead the league in passing and the Colts are 7th.  In pass defense the Lions are 12th and the Colts are 19th.  In rushing, the Colts rank 17th and the Lions are 24th.  In run defense the Colts are 20th and the Lions are 22nd. 

Prediction - This looks like being a very good game and I think the Lions could edge it. 


Minnesota Vikings (6-5) @ Green Bay Packers (7-4)

The Vikings and Packers meet in a game that will go a long way in deciding the outcome of the NFC North title.  The Bears lead at the moment with an 8-3 record but they still have to play both of these sides so the divisional title is still very much in the balance.  These two will also meet again in week 17 so the NFC North race should go right to the wire.  Both sides have long injury lists and a few key players could miss out.  Clay Matthews has already been ruled out and could be joined by Donald Driver who is listed as questionable.  The Vikings injury list includes Percy Harvin, Kyle Rudolph, Adrian Peterson and Jared Allen.  Harvin is questionable and the rest are probable.  If the Vikings are going to get a result in Green Bay they will need as many of those to play as possible.  The Packers will trust in Aaron Rodgers to win them the game in the air.  Rodgers is one of the best quarterbacks in the league and he should be able to put points on the board.  The Vikings will aim to win the game on the ground and that plan will rely heavily on Adrian Peterson's availability.

Prediction - This should be one of the best games of the weekend and I think the Packers should be able to pick up the win.


Houston Texans (10-1) @ Tennessee Titans (4-7)

The 10-1, Houston Texans travel to Tennessee to take on the Titan's in an AFC South clash.  The Titans look to be done for the year at 4-7 but the Texans can guarantee themselves a playoff spot with a win on the road.  The Texans have a long injury list and have looked tired in recent weeks.  Once they guarantee the playoffs and seal a bye in the first round of the playoffs I expect to see them rest a few players and come back fresh in the playoffs.  The Titans will attempt to win the game on the ground.  Chris Johnson had a bad start to the season but he has picked up over 100 yards from scrimmage in each of his last six games.  The Texans are as close to the complete team as you can get.  They have a great defense and a very good running game.  Their passing game has a lot of potential too.  Matt Schaub is a good quarterback and Andre Johnson is in the elite bracket of receivers. 

Prediction - The Texans should get a win here and guarantee themselves at least a wildcard place in the playoffs.   


Carolina Panthers (3-8) @ Kansas City Chiefs (1-10)

This game will be very difficult for both sides after the sad news regarding Chiefs linebacker, Jovan Belcher.  I'm not going to comment too much on it as I am not well enough informed to know what happened but I am deeply saddened at the tragic loss of two young lives and my heart goes out to the baby who has been left orphaned.  On the game, both sides have had bad years and the outcome will only effect the top of the 2013 draft board.  Both sides will be looking to next year already and making plans on how they can improve.  I wouldn't be surprised if either side changes their coach at the end of the season as both sides have underachieved.  The Chiefs will try to run the ball and although the Panthers have a more balanced offense they will most likely favour the run too. 

Prediction - I thought the Chiefs might have a chance of winning this one but I can't see their players minds being on the game considering the tragic circumstances and will go for a Panthers win.


San Francisco 49ers (8-2-1) @ St Louis Rams (4-6-1)

These two played out a tie in week 10 in San Francisco and this looks like being another close game.  The 49ers are a much stronger side but the Rams matched them in the last game and will no doubt make things difficult for them this week again.  The 49ers look to be playoff bound and should be able to clinch the divisional title and possibly even a first round bye if they can maintain their current number two seed.  The Rams are 4-6-1 and if they are to have any chance of reaching the playoffs, need to win this one.  The teams are quite similar in style and if anything the Rams remind me of a diet version of the 49ers.  They want to play the game in the same way but they just don't quite have the right players yet and aren't at the level the 49ers are.  They are both run heavy and rely on their defense to win them games.  The Rams are still a work in progress though but they have a good blueprint to follow in the San Francisco 49ers.

Prediction - The 49ers will get the win.


New England Patriots (8-3) @ Miami Dolphins (5-6)

The Pats are on the verge of clinching the AFC East and would do so with a win over the Miami Dolphins.  The Pats have won the AFC East for the last three years in a row and regardless of whether it's tomorrow or not, they will win it for the fourth time in a row this year.  The Pats have come to form at just the right time and after a 3-3 start, they have now own five in a row and are chasing the Baltimore Ravens in the race for a bye in the first round of the playoffs.  Technically they are two games behind the Ravens as they lost to them in week 3 so they will face a tough task to get a bye.  The Dolphins are currently outside the wildcard spots in the AFC but they are only one win behind the Steelers who are currently in the sixth seed so they are definitely not out of the playoff race.  The Dolphins will aim to run the ball on the Pats but this New England team are different to any in recent seasons.  The recent sides have all had Tom Brady at quarterback but this side has a running game too.  Stevan Ridley has been in excellent form and needs just 61 more yards to reach 1000 rushing yards for the season.  The Pats can pass or run and the Dolphins will find it hard to deal with them. 

Prediction - The one weakness this Pats team has is their pass defense but I just can't see the Dolphins exploiting it.  Pats win. 


Arizona Cardinals (4-7) @ New York Jets (4-7)

This will not be one for the purists.  Both teams have had poor seasons with little to cheer.  The Cardinals had a great start, winning their first four games but they have now lost seven in a row and they will be wondering where that next win is going to come from.  The Jets have had a bad year too and look set to miss the playoffs for the second year in a row.  The pressure is mounting on Rex Ryan and I think unless he benches Mark Sanchez, he will be unemployed in the not so distant future.  The Cardinals have had quarterback issues and once Kevin Kolb got injured, they haven't been the same again.  Kolb is far from the best quarterback in the league but he suits the Cardinals offense and he was getting it done for them.  The Jets will look to run the ball and let their defense do the rest.  Their defense should be good enough to stop an offense that is averaging just 292 yards per game.  Neither side are good at defending the run and this game could come down to whoever's rushers have a better day.

Prediction - I don't see the Cardinals slide ending this week, Jets to get the win.   


Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-5) @ Denver Broncos (8-3)

Week 13 is full of big games and this is another one of them.  The Broncos can win the division with a victory and the Bucs need the win to keep themselves in the race for an NFC wildcard spot.  Denver have won six in a row after a 2-3 start and it's almost as if Peyton Manning has been here all his life.  In the first few weeks of the season everyone had an opinion on Peyton Manning.  He was finished, his arm was weak etc.  The only opinion these same people are giving now is whether or not Manning is worthy of another MVP.  The Bucs also have a player who will have to be considered when the awards are being handed out at the end of the year.  Doug Martin will surely have to be considered in the race for Offensive Rookie of the Year.  Martin has already ran for 1050 yards and 9 touchdowns.  He has also caught 29 passes for 332 yards and a touchdown.  Robert Griffin III and Andrew Luck are the favourites for the title but Martin has been exceptional and will surely merit consideration at the very least.  The Broncos are 5th in passing and have a strong defense.  They are 5th in pass defense and 9th against the run.  The Bucs are 13th in passing and 11th in rushing.  Their run defense is 1st in the league but their pass defense is 32nd. 

Prediction - Peyton Manning against the 32nd pass defense in the league? The Broncos can't lose this one.       


Cleveland Browns (3-8) @ Oakland Raiders (3-8)

The Browns and the Raiders meet in Oakland on Sunday in a game that will have implications for the 2013 NFL draft.  These sides won't make the playoffs and at this stage it's purely about planning for the future.  The Browns have made a few good moves in recent seasons and have some good young talent on the roster.  Brandon Weeden, Trent Richardson and Joe Haden are all young players who could have big futures in the game.  Another good draft and the Browns could pick up a few extra wins and push towards a playoff spot.  The Raiders don't have as bright a future.  They have had a habit in recent years of trading away their draft picks and it doesn't bode well for the future.  Having said that when they have used their draft picks they haven't usually get that right either.  In recent seasons they have made their picks only to see the team behind them pick Aaron Rodgers, Larry Fitzgerald, Calvin Johnson and CJ Spiller.  If the Raiders had picked those four they would be a Superbowl challenger every year.  The match ups in this one show that the defenses should be able to get on top but the big difference is Oakland's passing game.  The Raiders are 8th in passing and the Browns are 21st in pass defense.  If Carson Palmer can keep the ball in the hands of his own receivers, the Raiders could get the win.

Prediction - I'm putting my faith in Carson Palmer and going for a Raiders win.


Cincinnati Bengals (6-5) @ San Diego Chargers (4-7)

The Bengals go to San Diego and know they need to win to keep their playoff hopes alive.  They are just outside the playoffs at the moment based on their head to head record with the Pittsburgh Steelers so they need to keep winning to overtake them.  The Chargers got off to a good start, winning three of their first four games but they have gone 1-6 since then and their playoff hopes are hanging on by a thread.  At present they are two games behind the wildcard spot but they still have to play the Steelers who currently hold the six seed and their last three games are against the Panthers, the Jets and the Raiders, who are a combined 10-23 for the year so the playoffs are certainly not out of their reach.  The Bengals are a better team offensively and are averaging 359 yards compared to the Chargers 324 yards per game.  The defenses are both giving up 334 yards per game. 

Prediction - The Chargers are better in run defense which won't help them when Andy Dalton starts throwing to AJ Green and I think the Bengals will get the win.


Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5) @ Baltimore Ravens (9-2)

The Steelers and Ravens meet again just a fortnight after their last meeting and once again the Steelers will be without their franchise quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger.  Charlie Batch will be the quarterback and he had a bad game last week, throwing for just 199 yards and 3 interceptions.  The Steelers should have Troy Polamalu back from injury which will be a big boost for them.  In the last game the Steelers defense done a good job but they didn't get much help from their offense and the Ravens got the win.  The Steelers defense is giving up just 257 yards per game and will make things difficult for a Ravens offense which is averaging 349 yards per game.  The Steelers have had to change their style in recent weeks since Roethlisberger's injury.  They were pass heavy but are having to go with more running plays now.  The running game has been hit and miss all year.  It started badly but has improved but I don't think it will be at it's full potential until they decide who their first choice rusher is. 

Prediction - I can't see the Steelers going to Baltimore without Big Ben and getting the win, Ravens win.  


Philadelphia Eagles (3-8) @ Dallas Cowboys (5-6)

What are the television companies playing at?  One week after two losing teams played on Monday Night Football, Sunday Night Football now has a battle of the two worst teams in the NFC East.  I am pretty sure the national television audience does not want to see this game.  Of the fourteen games being played today, I wouldn't even have this game in the top ten.  I'm an Eagles fan too so imagine how the neutrals must be feeling about it.  Dallas won comfortably in Philly in week 10 and the Eagles have got even worse since then.  This week they are without Michael Vick, LeSean McCoy and DeSean Jackson who have been their best three players on offense in recent years.  The younger players will get more game time and it will help for next season when the Eagles will hopefully have a new coaching setup.  The Cowboys need to start winning again as they have a difficult schedule remaining and need to win games like this one.  The only way the Eagles win this is if Tony Romo goes into an interception frenzy and hands the win to the Eagles. 

Prediction - The Cowboys will get their season back on track with a win.