NFL Predictions: Week Twelve

It’s Week Twelve of the NFL season, and it’s also Thanksgiving week.

In the past years, there has always been two games on this holiday, which usually were just the Lions at home against their opponent and the Cowboys and their opponent, which is fine because it is tradition, but lately, those games haven’t been as great, so the league added a third game at night on the NFL Network, which generally has been a better game of the day.

So if you are at your family’s house and you don’t like your relatives, or if you do and are looking for something to do aside from eating turkey and turkey sandwiches, there is football all Thanksgiving day long.

Last week in Week Eleven, I had a great week going 14-2 with the only losses coming from the Steelers and Bengals. Overall in the 2009 season, I am 114-45 and looking to continue the good record.

Thursday Thanksgiving Football: Green Bay Packers @ Detroit Lions

These two teams have met in the past on Thanksgiving, two years ago in fact. Brett Favre and Jon Kitna were the respective quarterbacks for those teams.

Now it’s Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford starting for their teams and looking to continue the tradition.

However, Stafford got hurt last week and his status for the game is unknown, so Daunte Culpepper or Drew Stanton might be playing on this night.

But it doesn’t matter, because the Packers are on a roll and possibly could be a playoff team. Rodgers has the Packers headed in the right direction with multiple 300-plus yard games.

With a banged up team, the Lions might not be able to stand up to the Packers and this one could be over quickly.

Final Score: Packers 37, Lions 20

Thursday Thanksgiving Football: Oakland Raiders @ Dallas Cowboys

Be careful with this game, because it might not be as lopsided as it looks.

The Raiders finally benched JaMarcus Russell for Bruce Gradkowski and they won their last game and will look to make it two in a row with a quarterback that seems to care about playing and winning, something Russell never showed.

The Cowboys are coming in this game extremely banged up. Tony Romo’s got a bad back and Jason Witten has a bad foot and both are listed as questionable, although most expect Romo to play, but not so much with Witten.

Over their last two games, Dallas has only scored a total of 14 points and nearly lost their last game. If they only score seven points again, they might not get away with another win.

Dallas usually plays well on Turkey Day and they should be able to pull a win off.

Final Score: Cowboys 24, Raiders 14

Thursday Thanksgiving Football: New York Giants @ Denver Broncos

This one will be on the NFL Network, but for most in the New York/New Jersey area like I am, if you don’t have that channel, it will be played on WPIX-11, so it will be on TV locally.

The Broncos have lost four in a row and are sliding bad. They are also fighting among each other and Brandon Marshall seems to be going back to his selfish and destructive ways, fighting with teammates and blaming others for losing when he isn’t getting the ball.

The Giants ended their losing streak with a huge win last week and are looking to get back into the playoff race. Denver is having trouble stopping everyone, so this may be a game where Brandon Jacobs can run over players and with Ahmad Bradshaw likely out, Danny Ware will get some playing time.

This will also be Eli Manning’s first game on Thanksgiving. Manning should have no problems getting the Giants to win on the road despite the short week.

Final Score: Giants 30, Broncos 13

Carolina Panthers @ New York Jets

It seems so long ago when the Jets were 3-0 and Rex Ryan and Mark Sanchez were living large.

Now at 4-6, it’s not the case anymore. Ryan’s been humbled some in his rookie season as head coach, but Sanchez has not, he still thinks he’s the USC god back in California. If he keeps throwing all those interceptions, he might find himself on the bench real soon.

The Panthers have been up and down all 2009 season.

They get so close to getting to .500 and then they will lose a game and stay under .500, which must be frustrating for John Fox.

You would think the Jets would have the advantage being at home against a losing team, but they lost games to the Jaguars, Bills and Dolphins at home, so the Jets aren’t guaranteed to win.

This one I think will come down to a late field goal, and I don’t trust the Jets anymore.

Final Score: Panthers 24, Jets 21

Indianapolis Colts @ Houston Texans

If you’re a betting person, never, ever bet against Peyton Manning, because he finds ways to win.

Just like last week when the Colts somehow managed to win and get to 10-0 in another close game.

But the tough games on the road don’t stop for the Colts, as they take on an opponent from the AFC South division.

The Texans lost their last home game on Monday night with a missed field goal and was devastating to take. Houston will be looking to get over that loss and come out strong against their division foes.

Houston always plays the Colts well, as they did earlier in the season. But like I said before, never pick against the Colts, and neither will I again this week.

Final Score: Colts 28, Texans 20

Washington Redskins @ Philadelphia Eagles

The Redskins are trying everything they can to win games, and came close against the Cowboys, but fell short.

Washington has a good defense, which has kept them in a lot of games, but their offense is dreadful. With Clinton Portis out again and with Chris Cooley done for the season, it gets worse for Washington in 2009.

The Eagles snapped their two game losing streak and got back on track. DeSean Jackson is becoming a dangerous weapon downfield for the Eagles and it almost seems like he is un-coverable because of his speed.

Most shouldn’t count on Brian Westbrook playing in this game due to his severe concussions. Some don’t even expect Westbrook back in 2009, which would be a shame.

Washington has yet to win a game on the road, and nobody expects them to win this week either.

Final Score: Eagles 27, Redskins 9

Seattle Seahawks @ St. Louis Rams

I’m not going to lie to you guys, this game is not exactly a great one. Both teams stink.

The only problem is, Seattle isn’t supposed to be this bad. They have Matt Hasselbeck healthy, but even he can only do so much.

The running game isn’t great. The passing game is mediocre. The defense has been bad.

But, they are playing a 1-9 team who is even worse.

St. Louis will be without Marc Bulger, who has several injuries. But even with him Bulger has been awful in 2009.

If you’re not a diehard fan of either team, I wouldn’t suggest watching. But Seattle is a little better and should be able to win this game.

Final Score: Seahawks 20, Rams 7

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons

This is a battle between NFC South rivals, but it won’t have the same intensity like it has in the past.

Tampa is 1-9 and they keep on trying to get better. They think they found their quarterback in rookie Josh Freeman, but he’s taking his rookie pains in a tough season.

The Falcons suffered a tough loss last week and dropped to 5-5 in the NFC playoff race, despite sending the game into overtime.

Atlanta is a better team at home and needs to get back on track with a win. With or without Michael Turner, the Falcons still have weapons to use.

This one might be on Matt Ryan, and he should be able to win against Tampa this week.

Final Score: Falcons 31, Buccaneers 13

Cleveland Browns @ Cincinnati Bengals

This is the second meeting of the Ohio battle.

Cleveland came so close to their second win, but because they are the Browns, found a way to lose another game despite scoring over 30 points.

Brady Quinn played much better last week, so maybe he’s not a total bust.

The Bengals lost to the Raiders last week. Not good. They need this division matchup to win all six games of the AFC North division match games.

Cedric Benson was out last week and is listed as questionable, but Bernard Scott has done a great job in Benson’s place.

Cleveland sucks and Cincinnati is possibly playoff bound. Guess who wins here?

Final Score: Bengals 30, Browns 10

Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills

Whoever said the Dolphins were dead in 2009 might be wrong, because at 5-5, they have a shot to make something of their season.

They lost Ronnie Brown for the season, but Ricky Williams is showing he’s got plenty left for Miami.

Chad Henne is improving each week and showing everyone he deserves to be the starter. However, with Miami’s Wildcat formation, expect Pat White to play because of Brown’s injury.

Buffalo finally got the ball to Terrell Owens last week, as he almost had 200 yards receiving, and yet, the Bills lost.

Buffalo is not the team they once were that dominated the AFC 10-15 years ago. Even Bill Cowher turned down an offer to interview for their coaching vacancy.

Final Score: Dolphins 24, Bills 16

Jacksonville Jaguars @ San Francisco 49ers

This game means a lot more for the Jaguars than it does for the 49ers, because a win for Jacksonville and they find themselves right in the mix for the AFC playoff race.

After an up and down season, the Jaguars are winning, and they’ve put their faith solely in Maurice Jones-Drew, who has carried this team in 2009.

Jones-Drew has been nothing short of MVP-like in 2009 and has been the reason why the Jaguars are winning and at 6-4 right now.

The 49ers are still trying to find an identity, but they are at least making their games competitive, especially with Michael Crabtree active and playing very well.

With Crabtree, it has given Alex Smith a second chance to be the leader of this team, along with another target to throw to aside from Vernon Davis.

But, Jacksonville needs this game more and are riding a three game winning streak to continue their chase for postseason football.

Final Score: Jaguars 28, 49ers 21

Kansas City Chiefs @ San Diego Chargers

The Chiefs somehow managed to knock off the defending champion Steelers at home in overtime, which is a huge accomplishment for a team that hasn’t been great in 2009.

But that was at home, and they’re back on the road, where they aren’t a great football team.

Even worse, they are playing the Chargers, who are on a five game winning streak and are getting back to playing solid football.

LaDanian Tomlinson has become a big part of the offense again and showing the league that he isn’t washed up, and since the Chiefs can’t stop the run, LT might have another decent game.

The Chargers have control of the AFC West and are at home. San Diego should have no problems winning this game.

Final Score: Chargers 34, Chiefs 17

Arizona Cardinals @ Tennessee Titans

Because of the Titans playing better football, it makes this game a decent contest to watch.

Arizona is starting to become a more complete team after being only known as a passing team in 2008.

They are running the football more with Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower and the defense is stepping up and playing much better.

So with those two factors added in with the powerful offense of Arizona, that makes them scary to stop. The only question is, does Kurt Warner play with the concussion or does Matt Leinart get a start?

Tennessee has won four in a row and they can thank that on the magnificent play of Chris Johnson, who is leading the league in rushing yards.

Vince Young is playing well too and deserving of a second chance as a starter.

As much as Tennessee has played well, Arizona’s offense might be too much for the Titans defense to stop.

Final Score: Cardinals 38, Titans 24

Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings

So, Jay Cutler was supposed to be the savior for the Bears in 2009, right?

Only problem is Cutler is throwing way too many interceptions in games and costing them chances to win.

On the other side, the Vikings have been one of the best teams in 2009 and one of the most complete teams.

Their offense lead by Brett Favre has been solid, but their defense lead by Jared Allen is the best in the NFL.

Lately, Cutler’s confidence has been lacking each week. With a defense like Minnesota that swarms the quarterback, Cutler will be in for a long day in the Metrodome.

Minnesota is so much better than Chicago and should have no problems going to 10-1.

Final Score: Vikings 34, Bears 16

Sunday Night Football: Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens

This is a re-match of the AFC Championship game and another meeting of the AFC North rivals.

In 2008, the Steelers won both regular season games and the AFC Title game on their road to winning the Super Bowl.

The Steelers have been very banged up. Troy Polamalu is questionable with an injured knee. Pittsburgh’s defense needs Polamalu back if they want to end their two game slide. Ben Roethlisberger also suffered a concussion last week, but is expected to play.

The Ravens once started out 3-0, but are 2-5 over their last several games and don’t look like the same AFC powerhouse on defense that used to scare teams because they have lost too many games in 2009.

With Roethlisberger, the Steelers should be able to pull off a victory in Baltimore, but it won’t be easy and could come down to a late score.

Final Score: Steelers 27, Ravens 24

Monday Night Football: New England Patriots @ New Orleans Saints

This very well may be the best game on the schedule. If you like offensive games with a lot of points, this game is for you. If you like defense, don’t expect it here, because this one will light up the boards.

The Patriots have been playing much better football and have gotten the passing game going with Tom Brady. With Wes Welker healthy and combine him with Randy Moss, Brady is back to being his old self.

The Saints are 10-0 and steam-rolling through the NFC. They have blown out teams and they have also shown they can come back from being down in games, a good quality of a playoff team.

Drew Brees has done a great job in making his wide receivers have tremendous seasons in 2009, especially Marques Colston, maybe the most underrated top receiver in the NFL.

In the past, the Patriots defense could stop New Orleans. Not anymore. They give up too many points, which in the end favors Brees and company. But this one will be worth watching and enjoying.

Final Score: Saints 42, Patriots 35

 

That does it for the schedule and picks for Week Twelve of the NFL season.

Everyone, from my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving and enjoy your holiday and time with your family and loved ones. Also, for those who do Black Friday shopping, be safe over the weekend and during that crazy time.

See you back this weekend for more exciting NFL football games that start on the holiday.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Top 10 Power Rankings Through Week Eleven

It’s Thanksgiving week, which means we are now through 11 weeks of NFL football. The end of the season is in sight.

As the season gets toward the end, some teams are starting to fall off because of injuries and some purely on bad luck.

No team suffered a worse setback of injuries than the Steelers did. They lost Troy Polamalu again to an injury, and on Sunday, Ben Roethlisberger suffered a concussion in their loss to the Chiefs. Roethlisberger’s status for next week is currently unknown.

The Steelers also lost backup Charlie Batch to a six week injury, so if Big Ben can’t go on Sunday, they might be calling Terry Bradshaw to see if he wants to make a few passes.

Now if you want to talk about a team that has plummeted since last month, lets look at the Broncos. They were 6-0 and on top of the league at one point, but now they have lost four in a row, the players are fighting with each other, and at 6-4, Denver looks like a mess, especially since they lost first place to the Chargers.

With teams like the Steelers and Broncos slowly dropping in the AFC, it opens things up in the playoff race. It also opened things up in the Power Rankings as well.

Lets look at who is still standing after Week 11.

 

10. Philadelphia Eagles (UR) (6-4, Won 24-20 over the Chicago Bears)

What was impressive about the Eagles on Sunday night was they took a quarterback with a great arm and made him look really bad.

Jay Cutler looked like he was playing football for the first time, making bad pass after bad pass (24-for-43 and only 171 yards).

For the Eagles on offense, Donovan McNabb had a decent night, going 23-for-32 for 244 yards and two touchdown passes.

DeSean Jackson had another big night, catching eight passes for 107 yards and a touchdown. LeSean McCoy carried the ball 20 times for 99 yards and a touchdown.

The Eagles will play the Redskins on Sunday, which should be no problem for Philly, considering Washington has yet to win a game on the road in 2009.

 

9. Green Bay Packers (UR) (6-4, Won 30-24 over the San Francisco 49ers)

When you protect Aaron Rodgers and keep him upright, he can be a great quarterback.

Rodgers went 32-for-45 with 344 yards and two touchdowns in the Packers win over the 49ers on Sunday. Rodgers has had a lot of games with over 300 yards this season and is capable of doing that every game, so long as his offensive line protects him.

Ryan Grant had a solid game on the ground, carrying the ball 21 times for 129 yards and a touchdown.

Greg Jennings caught five passes for 126 yards and a touchdown.

The only problem for the Packers is they lost Aaron Kampman and Al Harris for the season to injuries, which hurts their defense tremendously.

But for this week, they should be fine as they will play the Lions on Thanksgiving. The Lions are pretty banged up and not nearly as good as Green Bay. The Packers shouldn’t have trouble taking care of business at Ford Field.

 

8. Cincinnati Bengals (4) (7-3, Lost 20-17 to the Oakland Raiders)

A loss is one thing. A loss to the Raiders is another, which is why the Bengals went tumbling down a few spots.

The Bengals were without Cedric Benson, who was out with an injury, but Bernard Scott did run 21 times for 119 yards in Benson’s place.

Andre Caldwell was the goat of the game, fumbling the kickoff in the fourth quarter and giving the Raiders the ball back at the Cincinnati 17 yard line.

After a couple kneel-downs, Sebastian Janikowski kicked a game winning 33-yard field goal.

The Bengals could have really taken control of the AFC North with a win, but failed to do so.

They will have a chance to rebound on Sunday against the Browns at home. Oakland is bad, but Cleveland is worse, and Cincinnati should have no problems winning.

 

7. San Diego Chargers (10) (7-3, Won 32-3 over the Denver Broncos)

Five weeks ago, the Chargers looked lost and confused after a Monday night loss to the Broncos.

Five straight wins for the Chargers and they have seized first place in the AFC West with a strong win over division rival Denver.

The Chargers never let the Broncos get in the game. LaDanian Tomlinson carried the ball 20 times for 73 yards and a touchdown. LT doesn’t look like he’s completely finished yet, as he’s put together back to back strong games.

To show how bad things have gotten for the Broncos, while the Chargers were celebrating the victory after the game, Brandon Marshall and Knowshon Moreno were face to face pushing and shoving on the field in frustration.

How times have changed for the better in San Diego. They will play the Chiefs this Sunday, in what should be another win and another step in the right direction for the Chargers.

 

6. Dallas Cowboys (8) (7-3, Won 7-6 over the Washington Redskins)

The Cowboys were about five minutes away from losing this game at home to a really bad team.

The Redskins were up 6-0 for most of the game and the Cowboys offense was almost shut out again, but then the Cowboys remembered they are a better team than the Redskins.

Dallas drove down the field and Tony Romo threw a 10 yard touchdown pass to Patrick Crayton to give the Cowboys the lead, and they would hold on to win the game.

Romo didn’t have his best game, just going 15-for-27 for 158 yards with the one touchdown, but he was also playing with a sore back. Somehow he managed to play through the pain.

The Cowboys will play their annual Thanksgiving game at home with this year against the Raiders. The Cowboys should have no trouble taking care of Oakland on Turkey Day.

 

5. Arizona Cardinals (7) (7-3, Won 21-13 over the St. Louis Rams)

The Cardinals had no problem taking care of the Rams, but after this game, they have a lot of concerns with their star quarterback.

Kurt Warner suffered a concussion against the Rams after taking a shot to the head and left the game and didn’t play the second half. Warner was 15-for-19 for 203 yards and a touchdown before he left.

The offense was overall solid in both the run and pass game. Tim Hightower ran for 110 yards and Beanie Wells ran for 74 yards.

Anquan Boldin caught eight passes for 103 yards and a touchdown while Larry Fitzgerald caught eight passes for 87 yards and a touchdown.

Matt Leinart played for most of the second half, and if Warner can’t play next week, Leinart will be the starter, something he hasn’t been in almost three years.

The Cardinals will play the Titans on the road, and with a comfortable lead in the NFC West, it might be smart for Arizona to sit Warner for a week to rest him.

 

4. New England Patriots (5) (7-3, Won 31-14 over the New York Jets)

With this win, the Patriots might have all but ended any chances for the Jets to make the playoffs in 2009.

The Patriots had control of this game from the start, up 14-0 in the first quarter and up 24-7 at halftime.

The Jets had a chance to get back in the game being down only 10 points, but Mark Sanchez had a terrible game, as the Patriots picked off the rookie four times. One of the interceptions was returned by Leigh Bodden 53 yards for a touchdown.

In the game during week two, the Patriots were without Wes Welker. In Week Eleven, Welker caught 15 passes for 192 yards.

Tom Brady was much better than he was nine weeks ago, going 28-for-41 and 310 yards and a touchdown.

The Patriots will travel to New Orleans to play on Monday Night Football against the Saints. It’s a big time game that will be an offensive explosion and fun to watch, but the Patriots will have a tough time trying to stop Drew Brees and company.

 

3. Minnesota Vikings (3) (9-1, Won 35-9 over the Seattle Seahawks)

With this win, Minnesota has guaranteed themselves a winning season, but they aren’t stopping there.

Seattle never had a chance in this game and Brett Favre shredded the Seahawks secondary. Favre went 22-for-25 for 213 yards and four touchdowns.

Adrian Peterson carried the ball 24 times for 82 yards, but did not get in the endzone.

Sidney Rice continues to impress in 2009, this time catching six passes for 89 yards and two touchdown. Rookie Percy Harvin caught five passes for 79 yards and a touchdown and Visanthe Shiancoe also caught eight passes for 78 yards and a touchdown.

When Favre was pulled from the game in the fourth quarter, the Metrodome started to chant “M-V-P! M-V-P!”

The Vikings will play the Bears at home and with the Bears playing so bad as of late, Minnesota should have no trouble taking care of Chicago.

 

2. New Orleans Saints (2) (10-0, Won 38-7 over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

I think it safe to say not only are the Saints going to the playoffs, but with the Falcons loss, the Saints have the NFC South all but wrapped up.

The Buccaneers were pretty over matched in this game from the start, despite having a 7-0 lead in the first quarter.

Drew Brees went 19-for-29 and 187 yards and three touchdown passes.

Pierre Thomas carried the ball 11 times for 92 yards, Mike Bell carried the ball 13 times for 75 yards and two touchdowns.

The Saints defense was very good in this game and intercepted three passes off rookie Josh Freeman. From top to bottom, the Saints were in total control.

On Monday night, they are going to play in a premier matchup against the Patriots in what is probably the best game on the schedule of week 12.

 

1. Indianapolis Colts (1) (10-0, Won 17-15 over the Baltimore Ravens)

Everyone is still waiting for the Colts to fall in their first game in 2009. Don’t people know that you don’t bet against Peyton Manning? Ever.

Despite being picked off twice, Manning went 22-for-31 and 299 yards with a touchdown pass. It wasn’t his best game, but he won another game for the Colts.

This game ended up becoming a field goal kicking contest between Ravens kicker Billy Cundiff and Colts kicker, and former Ravens kicker, Matt Stover.

Cundiff was 5-for-6, connecting on field goals of 46, 44, 38, 36 and 20 yards, which ended up being the entire Ravens offense and their 15 points.

Stover only made one kick, a 25 yard field goal with seven minutes left that put the Colts over the top.

Gary Brackett picked off a Joe Flacco pass with 2:42 to go, which was a momentum killer and a game saver for the Colts.

It’s pretty safe to say the Colts will be playing football in January, possibly with a bye too. They look to continue their winning ways as they travel to Houston to play the Texans in a big divisional game.

 

That does it for the Power Rankings through eleven weeks of the 2009 season. With three games on Thursday coming up, football will be here before we know it.

Hope everyone has a great week, Happy Thanksgiving to everyone and have a great week with your families!

 

 

 

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Top 10 Power Rankings Through Week 10

Week Ten of the NFL saw some changes made when the week was over.

After being cut by the Chiefs, Larry Johnson was recently signed by the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals already have another castoff in Cedric Benson, who has energized his career in Cincinnati.

If Johnson follows the same route as Benson has, who had trouble with the Chicago Bears and has been trouble-free with the Bengals, Johnson too could find himself playing more and not criticized as much.

But, it’s all up to Johnson’s desire to change for the better.

Also, the first coaching change finally happened in 2009 with the firing of Buffalo Bills head coach Dick Jauron. Jauron never had success in Buffalo and the team was a mess this season at 3-6 with Terrell Owens, so management felt a change was needed.

Jauron will probably end up back as a defensive coordinator somewhere in the NFL, a spot where he should stay.

The top teams of the NFL took some tough losses and a couple teams who could have moved up didn’t, while some like the Eagles, got kicked off here this week. Let’s see who is still remaining in the Top 10 Power Rankings for the NFL.

 

10. San Diego Chargers (UR) (6-3, Won 31-23 over the Philadelphia Eagles)

Just when you thought the Chargers were left for dead a few weeks ago, they have come back from the dead and are alive and well in the playoff chase.

For the first time in what seems like three years, LaDainian Tomlinson remembered how to play football and ran well, carrying 24 times for 96 yards and two touchdowns.

The Chargers did allow Donovan McNabb to throw for 450 yards, but kept the running game shut down. Brian Westbrook was held to 28 yards and LeSean McCoy was held to just five.

A few weeks ago on Monday Night Football, the Chargers were up-ended by the Broncos and it looked like Denver was going to easily win the division.

Now, the Chargers have come on strong and next week, will travel to Denver to try and re-claim the AFC West.

This may be the week where San Diego re-claims its place as the best team in the west.

 

9. Denver Broncos (8) (6-3, Lost 27-17 to the Washington Redskins)

This was a definition game for Denver.

The first two losses to Baltimore and Pittsburgh were to good teams. Washington sucks.

Yet, Denver allowed Washington to win a game and look somewhat decent on Sunday, so shame on the Broncos for allowing this loss.

The Denver defense allowed LaDell Betts to run for 114 yards with Clinton Portis out with an injury. Denver’s defense was once regarded as the best in the NFL, now they can’t stop NFL backup running backs.

After having a comfortable lead in the AFC West, the Broncos are now tied for the division and next week at home, they hope to hold on against San Diego.

Another loss for Denver and their season may be really out of control and headed in the wrong direction.

 

8. Dallas Cowboys (7) (6-3, Lost 17-7 to the Green Bay Packers)

Last year, the Cowboys traded four draft picks to get Roy Williams. Why?

It’s becoming quite clear, he sucks as a wide receiver. He’s not a number one, he drops too many passes, fumbles big catches and complains.

He’s like another Terrell Owens, without the talent. And the Cowboys are stuck with him for now.

He caught five passes for 105 yards, but also fumbled a big catch when Dallas was looking to take a lead being down 3-0.

Dallas also was unable to get the running game going, Marion Barber was held to 26 yards. Some weeks you can get by without the run, but this week it ended up costing Dallas.

The Cowboys will have a chance to rebound with the Redskins coming into town. Usually Dallas plays Washington well at home, so this will be an important game for the Cowboys to rebound and win next week.

 

7. Arizona Cardinals (10) (6-3, Won 31-20 over the Seattle Seahawks)

The NFC West is becoming the Cardinals division. After winning it in 2008, it looks like Arizona has taken control of it again in 2009.

Kurt Warner went 29-for-38 for 340 yards and two touchdowns in another fine performance for the Cardinals.

Beanie Wells is doing a great job in his rookie season becoming the No. 1 running back for Arizona, carrying the ball 16 times for 85 yards and two touchdowns.

Last year, Edgerrin James was complaining about playing time. Now, he is a distant memory and without a team.

Some say this year’s Arizona team is better than the one of a year ago that went the Super Bowl because they play a stronger defense. If that’s true, the NFC better be worried, especially with the offense Arizona possesses.

The Cardinals play the Rams next week in what should be an easy win for Arizona on the road.

 

6. Pittsburgh Steelers (5) (6-3, Lost 18-12 to the Cincinnati Bengals)

Fool me once, shame on me. Fool me twice, shame on you. Shame on the Steelers.

They allowed the Bengals to just rip them to shreds on defense and did not allow a single touchdown on offense.

The Steelers scoring came from four Jeff Reed field goals. That was it.

Ben Roethlisberger just never got a decent rhythm going as he went 20-for-40 for 174 yards and one interception.

In a building where the Steelers usually dominate with the home field advantage, they were outplayed and over-powered by a division rival that might win the AFC North.

Pittsburgh goes to Kansas City to play the Chiefs next week, who just cut Larry Johnson and lost Dwayne Bowe to a four game drug suspension. Pittsburgh needs this game to get back on track.

 

5. New England Patriots (6) (6-3, Lost 35-34 to the Indianapolis Colts)

For 58 minutes, the Patriots looked like they would win the game against the Colts.

They made the Colts punt seven times and picked off two passes from Peyton Manning.

Yet after missing on a third and two, Bill Belichick went for it on fourth down on their own 28 and failed to make it. So Belichick put a tired defense back out with a short field for Manning to operate, three timeouts and two minutes.

The Colts ended up scoring with 13 seconds left and the poor coaching decision made Belichick this weeks NFL bonehead after he is usually a solid coach who makes few mistakes.

But on that night, Belichick was the goat. It happens. He will move on.

Next week, the Patriots will have the struggling Jets come into town and the Patriots will be looking to axe off Mark Sanchez’s head. Belichick will probably look to do the same thing with Rex Ryan’s head from the loss in September.

 

4. Cincinnati Bengals (4) (7-2, Won 18-12 over the Pittsburgh Steelers)

It’s not exactly a common thing to sweep the Steelers twice in the same season.

The Steelers, who are the reigning Super Bowl Champions. The Bengals pulled that off in 2009 with their win on Sunday.

The Bengals also scored three field goals, but had the game’s lone touchdown, which came off a 96 yard kickoff return touchdown by Bernard Scott.

The Bengals held Rashard Mendenhall to 36 yards and kept the Steelers offense off balanced all night.

Not only did the Bengals knock off the Steelers twice, but also did knock off the Ravens twice, so Cincinnati has beaten the two AFC teams who were in the championship game twice.

Next week, the Bengals will play the Raiders and should be able to take care of the pitiful Raiders in their building.

 

3. Minnesota Vikings (3) (8-1, Won 27-10 over the Detroit Lions)

From start to finish, the Vikings had total control of this game.

Adrian Peterson ran for over 100 yards in the first half, ran for two touchdowns and even fumbled a possible third one in another good performance.

Sidney Rice had a monstrous game, catching seven passes for 201 yards. He has become the main receiver for the Vikings and a great weapon for Brett Favre to throw to.

Speaking of Favre, he went 20-for-29 for 344 yards and a touchdown. At 8-1, Favre’s having a fine season in Minnesota.

Minnesota will have the struggling Seahawks come into the Metrodome on Sunday. Minnesota should have no trouble going to 9-1.

 

2. New Orleans Saints (2) (9-0, Won 28-23 over the St. Louis Rams)

The Rams made a game out of this, but in the end, the Saints were too much for the Rams to handle.

Drew Brees went 18-for-26 for 223 yards and two touchdowns on Sunday. It wasn’t his finest performance with two interceptions, but it was good enough to win.

Reggie Bush had a solid day, rushing six times for 83 yards and a touchdown and catching two passes for 15 yards and a touchdown.

New Orleans defense struggled in this game, allowing Marc Bulger to throw for almost 300 yards and Steven Jackson run for over 100 yards, but it wasn’t good enough against an NFC powerhouse.

The Saints go to Tampa Bay to play the Buccaneers next week. Barring any setbacks, the Saints should be 10-0 after next week.

 

1. Indianapolis Colts (1) (9-0, Won 35-34 over the New England Patriots)

The Colts can thank Bill Belichick’s poor coaching decision for this game and this win.

The Colts took over the ball on the Patriots own 28-yard line with two minutes to go, three time outs and a tired Patriots defense.

Like Peyton Manning needs any help to begin with, now we’re going to just gift-wrap games for him.

With 13 seconds to go, Manning throws a one-yard touchdown pass to Reggie Wayne and allowed the Colts to remain undefeated.

It wasn’t pretty, and it was almost the Colts first loss of the season, but Indianapolis found a way to win the game, which is what championship teams do.

Kudos to the Colts for taking advantage of the Patriots mistakes and getting this huge win.

It doesn’t get any easier for Indianapolis, as they will travel to play the Ravens. The Ravens will play the Colts tough in their building, but Manning usually finds a way to win somehow.

 

That does it for the Top Ten Power Rankings after ten weeks of the NFL season. As we saw, a lot of the teams in the top ten after the Bengals failed to move up and took some steps back with losses, as most of the teams after the No. 4 spot are 6-3 and with losses, could move back even further next week unless they win to survive and stay ahead.

Hope everyone has a good week and pretty soon, it’ll be the weekend again and Week 11 of the NFL season will be upon us.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Predictions: Week Eight

Week Eight will be coming up this week with a lot of good match-ups this Sunday.

A re-match of the student vs. teacher matchup will be the featured contest of this week.

The Colts, Broncos and Saints all remain undefeated after Week Seven. The Vikings finally took their first loss of the season after a tough game with the Steelers.

The Titans, Rams and Buccaneers are all still win-less at 0-6 and 0-7 and are desperate for wins.

Tampa Bay is on a bye week, so they will have to wait for that day to come, but the Titans are making a change at quarterback, benching Kerry Collins and starting Vince Young.

As for St. Louis, they’re bad, there is no other way around it.

Last week, I was 11-2 in Week Seven’s games, losing the Giants game to the Cardinals and losing the Panthers game to the Bills. Overall for the 2009 Season, I am 75-28 and having a good season so far.

Lets take a look at the schedule for Week Eight of the NFL.

New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles

The Giants are on a two-game losing streak and looking for a win to stay on top of the NFC East division.

They are a little banged up this week, but Ahmad Bradshaw is expected to play with the foot injury, as is Mario Manningham, who has a shoulder injury.

The Eagles are also coming in with some key injuries. During the Monday Night Football game, Brian Westbrook took a shot to the head from a knee and suffered a concussion. His status for the game is listed as questionable. Kevin Curtis has been held out of Eagles practice and is out for the game.

Some say the Giants are riped for the picking going into Philadelphia for this game. But they actually have won their last couple meetings in Lincoln Financial Field and because the Giants will be a desperate team looking to avoid a three game losing streak, I look for Big Blue to get the win here in a very physical game.

Final Score: Giants 35, Eagles 28

Miami Dolphins @ New York Jets

What’s the best medicine for losing a home overtime game? Beating up on the Raiders 38-0 on the road. That’s exactly what the Jets needed to get some confidence back after losing three straight.

Unfortunately for the Jets, they lost running back Leon Washington for the season with a foot injury that was hard to watch on TV. The injury means Thomas Jones’ bulk load increases and Shonn Greene’s playing time increases.

The last time these two met was a couple weeks ago on Monday Night Football, and the Wildcat Offense featuring Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown ran all over the Jets defense, while Chad Henne had a breakout game.

The Jets should be looking more for the Wildcat, but can they stop Brown and Williams? Rex Ryan prepares his defenses a lot, so expect the Jets to rebound.

The last time Miami came into the Meadowlands, they ended the Jets 2008 season. Don’t expect that same type of Cinderella magic to happen again.

Final Score: Jets 27, Dolphins 21

San Francisco 49ers @ Indianapolis Colts

The 49ers have lost two games in a row and are reeling after taking an early lead in the NFC West.

They are now starting Alex Smith over Shaun Hill because Smith has a stronger arm to get the ball downfield to newly signed rookie receiver Michael Crabtree, who looked good in his first game.

However, the 49ers are going into the house of the best team in the NFL and are up against the best quarterback in the NFL in Peyton Manning.

Manning and company are 6-0, they are scoring tons of touchdowns (179 points scored) while the Colts defense has been very good so far (77 points allowed).

Until someone can beat the Colts, it’s hard to pick against them. I don’t see the 49ers having a chance in stopping Manning and that offense.

Final Score: Colts 38, 49ers 21

Seattle Seahawks @ Dallas Cowboys

For a while, it looked like the Seahawks were getting back on track with Matt Hasselbeck back at quarterback. At 2-4, Seattle isn’t exactly exploding in the NFC scene like they used to.

Their running game at times has been shut down with Julius Jones and Edgerrin James, and the passing game has had a tough time getting going, which is why they are in 3rd place in the NFC West.

After two straight wins, the Cowboys look rejuvenated. Tony Romo has found a new target in Miles Austin, who has had two breakout games and over 400 yards receiving in those games. Austin is picking up the slack of Roy Williams and Patrick Crayton, who haven’t produced for Dallas.

The Cowboys have played well at home in their new stadium (2-1). Seattle is not a good team on the road and I don’t expect them to play any better in Cowboys Stadium.

Final Score: Cowboys 31, Seahawks 17

St. Louis Rams @ Detroit Lions

There is no other way to say this nicely, so I’ll just say it. The Rams suck.

They are 0-7. They’ve only scored 66 points on offense and given up 211 on defense, which is nothing short of dreadful.

I know Steve Spagnuolo deserved to be an NFL head coach, but this is just an awful situation to be put in.

Their opponents know a few things about win-less seasons, and they don’t have to worry about that in 2009.

Matthew Stafford should be back for this game, which is needed for this team, because Daunte Culpepper hasn’t been very good starting in his place.

The Lions are still far away from being good. But they’re at least good enough to beat the Rams on Sunday.

Final Score: Lions 24, Rams 6

Denver Broncos @ Baltimore Ravens

This is an interesting match-up on the schedule and could turn into a very physical, defensive game.

The Broncos are 6-0 and have been shocking the world each week with every win. I picked Denver to be no better than 6-10, and they’ve already won six games and are almost a lock for the AFC West division.

They’ve only given up 66 points on defense, which is unbelievable under defensive coordinator Mike Nolan. This week, they will be up to the test.

After starting out 3-0 and very good early on, the Ravens have lost three in a row and are falling in the AFC North, so the Ravens will be desperate for a win.

They had last week to rest and collect their wind and get an undefeated team at home. It’s so hard to pick against Denver, while the Ravens look like they can beat them. I can see this coming down to a last minute field goal.

Final Score: Broncos 23, Ravens 20

Houston Texans @ Buffalo Bills

The Texans are getting better as the schedule goes on after having a rough start to the season.

At 4-3, Matt Schaub is throwing the football better and leading Houston on their two-game winning streak.

The only thing Houston needs to improve on is their defense. They give up as many points as they score.

The Bills have been a major disappointment. They sign Terrell Owens to spark-jump the offense and he’s been bad. In games where they expected him to break out, he barely even caught the ball. So far, the T.O. in Buffalo experiment has been a bust.

The Bills haven’t been a good team this year and they’re playing a team who can air out the football on them. This might be a long day for the Buffalo fans.

Final Score: Texans 35, Bills 14

Cleveland Browns @ Chicago Bears

How the Browns have a win this season is beyond me, because Eric Mangini has become a horrible head coach, their offense is awful, and their defense can’t stop anybody.

Yet, they have a win.

That offense I referred to. Yeah, Brady Quinn was benched and probably will find a way to get out. Derek Anderson isn’t playing any better and he’d probably love to leave as well. There is no fun on this team, just ask Mangini. He doesn’t allow fun.

The Bears lost a rough one to the Bengals last week, so they would love nothing more than to come home and pound the hell out of the Browns.

This could be a game where Jay Cutler slashes the Cleveland defense up through the air. He threw three interceptions last week, so Cutler is looking for a rebound game.

If Chicago can’t win this game, they have no hope in 2009.

Final Score: Bears 28, Browns 10

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Tennessee Titans

The Jaguars haven’t been that good in 2009. Yet, they are 3-3. They have in fact given up more points on defense than they have scored, and yet, they are a .500 team.

Maurice Jones-Drew has been the only real positive on this team. It’s really not been that good in Jacksonville after being a Super Bowl contender two seasons ago.

After weeks of speculation, the Titans will finally put Kerry Collins on the bench and start Vince Young this week. Jeff Fisher is desperate for a win and also had a lot of heat coming from the Tennessee management.

Nobody expected the Titans to be 0-6 after finishing 13-3 and having the best record in the league.

With Young in the offense, I expect Tennessee to be rejuvenated and play harder. I’m going with an upset this week.

Final Score: Titans 24, Jaguars 20

Oakland Raiders @ San Diego Chargers

The Raiders are another awful team. Yet, they have two wins. They give up 38 points and got shutout on offense at home, yet they have two wins. How?

JaMarcus Russell is horrible and needs to be cut. Tom Cable is not the answer at head coach and needs to be let go, or at least be put back as offensive line coach. Al Davis needs to sell the team or die, because he can’t run an NFL team anymore. His drafting of Russell and Darrius Heyward-Bey is reason enough why.

The Chargers haven’t been a great team in 2009 after being dubbed a contender in the preseason. Yet, because the AFC is wide open, the Chargers are in the mix.

This game is the perfect time for Philip Rivers to air the ball all over the field on the Raiders, who can’t cover anyone and stop anyone.

I’d say LaDanian Tomlinson could even have a good game because the Raiders can’t stop the run, but I can’t remember the last time LT had a decent game.

Final Score: Chargers 35, Raiders 10

Carolina Panthers @ Arizona Cardinals

The Panthers looked like they were on the verge of getting back on track. But then they pull a stinker of a game against the Bills.

The Panthers have been a tremendous disappointment in 2009 after being the second best team in the NFC last year, and John Fox is still on the verge of losing his job and taking Jake Delhomme with him.

The Cardinals won an important game last week against the Giants and it was because of their defense.

If they can get the same type of production from their defense every week, they will be a scary team to stop in the NFC, especially if their offense plays like expected.

Last year, the Cardinals shocked the Panthers in the playoffs. This week, it won’t be a shock when the Cardinals win.

Final Score: Cardinals 34, Panthers 17

Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers

THE RETURN OF BRETT FAVRE TO LAMBEAU FIELD!

Favre will be returning to the place he called home for 15 years. He’s played well so far in 2009, leading the Vikings to a 6-1 start. They suffered their first defeat to the Steelers on the road last week and are looking for a rebound week.

The Packers lost the last game they played on Monday Night Football and would love nothing more than to beat Minnesota and Favre in their building.

The only problem is, Favre and the offense has been good. While the Packers have had trouble blocking for Aaron Rodgers. In the last game, Jared Allen had 4 1/2 sacks on Rodgers.

Most will probably root for the Packers to beat Favre. But Minnesota is still an elite team in the NFC and they should play like it in enemy territory.

Final Score: Vikings 30, Packers 24

Monday Night Football: Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints

This is a must-win game for the Falcons if they want to keep up in the NFC South division.

They have been up and down in 2009 and are 4-2. They have the making of a playoff team, but they also give up a lot of points and lost a tough game to the Cowboys last week.

Now, they will be on national TV again against a divisional rival.

The Saints are 6-0 and had to fight to stay at 6-0 against the Dolphins. They showed guts and the capability of a comeback on the road when down.

The Saints are showing they are a force to be dealt with in the NFC and if they can beat the Falcons at home, the NFC South is practically theirs to have already to 7-0.

The Saints are not only good on offense, but are even good on defense, which is where they stop Atlanta on the big stage.

Final Score: Saints 41, Falcons 24

Bye Week: Cincinnati Bengals, Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Redskins, New England Patriots

That covers the picks for Week Eight of the NFL schedule. With the World Series going on, there is no Sunday Night Football game, just a Monday night game.

Because of the World Series being played in Philadelphia Sunday night, the Giants-Eagles game was originally a 4:15 p.m. game, but got moved to 1 p.m.

Some have also wondered if the World Series has taken away some of the luster of the Favre vs Packers game, because it hasn’t been as talked about like the Fall Classic has been.

In Green Bay, the town will be shut down and in anticipation, like the rest of the fans who love good football games. Happy Halloween to everyone, hope everyone has a good weekend and enjoys their football weekend of Week Eight.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Top 10 Power Rankings Through Week Six

Week Six had a lot of strange games with some strange outcomes.

For instance, the Jets racked up over 300 yards of rushing yards against the Bills and held Terrell Owens to three catches for 13 yards—both numbers usually coming when a team wins by something like a 35-7 score. Only, Mark Sanchez threw five interceptions and the Jets missed a dozen opportunities to win the game in overtime, which allowed the Bills to claim a 16-13 win.

The Chiefs and Redskins had a battle of the field goal kicking contest rather than play actual football where touchdowns are scored; that is until Todd Collins was sacked in the end zone for a safety and the Redskins allowed another winless team to get a win, this time in a 14-6 Chiefs victory.

But the one that takes the cake is the Eagles and their powerhouse offense coming into the Oakland Coliseum looking to take care of business and steamroll right over the Raiders, only to fall flat on their faces. The week before, the Giants demolished Oakland 44-7, so everyone, like myself, figured Philadelphia would have no problem. Oh, we were all wrong. The Raiders hold the Eagles to three field goals and no touchdowns in a 13-9 upset.

Oh, and apparently Donovan McNabb not only doesn’t know in the NFL you can tie, but he forgets how many timeouts a team gets per half. Guess he isn’t getting enough of his mama’s Campbell’s Chunky Soup back home.

Of the five undefeated teams, one got knocked off and went down in the rankings, while four undefeated teams still remain.

On the other side, the Rams, Buccaneers and Titans are all 0-6 and still without a win. At this point, which one of these teams packs it in first in order to get the No. 1 pick in the 2010 NFL Draft?

Let’s take a look at who is on top of the NFL through six weeks.

 

10. Arizona Cardinals (UR) (3-2, Won 27-3 over the Seattle Seahawks)

The Cardinals got off to a really rough start like a lot of teams who make the Super Bowl in their previous season do. It’s known as “The Super Bowl Hangover.” But Arizona is slowly coming out of it, because they are re-establishing their identity on offense.

Kurt Warner throws for 276 yards and two touchdown passes, one of which was to Larry Fitzgerald who caught 13 balls for 100 yards.

What was even more impressive from Arizona was holding the Seahawks to three points and virtually eliminating the Seattle running game. Julius Jones was held to five carries for five yards and Edgerrin James was held to three carries for three yards. Those are two former Pro Bowlers who looked anything but on Sunday.

The Cardinals travel to the Meadowlands for a national TV game against what will be a very angry Giants team that was embarrassed in their last game. One thing to keep in mind, Warner has never played well as a visitor in Giants Stadium. Not with the Rams or the Cardinals. And he wasn’t fantastic in 2004 either with the Giants.

 

9. Pittsburgh Steelers (9) (4-2, Won 27-14 over the Cleveland Browns)

The Steelers look to be getting back to playing typical Pittsburgh football as they have won their third game in a row.

The Browns were never in this game, but the Steelers made a few turnovers and foolish plays that only allowed the Steelers to win by 13, otherwise, Cleveland should have lost by at least 30 against anyone else.

Ben Roethlisberger threw for 417 yards and two touchdowns. Hines Ward caught eight passes for 159 yards and a touchdown and Santonio Holmes caught five passes for 104 yards.

Every week, Rashard Mendenhall looks like he was the right choice as he continues to have solid games, while Willie Parker is slowly being fazed out.

Next week, in a good contest, the Steelers have the Vikings come into Heinz Field. Big Ben vs. Favre. It should be quite a matchup to watch.

 

8. Cincinnati Bengals (6) (4-2, Lost 28-17 to the Houston Texans)

All right, so the Bengals are beatable after all.

Matt Schaub threw for 392 yards and four touchdowns and absolutely shredded the Bengals secondary in Sunday’s game.

The Bengals were in the game and even were up 17-14 at halftime. But the Texans held the Bengals to zero points in the second half, which cost them a loss.

This one wasn’t pretty at home for Cincinnati,and it won’t get any easier for them if they want to continue staying in first place in the AFC North.

Next week, they will have the Bears come into their stadium and what should be a competitive game. Will Jay Cutler do what Schaub did to them next week, or will the Bengals be better prepared next time around?

 

7. New England Patriots (UR) (4-2, Won 59-0 over the Tennessee Titans)

In previous years, this was a great match-up on the schedule, because normally, both would be playoff contenders.

But on Sunday, this game wasn’t even close.

The Patriots scored 45 points in the first half. Tom Brady threw 380 yards and six touchdowns, five of which came in the second quarter alone.

Wes Welker caught 10 passes for 150 yards and two touchdowns and Randy Moss caught eight passes for 129 yards and three touchdowns.

The Patriots look to be back on track and with the Jets losing, New England goes back into first place like expected.

Kerry Collins was held to 2-for-12 and -7 passing yards. That’s ugly.

The Patriots go to London, England in the NFL’s third regular season game in London to face the winless Buccaneers next week. It could end up 59-0 again because Tampa Bay is awful and can’t stop anyone.

 

6. Atlanta Falcons (7) (Won 21-14 over the Chicago Bears)

This was a close game on Sunday Night Football and a game with major implications in the NFC rankings.

The Falcons offense looked good in the first half as Matt Ryan threw two touchdowns to Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez, both who are becoming easy targets for Ryan to go to every week.

In the second half, it was a close game and came down to the wire, with Michael Turner scoring with three minutes to go to put Atlanta up by seven.

The Bears drove the field and attempted to tie the game, but couldn’t finish the game and took the loss to the Falcons.

The Falcons needed this win to stay with the Saints in the NFC South, which is making for a interesting division race.

The Falcons will enter Cowboys Stadium and play the Cowboys next week in another good NFC matchup. This game could go either way and is a tough one to pick.

 

 

5. New York Giants (1) (Lost 48-27 to the New Orleans Saints)

This one was an ugly game for the Giants defense, who never stood a chance against Drew Brees and the Saints offense.

The Giants gave up 34 points alone in the first half and the Saints put up over 400 yards of offense.

The Giants did score 27 points, but it wasn’t enough, because it seemed like every time the Saints had the ball, they were putting up touchdowns, something the Giants didn’t do and it cost them.

One of the few bright spots for the Giants was rookie Hakeem Nicks continuing to play well, catching five passes for 114 yards and a touchdown. So far, Nicks is having a good rookie season. But other than that, the Giants offense couldn’t keep up.

Next week, the will have the Cardinals at home on Sunday Night Football. Expect an angry and fired up Giants team, especially on defense. You can bet Tom Coughlin will not let his team forget how pitiful they played and they don’t want a repeat of that lack of effort on national TV.

 

4. Denver Broncos (4) (6-0, Won 34-23 over the San Diego Chargers)

This was a game the Chargers needed in order to stay in the AFC West division race, but at 2-3, they are in a major hole, especially since the Broncos are now 6-0.

Eddie Royal was the star of the game with a 93 yard kickoff return for a touchdown and a 71 yard punt return for a touchdown. San Diego looked awful trying to make tackles on him, because they couldn’t.

Kyle Orton has another good game, going 20-for-29 with 229 yards and two touchdowns, one of those touchdowns was an amazing 19 yard grab by Tony Scheffler where he had to jump up and reach for it in the third quarter.

The Broncos defense really won this game in the second half, as they held San Diego to a field goal in the half. That type of defense not only wins games, but wins championships.

Denver will have a bye next week, so they will remain undefeated at least for another week.

 

3. Minnesota Vikings (5) (6-0, Won 33-31 over the Baltimore Ravens)

Brett Favre was good in this game, but Joe Flacco was a little better on this day.

Favre went 21-for-29 for 278 yards and three touchdowns. Flacco went 28-for-43 with 385 yards and two touchdowns.

Yet this game came down to the field goal kickers. Ryan Longwell kicked a 31-yarder to put Minnesota up 33-31 with less than two minutes to go.

Baltimore got down into Minnesota territory and gave Steve Hauschka a chance to win the game with a 44 yard field goal.

But, Hauschka hooked it to the left and Minnesota escaped with a huge win to keep them undefeated. Sometimes, it’s good to have luck on your side.

Minnesota has the second highest scoring offense in the NFL, so for now, bringing in Favre was a good move. They will travel to play the Steelers next week in another tough game. Trying to beat Pittsburgh at home is very difficult to do, so Favre needs to bring his A-game.

 

2. New Orleans Saints (3) (5-0, Won 48-27 over the New York Giants)

This was a game that would determine who was the best team in the NFC right now. After the game, it was clear that right now, that title belongs to the Saints.

Drew Brees went 23-for-30 for 369 yards and four touchdown passes and torched the Giants secondary all game.

In the first half alone, Brees had thrown for three of his four touchdowns and over 200-plus yards, which lead to 34 Saints points.

The running game was never a factor in this game, but Brees never needed to go to it, because his play-action passes were dominating.

Marques Colston caught eight passes for 166 yards and a touchdown, Lance Moore had six catches for 78 yards and a touchdown, Robert Meachem had two passes for 70 yards and a touchdown, and former Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey had four catches for 37 yards and a touchdown.

The Saints will go to Miami and play the Dolphins next week. Brees and company will probably be too much for the Dolphins to attempt to stop.

 

1. Indianapolis Colts (2) (5-0, Bye Week in Week Six)

The Colts are the new number one team in the NFL and they didn’t even have to play a game to get into this spot, but can anyone argue that they don’t belong here?

Peyton Manning is on his way to winning another MVP Award, as he’s thrown for 1645 yards, 12 touchdowns and only four interceptions. His quarterback rating is 114.1 and he’s only been sacked twice so far. The two sacks allowed is a major credit to the Colts offensive line doing a terrific job.

The Colts receivers have done a great job in 2009 and Manning is doing a great job distributing the ball. Reggie Wayne has 32 catches for 459 yards and four touchdowns. Dallas Clark as 35 catches for 441 yards and two touchdowns.

Newcomers Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon have done a great job with Marvin Harrison gone and Anthony Gonzalez injured. Collie has 20 catches for 228 yards and three touchdowns and Garcon has 11 catches for 216 yards and two touchdowns.

The Colts will play the Rams next week in what could be a game of the best team in the NFL against the worst team in the NFL. It’s a huge mismatch of opponents and should be an easy win for the Colts.

 

That’s it for the Top 10 Power Rankings in the NFL through this past week. With the Giants losing, it gave way for four teams to jump over them because they are still undefeated and changed the rankings up top.

As the NFL is getting closer to closing out the month of October, we’re all starting to get a better picture of which teams are playoff teams, especially those who made this list. However, with 10 more weeks of the schedule left, anything can happen.

Hope everyone has a good week and we’ll be back soon for more NFL games next weekend.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Predictions: Week Six

We are already in the middle of October in the sixth week of the 2009 NFL season, so after much anticipation to get the season going, 2009 is going very quickly.

Five teams (Giants, Colts, Vikings, Saints, Broncos) remain undefeated and will look to stay undefeated in their sixth week.

Four teams (Rams, Chiefs, Titans, Buccaneers) remain win-less and will look to get their first victories like the Lions, Browns and Panthers have in the season.

With the season starting to unfold some, we are starting to find out which teams are for real in potential postseason hopes and which teams are just in the middle of the pack and might be looking at another early end to their season.

So far, the biggest surprises in the season are the Broncos at 5-0 and the Bengals at 4-1. They have been dubbed as the “feel-good stories” of the 2009 season and have their respective cities buzzing with excitement because they have the potential to be contenders if they continue their winning trends.

Last week, I went 10-4 with the Patriots, Jets, Ravens and Bills losing their games I picked in favor of them. In 2009, so far, I am 57-19, so I will look to have another good week of predictions.

Lets take a look at the matchups for Week Six.

 

New York Giants @ New Orleans Saints

This is a showdown of undefeated teams and two of the best teams in the NFL right now. The Giants are 5-0 while the Saints are 4-0. Most eyes at 1 p.m. will be watching this game.

The Giants easily defeated the Raiders last week with passing, rushing, defense, and just by showing up. They used their balanced attack all game, and by putting up 44 points, the Giants showed they have the potential to put up big points.

The defense also picked up six sacks, two from Justin Tuck, which is what they need to do if they want to keep winning.

The Saints had a bye week to rest up and prepare extra for the Giants and so far, have played very well on offense and much improved on defense.

Jeremy Shockey will be playing against his former team for the first time ever, so all eyes will be on him to see if he can produce.

The Giants are underdogs on the road, which is nothing new to them. The Saints have yet to see a team like the Giants with a balance and vicious pass rush. I’m picking the Giants in an upset this week, because I don’t think Drew Brees knows what is coming.

Final Score: Giants 31, Saints 27

 

Kansas City Chiefs @ Washington Redskins

The Chiefs went toe-to-toe with the Cowboys last week and forced their game into overtime, but also allowed Miles Austin to emerge with over 200 yards of receiving yards and remain win-less.

It’s been a rough year for Todd Haley and Matt Cassel as they go from winning teams in 2008 to trying to just win one game in 2009. This team is still a major work in progress.

The Redskins are a bad team. They’re even worse on the road. They gave the Panthers and Lions, both win-less at the time, their first victories, so they better be careful to not have that happen to the Chiefs.

Jim Zorn needs a big game from his team to show he isn’t completely brain-dead as an NFL head coach. Rumors have been swirling that the Redskins are looking to bring in Mike Shanahan as head coach, so win or loss, Zorn’s days are numbered. But at home, I’ll take Washington.

Final Score: Redskins 20, Chiefs 14

 

Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

The Browns finally got off the win-less hump and got their first win against the Bills. But they did so in the ugliest fashion as they won 6-3 and kicked two field goals.

Derek Anderson completed just two passes in the game of 17 throws, yet, he won the game. That is not a recipe for success.

The Steelers are starting to get back to winning games as they have won two in a row. Ben Roethlisberger has been playing very well for Pittsburgh.

Troy Polamalu practiced for the first time and is expected to play for the first time since Week One, where he injured his knee against the Titans. Polamalu’s return is excellent news for the Steelers and should improve the defense greatly.

On the road against the defending champions, Cleveland is no match. The Steelers are surging back up in the rankings. The Steelers should roll easily.

Final Score: Steelers 27, Browns 9

 

St. Louis Rams @ Jacksonville Jaguars

The Rams are perhaps the worst team in the NFL in 2009. They have scored only 34 points on offense, while their defense has given up 146 points.

By the end of the year, Steve Spagnuolo may be pulling out all his hair and could be looking at an 0-16 season, because the Rams are awful. The sad thing is, it doesn’t matter if Marc Bulger or Kyle Boller start the games, because they both can’t win with this team.

The Jaguars have been up and down this season. Some weeks they look very good, some weeks, they look awful. Against St. Louis at home, this will be one of their weeks where they look good.

Maurice Jones-Drew has been playing very well for the Jaguars and should have a monster game on offense against the pitiful Rams defense.

The Rams aren’t competitive and the Jaguars should get to 3-3 with a win.

Final Score: Jaguars 28, Rams 6

 

Detroit Lions @ Green Bay Packers

The Lions saw last week why Daunte Culpepper is now a backup quarterback in the NFL, and they really need Matthew Stafford back and healthy.

Aside from Stafford, the Lions are completely banged up and injured. Calvin Johnson was also injured last week and his status for Sunday is listed as questionable.

The Packers were off with a bye week and will be looking to rebound from their defeat two weeks ago against the Vikings on Monday Night Football.

The Packers must protect Aaron Rodgers better and to assure that, Green Bay re-signed Mark Tauscher to the offensive line.

Against the Lions, the Packers should get back to over .500 at home with a win.

Final Score: Packers 27, Lions 17

Baltimore Ravens @ Minnesota Vikings

This is another good contest on the schedule of Week Six.

The Ravens started out hot, but have been cold lately with two straight losses. They lost last week with less than 30 seconds to go against the Bengals because of two costly penalties that kept Cincinnati’s drive going.

The Ravens don’t want to lose three in a row and fall back even further in the AFC North, so expect Ray Lewis and Ed Reed to have that team fired up before the game.

The Vikings have been playing good football. Brett Favre has played about 10 years younger than his age and the Vikings’ success will continue on his shoulders.

The Minnesota defense has been playing well and teams are going to have to start figuring out a way to block Jared Allen, who continues to terrorize teams.

This game will probably come down to the final minutes, but until someone can beat them, I’ll take the Vikings.

Final Score: Vikings 27, Ravens 24

 

Houston Texans @ Cincinnati Bengals

The Texans are quickly becoming a disappointment team in 2009 after they were given playoff expectations in the preseason.

Their offense plays well and puts up points, but their defense can’t stop anybody and gives up even more points, which is why they are 2-3.

The Bengals played an aggressive game and dug down deep last week to find a way to beat the Ravens on the road in one of the league’s biggest upsets.

The Bengals’ success rides on the health of Carson Palmer, who has stayed healthy and is playing extremely well.

It looks like now that Marvin Lewis will save his job in 2009 if they keep winning. Expect the Bengals to come in on Sunday to a pumped up crowd and continue to play aggressively against the Texans in another victory.

Final Score: Bengals 28, Texans 17

 

Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

In 2008, every time these two teams met, the games were filled with playoff possibilities. In 2009, these two teams are just fighting to stay out of last place and more than likely will not be playing in January.

The Panthers finally got their first win with a victory against the Redskins, which will make John Fox breathe a little easier. Fox’s job is on the line in 2009 with the rumors swirling about the Panthers wanting to bring in Bill Cowher to be the next head coach.

The Buccaneers are horrible, and some might wonder if rookie head coach Raheem Morris really knows what he is doing.

Byron Leftwich was benched, and if Josh Johnson continues to play poorly, it might be time for Josh Freeman to get a chance to start.

I also wonder if Derrick Ward is regretting leaving the Giants for the Bucs. Last year, Ward rushed for 182 attempts and 1025 yards. This year, Ward has only 32 carries for 133 yards. Ward misses the Giants offensive line.

Tampa has shown no signs of winning in 2009, and expect Carolina to get another much needed win.

Final Score: Panthers 20, Buccaneers 7

Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets

The Bills have sunk to a new low. They scored three points against the Browns and gave them their first win of 2009. Nobody expected the Browns to win a single game, and because Buffalo played awful, they allowed it to happen.

Dick Jauron can officially start coaching on the NFL hot seat the rest of the way, because he’s probably on it.

What’s more surprising is Terrell Owens has hardly been a factor in the offense in 2009, and he’s been very quiet. How long does this last?

The Jets lost a tough game on Monday night to the Dolphins. Their defense allowed the Wildcat formation to run wild on them and Chad Henne looked like Dan Marino.

So, look for the Jets to get fired up this week under Rex Ryan. He’s going to want to win this one to get back on track.

Also, look for Mark Sanchez to continue throwing to his new favorite target in Braylon Edwards, who had a nice first game against Miami. The combination should continue their success against Buffalo.

Final Score: Jets 33, Bills 13

 

Philadelphia Eagles @ Oakland Raiders

Donovan McNabb is back, looks healthy, and won his first game since Week One.

That’s good news because in the limited time he’s played, Michael Vick looks lost on the field and some have questioned why the Eagles even signed Vick to begin with.

LeSean McCoy is starting to become the Eagles’ featured back as Brian Westbrook has barely been a factor. Jeremy Maclin also is becoming reliable in the offense.

What else is there to say about the Raiders offense that doesn’t start out with horrible? Tom Cable is a horrible head coach and is facing possible criminal charges. JaMarcus Russell is a horrible starting quarterback and should be benched. Darrius Heyward-Bey so far has been a horrible draft selection.

The Eagles are a 14-point favorite in the game on the road. The Eagles may score 14 points in the first two minutes with the way Oakland plays. This one should, and probably will, be over early on.

Final Score: Eagles 37, Raiders 7

 

Tennessee Titans @ New England Patriots

Were the Titans a fluke in 2008 going 13-3? Because they are 0-5, and look as far as anything from that playoff team a year ago.

The Titans can’t stop anyone on defense, especially in the passing game. Peyton Manning lit them up for 300 yards and three touchdown passes easily, which is going to be the formula for any team coming in to beat Tennessee now.

The Patriots suffered a tough loss on the road to the Broncos last week, so they will be looking to rebound this week. Tom Brady did not have a good second half against Denver, so Brady must improve this week if they want to go to 4-2.

Because the Titans can’t cover anyone, expect Randy Moss and Wes Welker to have big games this week and the Patriots will send the Titans to 0-6.

At 0-5 or 0-6, does Kerry Collins deserve to continue to keep starting?

Final Score: Patriots 28, Titans 10

 

Arizona Cardinals @ Seattle Seahawks

The Cardinals have been a big disappointment in 2009 after making the Super Bowl one year ago, so they could be suffering from the “Super Bowl hangover.”

They did get a much-needed win over the Texans last week to get back to .500, but they have some competition in the NFC West now, and their opponents on Sunday are one of them.

The Seahawks got Matt Hasselbeck last week healthy and showed why he is so critical to their team as they put up 41 points and shut out the Jaguars.

With Hasselbeck back and healthy, the Seahawks should continue to play improved football. Arizona has had a tough time covering receivers, so T.J. Houshmenzadeh and Nate Burleson could have big games against the Cardinals secondary.

It’ll be close, but Seattle looks much improved and I’ll take them in a win.

Final Score: Seahawks 24, Cardinals 20

 

Sunday Night Football: Chicago Bears @ Atlanta Falcons

Sunday Night Football on NBC will have a good matchup and a better contest than they did last week between two good NFC teams.

The Bears are off a bye week and will look to win four in a row under Jay Cutler, who is playing much better football and is making Rex Grossman a distant memory in Chicago.

The Bears must find a way to get Matt Forte more involved in the offense, because is a major key to their success. Devin Hester must also step up.

The Falcons are playing well and have yet to lose at home.

Roddy White had a big game with 200 yards receiving against the 49ers, so Matt Ryan has two dependable targets in White and Tony Gonzalez.

Michael Turner started out slow, but is getting warmed up for the Atlanta offense with five touchdowns so far. Without Brian Urlacher, Turner might be able to run on the Bears.

The Bears are a good team, but the Falcons are even better at home, so expect Atlanta to win a close one on national TV.

Final Score: Falcons 27, Bears 23

 

Monday Night Football: Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers

This matchup was the final game in 2008 that decided the AFC West. This year, it is a must-win for the Chargers, who are looking to keep up with the Broncos.

Denver is off to a 5-0 start and won an impressive overtime thriller against the Patriots. Josh McDaniels is the early candidate for Coach of the Year and Mike Nolan is looking like a genius as defensive coordinator. The Broncos defense has only allowed 43 total points.

Brandon Marshall is playing much better of late, catching important touchdown passes from Kyle Orton.

The Chargers have been a big disappointment in 2009 and are coming off a bye week. They were slaughtered on defense the week before against the Steelers.

Norv Turner is on the hot seat and probably needs to win to keep confidence for the season. LaDanian Tomlinson has been a major disappointment in 2009, as he’s only carried the ball for 20 attempts and 70 yards, so some might wonder if the LT era in San Diego is ending?

The Chargers need this game more than the Broncos do. If Denver wins, San Diego can forget trying to catch the Broncos in the AFC West. But in a must-win situation at home on national TV, I’ll take the Chargers to step up and win.

Final Score: Chargers 27, Broncos 21

Bye Week: Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers

That covers the picks for Week Six. There are some decent matchups headlined by the Giants-Saints, but there are some really bad matchups between lousy teams, which people might not be interested in. In the NFL though, it happens.

But the two nationally televised games are good matchups and should draw decent ratings between the two AFC teams and the two NFC teams.

Hope everyone has a good rest of their week as we get closer to the weekend of more NFL games.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Top 10 Power Rankings Through Week Five

Week Five of the NFL season was anything but boring.

We saw a bunch of close games go into overtime and we saw a couple upsets.

These weren’t just little upsets that didn’t effect the top of the NFL, these were monumental upsets that could change the way a team believes in themselves the rest of 2009.

For the fans in Denver and Cincinnati, they didn’t have much hope going into September of 2009. Now, there is so much hope in those two respective cities that playoff dreams are happening.

The Monday Night Football game was also very exciting and maybe even the best one played so far in 2009.

The Dolphins and the Jets re-newed their rivalry and fought like a heavyweight prize fight, trading touchdowns like they were heavy right hands. In the end, Ronnie Brown took a snap out of the Wildcat Offense and found a way into the end-zone with six seconds left to win the game 31-27 for the Dolphins.

The top 10 of the NFL rankings have changed slightly. With that loss to Miami, the Jets were knocked off the top. So were a few of the other teams that lost in Week Five. Let’s take a look at who is still remaining.

10. Baltimore Ravens (7) (3-2, Lost 17-14 to the Cincinnati Bengals)

The Ravens were so close on Sunday to winning their game at home against the Bengals.

But, a personal foul call against Ray Lewis, a pass interference call against Ed Reed and a game-winning touchdown with 22 seconds left and the Ravens were left in shock as they dropped their second straight game.

The Ravens defense didn’t have a good day trying to stop the pass (271 yards) or the run (142 yards), which is very non-Baltimore like, especially since they were near the top earlier in the season.

Next week, they travel to the Metrodome to play the Vikings, which is another tough test for Baltimore. Another loss to Baltimore and they might find themselves off this list and possibly in third place in the AFC North.

Next week will really determine if the Ravens are serious about being a playoff team again, especially since Minnesota is looking like one already.

9. Pittsburgh Steelers (UR) (3-2, Won 28-20 against the Detroit Lions)

Two weeks ago, the Steelers were looking like a hurting team. Two weeks later and two consecutive wins later, the Steelers are right back on top of the NFL scene, and it has a lot to do with Ben Roethlisberger.

After a productive week against the Chargers last week, Big Ben throws for 277 yards and three touchdown passes in the win against Detroit.

Rashard Mendenhall had another good day on the ground for Pittsburgh with 93 total yards and one touchdown.

The Lions tried to make it close, but they are still the re-building Lions. Just the fact that they have one win and won’t go 0-16 again is enough. But trying to beat the defending champions may have been a stretch.

Next week, the Steelers will get the Browns at home. The Browns won a game, so they also won’t be going 0-16 either, so following in the Lions pattern, they should be taking a loss from the Steelers to wake them up to reality.

8. Chicago Bears (8) (3-1, Bye Week in Week Five)

The Bears had Week Five off and they stay right in the thick of the NFC playoff chase and the NFC North chase at 3-1.

They have yet to take on the Vikings, but as long as they stay with the one loss, they are in the hunt of things.

Jay Cutler has been playing very well this season with 901 passing yards and eight touchdowns with five interceptions. Three of those picks were in Week One against the Packers. After that, Cutler has been solid in Chicago.

Matt Forte has gotten off to a slow start with 271 yards and only one touchdown. He’s a big part of the offense and needs to find a way to get involved more if the Bears want to compete.

What’s been a bigger surprise is the Bears are playing well without Brian Urlacher, who is on Injured Reserve. How long it holds up for the Bears will be a question.

7. Atlanta Falcons (UR) (3-1, Won 45-10 against the San Francisco 49ers)

After a bye week, the Falcons were on the road against the 49ers in a very critical NFC match-up. The 49ers were also 3-1 and looking to take more control of the NFC West.

But that was not meant to be for the 49ers as from start to finish, the Falcons kicked San Francisco’s rear ends from one end-zone to the other.

Matt Ryan threw for 329 yards and two touchdowns. Michael Turner ran for 97 yards and scored three rushing touchdowns. Roddy White had 210 yards and two receiving touchdowns. Overall, the Atlanta offense played very well.

The Falcons were dominant enough on defense that 49ers quarterback Shaun Hill ended up being the team’s leading rusher with 53 yards, which will not get the job done, so good job by Atlanta.

The Falcons have another critical NFC match-up with the Bears at the Georgia Dome on Sunday. If they win, it will increase their chances of staying up here and having more potential of being a playoff team again.

6. Cincinnati Bengals (UR) (4-1, Won 17-14 over the Baltimore Ravens)

Before the season started, Marvin Lewis was rumored to be on the hot seat and the Bengals looked to be in trouble.

Their Week One started off miserably when Brandon Stokley caught that tipped pass for a touchdown in the final minute to give the Bengals their first loss. Since then,  Cincinnati has not lost a game, which is a major surprise.

After fighting off the Browns last week in overtime, the Bengals had to travel to play the Ravens in an AFC North showdown.

The Bengals were a minute away from a second loss. But the Ravens had two costly penalties called against them and gave the Bengals new life. Carson Palmer then found Andre Caldwell in the end-zone for a 20 yard touchdown pass with 22 seconds left.

Now the Bengals are 4-1 and are the major surprise story of 2009. Carson Palmer is playing well, Chad Ochocinco is playing well and Cedric Benson went from a draft bust in Chicago to career rejuvenation in Cincinnati.

The Bengals will have the Texans come into town next week. If they can go to 5-1, they can really take control of the AFC North and possibly start looking as a playoff team in 2009. Who would have thought that when watching them on HBO’s Hard Knocks in the summer?

5. Minnesota Vikings (4) (5-0, Won 38-10 against the St. Louis Rams)

Brett Favre turned 40 this past Saturday, but he’s certainly not playing like a 40 year old in 2009.

The Vikings went up to St. Louis and beat them up from the start of the first quarter. Favre threw for 232 yards and only one touchdown, but that’s all Favre needed to throw against the pitiful Rams.

Adrian Peterson only ran for 69 yards, but did score two touchdowns. Peterson hasn’t been tearing it up like he normally does, but he does have seven touchdowns to go along with 481 yards.

Minnesota’s defense continued to play well as Jared Allen returned a fumble by Kyle Boller 52 yards for a touchdown. Allen has 6 1/2 sacks already and has been dominant so far.

In one of the premier match-ups next week in Week Six, the Vikings will take on the Ravens at home. If Minnesota can go 6-0, they are a clear favorite to win the NFC North and make the playoffs.

Then maybe it will be decided that the signing of Favre will not be a bust after all.

4. Denver Broncos (5) (5-0, Won 20-17 against the New England Patriots)

The last time the Broncos were 5-0 was in 1998. That was the last year the Broncos won a Super Bowl. John Elway was the quarterback of the team and Mike Shanahan was the coach who won his second consecutive championship.

Fast forward to 2009, Kyle Orton is the starting quarterback and Josh McDaniels is the head coach in his first season at 33 years old. But this team has the same result as that team of 11 years ago.

McDaniels was up against his mentor in Bill Belichick and the Patriots, and they fought tooth and nail the entire game. After 60 minutes and four quarters, they were tied at 17-17 and needed an overtime period to determine a winner.

The Broncos won the toss and drove the field on New England to set up a 41-yard game winning field goal by Matt Prater. Invesco Field was rocking and McDaniels was pumping his fists and celebrating with the fans.

What was even more impressive was the Patriots were up 17-7 at halftime and Denver shut down the Patriots and allowed Tom Brady to do nothing in the second half.

Next week, the Broncos will be on national TV as they travel to play their division rival in the Chargers. San Diego will be desperate for a win, so getting to 6-0 will be very difficult for the Broncos. But San Diego is a disappointment of a team, so an upset is always possible.

3. New Orleans Saints (3) (4-0, Bye Week in Week Five)

The Saints were expected to be a powerhouse on offense with Drew Brees leading the way. But on defense last year, they were terrible.

Sean Payton brought in Gregg Williams to fix the defense and thus far, they are undefeated, so Williams has done the job expected of him. In fact, the Saints rank number one in the NFL in stopping the run.

Brees got off to a hot start, throwing nine touchdown passes in his first two games. Since then, he hasn’t thrown one, but the Saints are finding ways to win.

Pierre Thomas has become a big part of the offense in the running game, as has Mike Bell. Reggie Bush has hardly been a factor in 2009.

On Sunday, they will come off a bye week and have the Giants come into the Superdome and play in potentially the biggest match-up on the schedule. It’s pretty much the two top teams in the NFC squaring off and it could really determine who could get the driver seat of the conference.

That game will be a measuring stick for where the Saints are this season.

2. Indianapolis Colts (2) (5-0, Won 31-9 over the Tennessee Titans)

Peyton Manning set a record on Sunday only held by Kurt Warner and Steve Young. They are the only three quarterbacks to start out the season throwing for over 300 yards in their first five games.

Manning threw for 309 yards and three touchdown passes in the thrashing of their division rivals.

Austin Collie broke out with a great game, catching eight passes for 97 yards and two touchdowns. With Anthony Gonzalez still out with a knee injury, Manning yet again finds another new target to throw to and stand out. This is a reason why Peyton Manning is the best quarterback in the league.

The Colts running game barely did anything against the Titans, but they didn’t need to because the Titans couldn’t stop the passing game. In fact, the Titans were playing so bad, Jeff Fisher put in Vince Young to play in the fourth quarter.

The Colts will have a bye week to rest while staying on top of the AFC.

1. New York Giants (1) (5-0, Won 44-7 over the Oakland Raiders)

During the week, everyone was worried about Eli Manning’s bruised heel. He suited up, played and reported no pain, so for now, all is fine with the Giants quarterback.

He only threw eight passes, but two of them went for touchdowns and threw for 173 yards and only needed to play in the first half. Why, because when he left the game, the Giants were up 28-0 and they had out-gained the Raiders 261-9.

David Carr played the entire second half and showed signs of his past when he was a former number one pick, even running for a touchdown.

The Giants running game was solid again, especially Ahmad Bradshaw, who ran for 110 yards and two touchdowns and had 55 yards receiving while Brandon Jacobs ran for 67 yards.

The Giants gained a total of 483 yards, while their defense held the Raiders to 124 total yards, sacked JaMarcus Russell six times, forced three fumbles and recovered three fumbles. Justin Tuck had two of the Giants sacks, so he looked to be back in form after a lingering shoulder injury.

The Giants will play the Saints in a battle of undefeated teams in the NFC and will determine who is the leading candidate to go into the stretch of the season being the top team in the NFC. The Giants schedule has been relatively easy the last three weeks. Now it gets harder as the competition starts to come.

It’s nothing new to the Giants, so if they can go 6-0, it will be one step closer to taking total control. A loss won’t set them back too far, but it would take control out of their hands.

 

Five weeks of the NFL season have been played and five teams are still undefeated while four teams remain win-less. The Browns and Panthers got their first wins this past week, so the Rams, Buccaneers, Titans and Chiefs are all 0-5 and their 2009 seasons look very dark.

Because the Redskins are so terrible, the Chiefs have a chance to get off their winless streak and the Buccaneers are home against the Panthers, so maybe a home upset is in the cards for them. But, because they are 0-5, their odds for anything in 2009 aren’t very good.

Hope everyone has a great week. I’ll be back with my picks for Week Six later in the week and then we’ll all be back for another weekend of NFL football.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Predictions: Week Five

Week Five of the NFL season is almost upon us. What have we learned so far from the first quarter of it?

Peyton and Eli Manning basically rule the NFL like they do in the Doubled-Stuffed Oreo League.

Tony Romo can’t win big games if his life or blonde-haired girlfriends depended on it.

Brett Favre was out for revenge on Monday night and got it against the Packers, but still doesn’t admit to it, and he never will.

The Giants, Colts, Vikings, Broncos and Saints are all undefeated at 4-0 and right now, are the class of the NFL.

The Chiefs, Browns, Rams, Titans, Buccaneers and Panthers are all winless. What’s sad is some of these teams have a legit chance to go 0-16, just like the Lions did a year ago.

Oh, and Michael Crabtree FINALLY signed a contract with the 49ers, so he will not be re-entering the 2010 NFL Draft.

Last week, I went 12-2 with my only losses coming from the Bills to the Dolphins and the Titans to the Jaguars. Overall in 2009, I am 47-15 on the year.

Let’s take a look at the schedule of games for Week Five and see who squares off this weekend.

 

Oakland Raiders @ New York Giants

Eli Manning is a game-time decision with a bruised heel, but the chances are that he will play. If he does, I expect him to play three of the four quarters, so David Carr will probably get the fourth quarter if the Giants are well ahead.

The running game for the Giants is starting to get back on track with Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw playing very well. The Raiders defense will have a tough time trying to stop both of them.

The Raiders will also have trouble stopping the combination of receivers being thrown at them of Steve Smith, Mario Manningham, and Hakeem Nicks.

Nicks returned from injury last week and caught his first NFL touchdown. He should only continue to get better with more playing time.

JaMarcus Russell will be in for a long afternoon at Giants Stadium. He’s getting worse each week and the Raiders know it. But do they care enough to bench him? Probably not. Expect Russell to be pounded and punished all game.

Final Score: Giants 37, Raiders 10

 

Dallas Cowboys @ Kansas City Chiefs

The Cowboys lost a tough game to the Broncos last week, and Tony Romo failed again at trying to win a game in the fourth quarter for the Cowboys.

The pressure shouldn’t be on as much this week, because the Chiefs and their defense are that horrible.

The Cowboys should be able to run the football effectively with Marion Barber, who is probable for the game. Felix Jones is listed as questionable with a knee injury, so Tashard Choice may see more playing time if Jones can’t go.

Roy Williams is also questionable with a rib injury, but he hasn’t been a major factor in 2009 with just 11 catches. The Cowboys have been relying on guys like Miles Austin, Sam Hurd and Jason Witten in the passing game.

The Matt Cassel experiment in Kansas City has failed so far and against Dallas, it won’t get any easier. Dallas is desperate for a win, so look for DeMarcus Ware and company on defense to rip off Cassel’s head on every play. Dallas should win this game easily.

Final Score: Cowboys 27, Chiefs 13

 

Washington Redskins @ Carolina Panthers

The Panthers are 0-3 and had a bye week to rest and really think long and hard about their 2009 season.

Do they really want it to go down the toilet? Does Jake Delhomme want to get benched? Does John Fox want to be fired? They need a win desperately this week.

Jonathan Stewart is questionable for the game, so DeAngelo Williams will probably get most of the carries against Washington’s defense that hasn’t been terrible, but not great, either.

Jim Zorn is coaching his way out of a job one game at a time. He’s nearly blown two home games to the Rams and Buccaneers, but barely held on.

They gave the Lions their first win in two years and are 0-2 on the road. Jason Campbell also doesn’t look like he has any more confidence in himself and in this team.

I expect the Redskins to give confidence back to the Panthers by dropping another road game and moving one step closer to getting Zorn fired.

Final Score: Panthers 23, Redskins 14

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Philadelphia Eagles

For the first time since Week One, Donovan McNabb will be playing in a game for the Eagles, so good news for the Philadelphia fans there.

Truthfully, they wouldn’t have really needed him this week, because Tampa Bay and their defense are so terrible, even Kevin Kolb could easily handle this team.

This game will hardly look like the NFC Championship of 2003, where the Buccaneers came into Philly and kicked the Eagles in the face en route to the Super Bowl. Those days are long gone.

The Buccaneers are 0-4 and will more than likely give up somewhere between 400-500 yards of offense to the Eagles and go to 0-5.

Some might even wonder if Tampa will even win a game this year. They certainly don’t look like a team that will.

Final Score: Eagles 35, Buccaneers 6

 

Minnesota Vikings @ St. Louis Rams

Brett Favre has the Vikings rolling after their victory over the Packers on Monday Night Football. Now, they can get back to business and worry about regular football games.

The Rams won’t be as much of a challenge as the Packers were, but Jared Allen might be having another field day on either Marc Bulger or Kyle Boller, whoever gets the unfortunate nod to start this game. Allen had 4 1/2 sacks last week against Green Bay.

The Rams are an utter mess. They have scored a total of 24 points on offense and given up 108 on defense. That’s not just bad. That’s absolutely embarrassing.

I know Steve Spagnuolo deserved to be an NFL head coach, but he really should have waited another year before taking a job, because his Rams are another team that could be a possibility for 0-16.

The Vikings will win this game. The only question is, do the Rams even score a touchdown in the game?

Final Score: Vikings 31, Rams 6

 

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Detroit Lions

The Steelers got back to .500 and 2-2 with a dominating performance on offense against the disappointing Chargers.

Rashad Mendenhall broke out on Sunday night and had a tremendous game for Pittsburgh. With the lack of production out of Willie Parker in 2009, Mendenhall has a real chance to take over as the premier back of the Steelers.

Troy Polamalu is listed as questionable for Week Five, but we still haven’t seen him since his injury in Week One, and I don’t think Pittsburgh is in any rush to bring back their star defensive player and risk him getting hurt again, so when Polamalu is 100 perrcent healthy, that’s when he’ll be back on defense.

Matthew Stafford hurt his knee in the Lions game against the Bears last week and is listed as questionable for the game.

If he can’t go, Daunte Culpepper will get to start. I don’t expect any major upsets at Ford Field. The defending champions should take care of business in the Motor City.

Final Score: Steelers 28, Lions 16

 

Cincinnati Bengals @ Baltimore Ravens

This might actually be considered one of the week’s top games since each team is at 3-1.

The Bengals just made it to 3-1 after squeaking by the Browns in overtime. They are playing very good football and are saving Marvin Lewis’ job at the same time. Carson Palmer has stayed healthy, which is keeping the Bengals’ chances alive.

Chad Ochocinco has had a bounce-back 2009, which is also keeping the Bengals chances alive.

The Ravens suffered their first loss last week, so they will be looking for redemption. Ray Lewis and Ed Reed were outspoken about the referee’s calls, so they may try to take it out on Palmer, or Ochocinco, or Cedric Benson.

I also expect Joe Flacco to try and air out the ball at home, something he’s been very successful at doing.

This is a divisional game and one that might come down to the final minute. But in the end, the Ravens should barely pull it off. But expect a fight from the feisty Bengals.

Final Score: Ravens 27, Bengals 24

 

Cleveland Browns @ Buffalo Bills

This is a game the Bills must win. Or else, Dick Jauron can start looking for a job come Monday morning.

The Browns defense is one of the worst in the league, so Trent Edwards should be able to get the ball to Terrell Owens this week. No excuses. The Browns can’t cover anyone, so Owens and Lee Evans should have a good day on offense.

The Browns got rid of a problem this week by trading away troubling wide receiver Braylon Edwards for Chansi Stuckey, so the continued dismantling of the Browns under Eric Mangini continues.

One sports writer in Cleveland expects Mangini to be fired by Halloween, although Cleveland management has denied the rumors. Nobody would blame them if they did fire Mangini, because nobody expects Cleveland to win a single game in 2009.

The Bills should be able to win this game, or Jauron will be run out of Buffalo.

Final Score: Bills 24, Browns 9

 

Atlanta Falcons @ San Francisco 49ers

This is another intriguing game between two good teams.

The 49ers are a feel-good story of the NFL in 2009. They are 3-1 and in first place in the NFC West. Mike Singletary has his players believing in his system.

What’s been amazing is Shaun Hill has played well and Vernon Davis doesn’t look like a draft day bust, which is good news.

More good news was Michael Crabtree signed with the 49ers, but no word has been given if he will actually suit up and play.

The Falcons had a bye week to rest and relax. Matt Ryan should be able to move the football with Michael Turner and Tony Gonzalez.

This game was hard for me to pick, but because Frank Gore is still expected to be out, I couldn’t pick the 49ers this week. I expect Atlanta to win, but it should still be an enjoyable game to watch.

Final Score: Falcons 24, 49ers 20

 

New England Patriots @ Denver Broncos

Teacher vs. student. Bill Belichick vs. Josh McDaniels.

The games get harder for the 4-0 Broncos as the Patriots come into town to face another feel-good story of 2009 in Denver.

McDaniels will have the opportunity to face his mentor in a key game this week. Denver’s offense has been pretty good, but their defense has been very good so far.

Last week, Dallas was a test, and they passed it. New England is an even bigger and better test to see how far along Denver is in 2009. The Patriots, though, are getting back to full strength on offense, especially with Wes Welker’s return.

With Tom Brady able to throw to Randy Moss and Welker, that might be too much for the Broncos to stop. But they will do their best to try, and they will give the Patriots a good fight.

This finally may be the week where Denver goes down, but not shamefully.

Final Score: Patriots 27, Broncos 23

 

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Seattle Seahawks

For the last two weeks, Matt Hasselbeck has been out with a rib injury while Seneca Wallace continues to play and lose in his place.

Hasselbeck is listed as questionable again for this week. If the Seahawks want any chance of winning this season, they need Hasselbeck to be healthy and to play.

Seattle needs to run the football better with Julius Jones and Edgerrin James, and with Jacksonville’s defense, they should be able to.

They should also be able to get the ball to T.J. Houshmandzadeh, who has been decent in his first year for Seattle.

The Jaguars have won two straight games and would love to win a third game at Qwest Field. Maurice Jones-Drew is having a fine season with five rushing touchdowns already, and David Garrard is throwing the ball better.

But Seattle is at home, and they desperately don’t want to lose four in a row and drop to 1-4. It might be a fight for Seattle, but I’ll take the Seahawks in a close one.

Final Score: Seahawks 24, Jaguars 20

 

Houston Texans @ Arizona Cardinals

This is a must-win game for both teams. The Texans are 2-2 and looking to go over .500 with a road victory. The Cardinals are 1-2 and looking to avoid getting beaten again at home after they were embarrassed by the Colts on national TV in their last game two weeks ago.

The Cardinals are going to come out and want to throw the football on Houston. Kurt Warner is going to want to get it to Larry Fitzgerald, who has been relatively quiet in 2009, and to Anquan Boldin, who again has been quiet in 2009. But I guess when you are 1-2, there isn’t a lot to talk about.

The Texans defense ranks one of the worst in the NFL, which could spell trouble for them against a dynamic offense like the Cardinals. They can throw the ball very well, but they can’t stop it.

In a game they must have, the Cardinals should win this week to get back to respectability and to .500.

Final Score: Cardinals 28, Texans 21

 

Sunday Night Football: Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee Titans

The 4-0 Colts are facing the 0-4 Titans. I did not think Tennessee would be 0-4 at this point. Neither did NBC and the NFL when they made this a nationally televised game.

The Colts right now are the class of the AFC and Peyton Manning is making another run to be the NFL MVP by playing great football and finding new receivers to throw the ball to.

What has been a pleasant surprise for the Colts is their defense, which is holding onto leads, despite being ranked near the bottom of the league.

The Titans are desperate for a win. The only problem is, they can’t stop anyone on defense. They miss Albert Haynesworth in the middle of their line.

The Titans didn’t lose their fourth game until their playoff game last year. Now, they might be headed to an 0-5 start. This game also might be Kerry Collins’ last chance to try and win.

Vince Young is still waiting and wondering when he’ll get to return to starting. Going 0-5 might have to do it.

Final Score: Colts 37, Titans 17

 

Monday Night Football: New York Jets @ Miami Dolphins

The rivalry has returned to Monday Night Football!

One of the most memorable games played on Monday night between these two was on October 23, 2000 at Giants Stadium.

The Dolphins were up 37-7 after the end of the third quarter. But Vinny Testaverde threw four of his five touchdown passes in the fourth quarter and the Jets scored 30 points to tie the game at 37-37 to send it into overtime, where John Hall kicked a field goal to win the game 40-37 for the Jets.

I don’t think this Monday night will be like that game nine years ago, but it should be an interesting game to watch, and one where Mark Sanchez needs a rebound game after a lousy three-interception game against the Saints.

Chad Henne is the starter, so the Jets won’t see Chad Pennington, who is out for the season and can’t torture them again. The Jets should get back to blitzing and getting after the quarterback, so Henne might have a long night ahead of him,

Monday night will also be the debut of the Jets newest wide receiver in Braylon Edwards, who they traded for on Wednesday. It’ll be a matter of time to see how Edwards fits into the offense and if he can work on his dropping problem.

Miami needs to run the football if they want to win, because they can’t pass it. But the Jets are prepared to shut that down. Expect the Jets to rebound on Monday night and get back on track with a win.

Final Score: Jets 30, Dolphins 16

 

Bye Week: Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, New Orleans Saints, San Diego Chargers

So, there we have the Week Five schedule. There might be some blowout games, especially coming from the games of the teams who are 0-4 and are 0-16 candidates.

The only upset game I picked this week was the Panthers defeating the Redskins, but Washington is a lot worse than their 2-2 record, and could be really 1-3 or 0-4, because they are that bad. But Carolina is 0-4, so if they won, it would be an upset.

The game that intrigues me the most is the Patriots-Broncos game because of the Belichick-McDaniels coaching contest, and to see if Denver can really go 5-0, or if they suffer their first setback.

Also, I wonder if Denver wins this game, will McDaniels get Belichick’s famous “Eric Mangini/Rex Ryan Go F*** Yourself Treatment” of the weak handshake and walking away with the look of wanting to stab them. It wouldn’t be the first time, but I guess we’ll all have to tune in on Sunday.

Hope everyone enjoys the rest of their week and gets ready for some more NFL football this weekend.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Top 10 Power Rankings Through Week Four

In possibly the most anticipated meeting in the history of Monday Night Football, the teacher out-performed the student. Brett Favre’s Minnesota Vikings defeated Aaron Rodgers’ Green Bay Packers, giving round one of the grudge match to Favre.

The defending Super Bowl Champions, the Pittsburgh Steelers, got back on track, and also back to .500 with a dominating performance on offense with a 38-28 victory over the Chargers, who look to be fading every week with tough losses.

Week Four saw a couple of the undefeated team’s take their first fall of 2009, while five teams remain undefeated in the league. Week Four also started bye weeks for teams, which will give teams much needed rest as players are getting hurt all over. And not just any players; star players are getting hurt.

Lets see who is on top of the NFL rankings through the first quarter of the season.

 

10. New York Jets (4) (3-1, Lost 24-10 to the New Orleans Saints)

Call this a learning experience. Call it rookie jitters. I’ll call it a simple beating for Mark Sanchez.

The Saints defense really rattled Sanchez, forcing him to make bad throws, and costly interceptions. He also got sacked, fumbled the ball in the end-zone, and cost his team seven points in a matter of 10 seconds. In a matter of a week, Sanchez went from looking like a cool and calm quarterback to being a confused rookie who looked lost on Sunday.

It won’t get easier for Sanchez as the Jets will play the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football, so he will be in the national spotlight playing in a rivalry game that can determine where the Jets season will be going.

 

9. San Francisco 49ers (UR) (3-1, Won 35-0 over the St. Louis Rams)

Last week, the 49ers were two seconds away from being on this list, but Brett Favre worked his magic and scored a late touchdown to give the 49ers their first loss of 2009.

So how do the 49ers respond? They come home and put a beat down on the Rams. What was impressive in this game, was that the 49ers were without Frank Gore and they didn’t miss a beat in the game.

Shaun Hill is slowly becoming the leader of this team, and he’s doing a good job for the first place 49ers. With the Cardinals struggles in 2009, San Francisco has an actual chance to break away in the NFC West.

Their next game will be a challenge to see if they are able to handle more tough competition as the Atlanta Falcons will come into town. A win will give the 49ers major respect in the league.

 

8. Chicago Bears (UR) (3-1, Won 48-24 over the Detroit Lions)

In the first week, Jay Cutler looked like a disaster. Three weeks later, and three straight wins later, Cutler looks like he’s the right guy for this team.

His diving flip into the end-zone against the Lions was all over ESPN’s highlight reel, and it showed that Cutler has more toughness than he gets credit for.

The running game got back on track as Matt Forte ran for 121 yards on the Lions. Detroit gave the Bears a fight in the first half, but were non-existent in the second half.

Chicago will get a bye next week, and will rest up as they will challenege for the NFC North.

 

7. Baltimore Ravens (2) (3-1, Lost 27-21 to the New England Patriots)

This was the first test for the Ravens against a quality opponent in the Patriots, and they gave the Patriots all they could handle, but came up a little short on Sunday.

The Ravens had a terrible penalty called on Terrell Suggs for nearly hitting Tom Brady in the knee, but he didn’t hit him, yet it didn’t stop the referees from calling a personal foul call on Suggs, which Ray Lewis heavily criticized afterwards.

The Ravens still have a good and strong team, and Ray Rice is stepping up as the team’s strongest back, and Joe Flacco is still having a great season despite this loss.

Baltimore will have the Bengals next week, and should be able to rebound at home, but Cincinnati has been playing tough this year, so expect a competitive game between the division rivals.

 

6. New England Patriots (8) (3-1, Won 27-21 over the Baltimore Ravens)

The Patriots needed to win this game in order to get back on top of the AFC East division. The Ravens gave them a fight in Foxboro and nearly lost in the fourth quarter, but the Patriots made a key stop with less than a minute to go to hold on.

Tom Brady showed everyone that his surgically repaired knee is getting better when he scampered into the endzone on a quarterback dive.

Brady also got back into rhythm with Randy Moss and Wes Welker, as they both caught three and six passes each, and the passing attack is improving each week.

Next week, Bill Belichick will face his former pupil and offensive coordinator, Josh McDaniels and the Broncos, in a true coaching “teacher against student” contest.

 

5. Denver Broncos (7) (4-0, Won 17-10 over the Dallas Cowboys)

Everyone said the Broncos weren’t for real, and that they hadn’t faced a tough opponent yet.

In came the Dallas Cowboys as a real test for the Broncos, and they were up quickly 10-0. But Denver didn’t back down, they kept pressuring Tony Romo all game, and scored 17 unanswered points, 10 of which came in the fourth quarter and saw Brandon Marshall break out of his slump with his game-winning 51 yard touchdown catch.

Romo had the chance to come back and get Dallas into overtime with a last minute drive, which he was able to do by getting to the two yard line, but Romo threw two passes in Champ Bailey’s direction, which made no sense since he batted both passes away to secure Denver’s win.

Josh McDaniels will face his mentor in Bill Belichick and the Patriots next week at home, and it should be a close game.

 

4. Minnesota Vikings (6) (4-0, Won 30-23 over the Green Bay Packers)

Brett Favre versus Aaron Rodgers. Brett Favre versus the Packers. That was the main headline on Monday night, and in Minneapolis he stepped up and delivered three touchdowns against his former team in a victory.

Favre didn’t look like he was 40, but more 30 on Monday night, and was slinging fastballs down-field to Bernard Berrian, Sidney Rice, Percy Harvin, and Visanthe Shiancoe.

Jared Allen had four and a half of the eight sacks on Rodgers, and put him on his back all night long. Rodgers was still able to throw for 384 yards on Minnesota’s defense, but it didn’t matter because Favre and the offense dominated.

Minnesota will go to St. Louis to play the Rams next week, and unless the Vikings undergo any major setbacks, should go to 5-0.

 

3. New Orleans Saints (3) (4-0, Won 24-10 over the New York Jets)

For the second straight week, Drew Brees did not throw a touchdown pass. But for the second straight week, it didn’t matter, because the Saints found another way to win a football game.

This week against the Jets, it was the defensive unit that got the job done. Darren Sharper intercepted Mark Sanchez and returned a 99 yard touchdown, and Will Smith sacked Sanchez, causing a fumble in the end-zone, which was recovered by Remi Ayodele for another touchdown.

The Saints are finding ways to win games, and are showing the league they are a top team, and a force to be dealt with. Next week they will have a bye, so for another week, they will remain undefeated.

 

2. Indianapolis Colts (5) (4-0, Won 34-17 over the Seattle Seahawks)

Peyton Manning will be joining Drew Brees in the MVP discussions now as he continues to keep the Colts offense rolling along.

Manning threw for two more touchdown passes, 353 more yards, and got the Colts fourth win. Manning threw to six different receivers, including his favorites in Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark, while throwing to new targets like Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon. All of this while Anthony Gonzalez is still out with an injury.

With the Colts at 4-0 and the rest of the division at mediocrity and worse, they are clearly running away with the AFC South division.

Next week, the Colts will have a chance to gain more distance in the division on Sunday Night Football by facing an 0-4 Titans team that is watching their 2009 season sink fast. The Colts better be prepared for a fight from a desperate team looking to stay alive and avoid going 0-5.

 

1. New York Giants (1) (4-0, Won 27-16 over the Kansas City Chiefs)

The Giants are known for being a power running football team, but in 2009, they are showing a strong passing attack.

Eli Manning threw for 292 yards and three touchdown passes against the Chiefs. However, Manning suffered a bruised heel throwing a pass down-field, but on the next play, threw a screen pass to Hakeem Nicks, which was taken for 54 yards, and avoided Chiefs’ defenders, for his first NFL career touchdown.

Steve Smith continues to break out this season as he caught 11 passes for 134 yards, and two touchdown passes. Smith currently leads the league in receiving. Mario Manningham only had one catch, but it was a deep ball for 43 yards.

The running game was strong again behind Brandon Jacobs with 21 carries for 92 yards, and Ahmad Bradshaw with 12 carries and 64 yards; Bradshaw was playing with a hurt ankle, but still played well.

The status of Manning for next week is probable right now. They have the Raiders next week at home, who are a pitiful team. If Manning needs to sit a week, David Carr might get some playing time in. Getting Manning healthy is the key if the Giants want to win a championship.

 

Week Four is in the books, and a quarter of the NFL season is already over. This season is already going quickly, and before we know it, half of the season will have been played. The top teams of the NFL will be a lot clearer to determine, and we will know who is for real in 2009. Hope everyone has a great week, and we’ll all be back on Sunday and Monday for Week Five.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Predictions: Week Four

Week Four has quite a few good looking showdowns on Sunday.

But it has a great big one on Monday night, a showdown that has been brewing for almost a year now.

Whether you call it a grudge match, or call it teacher against student, or call it a rivalry game: You’re right. I’ll get to that game a little later.

Last week, I had a great week going 14-2. My only losses were the Steelers losing to the Bengals and the Texans losing to the Jaguars. Other than that, it was a decisive week. On the season, I am 35-13 and looking to continue the good record.

So let’s look at Week Four and see what is in store for this weekend’s games.

 

New York Giants @ Kansas City Chiefs

The Giants defense was banged up, but still pitched a shutout last weekend in Tampa Bay over a lousy Buccaneers team. A week of rest should do wonders for the Giants team in need to get healthy.

The latest injury for the Giants is running back Ahmad Bradshaw, who has a sprained foot and was out of Giants practice on Wednesday, but Bradshaw is expected to play on Sunday. Expect Brandon Jacobs to carry the load for the Giants with Bradshaw’s foot injury.

The Chiefs haven’t played well and were embarrassed last week against the Eagles. Matt Cassel hasn’t played well yet, and it doesn’t look well against a defense with one of the premeir pass rushes. The Giants should be able to win this game easily on the road.

Final Score: Giants 30, Chiefs 10

 

Seattle Seahawks @ Indianapolis Colts

Matt Hasselbeck hasn’t been able to go for Seattle and Seneca Wallace is playing better, but hasn’t won a game yet in 2009. It won’t get any easier in Indianapolis, but if Wallace or Hasselbeck are playing, they won’t have to worry about Dwight Freeney, who will be out with quadriceps injury.

The Colts offense is rolling. Peyton Manning is throwing touchdowns and winning games. Some things just never change, even if the head coach did. Seattle had a tough time trying to stop the Bears offense under Jay Cutler; it’s not going to be easier trying to stop Manning and the Colts offense.

The Colts should win this game easily.

Final Score: Colts 31, Seahawks 20

 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Washington Redskins

In the past, this game has been a playoff matchup. Now, it’s a game between two struggling teams.

Tampa Bay benched Byron Leftwich and promoted Josh Johnson, who moved the ball a little against the Giants, but still did not score. Washington’s defense can be tough, although Albert Haynesworth hasn’t gotten off to the start Redskins fans wanted.

Washington is struggling. Jim Zorn is teetering on being run out of Washington and Jason Campbell may follow him after the season. Clinton Portis is questionable for this game with an ankle injury. But, Washington should be able to generate enough offense, just enough to squeak by the Buccaneers.

Final Score: Redskins 17, Buccaneers 10

 

Baltimore Ravens @ New England Patriots

Two of the top teams in the NFL will square off in Foxboro in an anticipated matchup.

The Ravens offense has exploded onto the league and Joe Flacco has been very good of late, but he’s faced defensive teams who haven’t been very good.

Playing in New England is always tough for a young quarterback, and he can ask Matt Ryan about the pressure.

The Patriots got back on track last week, although at times, Tom Brady overthrew his receivers and struggled a bit. They were able to run the ball well with Fred Taylor, but the Ravens defense is always tough to face.

This should be a very tough game in Gillette Stadium and it should come down to the final minutes.

Final Score: Patriots 20, Ravens 17

 

Dallas Cowboys @ Denver Broncos

The Cowboys finally won a home game on Monday night against the Panthers, so that is out of the way.

They are going to be without top running back Felix Jones with a knee injury for the game and Marion Barber is questionable with a thigh injury after missing last week. This means Tashard Choice may get most of the carries.

Denver’s defense has been outstanding through the first three games, but this will be their first test against a tough opponent. Defensive coordinator Mike Nolan is very good at preparing his players and if the Cowboys running attack is too banged up against Denver, it might be a long day for Tony Romo, who hasn’t been overly impressive.

Final Score: Broncos 24, Cowboys 17

 

Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns

The Bengals won a huge game at home against the Steelers with less than a minute to go.

Carson Palmer is healthy and is playing well. He is the key to the Bengals season. So is Cedric Benson and Chad Ochocinco, who are having good seasons in 2009.

Cleveland is a mess. Period. They’ve scored only 29 points in the first three games, the city of Cleveland is calling for Eric Mangini’s firing, and Brady Quinn was benched for Derek Anderson. It’s a questionable move, considering Anderson threw three interceptions last week against the Ravens.

Don’t expect things to get any better for the Browns against an inspired Bengals team.

Final Score: Bengals 23, Browns 7

 

Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Tennessee is 0-3 and their season is sinking fast.

Many are wondering if Vince Young should be put back in at starting quarterback, but for now, it’s still on Kerry Collins’ shoulders to get the job done.

The Jaguars got a big win over the Texans last week, who have been very disappointing so far. The problem is when you face a desperate team, generally they will come out fighting harder and playing tougher than you will, which should be the case for the Titans.

Expect Chris Johnson and LenDale White to run wild on the Jaguars.

Final Score: Titans 28, Jaguars 20

 

Oakland Raiders @ Houston Texans

JaMarcus Russell is quickly becoming a bust in the NFL. He has horrible game management, he’s inaccurate, and he doesn’t try hard. He’s blessed with a strong arm and is a rich man, but that’s about it.

The Texans so far have been very disappointing at 1-2 and need a win to get some confidence back.

So far, Matt Schaub has thrown for over 800 yards and should have no problem throwing the ball at home against the Raiders defense, especially to Andre Johnson.

Final Score: Texans 31, Raiders 14

 

Detroit Lions @ Chicago Bears

The Lions ended their 19-game losing streak with a win over the Redskins, which should give Detroit hope for the future.

However, it doesn’t get any easier for Detroit, especially on defense.

Jay Cutler has been playing much better after his disastrous first week and has lead the Bears to two straight wins.

The Lions defense will have a long day ahead of them trying to stop the Bears offense with Cutler and company at Soldier Field.

Final Score: Bears 27, Lions 13

 

New York Jets @ New Orleans Saints

This is another premier game on the Week Four schedule, and it’s the classic great offense against great defense matchup.

The Jets defense has played very well because they get pressure on the quarterback. If they want to have a chance in the Superdome, they must get pressure on Drew Brees all game long.

Speaking of Brees, he’s already having an MVP-like season, throwing a ton of touchdowns in the explosive Saints offense, and as long as he stays off his backside, nobody is expecting different.

This should be a great game, and it’s the first test for the Jets on the road. It depends on how well Mark Sanchez can play in a loud building with a ton of pressure in his face.

Final Score: Saints 28, Jets 24

 

Buffalo Bills @ Miami Dolphins

For the first time in 13 years, Terrell Owens was held without a single catch in their loss to the Saints. You can probably imagine how unhappy he was about it.

Can you imagine if T.O. goes catch-less in a second straight game? I’m sure Trent Edwards does not want that, so expect him to throw the ball more to Owens in the game.

The Miami offense took a hit when Chad Pennington was injured and will miss the rest of the season with a bad shoulder, so now it’s on Chad Henne’s shoulders. With Henne in, does the Dolphins’ offense still use the Wildcat?

Miami’s defense hasn’t played well all season long, and with an angry T.O., they might be in for a long day trying to stop him.

With the focus on T.O., the rest of the Bills offense should have an easy day.

Final Score: Bills 24, Dolphins 16

 

St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers

The Rams were once a playoff team under Marc Bulger. Now, they are a huge mess and it’s not getting any better. The Rams have scored a total of 24 points in the first three games and are 0-3. Not a good start for Steve Spagnuolo.

The 49ers were two seconds away from being 3-0, but Brett Favre’s game winning touchdown pass took care of that.

The 49ers have been playing very well in 2009, but they will be without top running back Frank Gore, who has suffered an ankle injury.

Even without Gore, the 49ers should be able to take care of the Rams at home.

Final Score: 49ers 20, Rams 6

 

Sunday Night Football: San Diego Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers

This is a rematch of the second round playoff game between these two teams.

The Chargers cruised easily in their game against the Dolphins, but they will be playing in a tough environment on the road.  Phillip Rivers has had a tremendous season and will look to continue airing the ball out.

The Steelers need a win desperately to stay in the mix. They’re 1-2 and still without Troy Polamalu. The Steelers have also been two plays away from being 3-0 instead of 1-2, so their record is a little deceiving.

Mike Tomlin will have this team fired up on national TV and expect a much-needed win from the defending champions. But also expect a very close game.

Final Score: Steelers 24, Chargers 21

 

Monday Night Football: Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings

Remember that grudge match I was referring to earlier? This is it.

Teacher against student. You got it with Brett Favre against Aaron Rodgers.

All eyes will be watching Favre take on his former team for the first time, but he will at least have the crowd on his side in the Metrodome. The Vikings are 3-0 and playing very well, especially after their come from behind win against the 49ers.

The Packers are 2-1 and have been playing well in 2009, but this is a major test. This is Monday Night Football with the Packers and Vikings. This was a constant game on Monday nights with Favre in Green Bay, and usually Favre won those games against Minnesota.

Expect Adrian Peterson to have another great game on the national stage and drive the Packers defense nuts all night.

This time, it will be Favre torturing Green Bay fans on the Monday night showdown with a win.

Final Score: Vikings 34, Packers 24

 

Bye Weeks: Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Philadelphia Eagles

 

That’s the schedule and picks for Week Four. There are some great matchups to look forward to and it will all end with a highly anticipated grudge match, which of course will be dominated in the news with Brett Favre. What else is new? The media will have a field day with the anticipation of the Monday night game.

Hope everyone enjoys the rest of their week and gets ready for another great weekend of NFL games.

Green Bay, Are you ready? Minnesota, Are you ready? Brett Favre, ARE YOU READY? The rest of us are.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

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