What the Wes Welker Injury Means for the New England Patriots

To put it bluntly, this is why you sit your starters in meaningless games.

The New England Patriots entered Sunday’s match-up with the determined Houston Texans at 10-5, as division champs, and with a chip on their shoulder.

They should have quit while they were ahead. Literally .

But even before the game took a turn and all of Houston saw (at least for another three hours) a decent shot at the postseason, the Patriots’ entire fan base saw their worst nightmare.

Wide receiver Wes Welker sustained what ESPN’s Adam Schefter has reported as being a tear of both the ACL and MCL ligaments in his knee.

Welker was injured on a first quarter play, was escorted to the sidelines, and did not return to the game.

To get a good idea of what Welker means to this Patriots offense, and just as important, Tom Brady, one needs to look no further than the game against the Texans, where Brady struggled without his money-man underneath, throwing for under 200 yards, no scores, and a pick in over three quarters of play.

But if you’re a logical fan, and better yet, a hopeful New England supporter, more proof will surely be needed.

Earlier in the season, while many discounted Tom Brady’s early struggles to rust and his inability to feel completely comfortable inside the pocket (something about a knee injury), it was painfully obvious that Brady was actually desperately missing a twice absent Welker, while also working with a Welker that was battling a knee injury through the first five weeks.

We’re talking about a guy who has recorded at least 111 receptions and 1,000+ yards in every season as a Patriot. This is the guy who would have been the Super Bowl MVP in 2007 if Plaxico Burress and David Tyree didn’t put their comeback hats on.

This is the guy that gets no respect. He’s the receiver who is “basically a running back.” He isn’t fast. He isn’t Randy Moss. Julian Edelman did well while he was out, so “quite clearly,” he’s replaceable.

Wrong.

What people don’t realize is that Welker isn’t just “effective” or a receiver with great hands. He moves the chains at an elite rate, and simply racks up yardage after the catch.

On a team with a sketchy rushing attack, Welker does take the form of a running back, although it’s viewed as an extreme positive, rather than a knock on his ability to play the position.

While Edelman, who caught 10 balls for 103 yards in place of Welker on Sunday, is an adequate replacement in the slot, it’s more than arguable that no one can actually “replace” Welker.

At least, not fully.

Unfortunately for Welker, Brady, and the rest of this New England offense, however, the former Kent State quarterback will have to try.

For more NFL news and articles, go here .

 

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For Dallas Cowboys, the December Curse Is Over

The curse has to end sometime. Just ask the Boston Red Sox.

Ask all the Chicago Cubs fans who are still crossing their fingers, saying their prayers, and dreaming those dreams.

Even if it hasn’t happened yet, it eventually will.

Most (if not not every) record will be broken. Games that shouldn’t be won will be won. And curses, as mystical and evil as they may appear, will always be lifted.

Don’t look now, Cowboys fans, but that horrible “December Curse” is about to be wiped away.

Sure, your Dallas team has a mediocre 2-2 record in the month of December this season, but that’s nothing to be ashamed about. Two teams that are supposedly better than them, the New Orleans Saints and Minnesota Vikings, are either 2-2 or 1-3.

Misery does love company. But sometimes good teams just run into a muddied road. Sometimes it takes a while to work out the kinks.

But for these inspired and hot Dallas Cowboys, this is more than a disposal of a late-season curse. This is redemption at its finest.

After upsetting the undefeated New Orleans Saints and knocking off the lowly Washington Redskins, the Cowboys are starting to forget about all the bad and instill the good feelings of success at the period of the NFL season when it actually matters.

Don’t worry about their late-game collapse against the Broncos, their close overtime battle with the weak Kansas City Chiefs, or their near shut-out against the Green Bay Packers.

All that’s left is a home game against a Philadelphia Eagles team that embarrassed them in the season finale a year ago and kept them at home and out of the 2008 playoffs.

Add the fact that they beat this same Eagles squad earlier this season, and you’ve got yourself a deadly mix of revenge and confidence.

Tony Romo is playing some of the best football of his life. Terrell Owens is a long forgotten man, while Miles Austin has done more than replace the play-making ability, while bringing a fresh brand of humility and hunger to the Dallas passing game.

Fresh off of a shut-out, the Cowboys’ defense is playing active and aggressive. Demarcus Ware, originally feared to be out for the season, is as disruptive as ever and will give the Eagles (and playoff opponents) something to plan for.

Keep betting against this Dallas team, and see where it gets you. Because even if they do slip-up and hand the Eagles the NFC East, they still get a crack at putting a run together in the playoffs.

And considering this is a team that no one believes in, that has nothing to lose, and has all the talent in the world to actually pull it off, they just might be the scariest team in the NFC.

That’s a lot for the Philadelphia Eagles to swallow as they go on the road and try to win their division title. And even if they do beat these Cowboys, you can bet your bottom dollar there’s no way they’ll want to have to face them in the playoffs.

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NFL Week 17 Preview: Chris Johnson Is About To Make History

We’re in the final week of the 2009 NFL regular season, and before we turn the fortunes of the 2009 portion into the hands of 2010 and the next decade, we still have one last glance at some special moments in Week 17.

We’ve seen some interesting things, some scary things, and some shocking things through the previous 15 games, and we even had quite the wild ride over the course of the offseason.

Even when the 16th regular season game is over for all 32 teams, the story-lines still won’t be completely over. Even for the teams that won’t make the dance, there will still be questions waiting to be answered, positions needing to be filled, and staff changes to be made.

In Week 17, let’s take a look at the Five Things to Watch For:

 

5. Will Playoff Positioning Matter for the Cardinals and/or Packers?

 

Both teams can still change who their first round matchup will be against, and if Arizona wins and has some games go their way, they could actually be looking at an unlikely number two seed and a week away from the playoffs.

Neither team is expected to begin resting their starters before halftime, and early reports suggest that this game will be fought to be won. Both teams could stand to improve their seeding and could potentially be fighting for the chance to host a game in the first round.

Then again, who wins or loses this match-up could mean nothing if they still wind up playing each other next week. We’ll take the home team. Besides, if the teams go to their back-ups, are you really going to go with Matt Flynn over Matt Leinart?

Cardinals 27, Packers 21

 

4. Will Rex Ryan’s Tears be of Joy or Anguish?

Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Jets

The Bengals could play spoiler against an average Jets team that has a shot at the playoffs, but considering all New York needs to do is win to get it, I somehow see Mark “Sanchize” working some magic and winning over his city (and state) yet again.

After starting the season 3-0, Sanchez and the Jets will once again be on top of the world after beating the Bengals, if only for one week.

Jets 26, Bengals 24

 

3. Can the Minnesota Vikings End the Regular Season on a High Note?

New York Giants @ Minnesota Vikings

The Giants didn’t show up last week at home with everything on the line, so why should we think anything different on the road against the Vikings? Minnesota can use a weak Giants defense as its playoff launchpad to correct any mistakes.

They still have a long way to go, but ending the season on a high note is probably a necessity to making a serious run in the playoffs.

Vikings 34, Giants 24

 

2. Will Chris Johnson Break Eric Dickerson’s Rushing Record?

 

Eddie Griffin started the debate earlier in the year, and I seconded it by predicting the same after Week Eight, and after 15 games of torrid running, the possibility still remains.

Chris Johnson is just 128 yards away from breaking 2,000 rushing yards, and would need an extra 105 to tie Eric Dickerson’s all-time single-season rushing yardage record.

With the backing of his team (Jeff Fisher wants him to get the record), there is little doubt Johnson will be fed the ball early and often, and with a soft match-up against the Seattle Seahawks, the second-year back truly has a shot at making history.

After 10 consecutive games of 100+ rushing yards, CJ stands 234 yards away from owning the new record for rushing yards in one season.

Verdict: Against all odds, Johnson will break the record.

 

1. Who Wins the NFC East?

Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas Cowboys

The Eagles have looked impressive lately and have several experts thinking “team to beat” in the NFC, but a trip to Dallas for the NFC East title and a shot at the No. 2 seed in the playoffs will be too much to swallow.

They’re a good team, but so are the Cowboys. Dallas finally rids themselves of their “December Curse” by sweeping Philly and stealing the NFC East.

Cowboys 36, Eagles 33

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NFL Quick Hits (Dec. 31st): Ahmad Bradshaw’s Value Rises With Jacobs Out

Brandon Jacobs Out For Season Finale

The Giants are out of the playoffs, which prompted the New York front office to cut Jacobs’ season short and get his knee cleaned up.

Jacobs underwent a scope and should be completely healthy by training camp next season. The stage will belong to Ahmad Bradshaw this week against the Minnesota Vikings.

Steven Jackson to be a Game-Time Decision

The Rams have very little to play for, and their only star weapon has been fighting nagging injuries and a bad back for the past few weeks.

St. Louis will continue to be quiet about his availability, but any chance of them ending the season on a high note rests in the banged-up Jackson’s hands.

Look for Jackson to play, but keep an eye on him if you’re in a league that plays into Week 17 .

Troy Smith Wants Out of Baltimore

We’ve been hearing quiet gripes about Smith wanting an opportunity to start ever since the Ravens drafted Joe Flacco last year.

While we know he’s likely to get a ticket out of town, and he has no chance of overtaking Flacco, Smith could have at least used some discretion and waited until the season was over.

Packers/Cardinals May Not Rest Starters

The Packers are reportedly vying to win their game against the Arizona Cardinals, as a win could still affect who they could match-up with in the first round, although it’s still likely they will be facing this same Cardinals squad.

Arizona, on the other hand, still has an outside shot at the number two seed and a first round bye if they get past the Packers and the Vikings lose.

There’s always the chance that both teams hide their game-plans for the next week and let the back-up players duke it out.

Brandon Marshall to Play in Week 17

Marshall was dealing with a hamstring issue after pulling it in practice, but he should be good to go this week .

He has a beautiful match-up with the slow KC corners, and has been on an absolute tear this week. If you’re playing in your championship this week, feel blessed to have him in your line-up.

Isaac Bruce Leaning Towards Retirement

Bruce has been phased out of the 49ers’ offensive plans, and has clearly regressed as a play-maker, which will likely prompt him to end his career following San Francisco’s final game.

It’d be nice to see Bruce get some extra playing time against his former team, the Rams as a nice way of saying good-bye, but even that wouldn’t give him much fantasy value.

 

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Week 17 NFL Picks: Cowboys vs. Eagles Highlights Final Week

Although the NFC no longer has any teams fighting to get into the playoffs , playoff seeding is still left to be decided, while over in the AFC, the final two Wild Card teams are still not decided.

The Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles will square off for the NFC East division title, with Philadelphia also claiming the No. 2 seed and first-round bye with a victory on the road against Dallas.

In the AFC, both the Baltimore Ravens and New York Jets need a win and they’re in, while the Pittsburgh Steelers, Houston Texans, and Denver Broncos all remain alive, and could still get in with a win and some extra help.

Read on for all the games in Week 17 :

San Francisco 49ers @ St. Louis Rams

The 49ers can get to 8-8 and make this into a respectable season after starting 3-1. Considering their defense bottomed out near mid-season and they survived a quarterback switch, they have to be feeling okay about where they are.

The Rams aren’t good enough to get in the way of some much-needed momentum toward next season.

49ers 27, Rams 6

 

New England Patriots @ Houston Texans

Despite the cries of their fans to play the starters, the Patriots will rest their core players and inevitably fall to a Houston team that has been pulling out games the past three weeks.

New England is the better team, but they don’t need this one, and they’d be foolish to play Tom Brady and Co. much past the third quarter.

Texans 33, Patriots 27

Atlanta Falcons @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay may have surprised New Orleans, but they won’t sneak up on Matt Ryan and the Falcons. Atlanta is a better team than given credit for, and despite numerous injuries and a leaky defense, they can finish the season on a high note.

Falcons 24, Buccaneers 20

 

New Orleans Saints @ Carolina Panthers

Can New Orleans really strike fear into the rest of the NFC if they drop three straight as they head into the playoffs?

Considering they have home-field advantage, it may not matter. Regardless, it’s about time the Saints sit their starters, while the Panthers show no signs of slowing down.

Panthers 31, Saints 19

 

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins have lost two heart-breakers and back-to-back weeks, and even though the Steelers are the ones that are still alive, this won’t be an easy win for Pittsburgh.

The Steelers need some help to return to the playoffs to defend their title, but it has to start with a victory on the road, where they are merely 2-5. Somehow, some way, they get it done.

Steelers 21, Dolphins 16

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Cleveland Browns

Jack Del Rio has completely lost his team, while Eric Mangini is ironically finally finding his. The funny thing is, it’s likely too late for both coaches, and neither of these teams will be in the playoffs.

Look for another big day from Jerome Harrison as these two hapless teams explode for a meaningless, albeit entertaining match-up.

Browns 38, Jaguars 35

 

New York Giants @ Minnesota Vikings

The Giants didn’t show up last week at home with everything on the line, so why should we think anything different on the road against the Vikings? Minnesota can use a weak Giants defense as it’s playoff launchpad to correct any mistakes.

They still have a ways to go, but ending the season on a high note is probably a necessity to making a serious run in the playoffs.

Vikings 34, Giants 24

 

Indianapolis Colts @ Buffalo Bills

The Colts will still sit their starters before or around half-time, as they’d look simply foolish if they switched their philosophy after blowing a shot at perfection last week.

Even with their starters out, there’s not a very good chance they drop this one to a Bills team led by Brian Brohm.

Colts 27, Bills 7

Chicago Bears @ Detroit Lions

Jay Cutler found some magic last week, and should only continue his late-season splurge on weak defenses. The Lions will be no match for an inspired Chicago team that is playing its heart out to keep Lovie Smith in town.

Bears 37, Lions 13

Washington Redskins @ San Diego Chargers

The Redskins are a game away from saying good-bye to Jim Zorn and possibly welcoming the likes of Bill Cowher, Jon Gruden, or Mike Shanahan.

It’d be nice for Zorn and Co. to end this dismal season on a high note, but even the Chargers’ scrubs will nix that before half-time.

Chargers 28, Redskins 17

Tennessee Titans @ Seattle Seahawks

Chris Johnson will pursue (and surpass) the 2,000-yard plateau against a horrible Seahawks defense, while we will all watch in awe as we try to understand why Seattle is so bad on both sides of the ball.

Titans 30, Seahawks 16

Baltimore Ravens @ Oakland Raiders

The Raiders have been playing the “upset special” card all season, with impressive wins over the Eagles, Bengals, and Steelers, so why stop now? How about, because Ray Rice won’t be denied against one of the worst run defenses in the league?

Ravens 27, Raiders 6

Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas Cowboys

The Eagles have looked impressive lately and have several experts thinking “team to beat” in the NFC, but a trip to Dallas for the NFC East title and a shot at the number two seed in the playoffs will be too much to swallow.

They’re a good team, but so are the Cowboys. Dallas finally rids of their “December Curse” by sweeping Philly and stealing the NFC East.

Cowboys 36, Eagles 33

 

Kansas City Chiefs @ Denver Broncos

Denver may have been an inconsistent disaster since starting the season at 6-0, but they’re still too talented and competitive to see their playoff hopes dashed by the Chiefs. Right?

Broncos 21, Chiefs 18

Green Bay Packers @ Arizona Cardinals

This game doesn’t mean anything more than seed positioning for either team, although a win and a loss by both the Vikings and Eagles would magically get the Cardinals the No. 2 seed and a home game in the divisional round of the playoffs.

They won’t be getting the second seed, but they will finish strong at home by disposing of the Packers as both teams rest for the playoffs.

Cardinals 27, Packers 23

 

Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Jets

The Bengals could play spoiler against an average Jets team that has a shot at the playoffs, but considering all New York needs to do is win to get it, I somehow see Mark “Sanchize” working some magic and winning over his city (and state) yet again.

After starting the season 3-0, Sanchez and the Jets will once again be on top of the world after beating the Bengals, if only for one week.

Jets 26, Bengals 24

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Dynasty Fantasy Profile: Is Jerome Harrison The Real Deal?

Earlier this season, Jerome Harrison stepped in for an injured Jamal Lewis and tallied 81 total yards on 21 touches against a stout Baltimore Ravens defense, and sparked the notion that he could soon supplant the aging Lewis as the Browns’ new starting running back.

He then followed up that talk with an unlikely superstar day, rushing for 121 yards on 29 carries, while racking up another 31 yards on five receptions.

He got the fantasy world foaming at the mouth, and before we could all figure out Eric Mangini and the new-look Cleveland Browns, we had the rug pulled-out from under us.

Jamal Lewis returned, the Browns kept trying to get rookie James Davis going, and Harrison’s nagging injuries left him out of the mix.

For the next nine weeks, we were all left to wonder if this guy had what it takes to be an NFL running back, if he was worth a fantasy roster spot, and if he’d ever get more than 10 carries in a game again.

Two weeks ago, against the Kansas City Chiefs, those questions were answered.

Harrison ran for an extremely impressive 286 yards and three touchdowns on 34 carries, displaying great vision and cutting ability, while also showcasing his above-average speed.

That one game set afire Jerome Harrison debates, and made us all wonder (yet again) if this kid could rumble with the best of them in the NFL.

Did he just need another “go-around” as the featured back, or was this just a testament to how bad the Chiefs run defense has gotten?

The answer: quite possible a little bit of both.

But then came Week 16’s action. Harrison faced an equally woeful Oakland Raiders defense, and proceeded to carry his Browns on his back to the tune of 39 carries, 148 yards, and one score, while leading them to their second straight victory.

So, the question remains: Is this guy for real?

When you consider that he’s topped 120 rushing yards or more in each of the last three games where he’s ran the ball at least 29 times, then the answer is a fairly easy “yes”, although those stats need to be taken with a grain of salt.

First, while his ability to handle a huge load (and handle it well) is impressive, it’s also quite unlikely he can consistently see that many touches per game on a regular basis, which could mean his production would normally dip much lower if he were to average, say, 15 attempts per game.

Secondly, two of the three defenses he torched were teams with five or less wins, and defenses that are not known for being able to stop the run (KC and Oakland).

The third, however, was the nice 121-yard performance he had against a solid Cincinnati Bengals defense earlier in the season.

Verdict: You got the numbers. You know what his role was earlier in the year, who he faced, and how he fared. You even know by now that Jamal Lewis will be retiring, which means Harrison’s main competition for 2010 will be Chris Jennings, who he has clearly passed on the depth chart.

However, what you don’t know is what kind of an impact James Davis will have next season. You also don’t know whether or not Eric Mangini will be back as the head coach, what kind of a role Josh Cribbs will play at running back (or another position) next season, and whether or not Cleveland will draft a running back in April (they will).

With that said, short of some major issues with the law and not being drafted in the first round by the Chicago Bears, Jerome Harrison has all the makings of last year’s (and possible this year’s) Cedric Benson.

He’s tearing it up to end the season, just like Benson, and appears to be on a team that is starting to get fairly competitive. With Mike Holmgren now around to run the show, it’s unlikely the talented Harrison is going anywhere.

While he can’t have guaranteed RB1 or RB2 value headed into the 2010 season, he is definitely worth a stash on your roster in Dynasty leagues, and he’s clearly worth monitoring all off-season.

Pay close attention to all the moves Cleveland makes, who and where they draft at running back, and what Harrison’s role could/might be entering next season. He could very well be the next electrifying back that could be available in the middle rounds of you fantasy draft.

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Brett Favre Haters Need to Give It a Rest

Yes, the Minnesota Vikings have dropped three of their last four, all on the road, and are staring a Wild Card match right in the face .

They were 10-1, Brett Favre and the offense was clicking, and this team was thinking Super Bowl.

But then, as so many Favre-haters had predicted, the previously unbeatable Favre began his “late-season fade ” and had his worst game of the season against the Arizona Cardinals.

That game prompted articles abound against Favre, suggesting it was “merely the beginning,” and that the end would be near.

Three weeks after the dismal performance in Arizona, it’d be hard to argue that the end may be near for the team , although logic and reason would dare you to look a little closer before assuming Favre is “once again” bringing his team down with him.

Just ask Trent Dilfer. Ask the guys in the Monday night booth. Ask anyone with some common sense and a good head on their shoulders.

The pass protection isn’t there. That awesome running game that Adrian Peterson was supposed to provide isn’t there.

And that playoff-level defense, well, without middle linebacker E.J. Henderson (lost for season), it’s non-existent.

But those Favre-bashers out there aren’t worried about the specifics. All they want is the team’s record, the numbers, and the bad plays.

They’re not concerned with the lack of support by the rest of the offense, the poor pass protection, or the countless fumbles or drops from his offensive weapons.

Going into Monday night’s match-up with the Chicago Bears, Favre had a measly three touchdowns to four interceptions in his last three games, and owned a 1-2 record, with his only win coming at home against the Cincinnati Bengals.

He didn’t do much to prove his doubters wrong in the first half (nor did the rest of the Vikings), as he went just 5-for-9 for under 40 yards, as the Vikings trailed the 5-9 Bears 16-0 at the break.

What followed, however, should show us all (especially the haters), that regardless of wins or losses, the legend of Brett Favre cannot and will not die in the cold weather of Chicago or the twilight of another NFL season.

Favre proceeded to throw for just under 270 yards and led Minnesota to four scoring drives, including the game-tying touchdown pass to Sidney Rice on fourth-and-goal with 16 seconds remaining in the game.

But, of course, tying isn’t winning, and playing a remarkable second half isn’t quite as good as playing a flawless entire four quarters.

No, not quite.

But these moral victories need to be warranted when so many skeptics continue to push at the Jenga pieces that are Favre’s legend, and seemingly hope and pray for the future Hall of Famer to fall apart as the season goes on.

When asked if the cold weather had anything to do with it, Favre shrugged, saying he’d played in worse. It was cold, but that was a bogus excuse.

And then he made a comment about all the writers and analysts who suggest the “old man” can’t come through in cold games, referencing that he still couldn’t win the winter games, despite playing at a high level and having nothing to do with the final outcome in overtime.

Favre watched on with the rest of his offensive teammates after Adrian Peterson lost yet another fumble, and then as the Bears scored on the ensuing play.

Favre will be the first to admit the Vikings aren’t peaking, they have issues, and that they aren’t exactly going in the right direction.

But his play during the game and comments after should limit any writer’s fuel to pen up a column against Favre after this loss, as the legendary quarterback played at an elite level, despite not having the chance to come out on top.

Hundreds, if not thousands, of writers across the nation will eagerly jump at writing another article that damns Favre and these Minnesota Vikings after their third loss in the month of December.

And with the Vikings being in relative shambles, they’d have every reason to opt for that perspective. But if we’re being reasonable. If we’re being logical. If we’re really looking at everything , there’s no way we can continue to point the finger at Favre.

He was brought here to excite, deliver some clutch drivers and performances, and get this team to the playoffs (and beyond). So far, he’s done all of it, and on Monday night, he almost did even more.

But just because Favre can’t play defense and special teams, or will the ball to stay into his receiver’s (or Adrian Peterson’s) hands, that doesn’t mean he should continue to be the nation’s punching bag for why the Vikings are falling apart.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

NFL Fantasy Start & Sit Week 16: Matt Moore Is On The Rise

Most leagues are gone and forgotten by this time of the NFL season, but somewhere out there, fantasy football still reigns in the hearts of fierce competitors.

And for those mighty few who set their line-ups in a frenzy and in great worry, we here at The Red Zone Report are still working hard to guide you to that elusive championship trophy.

Take last week’s solid 9-6 pick standings to heart and trust in us with our 15 selections of start, sit, and sleeper calls for Week 16 :

Start

Brett Favre, QB, Minnesota Vikings

Favre, Brad Childress, and all of the Vikings have been in the midst of negative publicity, but that’s nothing a weak Chicago Bears defense can’t cure. Minnesota should get back to pounding the ball with Adrian Peterson, which will open up the play-action pass for Favre. Even if the weather isn’t great, he could have a big day .

Prediction: 17-24, 245 yds, 3 TD, 0 INT

Alex Smith, QB, San Francisco 49ers

Smith has been a solid fantasy option since taking over for Shaun Hill in mid-season but needs some stellar play and probably at least one more win to convince the 49ers front office that he’s their guy for the future. Playing the Lions should help immensely, as Detroit gives up big points to quarterbacks and has been doing so all season long.

Prediction: 20-29, 306 yds, 3 TD, 1 INT

Jerome Harrison, RB, Cleveland Browns

I know a lot of people are telling you not to buy the hype on the guy who just came out of nowhere to run for 280+ yards and three scores, but we’re here to say, “Do it anyways!”

Harrison won’t run for 200 yards or three scores again, but with Derek Anderson back under center, he’ll be needed even more than last week, and the match-up does bode well for him.

Prediction: 22 att, 134 yds, 1 TD, 4 rec, 45 yds, 1 TD

Jonathan Stewart, RB, Carolina Panthers

With his 100+ yards and a score last week against a usually stout Vikings run defense, combined with starter DeAngelo William’s ankle injury, Stewart is suddenly a hot commodity (again).

The last time Stewart took over for an injured Williams, he fulfilled RB2 expectations, and even if he doesn’t get the start, he should come very close to doing so again against an average New York Giants run defense.

Prediction: 14 att, 78 yds, 1 TD, 3 rec, 14 yds, 0 TD

Terrell Owens, WR, Buffalo Bills

I know it’s hard to trust T.O., and it’s even harder to trust any offensive weapons in Buffalo, but this is the week to use him. And considering that it’s likely your championship week, it’s time to pull out all the stops and see if this guy can still help you win a title.

Brian Brohm could show up and play just like, well, Brian Brohm, but as long as T.O. gets some solid looks, he has a good chance at doing some damage against a vulnerable Falcons pass defense. Hey, if Braylon Edwards can, then why not T.O.?

Prediction: 5 rec, 77 yds, 1 TD

Sit

Jay Cutler, QB, Chicago Bears

It’s not crazy to imagine several Cutler owners throwing caution to the wind and weighing the “pros”, thinking that because he’s “due” for a solid game, playing at home, and facing a weak as of late Vikings secondary, Cutler would be a good play.

But he still isn’t. The Vikings still have the ability to rush the passer and create turnovers, and without a strong running game, the Bears will be forced to pass more than they’d like to, which will end badly for Cutler, who already owns 25 interceptions on the season. Make it 28 after Monday night.

Prediction: 22-34, 289 yds, 1 TD, 3 INT

Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons will likely have just as hard of a time moving the ball and scoring against Buffalo as they did last week against the Jets. The Bills can definitely be run on, but without Michael Turner handy, Ryan will likely be forced to pass against an elite pass defense more than he’d like to.

Prediction: 23-36, 279 yds, 2 TD, 3 INT

Eli Manning, QB, New York Giants

Fantasy owners should have learned by now. You don’t play quarterbacks against the Raiders, Bills, or Panthers pass defenses. You just don’t. For Manning, look no further than Brett Favre and Tom Brady’s struggles with an improving Carolina pass rush, as well as stingy coverage.

Manning and his Giants passing attack have looked good, but this could be an ugly week.

Prediction: 21-34, 227 yds, 1 TD, 2 INT

Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers

We could just as easily tell you not to start Ray Rice (who plays in the same game), but we’re going with the guy who is less likely to have an impact in the passing game and has an even less chance of making something happen in between the tackles.

Mendy should get the touches, but the yards just won’t be there this week.

Prediction: 15 att, 66 yds, 0 TD, 3 rec, 18 yds, 0 TD

LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, San Diego Chargers

Tomlinson should begin “rest mode” this week, as the Chargers don’t have much else to play for in the final two weeks, and even if he does play the whole game, the match-up doesn’t bode well for him. The Titans stop the ball on both ends pretty well, so he should be tied up all day.

Prediction: 12 att, 44 yds, 0 TD, 1 rec, 5 yds, 0 TD

Sleeper

Brian Brohm, QB, Buffalo Bills

Are we suggesting Brohm as a late-season sleeper because we see something Green Bay didn’t, or that we even have a ton of confidence in the former Louisville quarterback? No, but we do half-way bank on Terrell Owens producing at least one more decent fantasy game, and we wouldn’t be surprised to see Lee Evans get some make-up stats as well.

Brohm is far from polished and lacks great confidence, but a second go-around could be all he needs to get running in the right direction. A decent match-up with an at times suspect Atlanta Falcons pass defense this week doesn’t hurt.

Prediction: 19-35, 231 yds, 2 TD, 2 INT

Charlie Frye, QB, Oakland Raiders

He didn’t finish last week’s game and had to watch JaMarcus Russell win the game, but regardless, Frye gets another crack at running Oakland’s offense in Week 16. We still don’t expect much from Frye, but he is facing the team that drafted him and threw him to the side, and considering it’s the lowly Cleveland Browns, there’s always the potential for a big game.

Prediction: 18-27, 233 yds, 2 TD, 0 INT

Matt Moore, QB, Carolina Panthers

A lot of people are over-looking Moore simply because they think he over-achieved or “got lucky” against the Minnesota Vikings last week, and while that may have some truth to it, the guy is still producing decent numbers, is backed by a heck of a rush attack, and faces a beatable Giants pass defense in Week 16.

He’s not a superstar in the making, or so it doesn’t seem, but he knows how to get Steve Smith the ball, and for now, that’s all it takes to make him a decent sleeper.

Prediction: 17-24, 255 yds, 2 TD, 1 INT

Michael Bush, RB, Oakland Raiders

Bush isn’t quite in the mold of Jerome Harrison, as he did just recently have a huge game that came out of nowhere (133 rushing yards and a score), but his role and touches are much more unpredictable.

Leading up to his break-out performance, Bush had touched the ball just eight times in his previous three games. It’s possible the Raiders have been and will continue to go with the “hot hand”, which could negatively affect Bush’s value, even in a great match-up with the Browns.

Still, an elite sleeper pick he does remain.

Prediction: 15 att, 68 yds, 1 TD, 1 rec, 9 yds, 0 TD

Lance Moore, WR, New Orleans Saints

Moore could be a nice late-season pick-up, as he’s just coming back and should be at full health after his first start in nearly seven weeks. He scored a touchdown on his only catch in Week 15, and while he’ll surely be brought along slowly so he can be effective in the playoffs, he could be in for a nice two weeks, especially with the other starters likely getting dome down time.

Prediction: 4 rec, 55 yds, 1 TD

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Week 16 NFL Picks: The Steelers Will March On

After a stellar Week 15 (12-4) that included upset calls over the Saints, Packers, and Seahawks, we bring you Week 16 ‘s Free NFL Picks. We’ve had a stellar record over the season, and have become a dependable option to rely on when making your own picks each week.

Keep leaning on NFLSoup.com for your NFL picks for the remainder of the regular season, as well as all through the playoffs. Read on for this week’s picks:

 

San Diego Chargers @ Tennessee Titans

The Chargers have officially wrapped-up their division, and are almost guaranteed a first round bye, while home field is completely out of the question.

The Chargers have nothing to play for, but to keep their nine-game winning streak going, and would be best advised to start resting their key players.

Tennessee, on the other hand, should be playing hard, and with seven wins out of their last eight games, they have momentum on their side. They don’t hold many playoff tiebreakers, so they need to win-out for a chance at the playoffs. A serious push starts with a win against an elite Chargers team.

Titans 26, Chargers 20

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints

The Buccaneers looked solid against a sinking Seattle squad last week, but they don’t pose much of a threat against the Saints, even if New Orleans does decide to start resting its starters.

If the Saints lose their final two games and the Minnesota Vikings win-out, they could possibly lose home-field advantage. If the Saints still have something to play for, Tampa Bay has almost no chance.

Saints 34, Buccaneers 13

Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers

This could possibly be the biggest game of the week, as it’s a huge division rival showdown, and carries big playoff implications.

A Ravens win would end the Steelers late bid for the playoffs, while a Steelers win would likely catapult them to a 9-7 finish and a likely playoff berth.

Steelers 31, Ravens 26

Kansas City Chiefs @ Cincinnati Bengals

The Chiefs showed their offensive abilities last week and will enter game two of having star receiver Dwayne Bowe back, but the odds are stacked against them against the Bengals, who won’t have as porous of a defense as the Cleveland Browns.

Cedric Benson also has to be licking his chops over the possibilities after seeing Cleveland’s Jerome Harrison rush for 280-plus yards last week.

Bengals 36, Chiefs 21

Jacksonville Jaguars @ New England Patriots

The Jaguars put up an impressive fight against the now 14-0 Indianapolis Colts, but will likely have very little life left to go a full four quarters with an underrated Patriots squad.

True, New England hasn’t been winning games in exciting or convincing fashion, but Jacksonville’s defense won’t strike much fear into an offense that found ways to defeat two elite pass defense in Buffalo and Carolina.

Patriots 34, Jaguars 24

 

Buffalo Bills @ Atlanta Falcons

Both Buffalo and Atlanta are out of the postseason race, but at least the Falcons showed they’re still fighting for pride and a respectable record after a late score and victory against the New York Jets last week.

Even if Michael Turner sits out this third game in four weeks, the Falcons shouldn’t have much trouble getting past a Brian Brohm-led Bills team.

Falcons 24, Bills 7

Carolina Panthers @ New York Giants

The Panthers were impressive in a dominant defensive performance against an elite team in the Minnesota Vikings last week, and should be a difficult matchup for the surging Giants.

The Giants’ main source of offensive production has been coming through the air, and as Tom Brady and Brett Favre have found out, Eli Manning may find success hard to come by against a stingy Carolina pass defense.

The Giants are fighting for a playoff spot, but the competitive Panthers seem to enjoy playing the spoiler role.

Panthers 21, Giants 17

Houston Texans @ Miami Dolphins

The Texans need to win-out, in addition to a ton of help for a shot at the playoffs, while the Dolphins would have a much better chance if they did the same, especially with a potentially huge matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 17.

The Dolphins gave it their all and fell to the Titans in OT last week, but something tells me they still have something to give. And considering how awful the Texans’ rush offense is, it just doesn’t seem realistic for them to control the clock and edge the Dolphins out.

Dolphins 20, Texans 16

Seattle Seahawks @ Green Bay Packers

The Seahawks are playing pathetic, uninspired football, while the Packers offense is clicking on all cylinders.

The only thing Green Bay really has to worry about is its recent lack of a consistent pass-rush, and its inability to cover teams with solid three-wide receiver sets. Seattle can’t protect the pass, doesn’t run the ball well, and doesn’t have any other matchup advantages.

Packers in a landslide.

Packers 36, Seahawks 12

Oakland Raiders @ Cleveland Browns

This would be a toss-up, but with so many upsets going their way, the Raiders are bound to actually come away with a win in a game they actually “should” win.

The Browns are forced to turn back to the inaccurate Derek Anderson after placing Brady Quinn on IR with a foot injury. He and the Browns don’t matchup well through the air against a very good Raiders pass defense.

Raiders 23, Browns 13

St. Louis Rams @ Arizona Cardinals

The Rams are debating whether to keep the unimpressive Keith Null under center, or revert back to the equally unimpressive Kyle Boller.

Regardless of who starts, neither has the talent or ability to keep pace with an elite Arizona Cardinals offense, even though the Cardinals have little to play for.

Cardinals 40, Rams 10

Detroit Lions @ San Francisco 49ers

The Lions will be starting Drew Stanton at quarterback against a solid 49ers defense, after deciding to put rookie Matthew Stafford on IR.

Detroit simply doesn’t have enough firepower to match the 49ers’ often-balanced offense, especially considering how sorry their pass defense is. Alex Smith should have the best day of his career.

49ers 37, Lions 16

Denver Broncos @ Philadelphia Eagles

Easily one of the top five games of the week. This matchup pits Brian Dawkins against his former team, while a loss by the Broncos could mean the 2009 playoffs are out of reach.

The Eagles still don’t have their division locked up, and are still in the running for a first round bye if Minnesota were to falter in the next two weeks.

Eagles 24, Broncos 21

New York Jets @ Indianapolis Colts

The Jets lost a heartbreaker last week, largely due to their inability to run effectively, while also seeing continued erratic play from the rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez.

He doesn’t figure to work much magic against an injury-riddled, yet still impressive Colts pass defense. Indy may start resting its stud starters after halftime, but it likely won’t matter.

Colts 33, Jets 21

Dallas Cowboys @ Washington Redskins

The Washington Redskins, while appearing like an improving and competitive team, have reverted back to a listless group of wandering fools after their 45-12 drubbing against the New York Giants on Monday night.

With a convincing win over the previously undefeated Saints last week, it appears the Cowboys have erased any “December curse” worries. That’s the hope, anyways.

Cowboys 27, Redskins 13

Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears

Even amidst all the hype about Brett Favre and Brad Childress, there is still a lot to like about these Minnesota Vikings. If they can get the ground game going again and open up the passing lane for Favre, the offense shouldn’t have much trouble getting back on track.

It won’t hurt to face the Bears putrid pass defense, as well as the turnover machine Jay Cutler.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

Week 16 NFL Picks: The Steelers Will March On

After a stellar Week 15 (12-4) that included upset calls over the Saints, Packers, and Seahawks, we bring you Week 16 ‘s Free NFL Picks. We’ve had a stellar record over the season, and have become a dependable option to rely on when making your own picks each week.

Keep leaning on NFLSoup.com for your NFL picks for the remainder of the regular season, as well as all through the playoffs. Read on for this week’s picks:

 

San Diego Chargers @ Tennessee Titans

The Chargers have officially wrapped-up their division, and are almost guaranteed a first round bye, while home field is completely out of the question.

The Chargers have nothing to play for, but to keep their nine-game winning streak going, and would be best advised to start resting their key players.

Tennessee, on the other hand, should be playing hard, and with seven wins out of their last eight games, they have momentum on their side. They don’t hold many playoff tiebreakers, so they need to win-out for a chance at the playoffs. A serious push starts with a win against an elite Chargers team.

Titans 26, Chargers 20

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints

The Buccaneers looked solid against a sinking Seattle squad last week, but they don’t pose much of a threat against the Saints, even if New Orleans does decide to start resting its starters.

If the Saints lose their final two games and the Minnesota Vikings win-out, they could possibly lose home-field advantage. If the Saints still have something to play for, Tampa Bay has almost no chance.

Saints 34, Buccaneers 13

Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers

This could possibly be the biggest game of the week, as it’s a huge division rival showdown, and carries big playoff implications.

A Ravens win would end the Steelers late bid for the playoffs, while a Steelers win would likely catapult them to a 9-7 finish and a likely playoff berth.

Steelers 31, Ravens 26

Kansas City Chiefs @ Cincinnati Bengals

The Chiefs showed their offensive abilities last week and will enter game two of having star receiver Dwayne Bowe back, but the odds are stacked against them against the Bengals, who won’t have as porous of a defense as the Cleveland Browns.

Cedric Benson also has to be licking his chops over the possibilities after seeing Cleveland’s Jerome Harrison rush for 280-plus yards last week.

Bengals 36, Chiefs 21

Jacksonville Jaguars @ New England Patriots

The Jaguars put up an impressive fight against the now 14-0 Indianapolis Colts, but will likely have very little life left to go a full four quarters with an underrated Patriots squad.

True, New England hasn’t been winning games in exciting or convincing fashion, but Jacksonville’s defense won’t strike much fear into an offense that found ways to defeat two elite pass defense in Buffalo and Carolina.

Patriots 34, Jaguars 24

 

Buffalo Bills @ Atlanta Falcons

Both Buffalo and Atlanta are out of the postseason race, but at least the Falcons showed they’re still fighting for pride and a respectable record after a late score and victory against the New York Jets last week.

Even if Michael Turner sits out this third game in four weeks, the Falcons shouldn’t have much trouble getting past a Brian Brohm-led Bills team.

Falcons 24, Bills 7

Carolina Panthers @ New York Giants

The Panthers were impressive in a dominant defensive performance against an elite team in the Minnesota Vikings last week, and should be a difficult matchup for the surging Giants.

The Giants’ main source of offensive production has been coming through the air, and as Tom Brady and Brett Favre have found out, Eli Manning may find success hard to come by against a stingy Carolina pass defense.

The Giants are fighting for a playoff spot, but the competitive Panthers seem to enjoy playing the spoiler role.

Panthers 21, Giants 17

Houston Texans @ Miami Dolphins

The Texans need to win-out, in addition to a ton of help for a shot at the playoffs, while the Dolphins would have a much better chance if they did the same, especially with a potentially huge matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 17.

The Dolphins gave it their all and fell to the Titans in OT last week, but something tells me they still have something to give. And considering how awful the Texans’ rush offense is, it just doesn’t seem realistic for them to control the clock and edge the Dolphins out.

Dolphins 20, Texans 16

Seattle Seahawks @ Green Bay Packers

The Seahawks are playing pathetic, uninspired football, while the Packers offense is clicking on all cylinders.

The only thing Green Bay really has to worry about is its recent lack of a consistent pass-rush, and its inability to cover teams with solid three-wide receiver sets. Seattle can’t protect the pass, doesn’t run the ball well, and doesn’t have any other matchup advantages.

Packers in a landslide.

Packers 36, Seahawks 12

Oakland Raiders @ Cleveland Browns

This would be a toss-up, but with so many upsets going their way, the Raiders are bound to actually come away with a win in a game they actually “should” win.

The Browns are forced to turn back to the inaccurate Derek Anderson after placing Brady Quinn on IR with a foot injury. He and the Browns don’t matchup well through the air against a very good Raiders pass defense.

Raiders 23, Browns 13

St. Louis Rams @ Arizona Cardinals

The Rams are debating whether to keep the unimpressive Keith Null under center, or revert back to the equally unimpressive Kyle Boller.

Regardless of who starts, neither has the talent or ability to keep pace with an elite Arizona Cardinals offense, even though the Cardinals have little to play for.

Cardinals 40, Rams 10

Detroit Lions @ San Francisco 49ers

The Lions will be starting Drew Stanton at quarterback against a solid 49ers defense, after deciding to put rookie Matthew Stafford on IR.

Detroit simply doesn’t have enough firepower to match the 49ers’ often-balanced offense, especially considering how sorry their pass defense is. Alex Smith should have the best day of his career.

49ers 37, Lions 16

Denver Broncos @ Philadelphia Eagles

Easily one of the top five games of the week. This matchup pits Brian Dawkins against his former team, while a loss by the Broncos could mean the 2009 playoffs are out of reach.

The Eagles still don’t have their division locked up, and are still in the running for a first round bye if Minnesota were to falter in the next two weeks.

Eagles 24, Broncos 21

New York Jets @ Indianapolis Colts

The Jets lost a heartbreaker last week, largely due to their inability to run effectively, while also seeing continued erratic play from the rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez.

He doesn’t figure to work much magic against an injury-riddled, yet still impressive Colts pass defense. Indy may start resting its stud starters after halftime, but it likely won’t matter.

Colts 33, Jets 21

Dallas Cowboys @ Washington Redskins

The Washington Redskins, while appearing like an improving and competitive team, have reverted back to a listless group of wandering fools after their 45-12 drubbing against the New York Giants on Monday night.

With a convincing win over the previously undefeated Saints last week, it appears the Cowboys have erased any “December curse” worries. That’s the hope, anyways.

Cowboys 27, Redskins 13

Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears

Even amidst all the hype about Brett Favre and Brad Childress, there is still a lot to like about these Minnesota Vikings. If they can get the ground game going again and open up the passing lane for Favre, the offense shouldn’t have much trouble getting back on track.

It won’t hurt to face the Bears putrid pass defense, as well as the turnover machine Jay Cutler.

Read more NFL news on BleacherReport.com

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