2015 NFL Week 12 Preview

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Detroit Lions
Thursday November 26, 2015 12:30pm
FOX -- Joe Buck, Troy Aikman
Ford Field, Detroit, MI

The Lions are coming off consecutive wins after the bye week, so it appears they may have responded to the recent changes that have occurred in their organization. The wins over the Packers and Raiders haven't necessarily been overwhelming though, so they still seem to be a struggling football team who will not see this year's postseason. That will call into question whether Jim Caldwell should keep his job in the upcoming offseason. After the Eagles' overtime win against the Cowboys, the Eagles were provided with a golden opportunity to ride into this Thanksgiving game on a three game winning streak. Instead, they lost to the Dolphins and Buccaneers at home, and now they have given the Cowboys hope in passing them in the division standings fairly soon. So Chip Kelly's job will also be called into question soon.

Philadelphia Eagles 17 Detroit Lions 20

Cam Newton will be looking to celebrate touchdowns on Thanksgiving
Day.

Carolina Panthers vs. Dallas Cowboys
Thursday November 26, 2015 4:30pm
CBS -- Jim Nantz, Phil Simms
AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX

This game now has the makings of a great football game with the return of Tony Romo. The Cowboys only sit two games back of the first place Giants in the division, so things aren't bleak for the Cowboys like analysts were making it seem during their losing streak. They're certainly talented enough to get a home win against the Panthers. The Panthers are a legit football team, and have honestly looked a little better than the defending champion Patriots in their 10-0 start. Their defense is playing great and Cam Newton is making sound decisions and accurate throws. Still, I think this is the game the Panthers get their first lost, and where the Cowboys make a statement to the Giants.

Carolina Panthers 23 Dallas Cowboys 24

Brett Favre will enjoy Thanksgiving Day in Lambeau Field by having
his number retired in a halftime ceremony.

Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers
Thursday November 26, 2015 8:30pm
NBC -- Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth
Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI

The Bears narrowly lost to the Broncos in their last game, and late game execution was spotty. I believe the Bears have virtually no shot at winning this game, especially since the Packers are retiring the number of Brett Favre on this holiday. It should be a great evening overall in Green Bay, and the Packers have appeared to bounce back from their midseason swoon. On a positive note for the Bears, they're not as bad as people might have thought they would be.

Chicago Bears 13 Green Bay Packers 30

New York Giants vs. Washington Redskins
Sunday November 29, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston
FedEx Field, Landover, MD

The Giants, along with the Saints, Steelers and Browns, were the last teams to get their bye week. The Giants came off a crushing loss to the defending champion Patriots in which their late game execution was once again questioned. The Giants cannot afford to suffer another lapse in late game execution. Out of their five losses this season, their Monday night blowout loss against the Eagles a month ago is the only game in which they didn't have a fourth quarter lead. The Giants have put themselves in position to win, yet have not seized the opportunity. There's only six games left for them now, and they have manageable games and victories ahead, despite the analysts believing they don't. The Giants should start by getting this victory here, and you can trust Eli Manning to do so against the Redskins.

New York Giants 30 Washington Redskins 20

Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets
Sunday November 29, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts
MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ

After seeing the Jets handle the Dolphins easily in London at the beginning of October, you would've thought the Jets were far superior to the Dolphins. The Dolphins are still 4-6, and have not really been able to beat good teams despite their coaching change after the first game against the Jets. The Jets should be desperate at this point, as they're not playing well and going into this game at 5-5 after getting off to a 4-1 start. The secondary for the Jets is pretty expensive, but have not necessarily been a lockdown unit. Muhammad Wilkerson is also seeking a long term deal. His effort must be consistent if he wants that. He certainly deserves it, but this stretch run will test the Jets will.

Miami Dolphins 16 New York Jets 20

Oakland Raiders vs. Tennessee Titans
Sunday November 29, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Greg Gumbel, Trent Green
LP Field, Nashville, TN

The Raiders are now in a slide, and this could be the low point if they lose to the Titans here. I think it's very possible, as Derek Carr is still a young quarterback. The Titans, though, aren't really good at home, having not registered a home win yet so far this season. Their two wins have come on the road, so there is a chance for the Raiders. Still, I think this is a big opportunity for the Titans to give their home fans a good win. I think Mariota will be able to pull it out.

Oakland Raiders 13 Tennessee Titans 16

Buffalo Bills vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Sunday November 29, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Kevin Harlan, Rich Gannon
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO

The Bills are coming off a weird loss to the Patriots, but they've been playing decent football. The Chiefs have been rolling ever since they lost to the Vikings roughly a month ago. Looking ahead in their schedule, the Chiefs could really win the rest of their games. The hardest game they have on their schedule is this game. They have the Raiders twice and the Ravens on the road, but both teams aren't good this year. The Chiefs did have a brutal schedule in the beginning, playing the Broncos, Packers, Bengals and Vikings in their first six games. The Chiefs will keep things going and get a win here.

Buffalo Bills 20 Kansas City Chiefs 24

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Indianapolis Colts
Sunday November 29, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Dick Stockton, Matt Millen
Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN

Both teams scored impressive road wins in their last game, but the Buccaneers were certainly the surprise of Week 11. They easily routed the Eagles, especially after the Eagles scored first. It appeared the Eagles' good start would build momentum for themselves throughout the rest of the game, but the Buccaneers just rolled from that point going forward. Rookie Jameis Winston had five touchdowns, and they really embarrassed the Eagles at the Linc. I believe the Buccaneers will play well again and come up with another road victory.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 24 Indianapolis Colts 21

New Orleans Saints vs. Houston Texans
Sunday November 29, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Joe Davis, David Diehl
NRG Stadium, Houston, TX

The Texans are now looking to get on a roll after getting blown out by the Dolphins a month ago. They have won three in a row, and have all of a sudden vaulted into the thick of the AFC South division race, in addition to vying for a playoff spot. They play the Bills in Buffalo next week, so a win here would raise the stakes for that game. The Saints, on the other hand, are probably just hoping the firing of Rob Ryan can jumpstart their atrocious defense. The Saints really have to figure out their problems on defense as an organization. They fired Steve Spagnuolo back in 2012 after the Saints' defense was historically bad. Ryan was able to come in and do well, but now they're back to being historically bad.

New Orleans Saints 17 Houston Texans 30

Minnesota Vikings vs. Atlanta Falcons
Sunday November 29, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Kevin Burkhardt, John Lynch
Georgia Dome, Atlanta, GA

The Vikings are looking to get back to winning after disappointing at home in a big division game against the Packers. They had an opportunity to remain in first place and pull two games ahead, but the Packers got back to being the team they're expected to be at the right time. The Falcons have some bad losses after starting 5-0. They now appear to be falling out of it, and I think the Vikings will keep them in their misery.

Minnesota Vikings 24 Atlanta Falcons 17

St. Louis Rams vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Sunday November 29, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Thom Brennaman, Charles Davis
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, OH

It remains to be seen whether Case Keenum will play in this one after banging his head hard on the turf late in their loss to the Ravens. I don't think it really matters whether Keenum or Nick Foles play. The Bengals must be boiling hot after losing two straight. The Bengals will get back on track in this one, and the score will probably dictate how angry the Bengals are in their performance the past two games.

St. Louis Rams 10 Cincinnati Bengals 30

San Diego Chargers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Sunday November 29, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Spero Dedes, Solomon Wilcots
EverBank Field, Jacksonville, FL

I wouldn't have thought the Chargers would be this bad, but they are one of the worst teams in the league. Things started off fairly decent, getting off to a 2-2 start. They competed very well against the Packers a month ago, with Philip Rivers throwing for 500 yards in the narrow loss in Lambeau Field. More narrow losses followed, and it has been baffling to most NFL analysts and experts. A blowout loss at home to the Chiefs has cemented that changes will be needed for the Chargers to compete. The offseason saw Rivers and Eli Manning get lucrative deals. Manning was criticized a lot for his deal, but there wasn't much chatter about Rivers. Manning has outplayed Rivers this year, and the Chargers' defense hasn't gotten worse over the course of the season.

San Diego Chargers 13 Jacksonville Jaguars 20

Arizona Cardinals vs. San Francisco 49ers
Sunday November 29, 2015 4:05pm
FOX -- Chris Myers, Ronde Barber
Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, CA

There's so much drama coming from the 49ers, with a lot of analysts and experts predicting Colin Kaepernick will not be back with the 49ers next season. Blaine Gabbert is the quarterback for now, and that is enough for me to pick the Cardinals. The Cardinals are now distinguishing themselves as the second best team in the NFC behind the undefeated Panthers. The Cardinals' defense is getting the job done, and Carson Palmer has been a steadying force. This is also the site of Super Bowl 50, so the Cardinals may want to try and get familiar with the grass in this stadium.

Arizona Cardinals 41 San Francisco 49ers 14

The Steelers will need Ben Roethlisberger to be healthy in this one and
for the remainder of the season for the Steelers to make a playoffs run.

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Seattle Seahawks
Sunday November 29, 2015 4:25pm
CBS -- Jim Nantz, Phil Simms
CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA

This is the final game of the three game home stretch for the Seahawks, and they're looking to end it at 2-1. The Seahawks sit at 5-5, but the NFC has been weak this year, so they can certainly acquire a playoff spot even if they do not win the division. The Steelers are still looking to win the AFC North division as well, but they are two games behind the Bengals. They can acquire a Wild Card spot as well, but there's a good amount of competition for those two spots. The Chiefs are surging, and looking at their schedule, should certainly continue their surge. The Jets, Bills, Texans and Colts are still in it. The Texans or Colts will win the division, so there's three teams for the remaining Wild Card spot. The Steelers can do themselves a favor by winning here. I don't think they will.

Pittsburgh Steelers 20 Seattle Seahawks 23

Brock Osweiler will get his second straight start in the national spotlight
against Tom Brady and the undefeated Patriots.

New England Patriots vs. Denver Broncos
Sunday November 29, 2015 8:30pm
NBC -- Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth
Sports Authority Field at Mile High, Denver, CO

Brock Osweiler will start for the second straight game, which means we won't get to see a Tom Brady-Peyton Manning matchup here. That's a good thing because Manning has looked awful this year, and unless he does something different with his body, specifically his arm, he should definitely retire. Reports have it that Manning wants to play in 2016. He just isn't able to put the same mustard on his passes like he used to, which means he's been relegated to underneath throws. Defenses have game planned for those throws, and it was quite evident in the game against the Chiefs when he was benched. However, I think the Patriots get their first loss here. The Broncos defense is terrific, and the Patriots aren't necessarily dominant despite being 10-0.

New England Patriots 20 Denver Broncos 23

Baltimore Ravens vs. Cleveland Browns
Monday November 30, 2015 8:30pm
ESPN -- Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden
FirstEnergy Stadium, Cleveland, OH

There was some hope for the Browns to be decent, but poor quarterback play once again has them at 2-8. The Ravens' poor play this season has been one of the surprises this season, as John Harbaugh has always had his team prepared to play well. They have lost Joe Flacco to a torn ACL, so they have now lost all of their best players. Terrell Suggs, Steve Smith, Justin Forsett and now Flacco are done for the season, so I don't expect the Ravens to come in and beat the Browns in Cleveland. It doesn't sound like a difficult thing to do, but it is now with all of their missing players.

Baltimore Ravens 6 Cleveland Browns 10

2015 NFL Week 11 Preview

Tennessee Titans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Thursday November 19, 2015 8:25pm
NFL Network -- Jim Nantz, Phil Simms
EverBank Field, Jacksonville, FL

These are the bottom two teams in the AFC South division, but the Jaguars are only a game behind the first place Colts and Texans. It's been that bad of a division. However, the Jaguars have played decent as of late, getting a road win against the Ravens last week and almost pulled off a road win the week before that against the Jets. Since they are at home, I'll pick them to win in this game. The Titans have an underrated defense, however. They're the fifth ranked defense, and if their offense was better, they'd be close to a decent team. Marcus Mariota has to learn first. That may take another season.

Tennessee Titans 14 Jacksonville Jaguars 17

New York Jets vs. Houston Texans
Sunday November 22, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Kevin Harlan, Rich Gannon
NRG Stadium, Houston, TX

The Jets are coming off a disappointing home loss, while the Texans are coming off the biggest upset of the season with their win against the Texans several days ago. This would be the prime opportunity for the Texans to get a home win and maybe gain a leg up on the division with Andrew Luck out about a month. The Jets should be angry after losing to Rex Ryan and the Bills. Ryan Fitzpatrick got surgery to correct his thumb issue, but it's on his non throwing hand so he'll be able to play. The Jets should be fired up enough to get this win, especially since they are playing against a weak offense.

New York Jets 21 Houston Texans 10

Oakland Raiders vs. Detroit Lions
Sunday November 22, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Andrew Catalon, Steve Tasker, Steve Beuerlein
Ford Field, Detroit, MI

The Raiders are now in a little funk, losers of two straight games heading into this one. The Lions, on the other hand, returned from their bye week to play the Packers in Lambeau Field. It was thought to be close to impossible for the Lions to get the win, considering numerous factors. The Lions have been horrible leading up to that game, and hadn't won a game in Lambeau Field since 1991. They were able to do the unthinkable, and now that they're at home, they'll keep the Raiders funk going.

Oakland Raiders 17 Detroit Lions 23

Indianapolis Colts vs. Atlanta Falcons
Sunday November 22, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Greg Gumbel, Trent Green
Georgia Dome, Atlanta, GA

The Colts are coming off their bye week, but they still won't have Andrew Luck ready for this one. He's expected to miss about a month with a lacerated kidney, meaning Matt Hasselbeck will have to keep the Colts afloat while Luck recovers. Playing in the Georgia Dome, that can be a hard thing to maintain. The Colts haven't been all that good to begin with, and now they're going up against a fairly good team. The Falcons are losers of two straight as well, and those two losses were against the Buccaneers and 49ers, two of the worst teams in the league. I wouldn't be surprised if the Colts got the upset victory, but I'll play things safe and pick the home team.

Indianapolis Colts 23 Atlanta Falcons 26

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Sunday November 22, 2015 1:00pm
FOX --  Dick Stockton, David Diehl
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA

They are still holding hope that Sam Bradford will play this game, despite having a separated shoulder and concussion. I am unsure how that will work, but it's worth checking on the developments throughout the rest of the week to see if Bradford does choose to suit up. They have a capable backup in Mark Sanchez, so the Eagles will be fine at the quarterback position. The Eagles blew a solid lead in their home loss to the Dolphins, so that should be more of the concern. Sanchez also blew an opportunity when he threw an interception in the red zone late to lose it. Against the Buccaneers, the Eagles should have no problems.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 14 Philadelphia Eagles 27

Brock Osweiler, who took over for Peyton Manning in last week's game
will get his first career start.

Denver Broncos vs. Chicago Bears
Sunday November 22, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts
Soldier Field, Chicago, IL

It is rather unbelievable that legendary quarterback Peyton Manning played that poorly at home. He was benched, and it is abundantly clear now that he needs to retire at season's end. Brock Osweiler will get the start in place of Manning for this game, as the Broncos believe Manning's plantar fascia injury is really limiting him. The Broncos hold a three game lead in the AFC West, so they're comfortable with their position and should win the division. However, they cannot be serious title contenders with the poor quarterback play they have suffered all season long. The Bears have beaten all of the AFC West teams. They could win this one, but I think the Broncos' defense will do just enough for the win.

Denver Broncos 20 Chicago Bears 17

Outstanding rookie Todd Gurley, who was born and raised in Baltimore, will
play in his hometown for the first time.

St. Louis Rams vs. Baltimore Ravens
Sunday November 22, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD

The Rams had an impressive road win earlier this season against the Cardinals. The Rams certainly possess the talent in order to get these kinds of wins. However, they're also a strange team, and that showed last week at home against the Bears. They lost what most people thought would be a rather easy win, and they lost badly. Jeff Fisher has pulled Nick Foles and will start Case Keenum, as it is clear the Foles-Bradford trade has not worked out for the Rams or Eagles so far. I do not trust the Rams to get a road victory, so I'll pick the struggling Ravens to get a win here.

St. Louis Rams 17 Baltimore Ravens 23

Tony Romo walked off the field in Week 2 with a broken collarbone.
If all goes well, it appears he'll return for this Sunday's game.

Dallas Cowboys vs. Miami Dolphins
Sunday November 22, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Kevin Burkhardt, John Lynch
Sun Life Stadium, Miami, FL

If Tony Romo plays in this one, I'm picking the Cowboys to win. It's too bad he missed seven games, but who would've thought they wouldn't have been good enough to scrap out a single win. They've come close on numerous occasions, including a heart breaking overtime loss to the Eagles recently. The Cowboys are just two back in the loss column despite being in last place in the division. If Romo can reel off a winning streak, there's a chance the Cowboys can still win the division. It's certainly something that should not be dismissed. It'll be good to see Romo back out there on the field if he plays in this one.

Dallas Cowboys 24 Miami Dolphins 16

Washington Redskins vs. Carolina Panthers
Sunday November 22, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Thom Brennaman, Charles Davis
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC

The Redskins have been building momentum, including a resounding home win against the Saints in their last game. Sadly, that comes to a halt as they visit the undefeated Panthers. The Panthers won't necessarily score a lot of points and blow you out. However, they have the best two linebackers in the league, the best cornerback in the league, and one of the best, if not the best defensive lines in football. The Panthers are stacked on the defensive side of the ball, and this is reminiscent of the defense we saw two seasons ago when they went 12-4.

Washington Redskins 7 Carolina Panthers 27

Kansas City Chiefs vs. San Diego Chargers
Sunday November 22, 2015 4:05pm
CBS -- Spero Dedes, Solomon Wilmots
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, CA

The Chiefs are winners of three straight after a terrible start to the season. The Chargers, meanwhile, are losers of five straight after a 2-2 start. The Chargers' defense has not been solid at all, and Philip Rivers has been unable to overcome the poor play in other areas to lead them to victory. The Chargers are at home, so it'll be a safe pick to go with them. However, the Chiefs' defense is playing well, and they possess a lot of talent on defense that can sustain their good play as of late. This is a division game so it should be intense. However, the Chiefs should scrape out a victory.

Kansas City Chiefs 20 San Diego Chargers 16

San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks
Sunday November 22, 2015 4:25pm
FOX -- Chris Myers, Ronde Barber
CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA

The Seahawks need a game like this after losing their last game at home to the Cardinals. This game should get the Seahawks back to .500. The Seahawks possess the second ranked defense in the league, but it hardly seems like it. It hardly seems like a dominating unit, and Richard Sherman, who once proclaimed himself as the best cornerback in the game, was hit with numerous penalties in the last game and is beginning to look a lot like what Patrick Peterson looked like last season. Sherman was very critical of Peterson last season, so it's a little amusing that Sherman is struggling now.

San Francisco 49ers 6 Seattle Seahawks 31

Linval Joseph and the Vikings' defense have been surprisingly good thus far
and they'll like to keep things going against Aaron Rodgers and the Packers.

Green Bay Packers vs. Minnesota Vikings
Sunday November 22, 2015 4:25pm
FOX -- Joe Buck, Troy Aikman
TCF Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN

No one would've thought the Vikings would be this good, but they have been but they run the ball well and they play solid defense. Couple those with the fact that there really aren't a lot of teams that have been consistent at all this season, and the Vikings have been able to capitalize. The Vikings are undefeated at home, and can really create some separation between themselves and the Packers with a win here. Linval Joseph, who got a ring with the Giants several years ago, has been a dominant force on the interior line and it has helped their defense out enormously. Look for the crowd to be electric and help the Vikings to a win.

Green Bay Packers 20 Minnesota Vikings 27

Carson Palmer will play his former team a week after having an impressive
game against the defending NFC champion Seahawks.

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Arizona Cardinals
Sunday November 22, 2015 8:30pm
NBC -- Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth
University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, AZ

The Cardinals are on Sunday Night Football for the second consecutive week, and it appears they'll be successful for a second straight week. The Bengals are coming off a bad home loss to the Texans, but it's only one loss. The more concerning thing about the loss is the fact Andy Dalton, who people were starting to believe had turned the corner, reverted back to the quarterback he used to be. Dalton was not aggressive at all, and barely stood in the pocket and scanned the field for his other receiver options. Dalton spent most of the time checking the ball down to the running backs for minimal gains if he wasn't getting the ball to his first option. The crowd here in Glendale should be loud, and to face that defense, you must be on your A game. I don't thin Dalton has it here.

Cincinnati Bengals 13 Arizona Cardinals 28

Buffalo Bills vs. New England Patriots
Monday November 23, 2015 8:30pm
ESPN -- Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden
Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, MA

The Bills are coming off an impressive road win against the Jets, and now they are provided with a lot of time in between games before this one. Rex Ryan appreciates all the time he has to prepare for this one. The Bills were cocky in their first matchup against the Patriots back in Week 2, and Tom Brady would quiet the noise by having a great game. They will not be talking this time around as the game is in Foxboro. That's enough for me to pick the defending champions and for them to remain undefeated.

Buffalo Bills 23 New England Patriots 30

2015 NFL Week 10 Preview

Rex Ryan has been pure comedy this week. Let's see if
he'll still be laughing at the conclusion of this game.

Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets
Thursday November 12, 2015 8:25pm
NFL Network -- Jim Nantz, Phil Simms
MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ

This is the game Rex Ryan has most likely been waiting for. Ryan has filled his press conferences with a lot of comedy, much to the ire of Jets' players and media pundits. Ryan also named IK Enemkpali captain for the Bills as well. We all know his history with the Jets. Many people thought the Bills would be the better team before the season started, but it has been the Jets that have surprised many people thus far. The Jets are always good in the first year of a new head coach. Todd Bowles is getting a lot of credit now, but let's see where the Jets are in year three and four when they've grown comfortable with Bowles. The Jets got comfortable with Ryan, and it cost him his job. The Jets should be able to win this one, and this will piss Ryan off.

Buffalo Bills 17 New York Jets 27

Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers
Sunday November 15, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Joe Buck, Troy Aikman
Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI

Hopefully the Lions look much better off of the bye week. They have looked horrible this year, and it has cost a few people their jobs on that team. Next up is head coach Jim Caldwell, who led the team to an 11-5 record in his first season with the team last season. Now, it appears his calm demeanor isn't enough, and it has him on thin ice. It starts with the offense, who have been unable to generate any consistency despite having decent pieces. Caldwell is an offensive coach, so his job is naturally on the line if the offense can't get it together soon enough. Their defense has taken a dive from last season, but that was expected with the departure of Ndamukong Suh. They're also missing DeAndre Levy for the season, and he was their second best defensive player. With the Packers struggles lately, it's a good thing they play the Lions.

Detroit Lions 14 Green Bay Packers 31

Dallas Cowboys vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Sunday November 15, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Kevin Burkhardt, John Lynch
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL

You have to feel for the Cowboys, who possess the talent to win football games but simply cannot because of their incompetent quarterback play. Their defense isn't as good as it was last season also, so that has been some of the reason why they've been unable to win a football game in two months. While it may seem easy to play the Buccaneers, the Buccaneers have a healthy starting quarterback, which should be enough to win this game.

Dallas Cowboys 13 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20

Carolina Panthers vs. Tennessee Titans
Sunday November 15, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Thom Brennaman, Charles Davis
LP Field, Nashville, TN

Part of the reason why the Panthers have been able to remain undefeated is their soft schedule outside of their division. The Panthers have been able to take advantage of that, and this is another game in which they should be able to win based off the strength of their defense. A lot of people have said Cam Newton is having an MVP season. I will have to respectfully disagree, as Newton appears to be doing decent work while the offense plays ball control football. The defense has been stout, led by Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis. However, guys like Kawann Short and Josh Norman have been unbelievable as well.

Carolina Panthers 31 Tennessee Titans 6

Chicago Bears vs. St. Louis Rams
Sunday November 15, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Andrew Catalon, Steve Beuerlein, Steve Tasker
Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis, MO

The Bears got a huge road win on Monday night against the Chargers, but the Bears three victories still only come against AFC West opponents. Seeing that the Broncos are the last AFC West opponent they have to play, they'll probably end the season with three wins against that division. However, Jay Cutler is still unpredictable, and the Rams possess the kind of defense that can give you fits. Expect the defensive line to fluster Cutler, and that should be more than enough for Nick Foles, Todd Gurley and the offense to get things going and get a victory.

Chicago Bears 10 St. Louis Rams 21

New Orleans Saints vs. Washington Redskins
Sunday November 15, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston
FedEx Field, Landover, MD

The Saints, after putting on an offensive clinic against the Giants, came out with a dud, losing at home to the lowly Titans. The Saints were rolling at the point, winners of three straight heading into that game. They have not played well on the road as of late, and the Redskins are not the joke and cakewalk that they were expected to be this season. I expect Kirk Cousins to make some plays against this lackluster defense, and get the close victory.

New Orleans Saints 20 Washington Redskins 23

Miami Dolphins vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Sunday November 15, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Kevin Harlan, Rich Gannon
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA

It appeared the Dolphins were motivated by the head coaching change earlier this season, but it was just the fact they played two lowly AFC South opponents. Since their two victories against the Titans and Texans, the Dolphins have played two division opponents and have looked bad in those two losses. The Dolphins simply aren't a good team, and they were supposed to hang their hat on their defense. They're not good at that either, despite having the most expensive defensive player in the league. The Eagles can use this game to get on a roll and try to seize control of the NFC East in the next month.

Miami Dolphins 17 Philadelphia Eagles 30

Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Sunday November 15, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts
Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA

The Browns with Johnny Manziel as their starting quarterback does not look like an offense that can consistently move the football. Luckily, Ben Roethlisberger is out again with yet another leg injury. This should even out the playing field a little, but the Steelers are still at home. Landry Jones should look to get comfortable and lead the home team to victory. He has a bevy of weapons, including probably the best wide receiver in the league in Antonio Brown. He had a fantastic game last week by the way.

Cleveland Browns 20 Pittsburgh Steelers 35

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Baltimore Ravens
Sunday November 15, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Spero Dedes, Solomon Wilcots
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, MD

The Jaguars efforts on the defensive side of the ball was very impressive last week against the Jets. Chris Ivory was completely shut down running the football, but they weren't able to defend the pass as well. This is a game the Jaguars can win also, as the Ravens have struggled throughout the year. Still, I cannot see the Ravens losing at home to the Jaguars. That is enough for me to go with the Ravens in this one.

Jacksonville Jaguars 17 Baltimore Ravens 20

Minnesota Vikings vs. Oakland Raiders
Sunday November 15, 2015 4:05pm
FOX -- Chris Myers, Ronde Barber
O.co Coliseum, Oakland, CA

These are two teams that haven't experienced much success in recent seasons, but they are doing better than expected thanks to a pair of 2014 NFL Draft quarterbacks. Teddy Bridgewater was knocked unconscious in the last game against the Rams. It is unlikely he'll play in this game because he is still in the concussion program. That is big because the Vikings will certainly need him if they want to win this game. The Raiders' offense is clicking with Derek Carr and Amari Cooper, and I expect them to feel comfortable at home against this tough Vikings team and get a win.

Minnesota Vikings 24 Oakland Raiders 27

The Chiefs blew a huge opportunity in Week 2 when Jamaal Charles
fumbled in the waning seconds, resulting in the go ahead score for the Broncos.

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos
Sunday November 15, 2015 4:25pm
CBS -- Greg Gumbel, Trent Green
Sports Authority Field at Mile High, Denver, CO

The Chiefs had a prime opportunity to win their Week 2 matchup against the Broncos at home. They would surrender a game tying touchdown, and when everyone thought the game would just go into overtime, Jamaal Charles fumbles on an innocent run and the Broncos made the recovery and returned it for a touchdown in the shocking win. It has been all downhill for the Chiefs since, and even if the Broncos' offense is still struggling thus far, I do not expect the Chiefs to go into Denver and get a win.

Kansas City Chiefs 13 Denver Broncos 23

The last time Eli Manning played the Patriots, he was winning his second
Super Bowl MVP.

New England Patriots vs. New York Giants
Sunday November 15, 2015 4:25pm
CBS -- Jim Nantz, Phil Simms
MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ

The Patriots beat the Giants in Week 17 of the 2007 season to finish the season 16-0, the first undefeated team in regular season play since the 1972 Dolphins. The Dolphins also completed the undefeated season by winning all of their playoff games and the Super Bowl as well. The Patriots were not able to complete that feat, losing to those Giants in the Super Bowl a month after completing the undefeated season against them. The two teams have faced off twice since Super Bowl XLII, and the Giants have won both of those as well, which included another Super Bowl victory. Simply put, the Giants have owned the Patriots in the past seven years, so Tom Brady will probably be a little more motivated to get this mysterious monkey off his back. The Giants are not the same team as the previous three meetings, and that will show in this game.

New England Patriots 38 New York Giants 27

The last time the Seahawks played the Cardinals, Marshawn Lynch had his
trademark tough run that went for a score in a blowout win.

Arizona Cardinals vs. Seattle Seahawks
Sunday November 15, 2015 8:30pm
NBC -- Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth
CenturyLink Field, Seattle, WA

The Seahawks may be struggling, and the Cardinals may appear to be better than them. However, I think it's a little crazy for a quarterback like Carson Palmer to go into Seattle and get a win. Simply put, he's not all that good, and the Seahawks should be motivated against a division opponent to try and climb their way back into the NFC West race. They are well rested as they are coming off a bye.

Arizona Cardinals 13 Seattle Seahawks 16

Houston Texans vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Monday November 16, 2015 8:30pm
ESPN -- Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, OH

The Bengals are staring at a great opportunity to extend their winning streak and remain undefeated. The Texans have suffered from lousy quarterback play, and that will not change anytime soon. Asking the Texans to go into Cincinnati and get a win is like asking a pitcher to throw a perfect game in a World Series game. It has happened before, but that was in 1956. Simply put, the Texans will not win this game.

Houston Texans 10 Cincinnati Bengals 31

2015 NFL Week 9 Preview

Cleveland Browns vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Thursday November 5, 2015 8:25pm
NFL Network -- Jim Nantz, Phil Simms
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, OH

The Browns had a sizable lead against a great opponent in the Cardinals. Once again, the Browns would proceed to lose that game, continuing a trend of being competitive in these games but not being able to finish these games out. Let's see if their division rival can wake them up. These two teams played on Thursday Night Football last year, and the Browns shocked a lot of people by winning rather easily. However, Johnny Manziel got his first start of his career against the Bengals late last season, and it was disastrous. Manziel will get the start here as well. The Bengals should win.

Cleveland Browns 6 Cincinnati Bengals 31

Final Score: Cleveland Browns 10 Cincinnati Bengals 31

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. New York Jets
Sunday November 8, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Greg Gumbel, Trent Green
MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ

After being embarrassed last week in Oakland, the Jets must be thrilled to see the Jaguars at home on their schedule. However, the Jaguars possess two wins, both against AFC East foes in the Dolphins and Bills. Of course, they were slaughtered by the defending champion Patriots, so here's the final chance for the Jaguars to keep their winning record against AFC East opponents for the season. Several of the Jets' defensive players admitted to lackadaisical play, so expect their defense to be fired up a little. The Jets will not have many problems winning this game. For a bonus, Ryan Fitzpatrick will start.

Jacksonville Jaguars 10 New York Jets 23

It was Cam Newton's second game of his career when he put up big
numbers in a loss against a Packers team that would go 15-1 in 2011.

Green Bay Packers vs. Carolina Panthers
Sunday November 8, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Joe Buck, Troy Aikman
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC

This is the best game of the week, as both teams had a chance to come into this game undefeated. However, the Packers were completely shut down by the Broncos' defense, and there is a possibility that could be the case in this game as well. The Panthers have been playing exceptional defense, leading to their 7-0 start. However, it has not been shut down defense, and they almost blew a 17 point 4th quarter lead this past Monday night at home to the struggling Colts. I do not expect consecutive bad games from Aaron Rodgers, but the Packers' offense have struggled throughout the season. Still, Cam Newton isn't exactly setting the league on fire with his play as well, so I'll pick the Packers in an upset.

Green Bay Packers 27 Carolina Panthers 21

Washington Redskins vs. New England Patriots
Sunday November 8, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Kevin Burkhardt, John Lynch
Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, MA

The Redskins are coming off a bye week, and an impressive comeback victory in their last game. All of that doesn't matter, however, because they're tasked with defending the league's MVP so far in Tom Brady. Brady has been carving defenses up so far, and this defense isn't anything to write home about. Expect Brady and company to put up a lot of points, and come up with turnovers defensively as well.

Washington Redskins 20 New England Patriots 38

Tennessee Titans vs. New Orleans Saints
Sunday November 8, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Kevin Harlan, Rich Gannon
Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, LA

The Saints were pretty fortunate to have a quarterback like Drew Brees. Eli Manning threw six touchdown passes against the Saints' defense in the last game, and the Giants scored seven touchdowns. This normally results in a loss for most teams, but the Saints were able to win this game. Brees threw an NFL record tying seven touchdown passes in the win, helping the Saints to three straight wins after a 1-4 start. The Saints are playing the Titans at the right time, as they are just abysmal and have fired their head coach Ken Whisenhunt. Mike Mularkey takes over, but it's been the players that haven't been up to par.

Tennessee Titans 13 New Orleans Saints 31

Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills
Sunday November 8, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Spero Dedes, Solomon Wilmots
Ralph Wilson Stadium, Buffalo, NY

The Bills smacked the Dolphins in Miami in the Dolphins' home opener, but both teams are trending in opposite directions. The Dolphins fired Joe Philbin, and appointed Dan Campbell as the head coach. The Dolphins have played lowly teams in the AFC South when they've been dominant, and were quickly blown out by the Patriots in their last game. Therefore, the jury is still out on the Dolphins. The Bills have lost their last two games, so they'd love to get a win here. However, they have so many players banged up. Hopefully, the bye week helped them.

Miami Dolphins 17 Buffalo Bills 20

St. Louis Rams vs. Minnesota Vikings
Sunday November 8, 2015 1:00pm
FOX -- Thom Brennaman, Charles Davis
TCF Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN

The Vikings are playing very good football, and they are being led by a franchise running back and a franchise quarterback. It was up in the air on who would be the second best team in the NFC North. They have clearly established that they are the second best team in the division. The Rams have played decent football as well, led by their defense that possesses a number of talented players. I think going into Minnesota and coming away with a win is too much to ask for the Rams, however.

St. Louis Rams 17 Minnesota Vikings 23

Oakland Raiders vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Sunday November 8, 2015 1:00pm
CBS -- Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts
Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA

There was an article ESPN did about the Raiders getting back to the playoffs this season. This shows how much the league and the fans desire the Raiders to get back into the playoffs. However, they've only played seven games so far, so let's pump the brakes on that assertion. It is surprising, however, that they are the second best team in the AFC West. The Chiefs and Chargers are having seasons they simply did not expect, and the Raiders have gotten improved play from Derek Carr. However, they should lose this one, as Ben Roethlisberger was not happy with his performance against the Bengals in the last game. It also doesn't help the Raiders are on the east coast.

Oakland Raiders 20 Pittsburgh Steelers 24

Kwon Alexander played last Sunday's game after learning his younger
brother was murdered over the weekend. He'll try to play here after burying him.

New York Giants vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Sunday November 8, 2015 4:05pm
FOX -- Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL

It is crazy for a quarterback to throw six touchdown passes and still lose the game. That's what happened to Eli Manning in their last game, so it shows their offense is clicking. Their defense, however, is falling apart. Jon Beason and Prince Amukamara just refuse to stay on the field, seemingly finding ways to be injured. Amukamara seems to be returning this week, so that's a plus. The Giants are also missing Victor Cruz and Will Beatty. If they can get them back, plus Jason Pierre Paul and Beason, the Giants can win the NFC East. For short terms goals, they should be able to win this game.

New York Giants 27 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17

Atlanta Falcons vs. San Francisco 49ers
Sunday November 8, 2015 4:05pm
FOX -- Chris Myers, Ronde Barber
Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, CA

The Falcons are coming off a home loss to the Buccaneers, a team they annihilated last season at home. The Falcons got off to a great start, but the wins they got against the NFC East teams are all wins where they easily could've lost. The Falcons are pretenders, but they have Blaine Gabbert to play against this Sunday. That should be a win for them.

Atlanta Falcons 20 San Francisco 49ers 6

It'll still be interesting to see how Colts' fan receive Peyton Manning.
He's their best player of all time, even factoring in Johnny Unitas.

Denver Broncos vs. Indianapolis Colts
Sunday November 8, 2015 4:25pm
CBS -- Jim Nantz, Phil Simms
Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN

Peyton Manning returns to the home he built, and is looking for a better ending than the first time he visited Lucas Oil Stadium. The Broncos lost that game, two years ago, but still went on to win the AFC Championship later that season.The Colts are struggling right now, and can use a win in the worst way. Their offense is struggling, but you just never know with Luck. He takes a lot of hits in the pocket, and you know the Broncos' pass rush is coming. The receivers will be locked up by the Broncos' terrific corners. However, Luck still has the ability to break the pocket and get positive yardage, which could help him if he does this early. However, in Round 2 for Manning here in Indianapolis, I think he'll come away as the victor.

Denver Broncos 23 Indianapolis Colts 17

DeMarco Murray had a crappy game in the first meeting against
his old team. Expect boos from the Cowboys' crowd whenever he touches the ball.

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys
Sunday November 8, 2015 8:30pm
NBC -- Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth
AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX

DeMarco Murray seemed pumped by the idea of playing his former team back in Week 2. However, the Cowboys' defense stifled him, and the Cowboys came up with an easy victory. That win was the last win the Cowboys had, and that just so happen to be the game in which Tony Romo broke his collarbone and has missed every game ever since. As long as Romo is out and the Cowboys have to rely on Matt Cassel and Brandon Weeden, I'll continue to pick against the Cowboys.

Philadelphia Eagles 20 Dallas Cowboys 10

Chicago Bears vs. San Diego Chargers
Monday November 9, 2015 8:30pm
ESPN -- Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, CA

John Fox will be going up against Mike McCoy, who was his offensive coordinator when the Broncos went 13-3 in Peyton Manning's first season in 2012. The offensive success McCoy led with Manning propelled him to obtaining the Chargers' head coaching opening. These guys should know each other fairly well, so we must look at other things that can help these struggling teams secure a victory. The Chargers are at home, so that helps them a lot. However, they've lost their last two games at home, so that probably doesn't help a whole lot. The Bears have obtained both of their wins against AFC West opponents, so that should help their psyche. Still, the Bears aren't talented enough for a road win on the national spotlight.

Chicago Bears 23 San Diego Chargers 31