NFL Week 9 Picks: Green Bay Packers Look to Maintain Top Spot In NFC North
What a wacky and wild week, hey?
Randy Moss is now a Tennessee Titan, Shawne Merriman is a Buffalo Bill, and still neither the Cowboys or the Vikings seem to be any closer to solving their team tribulations.
In all fairness, this upcoming weekend of football may fail in comparison to the past week's events. Although with this said, I like everybody else was surprised by Week 8's outcome, following a rather low scoring and slow start last Sunday.
Heading into this week's marquee games, several match ups already spring team, division and playoff implications. Once again the AFC South is open for business, while the Green Bay Packers look to cap off their Week 8 win over the New York Jets, with a victory over Dallas on Sunday Night.
So what are we waiting for, here's another addition of picks and predictions to keep in mind during the course of the weekend, and if you're looking for some thoughts on your team, look no further.
Follow Ryan Cook on Twitter.
Ryan Cook is an Australian Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report. He is also an NFL columnist for Real Sports Net and a Green Bay Packers writer for Fan Huddle and PackerChatters. Ryan is also a contributing writer for Detroit Lions Talk, Gack Sports and Generation Y Sports.
Teams Taking the Week Off
1 of 14
-Denver Broncos (2-6)
-Jacksonville Jaguars (4-4)
-San Francisco 49ers (2-6)
-St. Louis Rams (4-4)
-Tennessee Titans (5-3)
-Washington Redskins (4-4)
New York Jets at Detroit Lions
2 of 14
Current Records:
New York 5-2 - Detroit 2-5
What You Need To Know:
The New York Jets take a rare trip to the Motor City this weekend, where they prepare to take on a forceful looking Lions side, who are fresh off a big-time win over the Washington Redskins in Week 9.
In terms of relevance for both teams, this match up couldn't be more meaningful. While Detroit experienced the highs of victory last weekend, the New York Jets fell to the Green Bay Packers in embarrassing fashion, when Rex Ryan's team was shut out 9-0 in a poor offensive display.
If second time's the charm for Gang Green, the Jets will be hoping cornerback Darrelle Revis is back to his best this week. In the Jets' shutout loss to the Packers, Revis made some game-altering tackles, however failed to live up to the hype that a Revis Island Return had brought.
On the opposite end, the Lions don't exactly have the same issue. In Week 9, previously injured quarterback Matt Stafford made his return, throwing for 212 yards, 4 touchdowns and 1 interception after ridding some early opening woes.
The Jets needn't panic about last week, and in all reality, Rex Ryan should have his team looking past the loss. Still, quarterback Mark Sanchez quickly needs to resort to the basics, as his accuracy and passing display has cost New York dearly this season.
Prediction:
New York 27 - Detroit 21
Miami Dolphins at Baltimore Ravens
3 of 14
Current Records:
Miami 4-3 - Baltimore 5-2
What You Need To Know:
A good ol' AFC fixture is set to get underway in Baltimore this week, when the new-look Miami Dolphins try and turn the tides on one of their more underrated AFC rivals.
To kick it all off from the Ravens' standpoint, most of the team's supporters will be feeling fresh and rejuvenated from a Week 8 bye. Still, the fact that the Ravens have had some time off may also strike some fear into people's minds, especially when issues such as game day rust come into play.
As for Tunatown, the Dolphins haven't exactly had the most stable season. A 4-3 record on the year is commendable, however Miami has endured a few hiccups against opponents recently.
Just about everybody expects young quarterback Chad Henne to be tested against Ray Lewis' motivated defense.
What is significant for the Dolphins, though, is that they are undefeated on the road. With wins over Buffalo, Minnesota, Green Bay and Cincinnati all coming away from home, somehow the Dolphins have a minor edge over Baltimore.
Finally, big news may come out of Baltimore if controversial wide receiver Donte Stallworth is to suit up. Chances are Stallworth will be returning punts for most of the game, but with the Dolphins defense ranking 12th in defensive pass yards, this may be a wise move.
Kicker Dan Carpenter slotted five field goals last week against Cincinnati, so don't be surprised to see an upset unfold in Maryland.
Prediction (Upset):
Miami 19 - Baltimore 17
.jpg?w=256 "Colts Jaguars Football")
New England Patriots at Cleveland Browns
4 of 14
Current Records:
New England 6-1 - Cleveland 2-5
What You Need To Know:
Head coach Eric Mangini was given the honors of naming the starting quarterback ahead of the Browns clash with the New England Patriots in Week 9, and although there was a hefty amount of speculation, finally a decision has been reached.
And who is the starting quarterback?
It's not very controversial, but rookie Colt McCoy will start for Cleveland, and sure enough be tested against arguably the best team in football this season.
But what is controversial however, is Bill Belichick's despised return to the city of Cleveland, after failing during his 1991 head coaching stint, that more importantly resulted in the Browns being transformed into later days version of the Baltimore Ravens.
I guess with this story already highlighting the game, there isn't much else to talk about. Yet as much as it seems this way, the Patriots visit to Cleveland is meaningful for running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis, who continues to excel behind quarterback Tom Brady.
Some may say that this game has a potential upset factor, considering that the Browns rolled over the New Orleans Saints two weeks ago. Although it may seem this way though, the Patriots freight train shouldn't slow down in the Dawg Pound.
Prediction:
New England 21 - Cleveland 13
San Diego Chargers at Houston Texans
5 of 14
Current Records:
San Diego 3-5 - Houston 4-3
What You Need To Know:
The Chargers finally got the win they had been hoping for last week by toppling the Tennessee Titans, but at the same time a crucial game lays in hand against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium in Week 9.
Looking back nearly a month ago, not many people saw this turn around coming. The Chargers were in dire strait mode, while head coach Norv Turner continued to dig his grave by piling on losses and yet again more controversy.
Luckily for the city of San Diego though, this has all changed. For the most part, the Chargers now stand a chance at turning their bad luck around, and with a road win over Houston this weekend, the playoffs won't become such a stretch one game out from .500.
In the Chargers way however, is the Houston Texans. Given that Gary Kubiak's team have endured several hiccups this season, the Texans are also hungry for a win in the AFC South, and eager to regain the top spot over the Indianapolis Colts.
On the news front, star tight end Antonio Gates is questionable ahead of Sunday. A foot injury in hand, Gates' absence would limit quarterback Philip Rivers, who is amongst the top passers in 2010.
A big game lays ahead for both sides, along with divisional implications. Both may see each other again in the playoffs, if either are to make it though, a win this Sunday may just get the ball rolling.
Prediction:
San Diego 31 - Houston 28
Chicago Bears at Buffalo Bills
6 of 14
Current Records:
Chicago 4-3 - Buffalo 0-7
What You Need To Know:
The Bills have been a team on a mission as of late, especially when it comes to notching that first win of the regular season.
If the term "close but no cigar" could ever be applied more fittingly to a situation, I haven't found it.
Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick has been the best thing since sliced bread in Buffalo, and by throwing in the likes of wide receiver Lee Evans and rookie C.J Spiller, Chan Gailey's team is looking more promising by the day.
Opposite the Bills on Sunday will be an opponent that has been struggling in recent weeks. Prior to Week 8, the Chicago Bears were in the top spot in the NFC North, only to slip up against the Washington Redskins in Week 7 and see the Green Bay Packers take the advantage with a win over the Jets.
So what can we expect between these two teams on Sunday?
It's hard to say that it will be a very one-sided affair, but already fans are lining up to claim their upset calls, as funnily enough, the Buffalo Bills are small favorites to take their first win of the season over the Chicago Bears.
Fitzpatrick has been brilliant. However, what will win the game for the Bills is a solid defensive presence, and more importantly, pressure on the unstable Jay Cutler and his receivers.
If the Bills can master this, look out.
Prediction:
Chicago 13 - Buffalo 17
Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings
7 of 14
Current Records:
Arizona 3-4 - Minnesota 2-5
What You Need To Know:
The 2-5 Minnesota Vikings now attempt to escape from a torturous Randy Moss-filled week, when they return to Mall of America Field to try and post their third overall win on the season.
Standing across from the Vikings on Sunday will be the Arizona Cardinals. At first glance, Ken Whisenhunt's team doesn't look all that stable.
Rookie quarterback Max Hall was benched last weekend, and now that Derek Anderson is starting, who knows what we can expect against the Vikings?
On the other hand though, Minnesota is the exact replica. With Randy Moss no more, Brett Favre is looking to limp onto the field on Sunday, and actually put forward a consistent and well-rounded performance, that isn't capped off with some form of injury.
And how can the Vikings take home the win?
Firstly, Minnesota mustn't hesitate to give the ball to Adrian Peterson. While the Vikings do need to perfect the passing game, Arizona is ranked 29th in overall rush defense, a statistic that favors Brad Childress' run game heaviliy.
Other than that, the Vikings need to step up as a team. Brett Favre has been copping the full brunt of criticism, and until that changes, the Vikings will continue to have issues on and off the field this regular season.
Both teams need a win, and both aren't in an ideal position in their respective positions. Expect to see a close game up North on Sunday afternoon.
Prediction:
Arizona 21 - Minnesota 24
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons
8 of 14
Current Records:
Tampa Bay 5-2 - Atlanta 5-2
What You Need To Know:
One of the most important games will kick off in the Georgia Dome on Sunday afternoon, when the Falcons play host to NFC South division rivals, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
If there is a storyline to watch for in this game, it's plainly obvious. Both teams are deadlocked at 5-2, and almost out of nowhere, the Buccaneers have sprung into a real-time playoff contender, in the space of one offseason.
Away from what we already know though, its the unpredictable side of this game that makes it exciting. Can Josh Freeman remain consistent against a reliable Falcons defense? Will Roddy White be as dominant as he has been in past weeks? And can the Bucs win on the Falcons' soil.
Back to what we know though, the Falcons will be with previously concussed cornerback Dunta Robisnson, who was hit hard against the Philadelphia Eagles several weeks ago.
As for Tampa Bay, they need to do what they do best. Josh Freeman has been stellar in his second year under center, and with LeGarrette Blount heating up at the right time, it may be the Bucs' young stars that get the job done.
Upset appeal? You bet your house there is. The NFC South divisional games never disappoint.
Prediction:
Tampa Bay 34 - Atlanta 31 (Overtime)
New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers
9 of 14
Current Records:
New Orleans 5-3 - Carolina 1-6
What You Need To Know:
Sticking with the NFC South theme, another meaningful match up is set to get underway in this division, when the "up and down" New Orleans Saints take on the struggling Carolina Panthers.
Starting with the Saints, 2010 hasn't been all it was cracked up to be. Of course, 5-3 is a very proud record, however New Orleans will be without running back Reggie Bush for at least one more week, giving Chris Ivory yet another shot to impress.
As far as confidence goes, the Saints also have a bundle. If you thought beating the Steelers was simply meaningful last week, guess again, because a win over a top AFC side has boosted the Saints back to the status they so desired three weeks ago.
So where do we start with the Panthers?
Right from the top. Quarterback Matt Moore is still the preferred starter in Carolina, even though No. 3 has once again failed to come through for head coach John Fox this season.
Away from the passing game, the Panthers will also be without star running back DeAngelo Williams, as a strained left foot is still giving the main man in Carolina some problems.
Therefore, with two big-name running backs sidelined, this game may have more in store for us than we originally expected.
Still, the Saints look to build a win streak this weekend with a victory over Carolina, and somehow the Panthers offense doesn't look up to the task just yet.
Prediction:
New Orleans 20 - Carolina 10
New York Giants at Seattle Seahawks
10 of 14
Current Records:
New York 5-2 - Seattle 4-3
What You Need To Know:
The Seattle Seahawks look to bounce back from an embarrassing Week 8 blowout against the Oakland Raiders, that saw Matt Hasselbeck's offense post a measly three points on the day.
In Week 9, the scary looking New York Giants await. Feasting on opposing quarterbacks, the likes of Osi Umenyiora and Justin Tuck may be enough to scare Matt Hasselbeck straight, and more importantly make head coach Pete Carroll focus on his team's offensive line.
Heading into the weekend, the Seahawks are ranked 28th in points scored, and 29th in yards. Not only does this add to the scare factor, it also plays into the Giants' hands, especially considering Perry Fewell's defense is ranked 2nd overall in the league.
The Giants are in cruise control in the NFC East, with everybody under them playing against themselves. With that said, the Philadelphia Eagles are still legitimate contenders, and even though the Redskins are suffering quarterback issues, Mike Shanahan's never say die attitude should pay off.
New York have been decent on the road this season, and Qwest Field shouldn't be too harder task. Prediction? The G-Men in classic Giant fashion.
Prediction:
New York 28 - Seattle 14
Indianapolis Colts at Philadelphia Eagles
11 of 14
Current Records:
Indianapolis 5-2 - Philadelphia 4-3
What You Need To Know:
Head coach Andy Reid is no stranger to controversy, and yet again he has provided a storyline by placing the returning Michael Vick in the starting role, ahead of shining young star Kevin Kolb.
As unfortunate as this occurrence is for Kevin Kolb, Michael Vick's ability certainly benefits this team. Injured against the Washington Redskins, Michael Vick now returns, and brings with him his surefire throwing arm and pinpoint accuracy that has been missed in his absence.
But for all the hype and speculation, an immensely tough test awaits Vick and the Eagles. Yes, the Indianapolis Colts make a rare trip to Philadelphia, and look to add to their stranglehold on the AFC South division.
The main factors to keep in mind for this game are simple. Keep an eye on Michael Vick, and also keep an eye on Mike Hart, who has shown signs of brilliance for the Indianapolis Colts run game as of recent weeks.
This fixture is one of the more underrated games of Week 9, for some unknown reason. It is a sure to be blockbuster, and if both quarterbacks are on their game (you know Peyton Manning will be), expect to see an old-fashioned shootout.
Prediction:
Indianapolis 34 - Philadelphia 21
Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland Raiders
12 of 14
Current Records:
Kansas City 5-2 - Oakland 4-4
What You Need To Know:
Two of the most impressive teams are set to square off on Sunday, in a classic rivalry game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Oakland Raiders.
For all of Oakland's recent convincing ways, major issues still stand at the quarterback position. Last weekend Jason Campbell was thrown into the deep end, but surprisingly performed well, posting 310 yards and 2 touchdowns en route to the Raiders blowout win over the Seattle Seahawks.
Opposite the Raiders, Matt Cassel suits up for the Chiefs. Cassel has been a standout, and the young receivers that surround the former Patriot, have made the Chiefs 5-2 record relevant in recent weeks.
On the unfortunate side for Oakland though, cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha is set to miss this weekend's showdown with a sprained right ankle. This loss is even more significant considering that Tony Moeaki and Jammal Charles stand opposite the Raiders on Sunday.
Already it has been labeled as a sure to be classic, so let's hope this game isn't as bigger blowout as Denver vs. Oakland was a few weeks ago.
If Kansas City loses, the Raiders move up. If the Chiefs win, the playoffs become even more likely.
Prediction:
Kansas City 31 - Oakland 21
Dallas Cowboys at Green Bay Packers
13 of 14
Current Records:
Dallas 1-6 - Green Bay 5-3
What You Need To Know:
The Cowboys are in a world of turmoil, and quite frankly Jerry Jones' annual trip to Lambeau Field couldn't have come at a worse time in the 2010 season.
To rewind to 2009, this game acted as the turning point for the Packers season. Heading into the game the Packers were expecting to be involved in an a shoot out, but instead Charles Woodson and the Packer defense stole the show, earning Green Bay a well-fought victory.
So what can we expect this time around?
Possibly much the same.
Cowboys Quarterback Jon Kitna is once again in the starting role, while Wade Phillips is beginning to run out of options, even though Dallas has regained Terence Newman, Bradie James and Marc Colombo from the injury list.
Still, the Packers are heavy favorites in this game. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers hasn't been exactly stellar this season, yet Green Bay's entire defensive stand against New York last week really sees Dom Caper's 3-4 scheme looking pretty.
Sunday Night Football plays host, and Lambeau Field is a tough environment. The Packers should scrape home due to a number of factors, one of which is home-field advantage.
Prediction:
Dallas 14 - Green Bay 28
Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals
14 of 14
Current Records:
Pittsburgh 5-2 - Cincinnati 2-5
What You Need To Know:
Prior to September, the Steelers clash with AFC North rivals the Cincinnati Bengals would have been labeled as a must-watch event.
Several months down the road, though, the Bengals 2-5 record puts a dampener on a potentially great game. With this in, however, there is no reason that the Bengals can't pull off a big-time win on Monday Night, at home in Paul Brown Stadium.
To give the Bengals a slight hope and chance, Pittsburgh's loss against New Orleans last week has exposed the Steelers' few weaknesses.
Sean Payton's defense managed to contain Rashard Mendenhall, and it appears that when the Steelers run game is knocked out, Pittsburgh's offensive arsenal is dimmed down a little.
In regards to how Pittsburgh can win the game, they must simply contain Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco. Given how poorly No. 85 has played this season, the only realistic threat for Mike Tomlin's defense is T.O, as he has accumulated 629 yards and 5 touchdowns on the year.
Finally, both teams must rely on good quarterback play. Ben Roethlisberger struggled last week, but we all know how brilliant he can be with Hines Ward.
On the other hand, Carson Palmer has shook off any rust lately and is now throwing accurately, even though the Bengal receivers aren't responding all that well.
Monday Night Football plays host, and this game could go either way. The Steelers are the favorites right now though, and the hunger for a win to regain he top spot in the AFC North should drive them to victory.
Prediction:
Pittsburgh 31 - Cincinnati 24
.jpg?w=480 "Colts Jaguars Football")
.png?w=480)
