Week 17 NFL Picks: Playoff Contenders Who Will Fall Flat

It's Week 17 of the NFL season, and you know what that means: It's the time when the playoffs are finally decided.

We've heard plenty of prognostications, theories and flat-out exaggerations throughout the nation so far, but after Week 17, we can rest our heads a bit, assured that we don't have to hear any of it anymore...until the playoffs.

Several teams are vying for a playoff spot in Week 17.

Here are the teams I see going home early.

Tennessee Titans (8-7)

The Titans have a shot at capturing the sixth seed in the AFC if they beat the Houston Texans in Week 17.

But they won't beat the Houston Texans.

Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is on his last legs, the offensive line is tattered and the loss of star receiver Kenny Britt really hurt this team. Plus, you never know what to expect from running back Chris Johnson anymore.

The Texans have too good of a defense for the Titans offense, and it will lead to a low-scoring game and a Texans victory.

Cincinnati Bengals (9-6)

I almost hate to put the Bengals on this list because, by all accounts, they shouldn't be considered a disappointment if they lose in Week 17. They were projected by many to be the worst team in the NFL this season, and they've been far from it.

Nonetheless, I don't see the Bengals beating the Baltimore Ravens in Week 17, especially because the Ravens will be fighting for the No. 2 seed in the AFC.

The Bengals offense has been much better than expected this season, but it's still a developing offense behind rookie quarterback Andy Dalton and rookie receiver A.J. Green.

I expect the Bengals to make the playoffs next season, but not this season.

Dallas Cowboys (8-7)

The Cowboys head into New York to face the Giants for the NFC East title on Sunday, and the reality is, this game could go either way.

Both teams have been inconsistent, but the Giants look like the better team now, and that's all that matters.

I expect Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo to struggle with a bruised throwing hand and for Eli Manning and Co. to capitalize in New York.

Sorry, Jerry Jones.