NFL Preseason Schedule 2012: Showcasing Top Must-See Week 3 Games

Week 3 of the NFL preseason is the most important one for most teams. Many coaches treat this as the last tuneup game for the starters and a lot of second-stringers before sending them to the bench for the fourth and final matchup.

That means this is the last week to catch somewhat meaningful preseason action, which can be exciting to watch and get fans ready for the upcoming 2012 campaign.

With that said, let’s take a look at some of the top contests in Week 3.

New York Jets vs. Carolina Panthers

The Jets may be the most talked about team this offseason—understandable due to their massive market, quarterback controversy and boisterous coach.

Both Tim Tebow and Mark Sanchez have struggled during the exhibition contests, which means it’s almost a lock that the former USC Trojan will be the main starter when the regular season begins.

However, a transcendent performance from Tebow—especially against a weak Panthers running defense—could put Sanchez on the hot seat.

Cam Newton will also be an exciting player to watch in this game and should have a field day picking on some of the Jets defenders on the ground and in the air. 

Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Baltimore Ravens

Maurice Jones-Drew is still holding out, but Rashad Jennings has been a preseason stud. Fantasy owners must watch this game closely, as there is a good chance that the Jaguars do not reach an agreement with MJD by the opening game.

Jennings will become an extremely valuable fantasy option if that happens and could be a late-round steal if he continues to run as hard as he has been for the first two preseason games.

Baltimore’s defense is also worth watching, as the perennial star-studded unit is depleted and has an extremely shoddy-looking secondary.

If you are into fantasy football, there are a ton of players to see in this game, and it’s a must-watch.

Detroit Lions vs. Oakland Raiders

The Lions and Raiders are two teams that should be poised to make the postseason in 2013 but have been anything but consistent in recent years.

While Detroit finally broke through last year, it could easily fall apart this upcoming season—especially considering the Lions are part of the highly competitive NFC North.

Oakland will do its best to get Darren McFadden and Carson Palmer up to speed, as they are absolutely key to the success of this franchise in 2012.

Check this game out to see two promising squads that should make the playoffs.