NFL Week 11 Picks: Indianapolis Colts Look To End Patriots Winning Ways
They say the earth revolves around the sun. What does that mean in football language? Basically, that the NFL revolves around two top-tier quarterbacks—Peyton Manning and Tom Brady.
Yes, loyal football fans, that time of year is upon us once again. The New England Patriots are preparing to play host to the rising Indianapolis Colts of 2010, and even though this battle should set the pace for the remainder of the season, all eyes are on Roger Goodell's golden boys, who engaged in a crucial battle this time last year.
Believe it or not, though, there are other games set to kick off this Sunday. The Green Bay Packers will head to Minnesota for their annual affair with Brett Favre, meanwhile the San Diego Chargers look to put their woes behind them, and really build for a possible postseason spot with a win over Denver on Monday night.
So to break the NFL's love affair with Tom Brady and Peyton Manning for one moment, here's a look at some Week 11 predictions, capped off with a brief summary of what you need to know looking into this weekend's affairs.
Buffalo Bills at Cincinnati Bengals
1 of 15
Current Records:
Buffalo 1-7 - Cincinnati 2-7
What You Need To Know:
Kicking off their win campaign last weekend against the Detroit Lions, the Buffalo Bills now look to build on what has been a disappointing yet promising season, with a trip to the also struggling Cincinnati Bengals.
If you're a follower of Terrell Owens or Chad Ochocinco on Twitter, chances are that you've noticed both players' attitude in recent weeks. It seems like every Sunday afternoon either man is posting about "getting better next week," but at the same time neither have been successful in boosting the Bengals to their third win.
So now Cincinnati faces quite possibly one of the lowest challenges in all of football. Buffalo brings a young but talented offense, and after running back Fred Jackson had a big week last Sunday, the Bills are an easy upset pick for anyone taking chances.
Finally, good news for the Bengals during the week, as wide receiver Chad Ochocinco is probable to play. Some may say that this is hardly anything to look forward to, following Mad Chad's mediocre year, but at least Carson Palmer will have that extra target to go to on Sunday.
Buffalo, on the other hand, may be minus defensive tackle Kyle Williams, so keep a close eye on Chan Gailey's defense, and expect some added run plays from Cincinnati if Williams is absent.
Prediction:
Buffalo 17 - Cincinnati 28
Oakland Raiders at Pittsburgh Steelers
2 of 15
Current Records:
Oakland 5-4 - Pittsburgh 6-3
What You Need To Know:
An up-and-down week from the Pittsburgh Steelers now carries into Sunday, as Mike Tomlin was delivered the good news of Hines Ward's return to practice, but also burdened with the news of LaMarr Woodley's fine due to a late hit on Tom Brady last weekend.
To kick it off with the Raiders, though, this is where Oakland's season becomes oh-so-meaningful. Tom Cable has endured a dream season so far this year, and now that his team is fresh off a Week 10 bye week, every game becomes pivotal in a close AFC West race.
But of course, in Oakland's way is the Pittsburgh Steelers, a team that has slipped and stumbled the past few weeks, with losses coming against the New Orleans Saints in Week 9, and against the New England Patriots in Week 10.
Still, the Oakland Raiders have nothing to fear. The tough news of Colt Brennan's serious condition will no doubt be on the Black Hole's mind right now, but with Jason Campbell and Darren McFadden still lighting it up, Oakland should be up to the Steel City test.
Last but not least, Oakland may be minus star cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, who is listed as questionable and reportedly will be a "game time decision." This is a match-up to watch, as it may determine the remainder of the season for either of these teams.
Prediction:
Oakland 17 - Pittsburgh 31
Arizona Cardinals at Kansas City Chiefs
3 of 15
Current Records:
Arizona 3-6 - Kansas City 5-4
What You Need To Know:
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Todd Haley plays host to his former team this Sunday afternoon, in front of what is sure to be a sold-out Arrowhead Stadium.
If you thought Sunday's game between Oakland and Pittsburgh was pivotal to the Raiders, think again, because the Kansas City Chiefs' clash with the Arizona Cardinals also stores a lot on the line for the Arrowheads this weekend.
With a 5-4 record in hand, a Raider loss and a Chiefs win could boost Kansas City back to first spot in the AFC West. Nonetheless, a loss by Todd Haley's team could also doom the red and white, and leave the San Diego Chargers with open prey looking toward the upcoming weeks.
As for Arizona, Larry Fitzgerald and Co. sit at the very bottom of the NFC West. Several weeks ago, Arizona was still in serious contention, only to see four consecutive losses in the past month more or less doom the Cardinals' season.
That in mind however, the Cardinals do have a lot to play for, and the sooner they sort out their quarterback difficulties the better. Fortunately for Kansas City, the team has a big home-field advantage, and now that running back Beanie Wells isn't 100 percent, it should be easy pickings for the Chiefs.
Prediction:
Arizona 13 - Kansas City 24
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Cleveland Browns at Jacksonville Jaguars
4 of 15
Current Records:
Cleveland 3-6 - Jacksonville 5-4
What You Need To Know:
Perhaps nobody in their right mind expected the Cleveland Browns to be sitting above the Cincinnati Bengals in the AFC North. More to the point, though, the same could be said for the Jacksonville Jaguars, as Jack Del Rio's side is ranked above the Houston Texans in the AFC South.
For many folks at home, this is a game that doesn't intrigue. Although Colt McCoy and the Browns have been brilliant, the fact still seems to remain the same that these are two weak teams in the NFL, and that this game will be rather boring.
Think again.
Following the Jaguars' win over the Houston Texans last week, David Garrard's offense is rolling. A last minute hail mary pass was the highlight of the week, and now that Jacksonville ranks sixth in rush yards, who knows how far this team will go.
But then there's the Cleveland Browns. Sure, a 3-6 record may not do the Dawg Pound justice, but Cleveland have been upset bound all year, even though the New York Jets pulled a fast one on them last week.
On the injuries front, Josh Cribbs will be a game time decision, and unfortunately for the Jaguars, wide receiver Mike Sims-Walker is doubtful at this point in time. Therefore, expect less-well-known players to step up, and provide a very close encounter.
Prediction:
Cleveland 31 - Jacksonville 34
Houston Texans at New York Jets
5 of 15
Current Records:
Houston 4-5 - New York 7-2
What You Need To Know:
Things nearly went from bad to worse for the Houston Texans midway through the week, with news that Matt Schaub was hospitalized, leaving much doubt for the remainder of the season.
Luckily, Schaub is back, and is set to start this weekend against the New York Jets.
But will that be enough to derail Rex Ryan's intense offense?
To be quite frank, it very well could be. In the past two weeks, the Jets have escaped by the skin of their teeth, and seeing as though overtime was needed against Cleveland last weekend, New York's offense is far from stellar right now.
Therefore, this AFC clash should be closer than many people assume. Mark Sanchez has thrown for 1,991 yards and 12 touchdowns on the year, but his inaccurate passing has cost the Jets some serious points and real estate in the past five weeks.
New York plays host, and makes a return to the Meadowlands after a long two week road trip. Houston has been stubborn in November, and isn't looking likely to make the postseason, so all the more reason for the Jets to notch a win and keep them atop the AFC East.
Prediction:
Houston 27 - New York 35
Washington Redskins at Tennessee Titans
6 of 15
Current Records:
Washington 4-5 - Tennessee 5-4
What You Need To Know:
Embarrassing performances by both Washington and Tennessee in Week 10, as the Redskins fell to a dominating Michael Vick, while the Titans struggled against the Miami Dolphins, despite the Dolphins' weakness at quarterback.
To rewind to two months ago, no one expected the Redskins to be where they are now. Washington was rolling at that time, and with Donovan McNabb throwing rainbows to the likes of Chris Cooley, the season looked extraordinarily bright for Mike Shanahan.
Of course, the same could be said about Tennessee. Although the Titans weren't atop the division at the time, Jeff Fisher's crew rose to the ranks, only to let it all slip due to a couple of silly losses and under-performances.
So what can we expect from these two sides on the weekend?
A fairly balanced affair, capped off with many mistakes. Donovan McNabb was atrocious on Monday Night against the Philadelphia Eagles, and needless to say Vince Young's 92 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception wasn't overly impressive, either.
Lastly, Randy Moss must also step up this week. Just one catch against the Dolphins in Week 10 was unexpected, and until No. 84 proves he is worth the extra zeroes in his pay check, the Titans will continue to struggle.
Prediction:
Washington 20 - Tennessee 28
Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings
7 of 15
Current Records:
Green Bay 6-3 - Minnesota 3-6
What You Need To Know:
Despite all of the Vikings' woes and instability, somehow Minnesota fans have kept the faith during this rough period, and are still mildly hopeful of some kind of Brett Favre turnaround the boosts the team into a wild card spot.
Maybe the Chicago Bears put an end to that on Thursday night, though.
Yes, once again it is the Packers' chance to storm Mall of America Field and take on the Vikings, and in Mike McCarthy's case, he hopes this this time around the green and gold will steal a victory, rather than falling in an unimpressive display.
For Minnesota, the keys to the game are simple. The Vikings must apply pressure on Aaron Rodgers, and try to avoid Clay Matthews on the opposite end of the field. However, all of this may be easier said than done, as Green Bay's offensive line is much stronger than a year ago, and Clay Matthews has been relentless against the run.
What about Green Bay?
The Packers must first eliminate the Brett Favre factor. Sure, it may seem that Aaron Rodgers is comfortable now away from No. 4, but the thought of sweeping Minnesota this season mustn't overwhelm Green Bay heading in.
Finally, the other key to the game for the Packers is to shut down the returning Sidney Rice. The Vikings are almost certain that Rice will play, adding another wide receiver threat to their arsenal.
Should Green Bay do these things, 7-3 is a certainty, and the NFC North will be all tied up again.
Prediction:
Minnesota 27 - Green Bay 31
Baltimore Ravens at Carolina Panthers
8 of 15
Current Records:
Baltimore 6-3 - Carolina 1-8
What You Need To Know:
A clear opportunity stands in front of the Baltimore Ravens this weekend, with a weak and down-and-out Carolina Panthers team playing host to one of the AFC's biggest powerhouses.
What came as a surprise during the week was the news of the Panthers' quarterback situation. With Matt Moore and Jimmy Clausen proving to be bigger failures than the Delorean DMC-12, Carolina announced the rebirth of Brian St. Pierre, right from the confines of his own home.
To many, this move at quarterback is the last straw for a struggling franchise. Prior to being reborn again under center, St.Pierre was a stay-at-home dad, who had seemingly left the football world well behind.
But as for the Panthers opponents, the Ravens are in cruise control right now. Pittsburgh is very much on the Ravens' tails, but for all of the criticism surrounding John Harbaugh's team, Baltimore still holds first place in the AFC North.
A battle between weak and strong is at hand, and no upset pick is realistic.
Prediction:
Baltimore 21 - Carolina 13
Detroit Lions at Dallas Cowboys
9 of 15
Current Records:
Detroit 2-7 - Dallas 2-7
What You Need To Know:
The battle between two of the league's 2-7 teams kicks off in Texas this weekend, when the battered and bruised Detroit Lions make a rare trip to Cowboys Stadium, to face Jason Garrett's surprisingly tough offense.
If a fire has ever been lit underneath a team, none has ever been quite so bright as the Dallas Cowboys flame. Extinguishing New York last week seemed almost unimaginable for Jon Kitna and Co., but 33 points later, Dallas looked to be a totally new team after firing Wade Phillips.
So now Dallas looks to make it two wins in a row, at home over Detroit. While this is a very favorable outcome, the Lions have also been extremely resilient against bigger opponents, and we all know that replacement quarterback Shaun Hill can really play ball.
This fixture probably isn't the most exciting, and with Matt Stafford missing, the Lions will likely struggle like they did last week against Buffalo. However, there were only two points in the game, so maybe Detroit can bring Dallas back to earth on Sunday afternoon.
Prediction:
Detroit 21 - Dallas 10
Atlanta Falcons at St. Louis Rams
10 of 15
Current Records:
Atlanta 7-2 - St. Louis 4-5
What You Need To Know:
Quite possibly the best team in football heads to St. Louis this weekend, as the Atlanta Falcons prepare for a big test against rookie quarterback Sam Bradford and his determined young team.
In Atlanta's case, they are much more refreshed than the St. Louis Rams. The Falcons' Week 10 game came on Thursday Night Football, meaning that Matt Ryan and Mike Smith's crew have had extended time to progress ahead of this fixture.
As for St. Louis, this game could be either a hit or a miss. So far this year, the Rams have been surprisingly good, but since their rise to the top of the NFC West, the Rams have endured a few hiccups with the loss of key players.
If there is one factor that you are going to hold the Rams to, however, it would have to be that the Rams have a four-game home win record on the line this weekend.
For the Falcons?
Currently Atlanta is ranked 8th in both points scored and yards on offense. This may not mean much to some, but against an under-.500 opponent, it gives the Falcons the upper hand.
Prediction:
Atlanta 27 - St. Louis 17
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at San Francisco 49ers
11 of 15
Current Records:
Tampa Bay 6-3 - San Francisco 3-6
What You Need To Know:
The rise of the San Francisco 49ers has slowly but surely come, and even though the team still sits at a dismal 3-6, in all reality Mike Singletary's team could still make the playoffs if they maintain a solid amount of wins for the next seven weeks.
But visiting the 49ers on Sunday will be the 6-3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a team that sits at third place in the NFC South, although the Bucs have by far been the most promising and surprising team in all of football this year.
Starting off with San Francisco, quarterback Troy Smith is the favored starter for the remainder of the year. The 49ers are unbeaten with Smith at the helm, and perhaps the No.1 on his jersey is indicative of his new ranking amongst the 49ers fan base.
Switching over to Tampa Bay, the Bucs haven't changed much since the beginning of the season. If you are looking for some kind of factor to focus on, though, keep an eye on running back LaGarrette Blount as he faces the 49ers 10th-ranked rush defense.
A big game atmosphere? Probably not, and let's hope we don't hear even more boos coming from the rafters of Candlestick Park. If all things go to plan, though, the 49ers stand a good chance in this match-up.
Prediction:
Tampa Bay 21 - San Francisco 24 - Overtime
Seattle Seahawks at New Orleans Saints
12 of 15
Current Records:
Seattle 5-4 - New Orleans 6-3
What You Need To Know:
Week 10 saw the turnaround of the Seattle Seahawks, as Matt Hasselbeck stepped into the starting role, and provided more than just the goods for Pete Carroll's talented-but-overlooked offensive structure.
If you've been following Matt Hasselbeck's long career, though, you may have noticed that the main man in Seattle can be injury prone at times. Hence Hasselbeck's latest wrist injury that somehow hasn't sidelined him ahead of Week 11.
And who do the Seahawks plan to face this week?
None other than the New Orleans Saints, a 6-3 team who is still in the playoff race behind Atlanta and ahead of Tampa Bay in the NFC South division.
The Saints hope to regain Reggie Bush in the running game, while offensive tackle Russell Okung makes his return for the Seahawks.
Bragging rights may not be on the line, but upper hands in respective divisions sure are, and with the Falcons and Rams posing a threat for each team, a win on Sunday would be a definite luxury.
Prediction:
Seattle 14 - New Orleans 27
Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots
13 of 15
Current Records:
Indianapolis 6-3 - New England 7-2
What You Need To Know:
The game of the week will kick off on Sunday afternoon, as the New England Patriots prepare for a second consecutive AFC heavyweight clash against their good ole rivals the Indianapolis Colts.
Before we take a look at this game, let's flash back to last year. Bill Belichick made a controversial game-altering call, and at the time the Colts were undefeated, on their way to the postseason.
So this time around, will Bill Belichick throw caution to the wind and do what he likes?
Yes, yes, and double yes.
Aside from what Bill Belichick will be doing, though, Tom Brady's new go-to target Rob Gronkowski will be looking to add to his impressive touchdown effort last week against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
And what about the Colts?
Funny enough, quarterback Peyton Manning only threw for 185 yards and zero touchdowns last week. Still, the Colts as a team managed to pick up the slack and knock off a tough and persistent Cincinnati Bengals team.
This one is a true rivalry to behold. Playoffs look to be a certainty for either team, and the Colts look to make it 2-0 against the Patriots in two consecutive years.
Prediction:
Indianapolis 31 - New England 38
New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles
14 of 15
Current Records:
New York 6-3 - Philadelphia 6-3
What You Need To Know:
The NFC East is always a hotly contested division, but now that both the Eagles and Giants are matched evenly at 6-3, Sunday Night Football will play host to a very meaningful confrontation between two classic NFC rivals.
Fresh off a Hall of Fame game against the Washington Redskins on Monday Night, all eyes are on Michael Vick to ensure the Eagles a playoff spot. With 333 yards and six total touchdowns against Washington, now the questions remains as to whether or not Vick can do the very same, and assert himself even further into MVP discussion.
In Vick's way, though, is the Giants defense—a team that has been relentless on quarterbacks. Unfortunately for New York, the team's loss against the Cowboys last week shone a large light on their weaknesses, something that isn't flattering heading into Sunday night.
The Eagles are 4-0 against the Giants in recent games, a statistic that adds salt to an open wound, along with Michael Vick's show.
Prediction:
New York 34 - Philadelphia 28
Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers
15 of 15
Current Records:
Denver 3-6 - San Diego 4-5
What You Need To Know:
It's now or never for San Diego Chargers head coach Norv Turner, who has strong hopes of turning the Chargers poor start to the season into a bundle of wins and talented performances, on the way to a possible postseason appearance.
If the socks weren't knocked off your ankles last week though by the Denver Broncos, you best get your head checked. Kyle Orton's offense piled on the points against the Kansas City Chiefs, and now that running back Knowshon Moreno is returning to form, maybe a few more wins can make the Broncos' record a little more respectable.
While we're speaking of respect, however, the Chargers' statistics have been remarkable. Ranked fifth in points scored and first in yards, all of this is capped off with the Chargers second-ranked defense in the league--a defense that has been surprisingly good for 4-5.
So what is wrong with the Chargers?
Nothing really, just injury problems and a lack of team chemistry. Reports have now stated that running back Ryan Matthews and tight end Antonio Gates may be out of Monday night's game against Denver, limiting the Chargers to very few receivers.
I guess at the end of the day, we will see if the Broncos can take advantage of the Chargers absences. If they can, the Broncos may at least show some promising signs for next season. Meanwhile the Chargers could shoot themselves right out of the playoffs.
We'll wait and see, as Monday Night Football is the host. While we're waiting, though, keep in mind that Kyle Orton and Brandon Lloyd are a totally different duo compared to the last time these two teams met, so expect some defensive changes from the Chargers point of view.
Prediction:
Denver 17 - San Diego 29
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