NFL Post Thanksgiving Picks: Chargers Look to Bump AFC Rival Colts in Week 12
Several thousand turkeys are safe, Uncle Stan has endured his annual Thanksgiving nap, and the NFL has again experienced a successful Thursday Night Football appearance, that shook up the league in more ways than one.
Yes, this year's Thanksgiving football dates were a little unusual in comparison to past years. For once the Detroit Lions didn't play host to the Green Bay Packers, and although the New York Jets easily overcame the Cincinnati Bengals, a scare or two was seen in the first half.
So what does that leave heading into the weekend's action?
Thirteen games that are sure to be just as exciting. To kick things off, the new look Minnesota Vikings will head to Washington to face the struggling Washington Redskins, followed by the oh so important matchup between the Green Bay Packers and Atlanta Falcons, laced by Phillip Rivers' trip to Indianapolis.
Another blockbuster weekend, and yet again each game will involve playoff implications. Here's a look at Week 12's predictions, and as usual, expect the unexpected.
Minnesota Vikings at Washington Redskins
1 of 13
Current Records:
Minnesota 3-7 - Washington 5-5
What You Need To Know:
Discussion, debate and criticism has surrounded the Minnesota Vikings all week long, when the franchise finally pulled the inevitable plug on Brad Childress' coaching career, replacing him with interim head coach Leslie Frazier for the remainder of the season.
On the other side of the field this Sunday afternoon will be a revitalized Washington Redskins team, looking to notch a second straight win after picking off the Tennessee Titans last week in a close overtime fixture.
For the Vikings, they simply must rally around this sudden change at the helm. The Dallas Cowboys are a perfect example, and if Brett Favre has any hopes of keeping his final season in the NFL respectable, expect a new look Minnesota team come this weekend.
In Washington's case, they must make the most of the very little roster depth they have. A ravishing injury bug has torn through Mike Shanahan's team lately, and now that running backs Clinton Portis, Ryan Torain and safety LaRon Landry are missing, some big time pressure is sure to be felt.
No one knows what to expect from Leslie Frazier, so this will be an interesting watch. If you're the Washington Redskins however, make sure you keep a firm lid on the interception prone Brett Favre.
Prediction:
Minnesota 24 - Washington 10
Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans
2 of 13
Current Records:
Tennessee 5-5 - Houston 4-6
What You Need To Know:
Some good ole' Southern cooking will be on display in Houston this week, when two of the AFC South's most tormenting teams step onto the field to try and resolve their seasonal differences once and for all.
Kicking it off with the Titans, this has been a week to forget. Quarterback Vince Young has been tossed aside like an unwanted dog, and although Jeff Fisher didn't invite the former Longhorn to a team meeting, the main man insists that there are no hard feelings between the two.
Whether or not you're buying this is your own call. If you support the Houston Texans though, you may be feeling the exact same frustration that the Tennessee Titans are feeling right now.
Seeing the world through rose colored glasses at the beginning of the season was all well and good for Gary Kubiak's team, but a week after Brad Childress has been fired in Minnesota, some doubt has begun to arise about Kubiak's coaching ability.
Other than controversy off the field for these two sides, it is now dire straits mode for each. The Jacksonville Jaguars are laughing atop the division table, meanwhile the Indianapolis Colts continue to distance themselves from these two struggling franchises.
A horrid week for both, and one that isn't overly favorable heading into a division showdown. Rusty Smith will suit up for the Titans under center. It may be a case of whichever team is stronger mentally will walk out with the win in this one.
Prediction:
Tennessee 16 - Houston 31
Jacksonville Jaguars at New York Giants
3 of 13
Current Records:
Jacksonville 6-4 - New York 6-4
What You Need To Know:
They say playing the quarterback position is one of the toughest in sports. Deciphering the New York Giants though? Well, that takes the cake looking into Week 12.
This Sunday two 6-4 teams will do battle in the Meadowlands, when the surprisingly balanced and skillful Jacksonville Jaguars take a rare trip out east to face Tom Coughlin's struggling New York Giants.
In Week 11, these two teams couldn't have been farther apart. The Jaguars took a close win over the Cleveland Browns, while the New York Giants fell in embarrassing fashion to the Philadelphia Eagles after an Eli Manning "deja vu" fumble.
So now the two teams will meet up, and quite frankly this is one of the more underrated matchups of the week.
First and foremost, the Giants made a last minute change at the running back spot during the week. Brandon Jacobs will replace the struggling Ahmad Bradshaw, and now New York must attempt to take advantage of the Jaguars 19th rank rush defense and post some points on the board.
As for the Jaguars, not much has changed, other then the fact that their run game has picked up too. Maurice Jones-Drew had a big Week 11 campaign rushing for 133 yards and one touchdown, and now the Giants have even more reason to turn up the heat on defense.
Jacksonville goes in search for its fourth straight win of the month, while the Giants look to avoid another shameful defeat. This is a big time clash in New York that could easily bounce the Giants right out of postseason contention.
Prediction:
Jacksonville 34 - New York 28
.jpg?w=256 "Colts Jaguars Football")
Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills
4 of 13
Current Records:
Pittsburgh 7-3 - Buffalo 2-8
What You Need To Know:
Two talented AFC teams will take a trip to Buffalo in Week 12 when the Pittsburgh Steelers face a minor task, taking on a persistent and determined Bills team at Ralph Wilson Stadium.
For most folks making their weekly picks, this game is favorable to feature an upset. The Buffalo Bills are still on a high after coming back against the Cincinnati Bengals last week to snatch a 49-31 victory, and although this is a small factor heading in, the Steelers must keep their wits about them.
Making news during the week, Bills running back CJ Spiller looked probable to return from injury only to be listed as questionable closer to Sunday. From Pittsburgh's point of view, Steelers fans will be happy to know that their team is solid right now, although controversy did spark following Richard Seymour's fistfight last week.
If the Bills are to pinch an upset at home, they must do what many other teams have been unable to pull off--shutting down Rashard Mendenhall. The Steelers' running back has 811 yards and eight touchdowns on the year, and without this presence sometimes the Pittsburgh offense can fall a little flat.
As for Mike Tomlin, he must pressure young starting quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick. The presence of LaMarr Woodley and James Harrison should be capable of this, so let's wait and see if Fitzpatrick is up to a big time test.
Prediction:
Pittsburgh 27 - Buffalo 16
Carolina Panthers at Cleveland Browns
5 of 13
Current Records:
Carolina 1-9 - Cleveland 3-7
What You Need To Know:
The battle of the NFL's weak will kick off in Cleveland this Sunday, as replacement quarterback Jake Delhomme prepares to face his former team, the Carolina Panthers, in a game that could boost the Browns' confidence even more this season.
From a ratings standpoint, this matchup probably won't intrigue all too many people. With that in mind however, seeing how the Browns' offense manages with the absence of Colt McCoy under center should be worth watching, as it indicates how the Browns will fare entering into the 2011 season.
In relation to the Carolina Panthers though, this season couldn't come to an end quickly enough. Blown out by the Baltimore Ravens last weekend, the Panthers now resort to rookie quarterback Jimmy Clausen once again to take a second crack at turning the offensive structure around.
The Browns also struggled last week with the absence of Josh Cribbs, and a 24-20 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars was far from pretty.
Chances are this game will be mistake filled, and it may be as ugly as Gene Simmons without the makeup. Still, the Browns sit at third in the AFC North, and would be more than happy to keep this position with a promising season laying ahead next year.
Prediction:
Carolina 17 - Cleveland 24
Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons
6 of 13
Current Records:
Green Bay 7-3 - Atlanta 8-2
What You Need To Know:
Matchup of the week? You better believe it, because the NFC's ultimate bragging rights are on the line when the red hot Green Bay Packers take a rare trip to the Georgia Dome to face Matt Ryan and company.
As far as future playoff games go, Green Bay vs. Atlanta is a definite possibility. The Falcons are fresh off a close win over the St. Louis Rams last week, which saw Mike Smith's defense dominate Sam Bradford to force a last minute interception in the fourth quarter.
Not to be outdone though, the Green Bay Packers also have some big wins to their name as well. Defeating the New York Jets 9-0 a month ago was promising, but seeing as though the Packers have exorcised their demons and leveled up with rival Brett Favre, the Packers can realistically focus on the postseason now.
Before we get ahead of ourselves, there is a lot of football to still play. For all of the Packers' skill recently, Green Bay sits second in the NFC North behind the Chicago Bears, even though they are all tied up at 7-3 a piece.
Similar to Green Bay, the Falcons are still trying to cut the New Orleans Saints loose, and with a loss this Sunday, Atlanta could slip to the second spot after Drew Brees' big time win over the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving.
NFC rights are on the line, and it's fair to say that whoever wins will walk out with a bundle of confidence for the remaining six weeks.
Prediction:
Green Bay 17 - Atlanta 10
Kansas City Chiefs at Seattle Seahawks
7 of 13
Current Records:
Kansas City 6-4 - Seattle 5-5
What You Need To Know:
Testing times have struck both Kansas City and Seattle, as they fight to keep their division leads alive during the course of the next six weeks.
Starting with the Chiefs, Todd Haley's team has experienced a remarkable season that has seen talent emerge seemingly from the woodwork. Unfortunately however, a win this weekend is absolutely vital for the Arrowhead faithful, especially with a persistent Oakland Raiders squad breathing down their necks.
Next, the Seattle Seahawks must also do everything possible to secure a victory on Sunday. It is easy to say that the NFC West is the weakest division in football right now, but at the same time the St. Louis Rams still pose a threat as the season draws on, even though Steve Spagnuolo's team sits below .500 at this point.
For Kansas City, a tough road test awaits the team when they fly to Qwest Field. Sure, the Seahawks' home stadium is no Heinz Field, but with Matt Hasselbeck throwing for 366 yards and one touchdown last week against New Orleans, who knows what Pete Carroll team will show up.
Last but not least, the Seahawks also expect to see cornerback Marcus Trufant return on Sunday. Wide receiver Mike Williams is still a question, but at least the Seahawks will have some kind of defensive presence to withstand Matt Cassel.
A big game and a must win for either side. Don't miss it.
Prediction:
Kansas City 23 - Seattle 20
Miami Dolphins at Oakland Raiders
8 of 13
Current Records:
Miami 5-5 - Oakland 5-5
What You Need To Know:
Two teams chasing division glory will meet up in Oakland when the Raiders play host to the struggling Miami Dolphins, who are in the process of discovering their true quarterback's identity this season.
Being realistic for one moment, the Dolphins' playoff chances may be as good as gone. The New England Patriots and New York Jets have turned the AFC East into a two way battle, and although the Dolphins can still finish above .500, postseason football may have to wait until next year.
On the flip side to the Dolphins' despair though, the Oakland Raiders are still eying January football. The Kansas City Chiefs are slowly losing their grip on the division, but before the Raiders can get too keen, the San Diego Chargers are also presenting problems of their own.
During the week, Raiders head coach Tom Cable stated that Jason Campbell is indeed the team's quarterback for this Sunday's game. Campbell has thrown for 1322 yards and seven touchdowns this year, and has been one of the main reasons for The Black Hole's rise to the top.
Unfortunately for the Dolphins, they can't say the same thing. With Chad Pennington out, the Dolphins now have to flip flop between Chad Henne, Tyler Thigpen and Patrick Ramsey for the rest of the year. To make matters worse, the Dolphins will also be missing Brandon Marshall this week, as the star wide receiver is injured with a torn hamstring.
This game is a potential blowout pick, and it's hard to disagree. No real certainty on offense for the Dolphins spells disaster, and with Tony Sparano on a hot seat, who knows when this downward spiral will end.
Prediction:
Miami 14 - Oakland 28
St. Louis Rams at Denver Broncos
9 of 13
Current Records:
St. Louis 4-6 - Denver 3-7
What You Need To Know:
Tough losses were the fortune of the St. Louis Rams and Denver Broncos last week, both losing in undesirable fashion to the Atlanta Falcons and San Diego Chargers.
So where do we start with these two teams?
First, this game is a lot more crucial to the Rams than the Broncos. As desired as a win is for Josh McDaniels this year, the Rams must post a victory this weekend if they have any hopes of catching the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC West.
If this fate is to unfold, the Rams must rely on their defense. Denver's 3-7 record may look dull, but don't take quarterback Kyle Orton and wide receiver Brandon Lloyd lightly, both are having Pro Bowl caliber years.
Therefore, the Rams' 15th ranked defense really must stand up to the test on Sunday.
In relation to the Broncos, to avoid a loss at home in Mile High they must also do the same and shut down Sam Bradford. A last minute interception against the Falcons last week has most likely plagued Bradford all week, so look for him to make up for it in Week 12.
The Broncos must contain Bradford, the Rams must contain Orton, it's that simple. Whichever team manages to avoid mistakes should take this victory.
Prediction:
St. Louis 31 - Denver 28 (Overtime)
Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears
10 of 13
Current Records:
Philadelphia 7-3 - Chicago 7-3
What You Need To Know:
If you thought the Green Bay Packers' showdown with the Atlanta Falcons was big, think again, because the Philadelphia Eagles' trip to Soldier Field also ensures big time playoff implications.
To think back to the middle of the season, the Bears' recent turn for the best was definitely unexpected. The Bears were fresh off a tough loss to the hard hitting New York Giants, and with Jay Cutler throwing wobbly passes on every occasion, Chicago was never expected to attain the top spot in the NFC North.
Opposite to the Bears though, the Eagles have always been destined for a great year ever since Michael Vick stepped up in a big way this season. As if Vick's marquee game against Washington two weeks ago wasn't enough, his 1,608 yards and 11 touchdowns on the year have certainly made him a favorite for MVP.
So what can we expect when the Eagles head to The Windy City?
In all honesty, a pretty close affair. The Eagles are currently ranked second in points scored, while the Bears second ranked rush defense has been stellar in recent weeks. Throw in the fact that Julius Peppers is also coming back to his best and you have the makings for a big showdown.
Lastly, the Eagles can also expect to see cornerback Asante Samuel absent this week, as the main man on defense takes a seat with a sore knee. How this loss will impact the Eagles is questionable, but a big road game is at hand.
Prediction:
Philadelphia 24 - Chicago 14
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Baltimore Ravens
11 of 13
Current Records:
Tampa Bay 7-3 - Baltimore 7-3
What You Need To Know:
Ah, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who would have thought that Raheem Morris' team would be 7-3 eleven weeks into the year? I know I didn't. More to the point however, who would have thought that the Bucs actually stood a chance heading to Baltimore this weekend?
Yes, the Buccaneers face a tough test on the road this week. The Ravens currently sit atop the AFC North at 7-3, and with the playoffs directly in sight, John Harbaugh's team is beginning to turn on the gas as the weeks dwindle down.
Take last week as an example, and you'll instantly see that the Ravens are the real deal in the AFC this year. The Carolina Panthers tested Baltimore early, but Ray Lewis' defense stood up to the test in the second half securing a 37-13 victory.
On the other side of the Ravens this weekend will be the resilient Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Looking at the NFC South on paper it is hard to fathom why a 7-3 record lands Tampa Bay in the third spot, but with Atlanta and New Orleans still leading the pack, an answer is discovered immediately.
What are the keys to the game this weekend?
In Baltimore's case, they must limit running back LeGarrette Blount as quickly as possible. Yes, Blount may be only a rookie, but the young Tampa Bay stud has risen from the ranks recently and could pose a serious threat to Baltimore's sturdy defense.
For Raheem Morris' team, he must make sure that quarterback Josh Freeman is well and aware of the Baltimore defense. We all know that the Ravens' secondary can pose a serious threat when hot, and now that the Ravens are ranked 10th in pass yards, Freeman must make sure he is 100 percent accurate.
It's an uncanny AFC/NFC showdown, and one that could mix up each division depending on the loser.
Prediction:
Tampa Bay 13 - Baltimore 21
San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts
12 of 13
Current Records:
San Diego 5-5 - Indianapolis 6-4
What You Need To Know:
Last week provided all sorts of problems for the Indianapolis Colts, when Jim Caldwell's team took a testing trip to Foxboro to take on possibly the best team in the NFL, the New England Patriots.
If you've been living under a rock for the past two weeks, it may come as news to you to hear that Peyton Manning has been struggling on offense. Short of his usual trustworthy receivers, No. 18 threw for three interceptions last week in the Colts' close 31-28 loss against New England.
Things don't get any easier for The Sheriff this week though.
Looking hot and rejuvenated following a demeaning win over the Denver Broncos last Monday night, the San Diego Chargers pay the Colts a visit at Lucas Oil Stadium, where they look to shake up their AFC rivals.
Indianapolis will be without star wide receiver Austin Collie once again, who is still recovering from a concussion. According to sources, the Colts don't want to rush Collie's return and would rather see him fit and healthy in upcoming weeks.
In San Diego's case, they too may be minus tight end Antonio Gates, who is looking likely to take his second straight week off. Some condolences may be found though, as the Colts look to be also without Reggie Wayne this Sunday night.
This game has been a clash of titans in years past, and we all know the Chargers could use a victory to step up to 6-5. The Colts look to slay any playoff chances, but with no offensive options, the pickings are slim.
Prediction:
San Diego 34 - Indianapolis 24
San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals
13 of 13
Current Records:
San Francisco 3-7 - Arizona 3-7
What You Need To Know:
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell probably thought this would be a blockbuster matchup when he first announced the schedule. Twelve weeks into the year and two dismal seasons later, the NFL head man may be regretting his decision.
Nonetheless, Monday Night Football will still go on this week when the San Francisco 49ers take a trip to Arizona in a battle of the NFC West's two weak teams.
Throughout the week 49ers head coach Mike Singletary announced that Troy Smith will suit up for San Francisco under center. Prior to this announcement, some debate arose toward Smith's skill level, but with the only other option being Alex Smith, Singletary chose to give Troy Smith another opportunity.
Across from San Francisco, the Arizona Cardinals have also endured a rough week, losing offensive linebacker Will Davis to a broken left leg sustained against the Kansas City Chiefs a week ago.
Unfortunately from a fan perspective, this game may not be overly thrilling. Still, both teams look to get back on the right track heading into the 2011 season, and this is the perfect game for either team to do so.
Prediction?
It's not an easy call, but don't expect the 49ers to swallow another scoreless loss like they did last week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Prediction:
San Francisco 20 - Arizona 27
.jpg?w=480 "Colts Jaguars Football")
.png?w=480)
.jpg?w=600 "Post-June 1 Trade Candidates ☎️")
.JPG?w=600 "TO Talks Cowboys Relationship")
.jpg?w=600 "Taylor Heinicke Retiring")
.jpg?w=600 "49ers OC Hypes Mike Evans 🤩")