NFL Week 15 Predictions: Rams, Colts and Eagles Will Top Divisions

With only three weeks left in the season, the NFL playoff picture is starting to take form.  Last night, the Chargers defeated the 49ers in what was essentially an elimination game.  Both teams will be closely watching this week's Chiefs-Rams game.  San Diego can move into a first place tie in the AFC West with a Chiefs, while San Francisco needs the Rams to lose to stay in the less than mediocre NFC West race.

There are also two big divisional matchups with first place on the line this weekend.  The Colts look to avenge an early-season loss to the AFC South-leading Jaguars, and the Eagles will try to sweep the season series from the Giants.  In doing so, Philly would all but guarantee an NFC East division title.  Also, the Jets will look to bounce back in Pittsburgh, the Patriots look to continue their hot streak against the Packers, and we have an inter-conference showdown between the Saints and Ravens.

It's sure to be a crazy week of NFL football.  So with out further ado, here are my Week 15 predictions:

St. Louis (pk) over Kansas City

This game is huge for both teams.  The Rams can put themselves in the driver's seat to win the NFC West with a victory, as they finish the season with the 49ers and Seahawks.  A loss for the Chiefs puts them into a tie with San Diego (who will win their last two games) and could put their playoff hopes in jeopardy.

Houston (+1.5) over Tennessee

Both of these teams are done.  After watching the Texans' comeback against Baltimore last week, I get the feeling they're still playing hard for Kubiak.  That's more than I can say of a banged up, virtually lifeless Tennessee team.

Indianapolis (-5.5) over Jacksonville

This one is tricky.  Jacksonville is playing really good football of late, and the Colts couldn't even cover the spread against the aforementioned Titans.  I just have a feeling this is going to be one of those vintage Manning games though, where he makes every throw look effortless in a 35-17 blowout win.  However, if the Jags can pull off the upset, the AFC South is theirs.

Arizona (+2) over Carolina

When two terrible teams play in December, it comes down almost entirely to effort.  The Cardinals are awful, yes.  They do appear to be playing with pride, however, as was evident in their win over the Broncos.  On the other side, John Fox is long-gone, and the team has no quarterback.  I think they actually want to lose so they can draft Andrew Luck.

Cleveland (+1.5) over Cincinnati

See above.  Cleveland still cares, and will likely have McCoy back at quarterback.  Cincinnati is done.  It's that simple.

Miami (-5.5) over Buffalo

After winning in New York last week, the Dolphins are very much alive in the playoff race.  Buffalo has played with a lot of resolve, but a fired-up Miami team will be too much for them to handle this week.

Philadelphia (+2.5) over NY Giants

Andy Reid's Eagles have had Tom Coughlin's Giants number for the last few seasons.  I don't expect that to change this week, as Michael Vick has continued to amaze.  The Giants defense has been good, but look for Vick to make just enough plays in a close 20-17 victory.

Dallas (-6) over Washington

Dallas has been competitive ever since Jason Garrett took over as coach.  Washington has had a lot of drama of late.  Is is really possible McNabb doesn't get the start?  I highly doubt it, but I still like the boys by two touchdowns in this one.

Detroit (+5.5) over Tampa Bay

Despite a 3-10 record, the Lions have only been outscored by 24 points this season.  Tampa, on the other side, has been outscored by seven points this season despite an 8-5 record.  This game will be closer than one might think. Bucs win it 21-20.

Baltimore (-1.5) over New Orleans

In a possible Super Bowl preview (no I'm not saying this will be the Super Bowl, but it could happen), Baltimore stops Brees and the Saints on a potential fourth-quarter game-winning drive and wins 24-20 in the game of the week.

Seattle (+6) over Atlanta

In a potential trap game in the Pacific Northwest, Atlanta will need a fierce rally to win this one.  Falcons win by three in an ugly game. 

NY Jets (+6) over Pittsburgh

The Jets have lost two in a row.  Sanchise's confidence looks shaky at best.  People are turning on Rex Ryan.  And they have to go to Pittsburgh to face the Steelers and their tough defense.  The Jets have no chance, right?  With their backs against the wall, I look for the Jets to win in a grind-it-out game in the cold.

Oakland (-7) over Denver

Oakland still has a chance, albeit it a small one, to win the AFC West.  Denver stopped playing the moment McDaniels was fired.  It's time to at least give Tebow a shot.

New England (-12) over Green Bay

The Pats are giving a lot of points, but it looks like Rogers isn't playing.  New England has been on a roll, and could very well end, what has been a disappointing season for a Packers team many thought would represent the NFC in the Super Bowl.

Minnesota (+7) over Chicago

Okay so Chicago might be able to lock up the division with a win, and Joe Webb is starting for Minnesota at quarterback.  So why am I picking the Vikings to score the major upset?  Minnesota will pound Adrian Peterson and Culter will have one of his vintage three interception games.  Vikings 13-9 in negative degree weather!