2011 NFL Predictions: Ranking the 50 Can't-Miss Games This Season

The NFL regular season hasn't begun yet, but the anticipation across the nation is palpable after an offseason of lockout uncertainty and a lot of unpredictable transactions. Fans everywhere are marking their calendars for the games they don't want to miss between their favorite teams and some of their fiercest rivals.

All the great rivalries are back this year, many with new twists to the old stories. Here's a look at 50 games you won't want to miss this year.

50. Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Colt McCoy vs. Andy Dalton

It figures to be a matchup for a long time if these two quarterbacks live up to expectations, and since both are continuing to grow and mature right now, it's already an intriguing competition to see who's got the early career edge. McCoy will have more experience, but Dalton may have better weapons.

2. The Battle of Ohio

Any intrastate matchup has a ton of bragging rights attached. This one has been a vicious rivalry and seems to draw nothing from the performance of each team during the rest of the season. It's always anybody's game and has produced some very memorable games in the last few years.

3. New-Look Bengals

The Bengals are going to be without some familiar faces this year, as Carson Palmer has quit the game and Chad Ochocinco has moved on to New England. Terrell Owens is also gone. It will be interesting to see a team that has now lost both a lot of pizzazz and a lot of talent. It could be a good or bad thing.

49. Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Matt Stafford vs. the New Monsters of the Midway

Stafford is looking for his first healthy season in the NFL. He'll have his hands full against one of the NFC's top defensive units. He's got some new weapons, however, so it will be interesting to see if he can take a big leap forward along with the rest of the team in 2011.

2. Detroit's New-Look Defense vs. Jay Cutler and Company

Cutler, when he's got his head on straight, is one of the league's best quarterbacks. Detroit has quietly been building a good, young defense. It'll be put to the test. Cutler has some good weapons. Matt Forte is also a good running back and receiver. It'll be particularly interesting to see the great defensive front of the Lions against the only so-so offensive line of the Bears.

3. Jahvid Best

Best is expected to be the feature back in Detroit, especially now that Mikel Leshoure is shelved for the year. He had a mediocre rookie year and will be in a tough match here against the Bears. If Best can have a productive day, he could use it as a springboard toward a very productive season.

48. Atlanta Falcons at Chicago Bears

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Matt Ryan and His New Target

Ryan now has two top-tier receivers to throw to as Julio Jones joins Roddy White. Jones is a game-changing talent and, if he makes the jump successfully to the NFL, has the chance to help Atlanta to its first Super Bowl appearance since 1998. Ryan is looking to step up again after a comparatively so-so year. Jones can help with that too.

2. Devin Hester, Jack of All Trades

Hester is one of the most exciting players in the NFL and has developed into a decent wide receiver. This year could be a big step for him as he continues his quest to be both a top receiver and top returner. He could flash both sets of skills in this game.

3. Matt Forte vs. Michael Turner

Both are tough runners who are a huge focal point of their respective offenses. Turner is the better guy on the ground, while Forte is also a decent receiver. This is a good matchup of Pro Bowl hopefuls in the NFC, so it's definitely a game to watch just to see who performs the best.

47. Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Age-Old Rivalry

This one goes back a long, long way. While the old Browns moved to Baltimore to continue the same bitter rivalry (more on that later), Cleveland and Pittsburgh fans and players of today live for these matchups. This is the more enticing matchup since both teams will still be playing all-out.

2. Colt McCoy vs. the Steel Curtain

McCoy is going to have to contend with some tough defenders if he's going to have success. Last year, the Steelers battered the young quarterback, but McCoy showed some guts by hanging tough. He's got a year of experience now, so we'll see if that pays off in Pittsburgh or not.

3. Rashard Mendenhall vs. the Defense

Mendenhall is looking for another big season in Black and Gold. There's no better opportunity for a big game than against one of the league's worst run defenses that is now sporting a lot of inexperienced players and rookies. Mendenhall seems primed for a big game here.

46. Philadelphia Eagles at Atlanta Falcons

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Offense vs. Dream Team Defense

If you buy into the preseason talk, Philadelphia has the best secondary known to man with three Pro Bowl corners. Time will tell if that's true. So will this game, where that secondary will have to contend with a Pro Bowl quarterback and a couple of great receivers.

2. The Michael Vick Experience

Watching Vick is a good reason to watch a game. He's one of the most electrifying players in the league and has actually developed into a quality passing quarterback under the expert tutelage of Andy Reid. Now that he's a dual threat, he's a true test for any defense.

3. Ronnie Brown's New Home

Brown left the featured role in Miami behind and now will be a complementary piece with the Eagles. LeSean McCoy is the starter, but Brown could prove to be a valuable pickup. Against a team that defends the pass well, he could play a deciding role.

45. New Orleans Saints at Green Bay Packers

Three Reasons to Watch

1. "Super" Competition

Anytime a Super Bowl team plays a game, it's must-see TV. This game pits the previous two Super Bowl winners against each other. That's a great game to watch. It could be an NFC Championship Game preview as well. Both teams have big aspirations this season and the tools to get there.

2. Mark Ingram Replaces Reggie Bush

It'll be an interesting test for the rookie runner to see if he can dent a tough run defense in Green Bay. Ingram projects as a much better pure runner than Bush ever could've been, so he might end up being a huge boost to an already-deadly offensive juggernaut.

3. Drew Brees vs. Aaron Rodgers

They're two of the top five quarterbacks in the NFL today. Both have strong receiving corps too. This is one of the better quarterback matchups of the season, but it's not getting any press because there's a much longer history between Peyton Manning and Tom Brady.

44. Houston Texans at New Orleans Saints

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Matt Schaub vs. Drew Brees

This is another great quarterback matchup. Schaub is an up-and-coming guy on a team that hasn't yet had a defense to support him. Make no mistake—he's elite. He's got one of the best receivers in the game in Andre Johnson as well. Both defenses project to be decent, so this game could come down to which quarterback makes more clutch plays.

2. Dynamic Running Games

Pierre Thomas, Mark Ingram, Arian Foster, Steve Slaton. That's quite a group of runners to watch all in the same game. This group boasts every possible kind of back and should be a great clinic on the effectiveness of different styles. Quarterbacks get the press, but this rushing matchup is must-see TV.

3. Super Bowl Dark Horse?

The Texans are a team that everyone has been waiting for since 2002. They've been close multiple times, but they've never quite been a playoff team. This could be the year. They're certainly a dark horse to make the Super Bowl, but it could happen if they really get the defense going finally. They'll bear watching all season.

43. New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Eli Manning and the Chip on His Shoulder

Eli says he's elite. If he wants to prove it, what better chance than against the supposed best secondary in the NFL? Manning has been good and bad at different points, but never really elite. He's always had a chip on his shoulder (might have something do with that Peyton Manning guy), and that will likely continue.

2. The New, New York Lines

I'm curious to see how the defensive line looks for the Giants, who are likely going to break in some new starters there. They're also going to be bringing new faces to the front on the offensive line, which could play a big part in how Eli Manning performs.

3. Battle of the Runners

Should be another interesting matchup of running games. LeSean McCoy and Ronnie Brown face off against Ahmad Bradshaw and company. It'll be interesting to see these guys perform as well in what will surely be a key divisional matchup.

42. Washington Redskins at St. Louis Rams

Three Reasons to Watch

1. The Redskins Quarterback Conundrum

By this point, it'll be sorted out, but it's going to be an ongoing saga if either Rex Grossman or John Beck can't step up and be consistent. I wouldn't be surprised to see Mike Shanahan switch between guys if he needs to, so who actually plays this game is anyone's guess right now. Beck has been good so far, though.

2. Sam Bradford's Evolution

Bradford will be looking to avoid the sophomore jinx and has some good weapons on his side. This should be a game his team wins. That makes it even more important for him. You have to beat lesser teams if you're going to be good. Either way, watching Bradford this year is going to be interesting.

3. Who's Running in Washington?

And I don't mean politics! Who's the running back to replace Clinton Portis? Right now, it's anybody's guess. Evan Royster has looked good in flashes. Ryan Torain has experience if he's healthy again. They could even bring in someone new. Anytime someone is running in Washington, it's important. This year, it's even bigger because the Redskins need to take some heat off their quarterbacks.

41. Oakland Raiders at Houston Texans

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Jason Campbell

Will he take the big step forward? Campbell was good and bad last year. He needs a big step forward to insert himself in the team's long-term plans. Terrelle Pryor wasn't brought in to sightsee. He's here to learn and then take over. Campbell can stop that with a big year and a big game here against a young defense.

2. Great Running Games

We've already talked about Houston's backfield. How about Oakland? They've got one of the more underrated backs in the NFL in Michael Bush and team him up with Darren McFadden, who's improved quite a bit since his rookie year. This is going to be another big day for runners.

3. Will Oakland Make the Leap?

Both of these teams are playoff dark horses. The Raiders were 8-8 last year and are looking for their first winning season and playoff appearance since losing the Super Bowl after the 2002 season. They've got a budding core, and this could be a big year under new coach Hue Jackson.

40. Indianapolis Colts at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Peyton Manning

Hopefully, he's back by this point. Right now, Kerry Collins looks like his replacement, and that's bad news for Colts fans. If Manning is back, he's a must-see player. He's a bit of an egomaniac at times, but he's one of the best players of his generation. That alone is a reason to watch any game he's involved in.

2. The Young Bucs

Tampa Bay took a big step forward last year that surprised a lot of people. This will be a tough game for a team that everyone is watching intently now. If Raheem Morris can beat the Colts, he'll go a long way to putting his team in the playoff conversation.

3. Josh Freeman

He's one of the top youngsters in the NFL today and took a huge step in his first full year under center. He'll be looking for another one this year and has some great weapons to help. He's a nice mix of passer and runner and is a big guy too. He's fun to watch and will likely be so again this year.

39. New York Jets at Baltimore Ravens

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Rex Ryan

What's not fun about watching Rex Ryan? He's a big, jolly guy who loves to talk up his team. You've got to appreciate that. He's also not a bad coach or strategist. He might not be as must-see as Peyton Manning or Tom Brady, but he's got his own niche.

2. Plax Is Back

Plaxico Burress is back and looks like he's in game form already. That could be huge for a Jets team looking for someone to pair with dangerous wideout Santonio Holmes. If Burress steps up and is that guy, the Jets could be a Super Bowl team. If he doesn't, this could be his last hurrah.

3. Playoff Matchup?

Both of these teams were in the playoffs last year but were kicked out by the Steelers. Both will be looking for a Super Bowl trophy this year. They are both tough teams with great defenses and young quarterbacks. This could be a game we see happening again in January.

38. Kansas City Chiefs at Indianapolis Colts

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Matt Cassel Has New Weapons

Matt Cassel had a great year in 2010 and did so without a major weapon at receiver beyond Dwayne Bowe. Now he has Steve Breaston and Jonathan Baldwin (if he can stay out of locker room spats) to go with Bowe. Add in Jamaal Charles and you have a dangerous offense that'll be fun to watch.

2. Chiefs Switch to the 3-4

Kansas City has been working on the 3-4 defensive switch for a while now, and this will be a crucial year and game for it to bear fruit. Tamba Hali has made a good transition to linebacker and could be a huge weapon against Peyton Manning, who will be behind a so-so line and coming off a major injury.

3. Jamaal Charles

Charles is now being billed as a breakout candidate, so he has a big opportunity in 2011. This is a good game to put up big numbers as the Colts aren't always the best against the run. This is a team the Chiefs may see again in the playoffs, so a good showing now could be big later on.

37. Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Rematch Time

This is a playoff rematch of last year's NFC Divisional Round. The Packers crushed the Falcons 48-21, so this will be one of those games in which the Falcons will be looking for a big revenge victory over the Super Bowl champions. Those games are always fun.

2. Championship Matchup?

That said, these two teams could be seeing each other again this year. Both are looking for a Super Bowl trophy, and both are favored to be among the top teams in the NFC. This is a great recipe for a game that could be played again in January with a lot more on the line.

3. Quarterback Gold

This is a great quarterback matchup. Matt Ryan is trying to become the next Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers is trying to continue erasing Brett Favre from the memories of Packers fans everywhere. This game will be big and could go a long way toward both goals.

36. St. Louis Rams at Green Bay Packers

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Dark Horse Against Champion

St. Louis is everybody's favorite upset team in the NFC this season. Green Bay is defending its title. That sounds like a great game to watch. The Rams are trying to win the NFC West, and this game could be a big piece of that puzzle, as well as seeding if both teams are in the hunt.

2. Bradford vs. Rodgers

This is similar to what we looked at with Matt Ryan and Rodgers. Bradford is trying to step up to the next level. He'll have to beat one of the best to do that. If he does, he can start putting his name on some impressive lists.

3. The Green Bay Defense

We've seen a lot of the Packers on this list so far. Their defense is replacing some guys and also looking to take a step forward after a great showing in the playoffs and Super Bowl. They've got some interesting young guys like Tramon Williams. This will be a good game to measure their progress.

35. Houston Texans at Baltimore Ravens

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Playoff Potentials

This is another game between teams that might meet again in the playoffs. The Texans have never been there, while the Ravens have rarely missed in recent seasons. Both teams have similar pieces. This is a good chance to see who's got the edge.

2. Flacco's Development

There are still some Joe Flacco doubters out there. He doesn't win big games consistently (see his success against the Steelers as proof). This is going to be a big game. Both teams are hopefully going to be in the thick of playoff runs. Flacco needs to step up and win this one.

3. Ray Rice

He's one of the exciting young guys in the league, and he's now the feature back in Baltimore without question. He can catch, and he can run. He seems poised for a big year and could have a big game against a defense that's had trouble containing good runners.

34. Dallas Cowboys at New England Patriots

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Young Coach vs. the Master

If there was a zen master rating for coaches, Bill Belichick would likely be among the top contenders for it. Jason Garrett is a guy who could end up being as good someday way down the road. It'll be a good chess match between great game-callers. Both coaches take a personal role in calling plays, so this will be fun.

2. Chad Ochocinco

Dallas knows a thing or two about loud, proud receivers. Now it'll be facing one in Chad Ochocinco. Ochocinco will be trying to finally get to and win a Super Bowl, so he's going to be motivated. It'll be interesting to see how he acts around Belichick. More important, it'll be interesting to see how he plays with Tom Brady at quarterback.

3. Tony Romo

Tony Romo is trying to erase doubts about his big-game credentials. This is the biggest of games against one of the NFL's biggest powerhouse teams. Win this one and they'll talk about it for a long time. Lose it and it'll be another nail in the coffin.

33. San Diego Chargers at New York Jets

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Rivers vs. Sanchez

This should be another big, underrated quarterback matchup. Rivers is the last remaining quarterback of the big three of 2004 who hasn't won a Super Bowl. He'll be looking to rectify that this season. Mark Sanchez is trying to prove he's an NFL starter for sure. This is the game to watch.

2. Running Game Woes

Neither team boasts a consistent rushing threat. Shonn Greene took a step back in New York in 2010. Ryan Mathews still hasn't arrived for San Diego. Both teams boast a good rush defense, so it'll be curious to see which backs perform better.

3. Chargers Charging?

The Chargers are notorious slow starters under Norv Turner. They should be through that by this game. The question is whether or not they'll be in a possible playoff matchup or in a mismatch. Both teams are struggling to belong in a conference that loves the Patriots, Colts and Steelers most.

32. Green Bay Packers at Minnesota Vikings

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Playoffs?

This is a divisional rivalry. This also could be a case of two teams vying for the playoffs. The Vikings look more stable under Leslie Frazier and Donovan McNabb than they did under Brad Childress and Brett Favre. They could be a playoff dark horse. This game will tell a lot about their progress.

2. Adrian Peterson

Like Michael Vick, Peterson is a one-man show. He's great to watch and usually is good for a big game. He'll need one against the Packers and their good defense. Anytime Peterson has the ball, people want to see it. That makes this game a must-see.

3. Donovan McNabb

Does he have anything left? McNabb is out to prove last year was a mirage and that he can still be a top passer. He's got some issues with receivers, but he does have a decent supporting cast. If he can turn them into stars, he can revive his career.

31. New Orleans Saints at St. Louis Rams

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Old School

This used to be a hotly contested division rivalry. New Orleans took some big games against the old "Greatest Show on Turf" Rams, and now the Saints are the proven, sturdy team. The Rams are the up-and-comers looking to make the statement. This will be a telling game for the young St. Louis squad.

2. Saints Defense

The Rams have put together an interesting offense, and it will be a good test for the Saints defense. New Orleans is looking to improve again and put itself among the top defenses in the league. To do that, it has to do better against the run. Steven Jackson is a big test the Saints need to pass.

3. Sean Payton

Like Bill Belichick and others, Sean Payton takes a large role in play-calling. He's a masterful offensive guru, so any game he's coaching is like a clinic on how to win with a dangerous offense filled with weapons. This game will be no different.

30. San Diego Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Playoffs Anyone?

Division rivals usually make the best playoff matchups. This could be one of those. Both teams are geared for it. They've won the last two AFC West titles and fought down to the wire last season. The Chargers are looking to reclaim the crown and need this game to go their way.

2. Bitter Rivalry

The Chiefs and Chargers are longtime rivals and have played some tight, bitter games over the years. This will be another one. The Chiefs are now an almost even match for San Diego, so this game could be one of those nail-biters that goes to the wire.

3. Chiefs Defense vs. Philip Rivers

If you're looking for a measuring stick for your defense, look no further than Philip Rivers, who's made the 4,000-yard season routine. The Chiefs are trying to switch to the 3-4 and fix their defense all at the same time. Time to see where they're at against one of the game's best.

29. Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Dez Bryant vs. the Big Three

Accolades have poured in for the Philadelphia corners. They'll be facing off against a receiver trying to prove himself in Dez Bryant. Bryant had a so-so 2010 season. In his second year, he's being asked to be the top target for Tony Romo. This is a chance to get himself on the map.

2. Dallas Secondary Concerns

Michael Vick is dangerous, but he also has some great receivers. DeSean Jackson and Brent Celek are among that group. They'll have a good chance to thrive against a Dallas secondary that has been suspect since the days of Troy Aikman.

3. Rivalry Time

This is another big divisional rivalry. Philadelphia has trouble sometimes with Big D, so this game is a big one for the Eagles, especially if Dallas gets itself into the playoff conversation with a big season before this game happens.

28. Atlanta Falcons at Indianapolis Colts

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Great Offense

This might be one of the best collections of quarterback and receiver talent in the NFL. Matt Ryan and Peyton Manning are on opposite ends of their careers, but there are some parallels. Ryan is a similar player to Manning. This will be a nice chance to see them face off.

2. Super Bowl, Anyone?

This could be a preview of the Super Bowl. Peyton Manning is running out of time to improve that awful playoff history and get his second ring. Ryan is trying to get over the playoff hump and make it to the big show. Both teams are certainly in the conversation. Let's see how it might play out in February.

3. Defensive Fears

Who's going to have the defense that steps up and stops the big offense? Both teams have top offenses and relatively unknown defenses. This game could easily turn on one defense stepping up and making the big plays at the end.

27. New York Giants at New England Patriots

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Brady vs. Manning (Not THAT Manning)

Tom Brady has squared off memorably with Eli's big brother Peyton. In a lot of those games, Brady has gotten the better of him. We've already talked about Eli wanting to prove himself elite. What a big development it would be for him to do what his brother often can't—beat Tom Brady.

2. Old-School Coaching

Tom Coughlin and Bill Belichick are old-school guys in a league that's dominated by new ideas. They've survived and found great success. This will be a fun game to see both coaches go head-to-head in a game that could be big for both teams' playoff hopes.

3. Rematch of 18-1

This is a huge Super Bowl rematch. There's a lot of bad blood among fans in New England over what happened in the Super Bowl with New York, where the Giants stopped the Patriots' perfect season. Grudge matches are great, even if some faces have changed.

26. Green Bay Packers at San Diego Chargers

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Super Bowl Potential

There are a lot of games this year that could be potential playoff or Super Bowl matchups. This is another prime candidate. The Chargers have been close before but haven't climbed the mountain yet. The Packers have been there and are looking to stay at the top. Here's a good temperature check for both squads.

2. Offense on Offense

This is an explosive offensive matchup. Elite quarterbacks, deep receiving corps, developing runners—you can't get much more evenly matched between the offenses, and it will make for a very interesting game that could evolve into a shootout that one defense must find a way to stop.

3. Specialists

In games in which the offenses could play to a draw, this game could come down to a late field goal. Both teams have great kickers in Nate Kaeding and Mason Crosby. One of those guys might get to play the hero.

25. Pittsburgh Steelers at Indianapolis Colts

Three Reasons to Watch

1. AFC Royalty

This is a matchup between two of the AFC's favorite sons. The Steelers and Colts have won Super Bowls in the last five years. They're almost always at the top of their divisions and at the top of the conference standings. That means this almost has to be a great matchup.

2. Big Ben vs. Peyton Manning

Ben Roethlisberger has endured a lot of critics saying he isn't an elite quarterback like Manning or Brady. He's got a chance to shut those critics up with a big game against the Colts. Roethlisberger doesn't play the same finesse game that some elite passers do, but he's a top-notch, elite NFL quarterback.

3. 60 Minutes with Mike Wallace

Wallace is looking to continue his emergence in 2011. He's already set a goal of 2,000 yards and could put up a big day against a relatively weak secondary in Indianapolis. His speed and hands are his biggest assets. It'll be great to see them in action.

24. Indianapolis Colts at New Orleans Saints

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Rematch Again

This is another rematch, this time of Super Bowl XLIV. The Saints won that game in what many considered an upset of the veteran Colts and Peyton Manning. Now it will likely be the Saints who are favored in what could end up being a preview of yet another Super Bowl.

2. Joseph Addai

Addai has struggled to be productive and will have a big test against the Saints. The Saints have a secondary that matches up well against Peyton Manning (if that's even possible), so Addai could be a difference maker if he can finally put his game together.

3. Manning vs. Brees

Not a lot to say here that hasn't already been said. This is a marquee matchup of elite quarterbacks. Who's better? We'll have to all watch and find out.

23. Arizona Cardinals at Philadelphia Eagles

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Kevin Kolb vs. The Eagles

Kolb wanted to start. The Eagles sent him to the desert to oblige him. Now he has arguably the best receiver in the NFL in Larry Fitzgerald to throw to. This will be the first matchup between Kolb and his old team. That makes it important.

2. Can Arizona Come Back?

In 2008, the Cardinals were NFC champions and among the best teams in their conference. But without Kurt Warner, they became not only mortal but mortally wounded. They backslid to the point that they looked more like the 2000 Cardinals than the 2008 version. Can Kolb bring the magic back?

3. Two Young Secondaries

The Cardinals don't have the name recognition, but they have some nice talent. The Eagles have the names, but will they all mesh into new roles? This will be a big game for both teams' secondaries to prove that they've got the goods to be competitive for years to come.

22. New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Division Showdown

Want a game that has massive implications? This is it. Both teams should be pretty well placed at this point as the top two squads in the NFC South. This one could determine who wins the division. That's a big game.

2. Even Matchups

Good defenses, great offenses. This game is going to be a tight one. Neither team can claim a clear advantage, so it's up to the ebb and flow to determine a winner. This is another game that might come down to one crucial play or an unexpected hero.

3. Brees vs. Ryan

Another big matchup of elite passers. Need I say more?

21. Seattle Seahawks at St. Louis Rams

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Redemption Time

In the last week of the 2010 regular season, the Rams and Seahawks faced off to determine who won the weak NFC West. The game was widely panned because neither team would finish with a winning record and one would make the playoffs. The Seahawks won. Think the Rams want revenge? I do.

2. Who's the Quarterback, Pete?

Tarvaris Jackson was signed and billed as the starter and the future. Then Charlie Whitehurst took offense and has looked excellent in the preseason while Jackson has flailed. This could get ugly. Neither guy is exactly awe-inspiring. Who's playing at this point might help determine who wins the game.

3. Does Seattle Have It?

People all year are going to ask if the Seahawks the team that shocked New Orleans or the team that was 7-9 and still got lucky enough to get a playoff spot. They've got an uphill battle to hold on to the division, and a big part of it will be stopping upstart St. Louis.

20. Kansas City Chiefs at New England Patriots

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Playoffs?

This could be a playoff matchup. The Chiefs look poised to defend their division title, and most people are figuring the Patriots will find their way in somehow as well. Playoff previews, as I've said before, are must-see TV. This game fits that bill.

2. Emerging Backs

We've already talked about Jamaal Charles. Danny Woodhead is another guy who came out of nowhere to become a big piece of a team's success. He'll have to prove he's more than a one-hit wonder for the Patriots, and part of that will come against good teams like the Chiefs.

3. Mentor vs. Protege

Tom Brady mentored Matt Cassel once upon a time. It was Brady's knee injury that gave Cassel a chance to shine and earned him a ticket to Kansas City. Now he returns to face his old team. That's a must-see matchup, and who wins could be very surprising. Cassel has the better receivers.

19. San Diego Chargers at Chicago Bears

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Super Bowl Preview?

This is another possible Super Bowl matchup. It's a long shot, but both teams have been close recently. The last few Super Bowls have featured unexpected teams. That could be the case once again. One or both of these teams could be involved.

2. Cutler vs. Rivers

This used to be a divisional matchup. Now it's rare. Cutler and Rivers are both big-armed guys who love to throw often and deep. How they match up will help decide the course of the game. Both defenses can shut down the run, so this one will be on the passers.

3. Full Season of Vincent Jackson

Last year, Vincent Jackson barely got on the field because of his contract dispute. This year, he's armed with a big deal and should be ready for a big year. He'll be a key piece of this matchup and also of the Chargers' playoff hopes.

18. New York Giants at New Orleans Saints

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Past History

These two aren't division rivals and haven't faced off in the playoffs in the last year, but they've got some history between them since both have been NFC powerhouses in the last decade. They could impact each other's playoff hopes and dreams this year.

2. Manning vs. Brees

This is another big game for Eli to prove he's elite. Once again, he'll have to do it against one of the game's best. Brees might be the best pure passer in the league. If you're going to be the best, you have to beat the best.

3. Giants Defensive Backfield Issues

The Giants have lost most of their top corners to injury already. If they get some of those guys back, they'll need them against the juggernaut that is the Saints passing offense. If they don't have those guys, it likely won't be very pretty for the guys in blue.

17. Green Bay Packers at New York Giants

Three Reasons to Watch

1. More Past History

This is another matchup that's got a lot of history behind it. These are not only two teams that have been in the playoffs a lot lately; they're also two teams that have been around since the beginnings of the NFL. That means there's a ton of history here.

2. Manning vs. Rodgers

I don't need to belabor this point. I will add here that I'm not likely to ever consider Manning better than Rodgers unless both experience a career reversal. It's just not in the cards right now.

3. The Better Young Receivers

Both teams boast receiving corps filled with interesting names and flashes of big production. Which team has the best young receivers? We could find out in this game, where receiving talent figures to make a huge difference in the results.

16. Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Bitter Rivals

It really doesn't get better than this during the regular season. The Steelers and Ravens have matched up in some of the biggest games of the past five years. It's not football with these two—it's war. It's war without any quarter to the enemy either. Just ask Big Ben's nose.

2. Reversing the Curse?

The Ravens can't seem to beat Ben Roethlisberger. They've been working at it for years, but Big Ben has their number. This will be a chance for them to reverse that logic, but it won't be easy. The Steelers boast some advantages that will make it tough.

3. Steelers Receivers vs. Baltimore Corners

The Steelers have one of the deepest corps of receivers in the NFL. The Ravens have a young secondary that is either undermanned or underrated. Which term it is will likely be decided in part by how this game turns out. Right now, it's advantage Pittsburgh.

15. San Diego Chargers at New England Patriots

Three Reasons to Watch

1. AFC Championship, Anyone?

This could be an AFC Championship Game preview. There's a lot of history here, and this rivalry is starting to heat up to Steelers-Ravens or Colts-Patriots levels. This matchup could be historic and could tell a lot about which team can go deep in the playoffs.

2. Rivers vs. Brady

Two of the top quarterbacks in the game are going to go head to head here. Who's watching? The better question would likely be who isn't. If you're missing this game, you're missing out big time.

3. The No-Run Offenses

These two teams are developing an odd fascination with passing underneath instead of running the ball. It's born from the lack of talented runners on both squads, but it's a new fad and an interesting one to look at in this matchup.

14. Indianapolis Colts at Baltimore Ravens

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Another Game, Another Playoff Preview

Both teams will be in the hunt. We've covered that. They could play each other. It'd be just as exciting in the playoffs, just with more on the line. This is a game in which there are a ton of good matchups and some of the game's biggest names.

2. Flacco vs. Manning

We've talked a bit about Flacco not being able to win the big game. He's going against the ultimate big-game choker here in Manning, but also against one of the best. Both guys are locks in the regular season, so this game could be very interesting.

3. Does Ray Still Have It?

Ray Lewis has been a force for the Ravens for years. He's got to be nearing the end, but every time you expect him to slow down, he's in the Pro Bowl with another big season. Will this be the year it ends? We'll see. He'll have his hands full with Manning, though.

13. Baltimore Ravens at San Diego Chargers

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Big-Game Offenses

I'll skip the bit about playoff matchups. It's obvious now. These offenses boast a lot of talent and similar quarterbacks. Rivers has the edge, but this is the year everyone is thinking Flacco will take the big leap forward and lead his team to the promised land. They need to win here.

2. Running Mismatch

The Ravens have Ray Rice on offense and a great rush defense. The Chargers don't have a proven runner or a good answer for Rice. More than the quarterbacks, this mismatch could be the big difference and deciding factor in an otherwise even field.

3. Pressure Kicks

This is another game that has the feel of needing a deciding late field goal. The Ravens have a stronger kicker in Billy Cundiff, but the Chargers have the accuracy of Nate Kaeding. Who wins? We'll have to wait and see.

12. Houston Texans at Indianapolis Colts

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Big Implications

This is a budding division rivalry, a potential playoff matchup and a game between vaunted offenses all rolled into one. That's a lot of moving parts. The Texans are the new kids on the block, but the Colts are no sure thing anymore, especially if Peyton Manning isn't his old self.

2. Schaub's Big Moment

Matt Schaub has been trouble for the Colts before, but at this point in a season that looks good for Houston. This could be his moment to run over the old and crown his team as the new toast of the AFC South. A lot is going to depend on his play.

3. Defensive Test

This is a huge test for the Houston defense and will tell a lot about how big of an impact Wade Phillips is making in his first year on the job. If he's got them playing, they could make it tough on Peyton Manning. If they aren't showing up, Manning will make them pay dearly.

11. New England Patriots at Philadelphia Eagles

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Rematch Time

This is a bit dated, but it's still a Super Bowl rematch. The names have changed, and the remaining ones have gotten older, but this is still a great matchup and potentially a preview of the upcoming Super Bowl. Both teams are among the favorites.

2. Vick vs. Belichick

Bill Belichick has a long history of besting the game's greatest (see his work against Peyton Manning), but this is going to be a tall task even for him. Michael Vick does everything well and can be a headache for a defense all by himself. Who wins this matchup will decide the game.

3. Brady vs. the Big Three

Another big test for both sides. Brady is good, but is he good enough with one star receiver to beat three star corners? Time will tell. This could be his toughest matchup in a long, long time.

10. Minnesota Vikings at Washington Redskins

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Welcome Back, McNabb

This is an uneasy homecoming waiting to happen. McNabb didn't have a smooth transition from the Eagles to the Redskins to the Vikings, and now he returns to the scene of his worst season. He could have Minnesota in the playoff hunt. This will be a mental test.

2. Checking Back in on That Quarterback Situation

Who's starting now? John Beck or Rex Grossman? By Week 16, you'd like to think a clear favorite had emerged a long time ago. Mike Shanahan had trouble deciding last year, however, so there are no guarantees now with fewer proven arms to choose from.

3. Does Minnesota Have It?

The Vikings might be a playoff contender. It's hard to tell right now. By this point we'll know. If they're in the hunt, this is a huge game. Could the Redskins surprise this year? It's unlikely, but who knows? Strange things happen every season.

9. New York Giants at New York Jets

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Holy Cow!

This is full of great stories waiting to happen. Best of all is that the fans will be fighting over their regular seats! These two teams share their beautiful new stadium. Now they have to share it on game day. This isn't a subway series—this is a down-the-hall series.

2. Welcome Back, Plax

Plaxico Burress finally will get to face his old mates on the Giants. He doesn't have to go far to do it and there figures to be a good mix of cheering and booing whenever he does something good or bad. Burress has a lot to prove, and this will be a big game for him.

3. Sanchez vs. Manning

I'm not sure which quarterback needs this game more. Sanchez is still a budding star who is facing critics. Manning is trying to prove he belongs in the upper echelon. Both need good games here in what is a relatively quiet city series.

8. Philadelphia Eagles at New York Giants

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Big Stories

Division rivals, playoff history, potential for more of both now. This game will have playoff implications if both teams are in the hunt, which is likely. This is another game that could decide a division title. It doesn't get bigger than that.

2. Michael Vick vs. the Defense

Vick has a chance for a huge game against a secondary that's banged up now and might not recover during the season. He's got DeSean Jackson (hopefully) and some other targets to work with and two good runners behind him. That's a tough job for the Giants.

3. Manning vs. the Big Three

Biggest test of the year for Eli. If he has a big game here, he's going to open some eyes. If he fails, he's going to put another nail in his coffin. This is a must-win for him beyond the implications for his team's playoff hopes.

7. New England Patriots at Pittsburgh Steelers

Three Reasons to Watch

1. More AFC Royalty

Two of the AFC elite face off here. There's likely to be a ton riding on it, even at midseason. Both teams constantly jockey for position when it comes to bye weeks. The closer they are, the more likely they won't face each other in the playoffs.

2. History

The Steelers have an ugly history against Tom Brady and company. It makes me cringe. The Steelers simply cannot beat the Patriots with any consistency. They're due, which is good. They match up well, which is also good. The problem? You can usually throw all of it out the window with these two teams.

3. Big Ben vs. Brady

Roethlisberger is looking for his first breakthrough game versus Brady. It could happen. He's got the better offense. The Patriots have the experience and the history, however. But Roethlisberger loves a challenge. Here's a big one with playoff implications and momentum attached for good measure.

6. Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints

Check out my notes earlier on the matchup in Atlanta between these two. Add in that when this one rolls around, the playoff jockeying will be even more essential. This is another division-deciding match. These two could be poised for a rare three-games-in-a-year engagement.

5. New England Patriots at New York Jets

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Ryan vs. Belichick

Rex Ryan harbors no love at all for the Patriots or their eccentric coach. Bill Belichick harbors no love for anyone not on his team. That's just the way the man in the hoodie rolls. This coaching matchup, complete with postgame handshake, will have a major playoff impact.

2. Rematch

This game is a rematch of the AFC Divisional Round in 2010, where the Jets shocked the Patriots. The Jets are developing a nasty history of that kind of surprise work, and Belichick will pull out all the stops to make sure it ends now. This game is going to be tough for both teams.

3. The "Sanchize?"

Elite quarterbacks step up and beat other elite quarterbacks. Mark Sanchez will have the opportunity twice this year (if not more) to do that against Tom Brady. If he can step up to the plate in this late-season tilt, he can be the toast of New York.

4. Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers

Three Reasons to Watch

1. NFC Championship Redux

This is a rematch of a hotly contested NFC Championship Game that happens to also be between two bitter, longtime rivals in the NFC's historically tough North division. That makes it must-see TV. It could even be a preview of the playoffs this year.

2. Cutler vs. Rodgers

This is becoming one of the better player rivalries in the NFC. Cutler couldn't finish the NFC Championship Game and endured a ton of criticism for it (from me among many others). He'll get another crack at Rodgers this year and needs to step up and beat him if he wants to be considered elite again.

3. History

These are two of the oldest and most storied franchises in the NFL and between them have tons of championship trophies. Both are going for another this year and look like good bets to be in the hunt. Who wins this time? You tell me.

3. Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots

Three Reasons to Watch

1. Goliath vs. Goliath

Manning vs. Brady is the ultimate in quarterback dueling. It smacks of dueling pistols at 50 paces in the Old West. The duels usually go against Manning, but he's gotten his licks in over the years. These teams are always must-see. Put them together and it's a bonanza!

2. Belichick vs. Manning

It's a chess match—the game's best statistical passer against the game's zen master coach. Manning is coming off injury and will have to prove that he's once again up to the task. By Week 13, he should be in a good enough groove to make it tough.

3. AFC Championship, Anyone?

This could be it. It's like this every year. Eventually it will probably happen again. If nothing else, these two might meet up again in the playoffs. That's happened a lot in the last 10 years.

2. Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers

Instead of recapping the reasons why this is a must-see game, let's talk about the rivalry for a minute.

This is the epitome of rivalry today. These teams routinely meet three times a year. The Steelers have stolen some close games with a big, late play. Both teams have evenly matched units. There's just no clear advantage.

Historically, the games have leaned Pittsburgh's way lately. That could change in an instant. These games are almost always decided by less than a touchdown and have ended in overtime more often lately. That is the perfect rivalry—one that never has a clear winner.

You can call me a homer, you can call me biased, but to me there is no game I'd rather see (and survive) than one between these two squads. The NFL is lucky to have it twice a year in the regular season and regularly in the playoffs too.

1. Super Bowl XLVI

Three Reasons to Watch

1. High Drama

It's the culmination of everything the NFL is about. Every team begins every year searching for that trophy. Only one team will come home with it in February. The options are endless, and this year seems like a great year for anyone to emerge from a wide pack.

2. The Biggest Stage

The Super Bowl is the single most-watched sporting event each season. It doesn't get bigger. Two teams work all season and are lucky enough to get there. The matchups are almost always good, and the games are almost always intense.

3. Winner Takes All

In the famous words of the old barkeep at the Third Base Saloon in Boston, "'Nuff said!"