NFL Picks Week 3: Which Teams Will Win Defensive Battles?

These are usually the sloppy games that don't have any of the sexiness of a high-scoring offensive affair.

The numbers aren't pretty, there may be a ridiculous amount of penalties and the kicking game even suffers (i.e. blocked kicks/punts, botched snaps, missed field-goals and a multitude of shanked punts).

However, for anyone who loves a close hard-nosed battle, where the executed plays are few and far between (but are even more important in these games than in a shootout), defense is where it's at.

So, here are two games in Week 3 to look for if you love the dark-side.

Redskins vs Cowboys

Right now it's uncertain as to who's going to be under center for Dallas as QB Tony Romo is currently dealing with a rib injury.

In addition, WR Miles Austin is out with a hamstring and RB Felix Jones may also be out with a shoulder injury.

All that being said, don't discount the Cowboys from this game because they still have enough talent to roll with any punch that Washington throws.

As for the Redskins, it's hard to believe in QB Rex Grossman as he's been inconsistent for the majority of his career, but so far has played respectably well.

Also, the Washington defense is much better than they are given credit for and this Monday they have another chance to show they're better than advertised.

On the flip-side, Dallas has a strong defense led by pass rusher DeMarcus Ware, who will also be the best individual defensive player the Redskins' offense has faced thus far in 2011.

By game's end though, Dallas just has too many significant injuries to overcome a confident Redskins team.

Washington 17, Dallas 13

Jets vs Raiders

Although Oakland allowed 38 points to the Buffalo Bills, QB Ryan Fitzpatrick and company are much better than they are given credit for and the Jets' offense hasn't been nearly as consistent.

The Raiders have a solid line backing core with Quentin Groves, Rolando McClain and Kameron Wimbley, and with Richard Seymour in the trenches, as well as Michael Huff in the secondary, Oakland can definitely shut-down the Jets.

Only problem for the Silver and Black, however, is that Rex Ryan has a much more established defense himself in DBs Darrelle Revis, Jim Leonhard and Antonio Cromartie.

Also with Bart Scott, David Harris and Calvin Pace at LB, it's going to be hard for QB Jason Campbell and company to get anything going.

Not to mention New York ranks No. 9 in rush defense and No. 11 in pass defense, whereas the Raiders rank No. 27 in rush defense and No. 21 in pass defense.

On paper it doesn't look that even, and the Jets do have the advantage.

However, Oakland keeps it closer than expected in their home-opener.

New York 17, Oakland 10

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