NFL Picks Week 5: Michael Vick and 3 Superstars Who Will Lift Struggling Teams

Football is a team game, but you need at least one superstar as an X-factor when times get tense.

Headed into Week 5, there are some teams that are surprisingly struggling, when they had figured to make more noise in 2011.

Fortunately for them, they have superstars on their teams who can lift them out of the doldrums.

Here are three superstars who will lift their struggling squads to victory in Week 5.

3. Dwayne Bowe, WR, Kansas City Chiefs

Dwayne Bowe, after recording over 1,100 yards and 15 touchdowns last season, has been off and on this season, primarily because of his off-and-on quarterback, Matt Cassel.

But the two got it going again against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 4. Bowe caught five balls for 107 yards and a touchdown, marking the second straight game in which he'd found the end zone.

The Chiefs play the Indianapolis Colts in Week 5, and although I believe it will be close, I see Bowe having another big day and coming up with some pivotal plays.

2. Adrian Peterson, RB, Minnesota Vikings

There's just no way the Vikings can continue their losing streak with a running back like Adrian Peterson. Even with their 0-4 start, every game has been close for the Vikings; they've lost by an average of 4.5 points per game.

The Vikings will host the struggling Arizona Cardinals in Week 5, and Peterson should be able to break free through a rush defense that has been good, but not great.

Look for Peterson to lead the Vikings to their first victory of the season in Week 5.

1. Michael Vick, QB, Philadelphia Eagles

It still surprises me that people are so down on the Eagles right now.

Yes, they've underachieved mightily thus far. Yes, their offensive line is still bad. And, yes, the revamped secondary has disappointed.

But you can't help but think this team will get it together behind Michael Vick and head coach Andy Reid. This team is extremely talented, but has yet to find itself. I think the loss to the San Francisco 49ers will have this team in "beast mode" against the Buffalo Bills.

The Eagles are 1-3 so far. Week 5 will mark the beginning of their rise back to meeting high expectations.