NFL Week 9 Picks: Predicting Star Performances in Sunday's Victories

When teams get Pro Bowl worthy performances from their stars, chances are they're going to pick up a win. 

Which NFL household names will turn in the best efforts this weekend in victory?

Michael Turner vs. Colts

When the Falcons give Turner more than 21 carries, they win. In Atlanta's three losses, he received 16, 11 and 10 carries respectively. 

Against one of the worst run defenses in the league, there's no way Turner will see less than 25 total touches. 

The Colts are allowing 144 yards on the ground per game, and for as much as Matt Ryan is improving, "Burner" Turner needs the football in this one. 

Huge game for the punishing runner. 

Do his legs get thicker every week?

Seems like it. 

Frank Gore vs. Redskins

The Redskins were gashed to the tune of 194 total yards by the Bills' Fred Jackson last week. Sure, their offense is beat up, but the defense is nearly fully intact. 

Much like Jackson, Frank Gore is a multi-faceted weapon and the backbone of the 49ers offense. Alex Smith is turning in one of his best, most efficient seasons in his career, but San Francisco knows their strength is in the run game.

Another 20-plus carry game for Gore and a big-time afternoon that will put smile's on fantasy owner's faces.

Mike Wallace vs. Ravens

How fun is this guy to watch? One of my favorites. He can burn anyone in the NFL on the go-route but has established himself as a crisp route runner and Ben Roethlisberger looks his way to move the chains as well. 

The Ravens defense is still among the league's best, but you can rest assured that the Steelers will look Wallace's way early and take a few shots down the field to keep Baltimore honest. 

All he's got to do is catch a few passes and it could bust this game wide open. 

He's that dangerous.