NFL Week 10 Predictions: Projecting the Best Ground Performances

For those that love offense, we have to remember that keeping the ball on the ground is what wins football games. Throwing the ball scores points, but running the rock controls the tempo.

Here are the best ground performances in Week 10, despite the NFL being a pass-happy league.

Michael Turner, Falcons (vs Saints)

What has really allowed the Atlanta Falcons to remain balanced on offense is the production of RB Michael Turner. QB Matt Ryan has, on some level, been prone to throwing picks, but not to the extent of a complete meltdown.

However, the prevention of Atlanta's catastrophic breakdown can be attributed to Turner, who's accounted for almost 700 rush yards in eight games, as well as scoring seven TDs.

Against the Saints at home this week, expect Turner to be the catalyst that sparks a surge in the Falcons' offense. New Orleans allows almost 120 rush yards per game, so establishing the run will definitely take pressure of Ryan to set up the pass.

Projection: 125 rush yards, two TDs

Matt Forte, Bears (vs Lions)

If there's a weakness on the Detroit Lions, it's their rush defense. Currently the Lions have allowed almost 140 rushing yards per game and rank No. 28 in the league.

Bears RB Matt Forte has compiled 805 rush yards as well as 436 receiving yards this season. In the first meeting with the Lions, Forte accounted for 151 yards, but failed to reach the end zone.

This time around however, Forte dominates even more, thanks to not only playing at home, but also his team rallying around him with much confidence during their three-game win streak. Additionally, Forte could also be a candidate for the NFL MVP.

Projection: 200 total yards (140 rush, 60 receiving), three TDs

DeMarco Murray, Cowboys (vs Bills)

The trick to beating the Buffalo Bills is simple: Run the football and limit their defense's opportunities in forcing turnovers, while keeping their offense off the field.

And with rookie RB DeMarco Murray exploding onto the NFL scene in Dallas the past few weeks, the Cowboys must feed him the rock more than anyone else.

The Bills defense may rank No. 25 and No. 20 against the pass and rush, respectively, but they've gotten 15 picks, recovered five fumbles and scored three TDs. That only happens because teams try to throw against them more than required. As for Big D, expect Murray to flourish against a defense struggling to stop the run.

In turn, that will set up the pass, but don't expect anything too fancy from Tony Romo, because giving the ball to Murray is the safest option against a capable defense.

Projection: 150 total yards (120 rush, 30 receiving), two TDs

Be sure to check out John on Bleacher Report. 

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