NFL Week 11 Predictions: 4 Stars Due to Dominate on Sunday

Football is a team game, but we are seeing more and more individuals carrying the load. All across the league, there are several teams who would not survive without one key player. These stars are always expected to come out and dominate.

The week to week success is what makes these players stars. They find a way to show up and make game-changing plays week in and week out. I have compiled a list of a few stars who I feel will come out and continue their dominance.

LeSean McCoy, Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles will be playing today’s game without Michael Vick and Jeremy Maclin, limiting the explosiveness of the offense. However, the Eagles still have LeSean McCoy, who is emerging as one of the best running backs in the NFL.

Andy Reid is typically known for his overuse of the passing game, but this season has been different. Reid has really changed his offensive strategy, as he is heavily featuring a running attack. This week will feature much of the same, as McCoy will be more of a featured weapon.

Without Vick, this is going to be McCoy’s show and he is capable of putting up big numbers. The matchup is also pretty good, as the New York Giants are allowing 121 rushing yards per game. In their other matchup this season, McCoy rushed for 128 yards and a touchdown.

Carson Palmer, Oakland Raiders

Carson Palmer and the Oakland Raiders are in the middle of a very competitive playoff chase. Each week is more important than the previous, and each loss more devastating than the last. Oakland needs to find a way to win this weekend.

It appears like Darren McFadden will not be able to play this week. His absence will put a lot of pressure on Carson Palmer. He needs to come out and have a big performance, and prove he is worth the price Oakland paid to acquire him.

The Raiders are facing the Minnesota Vikings, who are allowing 272 passing yards per game. Their pass defense should be even weaker, as they are dealing with the loss of Antonie Winfield.

This week is going to be the breakout game for Palmer. He has another week in the Raiders offense, and now is ready for his breakout.

Matt Hasselbeck, Tennessee Titans

The Tennessee Titans are still in the playoff hunt, and this weekend’s game versus the Atlanta Falcons could be a swing game. This game would give the Titans a win versus a very tough opponent. In order for the Titans to get a win, Matt Hasselbeck will need to have a good performance.

Atlanta is very strong against the run, meaning that Chris Johnson is unlikely to have a productive game. Hasselbeck is going to get plenty of opportunities to make plays through the air. While the Falcons are strong against the run, they really struggle to stop the passing game.

Hasselbeck has been performing well without much of a supporting cast. However, last week he was able to get some production out of Johnson. He also might have found himself a favorite target in Damian Williams.

Matt Forte, Chicago Bears

Last week, the Chicago Bears defense stepped up and allowed the offense to coast. This week, the Bears are going to need the offense to hold up their end. The San Diego Chargers offense is very potent, despite the struggles of Philip Rivers.

If the Bears hope to keep pace with the Chargers, they will need Matt Forte to continue his dominance. Forte is the main key to the Bears offensive success, and will get plenty of opportunities to succeed.

The Chargers defense has not been able to meet last year’s production. They are currently allowing 127 rushing yards per game.

Forte will get a lot of touches, in both the running and passing game. I expect to see him have an excellent game, as he continues to make his case for a new contract.