NFL Picks Week 12: Struggling Contenders That Will Emerge Victorious

The season is not over yet. A few losses will certainly not help anyone's cause, but they don't kill their chances. 

Through 10 games, all of these teams are in playoff contention. Some will need some help (from the others) to make the playoffs, but they will all find their footing this weekend.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals have actually played alright over their last two games, but playing alright against the Steelers and Ravens is just not going to get it done.

The same cannot be said about a game vs. the Cleveland Browns. Offensively, it doesn't take much to beat the Browns. If you can contain Josh Cribbs, you'll cruise.

While I do see a big play or two from Cribbs, I don't see them winning this one. 

The Bengals are on track for a Wild Card berth, and a win here will go a long way in solidifying that.

New York Jets

The way that the Bills are playing now, who wouldn't want to play them right now? Their struggles this year started when they were 5-2 and hosted the Jets. New York walked away with a 27-11 win, and the Bills haven't won since.

Now, the Jets get a long week of preparation and still have one of the best defenses in the league. The offense they will be opposing is on a serious slide and just don't match up well.

The Jets offense really needs to do well here. The Bills do not have a daunting defense, and the Jets schedule sets up well for a strong run at the end. They will just need more from their offense.

Tennessee Titans

I have to admit that I am surprised to call these guys contenders—but here we are.

The Titans are only a game out of a playoff spot in the AFC, although a loss to the Texans makes them effectively two games behind. 

While I don't like their chances of making it to the playoffs, the Titans will hang around for a little bit. The Buccaneers have fallen on some hard times and are on a four-game losing streak. 

Now, Tampa Bay is a team that's a little scary. We saw what they can do against the Packers, but they're just not getting it done this year.

Going on the road to Tennessee doesn't give me any confidence that they will win this week.