NFL Picks Week 13: Predictions for Every Major Showdown on the Schedule

In the NFL's Week 13, the following four games represent the best matchups of the weekend. 

Cincinnati Bengals (7-4) at Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3)

Is it possible that the Bengals could actually be going into this game with an air of confidence?

It might not be as far-fetched as you think.

The Bengals spotted the Steelers a 14-point lead the last time these two played, and the game completely changed when Andy Dalton lost receiver A.J. Green after his first-quarter touchdown reception.

Cincinnati still has its hands full going to Heinz Field, but you'd have to think the Bengals have a chance to even their record with Pittsburgh, especially if Troy Polamalu can't go or is limited.

Atlanta Falcons (7-4) at Houston Texans (8-3)

It's hard for me to not feel a touch of sadness for the Texans, who are in the process of watching a promising season go up in flames because of losses at the quarterback position.

It's rookie T.J. Yates and veteran Jake Delhomme from here on out.

Atlanta certainly seems like a team that could cause the Texans some big problems. The Falcons stop the run as well as anyone in the NFL, and Houston is going to need the likes of Arian Foster and Ben Tate to alleviate pressure from Yates.

On offense, the Falcons' combination of downfield passing threats and pounding run game will be a stern test.

Houston will be hard-pressed to go 1-0 with Yates at quarterback on Sunday.

Green Bay Packers (11-0) at New York Giants (6-5)

First things first; if the same Giants team that showed up on Monday night comes out on Sunday, this game is going to be a laugher.

But I wouldn't bet on that same lethargic pass defense from the Giants again this weekend at home. The New York media is going to pound on these guys all week, and Tom Coughlin does some of his best work when the Giants have been kicked to the curb.

Still, Aaron Rodgers and the undefeated Packers will be the Giants' toughest test at home this season.

If the likes of Jason Pierre-Paul and Justin Tuck can't consistently collapse the pocket for Rodgers, Sunday could be another long day defensively.

Detroit Lions (7-4) at New Orleans Saints (8-3)

There's several factors I'll be watching on Sunday as the Lions try to get back into the NFC playoff picture against New Orleans.

First, how will the Lions offense rebound?

Matthew Stafford has been interception-prone since hurting a finger on his throwing hand, and the offense hasn't really clicked the same since. In the Superdome, where the Saints always put up big numbers, Detroit will need points from its offense. 

But I also want to see how the Lions defense will look without Ndamukong Suh inside. First-round pick Nick Fairley moves into his spot, but the Lions need a big day from their front four to stop a red-hot Drew Brees.

If the Saints get up early, I think these young Lions might cave.