NFL Week 13 Predictions: Projecting Teams Ready to Dominate

When you're on a team that's been doing well it's a good feeling. And when you're doing well but having yet to really play your best is a scary thought, in a good way.

The following three teams are just that in 2011. They've been playing well but have yet to really dominate. In Week 13, they don't annihilate their opponents, but they get a good sound win that is in their control from kickoff to the final whistle.

Oakland Raiders (at Miami)

The Raiders currently ride a three-game win streak into Miami where the Dolphins are thinking spoiler. And it's not out of the question as the 'Fins offense has become a lot more consistent since their losing streak and their rush defense is ranked No. 7 in the NFL.

One thing about Oakland is not only can they run the ball well, but its also been setting up the play-action for their speedy WRs. And with QB Carson Palmer improving with each outing, the Raiders are becoming a complete offense.

Defensively is where they have problems because they're weak against the pass. But as long as Brandon Marshall is held in check and they can limit Matt Moore's time in the pocket, Oakland heads outta South Florida with a big W.

Raiders over Dolphins

Atlanta Falcons (at Houston)

Fortunately for the Falcons, they take on a banged up Texans team this week in Houston. That said, both clubs need a win to stay alive for the playoffs and division titles.

As for Atlanta, they need to maintain balance offensively since the Texans have one of the NFL's best defenses. Keeping Houston off balance is the key as the Texans thrive on ruling the trenches. The Falcons ground game is crucial but not as crucial as their pass defense.

When Houston has the rock, anytime they throw, it will be to WR Andre Johnson. The rest of their receivers are sub-par and TE Owen Daniels needs to be used more as a blocker to keep their ground game working.

The Falcons defense must apply pressure, limit Houston's success on the ground and double-team Johnson every play. This game may be the season for Atlanta, so expect them to come out strong.

Falcons over Texans

Pittsburgh Steelers (vs Cincinnati)

It's no surprise the Steelers are 8-3 and fighting for another divisional crown and playoff spot, it's just what they do. This week, Pittsburgh hosts the young Bengals who need a win to keep their own playoff hopes alive.

The only problem, however, is that Cincy's offense had trouble against The Steel Curtain a few weeks ago and the same will occur in Blitzburgh. Dick LeBeau's defense ranks No. 3 and No. 6 against the pass and rush while the Bengals offense is No. 17 and No. 20 in passing and rushing.

So, expect a lot of blitzing from LeBeau to pressure rookie QB Andy Dalton as well as double coverage on rookie WR AJ Green. Pittsburgh will force the Bengals to run the ball which also plays to their advantage.

When Ben Roethlisberger is under center, just know that he can send it deep to WR Mike Wallace at anytime and that only sets up the ground game and intermediate passing plays. The Steelers are a great passing team and if there's any weakness on Cincy's tough D, it's defending the pass.

Make no mistake about it, Cincy is a solid team, but in a playoff type atmosphere versus a Super Bowl contending team, the Bengals are still a few steps back of Pittsburgh.

Steelers over Bengals

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