NFL Week 15 Predictions: Bold Predictions for Under-the-Radar Players

They say the NFL is a star-driven league. 

Duh. 

What league isn't? 

We know what we'll get from Aaron Rodgers, Wes Welker and Ray Rice just about every week. 

But what about the guys that don't get all the notoriety, and aren't on the front of the Sunday sports section? 

Here's how some of those players will fare in Week 15's action. 

Jake Ballard, TE Giants 

With supremely athletic guys like Rob Gronkowski and Jimmy Graham ruling any and all talk about the new age of tight ends in the NFL, it's easy for Jake Ballard to be an afterthought. 

He isn't targeted as frequently as the Patriots or Saints tight ends, but he is a reliable option for Eli Manning, especially in the red zone. 

After a few relatively disappointing weeks, Ballard caught four passes for 52 yards with a critical touchdown in New York's thrilling win over the Cowboys in Week 14. 

Against the Redskins, a team that struggles with opposing tight ends, Ballard will play a major role in the Giants' eighth win. 

Predicted stat line: Six catches, 65 yards, one TD

Demaryius Thomas, WR Denver Broncos 

Essentially every guy on the Broncos has become household name over the past few weeks. Although Eric Decker has been labeled as the go-to pass-catcher, you cannot forget about Demaryius Thomas. 

The former first-round pick is finally living up to the hype that surrounded him when he was drafted. 

New England's secondary is the most susceptible pass defense in the league and Thomas will almost assuredly be utilized on deep shots down the field. 

He'll haul a few in and his big frame will allow him to go up and make a touchdown catch, too. 

Predicted stat line: Five catches, 121 yards, one TD

Roy Helu, RB Washington Redskins 

Helu is still an unheralded guy, but he's making a convincing case to gain more notoriety around the league. 

The former Nebraska Cornhusker has three consecutive 100-yard rushing performances and has averaged 29 total touches over that span. 

He's also caught 13 passes in the last three games. 

Is it foolish to call him the heartbeat of the Redskins attack? 

Definitely not. 

The Giants have an intimidating pass rush, but they allow nearly 128 rushing yards a game.

Another big game is on the horizon for Helu.

Predicted stat line: 24 carries, 135 yards, one TD; three catches, 32 yards