NFL Predictions Week 16: Surging Teams That Will Take a Step Back

Here's a quick look at three NFL teams that are on fire but could temporarily hit a wall in Week 16. 

Seattle Seahawks

After a poor start to the season, the 'Hawks have surprisingly raised their record to 7-7 with three straight wins. They've done it behind an underrated defense, inspired play from Marshawn Lynch and Skittles. Lots and lots of Skittles. 

Yet, Seattle, who needs to win out and Detroit to lose out to make the playoffs, has a tough road ahead when San Francisco comes to town.

Yes, the same San Francisco team that just drubbed the Pittsburgh Steelers. The same San Francisco team that has possibly the best defense in the NFL. The same San Francisco team that hasn't allowed a rushing touchdown all year.

I love how Seattle has been playing, and I love them at Century Link, but does anyone really think they can score on this 49ers defense? If they do, it sure won't be a lot.

Conversely, I'm not so confident the 49ers offense can score a lot either, but I'm thinking they'll at least get enough for a win.

Arizona Cardinals

Geez, remember when the NFC West was the laughing stock of the NFL? Now that the Cards have won four in a row, the West has three teams at or above .500.

That's something only three other divisions can boast about. 

Unfortunately, the streaking Cardinals now have to travel to Cincinnati to take on the Bengals and their stingy defense.

John Skelton has put together two straight "good-enough" performances, but you have to wonder if he'll be able to do the same against Cincy's impressive pass defense.

The Bengals have a much better chance at making the playoffs than Arizona and as result might find it easier to "get up" for this game. They won't slip in this one like they almost did against St. Louis last week.

Atlanta Falcons

I still think the Falcons are a team to be careful of in the playoffs, but a Week 16 matchup at New Orleans could temporarily "slow their roll." 

After a huge victory over Jacksonville on Thursday night, the Falcons are hot. Still, Drew Brees and the Saints are hotter after winning their sixth straight game.

The Falcons just missed beating the Saints during Week 10, so this Monday night matchup should be a good one. Matt Ryan and Roddy White are clicking like its 2010, but Brees and the Saints offense are just too hard to stop.

This is going to be one of the most exciting games of the year, but the Falcons will take a small step back. 

For now.