Joe's Opening Drive: week 12

With three utterly craptacular contests on Thanksgiving, I’m looking forward to a little competitive football this Sunday. However, it’s not until Monday that the real showdown of week 12 takes place. Let’s get some Opening Drive in your diet!

Washington Redskins (3-7) at Philadelphia Eagles (6-4)

I don’t even know why this is even on my list of games to watch this week. Oh wait, Jim Zorn’s job is on the line. (If he hasn’t lost it already.) If the ‘Skins get embarrassed by a division rival, Zorn is gone for sure. On the Philly sidelines, they still have a chance to catch the Cowboys for the NFC East crown, so expect Andy Reid to come out McNabb’s blazing. I don’t expect it will be close for long.

Indianapolis Colts (10-0) at Houston Texans (5-5)

It may not important for the Colts, but this game is paramount for any chance of a Texans appearance in the postseason. With Jacksonville climbing past them last weekend, Gary Kubiak’s squad is losing pace in the AFC wild card race. Standing in their way is Peyton Manning: Crusher of Dreams, Destroyer of Worlds.

Jacksonville Jaguars (6-4) at San Francisco 49ers (4-6)

This game has the recipe to be ugly. Jacksonville and Tennessee both love to mercilessly pound the ball at their opponent. The difference will be at the quarterback position. Between Alex Smith and David Garrard, the quarterback that makes the least mistakes will walk away with the win. To me, that means a Jaguars victory as Alex Smith hasn’t shown he’s dependable at all. Keep an eye on these Jags; they’re right in line for a wildcard slot.

Pittsburgh Steelers (6-4) at Baltimore Ravens (5-5)

Well, we just heard Big Ben Roethlisberger will be sitting this one out as a precaution. Since back-up Charlie Batch was lost for the season last weekend, Dennis Dixon will get his first career start in the NFL. Unfortunately for him it’s against the Baltimore Ravens defense, which is undoubtedly frothing at the mouth at the prospect of a first-time signal caller. Mike Tomlin will call a run-heavy offense to keep the Raven defenders away from his quarterback and his team in the playoff hunt. I honestly see the Ravens getting this win.

New England Patriots (7-3) at New Orleans Saints (10-0)

If the Colts / Pats game wasn’t so tremendously awesome, this would be a candidate for game of the year. It’s too much and too soon to ask for another Patriot meltdown though. Oh well. I guess I’d settle for a blowout and four touchdowns from Drew Brees. I’m sorry, is my bias showing? Go Saints.

Alright everyone, enjoy the games!