Joe's Opening Drive: Week 16

Happy Holidays everyone! After watching the San Diego Chargers take hold of the number two seed in the AFC by knocking off the Titans Christmas evening, I'm ready for a great Sunday in the NFL. Even though the NFC playoff picture is pretty clear, the AFC is still wide open. Let's get to the Opening Drive of week 16! 

(8-6) Baltimore Ravens at (7-7) Pittsburgh Steelers

After a string of poor losses, the Steelers are back and in command of their playoff lives. Beating the Ravens would pull them back into the mix while simultaneously putting the Ravens on the outs. Without Troy Polamalu, the Steelers must rely on another big game from Big Ben Roethlisberger. With their week twelve meeting ending with an overtime field goal, this rematch is up for grabs. On Heinz Field, I'll give a slight edge to Pittsburgh.

(7-7) Houston Texans at (7-7) Miami Dolphins

With six 7-7 teams hoping to get a shot at two wildcard slots, this contest will definitely crush one team's playoff dreams. Houston hasn't had a winning season in their short franchise history, much less a playoff berth. Needless to say, the Texans have plenty to play for. (As does their coach, who will likely not return if one of those two goals are not met.) Miami won't catch New England to repeat as AFC East champs, but they could make noise in the playoffs if they can claw their way in. Chad Henne gives them hope for the future as well as the present. I have an urge to take the Texans for the win.

(7-7) Jacksonville Jaguars at (9-5) New England Patriots

Anyone want to place a bet as to what Jaguars team we'll going to see on Sunday? They're so wildly inconsistent (backed up by their 7-7 record) that I can't possibly see them stringing two wins in a row to end the season. The Patriots would secure a three or four seed with a win, ensuring them a home game to start the post-season. Bill Belichick's defense will have a stiff challenge trying to slow down the Jacksonville ground attack, but they'll get the win thanks to Brady and the offense.

(6-8) Carolina Panthers at (8-6) New York Giants

The Giants need help, but they're currently the only NFC team that still has a shot at the postseason. With a Dallas or Green Bay loss, the G-men have hope. The Panthers are coming off an impressive win over the Vikings where Julius Peppers harassed Brett Favre without mercy and Matt Moore showed plenty of poise They're not about to roll over. Still, with the complete performance they put on against Washington, I think the Giants get the W.

(7-7) New York Jets at (14-0) Indianapolis Colts

Indianapolis signed a quarterback off their practice squad this week, a possible sign of Jim Caldwell's intentions to sit Peyton Manning at some point. The question is: when will he do it? When the Colts are up 30 in the third or at halftime no matter what? Meanwhile, the Jets sure hope he wears a baseball cap for most of the afternoon as their playoff lives are on the line. Keep an eye on the Darelle Revis / Reggie Wayne match-up on the outside. Don't you mess this up Caldwell... I want perfection. I think they keep it going. Colts in a close one.

(8-6) Denver Broncos at (10-4) Philadelphia Eagles

This match-up is the most significant of the weekend in terms of the post-season picture. A Denver win would secure their berth, but a loss may knock them out completely. Though who expects them to be anything more than a wildcard round out? In the NFC, the Eagles still have a shot at the number two seed if the Vikings falter. With their countless injuries, Philly sure could use that bye week. I love the Eagles over the offensively challenged Broncos.

(8-6) Dallas Cowboys at (4-10) Washington Redskins

In spite of all their "December woes" of years past, this Cowboys team has the inside track towards the playoffs. While not quite a powerhouse, Dallas has enough talent to be dangerous and Tony Romo is playing his best as of late. Conversely, the Redskins are a joke. After playing well but losing for most of the season, they packed it in last week against the Giants. This week, their high-priced defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth was sent home from practice for being late. Now he's voicing his displeasure with Greg Blache's defensive scheme because its not tailored toward his talents. While I may not like his public display, I agree with the $100 million dollar man. What's the point of signing a defensive force if your scheme doesn't play to his strengths. Oh well. The next coach won't have that problem. Cowboys over Indians.

Have a great Sunday! Unfortunately, I have to go back to work tomorrow, but those of you with more days off ahead, enjoy them for me!