After last week’s glut of possible playoff previews, week 14’s weekend of action is… less than tremendous. Still, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of stories to examine! Let’s get into our stances for the Opening Drive!
(6-6) Oakland Raiders at
(7-5) Jacksonville Jaguars
While it may not be a glamorous contest, the Jaguars are still the AFC South leaders until someone gets past them. This is a meeting of two Jekyll and Hyde squads that are going to try and run the ball down each other’s throat. It’ll be a smash-mouth affair, but almost impossible to pick. I mean, which Raiders are going to show up?
(6-6) St. Louis Rams at
(9-3) New Orleans Saints
At 9-3, the Saints are still catching up to the division leading Falcons, who get the 1-11 Panthers this week. St. Louis has shown incredible fortitude this season with Sam Bradford under center, but they just don’t have the firepower to hang with the Saints. Still, this will be a closer game than some might expect.
(6-6) Miami Dolphins at
(9-3) New York Jets
As odd and disappointing as the Dolphins season has been, they have a great shot at knocking off the Jets today. Angry and fuming after their drubbing at the hands of the Patriots, the Jets could be ripe for the picking or ready to explode. One thing is for sure, that Jet offense has to show signs of life. Oh wait, so does the defense.
(8-4) Kansas City Chiefs at
(6-6) San Diego Chargers
This would have been a more significant game had the Chargers not shocked the NFL with their play against the Raiders last week. Now they get Brodie Croyle and a Chiefs team that will rely heavily on Jamaal Charles and the ground attack. They’ll be predictable and without their best QB. It could be a recipe for a loss.
(8-4) Philadelphia Eagles at
(4-8) Dallas Cowboys
I’m not going to say lock it in, but if Jason Garrett can beat the Eagles tonight and win another division game this year, he’s going to have an inside track on this job for certain. Unfortunately his secondary has to try and keep pace with DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin while his front seven has to contain Michael Vick. I just don’t see that happening.
(8-4) New York Giants at
(5-7) Minnesota Vikings
Delayed until Monday because of a Metro dome collapse (How has this never happened in Minnesota before? It’s not as if they don’t get snow!), Favre gets an extra day to tell Ed Werder all about his old man injuries. Swell. With all the travel troubles, the Giants might not be at their most focused. Regardless, they should knock around whoever starts for the Vikes at QB. Trust me.
