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| Alex Smith and the 49ers hope to play better against the Giants in a rematch of last season's NFC Championship Game. (Christian Petersen) |
Both of these teams have disappointed greatly so far this season. The Lions were expected to build upon last season's playoff berth. However, they are now 1-3 and haven't won since the opening week. The Lions are coming in off the bye week, so they hopefully have regrouped to go forward. They will need to keep their offensive attack balanced as well as possible.
The Eagles do have a winning record and are among the leaders in the NFC East, but those numbers can be very misleading. For example, their three wins have come been by a combined four points. If you have watched any of their games, that is because of their struggles, rather than clutch play. Quarterback Michael Vick must limit his mistakes and turnovers. He will be under continual pressure from the Lions defense.
Prediction: Eagles 20 Lions 17
4. Green Bay Packers (2-3) @ Houston Texans (5-0) - 8:20 PM EST, NBC
The Packers have had a surprisingly disappointing season thus far as well. Their offense hasn't been nearly as dominant as it has been the past few seasons. Their defense simply isn't talented enough to compensate for the difference that makes. The Packers could be throwing even more Sunday as a result of running back Cedric Benson being ruled out for the season.
The Texans have been dominant this season and have distinguished themselves as one of the best teams in the NFL. However, they are trying to recover from a loss of a player to injury. The Texans have found out that they will be without All-Pro linebacker Brian Cushing. They will need players such as defensive end J.J. Watt to step up and make a difference.
Prediction: Texans 27 Packers 24
3. New England Patriots (3-2) @ Seattle Seahawks (3-2)
The Patriots offense is beginning to click on all cylinders One would expect the passing game to be rolling along with quarterback Tom Brady at the helm, but it has been the running game, led by the likes of Stevan Ridley, that has been just as good, if not better thus far this season. The Patriots defense has had its ups and downs. Their secondary and pass defense have continued to be struggle areas moving forward.
The Seahawks have been an intriguing team to follow this season. On offense, rookie quarterback Russell Wilson has benefited greatly from the strong rushing attack led by Marshawn Lynch. The Seahawks defense has been excellent this season. They're a force to be reckoned with. Their big secondary will look to pressure the Patriots targets early and often.
Prediction: Patriots 20 Seahawks 16
2. Denver Broncos (2-3) @ San Diego Chargers (3-2) - 8:30 PM EST (Monday), ESPN/WatchESPN
The Broncos have played well in all of the games this season. They just don't have all the wins to prove that. Offensively, the Broncos could benefit from being more aggressive on offense. The last two weeks, they have had to come-from-behind and lost as a result. The Broncos defense has played well, but have committed too many personal fouls and unnecessary actions. They must keep their emotions in check.
This is a big matchup with playoff implications for both teams. The winner will be in great shape to win the AFC West. The Chargers have looked good at times, but have played poorly as well. No aspect of their game really stands out. Offensively, quarterback Philip Rivers must limit his mistakes and turnovers to help his team win. Linebacker Shaun Philips is the man to keep an eye on defensively, as he will look to pressure Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning into creating errors.
Prediction: Broncos 27 Chargers 24
1. New York Giants (3-2) @ San Francisco 49ers (4-1) - 4:25 pm EST, FOX
This game is a rematch of last season's NFC Championship Game. The teams have changed some, but both continue to have the same tendencies. The Giants have started to pick up their game. Last week against the Cleveland Browns, their offense was on full throttle. Quarterback Eli Manning threw three touchdown passes, while running back Ahmad Bradshaw rushed for 200 yards and one score of his own.
The 49ers took little time to shake off the rust from a disappointing loss in Week 3 to the Minnesota Vikings. In the two games since then, they have outscored their opponents by a combined 79-3. Running back Frank Gore has rushed the football well to lead the way. Defense continues to be a stronghold for the team. They are one of the most consistent and well-balanced units in the league.
Prediction: 49ers 24 Giants 20
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