Fearless forecast - NFL - Brief Article
Vinnie IyerFOX SPORTS
1 p.m. ET: N.Y. Giants at
Philadelphia. The Giants allowed a late punt return touchdown to Brian Westbrook in a 14-10 loss to Philly in Week 7. The Eagles won't need another big return to sweep the season series. Their aggressive defense will make the plays that turn the tide of the game. Prediction: Eagles 21, Giants 17.
4:15 p.m. ET: Green Bay at Tampa Bay. Both teams' emotions will be riding high after last year's Chad Clifton-Warren Sapp incident. The Packers won't exact revenge, however, because Tampa Bay's speed will neutralize their running game and disrupt Brett Favre. The Bucs also have the offensive pop to expose a shaky Green Bay defense. Prediction: Bucs 24, Packers 16.
Baltimore at Miami. The Dolphins won't break out of their running slump against Ray Lewis and the rest of the Ravens' front seven. They also don't have the passing game to burn Baltimore's suspect secondary. Meanwhile, the Ravens' offense will control the clock and the game's tempo with a heavy dose of Jamal Lewis. Prediction: Ravens 17, Dolphins 13.
Dallas at New England. In a battle between Bill Parcells and Bill Belichick, the coach with the better personnel and home-field advantage will win out. The Patriots, coming off an open date, will confuse Quincy Carter with complex coverages. They also will get one or two big plays on offense to pull away. Prediction: Patriots 20, Cowboys 13.
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