PossessionPoints.com NFL Big Games for Week 16

This week, there are several games with serious implications concerning potential playoff spots. Week 15 games did clarify much of the AFC and some of the NFC although there are two 7-7 teams and one 6-8 team still chasing the Giants and Vikings for the two wildcard berths.

The first game we want to look at is the Redskins at the Vikings. If the Redskins lose this game, they are out of luck and out of the playoffs as are the Carolina Panthers. If the Vikings lose this game, the door stays open for the Panthers, and the Redskins will have a tie record of 8-7 with the Vikings, and a chance to sneak into that wildcard spot. A Redskin win would also prove to be a benefit for the New Orleans Saints – the other 7-7 team in the NFC.

So, with so much on the line for New Orleans, it is no surprise that their game against the Eagles also qualifies as a “Big Game of the Week” even though the Eagles are out of it. The Eagles’ coaching staff is planning on playing the team’s starters including Donovan McNabb, Brian Westbrook and Brian Dawkins. The Eagles’ coaches have made it clear that they have no intention of handing this game over to the Saints. The unknown factor in this contest is how the Eagles’ players feel about this game. They may be all for the Saints getting in the playoffs – who knows? But since the Saints ended the Eagles’ hopes in the playoffs last year, there is a pretty good chance that the Eagles may want to spoil the Saints’ chances this year. A Vikings’ win coupled with an Eagles’ win will lockdown the NFC playoff picture and give playoff berths to the Giants and Vikings.

We can assume that anything that makes the road easier for the Giants without them actually having to put forth an effort is most likely fine with the Giants. So, if they can climb in the playoffs on the coattails of the Vikings and Eagles—so be it. The Giants had their early season good fortunes, but in the past few weeks, the entire team has looked a bit shaky. While the Giants control their own destiny, this week’s game at Buffalo looks like the opportunity upon which they should seize. It would be easier in the long run to secure their playoff spot this week than next week when they would have to host and beat the Patriots. That is not the game they want to hang their playoff hat on.

On to the AFC: The excitement revolves around the Browns and the Steelers who are tied for the Division in the AFC North. This week, the Browns are at the Bengals. This game is always a high-emotion rivalry, so you can be sure the Bengals are not giving this one away. Meanwhile, the Steelers visit the St. Louis Rams who have showed some life in the last few weeks. For the Steelers, it would have been better for them to face the Rams when the Rams were smack in the middle of their 0-8 start. Now, the Rams want to prove themselves. While this shouldn’t be a tough game for Pittsburgh, the Steelers have demonstrated some proficiency in losing to weak teams. Can anyone spell J-E-T-S?

Waiting in the wings should the Steelers or Browns falter are the 8-6 Titans who would love to steal a final wildcard spot. The Titans are at home this week against the NY Jets. The Jets have been an on and off team (albeit more off than on), but the Titans need to keep their guard up if they want to continue their quest for a final wildcard spot.

If all games break just right for the teams who need the wins, then next week there might not be any big games to worry about as the playoff picture would solidify with this week’s results. As always, PossessionPoints.com welcomes your feedback and comments. By the way, HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!!