Mad Dash to the Playoffs as Season Enters Its Final 3 Weeks

Jake Delhomme, John Fox & Steve Smith of the Carolina Panthers

"People remember what you do in December."

So says head coach JOHN FOX of the Carolina Panthers about the crunch time that is now upon the NFL.

The final three weeks of the NFL 2008 season are upon us, and aside from the division-winning Arizona Cardinals (8-5), New York Giants (11-2) and Tennessee Titans (12-1), it's a mad dash for the nine remaining playoff spots among the 19 teams still eligible.

There will be twists and turns in the remaining 3 weeks of the NFL 2008 regular season.

Just look at last week.

The Giants were sailing along at 11-1 and lose to the 6-5-1 Eagles. Warm-weather Houston goes into three-degree Green Bay and tops the Packers. The Steelers come back from a 10-point fourth-quarter deficit to beat the Cowboys.

It all tightens the playoff pressure.

"Nobody said this was going to be easy," according to head coach TONY SPARANO, who has taken the 1-15 Miami Dolphins of last year into a three-way tie (at 8-5) for first in the AFC East. "Not in this league."

[ NFL 2008 Week 15 Playoff Races & Playoff Scenarios ]

So as the final surge begins, here are the key NFL 2008 Week 15 games:

Saints Face Bears and Chicago's December Chill

The big question is whether Quarterback Drew Brees and the Saints top-ranked NFL passing offense can perform up to its explosive level outdoors in the December chill of the Chicago night. The New Orleans Saints utilized a more balanced run / pass attack last week in topping the Atlanta Falcons 29-25.

Analysis & Prediction: New Orleans Saints (7-6) at Chicago Bears (7-6)

 

Giants & Cowboys Look to Get Back to Their Winning Ways

The NFC East champion New York Giants (11-2) look to clinch a first round playoff bye as they visit the Dallas Cowboys (8-5) in Texas Stadium on Sunday Night Football. The Cowboys need to keep winning to insure a playoff berth as they hang on to the last playoff spot in the NFC. The Giants are 5-1 on the road this season, and the Dallas Cowboys are 5-1 at home.

Analysis & Prediction: New York Giants (11-2) at Dallas Cowboys (8-5)

 

AFC North Division Rivals Set for Defensive Battle

NFL 2008 Week 15 presents one of the most heated rivalries in the NFL between two NFC North division foes as the Steelers travel to Baltimore to face the Ravens this Sunday. On paper, this AFC North match-up should be one intense defensive battle. Pittsburgh enters the contest ranked No. 1, while the Ravens are No. 2.

Analysis & Prediction: Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3) Baltimore Ravens (9-4)

 

Real-Deal Panthers Set to Expose Broncos at Home

The AFC West-leading Broncos (8-5) face the NFC South-leading Panthers (10-3) in Week 15. Denver heads to Carolina sporting a 3-game road winning streak and winners of 4 of their last 5. The Panthers come off their most impressive victory of the season proving they are the real-deal this season.

Analysis & Prediction: Denver Broncos (8-5) vs Carolina Panthers (10-3)

 

No Place Like Home in the NFC South Falcons host Buccaneers in Make-or-Break Game

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons look to rebound after both lost on the road last week to NFC South Division rivals. Both teams are in need of this win to maintain their standing in the NFC Wildcard race and perhaps the NFC South Divsion Title.

Analysis & Prediction: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-4) vs Atlanta Falcons (8-5)

 

AFC East Leading Jets Aim to Rebound Against Bills

After defining moment victories on the road against the Patriots & Titans, the Jets have fallen to lesser opponents over the past two weeks. First losing to the Broncos at home (34-17) and then losing to the 49ers (24-14) in San Francisco, the Jets now find themselves in a dogfight for the AFC East title.

Analysis & Prediction: Buffalo Bills (6-7) vs New York Jets (8-5)

 

NFC Division Leading Vikings & Cardinals Clash in Desert

This game is a match-up of first-place teams with 8-5 records as the Vikings visit the Cardinals in Arizona. The Minnesota Vikings have a one-game lead on Chicago in the NFC North. The Cardinals are the NFC West champions.

Analysis & Prediction: Minnesota Vikings (8-5) vs Arizona Cardinals (8-5)

 

The Rest of the Games for NFL Week 15 2008

CLEVELAND BROWNS (4-9) AT PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (7-5-1)

The Eagles look to win their 3rd-straight game as they host the Browns in their second Monday night appearance of the season.

Both teams are coming off of games against their respective conference leaders, as the Eagles defeated Giants, 20-14 and Cleveland lost to the Titans, 28-9.

When it comes to the month of December over the past 10 years, the Eagles are one of the best teams in the NFL with a 29-17 mark. More importantly the Philadelphia Eagles has won its last two games to pull itself back into the NFC playoff picture.

"It's a long, long season," according to Eagles head coach ANDY REID. "Anything can happen. We've got three more games that we have to take care of business with. We have the Browns coming in here. They have four wins and three of those have been on the road. It's not a time to sit back and relax."

An interesting pairing to watch will be each team's playmakers. Philadelphia's BRIAN WESTBROOK and Cleveland's JOSHUA CRIBBS. Like Cribbs does now, Westbrook returned kicks early in his career. They are both versatile runners, receivers and in Cribbs' case, even at QB.

For what it's worth: Cleveland and Philadelphia are the only teams to beat the Giants this year.

The Browns lead the series over the Eagles by a 31-14-1 margin even though the Eagles have won 4 of the past 6 meetings. The teams last met on October 24, 2004 in Cleveland. The Eagles prevailed in overtime winning 34-31. In that game, Eagles kicker David Akers connected from 50 yards with 9:58 remaining in OT for the win.

NFL 2008 Week 14: Philadelphia Eagles 20, New York Giants 14

The Eagles handed the Giants their second loss of the season, winning 20-14 on the road.

The Eagles scored the first 10 points of the game and held the Giants scoreless until a blocked field goal by New York was returned 71 yards by Kevin Dockery for a score. Dockery's return came as the first half ended, thus cutting the Eagles lead to 10-7.

Both teams were able to tack on points in the third quarter, before the Eagles scored 10 unanswered points early in the fourth quarter to take a 20-7 lead with only minutes remaining. The Giants scored once more on their final drive when Manning threw a one-yard touchdown to Darcy Johnson cutting the Eagles lead to 20-14.

After the Giants onside kick attempt failed on the ensuing kickoff, the Philadelphia Eagles were able to run off the remaining time on the clock and secure the 20-14 win.

Brian Westbrook of the Eagles ran for 131 yards. The Giants had not allowed a 100-yard rusher in 14 straight games.

The Eagles defense kept the Giants offense in check as New york had season-low totals of 211 yards and only 14 first downs in the game. The Giants converted only three of 11 third down opportunities and went zero-for-three on fourth down. Manning completed less than half of his passes (13 of 27, 48.1 percent) for the first time this year, though at least three of his throws were dropped.

Philadelphia's Brian Westbrook gained 203 yards from scrimmage (131 yards on 33 rushing attempts and 72 yards on six catches). Westbrook scored both Eagles touchdowns (30-yard run in the second quarter and a 40-yard reception in fourth). David Akers also kicked two field goals (51, 34 yards) as the Eagles improved to 7-5-1.

CLEVELAND BROWNS (4-9)

  • - The Browns look for their 3rd win in row on Monday Night Football in 2008
  • - QB KEN DORSEY will make 1st career start on Monday Night Football
  • - Browns are 5-0 when RB JAMAL LEWIS has 25 or more attempts Lewis (800) needs 200 yards to become 1st Brown since MIKE PRUITT to gain 1,000 yards in consecutive seasons. For career, RB JEROME HARRISON averages 6.1 yards per carry (74 attempts, 448 yards)
  • - WR BRAYLON EDWARDS averages 129 receiving yards per game on Monday Night Football & aims for 3rd in row on Monday Night Football with 100 or more receiving yards (154, 104). Edwards aims for 56th consecutive game with receiving WR DONTE' STALLWORTH (293) needs 7 receiving to reach 300 for career. Spent 2006 with the Eagles & had 38 receiving for 725 yards (19.1 avg.) with 5 TDs
  • - Club is tied for 2nd in NFL with 19 INTs (Bears) & has 9 INTs in past 4
  • - LB D' QWELL JACKSON posted career-high 2 INTs last week
  • - CB BRANDON MC DONALD has career-high 3 INTs

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (7-5-1)

  • - In his 2 starts vs. the Browns, Eagles QB DONOVAN MC NABB has completed 51 of 79 (64.6 pct.) for 766 yards with 8 TDs vs. 1 INT for 124.8 rating. Had 375 or more yards & 4 TDs in each meeting. In his starts (minimum 10 or more attempts) with 100.0 or more rating (including playoffs), the Eagles are 38-1 (.974)
  • - RB BRIAN WESTBROOK has 333 scrimmage yards (166.5 per game) & 6 TDs (3 rush, 3 receiving) in past 2. Westbrook aims for his 3rd game in a row with 100 or more rush yards, rush TD & receiving TD. Westbrook is the only player since 2004 with 4,000 or more rush (4,767) & 3,000 or more receiving (3,094) yards. Had 3 TDs (2 rush, 1 receiving) in last Monday Night Football game (9/15/08 vs. the Dallas Cowboys)
  • - WR DE SEAN JACKSON leads NFC rookies with 775 receiving yards & ties for 2nd with 53 catches. WR REGGIE BROWN has 17 career TD catches & 10 have been 20 or more yards
  • - DE TRENT COLE has 19.5 sacks in past 29. CB ASANTE SAMUEL has 19 INTs since 2006, most in NFL. Had INT in last game vs. the Browns (10/7/07 with the Patriots).
  • - S BRIAN DAWKINS will play in his 181st game as an Eagle this weekend, surpassing HAROLD CARMICHAEL (180) for most games played in Eagle franchise history

WASHINGTON REDSKINS (7-6) AT CINCINNATI BENGALS (1-11-1)

The Washington Redskins (7-6), in need of a win to keep their playoff hopes alive, travel to Cincinnati to play the Bengals (1-11-1).

The Redskins look to bounce back not only from a 24-10 loss last week to the Baltimore Ravens, but from a late-season skid that has seen them drop four of their last five. The Bengals, meanwhile, are hopeful that the Redskins will become their second win of the season.

In the midst of a tight NFC Playoff race this season, the Redskins have left themselves little room for error in the season's final three weeks. Washington found itself in similar circumstances in 2005 & 2007 and won its final three games to qualify for the playoffs. This season may not yield the same result even if the Redskins win their last three games.

This is the eighth regular season meeting between the teams The Redskins own a 4-3 series advantage, although the Bengals won the last meeting at Washington in 2004, 17-10. In that game, Cincinnati jumped to 17-0 lead by scoring on 3 straight 1st-half possessions. The Bengals withstood a late Washington rally to snap a 6-game road losing streak.

Last week, both teams were road-loss victims as the Redskins fell to the Ravens 24-10, while the Bengals were soundly defeated by the Colts 35-3.

The Bengals have been tough on the NFC East this season.

The Bengals tied the Eagles four weeks ago and lost to the Giants in overtime (NFL 2008 Week 3). Cincinnati forced Dallas to hold on for a 31-22 victory. The Bengals missed a two-point conversion attempt to tie the game at 24 in the 4th quarter. The Cowboys scored the game's final touchdown with less than two minutes remaining in the game.

Redskins running game scheduled to return

Washington started the season running the ball well as Clinton Portis rushed for 944 yards through the first half of the season. In the five games since, Portis has been nagged by injuries and been held to less than 70 yards in four of the 5 against the NFL's toughest run defenses.

Following last week's loss to the Ravens, Portis vowed to return to Wednesday practice for the first time in weeks. A healthy Portis coupled with a matchup against the 29th-ranked Bengals rush defense, offers the Redskins and Portis a chance to return to early-season form.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS (7-6)

  • - Redskins QB JASON CAMPBELL is 2nd in NFL with 1.4 INT pct. (6 INTs, 415 attempts). The redskins are tied for 1st in NFL with fewest interceptions (6). When Campbell has 100.0 or more rating, team is 5-1 (.833). Needs 222 yards for 1st career 3,000-yard season
  • - RB CLINTON PORTIS leads NFL with 72 1st downs. Ranks 3rd with 1,461 scrimmage yards (1,260 rush, 201 receiving). Has rushed for 504 yards (100.8 per game) & 3 TDs in past 5 vs. AFC. In last game at Cincinnati (9/7/03 with Denver Broncos), Portis rushed for 120 yards & 2 TDs. When Portis rushes for 100 or more yards, his teams are 33-10 (.767)
  • - WR SANTANA MOSS is averaging 15.5 yards per catch in career. WR ANTWAAN RANDLE EL has 28 career TDs (16 receiving, 6 PR, 5 pass., 1 KR), including playoffs. Randle El had a TD catch last week. TE CHRIS COOLEY had TD in last meeting. Colley has 28 TDs since 2004, most among NFC tight ends
  • - LB-DE JASON TAYLOR is the NFL's active sack leader (118.0). In 2 career meetings at Cincinnati, Taylor has 2.0 sacks, 1 INT, 1 forced fumble & 1 fumble recoveries. S LA RON LANDRY had INT last week & has INT in 2 of past 3. The Redskins defense ranks 4th in the NFC allowing only 208 1st downs this season

CINCINNATI BENGALS (1-11-1)

  • - Bengals QB RYAN FITZPATRICK has a 60 or better completion percentage in 7 of his last 9 starts this season. Fitzpatrick has 236 rush yards in 2008
  • - For his career, RB CEDRIC BENSON averages 76.6 rush yards per game when he has 20 or more carries
  • - Since 2007, WR T.J. HOUSHMANDZADEH ranks 2nd in NFL with 201 receptions (WES WELKER, 208). Houshmandzadeh (89) needs 11 receptions to reach 100 receptions in consecutive seasons & needs 115 receiving yards to reach 1,000 yards in 3 seasons in row. In past 3 against NFC, Houshmandzadeh averages 126.7 receiving yards per game & has 2 100-yard games (146, 149). WR CHAD JOHNSON aims for 105th consecutive game with reception. Johnson posted 6 receptions for 89 yards (14.8 avg.) in last meeting against Redskins
  • - Since 2003, the Bengals are 22-6-1 (.776) when their defense has 2 or more INTs
  • - LB DHANI JONES leads team with 122 tackles
  • - Rookie WR-KR ANDRE CALDWELL (3rd round, Florida) has 27.5 KR avg. (11 KR, 303 yards).

TENNESSEE TITANS (12-1) AT HOUSTON TEXANS (6-7)

The AFC South champion Tennessee Titans travel to Houston this week to Houston for a division matchup with the Texans.

With a 28-9 victory over the Cleveland Browns last week, the Titans also clinched a first-round bye in the playoffs when the New York Jets (8-5) lost at San Francisco. The Titans now are in a race for homefield advantage with the Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3). The Steelers visit the Titans next week.

The Texans have won their last three games.

In their win against Cleveland last week, the Titans scored 21 unanswered points after the Browns took an early 6-0 lead.

Kerry Collins passed for two touchdowns, and running backs LenDale White and Chris Johnson combined for 235 rushing yards and two scores. Defensively, the Titans kept their opponent under 200 yards for the second straight game. The Browns were only able to produce 178 yards on offense. The Browns with only three field goals became the first team in 2008 to not score a TD against the Titans.

Meanwhile, the Texans defeated the Packers in Green Bay, 24-21. Kris Brown connected on a a 40-yard field goal as time expired. In a game where the temperature at kickoff was 3 degrees, quarterback Matt Schaub set a career high with 414 passing yards, and rookie running back Steve Slaton topped 100 rushing yards for the second straight week.

Earlier this season, in NFL 2008 Week 3 (September 21, 2008), the Titans defeated the Texans 31-12 at home. Tennessee RB LenDale White scored 2 rushing TDs, TE Bo Scaife caught a 9-yard TD & S Michael Griffin had 2 INTs as the Titans improved to 3-0. Cornerback Cortland Finnegan produced the highlight of the game as he returned an interception 99 yards for a touchdown, helping the Titans earn their seventh consecutive victory over the Texans and their 11th win in 13 all-time meetings.

Last season's game in Houston (10/21/2007) was much closer as the Titans escaped with a 38-36 victory. In that game, Tennessee K Rob Bironas kicked an NFL-record 8 FGs as the Titans survived 29-point 4th-quarter rally by Houston.

The Texans may catch the Titans looking ahead toward their rendezvous with Pittsburgh next week. But that will only be enough to keep the game close. The Titans have been crushed their opponents the past 2 weeks after suffering their first loss of the 2008 season to the Jets three weeks ago.

TENNESSEE TITANS (12-1)

  • - The Titans aim for their first 13-1 start in franchise history
  • - Dating back to 12/16/07, the Titans have won 14 of their past 15 games
  • - The Titans are playgin for their 8th consecutive win versus the Texans
  • - Since 2007, the Titans are 19-3 (.864) when posting 30 or more rush attempts
  • - QB KERRY COLLINS has a 12-4 (.750) record as starter with Tennessee
  • - Rookie RB CHRIS JOHNSON (1st round, No. 24) ranks 2nd in AFC with 1,094 rush yards. Johnson aims for 3rd consecutive game with 100 or more rush yards (106, 136) & has 3 TDs in past 2. RB LEN DALE WHITE (14) needs 1 rush TD to surpass EDDIE GEORGE (14 in 2000) for 2nd-most rush TDs in franchise history (single season). Aims for 3rd consecutive game with rush TD
  • - WR JUSTIN GAGE averages 18.1 yards per catch in 2008 (26 receiving for 471 yards)
  • - TE BO SCAIFE has career-high in receiving (50) & receiving yards (517) in 2008
  • - CB CORTLAND FINNEGAN & S MICHAEL GRIFFIN are tied for 2nd in NFL with 5 INTs (4 others have 5). Griffin has 3 INTs in past 2 vs. Hou
  • - DE KYLE VANDEN BOSCH has 7.5 sacks against the Houston Texans (most vs. any opponent)

HOUSTON TEXANS (6-7)

  • - Texans QB MATT SCHAUB registered career & franchise-best 414 passing yards in the Texans 24-21 win against the Packers on the road last week
  • - Rookie RB STEVE SLATON (3rd round, No. 89) ranks 3rd in the AFC with 1,024 rushing yards (5.0 avg.) on 180 attempts & 8 TDs. Slaton aims for his 3rd consecutive game with 100 or more rush yards (130, 104). Slaton (1,024) needs 8 rush yards to surpass DOMANICK WILLIAMS (1,031 in 2003) for most rush yards by rookie RB in franchise history. Slaton gained 116 rush yards in last meeting against Titans
  • - WR ANDRE JOHNSON averages 122.3 receiving yards per game at home in 2008 & has 4 games with 100 or more yards. Johnson (92) needs 12 receiving to surpass career-high (103 in 2006; Texans record). WR KEVIN WALTER leads team with career-high 8 TD receptions & needs 1 TD receiving to surpass Johnson's franchise record of 8 in 2007
  • - Since 2007, DE MARIO WILLIAMS ranks 3rd in NFL with 25 sacks (DE MARCUS WARE, 29; JARED ALLEN, 26.5).

DETROIT LIONS (0-13) AT INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (9-4)

The Indianapolis Colts, winners of their last 6 games, host the winless Lions this Sunday. The Colts are coming off a dominating 35-3 home win over the Cincinnati Bengals. The Detroit Lions dropped a 20-16 outcome last week to the Vikings at home.

The Colts lead the series, 19-18-2.

The Colts and Lions meet for the first time since the 2004 season, when Indianapolis defeated the Lions on Thanksgiving Day November 25, 2004) in Detriot, 41-9. In that game, Indianapolis Colts QB Peyton Manning tossed 6 TD passes, becoming the first quarterback ever with 4 games in season with 5 or more TDs.

If the NFL ever needed a mercy-rule, this may be the week and the matchup.

DETROIT LIONS (0-13)

  • - Lions QB DAUNTE CULPEPPER has completed 23 of 29 (79.3 pct.) for 266 yards with 2 TDs vs. 0 INTs for 127.9 passer rating in 2 starts vs. the Colts. Culpepper aims for 3rd game in a row vs. Colts with 120.0 or more rating. Including playoffs, when Culpepper has 120.0 or more rating, his teams are 18-3 (.857)
  • - Rookie RB KEVIN SMITH leads the Lions with 684 rush yards & 5 rush TDs. Smith is 1 of 4 rookies to lead club in both rushing & rush TDs. Smith can become 6th rookie in franchise history to lead the Lions in both
  • - WR CALVIN JOHNSON has TD in 7 of past 9, including 70-yard TD last week. Leads club with 56 receptions, 1,055 yards (18.8 avg.) & 9 TDs. Calvin Johnson aims to join HERMAN MOORE (1995) as only the Lions to record 70 catches, 1,200 yards & 10 TDs in a single NFL season. Ties for 1st with 7 catches of 40 or more yards
  • - Rookie DE CLIFF AVRIL aims for 4th in row with sack. Has 3.0 sacks, 2 FFs & 1 fumble recoveries in past 3. DE COREY SMITH had 1st career INT last week
  • - K JASON HANSON is 7 of 7 from 50 or more yards this year, most in Lions franchise history. Hanson has 40 career FGs of 50 or more yards, tied for most in NFL history

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (9-4)

  • - The Colts are playing for their 7th consecutive win. Last week, the Colts joined the 49ers (1989-95) as only the teams in NFL history to win at least 6 consecutive games in 5 consecutive seasons
  • - In the Colts 6 consecutive wins, QB PEYTON MANNING has completed 145 of 212 passes (68.4 pct.) for 1,471 yards with 12 TDs vs. 3 INTs & 101.0 passer rating. Since 2004, the Colts are 43-7 (.860) when Manning throws 2 or more TDs. Against the Detroit Lions, Manning is 2-0 with 9 TDs vs. 2 INTs & 125.3 passer rating
  • - RB JOSEPH ADDAI has 9 rush TDs in 9 career games vs. NFC opponents
  • - WR MARVIN HARRISON aims for 3rd consecutive 100-yard receiving game against Lions (109, 127) & aims for 4th consecutive game with TD reception
  • - WR ANTHONY GONZALEZ has career-high 608 receiving yards with 51 receiving in 2008
  • - Since 2007, TE DALLAS CLARK is tied for 1st in NFL with 15 TDs (ANTONIO GATES)
  • - DE DWIGHT FREENEY has 6.5 sacks in past 5
  • - DE ROBERT MATHIS has 6.5 sacks in past 3. Freeney (69.5) ranks 1st & Mathis (53.5) ranks 2nd for most sacks in franchise history
  • - S MELVIN BULLITT recorded 3 of career-high 4 INTs during last 2 the Vikings of 4th quarter in 2008
  • - CB KELVIN HAYDEN posted career-best 2 INTs last week, including 85-yard INT-TD return.

GREEN BAY PACKERS (5-8) AT JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (4-9)

The Jaguars host the Green Bay Packers in Jacksonville this Sunday. This will be the 4th meeting between these two teams. The Packers lead the series 2-1.

The Packers and Jaguars last squared off in Green Bay during the 2004 season (December 19, 2004). In an exciting interconference showdown the Jaguars edged out the Packers 28-25. In that game, Jaguars RB Fred Taylor rushed for 165 yards & scored 1 TD. The Jaguars defense forced 5 turnovers, including 3 interceptions.

Last week, the Jaguars (4-9) lost to the Bears at Chicago, 23-10. Despite temperatures below 20 degrees, the Jaguars controlled the ball for 32:03 and outrushed the Bears 119 to 86. However, the Jaguars could not overcome a 20-3 halftime deficit. Maurice Jones-Drew finished the game with 102 yards from scrimmage (55 rushing, 47 receiving) and led the team with seven receptions. LB Daryl Smith registered a team-high 12 tackles while DB Brian Williams made 10 tackles. For the Bears, it was their 700th franchise victory. The Bears are the all-time NFL leaders in wins. Ironically, the Bears acheived the 600-win milestone by defeating the Jaguars.

Last week, the Green Bay Packers (5-8) lost their second consecutive game at home. For the Packers it was yet another heart-breaker as they lost to the Texans, 24-21. Texans kicker Kris Brown connected on a a 40-yard field goal as time had expired. In a game where the temperature at kickoff was 3 degrees, quarterback Matt Schaub set a career high with 414 passing yards, and rookie running back Steve Slaton topped 100 rushing yards for the second straight week.

The Could Have Been, Should Have Been Bowl

Prior to the start of the NFL 2008 season this game was a likely Sunday night primetime candidate. However, it has been a disappointing season for both teams.

Despite their woes, the Jaguars should win this home game.

GREEN BAY PACKERS (5-8)

  • - The Packers have won 7 of their past 9 December games. Green Bay is 2-0 all-time at Jacksonville
  • - QB AARON RODGERS ranks 4th in the NFC with 3,192 passing yards & is tied for 3rd with 22 touchdown passes. Rodgers needs 3 TDs to join LYNN DICKEY, BRETT FAVRE & DON MAJKOWSKI as only Packers with 3,000 or more yards & 25 or more TDs in a single NFL season
  • - RB RYAN GRANT has 100 or more rush yards in 4 of past 6 vs. AFC teams, including 104 yards & 1 TD last week. When Grant has 22 or more attempts (including playoffs), Packers are 7-0. Needs 20 yards for 1st career 1,000-yard season
  • - WR DONALD DRIVER had 32-yard TD catch in last meeting. Has reception in 108 games in row, longest streak in team history. WR GREG JENNINGS has 22 career receiving TDs & 10 have been 40 or more yards. Is 4th in NFL with 1,131 receiving yards. TE DONALD LEE aims for 3rd in row with TD. Rookie WR JORDY NELSON had TD last week
  • - DE AARON KAMPMAN has 37.0 sacks since 2006, 2nd most in NFL. In past 12, S NICK COLLINS (3 INT-TDs) & CB CHARLES WOODSON (2) each have 5 INTs. CB TRAMON WILLIAMS had INT last week & has career-high 5 INTs. LB DESMOND BISHOP had 1st career sack last week

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (4-9)

  • - The Jaguars are 15-8 (.652) under head coach JACK DEL RIO against NFC teams
  • - Since 2006, the Jaguars are 16-4 (.800) when rushing for 150 or more yards
  • - For his career, QB DAVID GARRARD is 7-2 (.778) as a starter against NFC opponents. Garrard (2,926) needs 74 passing yards to reach 3,000-yard mark for 1st time in career
  • - For his career in December games, RB FRED TAYLOR averages 95.6 rush yards per game & has 100 yards in 4 of past 6 in December. Since 2000, Taylor leads NFL with 13 100-yard rush games against interconference opponents. In only career meeting against the Green Bay Packers (12/19/04), Taylor posted 22 attempts for 165 rush yards (7.5 avg.) with 1 TD. RB MAURICE JONES-DREW has career-high 50 receptions for 462 yards (9.2 avg.) in 2008. Jones-Drew (11) needs 3 rush TDs to tie FRED TAYLOR (14 in 1998) for most rush TDs in season in Jags history
  • - Since 2007, WR REGGIE WILLIAMS leads the Jaguars with 13 TD receptions (10 in 2007, 3 in 2008)
  • - S GERALD SENSABAUGH has 2 INTs in past 3 games.

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (5-8) AT KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (2-11)

The San Diego Chargers playoff hopes live another week as the Chargers travel to Kansas City to face another AFC West rival.

Despite the Chargers 34-7 win over the Raiders last Thursday, the Broncos 24-17 win over the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday has reduced the Broncos magic number to one. Either a Denver win or a Chargers loss will allow the Broncos to clinch the AFC West division title.

The Chiefs lead the all-time series, 50-46-1, but the Chargers have won two straight and three of the last four. The Chargers won the first meeting this season (November 9, 2008) in San Diego when Clinton Hart broke up a late two-point conversion play in the end zone to preserve a 20-19 win for the Chargers.

The Chargers should be able to keep their playoff hopes alive for yet one more week.

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

  • - The Chargers are playinging for their 3rd win in row against the Chiefs and 12th consecutive win in the month of December
  • - QB PHILIP RIVERS leads the NFL with 102.0 passer rating. Rivers (3,169) needs 220 passing yards to surpass his career season-high (3,388 in 2006). In 2008 against AFC West division rivals, Rivers has 9 TDs vs. 5 INTs & 100.8 passer rating
  • - RB LA DAINIAN TOMLINSON (122) needs 2 rushing TDs to surpass MARCUS ALLEN (123) for 2nd-most in NFL history. In past 4 games vs. the Kansas City Chiefs, Tomlinson is averaging 146.5 rush yards per game. For his career, Tomlinson averages 105.8 rush yards per game in December.
  • - RB DARREN SPROLES posted career-high 2 receiving TDs last week
  • - TE ANTONIO GATES ranks 2nd among NFL TEs with 6 TDs (TONY GONZALEZ, 7) in 2008
  • - WR VINCENT JACKSON posted career-high 148 receiving yards on 5 receiving last week with 1 TD. Jackson averages 19.3 yards per catch (44 receiving 851 yards)
  • - Since 2007, CB ANTONIO CROMARTIE is tied for 1st in NFL with 12 INTs (OSHIOMOGHO ATOGWE; ED REED)
  • - LB STEPHEN COOPER had career-best 2 INTs last week

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (2-11)

  • - In his past 7 games, Chiefs QB TYLER THIGPEN has completed 134 of 225 passes (59.6 pct.) for 1,534 yards with 12 TDs vs. 4 INTs for a 90.5 passer rating. In 2008, Thigpen has totaled 285 rush yards (6.5 avg.) on 44 attempts
  • - In past 4 against Chargers, RB LARRY JOHNSON averages 117.5 rush yards per game (470 total) & has 3 100-yard rush games (131, 132, 123). The Kansas City Chiefs are 3-0 when Johnson has 100 or more yards against the San Diego Chargers
  • - TE TONY GONZALEZ extended reception streak to 128 last week -- streak is 2nd in NFL history among TEs (OZZIE NEWSOME, 150). Gonzalez leads NFL TEs in receptions (78), receiving yards (879) & TDs (7). Gonzalez aims for 3rd consecutive game with 100 yards against the San Diego Chargers (140, 113)
  • - WR DWAYNE BOWE (67) needs 4 receptions to set new career-high (70 in 2007)
  • - Rookie CB MAURICE LEGGETT (undrafted free agent, Valdosta St.) recorded 1st career INT last week on 27-yard INT-TD. Leggett aims for 3rd consecutive game with TD (fumble recovery for a TD, INT-TD)
  • - S JARRAD PAGE needs 1 INT to surpass career-high (3 in 2006 & 2007).

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (5-8) AT MIAMI DOLPHINS (8-5)

The Dolphins host the San Francisco 49ers in their final regular season appearance at Dolphin Stadium in 2008. With three games to play in the 2008 regular season, the Dolphins are a decidedly different team from the one that concluded 2007 with only one win.

The Dolphins hold a 5-4 edge in the all-time regular season series with San Francisco. This will be the first meeting between the teams since 2004 (11/28/2004) when the 49ers hosted the Dolphins. The Dolphins won that game 24-17 as Miami QB A.J. Feeley threw 2 TDs & the Dolphins defense posted 8 sacks & forced 3 4th-quarter turnovers.

The Dolphins 16-3 victory last week over the Bills in Toronto, coupled with a Jets loss and Patriots victory has created a three-way tie for first place in the AFC East.

In last week's victory, quarterback Chad Pennington put together a passer rating of above 100.0 for the fifth time on the year while his completion percentage of 79.3 represented the fourth time he has connected on more than 75 percent of his passes. In the process, he surpassed the 3,000-yard passing plateau for the third time in his career.

For the second week in a row, the Dolphins' defense did not yield a touchdown. Over the last two games, the Dolphins defense has allowed a paltry 15 points. The Dolphins recorded four sacks in the game, 2 by Joey Porter (16.5 sacks this season).

The 49ers come to Miami off a 24-14 victory at home last Sunday over the Jets. The 49ers have won two straight and three of their last four. The streak has coincided with the insertion of quarterback Shaun Hill into the 49ers lineup, who is now 3-2 as a starter.

This will be a close game, but in the end the Dolphins should win.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (5-8)

  • - The 49ers have 55 plays resulting in 20 or more yards, 2nd most in the NFC
  • - QB SHAUN HILL has posted passer rating of 95.0 or more in 7 of 9 career games, including past 4 in row. Hill is 5-2 (.714) as a starter
  • - Since the start of 2006, RB FRANK GORE has 5,063 scrimmage yards (3,775 rush, 1,288 receiving), 2nd most in NFC. This season, Gore ranks 5th in NFL with 1,345 scrimmage yards (978 rush, 367 receiving)
  • - WR ISAAC BRUCE has 14,804 receiving yards, most among active players. Bruce has 29 catches for 416 yards (104.0 per game) & 1 TD in 4 career meetings. Isaac Bruce had a career-high 15 receptions for 210 yards & 1 TD vs. the Miami Dolphins (12/24/95 with the Saint Louis Rams)
  • - LB TAKEO SPIKES has 3 INTs this season, tied for most among LBs. Has 3 INTs in 7 career games, including 11-yard INT-TD in 10/17/04 meeting (with Bills). CB NATE CLEMENTS has 9 INTs (2 TDs) vs. the Miami Dolphins, his most vs. opponent. Clements has 2 career games with 2 or more INTs, both vs. the Miami Dolphins (with Bills). Clements had career-high 3 INTs (1 TD) in 10/20/02 meeting & 2 INTs (1 TD) in 9/21/03 game.
  • - The 49ers defense ranks 3rd in NFC in opponents' red zone TD pct. (44.7 pct., 21 TDs in 47 poss.)

MIAMI DOLPHINS (8-5)

  • - The Dolphins have won 6 of their past 7 games after starting the season with a 2-4 record
  • - At home in 2008, Dolphins QB CHAD PENNINGTON has completed 156 of 236 (66.1 pct.) for 1,812 yards with 9 TDs vs. 4 INTs for a 94.8 passer rating. Pennington ranks 2nd in the AFC this season with 93.7 passer rating. Including playoffs, his teams are 21-7 (.750) when he has 100 or more passer rating.
  • - RB RONNIE BROWN has 11 TDs (10 rush, 1 pass) in past 11 games. Brown aims for 4th consecutive game with rush TD against NFC opponents. For his career, RB RICKY WILLIAMS averages 82.8 rush yards per game against 49ers (414 total)
  • - WR TED GINN averages 71.6 receiving yards per game at home in 2008 (501 total). In past 3 as starter, rookie WR DAVONE BESS (undrafted FA) has 20 receptions for 245 yards (15.5 avg.). Bess recorded career-high 9 receiving last week
  • - In 2008, TE ANTHONY FASANO has career-high 4 TD receptions
  • - LB JOEY PORTER has 15.5 sacks in past 11 & leads NFL with 16.5 sacks
  • - S YEREMIAH BELL (6) needs 0.5 sack to surpass LIFFORT HOBLEY (6) for most career sacks by Dolphins DB.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (8-5) AT OAKLAND RAIDERS (3-10)

The Patriots are back out west this week after surviving a scare against the Seattle Seahawks. The Patriots 24-21 victory over the Seahawks combined with the Jets loss to the 49ers and the Dolphins win over the Bills has created a three-way tie for first place in the AFC East.

The Patriots and Raiders meet for the 32nd time overall and for the 29th time in regular-season play.

The Raiders lead the regular season series with a 14-13-1 record. The Patriots and Raiders last played each other on September 8, 2005 in New England. The Patriots won 30-20 behind an outstanding performance by New England QB Tom Brady. Brady passed for 306 yards & 2 TDs. RB Corey Dillon added 2 scoring runs.

Last week, the Patriots rallied from a 21-13 fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Seattle Seahawks 24-21. Wes Welker had a season high 12 receptions for 134 yards, and Sammy Morris scored on a TD run with 2:44 remaining to give the Patriots their first lead of the game.

Seattle was on the march final minutes, but Brandon Meriweather sacked Seahawks quarterback Seneca Wallace and forced him to fumble near midfield on the first play after the 2-minute warning. Richard Seymour recovered the loose ball to preserve an exciting New England victory and keep pace in a tight AFC East race.

The Raiders should be tough at home, but the Patriots should have no trouble keeping pace in the tight AFC East.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (8-5)

  • - The Patriots aim for their 10th consecutive December win. The Patriots are 21-2 in December since 2003
  • - In past 2 road games, QB MATT CASSEL has completed 56 of 87 passes (64.4 pct.) for 683 yards with 4 TDs vs. 1 INT & 99.0 passer rating
  • - RB SAMMY MORRIS aims for 3rd consecutive game with rush TD. RB LA MONT JORDAN spent 3 seasons with Raiders (2005-07) & totaled 2,008 rushing yards
  • - WR RANDY MOSS spent 2 seasons with the Raiders. (2005-06). Moss (59) is tied for 2nd in NFL for most 100-yard receiving games with MARVIN HARRISON trailing JERRY RICE (76)
  • - Since 2007, WR WES WELKER leads NFL with 208 receptions. Welker has 100 or more receiving yards in 4 of past 5 (107, 108, 120, 134) & posted season-high 12 receiving for 134 yards last week
  • - DE RICHARD SEYMOUR (7.5) needs 1 sack to surpass career-high (8 in 2003)
  • - Rookie LB JEROD MAYO leads team with 112 tackles
  • - LB JUNIOR SEAU made 2008 Patriots debut last week
  • - S BRANDON MERIWEATHER posted 1st career sack last week
  • - CB-KR ELLIS HOBBS ranks 2nd in AFC with 27.8 KR avg

OAKLAND RAIDERS (3-10)

  • - Dating back to 11/1/81, the Raiders aim for their 4th consecutive win at home against the Patriots
  • - In 12 career starts, QB JA MARCUS RUSSELL has completed 172 of 321 passes (53.6 pct.) for 2,021 yards with 8 TDs vs. 7 INTs & 72.2 passer rating
  • - RB JUSTIN FARGAS averages 79.6 rush yards per game in past 3 (239 total). Fargas averages 85.5 rush yards per game in past 2 at home. Rookie RB DARREN MC FADDEN (1st round, No. 4) averages 4.6 rush yards per carry (88 attempts, 405 yards)
  • - WR JOHNNIE LEE HIGGINS averages 19.2 yards per catch (10 receptions, 192 yards) in 2008. Higgins is tied for 2nd in NFL with 2 PR-TDs & ranks 3rd in AFC with 11.2 PR avg
  • - TE ZACH MILLER averages 13.6 yards per catch & has career-highs in receptions (45) & receiving yards (614)
  • - Since 2007, LB THOMAS HOWARD (7) is tied for 1st in NFL for most INTs among LBs (BRIAN URLACHER)
  • - DE KALIMBA EDWARDS needs 2 sacks to tie career high (7 w/the Detroit Lions in 2005)
  • - KR-CB JUSTIN MILLER posted 1st KR-TD with Raiders last week (92-yard KR-TD).

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (2-11) AT ST. LOUIS RAMS (2-11)

The Rams and Seahawks meet for the 20th time in which the Seahawks hold an 11-9 series lead. Unfortunately, not much else to say except that the Seahawks beat the Rams 37-13 earlier this season (9/21/2008) at home.

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (2-11)

  • - Seahawks QB MATT HASSELBECK has won 8 of 11 starts vs. the Saint Louis Rams and aims for 7th win in row vs. Rams. In starts with 10 or more attempts, his teams are 36-12 (.750) when he has 90.0 or more rating
  • - RB MAURICE MORRIS rushed for 124 yards in 11/12/06 meeting. Seahawks are 10-1 (.909) when he has 15 or more attempts In 20 games with 22 or more carries, RB JULIUS JONES has 2,172 rush yards (108.6 per game) & 16 TDs. Rushed for 140 yards & 1 TD in last meeting
  • - WR DEION BRANCH had 5 catches for 92 yards & 1 TD in last meeting. Branch had 2 TDs versus Patriots last week. Including playoffs, when Branch has a TD catch, his teams are 19-5 (.792). TE JOHN CARLSON leads NFC rookie TEs with 46 receptions & 525 yards. and tops the Seahawks in both categories & aims to join Hall of Famer STEVE LARGENT (1976) as only rookies in franchise history to lead in both
  • - LB JULIAN PETERSON has 26.5 sacks in 49 games with the Seahawks (including playoffs). Has 10.5 sacks in past 13 meetings. CB MARCUS TRUFANT has INT in 2 of past 3 vs. the Saint Louis Rams. S DEON GRANT has INT in 4 of 6 career meetings. CB-KR JOSH WILSON had an 89-yard KR-TD in last game at the Saint Louis Rams

ST. LOUIS RAMS (2-11)

  • - Rams QB MARC BULGER has 24 TDs in 16 home starts vs. division foes
  • - When RB STEVEN JACKSON has 22 or more attempts, Rams are 16-6 (.727). In those 22, Jackson has rushed for 2,492 yards (113.3 per game) & 17 TDs and has rush TD in 5 of past 7 meetings. Has 366 scrimmage yards (122.0 per game) in past 3 vs. the Seahawks Had TD catch last week
  • - WR TORRY HOLT has 86 catches for 1,196 yards (13.9 avg.) & 8 TDs in career vs. the Seahawks (including playoffs). Since 2000, Holt leads the NFL with 803 receptions & 11,663 yards. WR DONNIE AVERY is 2nd among NFC rookie WRs with 37 receptions & 517 yards. Averages 14.0 yards per catch
  • - S OSHIOMOGHO ATOGWE had INT in last home game vs. the Seahawks Has 4 INTs, 4 FFs & 1 fumble recoveries (75-yard TD) in past 10. Has 12 INTs since start of 2007, tied for most in NFL. Has forced fumble in 3 of past 4. Rookie DE CHRIS LONG is tied for NFL rookie lead with 4.0 sacks. LB WILL WITHERSPOON has 5.0 sacks in past 4 meetings. Aims for 3rd in row vs. the Seahawks with sack (3.0 sacks in past 2).

NFL 2008 WEEK 15 SCHEDULE -- DECEMBER 11, 14-15

(All times local)

New Orleans at Chicago, 7:00 PM (NFLN) - Thursday, December 11
Buffalo at N.Y. Jets, 1:00 PM
Seattle at St. Louis, 12:00 PM
Minnesota at Arizona, 2:05 PM
Tampa Bay at Atlanta, 1:00 PM
Pittsburgh at Baltimore, 4:15 PM
Washington at Cincinnati, 1:00 PM
Denver at Carolina, 4:15 PM
Tennessee at Houston, 12:00 PM
New England at Oakland, 1:15 PM
Detroit at Indianapolis, 1:00 PM
Green Bay at Jacksonville, 1:00 PM
San Diego at Kansas City, 12:00 PM
San Francisco at Miami, 1:00 PM
N.Y. Giants at Dallas, 8:15 PM (NBC)
Cleveland at Philadelphia, 8:30 PM (ESPN) - Monday, December 15

NFL 2008 WEEK 14 RESULTS - DECEMBER 4, 7 - 8

(Home team in CAPS)

SAN DIEGO 34, Oakland 7
Miami 16, BUFFALO 3 (Toronto)
DENVER 24, Kansas City 17
SAN FRANCISCO 24, N.Y. Jets 14
CHICAGO 23, Jacksonville 10
New England 24, SEATTLE 21
Minnesota 20, DETROIT 16
ARIZONA 34, St. Louis 10
Houston 24, GREEN BAY 21
PITTSBURGH 20, Dallas 13
INDIANAPOLIS 35, Cincinnati 3
BALTIMORE 24, Washington 10
NEW ORLEANS 29, Atlanta 25
Philadelphia 20, N.Y. GIANTS 14
TENNESSEE 28, Cleveland 9
CAROLINA 38, Tampa Bay 23

Mad Dash to the Playoffs as NFL Season Enters Its Final 3 Weeks - NFL 2008