Lock of the Week (13-1): Pittsburgh over Carolina
The Steelers outgained the Texans 400+ to sub 50 in total offense last week...and got crushed 24-6. Three defensive turnovers were returned for TDs and will be all the incentive coach Cowher needs to get his troops all fired up for the Panthers! Carolina will be traveling right into the belly of the beast this week as Pittsburgh will come into this one with a mouth full of vinegar.
Upset Special of the Week (7-7): Minnesota over New Orleans
The Vikings played the Packers tough in incredibly cold weather at Lambeau last week. It may be all the confidence they need against a New Orleans team that just tries to outscore their opponent each week. The Saints are no slouch, but have played inconsistently of late and may start to look towards the playoffs a little too early. The Vikings, Bengals and Panthers are the only thing between the Saints and a playoff birth. A banged up Aaron Brooks may not get much rest against a Viking pass rush that has been playing with a little more vigor in recent weeks.
Tip of the Week: The Playoffs are in KC's Sights
The Chiefs have put up 49 points each of the last two weeks and have gotten their record to 7-6. The defense has started to play with a little more tenacity as this team is only 2 games behind the division leading Raiders. The final three weeks are against division foes - the Raiders, Broncos and Chargers. With a little luck, they can leapfrog everybody in the division and gain a division title. And, it all starts with a road test in Denver this week, a home game with San Diego the following week and the season finale in Oakland.
Player(s) to Watch:
Tom Brady, QB, New England
He plays on Monday Night against a Tennessee defense that has been susceptible against the pass. He plays pretty well with a national spotlight on him, as well. Both teams are fighting for first place in their respective divisions.
Michael Vick, Warrick Dunn and TJ Duckett, Atlanta Falcons
They play host to the Seattle Seahawks. Coming off an embarrassing shellacking at the hands of the Buccaneers, the trio will take advantage of a 'Hawks defense that yields 6 yards on first down and allows first downs on third down at a fifty percent rate. The Falcons may not put the ball in the air all afternoon.
Clarkie's Corner Week 2
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Clarkie's Corner Week 7
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Clarkie's Corner Week 13
Clarkie's Corner Week 14