Week nine. The first week of the second half of the season. Almost every team still has a chance to make the playoffs. This is when we find out which teams are for real and which ones are pretenders.

The Game Of The Week

Indianapolis at New England – This has been the biggest rivalry in football over the last several years. This year it pits the undefeated Colts against the struggling Patriots. But the Pats always rise to the occasion. It will be a very tight game all the way through, but Indy will win it late on a field goal.

The Best Of The Rest

Carolina at Tampa Bay – This has all the makings of a great game. Both teams are very strong, but the Panthers have been having a good season and will win this one on the road.

Houston at Jacksonville – The Jaguars have all the talent to be a playoff contender. They will demonstrate their skill when they dominate the listless Texans.

Cincinnati at Baltimore – This is the classic offense versus defense battle. But the Bengals play better defense then the Ravens do offense. Cincinnati will come away with the victory.

Atlanta at Miami – As long as they have Michael Vick behind center the Falcons will be very hard to beat. The Dolphins will stay with them in the first half but don’t expect the final score to be close.

Detroit at Minnesota – This is a very important divisional match up. The Vikings need to win this to stay in the hunt for the division. They will rise to the pressure to grab the huge victory.

San Diego at NY Jets – Both teams need to win this game. But it will be hard for the Jets without a solid quarterback. San Diego will win this game going away.

Tennessee at Cleveland – Both of these teams are in the middle of the pack and looking to move up. The Titans are a more talented team and will be able to come out with a win in a very close game.

Oakland at Kansas City – Both teams will put up big points, but it will all come down to who can play the best defense. The Chiefs are a better all around team and will win this close divisional battle.

Seattle at Arizona – The Cardinals have been a huge disappointment this year and have been decimated by injuries. They should be nothing more then a speed bump for the Seahawks.

Chicago at New Orleans – The Saints have been having identity problems this year on and off the field. Without a permanent home they have been lost. Against the aggressive Bears they will be in for a real challenge, and unfortunately they will not pass. The Bears will dominate.

NY Giants at San Francisco – Eli Manning is the real deal for the Giants. He is leading them like a veteran, and he will continue to do so against the struggling 49ers.

Pittsburgh at Green Bay – The Steelers are on of the top teams in the AFC and will not be challenged by the aging Packers. Brett Favre will give it his all but it will not be enough.

Upset Special

Philadelphia at Washington – The Redskins have been underestimated all season. They play fierce defense and the run a very efficient offence. They will show everyone they mean business against the Eagles in prime time.