Thomas Jones vs. New England's rush defense
Back in Week Two, the Patriots pushed around the Jets offensive line and pressured Brett Favre into mistakes. Ultimately, the running game proved inconsistent as Jones carried 17 times for 70 yards. After getting pulverized by the Dolphins and Chargers this season, the Pats defense found its sea legs and has stepped up their play. While they rank just 14th against the run, they have allowed just four rushing touchdowns this season, which is the fourth-best total in the league. Straight ahead running against Patriot defensive linemen Vince Wilfork and Ty Warren will not be easy for Jones. Look for a crash back down to earth after last week’s blockbuster effort. Jones should approach 75 yards rushing.
Tony Romo vs. Washington's secondary
One would believe the return of Romo to the Cowboys offense should be just the tonic the team needs to make a playoff push. Facing the Redskins the first time around was not a day at the park for the Cowboys, and playing Washington on the road will be prove to be just as difficult. Romo's 300-yard passing day was a bit deceiving because much of that came in comeback mode. Earlier on, the Redskins secondary blanketed Terrell Owens and made Romo explore different options. The appearance of Roy Williams will at least give the Redskins defensive backs like the newly acquired DeAngelo Hall a different look. One key issue to monitor throughout the week will be the health of cornerback Shawn Springs, who will be a game-time decision. Springs did a great job on Owens in their first meeting. Nonetheless, in his return, Romo will hit 250 yards with a pair of scores.
Maurice Jones-Drew vs. Tennessee's rush defense
Playing the Detroit Lions is a surefire way to increase your touchdown total as Jones-Drew found out last Sunday. He totaled three touchdowns on the ground en route to getting Jacksonville back on track. It’ll be a different story against Tennessee in Week 11. Things started to go sour for the Jacksonville running game back in Week One versus the Titans. Jones-Drew netted just 13 yards on five carries. He’ll labor again facing one of the league’s best defensive units led by all-world defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth. MJD will have a crash landing after last week’s performance with only 75 yards of total offense.
Philip Rivers vs. Pittsburgh's defense
The upcoming matchup is very easy to handicap. The Chargers will not be able to run the ball with LaDainian Tomlinson. Hence, the pressure will be on Rivers to produce in the passing game, which is easier said than done against Pittsburgh. While Peyton Manning connected on three touchdown passes last week, he failed to find consistency throughout thanks to the Steelers’ strong secondary. Rivers is maturing as a quarterback, but he’s not Manning. Pittsburgh’s rush will get to the San Diego passing attack and force a few turnovers in the process. Going against the best pass defense in the league will be a tough task for Rivers. Expect 225 yards, two touchdowns and a couple of interceptions from Rivers.
Braylon Edwards vs. Buffalo's secondary
After a one-catch, 15-yard performance versus the downright dreadful Denver defense, things can only go up for Edwards. Brady Quinn looked solid in his debut and should continue his growth. While Buffalo will pose a greater challenge than Denver’s defense, Edwards is likely to shake free with improved success. The biggest issue will be whether Edwards can actually hold on to the ball, which has been a massive problem for him this season. He’s likely to see double teams as well, which will not make life easy for him. Regardless, facing off against the 16th-ranked pass defense in the league, Edwards should go for 75 yards receiving and possibly a touchdown.