Week 14 NFL Preview- Part 2

Cincinnati at Minnesota
Two division leaders from opposing conferences make this an interesting matchup. Both teams pressure the quarterback well, are efficient in the red zone, and create turnovers. The Bengals protect better, but the Vikings move the ball more effectively and protect it better. I think this will be close game, and either team can win it. Final score 21-20 Minnesota.

Carolina at New England
Rematch of the Patriots second Super Bowl win. Both teams generate about the same amount of pressure, and have allowed a similar number of quarterback hits. That's about where the similarities end. The Panthers are much more efficient in the red zone on both sides of the ball, but the Patriots have had more opportunities on offense and fewer on defense. Both of which is a good thing. Also, New England moves the ball more effectively and does a much better job at protecting it. Final score 31-21 New England.

New York Jets at Tampa Bay
The Jets suffered yet another injury last week- to quarterback Mark Sanchez, who's not playing this week. The Bucs are coming off a tough loss where Josh Freeman threw five picks. This is going to be a much closer game than most suspect. New York protects better, play better red zone defense, and has allowed 90 fewer yards per game. Tampa Bay is more effective scoring in the red zone, and despite Freeman's poor showing last week, has a better turnover differential. I'll go with the Jets, because of the additional time to prepare for this game. But either team can win it. Final score 16-13 New York.

Miami at Jacksonville
Another battle for Florida game for the Dolphins. Both teams are coming off of huge divisional wins last week. This should be a competitive game, but Miami should end up winning it. They protect and generate pressure much better, and are more effective in the red zone. The yards and turnover differential are about the same, so the game should be close. Final score 28-24 Miami.