Week 16 NFL Preview- Part 3

Baltimore at Pittsburgh
Another huge game with playoff implications between these two teams. The numbers are close. Baltimore has much more reliable protection, but creates less pressure on the passer. The yards are about even on either side of the ball, as is defense in the red zone. The Ravens are more efficient at scoring touchdowns in the red zone. Turnovers are about the same, but Baltimore has created 12 more on the season, giving them a huge advantage. Plus, the Steelers defense has been ineffective sans Troy Polamalu. Final score 28-21 Baltimore.

St. Louis at Arizona
A battle of haves and the have nots. Both teams allow similar pressure to their quarterback, while Arizona generates more against their opponent. Each team gives the ball away far too often, but the Cardinals force more turnovers. Arizona's biggest advantages, other than playing against a third-string quarterback, are the efficiency they move the ball, scoring touchdowns, and preventing them in the red zone. I think the Rams will make it a game for the first three quarters, until the Cardinals pull away in the fourth. Final score 31-21 Arizona.

Detroit at San Francisco
This is a blah game. It would have been interesting had Matthew Stafford was healthy enough to play, but, hence, he's on IR. Both teams allow too much pressure on their quarterback, and have gained approximately the same amount of yards. San Francisco yields fewer yards, is more efficient on both sides of the ball in the red zone, and protects the ball better, thus giving them an edge in turnover differential. Final score 24-17 San Francisco.

New York Jets at Indianapolis
There could be a possible upset this week. It really depends how much rest the Colts give to their starters. Both teams generate similar pressure, with the Colts winning the sack battle. Indianapolis protects better, moves the ball more effectively, is more proficient at scoring touchdowns in the red zone, and possesses a vastly superior turnover differential. The Jets have a much stingier defense, allowing 70 fewer yards per game, and are more effective at preventing red zone touchdowns. I think the Colts play their starters enough to win, but it won't be easy. Final score 24-21 Indianapolis.