500 this week against the basementowning Rams

The defense will need to come up with more stops if they have any chance to run the table against the Jets, Bills, and Bucs… not exactly murderers’ row.20. Houston Texans (6-7) The Texans snapped a four-game losing streak by pouring it on offensively, mainly through the air. WR Andre Johnson hauled in 11 receptions for 193 yards and two scores to lead the way in a blowout win over Seattle. They will continue to fight back to .500 this week against the basement-owning Rams.21.

San Francisco 49ers (6-7) This is the type of team the 49ers hoped they would be this season. Tough, opportunistic defense (seven forced turnovers) with a strong running game headed up by Frank Gore (167 yards); they got it for one game at least. Now, they head to Philly to keep their very slim playoff hopes alive.22. Carolina Panthers (5-8) So, the Panthers shut down Randy Moss, force three turnovers by the Patriots, still lose by 10 points and they’re bragging What am I missing Head coach John Fox’s seat is likely to get hotter after the Vikings come to town this weekend.23. An abysmal 1 of 14 in third-down conversions highlighted their offensive struggles that managed only seven points in three trips to the red zone. They get a break with the Bucs coming into town but at this point, the ‘Hawks won’t rest easy until this season is over.24.

Chicago Bears (5-8) The Bears were swept by the Packers for the first time since 2003 and find themselves in a miserable offensive funk. I think it’s fair to say at this point that the Broncos knew they might have had a head case on their hands named Jay Cutler. Grow up, Jay… and quickly because you’re playing Baltimore on Sunday. 25. Four INTs helped them seal the win on a day where the offense was conspicuously absent. Spoiler is the role of choice this Sunday when they host the Patriots.26. Washington Redskins (4-9) The ‘Skins scored 30 points in consecutive games for the first time since 2006 and LB Brian Orakpo terrorized the Raiders with four sacks and a forced fumble. With a new GM in Bruce Allen in town, this Monday night game against the Giants may sadly be Coach Jim Zorn’s last.27.