NFL: Week 4

Best Game: Washington at Dallas – The Redskins are a different team than the one the whole nation watched lose to the Giants on opening night. Quite simply, they better be. They can ill-afford to lose a second divisional game, especially to the undefeated Cowboys. A loss would set Washington 3 games back only a quarter of the way through the year. The Cowboys displayed their offensive firepower two weeks ago in beating the Eagles, and followed that performance with an impressive defensive showing last week in dominating the Packers on the road. I’m not ready to crown the ‘Boys yet, but a win this week would go a long way toward changing my mind.

Most Intriguing Game: Green Bay at Tampa Bay – This former divisional rivalry renews this week with some serious questions needing to be answered. The Packers did not look good in their first real test of the season last week, and ended up losing what could be a key tie-breaker for playoff positioning. The one bright spot is that Aaron Rodgers did not turn the ball over against a good defense. How will the young QB respond to his first NFL loss, especially on the road against a very good defensive unit? The Buccaneers managed a come-from-behind OT win over the Bears last week, but the close call has some people worried. The QB switch to Brian Griese appeared a success on the surface (407 yards, 2TD), until one sees the three INT’s and 67 pass attempts. Also, who gives up 24 points to the Bears anymore (not counting week 1)? Is the defense slipping? Can Griese perform at a high level on a consistent basis without making mistakes? This week will provide a great test for both teams to find some answers.

Upset of the Week: Chicago over Philadelphia – Let’s be honest – the Eagles aren’t as good as they played against the Steelers. They brought 6 or 7 guys almost every play, and the Steelers simply couldn’t adjust. Additionally, after the first quarter, their offense was no better than the Steelers in moving the ball. This week they get a pissed off Bears team that should have beaten T.B., and Brian Westbrook will be out. The good feelings from last week will carry over a little too much, and the Bears will surprise.

Best Performance: Derek Anderson – This match-up with the Bengals couldn’t have come at a better time for Anderson. Amongst rumors of him being benched, Anderson will come out and hold onto his job for at least another week by torching the pathetic Cinci defense. Expect over 300 yards and at least 2 TD’s.

Stay Away From: Donovan McNabb – My upset of the week coincides with the player you should avoid. McNabb was ridiculously accurate last week, albeit he did not attempt many passes beyond 7-10 yards. The Bears’ defense is equally as good, if not better, than the Steelers’, and playing in Chicago will make matters even more difficult for the slightly banged up QB.