UTTQ Predictions: Week 8

I honestly cannot believe we are reaching the midpoint of the season. Every year the NFL seems to go by faster than the previous.... Anyway, here are my picks for this week's early games:

ARIZONA 17, BALTIMORE 27
Baltimore did not manage to escape a disappointing loss against Jacksonville last week, when Josh Scobee single-handedly beat the Ravens and their struggling offense. This week, with a stout defense and improving offense, it only makes sense for this team to bounce back this week, especially at home against the inept Cardinals.

MINNESOTA 24, CAROLINA 30
This one's just a shot in the dark, in all honesty. Minnesota could surprise people with the introduction of Christian Ponder. But Cam Newton has been all that and more over the last half season. I think the Panthers at home will play a factor.

JACKSONVILLE 13, HOUSTON 38
Jack Del Rio's job may be safe for another week, but the Baltimore game was simply a fluke against an inconsistent Ravens team. The Texans are far and beyond the best team in the AFC South, and they will have a chance to prove that this week against the Jags. Imagine how much more damage the Texans could do with their best player in the game.

MIAMI 19, NEW YORK GIANTS 31
Miami has played tough, but just can't get over the hump. The Giants are inconsistent, but after an embarrassing loss to the Seahawks at home, the G-Men will need to prove that the can be a playoff team, especially with all their NFC East foes stumbling out of the gates.

NEW ORLEANS 72, ST. LOUIS 3
St. Louis gets a non-shutout because of their home field advantage. But either way, the Saints should have a game for the ages.

INDIANAPOLIS 28, TENNESSEE 27
Tennessee can avoid falling out of the playoff picture altogether, but first they must beat Indy. This is a must-win for the Titans, but after a recent shellacking by Houston, the Colts could sneak up on the down but not yet out Titans. The Colts should get their first win here, in a shocker.

SAN DIEGO 24, KANSAS CITY 20
San Diego hasn't exactly been dominating this season, while Kansas City has managed to sneak back into the AFC West playoff race. Look for this one to be a close one, although I think San Diego will find a way to resume their domination.