NFL Week 15 Preview

Tennessee travel to Oakland in week 15 on the back of a very short week and with an increased number of players struggling for fitness. Although the Raiders have hardly played well recently, they really should be able to win for the fifth time on Sunday. <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /> Anyone who caught MNF last week involving the Titans were treated to an absolute cracker. Tennessee and Kansas produced a high scoring game in which the Chiefs eventually won late on. As well as the Titans played at times in week 14, what ultimately counted against them were injuries. Already missing several defensive players, plus starting QB Steve McNair - it didn't take long for further players to go down. Premier receiver Derrick Mason was injured early on against the Chiefs and was unable to contribute fully, Chris Brown missed the second half, while Fred Miller and Justin Hartwig also limped off the field. Then near the end of the game, QB Billy Volek was seen struggling on the sidelines, and Drew Bennett cramping up badly after posting a career high 232 yards. Oakland did lose in Atlanta last Sunday after the running defence gave up 219 yards. It would be a major surprise if the Raiders do as badly this time, if only because of the health of the Titans offensive line and running back Chris Brown. While stopping the run proved a problem last Sunday, the Oakland running backs at least were on form combining for 131 yards. It was a shame QB Kerry Collins couldn't capitalise. This did come as something of a surprise after the former Giant had looked to be getting to grips with his new offence. Collins should fare much better an injury depleted Titans secondary that is likely to be drained and unable to cope after their Monday night efforts. This should finish in a convincing home win, although given Oakland have lost four of six at home, we won't be investing too heavily in the Raiders covering the small handicap. Playing at the same time as the Raiders will be Jacksonville in Green Bay. The Jags are currently involved in the chase for a wildcard in the ultra competitive AFC. However, the last place a warm weather team would want to go at this time of year is Lambeau Field. Snow Showers and strong winds are forecasted for the game. The Jags were 22-3 winners over Chicago last Sunday, limiting the Bears to 210 total yards. Byron Leftwich threw for 242 yards and two scores. The Packers victory wasn't quite so easy as they recovered from a 13-0 deficit to win by a field goal. Having come through that game, the Packers are now poised for the play-offs if they can win on Sunday. Victory would also be a massive boost going into the potential division decider in Minnesota on Christmas Eve. As good as Jacksonville have been at times this year, playing in wintry conditions against a pumped up Packers won't be easy at all, I fully expect Brett Favre to lead his team to victory. Head to Stan James or Victor Chandler to back Green Bay with a three-point handicap at the shorter price of 4/5. For those with more confidence, the standard 10/11 can be found on the Packers having to overcome 3.5pts.