NFL Week 17 Preview

For the final week of the regular season, Sky Sports have selected two games that on paper look fantastic match-ups, yet in reality will probably result in comfortable home victories. <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /> For the record Pittsburgh at Buffalo is the first game, and with the Steelers locked in for the number one seed, they are sure to rest the majority of their key players. Likewise Indianapolis are unlikely to risk their main players for the trip to Denver for the second live offering. Both the Bills and Broncos need the win, and against weakened opponents will most likely achieve their goal. It should make for some very predictable viewing. What would have been a superb game to watch with play-off implications for both teams involved is New Orleans at Carolina. The winner of this NFC South game will significantly enhance their prospects of play-off football. Favourites for the game are the Panthers, who have won six of the last seven despite a whole host of injuries. It would have been seven straight had it not been for a moment of inspirational play by Michael Vick two weeks ago. The Saints also have momentum going into the game with three straight wins, including back-to-back road wins over Dallas and Tampa Bay. Last week Atlanta (minus Michael Vick) were soundly beaten. Encouragingly for the Saints, Deuce McAllister ran for 128 yards against a normally tough run defence, and the secondary also showed continued signs of improvement with two picks. While Carolina are rightly favourites for the game, an eight-point handicap for New Orleans does look a big start. The Saints are much improved of late and with just as much incentive to win ought to be able to stay within sight of their opponents. It promises to be a very exciting game, and one that really could go either way. The only pity is Sky Sports viewers won't be able to enjoy the excitement.