Weekly Predictions

Giant task: G-Men tackle Niners in big Week 6 Matchup

Any trip west in the NFC this year is far from easy. As the only division to boast four teams with positive records, a prospective road matchup against the joint-leaders of such a competitive division is far from enticing.

As if that wasn't enough, the Giants also face a team looking to exact revenge for the 20-17 NFC championship game result last season. Fresh wounds in San Francisco will look to be appeased.

With both teams in competitive divisions and considering the recent history between the two, the stakes could not be higher. Here follows my predictions for the interesting matchups this week:

New York Giants @ San Francisco 49ers:

Score: NYG 17 - 24 SF 

Analysis: I cannot see the Niners coming up short at Candlestick this week. Despite Ahmad Bradshaw coming off a big week against Cleveland and the likely return of Hakeem Nicks to join Victor Cruz in the Giants' passing game, I feel the 49ers defense will be too strong for Eli Manning's team. Alex Smith has been impressive so far this season and this form should continue against an ordinary New York defense, which allowed the 0-5 Browns to put up 27 points last week. I like Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree to have nice days, with Frank Gore getting in the end zone. Victor Cruz should also get a chance to perform his Salsa dance.

Bold Prediction: Ahmad Bradshaw is limited to no more than 60 yards rushing.

New England Patriots @ Seattle Seahawks

Score: NE 21 - 17 SEA

Analysis: A tough road game for the Patriots, who I think will just edge it. The Seahawks defense is one of the best in the league, and should cause a few problems for Tom Brady - it would not surprise me to see him picked off this week. The performance of Marshawn Lynch will have a big impact as to the outcome of this matchup and he should stay consistent on Sunday, rushing for over 85 yards. However, ultimately I think the Seattle offense will not be prolific enough to keep Brady and the Pats off the field for as long as they would like. I see a nice game for Rob Gronkowski, despite the possible return of Aaron Hernandez - as a default target of Brady's, he should make some plays when Lloyd and Welker are covered on the outside.

Bold Prediction: The Seattle defense intercept Brady, and return it for a touchdown.

Dallas Cowboys @ Baltimore Ravens

Score: DAL 20 - 23 BAL

Analysis: The Cowboys will give the Ravens a run for their money on Sunday. While the Ravens have improved to 4-1 on the season, their once dominant defense is not the force it once was, and the Cowboys have arguably gone in the opposite direction. Morris Claiborne and Brandon Carr have been excellent at Corner-back throughout their first four games, and Dallas boasts the number one pass defense in the league. Joe Flacco should be in for a tough game, and running back Ray Rice could well be leaned upon to drive the ravens offense. Big play wideout Torrey Smith should struggle again this week, while on the other side of the ball, Jason Witten could see a large portion of Tony Romo's targets. Ultimately, I think the Baltimore defense and special teams make two big plays to win the game after trailing early.

Bold Prediction: Tony Romo will throw for over 300 yards and two touchdowns.