BROTHERLY LOVE FOR YOUR COUSINS (WEEK 16) : REDSKINS @ EAGLES

The notorious NFC East division has yet again become the spotlight for spontaneity in the NFL. The Dallas Cowboys forfeited their chances of the Playoffs last weekend, the Giants are begging their division peers to collapse and the Eagles and Redskins are ready to tear each other in half tonight center stage on a Thursday Night Football special Saturday edition. I am unable to trust either one of these unseemly teams this ladder part of the year but would like to see the Redskins with QB Kirk Cousins march into Philadelphia and ravish the city of Brotherly Love and Lincoln financial. As always, I'm here to give you the pre-game run down on what viewers can expect from this crucial NFC match-up.

(Dec. 19, 2015 - Source: Matt Hazlett/Getty Images North America) 

The Washington Redskins have the opportunity to make a statement and clinch the playoffs for the first time since 2012. They were of course defeated by the Seahawks who went on to win the Championship that year and were led by the talents of QB Robert Griffin III who has turned out to be a complete bust. No shame in QB Kirk Cousins's game who has thrown 22 TD's this season and produced a 97.2 QB rating. Head Coach Jay Gruden certainly likes the chances of Cousins getting a good contract with Washington and their offense is still stacked with weapons like WR Desean Jackson and HB Alfred Morris to solidify a promising future. Tonight the Redskins will have to turn it up a notch on the defensive side of the ball and hold the Eagles to under 120 yards rushing. If the Redskins are forced to fight an uphill battle though the Eagles blitz may cause some problems for the Washington passing game. I really like Washington's defensive chances tonight, if they capitalize on turnovers and turn things into a ground and pound game, they'll come out victorious.

(Dec. 19, 2015 - Source: Rich Schultz/Getty Images North America)

The Philadelphia Eagles and their roller coaster season is finally coming to an end. A underachieved season for HB DeMarco Murray, and lowsy season record and a undefined roster has to put much pressure in the heart of Head Coach Chip Kelly. The world will be watching as the Eagles will seek to stake claim as the NFC East's most dominant team if they can defeat the Redskins tonight. Eagles QB Sam Bradford will need to preserve the clock and avoid any turnovers if Philadelphia plans to get the win. Also their front of the defensive side of the ball will need to halt a heavy Redskins rushing attack. With their work cut out for them expect a heavy slandering if Kelly is unable to get the job done on primetime television tonight. We will see how it all plays out real soon.

HEADED OUT : THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL (WEEK 16)

Thursday Night Football continues tonight in Week 16 of the NFL as the Oakland Raiders host the San Diego Chargers on NFL Network. These division rivals matched up earlier this season in Week 7 when the Raiders torched the San Diego defense with 37 points. With the possibility of the Raiders making the Playoffs obsolete now, it is likely that this game will be very intense as both teams look to leave the under-achieved 2015 season on a good note. I like the Raiders at home this night. Let's analyze to see just what this match-up will mean to both of these teams. Tune in tonight exclusively on NFL Network at 8:25 p.m. E.T to see how it will play out.

(Dec. 19, 2015 - Source: Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images North America)

The Oakland Raiders have tackled a few quality teams this season. Oakland has defeated the Broncos, Jets and other household names in the league to help establish firm faith in the future of the franchise. QB Derek Carr is having quite a season and won't be looking to slow down tonight. Did I mention that this will be superstar DB Charles Woodson's last home game with the Black & Silver? Expect the Raiders home crowd to come out roaring with a intensity level to unbearable for a inadequate Chargers offense. Expect WR Amari Cooper and WR Michael Crabtree to each have 5 plus receptions and a TD. I like the Raiders

(Dec. 19, 2015 - Source: Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images North America)

The San Diego Super Chargers have the same cast leading their regime that they've had for nearly a decade now. The 4-10 record speaks volume to a disappointing season, but the fact they have QB Phillip Rivers and TE Antonio Gates always makes watching their offense work celebratory. Last week the Chargers destroyed the Miami Dolphins 30-14, leading by double digits for majority of the game. Rivers tossed 3 touchdowns and went 26/36 on passes for 311 yards. San Diego led the time of possession statistic 21:07 to 38:53 against the Dolphins who looked just awful. Tonight they'll face a tougher opponent in Oakland who will likely bring it to the Chargers defense. The San Diego secondary will have their work cut out for them tonight against a Raiders receiving core that is simply marvelous. I don't like the Chargers chances on the road tonight.

STRANGE WORK : MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL (WEEK 15)

I couldn't possibly be more excited for the upcoming 2015 NFL Playoffs. Unfortunately the two teams playing in tonight's Monday Night Football game will not be participating this post-season. They are though, teams playing for a little bit of pride, dignity and of course the want to safe the coaching staff of their respected organizations from termination. It's difficult to determine how this one will turn out. With all things being equal though, I have to say that the Saints will get it done on their home field tonight. Within this article I will tell you why New Orleans will add another victory to their season record. Tune in to this match-up tonight exclusively on ESPN at 8:25 p.m. to see how it all plays out.

(Dec. 5, 2015 - Source: Sean Gardner/Getty Images North America)

New Orleans defeated Tampa Bay 24-27 on the road in Week 14 and gave the undefeated Carolina Panthers a scare just the week prior (41-38). Considering their offensive ability with Hall of Fame bound QB Drew Brees leading, I'll make the bold prediction that the Saints may produce over 400 yards of total offense tonight at the Mercedes Silverdome. With the possibility of Sean Payton departing and Brees in the latter part of his NFL career, the Saints will be looking to put on a show for the home crowd. Unless the Detroit Lions offense can make this game a uphill battle for New Orleans they may face a double digit defeat tonight down in Louisiana. Look for WR Brandin Cooks to cause havoc in the Lions secondary tonight. The fade and deep post routes built in the Saints offensive schematic can be quite effective.

(Dec. 12, 2015 - Source: Michael B. Thomas/Getty Images North America)

The Lions would claim to have been robbed a victory considering their Monday Night appearance earlier in the season when a "illegal bat" disallowed the Lions to defeat the Seahawks in Week 4. They are not looking to carry the shame of that defeat into this week though. All eyes should be on QB Matthew Stafford who continues to strive and show himself worthy of the entitlement of "Elite" in this league, despite the adoration he receives. After a 3 game winning streak, the Lions had their hearts broken by a Green Bay Packers hail-mary in Week 13, and a baffling loss to a hardy St. Louis rams team in Week 14. Indeed the Lions offense has been horrid running the ball and thus, the reliance on Stafford may be a little bit distorted. Funny thing is, the Lions rank top in the league in Red Zone TD percentage in the entire NFL. Bizarre right? Well, we'll see if the stat can render them victorious tonight on the road against their NFC South opponent.

IT'S NOT WHAT IT SEEMS : JETS @ COWBOYS (WEEK 15)

After the Rams got their expected victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Thursday Night, Week 15 in the 2015 NFL Season will continue this weekend starting with a Saturday Night special between the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Jets. Certainly the league must've figured that the Cowboys would be much more of a Playoff contender considering how many times they've been featured in primetime lights this season. Nevertheless, I particularly trust that the Jets will get it done on the road at AT&T stadium and I'm here to tell you why this will be a very interesting contest. Tune in tonight at 8:25 p.m. E.T  only on NFL Network for this showdown. Peace.

(Dec. 12, 2015 - Source: Al Bello/Getty Images North America)

The New York Jets gave the Titans something to think about in Week 14 by defeating Tennessee 30-8 to advance to 8-5 on the season. Certainly New York is anticipating the opportunity to get their revenge on the New England Patriots who currently lead the NFC East division by two games. Considering, the Jets still have a chance to catch New England if they are diligent down the stretch of the next two weeks. Tonight they'll rely on their receiving core (WR Brandon Marshall & WR Brian Decker) and rushing game (manned by HB Chris Ivory) to give the Cowboys defense a fatigue like they've not seen just yet this season. I don't like the Cowboys chances of scoring more than 13 points on arguably the AFC's best defense tonight. The only flaw that might allow New York to lose this game is if they turn the ball over in their own territory and grant a sluggish Cowboys offense plenteous red zone opportunities. With the chances of that happening doubtful, I like the Jets in this match-up.

(Nov. 7, 2015 - Source: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images North America)

I'll be honest enough to say that I am absolutely tired of talking about the Dallas Cowboys (most of us are). Despite a horrid season, Dallas does offer their signature logo and white and silver jersey's that are just undeniably distinctive. Thus, their 4-9 record has to make one wonder; why are they the most highly discussed NFL team in the league when they most likely won't even make the Playoffs this year. Beats me. Well I think tonight they'll have the opportunity to show the world why they are called "America's team" by matching up with a team that is favorited over them easily. Tonight the Cowboys need to get some sustaining drives and force a few Jets turnovers if they plan to get the upset on their home field. Hopefully Dallas QB Matt Casel can avoid Revis Island and a Jets pass rush that loves eating QB's for dinner. Good Luck Cowboys.

AND THEN THIS : THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL (WEEK 15)

It's nearly time for the NFL Playoffs and that means some will live to play of and some teams have players playing to avoid entering 2016 without employment. Therefore we welcome in another Thursday Night match-up between to non-playoff contenders. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will head to the Midwest to face the St. Louis Rams in the primetime lights. This game may come off as a bore but the NFL fanatics, we understand that these teams are excited to end off their disappointing 2015 season with a opportunity to put it all on the line in the primetime lights. Coverage of this match-up can be observed solely on NFL Network at 8:25 p.m. E.T.

(Dec. 12, 2015 - Source: Michael B. Thomas/Getty Images North America)

St. Louis held the Lions at bay in Week 14. Defeating the Lions by a score of 21-14, St. Louis produced a touchdown early in the 1st half thanks to a DB Truman Johnson interception that pretty much set the tone for the entire afternoon. The Rams were able to get a quality product out of HB Todd Gurley who had a 16 rush 140 yards 2 touchdown outing against a Lions defense that was showing signs of health. No doubt the Rams underachieved in 2015, but they have a promising future if they can find a quality Quarterback. I believe the Rams can defeat the Buccaneers tonight because their defense is just too ferocious. Buccaneers QB Jameis Winston will have a chance to show the world why he was the top pick in the NFL Draft tonight against one of the best defenses the NFL has to offer.

(Dec. 12, 2015 - Source: Cliff McBride/Getty Images North America)

The Buccaneers were fighting to make the playoffs until the Saints pretty much wrote them a letter of disapproval last weekend. Tampa Bay's 24-17 loss to the Saints featured a inability to get a third down stop with under a 1:30 to go in the game. I admire Tampa Bay's ability to get vertical passing and rushing gashes throughout the game but their lacking defense makes it hard for anyone to put faith in what they have to offer. Tonight they've been offered the opportunity to get a little momentum going for next year in what seems to be a promising future. Especially on the offensive side of the ball. Tune in tonight of NFL Network to see how it all plays out.

CLEAN SLATE : NFL MARQUEE MATCH-UPS (WEEK 14)

The question still remains : why didn't Minnesota just kick the field goal? The Vikings loss in the closing seconds against the Cardinals (20-23) on Thursday Night Football to get Week 14 started. With three weeks left in the 2015 NFL season, their are many teams attempting to make it into the post-season. Many teams have the opportunity to close their divisions this weekend, while others are looking for another opportunity to show the world why they are playoff contenders. Below we've highlighted the marquee match-ups of Week 14. It's time to enjoy another weekend of football.

(Dec. 5, 2015 - Source: Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images North America)

Buffalo Bills @ Philadelphia Eagles 1:00 p.m. E.T on CBS

If you have already heard the news from nearly every internet sports source, yes Bills running back is excited to return to Lincoln Field Financial and play his former team. Though the season records of these teams aren't the most impressive, they are determined to win today and increase their chances of clinching a playoff's spot. Philadelphia defeated the New England Patriots in Foxboro in Week 13 while the Bills defeated a striving Houston Texans team on their home field at Ralph Wilson Stadium.  I like the Bills today in the road. Their running game and pass rush should become quite a hassle for the Eagles in the latter part of the game. I don't believe the Eagles have the defense for the dynamics of the Bills offense especially for WR Sammy Watkins. This will definitely be a very close game though.

Dec. 5, 2015 - Source: Maddie Meyer/Getty Images North America)

New England Patriots @ Houston Texans 8:30 p.m. E.T on NBC

This match-up may come to be Houston's opportunity to finally seize the AFC South. I believe they will get it done as well. The Patriots have been struggling and it is because the surreal belief that they are unstoppable has finally subsided amongst NFL defenses. Of course they have loss nearly all their passing weapons but their terrible rushing attack has made them one dimensional on the offensive side of the ball. One positive for New England is that they'll get TE Rob Gronkowski back from his Week 12 injury at Sports Authority against the Broncos. The Texans snapped a four game winning streak against Buffalo last week. Texans QB Brian Hoyer has a QB rating of 94.4 and has thrown 18 TD's and just 6 interceptions this season. I like his chances of leading the Texans against the Patriots defense this week. If Houston can hold the New England Offense under 23 points they should come out victorious in what will be a nail biter.

Other Notable Match-ups

(Nov. 7, 2015 - Source: Ezra Shaw/Getty Images North America)

Atlanta Falcons @ Carolina Panthers 1:00 p.m. E.T on FOX

• HB Davonta Freeman returns from injury for the Falcons
• Panthers have already clinched the NFC South division
• Carolina allowed Saints 282 passing yards in Week 13

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals 1:00 p.m. E.T on CBS

• Bengals defeated Steelers 16-10 Nov 1
• Steelers still looking to clinch Playoff berth.
• This will be the GOTW

Oakland Raiders @ Denver Broncos 4:05 p.m. E.T on CBS

• QB Derek Carr has fumbled in last each of Raiders last three games.
• Broncos haven't lost since inserting QB Brock Osweiler as started
• Raiders have fallen to 3rd in the AFC West.

JUSTICE LEAGUE : THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL (WEEK 14)

Thursday Night Football in Week 14 has huge playoffs implications. Two of the NFC's best teams face off tonight as the Minnesota Vikings head to Arizona to match-up against the Cardinals. Now of course some speculation about the outcome of this match-up might be surmised after performances of both clubs in Week 13, but we are here to tell you that this game will be more competitive than most would believe. Below I've drawn out what will be the key factors in determining tonight's outcome. I hope that you'll enjoy it. Tune in on CBS and NFL Network at 8:25 p.m. E.T to see how it all plays out.

(Nov. 21, 2015 - Source: Christian Petersen/Getty Images North America)

The Arizona Cardinals offense has been on a terror. Ranking 1st in the league in scoring and featuring  weapons at each and every position on the offensive side of the ball, they certainly see themselves as the team to beat in the NFC. Tonight they welcome in the Minnesota Vikings, a team in which got destroyed by the Seattle Seahawks last weekend. Arizona has to be feeling like their Week 13 victory over the Rams is enough ignite to carry over into tonight. The aerial attack of the Cardinals is second to none, and if they can get WR Larry Fitzgerald, WR Michael Floyd and WR John Brown into some open space this may turn  tonights showdown into an offensive shootout that the Vikings don't have a personnel to match. This game will depend heavily on if the Cardinals can render a few turnovers. Despite what critics may be believing, they understand how crucial this match-up is against Minnesota tonight. Head coach Bruce Arians is relishing the opportunity to be on the main stage for the 4th time this year.

(Dec. 5, 2015 - Source: Hannah Foslien/Getty Images North America)

Mike Zimmer and the Minnesota Vikings made a mockery out of themselves in Week 13. The Vikings allowed Seattle 25 first downs and 38 points while they produced just 9 first downs and 7 points. I have not particularly lost faith in Minnesota and though they showed themselves lacking in Week 13, they have a chance to redeem themselves on National television tonight at University of Phoenix Stadium. Surely HB Adrian Peterson should understand that his 8 carry 18 yard outing against Seattle last week is not going to get it done out there. If redemption in the rushing attack is to emerge this week I like Minnesota's chances tonight in Arizona. They'll have to run the ball successfully, keep turnovers to a minimum, and score more than 24 points in order for them to get the win. This is quite a timely match-up that almost all NFL fanatics are looking forward to. Good luck Minnesota.

RODGER THAT : THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL (WEEK 13)

The Detroit Lions host Thursday Night Football in Week 13 as that welcome to town their NFC North division rival, the Green Bay Packers. In Week 10, the Lions were able to defeat Rodgers and the Packers by a score of 18-16. There are countless of reasons why I think they will do the same here in Week 13 and I'll explain why in this article with the pre-game analysis right here at THEBIRTHLLC.com. Tune in at 8:15 p.m. E.T tonight on CBS and NFL Network for coverage of this huge divisional match-up.

(Nov. 25, 2015 - Source: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images North America)

A 1-7 start to the Detroit Lions NFL season has been followed with three consecutive wins. It started in Week 10 against the Packers, continued when they welcome the Raiders to town in Week 11 and was made exclamatory in Week 12 against the Eagles. Most contenders may view the 4-7 start as a sign of incompetence, but NFL analyst are beginning to notice a shift in morale amongst the Lions organization. In what should be a nail biter tonight, expect the Lions offense to put up some big numbers in helping to produce their fourth straight win. If QB Matthew Stafford throws no interceptions and for 300 plus yards be assured that the Lions will win this game in front of the hometown fans at Ford Field. All in One Pride.

(Nov. 21, 2015 - Source: Hannah Foslien/Getty Images North America)

Aaron Rodgers. You hear the name and envision the green and yellow jersey's that clothed the Green Bay Packers roster. The only difference now is do we still fear them? It's hard to say. For the first time in many moons the Packers face being swept by the Detroit Lions and are threatened to lose divisional title because of the Minnesota Vikings who have yet to lose a divisional game. The bright spot for the Packers is surprisingly HB Eddie Lacy who continues to run the rock with authority and uncanny tenacity. He's produced 100 yard games in both of the most recent games and has his eyes on  punishing the Detroit defense. Lions DE Ezekiel Ansah may have contrary ideas about the Packers rushing and passing attack tonight. The wavering spirit I have within this article alone is a true testament that this will be an extraordinary match-up. You don't want to miss this.

THERE'S A WILL, THERE'S A WAY - AFTERMATH OF MNF (WEEK 12)

The supposed boredom that was a NFC North match-up between two non-playoff contenders last night turned out to be a complete thriller. With under 2:00 minutes to go in the game the Baltimore Ravens possessed the football at their own 20 yard line with the hope of breaking the 27-27 tie they had with the Browns. This time though, they were without QB Joe Flacco who had been playing as their started for 5 consecutive seasons. His replacement, QB Matt Schaub threw a telegraphed pass directly to DB Tramon Williams in  a interception giving Cleveland possession of the football right in field goal range. I as well as many other Baltimore fans fled to the kitchen for a scooby snack assuming that the game was over. When I returned, this is what I observed. Ravens S Will Hill was celebrating in the end zone and had scored a game winning touchdown as time had expired. Attached is a video with the drastic 33-27 finish. Check it out.

(Nov. 29, 2015 - Source: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images North America)

WILL HILL GAME WINNING TOUCHDOWN (VIDEO) :