NFL Week Eight Bold Predictions: Robert Griffin III Trailing Andrew Luck
By Erik Lambert
Oct 20, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) rolls out against the Chicago Bears during the first half at FedEX Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
It’s almost poetic that Robert Griffin III gets his shot at Peyton Manning exactly one week after Andrew Luck. That is just one storyline that brings about some awesome NFL action in week eight. What are some bold prediction that could come true before the end of game day?
Matthew Stafford and Tony Romo combine for 1,000+ passing yards
It’s not every day two of the best statistical quarterbacks play each other and two of the worst pass defenses on the same day. That is what is set to happen between Matthew Stafford and Tony Romo. The Dallas Cowboys have the 30th ranked pass defense in the NFL while the Detroit Lions have the 28th. It’s not a question of which quarterback will have a big day. It’s a question which one will have the career day. Based on how well both Stafford and Romo have played lately, it’s reasonable to assume they will go to the air early. Given the offensive weapons they have like Dez Bryant, Calvin Johnson, Jason Witten and Reggie Bush there is reason to believe a passing spectacle is imminent. Expect the passing yardage total to approach or even surpass 1,000 yards.
The Cincinnati Bengals will sack Geno Smith seven times
Geno Smith is a big reason why the New York Jets are in the hunt for a playoff spot. He’s also a big reason why they’ve lost some ugly, ugly games. His rollercoaster-like inconsistency is a marvel to behold. He can go from tossing three touchdowns in one game to three interceptions the next. Given his solid performance against New England, history shows he’s in store for another crash to earth. That likelihood increases against a very solid Cincinnati Bengals defense. Since Smith tends to hold the ball, look for the Bengals to get after him with their stout front four including Geno Atkins. Seven sacks is not out of the question.
Christian Ponder will throw four interceptions in Green Bay
Josh Freeman didn’t take long before bowing out as starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings. Now the ball is back in the hands of Christian Ponder. He’s expected to resume his efficient if unspectacular managing of the offense. However, that could prove a problem in Green Bay. The Packers boast the third best run defense in the NFL. If they successfully stop Adrian Peterson from getting going on the ground, it will force Ponder to pass. That is something he’s struggled with despite upgrades at wide receiver. If the Packers can mount a good enough pass rush without Clay Matthews then Ponder is going to start making mistakes while trying to create some plays. Not only will they intercept him, but they will do so four times.
Robert Griffin III will follow Andrew Luck and beat the Denver Broncos
Andrew Luck got the attention of the NFL world when he led the Indianapolis Colts in an exciting victory over the previously undefeated Denver Broncos and Peyton Manning. Now the young quarterback who right after him in the 2012 draft, Robert Griffin III, is right after him on the schedule. The Washington Redskins quarterback seems to have his health and swagger back after a long absence. Toss in the fact he’s facing the worst pass defense in pro football and it’s clear he will put on a show barring too many mistakes. Manning will have home field on his side this time and the Redskins defense is pitiful, giving up 24 points and over 200 yards passing in a single half to a backup quarterback last week. RGIII knows he has to score, and he will. Enough to win.