Fearless forecast

1 p.m. ET: Atlanta at New Orleans. The Falcons will play spoiler against the Saints, who are fighting for a wild-card berth. Facing a shaky New Orleans defense, Michael Vick will outrun and outpass his quarterback counterpart, cousin Aaron Brooks. Prediction: Falcons 30, Saints 26.

New England at N.Y. Jets. Look for the Patriots to keep the Jets' defense off-balance by running and throwing out of spread formations. And though the Jets run the ball well, they lack the deep threat to prevent the Pats from bringing up extra defenders for run support. Prediction: Patriots 24, Jets 20.

San Diego at Indianapolis. These two AFC division winners have won with offense, and that firepower will be on display again with playoff seeding at stake. Powered by LaDainian Tomlinson's running, the Chargers will stay with the Colts early, but San Diego's young secondary eventually will break down against the Colts' excellent receivers. Prediction: Colts 34, Chargers 31.

Baltimore at Pittsburgh. The Ravens are the only team to beat the Steelers this season, but that was before Ben Roethlisberger was starting. Backed by a strong ground game and with more confidence throwing downfield, the rookie will show the poise to help beat a tough, defense-minded opponent. Prediction: Steelers 20, Ravens 17.--Vinnie Iyer

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