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Playoff Picture Week 11: Reinforcements for the Run
Current Playoff Picture:
Division Leaders
(1) Patriots (7-2)
(2) Broncos (7-2)
(3) Colts (6-3)
(4) Browns (6-3)
Wild Card Leaders
(5) Chiefs (6-3)
(6) Bengals (5-3-1)
Contenders
(7) Dolphins (6-4)
(8) Steelers (6-4)
(9) Ravens (6-4)
(10) Chargers (5-4)
(11) Bills (5-5)
(12) Texans (4-5)
Chargers Week 11 Opponent: Oakland Raiders
With the Chargers looking up at a lot of teams in front of them in the wild card race, they need to start picking up some wins. They face a Raiders team that has yet to win a game in 2014, so this is a good place to start. Ryan Mathews, Melvin Ingram, Manti Te'o, and Jerry Attaochu are all expected back in this game, and their presence will be needed. While not technically a "must win" game, the Bolts can't expect to be embarrassed at home this weekend and expect to see the playoffs.
Other Important Match-ups
Seahawks at the Chiefs
Seattle can do the Chargers a big favor with a win at Arrowhead this Sunday. They have a good shot, as I could see the defense choke out what is a less than dynamic offense in Kansas City. This one should be a close, low scoring game.
Texans at the Browns
The Texans are barely in the playoff hunt at 4-5, but still have enough talent to win these types of games. JJ Watt is the best player in the world, but the Browns are playing well and leading the AFC North. A Texans win could end up helping the Chargers down the road.
Bengals at the Saints
The Bengals have looked a lot more vulnerable since their 3-0 start, and are one of the 4 AFC North teams who could be in play for the wild card.
Steelers at the Titans
Do the Steelers not get a bye week in 2014? They will play their 11th game in 11 weeks so far, and have been the most unpredictable team on the league so far. They looked to be a favorite for at least a wild card berth at 6-3 last week before failing to show up for their game at the Jets. A Titans upset on Monday Night football would be a victory for Bolts fans.