Predicted Score: Patriots 30, Steelers 20

New England: Nothing like a matchup of the number one passing offense going against the number one passing defense. This is the can't-miss game of the week, one I hope to be enjoying in some swanky midtown sports bar in New York. The Patriots have "escaped" with two wins the last couple weeks "only" scoring 31 and 27 points in the process. Common in the two "close victories" is the double coverage of Randy Moss as Philadelphia and Baltimore decided to make Brady earn his money somewhere else. I imagine the Steelers will copycat this philosophy so look for Donte Stallworth and/or Wes Welker to be the main targets of Brady's passes. Maroney and the running game should be ignored as the Steelers aren't too shabby against the run either (77 yds/game).

• Start: QB Tom Brady, WR Randy Moss, WR Wes Welker, WR Donte Stallworth
• Consider: RB Laurence Maroney, TE Ben Watson
• Sit: RB Sammy Morris, Patriots D/ST

Pittsburgh: Back to back close games have us all thinking the Patriots are human again and here comes the toughest opponent remaining on their schedule. With respect to the Jets, Dolphins, and Giants, the Steelers offer the best chance at spoiling New England's perfect season. Their defense is best in the league, first in points and passing yards allowed, and unlike the Eagles or Ravens, the Steelers have legitimate weapons on offense, both on the ground and through the air. One of those weapons, wide receiver Santonio Holmes, has practiced this week and is expected to play. I can't in my right mind pick the Steelers here, as road loses at Arizona, Denver, and New York (Jets) still stick in my mind but this should be a good contest as the Patriots are going through their "lull" for the season… it remains to be seen if the Steelers can take advantage.

• Start: QB Ben Roethlisberger, RB Willie Parker, WR Hines Ward, WR Santonio Holmes, TE Heath Miller
• Consider: K Jeff Reed
• Sit: Steelers D/ST, WR Cedrick Wilson, WR Nate Washington