NFL: Weekend preview

Week 14 is serving up some vital games as we head towards the playoffs:


Cincinnati @ Minnesota: After losing in Arizona, the Vikings will be out to make amends but the Bengals are having a phenomenal season themselves. This clash of the season's two biggest surprises will be decided by how effective Adrian Peterson can be after a disappointing outing last weekend. Look for Brett Favre's Vikings to get back on track in this one.


San Diego @ Dallas: Things are getting tight in the NFC East after the Cowboys' loss in New York last weekend which brought more questions about their defense against the pass. The Chargers, meanwhile, are marching towards the playoffs and head to Texas on the back of seven straight wins. Philip Rivers is on a tear this year and San Diego should move to 10-3 this weekend.

Philadelphia @ New York: With things hotting up in the NFC East, this game will have huge implications on the playoff race. The Giants are clinging on for dear life but impressed in their victory over the Cowboys last weekend. That might not be enough to sink the high-flying Eagles, though. The Philadelphia defense is a major strength and they put up 34 points in Atlanta in their last game. On Sunday, watch for QB Donovan McNabb to take charge and lead the road team to victory.

Arizona @ San Francisco: Cardinals QB Kurt Warner looks to keep his fine run going on Monday as Arizona chase a 9-4 record. The 49ers, their NFC West rivals, bring a 5-7 record into the clash and their limited pass defense will struggle to contain Warner and his talented receivers. The Cardinals look a safe bet to take this one.