We are approaching the midway point of the 2012 NFL season, and teams are trying to make moves for that second half playoff push. The Tampa Bay Bucs already handled their business on Thursday night, getting a big win over Minnesota on the road to pull 3-4 on the season and keep Atlanta within their sights with still two games against the Falcons later this season. For the Vikings, it was a tough loss, as they fall 1.5 games behind Chicago for the division lead in the NFC North.
The Bucs now get a chance to sit back and relax this Sunday enjoying the win.
Let’s look at some things to pay attention to.
1. Can Tony Romo Reassert Himself Against The Giants?
Dallas quarterback Tony Romo had his best game of the season in the opener against the Giants, where he threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns in the win. Since then, it hasn’t been great. But Romo gets a big chance with the Giants coming to town on Sunday. We will have to see how he plays against a New York defense that is playing much better now than in the beginning of the season.
2. How Do The Falcons And Eagles Play Off Of The Bye?
The Falcons are the only undefeated team in the NFL and come off of a bye to go up to Philadelphia to take on the Eagles. As we all know, Philadelphia fired their defensive coordinator going into the bye. The Eagles have never lost coming out of a bye under Andy Reid. This one certainly should be interesting.
3. Will Cam Newton’s Woes Continues Against Chicago?
Carolina quarterback Cam Newton has been heavily criticized for his play on the field, but even more for his conduct off of the field. Appearing childish and immature, we wonder how Newton will respond this week going up against on the of the best defense in the NFL in the Chicago Bears. This game could very well be a precursor to the rest of Carolina’s season.
4. Do Matthew Stafford Struggles Continue?
Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford sure doesn’t look like a quarterback who threw for over 5,000 yards last season. The Lions pass offense looked terrible against the Bears on Monday Night in Week 7. Stafford has still yet to throw for a touchdown in any quarter but the fourth so far this season.