Yes, the Texans have played poorly the last few weeks, but they're at home and they beat the Bengals by three touchdowns in last year's playoffs. The Bengals are improved, but not by three TDs.

The Packers have two big advantages to offset Adrian Peterson: They will be motivated after losing Sunday and the game-time temperature at Lambeau is expected to be 20 degrees. Let's see how Christian Ponder handles that.

The Colts are a great story, but this is Ed Reed and the Ravens outdoors. End of story. The Redskins are a trendy pick because of RG3, but Russell Wilson and that Seahawks defense will be too much.

mmiorelli@tribune.com

Colts are inspired

Chris Perkins

Sun Sentinel

The Texans have lost three of their last four games; the Bengals have won seven of their last eight. But the Texans are at home and that's a big edge. Texans win.

The Packers and Vikings play for the third time in six weeks. Vikings running back Adrian Peterson has crushed the Packers (409 yards). Give this one to the visiting team, the Vikings.

The Seahawks, under the direction of Russell Wilson, visit the Redskins, who are led by Robert Griffin III, in a matchup of dynamic rookie quarterbacks. But the Seahawks are 3-5 on the road. The Redskins win.

The Colts visit the Ravens, and Colts coach Chuck Pagano will continue to inspire. Indy wins.

chperkins@tribune.com