NFL Week 12: Trends which will decide each game

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HOUSTON, TEXAS – NOVEMBER 22: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans attempts to break a tackle from Chase Winovich #50 of the New England Patriots during their game at NRG Stadium on November 22, 2020 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

Arizona Cardinals (6-4) at New England Patriots (4-6), 1:00 pm

Cardinals: Arizona’s run defense proved to be its undoing in the Thursday night loss at Seattle and this clash with the Patriots will test Vance Joseph’s unit once again. Only three teams in the league are averaging more rushing per game than New England (153.6). Meanwhile, the Cardinals are allowing 124.7 yards per contest on the ground.

Patriots: Under Bill Belichick, the team has fared pretty well vs. the other conference for nearly two decades. From 2001-19 and including nine Super Bowl appearances, the Patriots own a combined 67-18 record vs. NFC teams. This season, there have been losses to the Seahawks (35-30) and 49ers (33-6) – the latter at home in Week 7.

Miami Dolphins (6-4) at New York Jets (0-10), 1:00 pm

Dolphins: The team looks to sweep this longtime AFC rivalry for the third time in five seasons dating back to 2016. Back in Week 6 in South Florida, Brian Flores’ team blanked the Jets, 24-0. Last week, head coach Brian Flores sat rookie quarterback Tua Tagovailoa after some struggles but he’s expected to get the start in this AFC East rematch.

Jets: Adam Gase’s squad has actually scored 27 and 28 points, respectively, in their last two outings only to fall short. In their first eight games this season, the Jets totaled at least 20 points only once. But Sam Darnold and Joe Flacco have combined for just as many TD passes (9) as interceptions – with three of the latter returned for scores.

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