Let's be honest. Other than the Minnesota Vikings and the New Orleans Saints, how many teams in the National Football Conference thrill you? The Dallas Cowboys fade in December. The Philadelphia Eagles are wildly inconsistent. The New York Giants have Eli Manning, and he isn't playing up to the big contract. Who else is there? The Arizona Cardinals, Chicago Bears, Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers? They all have their problems as well. But, this is what the playoff picture looks like in the NFC… very confusing.

However, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Week 13 features several key matchups in the NFC that should help to clear up the playoff picture. I will take a look at three big games for the week, and a key matchup from each. That's right, bonus picks again this week.

Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants

Key Matchup: Tony Romo vs Eli Manning: Romo has not played well in December, but will have a week and a half to prepare for this one. Manning has been up and down all year, but expect him to be ready for this game. The Giants and Cowboys always put on a show, and this one should be no different. This being said, I think the Cowboys shake their December bug and establish dominance in the NFC East with a 31-21 victory in the Meadowlands.

Philadelphia Eagles at Atlanta Falcons

Key Matchup: DeSean Jackson vs. Roddy White: These two young wide receivers have taken the NFL by storm. Jackson is one of the fastest players in the league, and has become possibly the most exciting to watch. White is more sound and solid, and almost always makes the tough catches. Shutting these guys down will be the key to victory for either team. I say the Eagles do a better job at shutting down White, and win 24-17.

Minnesota Vikings at Arizona Cardinals

Key Matchup: Jared Allen vs. Mike Gandy: Allen has been featured in my article already this year, mostly because he is one of the best pass rushers in the league. Gandy will have a tough time trying to stop him. Expect the Cards to shift personnel in the direction of Allen, in attempt to keep Kurt Warner on his feet.

So, as you can see, there will be a lot on the line in week 13. I think the playoffs will be all but sealed after this week. However, strange things always happen towards the end of the year. Remember the Philly-Dallas game last year? Or the Denver Broncos-San Diego Chargers classic to end the race in the AFC West?

This has been a great season, and this should continue. Coming up next week, I will take a look at all of the important games you need to mark on your calendars during the Christmas break.