Week 13 Warmup: Steelers look to make statement; Packers still alive

The Week 13 Warmup takes an in-depth look at the NFL's most intriguing storylines ahead of the weekend's slate of games.

The Rundown

Lynch's time to shine

An injury to Trevor Siemian will push Paxton Lynch into the lineup for his second career start Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Siemian has solidified himself as the starter, for even possibly beyond this season, but it's still only a matter of time before Lynch will have to make good on his first-round draft status, so these reps will be important for his development. Denver should win with ease, but Jacksonville's third-ranked pass defense will put Lynch to the test.

Packers hanging on

Just when everyone began to count them out, the Packers put together a dominant prime-time performance to save their season. The turnaround should only continue with the Texans coming to town. Aaron Rodgers can pick apart the best of opposing defenses and, despite injuries at linebacker and in the secondary, Green Bay should take full advantage of Brock Osweiler's limitations as a passer. Getting to the .500 mark with four games to play would have the Packers well within striking distance in the NFC North.

Steelers seeking quality win

Pittsburgh, sitting at a respectable 6-5, is very much in the conversation among teams capable of challenging the Patriots in the AFC. With their offense back at full strength after some early absences, it's reasonable to expect the Steelers will continue to round into form down the stretch. Consider this week's matchup with the Giants as the epitome of a "prove it" game for a hopeful Super Bowl contender. Knocking off a well-rounded New York squad would be the Steelers' first win over a playoff team since Week 4.

Must-See Matchups

Drew Brees vs. Matthew Stafford

Oh, you like points? Here's one to watch. In an early afternoon game that may take on the look of 7-on-7 practice drills, the two stellar passers will be looking to go shot for shot. Brees has long been the more consistent player, but Stafford is finally taking the next step toward the league's elite signal-callers. That development, combined with the benefit of a slightly more reliable defense, should give Detroit an edge over the Saints.

Julio Jones vs. Marcus Peters

Kansas City has trouble moving the ball with consistency, so slowing down a high-powered Falcons offense is imperative to keeping this game within reach. The first step in those efforts is, of course, limiting the effectiveness of Jones. Peters getting his hands on a pass or two, as he's so often done in his young career, could be the difference yet again.

Dolphins O-Line vs. Ravens D-Line

Miami appears likely to get two of their three injured offensive line starters back this week, but it may not be enough. A stout Baltimore defensive front should make it difficult for Jay Ajayi to get anything going on the ground, thus forcing the ball into Ryan Tannehill's hands. It'll be time to eliminate any and all doubts about this Dolphins team if they can overcome such a scenario to pull out yet another tough win.

Upset Watch

Lions over Saints (-6)

New Orleans is an offensive juggernaut, and the Brees-led attack has always been at the top of its game at home. But let's not pretend the Lions lucked into their 7-4 record. With a similarly explosive offense, Detroit should be able hold its own in a game that's likely to take on the look of a shootout from the opening kick. The Lions solidify their status as a legitimate playoff contender with a fourth consecutive win.

Stat of the Week

Unexpected Star

Tyler Lockett, Seahawks

You didn't forget about Lockett, did you? The second-year wideout has yet to break out as expected this season, but Sunday night's matchup with the Carolina defense presents him with the perfect opportunity to do so. Seattle should be looking to open up the passing game after being kept out of the end zone last week, and there isn't a defensive back on the Panthers roster that can stick with Lockett downfield.