Some teams surge toward the playoffs. Look at Denver, Seattle, Washington and Green Bay.
Others struggle to stay in the mix: try the Steelers, Bengals, Giants and Bears.
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Ricky Jean Francois has been preparing all week to start in place of All-Pro Justin Smith on the NFL's second-ranked defense.
WICHITA, Kan. (AP) Cleanthony Early scored 20 points to lead Wichita State to a 65-53 win over Charleston Southern on Thursday night.
ST. LOUIS (6-7-1) At TAMPA BAY (6-8)
Sunday, 1 p.m., FOX
OPENING LINE - Buccaneers by 3
RECORD VS. SPREAD - St. Louis 9-5; Tampa Bay 7-5-2
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (AP) Arlon Harper scored 25 points, including 20 in the first half, as Charleston Southern dominated East Tennessee State 72-51 Tuesday night in a nonconference showdown.
