Washington vs. N.Y. Giants

* Kickoff: 9:30 a.m.

* TV: Channel 11.

* Records: Redskins 7-6-1, Giants 8-5-1.

* Story line: This shapes up as a must-win game for the Redskins. They could not beat the Giants in Washington when Gus Frerotte and Terry Allen were healthy. Allen remains sidelined because of a sprained ankle. Jeff Hostetler gets to go against his former team, and Danny Kanell has reestablished himself at quarterback for the Giants. Rodney Hampton could give the Giants’ offense a lift if he is activated.

Pittsburgh at New England

* The line: Giants by 3.

* The pick: Redskins.

* Kickoff: 1 p.m.

* TV: Channel 4.

* Records: Steelers (10-4), Patriots (9-5).

* Story line: Drew Bledsoe has a prime opportunity to dismiss the notion he is not a big-game quarterback by having consecutive good games. The Patriots are trying to secure a first-round playoff bye but may be without leading rusher Curtis Martin (shoulder) for the second consecutive week. The Steelers’ Kordell Stewart and Yancy Thigpen are clicking and Jerome Bettis is running well.

* The line: New England by 2 1/2.

* The pick: Steelers.