Super Bowl XLII Pick

Super Bowl XLII – Glendale, AZ
University of Phoenix Stadium
February 3, 2008 @ 6:20PM EST

New York Giants(13-6) Vs New England Patriots(18-0)

The Line – Giants +11.5 / Patriots -11.5 Over/Under 53.5

The Patriots and the Giants will be leaving the cold behind and making a trip to the warm and sunny Phoenix, Arizona area to bask in the heat of the flash bulbs and camera lights as they step atop the world’s greatest stage in the football world. Newspapers, magazines, radio stations, and televisions are buzzing with the excitement and build up the hype as each team makes their preparations for the Super Bowl. So with all the hype and excitement, who will take the field with the best preparation? Who has the confidence to succeed? Who has the heart to lay it all on the line every second for a full sixty minutes? And once that final whistle blows, who will hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy in conquest?

The Giants

Ranked # 8 in overall offense the New York Giants has been able to average 197.1 passing yards per game (21^st) and 134.4 rushing yards per game (4th), which has amounted to an average 331.4 total yards (16^th) and 23.3 points per game (14^th). Their defense has shown a consistent improvement over each of the last few weeks placing them 5^th in overall defense. Allowing an average of 207.3 yards passing per game (11^th) and only 97.7 rushing yards per game (8^th) their opposing teams have only averaged 302.0 yards per game (7^th) and scored an average 21.9 points (17^th).

The Patriots

Ranked #2 in overall offense the New England Patriots has been able to average 295.7 passing yards (1^st) and 115.6 rushing yards per game (13^th) giving the Patriots an average of 411.2 yards (1^st)and 36.8 points scored per game (1^st). This has allowed their defense to be good, but not top of the line as they have ranked 8^th overall in the NFL. However, only allowing an average 190.1 passing yards (6^th), 98.2 rushing yards (10^th), and 288.3 total yards (4^th) with 17.1 points a game (4^th) can be crippling to an opponent that is forced to stop New England’s high powered offense.

The Showdown

Eli Manning has seemed to snap out of his unpredictable good quarterback/bad quarterback, Jekyll and Hyde play that plagued him during the regular season to complete 53 of 85 for 599 yards and four touchdowns in the postseason, and has put together a completion percentage of 62.4 and no interceptions. After a close match up with New England in the final game of the regular season, and Plaxico Burress’s outstanding performance of 154 yards on 11 receptions in the NFC Championship, no one can tell the Giants they don’t stand a chance to win this weekend. Eli has been having dreams of a Super Bowl ring to compare to his brothers, “and I got mine sooner Peyton,” is the mock he would love to gloat over. But don’t think Tom Brady and Randy Moss don’t have plans of their own, with history in the making and perfection 3600 playable seconds away from the moment of kickoff, the Patriots and Belichick have every intention of not only winning, but obliterating the spread. I’ll never jump the Patriots bandwagon, and would actually find some satisfaction in a Giants win, but only a Giant fan or someone crossing their fingers for play uncharacteristic of the Patriots team could take the risk of picking the Giants to win.

Patriots Perfect season, sets an unbreakable record
Vince Lombardi Trophy goes to the Patriot World Champions.

NFL Conference Championship Picks

I couldn’t have been more pleased with a 2-0 start in last weeks match ups, but as upsets are becoming more of a rule in the NFL, my 0-2 finish left me 2-2 on the Divisional weekend. Can’t say that I’m disappointed, the San Diego upset over Indy was shocking, jaw-dropping, and down right exciting. The Giants win may not have been as big of a surprise, but it was still a game that was edge of your seat and down to the wire. We can only hope that this weeks match ups continue to impress and intrigue. With no real need to hype, these games are exciting all on their own, lets get right down to the picks.

ALL TIMES ARE EASTERN

Sunday, January 20^th, 2008

AFC Conference Championship

#3 San Diego Chargers(13-5) at #1 New England Patriots(17-0) 3:00PM (CBS)

I must admit, I had never expected to see the Chargers make it this far and I can’t say that they haven’t deserved it. This Chargers team has come together to play their best game at the most important time, and Philip Rivers managed to fit together an impressive game against the Colts last week. Unfortunately, Rivers will be a game time decision this week, Antonio Gates is still nursing an injured toe, and LaDainian Tomlinson will be working off a bruised knee. Shawne Merriman is going to have his hands full this week as I expect Tom Brady will be able to deliver his passes quickly, and the Chargers battered offense may leave Merriman and the rest of the defense on the field for a good portion of this match up. So these injuries couldn’t have come at a worse time and now the Chargers will be traveling to Foxboro to take on the seemingly undefeatable Patriots. With confidence and experience, Tom Brady will be leading his Patriots into yet another AFC Championship game at home. With a run game in the legs of Laurence Maroney and Kevin Faulk, the Patriots should have just enough to keep the Charger defense honest. Targeting numerous receivers in Randy Moss, Wes Welker, and Donte’ Stallworth, this match up could prove to be another Tom Brady show. Can the Chargers continue to overcome and defeat the Patriots this week even with all their injuries? Or will this game be over by half time?

Patriots advance to the Super Bowl again in an attempt to cap their perfect season.

NFC Conference Championship

#5 New York Giants(12-6) at #2 Green Bay Packers(14-3) 6:30PM (FOX)

The Giants are another team that has become hot at just the right time. Everyone expected to see Manning in the Conference Championship; we’re just surprised it’s in the NFC Championship. A sporadic and inconsistent quarterback, Eli Manning has somehow managed to pull himself together for a series of games when the games matter the most. With Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer cutting back on the number of drops they were prone to earlier in the season and pop you in the mouth run style of Brandon Jacobs, this offense has been getting it done on the playing field. To top it off, the return of Michael Strahan to the Giants defense has only added spark to their defensive play and held opponents in manageable games. This week they will have to travel to Lambeau Field and attempt to manage Brett Favre and his young Packers team. This team has been on a hot streak of their own and will look to attack the Giants defense in every way possible. Favre will continue to utilize Greg Jennings and Donald Driver who have been fantastic in making plays after the catch this season. Then there is the up and coming Packer star in Ryan Grant, who has turned a few heads over the Packers run game and lit an ice cold field on fire last week with 201 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Can he repeat the performance? Snow showers are predicted for Friday and Saturday in Green Bay, a lag in those clouds could mean more for Sunday, and with a temperature high of 10 degrees these teams should feel right at home and us fans should be in for quite a game.

Packers prevail with a finishing touch by Favre.

And that pretty much gives you my Super Bowl participants for 2008. Two cold weather teams will be battling for the World Title in hot and sunny Phoenix, AZ. But we’ll talk about that game at another time.

NFL Divisional Playoff Picks

Last week was a bad week to be an even number. Whether you were AFC or NFC, it was the #4 and #6 seeds that were sent home. Two road teams won and two road teams lost. This week our well rested bye week teams will be receiving the challenge of the Wild Card survivors. Can any road teams prevail this week? Or will the NFL’s top seeds play their top games? Last week I found myself finishing with a 3-1 record in the Wild Card round, I’m looking to improve that this week with a 4-0. Here’s how I see this weekend playing out.

ALL TIMES ARE EASTERN

Saturday, January 12^th, 2008

NFC Divisional Playoffs

#3 Seattle Seahawks(11-6) at #2 Green Bay Packers(13-3) 4:30PM (FOX)

Seattle played a good game at home last week as they hosted the Washington Redskins. The defense controlled Clinton Portis, dismantled the Skins passing game, and ran away with the scoreboard in the fourth quarter. Congratulations to them. However, that was last week, and this is this week. Now the Seahawks will have to take their game onto the road where they have been a weak 3-5 this season. Not to mention Green Bay’s defense is ranked just above Seattle. This is where the Shaun Alexander’s lack of a run game this season is going to bit the Seahawks. Without a viable run threat, Al Harris and Charles Woodson will be begging Matt Hasselbeck to throw the ball. Brett Favre on the other hand should keep this game moving right along in their favor by dumping the ball repeatedly into the hands of Donald Driver and Greg Jennings who have been perfectly capable of making a big play out of a short pass this season. The Packers will also be keeping the Seattle defense in check with several Ryan Grant carries; He’s continued to offer the Packers the run game they lacked early in the season.

Packers bring back the glory to Lambeau Field with a Playoff win

AFC Divisional Playoffs

#5 Jacksonville Jaguars(12-5) at #1 New England Patriots(16-0) 8:00PM (CBS)

The Jaguars could have what it takes to walk into Foxboro and topple the top ranked team in the NFL. The hard hitting, smash mouth defense that was all up in the face of Ben Roethlisberger last week are going to battle their way into the backfield in hopes of taking a few shots at Tom Brady while their offense will pound away on the Patriots defense with the legs of Maurice Jones-Drew. The key to the Jaguars win is going to be a defensive turnover or two and clock management. They need to allow Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor to breakdown the Patriots defense on the ground. This will open up a few passing lanes for David Garrard to strike while the defense is on their heels. While some of us have jumped aboard the Patriots bandwagon, others are fuming for this team to be overthrown. While I believe the Jaguars have the talent and capabilities to overthrow this NFL powerhouse, I believe there is one large, key factor in this game that is going to rise above it all…experience. It’s painfully obvious that the Patriots are stacked with talent themselves, sporting the likes of Tom Brady, Randy Moss, Wes Welker, and Mike Vrabel, add that to home field advantage and the fact that the Patriots have been in the playoffs time and time again and it makes it hard to visualize Jacksonville not making at least one more mistake that losses the game. Especially after letting the Steelers come within striking distance of victory last week.

Patriots remain on their quest for history

Sunday, January 13^th, 2008

AFC Divisional Playoffs

#3 San Diego Chargers(12-5) at #2 Indianapolis Colts(13-3) 1:00PM (CBS)

Nobody seemed to think that Tennessee would have a chance going up against the Chargers in San Diego last week and yet they managed to control the entire first half with a shut out for the second time this season. Give credit to the Chargers, they did come back out in the second half to put the game away, but that first half goes to show that the Chargers simply aren’t the team they were a year ago. LaDainian Tomlinson continues to play like a top running back, but seems to lack the invincibility he portrayed last year. Antonio Gates has been listed as questionable and might not be much of a factor if he does attempt to play. Then there’s Philip Rivers, who can have a flash of greatness from time to time, but tends to be more of a disappointment than a star. While Peyton Manning brings success to his team, the Chargers have brought more success to Rivers than he has given back. The Chargers shouldn’t be a team to be overlooked, but with Marvin Harrison back in the line up opposite of Reggie Wayne, Manning should be at the top of his game. Add at least 85 yards on the ground and a few completions to Joseph Addai, one of the overall top ranked defenses in the NFL and I don’t see the Chargers serving up any upsets in the RCA Dome this year. Sorry Charger fans, Norv Turner wasn’t the key to get you into the Super Bowl, Marty Schottenheimer won’t have to worry about another coach taking the team he put together to the Big Game.

Colts advance to attempt a repeat of last years Conference Championship

NFC Divisional Playoffs

#5 New York Giants(11-6) at #1 Dallas Cowboys(13-3) 4:30PM (FOX)

This match up should be a game of offense as I’m sure everyone expects the highest scoring team in the NFC to rack up a few points. Just in case you aren’t sure who I’m talking about, it’s the Cowboys at 28.4 points per game. When players compared side by side, I’m not sure the Giants have any offensive advantage. Who would you rather have playing on your team this year, Tony Romo or Eli Manning? Marion Barber or Brandon Jacobs? Jason Witten or Kevin Boss? Terrell Owens or Plaxico Burress? Of course, at this point Owens is questionable and Burress is still nicked up, but he has been most of the season and still plays. It would seem most angles would lead to a Dallas victory, but of all the match ups going into the Divisional weekend I think this one has the most potential for an upset. The Giants have now gone 8-1 on the road this season after winning all of their last 5 road games. I think the question in this game is going to be, can the good Eli Manning make three game appearances in a row, or will the bad Manning rear his ugly head at the Giants this weekend? Part of me wants to pick the upset while the Giants are on a roll; the other part of me fears the schizophrenic play of Eli Manning. It’s decision time. Looks like I’m going to go with…

Cowboys take the big “W” in the Big “D”

Well, last week I was worried about picking three of the four road teams to win the Wild Card match ups, it looks like I’ve completely reversed my position this week by taking all four of the home teams. This could be a recipe for disaster, I can’t recall if the home teams have swept a divisional weekend in recent history. If there are any upsets to be had this weekend, I think we will find them taking place in the NFC as I feel our dominant one and two seed in the AFC will remain steadfast. Of course, you know there’s only one way to find out. Time to pull up a spot on the sofa and crack open that ice cold beer…, it’s time for some football.

NFL Wild Card Weekend Picks

The 2007 regular season is now a thing of the past, something to be referred back to and talked of in past tense, but the post season is fresh and new and at the top of topics to discussion and debate. Welcome to the 2008 post season battle field. Now it’s a fight between the best of the best for a chance at the covenanted title of World Champions and the fulfillment of the dream of the elusive honor of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy high into the confetti filled air. This week the top teams with lesser records in the regular season will fight to prove their worth to advance into Divisional match ups where they will test their will against their conferences best. Who will prevail and move forward? Who will be sent home with shattered dreams? Only the fourth quarter whistle will tell the tale, but I’ll tell you who I think are going… Welcome to the Wild Card Weekend.

ALL TIMES ARE EASTERN

First Round Bye: New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers

Saturday January 5th 2008

NFC Wildcard

#6 Washington Redskins(9-7) at #3 Seattle Seahawks(10-6) 4:30PM (NBC)

The Redskins defense has been allowing an average of 91.1 rushing yards per game this season and should prove problematic for an ineffective Shaun Alexander and back up Maurice Morris. The Seattle run defense hasn’t been bad, but they will have to up their game against Clinton Portis who’s 1262 rushing yards is ranked 6^th in the NFL and who is fourth in rushing touchdowns with 11 this season. Add an effective Todd Collins, who has yet to throw in interception or lose a game since filling in for Jason Campbell, and Matt Hasselbeck may have his work cut out for him in this match up. The Seahawks may have been 7-1 at home this season, but chances are the Skins won’t be willing to give in easily.

Redskins finish on top of a hard fought road game.

AFC Wildcard

#5 Jacksonville Jaguars(11-5) at #4 Pittsburgh Steelers(10-6) 8:00PM (NBC)

Just three weeks ago in Week 15, the Jaguars made this trip to Pittsburgh and upset the favored Steelers home team. They weren’t affected by the snow, swirling winds, cold temperatures and soft, soggy field, a perfect field and beautiful weather aren’t needed for a smash mouth run offense. If the weather isn’t permitting for David Garrard to take to the air, where he has a 64% completion rate and has 18 touchdown passes with only three interceptions, they can simply lean on the running tandem of Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew to get the job done. This team is set to run down a second win in Pittsburgh as the loss of Willie Parker could prove to be detrimental to the Steeler offense.

Jaguars advance to Divisional to take on undefeated Patriots

Sunday January 6th 2008

NFC Wildcard

#5 New York Giants(10-6) at #4 Tampa Bay Buccaneers(9-7) 1:00PM (FOX)

The Giants put up quite the performance last week against New England, showing they have what it takes to control the field. However, as all teams that have nearly upset the Patriots, they were unable to hold on at the end. This week the Giants will have to travel for their first post season match up. This could be good news for a team that has been 7-1 on the road this season. The key to a Giants victory will rely on the driving leg force of Brandon Jacobs as he matches up against a Tampa defense allowing an average 107.9 rushing yards per game. If Tampa can shut down Jacobs, their stingy pass defense, who is only allowing a league low average of 170.9 passing yards per game, could make for a long day behind center for Eli Manning. A good match up and a game worth watching, only one will be able to walk out a winner.

Giants find a lead, and then manage to hold on for a close victory

AFC Wildcard

#6 Tennessee Titans(10-6) at #3 San Diego Chargers(11-5) 4:30PM (CBS)

The Titans were able to hold on and win in Indianapolis last week and grab hold of the last Wildcard slot in the AFC. But just getting into the playoffs may not be enough for this team to advance in the playoffs. After a slow stumbling start, the Chargers have been running on a hot streak named LaDainian Tomlinson. If the Titans intend to win in San Diego they will need to find away to neutralize LT from the Chargers offensive equation. If they can rest the fate of the game on Philip Rivers shoulder the Titans have a good opportunity for success, but how do you stop LT? And can Vince Young and LenDale White punch holes in the sturdy Chargers defense? In the end, I think it will be too much to ask of the Titans organization.

Chargers bolt forward to advance into Indy

The games are around the corner, the tensions are running high. I’ve told you who I think will win, do you agree? Only one way to find out, meet ya at the television set, tailgating at the field, tuned in on the radio, or around the corner at the local bar, it’s time for some football.

NFL Week 17 Picks

We have reached the wonders of week 17. Who starts, who sits? Will New England push for a pursuit of perfection, or will they aim to protect everyone from injury before the post season? What about the other teams who have nothing left to gain in Week 17? What will teams like Indy, Dallas, Green Bay, Seattle, or Jacksonville do? Play starters for one series, two, three, first quarter, or the half? Does anyone play the whole game? How will this effect the teams that are still struggling to get in? What will become of Cleveland, Tennessee, Washington, Minnesota, or New Orleans? These are the questions we must ask ourselves as we prepare to analyze and predict an outcome. What’s the right choice? If I was sure of that someone would be paying me for the information I’m about to disclose to you.

Struggling through yet another mediocre week this season I completed week 16 with a 10-6 for a season total of 144-96 (.600). Good news is that I’ve managed to regain my .600 season, bad news is that I barely have that .600 season. Only one week left for improvement, it sure would be nice to see that elusive 16-0 week, but with the challenges of picking the final week of the season, that will prove a difficult task.

NOTE: ALL TIMES ARE EASTERN

Saturday December 29th 2007 8:15PM

New England Patriots(15-0) at New York Giants(10-5)

With history and the perfect season in the balance, it would appear that the Giants are posed to hand the record book over to New England with a ribbon on it. With the injuries on the Giant sideline and a spot in the playoffs starting next week, it’s almost a sure bet that Tom Coughlin will be sitting his remaining starters for hopes of a healthier line up next week and practically forfeiting this final game to the Patriots.
Patriots make history; go perfect with 16-0

Sunday December 30th 2007 1:00PM

Buffalo Bills(7-8) at Philadelphia Eagles(7-8) 1:00PM

With nothing left to play for but the game and pride, I expect to see another hard fought game by Donovan McNabb. If not for an opportunity to keep his starting job in Philly from rookie Kevin Kolb, then to put a rise in his stock for trade talks at the seasons end. Does McNabb’s outstanding performance in New Orleans last week raise more questions for his future? Either way, a great performance here can only work to benefit him and his future…where ever that may be.
Eagles finish out season at .500

Carolina Panthers(6-9) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers(9-6) 1:00PM

Tampa Bay has nothing left to play for and will be looking forward to next weeks playoffs. However, I still don’t see a Panthers win this week. I know that doesn’t say a lot for Carolina, but even if they will be facing the Buccaneers second stringers they are still dealing with the injury dings of the year.
Buccaneers finish out strong at home

Cincinnati Bengals(6-9) at Miami Dolphins(1-14) 1:00PM

In what could possibly by Cam Cameron’s last game as the Dolphins head coach and worse, his last game as a head coach, the Dolphins will attempt to close out with a win. However, I’m not sure it would make a difference. Bill Parcells and Cam Cameron are two difference styles of people, and if Bill lets Cam go…who will hire a coach that went 1-15 in his only season? Part of me wants to go with Miami on this game, but the Bengals are in need of some self reassurance as well.
Bengals squeeze off a win by a field goal

Detroit Lions(7-8) at Green Bay Packers(12-3) 1:00PM

With hopes of home field in the balance, I couldn’t believe the Packers let last weeks game go the way that it did. However, what better way to finish out the season than at home and matched up against a Lions team that tanked in the second half of their season. Brett Favre and the Packers will look at this game as an opportunity to regain some momentum going into the post season.
Packers blow out the Lions at Lambeau

Jacksonville Jaguars(11-4) at Houston Texans(7-8) 1:00PM

The Texans have displayed great improvement this year and had it not been for some of the injuries they suffered throughout the season they may have finished out with a spot in the playoffs. It didn’t work out that way and the Texans will have to settle for a chance to increase their record to 8-8 against a Jacksonville team with nothing left to play for in the regular season. However, even if Jack Del Rio decides not to play all his starters this week, I think the Jaguars still steal away with this small victory.
Jaguars still roll through with second stringers

New Orleans Saints(7-8) at Chicago Bears(6-9) 1:00PM

The Bears put a dent in Green Bay’s armor last week ensuring Dallas with the home field in the NFC post season. Now they have the opportunity to completely squash any playoff hopes for the struggling Saints. Clinging to the post season by a tread, the Saints are in a must win situation just to remain a possibility, but will still have to wait on the outcome of the Washington and Minnesota game to know their fate. It may be all in vain, but…
Saints keep themselves as hopefuls as they cross their fingers and hope for help

Seattle Seahawks(10-5) at Atlanta Falcons(3-12) 1:00PM

Another team set and settled in the post season, the Seahawks will also be entering this final week with nothing to play for. However, the Falcons have been a team under distress all season with one headache after another. From Michael Vick to Joey Harrington, Byron Leftwich, and back, the loss of Bob Petrino, and the inability to seal the deal with Bill Parchells, the Falcons have just failed to find a break. They won’t even be benefiting from the first pick in the draft to start on a new season!
Seahawks bench beat a defeated Falcons organization

San Francisco 49ers(5-10) at Cleveland Browns(9-6) 1:00PM

After dazzling spectators and energizing fans, the Cleveland Browns went from playoff bound to post season hopefuls. A crippling lose last week has taken the Browns destiny out of their hands and placed it to balance upon a fence. Let’s not forget that it was the 49ers that spoiled a Denver post season last year and they will be looking to repeat the sentiment again this week. With a must win situation just to cling to hope, Derek Anderson and company will need to pull out all the stops.
Browns keep their post season hopes alive

Sunday December 30th 4:15 games

Dallas Cowboys(13-2) at Washington Redskins(8-7) 4:15PM

The last time these teams matched up the Skins gave the Boys a run for their money. That’s why this week, as the Boys travel to the Skins home field with a crew of laughing and good natured starters to warm their bench, the Skins will be looking at a real good shot of clinching the final wild card slot left to the NFC. With their destiny in their own hands expect to see Todd Collins make another plight for why he should remain a starter behind center as he looks to lead this team into the playoffs.
Redskins make their way into the playoffs

Kansas City Chiefs(4-11) at New York Jets(3-12) 4:15PM

The ‘who cares’ of the week, neither team has a playoff hope, neither team can finish with a winning or .500 season, neither team has excited a crowd and that includes their own fans, and neither team should be of interest to watch this week. With that said, I’ll take the home team and wait till the highlights to find out if I was right or not.
J.E.T.S, Jets…oh forget it…Jets win

Minnesota Vikings(8-7) at Denver Broncos(6-9) 4:15PM

The Broncos have struggled all year to compete as a complete unit. Jay Cutler has shown great promise for the future and Brandon Marshall has been more than eager to be his favorite target with great hands and the ability to fight his way down field, but Denver’s offensive line grows older, tired and the protection just isn’t giving Cutler the time he needs. The defensive line has crumbled and failed to hold so that even when they do make a tackle they fall down field for three more yards. The time has come for some changes in Denver, but that won’t help them in this match up as the Vikings hold to their hopes of a playoff berth with the legs of Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor.
Vikings take the win in hopes of help into the playoffs

Pittsburgh Steelers(10-5) at Baltimore Ravens(4-11) 4:15PM

The Steelers are in the post season, but are still competing for the third seed. However, with the loss of Willie Parker last week and I wouldn’t be surprised if Mike Tomlin kept Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward, and every other starter in the locker room so that they won’t get hit by accident on the sidelines before making it into the playoffs. If the Steelers play it safe as I think they will, and if the Ravens are as desperate for some self esteem redemption this season, then they might just squeak out one last win on the season.
Ravens take one more win just for pride

San Diego Chargers(10-5) at Oakland Raiders(4-11) 4:15PM

While the playoffs are a reality for the Chargers I believe that they still feel a need to hold onto the third seed. With the Pittsburgh game playing out in unison with their own, the Chargers will have no choice but to begin with their starters. However, once they get the lead I think we will see starters like LaDainian Tomlinson, Antonio Gates, and Shawne Merriman watching from the sidelines.
Chargers finish season with division win.

St. Louis Rams(3-12) at Arizona Cardinals(7-8) 4:15PM

This match up is another meaningless game without any playoff contention. In fact, I really don’t know what to even say about this match up. I feel that the Cardinals are better staffed to win this game and given the home field advantage it should be a no brainer, but who Knows.
Cardinals finish season at .500

Sunday December 23th 2007 Sunday Night Football

*Note: Sunday night games in Weeks 11-17 subject to change.

Tennessee Titans(9-6) at Indianapolis Colts(13-2) 8:15 PM

With the destiny of their playoff dreams resting solely on their own performance in this game I would expect nothing less than the all of every player lined up for the Titans this week. The question will lie in Tony Dungy’s decision on whether or not to sit his starters and when. Chances are Peyton Manning may see only one or two series this week meaning the Titans should be set to take advantage of the possible gift they just might receive.
Titans celebrate a playoff spot

With the regular season at it’s conclusion we will be focusing our attention on the teams that found enough luck to prevail and persevere, the luck of good health and good situations, and in as Don Shula would say, “luck means a lot in football. Not having a good quarterback is bad luck.” Here’s wishing your team luck.

NFL Week 16 Picks

As the regular season nears an end, our playoff picture is just about complete. It’s these weeks that make picking a winner a little more difficult. Will certain teams bench their starters for the playoffs? Will the eliminated play the part of spoiler? Do the teams walking the line cement their post season slot or fall from it? And then there are the games that have no meaning one way or another, a game of pride or bragging rights between teams as they begin to look toward next season.

Had there been a pick analysis playoff, I think I would have been eliminated this season. Another sub par week finds me at 8-8. This gives me a season total of 134-90 (.598) and drops me below .600. Only two weeks left to correct that, let’s get to it.

NOTE: ALL TIMES ARE EASTERN

Thursday December 20th 2007 8:15PM

Pittsburgh Steelers(9-5) at St. Louis Rams(3-11)

After two losses in a row and finding themselves in danger of losing control of the AFC North, the Steelers enter into a need to win situation as they travel to St Louis to open up Week 16. This should be an easy win for the strong Steelers defense, but this season has been full of upsets, and the Steelers have already seen a few.

Steelers play as they should and win in their race to hold onto the AFC North

SAturday December 22th 2007 8:15PM

Dallas Cowboys(12-2) at Carolina Panthers(6-8)

Panthers have struggled gaining the wins that they have this season while Dallas has been on top of NFC all season. After falling to Philadelphia last week the Cowboys will be looking for a bounce back game. Sorry Tony Romo, that means leaving your girlfriend Jessica Simpson at home. Whether his girlfriends are a curse on his game or not, why risk it?

Dallas dominates on the road

Sunday December 23th 2007 1:00pm games

Cleveland Browns(9-5) at Cincinnati Bengals(5-9)

The Browns managed to claim the win last week, even if they couldn’t tell where they were on the field. This week they travel to Cincinnati where, weather permitting, we could see a shoot out through the air between quarterbacks Derek Anderson and Carson Palmer. Cleveland already won the first match up, and Anderson has thrown more touchdowns and less interception than Palmer for their season totals.

Browns outscore Cincy

Green Bay Packers(12-2) at Chicago Bears(5-9)

The Packers have suddenly found themselves in position one game out of home field throughout the playoffs. By winning the remainder of their games and hoping for a Dallas lose they can pave the road to the Super Bowl through Lambeau. Brett Favre would like nothing better and the Bears offense couldn’t possibly keep up with him.

Packers keep their hopes alive for home field

Houston Texans(7-7) at Indianapolis Colts(12-2)

Peyton Manning and the Colts have a way of making you wonder just how good they are. In a match up where they should dominate, they just hold on to win. However, how much does it matter how you win, as long as it’s a win and the Colts have twelve of them. Sage Rosenfels and Mario Williams ended Denver’s playoff hopes last week only to have there own ended. It won’t be possible for Houston to take anything away for Indy in this match up, but they’ll be looking for the win regardless. Unfortunately for them, I don’t think the Colts will sit their starters right away this week.

Colts win by a field goal as Manning doesn’t play the whole game

Kansas City Chiefs(4-10) at Detroit Lions(6-8)

Tough pick!!! The Lions, who started the season strong have since lost six games in a row, but the Chiefs have them beat, having lost seven in a row. Good news? One of these teams is about to break their losing streak!!! Who gets to celebrate at the end of this match up? I’m going to have to give this one to the home team.

Lions break their losing streak

New York Giants(9-5) at Buffalo Bills(7-7)

Buffalo has been eliminated from the playoffs, after week 17 they will go home and start to think about next year. However, they find themselves in a position to have an impact on those that will make the playoffs in the NFC. With the energy of their home crowd, the error prone Eli Manning, and the Giants loss of Jeremy Shockey…

Bills give the Giants a reason to sweat

Oakland Raiders(4-10) at Jacksonville Jaguars(10-4)

The Raiders attempted to make a run at Indy last week but failed at the sound of the final whistle. Now they will try their hand against to also dominate Jaguars in sunny Florida. Given the losing record of the Raiders, and the Jet lag of traveling from one coast to the other, I’m going to give a dominate win to Jacksonville.

Jaguars fend off the Raiders

Philadelphia Eagles(6-8) at New Orleans Saints(7-7)

The Eagles played a fantastic game against Dallas last week to open up home field hopes for Green Bay. Unfortunately, that win was unable to keep them alive in the playoff race and they have been eliminated. Will they play the spoiler for the Saints? New Orleans desperately needs this win if they want to hold any hopes of a post season. Here’s a rumor of interest, with post season elimination the Eagles could bench Donovan McNabb for rookie Kevin Kolb. Hmmm, interesting.

Saints cling to their playoff hopes

Sunday December 23th 4:00 games

Atlanta Falcons(3-11) at Arizona Cardinals(6-8) 4:05PM

As if the Falcons haven’t had enough headaches this season, Bob Petrino couldn’t even have the dignity to finish the season with his team. At least they have a better record than Miami. This week they will take their woes to Arizona, where at least they can mope in the sun. Neither team has anything to gain or lose in this match up as neither team will see the post season from anywhere other than their couch at home.

Cardinals win as they attempt to get one game away from a .500 season

Tampa Bay Buccaneers(9-5) at San Francisco 49ers(4-10) 4:05PM

Having wrapped up their division, the Buccaneers will travel to San Francisco this week to go head to head with the 49ers. The Niners would like nothing better than to take a win for the sake of pride, but I don’t think Tampa is ready to gear down this week.

Buccaneers win on the road

Baltimore Ravens(4-10) at Seattle Seahawks(9-5) 4:15PM

The Ravens have lost several heartbreakers this season losing by 3 to Arizona, 2 to the Niners, called out of the locker room to lose to Cleveland by 3, 3 points from upsetting New England, and then find defeat to a winless Miami team while losing Ray Lewis to a broken left hand. Somehow I don’t see good things this week for the Ravens as they increase their losing streak to nine.

Seahawks thankful Lewis is out, add another win

Miami Dolphins(1-13) at New England Patriots(14-0) 4:15PM

To sit or to play, that is the question? Tom Brady and the Patriots already have a chest full of Super Bowl rings, so which is more enticing this season, another Super Bowl ring or the perfect season that will rewrite the record books? I have to believe that both Bill Bilichick and Tom Brady both want the perfect season. No one sits this week and the Dolphins don’t end the Patriots win streak.

Patriots in the race for perfection

New York Jets(3-11) at Tennessee Titans(8-6) 4:15PM

Tennessee is the only team remaining in the AFC on the outside looking in that hasn’t been mathematically eliminated. So they will be taking this game seriously as the Jets will no doubt be looking to play the spoiler. Although Tennessee may very well find themselves eliminated by kickoff, they will come to play

Titans win at home

Sunday December 23th 2007 Sunday Night Football

*Note: Sunday night games in Weeks 11-17 subject to change.

Washington Redskins(7-7) at Minnesota Vikings(8-6) 8:15PM

This game promises to be one of the best match ups of the week. The Redskins are on the outside looking in. As luck would have it, they travel to Minnesota this week to stand before the team that occupies the number six slot they want to be in.

Vikings push forward into the playoffs

Monday December 24th 2007 Monday Night Football

Denver Broncos(6-8) at San Diego Chargers(9-5) 8:30PM

All I want for Christmas is a Broncos Win!!!
There’ll be rooting and there’ll be cheering as my Broncos take the field, but filled with holes and defensive woes our seasons end is near. No playoff hopes as Dre Bly chokes and Bailey’s beat down field, can’t stop the run as fans ho hum, and fight away a tear. But all’s not sad, Cutlers not bad, there’s hope for future cheers, we’ll root on through these last two games and claim a rebuilding year.

Chargers maintain their roll to win this second match up

--Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!!

And the picks are in and I can only hope for improvement this week. As I’ve found a bit of struggle in these last few weeks, I can only choose to quote Terry Bradshaw this week as he commented, “I may be dumb, but I’m not stupid.” Gonna have to see some improvement this week. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all.

NFL Week 15 Picks

Not wanting to beat around the bush this week, I’m going to just get right to it. I finished last week with an improved 12-4 record that brought my season total to 126-82 (.606). Time is running out for my 16-0 week. So lets give it another shot. Week 15:

ALL TIMES ARE EASTERN

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Denver Broncos(6-7) at Houston Texans(6-7) 8:15PM

After four touchdown passes by Jay Cutler and 156 rushing yards by Selvin Young last week, the Broncos will travel to Houston in hopes of continuing their momentum. Here Mike Shanahan will face off against his former offensive coordinator and quarterback coach, Gary Kubiak. With Houston coming off a big win as well, both of these teams are holding on to hopes of a playoff position, but can only get there by winning out and a little help.

Broncos try to keep their playoff hopes alive with a win

Saturday, December 15, 2007

Cincinnati Bengals(5-8) at San Francisco 49ers(3-10) 8:15

The 49ers are out of the playoff race. They have been officially eliminated, but so have the Bengals. So without any team being given the role of spoiler, this is a prime game to play on the NFL Network, where many fans won’t be able to watch and only the team fans will care.

Bengals win in this meaningless matchup

Sunday, December 16, 2007

Arizona Cardinals(6-7) at New Orleans Saints(6-7) 1:00PM

Two teams knocking on the door for an NFC wild card slot. With only one game between both these teams and Minnesota, who is currently holding that last slot, this game could have the result of leaving one of these teams on the outside looking in. Granted they would need some assistance to get there, neither of these teams can afford to risk a loss. I think this match up will fall into the hands of Drew Brees and Marques Colston.

Saints keep marching just behind the Wild Card slot

Atlanta Falcons(3-10) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers(8-5) 1:00PM

After last week’s loss, the Falcons are out. It was an expected finish for a team in the middle of a PR nightmare. How happy will the Falcons be to begin a new year without the drama surrounding Michael Vick surrounding them…as much? This week they will travel to Tampa in hopes of filling the role of the spoiler. A role New Orleans would like to see them fulfill. Sorry, I don’t see it.

Buccaneers hold off the Falcons to maintain their two game divisional lead

Baltimore Ravens(4-9) at Miami Dolphins(0-13) 1:00PM

The Ravens are out, and the Dolphins are WAY OUT!!! The Dolphins have absolutely nothing to lose by laying it all out on the line. It will be up to the Ravens to defend there season from possibly fielding the only win by a winless Miami Dolphins team. So many games have slipped from the finger tips of both these teams just as they thought a win was there’s for the taking. Who will manage to hold on for a little bit of pride this week?

Ravens escape giving the Dolphins a win

Buffalo Bills(7-6) at Cleveland Browns(8-5) 1:00PM

The Browns currently hold the last slot in the AFC Wild Card, but the Bills are only one game behind. This week Buffalo will make the trip to Cleveland with hopes of a win and move into that last Wild Card spot. Browns defense has been had some problems keeping their opponents out of the end zone, but the Browns offense has been enjoying some scoring success of their own. I expect this to be a hard hitting match up full of hard hits and high emotions. In the end…

Bills steal the win to cause more mischief in the AFC Wild Card race

Green Bay Packers(11-2) at St. Louis Rams(3-10) 1:00PM

The Packers have their division wrapped up and will be looking to claim a first round bye this week with hopes of home-field advantage before the season is up. The Rams on the other hand will hope to find themselves in the spoiler role regardless of the injuries that still plague this team. Unfortunately, I think this is a task that proves to be too great of a challenge for St. Louis.

Packers continue to finish strong

Jacksonville Jaguars(9-4) at Pittsburgh Steelers(9-4) 1:00PM

The Steelers have a good team, they have a lot of talent, they have a decent record, but yet they still find ways to lose games they shouldn’t. Then last week, they failed to find a way in what could very well have been the last opportunity to end a perfect season for New England. Jacksonville has lost their four games to only three teams because of two losses to 11-2 Indy. Both teams have high hopes of a post season and control their own destiny at this point. It’s going to come down to who wants it more.

Jaguars continue to sink their claws into a playoff berth

New York Jets(3-10) at New England Patriots(13-0) 1:00PM

The Patriots have already wrapped up their division, the first round bye, and will look to clinch home-field before this day is out. The only thing that stands in their way is the eliminated Jets, who are second worst only to Miami in the AFC. If this game were to be an upset, it would be a big one, but I wouldn’t put any bets on it.

Patriots wrap up their playoff scenario, do they sit starters now?

Seattle Seahawks(9-4) at Carolina Panthers(5-8) 1:00PM

The Seahawks are in the playoffs. As division winners, they can at least take one quick breath. However, a few more wins and a couple Green Bay losses would move them into the first round bye. Somehow I don’t see it happening, but the Seahawks will play to win and keep their fingers crossed as they travel to Carolina to take on the Panthers. Surprisingly the Panthers have only won one home game this season and are still considered in the hunt for the wild card at this point. That won’t last long.

Seahawks relieve Panthers of any hopes of a playoff berth

Tennessee Titans(7-6) at Kansas City Chiefs(4-9) 1:00PM

Titans will be looking to Vince Young this week for leadership as they find themselves holding on to playoff hopes, but facing yet another AFC West team. After squeaking by Oakland, falling to Denver, and then getting upset in overtime by San Diego, the Titans can’t feel comfortable about this match up regardless of how unbalanced the AFC West has been this year. The Chiefs are out, and no longer have anything to lose. As much as Denver would love to benefit from a Titans loss during the Wild Card race…

Titans pull off the victory at Arrowhead

Indianapolis Colts(11-2) at Oakland Raiders(4-9) 4:05PM

The Colts have clinched a playoff berth, but thanks to the pursuit of Jacksonville, they have yet to wrap up the division. The Colts should be thankful to have what should be an easy match up for them this week. However, they shouldn’t go into this game to lightly, parity loves the playing field.

Colts win to take their division

Detroit Lions(6-7) at San Diego Chargers(8-5) 4:15PM

Jon Kitna won’t be getting his 10+ wins this season, but the Lions aren’t ready to go quietly into the night. They remain among the teams that are one game out of the Wild Card spot. After a disappointing loss last week where they let Dallas sneak back for the win in the fourth quarter, the Lions will look to try and not replay Week 14 for both these teams, as San Diego found themselves on the winning side of last weeks comeback.

Lions find a way to hold onto win

Philadelphia Eagles(5-8) at Dallas Cowboys(12-1) 4:15PM

The Cowboys came close to letting a game slip away last week as they found themselves down in the fourth with a desperate need for a comeback. Of course, Tony Romo delivered and the Boys were victorious. They are already the division winners in the NFC East and will be looking to hold on for a first round bye and home-field advantage. At this point, they want a second shot at New England in the Super Bowl.

Cowboys win and move one step closer to that match up

Sunday, December 16, 2007 Sunday Night Football

*Note: Sunday Night games in Week 11-17 subject to change

Washington Redskins(6-7) at New York Giants(9-4) 8:15PM

With the Giants holding onto a Wild Card slot and the Redskins still alive in the hunt, both teams should bring a passion for victory into this divisional rivalry. It’s going to be a question of which version of Eli Manning will we be expected to see and can Todd Collins lead his team to another victory? Giants may have the better record on the season, but I would have to call this game a toss up. So when in doubt, pick the home team.

Giants preserve the home field win

Monday, December 17, 2007 Monday Night Football

Chicago Bears(5-8) at Minnesota Vikings(7-6) 8:30PM

Adrian Peterson or Devin Hester…which playmaker will lead his team to victory? Although they are still alive in the Wild Card hunt the Bears are not likely to make the playoffs this year while the hot Minnesota Vikings are running a win streak into the post season. I expect to momentum to remain on the side of Minnesota. Add the home field advantage and I’ve got my pick.

Vikings continue to remain hot and hold their playoff slot.

So there you have it. Only two more regular season weeks to go after this and then it’s on to the playoffs. Who will stay and who will go? Some teams have a playoff berth in the bag, others are still struggling. Should make for some interesting games, and as the Miami Dolphins will probably join the 1976 Buccaneers at 0-14 after this week I think it’s only fitting to quote the Bucs first coach John McKay when he said, “Well, we’ve determined that we can’t win at home and we can’t win on the road. What we need is a neutral site.”

NFL Week 14 Picks

If I thought that I was going down last week, than I had another thing coming. Week 13 proved to be as unlucky as any number 13 can be. I tanked, flopped, sank, bombed, stank, crashed, you got a name for it, I did it last week by finishing 6-10 bringing my season average down below the .600 mark (114-78 (.594)). But that’s OK, just like Minnesota in their 34-0 loss to Green Bay, I will bounce back. Minnesota has since gone on a 3-0 run, guess that means I need to look to finish the season strong. No better way to do it, than to get right to it! Week 14 Picks!!!

ALL TIMES ARE EASTERN

Thursday, December 6, 2007

Chicago Bears(5-7) at Washington Redskins(5-7) 8:15PM

I really had expected the Redskins to play hard in memory of Sean Taylor, but the truth of the matter was probably that it was too early. The tragedy shook up the team and probably had them distracted all week, making for a tough game on Sunday. I’d like to say that this is the game the Skins get back into it, but I’m having my doubts.

Bears win in squeaker, thanks to Devin Hester

Sunday, December 9, 2007

Carolina Panthers(5-7) at Jacksonville Jaguars(8-4) 1:00PM

Wow, did the Panthers finally pull off a one sided win last week at home? Yes, as a matter of fact they did, and I thank them for being one of my very very few wins last week. However, I don’t give them a chance against a Jaguar team that almost completed a comeback against Indy last week.

Jaguars win at home

Dallas Cowboys(11-1) at Detriot Lions(6-6) 1:00PM

After the Cowboys were able to take care of business in their match up with Green Bay last week, I find it hard to believe that the Lions will be able to hold them back. After starting the season 6-2, I’m afraid this week will extend their losing streak to five. Sorry Jon Kitna, looks like you’ll have to wait till next year for your 10+ win season.

Cowboys continue to dominate the NFC

Miami Dolphins(0-12) at Buffalo Bills(6-6) 1:00PM

After losing two in a row to top notch teams like New England and Jacksonville, the Bills finally recorded a ‘W’ in the win column last week against Washington. As for the Dolphins, it looks like they will be on their way to being the only team in history to have two perfect seasons, one perfectly played and one perfectly painful.

Bills don’t slack off in front of the home crowd

New York Giants(8-4) at Philadelphia Eagles(5-7) 1:00PM

Even if Donovan McNabb is expected to return for this match up, I wouldn’t expect much from him. He’s been a questionable up and down this year and may have a little rust to shake off after his injury. On top of that, the Eagles are only 2-4 at home this season. However, I can’t hold a lot of faith in Eli Manning either as we have seen just as many interceptions as touchdown thrown by him this season.

Giants in another close win

Oakland Raiders(4-8) at Green Bay Packers(10-2) 1:00PM

The Packers are coming off a loss that they could have comeback from had they played just a few things differently, but hindsight is always 20/20. This week they should be getting Brett Favre back, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, we can only hope that he sticks with a better game plan this week. His gunslinger attempts at big gains last week resulted in interceptions that got the Packers off to a horrible start. Far be it from me to try and tell Favre how to play his game, but it’s been the shorter passing and longer runs by the receivers that got them to 10-1 in the first place. Stay with what works.

Packers win at home, look to rematch with Dallas in the playoffs

San Diego Charger(7-5) at Tennessee Titans(7-5) 1:00PM

Vince Young and the Titans have gotten back on the winning side of the scoreboard as they prepare to host the Chargers this week. Albert Haynesworth will look to test his hand at bringing down LaDainian Tomlinson while Young tries to repeat last weeks throwing performance. This game looks to be pretty evenly matched up, so I’m going to go with the home team.

Titans fend off the Chargers to win two in a row

St. Louis Rams(3-9) at Cincinnati Bengals(4-8) 1:00PM

The Rams have seemed to have some good looking games after the return of Steven Jackson to the line up, but what a mess the quarterback position has become. With Marc Bulger’s neuropsych exam and Gus Frerotte’ MRI the Rams may be starting Brock Berlin. This may be a tough week for the Rams.

Bengals take the win at home

Tampa Bay Buccaneers(8-4) at Houston Texans(5-7) 1:00PM

With Houston’s recent losing streak and the possible loss of Matt Schaub with a dislocated left shoulder, the Texans will have their hands full this week as they host the Buccaneers. All isn’t lost with Sage Rosenfels, but it can’t be said that he’s the guy you want behind center when facing any division leader. I wouldn’t count the Texans as hopeless for a win, but I wouldn’t put money on it.

Buccaneers advance win streak to five

Arizona Cardinals(6-6) at Seattle Seahawks(8-4) 4:05PM

I really can’t tell you what to make of the Arizona Cardinals this year. They defeat teams like Pittsburgh and Cleveland, but lose to San Fran twice! This week they are on the road and possibly without both of their top receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. Kurt Warner will need a lot of supporting help from Edgerrin James in order to pull this one off.

Seahawks take the home win to even up this division series

Minnesota Vikings(6-6) at San Francisco 49ers(3-9) 4:05PM

Tarvaris Jackson looks better every week, and it sure doesn’t hurt to have Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor running the ball. With the surging power of these running backs propelling this team through three victories in a row it’s possible the Niners might get hurt if they don’t move out of the way.

Vikings continue to streak for a playoff spot.

Cleveland Browns(7-5) at New York Jets(3-9) 4:15PM

The Jets looked like a professional football team last week as they rolled their opponent 40-13. Even Thomas Jones was able to find his way into the end zone for the first time in a Jets uniform…as a Jet’s player. Of course, it helps when you’re playing 0-12 Miami. The Browns may have stumbled a bit and fell last week in Arizona, but they shouldn’t suffer from that problem again this week.

Browns take a win on the road to try and stay behind Pittsburgh

Kansas City Chiefs(4-8) at Denver Broncos(5-7) 4:15PM

Everyone has a bad week and last week Cutler had an awful one. It doesn’t matter how good or bad a team is, it’s hard to win if you keep giving the ball to your opponent on your side of the field. Add the bit of rust that Travis Henry had to shake off and there’s your lose. This week the Broncos will look to bounce back in hopes for a run (and a little bit of help) to keep them in the shadow of a playoff hope. Minimizing turnover’s and no Devin Hester to kickoff to, the Broncos will find a way to get back on track inside Mile High.

Broncos bounce back

Pittsburgh Steelers(9-3) at New England Patriots(12-0) 4:15PM

Alright, who doesn’t think this is a trap pick? With the Patriots coming off two close calls over their last two match ups, this game has to show a light of hope for the Steelers. The run style offense of Pittsburgh with Willie Parker should be able to duplicate Baltimore’s run attack last week and the connection between Ben Roethlisberger and his receivers Santonio Holmes(if he returns) and Hines Ward can offer the opportunity to mimic the Philadelphia air attack displayed by Philly two weeks ago. Add to that the stout defense of Pittsburgh and the possible return of Troy Polamalu and this could be it, but is there really a possibility for an upset?

Time to stick a neck out, Steelers upset Patriots to end their perfect season

Sunday, December 9 2007 Sunday Night Football

*Note: Sunday Night games in Weeks 11-17 subject to change

Indianapolis Colts(10-2) at Baltimore Ravens(4-8) 8:15 PM

Another game that is hard to call after the performance put forth by the Ravens last week against New England when they ALMOST managed the upset. However, after Baltimore had a near victory stolen from them by Cleveland they were routed by San Diego. This week they will repeat the confusing spin after losing the game they should have had by giving up a big game to Peyton Manning and the Colts.

Colts take a win on the road

Monday, December 10, 2007 Monday Night Football

New Orleans Saints(5-7) at Atlanta Falcons(3-9) 8:30PM

New Orleans has lost a few close match ups in recent weeks, but will look to put up some numbers this week on the road in Atlanta. The Falcons have had to struggle through this season in an attempt to regain an identity post-Vick. This week it won’t get any easier as they host the Saints.

Saints march on Monday Night

Well, this concludes yet another week of NFL picks. This week promises to be much better than last week after recording an all-time low. So, in the spirit of improvement, a quote from George Rogers: “I want to rush for 1,000 or 1,500 yards, whichever comes first.”

NFL Week 13 Picks

If you’re going to go down, go down in style! Well, I don’t know how much style I did it in, but I did go down, only Miami saved me from falling below the .500 mark…at your expense, I thank you guys! I think this week emphasized the fact that there is no such thing as a sure thing as we watched Eli Manning literally throw away any chance New York had to win, San Francisco found a way to sweep Arizona in both of their match ups, Devin Hester fueled a fire that started a comeback victory in a game the should have been lost, and A.J. Feeley came one ill-decided pass away from the biggest upset of the season. Of course I wasn’t satisfied with the drama the NFL dished out this week so I added my own by picking upsets that only upset me. Houston couldn’t get it done, Tennessee fell short, Washington lost the intensity they brought to Dallas, and Baltimore couldn’t carry the intensity that almost won them the game the week before. All that and I finish the week with the weak and feeble record of 8-8, and a season total of 108-68 (.614). This week SCREAMS from improvement, so lets get the show on the road!

ALL TIMES ARE EASTERN

Thursday, November 29 2007

Green Bay Packers(10-1) at Dallas Cowboys(10-1) 8:15PM

What a match up, what a game! To bad it will be aired on NFL Network!!! What a rip off! Local fans in Green Bay and Dallas without NFL Network won’t even be able to watch this game without a ticket, and I’m expecting one hard fought match. Brett Favre is having the season of a career, and it’s been a long career at that. Tony Romo is still fresh and new to the league, but has numbers of his own to back the talk the Cowboys are talking. Such a hard call, such a great match up, and most of the “experts” are literally giving this to the home team. I can’t say how many times I’ve heard “I’m taking Dallas, but it this game was at Lambeau…,” well I’m not waiting for the rematch in Lambeau, I’m taking the upset early this week. Game One, Thursday night, the Packers will travel to Dallas and upset the Cowboys.

Packers in the upset!

Sunday, December 2 2007

Atlanta Falcons(3-8) at St. Louis Rams(2-9) 1:00PM

Both of these teams have suffered from injuries and bad seasons. Now they match up while the Rams have started to pick up some steam. With Steven Jackson back in the backfield, Marc Bulger and Gus Frerotte have been finding time to breath and the Rams have marked up two wins and a near miss on the third. Joey Harrington will be leading the Falcons into this game with hopes of taking advantage of the less than stellar Rams defense. It could be a close game, but I’m going with the home team for this match up.

Rams get back on a winning track.

Buffalo Bills(5-6) at Washington Redskins(5-6) 1:00PM

Two weeks ago the Skins showed a spark of life as they challenged Dallas and put up a brutal fight just short of the win. But Jason Campbell and Clinton Portis couldn’t get it done then, and then fell short in Tampa the following week. Now they’ll host the Bills who have just switched back to Trent Edwards after J.P. Losman couldn’t find a way to get it done against Jacksonville. I originally wanted the Bills here, but the more I think of it, the more I want the home team in a match up like this.

Redskins secure a home win.

Detroit Lions(6-5) at Minnesota Vikings(5-6) 1:00PM

Jon Kitna better get back on the winning side of the scoreboard if he intends on making good on his promise of 10 wins this season. With only 5 games left to go and 4 wins short of 10 it’s starting to look a little hopeless. But don’t worry, as long as Kitna spends plenty of time watching Eli’s film on how NOT to be an NFL quarterback he might be able to hold the Minnesota defense scoreless. If Kitna and the Lions can accomplish that, they may have a shot at out scoring the possible return of Adrian Peterson.

Lions find a way to add another win on the season.

Houston Texans(5-6) at Tennesse Titans(6-5) 1:00PM

Both of these teams let me down last week. The only difference is that Matt Schaub and company didn’t get blown out in the fashion that Vince Young and the Titans did. Andre Johnson should be good and warmed up by this point as the Titans seem to be in a back pedal. I think this match up is going to end with Tennessee and Houston switching places on the AFC South rankings.

Texans find victory on the road.

Jacksonville Jaguars(8-3) at Indianapolis Colts(9-2) 1:00PM

In the first meeting of these to teams Jacksonville hosted and the Colts made themselves more than comfortable in the Jaguars house in a 29-7 victory for Indy. However, I believe that this match up will have a different air about it. David Garrard and his running tandem of Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew haven’t been slouching this season and with the Colts still suffering from injuries I think an upset may be in the works. Even with the possibility of Peyton Manning welcoming the return of his favorite receiver Marvin Harrison, there is the possibility Harrison will be rusty. Nope, I’m going to have to go with a second upset this week.

Jaguars return the favor and upset Indy at home.

New York Jets(2-9) at Miami Dolphins(0-11) 1:00PM

The Dolphins have to win at some point don’t they? And after another heartbreaking three point loss in the final seconds to Pittsburgh in last weeks 0-3 Mud Bowl, this game should be their closest thing to hope. So here’s what I see, neither team has a hope nor a prayer for a playoff and Miami is desperate not to be a shut out on the season. With John Beck at the lead, and the hopes of a healthier Jesse Chatman or Ricky Williams, the Dolphins sneak their only chance at a win.

Dolphins find their one and only win.

San Diego Chargers(6-5) at Kansas City Chiefs(4-7) 1:00PM

The Chargers are back! What happened to the Chargers? Oops, their back again. No wait, what happened to them in that game? OK, their back again. Yup, it’s been quite the rollercoaster season for the Chargers and their fans, but in a rivalry match up against a struggling Chiefs team that has lost their magic in Arrowhead; I can only expect a big game from Philip Rivers and LaDainian Tomlinson. Add the receptive abilities of Antonio Gates and the defensive threat in Shawne Merriman and the outcome looks bleak for the Chiefs. However, let’s not forget…”Any Given Sunday.”

Chargers add to the woes of Arrowhead

Seattle Seahawks(7-4) at Philadelphia Eagles(5-6) 1:00PM

OK, I’m just going to admit to falling into this trap right up front and center. Last week Washington played a ferocious game against Dallas, but flopped in the following week when I expected them to win and now I’m looking follow the same logic in this match up. How can the Eagles play such a tough game against undefeated New England then lose to Seattle in the following week? I have to think the team that can rise up in Foxboro and give New England a run for their money can win at home against the not so hot Seahawks…can’t wait to find out.

Eagles carry last weeks fight into this week’s victory.

San Francisco 49ers(3-8) at Carolina Panthers(4-7) 1:00PM

Um,…uh,…I don’t know? How about…

The 4thers defeat the Pan9ers?

OK, so neither of these teams has been spectacular this year. Both have only mustered up one pair of back-to-back wins. That gives me two forms of logic to work with: 1) The 49ers just won a game and the odds of second, back-to-back win is unlikely and 2) the Panthers have the home field advantage where they’ve won…OH GREAT! The Panthers haven’t won a home game all season!!! Where’s my coin? Do I have to flip? Nah, I’m just going to cross my fingers and say…

Panthers find their first home win of the season.

Cleveland Browns(7-4) at Arizona Cardinals(5-6) 4:05PM

Kurt Warner has been able to lead the Cardinals to a couple of wins this season, and Edgerrin James hasn’t been a stranger to the end zone, but this week they get to welcome the Browns to their home field. Cleveland’s defense will be more than friendly enough to give way for a few Cardinal touchdowns, but the chances are pretty good that the Derek Anderson / Braylon Edwards connection with get more. Add one on the ground, courtesy of Jamal Lewis and the Browns will continue to roll in their pursuit to over take Pittsburgh for the AFC North.

Browns remain in the hunt for their division

Denver Broncos(5-6) at Oakland Raiders(3-8) 4:05PM

Jay Cutler is settling in behind the center in Denver as his numbers continue to rise, and the Broncos offensive line continues to prove they can pave the way for any of their running backs whether it’s Travis Henry, Selvin Young, or Andre Hall as Hall filled in last week like he had been their all season. Now if only Denver’s defense could find a way to preserve a winning lead. OK, so not all the blame can go to defense. Special teams could use some work too, Devin Hester or not! Lucky for the Broncos, the Raiders don’t have an offense or a great return man.

Broncos light up the Black Hole.

New York Giants(7-4) at Chicago Bears(5-6) 4:15PM

Oh boy. Where should I go here? Battle of the interception prone quarterbacks? OK, I’m going to go out on a limb here and say that in no way will Eli Manning repeat the AWFUL performance he had last week. He couldn’t possibly do it two weeks in a row…could he? On a brighter note for the Giants, the Bears defense isn’t nearly as dominating as they were last year. So with all that said, Plaxico Burress continues to push through the pain, Jeremy Shockey continues to be Shockey, and the Giants defense hurries Rex Grossman into a few mistakes.

Giants manage a road win.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers(7-4) at New Orleans Saints(5-6) 4:15PM

New Orleans started out the season on shaky ground and has already traveled to Tampa for a loss this season. Since then, Tampa managed a fairly decent season and currently controls the NFC South. However, this week the match up will take place in the Superdome in New Orleans and Drew Brees will hope to energize the home crowd with the help of Marques Colston and Reggie Bush. Brees and the Saints will be looking to erase the memory of their last home game against St. Louis with a reenactment of their match up vs. Jacksonville.

Saints march this one in for the upset.

Sunday, December 2 2007 Sunday Night Football

*Note: Sunday night games in Weeks 11-17 subject to change.

Cincinnati Bengals(4-7) at Pittsburgh Steelers(8-3) 8:15PM

I think I’ve found myself torn on more games this week than I have all season. I look at the records of these teams and think that I should be taking the Steelers for a win hands down, but after their last two match ups against the Jets and Miami…well, we all know the Bengals have the power to run up a scoreboard. I want to pick the Steelers, especially at home. OK, here’s where I’m going to go with this one. Steelers have had their two in a row glitch and yet they have remained undefeated at home. This is the week they bounce back and put the points up on the board.

Steelers rebound two tough weeks with a home win.

Monday, December 3 2007 Monday Night Football

New England Patriots(11-0) at Baltimore Ravens(4-7) 8:30PM

The Patriots have shown they have a weakness, and had it not been for an ill-thought throw from A.J. Feeley in the finally minutes of last weeks game they may not have been coming into this match up undefeated. Now they travel to Baltimore were Tom Brady is sure to still be rattled from the week before and Randy Moss will be throwing a tantrum over his less than great week. The defense will cry like babies and Belichick will get caught cheating again as the Ravens go on to victory…

OK folks, let’s get real here, it ain’t happening!!!

Patriots answer last weeks close call with a blow-out on Monday Night.

There you have it. Another conclusion to the weekly picks of hard hitting, bloodied, smash-mouth football. On the field, all is fair in love and football. Bo Jackson said it best, “If my mother put on a helmet and shoulder pads and a uniform that wasn't the same as the one I was wearing, I'd run over her if she was in my way. And I love my mother."