Home team in CAPS
Lines Courtesy of sportsbetting.com
San Fransisco (-2.5) over Denver
Jacksonville (+6.5) over DALLAS
DETROIT (-2.5) over Washington
Green Bay (+6) over NEW YORK JETS
Carolina (+1.5) over ST. LOUIS
Tennessee (+4) over SAN DIEGO
OAKLAND (-3) over Seattle
NEW ENGLAND (-6) over Minnesota
Pittsburgh (+1) over NEW ORLEANS
INDIANAPOLIS (-6) over Houston
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
KANSAS CITY (-7) over Buffalo
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Tampa Bay (+3) over ARIZONA
LOCK OF THE WEEK
Miami (+1) over CINCINNATI
Last Week: 7-7
Overall: 51-48-5
Lock Picks: 9-10-2
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Week 8 Power Rankings
The Elite
1. Baltimore Ravens- even if they were not impressive in their win over Buffalo, they still pulled it off, and thus, I can't drop them out of the top spot.
2. New York Jets- Bye week, stay at number 2.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers- And the Steelers stay at number 3, but this time they round out the Elite teams after squeaking by Miami. I still believe these are the only three Elite teams through this stage of the season, and these are them.
The Contenders
4. Tennessee Titans- Boy did Kenny Britt make a name for himself this week huh? The Titans finally have a serious weapon in the passing game, to compliment the league's best running back. I really like their chances at going deep in the playoffs. Unfortunately, they play in the AFC.
5. Atlanta Falcons- Unlike the Falcons, who play in the abysmal NFC and have stood out, at least in my opinion, to be the best team in the Conference.
6. Indianapolis Colts- Why bet against Peyton Manning? Even with all of their injuries, they are still pretty close to an Elite team.
7. New England Patriots- The first team with some significant movement, I have been very impressed with how well New England has played the last two weeks. Very surprising that they pulled off wins against both the Ravens and Chargers. There is no way we can't call them contenders at this point.
8. Kansas City- The clear surprise team of the season, Kansas City continues to prove that they are legit, bouncing back from two tough losses to crush the Jaguars this past week. I'm a believer.
9. Green Bay Packers- Even with a bruised, battered and broken lineup, they beat the Vikings on Sunday night. They may not get much healthier and it is definitely a concern, but playing in the NFC keeps them contenders for sure.
10. Houston Texans- off a bye, but still one of the more balanced teams in the league. Unfortunate for them, they are in a division with two teams ranked above them.
11. New York Giants- Still the luckiest team in the league and you can't convince me otherwise. Three wins against backup QBs? And they still only beat the Kitna-led Cowboys by five? When are we going to see the real Giants against a good team? Unfortunately, their schedule is so soft that it may not come til very late in the season. Why haven't I bet on the AFC to win the Super Bowl yet?
The Mediocre
12. Seattle Seahawks- The definition of a mediocre team. 4-2, great at home, bad on the road, two of their wins come against their own awful division, and they are a pretty good bet to make the playoffs. Sad.
13. Chicago Bears- Another quintessential mediocre team. Do you feel confident that they can beat anyone going into a game? With that big of a hole in their offensive line, Cutler might not survive the season.
14. San Diego- I don't care that they are 2-5. They shouldn't be. They have one of the best offenses AND best defenses in the league. They should have a much better record, and I can see them bouncing back in a BIG way in the second half. Very deceiving record.
15. Washington Redskins- Nope, still not ready to call them contenders.
16. Philadelphia Eagles- The QB carousel will continue after next week, which I don't think is very fair to Kevin Kolb. His team lost to one of the best teams in football, and it wasn't his fault. Yet they feel more comfortable watching Mike Vick try and run around after his injury. I think its a mistake, but either way they are nothing more than another mediocre NFC team.
17. Miami Dolphins- Another team that could win any time out, but could also lose to any team in the league. Completely inconsistent, but should have beaten the Steelers and got hosed on a poor ruling by the officials.
18. New Orleans- They lost to the Browns, who aren't as bad as people think, but still aren't good either. They are suffering one giant Super Bowl Hangover, but in the NFC, they could still very easily grab a Wild Card spot.
19. Oakland Raiders- Wow. What got into the Oakland Raiders this week? It made very little sense, but hey, neither has anything in the NFL this year. I can't call a team that put up 59 Garbage, just can't do it.
20. Cleveland Browns- Like I said, they are not as bad as people think. Colt McCoy could be a player in this league yet. Maybe there will be a few teams who wished they hadn't passed on him, he looks decent for a rookie.
21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Their 4-2 record is about as deceiving as the Chargers 2-5.
22. St. Louis Rams- The team that lost to the team directly above this past week. They keep showing that they are just good enough to lose to other mediocre teams. But hey, for this Rams team, that's actually considered a plus!
23. Detroit Lions- They have actually outscored opponents on the season, and are 1-6. They almost beat the Giants with their third string QB, and they get Stafford back this week. Time to make your move, Lions.
The Garbage
24. Dallas Cowboys- No more Tony Romo, a 1-5 record, despite all the talent on the team, they are Garbage and going absolutely nowhere. Sorry Jerry.
25. Minnesota Vikings- Ahhh Brett Favre's swan song. Nothing is more satisfying than watching this scumbag's career and reputation go down in flames simultaneously. When will the streak end? Will it happpen due to injury, or coach's decision? I'll watch, gleefully.
26. Cincinnati Bengals- Yup, still being overrated, still a very easy call to bet against them, and they are still going to continue to lose and finish last in the division. Yup, behind Cleveland.
27. Arizona Cardinals- This team could make the playoffs. I don't think there is anything more to say about the state of the NFC.
28. San Francisco 49ers- Ladies and gentlemen, the Troy Smith era is about to begin!
29. Jacksonville Jaguars- Two of their three wins came against teams ranked lower than them. And there are only 3 teams ranked lower than them. I've said enough.
30. Denver Broncos- Turns out I wasn't being too harsh last time. I was being far, far too generous. What happened, Denver? 59 points allowed to the Raiders on your home field? Disgusting.
31. Carolina Panthers- At least they got in the win column this week, even if it was against the lowly Niners.
32. Buffalo Bills- They may be 0-6, but they sure did lose in style last week against Baltimore. Their offense is actually moving the ball. But until they get a win, there is no logical reason to move them up any higher.
1. Baltimore Ravens- even if they were not impressive in their win over Buffalo, they still pulled it off, and thus, I can't drop them out of the top spot.
2. New York Jets- Bye week, stay at number 2.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers- And the Steelers stay at number 3, but this time they round out the Elite teams after squeaking by Miami. I still believe these are the only three Elite teams through this stage of the season, and these are them.
The Contenders
4. Tennessee Titans- Boy did Kenny Britt make a name for himself this week huh? The Titans finally have a serious weapon in the passing game, to compliment the league's best running back. I really like their chances at going deep in the playoffs. Unfortunately, they play in the AFC.
5. Atlanta Falcons- Unlike the Falcons, who play in the abysmal NFC and have stood out, at least in my opinion, to be the best team in the Conference.
6. Indianapolis Colts- Why bet against Peyton Manning? Even with all of their injuries, they are still pretty close to an Elite team.
7. New England Patriots- The first team with some significant movement, I have been very impressed with how well New England has played the last two weeks. Very surprising that they pulled off wins against both the Ravens and Chargers. There is no way we can't call them contenders at this point.
8. Kansas City- The clear surprise team of the season, Kansas City continues to prove that they are legit, bouncing back from two tough losses to crush the Jaguars this past week. I'm a believer.
9. Green Bay Packers- Even with a bruised, battered and broken lineup, they beat the Vikings on Sunday night. They may not get much healthier and it is definitely a concern, but playing in the NFC keeps them contenders for sure.
10. Houston Texans- off a bye, but still one of the more balanced teams in the league. Unfortunate for them, they are in a division with two teams ranked above them.
11. New York Giants- Still the luckiest team in the league and you can't convince me otherwise. Three wins against backup QBs? And they still only beat the Kitna-led Cowboys by five? When are we going to see the real Giants against a good team? Unfortunately, their schedule is so soft that it may not come til very late in the season. Why haven't I bet on the AFC to win the Super Bowl yet?
The Mediocre
12. Seattle Seahawks- The definition of a mediocre team. 4-2, great at home, bad on the road, two of their wins come against their own awful division, and they are a pretty good bet to make the playoffs. Sad.
13. Chicago Bears- Another quintessential mediocre team. Do you feel confident that they can beat anyone going into a game? With that big of a hole in their offensive line, Cutler might not survive the season.
14. San Diego- I don't care that they are 2-5. They shouldn't be. They have one of the best offenses AND best defenses in the league. They should have a much better record, and I can see them bouncing back in a BIG way in the second half. Very deceiving record.
15. Washington Redskins- Nope, still not ready to call them contenders.
16. Philadelphia Eagles- The QB carousel will continue after next week, which I don't think is very fair to Kevin Kolb. His team lost to one of the best teams in football, and it wasn't his fault. Yet they feel more comfortable watching Mike Vick try and run around after his injury. I think its a mistake, but either way they are nothing more than another mediocre NFC team.
17. Miami Dolphins- Another team that could win any time out, but could also lose to any team in the league. Completely inconsistent, but should have beaten the Steelers and got hosed on a poor ruling by the officials.
18. New Orleans- They lost to the Browns, who aren't as bad as people think, but still aren't good either. They are suffering one giant Super Bowl Hangover, but in the NFC, they could still very easily grab a Wild Card spot.
19. Oakland Raiders- Wow. What got into the Oakland Raiders this week? It made very little sense, but hey, neither has anything in the NFL this year. I can't call a team that put up 59 Garbage, just can't do it.
20. Cleveland Browns- Like I said, they are not as bad as people think. Colt McCoy could be a player in this league yet. Maybe there will be a few teams who wished they hadn't passed on him, he looks decent for a rookie.
21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Their 4-2 record is about as deceiving as the Chargers 2-5.
22. St. Louis Rams- The team that lost to the team directly above this past week. They keep showing that they are just good enough to lose to other mediocre teams. But hey, for this Rams team, that's actually considered a plus!
23. Detroit Lions- They have actually outscored opponents on the season, and are 1-6. They almost beat the Giants with their third string QB, and they get Stafford back this week. Time to make your move, Lions.
The Garbage
24. Dallas Cowboys- No more Tony Romo, a 1-5 record, despite all the talent on the team, they are Garbage and going absolutely nowhere. Sorry Jerry.
25. Minnesota Vikings- Ahhh Brett Favre's swan song. Nothing is more satisfying than watching this scumbag's career and reputation go down in flames simultaneously. When will the streak end? Will it happpen due to injury, or coach's decision? I'll watch, gleefully.
26. Cincinnati Bengals- Yup, still being overrated, still a very easy call to bet against them, and they are still going to continue to lose and finish last in the division. Yup, behind Cleveland.
27. Arizona Cardinals- This team could make the playoffs. I don't think there is anything more to say about the state of the NFC.
28. San Francisco 49ers- Ladies and gentlemen, the Troy Smith era is about to begin!
29. Jacksonville Jaguars- Two of their three wins came against teams ranked lower than them. And there are only 3 teams ranked lower than them. I've said enough.
30. Denver Broncos- Turns out I wasn't being too harsh last time. I was being far, far too generous. What happened, Denver? 59 points allowed to the Raiders on your home field? Disgusting.
31. Carolina Panthers- At least they got in the win column this week, even if it was against the lowly Niners.
32. Buffalo Bills- They may be 0-6, but they sure did lose in style last week against Baltimore. Their offense is actually moving the ball. But until they get a win, there is no logical reason to move them up any higher.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Week 7 Picks
The NFL is a cruel, unpredictable mistress. Sometimes, there is just no rhyme or reason to her ways. I had the worst week of my picking career last week, after a steady string of .500 weeks. It was brutal. The only good I took away from the week was a 30-3 drubbing that Tennessee laid on the Jaguars. Honestly, I'm just going to chalk up last week as a fluke. That's why I'm not doing a power rankings this week (well that and being slammed with other work and getting no sleep all week).
One thing I will say though, pound the overs this week. The officials are going to be over-reacting left and right on every hit that is even close to illegal, meaning 15 yard penalties galore. If you bet over/unders, this week was built for you.
Home team in CAPS
Lines courtesy of sportsbetting.com
Pittsburgh (-3) over MIAMI
Don't see any reason why they wouldn't win this game. They are probably the best team in football right now.
KANSAS CITY (-9) over Jacksonville
This game is off over at Sportsbetting, but I found this on another site so I'm rolling with it. The Jags are on their third string quarterback, this should be an EASY win for KC.
TENNESSEE (-3) over Philadelphia
Both teams performed very well last week, but I just think Tennessee is better overall. Should be some fireworks here though, a good one to watch.
CHICAGO (-3) over Washington
Because Chicago is due for a good game, and Washington is due for a stinker.
Cleveland (+13) over NEW ORLEANS
Because I haven't picked an underdog yet, and Colt McCoy looked good in his first start.
BALTIMORE (-13) over Buffalo
This game could be a shutout. Ed Reed is back in business for Blatimore, and the Bills are simply awful.
CAROLINA (+3) over San Francisco
Because I HATE San Francisco.
TAMPA BAY (-3) over St. Louis
I'm still holding out hope that the Rams won't win 5 games, so really this is wishful thinking in a game that no one in their right mind would want to watch.
SAN DIEGO (-2.5) over New England
They are extremely desperate and I'm still not totally sold on the Patriots. Plus they play infinitely better at home and Phillip Rivers is bound to be pissed off, so I like them.
Oakland (+7.5) over DENVER
Everyone and their mother is picking the Broncos, but hell, who says Kyle Boller can't come out and shock the world. This is the NFL we are living in people!!!
Minnesota (+3) over GREEN BAY
It is physically painful for me to pick the completely overrated and joke of a team led by Brett Favre over my Super Bowl pick, but, the Packers are just too beat up. The Vikings catch them at the PERFECT time.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
SEATTLE (-6.5) over Arizona
Max Hall on the road in the league's toughest environment? I don't like that combination. the Seattle defense dominates this one.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
DALLAS (-3.5) over New York Giants
The Giants almost lost to the Detroit Lions... who were playing their THIRD STRING QUARTERBACK. Dallas is desperate to save their season and they are at home. I think they win this game, easily.
LOCK OF THE WEEK
ATLANTA (-3.5) over Cincinnati
It is crazy how much Vegas continues to overrate this Cincinnati team. Atlanta needs to bounce back here and I think they will, easily.
Last week: 4-9-1
Overall: 44-41-5
Lock Picks: 7-9-2
One thing I will say though, pound the overs this week. The officials are going to be over-reacting left and right on every hit that is even close to illegal, meaning 15 yard penalties galore. If you bet over/unders, this week was built for you.
Home team in CAPS
Lines courtesy of sportsbetting.com
Pittsburgh (-3) over MIAMI
Don't see any reason why they wouldn't win this game. They are probably the best team in football right now.
KANSAS CITY (-9) over Jacksonville
This game is off over at Sportsbetting, but I found this on another site so I'm rolling with it. The Jags are on their third string quarterback, this should be an EASY win for KC.
TENNESSEE (-3) over Philadelphia
Both teams performed very well last week, but I just think Tennessee is better overall. Should be some fireworks here though, a good one to watch.
CHICAGO (-3) over Washington
Because Chicago is due for a good game, and Washington is due for a stinker.
Cleveland (+13) over NEW ORLEANS
Because I haven't picked an underdog yet, and Colt McCoy looked good in his first start.
BALTIMORE (-13) over Buffalo
This game could be a shutout. Ed Reed is back in business for Blatimore, and the Bills are simply awful.
CAROLINA (+3) over San Francisco
Because I HATE San Francisco.
TAMPA BAY (-3) over St. Louis
I'm still holding out hope that the Rams won't win 5 games, so really this is wishful thinking in a game that no one in their right mind would want to watch.
SAN DIEGO (-2.5) over New England
They are extremely desperate and I'm still not totally sold on the Patriots. Plus they play infinitely better at home and Phillip Rivers is bound to be pissed off, so I like them.
Oakland (+7.5) over DENVER
Everyone and their mother is picking the Broncos, but hell, who says Kyle Boller can't come out and shock the world. This is the NFL we are living in people!!!
Minnesota (+3) over GREEN BAY
It is physically painful for me to pick the completely overrated and joke of a team led by Brett Favre over my Super Bowl pick, but, the Packers are just too beat up. The Vikings catch them at the PERFECT time.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
SEATTLE (-6.5) over Arizona
Max Hall on the road in the league's toughest environment? I don't like that combination. the Seattle defense dominates this one.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
DALLAS (-3.5) over New York Giants
The Giants almost lost to the Detroit Lions... who were playing their THIRD STRING QUARTERBACK. Dallas is desperate to save their season and they are at home. I think they win this game, easily.
LOCK OF THE WEEK
ATLANTA (-3.5) over Cincinnati
It is crazy how much Vegas continues to overrate this Cincinnati team. Atlanta needs to bounce back here and I think they will, easily.
Last week: 4-9-1
Overall: 44-41-5
Lock Picks: 7-9-2
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Week 6 Picks
Sorry guys, but lack of time this week makes for a lack of commentary on the picks, only really short notes this week. Be sure to peruse the power rankings for some explanation as to what I think about these teams. Here are my week 6 picks.
Home team in CAPS
Lines courtesy of sportsbetting.com
San Diego (-8) over ST. LOUIS
San Diego can't lay two eggs in a row to Garbage teams
Kansas City (+5) over HOUSTON
KC is simply playing better than Houston at this point.
TAMPA BAY (+4.5) over New Orleans
Tampa is on the rise and New Orleans is on the decline. Ripe upset pick.
Detroit (+10.5) over NEW YORK GIANTS
As I said in my power rankings, potential upset pick here as Eli is never very consistent and Detroit hitting stride.
CHICAGO (-6.5) over Seattle
Seattle on the road and Cutler is back this week. Bears might pitch a shutout.
GREEN BAY (-3.5) over MIAMI
Let's hope Aaron Rodgers isn't hampered by his injury.
Cleveland (+13.5) over PITTSBURGH
Like I said, Cleveland generally keeps it close, and I think their will be some rust on Big Ben. Expect a lot of running game for both teams, which shouldn't mean a blowout.
New York Jets (-3) over DENVER
I can't see the Broncos staying close against the Jets. Revis and Cromartie should give their passing game fits.
Oakland (+7) over SAN FRANCISCO
I'll take the points, and then San Fran will get their first win in a blowout. Just watch.
Dallas (+1.5) over MINNESOTA
Too much going against Minnesota in this must win game for both teams.
Tennessee (-3) over JACKSONVILLE
I really hope the Titans aren't going to toy with my emotions all season, with one good week, followed by a bad. They are due for a bad one, but Jacksonville just doesn't scare me.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
Baltimore (+2.5) over NEW ENGLAND
Don't know why New England is the favorite over the best team in football.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Indianapolis (-3) over WASHINGTON
The Redskins can't beat the Colts.... can they?
LOCK OF THE WEEK
Atlanta (+2) over PHILADELPHIA
This line is a joke, Atlanta should be favored by 6.
Last Week: 7-7
Overall: 40-32-4
Lock Picks: 6-8-1
Home team in CAPS
Lines courtesy of sportsbetting.com
San Diego (-8) over ST. LOUIS
San Diego can't lay two eggs in a row to Garbage teams
Kansas City (+5) over HOUSTON
KC is simply playing better than Houston at this point.
TAMPA BAY (+4.5) over New Orleans
Tampa is on the rise and New Orleans is on the decline. Ripe upset pick.
Detroit (+10.5) over NEW YORK GIANTS
As I said in my power rankings, potential upset pick here as Eli is never very consistent and Detroit hitting stride.
CHICAGO (-6.5) over Seattle
Seattle on the road and Cutler is back this week. Bears might pitch a shutout.
GREEN BAY (-3.5) over MIAMI
Let's hope Aaron Rodgers isn't hampered by his injury.
Cleveland (+13.5) over PITTSBURGH
Like I said, Cleveland generally keeps it close, and I think their will be some rust on Big Ben. Expect a lot of running game for both teams, which shouldn't mean a blowout.
New York Jets (-3) over DENVER
I can't see the Broncos staying close against the Jets. Revis and Cromartie should give their passing game fits.
Oakland (+7) over SAN FRANCISCO
I'll take the points, and then San Fran will get their first win in a blowout. Just watch.
Dallas (+1.5) over MINNESOTA
Too much going against Minnesota in this must win game for both teams.
Tennessee (-3) over JACKSONVILLE
I really hope the Titans aren't going to toy with my emotions all season, with one good week, followed by a bad. They are due for a bad one, but Jacksonville just doesn't scare me.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
Baltimore (+2.5) over NEW ENGLAND
Don't know why New England is the favorite over the best team in football.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Indianapolis (-3) over WASHINGTON
The Redskins can't beat the Colts.... can they?
LOCK OF THE WEEK
Atlanta (+2) over PHILADELPHIA
This line is a joke, Atlanta should be favored by 6.
Last Week: 7-7
Overall: 40-32-4
Lock Picks: 6-8-1
Friday, October 15, 2010
Week 6 Power Rankings
I'm going to use a little bit different format this time around, still trying different things to see what works best. I'm going to say a little bit about each team and why they moved to where they did, instead of writing paragraphs at the end of each section. Lets see if you like it better or worse.
The Elite
1. Baltimore Ravens- Yes, finally we have someone who has broken into the Elite. With wins over both the number 2 and 3 teams, the Ravens hold strong at the top of the rankings, and are a truly elite level team in this NFL with very few of them.
2. New York Jets- There are two Elite level teams to be precise, and the Jets are the other. 4-1 on the year and they have looked dominant on defense (expected) and better than average on offense (a pleasant surprise for Jets fans). Their only loss came against the only team that ranks ahead of them. Good luck to anyone who draws them in the near future. Can LT keep this up? He looks young again.
The Contenders
3. Pittsburgh Steelers- There is a very good chance that Pittsburgh becomes the third elite team next week. They are 3-1, have the best defense in the league, and are getting their starting quarterback back this week. I just want to see if Big Ben is ready to go or if there will be some rust. We'll find out this week.
4. Atlanta Falcons- In a season where every team seems to fall flat, Atlanta keeps chugging along. They can't be any lower than 4, and look like a lock to win the NFC South.
5. Indianapolis Colts- This is where things begin to get seriously dicey. Every other team I had as contenders last week came out and laid an egg, so Indy jumps all of them by beating previously unbeaten Kansas City. This is probably about right for the Colts at this point.
6. Tennessee Titans- The Titans played like they are capable of against a tough but underachieving Cowboys team. If they play like this, they can beat anyone, which is why they jump back into the ring of contenders this week.
7. Chicago Bears- They beat an atrocious team, but they had a terrible quarterback starting for them. Their record stands at 4-1 and they get Cutler back this week. That defense is legit.
8. San Diego Chargers- I know they lost to the Raiders, but they SHOULDN'T have lost to the Raiders. They thoroughly dominated that game, and only lost because of blocked kicks. They are scary on offense.
9. Kansas City Chiefs- They didn't win, but their loss to the Colts was just as impressive as their wins. I really think they remain a contender, and if they can ever figure out a passing game, they can be VERY scary.
10. Green Bay Packers- Losing that game to the Redskins was an embarrassment. They need to bounce back in a hurry, and they are suffering some serious injuries. My Super Bowl Pick is in shambles right now.
11. Houston Texans- Another team that I think is a legitimate contender that laid an egg against a mediocre team. But hey, maybe the Giants are better than we thought?
The Mediocre
12. New Orleans Saints- They don't look like defending Super Bowl champions, and with their loss to the awful Cardinals, they drop from the ranks of contenders. Get it together New Orleans or you will be on the outside looking in come the post-season.
13. New England Patriots- Off a bye this week. Lost Randy Moss, only lost one spot here though. Lets see how they do against Baltimore.
14. Washington Redskins- They beat Green Bay, but they looked ugly doing it. I'm just not ready to call this team a contender yet. I don't know if I ever will be.
15. Philadelphia Eagles- The definition of a mediocre team. Just good enough to get by, not good enough to be a real contender.
16. New York Giants- The pinnacle of inconsistency. Just when they suck you in they will lay an egg. Watch out for a Detroit upset this week.
17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are 3-1. Beat the Saints this week, and then we will have something serious to consider here.
18. Miami Dolphins- Off a bye, no movement.
19. Dallas Cowboys- Their is just too much talent on this team to rank them any lower, despite their 1-4 record.
20. Jacksonville Jaguars- A win is a win, even if it is against the Bills.
21. Denver Broncos- Maybe I'm being a bit harsh here, but I don't trust a team with a bad defense and no running game. Even if they can throw the hell out of the ball.
22. Minnesota Vikings- Lost to an elite team, but they didn't look good doing it, plus their starting quarterback is acting as if he might miss time. I just see this team going straight downhill into the gutter.
23. Seattle Seahawks- Off a bye, move up one spot as others proved to suck more than them.
24. Cleveland Browns- They at least manage to keep games relatively close every time out, which keeps them above Garbage level.
25. Detroit Lions- Now THAT is how you break out of the Garbage bracket! They laid a whooping on the Rams, and should really have 2 wins already. If they beat the Giants this week, they will continue to vault up the list.
The Garbage
26. Cincinnati Bengals- This team is Garbage. They are not good, at all. Everyone needs to stop overrating them.
27. Arizona Cardinals- I don't care that they won, I'm still not buying the Max Hall era.
28. St. Louis Rams- they lose to the Lions, they get the Lions former spot. They were just dominated.
29. Oakland Raiders- they get no recognition for beating the Chargers. That was a fluke of all flukes type game. They were outplayed and they shouldn't have won, I'm not moving them up for playing poorly. Sorry Raiders fans.
29. San Francisco 49ers- I still think they can turn it around, with their schedule being so awful, but until they actual start to make that turnaround, I can't realistically rank them higher.
31. Carolina Panthers- The only team that might be as bad as...
32. Buffalo Bills- The Buffalo Bills. Someone has to be last, and they seem to be quite comfortable in the spot.
Check back later for Week 6 Picks!
The Elite
1. Baltimore Ravens- Yes, finally we have someone who has broken into the Elite. With wins over both the number 2 and 3 teams, the Ravens hold strong at the top of the rankings, and are a truly elite level team in this NFL with very few of them.
2. New York Jets- There are two Elite level teams to be precise, and the Jets are the other. 4-1 on the year and they have looked dominant on defense (expected) and better than average on offense (a pleasant surprise for Jets fans). Their only loss came against the only team that ranks ahead of them. Good luck to anyone who draws them in the near future. Can LT keep this up? He looks young again.
The Contenders
3. Pittsburgh Steelers- There is a very good chance that Pittsburgh becomes the third elite team next week. They are 3-1, have the best defense in the league, and are getting their starting quarterback back this week. I just want to see if Big Ben is ready to go or if there will be some rust. We'll find out this week.
4. Atlanta Falcons- In a season where every team seems to fall flat, Atlanta keeps chugging along. They can't be any lower than 4, and look like a lock to win the NFC South.
5. Indianapolis Colts- This is where things begin to get seriously dicey. Every other team I had as contenders last week came out and laid an egg, so Indy jumps all of them by beating previously unbeaten Kansas City. This is probably about right for the Colts at this point.
6. Tennessee Titans- The Titans played like they are capable of against a tough but underachieving Cowboys team. If they play like this, they can beat anyone, which is why they jump back into the ring of contenders this week.
7. Chicago Bears- They beat an atrocious team, but they had a terrible quarterback starting for them. Their record stands at 4-1 and they get Cutler back this week. That defense is legit.
8. San Diego Chargers- I know they lost to the Raiders, but they SHOULDN'T have lost to the Raiders. They thoroughly dominated that game, and only lost because of blocked kicks. They are scary on offense.
9. Kansas City Chiefs- They didn't win, but their loss to the Colts was just as impressive as their wins. I really think they remain a contender, and if they can ever figure out a passing game, they can be VERY scary.
10. Green Bay Packers- Losing that game to the Redskins was an embarrassment. They need to bounce back in a hurry, and they are suffering some serious injuries. My Super Bowl Pick is in shambles right now.
11. Houston Texans- Another team that I think is a legitimate contender that laid an egg against a mediocre team. But hey, maybe the Giants are better than we thought?
The Mediocre
12. New Orleans Saints- They don't look like defending Super Bowl champions, and with their loss to the awful Cardinals, they drop from the ranks of contenders. Get it together New Orleans or you will be on the outside looking in come the post-season.
13. New England Patriots- Off a bye this week. Lost Randy Moss, only lost one spot here though. Lets see how they do against Baltimore.
14. Washington Redskins- They beat Green Bay, but they looked ugly doing it. I'm just not ready to call this team a contender yet. I don't know if I ever will be.
15. Philadelphia Eagles- The definition of a mediocre team. Just good enough to get by, not good enough to be a real contender.
16. New York Giants- The pinnacle of inconsistency. Just when they suck you in they will lay an egg. Watch out for a Detroit upset this week.
17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are 3-1. Beat the Saints this week, and then we will have something serious to consider here.
18. Miami Dolphins- Off a bye, no movement.
19. Dallas Cowboys- Their is just too much talent on this team to rank them any lower, despite their 1-4 record.
20. Jacksonville Jaguars- A win is a win, even if it is against the Bills.
21. Denver Broncos- Maybe I'm being a bit harsh here, but I don't trust a team with a bad defense and no running game. Even if they can throw the hell out of the ball.
22. Minnesota Vikings- Lost to an elite team, but they didn't look good doing it, plus their starting quarterback is acting as if he might miss time. I just see this team going straight downhill into the gutter.
23. Seattle Seahawks- Off a bye, move up one spot as others proved to suck more than them.
24. Cleveland Browns- They at least manage to keep games relatively close every time out, which keeps them above Garbage level.
25. Detroit Lions- Now THAT is how you break out of the Garbage bracket! They laid a whooping on the Rams, and should really have 2 wins already. If they beat the Giants this week, they will continue to vault up the list.
The Garbage
26. Cincinnati Bengals- This team is Garbage. They are not good, at all. Everyone needs to stop overrating them.
27. Arizona Cardinals- I don't care that they won, I'm still not buying the Max Hall era.
28. St. Louis Rams- they lose to the Lions, they get the Lions former spot. They were just dominated.
29. Oakland Raiders- they get no recognition for beating the Chargers. That was a fluke of all flukes type game. They were outplayed and they shouldn't have won, I'm not moving them up for playing poorly. Sorry Raiders fans.
29. San Francisco 49ers- I still think they can turn it around, with their schedule being so awful, but until they actual start to make that turnaround, I can't realistically rank them higher.
31. Carolina Panthers- The only team that might be as bad as...
32. Buffalo Bills- The Buffalo Bills. Someone has to be last, and they seem to be quite comfortable in the spot.
Check back later for Week 6 Picks!
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Week 5 Picks
Another .500 week last week, and I guess it could be worse. I could be putting up losing weeks. Still have a strong overall record on the season. Lets try and get in the positive category this time around.
Home team in CAPS
Lines courtesy of sportsbetting.com
BALTIMORE (-7) over Denver
The team at the top of my power rankings at home against a mediocre team due for a hangover game. Baltimore please.
Kansas City (-7.5) over INDIANAPOLIS
Great line for this one, and it could easily go either way. Lots of factors in this one. Kansas City has obviously overachieved so far on the season so far, while Indianapolis has underachieved based on their expectations. Indy is terrible at stopping the run and the Chiefs have a pair of fantstic backs. The Colts are due for a bounce back and its tough to bet against Peyton Manning coming off a loss. I'm going to take the Chiefs to keep it close, but Indy to win the game. I just have to take the points.
St. Louis (+3) over DETROIT
Another game I'm not completely sold on, as I usually take the points when its between two bad teams, and I think the Rams are better anyway. Its going to be a bad game that I have no interest in watching, so I'm just going to take the points and move on.
Tampa Bay (+7) over CINCINNATI
Speaking of those Bengals, I'm going to keep picking against them until Vegas realizes they aren't very good. Tampa Bay keeps it close, if not wins.
Chicago (+1.5) over CAROLINA
Todd Collins vs Jimmy Clausen. Does anyone actually want to see this game? Its nearly impossible to pick, because the bears would be favored with Cutler in the game, but with Collins who knows what will happen. I still think they win, I just can't but Carolina as a legitimate football team.
Green Bay (-2.5) over WASHINGTON
Ok Washington, here is your chance. At home, against a depleted Packer team, still underdogs. If you can pull this one off, I'll accept you as a legitimate team, if not, you still suck. I'm not counting on them coming through.
HOUSTON (-3) over New York Giants
New York realizes that playing against Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson is a little more challenging than taking on Todd Collins and Johnny Knox. And having an offensive line is great too. Houston wins easily.
San Diego (-6) over OAKLAND
For some reason, Vegas still likes this Raider team. It doesn't make sense. San Diego is rolling right now. They just throughly dominated Arizona and Oakland lost to Houston by a touchdowm last week. San Diego is better than Houston. Its a classic upset type game, but I'm betting on San Diego's talent.
Tennessee (+7) over DALLAS
I think this line is about right, but I think the Titans have a bounce back game against Dallas, who really hasn't been that impressive. I can't not pick my team here, getting a full touchdown.
SAN FRANCISCO (-3.5) over Philadelphia
THIS is the game San Francisco finally gets a win. They are going to crush Kevin Kolb on defense. I like Kolb, I really do, but the Niners couldn't be more desperate. Plus they are at home. Doesn't set up well for a rookie QB who's team abandoned him already this season.
NEW YORK JETS (-4) over Minnesota
Minnesota is a mediocre team, even with Randy Moss. Brett Favre's penis is all over the internet (allegedly). And the Jets are a legitimate Super Bowl contender. What's not to like with New York at home in the Monday Nighter. Nothing.
Second Runner-up Lock of the Week
Jacksonville (+2) over BUFFALO
Buffalo is the worst team in football, yet they are favored here. Likely due to a warm weather team coming into Buffalo, and Jacksonville is the biggest candidate for a hangover there is after beating the Colts last week. I just don't see how Buffalo can stop them. MJD should have a big game and the Bills should drop to 0-5.
First Runner-up Lock of the Week
Atlanta (-3) over CLEVELAND
Atlanta just keeps chugging along. They are the clearly better team here, and I don't see Cleveland putting up much of a fight. Atlanta takes this one easily on the road against a bad opponent who got lucky to escape against Cincinnati with a win last week.
LOCK OF THE WEEK
New Orleans Saints (-7) over ARIZONA
This line should be 13+. Arizona is just awful, fully pathetic. I know the Saints disappointed against Carolina last week, but they will come out and destroy the Cardinals. Only a touchdown? Child Please.
Last Week: 7-7
Overall: 33-25-4
Lock Picks: 4-7-1
Home team in CAPS
Lines courtesy of sportsbetting.com
BALTIMORE (-7) over Denver
The team at the top of my power rankings at home against a mediocre team due for a hangover game. Baltimore please.
Kansas City (-7.5) over INDIANAPOLIS
Great line for this one, and it could easily go either way. Lots of factors in this one. Kansas City has obviously overachieved so far on the season so far, while Indianapolis has underachieved based on their expectations. Indy is terrible at stopping the run and the Chiefs have a pair of fantstic backs. The Colts are due for a bounce back and its tough to bet against Peyton Manning coming off a loss. I'm going to take the Chiefs to keep it close, but Indy to win the game. I just have to take the points.
St. Louis (+3) over DETROIT
Another game I'm not completely sold on, as I usually take the points when its between two bad teams, and I think the Rams are better anyway. Its going to be a bad game that I have no interest in watching, so I'm just going to take the points and move on.
Tampa Bay (+7) over CINCINNATI
Speaking of those Bengals, I'm going to keep picking against them until Vegas realizes they aren't very good. Tampa Bay keeps it close, if not wins.
Chicago (+1.5) over CAROLINA
Todd Collins vs Jimmy Clausen. Does anyone actually want to see this game? Its nearly impossible to pick, because the bears would be favored with Cutler in the game, but with Collins who knows what will happen. I still think they win, I just can't but Carolina as a legitimate football team.
Green Bay (-2.5) over WASHINGTON
Ok Washington, here is your chance. At home, against a depleted Packer team, still underdogs. If you can pull this one off, I'll accept you as a legitimate team, if not, you still suck. I'm not counting on them coming through.
HOUSTON (-3) over New York Giants
New York realizes that playing against Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson is a little more challenging than taking on Todd Collins and Johnny Knox. And having an offensive line is great too. Houston wins easily.
San Diego (-6) over OAKLAND
For some reason, Vegas still likes this Raider team. It doesn't make sense. San Diego is rolling right now. They just throughly dominated Arizona and Oakland lost to Houston by a touchdowm last week. San Diego is better than Houston. Its a classic upset type game, but I'm betting on San Diego's talent.
Tennessee (+7) over DALLAS
I think this line is about right, but I think the Titans have a bounce back game against Dallas, who really hasn't been that impressive. I can't not pick my team here, getting a full touchdown.
SAN FRANCISCO (-3.5) over Philadelphia
THIS is the game San Francisco finally gets a win. They are going to crush Kevin Kolb on defense. I like Kolb, I really do, but the Niners couldn't be more desperate. Plus they are at home. Doesn't set up well for a rookie QB who's team abandoned him already this season.
NEW YORK JETS (-4) over Minnesota
Minnesota is a mediocre team, even with Randy Moss. Brett Favre's penis is all over the internet (allegedly). And the Jets are a legitimate Super Bowl contender. What's not to like with New York at home in the Monday Nighter. Nothing.
Second Runner-up Lock of the Week
Jacksonville (+2) over BUFFALO
Buffalo is the worst team in football, yet they are favored here. Likely due to a warm weather team coming into Buffalo, and Jacksonville is the biggest candidate for a hangover there is after beating the Colts last week. I just don't see how Buffalo can stop them. MJD should have a big game and the Bills should drop to 0-5.
First Runner-up Lock of the Week
Atlanta (-3) over CLEVELAND
Atlanta just keeps chugging along. They are the clearly better team here, and I don't see Cleveland putting up much of a fight. Atlanta takes this one easily on the road against a bad opponent who got lucky to escape against Cincinnati with a win last week.
LOCK OF THE WEEK
New Orleans Saints (-7) over ARIZONA
This line should be 13+. Arizona is just awful, fully pathetic. I know the Saints disappointed against Carolina last week, but they will come out and destroy the Cardinals. Only a touchdown? Child Please.
Last Week: 7-7
Overall: 33-25-4
Lock Picks: 4-7-1
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Week 5 Power Rankings
The Elite
Still no one. There has not been a single team to separate themselves from the pack 4 games into the year. There seems to be a lot of parity this season, and thats the way the NFL wants it. Lots of teams in this years mix, because there is a lot of mediocrity. This is also why there have been so many underdogs covering spreads in the early going this season. But lets get on with the ranks.
The Contenders
1. Baltimore Ravens
2. New York Jets
3. Pittsburgh Steelers
4. Green Bay Packers
5. Atlanta Falcons
6. Kansas City Chiefs
7. San Diego Chargers
8. Houston Texans
9. New Orleans Saints
I've cut the contenders by three this week. The Colts, Titans, Dolphins and Bears all put in performances this week that simply could not be considered contender worthy. The Colts and Titans lost close games to bad teams, and the Bears and Dolphins got blown out by mediocre teams. That means they all fall back to the middle of the pack.
The San Diego Chargers are the newest member to the group of contenders, and they got there with a performance that was purely dominant against Arizona. Arizona is terrible, but you can't deny a team that was so pristine on both sides of the ball a spot in the contenders ring. They rise up from number 15 all the way to number 7.
The Baltimore Ravens secure the top spot for this week after knocking off last week's top team. I love the Ravens and thought they were a top 3 team preseason, and I think they have shown a great balance that no other team has matched. They may be there for a while.
The Jets move into the number two spot after thrashing the Buffalo Bills. Wouldn't be that impressive, but they have done more than enough this season to prove they belong here. If Sanchez continues to develop, this may be a dynasty in the making.
The Mediocre
10. Indianapolis Colts
11. Chicago Bears
12. New England Patriots
13. Tennessee Titans
14. Denver Broncos
15. Dallas Cowboys
16. Minnesota Vikings
17. Washington Redskins
18. Miami Dolphins
19. New York Giants
20. Philadelphia Eagles
21. Cincinnati Bengals
22. St. Louis Rams
23. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
24. Seattle Seahawks
25. Cleveland Browns
26. Jacksonville Jaguars
Here is where I illustrate my earlier point about parity. Three teams fell into the realm of mediocrity while another three rose up from the dregs to join them. The Rams made the biggest jump, and they actually showed some serious fight against the Seahawks. They actually have two wins in four games, and I can honestly say I'm totally shocked. I DID NOT expect Sam Bradford to play anywhere near this level this fast. This is one team that could actually vastly outperform preseason expectations and it is all on Bradford. If he keeps this up, expect further climbs up this board. If he shows signs of being a rookie, they could be back in the Garbage in no time.
Also joining the Rams in the ascent to the middle are the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars, two teams that pulled off victories over higher ranked opponents. I expected the Browns, but I didn't see the Jags winning at all. Every powerhouse team is allowed to lay an egg once in a while, and the Colts sure did there. I don't trust the Jags at all, but any team that can beat the Colts has to make it out of Garbage-level.
The New England Patriots showed some serious life on Monday night... and then proceeded to trade away Randy Moss, their biggest weapon. How this plays out is yet to be seen but I can't think its a good thing. I still think they are a 9-7 mediocre team, even with their trouncing of Miami. The Moss trade kinda keeps them in limbo for me. The Dolphins, however, fall considerably out of the ranks of contenders all the way down to 18.
Washington has jumped five spots with a statement win over Philadelphia, further proving that the NFC East is a jumbled mess of mediocrity. I doubt any team in this division breaks from this group the rest of the season (the Cowboys have the best chance, and they were on a bye). I will say this, Ryan Torain impressed me. If they let this kid run the ball on a full time basis, and I believe they have to with Portis out, they could grind out a few more wins in this weak division and could surprise with a division win and a trip to the playoffs. I'm not counting on it, but they DO sit in first as we speak.
The Garbage
24. Carolina Panthers
25. San Francisco 49ers
28. Detroit Lions
29. Oakland Raiders
31. Arizona Cardinals
32. Buffalo Bills
All of these teams lost and remain Garbage to me. The Cardinals fall all the way down to the number 31 spot, and are going to move forward with undrafted rookie quarterback Max Hall. Larry Fitzgerald can NOT be pleased with this situation.
See you tomorrow morning with this weeks Picks!
Still no one. There has not been a single team to separate themselves from the pack 4 games into the year. There seems to be a lot of parity this season, and thats the way the NFL wants it. Lots of teams in this years mix, because there is a lot of mediocrity. This is also why there have been so many underdogs covering spreads in the early going this season. But lets get on with the ranks.
The Contenders
1. Baltimore Ravens
2. New York Jets
3. Pittsburgh Steelers
4. Green Bay Packers
5. Atlanta Falcons
6. Kansas City Chiefs
7. San Diego Chargers
8. Houston Texans
9. New Orleans Saints
I've cut the contenders by three this week. The Colts, Titans, Dolphins and Bears all put in performances this week that simply could not be considered contender worthy. The Colts and Titans lost close games to bad teams, and the Bears and Dolphins got blown out by mediocre teams. That means they all fall back to the middle of the pack.
The San Diego Chargers are the newest member to the group of contenders, and they got there with a performance that was purely dominant against Arizona. Arizona is terrible, but you can't deny a team that was so pristine on both sides of the ball a spot in the contenders ring. They rise up from number 15 all the way to number 7.
The Baltimore Ravens secure the top spot for this week after knocking off last week's top team. I love the Ravens and thought they were a top 3 team preseason, and I think they have shown a great balance that no other team has matched. They may be there for a while.
The Jets move into the number two spot after thrashing the Buffalo Bills. Wouldn't be that impressive, but they have done more than enough this season to prove they belong here. If Sanchez continues to develop, this may be a dynasty in the making.
The Mediocre
10. Indianapolis Colts
11. Chicago Bears
12. New England Patriots
13. Tennessee Titans
14. Denver Broncos
15. Dallas Cowboys
16. Minnesota Vikings
17. Washington Redskins
18. Miami Dolphins
19. New York Giants
20. Philadelphia Eagles
21. Cincinnati Bengals
22. St. Louis Rams
23. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
24. Seattle Seahawks
25. Cleveland Browns
26. Jacksonville Jaguars
Here is where I illustrate my earlier point about parity. Three teams fell into the realm of mediocrity while another three rose up from the dregs to join them. The Rams made the biggest jump, and they actually showed some serious fight against the Seahawks. They actually have two wins in four games, and I can honestly say I'm totally shocked. I DID NOT expect Sam Bradford to play anywhere near this level this fast. This is one team that could actually vastly outperform preseason expectations and it is all on Bradford. If he keeps this up, expect further climbs up this board. If he shows signs of being a rookie, they could be back in the Garbage in no time.
Also joining the Rams in the ascent to the middle are the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars, two teams that pulled off victories over higher ranked opponents. I expected the Browns, but I didn't see the Jags winning at all. Every powerhouse team is allowed to lay an egg once in a while, and the Colts sure did there. I don't trust the Jags at all, but any team that can beat the Colts has to make it out of Garbage-level.
The New England Patriots showed some serious life on Monday night... and then proceeded to trade away Randy Moss, their biggest weapon. How this plays out is yet to be seen but I can't think its a good thing. I still think they are a 9-7 mediocre team, even with their trouncing of Miami. The Moss trade kinda keeps them in limbo for me. The Dolphins, however, fall considerably out of the ranks of contenders all the way down to 18.
Washington has jumped five spots with a statement win over Philadelphia, further proving that the NFC East is a jumbled mess of mediocrity. I doubt any team in this division breaks from this group the rest of the season (the Cowboys have the best chance, and they were on a bye). I will say this, Ryan Torain impressed me. If they let this kid run the ball on a full time basis, and I believe they have to with Portis out, they could grind out a few more wins in this weak division and could surprise with a division win and a trip to the playoffs. I'm not counting on it, but they DO sit in first as we speak.
The Garbage
24. Carolina Panthers
25. San Francisco 49ers
28. Detroit Lions
29. Oakland Raiders
31. Arizona Cardinals
32. Buffalo Bills
All of these teams lost and remain Garbage to me. The Cardinals fall all the way down to the number 31 spot, and are going to move forward with undrafted rookie quarterback Max Hall. Larry Fitzgerald can NOT be pleased with this situation.
See you tomorrow morning with this weeks Picks!
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Week 4 Picks
My worst week of the season last week, with a .500 record. Lets try to get back on the right track in week 4.
Home team in CAPS
TENNESSEE (-7) over Denver
Tennessee is giving a touchdown at home coming off a big win over the Giants. They are a much better team than Denver, especially when Denver doesn't have their top running back (who also happens to be their best weapon on offense). I don't see them hanging with the Titans on the road.
Baltimore (-2.5) over PITTSBURGH
This goes against my better judgement, as Pittsburgh has played like the best team in football and have the homefield, but I am taking the underdog team that I think has the talent to put up a fight. It should be a close game either way, and I think the Ravens can win. I sure hope they can, or my Super Bowl pick is already looking very shaky.
CLEVELAND (+3) over Cincinnati
I can't take a mediocre team on the road giving three points. This has a classic upset game feel. I know the Browns are bad, but they g=have showed a little something in their three games and I think they get their first win in this one.
Detroit (+14.5) over GREEN BAY
I almost always pick Green Bay. But I just don't think they are more than two touchdowns better than the Detroit Lions. By no means do I think the Lions are going to pull this upset, but can they stay withing 14? I think so.
NEW ORLEANS (-13.5) over Carolina
This, however, is a game that I think could get ugly. With Jimmy Clausen at quarterback for Carolina, I think they have already admitted they are going nowhere this season. Expect lots of INTs and lots of points for the Saints in this one.
San Francisco (+7) over ATLANTA
Lets see what happpens. I really have no clue what to do when it comes to the 49ers. So this week, I am going to pick them and see if they can keep it close in Atlanta. Maybe the new offensive Coordinator will make all the difference. Probably not...
Seattle (-1.5) over ST. LOUIS
Likely without Steven Jackson, the best player on the team,New and still only point and a half dogs? Kind of confused by the line. I know Seattle is awful on the road, but St. Louis is awful everywhere. I think Seattle wins this, even if it stays close, its an easy line to cover.
New York Jets (-6) over BUFFALO
The Bills showed something against the Patriots last week, but I think that was more about how awful the Patriot defense is, rather than anything positive about the Bills. Now they get to play a fantastic defense, and I doubt they can do anything to stop LT and Shonn Greene. Jets roll here.
Houston (-3.5) over OAKLAND
I don't like Oakland, and I do like Houston. I just think talent-wise, Houston should crush the Raiders. Why they are only giving three and a half is beyond me. Are the Raiders really that good at home? Their record hasn't shown it in the past few years.
SAN DIEGO (-9) over Arizona
This line is just about right. I'm going with San Diego because I think the likelihood of a blowout is much higher than the likelihood of an Arizona win. Phillip Rivers has a big game teeing off against an awful Arizona team that can't score any points.
PHILADELPHIA (-5.5) over Washington
Donovan McNabb returns to Philly for the first time and I don't see it going very well for him. This is the last game that I see Michael Vick having a stellar game, and then it could get ugly for him, but against a very mediocre Redskins team, the Eagles should win at home by at least a touchdown.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
MIAMI (+1.5) over New England
In the heat of Miami on a Monday night, New England is going to have the same problems they had against the Jets. The Dolphins don't present quite as strong a defense as New York, but the offense is even better. Chad Henne is in for a big game against the pitiful defense of the Patriots. Miami is just the better team at this point, and they give New England fits, especially when they are exhausted in the second half of this one.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Indianapolis (-7) over JACKSONVILLE
I don't get this one AT ALL. Jacksonville is just a bad team, playing a borderline elite team in the Colts. I really expected this line to be about 13. How can I not take Peyton Manning in this one?
LOCK OF THE WEEK
Chicago (+3.5) over NEW YORK GIANTS
I had to stare at this line for a couple of minutes. Not because the game was hard to pick, but because I thought there had to be a mistake. How are the 3-0 Bears, who just beat the Green Bay Packers, 3 and a half point dogs to the garbage New York Giants who just got obliterated by Tennessee? This is my Lock of the Week, and nothing else came close to taking that title.
Last Week: 8-8
Overall: 26-18-4
Lock Picks: 4-4-1
Home team in CAPS
TENNESSEE (-7) over Denver
Tennessee is giving a touchdown at home coming off a big win over the Giants. They are a much better team than Denver, especially when Denver doesn't have their top running back (who also happens to be their best weapon on offense). I don't see them hanging with the Titans on the road.
Baltimore (-2.5) over PITTSBURGH
This goes against my better judgement, as Pittsburgh has played like the best team in football and have the homefield, but I am taking the underdog team that I think has the talent to put up a fight. It should be a close game either way, and I think the Ravens can win. I sure hope they can, or my Super Bowl pick is already looking very shaky.
CLEVELAND (+3) over Cincinnati
I can't take a mediocre team on the road giving three points. This has a classic upset game feel. I know the Browns are bad, but they g=have showed a little something in their three games and I think they get their first win in this one.
Detroit (+14.5) over GREEN BAY
I almost always pick Green Bay. But I just don't think they are more than two touchdowns better than the Detroit Lions. By no means do I think the Lions are going to pull this upset, but can they stay withing 14? I think so.
NEW ORLEANS (-13.5) over Carolina
This, however, is a game that I think could get ugly. With Jimmy Clausen at quarterback for Carolina, I think they have already admitted they are going nowhere this season. Expect lots of INTs and lots of points for the Saints in this one.
San Francisco (+7) over ATLANTA
Lets see what happpens. I really have no clue what to do when it comes to the 49ers. So this week, I am going to pick them and see if they can keep it close in Atlanta. Maybe the new offensive Coordinator will make all the difference. Probably not...
Seattle (-1.5) over ST. LOUIS
Likely without Steven Jackson, the best player on the team,New and still only point and a half dogs? Kind of confused by the line. I know Seattle is awful on the road, but St. Louis is awful everywhere. I think Seattle wins this, even if it stays close, its an easy line to cover.
New York Jets (-6) over BUFFALO
The Bills showed something against the Patriots last week, but I think that was more about how awful the Patriot defense is, rather than anything positive about the Bills. Now they get to play a fantastic defense, and I doubt they can do anything to stop LT and Shonn Greene. Jets roll here.
Houston (-3.5) over OAKLAND
I don't like Oakland, and I do like Houston. I just think talent-wise, Houston should crush the Raiders. Why they are only giving three and a half is beyond me. Are the Raiders really that good at home? Their record hasn't shown it in the past few years.
SAN DIEGO (-9) over Arizona
This line is just about right. I'm going with San Diego because I think the likelihood of a blowout is much higher than the likelihood of an Arizona win. Phillip Rivers has a big game teeing off against an awful Arizona team that can't score any points.
PHILADELPHIA (-5.5) over Washington
Donovan McNabb returns to Philly for the first time and I don't see it going very well for him. This is the last game that I see Michael Vick having a stellar game, and then it could get ugly for him, but against a very mediocre Redskins team, the Eagles should win at home by at least a touchdown.
Second Runner Up Lock of the Week
MIAMI (+1.5) over New England
In the heat of Miami on a Monday night, New England is going to have the same problems they had against the Jets. The Dolphins don't present quite as strong a defense as New York, but the offense is even better. Chad Henne is in for a big game against the pitiful defense of the Patriots. Miami is just the better team at this point, and they give New England fits, especially when they are exhausted in the second half of this one.
First Runner Up Lock of the Week
Indianapolis (-7) over JACKSONVILLE
I don't get this one AT ALL. Jacksonville is just a bad team, playing a borderline elite team in the Colts. I really expected this line to be about 13. How can I not take Peyton Manning in this one?
LOCK OF THE WEEK
Chicago (+3.5) over NEW YORK GIANTS
I had to stare at this line for a couple of minutes. Not because the game was hard to pick, but because I thought there had to be a mistake. How are the 3-0 Bears, who just beat the Green Bay Packers, 3 and a half point dogs to the garbage New York Giants who just got obliterated by Tennessee? This is my Lock of the Week, and nothing else came close to taking that title.
Last Week: 8-8
Overall: 26-18-4
Lock Picks: 4-4-1
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)