2012 NFL Season Review and Postseason Predictions

First off I wanted to thank all those that have been following my game predictions all year.  I hope you found my picks entertaining.  I've been picking games since I was a little kid, but never really tracked the results.  I started last year, going 168-88 for the year.  I compared my results to whatever predictions I could find and I couldn't find any one out there having a better win-loss record.  It's a bit unfair of a claim, as many of those out there use the spread, which I don't.  I guess If I really wanted to, I could look at the scores predicted and see how I faired, but admittedly that's a bit too much work.  So, next year I think I'll do both the games and the games against the spread.

When I started this second season, my goal was to beat last years mark.  I actually wanted to hit above 75% correct, which I didn't do, but I did beat last years mark.  In week 17 I went 12-4 and finished the season with a 175-81 mark, beating last year by 7 games.  So, my goal is set for next year as well.

For this final post for this 2012 season, I'm going to pick the Wildcard games taking place this weekend and then pick the rest of the playoffs. I'll also give my takes on the awards.

Wildcard Games

Cincinnati Bengals @ Houston Texans

The Texans were monsters most of the season but had a terrible end to the year.  A month ago nobody would've dare predicted that they'd drop so far as to fall out of the top two seeds.  They did that and they lost their bye in the process.  Instead, they must host the Bengals in a rematch of last years Wildcard game.  Last year Houston advanced past the bengals and lost in Baltimore the following weekend.  This year though, they'll be facing a red hot Bengals team.  They've gone 7-1 in the past 8 games and in the game they lost, to Dallas, they were actually up by 9 late in the game, only to watch the lead and the game disappear.  Houston is rightfully favored, being home and to honor the season that they've put up.  However, I do believe that the Texans defense is hurting and they haven't been getting the running attack that is typical from an Arian Foster based ground game lately.  Cincinnati's defense is running on all cylinders and the Dalton-Green connection is still strong.  I think this will be a close game, but a game that I think Cincinnati will wind up winning when all is said and done.  Cincinnati 27-21

Indianapolis Colts @ Baltimore Ravens

Baltimore finished well.  But they are not unbeatable by any stretch of the imagination.  Indy is the feel good story of the year.  A team written off for dead before the season even began.  They have the most rookies starting or playing serious minutes out of any team this year.  They saw their new coach Chuck Pagano diagnosed, treated and then return for their final week of the season.  It was an emotional game that saw the Colts beat their division rival Texans.  This year was all about seizing the opportunity at the right time and getting quality play, especially on game tying/winning drives by rookie QB Andrew Luck. Overall though, on paper, they really aren't all that impressive.  But they pulled off 11 wins and they are the Cinderella story of this years playoffs.  I'll be pulling for them, but with all the rookies and inexperience here, they'll be facing a team that's been there and done that in the Ravens, who will be home.  While anything is possible, and I do hope I'm wrong, but I think Baltimore will take this one.  24-20

Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers

Minnesota's been another superb story this year.  They were another team that nobody predicted anything out of before the season and quite frankly, they are one dimensional on offense.  But boy oh boy, that dimension is crazy good.  They beat the Packers last week to get in this game, but I don't see them doing it two weeks in a row.  It's tough to pick this, seeing how they played last week, and it's not like GB packed things in early, as they didn't.  But, the Packers are a tough team, especially at Lambeau.  Sure there powerhouse team got beat up by the Giants last year, and they did lose to this very Vikings squad last weekend, but I just think the odds are in GB's favor.  GB 35-32

Seattle Seahawks @ Washington Redskins

Another game of two teams nobody thought would be playoff bound this year.  Both teams have stellar rookie QB's and are playing an entertaining brand of football with their pistol/read-option sets.  I really think Seattle deserves to be the road favorite here, but, I have a feeling RGIII will get things done. Garcon on Marshall will be a great matchup to watch, one that I do believe will determine how the game goes.  If he can take Garcon out of the picture, then look for a healthy dose of Moss and RGIII scrambling from the pocket.  Washington in a great game 38-37

Divisional Rounds

Cincinnati Bengals @ Denver Broncos

I like Denver to make it to New Orleans.  Manning is unbelievable this year and the Denver defense can attack.  Denver 35-21

Baltimore Ravens @ New England Patriots

New England will be healthier and they'll beat Baltimore in consecutive years.  New England 42-28

Conference Finals

New England Patriots @ Denver Broncos

Brady Vs. Manning.  One of the best QB duels of the decade gets to do it again.  I think this game would've gone to whoever has the home field advantage and seeing Denver does, I'll pick them to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl.  Denver-31-28

In the NFC

Divisional Rounds

Washington Redskins @ Atlanta Falcons

Atlanta won the home-field advantage but I'm just not that impressed with them on defense.  I like RGIII against them and will take Washington here.  Actually, If Washington loses to Seattle, I'll take Seattle over Atlanta as well.  Washington 24-17/ Seattle 21-20

Green Bay Packers @ San Francisco 49'ers

Niners have found new life with Colin Kaepernick at QB.  They still have an outstanding defense as well.  I like Green Bay though.  Green Bay has so many weapons and are getting healthier as each week passes.  I can't wait to see what Rodgers does in the playoffs. GB 30-13

Conference Finals

Washington Redskins/Seattle Seahawks @ Green Bay Packers

Either way.  The feel good stories end.  Green Bay is more experienced. They are more talented.  I like what RGIII can do, but in Lambeau at this time of the year, I have to say determines the game.  If it's a blizzard, I think either Washington or Seattle wins, pretty much for the same reason, that neither know they aren't supposed to win and I love both teams running backs.  Green Bay is sorely lacking a back to rely upon, so if the weather is frightful, I think Aaron Rodgers and company may get grounded.  But, seeing I can't predict the weather, I'll take GB over either by the same score.  GB 34-24

Superbowl

Green Bay Packers Vs. Denver Broncos

Manning vs. Rodgers.  Draw.  Thomas and Decker vs. Jennings, Nelson, Cobb, Jones and Finley  Packers.  McGahee and Moreno vs. Grant  Denver.  Denver D Vs. GB D  Denver.  Coaching.  Fox Vs McCarthy Draw.  I'll take Denver 34-31.  Manning MVP

As for Awards, briefly:

AFC Offensive Outstanding Player- Peyton Manning

NFC Offensive Outstanding Player- Adrian Peterson- Also wins NFL Offensive MVP

AFC Defensive Outstanding Player-JJ Watt-Houston-Also wins NFL Defensive MVP

NFC Defensive Outstanding Player-Richard Sherman

AFC Rookie of The Year- Andrew Luck

NFC Rookie Of the Year- RGIII  also wins NFL ROY

AFC Coach of the Year- Chuck Pagano/Bruce Arians-Also wins NFL Coach of the year

NFC Coach of the Year- Leslie Frazier

NFL Executive of the Year- John Elway/Brian Xanders

Okay.  Hope everyone enjoys the playoffs.  And for those of you whose teams are not in the postseason, perhaps you'll be in on this coaching frenzy going on right now.  I'm certainly enjoying it right now and very eager to see how things shake out.  My pipe dream is for my Bills to land either Chip Kelly or Jon Gruden.  But more than realistically, I'll take Lovie Smith, Mike McCoy, Mike Zimmer, Gus Bradley or Ray Horton.

See you all around Draft time.  I'll put up a few mocks before then, starting about a month before April's Draft.  

Thanks again, and see you later on in the year.  

2012 NFL Season-Week 17 Game Predictions

Wow, how the time has quickly passed us by.  For some, (Cough, Cough) mercifully so.  But really, it seems like the hopes of every NFL city was still alive, each having a 0-0 record and a belief, like happens each and every year before the new year begins, but now, there's only one game left that truly has meaning.   Ok, there's a couple games that have seeding consideration, but the Washington/Dallas game is the only one with true implications.  I don't like either team, but I really hope Washington pulls it off and wins the division.  Part of me wants Dallas to win because I know a lot of Cowboys fans, but, I don't know, I just love how much success the rookie QB's have had this year and I guess, when you're team is brutal, you just have to tweak how you cheer.

Anyhow, hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. As for the picks, I had another pretty good week, going 11-5 in week 16, bringing my season total to 163-77 for the year.  I need to go 6-10 this year to beat last years mark, so I'm crossing my fingers.  I should be ok, but you never do know truly how things will play out in Week 17, especially with so much decided already.

On to the Picks.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons

Atlanta has everything locked up.  I'm expecting a limited number of plays for the Atlanta starters and a heavy does of the Tampa Bay regulars.  For this reason i think Tampa will take this game easily.  28-10

New York Jets @ Buffalo Bills

Who knows here.  I hope my Bills lose.  Kind of a December tradition around here, rooting for the better draft pick.  But the Bills have this uncanny ability to thrive under meaningless situations or when wins actually hurt you in the long run.  As for the Jets, I have no idea what team we'll see on Sunday.  With McElroy somewhat hurt, I'm expecting Sanchez to play.  Hopefully he can light things up, showing his fanbase a reason to be encouraged for next year.  Hahaha, I couldn't keep a straight face typing that.  Well.  I guess I'll take Buffalo 13-10

Baltimore Ravens @Cincinnati Bengals

Bengals are locked into the 6 seed, but the Ravens can theoretically move up in the seedings with a win.  It is unlikely though that this will happen, so I don't know what the thought process in Baltimore will be.  Nor do I presume to know what Marvin Lewis is thinking as far as his players go.  I'll take the Ravens though, for no other reason than I think I'd take them if this game was for the division.  Ravens 26-23

Chicago Bears @Detroit Lions

Bears are in a bad way right now.  Lions just want the season to end.  This will all be about Calving Johnson again.  Perhaps he can add to his record and I do believe there's another one he can get to this week as well, but not 100%.  I'm taking Detroit.  27-20

Jacksonville Jaguars @Tennessee Titans

Jaguars are done.  Titans aren't much better, but after getting humiliated last week, I would have to hope they want to end their season on a better note.  With this opponent, I think they have that opportunity.  Titans 35-17

Houston Texans @ Indianapolis Colts

Feel good story here.  Chuck Pagano back on the sidelines.  His team will be pumped up.  I'm sure they'll want this one for their coach, and not to mention, last time Indy had the chance to rest their starters going into the playoffs they did, and it cost them in the playoffs.  Yes, I know, different year, different team, but all things considered, I do think they'll want this game.  Houston will want it as well though.  They could theoretically slip down to third in the playoff standings with a loss.  I think it'll be a very difficult task to beat the Colts at home with the Pagano return, but I do think they'll pull it off.  Houston 17-14

Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings

GB could rest some players.  That is a possibility.  Minnesota has a couple of things to play for here.  With a win they are in, so that alone will keep them playing hard.  AP also has a record in his sights.  Personally I don't think he'll get it, but in any case, that is there to pay attention to.  I think the Vikings will lose, if Green Bay plays starters all the way through, but I'm not convinced they will.  Minnesota 20-14

Miami Dolphins @ New England Patriots

Miami is ending their season and the Pats could move into the second seed if other games turn out in their favor.  I don't think they'll move up, but I do think they'll win this game.  NE 31-21

Carolina Panthers @New Orleans Saints

Carolina is playing some good football lately, perhaps playing for their coach.  I don't know if the new GM will keep Rivera or want to bring his own guy in.  That is to be seen.  But I like the way the Saints have decided to play things out as well as they could, even if they've effectively reduced superstar TE Jimmy Graham to a pedestrian TE in the process.  I know they are having some line issues and with Joe Vitt they're trying to run more, but they're games were fun with Graham shredding defenses.  I think this game could honestly go either way, but I'll take the Saints at home.  34-31

Philadelphia Eagles @ NY Giants

I'm not really sure how the math works out for the Giants, but I'm assuming a win and some help could still get them in the playoffs, but I'm not positive.  The Eagles could then be facing a spoiler role here.  They also are starting Mike Vick again, most likely his last game in an Eagles uniform.  With that, I'm assuming Vick will be spectacular, as he'll likely be in audition mode, something he's done well before.  I will take the Giants though, as they Eagle defense is horrendous.  NYG 40-28

Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Another meaningless game.  I think the Steelers take this one at home, if for no other reason than for the Steeler Mystique itself.  Pittsburgh 21-10

Kansas City Chiefs @ Denver Broncos

Denver wants to keep the bye and the Chiefs have absolutely no incentive to get up for this game.  I guess they could want to play hard for their coach and GM, who are working their last game as Chiefs, but, why really, many of them will be on the team next year and a win could move them to third in the draft and a loss would all but assure them the top pick.  Denver 28-10

St. Louis Rams @ Seattle Seahawks

Seahawks are perhaps the hottest team right now and want to keep things rolling.  Rams want to finish strong but they are out and playing in Seattle, an almost impossible place to play these days.  Seattle 33-13

Arizona Cardinals @ San Francisco 49'ers

Cardinals are done and are terrible.  SF wants to go into the playoffs with some confidence and they just got manhandled by Seattle last week, so look for them to take that out on Arizona.  38-7

Oakland Raiders @ San Diego Chargers

Matt Leinart anyone?  I think he gets the start, but personally if I was a Raiders fan I'd rather see Tyrell Pryor play.  But perhaps that's just me.  I think SD will finally change coaching staffs in the offseason, but who knows, we've thought that before.  SD should win here.  34-16

Dallas Cowboys @ Washington Redskins

This is the game of the week. Hands down.  If Dallas wins they'll leapfrog the Skins and claim the division title.  With a loss Washington can still claim a wildcard spot but will then need some help from a Minnesota loss.  I do believe if Dallas loses they are out.  If this game was in Dallas I think I'd feel better about the Cowboys here, but Washington is hot and I'd love to see a Washington vs. Seattle playoff game about now, so that would most likely need a skins win here.  Do I think Dallas can win in DC?  Sure.  Do I think Washington can dominate Dallas here? Yep.  I do think this will be a game you don't want to miss and one that will be decided late though.  I'll take Washington on a RGIII rushing TD with under a minute remaining for the win.  Washington 37-31

Well, it's been fun.  I'll do some playoff picks each week, but the real work is done.  I hope you enjoyed reading my takes on each game throughout the season and like I said, I'll be doing a short piece for each playoff round and then pick things back up with Mock drafts and so forth as it gets closer to that time.  Have a great new year, thanks for following my posts.

2012 NFL Regular Season Game Predictions-Week 16

Last week was, in my opinion, a terrible week of football.  The only real saving grace was the SF-NE game, which did turn out to be pretty good.  Other than that we had some lopsided games and three shutouts, pretty boring and certainly not compelling.  Yet, as far as picking the games went, I finished 10-6 for Week 15 and now I'm sitting at 152-72 for the season.

With only two weeks left, I thought I'd dig back into the archives to see exactly what my record was last season.  I'd been saying all along that I picked near .750 last year, which, apparently my memory had a case of inflation, as my actual record last year was 168-88 or a .656 mark.  Still not bad, especially seeing I did go around to all the major sites and many of the lesser known ones as well, and I couldn't find any person with a higher winning percentage last year.

So, that all said, my goal hasn't changed.  My intention was to hit .750 and beat last years mark in the process.  Well, I did the math and where I sit right now, even if I went perfect for the last two weeks I'd be close but would not make the .750 mark. As for beating last year's mark, if the consistency I've shown all year plays out these last two weeks, I'll meet that goal.  All I have to do is go 16-16, or .500, to tie last years mark, so 17-15 to beat the .656 winning percentage from last year.  That said, I can only, at best, tie last year's mark this week, and that's with a perfect week, which I haven't had yet this year.  Ok, enough of that, onto the Week 16 picks.

Thursday Night Football

Atlanta Falcons @ Detroit Lions

Well, the TNF games this year have been pretty bad overall.  Last week's wasn't terrible, but not great either.  This week looked like it would be a prime matchup before the season started but with Detroit getting beat down by Ryan Lindley and the Arizona Cardinals last week, home or not, I can't take Detroit over an Atlanta team that beat the SB champs 34-0 in week 15. Atlanta 24-14

Sunday Games

Oakland Raiders @ Carolina Panthers

Oakland is brutal.  Carolina will run all over them.  Newton will have his way at home.  33-13

Buffalo Bills @ Miami Dolphins

Stinker of a game.  Miami has actually been playing better as of late and well, the Bills have packed it in.  That game on Sunday was pathetic and hopefully will be the last straw that needed to happen to force managements hand at some serious change for 2013.  Miami will be looking to avenge the game earlier this year in Orchard Park.  Miami wins pretty easily.  27-14

Cincinnati Bengals @ Pittsburgh Steelers

This could be a pretty good game.  Pittsburgh's been losing lately and have fallen out of the top 6 and are now staring up at Cincinnati who are currently in the playoffs with the 6th seed.  I think Pittsburgh will take this one at home though. Just a gut feeling.  27-24

Indianapolis Colts @ Kansas City Chiefs

Colts big.  KC is already thinking about Geno Smith and perhaps Bill Polian.  35-7

New England Patriots @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Another lopsided game and the Pats will be mad the couldn't see last week's come back pay off.  NE 50-20

New Orleans Saints @ Dallas Cowboys

I like the Cowboys here, but I like the Saints a little more.  I am impressed with how Dallas has been playing lately and as a football fan I hope this division stays tied going into next week's Dallas-Washington game.  But, I think NO pulls this one out 17-14

Washington Redskins @ Philadelphia Eagles

Lots of chatter about Philly pulling out all the stops to get up for this game.  My thought is that if they need to try and get overly motivated for a division game where they could play a big-time spoiler, well, then they have already lost.  Washington, RGIII or not.  30-21

St. Louis Rams @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Bucs were embarrassed last week.  The Rams were too, but to a lesser degree.  TB is at home and I think they have the better team.  TB 20-13

San Diego Chargers @ New York Jets

Terrible game.  Only thing to watch out for is how McElroy fares in first ever start.  Should be Tebow though.  Man, NY is a train wreck and the only thing making this terrible Bills season not as bad.  SD 24-10

Tennessee Titans @ Green Bay Packers

Titans have been playing better lately but so have the Packers.  Tennessee can't matchup talent or coaching with GB and being at home skews the odds all the more.  GB 35-17

Minnesota Vikings @ Houston Texans

I think Houston wins easily and wraps everything up.  But, I'll be watching this one, simply to cheer on AP as he shoots for 2000 yards and a shot at the record.  Houston 34-21

Cleveland Browns @ Denver Broncos

Cleveland's played well lately, especially on defense.  But, Denver has a special thing going right now and Peyton has been pure Peyton.  And the fact Nick Saban rumblings are being tossed about can't sit too well with the guys in the visitor's locking room either.  Denver big. 41-17

Chicago Bears @ Arizona Cardinals

Chicago is in free fall mode right now.  I can't hardly criticize them though, they've been bit hard by the injury bug.  But, despite the Cards winning last week, I think this is a get well game for the Bears.  Chicago 21-9

New York Giants @ Baltimore Ravens

Interesting matchup here.  With both teams, you never really know what you're going to get until game day.  I'm taking NYG here because Baltimore seems to be falling and now WR Smith is the latest of their injuries.  NYG rebound 17-13

San Francisco 49'ers @ Seattle Seahawks

Pretty awesome game to close out the week.  Seattle is almost unbeatable at home and that's where this one is being played.  A Seattle win makes things much more interesting for both these teams going into the final week.  I just think SF is the better team and with CK at QB, they are pretty explosive offensively and even Buffalo showed a couple flairs at the end of the first half last week.  Where Ryan Fitzpatrick couldn't take advantage of Seattles CB woes, (injuries and suspensions), CK and SF will do just that in week 16.  SF 34-24

I hope everyone enjoys a great week a football, all your teams win for you and that everyone has a great Christmas.  See you next week for the last week of the regular season.

2012 NFL Week 15 Game Predictions

Well, only three more weekends left in the 2012 NFL regular season.  It is so hard to believe we're already less than a month away from the postseason.  I really hope you're favorite teams are still alive, fighting for that postseason berth, as I'll, once again, have to live vicariously through you, as my team is yet again, barring one of the largest miracles in NFL history, to sit on the outside, looking in.  And in this century, to only have a couple of meaningful Dec and Jan game is just downright pathetic.

Anyhow, I had a great week picking last weekend.  I went 13-3 and am now sitting at 142-66 for the year.  With three more weeks remaining, I'm aiming to end strong here, as my preseason goal to match or beat last years record is still clearly in sight.  So, that said, let's head into week 15.

Thursday Night Football

Cincinnati Bengals @ Philadelphia Eagles

This is actually a very interesting game.  But not for the game itself.  Last week the Bengals were ahead of Dallas for the entire game, yet lost on a last second field goal.  Contrarily, the Eagles trailed Tampa Bay the entire game yet a last second TD from Foles to Maclin gave them the last second victory. Opposites for the spectrums to be sure.  And that theme continues this week for many of the games.  Here, Cincinnati is looking to build upon their chances to make the postseason while Philly is in evaluation mode.  I think the Eagles do have a chance against Leon Hall and Company, but I think Dalton, Green and Gresham are too talented for the Eagles to contain.  Last week's drops will not continue into this week and the Bengals take this one 31-17

Sunday's Games

Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears

I don't even care who plays for the Bears this week.  They are so banged up it may cost them a playoff berth yet again under the current regime.  Green Bay is getting healthier and have been gaining speed ever since they started off slow. Sure they stumbled here and there, which is normal.  They'll fly into Chicago and barring a major league snowstorm they'll win easily.  GB 35-14

Indianapolis Colts @ Houston Texans

I kind of feel bad for Andrew Luck this week.  The Texans just got thwacked on monday night vs. the Pats and JJ Watt will be looking to vent.  The Colts line makes that a scary proposition.  I do think Luck will make his hay here but I think this game will be a laugher when it's all said and done.  Houston 42-17

Denver Broncos @ Baltimore Ravens

Ravens just fired their OC after consecutive losses and Denver is pretty darned good.  Manning seems to have a complimentary running game again, which is what the major scare was when McGahee went down, but Moreno's getting things done, so looks like the fear was a bit premature.  Baltimore is going to make the playoffs, but it's more and more looking like they may be backing themselves in.  The defense isn't what it's been, their offense has been so-so for most of the season and they have a QB in Joe Flacco that is good on most days yet does have his limitations, one of which is entirely out of his hands. That being a lack of real NFL receiving Corps.  In this game Ray Rice will have to do the heavy lifting, but when's that really not the case.  Bailey will blanket Boldin and while Torrie Smith does have the ability to get open deep, I worry that LT Oher, who's struggled this year, will not be able to provide Flacco enough time before Dumervil and Miller get to him.  That said, I do think Baltimore can win, but I find it highly doubtful.  Denver 24-10

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Miami Dolphins

Here's a stinker of a game.  The Jags have been better with Henne under center but he can't plug the running lanes up on defense, which is exactly how this teams lost the past two weeks.  Bush, Thomas and Miller will slice and dice the Jax defense all day.  Miami 24-13

Minnesota Vikings @ St. Louis Rams

Interesting game that I think can go either way.  Two pretty decent defenses.  Two QB's that have never quite lived up to their billing, granted Bradford's played well enough but has been injury prone over the course of his short career and Ponder, albeit a sophomore in the league, has actually cost his teams games this year.  Both offenses struggle and both defenses are pretty good.  That usually is a recipe for a low-scoring stinker.  Yet, sometimes the opposite occurs.  I like AP here alot, I like Chris Givens or Danny Amendola (if he plays).  I think We'll get one team into the twenties and the other will be close behind. I'll take the home team.  STL 23-20

Washington Redskins @ Cleveland Browns

Ok.  It seems as if I have to roll out the if then scenario for a third consecutive week, for those keeping track, I'm 1-1 in these type of games.  If RG III plays I'm taking the skins all day long.  If Cousins is the QB, I think it'll be a close one that a really up-and-coming Browns defense will find a flaw here and there to pull it out.  Ok.  With RGIII I go Washington 30-17, without RGIII I go Cleveland 17-14

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints

Interesting game.  I actually like the Bucs here but I don't know, this Saints team got some kind of blow this week when the suspensions on their players were overturned. That and getting embarrassed by the Giants can't be sitting well with Brees and company.  At home, under these circumstances.  I'm going to expect big games out of Freeman, Jackson, Clark and of course Doug Martin.  For the Saints I like the passing game a lot and I love Brees here.  NO 26-24

New York Giants @ Atlanta Falcons

Giants may have thumped the Saints but their still only a game ahead of Dallas and Washington, so there won't be any decreased intensity.  Atlanta has to be feeling pretty low after getting handled by Cam Newton and the Panthers last weekend, yet I question if they can handle the Giants.  I guess I'll find out this weekend, but I'm betting against Atlanta and going with NY for the 31-24 win.

Seattle Seahawks @ Buffalo Bills (In Toronto)

Interesting.  Seahawks are unbeatable at home and not so good on the road.  Buffalo just isn't very good.  But, in this game, who will be the home team in terms of the fans.  I'm thinking that many Seahawks fans may make the trip, mind you a long trip.  I just can't see the Bills winning.  I know the defense has been playing well lately, very good in fact.  The Seahawks don't have a deadly offense by any means.  Lynch is solid, Wilson makes some plays and Rice/Tate have been coming on lately but overall they are just kind of there.  The Bills probably won't be scoring too much on this elite defense though.  Fitzpatrick is Jekyll and Hyde in game and the Coach is pretty terrible calling the game.  Yeah, could the Bills win, sure, it'll hurt their draft, so they might.  Other than that though, I like Seattle here 30-13

Carolina Panthers @ San Diego Chargers

Sure the Panthers beat the Falcons and the Chargers beat the reeling Steelers.  So what.  I like the San Diego here at home against a beatable defense on an overall mediocre at best team.  SD 24-20

Detroit Lions @ Arizona Cardinals

I'm not that high on Detroit right now, but I highly doubt Arizona will correct all the bad things they've been doing the past few weeks, with the lowest point being last weekends 58-0 loss to the Seahawks.  I'm taking Detroit as a Default here.  23-13

Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders

This is what they use to torture prisoner's of war these days.  I swear, force your prisoner to watch a quarter or so of this game and they'll be singing like a canary.  Bowe may not even play for KC.  Oakland, because they can at least move the ball at times.  16-14

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Dallas Cowboys

Steelers are reeling.  Cowboys didn't play well last week but won the game at the buzzer.  Tough game to pick.  I actually like a tie here.  But I'll go with Dallas as they're home and I like what the matchup of Romo and Bryant propose here.  Dallas 26-23 (OT)

San Francisco 49'ers @ New England Patriots

Don't you love how NE gets their most difficult two games in back to back weeks, in the cold, at home.  Funny isn't it.  Well I think it is.  And I just don't think SF can keep pace with the way the Patriots are moving the chains and killing the scoreboards.  NE 34-17

Monday Night Football

New York Jets @ Tennessee Titans

I bet ESPN is praying Tebow gets named the starter this week.  It won't happen but this game will be brutal to watch.  At least Jake Locker, Chris Johnson have some talent.  I'm going to take Tennessee to put the Jets and their fans out of their misery.  TEN 28-20

Hope you all have a great week of football. See you in week 16.

2012 NFL Week 14 Game Predictions

Week 13 was an interesting week of football.  There were several pretty interesting games.  Detroit's heartbreaking loss to Indianapolis, St. Louis beating SF with .26 left in overtime, Dallas over Philadelphia, where Bryce Brown continued his phenomenal play, only to fumble late again, GB pulling out a win over Minnesota despite AP's amazing day running the football and none better in my opinion than Washington's win over the Giants.

I wound up going 10-6 for the week, bringing my season total to 129-63.  If I want to beat last year's mark, which I do, I'm going to have to hit 11 or 12 wins a couple times over the course of the next four games and keep the other two around the 9 or 10 win marks.  That said, on to the picks:

Thursday Night Football

Denver Broncos @ Oakland Raiders

Raiders are terrible on defense.  Peyton Manning is shredding defenses.  I look for a lopsided game where the score doesn't necessarily tell the whole story, as I do think the Raiders should get some garbage time scoring late in this one.  Denver 34-24

Sunday Games

Baltimore Ravens @ Washington Redskins

Baltimore has a great record but they are winning ugly at points this year.  Now, one can argue that this is a mark of a great team, which I do agree, bounces do tend to go to the better teams.  Yet, I don't always think they've been the better team this year.  4th and 29 against San Diego is one and then losing to a Charlie Batch led Steeler team last week.  Washington on the other hand is getting hot late.  It's no coincidence to me that this resurgence of power is occuring right about the time RGIII got his main weapon back in Pierre Garcon.  And wow, how fun is RGIII to watch.  I think at home the Skins take this one.  Close if Suggs plays but if not, I think they'll be some separation. Washington 23-20

Dallas Cowboys @ Cincinnati Bengals

This should be a decent game to watch.  The Bengals are clicking right now, led by a defensive unit that's been downright monstrous the past month.  Dallas has a pretty bad line so it'll be interesting how they fare agains the Bengals defensive pressure this week.  I think things are slowly turning around for Dallas.  Romo's playing some great football, Dez Bryant is one of the top WR's in the NFL this past month or so and now they have their star RB DeMarco Murray back for full duties this week.  Now, he did have a full work load last week against Philadelphia but it was his first game back and I believe calls were tempered because of it.  I don't think he'll be held back anywhere this week.  I like a good game with Dallas pulling it off late.  31-27

St.Louis Rams @ Buffalo Bills

Well my Bills pulled off last weeks game against Jacksonville.  I'm not really surprised.  I expected a win, the blowout was extra.  It's tough to watch games late in the year, as I know that technically their still alive for the postseason, but it's such an small percentage I'm torn.  I want a win yet I see these games as meaningless at this point and wouldn't mind some more losses to help with draft positioning.  It's sad how it's the same story every year.  In this game, the Bills are starting two offensive lineman who have never started an NFL Game because of Injuries.  There is also a host of minor injuries to keep an eye on as well.  The weather is going to be wet and sloppy, so I think it'll be a run fest for both teams.  I just don't think Buffalo can beat the STL defense on a consistent basis, bad weather or not.  STL 17-13

Philadelphia Eagles @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Buc's at home against a bad Eagles team seems like the no brainer here but I'm going to take Philadelphia.  Have a hunch here, nothing more than that.  Philadelphia 20-17

Atlanta Falcons @ Carolina Panthers

Carolina will lose, they're a mess right now and losing to KC should be deflating enough that they'll either come out strong this week or just pack it in.  I see their leader moping on the sidelines and that shows me all I need to know.  Atlanta 28-18

Kansas City Chiefs @ Cleveland Browns

KC is not a good football team.  They are pathetic.  For them to come out and say that their LB who killed himself, after killing his girlfriend, was the motivation they needed to win against the Panthers, is really upsetting to me.  These are NFL players making a lot of money and they actually had high hopes heading into the season.  For them to need such a tragic event to offer motivation is pathetic in my book.  Cleveland on the other hand is playing sound defense and running the ball well, which sets up the occasional deep ball.  I like Cleveland big this week.  30-15

San Diego Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers

I'm going to have to use another Caveat this week.  Still no word as to whether Big Ben will play or not.  If he does I like Pittsburgh 33-20, if not I'll take the Chargers in a close one, say 21-20

Tennessee Titans @ Indianapolis Colts

This is going to be the best game to watch as a fan this week.  I say this because, while the NE/Hou game will be a solid all around game between two powerhouses, this game will be all offense all the time.  Both defenses are pretty bad and both offenses can move the ball.  To make matters worse, or better in this case, both teams pass defense is really, really bad.  Should be a field day out there Sunday for Andrew Luck and Jake Locker.  I like Indy at home though.  35-34

New York Jets @ Jacksonville Jaguars

I should take the Jaguars here.  Starting Sanchez probably shouldn't have been the call, but if you want to ignite your fan base to believe in him again, perhaps it was a good move.  Jax defense isn't very good, so Sanchez should have time to throw.  But he still doesn't have receivers and the ground game should come very easy for the Greene/Powell combo for the Jets.  The Jets defense isn't living up to their reputation from previous years, so I do think Jacksonville will score some points, I just have a feeling the Jets pull out the win here.  Jets 16-13

Chicago Bears @ Minnesota Vikings

Bears keep getting injury piled atop injury.  It almost makes you feel bad for them.  I still like them this week.  Teams can score on the Vikings and unless Allen and Co. can knock Cutler out of the game, I think they'll handle the Vikings.  28-17

Miami Dolphins @ San Francisco 49'ers

I don't think highly of Miami.  The niners defense is elite and I like what I've seen, for the most part, from their second year QB.  I haven't heard anything to the contrary, so I'm assuming he'll start again this week.  In which case I think he'll be able to bounce some roll-outs to the outside for some big plays.  49'ers big.  24-9

Arizona Cardinals @ Seattle Seahawks

Arizona is terrible.  Seahawks are virtually unbeatable at home.  Recipe for a Seattle victory.  19-3

New Orleans Saints @ New York Giants

Eli seems to be up one week and down the next.  Everyone's up against the Saints defense and Eli was down last week so that meshes up perfectly.  I do think the Saints will score some here, but I think NY scores much more.  34-24

Detroit Lions @ Green Bay Packers

This game could be ugly for Detroit.  They are down to Mike Thomas and Calvin Johnson.  The rest of their receivers are on IR so they'll be a lot of unkowns out there and a lot of Tony Sheffler and Pettigrew.  GB should do fine, even without Jordy Nelson.  I like a 35-24 GB win.

Monday Night

Houston Texans @ New England Patriots

Two of the best teams in the league square off.  This game has Home Field Advantage importance to it.  Neither defense stops too many offenses.  The Texans actually were really good defensively against Tennessee last week and so were the Patriots against the Dolphins. Actually, the Pats have been pretty good since Talib came over, so while I do think they'll be plenty of points to go around, and I can't wait to see JJ Watt sack Brady a few times here, I do think NE, even with all their offensive injuries, should be able to score 40 and that should certainly be enough.  NE 40-35

Hope you all have a great week of football.  See you for week 15.

2012 NFL season Week 13 game Predictions

Week 12 was a very forgettable week of football for me.  Not only did It take me to that pathetic MNF game to break .500 for the week, my Bills lost what seemed to be their only, albeit dwindling, playoff hopes, not to mention I lost almost everyone of my fantasy games, despite being heavily favored in the majority of those.  Oddly enough, the only two I actually pulled a win out, was due to stupid circumstances and both of those games I was the heavy underdog.  So, guess I'll just chalk Week 12 up as one of those crazy, unexplainable week.

I'm hoping to get things back in line this week.  Despite the 9-7 record, I'm still at 119-57 for the year.  That's a pretty good record at this point of the year, but the goal was never to come away with a pretty good year, it was to have not just a great year, but a year that beats the great year I had last season.  Another mediocre week or two like last week may put that goal out of reach, but, just as easily a few more great weeks will help out tremendously.

I've been limited all week. I'm officially on the injury report. For whatever reason, concentration has been an issue, with some pretty bad headaches, fogginess and bouts of being  both tired and distracted. I'm hoping it's just a passing thing and not a foreshadowing of a cold to come.  That all said, my hopes for these picks really aren't too high.  I really didn't dig into the statistics this week nor did I re-watch any games.  That said though, I've seen enough of each team and how I feel each should match up and I have kept up with the injury reports, so it's not like I'm just throwing darts either.  So, that all said, here goes:

Week 13

TNF

New Orleans Saints @ Atlanta Falcons

I think this might be one of the best TNF games we've seen this year.  I like Atlanta at home, but the Saints have been playing better since Joe Vitt came back from suspension and I think they'll make this a game.  That said, there should be a nice helping of scoring here.  Look for great games from Brees, Graham, Colston and keep an eye out for Sproles, he could go and despite the dedication to the pounding style of ground game, he could surprise.  On the Atlanta Side, Ryan, both White and Jones at WR, and I like Jacquizz here as well.  I think he'll have a breakout performance of sorts.  ATL 34-27

Sunday Games

Seattle Seahawks @ Chicago Bears

The Bears are really, really banged up.  These injuries could severely alter their chances come playoff time.  If this game were in Seattle I'd take the Seahawks, as they're nearly invincible there.  But, as last week's dud in Miami proves, this team is not that great on the road.  I like Cutler and the Bears receivers and TE's here.  CHICAGO 21-13

Houston Texans @ Tennessee Titans

The Texan defense has been getting torched lately.  Since Jake Locker's been back at QB the Titans have been moving the ball more effectively but haven't been scoring enough.  I think Houston will eventually pull away here, as the Titan D isn't very good at all.  But it should be entertaining for about 3 quarters.  HOUSTON 35-24

New England Patriots @ Miami Dolphins

Miami could pull a stunner at home, but I can't take them.  NE is lethal on offense and their defense has been playing great lately.  NE 31-17

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Buffalo Bills

Jags have been playing great football since Chad Henne took over for injured QB Gabbert.  No Gabbert, NO MJD, and their playing great.  Their defense is still pretty bad though.  I can easily see them beating the Bills this week, but somehow I think the Bills will show up here, seeing they'll be no real pressure, the home crowd will be almost absent, as 15,000+ tickets are still unsold and that the game will be blacked out locally.  I think the offense will do some nice things.  BUFFALO 28-23

Indianapolis Colts @ Detroit Lions

Could be a shootout here.  I like both teams against these respective defenses.  Should be a decent amount of offense in this one and I want to take Indianapolis, but I have a little more trust in Calvin Johnson and Matt Stafford this week.  DET 27-24 OT

Carolina Panthers @ Kansas City Chiefs

While the Bills game is certainly blacked out, I think even less people will actually want to see this game.  KC is thinking number 1 pick about now and Carolina may be playing for their coaches job.  Carolina 26-9

Minnesota Vikings @ Green Bay Packers

Jennings or not, GB should roll the Vikings up at home.  Ponder started hot this year but has fallen off something fierce.  AP is still AD but while I think he'll be effective in GB, I just don't see how their offense can keep pace with a GB offense that is for the most part, back to form.  GB 28-14

San Francisco 49ers @ St. Louis Rams

I like Bradford and what the Rams have done this year. However, SF seems revitalized since the QB change and while the STL defense is playing very well this year, I think CK and the Niners will do enough to get their points while Bradford and Co. will struggle, even at home.  SF 21-12

Arizona Cardinals @ New York Jets

I hate the Jets.  Not only do they stink, they are terrible to watch.  I can't say much more about Arizona though.  While I don't hate them by any stretch, at least they have Larry Fitzgerald to watch.  I just don't think Lindley will be able to get him the ball.  A boring, low scoring game that hinges on defenses putting offenses into field goal range.  A real stinker.  NYJ 9-6

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Denver Broncos

TB is fun to watch and rookie RB Doug Martin is awesome.  I can see them winning, but I'm not taking them.  Denver is a very tough place to play and they're a good team on top of the home field advantage.  I like a bit of a lopsided score, as I think TB will struggle mightily in an altitude they rarely have to deal  with.  DENVER 34-14

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens

Doesn't look like Big Ben will play.  Ravens all day then.  BALTIMORE 24-13

Cincinnati Bengals @ San Diego Chargers

Chargers are pathetic.  They are that type of team that puts themselves in line to win a game, only to lose at the end.  Last week's forfeiting up a 4th and 29 to Baltimore is a perfect example of how Murphy's Law is always seemingly attached to the Bolts.  To make matters worse the Bengals seem to be over their skid and SD's secondary won't be able to keep pace with the Bengals receivers.  CINCI 31-21

Cleveland Browns @ Oakland Raiders

This is a tough, tough, tough game to pick.  I've been think Oakland all week as I think they'll be able to pass effectively against an overacheiving Browns team.  However, I just heard that the weather report for Sunday in LA is going to be horrendous.  They're calling for buckets of rain and very high winds.  I just don't see how they'll be able to throw the Ball, which is actually bad for both teams.  This will be a running game game, and Trent Richardson is a beast.  Cleveland 14-6

Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas Cowboys

With the Cowboys, who Knows?  With the Eagles, who cares?  This is a tough game for SNF.  You have two head coaches who probably won't be there next year, although Andy Reid is a safer bet to be gone.  Philadelphia will likely be sporting a totally different offense next year, and as for the Cowboys, I think they still believe they can catch the Giants.  I think that's wishful thinking at best though.  They had their chance to keep pace but blew it on Thanksgiving.  I do like them here though this week against a very dysfunctional Eagles team.  DALLAS 26-15

MNF

New York Giants @ Washington Redskins

Huge game for RGIII and the Skins.  MNF and a win gets them closer to the Giants for the Division.  If NY wins, the division is all but done for Washington.  I like both offenses and I think we'll get decent games out of both defenses.  I really have no idea who to take.  My brain is telling me to take NY but my gut is telling me to go with Washington.  Just a hunch, but I can't go against NY this time of the year, this is when they seem to start getting really hot, and with what they did to GB last week, I can't go against them.  NYG 34-30

Hope everyone has a great week of football.  See you next week.

2012 NFL Week 12 Game Predictions

Great weekend of predictions last weekend.  Went 12-2 which brings the record to 110-50 for the season.  Very pleased with how things look through 11 weeks, now just have to carry this momentum through for the next 6 weeks.

First off, Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.  Hope everyone has a great thursday.  Watch that overeating though, might make you miss some football, as there are 3 games again this year.

Thanksgiving Games

Houston Texans @ Detroit Lions

Houston had a real scare last week against the pathetic Jaguars, but won it in overtime.  Detroit lost to GB and because of his antics, the team is suspending WR Titus Young for this weeks game, giving ex-Jag Thomas the start across CJ.  I think this will be a decent game, at least that's what I'm hoping for.  Kind of like both of these teams and hoping the Stafford will be on his game, because I am sure Arian Foster is chomping at the bit to get back in there, as he had his worst pro game last week.  Houston steals the Turkey.  35-24

Washington Redskins @ Dallas Cowboys

RGII on national TV.  Can't wait to watch this one.  However, I do think Dallas is the better team and despite barely beating Cleveland last week, I think Dallas wins in a close one 20-16

New England Patriots @ New York Jets

No Gronkowski, perhaps no Hernandez.  Oh, I'm not even going there, they still have Brady and the Jets are pretty bad.  Could I see NY pulling off the upset, sure, why not, but I don't think it'll be close.  NE 30-13

Sunday Games

Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Extra week of rest for Locker and the Titans to prepare for perhaps the worst team in football.  I say perhaps because they are starting Chad Henne, don't laugh.  He had a great game against a very good Texans defense last week and gets the nod again this week.  I do think Tennessee will be too much for the Jags but if they can score, we might have a very entertaining game to watch.  Tennessee 28-24

Buffalo Bills @ Indianapolis Colts

Last weeks hunch on my Bills paid off. Guess what?  I have another one.  They'll pull another one this week.  Luck will have a great game against us, but I think we'll be able to keep pace and I like our defense right now better than their defense.  Buffalo 35-31

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cleveland Browns

Cleveland's not very good, but they've lost some close ones this year.  Pittsburgh is dying at QB, WR and RB.  Well, maybe RB is settled a bit, but still a terrible timeshare there.  Plax Burress just got resigned to help the WR's out.  Charlie Batch will get the start at QB. Too much uncertainty, even if they are the Steelers.  Cleveland 17-13

Oakland Raiders @ Cincinnati Bengals

Could be a high scoring game.  But for me, it comes down to Cincinnati having the better defense.  Both offenses should do fine, but Dalton to Green should do very well again this week. Bengals 31-20

Denver Broncos @ Kansas City Chiefs

KC stinks.  Denver will get over the McGahee injury.  Denver 35-10

Seattle Seahawks @ Miami Dolphins

Seattle's not the greatest road team.  A month ago I would've taken the Dolphins, but they're sliding and the Hawks are still pretty good, even away from home.  Seattle 20-17

Atlanta Falcons @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa has been on fire and I think they can keep it going this week.  At home is the key for me.  Should be a fun game to watch.  Ryan's throwing too many picks the past few weeks and Tampas' been great offensively.  I'll take TB 28-27

Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears

I have to make my first if then pick of the year.  There's just no way around this one.  If Cutler plays for Chicago I'm taking the Bears to win 28-17, but if he doesn't, I'm taking the Vikings 20-10

Baltimore Ravens @ San Diego Chargers

Baltimore has been iffy at times this year.  SD is the model of iffiness.  I have a gut feeling they'll pull it out at home though.  SD 28-23

St. Louis Rams @ Arizona Cardinals

Probably the worst game of the Week, well, up there with the Carolina-Philly game.  Ryan Lindlay, no?  I'll go with Sam Bradford at his defense over Lindlay and his.  And for you "but Beanie Wells is back" people, I don't think he'll give them much.  STL- 14-9

San Francisco 49ers @ New Orleans Saints

I don't care who plays for SF at QB.  Drew Brees will have trouble going at this defense, despite not being nearly as good of a unit as they were last year.  I like the 49er's because while their defense isn't as great as they were last year, they're still very, very good.  Combine that with the knowledge that either QB is playing better than Smith played last year outranks Drew Brees and his offense which is burdened by the terrible Saints defense.  SF 31-24

Green Bay Packers @ New York Giants

I think this will be a fun game.  Should be high scoring with two great QB's.  I want to take the Giants, as something tells me they'll pull this out, but I'll go against my gut feeling here and take the Pack on the road.  GB 37-33

Monday Night Game

Carolina Panthers @ Philadelphia Eagles

This could be brutal to watch.  I have no idea who to pick.  I thought Phiilly would do well against the Redskins defense and they didn't, not at all.  I like what Carolina did against TB in an OT loss.  Yet who knows what Cam Newton will show up.  I really don't know, but I'll gamble on a middle ground Cam Newton to suit up.  CAR 13-9

Again, hope everyone enjoys the holiday with their families and an enjoyable week of football.  See you in Week 13

2012 NFL Week 11 Regular Season Predictions

Last week we saw quite a few good teams pull off some really tight wins, i.e NE, HOU, PIT)  an upset in NO, a few blow-outs in DEN, TEN, CINCI, SEA and BAL and a Tie.  Seems like one rolls around every 4 or 5 years, but this marks the first time two teams ended a game tied since the league switched to their new OT rules.  All in all, a pretty entertaining week of football.

As for predicting the games, I went 10-3-1, but I've been trying to figure out what to do with the tie, as I didn't really get the pick wrong, and then again I didn't get it right.  So, I'll count it as a loss, seeing I certainly didn't pick the Tie.  In any case, 10-4 is pretty good, which brings my season record up to 98-48.  I'm satisfied where things stand right now, but would obviously like to increase the percentage before the season finishes out.  So, that's a perfect segue as any to get right to week 11 and the picks.

Thursday Night Football

Miami Dolphins @ Buffalo Bills

My Bills get a home primetime game.  These games have been forgettable though, going back many years.  There was the Dallas Debacle, the Flex Game Trouncing and the Season opening MNF game when McKelvin fumbled the game away on a return.  Growing up, this was the rivalry game.  Over the years though, this angle has pretty much dried up though.  Yet, it always feels good to get a win against the fish, so I 'm looking forward to some Thursday Night Football.  In the game itself, I think we'll see a lot of rushing.  The Bills have been pretty brutal on Rush D this year, and that bodes well for Reggie Bush and the Dolphins backs.  On the other side, Miami led the league in rushing allowed.  They held this for the season, yet have been getting gashed lately by the speedier backs that can cut the edge.  With Fred Jackson out, this is CJ Spiller's show and cut the edge, he can do.  I think CJ will be the difference here.  I predict he'll have an amazing game stat-wise, putting up 130+ yards on the ground, another 40 receiving and a TD as well.  Bills win 34-24

Sunday Games

Green Bay Packers @ Detroit Lions

This game should be fun to watch.  I think it'll be high scoring, with most of the action coming through the air.  Neither team is really strong on the ground, and after a few series or so, I believe both teams will ditch the run and go to the air.  I like GB though, as while I do think Stafford will have a quality start along with his receivers, I think a high ratio of passing only can benefit the GB pass rushers, where a costly mistake or two should be the difference.  GB 30-24

Arizona Cardinals @ Atlanta Falcons

Falcons finally lost last week.  Arizona still isn't very good.  I don't think this will be a contested affair.  Perhaps the Cardinals hang in their till the third, but Ryan and company should blow things open from there on in.  Atlanta 34-17

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Carolina Panthers

Carolina didn't fare too well against the Broncos, so they're probably relieved to see Tampa roll into town.  However, the Buc's have been pouring it on lately.  They've been getting insane production from rookie RB Martin and WR Vincent Jackson is proving himself worth every penny of the monster deal that brought him to Tampa Bay in the Offseason.  These two guys are having a great effect on Josh Freeman, who, after a slow start, has really been a steady player the past several weeks.  I like Tampa and I think Martin has another huge game.  TB 24-14

Cleveland Browns @ Dallas Cowboys

This could be a sneaky game.  Cleveland's had two weeks to prepare for a shaky Dallas squad.  But, I think Dallas is talented enough to pull this one out.  Dallas in a closer than expected game 28-23

Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins

Looks like Mike Vick won't play, so we'll get Nick Foles at QB for Philly.  I liked the kid out of Arizona and was hoping he'd fall to Buffalo mid-way through the draft.  That obviously didn't happen and he's an eagle now.  This week, it's a pretty great matchup for his first start.  Opposing team's QB's have fared pretty well against the skins and I think they'll rely heavy on RB McCoy, both on the ground and through the air.  I like RGIII, who appears to get both Moss and Garcon back at full go this week.  I think they'll be able to do enough to make this a toss up, perhaps going to OT.  I like the Eagles though.  27-24

New York Jets @ St. Louis Rams

Jets should win this game, but I don't think they will.  They've been playing terrible lately, the locker room chatter is firing up and they're getting beat around lately.  St. Louis has fare really well under their new coach, who's done a great job with the defense.  But Stephen Jackson and Sam Bradford have looked really good lately as well.  Bradford's having a nice season so far.  I think the Rams Defense will shut Sanchez and company down and Bradford will find the time to throw a TD or two here.  STL 23-13

Cincinnati Bengals @ Kansas City Chiefs

Good showing for the Chiefs this past monday.  But you kind of have to put things in perspective though.  They played against Leftwich for most the game, after Big Ben hurt his shoulder, which is far easier to play against then playing against their starter.  Cincinnati has been up and down all year, but Dalton to AJ Green has been hot all season long.  I look for that connection to continue this week.  Pretty easy win for the Bengals.  42-14

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Houston Texans

I see no hope for Jacksonville here.  Their defense will not stop the Texans offense in any manner, nor will their offense be able to do anything against the Houston defense.  Houston huge 38-6

New Orleans Saints @ Oakland Raiders

Two defenses that have been pretty bad this year square off.  Each team has had their troubles running the ball as well.  This could be a fun game to watch, as both QB's have been slinging it this year.  But for outcomes, I can't take Oakland, not against Brees and his weapons.  31-23

San Diego Chargers @ Denver Broncos

SD has made too many major mistakes this year and Denver's defense should be more than capable to stir up a turnover or two in this game.  On the other side, I don't think it matters how good the other team's defense is, Peyton Manning is getting the job done in a big way.  Love the Broncos this week.  33-20

Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots

I love how Andrew Luck has played this year.  It's a feel good story seeing this team that no one predicted to do anything at all, to currently sit in a playoff spot.  Their rallying behind their QB and playing for their coach, doing their part to show their support of him in his trying time.  However, I think Buffalo might have caught NE napping a bit last week, and while they still won the game, they had every reason why they should've lost.  I think that game will serve as a reality check and Tom Brady will pick apart Indy's defense here.  NE 37-17

Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers

I probably would've had a tough time picking this game if Big Ben didn't get hurt.  While he's not out officially yet, the word is that Byron Leftwich will get the start, and that's terrible news for Steeler fans and great news for the Ravens. Baltimore wins 24-13

Monday Night Football

Chicago Bears @ San Francisco 49'ers

Interesting game to look at.  Both teams have top 5 defenses.  Both Teams have excellent kickers.  Both are doing great in their ground attack.  The difference in my opinion is Vernon Davis for the niners and Brandon Marshall for the Bears.  However, both starting QB's may be out this week.  If this does indeed happen, which the odds look good for this to play out, second year QB Colin Kaepernick will take SF's reigns while capable journeyman Jason Campbell will go for the Bears.  I think these QB's will limit the production potential somewhat and create a situation where the best defense wins.  I should take Chicago then, but something about Kaepernick tells me he'll do some things scrambling that the Bears won't be in position to prepare themselves adequately for.  I'll take SF in a close on 17-14

Have a great week of football.  See you in week 12

NFL 2012 Game Predictions Week 10

I have to say, the weeks are flying by.  It just seems like I was writing up the Week 9 predictions, and here we are, already on the eve before Week 10's kickoff.  Last week, going 9-5, certainly was not my best week.  This brings the yearly record to 88-44.  I have to admit, the analysis this week won't be nearly as in depth as it has been each of the other weeks.  I've had very little time to devout watching last weeks games, nor spending much time doing research online.  I'm a bit nervous about picking like this, as up until now, I don't truly have a handle on the major injuries.  

I had considered to make the Thursday Game's prediction now, and then return on Saturday with the other games, but I looked at my planner and there's no way I'll have the time to fit the research in, so it really doesn't make any sense delaying the picks.  That said…

Week 10.

Thursday Night's Game

Indianapolis Colts @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Jags might be home but they'll continue to be without all-pro RB Maurice Jones-Drew.  Andrew Luck is already looking every bit the part Indianapolis hoped he'd one day become and is setting rookie passing records in the process.  Indy's defense is not very good, but they might look very good after playing Jacksonville's anemic offense.  Indianapolis 27-14

Sunday's Games

San Diego Chargers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

I'm still saying wow at Doug Martin's game.  It's definitely a game I'll be watching sometime, even if it's during next week.  The stat line was crazy and while running games to some aren't the most fun to watch, I really enjoy watching one that is executed to it's fullest potential.  That said, SD's run defense is near the top of the league in that department and they finally had a really nice all around performance this past weekend.  On the road at the Big Sombrero, especially with how the Buc's have been playing lately, tempts me to take TB, yet, I'm feeling the Chargers in this one.  Just a hunch, nothing more. SD 28-25

Tennessee Titans @ Miami Dolphins

Titans were manhandled in Chicago last week while Miami lost a close one to Indianapolis.  Conventional logic should dictate that Miami would be the team to take here, and it does look promising.  However, I read that Jake Locker, right now, looks to be ready to start for Tennessee this week.  He's a different type of QB from Hasselback, and presents defenses with so much more to prepare for.  I think getting him back will spark the Titans.  I look for a really nice passing game, which, despite Miami's defensive success this year, team's have been able to do, and nice games out of Locker, Washington and one other player, perhaps Britt or Wright.  For the Dolphins, I think they'll do well offensively as well.  Tennessee's defense is attrocious and while Miami is not a high scoring team at any angle, points will be had.  Yet, that said, I think getting Locker back will have a psychological lift and instead of giving up 38 points, perhaps they only give up 30 to the Dolphins.  Titans by 5.  35-30

New York Giants @ Cincinnati Bengals

I think the Giants bounce back nicely and get the win.  Wish I had more to talk about, but the one thing I can say is that this should be a fun game to watch.  Should be a lot of passing stats for both teams.  31-28 NYG

Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints

This is just stupid, but I'm taking the Saints.  And I'm doing it for apparently no valid rationale.  I think Atlanta is due for a loss and I the Saints defense actually had a pretty decent game last week.  Granted it was against Vick and that pathetic excuse for an offensive line, but nevertheless, they looked good.  Brees is great and Graham is back.  Close, but just a gut feeling.  NO 36-33

Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles

Philly's freefall continues.  Dallas is not impressive, but somehow will pull this game out.  This has the makings of one of those games where neither team will look as if they want to win, in fact, I can see several turnovers late and at the end one team will stand victorious.  I'll go with Dallas.  24-21

Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots

Bills didn't get blown out against Houston, but really, despite the score, never seemed like they really were going to get it done.  NE will most likely have their way with my Bills yet again.  It is sad to, to think how excited Bills fans were before the start to the year, and how we had high hopes for this season, and now, we are really close to that yearly game of guessing draft positioning.  Pats 42-20

Oakland Raiders @ Baltimore Ravens

Oakland should be able to move the ball.  This Ravens defense is not the same as it has been.  But Baltimore's the better team and most often the better team wins.  I'll lean the Raven's way here.  27-21

Denver Broncos @ Carolina Panthers

Cam had a good week last week as they pulled off a nice win.  Denver is really looking good though and I think they'll be the better team in Charlotte on Sunday.  Denver 26-18

Detroit Lions @ Minnesota Vikings

It's weird.  Detroit had their full team together the first part of the year and were pathetic to watch.  Last week Calvin was iffy and went off, Broyles and Young also have been pretty nice compliments.  Stafford is playing great the past couple and the game from LeShoure last week was very good, only outshined by Doug Martins Game.  Viking hype train has slowed down something fierce as of late.  Detroit 38-24

New York Jets @ Seattle Seahawks

Jets look bad.  Seattle's nearly invincible at home.  31-9 Seahawks, scoring from each phase of the game.  Pick 6, Punt Ret Td, Rushing TD and Receiving TD, with a FG to boot.

St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers

I'll take SF here, but preface it with surprising close.  The reason is that Bradford gets his favorite target back this week in Danny Amendola, they were on record pace for catches before he got hurt a month or so ago.  They should pick right up where they left off.  But SF is too strong to lose at home.  5 FGs and 2 TD's for niners in this one 29-20

Houston Texans @ Chicago Bears

Should be a good game.  Two 7-1 teams facing off. Two good defenses. Two effective offenses.  Should be quite the strategic game.  I will take Houston, just because of JJ Watt and Arian Foster, who are the best Offensive and Defensive players in the game in my opinion for either team. 24-23 Houston.  Easily could see it going the other way though.

Monday Night Game

Kansas City Chiefs @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Cassel starts again this week.  Just FYI.  Pittsburgh looks as if they'll have all 3 of their RB's to pick from this week, but no Antonio Brown for Big Ben.  KC is a pushover by pushover standards and this should be an easy win for the Steelers.  Pittsburgh 33-7

Enjoy the games, see you next week for Week 11

NFL 2012 Regular Season Game Predictions

There were quite a few surprises in week 8, namely:

1.  The way Miami went into NY and manhandled the Jets

2.  That SD lost to Cleveland in a 7-6 snoozer, giving up their first 100

     yard game to an opponents RB (Richardson) in the process

3.  That GB only beat Jacksonville by 9 points

4.  How TB went into Minnesota last Thurs. and beat the Vikings down

and some things that, quite frankly, were of no surprise at all:

1.  That SF's defense was able to completely stuff Arizona's offense

2.  That Alex Smith threw for 3 scores, one to Randy Moss, going 18 for 

     19 in the process, which turned out to be an historic night for Smith.

3.  That Peyton Manning and the Broncos pretty much had their way 

     with the Saints Defense.

4.  That KC is topping off my very early list of teams entrenched in the

     Matt Barkley/Tyler Wilson sweepstakes.

I had a pretty good week picking the games again last week, going 11-3.  This brings my season total up to 79-39, which is kind of the area I'm hoping to be in at the end of the season, a bit better even.  To get there though, I'll have to keep picking well, and this takes us to the Week 9 picks:

Thursday Night Game

Kansas City Chiefs @ San Diego Cardinals

If ever there were a week were one could think about taking the Chiefs, it would be this week.  The Chargers just got punched in the face last week in Cleveland, falling 7-6 to the muddling Browns.  Philip Rivers has been pretty much awful this season and to be fair, his WR support is pretty bad, as Vincent Brown's yet to play this year, and FA addition's Eddie Royal and Robert Meachem have not been great by any means.  To make matters worse, their elite TE Gates is having a declining season, showing that even elite athletes slow down as their careers wind down.  But the most baffling thing to me, is the way RB Ryan Matthews has been used.  He's your guy and when healthy, which is a big when, you use him.  Last week on a 4th and one play, SD used Jackie Battle for the play and it fell short.  You can argue all day how perhaps Battle fits the mold better for that down and distance, but if you use your guy, you really can't get criticized for it.  KC is in the same boat, but it's picked up much more water by now.  I fully expect an expensive housekeeping to take place at the end of the season, from GM to QB, I don't think anyone makes the cut.  So, what do I expect tonight, well, it's kind of tough to tell.  If you get the Chargers that play up to their talent level it won't be a contest, but if they let the Chiefs hang around, then who knows.  If fully expect KC to use RB Charles more than 5 times this week, but who knows with Romeo, he didn't even know the best player on his team only ran it five times.  Ineptitude draws criticism and in these two teams cases, rightfully so.  I think SD is more equipped to bounce back, and having KC at home, makes that bounce much easier.  SD 27-13

Sunday's Games

Arizona Cardinals @ Green Bay Packers

GB scared the cheeseheads a little bit last week, not ever really able to bury the Jaguars in a game that most of those left in Survivor pools took.  They did hang on, and they did it with stud CB Woodson, WR's Nelson and Jennings, whom they'll be without for several weeks still.  Nelson's status for this week is up in the air.  While Arizona does have a decent defense, it really doesn't matter to me who Aaron Rodgers is throwing the ball too, as Cobb and Jones look pretty good on the other end.  Arizona will be out of this game by half time.  GB 36-16

Detroit Lions @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Detroit let Seattle hang in there till very late last week.  Jacksonville kept it close with the Packers.  This could be an interesting game, but I think there's too much talent in Detroit for them NOT to win this one.  Sure, the Lions have not lived up to expectations, but that doesn't really matter when you're going against another one of those teams that will decidedly be drafting early.  Detroit 28-14

Chicago Bears @ Tennessee Titans

Chicago's defense is head and shoulders better than any other defense in the league right now. No one seems to truly be able to run against them.  They have a vicious pass rush, perhaps two of the leagues best CB's right now and a defense that feels they lost if they don't score. Tennessee is still with Hasselbeck at the helm, and with an offensive line that is very beatable right now.  RB Chris Johnson has had one good game in basically 2 years now, and won't get it done this week.  While Chicago's offense hasn't exactly been lighting the scoreboards this year, Tennessee can't stop anyone.  This, when combined, is a recipe for a rout.  Chicago 32-9

Denver Broncos @ Cincinnati Bengals

The Broncos are getting better and better each week.  The key, it seems, to beating the Broncos this year, was to have had them early on the schedule.  Manning is looking very close to the Manning of old and the entire team is thriving offensively.  The Defense is not playing as well as it did last season, but, they really don't have to.  The Bengals started off hot but have gone on a three game slide recently.  The defense is beatable, something I'm confident Peyton Manning will do on Sunday.  Denver 37-24

Carolina Panthers @ Washington Redskins

This is one of 6 games I'm not sure of yet.  By Sunday morning I'll probably be closer to confident on most, but this may be one of the two I'll probably remain undecided right up until they start playing.  In any event, because of the Thursday games, I make the picks ahead of time, and as I've been doing, which it hasn't been bad to me by any means, I'll have to make the pick now and just live with the results.  I don't like either team.  But I do like both of their QB's, RGIII a bit more right now.  Each team can be scored upon, but what separates these teams, to me, right now, is their running games.  Carolina, while built to be this powerhouse rushing attack (Williams, Stewart, Tolbert and Newton) just hasn't been getting it done, while Washington is a balanced team with the offensive lynchpin being the ability for the team around him to play up to Griffin's strengths, which is the ability to ad lib and make plays on the fly.  Yet, they found themselves a running back in Morris, and while I have a gut feeling the Panthers are due, partly to the lingering disbelief they had the game against Chicago in the bag, only to lose it late, but still, I have a feeling.  That all said, I'm taking the smart money and going with Griffin, Morris and the Redskins.  17-14

Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns

It was close when these two teams played a few weeks ago, and that was in Baltimore.  Cleveland's rookie QB has been playing much better, and it's clear that he's learning from his early season mistakes.  That's easy to do though when you have a beast like Richardson running the ball for you and the emergence of a deep threat weapon like WR Gordon.  Baltimore is still the Baltimore we've come to know, but one that has been hurt by injuries.  Yet, the thing that's hindering them, if you want to even call it that, is the Offensive production.  I know, I know, most will say the defense hasn't lived up to their reputation, which I agree, to a point, but for me, it's the way WR Boldin shows up one week, then disappears for a few, it's how their other WR Torrie Smith has not been used to his full effectiveness, and this all could be attributed to the QB play.  I'm not down on Flacco, but I'm not high on him either.  What this all equates to, is teams being able to key in on Ray Rice and force the passing game to beat them.  Fair enough.  And I think this is how Cleveland will approach this game again.  They'll keep it close, but in my opinion, Baltimore is the better team, and Cleveland, while getting better each week, isn't quite there yet.  Baltimore 31-17

Miami Dolphins @ Indianapolis Colts

Here's that second game of the six I mentioned earlier.  I'm torn here and I'm trying hard to figure out exactly why.  I love the way QB Luck's played for the Colts, ROY candidate for sure in my opinion. Yet, I have to be impressed how the Dolphins have rallied around all the pre-season prognosticators, myself included, that thought they'd be a doormat all year.  I want to take Indianapolis here, but  I have to believe in the Dolphin running game.  Miami in a close one. 23-20

Buffalo Bills @ Houston Texans

Not going to be long here.  Big news for Bill's fans is that Mario Williams is making his return to Houston, so perhaps we get a few dollars of that contract to show on the field.  But this game is going to be disgusting if you're a Bills fan.  Fortunately for me, I have both the Houston defense and RB Arian Foster on my fantasy team, and while I'll trade in poor performances by both for a Bills win, it's far more realistic to win the Megamillions or Powerball, at least that's how it appears to me, a depressed Bills fan who had high hopes for this season, only to watch teams score a record amount of yards and points against a defense I, as others had, expected to be top ten in the league.  The Laughfest continues.  Houston 56-17

Minnesota Vikings @ Seattle Seahawks

Minnesota's been impressive and a nice surprise story this year.  AP is getting healthier and more deadly each week, which, in part, is one of the reasons the team's played so well this year.  But Seattle has been a surprise as well and while they've lost a few close ones, they've won a few they were dogs in.  They also have a top notch defense and are virtually unbeatable at home.  While I've marked this one as the third of those six uncertain picks, I think the trend will continue here for Seattle at home.  Seahawks 19-13

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Oakland Raiders

This is the 4th of the six.  I have no handle on TB, except that rookie RB Doug Martin has been awesome lately and QB Josh Freeman has looked like a better version of the Josh Freeman we saw in his rookie year.  Oakland while up and down have been playing better offense as of late and beat KC last week and almost, and should've, beat the undefeated Falcons a few weeks back.  This is one of those games I'll probably flip-flop the rest of the week, but the picks in, and I'll go with my initial gut reaction.  Oakland 28-24

Pittsburgh Steelers @ New York Giants

Five of Six.  I can't wait to watch this game.  I really think it'll be all offense here.  Two defenses that can be thrown on with two QB's that can throw the ball.  I'm looking for a shootout with the home team getting the edge.  But easily can see Pittsburgh pulling this out as well.  Let's say NYG 35-34

Dallas Cowboys @ Atlanta Falcons

Last of the six.  You know, this probably shouldn't be a game that I'm not confident in, as I am.  But, it's just that I can't help but wonder, anytime really, when a team is riding an undefeated streak, it has to end someplace.  While it doesn't actually have to end, it most oftentimes does, and I think Atlanta will lose a game before the end of the year, so why not the Cowboys on SNF?  I'm just not confident enough that the loss will come this week though, so with that, I'm taking the Falcons. 30-26

Monday Night Football

Philadelphia Eagles @ New Orleans Saints

Could be a fun game to watch, if not for the points scored, then for the drama unfolding on the Eagles sideline.  This could be Mike Vick's last game as the Eagle's starter, which I find unlikely, as NO is a struggling QB's best friend right now.  Points can and will be scored, and while I typically take the better offense here, I'm going to take the Eagles.  The reason is that there's just too much riding on this game for them.  It's not just for Mike Vick either.  HC Andy Reid is probably on a very hot seat right now, and if he has any chance of salvaging this season, they must win in the Big Easy this upcoming Monday.  Eagles 32-30

Good luck to all your teams, and if you have it in you, for all those outside of Houston, say a tiny prayer for my Bills.  See you next week.

2012 NFL Game Predictions Week 8

Pretty good week picking last week.  I went 11-2 but really I came even closer to the first perfect week of the year.  I didn't of course, but all week I'd been flip flopping my Indianapolis/Cleveland pick, and I do a couple pick em leagues and didn't change from Indy like I did here, but I did, so that's fine, it's a loss.  And my Bills, what can I say, they had the win in the bag and yet again found a way to lose the lead.  They did the same garbage last week but Arizona found a way to lose, here, they paid for dumb play calling.  I don't know, call me what you will, but if you've got a six point lead with 3:55 on the clock, wouldn't you run the ball.  Just makes too much sense, but in any case I wouldn't  be calling screen passes five yards deep or going with a ball you hadn't made in weeks, as Ryan did attempt to Jones on the McCourty pick. Pretty disgusting as he didn't need to go there, there were other options.  Anyhow, enough of that soapbox, but in reality they are brutal on defense and have a substandard QB, so I guess I shouldn't expect much, and yet I still find myself expecting beyond their  limitations…oh well.  

The 11-2 mark brings me up to 68-36 for the year.  Almost up to the .760 barometer I'm trying to get to and beat this year.  That said, I'm really not confident about this weeks calls.  I think they'll go the way I'm going to pick em' in a minute or so, but just have weird feelings this week, where outside of 4 games, I don't have a great deal of confidence I got em' right.  So, that said, I'll start with those four games, I'll call em' my locks of the week, which will probably mean they'll go 0-4, but I'll be shocked if that happens.  And so:

Week 8.

Monday Night Football

San Francisco 49'ers @ Arizona Cardinals

SF let Seattle hang around last week, but the Seahawks can be snaky like that.  one could make the argument that the Cardinals can be the same, but I think this is a different Arizona team that started so hot.  I mean, they did lose to my Bills didn't they.  Man, it's gotten to that point again and we're only at week 8.  Anyhow, Arizona can be thrown on and I look for Vernon Davis to have a solid game this week.  I like Gore who's getting it done virtually every week in a real resurgence this year.  And what's not to like about this defense against that OL.  I do think it'll somehow wind up being closer in score than in reality, so I'll temper the pick to a SF win 19-9.

Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs

Things must be pretty bad when a healthy Matt Cassel is benched for Brady Quinn.  But that's the situation in KC.  They've got issues all over the place and make Oakland's dysfunction look like nothing at all.  I like the vertical game this week for Oakland with a nice game from QB Palmer, where he's got WR's Moore and DHB over the middle and deep, a nice TE in Myers and McFadden excels coming out of the backfield.  The Raiders defense isn't great though, so I can see a shootout if Quinn gets going to Bowe, hah, just made my self laugh…no, I can't keep a straight face with that one.  Charles might have a good game, but I like the Raiders defense scoring this week.  Yep, Brady Quinn is that bad.  Oakland 31-10

Carolina Panthers @ Chicago Bears

Cutler's hurt with bruised ribs, but he'll play and that's not a concern, as Forte can run all day against the panthers.  We might, and probably will get a good dose of Bush as well here.  Newton's in a sophomore slump of sorts, doesn't have a big target for when they're in the red zone and is simply struggling getting any ground production from his backs.  The on field disarray is also seen in how the team gave the axe to their GM this week.  I love Chicago's bloodthirsty defense this year and they're just fun to watch wrecking havoc all over the field.  They'll do that again this week.  Chicago 34-15

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Green Bay Packers

Ok, I'll try to be short here.  GB has struggled this year.  This is evident in their record, but that was early.  They have no true running game going, but that doesn't matter that much for this team.  Rodgers is back and if not this week they'll get their best weapon outside of the QB back in Jennings.  They are down CB Woodson who won't play, not sure of his year long status but either case, it could be the type of thing to hurt a team.  That is if their opponent had an NFL QB on the roster.  Gabbert's brutal and Henne showed in relief last week he's no better.  And oh yeah, no more MJD, at least not this week.  Won't be a contest. GB huge. 42-7

Atlanta Falcons @ Philadelphia Eagles

This is an interesting game.  Eagles are not a terrible team; they have talent, but getting them to perform is and has been Andy Reid's problem.  Vick is on his last legs right now and rumor's are floating if he plays poorly again, Nick Foles could be seeing his first NFL start really soon.  But in this situation, you could get a great game, even against a quality Atlanta team.  And one has to think Atlanta will lose eventually, so things could align for this week to be that week.  I sometimes like to get cute in situations like this, but I won't here.  I think Atlanta's defense is maligned a bit more than they should be.  I see it as the media's way to find faults where there are few to go around.  They're undefeated for a reason, not just because of Matt Ryan and Tony Gonzalez.  Just think of the preseason hype with Julio Jones and how he really hasn't lived up to it yet.  This team is very good. And I easily can see Vick folding under pressure here and therefore, you have my reasons for the pick.  Atlanta 21-13

Washington Redskins @ Pittsburgh Steelers

I love watching RGIII play, but they've been a bit erratic overall.  Pittsburgh is pretty much in the same boat, especially when it comes to defensive injuries and RB play.  Here's the silver lining for Steeler fans, they have an excellent QB that can go downfield.  And I heard a stat that said that Washington is giving up over 32 points a week to opponent's fantasy WR's.  That's a lot for those that don't play fantasy football.  That said, I see a huge game out of Pittsburgh's passing game, where I love TE Heath Miller and WR Antonio Brown here. Yet with a guy like RGIII and a nice RB like Morris, I won't be shocked if this game they take advantage of a less than stellar Steeler defense. But I'm going Pittsburgh here.  24-19

Seattle Seahawks @ Detroit Lions

Tough, tough game to call. You have a near great defense in Seattle and a potential powerhouse offense in the Lions.  Potential is key though as they've been pretty anemic so far this year, and it all stems from erratic play from QB Matt Stafford.  But hey, this guy has the greatest WR in the game in Calvin Johnson, who also shares blames with the number of drops this year, but Stafford threw for 41 scores last year and 5000 yards.  Perhaps I'm living in the recent past, but I think they'll straighten things out.  Seattle should be able to run the ball against them, so good news for their RB's.  Russell Wilson is prone to making mistakes and to be honest, his receivers don't strike much fear into anyone.  As good as Seattle's defense has been, I think the way to beat this team is to throw quick on them, with the occasional deep pass in their to keep things honest.  Even with WR Burleson out for they year, Stafford has some nice guys in Young and Broyles to move up the ranks.  In what some might call an upset, I'm going to go with Detroit in a close, if not boring game, where a single big play can be the difference.  Detroit 20-17

New Orleans Saints @ Denver Broncos

Saints get their Interim Coach back this week.  Sounds kind of funny writing it, but it is what it is. They also should get TE Jimmy Graham back and he's a huge part of their offense, one that really didn't skip a beat from when he got hurt until now though.  Denver is playing good ball, and Manning is getting better as each week goes by.  I liken this game as a high scoring offense heavy game, where the home field will be the eventual deciding factor.  Denver 37-31

New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys

I really think the Giants will own the Cowboys big time this week.  Yet, I'll temper expectations to the point where I feel something strange will break for the boys late here.  I see a big lead for NY early, only to find Romo apparently win the game late.  Yet with a trifling amount of time remaining Eli will hit a deep pass, putting them into field goal range and the kick sending this into OT.  Here the Giants will win the coin toss, elect to receive and rookie CB Claiborne will get toasted on a long touchdown by Victor Cruz to suck the life out of Texas.  and that all said, if this takes place in exactly this fashion, I'm going to the casino immediately afterward.  Giants 23-17 OT

New England Patriots @ St. Louis Rams

I'm a big time Rams fan this weekend.  They've played solid defense this year and have been good at home.  Offensively they're still finding themselves, but this Bradford to Chris Givens connection has been working for them the past few weeks and NE gets toasted deep pretty much at least once per game, just look at the Seattle loss for a reference.  I just don't see the Rams pulling this upset off though.  Pretty much the way to beat the Rams is to run effectively, where you can set up the play action.  While I'm not in awe of the Pat's RB's individually, I really can't argue with their production as a group.  So I think they'll be able to run decently in this game, allowing Brady to take an occasional deep shot to Lloyd or Hernandez.  I also see a lot of short slants in this game, to Gronk, or the slot guys.  Pats should win this one, and I'll follow suit in picking them.  30-20

Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee Titans

I haven't checked but I'm assuming the Colts are road dogs this week.  Which wouldn't technically be surprising.  After all they have a pretty weak defense and while luck's been mighty impressive, he is still a rookie.  That said, don't be surprised to see Chris Johnson somehow turn invisible again.  He shouldn't against this defense, but just have a gut feeling he'll come up small this week.  I like a higher scoring game though, but Tennessee's defense is so bad, I think the smart young QB will outscore the smart old QB here.  Indianapolis. 28-24

San Diego Chargers @ Cleveland Browns

How bad must the Chargers feel, coming off that loss and having to sit on it.  If I somehow missed the games and found out Cleveland won because Rivers imploded again, I won't be surprised.  Yet, I can't pick that way.  I have to take the more talented team, and that team is SD.  SD 27-19

Miami Dolphins @ NY Jets

Stinker of a game.  Jets have issues but have hung in games since their big pair of injuries hit a few weeks ago.  Dolphins have been a surprise for a number of reasons, QB play being one of them.  You really can't run on Miami, so I'm pretty much ruling out any production out of Shonn Greene.  I like the Jets this week because A.) I think they're better than Miami as a team and B.) Dustin Keller looked awesome last week and I think he'll thrive again this week.  Jets win. 14-10

Thursday Night Football

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Minnesota Vikings

I think both these teams have surprised us this year, Minnesota more so.  This could be a fun game to watch.  I like how TB's offense is rounding into form with some awesome play out of Vincent Jackson, and hey, Josh Freeman's getting him the ball.  RB Martin's cooled off somewhat but he's still a nice talent there.  AP or AD, whatever you want to call him, Adrian Peterson is playing great. Christian Ponder's played well and he's had a stinker like last week.  Along with AP, Ponder and K Walsh, The Vikings defense is the real story this year.  I think they'll get it done at home once more.  Minnesota 23-20


Bills, Texans, Bengals and Ravens are on bye this week.  At least I know we won't get embarrassed this week.  (Cue the Bills lose to the BYE week jokes now)

See you in Week 9.