Chicago Bears def. Miami Dolphins
I said the Bears were being underrated, and I stand by that. I'll get more into that in my next picks post, but they established themselves here.
Baltimore Ravens def. Carolina Panthers
Is anyone really surprised?
Buffalo Bills def. Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals have problems. When you can't hold on to a lead like that against a team like Buffalo, look out. This also probably spells the end for Marvin Lewis in Cincy.
Dallas Cowboys def. Detroit Lions
Detroit got beat, and they got beat bad. Yeah, Dallas came out strong, but Detroit made some mistakes that made this loss hit harder than it should have.
Jacksonville Jaguars def. Cleveland Browns
David Garrard is one of the most underrated QBs in the NFL, possibly due to playing in the same division as Peyton Manning. He pulled this game out and got the win like he's been doing all season for Jacksonville.
Kansas City Chiefs def. Arizona Cardinals
Didn't Arizona used to be one of the best teams against the run a year ago? Everyone knew the offense would change, but it's amazing how much the lack of offense has changed the defense. Arizona needs a QB and quick.
Green Bay Packers def. Minnesota Vikings
That was an embarrassing loss for the Vikings. Favre has struggled at times, but this is the first time I thought he hasn't looked like an NFL starter. He threw inaccurate passes, he made mental mistakes, and he looked completely out of place in the pocket. The score doesn't tell the whole story of this game, the Vikings could have pulled out the win. They were matched up well and they didn't execute, and the ensuing firing was completely justified.
New York Jets def. Houston Texans
What happened to the Texans that beat the Colts in week one? They've become a team that can't close, and that defense is looking helpless without DeMeco Ryans.
Pittsburgh Steelers def. Oakland Raiders
You want to beat the Raiders? Stop the run. There's no better team at stopping the run than Pittsburgh, and Oakland showed that their defense definitely needs to improve next year if they want to compete with the elite offenses of the NFL.
Washington Redskins def. Tennessee Titans
Rusty Smith is not the answer for the Titans at QB. Right now Chris Simms looks like a better option, and I think he would have done better in the clutch than Smith. Still, Tennessee is most successful when Vince Young is on the field and if they want success they had better find another mobile quarterback, that or completely change offensive philosophy. It's embarrassing when your running back rushes for a buck thirty and you still lose the game.
New Orleans Saints def. Seattle Seahawks
Don't count New Orleans out yet. Chris Ivory looks to have emerged as a back that can at least function as a fill-in, but Pierre Thomas still looks like their best option. If they can have both healthy next season it will be a potent one-two combination. I don't know where that leaves Reggie Bush, but I say they keep him, maybe in a different role such as wideout or receiving fullback.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers def. San Francisco 49ers
Maybe I underestimated the Bucs, but looking at the stats it seems like it was a game that San Francisco should've won. This whole team has been a huge disappointment, and in the end it all comes back to the coach. I thought Mad Mike was off to a bad start when he pulled his pants down in front of the team, but he seemed to have momentum going into the season. Where that's all gone is anyone's guess.
Atlanta Falcons def. St. Louis Rams
Atlanta is hot. You would think that a division where the winner changes every single year would have one of the least impressive playoff teams, but for the second year in a row the opposite is holding true.
New England Patriots def. Indianapolis Colts
The Patriots have Peyton Manning's number, and it doesn't help that half his receiving corps is out with injury. More importantly, that Patriots secondary seems to be developing into one of the most explosive in the league.
Philadelphia Eagles def. New York Giants
The Giants made it interesting, but the Eagles come out ahead in the end. I thought the biggest factor was the Giants' lack of passing success, and their injured receivers have a lot to do with that. The way the Giants played Michael Vick gives me hope for this week's game.
San Diego Chargers def. Denver Broncos
A small spurt gives the Broncos' fans hopes, and a whomping rips it away. The Broncos still have problems, problems they can hide against middle of the pack teams but that show themselves against potent offensive teams like San Diego.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
NFL Week Twelve Predictions
Last minute picks, so they'll come before my thoughts.
New England Patriots @ Detroit Lions
Cleveland has me second-guessing this pick, but Detroit has no Peyton Hillis so I'm going with the Pats. If Brady doesn't play they might lose, but with the division as tight as it is, a questionable status for Brady means he's playing to me.
Prediction: Patriots
New Orleans Saints @ Dallas Cowboys
Hard to know what to make of this one. Betts and Thomas are out for the Saints and Bush is questionable, but Felix Jones is out for Dallas. This game could come down to passing, and against the pass Dallas has one of the worst scoring defenses while New Orleans has one of the best.
Prediction: Saints
Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Jets
Forget stats, if the Bengals couldn't beat the Bills then they sure as hell can't beat the Jets.
Prediction: Jets
Green Bay Packers @ Atlanta Falcons
The media love affair with the Packers continues. I watched a breakdown of this game and all they talk about is quarterbacks and their stats, nevermind that Atlanta has one of the best pass rushes in the league or that Green Bay is still horrible at protection. I think the Packers are outmatched, Atlanta has a tough defense, running game, passing attack, and are just better than the Pack. The Packers are missing their star back, their protection is suspect, and their defense has holes that can be exploited. The sports media are all picking the Packers, but only because they have an invisible layer of cheese covering their eyes. This is my game of the week.
Prediction: Falcons
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Buffalo Bills
Ah, I can finally get back to laughing my ass off at the Bills.
Prediction: Steelers
Carolina Panthers @ Cleveland Browns
Carolina has a porous run defense and Cleveland has Peyton Hillis, no question about this one.
Prediction: Browns
Tennessee Titans @ Houston Texans
About the only thing Tennessee has going right now for them is Chris Johnson. The Texans are getting beat, but they're getting beat through the air. Against a green rookie, I say their pass defense gets shored up and they pull things together, at least for a game.
Prediction: Texans
Jacksonville Jaguars @ New York Giants
The injury list for the Giants is stunning, almost every one of their starters seems to be listed as at least probable. The injury report isn't great for Jacksonville either, both Maurice Jones-Drew and Mike Sims-Walker are listed as questionable. If they're out this game is going to New York, but even if they play I have questions. New York has generated 27 sacks and 10 interceptions on defense, Jacksonville has given up 24 sacks and 15 picks. Defense wins here, I gotta go with the Giants.
Prediction: Giants
Minnesota Vikings @ Washington Redskins
Ugh, this is a hard pick for me. On paper Minnesota has a big edge in pass defense and run defense, and momentum from a new coach might get them to pick up a win. Washington is another team that looks like it's missing almost all of its starters. Both Clinton Portis and Ryan Torrain are out, and their entire defense, half their offensive line, and their best receiver are questionable. Minnesota's probably going to be without Bernard Berrian and Sidney Rice, and Favre could be the x-factor in this. If he plays like he did last week the Vikings have no chance, and his play makes me question this pick. Still, the Vikings outmatch Washington enough that I'm tentatively picking them to win.
Prediction: Vikings
Miami Dolphins @ Oakland Raiders
Both teams have mediocre rush defenses, but when the Oakland running game gets going so does their passing game. Miami's passing game has struggled regardless, so I'll take the silver and black. This is my sleeper of the week.
Prediction: Raiders
Kansas City Chiefs @ Seattle Seahawks
Both rush defenses are evenly matched, but the Seahawks are near the bottom of the league in rush offense while the Chiefs are right at the top. If the Chiefs play their game, running the ball, they should come out with a win.
Prediction: Chiefs
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Baltimore Ravens
The Buccaneers' run game has been improving, but the Ravens' run defense is solid. The game will probably come down to Josh Freeman vs. Joe Flacco, and it is very evenly matched. Too close for me to call, but in the end I have to go with Baltimore's advantage in the run game and playing at home.
Prediction: Ravens
Philadelphia Eagles @ Chicago Bears
The media love affair with Green Bay works two ways, they also have it in for Chicago. Again I watched a preview of the games, and what do they focus on? Chicago's offensive line. Not one mention of their shut-down defense, not one mention of their previous success against Michael Vick, not one mention of how well their defense matches up, not one mention of Eagles' injuries. That's fine, that works, it just makes it all the more sweeter when I get to say I told you so. The Bears match up well. New York was able to contain Vick to a degree last week, and this Bears defense has been playing extremely well all season. They should be able to hold Vick to average numbers, do not expect another game from him like the one he had in Washington. He will put up points, though, and the question will be if the Chicago offense can keep up. With their star cornerback out, I think Cutler and company have a chance. This is my upset of the week.
Prediction: Bears
St. Louis Rams @ Denver Broncos
The Rams have been surprisingly quiet running the ball this year, but the Broncos have been even worse. The Rams are ranked ninth in rush defense, the Broncos 31st. Passing could be key for the Broncos, they have the Rams as outmatched in the pass game as the Rams have them outmatched in the run game. This game will come down to who will be able to dictate pace, and I'm going with the Broncos to bounce back after a tough week.
Prediction: Broncos
San Diego Chargers @ Indianapolis Colts
Both teams are tearing it up through the air, but the Chargers are number one in pass defense while the Colts are sitting at eighth. San Diego has a multitude of injuries, though, and I think they hurt the Chargers more, despite Indy's bench starting to resemble an emergency room waiting area. I just don't see the Chargers winning with so many offensive playmakers out.
Prediction: Colts
San Francisco 49ers @ Arizona Cardinals
Despite all the bad talk, Troy Smith didn't have that bad of a game. It's his team that really seemed to let him down, so the Niners win in the QB comparison. In terms of defending the pass, the Niners come out ahead as well. The Niners can defend the run, the Cardinals can't, and though the Niners are disappointing in the run game this year, they're still a good deal better than the Cards. The Niners should have the edge on paper, the only thing that could kill them is a breakdown like the ones they've had throughout the season. Like Minnesota I'm reluctant to take them, but they match up extremely well so I have to ignore intangibles.
Prediction: 49ers
New England Patriots @ Detroit Lions
Cleveland has me second-guessing this pick, but Detroit has no Peyton Hillis so I'm going with the Pats. If Brady doesn't play they might lose, but with the division as tight as it is, a questionable status for Brady means he's playing to me.
Prediction: Patriots
New Orleans Saints @ Dallas Cowboys
Hard to know what to make of this one. Betts and Thomas are out for the Saints and Bush is questionable, but Felix Jones is out for Dallas. This game could come down to passing, and against the pass Dallas has one of the worst scoring defenses while New Orleans has one of the best.
Prediction: Saints
Cincinnati Bengals @ New York Jets
Forget stats, if the Bengals couldn't beat the Bills then they sure as hell can't beat the Jets.
Prediction: Jets
Green Bay Packers @ Atlanta Falcons
The media love affair with the Packers continues. I watched a breakdown of this game and all they talk about is quarterbacks and their stats, nevermind that Atlanta has one of the best pass rushes in the league or that Green Bay is still horrible at protection. I think the Packers are outmatched, Atlanta has a tough defense, running game, passing attack, and are just better than the Pack. The Packers are missing their star back, their protection is suspect, and their defense has holes that can be exploited. The sports media are all picking the Packers, but only because they have an invisible layer of cheese covering their eyes. This is my game of the week.
Prediction: Falcons
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Buffalo Bills
Ah, I can finally get back to laughing my ass off at the Bills.
Prediction: Steelers
Carolina Panthers @ Cleveland Browns
Carolina has a porous run defense and Cleveland has Peyton Hillis, no question about this one.
Prediction: Browns
Tennessee Titans @ Houston Texans
About the only thing Tennessee has going right now for them is Chris Johnson. The Texans are getting beat, but they're getting beat through the air. Against a green rookie, I say their pass defense gets shored up and they pull things together, at least for a game.
Prediction: Texans
Jacksonville Jaguars @ New York Giants
The injury list for the Giants is stunning, almost every one of their starters seems to be listed as at least probable. The injury report isn't great for Jacksonville either, both Maurice Jones-Drew and Mike Sims-Walker are listed as questionable. If they're out this game is going to New York, but even if they play I have questions. New York has generated 27 sacks and 10 interceptions on defense, Jacksonville has given up 24 sacks and 15 picks. Defense wins here, I gotta go with the Giants.
Prediction: Giants
Minnesota Vikings @ Washington Redskins
Ugh, this is a hard pick for me. On paper Minnesota has a big edge in pass defense and run defense, and momentum from a new coach might get them to pick up a win. Washington is another team that looks like it's missing almost all of its starters. Both Clinton Portis and Ryan Torrain are out, and their entire defense, half their offensive line, and their best receiver are questionable. Minnesota's probably going to be without Bernard Berrian and Sidney Rice, and Favre could be the x-factor in this. If he plays like he did last week the Vikings have no chance, and his play makes me question this pick. Still, the Vikings outmatch Washington enough that I'm tentatively picking them to win.
Prediction: Vikings
Miami Dolphins @ Oakland Raiders
Both teams have mediocre rush defenses, but when the Oakland running game gets going so does their passing game. Miami's passing game has struggled regardless, so I'll take the silver and black. This is my sleeper of the week.
Prediction: Raiders
Kansas City Chiefs @ Seattle Seahawks
Both rush defenses are evenly matched, but the Seahawks are near the bottom of the league in rush offense while the Chiefs are right at the top. If the Chiefs play their game, running the ball, they should come out with a win.
Prediction: Chiefs
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Baltimore Ravens
The Buccaneers' run game has been improving, but the Ravens' run defense is solid. The game will probably come down to Josh Freeman vs. Joe Flacco, and it is very evenly matched. Too close for me to call, but in the end I have to go with Baltimore's advantage in the run game and playing at home.
Prediction: Ravens
Philadelphia Eagles @ Chicago Bears
The media love affair with Green Bay works two ways, they also have it in for Chicago. Again I watched a preview of the games, and what do they focus on? Chicago's offensive line. Not one mention of their shut-down defense, not one mention of their previous success against Michael Vick, not one mention of how well their defense matches up, not one mention of Eagles' injuries. That's fine, that works, it just makes it all the more sweeter when I get to say I told you so. The Bears match up well. New York was able to contain Vick to a degree last week, and this Bears defense has been playing extremely well all season. They should be able to hold Vick to average numbers, do not expect another game from him like the one he had in Washington. He will put up points, though, and the question will be if the Chicago offense can keep up. With their star cornerback out, I think Cutler and company have a chance. This is my upset of the week.
Prediction: Bears
St. Louis Rams @ Denver Broncos
The Rams have been surprisingly quiet running the ball this year, but the Broncos have been even worse. The Rams are ranked ninth in rush defense, the Broncos 31st. Passing could be key for the Broncos, they have the Rams as outmatched in the pass game as the Rams have them outmatched in the run game. This game will come down to who will be able to dictate pace, and I'm going with the Broncos to bounce back after a tough week.
Prediction: Broncos
San Diego Chargers @ Indianapolis Colts
Both teams are tearing it up through the air, but the Chargers are number one in pass defense while the Colts are sitting at eighth. San Diego has a multitude of injuries, though, and I think they hurt the Chargers more, despite Indy's bench starting to resemble an emergency room waiting area. I just don't see the Chargers winning with so many offensive playmakers out.
Prediction: Colts
San Francisco 49ers @ Arizona Cardinals
Despite all the bad talk, Troy Smith didn't have that bad of a game. It's his team that really seemed to let him down, so the Niners win in the QB comparison. In terms of defending the pass, the Niners come out ahead as well. The Niners can defend the run, the Cardinals can't, and though the Niners are disappointing in the run game this year, they're still a good deal better than the Cards. The Niners should have the edge on paper, the only thing that could kill them is a breakdown like the ones they've had throughout the season. Like Minnesota I'm reluctant to take them, but they match up extremely well so I have to ignore intangibles.
Prediction: 49ers
Thursday, November 18, 2010
NFL Week Eleven Predictions
Chicago Bears @ Miami Dolphins
Miami finally looked like its passing game wasn't holding back its offense last week, and I wouldn't underestimate third-stringer Tyler Thigpen. He's a good quarterback, and he's got a couple of weapons on offense. Consistently underrated, though, is the Bears' defense, which is number two in the league against the run and among the top in takeaways. Miami is 25th in the league in interceptions, tied for 24th in fumbles, and could struggle against Julius Peppers and company with their starting left tackle out. Miami has also done poorly at home, and with a tough schedule coming up I expect the Bears to take advantage of a winnable game.
Prediction: Bears
Baltimore Ravens @ Carolina Panthers
The Ravens are in the playoff hunt, the Panthers are spiraling rapidly.
Prediction: Ravens
Buffalo Bills @ Cincinnati Bengals
The Bills lost eight games before picking up their first win last week, the Bengals have lost six straight, they should call this the basement bowl. I actually don't know where to go on this one, the teams are pretty evenly matched in the passing game, but the Bills have a distinct edge in rushing. Quarterbacks could be the difference, and although Palmer has struggled, the Bengals defense has an edge on turnovers, so I'm going with the Bengals.
Prediction: Bengals
Detroit Lions @ Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys are getting things going, and the Lions are slumping. The Cowboys have their running and passing games going, and the Detroit defense is giving up. At home in Dallas, I'll take the Boys to win two straight.
Prediction: Cowboys
Cleveland Browns @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Both teams are evenly matched on the ground, the difference will be through the air. Cleveland is missing Josh Cribbs, and David Garrard has more experience than Colt McCoy. Add that to homefield advantage, and the Jaguars look poised to stay in the race for the AFC South.
Prediction: Jaguars
Arizona Cardinals @ Kansas City Chiefs
The running game for these two teams is like night and day. KC might be slumping a bit, but they should be able to run over an Arizona team that's equally good at shooting themselves in their feet.
Prediction: Chiefs
Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have a huge edge in the running game, having a much better game on offense with AP and sitting 11 places higher than the Pack in rankings. The Packers could rack up the sacks, but with the trouble they're having against the run AP could be the difference in this game. At home, I'll take the Vikings to beat the Pack. This is my upset of the week.
Prediction: Vikings
Houston Texans @ New York Jets
The Jets haven't exactly been a well-oiled machine, but the Texans are having huge defensive problems. As long as they can maintain balance, the Jets should win.
Prediction: Jets
Oakland Raiders @ Pittsburgh Steelers
The Raiders have rocketed ahead of the Steelers in rushing in recent weeks, but the Steelers still have them beat in rush defense. The Steelers are slumping against the pass and the Raiders' pass D is turning it up, but I still trust Big Ben more than Jason Campbell.
Prediction: Steelers
Washington Redskins @ Tennessee Titans
The Redskins are going to have a heap of trouble against Chris Johnson.
Prediction: Titans
Seattle Seahawks @ New Orleans Saints
Neither team is doing very well on either side of the ball rushing. Both teams have also had ups and downs passing on offense, but the Saints are first against the pass while the Seahawks are 28th. The Saints should show improvement at this point in the season
Prediction: Saints
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ San Francisco 49ers
Both teams depend on the run game to set up the pass and the Bucs are really getting fired up rushing and passing, but the Niners have them totally outmatched on defense. In addition, Troy Smith is heating up at the right time, and the Niners have homefield advantage. This is my sleeper of the week.
Prediction: 49ers
Atlanta Falcons @ St. Louis Rams
The Rams have been surprising some people this season, but the Falcons are red hot. They're not going to let up in St. Louis.
Prediction: Falcons
Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots
Neither team stands out in the run game on either side of the ball, this game will come down to passing. These teams are very evenly matched there, and I have to go with New England due to injuries at receiver, that and I get burned every time I pick against them.
Prediction: Patriots
New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles
We'll finally see if Michael Vick is unstoppable. The Giants' defense might stop Vick, but I think the difference will be injuries. The Giants are banged up at key positions on offense, and they're slumping without those players. This is my game of the week.
Prediction: Eagles
Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers
The top two passing teams ion the league go up against each other. The Chargers have the edge in defense in yards, but are less successful at scoring defense. The Broncos are far worse, though, and Phillip Rivers should be able to outscore Kyle Orton.
Prediction: Chargers
Miami finally looked like its passing game wasn't holding back its offense last week, and I wouldn't underestimate third-stringer Tyler Thigpen. He's a good quarterback, and he's got a couple of weapons on offense. Consistently underrated, though, is the Bears' defense, which is number two in the league against the run and among the top in takeaways. Miami is 25th in the league in interceptions, tied for 24th in fumbles, and could struggle against Julius Peppers and company with their starting left tackle out. Miami has also done poorly at home, and with a tough schedule coming up I expect the Bears to take advantage of a winnable game.
Prediction: Bears
Baltimore Ravens @ Carolina Panthers
The Ravens are in the playoff hunt, the Panthers are spiraling rapidly.
Prediction: Ravens
Buffalo Bills @ Cincinnati Bengals
The Bills lost eight games before picking up their first win last week, the Bengals have lost six straight, they should call this the basement bowl. I actually don't know where to go on this one, the teams are pretty evenly matched in the passing game, but the Bills have a distinct edge in rushing. Quarterbacks could be the difference, and although Palmer has struggled, the Bengals defense has an edge on turnovers, so I'm going with the Bengals.
Prediction: Bengals
Detroit Lions @ Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys are getting things going, and the Lions are slumping. The Cowboys have their running and passing games going, and the Detroit defense is giving up. At home in Dallas, I'll take the Boys to win two straight.
Prediction: Cowboys
Cleveland Browns @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Both teams are evenly matched on the ground, the difference will be through the air. Cleveland is missing Josh Cribbs, and David Garrard has more experience than Colt McCoy. Add that to homefield advantage, and the Jaguars look poised to stay in the race for the AFC South.
Prediction: Jaguars
Arizona Cardinals @ Kansas City Chiefs
The running game for these two teams is like night and day. KC might be slumping a bit, but they should be able to run over an Arizona team that's equally good at shooting themselves in their feet.
Prediction: Chiefs
Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have a huge edge in the running game, having a much better game on offense with AP and sitting 11 places higher than the Pack in rankings. The Packers could rack up the sacks, but with the trouble they're having against the run AP could be the difference in this game. At home, I'll take the Vikings to beat the Pack. This is my upset of the week.
Prediction: Vikings
Houston Texans @ New York Jets
The Jets haven't exactly been a well-oiled machine, but the Texans are having huge defensive problems. As long as they can maintain balance, the Jets should win.
Prediction: Jets
Oakland Raiders @ Pittsburgh Steelers
The Raiders have rocketed ahead of the Steelers in rushing in recent weeks, but the Steelers still have them beat in rush defense. The Steelers are slumping against the pass and the Raiders' pass D is turning it up, but I still trust Big Ben more than Jason Campbell.
Prediction: Steelers
Washington Redskins @ Tennessee Titans
The Redskins are going to have a heap of trouble against Chris Johnson.
Prediction: Titans
Seattle Seahawks @ New Orleans Saints
Neither team is doing very well on either side of the ball rushing. Both teams have also had ups and downs passing on offense, but the Saints are first against the pass while the Seahawks are 28th. The Saints should show improvement at this point in the season
Prediction: Saints
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ San Francisco 49ers
Both teams depend on the run game to set up the pass and the Bucs are really getting fired up rushing and passing, but the Niners have them totally outmatched on defense. In addition, Troy Smith is heating up at the right time, and the Niners have homefield advantage. This is my sleeper of the week.
Prediction: 49ers
Atlanta Falcons @ St. Louis Rams
The Rams have been surprising some people this season, but the Falcons are red hot. They're not going to let up in St. Louis.
Prediction: Falcons
Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots
Neither team stands out in the run game on either side of the ball, this game will come down to passing. These teams are very evenly matched there, and I have to go with New England due to injuries at receiver, that and I get burned every time I pick against them.
Prediction: Patriots
New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles
We'll finally see if Michael Vick is unstoppable. The Giants' defense might stop Vick, but I think the difference will be injuries. The Giants are banged up at key positions on offense, and they're slumping without those players. This is my game of the week.
Prediction: Eagles
Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers
The top two passing teams ion the league go up against each other. The Chargers have the edge in defense in yards, but are less successful at scoring defense. The Broncos are far worse, though, and Phillip Rivers should be able to outscore Kyle Orton.
Prediction: Chargers
NFL Week Ten Thoughts
Atlanta Falcons def. Baltimore Ravens
I should've taken this early sign of fallibility from my gut as an omen, four games right, dear Christ. At least with this one I knew the game would be close, I don't think I'll underestimate the Falcons again this season.
Buffalo Bills def. Detroit Lions
Gah, my 0-16 prediction fall to shambles with the rest of my predictions this week! Detroit looked like they were at least playing disciplined early on, they seem like a less confident and organized group in recent weeks. Jim Schwartz is going to be on the hotseat if he can't get this team back to close to .500.
Chicago Bears def. Minnesota Vikings
Told you so.
New York Jets def. Cleveland Browns
That New England game last week confuses me more than ever now, I don't understand how they can hold Brady like they did and get killed by Sanchez. He's actually starting to look better, they need him to make that jump instead of just relegating him to checkdowns.
Indianapolis Colts def. Cincinnati Bengals
No surprises here, which is a rare occurrence this past week.
Jacksonville Jaguars def. Houston Texans
Dear god, if you're going to bat the ball at the last minute then bat it AWAY from the field of play. The Texans are a team that could be winning games, I like Gary Kubiak but he could be gone after this season.
Miami Dolphins def. Tennessee Titans
This confuses me a bit, maybe Miami's better than I give them credit for. Chris Johnson rushed for almost 120 and the Titans still lost, but the Dolphins have to prove to me that they can maintain success.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers def. Carolina Panthers
Carolina looks dire.
Denver Broncos def. Kansas City Chiefs
What happened to the Broncos? Is McDaniels actually gaining control of his locker room? Perhaps I have underestimated them.
Seattle Seahawks def. Arizona Cardinals
This was embarrassing for the head coach more than anyone, Ken Wisenhunt comes from a defensive tradition and his D should be playing better ball than that. They've got problems that they'll need to set straight in the offseason.
Dallas Cowboys def. New York Giants
I expected the Cowboys to play better, but to win? Against the Giants? The previously thought to be the best team in the NFC Giants? Maybe the Cowboys aren't as dead as everyone thought, at the very least they're not the easy win they were starting to look like to everyone.
San Francisco 49ers def. St. Louis Rams
Screw you Mike Singletary, stop making my life hard. I think the Niners are going to roll and you field a circus that can't win a game to save their hides, now that your team has basically no chance of making the playoffs you start winning, and with Troy Smith nonetheless.
New England Patriots def. Pittsburgh Steelers
This is my WTF game of the past week. New England was absolutely gouged by the Browns' running game two weeks ago, you would think they would get killed by Rashard Mendenhall and company, but they manage to hold them successfully. Speaking of Pittsburgh, where's that shut-down defense they had in the first half of the season? Yeah, they're still solid against the run, but they're getting gouged through the air. Pittsburgh has some real problems, it would be the dropoff of the decade if they missed the playoffs.
Philadelphia Eagles def. Washington Redskins
Don't feel bad Washington fans, Michael Vick is really showing how good he is, and he's got a great cast backing him up. I won't say the Redskins don't have issues, but going from 4-12 to playoff contention in one season was a pretty unlikely wish anyways.
I should've taken this early sign of fallibility from my gut as an omen, four games right, dear Christ. At least with this one I knew the game would be close, I don't think I'll underestimate the Falcons again this season.
Buffalo Bills def. Detroit Lions
Gah, my 0-16 prediction fall to shambles with the rest of my predictions this week! Detroit looked like they were at least playing disciplined early on, they seem like a less confident and organized group in recent weeks. Jim Schwartz is going to be on the hotseat if he can't get this team back to close to .500.
Chicago Bears def. Minnesota Vikings
Told you so.
New York Jets def. Cleveland Browns
That New England game last week confuses me more than ever now, I don't understand how they can hold Brady like they did and get killed by Sanchez. He's actually starting to look better, they need him to make that jump instead of just relegating him to checkdowns.
Indianapolis Colts def. Cincinnati Bengals
No surprises here, which is a rare occurrence this past week.
Jacksonville Jaguars def. Houston Texans
Dear god, if you're going to bat the ball at the last minute then bat it AWAY from the field of play. The Texans are a team that could be winning games, I like Gary Kubiak but he could be gone after this season.
Miami Dolphins def. Tennessee Titans
This confuses me a bit, maybe Miami's better than I give them credit for. Chris Johnson rushed for almost 120 and the Titans still lost, but the Dolphins have to prove to me that they can maintain success.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers def. Carolina Panthers
Carolina looks dire.
Denver Broncos def. Kansas City Chiefs
What happened to the Broncos? Is McDaniels actually gaining control of his locker room? Perhaps I have underestimated them.
Seattle Seahawks def. Arizona Cardinals
This was embarrassing for the head coach more than anyone, Ken Wisenhunt comes from a defensive tradition and his D should be playing better ball than that. They've got problems that they'll need to set straight in the offseason.
Dallas Cowboys def. New York Giants
I expected the Cowboys to play better, but to win? Against the Giants? The previously thought to be the best team in the NFC Giants? Maybe the Cowboys aren't as dead as everyone thought, at the very least they're not the easy win they were starting to look like to everyone.
San Francisco 49ers def. St. Louis Rams
Screw you Mike Singletary, stop making my life hard. I think the Niners are going to roll and you field a circus that can't win a game to save their hides, now that your team has basically no chance of making the playoffs you start winning, and with Troy Smith nonetheless.
New England Patriots def. Pittsburgh Steelers
This is my WTF game of the past week. New England was absolutely gouged by the Browns' running game two weeks ago, you would think they would get killed by Rashard Mendenhall and company, but they manage to hold them successfully. Speaking of Pittsburgh, where's that shut-down defense they had in the first half of the season? Yeah, they're still solid against the run, but they're getting gouged through the air. Pittsburgh has some real problems, it would be the dropoff of the decade if they missed the playoffs.
Philadelphia Eagles def. Washington Redskins
Don't feel bad Washington fans, Michael Vick is really showing how good he is, and he's got a great cast backing him up. I won't say the Redskins don't have issues, but going from 4-12 to playoff contention in one season was a pretty unlikely wish anyways.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
NFL Week Ten Predictions
Baltimore Ravens @ Atlanta Falcons
This is going to be a good game. Both teams are ranked extremely close to each other in rushing on both sides of the ball, with Atlanta holding a slight edge on defense. Atlanta is getting killed through the air on defense, while Baltimore is in the top 10. Both teams are among the best in the league in scoring defense, though. They're both very similar in passing offense, both in yards and points, and both among the best in the league in sacks allowed and interceptions. This game is going to have to come down to intangibles. Flacco and company have let me down this season and Baltimore is on the road, but Atlanta also has come close to losing to some teams that are not as good as Baltimore. My gut says go with the Ravens.
Prediction Ravens
Detroit Lions @ Buffalo Bills
Detroit can hang with the big boys like the Jets, they can beat the Bills, that is unless they have Ndamukong Suh handle kicking duties again. The Bills always make it interesting, though, so this is my sleeper of the week.
Prediction: Lions
Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears
Oh, the Vikings are going to kill them! Oh, Favre is completely back, forget everything that happened up until last week! Oh, Simeon Rice is going to explode after sitting out all of the pre-season and the first nine weeks of the regular season! Oh, Adrian Peterson is going to run all over them!
I think the Bears have become the team that everyone likes to dump on. Sometimes it's warranted, but more often than not it's unfounded. I still run into people who have a love affair with the Packers even after they struggled in recent weeks, and the Vikings finally have one good game and all of the sudden people act like they're back to last season's form, but the Bears, oh no, they're pretenders. It's crap, people are still judging the NFC North by last season's performance, but I think they may need a memory refresher. Week 16, the Vikings come into Soldier Field heavy favorites on the way to the NFC Championship Game, and yet the lowly Bears manufacture a late comeback and beat the immortal Brett Favre, while the entire Vikings team is playing better football than they are this year, in overtime 36-30. The Bears are finding ways to win against good teams like the Packers, just like they found a way to win against the Vikings last season. They are playing shut-down rush defense, they are not allowing scoring through the air, they are getting turnovers, and they are executing on offense despite problems.
Maybe the Vikings will get to Cutler, that's my biggest concern, but our defense is solid and should be able to be just as imposing against a Minnesota line that hasn't looked like itself this season. This might be some sentimentality on my part, but at home I have to take the Bears, and then maybe we can finally put an end to the statements that they're the worst team in the division. This is my game of the week.
Prediction: Bears
New York Jets @ Cleveland Browns
Cleveland's heating up right now and the Jets are struggling, but can they really get by New York's run defense? Maybe not, but the Browns shut down Tom Brady and I see no reason why Mark Sanchez will have any easier of a game. This is my upset of the week.
Prediction: Browns
Cincinnati Bengals @ Indianapolis Colts
I've lost faith in the Colts, but I've lost much more in the Bengals. Marvin Lewis might want to start looking for a new job.
Prediction: Colts
Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville just doesn't have the pressure or the secondary to make me think they can stop Matt Schaub.
Prediction: Texans
Tennessee Titans @ Miami Dolphins
The Titans are going to continue rolling, moreso with Randy Moss on board.
Prediction: Dolphins
Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs lose at home to the Panthers? Maybe I should start a counter for the cats of how many more losses they have to suffer through this season.
Prediction: Buccaneers
Kansas City Chiefs @ Denver Broncos
The Broncos are imploding, coach McDaniels is losing control fast. They lose one of their captains this week, and KC will make them pay for it.
Prediction: Chiefs
Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals
Both teams are bad on both sides of the ball running, this game is going to come down to passing. They're both bad in defending the pass in terms of yards, and in putting up yards through the air. Neither team ranks very well in interceptions on offense, but where Seattle isn't creating turnovers on defense Arizona is, so I have to give it to them.
Prediction: Cardinals
Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants
Jerry Jones is tossing Jason Garrett right into the fire by having his first game as head coach be at home against arguably the best team in the NFC right now, Cowboys won't get back on track this week.
Prediction: Giants
St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers
Niners are hurting and struggling, Rams are making the most of their opportunities. Sam Bradford should be able to take the Rams to a division victory.
Prediction: Rams
New England Patriots @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Both teams' recent struggles make me hesitant with this pick, but New England is getting killed by the run.
Prediction: Steelers
Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins
Vick and the Eagles should put the hurt on a struggling Washington team at home.
Prediction: Eagles
This is going to be a good game. Both teams are ranked extremely close to each other in rushing on both sides of the ball, with Atlanta holding a slight edge on defense. Atlanta is getting killed through the air on defense, while Baltimore is in the top 10. Both teams are among the best in the league in scoring defense, though. They're both very similar in passing offense, both in yards and points, and both among the best in the league in sacks allowed and interceptions. This game is going to have to come down to intangibles. Flacco and company have let me down this season and Baltimore is on the road, but Atlanta also has come close to losing to some teams that are not as good as Baltimore. My gut says go with the Ravens.
Prediction Ravens
Detroit Lions @ Buffalo Bills
Detroit can hang with the big boys like the Jets, they can beat the Bills, that is unless they have Ndamukong Suh handle kicking duties again. The Bills always make it interesting, though, so this is my sleeper of the week.
Prediction: Lions
Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears
Oh, the Vikings are going to kill them! Oh, Favre is completely back, forget everything that happened up until last week! Oh, Simeon Rice is going to explode after sitting out all of the pre-season and the first nine weeks of the regular season! Oh, Adrian Peterson is going to run all over them!
I think the Bears have become the team that everyone likes to dump on. Sometimes it's warranted, but more often than not it's unfounded. I still run into people who have a love affair with the Packers even after they struggled in recent weeks, and the Vikings finally have one good game and all of the sudden people act like they're back to last season's form, but the Bears, oh no, they're pretenders. It's crap, people are still judging the NFC North by last season's performance, but I think they may need a memory refresher. Week 16, the Vikings come into Soldier Field heavy favorites on the way to the NFC Championship Game, and yet the lowly Bears manufacture a late comeback and beat the immortal Brett Favre, while the entire Vikings team is playing better football than they are this year, in overtime 36-30. The Bears are finding ways to win against good teams like the Packers, just like they found a way to win against the Vikings last season. They are playing shut-down rush defense, they are not allowing scoring through the air, they are getting turnovers, and they are executing on offense despite problems.
Maybe the Vikings will get to Cutler, that's my biggest concern, but our defense is solid and should be able to be just as imposing against a Minnesota line that hasn't looked like itself this season. This might be some sentimentality on my part, but at home I have to take the Bears, and then maybe we can finally put an end to the statements that they're the worst team in the division. This is my game of the week.
Prediction: Bears
New York Jets @ Cleveland Browns
Cleveland's heating up right now and the Jets are struggling, but can they really get by New York's run defense? Maybe not, but the Browns shut down Tom Brady and I see no reason why Mark Sanchez will have any easier of a game. This is my upset of the week.
Prediction: Browns
Cincinnati Bengals @ Indianapolis Colts
I've lost faith in the Colts, but I've lost much more in the Bengals. Marvin Lewis might want to start looking for a new job.
Prediction: Colts
Houston Texans @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville just doesn't have the pressure or the secondary to make me think they can stop Matt Schaub.
Prediction: Texans
Tennessee Titans @ Miami Dolphins
The Titans are going to continue rolling, moreso with Randy Moss on board.
Prediction: Dolphins
Carolina Panthers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs lose at home to the Panthers? Maybe I should start a counter for the cats of how many more losses they have to suffer through this season.
Prediction: Buccaneers
Kansas City Chiefs @ Denver Broncos
The Broncos are imploding, coach McDaniels is losing control fast. They lose one of their captains this week, and KC will make them pay for it.
Prediction: Chiefs
Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals
Both teams are bad on both sides of the ball running, this game is going to come down to passing. They're both bad in defending the pass in terms of yards, and in putting up yards through the air. Neither team ranks very well in interceptions on offense, but where Seattle isn't creating turnovers on defense Arizona is, so I have to give it to them.
Prediction: Cardinals
Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants
Jerry Jones is tossing Jason Garrett right into the fire by having his first game as head coach be at home against arguably the best team in the NFC right now, Cowboys won't get back on track this week.
Prediction: Giants
St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers
Niners are hurting and struggling, Rams are making the most of their opportunities. Sam Bradford should be able to take the Rams to a division victory.
Prediction: Rams
New England Patriots @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Both teams' recent struggles make me hesitant with this pick, but New England is getting killed by the run.
Prediction: Steelers
Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins
Vick and the Eagles should put the hurt on a struggling Washington team at home.
Prediction: Eagles
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
NFL Week Nine Thoughts
New York Jets def. Detroit Lions
I'd be a little disappointed if I were a Jets' fan. Yes, Sanchez led some nice drives at the end of he game, but he and the offense struggled in the game as well. They also shouldn't forget that Detroit's kicker went down and that it probably gave them the game, I wouldn't be too happy with that win if I were Rex Ryan.
Baltimore Ravens def. Miami Dolphins
My upset choices this week were basically Miami and Cleveland, and I thought Miami had the better chance of the two. This game played out exactly as I expected, the only thing that surprises me is how wrong I was about the other game.
Cleveland Browns def. New England Patriots
What happened here? If you were to tell me the Browns would beat the Patriots I might say there's an outside chance, but a whomping like this? What it really came down to was defense, Brady had an amazing game, but the Pats had only 68 rushing yards. Cleveland tore it up on the ground, and Colt McCoy had a solid game. I think Cleveland just provided a road map of how to beat the Pats.
San Diego Chargers def. Houston Texans
The rest of the team is finally allowing Phillip Rivers to win the game instead of losing it for him. That defense is still shaky, and I still don't expect San Diego to make a run, but they're at least getting back on track. The Texans are in big trouble with their division starting to take shape.
Chicago Bears def. Buffalo Bills
I'd like to have seen a bigger margin of victory, but the Bills are better than their record. I like the commitment to the run, but the lack of production is still there and I doubt we'll be able to stick to it with better teams. What I would have liked to seen more of is running to set up the pass, the Bills decided to commit extra men to the box early on and too often we ran right into a blitz, when the line is stacked we need to be able to check out of a run and victimize opponents through the air.
Minnesota Vikings def. Arizona Cardinals
This game surprised me a lot. AP was held to around 80 yards rushing, and Favre ended up being the one who saved the day for the Vikings. I thought it would be the other way around.
Atlanta Falcons def. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
You can talk about the Bucs' failure to execute on fourth down late in the game, but Atlanta has a solid defense. The problem was a young Bucs' defense simply being outmatched against Matt Ryan and company.
New Orleans Saints def. Carolina Panthers
Is anyone really surprised?
New York Giants def. Seattle Seahawks
Is anyone really surprised?
Philadelphia Eagles def. Indianapolis Colts
Losing receivers left and right is not helping Peyton at all, and I was a bit surprised at how much success the Eagles had against an Indy defense that was just starting to hit its stride. The Philly D showed up big as well, and proved that Peyton Manning is human after all.
Oakland Raiders def. Kansas City Chiefs
What really surprised me is how well the Raiders were able to move the ball against KC. Darren McFadden is finally starting to prove his worth, and he's becoming key to this team's success.
Green Bay Packers def. Dallas Cowboys
What a way for Wade Phillips to go out, that was just embarrassing. The Cowboys, with all their problems and with Tony Romo out, could still be winning a lot of these games. The problem: discipline. They simply have to play smart, disciplined football, and accomplishing that could be key to whether or not Jason Garrett stays on past this season.
Pittsburgh Steelers def. Cincinnati Bengals
I'm surprised at the push the Bengals made late, I think something is definitely different about this Steelers' defense right now. Still, I didn't expect them to pull of any upset.
I'd be a little disappointed if I were a Jets' fan. Yes, Sanchez led some nice drives at the end of he game, but he and the offense struggled in the game as well. They also shouldn't forget that Detroit's kicker went down and that it probably gave them the game, I wouldn't be too happy with that win if I were Rex Ryan.
Baltimore Ravens def. Miami Dolphins
My upset choices this week were basically Miami and Cleveland, and I thought Miami had the better chance of the two. This game played out exactly as I expected, the only thing that surprises me is how wrong I was about the other game.
Cleveland Browns def. New England Patriots
What happened here? If you were to tell me the Browns would beat the Patriots I might say there's an outside chance, but a whomping like this? What it really came down to was defense, Brady had an amazing game, but the Pats had only 68 rushing yards. Cleveland tore it up on the ground, and Colt McCoy had a solid game. I think Cleveland just provided a road map of how to beat the Pats.
San Diego Chargers def. Houston Texans
The rest of the team is finally allowing Phillip Rivers to win the game instead of losing it for him. That defense is still shaky, and I still don't expect San Diego to make a run, but they're at least getting back on track. The Texans are in big trouble with their division starting to take shape.
Chicago Bears def. Buffalo Bills
I'd like to have seen a bigger margin of victory, but the Bills are better than their record. I like the commitment to the run, but the lack of production is still there and I doubt we'll be able to stick to it with better teams. What I would have liked to seen more of is running to set up the pass, the Bills decided to commit extra men to the box early on and too often we ran right into a blitz, when the line is stacked we need to be able to check out of a run and victimize opponents through the air.
Minnesota Vikings def. Arizona Cardinals
This game surprised me a lot. AP was held to around 80 yards rushing, and Favre ended up being the one who saved the day for the Vikings. I thought it would be the other way around.
Atlanta Falcons def. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
You can talk about the Bucs' failure to execute on fourth down late in the game, but Atlanta has a solid defense. The problem was a young Bucs' defense simply being outmatched against Matt Ryan and company.
New Orleans Saints def. Carolina Panthers
Is anyone really surprised?
New York Giants def. Seattle Seahawks
Is anyone really surprised?
Philadelphia Eagles def. Indianapolis Colts
Losing receivers left and right is not helping Peyton at all, and I was a bit surprised at how much success the Eagles had against an Indy defense that was just starting to hit its stride. The Philly D showed up big as well, and proved that Peyton Manning is human after all.
Oakland Raiders def. Kansas City Chiefs
What really surprised me is how well the Raiders were able to move the ball against KC. Darren McFadden is finally starting to prove his worth, and he's becoming key to this team's success.
Green Bay Packers def. Dallas Cowboys
What a way for Wade Phillips to go out, that was just embarrassing. The Cowboys, with all their problems and with Tony Romo out, could still be winning a lot of these games. The problem: discipline. They simply have to play smart, disciplined football, and accomplishing that could be key to whether or not Jason Garrett stays on past this season.
Pittsburgh Steelers def. Cincinnati Bengals
I'm surprised at the push the Bengals made late, I think something is definitely different about this Steelers' defense right now. Still, I didn't expect them to pull of any upset.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
NFL Week Nine Predictions
New York Jets @ Detroit Lions
It's hard to have confidence in the Jets after last week's loss, and the Lions are always a threat, but I believe the Jets win out in what will turn out to be a defensive battle. This is my sleeper of the week.
Prediction: Jets
Miami Dolphins @ Baltimore Ravens
Byes actually make me nervous, and Baltimore has been up and down at times. Miami has been up and down as well, but is coming off a big win last week. I like the Ravens at home, but I have to go with the Dolphins because all the other upsets this week are killers. This is my upset of the week.
Prediction: Dolphins
New England Patriots @ Cleveland Browns
Cleveland has surprised a few times this year, but you have to get up pretty early to beat Belichick, and Eric Mangini seems like the type to sleep in occasionally.
Prediction: Patriots
San Diego Chargers @ Houston Texans
The Chargers stack up well against the run and can make the Texans one-dimensional, and I don't have a lot of confidence in that Texans' secondary right now
Prediction: Chargers
Chicago Bears @ Buffalo Bills
No real home team here, although the Bills have been here before. They are coming off two tight losses in OT and are putting some points on the board. Still, they are porous against the run and I don't believe they're going to turn the corner against the Bears and their turnover-happy D.
Prediction: Bears
Arizona Cardinals @ Minnesota Vikings
Arizona Cardinals are 29th in the league against the run. With AP in the opposing backfield this is a no-brainer.
Prediction: Vikings
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons
That young Tampa D is just too green to make me think that Roddy White, Anthony Gonzalez, and Michael Turner won't walk all over them.
Prediction: Falcons
New Orleans Saints @ Carolina Panthers
Saints just won a big game against a good team, Panthers are still sliding.
Prediction: Saints
New York Giants @ Seattle Seahawks
New York is rolling, and I have no reason to think they will let up against Seattle
Prediction: Giants
Indianapolis Colts @ Philadelphia Eagles
I must tentatively go with the Colts here. They've been beaten by balance this season, and with Vick coming back Philly has plenty of that. They're also missing some players on offense, and the Philly secondary isn't half bad. Still, if the Colts beat Houston then they should be able to beat Philly.
Prediction: Colts
Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders
The Chiefs are seventh in the league against the run, the Raiders are 26th. The Raiders are 5th against the pass, the Chiefs are 23rd. These two teams are strong on defense where the other is weak on offense and that will make for an intriguing matchup, but with Nnamdi Asomugha out I have to lean towards the Chiefs. This is my game of the week.
Prediction: Chiefs
Dallas Cowboys @ Green Bay Packers
Cowboys look atrocious right now, I wouldn't pick them to beat Carolina.
Prediction: Packers
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals
On the road after a tough loss and with some apparent problems this could be a dangerous pick, but I still can't go with the Bengals after what they've shown so far this season.
Prediction: Steelers
It's hard to have confidence in the Jets after last week's loss, and the Lions are always a threat, but I believe the Jets win out in what will turn out to be a defensive battle. This is my sleeper of the week.
Prediction: Jets
Miami Dolphins @ Baltimore Ravens
Byes actually make me nervous, and Baltimore has been up and down at times. Miami has been up and down as well, but is coming off a big win last week. I like the Ravens at home, but I have to go with the Dolphins because all the other upsets this week are killers. This is my upset of the week.
Prediction: Dolphins
New England Patriots @ Cleveland Browns
Cleveland has surprised a few times this year, but you have to get up pretty early to beat Belichick, and Eric Mangini seems like the type to sleep in occasionally.
Prediction: Patriots
San Diego Chargers @ Houston Texans
The Chargers stack up well against the run and can make the Texans one-dimensional, and I don't have a lot of confidence in that Texans' secondary right now
Prediction: Chargers
Chicago Bears @ Buffalo Bills
No real home team here, although the Bills have been here before. They are coming off two tight losses in OT and are putting some points on the board. Still, they are porous against the run and I don't believe they're going to turn the corner against the Bears and their turnover-happy D.
Prediction: Bears
Arizona Cardinals @ Minnesota Vikings
Arizona Cardinals are 29th in the league against the run. With AP in the opposing backfield this is a no-brainer.
Prediction: Vikings
Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons
That young Tampa D is just too green to make me think that Roddy White, Anthony Gonzalez, and Michael Turner won't walk all over them.
Prediction: Falcons
New Orleans Saints @ Carolina Panthers
Saints just won a big game against a good team, Panthers are still sliding.
Prediction: Saints
New York Giants @ Seattle Seahawks
New York is rolling, and I have no reason to think they will let up against Seattle
Prediction: Giants
Indianapolis Colts @ Philadelphia Eagles
I must tentatively go with the Colts here. They've been beaten by balance this season, and with Vick coming back Philly has plenty of that. They're also missing some players on offense, and the Philly secondary isn't half bad. Still, if the Colts beat Houston then they should be able to beat Philly.
Prediction: Colts
Kansas City Chiefs @ Oakland Raiders
The Chiefs are seventh in the league against the run, the Raiders are 26th. The Raiders are 5th against the pass, the Chiefs are 23rd. These two teams are strong on defense where the other is weak on offense and that will make for an intriguing matchup, but with Nnamdi Asomugha out I have to lean towards the Chiefs. This is my game of the week.
Prediction: Chiefs
Dallas Cowboys @ Green Bay Packers
Cowboys look atrocious right now, I wouldn't pick them to beat Carolina.
Prediction: Packers
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals
On the road after a tough loss and with some apparent problems this could be a dangerous pick, but I still can't go with the Bengals after what they've shown so far this season.
Prediction: Steelers
NFL Week Eight Thoughts
San Francisco 49ers def. Denver Broncos
This game says more about Denver than it does about San Fran, they have some real problems that need to get cleaned up fast.
Jacksonville Jaguars def. Dallas Cowboys
Dallas is in a really bad way right now. They matched up well against Jacksonville and should have at least made it close, instead due to a bunch of bobbled catches turned into picks and more mistakes they got manhandled. Early prediction, neither Wade nor his staff returns next season.
Miami Dolphins def. Cincinnati Bengals
A little closer than I expected, but the game mostly unfolded as expected. Cincy is having some major problems on offense.
Buffalo Bills def. Kansas City Chiefs
Two overtime losses in a row, could this be an early sign that the Bills are about to turn the corner? Let's hope not.
Detroit Lions def. Washington Redskins
That pass defense of Washington's is bad, and their pass offense has hit a wall as well. This just makes it all the more tough to take the loss to Washington that the Bears suffered the week before.
St. Louis Rams def. Carolina Panthers
Hmmm...the Panthers lost, whaddya know?
Green Bay Packers def. New York Jets
This game was winnable for the Jets. Anchors are still praising Mark Sanchez, but he's never going to be a longterm starter until he can press the ball upfield. Captain Checkdown strikes again.
San Diego Chargers def. Tennessee Titans
San Diego finally manages not to disappoint. I wouldn't get too excited if I were a fan, though.
New England Patriots def. Minnesota Vikings
This team is in dire straits. Childress is starting to look like a coach who's time is winding down, going haywire on players for mistakes they didn't make. That is, of course, except for his geriatric pick machine who can do no wrong. On top of that, one of the most incompetent owners in the league comes out and says he considered firing Childress and keeping Randy Moss, would've been the first public move of his I'd approve of.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers def. Arizona Cardinals
With almost 400 yards of offense from the starting QB/RB combo on Tampa Bay's side, there's no way this game should have been as close as a field goal. Still, it's a start for this young team. Arizona, on the other hand, continues their spiral without a strong QB at the helm.
Oakland Raiders def. Seattle Seahawks
These two teams continue to confound me in picks, but one thing's for sure, I'm not taking Oakland lightly anymore. They may not be playoff contenders, but they're still a threat on any Sunday.
New Orleans Saints def. Pittsburgh Steelers
This is as confusing as ever. Pittsburgh rolled through the first four games without their starting QB, New Orleans was in a downward spiral. New Orleans was having trouble running the ball, and that allowed teams to shut down their passing attack. The Steelers had one of the best defenses and running games in the NFL coming into this game, and the New Orleans defense wasn't anything to write home about. Still, this game came down to Big Ben not being able to get the Steelers into the end zone, they might not be as good a team as everyone thought if they don't have a QB they can turn to in those situations.
Indianapolis Colts def. Houston Texans
Between injuries to the Colts and the number of yards Foster put up on them (again), this came as a surprise to me. Still, the X-factor was, as it usually is in a Colts' win, Peyton Manning. I still think the Colts will have less success against better secondaries with their best receivers out, and Houston has some holes in what was once one of the best secondaries in the league.
This game says more about Denver than it does about San Fran, they have some real problems that need to get cleaned up fast.
Jacksonville Jaguars def. Dallas Cowboys
Dallas is in a really bad way right now. They matched up well against Jacksonville and should have at least made it close, instead due to a bunch of bobbled catches turned into picks and more mistakes they got manhandled. Early prediction, neither Wade nor his staff returns next season.
Miami Dolphins def. Cincinnati Bengals
A little closer than I expected, but the game mostly unfolded as expected. Cincy is having some major problems on offense.
Buffalo Bills def. Kansas City Chiefs
Two overtime losses in a row, could this be an early sign that the Bills are about to turn the corner? Let's hope not.
Detroit Lions def. Washington Redskins
That pass defense of Washington's is bad, and their pass offense has hit a wall as well. This just makes it all the more tough to take the loss to Washington that the Bears suffered the week before.
St. Louis Rams def. Carolina Panthers
Hmmm...the Panthers lost, whaddya know?
Green Bay Packers def. New York Jets
This game was winnable for the Jets. Anchors are still praising Mark Sanchez, but he's never going to be a longterm starter until he can press the ball upfield. Captain Checkdown strikes again.
San Diego Chargers def. Tennessee Titans
San Diego finally manages not to disappoint. I wouldn't get too excited if I were a fan, though.
New England Patriots def. Minnesota Vikings
This team is in dire straits. Childress is starting to look like a coach who's time is winding down, going haywire on players for mistakes they didn't make. That is, of course, except for his geriatric pick machine who can do no wrong. On top of that, one of the most incompetent owners in the league comes out and says he considered firing Childress and keeping Randy Moss, would've been the first public move of his I'd approve of.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers def. Arizona Cardinals
With almost 400 yards of offense from the starting QB/RB combo on Tampa Bay's side, there's no way this game should have been as close as a field goal. Still, it's a start for this young team. Arizona, on the other hand, continues their spiral without a strong QB at the helm.
Oakland Raiders def. Seattle Seahawks
These two teams continue to confound me in picks, but one thing's for sure, I'm not taking Oakland lightly anymore. They may not be playoff contenders, but they're still a threat on any Sunday.
New Orleans Saints def. Pittsburgh Steelers
This is as confusing as ever. Pittsburgh rolled through the first four games without their starting QB, New Orleans was in a downward spiral. New Orleans was having trouble running the ball, and that allowed teams to shut down their passing attack. The Steelers had one of the best defenses and running games in the NFL coming into this game, and the New Orleans defense wasn't anything to write home about. Still, this game came down to Big Ben not being able to get the Steelers into the end zone, they might not be as good a team as everyone thought if they don't have a QB they can turn to in those situations.
Indianapolis Colts def. Houston Texans
Between injuries to the Colts and the number of yards Foster put up on them (again), this came as a surprise to me. Still, the X-factor was, as it usually is in a Colts' win, Peyton Manning. I still think the Colts will have less success against better secondaries with their best receivers out, and Houston has some holes in what was once one of the best secondaries in the league.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)