Well...it was a pretty good week last week that I'm just trying to build on during the stretch run. I went 11-5 against the spread and 10-6 straight up with my one difference being that Seattle covered but didn't win. That brings my season total to 88-73-1. Barnes, only lost one game to my good week, though, staying 9 games ahead of me, 97-64-1. I've got a ways to go if I want to beat him. Here are the picks this week.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27TH
Tennessee (-11) @ Detroit
The Pick: Tennessee
The Lions have a tendency to play their most inspired football in front of a Turkey Day audience, but I'm not sure their most inspired football can overcome even an 11 point spread against a pissed off group of Titans.
Seattle @ Dallas (-12.5)
The Pick: Seattle (ATS), Dallas (Straight Up)
I went with the 'Hawks and Hasselbeck last week and he got the cover for me. Can he do it against the 'Boys on the road?? Well...Shaun Hill put up 22 on them. In a 13 point game you say?? What do I have to lose says I. Give me the 'Hawks.
Arizona @ Philadelphia (-3)
The Pick: Arizona
The face that the Eagles are favored against the Cardinals, despite the fact that they have to travel across the country where no west team has won all year...blah, blah, blah...it's laughable. The Eagles may be the second worst team in the NFL right now in front of the Lionesses.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 30TH
San Francisco @ Buffalo (-7)
The Pick: San Francisco
Two reasons...Shaun Hill has played well recently, and I told you the Bills ship is sinking twice already, and I'm not about to jump off that bandwagon.
Baltimore (-7) @ Cincinnati
The Pick: Baltimore
I'd take this line if it were 20. The Ravens are coming alive.
Indianapolis (-4.5) @ Cleveland
The Pick: Indy
The Browns are going the downward direction, and the Colts are going the upward direction. It seems so simple.
Carolina @ Green Bay (-3)
The Pick: Green Bay
I was supposed to be at this game, but my dad's shoulder isn't healed enough for the cold weather, so we're breaking tradition, which is bad but necessary. Anyway, the Packers and Panthers both got tore up last week, so I'll go with the home team because, A. I said I wouldn't pick against them again, and B. If they don't win this, their season is probably over.
Denver @ New York Jets (-8)
The Pick: New York Jets
J-E-T-S Bretts, Bretts, Bretts!! They'll tear up the mostly young Denver defense just like everyone else has been. It's stunning how many young players Denver has, and the Jets are hitting on all cylinders.
Miami (-8) @ St. Louis
The Pick: Miami
I've already said that I'm the Chad Pennington of touch football, but I'm going to trade in my throwing ball for some receiver gloves in my annual Turkey Bowl Friday. Can I be a Ted Ginn of touch football?? No, but maybe a smaller Anthony Fasano??
New Orleans @ Tampa Bay (-3.5)
The Pick: Tampa Bay
Brees will get yards, but not like he did against the Pack.
New York Giants (-3.5) @ Washington
The Pick: New York Giants
Washington almost lost to Seattle. New York lost to the Browns. The Seattle squeaker is still worse in my book.
Atlanta @ San Diego (-5.5)
The Pick: Atlanta
I still think San Diego favored is laughable. Matty Ice and The Burner taught me a lesson last week that will probably backfire on me this week.
Pittsburgh @ New England (-1)
The Pick: New England
Too much fire power for the Pats at home. Cassell is looking for a pay day.
Kansas City @ Oakland (-3)
The Pick: Kansas City
I don't think da Raidas can string two together.
Chicago @ Minnesota (-3.5)
The Pick: Minnesota
On the fake grass indoors, AD will have a day.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 1ST
Jacksonville @ Houston (-3)
The Pick: Houston
Rosenfels...Rosenfels...Rosenfels. Also, look up the combined stats for Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew. It's not even funny, just sad.
That's all. Go Pack Go
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 22, 2008
NFL Picks-Week Twelve
Alright. Here are my picks for the week. I was a pretty good 10-5-1 last week straight up while my Against the Spread was a miserable 4-12. My straight up record though is 78-67-1 now. Not terrible...not great. Here are my picks this week. No gimmicks. Just hoping things go better than they have.
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 20TH
Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh (-10.5)
The Pick: Pittsburgh
A lot of times the visiting team wins in this series, but this isn't your average year. Despite what anyone says, the Bengals suck, and they won't cover.
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 23RD
Carolina @ Atlanta (1.5)
The Pick: Carolina
The Panthers have been shaky lately, and the Falcons are fuming after last week's collapse. So what do you do?? Whatever goes against common sense.
Philadelphia @ Baltimore (-1)
The Pick: Philadelphia
Baltimore's rush D is really good, despite what happened against the Giants, but they won't need it this week. Donovan "What's a tie?" McNabb pulls it out before overtime.
Houston @ Cleveland (-3)
The Pick: Houston
Brady's not ready for DeMeco Ryans and Mario Williams. Yes, I'm being serious.
San Francisco @ Dallas (-10)
The Pick: Dallas
My buddy Matt is down in Irving for his only trip to Texas Stadium, so I'll take the 'Boys even though I hate them.
Tampa Bay (-8.5) @ Detroit
The Pick: Tampa Bay
Detroit's going to get caught looking ahead to another wide receiver in the Top Five of the Draft. Oh wait...Millen's not there anymore?? No. I still expect the same.
Minnesota @ Jacksonville (-2)
The Pick: Minnesota
I don't trust either team and usually pick both wrong so everyone else should go with Jacksonville.
Buffalo (-3) @ Kansas City
The Pick: Kansas City
I said two weeks ago, I'll say it again. Buffalo is cooked. By the way...what happened to all of the people saying Trent Edwards should be MVP?? They've been awfully quiet lately. Also...I'll add that I just saw an unbelievable one-handed TD grab in the Oklahoma-Texas Tech game. My goodness.
New England @ Miami (-1.5)
The Pick: New England
Miami will finish above Buffalo but below the Pats and Jets. Belichick had 10 days to make up for the beating his boys took at Gillette. It won't happen again.
Chicago (-8) @ St. Louis
The Pick: Chicago
Steven Jackson's out. St. Louis loses bad.
New York Jets @ Tennessee (-5)
The Pick: New York Jets
Favre gets it done for the first time againt Tennessee D-Coordinator Jim Schwartz. He's thrown 4 picks and fumbled once in 2 starts against Schwartz defenses, but he gets them back in the worst way this week.
Oakland @ Denver (-9.5)
The Pick: Denver
I was very tempted to take Oakland, but I just don't feel like they can get it done.
New York Giants (-3.5) @ Arizona
The Pick: New York Giants
Kurt Warner won't be upright long enough to pass for 400 yards.
Washington (-3.5) @ Seattle
The Pick: Seattle
In Hasselback I trust this week
Indianapolis @ San Diego (-2.5)
The Pick: San Diego
San Diego favored by any margin is a joke to me right now, even if they have won their last 4 home games.
MONDAY NOVEMBER 24TH
Green Bay @ New Orleans (-2.5)
The Picks: Green Bay
I've picked against the Pack twice this year. I've lost twice. Nuff said.
That's it. Go Pack Go
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 20TH
Cincinnati @ Pittsburgh (-10.5)
The Pick: Pittsburgh
A lot of times the visiting team wins in this series, but this isn't your average year. Despite what anyone says, the Bengals suck, and they won't cover.
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 23RD
Carolina @ Atlanta (1.5)
The Pick: Carolina
The Panthers have been shaky lately, and the Falcons are fuming after last week's collapse. So what do you do?? Whatever goes against common sense.
Philadelphia @ Baltimore (-1)
The Pick: Philadelphia
Baltimore's rush D is really good, despite what happened against the Giants, but they won't need it this week. Donovan "What's a tie?" McNabb pulls it out before overtime.
Houston @ Cleveland (-3)
The Pick: Houston
Brady's not ready for DeMeco Ryans and Mario Williams. Yes, I'm being serious.
San Francisco @ Dallas (-10)
The Pick: Dallas
My buddy Matt is down in Irving for his only trip to Texas Stadium, so I'll take the 'Boys even though I hate them.
Tampa Bay (-8.5) @ Detroit
The Pick: Tampa Bay
Detroit's going to get caught looking ahead to another wide receiver in the Top Five of the Draft. Oh wait...Millen's not there anymore?? No. I still expect the same.
Minnesota @ Jacksonville (-2)
The Pick: Minnesota
I don't trust either team and usually pick both wrong so everyone else should go with Jacksonville.
Buffalo (-3) @ Kansas City
The Pick: Kansas City
I said two weeks ago, I'll say it again. Buffalo is cooked. By the way...what happened to all of the people saying Trent Edwards should be MVP?? They've been awfully quiet lately. Also...I'll add that I just saw an unbelievable one-handed TD grab in the Oklahoma-Texas Tech game. My goodness.
New England @ Miami (-1.5)
The Pick: New England
Miami will finish above Buffalo but below the Pats and Jets. Belichick had 10 days to make up for the beating his boys took at Gillette. It won't happen again.
Chicago (-8) @ St. Louis
The Pick: Chicago
Steven Jackson's out. St. Louis loses bad.
New York Jets @ Tennessee (-5)
The Pick: New York Jets
Favre gets it done for the first time againt Tennessee D-Coordinator Jim Schwartz. He's thrown 4 picks and fumbled once in 2 starts against Schwartz defenses, but he gets them back in the worst way this week.
Oakland @ Denver (-9.5)
The Pick: Denver
I was very tempted to take Oakland, but I just don't feel like they can get it done.
New York Giants (-3.5) @ Arizona
The Pick: New York Giants
Kurt Warner won't be upright long enough to pass for 400 yards.
Washington (-3.5) @ Seattle
The Pick: Seattle
In Hasselback I trust this week
Indianapolis @ San Diego (-2.5)
The Pick: San Diego
San Diego favored by any margin is a joke to me right now, even if they have won their last 4 home games.
MONDAY NOVEMBER 24TH
Green Bay @ New Orleans (-2.5)
The Picks: Green Bay
I've picked against the Pack twice this year. I've lost twice. Nuff said.
That's it. Go Pack Go
Saturday, November 15, 2008
NFL Picks- Week Eleven
No Comments this week. And coming off another crappy showing. Boy do I suck. Barnes is ahead of me by 9 games. I don't know what the records are.
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 13TH
New York Jets @ New England (-3)
The Pick: New England
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 16TH
Denver @ Atlanta (-6)
The Pick: Denver
Oakland @ Miami (-10.5)
The Pick: Miami
Baltimore @ New York Giants (-6.5)
The Pick: Baltimore (ATS), New York Giants (Straight Up)
Houston @ Indianapolis (-8.5)
The Pick: Indianapolis
Chicago @ Green Bay (-4)
The Pick: Chicago (ATS), Green Bay (Straight Up)
Philadelphia (-9) @ Cincinnati
The Pick: Philadelphia
New Orleans (-5) @ Kansas City
The Pick: New Orleans
Detroit @ Carolina (-14)
The Pick: Carolina
Minnesota @ Tampa Bay (-3.5)
The Pick: Tampa Bay
St. Louis @ San Francisco (-6)
The Pick: St. Louis
Arizona (-3) @ Seattle
The Pick: Seattle
Tennessee (-3) @ Jacksonville
The Pick: Tennessee
San Diego @ Pittsburgh (-4.5)
The Pick: Pittsburgh
Dallas (-1) @ Washington
The Pick: Washington
MONDAY NOVEMBER 17TH
Cleveland @ Buffalo (-5.5)
The Pick: Buffalo
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 13TH
New York Jets @ New England (-3)
The Pick: New England
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 16TH
Denver @ Atlanta (-6)
The Pick: Denver
Oakland @ Miami (-10.5)
The Pick: Miami
Baltimore @ New York Giants (-6.5)
The Pick: Baltimore (ATS), New York Giants (Straight Up)
Houston @ Indianapolis (-8.5)
The Pick: Indianapolis
Chicago @ Green Bay (-4)
The Pick: Chicago (ATS), Green Bay (Straight Up)
Philadelphia (-9) @ Cincinnati
The Pick: Philadelphia
New Orleans (-5) @ Kansas City
The Pick: New Orleans
Detroit @ Carolina (-14)
The Pick: Carolina
Minnesota @ Tampa Bay (-3.5)
The Pick: Tampa Bay
St. Louis @ San Francisco (-6)
The Pick: St. Louis
Arizona (-3) @ Seattle
The Pick: Seattle
Tennessee (-3) @ Jacksonville
The Pick: Tennessee
San Diego @ Pittsburgh (-4.5)
The Pick: Pittsburgh
Dallas (-1) @ Washington
The Pick: Washington
MONDAY NOVEMBER 17TH
Cleveland @ Buffalo (-5.5)
The Pick: Buffalo
Thursday, November 6, 2008
NFL-Week Ten Picks
My picks this week will be based entirely on my iTunes. I'm going to play a song on my iTunes, and judging by which team I feel the song best fits and whether that shows the team in a positive or negative light will decide my pick. Also, straight up, I'm a miserable 68-62 while Barnes put a -5 on me last week to take an 8 game lead at 76-54. Man do I suck.
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 6TH
Denver @ Cleveland (-3)
The Pick: Cleveland
We Built this City on Rock and Roll-Jefferson Starship
This classic song can only describe the city of Rock and Roll, and for that reason alone, Cleveland starts off the Brady Quinn era with a win.
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 9TH
New Orleans @ Atlanta (-1)
The Pick: Atlanta
Become-Goo Goo Dolls
What the Falcons have become is a legitimate playoff contender. New Orleans has no defense and the Falcons will outscore them.
Tennessee (-3) @ Chicago
The Pick: Tennessee
Nothin' But the Taillights-Clint Black
The Titans are showing the AFC South and the rest of the NFL the taillights right now and just running away from everyone. When you have the NFL's leading rusher and leader in touchdowns, and it's two separate players...just wow.
Jacksonville (-6.5) @ Detroit
The Pick: Detroit
Just a Dream-Carrie Underwood
The Jags have to be thinking it's just a dream that their dream season is going down the drain so quickly. I could've said that the Lions are dreaming too because they never thought they'd go 0-for the first half, but I think it's more surprising to see Jacksonville at 3-5.
Baltimore (-1) @ Houston
The Pick: Houston
Rain-Breaking Benjamin
The hurricane rain has stopped in Houston, and the Texans have been great at home.
Seattle @ Miami (-9)
The Pick: Miami
Just Might Make Me Believe-Sugarland
Tony Sparano, Ronnie Brown and the efficiency man, Chad Pennington, are making Dolphins fans believe that this team could actually do something special. On a side note, I realized that I'm the Chad Pennington of touch football. My completion percentage is lights out, while my deep ball leaves something to be desired.
Green Bay @ Minnesota (-2)
The Pick: Green Bay
Everything I Do-Bryan Adams
Well...clearly I took this as a love song from the Pack to me or vice versa. Pack over Vi-Queens for the season sweep.
Buffalo @ New England (-3.5)
The Pick: New England
Wish I Didn't Know Now (What I Didn't Know Then)-Toby Keith
The Pats wish they didn't know that Tom Brady won't be helping them at all this season, but they do, and it's looking like they've come to grips with it finally. Also...mark my words. The ship is sinking in Buffalo.
St. Louis @ New York Jets (-8)
The Pick: New York Jets
Livin' On a Prayer-Bon Jovi
The Jets, and every Favre pass seems to be living on a prayer these days. Jets fans are praying for wins and less picks, and while, I'm not sure if the Jets can cover this spread, Bon Jovi says otherwise.
Carolina (-9) @ Oakland
The Pick: Carolina
My Last Name-Dierks Bentley
As soon as I saw this song come up, I thought of Hunt always picking Jake "Of the man" to pull out the win, so, clearly the Panthers will get it done.
Indianapolis @ Pittsburgh (-3.5)
The Pick: Pittsburgh
Keg in the Closet-Kenny Chesney
One line says "We went to class just to pass the time, back in '89." So who was the better team in 1989?? Pittsburgh was 9-7 to Indy's 8-8. Clearly the Steelers will cover.
Kansas City @ San Diego (-15)
The Pick: Kansas City
Piano Man-Billy Joel
Names mentioned in the song are Paul, David, Bill and John. So which team has most of those names?? The Chargers have Center David Binn, Quarterback Billy Volek, and Safety Paul Oliver, while the Chiefs have Tight End John Paul Foschi, Wide Receiver Will Franklin, and Safety Jon McGraw. So...who gets the nod?? The Chiefs have one person that has two of the names. That's our clear winner.
New York Giants @ Philadelphia (-3)
The Pick New York Giants
100 Years-Five For Fighting
The ages mentioned in the song are 15, 22, 33, 45, 67 and 99. So who was better each of those years?? 15 years ago-1993-Giants win 11-5 to 8-8. 22 years ago-1986-Giants win 14-2 to 5-10. 33 years ago-1975-Giants win 5-9 to 4-10. 45 years ago-1963-Giants win 11-3 to 2-10. 67 years ago-1941-Giants win 8-3 to 2-8. 99 years ago, these teams didn't exist. So...Giants win in convincing fashion 5-0. Game over.
MONDAY NOVEMBER 10TH
San Francisco @ Arizona (-9.5)
The Pick: Arizona
Bring it on Home-Little Big Town
Just from the title, I'll go ahead and take Arizona.
So, there you have it. I've resorted to allowing songs to pick my games. Go Pack Go.
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 6TH
Denver @ Cleveland (-3)
The Pick: Cleveland
We Built this City on Rock and Roll-Jefferson Starship
This classic song can only describe the city of Rock and Roll, and for that reason alone, Cleveland starts off the Brady Quinn era with a win.
SUNDAY NOVEMBER 9TH
New Orleans @ Atlanta (-1)
The Pick: Atlanta
Become-Goo Goo Dolls
What the Falcons have become is a legitimate playoff contender. New Orleans has no defense and the Falcons will outscore them.
Tennessee (-3) @ Chicago
The Pick: Tennessee
Nothin' But the Taillights-Clint Black
The Titans are showing the AFC South and the rest of the NFL the taillights right now and just running away from everyone. When you have the NFL's leading rusher and leader in touchdowns, and it's two separate players...just wow.
Jacksonville (-6.5) @ Detroit
The Pick: Detroit
Just a Dream-Carrie Underwood
The Jags have to be thinking it's just a dream that their dream season is going down the drain so quickly. I could've said that the Lions are dreaming too because they never thought they'd go 0-for the first half, but I think it's more surprising to see Jacksonville at 3-5.
Baltimore (-1) @ Houston
The Pick: Houston
Rain-Breaking Benjamin
The hurricane rain has stopped in Houston, and the Texans have been great at home.
Seattle @ Miami (-9)
The Pick: Miami
Just Might Make Me Believe-Sugarland
Tony Sparano, Ronnie Brown and the efficiency man, Chad Pennington, are making Dolphins fans believe that this team could actually do something special. On a side note, I realized that I'm the Chad Pennington of touch football. My completion percentage is lights out, while my deep ball leaves something to be desired.
Green Bay @ Minnesota (-2)
The Pick: Green Bay
Everything I Do-Bryan Adams
Well...clearly I took this as a love song from the Pack to me or vice versa. Pack over Vi-Queens for the season sweep.
Buffalo @ New England (-3.5)
The Pick: New England
Wish I Didn't Know Now (What I Didn't Know Then)-Toby Keith
The Pats wish they didn't know that Tom Brady won't be helping them at all this season, but they do, and it's looking like they've come to grips with it finally. Also...mark my words. The ship is sinking in Buffalo.
St. Louis @ New York Jets (-8)
The Pick: New York Jets
Livin' On a Prayer-Bon Jovi
The Jets, and every Favre pass seems to be living on a prayer these days. Jets fans are praying for wins and less picks, and while, I'm not sure if the Jets can cover this spread, Bon Jovi says otherwise.
Carolina (-9) @ Oakland
The Pick: Carolina
My Last Name-Dierks Bentley
As soon as I saw this song come up, I thought of Hunt always picking Jake "Of the man" to pull out the win, so, clearly the Panthers will get it done.
Indianapolis @ Pittsburgh (-3.5)
The Pick: Pittsburgh
Keg in the Closet-Kenny Chesney
One line says "We went to class just to pass the time, back in '89." So who was the better team in 1989?? Pittsburgh was 9-7 to Indy's 8-8. Clearly the Steelers will cover.
Kansas City @ San Diego (-15)
The Pick: Kansas City
Piano Man-Billy Joel
Names mentioned in the song are Paul, David, Bill and John. So which team has most of those names?? The Chargers have Center David Binn, Quarterback Billy Volek, and Safety Paul Oliver, while the Chiefs have Tight End John Paul Foschi, Wide Receiver Will Franklin, and Safety Jon McGraw. So...who gets the nod?? The Chiefs have one person that has two of the names. That's our clear winner.
New York Giants @ Philadelphia (-3)
The Pick New York Giants
100 Years-Five For Fighting
The ages mentioned in the song are 15, 22, 33, 45, 67 and 99. So who was better each of those years?? 15 years ago-1993-Giants win 11-5 to 8-8. 22 years ago-1986-Giants win 14-2 to 5-10. 33 years ago-1975-Giants win 5-9 to 4-10. 45 years ago-1963-Giants win 11-3 to 2-10. 67 years ago-1941-Giants win 8-3 to 2-8. 99 years ago, these teams didn't exist. So...Giants win in convincing fashion 5-0. Game over.
MONDAY NOVEMBER 10TH
San Francisco @ Arizona (-9.5)
The Pick: Arizona
Bring it on Home-Little Big Town
Just from the title, I'll go ahead and take Arizona.
So, there you have it. I've resorted to allowing songs to pick my games. Go Pack Go.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
NFL-We're Halfway Home
Now that every team has at least 8 games in the books, this is an appropriate time to look back again to see how my preseason predictions are looking. If they're anything like my week-to-week picks, it won't be good.
AFC
East
New England (Overall 5-3, My Pick 5-3) Interesting. I picked them at 5-3 with Brady and they've done it with Cassell instead. This team doesn't look too bad right now. Cassell does a lot of the things Brady does. He just is still getting used to being the starter. Remember, it has been nine years. The Pats are looking good, especially with Buffalo's recent struggles and the Jets' inconsistency.
New York Jets (5-3, 5-3) Once again, I'm right on the money. I predicted a 4-4 finish for the Jets, and with Tennessee, New England, Denver, Miami and Buffalo on tap still, 4-4 is possible, but I'm thinking 5-3 again to go 10-6, one better than my 9-7 prediction.
Buffalo (5-3, 2-6) So, I said at the quarter pole, and I say it again. I was wrong about this team. They have one more win right now than I predicted they'd get the entire season. Watch out though. Trent Edwards hasn't played well since the big concussion, and I feel like the Bills are a sinking ship.
Miami (4-4, 4-4) How about starting off by picking 3 of the first 4 right at the midpoint. I knew the Dolphins would be improved this year, and it's very realistic that they'll betterthe 7 wins I predicted with games remaining against Oakland, Seattle, San Francisco, St. Louis and Kansas City, with division games against New England, Buffalo and New York. Would it be that surprising if they won 5 or even 6 of those. It wouldn't be to me.
North
Pittsburgh (6-2, 4-4) I didn't have a lot of confidence in the Steelers this year, but it's looking like they're going to steamroll the 9-7 prediction I had for them, and win the division easily.
Baltimore (5-3, 3-5) I never would've thought Joe Flacco would have the impact he has so far, and the defense isn't as washed up as I originally thought. They already have more than the four wins I predicted, so I guess they go in the Buffalo boat for me.
Cleveland (3-5, 4-4) I'm not looking too bad right now with the Brownies. It'll be interesting to see if Brady can pull them together and lead them to a 5-3 finish to get the 8-8 record I imagined.
Cincinnati (1-7, 0-8) So, they broke the losing streak this week, keeping me from being correct in giving them a perfectly awful defeated first half. I said they'd win against Baltimore and Washington in the second half, and I don't see them ever beating Washington this season, so I'm still feeling good about my 2-14 prediction.
South
Tennessee (8-0, 2-6) Well, speaking of horrible picks. I came into this season having no confidence in Vince Young (a good assessment), but had no idea that their defense, Chris Johnson and LenDale White would do the things they're doing this season. I like to see the Titans do well, so I'm alright with blowing this pick.
Indianapolis (4-4, 7-1) Old impressions die hard. I never foresaw the fall from grace that has been the Colts this season. They'll have to finish 7-1 to get the 11-5 I predicted. Not likely, especially with games against @ Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Jacksonville and San Diego and a home match up Week 17 against Tennessee.
Jacksonville (3-5, 6-2) I had big expectations for the running back tandem of Jones-Drew and Freddie Taylor, and the no-turnover David Garrard, but this team has been awful at times this season. They're already guaranteed to be worse than the 12-4 I predicted for them.
Houston (3-5, 4-4) Well, I was right in thinking they'd be better or as good as in the last couple years, but it's been more of a struggle than I expected. Despite a good young defense and the great Andre Johnson at wideout, they're not quite ready to take the next step.
West
Denver (4-4, 4-4) The pick was right at the quarter pole, and it's right now too, but a lot of my actual picks have been wrong. This is a strange team, and I never know what they're going to do from week to week. I picked them to have a 6-2 second half to lock up the final playoff berth. I would be surprised to see them play that well with contests remaining @ Atlanta, Cleveland, New York Jets, Carolina and San Diego, with a home date with Buffalo.
San Diego (3-5, 8-0) So I had a lot more confidence in LT and Philip Rivers than I probably should have. A lot of the Chargers' problems have been injuries on Defense, but also, just like Denver, they seem to be a different team every single week. They don't play with a sense of urgency, which scares me, considering they still have to face Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Atlanta, Tampa Bay and Denver.
Oakland (2-6, 2-6) A correct pick indeed. 1-3 for the first quarter, 1-3 for the second quarter, but there is no way the Raiders go 4-4 the rest of the way to go 6-10 the way I thought they would. I thought McFadden would have more of an effect this year and JaMarcus Russell would do something, but Russell has been a blob and McFadden has had some injuries.
Kansas City (1-7, 1-7) 3 out of 4 out west too, with one terrible exception. I'm proud of myself for realizing how terrible the Chefs would be this year. Which game did I predict they'd win?? Not the very surprising win over the Broncos...but an even more surprising win against Tennessee. Good one Jake. The chances of them finishing 4-4 like I said is looking almost impossible, just like for the Raiders. Stay posted.
Playoff Picture
Preseason Picks:
1. San Diego 2. New England 3. Jacksonville 4. Pittsburgh 5. Indianapolis 6. Denver
Right Now:
1. Tennessee 2. Pittsburgh 3. New England 4. Denver 5. Baltimore 6. New York Jets
I'm at 3 out of 6 right now. From the quarter pole until now, Buffalo dropped from second seed to first team out, Pittsburgh moved up one, New England moved up two, Baltimore's up one, and the Jets have supplanted the Bills.
NFC
East
New York Giants (7-1, 5-3) Well...I picked them to beat Dallas and lose to Cleveland, but I also had them losing to Seattle (oops). Anyway, this is a team I definitely underestimated, picking them to finish 9-7, last in the uber-competitive NFC East. Look at this defensive line though. Boy are they incredible.
Washington (6-3, 5-4) So they're one game better than I predicted. This is a very talented team, another that is better than I gave them credit for. With the easiest games remaining being Cincinnati, Seattle and San Francisco, they should get to the 10-6 I predicted, but it's up in the air whether it will be much more.
Philadelphia (5-3, 6-2) Pretty much exactly opposite of Washington. They're a half game behind the Skins, and I said they'd be 1 1/2 ahead. It could be a struggle finishing 6-2 to get to the 11-5 I predicted with remaining contests against the Giants twice, Baltimore, Arizona, Cleveland, Washington and Dallas with the only near gimme coming next week against Cincinnati.
Dallas (5-4, 7-2) I thought this team was going to be great, and for the first 3 games, they really were. Unfortunately, the wheels have fallen off since then, and while I predicted them to finish a modest 4-3 in finishing 11-5, I'm not sure they'll win that many with games left against Washington, the Giants, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Philadelphia. I'd expect about a 3-4, to finish 8-8.
North
Chicago (5-3, 1-7) I have no idea why I thought the Bears were giong to be so bad. I think I was distracted by the putrid play of Rex Grossman, and their complete lack of run game. The Defense has put it back together though for the most part, and Kyle Orton is leading one of the top offenses in the league. Wow...that doesn't feel right at all. But yea...safe to say they'll be better than the 2-14 I predicted.
Green Bay (4-4, 5-3) I haven't been very good with the Packers. In the second quarter of the season in particular, I picked them to beat Atlanta, Seattle and Tennessee and lose to Indianapolis. For those of you scoring at home, that's one out of four right. Yet, I'm pretty close on the overall record. I thought they'd finish an identical 5-3 in the second half, and it seems pretty possible with dates against Chicago twice, Minnesota, Detroit, New Orleans, Carolina, Jacksonville and Houston. I see wins against Minnesota, Detroit, Jacksonville, Houston and at least once against the Bears. Not so sure about the NFC South games.
Minnesota (4-4, 7-1) What a mistake it was for me to think this team would do so well. They have proven that a team without a quarterback can't be truly great. I should have known better. The chances of them finishing 7-1 and going 11-5 like I said is almost impossible.
Detroit (0-8, 3-5) Well, I thought they'd be decent, and I was very wrong. Will they go 3-5 the rest of the way and end the 3-13 I predicted?? I doubt it.
South
Carolina (6-2, 6-2) I was right about the comeback of the Panthers this season. With a healthy Jake Delhomme and a rejuvenated run game with Jonathan Stewart, these guys have been pretty consistent, except for a blowout loss to Tampa Bay. 4-4 the rest of the way should get them in the playoffs.
Tampa Bay (6-3, 5-4) If I'd only known then what I know now, I would have never picked Seattle to beat them, and I'd be right where I need to be with the Bucs. I had them going 4-3 the rest of the way, with near gimmes against Detroit and Oakland and home match ups with San Diego, New Orleans and Minnesota.
Atlanta (5-3, 4-4) I was right in believing that the Falcons were going to rebound this year, but they've done even better than I thought. Matt Ryan has been great, and Michael Turner has been everything that made me believe this team would improve this season. I said they'd go 3-5 over the final eight, but I think they have favorable matchups home against Denver and Minnesota, and three of their last four NFC South contests are in Atlanta. This team could still make the playoffs.
New Orleans (4-4, 4-4) Right on with the Saints. I'm kind of proud of this pick because many people had them going a long way. Drew Brees is amazing, and Reggie Bush has stepped up to the plate this season, but they won't go to the Super Bowl with a Defense like the one they employ. I predicted a 6-2 finish to take the division going away, but it will be tough with four division games (2 at home, 2 on the road), two against playoff contenders Green Bay and Chicago, and two near gimmes, Kansas City and Detroit.
West
Arizona (5-3, 2-6) I was right on with them at 2-2 at the quarter pole, but they've won 3 of 4 since then, and I had them losing all four. Go figure. The Cardinals are close to being a lock already in this terrible division, and they're two games better than I predicted for the season. It's about time they're decent.
Seattle (2-6, 7-1) Probably my worst pick of the year. Either this or Tennessee. I don't think anyone foresaw them being quite this bad, though picking them to go 12-4 seems foolish. The thing is, I thought this division would have one good team (a correct assumption), I just didn't pick the right team.
San Francisco (2-6, 0-8) They're bad, but I thought they'd be even worse. What two games did I pick them to win this year?? Buffalo and at St. Louis...both doubtful.
St. Louis (2-6, 2-6) After a division of terrible predictions, I finally got one right. I thought they'd match the second half with another 2-6, winning at San Fran and at Arizona. That second one...I doubt it, but I could see another win home against Seattle.
Playoff Picture
Preseason Picks:
1. Seattle 2. Dallas 3. Minnesota 4. New Orleans 5. Philadephia 6. Green Bay
Right Now:
1. New York Giants 2. Carolina 3. Arizona 4. Chicago 5. Tampa Bay 6. Washington
As of right now, my preseason playoff picture doesn't have a single team that will make the playoffs. That is the NFL to a tee. Honestly, how does that even happen??
My picks for the season are 76-55. I guess I should just use those for my picks, considering I'm 68-62 picking week by week. I just feel bad about myself for having to write that. In my picks, I have only 3 of 12 of my preseason teams making the playoffs, and out of last season's 12, 7 would be in. Here's to a wild and crazy second half. Go Pack Go
AFC
East
New England (Overall 5-3, My Pick 5-3) Interesting. I picked them at 5-3 with Brady and they've done it with Cassell instead. This team doesn't look too bad right now. Cassell does a lot of the things Brady does. He just is still getting used to being the starter. Remember, it has been nine years. The Pats are looking good, especially with Buffalo's recent struggles and the Jets' inconsistency.
New York Jets (5-3, 5-3) Once again, I'm right on the money. I predicted a 4-4 finish for the Jets, and with Tennessee, New England, Denver, Miami and Buffalo on tap still, 4-4 is possible, but I'm thinking 5-3 again to go 10-6, one better than my 9-7 prediction.
Buffalo (5-3, 2-6) So, I said at the quarter pole, and I say it again. I was wrong about this team. They have one more win right now than I predicted they'd get the entire season. Watch out though. Trent Edwards hasn't played well since the big concussion, and I feel like the Bills are a sinking ship.
Miami (4-4, 4-4) How about starting off by picking 3 of the first 4 right at the midpoint. I knew the Dolphins would be improved this year, and it's very realistic that they'll betterthe 7 wins I predicted with games remaining against Oakland, Seattle, San Francisco, St. Louis and Kansas City, with division games against New England, Buffalo and New York. Would it be that surprising if they won 5 or even 6 of those. It wouldn't be to me.
North
Pittsburgh (6-2, 4-4) I didn't have a lot of confidence in the Steelers this year, but it's looking like they're going to steamroll the 9-7 prediction I had for them, and win the division easily.
Baltimore (5-3, 3-5) I never would've thought Joe Flacco would have the impact he has so far, and the defense isn't as washed up as I originally thought. They already have more than the four wins I predicted, so I guess they go in the Buffalo boat for me.
Cleveland (3-5, 4-4) I'm not looking too bad right now with the Brownies. It'll be interesting to see if Brady can pull them together and lead them to a 5-3 finish to get the 8-8 record I imagined.
Cincinnati (1-7, 0-8) So, they broke the losing streak this week, keeping me from being correct in giving them a perfectly awful defeated first half. I said they'd win against Baltimore and Washington in the second half, and I don't see them ever beating Washington this season, so I'm still feeling good about my 2-14 prediction.
South
Tennessee (8-0, 2-6) Well, speaking of horrible picks. I came into this season having no confidence in Vince Young (a good assessment), but had no idea that their defense, Chris Johnson and LenDale White would do the things they're doing this season. I like to see the Titans do well, so I'm alright with blowing this pick.
Indianapolis (4-4, 7-1) Old impressions die hard. I never foresaw the fall from grace that has been the Colts this season. They'll have to finish 7-1 to get the 11-5 I predicted. Not likely, especially with games against @ Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Jacksonville and San Diego and a home match up Week 17 against Tennessee.
Jacksonville (3-5, 6-2) I had big expectations for the running back tandem of Jones-Drew and Freddie Taylor, and the no-turnover David Garrard, but this team has been awful at times this season. They're already guaranteed to be worse than the 12-4 I predicted for them.
Houston (3-5, 4-4) Well, I was right in thinking they'd be better or as good as in the last couple years, but it's been more of a struggle than I expected. Despite a good young defense and the great Andre Johnson at wideout, they're not quite ready to take the next step.
West
Denver (4-4, 4-4) The pick was right at the quarter pole, and it's right now too, but a lot of my actual picks have been wrong. This is a strange team, and I never know what they're going to do from week to week. I picked them to have a 6-2 second half to lock up the final playoff berth. I would be surprised to see them play that well with contests remaining @ Atlanta, Cleveland, New York Jets, Carolina and San Diego, with a home date with Buffalo.
San Diego (3-5, 8-0) So I had a lot more confidence in LT and Philip Rivers than I probably should have. A lot of the Chargers' problems have been injuries on Defense, but also, just like Denver, they seem to be a different team every single week. They don't play with a sense of urgency, which scares me, considering they still have to face Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Atlanta, Tampa Bay and Denver.
Oakland (2-6, 2-6) A correct pick indeed. 1-3 for the first quarter, 1-3 for the second quarter, but there is no way the Raiders go 4-4 the rest of the way to go 6-10 the way I thought they would. I thought McFadden would have more of an effect this year and JaMarcus Russell would do something, but Russell has been a blob and McFadden has had some injuries.
Kansas City (1-7, 1-7) 3 out of 4 out west too, with one terrible exception. I'm proud of myself for realizing how terrible the Chefs would be this year. Which game did I predict they'd win?? Not the very surprising win over the Broncos...but an even more surprising win against Tennessee. Good one Jake. The chances of them finishing 4-4 like I said is looking almost impossible, just like for the Raiders. Stay posted.
Playoff Picture
Preseason Picks:
1. San Diego 2. New England 3. Jacksonville 4. Pittsburgh 5. Indianapolis 6. Denver
Right Now:
1. Tennessee 2. Pittsburgh 3. New England 4. Denver 5. Baltimore 6. New York Jets
I'm at 3 out of 6 right now. From the quarter pole until now, Buffalo dropped from second seed to first team out, Pittsburgh moved up one, New England moved up two, Baltimore's up one, and the Jets have supplanted the Bills.
NFC
East
New York Giants (7-1, 5-3) Well...I picked them to beat Dallas and lose to Cleveland, but I also had them losing to Seattle (oops). Anyway, this is a team I definitely underestimated, picking them to finish 9-7, last in the uber-competitive NFC East. Look at this defensive line though. Boy are they incredible.
Washington (6-3, 5-4) So they're one game better than I predicted. This is a very talented team, another that is better than I gave them credit for. With the easiest games remaining being Cincinnati, Seattle and San Francisco, they should get to the 10-6 I predicted, but it's up in the air whether it will be much more.
Philadelphia (5-3, 6-2) Pretty much exactly opposite of Washington. They're a half game behind the Skins, and I said they'd be 1 1/2 ahead. It could be a struggle finishing 6-2 to get to the 11-5 I predicted with remaining contests against the Giants twice, Baltimore, Arizona, Cleveland, Washington and Dallas with the only near gimme coming next week against Cincinnati.
Dallas (5-4, 7-2) I thought this team was going to be great, and for the first 3 games, they really were. Unfortunately, the wheels have fallen off since then, and while I predicted them to finish a modest 4-3 in finishing 11-5, I'm not sure they'll win that many with games left against Washington, the Giants, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Philadelphia. I'd expect about a 3-4, to finish 8-8.
North
Chicago (5-3, 1-7) I have no idea why I thought the Bears were giong to be so bad. I think I was distracted by the putrid play of Rex Grossman, and their complete lack of run game. The Defense has put it back together though for the most part, and Kyle Orton is leading one of the top offenses in the league. Wow...that doesn't feel right at all. But yea...safe to say they'll be better than the 2-14 I predicted.
Green Bay (4-4, 5-3) I haven't been very good with the Packers. In the second quarter of the season in particular, I picked them to beat Atlanta, Seattle and Tennessee and lose to Indianapolis. For those of you scoring at home, that's one out of four right. Yet, I'm pretty close on the overall record. I thought they'd finish an identical 5-3 in the second half, and it seems pretty possible with dates against Chicago twice, Minnesota, Detroit, New Orleans, Carolina, Jacksonville and Houston. I see wins against Minnesota, Detroit, Jacksonville, Houston and at least once against the Bears. Not so sure about the NFC South games.
Minnesota (4-4, 7-1) What a mistake it was for me to think this team would do so well. They have proven that a team without a quarterback can't be truly great. I should have known better. The chances of them finishing 7-1 and going 11-5 like I said is almost impossible.
Detroit (0-8, 3-5) Well, I thought they'd be decent, and I was very wrong. Will they go 3-5 the rest of the way and end the 3-13 I predicted?? I doubt it.
South
Carolina (6-2, 6-2) I was right about the comeback of the Panthers this season. With a healthy Jake Delhomme and a rejuvenated run game with Jonathan Stewart, these guys have been pretty consistent, except for a blowout loss to Tampa Bay. 4-4 the rest of the way should get them in the playoffs.
Tampa Bay (6-3, 5-4) If I'd only known then what I know now, I would have never picked Seattle to beat them, and I'd be right where I need to be with the Bucs. I had them going 4-3 the rest of the way, with near gimmes against Detroit and Oakland and home match ups with San Diego, New Orleans and Minnesota.
Atlanta (5-3, 4-4) I was right in believing that the Falcons were going to rebound this year, but they've done even better than I thought. Matt Ryan has been great, and Michael Turner has been everything that made me believe this team would improve this season. I said they'd go 3-5 over the final eight, but I think they have favorable matchups home against Denver and Minnesota, and three of their last four NFC South contests are in Atlanta. This team could still make the playoffs.
New Orleans (4-4, 4-4) Right on with the Saints. I'm kind of proud of this pick because many people had them going a long way. Drew Brees is amazing, and Reggie Bush has stepped up to the plate this season, but they won't go to the Super Bowl with a Defense like the one they employ. I predicted a 6-2 finish to take the division going away, but it will be tough with four division games (2 at home, 2 on the road), two against playoff contenders Green Bay and Chicago, and two near gimmes, Kansas City and Detroit.
West
Arizona (5-3, 2-6) I was right on with them at 2-2 at the quarter pole, but they've won 3 of 4 since then, and I had them losing all four. Go figure. The Cardinals are close to being a lock already in this terrible division, and they're two games better than I predicted for the season. It's about time they're decent.
Seattle (2-6, 7-1) Probably my worst pick of the year. Either this or Tennessee. I don't think anyone foresaw them being quite this bad, though picking them to go 12-4 seems foolish. The thing is, I thought this division would have one good team (a correct assumption), I just didn't pick the right team.
San Francisco (2-6, 0-8) They're bad, but I thought they'd be even worse. What two games did I pick them to win this year?? Buffalo and at St. Louis...both doubtful.
St. Louis (2-6, 2-6) After a division of terrible predictions, I finally got one right. I thought they'd match the second half with another 2-6, winning at San Fran and at Arizona. That second one...I doubt it, but I could see another win home against Seattle.
Playoff Picture
Preseason Picks:
1. Seattle 2. Dallas 3. Minnesota 4. New Orleans 5. Philadephia 6. Green Bay
Right Now:
1. New York Giants 2. Carolina 3. Arizona 4. Chicago 5. Tampa Bay 6. Washington
As of right now, my preseason playoff picture doesn't have a single team that will make the playoffs. That is the NFL to a tee. Honestly, how does that even happen??
My picks for the season are 76-55. I guess I should just use those for my picks, considering I'm 68-62 picking week by week. I just feel bad about myself for having to write that. In my picks, I have only 3 of 12 of my preseason teams making the playoffs, and out of last season's 12, 7 would be in. Here's to a wild and crazy second half. Go Pack Go
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