Week 17 Picks

The 87th NFL regular season draws to its usual breathtaking close. 11
teams are still mathematically alive for the three remainiing playoff
berths. Some are more realistic than others. With some help from the
NFL and ESPN. I'll give playoff scenario implications for each game
along with the usual odds and info. I need a 13-3 week to avoid 100
losses this season. 144-96 so far isn't bad, but a strong finish keeps
me in the 60% success rate and assures me of at least semi-expert
status. The odds are courtesy of Yahoo Sports and BetUS.com and are for
entertainment and comparison purposes only.

Saturday, December 30

NY Giants (7-8) @ Redskins (5-10)
FedEX Field; Landover, MD- 8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite-Giants by 2.5
Its A Fact-The Giants seek their first season sweep of the Redskins
since 2002
Playoff Implications-The Giants need to win and have Green Bay lose to
clinch a playoff spot
The G-Men have more or less self destructed down the stretch and now
have to face their nemesis without another big weapon. Jeremy Shockey
will not play and what slim chance the G-Men had for a playoff spot gets
even slimmer. Look for the Skins to key heavy on Tiki Barber and make
the shocking regression of Eli Manning that much more profound. This
will underscore the G-Mens need to dismiss Tom Coughlin.
Pick-Washington

Sunday, December 31

Panthers (7-8) @ Saints (10-5)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans -1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Panthers by 3
Its A Fact-The Saints have a 1st round playoff bye for the first time
in team history
Playoff Implications-Panthers need win and Giants and Packers to lose
to clinch. Saints are NFC South Champs and locked into #2 slot
The Saints may likely rest many of their starters since they have
nothing to gain, having clinched the #2 seed. The Panthers are in
desperate need of a win, with the return of Jake Delhomme, the Panthers
may have a fighting chance. The Saints defense must respect the passing
of Delhomme in a way that they would never do for Chris Weinke. That in
itself will be enough and may just get them into the playoffs.
Pick-Carolina

Browns (4-11) @ Texans (5-10)
Reliant Stadium, Houston 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite- Texans by 4
Its A Fact-The Texans seek to win back to back games for only the
second time in team history
Playoff Implications-None
Neither team is going anywhere but home after this game. The Browns
have painfully regressed while the Texans are marginally better than
they were last year. The Browns have more or less packed in it. The
Texans should be able to send their long suffering fans into the
offseason with a little to smile about
Pick-Houston

Lions (2-13) @ Cowboys (9-6)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Cowboys by 12.5
Its A Fact-By luck of the scheduling draw these teams have played each
of the last six years and have split their meetings
Playoff Implications-Cowboys have clinched a playoff spot already but
can win NFC East with win and Eagles loss
The Pokes get about the best tonic they could have hoped for in
bouncing back from a Christmas night rout by the Eagles. The Motor City
Kitties are in town and the Pokes need a win badly to try to steal the
division that they cannot win from the Eagles if both teams are tied.
Look for the Pokes to jump out early and pour it on. But they will need
to save some for the playoffs.
Pick-Dallas (Lock Pick of the Week)

Jaguars (8-7) @ Chiefs (8-7)
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Chiefs by 2.5
Its A Fact-This is only the second time these teams have played each
other in Kansas City, the Jags won the other meeting 23-16 in 2002.
Playoff Implications-Both teams need the win and losses by three teams
each (Jax-Tenn,Cin and NYJ KC-Cin Den and Tenn) to earn a playoff spot
This game will have the desperate atmosphere of a playoff game. Both
teams have let their playoff chances slip to the point of scoreboard
watching. The Chiefs will likely play way over their head in a last gasp
attempt to win one for their recently departed founder. The Jags may try
to establish their own running game and pound the Chiefs, but I think
the home team will have the edge here and as futile as it may seem, the
Chiefs will have that Arrowhead crowd behind it and will ride it to a
hard fought win.
Pick-Kansas City

Patriots (11-4) @ Titans (8-7)
LP Field, Nashville-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Titans by 3
Its A Fact-This is only the Patriots second trip to Tennessee
Playoff Implications-Patriots need win and Colts loss to get #3 seed,
Titans need win and help (KC win, CIN and JAX loss)
The Pats are in cruise control, gearing up for the playoffs. The Titans
are trying to complete an improbable turnaround and have Jeff Fisher go
from job watch to coach of the year. Vince Young is a dark horse
candidate for Rookie of the Year. He'll have his sternest test against a
veteran Patriot defense. The Pats have blown hot and cold, most of the
year. But I think that they'll squeak out a slim win in what would be
more of playoff tuneup than they would like to admit.
Pick-New England

Oakland (2-13) @ NY Jets (9-6)
The Meadowlands; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Jets by 11
Its A Fact-The Jets have won the last two meetings in New York
Playoff Implications-Jets clinch playoff spot with win or CIN loss
Its almost too easy, Jet fan can't believe their collective luck. Win
at home against a hapless, hopeless Raider team and complete a
turnaround from 4-12 sad sack a year previous to 10-6 playoff team. The
Jets will make it harder than it should be. I'm still not sold on their
scattergun offense against a good Raider defense. But the Jets defense
should produce enough turnovers or advantageous field position to win a
closer than it should be game.
Pick-New York Jets

Steelers (7-8) @ Bengals (8-7)
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bengals by 6
Its A Fact-The Steelers have won the last five meetings in Cincinnati
Playoff Implications Bengals need win combined with Jets loss OR Den
loss and KC win to clinch
The Bengals let their best chance for a playoff berth slip through
their hands in Denver (literally) Their focus has been called in to
question as they face their hated rival , who may be saying goodbye to
their longtime coach as it has been rumored that Bill Cowher may step
down. Call me a dumb optimist, but I think that the Bengals will reach
back for one more improbable game and even if a playoff trip is not in
the cards, pretend its January and give the Steelers the beating that
they wanted to give them in the playoffs last year.
Pick-Cincinnati

Seahawks (8-7) @ Buccaneers (4-11)
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Buccaneers by 3.5
Its A Fact-Both of these teams have played in both the AFC and NFC, TB
played in the AFC in 1976 and Seattle played in the NFC in 1976, went to
the AFC from 1977-2001 before returning to the NFC.
Playoff Implications-None, Seahawks clinched NFC West, have the #4 seed and will host a playoff game next weekend.
The Bucs are one of the bigger disappointment this season and had the
NFC West not been so soft the Seahawks would be just as big a
disappointment. The Seahawks wil try to tune up for the playoffs, but
may be very flat following a cross country trip. That could very well
carry over to a playoff flameout. The Seahawks will struggle but get
through, barely.
Pick-Seattle

Rams (7-8) @ Vikings (6-9)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Rams by 3
Its A Fact-The Rams have not won in Minnesota since 1978 (0-4)
Playoff Implications-Rams need win and NYG, CAR, and GB all lose
The Rams are hanging on by a thread, but have shown some real moxie in wild wins the last two weeks. The Vikes are going nowhere and have
played like it the last four weeks, beating only the hopeless Lions. The
Rams have more to play for and will assert themselves quickly.
Pick-St. Louis

Cardinals (5-10) @ Chargers (13-2)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego 4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Chargers by 14
Its A Fact-First meeting in San Diego since 2001
Playoff Implications Chargers need win to clinch #1 seed in AFC
playoffs
The Chargers are on a white hot roll and the Cards are looking to next
year, again. The only burning question is how high will LT set the TD
counter?
Pick-San Diego

Falcons (7-8) @ Eagles (9-6)
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia 4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Eagles by 8
Its A Fact-The Eagles have won the last three meetings in Philly
including two playoff games.
Playoff Implications-Eagles need to win to clinch NFC and get a playoff
home game. The Falcons need to win and have the Giants, Packers and
Panthers all lose.
This game could be meaningless for the Falcons by kickoff, but the
Eagles need the win and they will have something thought improbable a
month ago. Jeff Garcia is playing astounding ball and the Eagles have
rallied behind him to go on this roll. I don't think that the Falcons
will offer up much resistance.
Pick-Philadelphia

Bills (7-8) @ Ravens (12-3)
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Ravens by 9.5
Its A Fact-These teams have split their two meetings both in Baltimore
Playoff Implications The Ravens need to win and the Chargers to lose to
gain the #1 seed in the AFC Playoffs and home field advantage
throughout.
The Ravens are trying to get the #1 seed and make all would be
challengers head to the dark confines of Baltimore for the playoffs.
Look for the Ravens to try to hit JP Losman early and often.
Pick-Baltimore

Dolphins (6-9) @ Colts (11-4)
RCA Dome, Indianpolis- 4:15 (CBS)
Favorite Colts by 9
Its A Fact-The Dolphins have won the last four meetings in Indy
Playoff Implications-Indy needs to win to secure the #3 seed.
The Colts have stumbled badly beating only the Bengals in their last
five and taking a shocking loss from the once reliably beatable Texans.
The Dolphins put up a good fight the last few weeks but have regressed.
Don't remind me that I picked them to win the AFC and you won't lose any teeth. Look for Peyton Manning to put on a show and get his squad tuned up for the playoffs.
Pick-Indy

49ers (6-9) @ Broncos (9-6)
Invesco Field @ Mile High, Denver- 4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Broncos by 10.5
Its A Fact-The Broncos have won the last three meetings in Denver.
Playoff Implications-Broncos need to win to clinch
The Broncos could already be in by gametime if the Chiefs have lost
thereby eliminating any chance of the Chiefs getting them in a
tiebreaker. Jay Cutler is making Mike Shanahan look more and more genius like with each pinpoint pass and each winning drive. The Niners while having had played much better than the last two years are not ready to go into Denver and win.
Pick-Denver

Packers (7-8) @ Bears (13-2)
Soldier Field, Chicago- 8:15 (NBC)
Favorite-Bears by 3
Its A Fact-The Bears have won three of the last four meetings
Playoff Implications-Bears have clinched the #1 seed, Packers need to
win combined with Giants win or a host of other scenarios.
The Bears are trying to get right for a deep playoff run, the Pack may
have already been elimnated come game time and the spec will renew if
this is Brett Favre's last game. I don't think it is, and I think the
Bears tune up for the playoffs with a solid win.
Pick-Chicago

Last Week 10-6
Overall 144-96

New Years Eve Bowl Picks

Not bad if I do say so myself 4-1 with Friday's picks. I about gave up on Texas Tech, but a Golden Gophers swoon was very nice to see. Today and Sunday are pretty light, three games today and one tomorrow. New Years will be the busiest. I will try my hardest to make the picks for New Years and post them sometime tomorrow. But as for now the bigger name schools are starting to come up to the bowl stage. As usual the odds are courtesy of Yahoo! Sports and Betus.com and are for entertainment and comparison purposes only. If you bet 'em and get hosed it's your own fault.

NCAA College Football
December 30th

Meineke Car Care Bowl
Navy (9-3) vs Boston College (9-3)
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte 1 (ESPN)
Favorite-Boston College by 7.5
Its A Fact-Boston College has won six straight bowl games, the longest current streak in college football.
This game is a study in contrast. BC is a pass happy team while Navy features a triple option running attack which lead the nation in rushing. BC has a strong running defense that may pose a problem for the Midshipmen. Eagle QB Matt Ryan is a solid pro prospect, who may make a mistake or two but is nonetheless a solid pocket type passer. If he gets in a rhythm, it could be a long day at sea for the Midshipmen.
Pick-Boston College

Alamo Bowl
Texas (9-3) vs Iowa (6-6)
Alamodome, San Antonio- 4:30 (ESPN)
Favorite Texas by 11.5
Its A Fact-This is Iowa's sixth straight bowl appearance under Kirk Ferentz
Iowa stumbled badly down the stretch losing three straight and 5 of 6 after a promising 5-1 start. Hawkeye QB Drew Tate has struggled with a litany of injuries and as he has went so has Iowa. Texas had dreams of being in the BCS mix even with a loss to Ohio State. Those got smashed with a shootout loss to Kansas State and an inexplicable home loss to rival Texas A&M. The wildcard in this game is Longhorn fab frosh QB Colt McCoy who has battled his own injuries and may not be able to play. If he can't go,senior walk on Matt McCoy who has never thrown a pass in college may have to start. That may level the playing field in what was shaping up to be a one-sided contest. I'm making this pick under duress not knowing if Colt is a go.
Pick-Texas

Chick-FilA Bowl
Georgia (8-4) vs Virginia Tech (10-2)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta 8:00 (ESPN)
Favorite-Virginia Tech by 3
Its A Fact-This bowl was formerly known as the Peach Bowl
In contrast to the offensive fireworks in other bowls this game will be a defensive show. The Hokies are well known for their defense and Georgia has big play ballhawking players in its secondary like Paul Oliver and and Tra Battle. Georgia QB Matt Stafford however has an inconsistent year and if he is that way against the nationally ranked Hokie defense it will be a long night. A Frank Beamer coached team will always make big plays on special teams and I'm expecting it to happen. The Hokies felt slighted by the New Years day bowls and will show why despite it being a virtual home game for the Bulldogs
Pick-Virginia Tech

December 31

MPC Computers Bowl
Miami (6-6) vs Nevada (8-4)
Bronco Stadium; Boise, Idaho- 7:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Miami-Fl by 3.5
Its A Fact-This is the first meeting between these schools.
The Canes should be grateful to be participating in a bowl after their sad-sack play and disgraceful conduct. This team has been in turmoil and is about as blue as the "Smurf Turf" in Bronco Stadium. The WolfPack have played a solid if unspectacular season winning 5 of their last 6, ironically their last loss came at this field to Boise State. The Canes want to send outgoing coach Larry Coker a winner and the Canes have enough talent to win. Nevada will keep it interesting though
Pick-Miami-Fl

Bowl Tally
Last Night 4-1
Overall 13-4

Busy Bowl Day

Hey, I didn't expect Texas A&M to come out that flat against Cal. But
like the old song goes two outta three ain't bad. With the exception of
New Years, today is the busiest bowl day of the season with five games.
I'll preview the New Years day games, tomorrow along with a separate
post with the NFL picks. Along with my analysis of the games, I'll also
have the playoff implications for each game. Lets take a look at these
interesting matchups. As I've said time and again, the odds I post are
courtesy of Yahoo! Sports and are just for entertainment and comparison
purposes only. If you go to your bookie with these lines and get taken
to the cleaners, don't bellyache to me!

Gaylord Hotels Music City Bowl
Kentucky (7-5) vs Clemson (8-4)
LP Field, Nashville- 1 (ESPN)
Favorite-Clemson by 11.5
Its A Fact- This is Kentucky's first bowl appearance since 1999, a
20-13 loss to Syracuse in this very same bowl.
Expect to see a lot of Wildcat Blue as its only 3.5 hours from UK to
Nashville. Clemson and its fans don't want to be here and they're play
might reflect it. Which is sad because they have a solid offense that
can take advantage of a very soft UK defense. C.J. Spiller and James
Davis are a formidable running duo for the Tigers. UK's defense while
porous can force turnovers and Clemson has been turnover prone as of
late. Wildcats QB Andre Woodson led the SEC in passing offense, but
isn't very mobile which could present a problem since Clemson DE Gaines Adams has the ability to wreak havoc and the Tigers have a solid
defense. UK will keep it close, but if the Tigers get a lead they will
hammer the Wildcats with their ability to run and pull away late.
Pick-Clemson

Brut Sun Bowl
#24 Oregon State (9-4) vs Missouri (8-4)
Sun Bowl Stadium; El Paso TX- 2 (CBS)
Favorite-Oregon St. by 3.5
Its A Fact-Mizzou makes back to back bowl appearances for the first
time since 1997-98
The Beavers are on a roll, having beaten USC and archrival Oregon in
winning 7 of their last 8. Mizzou by contrast started hot at 7-1 then
lost three of their last four. Tiger QB Chase Daniel has shined (top ten
in passing yards) then struggled throwing five interceptions in key
losses to Nebraska and Oklahoma. Oregon State big play defense will take advantage of any turnovers that the Tigers will make. The Beavers have some cool names on both sides of the ball and play that backs it up SS Sabby Piscitelli is a big hitting ball hawking playmaker and RB Yvenson Bernard is a prototypical bruiser who has run for more than 100 yards in 6 games this season and over 1200 yards total. Given the Tigers so-so defense that could be bad news.
Pick-Oregon State

AutoZone Liberty Bowl
South Carolina (7-5) vs Houston (10-3 C-USA Champs)
Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, Memphis- 4:30 (ESPN)
Favorite- South Carolina by 5
Its A Fact-Houston is 2-0 all time versus South Carolina
The old ball coach is looking for his first bowl win at South Carolina.
Houston can score points and have scored 34.3 points during their
current 6 game winning streak that got them to a win in the C-USA title
game over Southern Miss. Keep your eye on Gamecock WR Sidney Rice he is a playmaker and a threat to score from most anywhere. Cougar QB Kevin Kolb has the makings of a passer that could play on Sundays and he will hook up with speedy wideout Vincent Marshall early and often. South Carolina's efficent pass defense will be a good test. Points will be
aplenty in this game, I'm guessing that Spurrier will have just a few
extra tricks to get a few more points on the board.
Pick-South Carolina

Insight Bowl
Texas Tech (7-5) Minnesota (6-6)
Sun Devil Stadium, Tempe AZ- 7:30 (NFL Network)
Favorite-Texas Tech by 8
Its A Fact-This is the first meeting between these two schools.
Minnesota is another team that should be apologizing for its bowl
appearance. The Gophers needed a three game winning streak just to
become bowl eligible and that included a tight win over Iowa in the
Floyd of Rosedale game. Bryan Cupito is a capable QB for the Gophers but will sorely miss TE Matt Spaeth who caught 47 passes. He is out with a severly separted shoulder. Thats not good for the Gophers who need as
much ball control as they can get. Red Raiders QB Graham Harrell can and will throw it all over the field and the Gophers defense isnt the most
intimidating. After playing this bowl game in a baseball field the last
few years the venue has thankfully shifted back to a true football
field. The points will be plenty but Tech has the horses to put up a
bunch more.
Pick-Texas Tech

Chammps Sports Bowl
Purdue (8-5) vs Maryland (8-4)
Citrus Bowl, Orlando- 8:00 (ESPN)
Favorite-Purdue by 1
Its A Fact-Both teams are making bowl appearnances after missing last
year
Both teams have deceiving records Purdue got around having to face
either Ohio State or Michigan and Maryland won five in a row by a total
of 13 points before getting blasted by BC and Georgia Tech. Terp QB Sam
Hollenbach can air it out, but has a tendency to throw in ill-timed
interception. The Boilers have a woeful run defense #112 out of #119 in
the country and the Terps have a solid running game featuring Keon
Lattimore. I think the Terps will utilize the run to set up the pass and
expose the Boilers soft defense time and again.
Pick-Maryland

Bowl Tally
Last Night 2-1
Overall 9-3

More Bowls anyone???

Now the work gets harder. The days of one bowl a day is over. Now you
get so many bowls you'll wonder if the Campbell's Soup Bowl and the
Kellogg's Cereal Bowl are gonna be shown on ESPNU or Fox Sports South
Central East. But these three at least have been around for awhile.

December 28th
NCAA College Football

PetroSun Independence Bowl
Alabama (6-6) vs Oklahoma State (6-6)
Independence Stadium, Shreveport, LA -4:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Oklahoma State by 2.5
Its A Fact-Oklahoma State got the bowl invite over 6-6 Kansas because
of their head to head win
Both these teams should be ashamed to be in a bowl game. Alabama's a
mess having had first took West Va's Rich Rodriguez only to have him
jump back after the Mountaineers matched their offer and have several
coaches openly disdain the position. They are in disarray. The Cowboys
aren't much better, but they at least have a coach. Their defense is the
one that is a joke, one of the worst in the nation. Their offense though
is credible. Adarius Bowman and D'Juan Woods are a formidable wideout combo and if QB Bobby Reid can stay upright, he'll get the ball to them a few times. I think that the Cowboys will take adavntage of the Tide's disarray and roll (pun intended)
Pick-Oklahoma State

Pacific Life Holiday Bowl
California (9-3) vs Texas A&M (9-3)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego- 8:00 (ESPN)
Favorite-Cal by 3
Its A Fact-This is the Golden Bears 4th straight bowl after not going
to bowls from 1997-2002
Usually one of the more entertaining of the pre-New Years Day Bowl
games, the Holiday Bowl has two teams that have strong running games.
Cal's Marshawn Lynch is expected to be showcased here as he is widely
rumored to be headed to the NFL after this his junior season. Cal has
stumbled as of late, nearly losing to wretched archrival Stanford but
Nathan Longshore has big play capabilty. Cal's Defense is very suspect
and may be vunerable to the Aggie running attack which features scatback Mike Goodson and behemoth RB Jorvorskie Lane who scored 19 TD's this season. Both teams can score, but I give A&M the edge with a running game that can wear down a shaky Bear defense.
Pick-Texas A&M

Texas Bowl
Kansas State (7-5) vs Rutgers (10-2)
Reliant Stadium, Houston-8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite Rutgers by 8
Its A Fact-This is Rutgers third bowl game in school history
The Scarlet Knights put a serious scare in the BCS with their fast
start, though they lost 2 of their last 3. I felt as if they were being
punished for shedding their long time patsy label. Ray Rice is all that
and then some for Rutgers. His breakaway capability complements FB Brian Leonard's punishing inside presence. Kansas State is decent, but their run defense is suspect. Not a good thing when facing a top running
squad. The Wildcats have a decent running game themselves with James
Johnson and Leon Patton each possesing good size and speed, but QB JoshFreeman is a bit too erratic, playing great against Texas and abysmal against Kansas and Louisville. Given Rutgers big play defense, it'll only take a mistake or two for this one to get messy.
Pick-Rutgers

Last Night 0-1

Overall 7-2

What Kind of Bowl is in a baseball park?

The Emerald Bowl to be exact. Don't get it twisted, we're not referring
to a shiny green Emerald. Its a corporate name of course. Referring to
the brand name of nuts. I abhor the fact that they are playing this game in one of the more picturequese baseball parks in the country. Lets keep it real, unless its multipurpose and thats going the way of the doubleheader and cheap beer at the park, keep the football in the football stadiums outside (unless its a cold climate) and the baseball in baseball parks!. By the way the matchup features two teams that you'd normally see in a much higher stakes game played on or around New Years Day.

Emerald Bowl
Florida State (6-6) vs UCLA (7-5)
AT&T Park, San Francisco- 8:00 (ESPN)
Favorite- UCLA by 3.5
Its A Fact One of Three Bowls to be played in a baseball park
(International Bowl in Toronto, Orange Bowl in Miami)
Both of these storied football programs have seen better days. There
are whispers that the game has passed Bobby Bowden by. The Noles lack a
signature win this season (Beating then #12 Miami is a distant memory)
and have routinely come up on the short end of tight games. The Bruins
started off a decent 4-1 then went on a four game slide that looked to
blow up their season. A three game winning streak got them bowl eligible
and their shocking upset of hated Archrival USC, then #2 and headed to
the BCS title game got them some notice.
The Noles have problems on offense and Bobby Bowden has never really
settled on a QB to direct the offense, which given the athletic nature
of the Bruins defense led by Justin Hickman and Bruce Davis. UCLA isn't
really flashy offensively either but QB Patrick Cowan is servicable
enough and the ball control they use with the scat-back like running of
Chris Markey keep the possession time squarely in the Bruins favor. I
see the Bruins defense lying in wait for the Noles to make mistakes
offensively, and they will and grinding out a low scoring win. If its a
tight game the Bruins kicking game also holds a marked edge.
Pick-UCLA

Bowl Picks Tally
Last Night 1-0
Overall 7-1

Clearing up the muddy NFL playoff picture

A wild weekend for football, my pro picks were so-so. The college picks
so far have been on point. Other than Rice getting a massive case of
stage fright and getting run over by Troy, all of the picks have been
right. Hey I'm not braggin' these picks have so far been easy. But now
the learning curve starts to steepen. The bowls start to flood in now.
After one game today tomorrow. Three on Thursday and five on Friday. Will I preview them all??? Don't be silly, of course I will.
This weeks NFL games upcoming will be crazy, thankfully no Thursday
game this week and no Monday game at the tail end. But there is a
Saturday game, with high importance As the Giants who after free-falling
wildly still have a say so in their playoff destiny go to Washington. If
they win, and the Packers lose in primetime to the Bears. The Giants go,
if they both win the Packers will go based on strength of schedule. Who
would have thunk it? The Pack still have an outside shot at the
playoffs. Hopefully the Giants will win and make this game meaningless.
The Eagles need only to win to win the NFC East. That would also
elimnate the Falcons and probably cost Jim Mora Jr. his job. They would
get the #3 seed and take on whoever gets the #6. The Eagles also
giftwrapped the other bye week slot for the Saints by beating the
Cowboys who still can win the NFC East only if they win and the Eagles
lose. If they finish tied, the Eagles win the tiebreaker based on their
head to head sweep of the Pokes. The Seahawks won the NFC West despite
losing their last three and will be the #4 seed. Their likely opponent
will be the aforementioned Pokes. The Bears and Saints are locked into
their respective 1 and 2 seeds with the bye the goes with it

The AFC cleared itself nicely, as all of the divisions have been
decided. The Chargers are trying to hold off the Ravens for the #1 seed
and hold home field advantage in the AFC playoffs. The Ravens are hoping that the Chargers take an L in the season finale, with that and a Ravens win the Ravens get the #1 seed based on their 14-13 win over the
Chargers in October. Both teams have clinched the bye week. The Colts
and Patriots are in the #3 and #4 seeds respectively and can only flip
flop if the Pats win and the Colts lose. If they finish tied the Colts
hold the tiebreak with their win over the Pats.
The wild card is...forgive the pun...wild. The Broncos and Jets are in
full control of their playoff fates. The Broncos got a gift wrapped
ticket when the extra point snap sailed wide of Bengals holder Kyle
Larson preventing a tied game and insuring that even if the Broncos lose
to the Niners and the Bengals beat the Steelers, the Broncos will win
the tiebreak. The Jets are in similar solid ground. Their win over the
Dolphins last night put them in a simple win and in situation. A win
over the hopeless Raiders at home gives them 10 and no other team can
get that many. The Bengals are on life support and need massive amounts of help. They need to beat the Steelers (who would like nothing more than to deep six their hopes) and hope that the Jets improbably lose to the Raiders and the Bengals would get in based on a better conference
record than the Jets. Their reward? A trip back to Indianapolis. Though
the Bengals can and should beat the Steelers, the Jets will not lose to
the Raiders. The Bengals will be on the outside looking in.
I hope that make sense...there will be a pop quiz on it later in the
week.

NCAA Football

Motor City Bowl
Central Michigan (9-4 MAC Champs) vs Middle Tennessee (7-5 Sun Belt Co-Champs)
Ford Field, Detroit 7:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Central Michigan by 7.5
Fast Fact-This is Middle Tennessee's first bowl game in school history
If Central Michigan has some Red and Black in it, it can be explained as thus: New Cincinnati coach Brian Kelly has allowed some of his staff that will be joining him at UC to help coach in the Motor City Bowl. The Blue Raiders are making their first bowl apperance, but they are by no means a pushover. They hung tough with BCS qualifier Louisville for three quarters before being worn down. The Chippewas have a big play offense and QB Dan LeFevour likes to and can go deep. If he can stay away from big play linebacker J.K. Sabb (I like the initials!) who had 14.5 sacks he may be able to pick on an inexperienced secondary. The Blue Raiders are a nice story but the Chippewas are playing close to home and will use that to a big advantage.
Pick-Central Michigan

Weekend Bowl Preview

Let the bowl games really begin in earnest, there are four bowls this weekend.
December 23

PapaJohns.com Bowl
South Florida (8-4) vs East Carolina (7-5)
Legion Field; Birmingham, AL 1:00-(ESPN2)
Favorite-South Florida by 5
Its A Fact- South Florida and East Carolina were once conference foes, in Conference USA before South Florida defected to the Big East in 2004.
Both teams spread the ball out and like to score often. East Carolina has played big upsetting North Carolina State, while South Florida shocked West Virginia and ruined their BCS hopes. Both teams are more alike than you think and this will be a wide-open game. I think South Florida's bowl experience will be the clear cut edge though and the Bulls will wear out the Pirates who after a 1-10 season a year ago are just happy to be playing in December.
Pick-South Florida

New Mexico Bowl
New Mexico (6-6) vs San Jose State (8-4)
University Field; Alberquerque, NM- 4:30 (ESPN)
Favorite New Mexico by 3.5
Its A Fact-This is the inaugural New Mexico Bowl
Though the Spartans are considered the home team, the Lobos enjoy a huge advantage playing in their own crib. New Mexico's defense is stout and remiscent of the tough Oregon State and UCLA defenses recent years, which stands to reason since their head coach Rocky Long was the architect of both. The Spartans came very close to dropping their football program, but coach Dick Tomey has done a nice resurrection job and has the Spartans playing a tough defense of their own. Tomey was the creator of the feared Desert Swarm defense. This will be a tight game the team that makes the fewest mistakes will win this one. I'm guessing on this one but I think the Spartans will overcome the home-field disadvantage and pull out a tight win
Pick-San Jose State

Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl
Tulsa(8-4) at Utah (7-5)
Amon C. Carter Stadium; Fort Worth, TX 8:00 (ESPN)
Favorite Utah by 1
Its A Fact-Formerly the Fort Worth Bowl, this is the 4th installment of this bowl game.
Tulsa's stingy pass defense (#6 in that category) meets a wide-open offense, the Golden Hurricane dont give up a lot of points or yards, but they dont get a lot of takeaways. Eric Weddle is the guy to watch for the Utes he's all over the field, literally he plays defensive back (and is an AFCA All-American), sometimes lines up at QB and runs the option and runs back punts too. The Utes don't have a strong pass rush, but they make up for it with a tough secondary that can make the big play. Tulsa is good, but I can't really see them rolling up points. Since their defense doesn't get many takeaways, the Utes will score and wait for the Golden Hurricane to make a mistake then capitalize
Pick-Utah

Sunday December 24

Sheraton Hawai'i Bowl
Arizona State (7-5) at Hawai'i (10-3)
Aloha Stadium, Honolulu 8:00 (ESPN)
Favorite-Hawai'i by 6.5
Its A Fact-The Rainbow Warriors averaged 47.3 points a game this year
Colt Brennan is the best QB that you've probably never heard of and the Rainbow Warriors will score and score some more. They have score over 6o points four times this season. The Sun Devils will try to be motivated to send their coach Dirk Koetter out with a win. Koetter was fired. But with the way Brennan throws the ball around in June Jones' run and shoot, this game may get real ugly.
Pick-Hawai'i

Finally, whether its Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Joyous Kwanzaa or what ever it is that you celebrate. Make it a good one and spend it with your friends, family or someone you care about, cause thats what the season is all about.

Week 16 picks Part 2 and A College Bowl Preview Too

I've not completed my shopping yet!!!! More College Picks early on
Saturday

NFL SCHEDULE - WEEK 16
Odds provided by Yahoo Sports and are for comparison and entertainment
purposes only, so don't come crying to me if you lose the Christmas fund
bettin these lines!

Saturday, December 23

Kansas City (7-7) @ Oakland (2-12)
McAfee Coliseum, Oakland- 8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite-Chiefs by 7
Its A Fact-The Chiefs are one of three teams that the Raiders do not
own a winning record all time against. The Jags lead all time 2-1 and
the Texans are 1-1 lifetime
The Chiefs looked sluggish in losing to the Chargers and the Raiders
looked finished in October. But in a rivalry game one can never be too
sure of the outcome. Larry Johnson will get his and the Raiders offense
will find some way to self destruct. Raider Nation is in revolt and no
one knows how to fix it.
Pick-Kansas City

Sunday, December 24

Ravens (11-3) @ Steelers (7-7)
Heinz Field, Pittsburgh-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Steelers by 3.5
Its A Fact-Ravens QB Steve McNair is 10-4 vs the Steelers
The Ravens clinched the AFC North when the Bengals lost to the Colts,
so they don't have that concern, they still have an outside shot at one
of the first round bye and if they finsh tied with the Chargers for the
either the bye or the #1 seed they will win the tiebreak. First thing is
deep sixing the Steelers flickering playoff hopes. The Steelers will
find the Ravens D a lot tougher than the Panthers were last week. As
long as the Ravens keep Steve McNair upright they should be able to
grind out a win. This will be a physical game to be sure and Ray Lewis
has extra incentive after his shocking omission from the AFC Pro Bowl
squad.
Pick-Baltimore

Panthers (6-8) @ Falcons (7-7)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Falcons by 6.5
Its A Fact-The Falcons lead the series all time 15-8
This was supposed to be a showdown for divisional control, but with
Jake Delhomme out and Michael Vick fighting nagging injuries of his own,
neither team is a serious threat to go anywhere but home. Jim Mora's
ill-timed comments about his desire for the University of Washington job
has left some, including this scribe, questioning his dedication to the
job he has. The Falcons have a little more left in the tank and Chris
Weinke still looks like another Heisman bust in the NFL.
Pick-Atlanta

Bears (12-2) @ Lions (2-12)
Ford Field, Detroit-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bears by 5
Its A Fact- The Lions have lost 11 straight vs the NFC North
The Bears have nothing to play for as they clinched home field
advantage throughout the playoff for only the second time since the
concept was established. The Lions...insert your own punch line here.
I'm tempted to pick this as my lock, but the Bears are the dumb luck
team of the NFL and they are way overdue for a game to go against them.
It may happen in the playoffs, but not this week. But I still don't feel
good enough with Wreck and company to make them a lock.
Pick-Chicago

Colts (11-3) @ Texans (4-10)
Reliant Stadium, Houston- 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Colts by 9.5
Its A Fact-The Colts have never lost to the Texans (9-0)
The Colts looked sharp in beating the Bengals, while the Texans looked
abysmal in getting thrashed in New England. The Its A Fact line says all
you really need to know. The Colts are getting focused on their fifth
straight playoff appearance and seventh in the last eight years. The
Texans are the least of their worries as they try to win as many as
possible to snag a bye
Pick-Indianapolis (Lock Pick Of The Week)

Patriots (10-4) @ Jaguars (8-6)
Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Jaguars by 3
Its A Fact: The Patriots have never lost to the Jags in the regular
season (3-0)
This is rather intriguing matchup, the Jags are redefining inconsistent
every week. Which team will show up is anyones guess. Will it be the
team that dominated the Colts and shut out the Jets? Or will it be the
team that got throttled by the Texans twice? Tom Brady is aching to take
his Pro Bowl snub out on someone and the Jags are in his sights. The
Pats are inconsistent themselves but to a lesser degree, I think that
the win over the overmatched Texans may have cleared their shutout
hangover that the Dolphins gave them, this is still a battle tested team
and should win a tight one.
Pick-New England

Saints (9-5) @ NY Giants (7-7)
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Giants by 3
Just The Facts: The Saints become the fourth different teams to win the
NFC South in the last four years (Atlanta '03, Carolina '04,
Tampa Bay '05) The Giants have won the last four meetings in the
Meadowlands
The Saints clinched the NFC South last week despite an abysmal
performance against the Redskins, meanwhile the G-Men looked pathetic in taking a beating from the Eagles and are fading badly. I'm looking at
the possiblities of Drew Brees abusing the Giants secondary much worse
than what Jeff Garcia did last week. The Giants defense looks worn out
and the infighting has made them struggle in winnable games. The Saints
have more than enough to bounce back from that puzzling loss last week. Pick-New Orleans

Buccaneers (3-11) @ Browns (4-10)
Browns Stadium, Cleveland- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Browns by 3
Its A Fact-This is the Buccaneers first trip to Cleveland since 1995
The Bucs deal with another cold weather venue as they travel to
Cleveland. Their offense showed some spark with Tim Rattay and very
nearly stunned the Bears, taking them into OT. The Browns are on auto
pilot and though they are home are playing with no spark, the Bucs are
at least keeping games interesting and will steal this one
Pick-Tampa Bay

Titans (7-7) @ Bills (7-7)
Ralph Wilson Stadium; Orchard Park, NY-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bills by 4
Its A Fact-The Titans have won 7 of their last 9, The Bills have won 5
of their last 7
Had both of these teams not had horrid starts this would be a high
stakes battle for a playoff positions. Get used to seeing these two
teams and their fast improving QB's in big games. Its hard to bet
against the Bills in the cold. But Vince Young is a beast and the Titans
ball-hawking roughhouse defense have shed their pushover status. Tough
call indeed.
Pick-Tennessee

Redskins (5-9) @ Rams (6-8)
Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bills by 4.5
Its A Fact-The Redskins have won 6 of the last 7 meetings
The Skins stunned the Saints in New Orleans and Jason Campbell is
showing a good deal of promise. The Rams are clinging to a faint playoff
heartbeat and need to keep winning. Marc Bulger should be able to get
what he wants against the Skins weak secondary.
Pick-St. Louis

Cardinals (4-10) @ 49ers (6-8)
Monster Park, San Francisco-4:05 (FOX)
Favorite-Niners by 4
Its A Fact-The Niners lead the all time series 17-13, but the Cards
have won the last three.
The Niners still have a shot at winning the NFC West, but the Cards
have fast become their nemesis. Matt Leinart is showing improvement, but I have a hard time seeing the Cards slowing Frank Gore down and Alex Smith is fast becoming the type of leader the Niners envisioned whenthey drafted him. Leinart could have been in this position, but chose tostay in school. Too bad.
Pick-San Francisco

Bengals (8-6) @ Broncos (8-6)
Invesco Field at Mile High, Denver- 4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Broncos by 3
Its A Fact: Denver has won 7 straight at home vs Bengals, last losing
in 1975
This game has all the look of a playoff game and it will be played like
one. The Broncos broke a four game losing streak in beating the
Cardinals, but the Bengals will present a much much stiffer test. The
Bengals got their butts handed to them in Indy last Monday simply
because they couldn't keep Carson Palmer upright, If the Bengals O-line
stays intact. Palmer will have the time to pick apart the Broncos
increasingly suspect defense that looks nothing like the team that gave
up 38 points in their first 6 games. With a little help the Bengals win
this game, they make the playoffs. 31 years between wins in the Mile
High is too long.
Pick-Cincinnati

Chargers (12-2) @ Seahawks (8-6)
Qwest Field, Seattle 4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Chargers by 4.5
Its A Fact-LaDainian Tomlinson's 188 points broke Paul Hornings 1961
record for points scored by one player.
A study in contrasts are featured here in this battle of divisional
leaders. The super hot Chargers have won 8 in a row and you run out of
superlatives to describe Tomlinson. The Seahawks are stumbling bad and
have blown two chances to win the division and give their players some
badly needed rest before the playoffs. Unless the Niners lose, the
Seahawks season may depend on cross-country trip to Tampa. The Chargers are on a butta-type roll.
Pick-San Diego

Monday, December 25

Eagles (8-6) @ Cowboys (9-5)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-5:00 (NBC)
Favorite-Dallas by 7
Its A Fact-The Cowboys have played on Thanksgiving and Christmas last
in 2000.
The Pokes and Eagles battle for control of the NFC East. Tuna got the
Pokes a playoff berth, but if they lose to the Eagles, they'll need help
to win the division since the Eagles would own the tiebreak. Jeff Garcia
is playing well and have the Eagles doing better than anyone could have
dared to dream in Eagle Country. I want to pick the Eagles who have been hot, but I think TO will shine against his former team and would relish a chance to cripple their playoff hopes.
Pick-Dallas

NY Jets (8-6) @ Dolphins (6-8)
Dolphins Stadium 8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Dolphins by 2.5
Its A Fact-The Jets are 13-4 vs the Dolphins since 1998, including
winning 4 of the last 5
The Jets know full well that if they can win this game they might be
home free to the playoffs, since they have the Raiders at home next
week. The Dolphins could very well play the spoiler, and the Jets have
that real annoying habit of falling flat in games they should win,
notable example are the debacle to the Jags (0-41) and getting thumped
by the Bills at home. The Dolphins will keep it close, but I think the
Jets squeak by, they still need some help, but they will help
themselves.
Pick-New York Jets

Last Week-10-6
Overall 133-91

NCAA College Football

R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl

Rice (7-5) vs Troy (7-5)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans 8:00 (ESPN)
Favorite-Rice by 5.5
Its A Fact- This is the first bowl game in New Orleans since Hurricane
Katrina, last years bowl was played in Lafayette, LA
Rice has made a dramatic turnaround, going from a dismal 1-10 season
last year to a respectable 7-5 and the schools first bowl appearance
since 1961 when they lost to Kansas in the Bluebonnet Bowl. Troy is
making its second bowl appearance since moving up to division 1-A in
2002, and looking for its first bowl win. Points will be plentiful as
both teams have wide open offenses. Keep an eye on Rice WR Jarrett
Dillard who has 20 touchdown catches this season and a current streak of 14 games with at least one end zone visit. Troy can score and nearly
ruined Florida State's homecoming. Omar Haugabook has the talent to move the Trojans up and down the field, Gary Banks is his favorite target,
they've connected up for 7 TD's. Bottom Line. Doubt it'll take Rice
another 45 years to make another bowl, and another 52 to win one. The
Owls have a little more firepower than the Trojans and that should be
enough in a high-scoring affair.
Pick-Rice

Week 16 Part 1 and Las Vegas Bowl Preview

AI waits for Denver to dig out of its snowstorm, I'm planning on buying
an Denver AI jersey. But until then, another bowl game on the docket and
a rivalry game that I'm angry that I cant see...but the rest of the NFL
picks will be posted sometime either Friday or Saturday and I'll also
have previews of 5 weekend bowl games on Friday.

NFL SCHEDULE - WEEK 16

Thursday, December 21

Vikings (6-8) @ Packers (6-8)
Lambeau Field, Green Bay- 8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite Packers By 3
Its A Fact-Brett Favre is 81-27 lifetime at Lambeau Field
Both of these teams are on playoff contention life support, though the
Pack have been playing decent as of late. The Vikes have decided to give
the reins to Tavaris Jackson and he makes his first start and has to
deal with the raucous cheeseheads that inhabit Packer Country. I worry
that this might be Favre's last home game and that he might just go out
with a bang. I'm hoping that the Vikes play good enough that his last
home game may be against someone else next year.
Pick-Minnesota

Pioneer PureVision Las Vegas Bowl

#19 BYU (10-2) @ Oregon (7-5)
Sam Boyd Stadium, Las Vegas-8:00 (ESPN)
Favorite BYU by 3
Just the Facts -Oregon Offensive Coordinator Gary Crowton is BYU's
former head coach, BYU has the #6 ranked scoring offense in the nation
Both teams can score and will do so with gusto. BYU's famous passing
game will move the ball quickly while Oregon's methodical ground game
featuring Jonathan Stewart and Jeremiah Stewart will get the Ducks
points of their own. It may come down to the team with the ball last
will win it. Though the Ducks tendency to take way too many penalties
may come back to haunt them.
Pick-BYU

More Iverson thoughts.

I touched on it yesterday, but I'm glad to see that the Sixers hae
decided to finally make a deal for Allen Iverson. They get the
oft-travelled Joe Smith and Andre Miller along with some draft picks
from the Nuggets for Iverson. I stated earlier that I doubted that
Anthony and Iverson could coexist in Denver. As it stands now, Iverson
will get to lead the team as Anthony is out until January 20th serving
his suspension for his part in the brawl in New York this past Saturday.
I think that Knicks head mafioso Isiah Thomas should have netted a large
fine and/or suspension for his part in the precipitating the brawl. You
just know that his players were listening to him when he was telling
Anthony not to go into the lane. George Karl has beef with the Knicks
because of what they did to his boy Larry Brown. What happened in New
York was mostly Brown's fault, but nobody needed Karl to avenge Brown by
running up the score against the Knicks. Furthermore, Thomas' action
were stupid and just another reason why I've never been a real big fan
of his, nor am I big fan of George Karl a coach I've thought of as one
of the stupidest in the NBA (Not as stupid as Jeff Van Gundy mind you
but hes up there) he has tons of talent and manages to waste it. He will
now have the leagues top two scorers, I'll bet you a cold one that he
manages to screw it up.

Last Nights kickoff to the bowl season was a dud. TCU whomped Northern
Illinois (as I predicted) 37-7. The Bowl scene moves to Las Vegas for
tomorrows Las Vegas Bowl between Oregon and BYU where one would think
that the Mormons would be out of place in Vegas but is actually making
its second straight appearance. I'll preview it tomorrow and the debacle
of the Vikes-Packers game as well

Iverson headed to Denver and the first of many bowl previews

The Iverson era is over in Philly, after the wild brawl in New York
Saturday. The Nuggets are without the services of Carmelo Anthony for 15
games. The Nuggets dealt for Allen Iverson. Will Anthony and AI co-exist
in Denver? My gut instinct says no. Anthony might have worn out his
welcome in the Mile High City

The First of many Bowl Previews

Poinsettia Bowl
#25 TCU (10-2) vs Northern Illinois (7-5) 8:00 PM (ESPN)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego
The Huskies boast a strong running game in Garrett Wolfe while the
Horned Frogs are one of the nations top defenses. One dimensional
offenses too often get exposed in bowl games, especially against good
defenses.
Pick-TCU

Week 15 (part 2)

This week the NFL plays its game with a heavy heart as they mourn the
passing of Lamar Hunt, who was not only the founder of the Kansas CIty
Chiefs but also the AFL and the person who coined the name Super Bowl
for the then awkwardly named AFL-NFL Championship. All football fans
should be glad that Hunt decided to start a league of his own after
being denied a chance at ownership of an NFL team in the late 50's. Hunt
was all of 28 when he founded the AFL and after a high-stakes bidding
war with the NFL organized a merger between the two leagues and the
creation of the NFL that we follow so devotedly today.
Last week was a disaster, no thanks to the Seahawks or Jets who made me
look like a fool with their bumbling performances and the Niners who
made Green Bay look like a playoff team. I'm going to get back to an 11
or 12 win week.

Saturday December 16

Cowboys ((8-5) @ Falcons (7-6)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta-8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite-Cowboys by 3
Its A Fact-The Falcons have won the last two meetings
The Pokes got brought down to earth with a bump Sunday after getting
blasted by the Saints. Tony Romo looked befuddled and bewildered against
a strong Saints pass rush. He should find the sledding a bit easier
against the Falcons. The Pokes pass defense more or less gets the week
off to aid in the chase of Michael Vick. Its anyones guess which Falcons team will show up from week to week. Tuna's curse will likely haunt me again. Pick-Dallas

Sunday, December 17

Browns (4-9) @ Ravens (10-3)
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Ravens by 11
Its A Fact-The Ravens last swept the season series in 2003.
The Ravens bounced back to thump the Chiefs last week and look to wrap
up a playoff berth with a win. The Browns are still trying to figure out
who their quarterback is and their running back and oh their defense
needs direction and...oh nevermind. The Ravens are ten tons better and
anxious to prove that the 14-13 scare they got from the Browns in week 3
was a fluke.
Pick-Baltimore

Lions (2-11) @ Packers (5-8)
Lambeau Field, Green Bay-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Packers by 5
Its A Fact-The Lions have lost 10 of their last 11 divisional road
games.
The Pack looked rather decent in throttling the Niners, the Lions are
their usual mewling kitty self. The Lions don't win on the road much
less, in Green Bay. The Pack get a badly needed home win. They are
deluding themselves as on the fringe of the playoff hunt but they are
fooling only themselves
Pick-Green Bay

Texans (4-9) @ Patriots (9-4)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Patriots by 11.5
Its A Fact-This is the Texans first visit to New England
The Texans are coming in to the blustery northeast at the absolute
wrong time, down after a heartbreaking loss to the Titans and the Pats
coming in angry after a stunning shutout loss in Miami. This looks like
it will get real ugly. The Texans have some heart, but they will wilt
quickly under a withering attack from the Pats.
Pick-New England (Lock pick of the week)

Jaguars (8-5) @ Titans (6-7)
LP Field, Nashville-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Jaguars by 3
Its A Fact-The Jags have won the last three meeting by a combined score
108-48
Tennessee's love affair with the incomparable Vince Young is growing
fast every day. The Titans are walking tall after their OT win in
Houston and Jeff Fisher is looking more like a genius for giving Young
the reins when it looked as if he was giving up on the season. The Jags
are equally sky high after their stunning rout of the Colts last week.
The Jags have too many weapons for the young Titans and will slowly pull
away.
Pick-Jacksonville

Dolphins (6-7) @ Bills (6-7)
Ralph Wilson Stadium; Orchard Park, NY 1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bills by 2
Its A Fact-The Dolphins have averaged 29 points in their last two road
games
The Bills and Dolphins have playing well as of late, too bad slow start
for each make this a meaningless game. If the Fins can have Ronnie Brown
at their disposal they will be able to keep the fast maturing Bills
offense of the field. The Bills seem to always play the Fins better at
home. It may not be snowing and cold with a lot on the line like it was
when I saw these two teams battle in 1995, but it will be a tight game
nonetheless.
Pick-Buffalo

NY Jets (7-6) @ Vikings (6-7)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Vikings by 3
Its A Fact-The Vikings have lost five straight versus the AFC
The Vikes are still on the fringes of the playoff race. Their inconsistent play has Brad Childress pulling out what little hair he has left. The Jets have been playing over their heads all year, and their inexplicable loss to the Bills may have been exposed. The Jets are the one team in the NFL no one can figure out. I'm more wishing than trying to make a pick here, but something tells me the Jets are due for one more dumb loss and they aren't that tough on the road. Pick-Minnesota

Steelers (6-7) @ Panthers (6-7)
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-No Line
Its A Fact-The Steelers are a 11-1 vs the NFC since 2004
Bill Cowher is still living under the delusion that his Steelers can get on a roll and sneak back into the playoffs. With as many teams in front of them as it stands now that's all that is, a delusion. The Panthers realistically should be something like 10-3 or 11-2 and the class of the NFC. But with injuries and puzzling play hampering them, one isn't sure what to make of them. I'm banking on the notion that the Panthers will play better at home and that the Steelers who have only one win on the road, can't turn the trick. Pick-Carolina

Buccaneers (3-10) @ Bears (11-2)
Soldier Field, Chicago 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bears by 13
Its A Fact The Buccaneers are 0-6 on the road after going 5-3 last year.
Da Bears are rolling and the Bucs are looking for the exit door. The
Bucs don't play well in cold weather though its supposed to be balmy in
Chi-town this weekend. No matter the weather, the Bears need only not
let Wreck Grossman throw the ball too many times and they have more
than enough to beat the Bucs.
Pick-Chicago

Redskins (4-9) @ Saints (9-4)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Saints by 9.5
Its A Fact-The Redskins are averaging 11.25 points during their current 4 game losing skid
The Saints are looking like a serious Super Bowl contender after
thrashing the Cowboys last Sunday Night. The Skins are going nowhere and
the education of Jason Campbell continues. Reggie Bush will pick the
Skins soft defense apart and Drew Brees would be the runaway choice for
MVP if not for the exploits of his former teammate LaDainian Tomlinson. He'll continue to make his dark horse case for it this week. Pick-New Orleans

Broncos (7-6) @ Cardinals (4-9)
University of Phoenix Stadium; Glendale, AZ-4:05 (CBS)
Favorite-Broncos by 2.5
Its A FactThe Broncos are 6-0-1 vs the Cardinals
The Broncos are a-sinkin' fast, but they have more than enough to beat
the Cards who despite a couple upset wins in a row are marking time till
the off-season. This was supposed to be a triumphant homecoming for Jake
Plummer. But oh that kid Jay Cutler. Pick-Denver

Eagles (7-6) @ NY Giants (7-6)
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ- 4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Giants by 5.5
Its A Fact-The Giants lead the series 77-65-2 This has all the makings of a good old fashioned grudge match and the stakes couldn't be higher with playoff implications riding on this game. The soap-opera like questions abound, will Eli Manning continue his improved play? Will Jeff Garcia continue to play like he did when he was leading the 49ers to the playoffs? Will Jeremy Shockey say something stupid? I think the Eagles would like nothing more than to ruin their hated rivals postseason dreams. I don't think Garcia can get the Eagles to the playoffs but he can get them past the G-Men Pick-Philadelphia

Rams (5-8) @ Raiders (2-11)
McAfee Stadium, Oakland 4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Raiders by 1.5
Its A Fact-Both teams played each other six times while they were both in LA. This is their fourth meeting since they both left LA in 1995.
Two teams going nowhere. The Raiders have a decent defense; but when
given so many times to pound on it because their offense is so putrid,
The Rams will get theirs
Pick-St. Louis

Chiefs (7-6) @ Chargers (11-2)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite-Chargers by 7.5
Its A Fact-Late Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt was the first member of the AFL
in the pro football Hall of Fame.
The Chiefs might be playing with a bit of extra drive after the passing
of their beloved team owner. The Chargers are in high gear after
clinching the AFC West and are in the drivers seat for home field
advantage. The Chargers ordinarily might be the victim of a hyped Chiefs
squad but have to keep winning to stay at the #1 seed. LT is going to
get his an unless the Chiefs Larry Johnson can match him score for
score, it might get ugly. Pick-San Diego

Monday, December 18

Bengals (8-5) @ Colts (10-3)
RCA Dome, Indianapolis-8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Colts by 3.5
Its A Fact-The Colts are 5-0 on Monday Night since 2004
The best Monday night game this year by far. Both teams are bearing
down for playoff runs. But the Colts leaky run defense is starting to
cost the them games. Facing a Bengals squad with a solid run game is a
big problem. If the Bengals pound the rock and force the Colts to put
more emphasis on stopping the run, they will pick apart the Colts. But
if they try to play shootout like they did last year, they'll be on the
wrong end of another high scoring affair. Pick-Cincinnati

Last Week 8-8
Overall 123-85

Week 15 Picks Part 1

Games are getting more spread out as there are no college games this
week, but that will change. I'll try to prevue the bowl games as they
come up including the one that really matters The International Bowl
between Cincinnati and Eastern Michigan!! Seriously, I'll preview all
the bowls, not at the same time, its hard enough to do 16 NFL games. The
Thursday Night game will be done here and the rest will come tomorrow or
Saturday.

49ers (5-8) @ Seahawks (8-5)
Qwest Field, Seattle- 8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite-Seahawks by 10
Its A Fact- The 49ers are 3-19 in their past 22 road games.
Both teams looked horrible last week, the Niners are looking like their
Cinderella ride is over after getting blasted by the woeful Pack at
home. The Seahawks got embarrased by the lowly Cards. Shawn Alexander
still is trying to scrape the rust off, but he should have enough to
make life hard on the Niners young defense.
Pick-Seattle

Week 14 Picks Part 2

Sunday, December 10

Falcons (6-6) @ Buccaneers (3-9)
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite- Falcons by 3.5
Its A Fact- The Bucs have lost five straight vs the NFC South
The Falcons returned to their running roots, as they pounded the Redskins and are still very much in the playoff hunt. While the Bucs are facing a ten loss season. The Falcons while not the most dominant team has more than enough to beat the Bucs who are playing out the string.
Pick-Atlanta

Ravens (9-3) @ Chiefs (7-5)
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore -1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Chiefs by 3
Its A Fact-The Chiefs have only lost twice at home in the past four years.
Both teams are coming off tough road losses. The Ravens were beat up and nearly shut out at Cincy, while the Chiefs blew a double digit lead lost yet another winnable game on the road. The Chiefs need this game more to stay in the ultra-tight AFC playoff hunt. I have a hard time picking against the rugged Ravens twice. But its hard to pick the Chiefs at home.
Pick-Kansas City

Colts(10-2) @ Jaguars (7-5)
Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville- 1:00 CBS
Favorite-Colts by 2
Its A Fact-The Colts are 4-1 in Jacksonville
The Colts can clinch the AFC south with a win, but have not played very well as of late. The Jags are the definition of inconsistent and have been alternating wins and losses over their last six games. The Jags are just too puzzling to figure out, the Colts have enough in the tank to beat the up and down Jags
Pick-Indianapolis

Vikings (5-7) @ Lions (2-10)
Ford Field, Detroit-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Lions by 3
Its A Fact-The Lions have an eight game losing streak vs the NFC North.
The Vikes and Lions are both sinking fast. The Lions showed heart against the Pats while the Vikes were the very defintion of offensively anemic in a pathetic showing in Chicago. The Lions offense has not shown up lately, last week notwithstanding. The Vikes defense is good enough to force an error prone Lions offense into a couple big mistakes.
Pick-Minnesota

Patriots (9-3) @ Dolphins (5-7)
Dolphins Stadium, Miami-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Patriots by 3.5
Its A Fact-The Pats have won seven in a row on the road.
The Pats almost fell asleep at the switch against the Lions last week, but got the job done. The Dolphins keep hanging around the fringes of the AFC Playoff picture. The Fins will give them a go but the Pats are too strong.
Pick-New England

NY Giants (6-6) @ Panthers (6-6)
Bank Of America Stadium, Charlotte-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Panthers by 3.5
Its A Fact-The Panthers are 3-0 vs. the Giants
The Panthers are maddening, they have the talent and depth to win more games than they have. The Giants played better last week. It might boil down to not who wants it more, but who can not give it away. I'm gonna bank on the Panthers being tough at home.
Pick-Carolina

Raiders (2-10) @ Bengals (7-5)
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bengals by 7
Its A Fact- This is the Raiders first visit to Paul Brown Stadium
The Bengals looked like the playoff team that they were in 2005 with a near shutout of the Ravens. The Raiders are tough defensively but a mess offensively. If Chad Johnson gets loose like he has been doing lately it'll be a rough go for the Raiders. The Bengals need only to get enough points to make life rough for the Raiders offense. 21 points should be enough.
Pick-Cincinnati (Lock of The Week)

Eagles (6-6) @ Redskins (4-8)
FedEx Field; Landover, MD- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite- Redskins by 1.5
Its A Fact-The Eagles have won eight of the last ten meetings
The Eagles were left all but dead last Monday in against the Panthers, but gamely got off the mat to win. The are still very much in the playoff hunt. The Skins are a spoiler, but would love to throw a crimp in their hated rivals playoff aspirations. The Eagles are still atough bunch to figure, Jeff Garcia gives them a nice option at QB, but his consistency is always a question. The Skins are their own worst enemy giving up 24 points in a fall from ahead loss to the Falcons.
The Eagles have more to play for and more to lose. I want to pick an upset, but am real hesitant.
Pick-Philadelphia

Titans (5-7) @ Texans (4-8)
Reliant Stadium, Houston-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Texans by 2.5
Its A Fact-The Titans lead the all time series 7-2
The Titans are coming together nicely and Vince Young simply put is a beast. He gives them a real chance to win every game they are in and may have very well saved Jeff Fisher's job. Don't think that Young isn't really anxious to shine in a homecoming against the Texans.
Pick-Tennessee

Packers (4-8) @ 49ers (5-7)
Monster Park, San Francisco 4:05 (FOX)
Favorite-49ers by 5
Its A Fact The Pack lead the series 31-26-1
Remember when this used to be a marquee matchup??? The Niners are watching the Pack slide down that mediocrity slope that they were on not too long ago. The Niners are a good young squad, prone to errors, but they will have their way against a Pack squad that looks lost.
Pick-San Francisco

Seahawks (8-4) @ Cardinals (3-9)
University of Phoenix Stadium; Glendale, AZ-4:05 (FOX)
Favorite -Seahwaks by 3.5
Its A Fact-The Seahawks lead the series 8-7
This could be a trap game for the Seahawks who are in firm control of the NFC West. But with Shaun Alexander looking more rested than rusty after his injury layoff and Matt Hasselbeck rounding back into form the Cards look more trapped than anyone.
Pick-Seattle

Bills (5-7) @ NY Jets (7-5)
The Meadowlands, East Rutherford, NJ-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite -Jets by 3.5
Its A Fact -The Bills last three game have been decided by a grand total of 7 points.
The Jets have been winning the games that they should, and the way is clear for 11 wins. The Bills have the tools and talent to spring an upset and JP Losman is looking better and better each week. Chad Pennington isnt spectacular but he has quietly been having a solid season and keeping the Jets in contention. This will be a fun one to watch, the home team gets the slightest edge.
Pick-New York Jets

Broncos (7-5) @ Chargers (10-2)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Chargers by 7.5
Its A Fact-The Chargers will not have to leave the Pacific Time Zone for the rest of the season.
Mr. Cutler meet Mr. Merriman. The Broncos rookie QB will continue his trial by fire as he faces a white-hot Charger team that stop being intimidated by the Broncos a while ago. LT is probably salivating at getting another shot at the suddenly vunerable Bronco D. The Broncos are coming apart fast and this could get ugly.
Pick-San Diego

Saints (8-4) @ Cowboys (8-4)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX 8:15 (NBC)
Favorite-Cowboys by 7
Its A Fact -The Saints have won the last four meetings
These two teams are the elite of the NFC and this could very well be a playoff preview. The Tuna has seemingly found his man in Tony Romo and grudgingly settled on Martin Grammatica as his kicker. The Pokes are humming on all cylinders as of late and have taken control of the NFC East. The Saints bounced back from a mini slumpt to whip the Niners last week with a little help from Reegie Bush. It'll be interesting to see how the Pokes D tries to contain Bush and Drew Brees who can and will shred any defense. I'm probably gonna regret this pick but I think the Pokes are due for a comeuppance and the Saints may have just enough to win a tight one.
Pick-New Orleans

Monday, December 11

Bears (10-2) @ Rams (5-7)
Edward Jones Dome, St Louis-8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Bears by 7
Its A Fact-The Bears lead the overall series 47-34-3, but the Rams have won the last four meetings.
I'm going back to calling Rex Grossman "Wreck" The Bears are winning in spite of Grossman trying to blow games with his increasingly inept passing. The Bears have little to worry playoff wise, and have enough to beat the Rams. The Rams can put up points against some defenses but will have their hands full with the big play ball hawking Bears defense. Even without Tommie Smith, the Bears can still carry the day.
Pick-Chicago

Last Week 9-7
Overall 115-77

Wekk 14 Picks (Part 1)

Ok since I've started a trend. The Thursday pick on Wednesday and the rest of the picks on Friday or Saturday. Not like anyone outside of these two cities care much about this game...

Browns (4-8) @ Steelers (5-7)
Heinz Field, Pittsburgh 8:00- NFL Network
Favorite-Steelers by 7
Its A Fact- The Browns actually lead the alltime series with the Steelers.
Derek Anderson is the latest Cleveland victim...err quarterback. Replacing the injured Charlie Frye, he rallied the Browns to a shocking upset of the Chiefs. He will get a much sterner test against the Steelers who still have a decent defense. If the Browns can hold Willie Parker to 2.9 yards per carry like they did in their first meeting they will stay in the game. I dont think that will happen.
Pick-Pittsburgh

BCS: Its All About Money and Power

Its funny, listening to these so-called experts whine about how Michigan was jobbed and that there should be a playoff. First of all there won't be a playoff. The university president will never allow that to happen for the plain and simple reason that they control the money in the playing of games. The Bowl committees know that they can throw upwards of 15-20 million dollars at schools and the schools can tithe some of the money to their respective conferences and keep a good deal of it for themselves. A playoff would seriously compromise the influence that these bowls have. The school presidents know where their bread is buttered and that keeps a playoff scenario a pipe dream.
The school presidents argue that they student-athletes would miss valuable school time and that it would not be fair to their fans to make them criss cross the country following their teams. Nevermind that the basketball teams do it every March. Consider that Florida in winning the NCAA Basektball title this past April went from Gainesville to Atlanta to Jacksonville to Minneapolis to Indianapolis traveling to their games. Gator nation was well represented. Don't give me that line that players and fans won't travel.
Plain and simple the BCS is about money and power. The Bowl Committees have the money and the University President have the power. The networks??? Yeah, right they'll whore themselves out paying hundreds of millions if not billions for the broadcast rights hoping that they might get a dream matchup like last years epic. And besides the University presidents argue, they'll be top of the mind awareness for the next 4 weeks six days until the OSU-Florida title tilt as the so-called experts argue and wrangle who should be playing for the title.
The powers that be won't change the system, they make too much money and generate too much buzz the way it is to make wholesale changes

BCS Mess

Its Florida versus OSU for the College Football title. The choice isn't without some weeping and gnashing of teeth from some quarters of the country. A quick recap on the weekends events

Then #2 USC lost to UCLA 13-9, bouncing the Trojans from a shot at their fourth title game in as many years. The Trojans still have a BCS berth and will face Michigan, who will be in their 2nd Rose Bowl in three years. The Rose Bowl has been a house of horrors for both teams recently. The Trojans are winless in their last two trips there. Michigan got run over by a then relatively unknown sophomore from Texas by the name of Vince Young in the 2005 Rose Bowl, USC got the same treatment last year in the title game.

Florida won a wild SEC title match from a game Arkansas team. The Gators raced out to a 17-0 lead and Gator nation was saying "See we're worthy." Then the Razorback stormed back with 21 points to take the lead. Then the Gators took advantage of a Razorback fumble and turned that into a touchdown. The Gators stretched the lead to 10 at 31-21 but the Razorbacks stayed close. The 38-28 win wasn't really sealed until a late interception squashed a late Razorback drive.

OSU sat quietly watching and waiting to see who their opponent would be. Michigan was busy politicking saying they were the best #2 team in the country and they deserved a 2nd shot at the Bucks.

I'm not a Bucks supporter by any stretch of the imagination , but they won the m atchup on November 18th and earned the right to play for the national title. If the Wolverines had won, I would have said the same thing to Buck fans who would have cried and carped about deserving a second shot. I vigourously disagree with the Sports Reporters John Saunders who insists that the regular season is a high stakes playoff in itself. Thats a load. For those that carp that a rematch in the championship is not different than the NCAA Basketball tourney, consider this. The best teams are usually separated in the brackets and are kept far enough away from one another where they would only meet up in the final four or championship. If they are in the same conference the earliest that they could meet would be the elite eight. These teams would have to go through at least three other teams to get to a rematch. Even in a conference tourney a #1 and #2 seed are on the opposite sides of the bracket destined to only meet in a conference tourney final. If there was a football tourney. (Theres not going to be in my lifetime) or a plus 1 game (theres not) the best teams would have to play at least one other team to get to a rematch. The bottom line is that the a rematch is only good when there is time and competition between the games. A do-over or mulligan is only done in golf and its no good then.

Week 13 Picks (Part 2)

The Bengals played about as fine a defensive game as one could ever dream of. They were 61 seconds from posting their second consective shutout. And they have played their way back into serious playoff contention. With that game in the books, there are still many good games to be had this weekend. Submitted for your approval and review are this weeks picks and analysis

Cardinals (2-9) @ Rams (5-6)
Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis 1 (Fox)
Favorite- Rams by 6.5
Its A Fact- The Cards became the first NFL team to have two 99 yard plays in one game.
After breaking their losing streak, the Rams are still on the fringes of the NFC playoff hunt. The Cards are on the slow train to nowhere and the promise that was so much a part of the early part of the Cards early season is a distant memory. The Rams have so much to play for and will look like it, the Cards are playing out the string and will look like it.
Pick-St. Louis

Falcons (5-6) @ Redskins (4-7)
FedEx Field; Landover, MD-1 (Fox)
Favorite- Redskins by 2
Its A Fact-The Falcons have only won once in Washington. Beating the 'Skins in RFK stadium in 1994.
The Falcons are coming apart fast, Michael Vick was just lightened $20K for his thoughtless "dirty bird" flip to heckling fans after a beating by the Saints. Jason Campbell is fast looking like the long term future of the Skins at QB. The problem with both teams is maddening inconsistency. The question is who will be less inconstent. I'm gambling that Vick will be mecurial enough to give the Skins problems.
Pick-Atlanta

Lions (2-9) @ Patriots (8-3)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA- 1 (Fox)
Favorite- Patriots by 13.5
Its A Fact-This is the Lions first appearance in Gillette Stadium, and first trip to Foxboro since 1993.
The Lions are prepping for their offseason and the Patriots are speeding toward another playoff berth. The Lions aren't even a speed bump to them.
Pick-New England (Lock Pick of the Week)

Colts (10-1) @ Titans (4-7)
LP Field, Nashville- 1 (CBS)
Favorite- Colts by 7.5
Its A Fact-The Titans are 3-14 against the AFC, all three wins coming agains the Texans
The Colts got back in stride with an emphatic thumping of the Eagles, the Titans are feeling good after their improbable comeback against the G-Men. The Titans are doubly cursed, they won't sneak up on the Colts like they did in their taut 14-13 loss in week 3. Also, the Colts if spotted a 21 point lead won't implode.
Pick-Indianapolis

Chiefs (7-4) @ Browns (3-8)
Browns Stadium, Cleveland - 1(CBS)
Favorite-Chiefs by 5
Its a Fact-The Chiefs have beaten the Browns in both of their meetings since the Browns reentry in the NFL in 1999.
The Chiefs are in the thick of the AFC playoff hunt and cannot afford to stumble on the road. The Browns are coming apart fast and are smarting from a shutout from the Bengals, the Chiefs defense is a whole lot better than the Bengals. It'll be another long day at the pound.
Pick-Kansas City

Vikings (5-6) at Bears (9-2)
Soldier Field, Chicago- 1 (Fox)
Favorite
Its A Fact-The Bears have won the past five meetings in Chicago.
The Vikings stopped their slide against a woeful Cards team and had trouble just putting them away. The Bears are still in high gear despite losing a tight game against the Pats. The Bears rallied to win Minnesota in week 3, they shouldn't have that much trouble in the raw cold elements of Soldier Field.
Pick-Chicago

Jets (6-5) @ Packers (4-7)
Lambeau Field, Green Bay- 1 (CBS)
Favorite- No Line
Its A Fact- The Pack are 4-11 in their last 15 home games
The Jets aren't pretty but they continue to win the ones that they are supposed to and as a result are very much in the playoff hunt. Brett Favre continues to throw bushels of passes but the Pack are just not a very good team. The Jets aren't that good, but they are better than the Pack.
Pick-New York Jets

Chargers (9-2) @ Bills (5-6)
Ralph Wilson Stadium; Orchard Park, NY- 1 (CBS)
Favorite- Chargers by 5.5
Its A Fact- The Chargers have not won in Buffalo since 1985
JP Losman and the Bills are making solid strides at being a respectable squad. The problem lies in facing a red hot Charger squad that is getting Shawne Merriman back. They won all four in spite of his absence and get better with him. LT is a beast and will get his against a so-so Bills D.
Pick-San Diego

49ers (5-6) @ Saints (7-4)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans-1 (Fox)
Favorite-Saints by 6.5
Its A Fact-Drew Brees has thrown for 854 yards in the past two games for the Saints, both losses.
The Saints bounced back from their beating by the Bengals to whip the Falcons and are in solid control of the NFC South, the Niners blew a golden chance to stay on solid playoff footing by blowing a late lead in St. Louis. The Saints at home are way too much for the young Niners to handle.
Pick-New Orleans

Jaguars (6-5) @ Dolphins (5-6)
Dolphins Stadium, Miami- 4:05 (CBS)
Favorite-Dolphins by 3
Its A Fact-This is the Jags 1st trip to Miami
The Jags are up and down, having blown a very winnable game in Buffalo while the Dolphins are coming off a Turkey day beatdown of the Lions. Its tough to tell which team will show up from week to week for the Jags while the Dolphins have been on a nice run. I'm gonna regret this, but I think the Fins run continues.
Pick-Miami

Texans (3-8) @ Raiders (2-9)
McAfee Coliseum, Oakland- 4:05 (CBS)
Favorite-Raiders by 3
Its A Fact-The Raiders are averaging 12 points per game.
The Raiders are not a pushover, but they find ways to lose games. Their defense is keeping them competitve, but their offense is putrid and losing LaMont Jordan makes them even worse. The Texans are an enigma, good enough to stay in games but only good enough to beat teams from Florida. The Raiders blow their chance to solidify their claim to Brady Quinn.
Pick-Oakland

Buccaneers (3-8) @ Steelers (4-7)
Heinz Field, Pittsburgh- 4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Steelers by 3
Its A Fact- This is the Bucs first visit to Pittsburgh since 1983
These 2005 playoff teams are going nowhere but home next month, Pittsburgh can pound the ball at the Bucs injury ravaged line and keep the Bucs from trying to duplicate what the Ravens did in beating Big Ben senseless. The Bucs have not shown any propensity for offense having only scored over 20 points three times this season (1-2), so if the Steelers get any kind of lead at home, the Bucs are in trouble.
Pick-Pittsburgh

Cowboys (7-4) @ Giants
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ- 4:15 (FOX)
Favorite- Cowboys by 3.5
Its A Fact-The Giants are 7-1 in their last vs. NFC East teams
The Pokes are the picture of stabilty. Tony Romo is looking more and more like the long term answer offensively and is that a brief smile we saw from the Tuna? Meanwhile the G-Men are coming unglued. An inexcusable fall from ahead loss to the Titans and the finger pointing has begun in earnest. Can Eli Manning hold it together? Three weeks ago, this game looked like the crowning moment in the NFC East, but it will be the Pokes exacting revenge. If the G-Men can regroup and steal the game they will hold a pair of crucial tiebreakers. But I think the G-Men are past the critical mass point.
Pick-Dallas

Seahawks (7-4) @ Broncos (7-4)
Invesco Field @ Mile High, Denver- 8:15 (NBC)
Favorite- Broncos by 4.5
Its A Fact-The Seahawks have given up an average of 30 points in their last four road games
The Broncos have given up on Jake Plummer and given the offense to rookie Jay Cutler, many think Shanny is making a mistake but insiders say that Cutler is ready, but a prime time stage is not the optimal setting for a rookie debut. The Seahawks are puzzling, fierce at home but skittish on the road. One might think that the return of Shawn Alexander and Matt Hasselbeck wil stabilize the Seahawk offense. I'm not real sold on either team, but the Broncos don't lose three in a row at home. With a hot Bengals team hot on their heels in the wild card race, the Broncos will play with some urgency. They can ill afford not to.
Pick-Denver

Panthers (6-5) @ Eagles (5-6)
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia- 8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-No Line
Its A Fact-Both teams won their previous Monday appearance
The Panthers should be battling the Saints for control of the NFC South, if not leading the division outright. They keep losing winnable games. The Eagles can score points, but their defense looks lost right now. The Panthers have enough offensive moxie, to keep the Eagles from turning this into a shootout.
Pick-Carolina

Last Week 11-5
Overall 105-70

Thoughts on Pujols, ManRam, Gumbel and other things

Part 2 of the Picks is on the way...
I watched the Bengals beat the Ravens last night and was to put it mildly underwhelmed by the broadcasting acumen of Bryant Gumbel. I'm not a real big Cris Collinsworth fan, but he is a decent and capable color analyst. But Bryant Gumbel was in a a fog and it wasn't due to the constant rain at Paul Brown Stadium. I personally thought that the NFL Network's broadcast wasn't all that. Maybe High def is really all that, but I wasn't at all impressed with NFL Networks broadcast.
ManRam wants out of Boston...for the umpteenth time. I like ManRam, he's a great player but I think he is coddled waaaay to much.
I detest the Cardinals, but I'm a big Albert Pujols fan. That said, I was annoyed to hear his ungracious blast at Ryan Howard after he was awarded the MVP. I was surprised to see Howard win it, I thought Pujols should have won it. But to say that a non-playoff player should not win the MVP is weak. The Cards were less than dominant until they got to the playoffs, and thought Pujols had amonster season Howard had better number and was keeping the Philberts in the playoff hunt until the last week. Pujols may have been hurt becuase he was out for a while and the Cards kept winning. In any case, there was no reason for Pujols to make those comments.
Michael Strahan is trying his damndest to push the blame on others after his rant about Plaxico Burress on the radio Monday blew up in his face. Instead of owning up to his comments, he tried to crackback on the media for trying to "divide the team" I gotta flash for you Mike. The G-Men are imploding and its not the medias fault. When you make a comment about a teammate, on New York Radio no less, do you think it would not get blown up? Then to rant at the media when they ask you about it and give you a chance to clairfy it, you blow up about it.

One Liners
Scott Skiles and Ben Wallace need to grow up. We're talking about a headband guys.
Ohio State basketball...enjoy your brief stay at number 1, it'll be over soon.
I'm not sold on the Pokes making a deep run the playoffs, but Romo is the man in big D.
Some teams are changing their unis just for the sake of changing and its stupid.
Shanny is pushing the panic button, going with Jay Cutler and it'll blow up in his face.
LT is the man, period.

Week 13 Picks (part 1)

10 wins, not bad. I can do better though. I have myself to blame for that foolish pick of the Lions. The G-men's meltdown has put them on watch status and The Steelers??? Rest in pieces. Tuna and the Pokes get the Sunday Night Nod next week. I think that NBC will just rotate its games thru the glamourous places for the rest of the season. Any chance of a Steelers-Bengals New Years eve tilt in prime time is gone.
Only the Ravens-Bengals game is previewed here. The rest of the games will be reviewed on Friday.

Thursday November 30

Ravens @ Bengals
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati 8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite-Bengals by 3
Its A Fact-The Bengals shutout of Cleveland was their first since 1989, while the Ravens have had nine shutouts since 1996.
Both teams are fresh off of shutouts of divisional foes. The Bengals whitewash was more surprising, but the Bengals are still the team in more dire need of a win. The Ravens can clinch a playoff berth, the division title and a home playoff game with one fell swoop with a win. The Bengals offense is humming as of late and I doubt the Bengals will spot the Ravens a 14-0 lead four minutes in like they did in Baltimore. I may be warped thinking this, but I think the Ravens still don't take the Bengals seriously and never have despite the Bengals being respectable now. I think that might just bite them in the rear as the Bengals spurred on by a crazy home crowd and a chance to shine in prime time keep their playoff hopes very much alive.
Pick-Cincinnati

Dantonio's Exit...

Well its of no surprise that Mark Dantonio left the coaching position at the University of Cincinnati to take the job at Michigan State. Dantonio was a coach at Michigan State from 1995-2000, You would think he would jump at the first opp he had. I mean really, Cincy is my alma mater and it pains me to see that even with the biggest crowd of the season watching Dantonio's charges beat then 9th ranked Rutgers on the 18th 30-11, Nippert Stadium wasn't sold out. They didn't even draw 30,000. (They drew 27,804, me being one) Cincinnati should be ashamed, they had a good coach who was committed to winning here and now the Bearcats football team goes back to square one. I'll comment more on that and other coaching changes soon.

Ovah-rated!!!

Sooner or later you'll listen to me...
Sooner or later you'll realize that every now and occasion I'm not blowing my own horn...
Sooner or later you will realize that my hatred of Notre Dame (ok hatred is a bit extreme...how bout intense dislike) is based on fact and the sports medias fascination with an overrated team.
The BCS will still send the Irish to a BCS bowl to my chagrin. But after its 44-24 drubbing at the hands of USC, the talk of both Notre Dame deserving a title shot and Brady Quinn as a dark horse Heisman winner are out the door. Thankfully.
USC is now in line for a BCS title tilt with OSU, they have to beat archrival UCLA, a good but not terribly great team. The Trojans have to beat the Bruins in the Rose Bowl next Saturday and the game will be set. Despite the carpings of the SEC champ, USC will go.
Florida keeps on whining that they are in a tough conference and that it hampers their title shot. But my reasoning is, keep winning and no one can say anything to you. USC thrashed Arkansas 50-14 in Fayetteville in September so the Hogs can do nothing but nod dumbly after the got thumped by LSU. The winner of the SEC title game will play in the Sugar Bowl
Boise State is in the BCS mix, period. They won't sniff a shot at Ohio State but they will get their just due and the BCS wonks will say "See everyone has a shot." Yeah, but you better be perfect if your not in the power conferences. And even if you are, you better be a name team...
By the way, Miami (FL) fired Larry Coker after he went 59-15. Despite winning a national title in 2001 and getting the Canes to the title game the next year. Its a what have you done for me lately. The wild brawl against FIU, didn't help matters. Now the spec begins on who gets that job, Rutgers head man Greg Schiano is widely rumored to be the man the Canes are looking at, but he claims no interest. We shall see...

Week 12 Picks

First of all, wishing you and yours a happy Thanksgiving. Make sure you give thanks for what you have, even if its a little bit of something. If you are alive to appreciate it, thats a good thing.

The Thanksgiving menu gets a bigger as there are now three games to enjoy. Detroit hosts the early game and Dallas gets the afternoon game like usual, Kansas City gets the night game. The Chiefs have been the turkey day opponent quite often and Chiefs Founder/Owner Lamar Hunt has long lobbied the NFL to host a game on Thanksgiving and now with the NFL Network plucking a few games to keep for its own broadcast, Hunts wishes can be aceded to. NFL network is gambling that Joe FootbalFan will carp long and loud about NFL network not being on most regular cable systems like Time Warner which your humble scribe has, but most cable systems refuse to pay the exoribanant price that NFL Network is charging for the right to broadcast its network. Me personally, I hate sattelite TV and refuse to get it. If that means I miss a few games, so be it. I had a much better week at 11-5, no thanks to the Texans who I've dropped to teams I despise (designated teams will only get picked as winners only grudgingly and I will find every reason to pick against them) The Broncos and Seahawks dropped games that should have been very winnable. Trying to improve on my numbers, my picks are submitted here for your review. The lines are for comparison purposes only and the Thanksgiving lines are courtesy of Yahoo.

Thursday, November 23
Dolphins (4-6) @ Lions (2-8)
Ford Field, Detroit 12:30 (CBS)
Favorite- Dolphins by 2.5
Its A Fact-The Lions have played at home on Thanksgiving every year since 1945
The Dolphins have suddenly pushed themselves back on the fringes of the playoff hunt. They face a Lions squad who has came apart (but then again when have they really come together???) The crazy thing is that the Lions for some reason play way over their heads on Turkey day. I just have that feeling that Joey Harrington has a nightmare return to the motor city. I'm probably going to hate myself for this pick
Pick-Detroit

Buccaneers (2-8) @ Cowboys (6-4)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite- Cowboys by 11
Just The Facts This is the Buccaneers first time playing on Thanksgiving, while the Cowboys have played on Thanksgiving continually since 1966 (missing only 1975 & 1977)
The Pokes are looking to make a late charge at the playoffs and given the wide open nature of the NFC anything is possible. The Bucs did what the Pokes couldn't, beat the Redskins. But the Pokes are playing better as of late and though every time I give Tuna a vote of confidence they tank. Here's hoping that doesn't happen.
Pick-Dallas

Broncos (7-3) @ Chiefs (6-4)
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City-8:00 (NFL Network)
Favorite-Pick 'em
Its A Fact-The Chiefs are the first AFC team to host a Thanksgiving Day game.
The Broncos should be ashamed of themselves after blowing a double digit lead at home. The Chiefs look like they are back in stride again after a return to action by Trent Green. This is a super crucial game in the rugged AFC West and both need the win to keep up with the Chargers. Only because they are at home do the Chiefs get the nod.
Pick-Kansas City

Sunday, November 26

Cardinals (2-8) @ Vikings (4-6)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Vikings by 6
Its A Fact Cards coach Denny Green is 2nd all time in Vikings coaching wins
The reeling Vikes were thinking playoffs three weeks ago and were facing a winnable stretch of games, but their puny offense has made that dream just that. The Cards are just happy to get off the long losing slide that they were on. The Cards find ways to lose, but then again so do the Vikes. Give the edge to the home squad...barely
Pick-Minnesota

Panthers (6-4) @ Redskins (3-7)
FedEx Field; Landover, MD- 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Panthers by 4
Its A Fact
Jason Campbell cant catch a break, he gets his QB baptism against a tough Buccaneers defense and now he faces a defense in Carolina fresh off a shutout over a good offensive team in the Rams. It'll be a long day in the Fed.
Pick-Carolina

Bengals (5-5) @ Browns (3-7)
Browns Stadium, Cleveland-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bengals by 3
Its A Fact-The all time series between these teams is tied at 33 wins apiece
The Bengals got a badly needed win in New Orleans and are still very much in the playoff hunt. This has all the making of a classic trap game, with a showdown against the division leading Ravens on the 30th, the Bengals may get caught looking past a dangerous Browns squad. I'm betting that the offense has woke from its season long slumber for good and should put plenty of points up.
Pick-Cincinnati

Texans (2-8) @ NY Jets (5-5)
The Meadowlands; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Jets by 5.5
Its A Fact The Jets have won both meetings between these teams.
The Jets offense after looking anemic against the Bears gets a chance to pick on the Texans young defense. The Texans are improving but going into Gotham and winning is still too tall an order.
Pick-New York Jets

Jaguars (6-4) @ Bills (4-6)
Ralph Wilson Stadium; Orchard Park, NY -1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Jags by 3
Its A Fact-The Jags became the fastest expansion team to win a playoff game by beating the Bills 30-27 in the 1996 playoffs.
The Jags are hanging around the fringes of the AFC playoff picture. Their tendency to fall asleep at the switch against winnable opponents come into play with against a Bills team that is the definition of inconsistent. I'm thinking the Jags will play down to the level of their opponent again, but win a tight one.
Pick-Jacksonville

Saints (6-4) @ Falcons (5-5)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta 1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Falcons by 3
Its A Fact-After a 5-1 start the Saints have lost three of their last four.
The suddenly reeling Saints have been giving up way too many points, and the Falcons have been losing too many winnable games. Michael Vick has not been playing very well as of late and even with being at home I think that Saints may have the formula to stop him.\
Pick-New Orleans

Steelers (4-6) @ Ravens (8-2)
M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Ravens by 3
Its A Fact
The Steelers are still yapping that they can make a playoff move. The Ravens are a win or two away from having a choke hold on the AFC North. The Ravens could wrap the division up with a win here and one in Cincinnati a week from Thursday. Knocking the Steelers out of division title contention would be extra incentive. Even without Ray Lewis the defense is still more than tough enough.
Pick-Baltimore

49ers (5-5) @ Rams (4-6)
Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Rams by 5.5
Its A Fact
I thought it cute that Mike Nolan emulated his dad's natty sideline look. The Niners have been playing inspired as of late and are a surprise contender in the NFC West. On the other hand, the Rams are fading fast and have lost five straight. This game is a tight one to call, I keep thinking that the Rams will break out of their funk and I'm having a hard time believing that the Niners will continue to play over their heads like they have been. I'm gonna take a chance and say that the trends will continue at least for another week.
Pick-San Francisco

Raiders (2-8) @ Chargers (8-2)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego-4:05 (CBS)
Favorite-Chargers by 13
Its A Fact-The Raiders have the NFL's worst record since 2002
The Chargers have a high scoring offense and an defense that gives that offense plenty of chances to score. The Raiders while having a credible defense have no offense and against the Chargers who will light up a scoreboard that is a bad recipe. Also, the Raiders have shown no abilty to win outside of Oakland. Since the Chargers are unbeaten in San Diego, I see no reason that will change.
Pick-San Diego

Chicago (9-1) @ New England (7-3)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite -Patriots by 3
Its A Fact Chicago beat New England in Super Bowl XX 46-10
Arguably the best matchup of the week, the Bears are getting their swagger back after a two week layover in the Jersey swamps, the Pats continue to teeter on the edge of falling back to the AFC East pack, but the redoubtable Tom Brady makes it look easy. I'll be interested to see how he deal with the hard charging Bears D. In a game that is too close to call, I don't think the Bears are ready, winning in Jersey ain't winning in Foxboro, thats a step up I dont think the Bears are ready to make.
Pick-New England

NY Giants (6-4) @ Titans (3-7)
LP Field, Nashville-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Giants by 3.5
Its A Fact-This is the Giants first trip to Nashville
The Giants are in first place in the NFC in spite of themselves. They looked abysmal against the Jags, and will have their hands full with an inproving Titans squad. If the G-Men can run the ball, they should have their way but then again who knows which Eli Manning will show up from week to week. I'm gambling that the one who manages to stay out of his teams way shows up.
Pick-New York Giants

Philadelphia (5-5) @ Indianapolis (9-1)
RCA Dome, Indianpolis-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite Colts by 9.5
Its A Fact-Peyton Manning has wins over every NFL team
NBC is kicking itself that they snatched this game instead of the more attractive Bears-Pats game. Pity poor Eagles fan, they lose Donovan McNabb to a devastating knee injury as he's having one of his best seasons and they face an angry Colts team knocked from the unbeaten ranks and without the unbeaten burden, the Colts suddenly look real tough.
Pick-Indianapolis


Monday, November 27

Packers (4-6) @ Seahawks (6-4)
Qwest Field, Seattle 8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Seahawks by 9.5
Its A Fact
The Pack are in a bad habit of catching teams at the absolute wrong time. They got the Pats after they dropped a stunner to the Jets, they get the Seahawks after they got upended in San Francisco. If Matt Hasselbeck comes back that makes it one more thing that could go wrong for the Pack. Since they had such a hard time with the Pats veteran defense what problems do the Seahawks rugged defense pose? Many.
Pick-Seattle

Last Week 11-5
Overall 95-65