Three posts in one day??? Only becuase I have a lot on my mind...
I have a problem with the powers that be telling athletes, hey you have to go to college or wait at least a predeterminate amount of time before you can apply to be enter a pro draft. This rule mainly applys to the basketball and football ranks. I call it the Lebron and OJ rule. The NBA under increasing pressure and lobbying from the NCAA has mandated that a person cannot enter the NBA draft until one year after they have graduated high school a minimum age of 19. So even if a player graduated from high school at the age of 19, he would still have to wait a year to enter the NBA draft. In other words he would have to go to college. I think this is hypocrisy. The pros claim that they are thinking of the players best interest and that for every Kevin Garnett, Lebron James and Kobe Bryant success story there is a Korleone Young, Leon Smith and Kwame Brown bust or flop. But then again how many heralded players went through college and could not make the jump to the pros? For every Tim Duncan, Kenyon Martin and Emeka Okefor four year players that made good, there are a number of players that played four years in the NCAA and flopped as pros. The NBA claims that they are trying to protect players, they are more afraid of themselves throwing big money at young black men...yes I said it. If the NCAA can make some money off of these man-children for even a year, thats money that they don' t to give the players and control that they have. If the player gets hurt, especially a player that could have jumped to the pros otherwise it would be just a tool for the school to keep that player, scaring pro prospects off with the injury and benefitting from the players recovery.
If a person was a world class scholar, and there were numerous companies wanting their services and talents, no one would bemoan the fact that they would skip college or drop out to pursue monetary gain. No one says a word about teenage gymnasts or junior golf players or tennis players. All that is said is that they need to make the next step. If a player is talented to make the move they should be able to make it. True its very different in the NFL where a person going from high school to the pros is impossible given the amount of growth that the players do in three years. A player can declare hardship and become draft eligible but only after their three years removed from the their high school graduation. It makes sense, but there are exceptions. Mike Williams should not have been punished for declaring himself eligible after his sophomore season in the wake of the Maurice Clarett rulings, a ruling that was later overturned. Williams basing his declaration on the ruling, was the unwitting victim and then was told that he could not be reinstated, even though he had not taken any money from an agent. Williams sat out a year and was drafted by the Detroit Lions. Clarett...his sad tale is a blog topic in himself. But I rail against the pimping of college players, if a person wants to be in school for a year or four or not at all, they should be allowed to make that choice themselves. The NCAA fears that that if the NBA creates a real developmental league where players can go straight from high school with pay, that they will be locked out of the cash cow business and that the days of sold out arenas full of people cheering for the "alma mater" will go the way of the Edsel and dinosaur. That though they talk so much of the "student-athlete" the only folks playing will be the people who just want to play ball and you couldn't make money off of that could you??? There would be no one to pimp out.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Media Darlings
I like to think of myself as a sports journalist, but I think of things more often than not a different way. You will hear me rail on the "sports media" The usual sheep think of sports journalists who bandwagon everything and refuse to see the obvious. I'll give you some example starting with the hated Pittsburh Steelers, a team that the media loves and wants to do well. Why? Maybe they are afraid of the granite jawed Bill Cowher (I'll touch on the coach media darlings later) maybe its the rep. I dunno. I just know that On all the major football networks all have a former Steelers (NBC, Jerome Bettis, Fox Terry Bradshaw, ESPN Merrill Hoge) or Pittsburgh guys (CBS Dan Marino who grew up in Pittsburgh and went to Pitt) and all seem to genuflect at the Steelers altar. The Steelers can do no wrong and its just a matter of time before they roll thru everyone to the another Super Bowl. The Steelers up until last year had only been to one Super Bowl since their 4 in 6 year run in the 70's and had lost in the AFC title game to 4 different teams. (Denver, San Diego, Miami, New England) Yes they did...and they came a dropped hail mary from losing to 5 different teams. But to listen to everyone, the Steelers are the AFC preeminent team and should be treated as such. I'm sorry, the Steelers took advantage of a few too many lucky breaks to win the Super Bowl (Kimo von Awfulhoffen dive into Carson Palmer's knee, Mike Vanderchoke missing a very makeable FG, Jake Plummer returning to form and the refs missing one call after another) and everyone is crowning them as the greatest team of all time. I think that there is a team in Foxboro, MA that might disagree, but I digress. Despite a 2-5 record, the same as the Raid-uhs the Steeler apologists are in full force.
Oh I'm on a roll now. Lets talk about another media darling that should apologize. Notre Dame. The Irish are a top ten team...why? Because they have their own network and don't want to be in a conference? The Irish are in the Big East for everything but football, because no sport there matters at that school, except the football team. The only reason that Notre Dame is as visible is because they are on NBC every week and they get the hype when they win and the teams that beat them are pooh-poohed as cheaters. Remember the USC game last year? The Irish grew their field to jungle length and still lost on a last second sneak. They then whined that Reggie Bush pushed Matt Lineart. During this whole Reggie Bush housing flap, Notre Damers were braying that the win that USC had should be forfeited and that the Irish should have 11 wins and a higher ranking puh-leese. Maybe its Regis Philbin's (did he ever go there?) constant harping about them that annoys me. I dunno, but the media wants the Irish to be a contender. I want to puke when I hear the lisping criminal Lou Holtz go on about the Irish. He says that they should not only have a BCS shot, but should still be in the national title picture. How is that? The Irish got smoked by Michigan, needed a miracle to beat a bad Michigan State team and beat a Penn State team that was nowhere near as polished as they seem to be now. The Irish load up on a cupcake schedule. Throw a couple good teams in that they get beat by and then act like they are a national power and the media still desiring a fabled Irish squad, toot their horn all the time. You can imagine my shock and surprise when MSNBC, cousin to Notre Dame broadcasting and shill NBC named Irish coach Charlie Weis as its whiner of the week. Weis lambasted the polls for dropping his Irish from 10th to 11th after their last minute win over an unranked UCLA at home. The column quoted Weis saying an idle Florida “...were home eating cheeseburgers and they end up jumping us. That befuddles me,” Hold up, Florida is in the rugged SEC and isn't playing. You struggle with a cupcake UCLA team that hasn't won jack in years. And you whine about respect, the Irish are a joke but they will still get to BCS game where they will be exposed as the frauds that they are. Whereas a rightfully deserving teams like a Louisville, West Virginia, Rutgers or Boise State or any number of SEC teams will get shutout on bowl selection day. The column called the Irish overrated and that in itself was a shock. I have to say bully to MSNBC for a righteous and courageous stand though the Irish boosters may have a fit that their beloved saint Charlie was taken to task.
Face it there are certain teams that despite being good, never get the pub that they deserve. Example, the Carolina Panthers are a contending team every year, but are rarely on national TV, last weekends blowout loss to the Cowboys notwithstanding. But the media pumps the Pokes up like they are just around the corner from being a dominant team. The media would love to have a Cowboys-Steelers Super Bowl every year and with Bill Parcells (another media darling) coaching it would be a media wet dream. I personally think Parcells is overrated. He was a good coach when he was with the Giants but he won a Super Bowl with them 16 years two coaching stops ago. Yeah, I know he's vastly improved every team he has been with getting the Pats to Super Bowl 31 and the Jets to the '98 AFC Title game, but he hasn't had a playoff win since beating Jacksonville in the '98 divisional round. That's right he has less playoff wins than Chan Gailey. What's my point you ask...I do have one that the sports media should be in the business of covering the games and reporting who won and how they did it and less of the speculating on the largesse of these teams and how that they are poised for dominance when the facts don't come close to supporting them. Parties guilty of this include the aforementioned analysts (including Merrill Hoge who said to Cincinnati sports radio talk show host Lance McCallister that the Steelers were still the team to beat in the AFC North), Jim Rome and the FSN Sports night reporters. Stop being a shill for certain teams and give the good teams their due!
Oh I'm on a roll now. Lets talk about another media darling that should apologize. Notre Dame. The Irish are a top ten team...why? Because they have their own network and don't want to be in a conference? The Irish are in the Big East for everything but football, because no sport there matters at that school, except the football team. The only reason that Notre Dame is as visible is because they are on NBC every week and they get the hype when they win and the teams that beat them are pooh-poohed as cheaters. Remember the USC game last year? The Irish grew their field to jungle length and still lost on a last second sneak. They then whined that Reggie Bush pushed Matt Lineart. During this whole Reggie Bush housing flap, Notre Damers were braying that the win that USC had should be forfeited and that the Irish should have 11 wins and a higher ranking puh-leese. Maybe its Regis Philbin's (did he ever go there?) constant harping about them that annoys me. I dunno, but the media wants the Irish to be a contender. I want to puke when I hear the lisping criminal Lou Holtz go on about the Irish. He says that they should not only have a BCS shot, but should still be in the national title picture. How is that? The Irish got smoked by Michigan, needed a miracle to beat a bad Michigan State team and beat a Penn State team that was nowhere near as polished as they seem to be now. The Irish load up on a cupcake schedule. Throw a couple good teams in that they get beat by and then act like they are a national power and the media still desiring a fabled Irish squad, toot their horn all the time. You can imagine my shock and surprise when MSNBC, cousin to Notre Dame broadcasting and shill NBC named Irish coach Charlie Weis as its whiner of the week. Weis lambasted the polls for dropping his Irish from 10th to 11th after their last minute win over an unranked UCLA at home. The column quoted Weis saying an idle Florida “...were home eating cheeseburgers and they end up jumping us. That befuddles me,” Hold up, Florida is in the rugged SEC and isn't playing. You struggle with a cupcake UCLA team that hasn't won jack in years. And you whine about respect, the Irish are a joke but they will still get to BCS game where they will be exposed as the frauds that they are. Whereas a rightfully deserving teams like a Louisville, West Virginia, Rutgers or Boise State or any number of SEC teams will get shutout on bowl selection day. The column called the Irish overrated and that in itself was a shock. I have to say bully to MSNBC for a righteous and courageous stand though the Irish boosters may have a fit that their beloved saint Charlie was taken to task.
Face it there are certain teams that despite being good, never get the pub that they deserve. Example, the Carolina Panthers are a contending team every year, but are rarely on national TV, last weekends blowout loss to the Cowboys notwithstanding. But the media pumps the Pokes up like they are just around the corner from being a dominant team. The media would love to have a Cowboys-Steelers Super Bowl every year and with Bill Parcells (another media darling) coaching it would be a media wet dream. I personally think Parcells is overrated. He was a good coach when he was with the Giants but he won a Super Bowl with them 16 years two coaching stops ago. Yeah, I know he's vastly improved every team he has been with getting the Pats to Super Bowl 31 and the Jets to the '98 AFC Title game, but he hasn't had a playoff win since beating Jacksonville in the '98 divisional round. That's right he has less playoff wins than Chan Gailey. What's my point you ask...I do have one that the sports media should be in the business of covering the games and reporting who won and how they did it and less of the speculating on the largesse of these teams and how that they are poised for dominance when the facts don't come close to supporting them. Parties guilty of this include the aforementioned analysts (including Merrill Hoge who said to Cincinnati sports radio talk show host Lance McCallister that the Steelers were still the team to beat in the AFC North), Jim Rome and the FSN Sports night reporters. Stop being a shill for certain teams and give the good teams their due!
So Long Red
I would be remiss if I didn't mention the passing of NBA Legend emeritus Red Auerbach. Though I was never a Boston Celtic fan in any regard and I thought Auerbach a bit crass and arrogant, I will give him his due for a lot of things. When I was younger, I was a big big Lakers Fan. Kareem, Magic, Worthy et al from the showtime era. I thought the Celtics were slow, boring and dumpy. But dammit they always won. And Auerbach was there smoking that cigar. I was happier when the Lakers broke thru in 85 and 87, but the older I got and the more I read about Auerbach and the Celtics, the more I respected what he had done for the game. I didn't know that he was so influential in getting the first black drafted in the NBA, Chuck Cooper. I knew that Auerbach hired the black to coach a pro team in the US in Bill Russell, but I didn't know that he was the first to put 5 black players on the floor to start a game. Auerbach was of the mind set "You can keep all that racial quota bs, I'm putting my best 5 on the court. And he did it in a racially charged era and a racially tough town in Boston. But the fact is that he won...a lot. Auerbach was a winner and a legend. NBA Commish David Stern put it best when he said that Auerbach's death creates a void that can never be filled. Auerbach was a sharp cat up until his death and will be missed.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Week 8 Picks
Before I breakout with a verse of "ewww that smell" I'll vent slightly. The Cards should just start giving back the money to their ticket holders after the two most pathetic showing that an alleged football team could have. I know my colleague has dubbed the Niners as the team that offiically sucks, but I disagree. If my daughter the incredibly loyal Princess Katie who lives in Arizona, has sworn them off (and has smartly become a Vikings fan) you know things are bad. I nominate the Cards as the team that officially sucks. Even the sorry Raid-uhs can sneer at them Do you think that now the Raid-uhs are off the winless schneid that members of the last two teams to go winless The '82 Baltimore Colts (0-8-1) and the '76 Buccaneers (0-14) are popping some MD 20/20 or Wild Irish Rose??? But I digress... In any case your humble scribe will attempt bounce back from his first losing week of the season, submitted for your review and approval are my picks for week 8 Not like anyone will really miss them but Buffalo (2-5); Detroit (1-6); Miami (1-6); Washington (2-5) have a bye this week
Sunday, October 29
Cardinals (1-6) @ Packers (2-4)
Lambeau Field, Green Bay WI-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite- Packers by 3
Its A Fact-These teams have played each other 68 times in their histories
Needless to say the Packers are catching the shuffled Cards at the right time, and while are not a world beater they have juuust enough to beat the Cards who can't catch a break right now. Larry Fitzgerald's health is a key factor. If he's healthy he gives Matt Lineart another option in picking on the Pack's very weak secondary. If Fitz can't go. Anquan Boldin might struggle. As much as a detest the Pack I can't seem them losing at home in the frozen tundra.
Pick-Green Bay
Falcons (4-2) @ Bengals (4-2)
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bengals by 4.5
Just The Facts- The Bengals have won 9 straight at home vs NFC opponents. The Falcons play their first outdoor game since week 1 at Carolina.
The Bengals may have picked themselves off the mat with their gritty, gutty win over the Panthers, I doubt that the Falcons can drop 41 on them, but the Bengals had better be prepared to stop the Falcons top notch run game or Michael Vick and Warrick Dunn will make life miserable for the Bengals faithful. I'm betting that Chad Johnson will eschew the SI cover jinx that has already stung the Bengals once theis season and have a breakout game.
Pick-Cincinnati
Ravens (4-2) @ Saints (5-1)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Saints by 2.5
Its A Fact- The Saints are giving up 4.9 yards a carry
The Ravens will bring a tough D to face the Saints who seem to have an answer for everything. I'm still not a believer but if the Saints can keep it close, funny things can happen. As long as the Ravens make big plays on D and keep the rowdy Superdome crowd out of it, they should be okay, but thats a big if...
Pick-Baltimore
Texans (2-4) @ Titans (1-5)
LP Field, Nashville-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Titans by 3
Its A Fact-The schedule makers must not like the Texans 5 of their next 6 games including this first of the next three are on the road.
Both teams are looking for rare back to back wins and both are looking to build off of stunning upsets of '05 playoff teams. The maturity of Vince Young has surprised many with the exception of this humble scribe. I want to pick the plucky Texans who startled the Jags with an impressive showing, but I can't see 'em doing the deed on the road.
Pick-Tennessee
Jaguars (3-3) @ Eagles (4-3)
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Eagles by 6
Just the Facts-This the Jags first trip to Philly. The Eagles are 15-6 vs the AFC since 2000
Both teams are coming off of stinging road losses, and both need a win in light of their respective brutal 2nd half schedules. The Jags need to establish their running game early to slow the Eagles, who are averaging 31 points per game at home. If the redoubtable Donavan McNabb is able to stand tall in the pocket, a real possible given the Jags depleted pass rush. He could bolster his league leading passing stats.
Pick- Philadelphia
Seahawks (4-2) @ Chiefs (3-3)
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City-1:00 (FOX) Favorite -No LineIts A Fact The Seahawks are 8-8 vs the AFC since being switched to the NFC in 2002This game might resemble a MASH unit with the Seahawks missing Matt Hasseleck and Shaun Alexander and the Chiefs still without Trent Green. Seneca Wallace has some skills but to ask him to make his 1st career start against the Chiefs in the delirium that is Arrowhead is asking way too much. As long as the Chiefs avoid sloppy turnovers and establish the running game, they will have their way
Pick-Kansas City
49ers (2-4) @ Bears (6-0)
Soldier Field, Chicago-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bears by 15.5
Its A Fact-The Niners have allowed 10+ points in their last 47 consecutive games Both teams are well rested after a bye week, but the Bears have all the answers and won't let a team sneak up and punch them in the mouth like the Cards did for the better part of 3 quarters in week 6. I'm not ready to fully believe in Rex Grossman, but he won't have as many problems as he did against the Cards. The Niners are woeful on the road and this is the last team that a bad road team needs to go against.
Pick-Chicago
Buccaneers (2-4) @ Giants (4-2)
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Giants by 9 I
ts A Fact-This is the Bucs first trip to Giants Stadium since 1997, the only time they have won there
The G-Men are looking like the team to beat in the NFC East after their dismantling of Dallas last Monday, but the loss of Lavar Arrington to a season ending Achilles tear will be costly. The Bucs are trying to salvage their season after a horrid start, but the miracle endings stop in the Jersey swamplands. The over under on bad Tiki/Ronde Barber confrontation comments is 5.
Pick-New York Giants
Rams (4-2) @ Chargers (4-2)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego-4:05 (FOX)
Favorite-Chargers by 8.5 Its A Fact-Both teams once played in Los Angeles at the Coliseum. The Rams played there much longer (1946-79) before moving to Anaheim then St. Louis but the Chargers also played there one season (1960) before fleeing south to San Diego.
The Chargers are looking to rebound after a tough road loss at Kansas City. The Rams on paper look to be a formidable opponent offensively and their best chance to win is to try to make it an offensive shootout and make the Chargers throw the ball more. But to be honest that is becoming less and less a viable option as Philip Rivers is rapidly gaining Marty Schottenheimer's trust as a bona fide field general. If the Rams make a mistake and the Chargers get a lead, forget it. LT and Marty ball will pound a weak Rams D.
Pick-San Diego
Colts (6-0) @ Broncos (5-1)
Invesco Field @ Mile High, Denver-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Broncos by 2.5
Its A Fact-The Broncos are 6-1 vs the Colts at home
The weeks best matchup by far, the Colts electric offense against the Broncos super stingy defense. Both teams are on long winning streaks and have imposed their will against their previous opponents. But critics have knocked them for beating on weak competition. If the Colts defense can force Jake Plummer, who is playing behind a revamped O-line, into mistakes they will get more chances to crack the formidable Bronco D. Given enough chances Peyton Manning will get his. But if the Broncos can control the clock via the run, Manning will have fewer chances. Despite manning's success against them, its just so hard to pick against the Broncos at home.
Pick-Denver
Jets (4-3) @ Browns (1-5) Browns Stadium, Cleveland-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite- Browns by 1.5
Its A Fact-The Browns and Jets played the 1st Monday Night game in 1970
Somebody tell me why the sad sack Browns keep getting late day games??? Enough with the rants, the Jets while not flashy have beaten the teams they need to and sport a winning record. The Browns have a decent enough defense their offense has been abysmal. The Jets need only to establish their running game, which has come on strong as of late, and wait for the Browns to tire.Pick-New York Jets
Steelers (2-4) @ Raiders (1-5)
McAfee Coliseum, Oakland-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Steelers by 9
Its A Fact- This is the Steelers first trip to Oakland since 1995
Remember when this was a marquee AFC matchup? Now its just another matchup between weak teams, the Rai-duhs despite getting off the winless island are still a mess. The Steelers have more questions than a Dateline NBC reporter, but regardless of who starts at QB they have more than enough to throttle the hapless team in the East Bay. Let the Steelers are back chants resume.
Pick-Pittsburgh-(lock of the week)
Cowboys (3-3) @ Panthers (4-2)
Bank Of America Stadium, Charlotte-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite- Panthers by 3
Its A Fact- The Cowboys are 5-1 vs Panthers in the regular season while the Panthers have won both postseason meetings.The Pokes are self-destructing and its not even TO's doing. The Tuna has finally grown impatient with Drew Bledsoe and has decided to bank on Tony Romo. Too bad the kid has to face a Panthers D, angry over a late loss in Cincy. With the Cowboys porous offense line getting beat down by the Giants, Julius Peppers and Mike Rucker have to be drooling. Hopefully, Romo has learned how to duck.
Pick-Carolina
Monday, October 23
Patriots (5-1) @ Vikings (4-2)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis- 8:30 ESPN
Favorite-Patriots by 2.5 Its A Fact- The Vikings have yet to give up 20 points in any game, the Pats have scored 20 or more points in all but one of their wins scoring 19 in that win.
The Vikes solid defense will get a real test against the hard charging running game that the Patriots bring. The key is the Vikings ability to move the ball themeselves. Whichever team can establish their offensive will, controls the game. Against my better judgement, I give the home team the slightest of edges.
Pick-Minnesota
Last Week 5-8 (Yeesh)
Overall-64-36
Sunday, October 29
Cardinals (1-6) @ Packers (2-4)
Lambeau Field, Green Bay WI-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite- Packers by 3
Its A Fact-These teams have played each other 68 times in their histories
Needless to say the Packers are catching the shuffled Cards at the right time, and while are not a world beater they have juuust enough to beat the Cards who can't catch a break right now. Larry Fitzgerald's health is a key factor. If he's healthy he gives Matt Lineart another option in picking on the Pack's very weak secondary. If Fitz can't go. Anquan Boldin might struggle. As much as a detest the Pack I can't seem them losing at home in the frozen tundra.
Pick-Green Bay
Falcons (4-2) @ Bengals (4-2)
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bengals by 4.5
Just The Facts- The Bengals have won 9 straight at home vs NFC opponents. The Falcons play their first outdoor game since week 1 at Carolina.
The Bengals may have picked themselves off the mat with their gritty, gutty win over the Panthers, I doubt that the Falcons can drop 41 on them, but the Bengals had better be prepared to stop the Falcons top notch run game or Michael Vick and Warrick Dunn will make life miserable for the Bengals faithful. I'm betting that Chad Johnson will eschew the SI cover jinx that has already stung the Bengals once theis season and have a breakout game.
Pick-Cincinnati
Ravens (4-2) @ Saints (5-1)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Saints by 2.5
Its A Fact- The Saints are giving up 4.9 yards a carry
The Ravens will bring a tough D to face the Saints who seem to have an answer for everything. I'm still not a believer but if the Saints can keep it close, funny things can happen. As long as the Ravens make big plays on D and keep the rowdy Superdome crowd out of it, they should be okay, but thats a big if...
Pick-Baltimore
Texans (2-4) @ Titans (1-5)
LP Field, Nashville-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite Titans by 3
Its A Fact-The schedule makers must not like the Texans 5 of their next 6 games including this first of the next three are on the road.
Both teams are looking for rare back to back wins and both are looking to build off of stunning upsets of '05 playoff teams. The maturity of Vince Young has surprised many with the exception of this humble scribe. I want to pick the plucky Texans who startled the Jags with an impressive showing, but I can't see 'em doing the deed on the road.
Pick-Tennessee
Jaguars (3-3) @ Eagles (4-3)
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Eagles by 6
Just the Facts-This the Jags first trip to Philly. The Eagles are 15-6 vs the AFC since 2000
Both teams are coming off of stinging road losses, and both need a win in light of their respective brutal 2nd half schedules. The Jags need to establish their running game early to slow the Eagles, who are averaging 31 points per game at home. If the redoubtable Donavan McNabb is able to stand tall in the pocket, a real possible given the Jags depleted pass rush. He could bolster his league leading passing stats.
Pick- Philadelphia
Seahawks (4-2) @ Chiefs (3-3)
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City-1:00 (FOX) Favorite -No LineIts A Fact The Seahawks are 8-8 vs the AFC since being switched to the NFC in 2002This game might resemble a MASH unit with the Seahawks missing Matt Hasseleck and Shaun Alexander and the Chiefs still without Trent Green. Seneca Wallace has some skills but to ask him to make his 1st career start against the Chiefs in the delirium that is Arrowhead is asking way too much. As long as the Chiefs avoid sloppy turnovers and establish the running game, they will have their way
Pick-Kansas City
49ers (2-4) @ Bears (6-0)
Soldier Field, Chicago-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bears by 15.5
Its A Fact-The Niners have allowed 10+ points in their last 47 consecutive games Both teams are well rested after a bye week, but the Bears have all the answers and won't let a team sneak up and punch them in the mouth like the Cards did for the better part of 3 quarters in week 6. I'm not ready to fully believe in Rex Grossman, but he won't have as many problems as he did against the Cards. The Niners are woeful on the road and this is the last team that a bad road team needs to go against.
Pick-Chicago
Buccaneers (2-4) @ Giants (4-2)
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Giants by 9 I
ts A Fact-This is the Bucs first trip to Giants Stadium since 1997, the only time they have won there
The G-Men are looking like the team to beat in the NFC East after their dismantling of Dallas last Monday, but the loss of Lavar Arrington to a season ending Achilles tear will be costly. The Bucs are trying to salvage their season after a horrid start, but the miracle endings stop in the Jersey swamplands. The over under on bad Tiki/Ronde Barber confrontation comments is 5.
Pick-New York Giants
Rams (4-2) @ Chargers (4-2)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego-4:05 (FOX)
Favorite-Chargers by 8.5 Its A Fact-Both teams once played in Los Angeles at the Coliseum. The Rams played there much longer (1946-79) before moving to Anaheim then St. Louis but the Chargers also played there one season (1960) before fleeing south to San Diego.
The Chargers are looking to rebound after a tough road loss at Kansas City. The Rams on paper look to be a formidable opponent offensively and their best chance to win is to try to make it an offensive shootout and make the Chargers throw the ball more. But to be honest that is becoming less and less a viable option as Philip Rivers is rapidly gaining Marty Schottenheimer's trust as a bona fide field general. If the Rams make a mistake and the Chargers get a lead, forget it. LT and Marty ball will pound a weak Rams D.
Pick-San Diego
Colts (6-0) @ Broncos (5-1)
Invesco Field @ Mile High, Denver-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Broncos by 2.5
Its A Fact-The Broncos are 6-1 vs the Colts at home
The weeks best matchup by far, the Colts electric offense against the Broncos super stingy defense. Both teams are on long winning streaks and have imposed their will against their previous opponents. But critics have knocked them for beating on weak competition. If the Colts defense can force Jake Plummer, who is playing behind a revamped O-line, into mistakes they will get more chances to crack the formidable Bronco D. Given enough chances Peyton Manning will get his. But if the Broncos can control the clock via the run, Manning will have fewer chances. Despite manning's success against them, its just so hard to pick against the Broncos at home.
Pick-Denver
Jets (4-3) @ Browns (1-5) Browns Stadium, Cleveland-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite- Browns by 1.5
Its A Fact-The Browns and Jets played the 1st Monday Night game in 1970
Somebody tell me why the sad sack Browns keep getting late day games??? Enough with the rants, the Jets while not flashy have beaten the teams they need to and sport a winning record. The Browns have a decent enough defense their offense has been abysmal. The Jets need only to establish their running game, which has come on strong as of late, and wait for the Browns to tire.Pick-New York Jets
Steelers (2-4) @ Raiders (1-5)
McAfee Coliseum, Oakland-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Steelers by 9
Its A Fact- This is the Steelers first trip to Oakland since 1995
Remember when this was a marquee AFC matchup? Now its just another matchup between weak teams, the Rai-duhs despite getting off the winless island are still a mess. The Steelers have more questions than a Dateline NBC reporter, but regardless of who starts at QB they have more than enough to throttle the hapless team in the East Bay. Let the Steelers are back chants resume.
Pick-Pittsburgh-(lock of the week)
Cowboys (3-3) @ Panthers (4-2)
Bank Of America Stadium, Charlotte-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite- Panthers by 3
Its A Fact- The Cowboys are 5-1 vs Panthers in the regular season while the Panthers have won both postseason meetings.The Pokes are self-destructing and its not even TO's doing. The Tuna has finally grown impatient with Drew Bledsoe and has decided to bank on Tony Romo. Too bad the kid has to face a Panthers D, angry over a late loss in Cincy. With the Cowboys porous offense line getting beat down by the Giants, Julius Peppers and Mike Rucker have to be drooling. Hopefully, Romo has learned how to duck.
Pick-Carolina
Monday, October 23
Patriots (5-1) @ Vikings (4-2)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis- 8:30 ESPN
Favorite-Patriots by 2.5 Its A Fact- The Vikings have yet to give up 20 points in any game, the Pats have scored 20 or more points in all but one of their wins scoring 19 in that win.
The Vikes solid defense will get a real test against the hard charging running game that the Patriots bring. The key is the Vikings ability to move the ball themeselves. Whichever team can establish their offensive will, controls the game. Against my better judgement, I give the home team the slightest of edges.
Pick-Minnesota
Last Week 5-8 (Yeesh)
Overall-64-36
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Borrring World Series
The Cards and Tigers are playing in the World Series and the general populace seems to care less. Both teams have world class managers, have overcome long odds to get here and the collective sports world yawns. Well if the games didn't start so late and go so interminably long, maybe folks (including me) would care. The way that Fox has done the Series is boring and horrible. Don't hand me that baloney that because the Yankees aren't in it for you to root against, it's not compelling. The last time the Yankees were in the series. No one cared. I know why and I can list them.
1) MLB doesn't hype the series. Now granted, I know that the Game 7 of the NLCS was on a Thursday and Game 1 of the World Series was on a Saturday, but there needs to be more hype. Not just from the over-coverage on ESPN, but the media seems to have written off the series, just because a sexy team like the Yankees or Mets aren't there.
2) The scheduling is all wrong. There are too many night games, Now I'm not saying that all the games should have a 1 PM start, that unrealistic. The first game starting on a Saturday is fine, but have it on Saturday afternoon, at about 4 And don't give me all this hogwash about conflicting with college football, they can live with the conflict. The NFL you would lose, have that game at night. And all these games starting at 8:30 eastern??? Start the games at 7 Eastern, My mom used to let me stay up a little later to watch the last part of the game if it was just 10, but I can't stay awake to watch the games as the go past 11.
3) The game is not visually friendly anymore. Fox has some go visual ideas but they've gotten too cluttered. The score and count box up top is fine. But all the extreaneous stuff can be done away with, they go way too indepth and try to be too cute with the special effects when they are trying to show stats.
I could rant further, but I'd put you to sleep quicker than the games have been...The NFL picks are forthcoming. I just had to vent
1) MLB doesn't hype the series. Now granted, I know that the Game 7 of the NLCS was on a Thursday and Game 1 of the World Series was on a Saturday, but there needs to be more hype. Not just from the over-coverage on ESPN, but the media seems to have written off the series, just because a sexy team like the Yankees or Mets aren't there.
2) The scheduling is all wrong. There are too many night games, Now I'm not saying that all the games should have a 1 PM start, that unrealistic. The first game starting on a Saturday is fine, but have it on Saturday afternoon, at about 4 And don't give me all this hogwash about conflicting with college football, they can live with the conflict. The NFL you would lose, have that game at night. And all these games starting at 8:30 eastern??? Start the games at 7 Eastern, My mom used to let me stay up a little later to watch the last part of the game if it was just 10, but I can't stay awake to watch the games as the go past 11.
3) The game is not visually friendly anymore. Fox has some go visual ideas but they've gotten too cluttered. The score and count box up top is fine. But all the extreaneous stuff can be done away with, they go way too indepth and try to be too cute with the special effects when they are trying to show stats.
I could rant further, but I'd put you to sleep quicker than the games have been...The NFL picks are forthcoming. I just had to vent
Friday, October 20, 2006
Week 7 Picks
It seemed that everyone had a so-so week. As long as it wasn't a losing one, I have no real problem. I was resigned to a 7-6 till the Cardinals became the folding Cards. Yikes, Blowing a 23-3 lead and not giving up an offensive touchdown is criminal. This is the second week that six teams are on a bye and there is no chance for you to sing along the Sunday Night Football theme with Pink as the NFL steps aside for game 2 of the World Series. Submitted for your review and approval are this weeks picks. Note: Baltimore (4-2); Chicago (6-0); New Orleans (5-1); San Francisco (2-4); St. Louis (4-2); Tennessee (1-5) have a bye this week.
NFL SCHEDULE – WEEK 7
Sunday, October 22
Panthers (4-2) @ Bengals (3-2)
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bengals by 3.5
It's a Fact-The Panthers are the only NFL team that the Bengals have never beaten (0-2) The Bengals are stll reeling after their tough last minute loss to the Bucs. The problem is the degree of difficulty gets steeper as the Panthers have a veteran QB in Jake Delhomme and a bruising runner to match in DeShaun Foster. Oh, did I mention that defense. Mr. Lewis, Mr. Palmer et al you have a problem.
Pick-Carolina
Lions (1-5) @ Jets (3-3)
The Meadowlands; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite Jets by 3.5
Its A Fact-The Lions have lost their last three road games by an average of 14.3 points
Both teams are feeling good about themselves after identical 20-17 wins. The Jets have a lot more going for them offensively. The Lions are suspect everytime that they take the field. I think that the karma of Jim Leyland and the Tigers rubbed off on the Motor City Kitties last week, too bad that won't be the case this week.
Pick-NY Jets
Packers (1-4) @ Dolphins (1-5)
Dolphins Stadium, Miami 1 (Fox)
Favorite-Miami by 3.5
It's A Fact-The Packers have won only 1 time in Miami and they didn't beat the Dolphins, they beat the Raiders 33-14 in Super Bowl 2 at the Orange Bowl in Jan 1968
These once proud franchises have fallen into a sorry state. Brett Favre looks like he is more and more ready to call it quits and the Dolphins find a way to self-destruct every week. The question here is who will implode first. My guess is that the Packers will melt in the still potent South Florida heat and that Chris Chambers will feast on a weak Pack secondary. I don't think that even Joey Harrington could mess this one up.
Pick-Miami
Jaguars (3-2) @ Texans (1-4)
Reliant Stadium, Houston-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Jaguars by 9.5
Its A Fact-The Texans have lost their last 7 divisional games
The Jags are well rested after their bye and the Texans have TO's treadmarks all over them still. Matt Jones may not have that type of game, but look for Byron Leftwich to try to get him the ball often. If the Texans can utilize their running game against a depleted Jags LB corps they might keep it close but the Jags are simply better and will wear the Texans down.
Pick-Jacksonville (Lock of The Week)
Patriots (4-1) @ Bills (2-4)
Ralph Wilson Stadium; Orchard Park, NY-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Patriots by 5.5
Its A Fact-The Pats bave beaten the Bills in their last 5 meetings by an average of 20.2 points The Pats demise has seem to be untimely indeed. They don't win flashy and are starting to look vanilla, but Tom Brady's methodical approach is getting it done. The Bills are an enigma, not knowing which way is up. If the Pats D can get to JP Losman, this will get ugly fast.
Pick-New England
Eagles (4-2) @ Buccaneers (1-4)
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa-1:00 FOX
Favorite-Eagles by 4
Fast Fact-These teams have split their past four meetings in Tampa
The Bucs are riding high after a last min win versus Cincy while the Eagles are coming off a tough loss in New Orleans. The key to the Eagles success is their ability to contain Simeon Rice. If McNabb, currently the NFL's top rated passer, can sit back in the pocket comfortably, he'll pick on the Bucs small secondary at will. If the Bucs make McNabb hurry, they'll keep it close. Pick-Philadelphia
Steelers (2-3) @ Falcons (3-2)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Steelers by 1.5
Its A Fact-The Steelers and Falcons played the NFL's last tie game a 34-all contest in 2002
The sports media so desperate for the Steelers to look feared are trumpeting their 45-7 thrashing of the increasing hopeless Chiefs as the return to form.I still am not sold that the Steelers are dead, but they have a long way to go. Don't get it twisted, the Steelers have yet to beat a true playoff caliber team, and to do so on the road is a doubly tough task If Warrick Dunn can get near the 146 yards he had last week, the Falcons could make the Steelers sweat. I give a slight edge to the Falcons only because they are at home.
Pick-Atlanta
Chargers (4-1) @ Chiefs (2-3)
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Chargers by 5
Its A Fact-The Chiefs have scored 20 points in one game this season, while the Chargers have yet to allow 20 points in any game this season
The Chargers are on a roll after their LT enhanced beatdown of the Niners while the Chiefs are reeling after getting the woodshed treatment by the Steelers. This is a dangerous game for the Chargers who are trying to keep pace with the Broncos. If the Chiefs can control the clock which has been their recipe for success in recent wins over the Chargers they will make it tough. But the Chargers bring a top filght run defense. If the Chargers get an early lead, look for Marty ball to take over.
Pick-San Diego
Broncos (4-1) @ Browns (1-4)
Cleveland Browns Stadium-4:05 CBS
Favorite-Broncos by 5
Its A Fact-The Browns have yet to beat the Broncos since returning to the NFL in 1999 (0-2) The Browns anemic offense (1 game over 20 points) does not need to see the miserly defense of the Broncos (37 points allowed in 5 games, 19 in the last four) Charlie Frye will have his hands full with Broncos hard charging front four and if the Jake Plummer gets the offense running it'll be a long day.
Pick-Denver
Cardinals (1-5) @ Raiders (0-5)
McAfee Coliseum, Oakland-4:15
FOX Favorite-Cardinals by 3
Its A Fact-The Raiders lead the all-time series 4-2
While it was fun to watch Dennis Green meltdown after his team did likewise against the Bears Monday. Everyone fully knows that he has put himself in a must win situation. The Raiders have that zombie look about them already, while the Cards are laughable, they are capable and should have no trouble imposing their will against this pathetic squad. Brady Quinn's Raiders destiny gets closer.
Pick-Arizona
Vikings (3-2) @ Seahawks (4-1)
Quest Field, Seattle-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Seahawks by 7
Its A Fact-Shaun Alexander scored 5 TDs against the Vikings the last time these teams played in Seattle in 2002
Fortunatley for the Vikes, Alexander the Great is still coming off his Madden Jinx injury. Maurice Morris has shown to be a capable backup but his fumblitis nearly cost the Seahawks the game last week. If he can get rolling the Vikes will have to respect the run and give Matt Hasselbeck time in pocket. The Vikes putrid offense has yet to generate any real threat, dont be fooled by the 26 they hung on the Lions two weeks ago. The D scored twice in that game. The Seahawks are riding a 12 game win streak. I hope I'm wrong but they have enough even without Alexander to make it a bakers dozen.
Pick-Seattle
Redskins (2-4) @ Colts (5-0)
RCA Dome,Indy-4:15 (FOX) Favorite-Colts by 9.5
Its A Fact-Indy leads the all time series 17-10 The Colts come in off the bye week and the suddenly suspect Skins are just the thing they need to get their up and down offense rolling. The Skins, humiliated by a loss to previously the previously winless Titans are a bad loss away from imploding. Peyton Manning and company are ready to light the fuse.
Pick-Indy
Monday, October 23
NY Giants (3-2) @ Cowboys(3-2)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Cowboys by 3.5
Fast Fact-The Cowboys have 50+ alltime wins against each of the their NFC East foes
The Pokes are the picture of happiness after their expected dismantling of the Texans. The G-Men have rediscovered their defense in wins over the Skins and Falcons. If The G-Men can get to the immobile Drew Bledsoe via the Pokes weak o-line, he can be rushed into mistakes. If he has time, he can and will abuse a weak Giant secondary Eli Manning can count on Tiki Barber to keep the defense honest, but he has to avoid turnovers. This will be a tight game.
Pick-Dallas
Last Week:8-5
Overall 59-28
NFL SCHEDULE – WEEK 7
Sunday, October 22
Panthers (4-2) @ Bengals (3-2)
Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite-Bengals by 3.5
It's a Fact-The Panthers are the only NFL team that the Bengals have never beaten (0-2) The Bengals are stll reeling after their tough last minute loss to the Bucs. The problem is the degree of difficulty gets steeper as the Panthers have a veteran QB in Jake Delhomme and a bruising runner to match in DeShaun Foster. Oh, did I mention that defense. Mr. Lewis, Mr. Palmer et al you have a problem.
Pick-Carolina
Lions (1-5) @ Jets (3-3)
The Meadowlands; East Rutherford, NJ-1:00 (FOX)
Favorite Jets by 3.5
Its A Fact-The Lions have lost their last three road games by an average of 14.3 points
Both teams are feeling good about themselves after identical 20-17 wins. The Jets have a lot more going for them offensively. The Lions are suspect everytime that they take the field. I think that the karma of Jim Leyland and the Tigers rubbed off on the Motor City Kitties last week, too bad that won't be the case this week.
Pick-NY Jets
Packers (1-4) @ Dolphins (1-5)
Dolphins Stadium, Miami 1 (Fox)
Favorite-Miami by 3.5
It's A Fact-The Packers have won only 1 time in Miami and they didn't beat the Dolphins, they beat the Raiders 33-14 in Super Bowl 2 at the Orange Bowl in Jan 1968
These once proud franchises have fallen into a sorry state. Brett Favre looks like he is more and more ready to call it quits and the Dolphins find a way to self-destruct every week. The question here is who will implode first. My guess is that the Packers will melt in the still potent South Florida heat and that Chris Chambers will feast on a weak Pack secondary. I don't think that even Joey Harrington could mess this one up.
Pick-Miami
Jaguars (3-2) @ Texans (1-4)
Reliant Stadium, Houston-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Jaguars by 9.5
Its A Fact-The Texans have lost their last 7 divisional games
The Jags are well rested after their bye and the Texans have TO's treadmarks all over them still. Matt Jones may not have that type of game, but look for Byron Leftwich to try to get him the ball often. If the Texans can utilize their running game against a depleted Jags LB corps they might keep it close but the Jags are simply better and will wear the Texans down.
Pick-Jacksonville (Lock of The Week)
Patriots (4-1) @ Bills (2-4)
Ralph Wilson Stadium; Orchard Park, NY-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Patriots by 5.5
Its A Fact-The Pats bave beaten the Bills in their last 5 meetings by an average of 20.2 points The Pats demise has seem to be untimely indeed. They don't win flashy and are starting to look vanilla, but Tom Brady's methodical approach is getting it done. The Bills are an enigma, not knowing which way is up. If the Pats D can get to JP Losman, this will get ugly fast.
Pick-New England
Eagles (4-2) @ Buccaneers (1-4)
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa-1:00 FOX
Favorite-Eagles by 4
Fast Fact-These teams have split their past four meetings in Tampa
The Bucs are riding high after a last min win versus Cincy while the Eagles are coming off a tough loss in New Orleans. The key to the Eagles success is their ability to contain Simeon Rice. If McNabb, currently the NFL's top rated passer, can sit back in the pocket comfortably, he'll pick on the Bucs small secondary at will. If the Bucs make McNabb hurry, they'll keep it close. Pick-Philadelphia
Steelers (2-3) @ Falcons (3-2)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Steelers by 1.5
Its A Fact-The Steelers and Falcons played the NFL's last tie game a 34-all contest in 2002
The sports media so desperate for the Steelers to look feared are trumpeting their 45-7 thrashing of the increasing hopeless Chiefs as the return to form.I still am not sold that the Steelers are dead, but they have a long way to go. Don't get it twisted, the Steelers have yet to beat a true playoff caliber team, and to do so on the road is a doubly tough task If Warrick Dunn can get near the 146 yards he had last week, the Falcons could make the Steelers sweat. I give a slight edge to the Falcons only because they are at home.
Pick-Atlanta
Chargers (4-1) @ Chiefs (2-3)
Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Chargers by 5
Its A Fact-The Chiefs have scored 20 points in one game this season, while the Chargers have yet to allow 20 points in any game this season
The Chargers are on a roll after their LT enhanced beatdown of the Niners while the Chiefs are reeling after getting the woodshed treatment by the Steelers. This is a dangerous game for the Chargers who are trying to keep pace with the Broncos. If the Chiefs can control the clock which has been their recipe for success in recent wins over the Chargers they will make it tough. But the Chargers bring a top filght run defense. If the Chargers get an early lead, look for Marty ball to take over.
Pick-San Diego
Broncos (4-1) @ Browns (1-4)
Cleveland Browns Stadium-4:05 CBS
Favorite-Broncos by 5
Its A Fact-The Browns have yet to beat the Broncos since returning to the NFL in 1999 (0-2) The Browns anemic offense (1 game over 20 points) does not need to see the miserly defense of the Broncos (37 points allowed in 5 games, 19 in the last four) Charlie Frye will have his hands full with Broncos hard charging front four and if the Jake Plummer gets the offense running it'll be a long day.
Pick-Denver
Cardinals (1-5) @ Raiders (0-5)
McAfee Coliseum, Oakland-4:15
FOX Favorite-Cardinals by 3
Its A Fact-The Raiders lead the all-time series 4-2
While it was fun to watch Dennis Green meltdown after his team did likewise against the Bears Monday. Everyone fully knows that he has put himself in a must win situation. The Raiders have that zombie look about them already, while the Cards are laughable, they are capable and should have no trouble imposing their will against this pathetic squad. Brady Quinn's Raiders destiny gets closer.
Pick-Arizona
Vikings (3-2) @ Seahawks (4-1)
Quest Field, Seattle-4:15 (FOX)
Favorite-Seahawks by 7
Its A Fact-Shaun Alexander scored 5 TDs against the Vikings the last time these teams played in Seattle in 2002
Fortunatley for the Vikes, Alexander the Great is still coming off his Madden Jinx injury. Maurice Morris has shown to be a capable backup but his fumblitis nearly cost the Seahawks the game last week. If he can get rolling the Vikes will have to respect the run and give Matt Hasselbeck time in pocket. The Vikes putrid offense has yet to generate any real threat, dont be fooled by the 26 they hung on the Lions two weeks ago. The D scored twice in that game. The Seahawks are riding a 12 game win streak. I hope I'm wrong but they have enough even without Alexander to make it a bakers dozen.
Pick-Seattle
Redskins (2-4) @ Colts (5-0)
RCA Dome,Indy-4:15 (FOX) Favorite-Colts by 9.5
Its A Fact-Indy leads the all time series 17-10 The Colts come in off the bye week and the suddenly suspect Skins are just the thing they need to get their up and down offense rolling. The Skins, humiliated by a loss to previously the previously winless Titans are a bad loss away from imploding. Peyton Manning and company are ready to light the fuse.
Pick-Indy
Monday, October 23
NY Giants (3-2) @ Cowboys(3-2)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Cowboys by 3.5
Fast Fact-The Cowboys have 50+ alltime wins against each of the their NFC East foes
The Pokes are the picture of happiness after their expected dismantling of the Texans. The G-Men have rediscovered their defense in wins over the Skins and Falcons. If The G-Men can get to the immobile Drew Bledsoe via the Pokes weak o-line, he can be rushed into mistakes. If he has time, he can and will abuse a weak Giant secondary Eli Manning can count on Tiki Barber to keep the defense honest, but he has to avoid turnovers. This will be a tight game.
Pick-Dallas
Last Week:8-5
Overall 59-28
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Week 6 Picks
13-1, I would have had a perfect week had I not thought the Chiefs would fall on the road. (Thanks for nothing Rackers) but a solid week nonetheless, and to think I thought there were some tossups last week. Only 12 games this week, I guess the NFL is trying to defer to baseball (withhold guffaws please) this week.
Note: New England, Indy, Minnesota, Green Bay, Jacksonville, Cleveland, have a bye this week
Sunday, October 15
Bills (2-3) @ Lions (0-5)
Ford Field, Detroit-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Lions by 1.5
The motor city kitties can't catch a break, they get a Bills team looking for someone to take it out on after getting throttled by Da Bears, their saviour QB Jon Kitna is starting to round into 2002 form and the city could care less about their struggles as the ALCS game 5 could be playing that afternoon just a few blocks away. The Bills will have most Lions fans looking for the remote well before the Tigers 4 PM start.
Pick-Buffalo
Panthers (3-2) @ Ravens (4-1)
M&T Bank Stadium-1:00 (Fox)
Favorite-Ravens by 3
The Ravens offense looked sickly against a robust Denver D on Monday, and gird themselves for another trench war against a stout Panther D. The Panthers running game needs to assert itself while the Ravens hope that their anemic ground game can get on track. This is a game too close to call, but I'm just not sold on the Ravens just yet
Pick-Carolina
Bengals (3-1) @ Buccaneers (0-4)
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bengals by 6
The Bengals look to bounce back after a stinging loss to the Pats two weeks ago. The Bucs, a playoff team year ago are a hot mess. If Carnell Williams can't put the numbers up, it'll be a long day for Bruce Gradkowski against the Bengals big-play ball hawking secondary. Depsite what the Bucs team website wants you to believe Carson Palmer shold have no trouble picking on the Bucs soft defense.
Pick-Cincinnati
Texans (1-3) @ Cowboys (2-2)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Cowboys by 12.5
The Texans are feeling froggy after getting their first win over the sad sack dolphins. They picked the absolute wrong time to cross the Pokes, angry after losing the T.O. bowl. Add to boot the Cowboys ruefully remember what happened the last time they played the Texans. The Pokes are the only team that the Texans have a winning record against, as they inaugural game was a 19-3 shocker win in Houston in 2002.This could get ugly fast
Pick-Dallas
NY Giants (2-2) @ Falcons (3-1)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta-1:00 (Fox)
Favorite-Falcons by 3
The G-Men are confident after beating the Redskins, but a facing a rested Falcon squad on the road will be a little more sterner test. Best of luck to Lavar Arrington trying to contain the Falcons dynamic running game and if Michael Vick utilizes Ashley Lelie and Alge Crumpler, the G-Men will be in deep trouble.
Pick-Atlanta
Eagles (4-1) @ Saints (4-1)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans1:00 (Fox)
Favorite-Eagles by 3
The Saints are no joke to be sure and figure they are invincable at home. The Eagles are looking more and more like their 2004 Super Bowl squad. As long as Reggie Bush doesn't go nuts the Iggles should be tested but not beaten by a game Saints squad.
Pick-Philadelphia
Seahawks (3-1) @ Rams (4-1)
Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis-1:00 (Fox)
Favorite-Seahawks by 3.5
Early control of the NFC West is on the line here, the Seahawks have had two weeks to stew about the Sunday night woodshed treatment that they took from the Da Bears. I have a hard time believing the Rams are for real as they have skirted by in on close one after another against mostly weak opposition. I think the Rams come back to earth in a big way.
Pick-Seattle
Tennessee (0-5) @ Washington (2-3)
FedEx Field; Landover MD-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Redskins by 9
The Titans are another team that can't catch a break. Hard luck losers to the Colts they catch a Skins team that is not a bit too happy after getting slugged by the Giants. As long as the Skins don't look past this game to a road tilt in Indy they should handle their business with ease.
Pick-Washington
Chiefs (2-2) @ Steelers (1-3) Heinz Field, Pittsburgh-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Steelers by 6.5 The Steelers are nearly in panic mode after 3 straight losses and a loss to the Chiefs would render them as good as dead in the heavyweight AFC North. After two wins the Chiefs are thinking that they are still very much in the hunt. I'm not betting against the Steelers at home in a make or break game just yet.
Pick-Pittsburgh
Dolphins (1-4) @ NY Jets (2-3)
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Jets by 3
Why is this a late game??? The Fins cant get out of their own way and one never knows what Jets team will show up from week to week. No telling which Fins QB is worse. Look for the J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets Jets to bounce back strong at home.
Pick-New York
Chargers (3-1) @ 49ers (2-3)
Monster Park, San Francisco-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Chargers by 9.5
The Chargers are trying to assert themselves as a top shelf AFC team after beating the Steelers. The Niners are showing some improvement, but they haven't gotten that good yet. Alex Smith will have a hard time dealing with the head knocking Charger D.
Pick-San Diego
Raiders(0-4) @ Broncos (3-1)
Invesco Field At Mile High, Denver-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite-Broncos by 15.5
Betcha when NBC got this game they thought "Oh boy, a classic matchup!" Now they are hoping that the Parental Guidance council doesn't Explicit sticker this game. The Raiders offense is a joke and the Bronco defense is stingier than Scrooge. Combine all this with it being in Denver and this is a horror show waiting to happen
Pick-Denver
Monday, October 16
Chicago (5-0) @ Arizona (1-4)
University of Phoenix Stadium; Glendale, AZ-8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Bears by 10
The NFL is probably shaking its head at the so-called marquee matchups this week as the Monday Nighter has dud potential written all over it as well. Da Bears have only given up double digits one time and have scored more points in two different games than they have allowed total. All very bad news for a Cards team that fancied itself ready for the next step. All they will get is a primetime beatdown. Pick-Chicago
Last Week 13-1 (Yes Sir!!!)
Overall 51-23
Note: New England, Indy, Minnesota, Green Bay, Jacksonville, Cleveland, have a bye this week
Sunday, October 15
Bills (2-3) @ Lions (0-5)
Ford Field, Detroit-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Lions by 1.5
The motor city kitties can't catch a break, they get a Bills team looking for someone to take it out on after getting throttled by Da Bears, their saviour QB Jon Kitna is starting to round into 2002 form and the city could care less about their struggles as the ALCS game 5 could be playing that afternoon just a few blocks away. The Bills will have most Lions fans looking for the remote well before the Tigers 4 PM start.
Pick-Buffalo
Panthers (3-2) @ Ravens (4-1)
M&T Bank Stadium-1:00 (Fox)
Favorite-Ravens by 3
The Ravens offense looked sickly against a robust Denver D on Monday, and gird themselves for another trench war against a stout Panther D. The Panthers running game needs to assert itself while the Ravens hope that their anemic ground game can get on track. This is a game too close to call, but I'm just not sold on the Ravens just yet
Pick-Carolina
Bengals (3-1) @ Buccaneers (0-4)
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Bengals by 6
The Bengals look to bounce back after a stinging loss to the Pats two weeks ago. The Bucs, a playoff team year ago are a hot mess. If Carnell Williams can't put the numbers up, it'll be a long day for Bruce Gradkowski against the Bengals big-play ball hawking secondary. Depsite what the Bucs team website wants you to believe Carson Palmer shold have no trouble picking on the Bucs soft defense.
Pick-Cincinnati
Texans (1-3) @ Cowboys (2-2)
Texas Stadium; Irving, TX-1:00 CBS
Favorite-Cowboys by 12.5
The Texans are feeling froggy after getting their first win over the sad sack dolphins. They picked the absolute wrong time to cross the Pokes, angry after losing the T.O. bowl. Add to boot the Cowboys ruefully remember what happened the last time they played the Texans. The Pokes are the only team that the Texans have a winning record against, as they inaugural game was a 19-3 shocker win in Houston in 2002.This could get ugly fast
Pick-Dallas
NY Giants (2-2) @ Falcons (3-1)
Georgia Dome, Atlanta-1:00 (Fox)
Favorite-Falcons by 3
The G-Men are confident after beating the Redskins, but a facing a rested Falcon squad on the road will be a little more sterner test. Best of luck to Lavar Arrington trying to contain the Falcons dynamic running game and if Michael Vick utilizes Ashley Lelie and Alge Crumpler, the G-Men will be in deep trouble.
Pick-Atlanta
Eagles (4-1) @ Saints (4-1)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans1:00 (Fox)
Favorite-Eagles by 3
The Saints are no joke to be sure and figure they are invincable at home. The Eagles are looking more and more like their 2004 Super Bowl squad. As long as Reggie Bush doesn't go nuts the Iggles should be tested but not beaten by a game Saints squad.
Pick-Philadelphia
Seahawks (3-1) @ Rams (4-1)
Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis-1:00 (Fox)
Favorite-Seahawks by 3.5
Early control of the NFC West is on the line here, the Seahawks have had two weeks to stew about the Sunday night woodshed treatment that they took from the Da Bears. I have a hard time believing the Rams are for real as they have skirted by in on close one after another against mostly weak opposition. I think the Rams come back to earth in a big way.
Pick-Seattle
Tennessee (0-5) @ Washington (2-3)
FedEx Field; Landover MD-1:00 (CBS)
Favorite-Redskins by 9
The Titans are another team that can't catch a break. Hard luck losers to the Colts they catch a Skins team that is not a bit too happy after getting slugged by the Giants. As long as the Skins don't look past this game to a road tilt in Indy they should handle their business with ease.
Pick-Washington
Chiefs (2-2) @ Steelers (1-3) Heinz Field, Pittsburgh-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Steelers by 6.5 The Steelers are nearly in panic mode after 3 straight losses and a loss to the Chiefs would render them as good as dead in the heavyweight AFC North. After two wins the Chiefs are thinking that they are still very much in the hunt. I'm not betting against the Steelers at home in a make or break game just yet.
Pick-Pittsburgh
Dolphins (1-4) @ NY Jets (2-3)
Giants Stadium; East Rutherford, NJ-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Jets by 3
Why is this a late game??? The Fins cant get out of their own way and one never knows what Jets team will show up from week to week. No telling which Fins QB is worse. Look for the J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets Jets to bounce back strong at home.
Pick-New York
Chargers (3-1) @ 49ers (2-3)
Monster Park, San Francisco-4:15 (CBS)
Favorite-Chargers by 9.5
The Chargers are trying to assert themselves as a top shelf AFC team after beating the Steelers. The Niners are showing some improvement, but they haven't gotten that good yet. Alex Smith will have a hard time dealing with the head knocking Charger D.
Pick-San Diego
Raiders(0-4) @ Broncos (3-1)
Invesco Field At Mile High, Denver-8:15 (NBC)
Favorite-Broncos by 15.5
Betcha when NBC got this game they thought "Oh boy, a classic matchup!" Now they are hoping that the Parental Guidance council doesn't Explicit sticker this game. The Raiders offense is a joke and the Bronco defense is stingier than Scrooge. Combine all this with it being in Denver and this is a horror show waiting to happen
Pick-Denver
Monday, October 16
Chicago (5-0) @ Arizona (1-4)
University of Phoenix Stadium; Glendale, AZ-8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite-Bears by 10
The NFL is probably shaking its head at the so-called marquee matchups this week as the Monday Nighter has dud potential written all over it as well. Da Bears have only given up double digits one time and have scored more points in two different games than they have allowed total. All very bad news for a Cards team that fancied itself ready for the next step. All they will get is a primetime beatdown. Pick-Chicago
Last Week 13-1 (Yes Sir!!!)
Overall 51-23
Monday, October 09, 2006
Baseball Loses Legend
I would be greatly remiss if I did not note the passing of John "Buck" O'Neill. Negro Baseball league legend and the first black coach in Major League baseball. O'Neill passed away Friday at the age of 94. O'Neill was as a big an ambassador for the game of baseball as you could find. It was a damn shame that he was not elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame last year. O'Neill was a class act regardless, acting as the presentor for the Negro Leaguers that were inducted last year. I hope that MLB rights this injustice by inducting O'Neill in posthumously with the upcoming class.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Yankees Out...Torre to Follow???
After the Detroit Tigers beat the New York Yankees 8-3 last night and eliminating the Bombers 3-1, the speculation started to run rampant. Now there are reports by the New York Daily News that Yanks manager Joe Torre will be fired and Lou Pinella will be named as his replacement.
Damn...
The Yankees have won 4 World Series with Torre in the past 11 years. Though they have not been since 2003 and not won since 2000. Buster Olney's book Last Night of The Yankee Dynasty sounds more and more prescient by the year. George Steinbrenner is getting more and more back to his impetous days when he threw a boatload of money out and got little to show for it. Oh the Yankees won their 9th straight AL East and have never missed the playoffs under Torre, but may have become a victim of their own success. The Yanks developed a great farm system at one time in the mid to late 90's, made shrewd moves to acquire veteran talents (Cecil Fielder, David Justice, Scott Brousis et al) and won World Series in 96, 98-00 but the Yanks in an attempt to stay at the top sent many of their prize farmhands elsewhere in trades. The Yanks are nowhere near mediocre, but they are looking a whole lot like the Atlanta Braves, good enough to be a regular season bully, but not good enough to win it all. I like Lou Pinella but he never won in New York, his Yankee teams never made the playoffs during his managerial tenure. True, there were less team that made the postseason, but his teams could never get over the hump. Now do keep in mind that Pinella won a World Series with the Reds in 1990 and made the Seatlle Mariners a perernial playoff contendor, winning 116 games in 2001. I just dont think he can succeed in the Bronx, not for an aging Steinbrenner who so desperatly wants one more title and is throwing all kinds of loot at top notch players.
A-Rod???? Don't think that RedSox Nation isn't chuckling. He is still one of the longer tenured players to not have played in a fall classic.
Damn...
The Yankees have won 4 World Series with Torre in the past 11 years. Though they have not been since 2003 and not won since 2000. Buster Olney's book Last Night of The Yankee Dynasty sounds more and more prescient by the year. George Steinbrenner is getting more and more back to his impetous days when he threw a boatload of money out and got little to show for it. Oh the Yankees won their 9th straight AL East and have never missed the playoffs under Torre, but may have become a victim of their own success. The Yanks developed a great farm system at one time in the mid to late 90's, made shrewd moves to acquire veteran talents (Cecil Fielder, David Justice, Scott Brousis et al) and won World Series in 96, 98-00 but the Yanks in an attempt to stay at the top sent many of their prize farmhands elsewhere in trades. The Yanks are nowhere near mediocre, but they are looking a whole lot like the Atlanta Braves, good enough to be a regular season bully, but not good enough to win it all. I like Lou Pinella but he never won in New York, his Yankee teams never made the playoffs during his managerial tenure. True, there were less team that made the postseason, but his teams could never get over the hump. Now do keep in mind that Pinella won a World Series with the Reds in 1990 and made the Seatlle Mariners a perernial playoff contendor, winning 116 games in 2001. I just dont think he can succeed in the Bronx, not for an aging Steinbrenner who so desperatly wants one more title and is throwing all kinds of loot at top notch players.
A-Rod???? Don't think that RedSox Nation isn't chuckling. He is still one of the longer tenured players to not have played in a fall classic.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Week 5 Picks
A rather tumultous week it has been. The picks were rotten and it seemed like that all the reasons a pick would go wrong could go wrong. Oh well 8-6 is better than a losing week.
October 5
Bills (2-2) @ Bears (4-0)
Soldier Field, Chicago 1 (CBS)
Favorite-Chicago by 11 The Bears are looking more and more fearsome after their 37-6 destruction of Seattle last week. The Bills while coming along nicely face their first real road test since losing a tight one to the Pats in week 1. Da Bears are looking more and more monstrous with each passing week. Rex Grossman is finally earning his keep and the defense will do more than enough to keep JP Losman under duress
Pick-Chicago
Browns (1-3) @ Panthers (2-2)
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte 1 (CBS)
Favorite Carolina by 8.5
The Browns rallied to prevent an embarassing loss to the Raiders while the Panthers outslugged the Saints. The Panthers have more than enough to take down a Browns squad that has had to fly cross-country for a another tough roadie.
Pick-Carolina
Lions (0-4) @ Vikings (2-2)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis 1 (Fox) (note: this game could be moved to Monday night if the Twins-A's ALDS goes 5 games)
Favorite- Minnesota by 6
The Vikes anemic offense needs to see a porous defense like the Lions who have discovered that they can score. The Vikings defense has yet to give up more than 19 points in a game but have yet to score more than 19 themselves. But that should change this week, when in doubt bring the Lions out.
Pick-Minnesota
Dolphins (1-3) @ Patriots (3-1)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA 1 (CBS)
Favorite- New England by 9.5
The Dolphins were a lot of folks' chic pick for the playoffs and/or the Super Bowl. They can't get out of their own way now. This makes it a bad time to face a resurgent Pats squad on the road fresh off a waxing of the Bengals. Pep and Co. face a long afternoon
Pick-New England
Rams (3-1) @ Packers (1-3)
Lambeau Field, Green Bay 1 (Fox)
Favorite-St. Louis by 2
The Rams and Pack both got healthy against the Lions but the Rams offense is putting points on the board consistenly. The Pack's non-existant running game means they are in trouble if the Rams can get to Brett Favre. Marc Bulger should be drooling over the chance to pick on the Pack's weak secondary.
Pick- St. Louis
Bucs (0-3) @ Saints (3-1)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans 1 (Fox)
Favorite- New Orleans by 6
The Saints despite their loss at Carolina have to be now taken seriously. They will try to make things difficult for rookie QB Bruce Gradkowski. If Cadillac Williams doesn't have a solid game, the Saints will tee off on the QB making his first start.
Pick-New Orleans
Titans (0-4) @ Colts (4-0)
RCA Dome, Indy 1 (CBS)
Favorite-Colts by 18.5
This is a game that small children and those with weak stomachs should not watch. Peyton Manning will pick on the Titans non-existant secondary all day. Vince Young's baptism will be a fiery one indeed.
Pick- Indy (Lock of The Week)
Redskins (2-2) @ Giants (1-2)
Giants Stadium; E. Rutherford, NJ 1 (Fox)
Favorite-Giants by 4
The Skins, left for dead after an 0-2 start are flying high after their thrilling OT win over the Jags last week. The G-Men have been licking their wounds after getting blasted at Seattle two weeks ago. This game has always been too close to call, but the G-Men play the Skins tough in Jersey.
Pick-New York Giants
Chiefs (1-2) @ Cardinals (1-3)
University of Phoenix Stadium; Glendale, AZ 4:05 (CBS)
Favorite-Chiefs by 3
The Chiefs blasted the Niners for their first win. They should find the sledding a little tougher against the Cards who are fighting for their lives after a listless loss at Atlanta. Matt Leinart should be able to move the ball well, but the Cards have to establish a running game to keep the pressure off the young QB. The Chiefs are not a strong road team and the Cards should hang on to win at their newly named home (Its pretty sad when a school has a stadium but no athletic team)
Pick-Arizona
Jets (2-2) @ Jaguars (2-2)
Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville 4:05 (CBS)
Favorite- Jags by 7
Both teams are coming off last minute losses. But make no mistake the Jags are a lot more sound than an uneven Jets team is. One could surmise by looking at both teams early schedules that they are a play or two from both being 4-0. The Jets have played over their heads so far and the Jags are much better than their .500 record would show. It will be a tight game but the Jags will wear the Jets down.
Pick-Jacksonville
Raiders (0-4) @ 49ers (1-3)
Monster Park, San Francisco 4:05 (CBS)
Favorite Niners by 3.5
The Raiders cross the bay to play their area rival. The Raiders are a mess and given their brutal schedule may not have a real chance at a win till they play the Texans in December. The Niners while nowhere close to being a strong team have enough to keep the Raiders from thinking road upset. Alex Smith is coming along nicely that and their decent running game will be enough. Pick-San Francisco
Cowboys (2-1) @ Eagles (3-1)
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia 4:15 (Fox)
Favorite- Eagles by 2.5
The TO show rolls in to Philly for the long awaited return of the embattled receiver. I'm personally sick of hearing about it. The Eagles need to keep the Pokes strong running game in check, if Julius Jones and Marion Barber III get rolling, it could be trouble for Gang Green. Donovan McNabb will move the Philly offense at will if he is protected. I think the home crowd gives the Iggles a slight edge.
Pick-Philly
Steelers (1-2) @ Chargers (2-1)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego 8:15 (NBC)
Favorite- Chargers by 3.5
Damn, is it me or does that criminal element team from Pittsburgh play on national TV every week? Actually they have the first 4 games the Steelers have had have been nationally televised. They face another hostile crowd and another rock solid defense in San Diego. The media keeps saying the Steelers will be ok and that their defense will bail them out everytime. But Big Ben looks lost and the young and hungry Charger defense knocked him around last year, I can't see any reason why they won't do it again and with out Bettis to bail them out the results are different.
Pick-San Diego
Monday October 9
Ravens (4-0) @ Broncos (2-1)
Invesco Field at Mile High, Denver 8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite- Broncos by 4
This rather intrgiung matchup has the Ravens looking more like the team that romped and stomped to Super Bowl XXXV and the Broncos who are rested after an impressive handling of the Pats two Sundays ago. Whichever team can establish their running game is the team that takes it. The Broncs are always tough at night in the thin air, it will be just enough to hold off a fearsome team.
Pick-Denver
Last week 8-6
Overall 38-22
October 5
Bills (2-2) @ Bears (4-0)
Soldier Field, Chicago 1 (CBS)
Favorite-Chicago by 11 The Bears are looking more and more fearsome after their 37-6 destruction of Seattle last week. The Bills while coming along nicely face their first real road test since losing a tight one to the Pats in week 1. Da Bears are looking more and more monstrous with each passing week. Rex Grossman is finally earning his keep and the defense will do more than enough to keep JP Losman under duress
Pick-Chicago
Browns (1-3) @ Panthers (2-2)
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte 1 (CBS)
Favorite Carolina by 8.5
The Browns rallied to prevent an embarassing loss to the Raiders while the Panthers outslugged the Saints. The Panthers have more than enough to take down a Browns squad that has had to fly cross-country for a another tough roadie.
Pick-Carolina
Lions (0-4) @ Vikings (2-2)
HHH Metrodome, Minneapolis 1 (Fox) (note: this game could be moved to Monday night if the Twins-A's ALDS goes 5 games)
Favorite- Minnesota by 6
The Vikes anemic offense needs to see a porous defense like the Lions who have discovered that they can score. The Vikings defense has yet to give up more than 19 points in a game but have yet to score more than 19 themselves. But that should change this week, when in doubt bring the Lions out.
Pick-Minnesota
Dolphins (1-3) @ Patriots (3-1)
Gillette Stadium; Foxboro, MA 1 (CBS)
Favorite- New England by 9.5
The Dolphins were a lot of folks' chic pick for the playoffs and/or the Super Bowl. They can't get out of their own way now. This makes it a bad time to face a resurgent Pats squad on the road fresh off a waxing of the Bengals. Pep and Co. face a long afternoon
Pick-New England
Rams (3-1) @ Packers (1-3)
Lambeau Field, Green Bay 1 (Fox)
Favorite-St. Louis by 2
The Rams and Pack both got healthy against the Lions but the Rams offense is putting points on the board consistenly. The Pack's non-existant running game means they are in trouble if the Rams can get to Brett Favre. Marc Bulger should be drooling over the chance to pick on the Pack's weak secondary.
Pick- St. Louis
Bucs (0-3) @ Saints (3-1)
Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans 1 (Fox)
Favorite- New Orleans by 6
The Saints despite their loss at Carolina have to be now taken seriously. They will try to make things difficult for rookie QB Bruce Gradkowski. If Cadillac Williams doesn't have a solid game, the Saints will tee off on the QB making his first start.
Pick-New Orleans
Titans (0-4) @ Colts (4-0)
RCA Dome, Indy 1 (CBS)
Favorite-Colts by 18.5
This is a game that small children and those with weak stomachs should not watch. Peyton Manning will pick on the Titans non-existant secondary all day. Vince Young's baptism will be a fiery one indeed.
Pick- Indy (Lock of The Week)
Redskins (2-2) @ Giants (1-2)
Giants Stadium; E. Rutherford, NJ 1 (Fox)
Favorite-Giants by 4
The Skins, left for dead after an 0-2 start are flying high after their thrilling OT win over the Jags last week. The G-Men have been licking their wounds after getting blasted at Seattle two weeks ago. This game has always been too close to call, but the G-Men play the Skins tough in Jersey.
Pick-New York Giants
Chiefs (1-2) @ Cardinals (1-3)
University of Phoenix Stadium; Glendale, AZ 4:05 (CBS)
Favorite-Chiefs by 3
The Chiefs blasted the Niners for their first win. They should find the sledding a little tougher against the Cards who are fighting for their lives after a listless loss at Atlanta. Matt Leinart should be able to move the ball well, but the Cards have to establish a running game to keep the pressure off the young QB. The Chiefs are not a strong road team and the Cards should hang on to win at their newly named home (Its pretty sad when a school has a stadium but no athletic team)
Pick-Arizona
Jets (2-2) @ Jaguars (2-2)
Alltel Stadium, Jacksonville 4:05 (CBS)
Favorite- Jags by 7
Both teams are coming off last minute losses. But make no mistake the Jags are a lot more sound than an uneven Jets team is. One could surmise by looking at both teams early schedules that they are a play or two from both being 4-0. The Jets have played over their heads so far and the Jags are much better than their .500 record would show. It will be a tight game but the Jags will wear the Jets down.
Pick-Jacksonville
Raiders (0-4) @ 49ers (1-3)
Monster Park, San Francisco 4:05 (CBS)
Favorite Niners by 3.5
The Raiders cross the bay to play their area rival. The Raiders are a mess and given their brutal schedule may not have a real chance at a win till they play the Texans in December. The Niners while nowhere close to being a strong team have enough to keep the Raiders from thinking road upset. Alex Smith is coming along nicely that and their decent running game will be enough. Pick-San Francisco
Cowboys (2-1) @ Eagles (3-1)
Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia 4:15 (Fox)
Favorite- Eagles by 2.5
The TO show rolls in to Philly for the long awaited return of the embattled receiver. I'm personally sick of hearing about it. The Eagles need to keep the Pokes strong running game in check, if Julius Jones and Marion Barber III get rolling, it could be trouble for Gang Green. Donovan McNabb will move the Philly offense at will if he is protected. I think the home crowd gives the Iggles a slight edge.
Pick-Philly
Steelers (1-2) @ Chargers (2-1)
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego 8:15 (NBC)
Favorite- Chargers by 3.5
Damn, is it me or does that criminal element team from Pittsburgh play on national TV every week? Actually they have the first 4 games the Steelers have had have been nationally televised. They face another hostile crowd and another rock solid defense in San Diego. The media keeps saying the Steelers will be ok and that their defense will bail them out everytime. But Big Ben looks lost and the young and hungry Charger defense knocked him around last year, I can't see any reason why they won't do it again and with out Bettis to bail them out the results are different.
Pick-San Diego
Monday October 9
Ravens (4-0) @ Broncos (2-1)
Invesco Field at Mile High, Denver 8:30 (ESPN)
Favorite- Broncos by 4
This rather intrgiung matchup has the Ravens looking more like the team that romped and stomped to Super Bowl XXXV and the Broncos who are rested after an impressive handling of the Pats two Sundays ago. Whichever team can establish their running game is the team that takes it. The Broncs are always tough at night in the thin air, it will be just enough to hold off a fearsome team.
Pick-Denver
Last week 8-6
Overall 38-22
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