Upon Further Review: Week Seven Picks

I avoided packing up all my Jets stuff this week with a nice win by the Jets against the hated rival Dolphins. My Jets still have a ton of work to do but I did see some improvements last Monday. I am hoping that the offense just picks it up this week and they will need it against a high-scoring offense in the Chargers.

I scored a decent 9/13 which is one better than last week. I had some close calls and I am wagging my Finger of Shame at you Cowboys! They really should have had that game.

Seattle at Cleveland:
Both teams have been inconsistent this year. Seattle is better than I thought and Cleveland is worse than I thought. I see the fortunes being reversed here:
Winner: Cleveland Browns

Atlanta at Detroit:
The Falcons came away with a great win against the rival Panthers and they have some momentum. The Lions lost at the end and I am curious to see how this team reacts to a loss like that. Can the Lions prove that they are a good team by bouncing back? This will show us how mentally tough the Lions are. I think they win in a squeaker.
Winner: Detroit Lions


Houston at Tennessee:
Tough game to call here. The Texans need this win to end a 2-game losing streak. The Titans have nothing to lose and could really make the AFC South interesting by pulling a win out. And that is exactly what I think they will do.
Winner: Tennessee Titans

Denver at Miami:
So Miami wants to celebrate Tim Tebow and they are throwing this huge celebration. Doesn't he play for the other team? I am sure the Dolphins want to do everything they can to spoil Tim Tebow but from what I saw Monday night, I don't think the Dolphins have enough in the tank to take an emotional Tebow out. And Miami is terrible at home too.
Winner: Denver Broncos


San Diego at NY Jets:
The Jets need this game and I think they could pull off a win in New York. If the Jets defense can slow the running game, I think they have a chance. And I think the two former Chargers in Cromartie and Thomlinson will want to beat their former team.
Winner: New York Jets

Chicago at Tampa Bay:
Boy I didn't expect the Bucs to reply to a butt-whupping like that! Beating the Saints on their turf will give them major momentum and I expect them to come out firing against the Bears. The Bears and QB Jay Cutler looked fantastic against the Vikings but don't expect a repeat.
Winner: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Washington at Carolina:
I am still not a believer in the Redskins and the Panthers are playing a lot better than anyone expected. It seems to me that the pressure to perform is on the Redskins and the Panthers are just playing loose. That is not to say that the Panthers are not being serious, I just think they are playing with no expectations. And that will be the difference in this one.
Winner: Carolina Panthers

Kansas City at Oakland:
This will be a lot closer than anyone thinks. If the Chiefs can slow down the run, they have a glimmer of hope. Sounds easy right? Yup, it's not. The Raiders will run, run, RUN on the Chiefs.
Winner: Oakland Raiders

Pittsburgh at Arizona:
It will take awhile for the Steelers to find their footing but once they do they will dominate the Cards. The Superbowl rematch will not even be close.
Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers

St. Louis at Dallas:
The Cowboys should have had that game against the Pats. Luckily for them, the injured Rams roll into town. The Cowboys better take them seriously.
Winner: Dallas Cowboys

Green Bay at Minnesota:
Rookie QB Ponder will provide a small spark but the Packers are just too much for them. The Packers have to lose sometime right? Not this week.
Winner: Green Bay Packers

Sunday Night
Indianapolis at New Orleans:
This Superbowl rematch will not be close either. I am sure QB Drew Brees will want to vent against the hapless Colts.
Winner: New Orleans Saints

Monday Night
Baltimore at Jacksonville:
I still think that the Jags have some talent but I don't think they have enough to take out one of the top teams in the NFL in the Ravens. And I am sure the Ravens are slobbering at the bit to take on a rookie QB.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens

Upon Further Review: Week Four Picks

Yikes, Week 4 of the NFL means that we are a quarter way through the season! I scored another 11/16 last week (thanks to both the Broncos/Bengals for going the way I called it) but I am looking to do better this week.

Detroit at Dallas:
Sooner or later the Lions will lose and I only say that because it is extremely hard to make it through the season undefeated. But the Cowboys secondary is a little beat up and I see the Lions receivers having a monster game. The Lions are for real and this game will prove it.
Winner: Detroit Lions

Carolina at Chicago:
Carolina is a much better team than I figured and I credit the coaching staff for getting rookie QB Cam Newton ready to play. Of course they guy is extremely talented and that helps as well. But it is time to come back to Earth. The Bears defense will make a comeback this week.
Winner: Chicago Bears

Buffalo at Cincinnati:
This is a classic trap game for the Bills but for all the things I have seen and read, I don't think the Bills will be overlooking the Bengals. Beating New England will not make this team cocky, it will only instill in them a vast amount of confidence. The Bengals will give the Bills all they have but the better team will win.
Winner: Buffalo Bills

SIDENOTE: It has been a long, long time that I picked both the Bills and Lions to win during the same week. I know it is WAY early in the season but how freaking magical would a Lions/Bills Superbowl be?

Tennessee at Cleveland:
The Browns impressed me with how they won against Miami last week. Unfortunately that was against a hapless Dolphin team and I don't expect the Browns to be able to do what they did last week this week against the Titans. But the Browns are at home and I might give them another chance this week to show that they a better team.
Winner: Cleveland Browns

Minnesota at Kansas City:
I really want to pick the Chiefs here to win. The Vikings have showed me that they are a scared team. They have no heart and no desire to win. If they did, they would have won last week for sure. Personally, I think it would be easy to hold a lead. Just feed RB Adrian Peterson the ball when you have it. The Chiefs should win but the Vikings have too much talent. And I am hoping that they learned a lesson and give Adrian the ball.
Winner: Minnesota Vikings

Washington at St. Louis:
The Redskins should have beat Dallas last Monday night and it is all Deangelo Hall's fault. As long as this guy is on the Redskins, the Redskins will not progress into the playoffs. The more he runs his mouth, the more it ruins the team. I think the Redskins could beat the Rams but unless they take care of this issue, they won't be able to come together as a team.
Winner: St. Louis Rams

New Orleans at Jacksonville:
The Jaguars will fight hard but rookie QB mistakes will be too much for them to overcome. The Saints easy in this one.
Winner: New Orleans Saints

Pittsburgh at Houston:
Oh, I hope this game is on TV. I have a feeling that Houston is going to come out big in this game. The home-field crowd, the air attack and the much-improved Houston D will have the Steelers on their back. For every good thing the Steelers accomplish, the Texans will trump them. Well, I hope so...
Winner: Houston Texans

San Francisco at Philadelphia:
The Eagles want to forget about that awful loss last week and the best way to wash that awful taste out of their mouths is to win. Luckily the 49ers are coming to town. The game will be competitive but the Eagles will want it more.
Winner: Philadelphia Eagles

New York Giants at Arizona:
My heart says to go for the Cardinals but I think that the Giants are rolling quietly in the right direction. It will not be easy for the Giants and they may have to overcome some mistakes or bad play early for them to win.
Winner: New York Giants

Atlanta at Seattle:
We will see how much heart the Falcons have. They lost a heart breaker last week and they have to travel across the country to face a team that won unexpectedly last week. I think the Falcons have some fight to take out a weaker team.
Winner: Atlanta Falcons

Miami at San Diego:
The good news is that Miami is on the road. But the bad news is that they have to travel across the country and face one of the better AFC teams who are still angry losing to the Pats two weeks ago.
Winner: San Diego Chargers

New England at Oakland:
Even though it really ticked me off, I was really impressed with the Raiders and how they ran against a tough Jets D. When it came down to it, the Raiders got what they needed out of the running game, out of QB Jason Campbell and also that young defense. The Raiders will have a much tougher time containing QB Tom Brady but they will be able to keep up in scoring. I think the Raiders are for real too. The Raiders score another major upset.
Winner: Oakland Raiders

Denver at Green Bay:
The Packers have to lose one some time right? But not against this team and not at home.
Winner: Green Bay Packers

SUNDAY NIGHT:
New York Jets at Baltimore:
I cannot wait for this game. The Ravens exploded offensively last week but they won't be able to do that to the Jets. The Jets D will be back to avenge their loss last week. Now I am sure that this is not going to surprise anyone but I am going with the Jets in an upset. The Ravens beat them last year at New York and the Jets are going to return the favor and beat the Ravens at Baltimore. Should be a fun game!
Winner: New York Jets

MONDAY NIGHT:
Indianapolis at Tampa Bay:
I didn't think the Colts would be able to hang with the Steelers last week and I was happy to be disappointed. But I think the Colts extended themselves far last week, both emotionally and physically. And on the road against an up-and-coming team? I am looking forward to watching QB Josh Freeman play.
Winner: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Upon Further Review: Week 16

How about them Jets?  I am ashamed with myself that I didn't pick them and football karma struck again! There were some pretty good games last week and I am sure that everything is hyped up again this week as the playoffs begin in just a few weeks. Which teams will show some gumption and secure a playoff spot? I didn't do too bad last week, if I would have picked the Jets it would have been better. But I did score 10/16 which isn't so bad.

Dallas at Arizona:
The Cards disappointed me to the level of the 49ers. Meaning I will never pick the Cardinals and the 49ers again this season.
Winner: Dallas Cowboys

New England at Buffalo:
I don't think the Bills will allow the Patriots to push them around and it will be a much closer game than the Pats will want. But it is the Pats and it is Tom Brady.
Winner: New England Patriots

NY Jets at Chicago:
The Jets play better away from New York and I am still not convinced that the Bears are championship material. I should pick the Bears since karma will strike and the Jets will win. But I don't want to tempt karma twice.
Winner: New York Jets

Baltimore at Cleveland:
The Ravens need to be careful not to look past the Browns this week. This is a classic trap game but I don't smell an upset here.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens

Tennessee at Kansas City:
The Chiefs can secure a playoff spot and division crown if they win this game and the Raiders and Chargers lose. This is another trap game that the Chiefs need to be careful not to drop. But I am not smelling an upset here either and the Chiefs are super at home.
Winner: Kansas City Chiefs

San Francisco at St. Louis:
Hmmmm... 49ers?
Winner: St. Louis Rams

Detroit at Miami:
The Lions won a close game last week and the Dolphins laid an egg. Miami has been horrible at home and the Lions finally broke their woeful road losing record. I like the way this is trending.
Winner: Detriot Lions

Washington at Jacksonville:
I really hate the way Washington has treated QB Donovan McNabb. And I really like the way the Jaguars have been playing this season.
Winner: Jacksonville Jaguars

Indianapolis at Oakland:
Ooo this could be a bad game for the Colts. The Raiders like to run and they certainly can and they are playing a very soft Colt defense. But this is Peyton Manning with playoffs on the line. But this is at Oakland, a rough place to get a win. I really want to call an upset here.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts

Houston at Denver:
The last time I took the Broncos they lost. But the last time I took the Texans, they lost. How about I don't pick this game?
Winner: Denver Broncos (Merry Christmas Case Family!)

San Diego at Cincinnati:
The Bengals actually won a game! I don't think that streak will continue here. But if the weather is bad, that could spell doom for the Chargers. Still....
Winner: San Diego Chargers

NY Giants at Green Bay:
The Packers really showed me something last week against the Pats. The Giants folded faster than Superman on laundry day. I think the Packers will come out of their loss better than the G-Men.
Winner: Green Bay Packers

Seattle at Tampa Bay:
Good teams rebound from tough losses and I am curious to see how the Bucs react from being humbled by the Lions.
Winner: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Minnesota at Philadelphia:
Philly is on a roll and the Vikings are on a free fall. And they chose this game as the Sunday Night Flex?
Winner: Philadelphia Eagles

Monday Night
New Orleans at Atlanta:
The Saints need this game badly and the Falcons can put the Superbowl Champion out to pasture. Now this will be a good game and it will be nice for the Falcons get some national exposure. I am smelling that upset...
Winner: New Orleans Saints

Upon Further Review: Week 14

Those Raiders are going to be the death of me. They won another game that I did not pick. At least the 49ers are steady. I scored 10/16 last week, not too bad but not spectacular either. I am still recovering from that total spanking the Jets received last Monday night. And I don't want to talk about it.

Indianapolis at Tennessee:
The Colts are in trouble. I cannot remember when the Colts had a record like this. The Titans are in a good position to play the role of the spoiler by kicking the Colts out of the playoff picture for good. They will play tough but I cannot see the Colts losing a third game in a row.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts

Cleveland at Buffalo:
This actually could be a good game to catch. Both teams are fighting hard but the Browns seem to just have a way to win games.
Winner: Cleveland Browns

Cincinnati at Pittsburgh:
I would love to see nothing more than the Steelers to lose. But they are playing the Bengals.
Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers

Green Bay at Detroit:
I am sure glad that I drafted QB Aaron Rodgers for one of my fantasy teams. I feel bad for the Lions because I think the Packers are going to come out on fire.
Winner: Green Bay Packers

NY Giants at Minnesota:
This could have been an intriguing game. The Vikings could also play the role of the spoiler for the Giants but the Giants defense could give the Vikings fits. And will Favre play and will that really matter? I could see this one go either way and I am just not convinced that the Giants are one of the best teams.
Winner: Minnesota Vikings

Tampa Bay at Washington:
The Redskins have the worst defense in the league. The Bucs are playing good and they should roll over the Redskins but it is cold up there in DC. Still, talent should win over weather.
Winner: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Atlanta at Carolina:
This is a trap game for the Falcons but if the Panthers can give away a dominating 14 point lead last week the Falcons should have no need to worry.
Winner: Atlanta Falcons

Oakland at Jacksonville:
Now this game will be awesome. Both teams are playoff potential teams. This could be a playoff preview. Now I like both teams, I have no idea which one to go for. So home field it is.
Winner: Jacksonville Jaguars

Seattle at San Francisco:
Now here is the complete opposite of the last game. This will be a snoozer with no team wanting to win. I was thinking of the Niners here but they I remembered that I would NEVER pick them again.
Winner: Seattle Seahawks

St. Louis at New Orleans:
The Saints are rolling under the radar, just the way they want  it. They cannot look past this tough Rams team who are the only team fighting for the NFC West Division.
Winner: New Orleans Saints

Miami at NY Jets:
The Dolphins have a small window of hope. And the Jets hope to bury the memory of last weeks game (along with the game ball that they actually buried) with a big win over the Dolphins. If they don't win this game, the Jets may be in some trouble.
Winner: New York Jets

Denver at Arizona:
Getting a new head coach during the season will mean that the Broncos should win this one. But they are not as good as the Cowboys and Vikings. But luckily for Denver, they are playing the horrible Cards. Hey Case family! I am picking the Broncos.
Winner: Denver Broncos

Kansas City at San Diego:
The Chargers have to win this game. The Chiefs need to win this game to keep the 2-game lead in their division. Good teams rebound after bad losses, we will see the character of the Chargers team. Here is my upset special.
Winner: San Diego Chargers

New England at Chicago:
The Pats looked unstoppable last week. I really, really want the Bears to take them out. But I don't think that will happen. The Bears will be tough but the Pats are the Pats.
Winner: New England Patriots

Philadelphia at Dallas:
The Cowboys could spell spoiler for the Eagles. Because I have Vick on another fantasy team, I really hope they don't. But the Cowboys are frustrating, especially to their fans so they will win this one.
Winner: Dallas Cowboys

Monday Night
Baltimore at Houston:
Ray Lewis is an angry, angry man. I think at one point he will actually eat one of the Texans. The Ravens will find it tough to stop RB Arian Foster but the Texans will be unable to stop QB Joe Flacco.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens

Upon Further Review: Week 13

It's that time of the week already! What a fun season this has been but I guess every season when the Jets are doing well are fun seasons. I know that every week I say the same thing when I say that I am looking forward to the games but this week I really mean it! I cannot wait for Sunday Night and Monday Night Football!

I did a bit better last week scoring 11/16. And once again the 49ers screwed me over by actually winning a game and the Raiders screwed me over by not winning a game. Just what the heck should I do with those Bay Area teams?

Houston at Philadelphia:
Houston looked pretty good last week against the Titans but that was against a 3rd string QB. Philly looked horrible against the Bears but I think they can rebound. Home field advantage takes this game.
Winner: Philadelphia Eagles

New Orleans at Cincinnati:
The Saints have to be careful, this is a trap game for them. Especially since they are facing the disappointing Bengals. The Saints should take this game with ease.
Winner: New Orleans Saints

Chicago at Detroit:
The Lions should have won that first game, the officials totally made the wrong call. This will be a close game since this is a trap game for the Bears as well. While I do think the Bears are good, I am just not convinced until QB Jay Cutler has a few steady games under his belt.
Winner: Chicago Bears

San Francisco at Green Bay:
I swore I would never root for the 49ers and it is a good thing they are playing the Packers this week. That way I don't have to pick the 49ers. Look for the Packers to vent their frustration on the hapless Niners.
Winner: Green Bay Packers

Jacksonville at Tennessee:
The Jags should have had that game last week against the Giants. And they really need this game this week to keep the pace for 1st place. The Titans look like a sinking ship and I expect them to play hard but there is too much drama.
Winner: Jacksonville Jaguars

Denver at Kansas City:
Oh boy this could be a very fun game to watch. You know these teams hate each other and you know that head coach Todd Haley hates the Broncos. It wouldn't surprise me if the Chiefs run up the score. I think the Broncos are fired up for this game but the Chiefs have too much talent.
Winner: Kansas City Chiefs

Cleveland at Miami:
This could be a fun game too. Miami looked really good last week on the road but Cleveland just has a scrappiness to them. This game could easily go both ways but I am thinking being at home will be the key.
Winner: Miami Dolphins

Buffalo at Minnesota:
I don't know how the Bills keep fighting so hard. Where is this gumption coming from? I admire them quite a bit that they will fight for everything. If only the Vikings has such gumption. Unfortunately for Viking fans, I am smelling an upset.
Winner: Buffalo Bills

Washington at NY Giants:
Divisional games are so awesome. The Giants escaped last week with a win but they should have enough confidence to win another one at home.
Winner: New York Giants

Oakland at San Diego:
I was very impressed with the Chargers performance against the Colts last week. They should easily dispatch the Raiders this week. But then again, these are the Raiders. I think I have picked them wrong the most. So they should win right?  Wrong.
Winner: San Diego Chargers

Carolina at Seattle:
I am glad I don't have to watch this game on TV. BORING!
Winner: Seattle Seahawks?

Atlanta at Tampa Bay:
Tampa Bay is definitely an improved team but they are just a smidgen outside the good teams. Atlanta is playing the best ball in the NFC. This is a trap game for the Falcons as well.
Winner: Atlanta Falcons

St. Louis at Arizona:
How embarrassing are the Cards? I am ashamed that I picked them 2nd in their division. And if no one wants to win this division, I will take it. I loved Jon Gruden last Monday night and I agree with him. The NFL should disqualify any divisional winner that does not have a winning record and give that playoff spot to another team. I think the Rams might disagree since they have the best chance of taking the NFC Weak Division.
Winner: St. Louis Rams

Dallas at Indianapolis:
Dallas should give the Colts fits. If Romo was healthy, I would give this game to the Cowboys. But he is not so I guess the Colts.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts

Pittsburgh at Baltimore:
Oh baby! This game will be ugly! Lots of smash mouth talking and hitting. Just the way I like it. It is hard to see that the Steelers be swept by the Ravens but I just have this feeling.
Winner: Everyone! It will be that good of a game.
Actual Winner: Baltimore Ravens

Monday Night
NY Jets at New England:
The Jets have not lost on the road, the Pats have not lost a home game in like forever. Something has to give! This is really a playoff game. Whoever takes this game should take the AFC East. I have a hard time imagining the Pats being swept but it could happen. The Jets could be starting to peak, the offense is finally exciting and the Pats have a hard time stopping the power running. The Jets defense will have its hands full but with no play maker on the Pats anymore, the Jets should be able to control the Pats.
Winner: New York Jets (yeah, my heart is in this one all the way; I have to be bias)

Upon Further Review: Week 12

What a great Thanksgiving I had. Lots of football, family and food. But I will blog about that later. I forgot that I need to make my picks for the rest of Week 12. So far, so good, I am 3/3 already.

Last week I made some better picks and I scored 12/16. And I learned that I will never, ever pick the 49ers again. We'll see if I can keep that up. Now onto the games!

Green Bay at Atlanta:
This could easily be a preview of the NFC Championship. This will be a great test for both teams since they are both hot right now. The biggest key here will be if the Falcons can slow down the Rodgers and the Packers offense. It will be another tight one but I see the Packers pulling off an upset here.
Winner: Green Bay Packers

Pittsburgh at Buffalo:
Buffalo has been playing some great football the last couple of weeks but they are facing their biggest challenge in the Steelers. While I do think that the homefield will help the Bills, it just won't be enough. The Steelers get away with a win.
Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers

Carolina at Cleveland:
It just wouldn't surprise me if the Panthers won here. That would be a typical week in the NFL. But Mangini will have his team ready to go since his job may be on the line. And I think the Panthers have already called it a season.
Winner: Cleveland Browns

Jacksonville at NY Giants:
Who would have thought that this would be an interesting game? The Jaguars are in 1st place in their division and the Giants are slowly slipping away. The Jaguars are hot and are certainly clicking on offense but I worry about their pass defense. The Giants will be without WR Hakeem Nicks and that could slow down the Giants passing game. I do love rooting for the underdog here...
Winner: Jacksonville Jaguars

Minnesota at Washington:
The Vikings are done. Stick a fork in them because they are done. But I do think that they will be like Dallas and have a renewed sense of competitive spirit and will win out the rest of the season to spite their old coach.
Winner: Minnesota Vikings

Tennessee at Houston:
What the heck is wrong with QB Vince Young? I wish I had half his talent because if I did I would be happily playing in the NFL. I think HC Jeff Fisher is right, they need to dump this guy and move on. The Titans will play hard but they will be playing their 3rd string QB and it will show. The Texans actually get a win.
Winner: Houston Texans

Kansas City at Seattle:
So which NFC West team is going to step up and win this division? The answer? No one. And Kansas City will put a hurt on this team as it wants to step up and win its division.
Winner: Kansas City Chiefs

Miami at Oakland:
So which Raider team are we going to get here? Hopefully not the one that laid the egg last week. Miami is reeling and traveling coast-to-coast will not help.
Winner: Oakland Raiders

St. Louis at Denver:
It comes down to this. The Rams are just playing better ball. Being at Mile High will be hard for the Rams but they should be able to win it in the end. I just don't see the Denver defense slowing Steven Jackson. Maybe the Rams want the NFC West?
Winner: St. Louis Rams

Philadelphia at Chicago:
Boy I didn't think this would be a game for divisional leaders. QB Michael Vick does just enough to win. The Bears defense will keep him in check for the most part but I don't think QB Jay Cutler can match Vick's offensive output.
Winner: Philadelphia Eagles

Tampa Bay at Baltimore:
This will be a statement game for the Bucs if they pull off the win. But the Ravens defense is finally showing some life and they will put a small stop to the Bucs winning ways. This should be a good one.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens

San Diego at Indianapolis:
I really like the Chargers Phillip Rivers. The Chargers will pose a problem for the Colts and I expect a shootout. Both teams cannot afford to lose and will be playing like this is a playoff game. Both quarterbacks make their teams all the much better. They can throw to anyone! But I smell an upset...
Winner: San Diego Chargers

Monday Night
San Francisco at Arizona:
Wow. Take the Monday off and do some Christmas shopping. Nothing to see here. Remember how I said I will never take the 49ers again? Hmmm... ..but they are playing the Cardinals! Nope, I gotta make my stand and back up my mouth.
Winner: Arizona Cardinals

Upon Further Review; Week 11

I cannot believe that we are on Week 11! This season is flying. I always find that around weeks 9-12 we see some pretty big upsets. Teams are making that final push to the playoffs and the teams that get hot now are the ones that go far into the playoffs.  Last week was not my best week at picking wins. I scored an embarrassing 6/13. I need to step up this week.

Chicago at Miami:
I feel a little bad for the Dolphins. They lost both Chad QBs and are on a short week facing the Bears tonight who beat the Vikings last Sunday. But I do have a lot of faith in QB Tyler Thigpen. I really like this guy and I am excited to see him play even though I absolutely hate the Dolphins. He is a very underrated player and with a little more prep time I think he could easily be the starter. Close game but I think the Bears barely win it.
Winner: Chicago Bears

Buffalo at Cincinnati:
The Bills finally got a win that they have been fighting so hard for. The Bengals are just a mess. I want to pick the Bengals because I think that they are more talented but I think the Bills want it more. And it is Buffalo's QB Ryan Fitzpatrick return to his old team. And you know if he wants to beat them. I guess I have just convinced myself to take the Bills.
Winner: Buffalo Bills

Detroit at Dallas:
The Cowboys certainly rolled over the Giants with ease last Sunday. And the Lions...  ...well, the Lions did the usual. Finding new ways to lose. This game will be competitive but the Cowboys just have too much talent.
Winner: Dallas Cowboys

Washington at Tennessee:
Both teams were humiliated last week. But I think the Redskins will take it harder. It is at Tennessee and the Redskins can't stop quarterbacks that run.
Winner: Tennessee Titans

Arizona at Kansas City:
Say what you want about the Chief's coach but I sure like his fiery attitude. The Chiefs have lost back-to-back games and are looking like the Chiefs of old. Good thing that the hapless Cards are coming to town. The Chiefs need this tune-up.
Winner: Kansas City Chiefs

Green Bay at Minnesota:
This is it. If the Vikings don't win this game, they are out of the playoff hunt. This could be the last time Favre takes the field against his former team. The Packers have an excellent opportunity to put the Vikings out to pasture. So many story lines, so many reasons to win. It will be a close one but I think Favre has one more game in him to prolong this awful Vikings season.
Winner: Minnesota Vikings

Houston at NY Jets:
The Jets now have a place in NFL history. They have won back-to-back overtime games on the road and this needs to stop! I cannot take it anymore. The Jets will have their hands full in this game but Houston is allowing the most passing yardage and it seems like Jets QB Mark Sanchez is maturing and gaining more confidence in the passing game. And Texans QB Matt Shaub is a question mark.
Winner: New York Jets

Oakland at Pittsburgh:
What happened to the Steelers last week? They were killed! I don't think that will happen again, especially at home but they are facing a rejuvenated Raiders team that is getting better and better. I would love to see the Raiders march in here and kick the Steelers while they are done but I just don't see it happening. The Steelers will have to be careful and not look past this team.
Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers

Baltimore at Carolina:
The Ravens get their second bye week. The Panthers will fight but the Ravens will easily dispatch this team.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens

Cleveland at Jacksonville:
Now this is an intriguing game. The Jaguars are coming off a very emotional and exciting win while the Browns were just beaten in overtime. The Browns are heading in the right direction but I am not sure if the Jags are going that way too. Hard game to call and I think it will go down to the wire. Home field gets the win.
Winner: Jacksonville Jaguars

Tampa Bay at San Francisco:
The Bucs are playing well above what everyone thought and the 49ers are still struggling. The 49ers need this game to keep up in the NFC West and the Bucs are traveling across country. I do think the Bucs will win it but I am going for a more talented team. But if the 49ers lose this game, I will NEVER pick them again. Ever.
Winner: San Francisco 49ers 

Seattle at New Orleans:
Now is the time for the defending Superbowl Champions to get on a roll. And what better way than at home and against the Seahawks?
Winner: New Orleans Saints

Atlanta at St. Louis:
Atlanta is gotta be the best team playing in the NFC now. They will have a hard time against the Rams but talent and experience will take this game.
Winner: Atlanta Falcons

Indianapolis at New England:
Both of these teams just have a way of winning when the chips are down. The Colts have a lot of injuries but they have Peyton Manning. The Patriots do not have a lot of offense but they have Tom Brady. Game of the week here! But I think this will be an upset.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts

NY Giants at Philadelphia:
Do the Eagles look good with QB Michael Vick? And what happened to the Giants last week. This is a huge divisional game and we will see just how good these squads are.
Winner: Philadelphia Eagles

Monday Night
Denver at San Diego:
Denver looked really good against the Chiefs last week and the Chargers are doing their usual late season push. This will be an excellent game since both teams absolutely hate each other. The AFC West is still open and both these teams need this win. Luckily for the home crowd, the Charger should get it.
Winner: San Diego Chargers

Cannot wait for the weekend!

Upon Further Review

Did you see last night's game? I wish I did. I don't mind Thursday Night games but I hate not having the NFL Network. I just don't want to pay an additional $20 a month just so I can watch a few games. At least I could see the highlights though. And I was right! Atlanta won.

I am still over fifty percent with my picks with 10/13 games correct. Finally the Raiders show what I thought they would be! Here are my picks for the rest of the games this week.

Detroit at Buffalo:
The Lions really should have won last week. And I think the Bills should have won last week. The Lions are fighting but their QB is out. The Bills are really trying hard and their QB has been on fire. Even though I may offend some family members, I am going with the Bills. I feel like they deserve to win. If they don't win this game, they may not win one the rest of the season.
Winner: Buffalo Bills

Minnesota at Chicago:
The Vikings are winning despite having a chilly relationship with their head coach. I am afraid that will bite them in the end but I think they can beat the Bears this week.
Winner: Minnesota Vikings

NY Jets at Cleveland:
This game scares me. Browns head coach Eric Mangini comes back and faces his former employer. He beat his first employer in grand fashion last week. The Browns rookie QB has beaten Tom Brady and Drew Brees. Does Jets QB Mark Sanchez stand a chance? If the Jets can slow down the Browns RB Peyton Hillis than I think they can win it. This should be an ugly game that will come down to a field goal. The Jets win again barely. Jets HC Rex Ryan beats his brother.
Winner: New York Jets

Carolina at Tampa Bay:
I am still on the Josh Freeman bandwagon. The Bucs will need to be careful and not look past this team.
Winner: Tampa Bay Buccaneers  

Houston at Jacksonville:
I wish I could see this game because I think this will be a shoot-out! The Texans have one of the worst passing defenses and the Jags have been solid passing the ball. I think the Jaguars will steal one at home.
Winner: Jacksonville Jaguars 

Cincinnati at Indianapolis:
I was impressed by the Bengals Monday night in the 4th quarter and T.O. is playing some inspired football. But these are the Colts and they are angry for losing.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts

Tennessee at Miami:
The biggest news to come out of Miami is that QB Chad Henne has been benched and 2-Time Comeback Player of the Year, Chad Pennington gets his start. He will help the anemic passing game but not enough to win one. The Dolphins home woes continue.
Winner: Tennessee Titans

Kansas City at Denver:
At least I get to watch this game. No matter what the records, the Chiefs and Broncos always have tough contests. But the Chiefs have too much talent for the Broncos to overcome. It will be close but costly mistakes will give the Chiefs the game.
Winner: Kansas City Chiefs 

Dallas at NY Giants:
The Giants will need to be careful and not look past this game. It will be interesting to see how the Cowboys play after their head coach was fired. Personally, I think the Cowboys have already packed it in.
Winner: New York Giants

Seattle at Arizona:
The Seahawks have been up and down this season which is better than the Cardinals. I think the Seahawks will win but I have this gut feeling that the Cards will pull one out especially at home. I already regret making the pick.
Winner: Arizona Cardinals

St. Louis at San Francisco:
Who would have thought that this game would be so important for both teams? The 49ers need to win to keep up in the division and the Rams need a win to keep themselves atop the NFC West. I think the 49ers have more talent but the Rams have momentum and are thinking positive. And this could be the last hurrah for the 49ers with a loss. UGH. Who to go with....
Winner: San Fransisco 49ers (only because they are at home)

New England at Pittsburgh:
Oh Sunday Night Football how I love you. This should be a fantastic game. The Patriots should be able to keep up with the Steelers but I think it is here that the Pats will miss Randy Moss. They cannot match all the big plays the Steelers bring.
Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers 

Monday Night
Philadelphia at Washington:
I didn't think Redskins QB McNabb could go home again and he proved me wrong. I think the Eagles are playing better ball but I think the Redskins sweep the Eagles. McNabb has something to prove and not just to his former team, but to his current coach.
Winner: Washington Redskins

Upon Further Review

You know what I love about the NFL?

I love that there is absolutely no way that I can correctly call each game each week. There is always some sort of upset, some sort of surprise. I scored 8/13 last week so I didn't do too bad.

I also waived Randy Moss on one of my football leagues. That is one of my pet peeves, people who have all this talent and they squander it. I wish I had half of Randy's talent but if that comes with half of his horrible attitude I don't want it.

Tampa Bay at Atlanta:
This will be an intriguing game. Tampa Bay claims they are one of the best NFC squads and with their record it is hard to argue that. The young team is gaining confidence are getting better but now they go up against one of the best NFC squads in the Falcons. Tampa Bay takes the lead but the Falcons win it in the end.
Winner: Atlanta Falcons

Chicago at Buffalo:
I don't know which is more difficult. Winning every game or losing every game of the season. The Bills have kept it close the last two weeks and should be tough at home but they are expounding a lot of energy and they don't have anything to show for it. The Bears are feast or famine with Jay Cutler. I think the Bills get their first win of the season.
Winner: Buffalo Bills

New England at Cleveland:
This has upset written all over it. Or it has blow out written all over it. The Browns will play tough and Mangini will have them ready but New England is just too much for them. No upset and no blow out. Just an ugly win, much like Tom Brady's hair.
Winner: New England Patriots

NY Jets at Detroit:
The Lions are riding high with that win and the Jets are riding low with a loss. We will see how resilient the Jets are. The Jets are more talented but the Lions will give them a run for their money. The Jets escape Detroit with a win in OT.
Winner: New York Jets

New Orleans at Carolina:
The Saints got a major win last week and they will need to be careful with the Panthers. This is a classic trap game.
Winner: New Orleans Saints (I just couldn't pick the Panthers)

Miami at Baltimore:
This could be the battle of the field goal kickers. Both teams are out to prove something. The Dolphins are perfect on the road. Until this game.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens

San Diego at Houston:
It all depends on which team actually shows up. The Chargers of last week or the Chargers of the 1st week? Will the Texans of Monday night show up? Or will the Texans of the first week come? San Diego does have to travel but the Texans lost Monday night and are on the short week. ARGH!
Winner: Houston Texans

Arizona at Minnesota:
The Vikings are a mess but one thing can cure that. Winning. And luckily for them, the Cardinals have shown up.
Winner: Minnesota Vikings

NY Giants at Seattle:
The Seahawks are showing signs of life but the Giants are just rolling. Hopefully their bye week doesn't stop that momentum.
Winner: New York Giants

Indianapolis at Philadelphia:
Michael Vick gets his start and it will be interesting to see how the Eagles play. The Colts are hurt and playing last Monday night will not help them. But the Colts are just too good.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts

Kansas City at Oakland:
Who would have thought that this game will matter? I am loving both teams and how they play and this should be a good one. If it was at Kansas City I would go the Chiefs but I will take the Raiders at home. Hopefully the 2-game streak continues.
Winner: Oakland Raiders

Dallas at Green Bay:
Stick a fork in Dallas. They are done. If the Jags can beat them in Dallas, the Packers can do it at Green Bay. Green Bay needs this game.
Winner: Green Bay Packers

Monday Night
Pittsburgh at Cincinnati:
The Bengals swept the Steelers last year but I don't see it happening this year. The Steelers want revenge and the Bengals are... well... the Bengals. I think it will be close until the Bengals need to make plays and then they muck it up.
Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers

Upon Further Review:

Day 362

Where does the time go? We are heading into Week 8 this week which means the season is half way over! And it looks like some teams might already be thinking that their season is over. Both the Vikings and Cowboys are struggling mightily and it doesn't look like things for them will be improving anytime soon. Both teams are in disarray and it might be too much for these teams to overcome.

Last week I scored 11/14! A big thanks to the Oakland Raiders who finally showed up when I wanted them to!

Washington at Detroit:
The Lions will make things tough for the Redskins but I am sure Redskins Coach Mike Shanahan has the Redskins thinking they can win the division especially with the Cowboys fading in the sunset.
Winner: Washington Redskins

Jacksonville at Dallas:
I feel a little bad for the Cowboys. I personally feel that the Cowboys thought too much of themselves and the pressure from Jerry Jones was too much. It will be interesting to see what kind of character this team has. They should beat the Jaguars; they have more talent that the Jaguars but do they enough willpower? I think the home team wins it and since it is at Dallas I will go with them.
Winner: Dallas Cowboys

Miami at Cincinnati:
Miami has the worst pass rushing in the league and the Bengals are one of the best when blitzed. Miami has won all of its games on the road but I think last week's heart breaker will be too much to overcome. The road wins stop in Cincinnati.
Winner: Cinncinati Bengals

Buffalo at Kansas City:
I was impressed by Buffalo's sudden offensive explosion against the tough Raven defense but I don't think they will have the same game when they come to Kansas City. Those Chiefs are pesky at home.
Winner: Kansas City Chiefs

Carolina at St. Louis:
Carolina got lucky last week. Their luck stops short this week.
Winner: St. Louis Rams

Denver at San Francisco:
London Calling! Both teams lost games that they should have won last week. The only difference is that the Broncos were murdered last week. San Fran has the experience of winning games out of the country and I think they continue that streak.
Winner: San Fransisco 49ers

Green Bay at NY Jets:
The Jets will be tested after having a week off from football and the Packers are feeling high after beating the Vikings at home last week. It will be a close one but I think the Jets defense will close out the Packers like it did the Vikings and the Broncos the weeks before.
Winner: New York Jets

Tennessee at San Diego:
The Chargers almost came back to beat the Pats but they just came up short. I think this will happen again.
Winner: Tennessee Titans

Tampa Bay at Arizona:
The Bucs are feeling good about themselves and will look past the Cardinals. Good thing for the Bucs that the Cardinals have no passing game and they should be able to sneak out a win. It will be close until after halftime when the Bucs get their act together.
Winner: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Minnesota at New England:
Moss Bowl I! Who would have thought that the Pats would be alright without Moss? It doesn't surprise me that the Pats have not lost a step offensively. It will just take them longer to score. Moss will get some revenge against his team but the Vikings will still be reeling from last week and the Patriots know how to take full advantage.
Winner: New England Patriots

Seattle at Oakland:
Seattle has been one of the more surprising teams to come out of the NFC but they will have their hands full with a Raider team that has some pride. Something that the Raiders have not had for a long, long time. I gotta go with the Raiders at home. The crowd will keep the Raiders in the game.
Winner: Oakland Raiders

Pittsburgh at New Orleans:
The Steelers were lucky last week. Don't get me wrong, they are a very good football team but they could have lost last week. The Saints have lost their voodoo but Drew Brees will not have two bad football games in a row. The Steelers come to earth Sunday night.
Winner: New Orleans Saints

Monday Night:
Houston at Indianapolis:
The Texans have the rare opportunity to sweep the Colts and this might be their best chance because of the injuries on the Colts team. But this is Peyton Manning on a nationally televised game. It will be close but I see the Colts winning it on the last drive.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts

Next week I'll have my mid-season grades.

Under Further Review

Day 355

Finally we have big news in the NFL that has nothing to do with Brett Favre!

The NFL recently came down with a ruling that says that the NFL will suspend players who hit defenseless players. I applaud the NFL for protecting their players but at first glance I was not a fan of how the NFL was going to police this. But then I read this article posted on nfl.com that further clarified the league's stand.

I also found a very interesting take from fromer linebacker Tedy Bruschi:



 

And I agree with his statements. Besides every NFL player knows the risks involved. If they don't want the big hits to happen to them, they don't have to play. If a player wants to act like a whiny baby like the Steeler's James Harrison and leave the game because of it, I say don't let the door hit you on the way out. You are a professional athlete like Tedy says. You can adapt and continue to play the game you love and make more money than I will ever make. Think about it for a minute James. If I had a quarter of your talent (which would make me one of the better players around) I wouldn't care about any rule changes as long as I get to play in the NFL. You have the privilege to play in the NFL, not a lot of people can say that. And all the NFL wants to do is protect its players.

I am very curious to see how this plays out. I am sure during the off season we will see more adjustments being made. The game of football is changing, we have more athletic and powerful players, we have more intricate offenses and defences. Players (and fans) must learn to adapt.

Rising: New York Jets. The Jets rattled off 5 straight wins to get the league's best record. They really should have lost that tough game in Denver but they persevered and never gave up. Good teams beat other good teams but great teams beat those that they were supposed to beat.

Falling: Dallas Cowboys. I still think the Cowboys have a chance to take the NFC East but it will take a lot of work and a little bit of luck. But that window is slamming shut. No one in the NFL has made it to a Superbowl starting off the way they did but records are made to be broken.

I got 7/14 again. The trend continues!

Cincinnati at Atlanta:
I will never take the Bengals again. Atlanta lost a big game last week but I think they will bounce back and beat the very disappointing Bengals.
Winner: Atlanta Falcons

Washington at Chicago:
McNabb already proved to me that you can go home again and win when he beat Philly earlier. Now he goes to his true home in Chicago and he will win there as well.
Winner: Washington Redskins

St. Louis at Tampa Bay:
Now this could be a very entertaining game. The Rams are playing much better than we all thought and the Bucs have some life in them. For some reason, after Bucs QB Josh Freeman called out that defensive player for hitting him in the legs, I have become a fan of his.
Winner: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

San Francisco at Carolina:
Can the 49ers win two games in a row? This will be a real test for the 49ers. They should beat the Panthers really easily and great teams beat the teams they should.
Winner: San Fransisco 49ers

Buffalo at Baltimore:
Poor Buffalo. Baltimore is coming off a terrible loss at the Patriots and going into a bye week and playing at home. Great timing for the Ravens, they need a good pick-me-up game. Bad news for the Bills.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens

Philadelphia at Tennessee:
Another entertaining game we could have here. The Titans opened up a can on the Jaguars and are feeling good. The Eagles put a whooping on the Falcons and are feeling good. One of them HAS to lose. I'll take the home field advantage.
Winner: Tennessee Titans

Jacksonville at Kansas City:
I learned something new last Monday night, cats can lay eggs. I learned this right after watching the Jaguars lay a colossal egg against the Titans. I think they will bounce back this week against the Chiefs but playing in Kansas City and on a short week will do them in.
Winner: Kansas City Chiefs

Pittsburgh at Miami:
Lots of hitting in this game and I don't see either team changing their philosophy. Miami needs this win to stay within the Jets and Patriots. I think the Dolphins will be able to keep the Steelers from scoring a lot of points but I don't see the Dolphins being able to post points against the Steelers defense. Lots of field goals in this one with the Steelers getting the lone touchdown.
Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers

Cleveland at New Orleans:
At least rookie Browns QB Colt McCoy can watch and learn from Drew Brees as the methodically takes apart the Browns with the skill of a surgeon.
Winner: Colt McCoy New Orleans Saints

Arizona at Seattle:
Seattle has been one of the more surprising teams in the NFL. I don't know which Cardinals team will show up. I also don't know which Seahawks team will show up either. But I would wager the Seahawks will show up. At least the 12th man will be there.
Winner: Seattle Seahawks

New England at San Diego:
This is a case of one of those games that look good in the preseason but turns into a turkey. The Pats do have to make the trip cross country but that is really the only negative thing the Pats have to deal with. The Chargers always start slow but this year is different. They are getting beat by teams that have no business beating them.
Winner: New England Patriots

Oakland at Denver:
Oakland won its first game in 13 against the Chargers. Maybe they can beat Denver at Denver? Denver did lose a heartbreaking loss against the Jets and they will be without WR Eddie Royal. Am I just convincing myself to go for the Raiders yet again? Okay, last time Raiders. I think you can pull off the upset here.
Winner: Oakland Raiders

Minnesota at Green Bay:
Oh baby! I am so looking forward to this game. The Viking's offense has looked pretty decent the last two weeks and the Packers are just not playing well. I was totally going for Favre last year to beat his old team. But now I am kinda hoping Packers QB Aaron Rodgers puts a hurt on them. It will go down to the wire with the Packers winning one at home.
Winner: Green Bay Packers

Monday Night
NY Giants at Dallas:
The Giants have a grand opportunity to put away the Cowboys on a national stage. But I think the fear of Jerry Jones will make the Cowboys produce and stretch out there agonizing season.
Winner: Dallas Cowboys

Upon Further Review: Week 6

Day 348

What a fantastic Monday Night game! My Jets were very lucky that they won, lucky that the Vikings didn't make those catches when they needed them. I thought for sure we were going to see more of the usual Favre magic. The Jets's clock management almost cost them the game. Who throws when you are supposed to run the clock down? And why run a pass play seconds before the two minute warning?

Rising: Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons showed some gumption by winning from behind a few weeks ago against San Fransisco but good teams win against teams they should win against and they did so against Cleveland.

Falling: Green Bay Packers
The Packers should have won that game against the Redskins but now they have lost more than just that game. The injuries suffered during that game will definitely take their toll. But even before the injuries the Packers were not playing very good football.


Last week I got 7/14 again and I blame the Bungals. I will bounce back this week.

Seattle at Chicago:
I think this game will be closer and much better than most people think. Head Coach Pete Carroll has his Seahawks playing hard but Chicago's monster defense will keep the Bears in front the whole time.
Winner: Chicago Bears

Miami at Green Bay:
If Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers doesn't play the Packers will be in a lot of trouble. Well, more trouble than they are in anyway. The Dolphins win on the road and have had time on the bye week to get their act together. The Dolphins continue to win on the road.
Winner: Miami Dolphins

San Diego at St. Louis:
Both teams are coming off hard losses. The Rams were blown out and the Charger's special teams fell apart. Good teams bounce back after terrible losses but I am not sure which team is the better one. The Chargers have more talent but the Rams are at home. Decisions, decisions.
Winner: San Diego Chargers

Baltimore at New England:
The Patriots will want to revenge their ugly playoff loss last year to the Ravens but they traded one of their best weapons. It is hard to replace that type of talent but if any team could do it, it is the Pats. The Ravens are the hottest team in the NFL right now and a trip to frosty Foxboro will cool them off a bit. But just a bit.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens

New Orleans at Tampa Bay:
Tampa Bay is playing with a lot of confidence and the Saint's confidence is a bit mired with an unexplainable loss to the Cardinals. The Saints have more offensive firepower and will look to use the Bucs to bounce back in a big way. But Tampa will hang around right to the end.
Winner: New Orleans Saints

Detroit at NY Giants:
It has been decades since the Lions destroyed another team. It won't happen this week. The Giants are playing much better football but are still a little too streaky. They should be able to right their ship this week.
Winner: New York Giants

Atlanta at Philadelphia:
Battle of the birds! The Eagles looked pretty good last week but was that because they are good or was it because of the 49ers? Atlanta continues its sneaky winning ways.
Winner: Atlanta Falcons

Cleveland at Pittsburgh:
We should have two new quarterbacks making their debut. But it is a rookie against a 2-time Superbowl winner. Big Ben will be sloppy but he has a good supporting cast to get him through it.
Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers

Kansas City at Houston:
It looks like the Chiefs defense is for real but I worry about that offense. They had their chances against the Colts last week but unexplainable drops put the hurt on them. Houston looks like they can be a great team but they just can't seem to be consistent. I am smelling an upset here.
Winner: Kansas City Chiefs

Oakland at San Francisco:
Battle of the Bay! The Raiders looked like the team I thought they would be and the 49ers are definitely not playing like I thought they would. Every week I think the 49ers will bounce back and every week I think the Raiders will play like I think they will. And each time whoever I pick disappoints. The 49ers need the win but the Raiders have some confidence and they might have the motivation to put the 49ers out to pasture.
Winner: (Heaven help me...) Oakland Raiders

NY Jets at Denver:
Denver's defensive injuries unfortunately will keep them out of this game. The Broncos will be difficult but the Jets sneak out with a win. Barely.
Winner: New York Jets

Dallas at Minnesota:
This should have been a matchup of the top two teams in the NFC. Instead we get a battle of the underachievers. The Vikings defense looked good and the offense looked like they were gelling but they lost a game that they really could have won. The Cowboys just look like chumps instead of champs. Not sure who to go with. Because the Vikings lost on a Monday Night and because I do believe Favre is a distraction, I am taking the Cowboys.
Winner: Dallas Cowboys

Indianapolis at Washington:
This could be a very fun game. The Colts are on the road and play at a tough venue and the Redskins look like they are gaining confidence every week. The Colts also look a little bit vulnerable with two losses already. I just don't see Peyton Manning having two bad games in a row.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts.

Monday Night
Tennessee at Jacksonville:
Both of these teams have had dominating wins and inexplicable losses. I want to go with the home team and the underdog but I think the Titan's passing game will be too much.
Winner: Tennessee Titans

Upon Further Review

Day 341

Are you ready for some football?

I totally am ready for some football. I missed last Monday Night's historical game since I was at the concert and I think I am having withdrawals.

What I love about the NFL is the unpredictability. "That is why they play the game!" I love it when an underdog keeps up with a superior opponent. I love it when teams have that 'break-out' game. And I love it when a young team defeats one of the old guard. And it is only Week 5!

Rising: St. Louis Rams. A lot of experts thought that the Rams would be the worst team in the NFL, I thought that they were going to be horrible too but here it is, the start of Week 5 and the Rams are 2-2 and tied for the NFC West. They actually have a shot of taking the division.

Falling: Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins were up 7-6 on the Pats and then lost 41-14. Unfortunately the Dolphins have their work cut out for them. Losing two big divisional games at home is a huge hole to climb out of. They are in trouble.

Does that mean I will pick the Dolphins to lose this week and the Rams to win? Well, I scored my worst score with 7/14 (at least I got half right!) and I vow to right that ship this week so we'll see.

Jacksonville at Buffalo:
So which Jags team will show up at Buffalo? The good one or the not-so-good one? It doesn't matter because they will either play the awful Bills or the dreadful Bills.
Winner: Jacksonville Jaguars

Tampa Bay at Cincinnati:
T.O. has over 200 yards receiving and a TD and the Bengals still lose? The Bengals are one of the most frustrating teams since they are so inconsistent. But I will take them once again.
Winner: Cincinnati Bengals

Atlanta at Cleveland:
Cleveland was impressive last week and the Falcons barely won. So who has more momentum? Not sure, so I will go with who has more talent.
Winner: Atlanta Falcons

St. Louis at Detroit:
This could be one of most entertaining games this week. Both the Rams and the Lions are playing hard. I will go with the home team this time.
Winner: Detroit Lions
Kansas City at Indianapolis:
The Chiefs are the last undefeated team in the NFL. Yeah, you heard that right. The Chiefs are also coming off the bye so they had extra time to work on a gameplan to defeat the Colts. This will be a lot closer than we think and the Chiefs will have an excellent shot at snagging a win. But a Peyton Manning-led field goal at the end gives the Chiefs their first loss.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts

Green Bay at Washington:
This could be quite a shoot out. Green Bay should win so I will go with the Redskins since I cannot count on them to lose.
Winner: Washington Redskins

Chicago at Carolina:
Bears QB Cutler is out and that may tip the scales to Carolina. But then Julius Peppers is returning home to Carolina and will want to win this game. But he cannot do it alone.
Winner: Carolina Panthers
Denver at Baltimore:
Luckily for me I will be able to catch this game on the tube. This will be an ugly defensive game, just the way I like 'em. Ravens just have too much for the Broncos to handle.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens

NY Giants at Houston:
The Giants fierce defense will have its hands full with the Texans. The Texans should be able to run on them so I don't see a repeat of last week.
Winner: Houston Texans

New Orleans at Arizona:
I wonder how new QB Max Hall feels about wearing red. Does that make him classless? And will he hate Saint fans too? The Saints should offer a prayer of thanks for having this gift given to them.
Winner: New Orleans Saints

San Diego at Oakland:
I am so disappointed with Oakland. So that means that they will win this week since I am going with the Chargers. So I am going to take Oakland. But I should be smart and take the Chargers. Man, either way I am screwed.
Winner: San Diego Chargers

Tennessee at Dallas:
Dallas is usually pretty good after the bye week and the Titans lost a heart breaker last week. Dallas is all healthy and I am sure they do not want to face a cranky Jerry Jones.
Winner: (barely) Dallas Cowboys

Philadelphia at San Francisco:
The 49ers are at least fighting. But will that loss in Atlanta haunt them. And the Eagles are looking for an identity.
Winner: San Francisco 49ers get their first win of the season.

Monday Night:
Minnesota at NY Jets:
Oh man. Brett Favre returns to New York. Randy Moss returns to the Vikings. Revis, Superbowl MVP Santonio Holmes, and Calvin Pace return to the Jets lineup. So many story lines! But the one under the radar is how well the Jets offense with QB Mark Sanchez is leading this team and that is one storyline that writes another chapter.
Winner: New York Jets

Since Miami is on their bye week, I will not pick them to lose.

Upon Further Review: Week 3 Fallout - Week 4 Picks

Day 334

You know it takes forever for the new NFL season to arrive and suddenly it is gone. Can you believe that Week 4 is this week? Bye weeks have already started and we are a quarter of the way through the season?

And as usual, Week 3 was entertaining. Lots of good games and a few surprises.

Rising: New York Jets. I didn't know if the Jets could recover from its opening day egg but after quality wins against rival AFC East teams New England and Miami, the Jets are back where they should be. QB Mark Sanchez has surprised me with his decisions and the offense is looking really good. I cannot wait for WR Santonio Holmes to get involved. The Jets only won 2 AFC East games all of last year and already they have won two.

Falling: Washington Redskins. It seems like it was forever when the Redskins won. A two-game losing skid normally shouldn't be too problematic but losing against the St. Louis Rams is. Hopefully for the Redskins this does not become a trend.

Rising: Chicago Bears. I sure didn't think that the Bears would be the last NFC team to be undefeated. I still am not convinced that the Bears are a great team but after big wins over Green Bay and Dallas you certainly cannot look past this team.

Falling: San Diego Chargers. I cannot figure out this team. The only thing I know is that when they win, they win big. And when the lose, they lose barely but to teams they really shouldn't be losing to. Charger fans shouldn't worry, the Chargers do this every year.



Last week I scored 10/16 so I did finally manage to get into double figures. There are two less games this week so I really need to bring my A game (and stop trying to will the Raiders to win) and make some good picks.

San Francisco at Atlanta:
I am off the 49er bandwagon. This is a team in real trouble. They are not out of the race in the NFC West even with a loss. I am more worried that the chips will really begin to fall.
Winner: Atlanta Falcons

Cincinnati at Cleveland:
The Browns are competitive and the Bengals really need to concentrate on this game and not look past the pesky Browns. The Bengals defense will come up big.
Winner: Cincinnati Bengals

NY Jets at Buffalo:
I am recalling those horrible, horrible games the Jets had against the Bills last season. This is another game that looks like a blowout on paper. The Bills will fight but the Jets will pull out a scared winner. It will be closer than you (and the Jets) think.
Winner: New York Jets

Seattle at St. Louis:
I figured both of these teams would be awful but they certainly are fighters. The Rams got a good win last week and Seattle is in 1st place in the NFC West. This can either be a fantastic game or a very sloppy one. I think Seattle has a little more experience and talent.
Winner: Seattle Seahawks

Denver at Tennessee:
The Titans looked really good last week and while the Broncos have fight in them they just couldn't contain the passing game, they should have an easier time containing Vince Young. But perhaps you have heard of this running back that plays for the Titans.
Winner: Tennessee Titans

Detroit at Green Bay:
Normally I don't like to take the loser of last week's Monday Night game. But the Packers are at home and they are facing the Lions. Nothing like a little scrimmage to put things back into place.
Winner: Green Bay Packers

Baltimore at Pittsburgh:
The Steelers have been very impressive but this time they face a mean defense and I am not sure that Batch or whoever is quarterbacking for the Steelers can handle it. The Ravens also look impressive throwing the ball, especially to Anquan Boldin. This will be a slugfest.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens
Carolina at New Orleans:
Carolina has been awful and the Saints look a little weaker than normal. It will still be a blowout but not a huge one.
Winner: New Orleans Saints

Indianapolis at Jacksonville:
The Jags look helpless and the Colts monster passing game will make matters worse for the Jags. Jones-Drew really needs to get back to his usual performance for the Jags to have a chance.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts

Houston at Oakland:
Houston got hit hard by reality last week and it is a good thing that the Raiders are up next. They will be tough at home but Houston has way more talent.
Winner: Houston Texans

Washington at Philadelphia:
McNabb is going home with a two-game losing streak. Philly suddenly looks really good with Vick leading the Eagles. The Eagles have more momentum but can that match McNabb's passion for beating his old team?
Winner: The answer is no. You can't go home again. Philadelphia Eagles

Arizona at San Diego:
It all depends if we get the Chargers of Week 2 or the Chargers of Week 1 and 3. It is early in the season so the Chargers should lose right?
Winner: San Diego Chargers

Chicago at NY Giants:
The Giants have looked utterly lost these last two weeks and are in some big trouble. The Bears look fantastic. This really could swing either way.
Winner: Chicago Bears

Monday Night
New England at Miami:
I will be at the concert Monday night and I am glad that my two "favorite" teams are playing so I won't miss much. Actually this will be a good game and I am interested to see how these two match up with each other. Either team can win this but my gut is picking the Dolphins.
Winner: Miami Dolphins

Under Further Review: Week 2 Fallout

Day 327

Hey Revis?! How is that hammy treating you? That's what you get for skipping training camp!

There is nothing more comforting than having football on the television on a Sunday afternoon. Especially when the Jets pull off a win. Hey Jason Taylor! I accept you being a Jet after your strip sack of Tom Brady last Sunday.

Week Two is a fun week. You get to see if the last week winners are for real and you get see the early season panic of teams that might be facing a 0-2 deficit.

Rising: Houston Texans. At first I thought that they might crumble under the emotional win against the Colts last week. And perhaps the Redskins are for real. And then the 4th quarter rolled around and the Texans showed up to come from behind to win on the road. I know it is real early to know how a team will be for the whole season but I do see similarities between this team and the Saints of last year. Last week the Texans won with their running game, this time they won with their passing game.

Falling: Dallas Cowboys. What will give out first? Jerry Jones's temper or his heart? The Cowboys do not look in sync at all and are crumbling right before our eyes. They do have time to get things together but the pressure is mounting. Jason Witten's possible concussion doesn't help matters either.

Rising: Pittsburgh Steelers. Even without their big QB they continue to win. The Steelers defense unit is keeping this team in games.

Falling: Minnesota Vikings. That 4th down stand that the Dolphins made against Adrian Peterson was impressive and could be the play that starts the downward spiral for the Vikings. It doesn't look good.

Rising: Chicago Bears. QB Jay Cutler looked pretty good in Dallas last week and the Bears are playing with a little more gumption. An early 2-0 record will give the Bears confidence and with the Vikings 0-2, they have a real shot at making some noise in the NFC North.

Falling: San Fransisco 49ers: I thought the 49ers looked good Monday night against the Saints but a loss is still a loss. They can rebound from an 0-2 start but will they crumble under the pressure? I still think they can take the NFC West.



I scored another 9/16 in my picks (at least I am consistent). This week I will finally get into the double digits. So what does Week 3 entail?

Tennessee at NY Giants:
Both teams are coming off horrific losses. But I see the Giants edge the Titans in this game only because the Giants are at home and they don't have to deal with the shaky psyche of Vince Young.
Winner: NY Giants

Pittsburgh at Tampa Bay:
This will be a true test for the 2-0 Bucs. While I do think they are a better team than last year, I don't think they are better than the Steelers. QB Charlie Batch starts the game for the Steelers which will allow the Bucs to hang around but the Steelers win it on defense.
Winner: Pittsburgh Steelers

Cincinnati at Carolina:
The Bengals bounced back last week with a great divisional win over the Ravens. This carries right over into this game.
Winner: Cincinnati Bengals

Cleveland at Baltimore:
I never thought I would see Ravens QB Joe Flacco look so discombobulated. Good thing for the Ravens that the Browns are coming to town. The Ravens right the ship and get the win.
Winner: Baltimore Ravens

Dallas at Houston:
Oh boy, I hope this is televised. Houston can take a gigantic leap by going 3-0 in their division and the Cowboys can really do themselves in if they lose. If this was in Dallas I might go for them but this is in Houston and that place will be rocking. Another big test for the Texans that they will pass.
Winner: Houston Texans

San Francisco at Kansas City:
I feel bad for the 49ers. They took it to the Saints but came up short. The defense looked good and should be able to contain the Chiefs. But the Chiefs are at home and the 49ers lost on a Monday night. It will come down to wire but I think the Chiefs will use their early momentum to snag a win away from the 49ers.
Winner: Kansas City Chiefs

Detroit at Minnesota:
Nothing cures losing better than a visit from the Detroit Lions. But this isn't your daddy's Lions which is a problem. This will be a tougher and closer game than anyone expects but the Vikings will get an emotional win.
Winner: Minnesota Vikings

Buffalo at New England:
The Pats will do what they do best. Rebound. The Bills will play tough but not good enough to take down the Pats. The Pats will miss RB Kevin Faulk more than they realize which will make their offense not as dominant.
Winner: New England Patriots

Atlanta at New Orleans:
The Falcons sure looked good last week but that was against the Cardinals so I wouldn't hold too much stock in that. New Orleans might be in trouble with RB Reggie Bush out but they still have enough firepower to match anyone in the league. I am predicting an upset here, I think the Falcons will steal this game away from the Saints much like the Saints will steal one later in the season at Atlanta.
Winner: Atlanta Falcons

Washington at St. Louis:
The Redskins lost an emotional game last week that will take its toll giving the Rams an early lead. But QB McNabb is too much of a professional and will win it in the 4th quarter, much like what happened to him last week.
Winner: Washington Redskins

Philadelphia at Jacksonville:
QB Michael Vick certainly looked like he has not lost a step. The Eagles look better than the Jags at this point but it wouldn't surprise me if the Jags took this game. Coin toss! Tails...
Winner: Philadelphia Eagles

Oakland at Arizona:
Oh boy... this could be quite a game but more than likely a snooze fest. I don't know which underachiever will actually go for a win.
Winner: Oakland Raiders

San Diego at Seattle:
The Chargers looked a lot better last week than the week before and Seattle's first win in Week 1 looks like a fluke.
Winner: San Diego Chargers

Indianapolis at Denver:
I told Daniel that I will go for the Broncos this week. But that doesn't mean I will pick them.
Winner: Indianapolis Colts

NY Jets at Miami:
If the Jets play like they did last week this should be a fun game. The 2-0 Dolphins will get an early test by a terrific Jets defense and the Jets are looking to avenge being swept by the Fins last year. Close game but the Jets roll on in the 4th quarter.
Winner: NY Jets

Monday Night
Green Bay at Chicago:
Which team is for real? I expect the Bears to blitz the crud out of the Packers to make it close but the Packers make just enough plays to get ahead. Bears QB Jay Cutler reverts to form and the Packers capitalize on the turnovers.
Winner: Green Bay Packers

I am looking forward to the games this Sunday. Should be some classics.