The race for the NFL playoffs can best be described as a cluster. There are twenty teams that are mathematically still alive, nine of whom have already punched their post-season tickets. Of the eleven remaining, I’d say four have a legitimate chance. Here’s a concise scenario:
AFC
Clinched: San Diego, Baltimore, New England, Indianapolis
Control Own Destiny: New York Jets, Denver
Still Alive: Cincinnati, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Tennessee
What Will Happen: The Jets play the Raiders, and Denver hosts San Francisco, so they’re both likely in; San Diego will beat Arizona to clinch home field; Baltimore will be the two seed.
NFC
Clinched: Chicago, New Orleans, Seattle, Philadelphia, Dallas
Control Own Destiny: Technically, nobody (but the Giants hold most of the tiebreakers)
Still Alive: Atlanta, Carolina, Green Bay, St. Louis
What Will Happen: If the Giants can’t get it together for a must-win tomorrow night, they probably don’t deserve to be in the playoffs anyway; The Rams may be in the cat bird seat here, as they face the Vikings (should be a win) and the teams they need to lose all have tough match-ups (Atlanta in Philly, Carolina in New Orleans, Green Bay in Chicago). Oh, and the Eagles will win the East and be the third seed.
In short, I’d be surprised to see anyone other than the Jets, Broncos, Giants and/or Rams in the playoffs. Of course, this NFL season has been so bizarre, nothing would truly shock me at this point. With that being said, here are the Week 17 picks.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
The Match-up: New York Giants (-2.5) @ Washington
The Skinny: I’ve got Tom Coughlin as the first coach canned in the off-season, just ahead of Jim Mora Jr.
Straight Up: Washington
Against the Spread: Washington
Sunday, December 31, 2006
The Match-up: Jacksonville (+2.5) @ Kansas City
The Skinny: Call it the too little, too late bowl…
Straight Up: Kansas City
Against the Spread: Kansas City
The Match-up: St. Louis (-2.5) @ Minnesota
The Skinny: Of all the teams that the Eagles could face in round one, I think the Rams scare me the most. Steven Jackson is a straight up stud.
Straight Up: St. Louis
Against the Spread: St. Louis
The Match-up: Carolina (-3.0) @ New Orleans
The Skinny: The Saints are firmly entrenched in the number two spot in the NFC, and it’s a must-win for the Panthers. In spite of the fact that Jake del-overrated will be back under center for Carolina (or maybe because of that), I’ve got to go with the Saints.
Straight Up: New Orleans
Against the Spread: New Orleans
The Match-up: Oakland (+12.5) @ New York Jets
The Skinny: Wonder if the Raiders have started printing up replica Brady Quinn #10 jerseys yet.
Straight Up: New York Jets
Against the Spread: New York Jets
The Match-up: Pittsburgh (+6.0) @ Cincinnati
The Skinny: Where will Bill Cowher be coaching next year? My guess is Pittsburgh, because he’s not going to find greener grass anywhere.
Straight Up: Cincinnati
Against the Spread: Cincinnati
The Match-up: Detroit (+12.5) @ Dallas
The Skinny: See if you can figure out who Dallas CB Terrance Newman was talking about in the following quote: "People need to just start playing and stop talking so much. It's a show-me league and talking is not going to do anything." (I’ll give you a hint – his nickname is TOFU and he sucks)
Straight Up: Detroit
Against the Spread: Detroit
The Match-up: Seattle (+3.5) @ Tampa Bay
The Skinny: The Bucs gave Chris Simms a two-year contract extension despite the spleen-ectomy that sidelined him most of this season. That’s a real vote of confidence for Bruce Gradkowski.
Straight Up: Seattle
Against the Spread: Seattle
The Match-up: New England (+3.0) @ Tennessee
The Skinny: Why go against the next big thing at home when he’ll likely be facing a team quarterbacked by Matt Cassell in the second half? Gut feeling.
Straight Up: New England
Against the Spread: New England
The Match-up: Cleveland (+4.0) @ Houston
The Skinny: Whoever will be managing the Browns 2007 draft should look up Charlie Casserly and ask him if he would take a mulligan on the ’06 draft. Troy Smith in Cleveland could be a perfect situation for both.
Straight Up: Cleveland
Against the Spread: Cleveland
The Match-up: Atlanta (+8.0) @ Philadelphia
The Skinny: Ron Mexico threw Jim Mora under the bus this week, saying there’s too much talent on the Falcons for them to be in the position they are. Mexico should know best. He’s Exhibit A.
Straight Up: Philadelphia
Against the Spread: Philadelphia
The Match-up: Arizona (+13.5) @ San Diego
The Skinny: Jason Taylor may not think Shawne Merriman is a viable candidate for Defensive Player of the Year, but Kurt Warner will by the end of Sunday.
Straight Up: San Diego
Against the Spread: San Diego
The Match-up: San Francisco (+10.5) @ Denver
The Skinny: Frank Gore alone may be enough to keep the game close, but the Broncos should come out on top.
Straight Up: Denver
Against the Spread: San Francisco
The Match-up: Buffalo (+9.0) @ Baltimore
The Skinny: A game featuring two teams on the east coast kicks off at 4:00, the same time as the Chargers-Cardinals game when the Chargers and Ravens are battling for the top seed in the AFC. Coincidence?
Straight Up: Baltimore
Against the Spread: Baltimore
The Match-up: Miami (+9.0) @ Indianapolis
The Skinny: There are a few reasons I was leaning towards Miami (good defense, a healthy Ronnie Brown, Indy’s porous run defense) and one overwhelming reason why I went with the Colts (Cleo Lemon will start at quarterback for the Dolphins on Sunday).
Straight Up: Indianapolis
Against the Spread: Indianapolis
The Match-up: Green Bay (+3.0) @ Chicago
The Skinny: The funny thing is, if the Bears were to rest Rex Grossman and Thomas Jones in favor of Brian Griese and Cedric Benson, they might have been a seven point favorite. Happy trails, Brett (just in case), and congratulations on a Hall-of-Fame career.
Straight Up: Chicago
Against the Spread: Chicago
Friday, December 29, 2006
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Revisionist History
Just wanted to take a minute to announce my association with NFL Bloggers (www.nfl-bloggers.com), a portal of other NFL-related blogs. To those readers who are new to the site, welcome aboard. Here’s a little background for you (if you’ve been with me for a while, feel free to skip ahead).
The genesis of the site goes back almost six years, when I happened upon a column called “Pete’s Picks” in USA Today. A guy named Pete O’Brien picked every NFL game that weekend, straight up and against the spread, and I was astonished at how bad some of his picks were. I couldn’t believe this guy was pulling a paycheck to print them. I tracked my picks versus his for the remainder of the season, and blew him out of the water. Starting with the 2001-02 season, I documented my picks and communicated them via e-mail to a few of my friends. When the scope of the project expanded, I opted for a more public forum, hence the creation of Ant’s “Expert” NFL Page in June 2005. The title pays veiled homage to the “Experts” on sites like ESPN and CNN-SI whose record at picking games is no better than mine. If they are “Experts,” why shouldn’t I be?
There are a few caveats that you should keep in mind:
1. The picks are for entertainment purposes only. If you use my opinions as a basis for your gambling, that’s your business.
2. I am not NFL-sanctioned, therefore I am under no obligation to be objective. I am merely a football fan with opinions.
3. When making my picks, I adhere to a couple of strict rules:
a) I will ALWAYS pick the Philadelphia Eagles, regardless of opponent, venue, or point spread. It’s my right as a fan to do so.
b) Conversely, I will NEVER pick the Dallas Cowboys, regardless of opponent, venue, or point spread. In a perfect world, the Cowboys would be 0-16 every year for the rest of their miserable existence.
c) I don’t use gimmicks, like the “Upset of the Week.” I don’t want to call an upset because I’m required to. If I think one team will beat another, I’ll let you know. And you won’t find a “Lock of the Week” on this site. I think all of my picks are locks. Otherwise, I wouldn’t pick them.
Anyway, the picks are the meat and potatoes of the site, but occasionally there will be a topic that warrants some commentary, so I may share a random thought here or there. For example…
I got the Christmas present I really wanted at around 8:00 Monday night, as the Eagles were finishing up their dominance of the Cowboys in Dallas. The Eagles completed the season sweep and vaulted into first place in the NFC East and can clinch the division with a win over Atlanta on Sunday. The Cowboys, meanwhile, started sniping at each other even before there were zeroes on the clock. I watched the first half with a couple of cousins-in-law by marriage who are Cowboys fans (both from New Jersey, so figure that one out) and the second at home with my family. The only way it would have been better is if TOFU didn’t score Dallas’ touchdown.
Speaking of, not only was TOFU’s celebration cheesy (he extended both arms straight out like a “T,” then arched them over his head in the shape of an “O”), it wasn’t even original! Remember Oronde Gadsden, former wide receiver for the Dolphins circa 1996? Every time he caught a pass, he made the “O,” then a “G.” Yet one more reason why TOFU sucks.
I was going to have some picks for today, but I need to review the playoff implications for this weekend’s games and get back to you. Admittedly, Sunday could be entirely academic in the NFC if the Giants decide to show up in Washington on Saturday night.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
The Week 16 Picks
I’m going off the board here with a couple of Allen Iverson thoughts. One question I heard a lot this week was, “do you think the Sixers got a good deal?” Hard to say, seeing as there’s no way to know right now what will become of the two first round picks they got. It’s kind of up to Billy King at this point. But having three first round picks in the upcoming draft should go a long way towards rebuilding.
One thing I do know is that Allen will be missed, and not just Allen the basketball player. Too often he’s gotten a bad rap, and some of it deservedly so. But I wanted to take a chance to relay a touching story about A.I. About three years ago, my friend Tim was killed in an automobile accident. He was a manager at a car wash where many of the Sixers had their vehicles detailed. A.I. stopped in shortly after the accident and when he heard what had happened, on the spot he cut a $25,000 check to Tim’s daughter. That’s the A.I. I’ll remember. Good luck in Denver, Allen, and I hope you get the championship you deserve and covet.
I’m on the road tomorrow, so here’s the short short version of the Week 16 Picks.
Thursday, December 21st, 2006
The Match-up: Minnesota (+3.0) @ Green Bay
The Skinny: Rookie Tavaris Jackson gets the start at quarterback for the Vikings. They’re only playing for the future anyway.
Straight Up: Green Bay
Against the Spread: Green Bay
Saturday, December 23rd, 2006
The Match-up: Kansas City (-6.5) @ Oakland
The Skinny: If the Chiefs didn’t go from 7-4 to 7-7 over the last three weeks, do you think Larry Johnson would be complaining about the offense? Probably.
Straight Up: Kansas City
Against the Spread: Kansas City
Sunday, December 24th, 2006
The Match-up: Chicago (-4.5) @ Detroit
The Skinny: There’s a chance, now that the Bears have clinched home field in the NFC, that they take this game lightly. I don’t know if that’s enough help for the Lions.
Straight Up: Chicago
Against the Spread: Chicago
The Match-up: Washington (+2.0) @ Seattle
The Skinny: The Redskins looked pretty good last week in New Orleans.
Straight Up: Washington
Against the Spread: Washington
The Match-up: New Orleans (+3.0) @ New York Giants
The Skinny: Really? The Saints are getting three? I’ll take that.
Straight Up: New Orleans
Against the Spread: New Orleans
The Match-up: Baltimore (+3.0) @ Pittsburgh
The Skinny: Really? The Ravens are getting three? I don’t like that.
Straight Up: Pittsburgh
Against the Spread: Pittsburgh
The Match-up: Carolina (Off) @ Atlanta
The Skinny: One team has something to play for. The other is the Carolina Panthers.
Straight Up: Atlanta
Against the Spread: Atlanta
The Match-up: New England (+3.0) @ Jacksonville
The Skinny: Tom Brady should play with a chip on his shoulder after his Pro Bowl snub. One problem? Jacksonville’s defense at home is pretty good.
Straight Up: Jacksonville
Against the Spread: Jacksonville
The Match-up: Tennessee (+4.5) @ Buffalo
The Skinny: This is basically an elimination game, as both teams are in the AFC logjam at 7-7.
Straight Up: Buffalo
Against the Spread: Tennessee
The Match-up: Indianapolis (-9.0) @ Houston
The Skinny: If Monday night is any indication, the Colts are still very much a factor.
Straight Up: Indianapolis
Against the Spread: Indianapolis
The Match-up: Tampa Bay (+3.0) @ Cleveland
The Skinny: Tim Rattay threw for 268 yards and 3 touchdowns in basically a half against the Bears. He should make Cleveland’s defense look like a Pop Warner team.
Straight Up: Tampa Bay
Against the Spread: Tampa Bay
The Match-up: Arizona (+4.0) @ San Francisco
The Skinny: I’m going to go way out on a limb here – Frank Gore will be a top five fantasy back next year.
Straight Up: San Francisco
Against the Spread: San Francisco
The Match-up: Cincinnati (+3.0) @ Denver
The Skinny: Cincy’s playoff chances are on life support after the loss Monday in Indy. Jay Cutler could pull the plug this week.
Straight Up: Denver
Against the Spread: Denver
The Match-up: San Diego (-4.5) @ Seattle
The Skinny: Due to the fact that the Colts and Ravens keep winning, the Chargers need to keep pace to clinch home field in the AFC.
Straight Up: San Diego
Against the Spread: San Diego
Monday, December 11th, 2006
The Match-up: Philadelphia (+7.0) @ Dallas
The Skinny: My Christmas wish? The Eagles beat the Cowboys to take the lead in the NFC East, and Jeff Garcia spits on TOFU’s face on his way off the field. TOFU is such a piece of crap. He and the Cowboys are made for each other.
Straight Up: Philadelphia
Against the Spread: Philadelphia
The Match-up: New York Jets (+2.5) @ Miami
The Skinny: This line is puzzling. Here are the Jets, with a legitimate shot at the post season, and they’re a dog in Miami? That should raise a red flag, but it doesn’t.
Straight Up: New York Jets
Against the Spread: New York Jets
One thing I do know is that Allen will be missed, and not just Allen the basketball player. Too often he’s gotten a bad rap, and some of it deservedly so. But I wanted to take a chance to relay a touching story about A.I. About three years ago, my friend Tim was killed in an automobile accident. He was a manager at a car wash where many of the Sixers had their vehicles detailed. A.I. stopped in shortly after the accident and when he heard what had happened, on the spot he cut a $25,000 check to Tim’s daughter. That’s the A.I. I’ll remember. Good luck in Denver, Allen, and I hope you get the championship you deserve and covet.
I’m on the road tomorrow, so here’s the short short version of the Week 16 Picks.
Thursday, December 21st, 2006
The Match-up: Minnesota (+3.0) @ Green Bay
The Skinny: Rookie Tavaris Jackson gets the start at quarterback for the Vikings. They’re only playing for the future anyway.
Straight Up: Green Bay
Against the Spread: Green Bay
Saturday, December 23rd, 2006
The Match-up: Kansas City (-6.5) @ Oakland
The Skinny: If the Chiefs didn’t go from 7-4 to 7-7 over the last three weeks, do you think Larry Johnson would be complaining about the offense? Probably.
Straight Up: Kansas City
Against the Spread: Kansas City
Sunday, December 24th, 2006
The Match-up: Chicago (-4.5) @ Detroit
The Skinny: There’s a chance, now that the Bears have clinched home field in the NFC, that they take this game lightly. I don’t know if that’s enough help for the Lions.
Straight Up: Chicago
Against the Spread: Chicago
The Match-up: Washington (+2.0) @ Seattle
The Skinny: The Redskins looked pretty good last week in New Orleans.
Straight Up: Washington
Against the Spread: Washington
The Match-up: New Orleans (+3.0) @ New York Giants
The Skinny: Really? The Saints are getting three? I’ll take that.
Straight Up: New Orleans
Against the Spread: New Orleans
The Match-up: Baltimore (+3.0) @ Pittsburgh
The Skinny: Really? The Ravens are getting three? I don’t like that.
Straight Up: Pittsburgh
Against the Spread: Pittsburgh
The Match-up: Carolina (Off) @ Atlanta
The Skinny: One team has something to play for. The other is the Carolina Panthers.
Straight Up: Atlanta
Against the Spread: Atlanta
The Match-up: New England (+3.0) @ Jacksonville
The Skinny: Tom Brady should play with a chip on his shoulder after his Pro Bowl snub. One problem? Jacksonville’s defense at home is pretty good.
Straight Up: Jacksonville
Against the Spread: Jacksonville
The Match-up: Tennessee (+4.5) @ Buffalo
The Skinny: This is basically an elimination game, as both teams are in the AFC logjam at 7-7.
Straight Up: Buffalo
Against the Spread: Tennessee
The Match-up: Indianapolis (-9.0) @ Houston
The Skinny: If Monday night is any indication, the Colts are still very much a factor.
Straight Up: Indianapolis
Against the Spread: Indianapolis
The Match-up: Tampa Bay (+3.0) @ Cleveland
The Skinny: Tim Rattay threw for 268 yards and 3 touchdowns in basically a half against the Bears. He should make Cleveland’s defense look like a Pop Warner team.
Straight Up: Tampa Bay
Against the Spread: Tampa Bay
The Match-up: Arizona (+4.0) @ San Francisco
The Skinny: I’m going to go way out on a limb here – Frank Gore will be a top five fantasy back next year.
Straight Up: San Francisco
Against the Spread: San Francisco
The Match-up: Cincinnati (+3.0) @ Denver
The Skinny: Cincy’s playoff chances are on life support after the loss Monday in Indy. Jay Cutler could pull the plug this week.
Straight Up: Denver
Against the Spread: Denver
The Match-up: San Diego (-4.5) @ Seattle
The Skinny: Due to the fact that the Colts and Ravens keep winning, the Chargers need to keep pace to clinch home field in the AFC.
Straight Up: San Diego
Against the Spread: San Diego
Monday, December 11th, 2006
The Match-up: Philadelphia (+7.0) @ Dallas
The Skinny: My Christmas wish? The Eagles beat the Cowboys to take the lead in the NFC East, and Jeff Garcia spits on TOFU’s face on his way off the field. TOFU is such a piece of crap. He and the Cowboys are made for each other.
Straight Up: Philadelphia
Against the Spread: Philadelphia
The Match-up: New York Jets (+2.5) @ Miami
The Skinny: This line is puzzling. Here are the Jets, with a legitimate shot at the post season, and they’re a dog in Miami? That should raise a red flag, but it doesn’t.
Straight Up: New York Jets
Against the Spread: New York Jets
Saturday, December 16, 2006
The Week 15 Picks
Before we get to the Sunday games, a quick word about Kansas City Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt, who passed away at age 74 this week. Hunt was not only an owner, but an innovator and a visionary. He was instrumental in the AFL-NFL merger and coined the phrase "Super Bowl." But his contribution to sports were not limited to football. He helped launch Major League Soccer, the North American Soccer League, and a traveling tennis circuit. He was also a part-owner of the Chicago Bulls and collected six NBA championship rings. Hunt’s impact on the sports world will live on in his legacy, and he will be missed.
Anyway, it’s Saturday night, and instead of watching the Cowboys-Falcons game on TV, I’m trying to follow it on the computer. So far, the Eagles are not getting any help from Ron Mexico, who is 0-2 with an interception that was returned for a TD and has a mere 9 rushing yards.
Sunday, December 17th, 2006
The Match-up: Tampa Bay (+13.5) @ Chicago
The Skinny: I know Rex Grossman had a decent game in St. Louis on Monday, and with their defense and special teams (especially Devin Hester), all Grossman has to do is be decent.
Straight Up: Chicago
Against the Spread: Chicago
The Match-up: Pittsburgh (Off) @ Carolina
The Skinny: Since stumbling out of the gate at 2-6, the Steelers have won four of five and get Carolina at a time where they’re sinking like a stone in the ocean.
Straight Up: Pittsburgh
Against the Spread: Pittsburgh
The Match-up: Detroit (+5.0) @ Green Bay
The Skinny: The Packers have beaten the Lions in Green Bay fourteen straight times. Brett Favre has never lost to Detroit in Lambeau. And, the Lions are 0-6 on the road this season. The way the NFL has gone this year, I was actually tempted to take the Lions. But I didn’t.
Straight Up: Green Bay
Against the Spread: Green Bay
The Match-up: Cleveland (+11.0) @ Baltimore
The Skinny: My sleeper team for this year? Still asleep, apparently.
Straight Up: Baltimore
Against the Spread: Baltimore
The Match-up: Jacksonville (-3.5) @ Tennessee
The Skinny: Until he loses again, I’ll find it hard to go against Vince Young, even against a quality opponent like the Jaguars (who have struggled on the road this season).
Straight Up: Tennessee
Against the Spread: Tennessee
The Match-up: New York Jets (+3.0) @ Minnesota
The Skinny: I think the Jets may have gotten full of themselves with so many people putting them in the playoffs, because they forgot they had to play the game against Buffalo last week. I don’t think they’ll make the same mistake in Minnesota.
Straight Up: New York Jets
Against the Spread: New York Jets
The Match-up: Houston (+11.5) @ New England
The Skinny: I’d be willing to wager that, rather than leaking audio tapes to the Texans, that neither Brady nor Belichick spoke at all this week.
Straight Up: New England
Against the Spread: New England
The Match-up: Washington (+9.5) @ New Orleans
The Skinny: The only real challenger to LaDanian Tomlinson’s MVP award is Drew Brees. Could you imagine if these guys were on the same team?
Straight Up: New Orleans
Against the Spread: New Orleans
The Match-up: Miami (+1.0) @ Buffalo
The Skinny: Florida team in Buffalo in December? I’ll take the Bills.
Straight Up: Buffalo
Against the Spread: Buffalo
The Match-up: Denver (-2.5) @ Arizona
The Skinny: Colorado team in Arizona in December? I’ll take the Broncos.
Straight Up: Denver
Against the Spread: Denver
The Match-up: St. Louis (+2.5) @ Oakland
The Skinny: I don’t like the fact that the Raiders are actually favored in this game. This one may come back to get me.
Straight Up: St. Louis
Against the Spread: St. Louis
The Match-up: Philadelphia (+5.5) @ New York Giants
The Skinny: Credit the Eagles front office for learning from last year’s mistakes and bringing in a quality back-up quarterback to play behind Donovan McNabb. Jeff Garcia is a winner, and the Eagles could really benefit from a win over the Giants.
Straight Up: Philadelphia
Against the Spread: Philadelphia
The Match-up: Kansas City (+8.5) @ San Diego
The Skinny: With my head (straight up) and my heart (against the spread).
Straight Up: San Diego
Against the Spread: Kansas City
Monday, December 18th, 2006
The Match-up: Cincinnati (+3.0) @ Indianapolis
The Skinny: This was my pre-season AFC championship game, and if not for the Chargers, it still might be.
Straight Up: Indianapolis
Against the Spread: Indianapolis
Anyway, it’s Saturday night, and instead of watching the Cowboys-Falcons game on TV, I’m trying to follow it on the computer. So far, the Eagles are not getting any help from Ron Mexico, who is 0-2 with an interception that was returned for a TD and has a mere 9 rushing yards.
Sunday, December 17th, 2006
The Match-up: Tampa Bay (+13.5) @ Chicago
The Skinny: I know Rex Grossman had a decent game in St. Louis on Monday, and with their defense and special teams (especially Devin Hester), all Grossman has to do is be decent.
Straight Up: Chicago
Against the Spread: Chicago
The Match-up: Pittsburgh (Off) @ Carolina
The Skinny: Since stumbling out of the gate at 2-6, the Steelers have won four of five and get Carolina at a time where they’re sinking like a stone in the ocean.
Straight Up: Pittsburgh
Against the Spread: Pittsburgh
The Match-up: Detroit (+5.0) @ Green Bay
The Skinny: The Packers have beaten the Lions in Green Bay fourteen straight times. Brett Favre has never lost to Detroit in Lambeau. And, the Lions are 0-6 on the road this season. The way the NFL has gone this year, I was actually tempted to take the Lions. But I didn’t.
Straight Up: Green Bay
Against the Spread: Green Bay
The Match-up: Cleveland (+11.0) @ Baltimore
The Skinny: My sleeper team for this year? Still asleep, apparently.
Straight Up: Baltimore
Against the Spread: Baltimore
The Match-up: Jacksonville (-3.5) @ Tennessee
The Skinny: Until he loses again, I’ll find it hard to go against Vince Young, even against a quality opponent like the Jaguars (who have struggled on the road this season).
Straight Up: Tennessee
Against the Spread: Tennessee
The Match-up: New York Jets (+3.0) @ Minnesota
The Skinny: I think the Jets may have gotten full of themselves with so many people putting them in the playoffs, because they forgot they had to play the game against Buffalo last week. I don’t think they’ll make the same mistake in Minnesota.
Straight Up: New York Jets
Against the Spread: New York Jets
The Match-up: Houston (+11.5) @ New England
The Skinny: I’d be willing to wager that, rather than leaking audio tapes to the Texans, that neither Brady nor Belichick spoke at all this week.
Straight Up: New England
Against the Spread: New England
The Match-up: Washington (+9.5) @ New Orleans
The Skinny: The only real challenger to LaDanian Tomlinson’s MVP award is Drew Brees. Could you imagine if these guys were on the same team?
Straight Up: New Orleans
Against the Spread: New Orleans
The Match-up: Miami (+1.0) @ Buffalo
The Skinny: Florida team in Buffalo in December? I’ll take the Bills.
Straight Up: Buffalo
Against the Spread: Buffalo
The Match-up: Denver (-2.5) @ Arizona
The Skinny: Colorado team in Arizona in December? I’ll take the Broncos.
Straight Up: Denver
Against the Spread: Denver
The Match-up: St. Louis (+2.5) @ Oakland
The Skinny: I don’t like the fact that the Raiders are actually favored in this game. This one may come back to get me.
Straight Up: St. Louis
Against the Spread: St. Louis
The Match-up: Philadelphia (+5.5) @ New York Giants
The Skinny: Credit the Eagles front office for learning from last year’s mistakes and bringing in a quality back-up quarterback to play behind Donovan McNabb. Jeff Garcia is a winner, and the Eagles could really benefit from a win over the Giants.
Straight Up: Philadelphia
Against the Spread: Philadelphia
The Match-up: Kansas City (+8.5) @ San Diego
The Skinny: With my head (straight up) and my heart (against the spread).
Straight Up: San Diego
Against the Spread: Kansas City
Monday, December 18th, 2006
The Match-up: Cincinnati (+3.0) @ Indianapolis
The Skinny: This was my pre-season AFC championship game, and if not for the Chargers, it still might be.
Straight Up: Indianapolis
Against the Spread: Indianapolis
More Week 15
Back in college, I had a buddy we called “Thursday Night Dave.” We’d all go out on Thursday night, and when we returned to the dorm after more than a few pops, good old Dave would scour the building, pop in on some friends, pull the mattress out from under people that were sleeping. He even interrupted at least one, um, encounter? Basically, he’d wreak havoc to the point they put a sign in the lobby reading “It’s Thursday Night. Lock Your Door.” It was much fun for everybody (well, unless you were the guy sleeping on the mattress).
Why am I telling you this? Because I haven’t had a good Thursday night seemingly since college. These Thursday NFL games are killing me, causing me to start 0-1 every week. Maybe I’ll have better luck on Saturday.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
The Match-up: Dallas (-3.0) @ Atlanta
The Skinny: The Falcons are finally wising up to my idea (floated back in September) about playing Ron Mexico and back up Matt Schaub at the same time. Of course, they’re doing it out of necessity and not creativity. Hey, whatever the reason, I just hope it works.
Straight Up: Atlanta
Against the Spread: Atlanta
Why am I telling you this? Because I haven’t had a good Thursday night seemingly since college. These Thursday NFL games are killing me, causing me to start 0-1 every week. Maybe I’ll have better luck on Saturday.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
The Match-up: Dallas (-3.0) @ Atlanta
The Skinny: The Falcons are finally wising up to my idea (floated back in September) about playing Ron Mexico and back up Matt Schaub at the same time. Of course, they’re doing it out of necessity and not creativity. Hey, whatever the reason, I just hope it works.
Straight Up: Atlanta
Against the Spread: Atlanta
Thursday, December 14, 2006
The Start of Week 15
Remember my commentary on the depth of this year’s rookie class from a couple of weeks ago? Well it seems as though every week, another one comes crawling out of the woodwork. Two weeks ago, Carolina’s DeAngelo Williams put up big numbers against Philly on Monday night, and Jerrious Norwood of the Falcons torched the Redskins. Last week, Chicago’s Devin Hester set an NFL record with his sixth return touchdown of the year. So who’s next? LenDale White? Santonio Holmes? Hank Baskett? (Sorry, had to show a little love for my boy Hank).
Here’s an interesting little stat for you – with three weeks remaining in the season, an astonishing 25 of the league’s 32 teams are still mathematically alive for the playoffs, including both of tonight’s participants.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
The Match-up: San Francisco (+9.5) @ Seattle
The Skinny: I thought I had the Seahawks figured out, that is until they went and laid an egg in Arizona. But, I like them tonight for three reasons: 1) They can clinch the division with a win over Frisco; 2) They’re getting healthy again with Hasselbeck and Alexander back up to speed and Bobby Engram expected to return tonight; 3) The game is in Seattle, and the Seahawks are vastly better at home than on the road. That much I have figured out.
Straight Up: Seattle
Against the Spread: Seattle
Here’s an interesting little stat for you – with three weeks remaining in the season, an astonishing 25 of the league’s 32 teams are still mathematically alive for the playoffs, including both of tonight’s participants.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
The Match-up: San Francisco (+9.5) @ Seattle
The Skinny: I thought I had the Seahawks figured out, that is until they went and laid an egg in Arizona. But, I like them tonight for three reasons: 1) They can clinch the division with a win over Frisco; 2) They’re getting healthy again with Hasselbeck and Alexander back up to speed and Bobby Engram expected to return tonight; 3) The game is in Seattle, and the Seahawks are vastly better at home than on the road. That much I have figured out.
Straight Up: Seattle
Against the Spread: Seattle
Friday, December 08, 2006
The Week 14 Picks
Why are the next four weeks so intriguing? Because only one of the NFL’s twelve playoffs spots has been secured, and just about everybody is still in the running for the other eleven spots. The bottom line is, when the dust settles, there will be a few talented teams on the outside looking in.
Sunday, December 10th, 2006
The Match-up: Atlanta (-3.0) @ Tampa Bay
The Skinny: Ron Mexico always seems to save his biggest games for Tampa, and with the Falcons in the thick of the NFC Wild Card race, I’d expect nothing less from ol’ Double Barrel this week.
Straight Up: Atlanta
Against the Spread: Atlanta
The Match-up: Oakland (+11.0) @ Cincinnati
The Skinny: After Sunday, the Bengals take their playoff chances to Indy and Denver before getting Pittsburgh at home in the finale. Translation – they’d better take care f business against Oakland this week, or the next three may not matter.
Straight Up: Cincinnati
Against the Spread: Cincinnati
The Match-up: Philadelphia (-1.5) @ Washington
The Skinny: Speaking of tough stretch drives, the Eagles start their NFC East barnstorming tour this Sunday in the nation’s capital. The next three weeks will determine whether or not Jeff Garcia and the Eagles make it to the postseason. There’s a sentence I never thought I’d write.
Straight Up: Philadelphia
Against the Spread: Philadelphia
The Match-up: New York Giants (Off) @ Carolina
The Skinny: Alright Panthers fans. You wanted Chris Weinke? You’ve got Chris Weinke. Jake Del-overrated is most likely out against the Giants this week, meaning Weinke will get his shot. Um, Chris, you may want to throw it to that Steve Smith guy on the outside. Just a suggestion.
Straight Up: New York Giants
Against the Spread: New York Giants
The Match-up: Minnesota (+2.5) @ Detroit
The Skinny: This game has some upset potential due to the fact that a) it’s in Detroit, b) Chester Taylor is out with a rib injury, and c) Brad Childress is actually considering benching Brad Johnson in favor of Brooks Bollinger. What in the name of Tony Romo is going on in this league?
Straight Up: Minnesota
Against the Spread: Minnesota
The Match-up: Indianapolis (-1.5) @ Jacksonville
The Skinny: Here’s an interesting stat – the Colts have not lost three consecutive games since 2001. They enter this game on a two-game losing streak. Something’s got to give, and that something may be Jacksonville’s fourth-ranked defense.
Straight Up: Indianapolis
Against the Spread: Indianapolis
The Match-up: Baltimore (+3.0) @ Kansas City
The Skinny: The Ravens are jockeying for home-field and a first round bye, plus their division rival Bengals are looking at an almost certain win over Oakland, so the Ravens will be motivated. Kansas City should be too, but they let a golden opportunity (and a 14-point lead) slip through their fingers in Cleveland a week ago.
Straight Up: Baltimore
Against the Spread: Baltimore
The Match-up: Tennessee (+1.5) @ Houston
The Skinny: Who’s hotter than the Titans? They’ve won five of their last seven, and Vince Young looks like the next big thing in this league. In case you haven’t heard it, like, a million times already this week, he’s a Houston native and the Texans could have selected him instead of Mario Williams in April’s draft.
Straight Up: Tennessee
Against the Spread: Tennessee
The Match-up: New England (-3.5) @ Miami
The Skinny: I know the Patriots have won four straight, but they’ve done so almost in spite of themselves. They’d better not sleep on the Dolphins in Miami, where New England has lost six of eight.
Straight Up: New England
Against the Spread: New England
The Match-up: Seattle (-3.0) @ Arizona
The Skinny: The Seahawks are getting healthy just in time to make a run in the NFC playoffs.
Straight Up: Seattle
Against the Spread: Seattle
The Match-up: Green Bay (+4.5) @ San Francisco
The Skinny: The NFC is so bad that the Packers are still mathematically alive for a post-season berth.
Straight Up: San Francisco
Against the Spread: Green Bay
The Match-up: Buffalo (+4.0) @ New York Jets
The Skinny: From the “Something’s Gotta Give” department, the Jets have won four straight home games against Buffalo, but haven’t swept the Bills in a season series since 2002.
Straight Up: New York Jets
Against the Spread: New York Jets
The Match-up: Denver (+7.5) @ San Diego
The Skinny: If you were Mike Shanahan, would you reverse gears and go back to Jake Plummer? Me neither. Jay Cutler may have struggled last week, but it’s not like Denver was going anywhere with The Snake anyway.
Straight Up: San Diego
Against the Spread: San Diego
The Match-up: New Orleans (+7.0) @ Dallas
The Skinny: Drew Brees has started to get some MVP buzz, and deservedly so. He may not be on pace to break Dan Marino’s single-season passing record, but the Saints are 8-4 and they’re 7-1 against NFC foes.
Straight Up: New Orleans
Against the Spread: New Orleans
Monday, December 11th, 2006
The Match-up: Chicago (-6.5) @ St. Louis
The Skinny: How good are Chicago’s defense and special teams? The Bears beat Minnesota last week in spite of Rex Grossman’s blood alcohol level-like quarterback rating of 1.3. Grossman has turned the ball over 18 times in the last seven games. The next thing he loses could be his job.
Straight Up: Chicago
Against the Spread: Chicago
Sunday, December 10th, 2006
The Match-up: Atlanta (-3.0) @ Tampa Bay
The Skinny: Ron Mexico always seems to save his biggest games for Tampa, and with the Falcons in the thick of the NFC Wild Card race, I’d expect nothing less from ol’ Double Barrel this week.
Straight Up: Atlanta
Against the Spread: Atlanta
The Match-up: Oakland (+11.0) @ Cincinnati
The Skinny: After Sunday, the Bengals take their playoff chances to Indy and Denver before getting Pittsburgh at home in the finale. Translation – they’d better take care f business against Oakland this week, or the next three may not matter.
Straight Up: Cincinnati
Against the Spread: Cincinnati
The Match-up: Philadelphia (-1.5) @ Washington
The Skinny: Speaking of tough stretch drives, the Eagles start their NFC East barnstorming tour this Sunday in the nation’s capital. The next three weeks will determine whether or not Jeff Garcia and the Eagles make it to the postseason. There’s a sentence I never thought I’d write.
Straight Up: Philadelphia
Against the Spread: Philadelphia
The Match-up: New York Giants (Off) @ Carolina
The Skinny: Alright Panthers fans. You wanted Chris Weinke? You’ve got Chris Weinke. Jake Del-overrated is most likely out against the Giants this week, meaning Weinke will get his shot. Um, Chris, you may want to throw it to that Steve Smith guy on the outside. Just a suggestion.
Straight Up: New York Giants
Against the Spread: New York Giants
The Match-up: Minnesota (+2.5) @ Detroit
The Skinny: This game has some upset potential due to the fact that a) it’s in Detroit, b) Chester Taylor is out with a rib injury, and c) Brad Childress is actually considering benching Brad Johnson in favor of Brooks Bollinger. What in the name of Tony Romo is going on in this league?
Straight Up: Minnesota
Against the Spread: Minnesota
The Match-up: Indianapolis (-1.5) @ Jacksonville
The Skinny: Here’s an interesting stat – the Colts have not lost three consecutive games since 2001. They enter this game on a two-game losing streak. Something’s got to give, and that something may be Jacksonville’s fourth-ranked defense.
Straight Up: Indianapolis
Against the Spread: Indianapolis
The Match-up: Baltimore (+3.0) @ Kansas City
The Skinny: The Ravens are jockeying for home-field and a first round bye, plus their division rival Bengals are looking at an almost certain win over Oakland, so the Ravens will be motivated. Kansas City should be too, but they let a golden opportunity (and a 14-point lead) slip through their fingers in Cleveland a week ago.
Straight Up: Baltimore
Against the Spread: Baltimore
The Match-up: Tennessee (+1.5) @ Houston
The Skinny: Who’s hotter than the Titans? They’ve won five of their last seven, and Vince Young looks like the next big thing in this league. In case you haven’t heard it, like, a million times already this week, he’s a Houston native and the Texans could have selected him instead of Mario Williams in April’s draft.
Straight Up: Tennessee
Against the Spread: Tennessee
The Match-up: New England (-3.5) @ Miami
The Skinny: I know the Patriots have won four straight, but they’ve done so almost in spite of themselves. They’d better not sleep on the Dolphins in Miami, where New England has lost six of eight.
Straight Up: New England
Against the Spread: New England
The Match-up: Seattle (-3.0) @ Arizona
The Skinny: The Seahawks are getting healthy just in time to make a run in the NFC playoffs.
Straight Up: Seattle
Against the Spread: Seattle
The Match-up: Green Bay (+4.5) @ San Francisco
The Skinny: The NFC is so bad that the Packers are still mathematically alive for a post-season berth.
Straight Up: San Francisco
Against the Spread: Green Bay
The Match-up: Buffalo (+4.0) @ New York Jets
The Skinny: From the “Something’s Gotta Give” department, the Jets have won four straight home games against Buffalo, but haven’t swept the Bills in a season series since 2002.
Straight Up: New York Jets
Against the Spread: New York Jets
The Match-up: Denver (+7.5) @ San Diego
The Skinny: If you were Mike Shanahan, would you reverse gears and go back to Jake Plummer? Me neither. Jay Cutler may have struggled last week, but it’s not like Denver was going anywhere with The Snake anyway.
Straight Up: San Diego
Against the Spread: San Diego
The Match-up: New Orleans (+7.0) @ Dallas
The Skinny: Drew Brees has started to get some MVP buzz, and deservedly so. He may not be on pace to break Dan Marino’s single-season passing record, but the Saints are 8-4 and they’re 7-1 against NFC foes.
Straight Up: New Orleans
Against the Spread: New Orleans
Monday, December 11th, 2006
The Match-up: Chicago (-6.5) @ St. Louis
The Skinny: How good are Chicago’s defense and special teams? The Bears beat Minnesota last week in spite of Rex Grossman’s blood alcohol level-like quarterback rating of 1.3. Grossman has turned the ball over 18 times in the last seven games. The next thing he loses could be his job.
Straight Up: Chicago
Against the Spread: Chicago
Thursday, December 07, 2006
The Week 13.5 Pick
A quick announcement in the wake of Monday night’s Eagles-Panthers game: Going forward, Jake Delhomme will be known as Jake Del-overrated.
Panther Nation has grown tired of his late-game blunders and they’ve been calling for John Fox to yank him in favor of Chris Weinke, hoping he’ll provide a Romo-esque spark. Two things warrant mentioning here. One, Chris Weinke is not Tony Romo, nor should similar results be expected. Two, the Panthers have held a fourth quarter lead in five of their six losses, meaning they could, in theory, be 11-1 instead of 6-6. Del-overrated has turned it over at Grossman-like levels in more than one of those losses. Despite this, pulling him now might not be the best solution (see point number one).
As for today, it’s another Thursday with another NFL game that exactly five people will get to watch. Needless to say, I will not be one of them.
Thursday, December 7, 2006
The Match-up: Cleveland (+7.5) @ Pittsburgh
The Skinny: Both teams come in decimated by injuries, as the Steelers may be without notables Hines Ward and Troy Polamalu, and the Browns could be forced to start Derek Anderson at quarterback in place of Charlie Frye. It was Anderson who led a fourth quarter rally against KC last week that ended up with the Browns winning in overtime. Could we be looking at yet ANOTHER quarterback controversy?
Straight Up: Pittsburgh
Against the Spread: Cleveland
Panther Nation has grown tired of his late-game blunders and they’ve been calling for John Fox to yank him in favor of Chris Weinke, hoping he’ll provide a Romo-esque spark. Two things warrant mentioning here. One, Chris Weinke is not Tony Romo, nor should similar results be expected. Two, the Panthers have held a fourth quarter lead in five of their six losses, meaning they could, in theory, be 11-1 instead of 6-6. Del-overrated has turned it over at Grossman-like levels in more than one of those losses. Despite this, pulling him now might not be the best solution (see point number one).
As for today, it’s another Thursday with another NFL game that exactly five people will get to watch. Needless to say, I will not be one of them.
Thursday, December 7, 2006
The Match-up: Cleveland (+7.5) @ Pittsburgh
The Skinny: Both teams come in decimated by injuries, as the Steelers may be without notables Hines Ward and Troy Polamalu, and the Browns could be forced to start Derek Anderson at quarterback in place of Charlie Frye. It was Anderson who led a fourth quarter rally against KC last week that ended up with the Browns winning in overtime. Could we be looking at yet ANOTHER quarterback controversy?
Straight Up: Pittsburgh
Against the Spread: Cleveland
Friday, December 01, 2006
The Week 13 Picks
Here we go again.
Another poor Thursday showing has The Kid starting from behind the eight ball in Week 13. Last week, we were done in by the Lions and Bucs on Thanksgiving, and last night the Bengals defense decided to show up to keep the Ravens from clinching the North.
What’s worse, I traded for a Cincinnati wide receiver this week. Chad Johnson (eight catches for 91 yards)? Nope. T.J. Hoochie-mama (ten for 106 and a TD)? No. Chris Henry (no catches, no yards, zero Fantasy points)? You guessed it.
Luckily this season, I’ve gained valuable experience at swimming upstream, skiing uphill, playing from behind. And I’m sure that trend will continue through December.
Sunday, December 3rd, 2006
The Match-up: Arizona (+6.5) @ St. Louis
The Skinny: Why would Pete Carroll want to leave a football factory like USC to take the Cardinals job (which, by the way, is still not technically available)?
Straight Up: St. Louis
Against the Spread: St. Louis
The Match-up: Detroit (+13.5) @ New England
The Skinny: The Patriots have had their way with the rest of the NFC North, why not the Lions?
Straight Up: New England
Against the Spread: New England
The Match-up: San Diego (-6.0) @ Buffalo
The Skinny: While San Diego is clearly the better team (led by the best offensive player in the league), a California team in Buffalo in December could be in for a rude awakening. I like the Chargers, but not by much.
Straight Up: San Diego
Against the Spread: Buffalo
The Match-up: San Francisco (+7.0) @ New Orleans
The Skinny: Another virtual elimination game for the Saints, who are still in the thick of the NFC playoff race and can ill-afford a loss.
Straight Up: New Orleans
Against the Spread: New Orleans
The Match-up: Minnesota (+9.0) @ Chicago
The Skinny: Rex Grossman’s grip on the starting quarterback job is slipping. Paging Brian Griese!
Straight Up: Chicago
Against the Spread: Chicago
The Match-up: Kansas City (-5.0) @ Cleveland
The Skinny: The Browns are the latest team to suffer from internal strife, with Charlie Frye and Braylon Edwards nearly going at each other on the sideline last week. And with Larry Johnson running the ball, the sideline is where Frye and Edwards will spend most of Sunday afternoon.
Straight Up: Kansas City
Against the Spread: Kansas City
The Match-up: Atlanta (+2.0) @ Washington
The Skinny: Watch out for Ron “Double Barrel” Mexico and the Falcons to rebound this week in D.C.
Straight Up: Atlanta
Against the Spread: Atlanta
The Match-up: New York Jets (-1.5) @ Green Bay
The Skinny: I’ve flip-flopped on this one a few times, but I’ve got a hunch that the Packers will play for sixty minutes at home like they did for the first thirty in Seattle on Monday.
Straight Up: Green Bay
Against the Spread: Green Bay
The Match-up: Indianapolis (-7.5) @ Tennessee
The Skinny: Peyton Manning may have more fans in Tennessee that in Indianapolis. The Titans, meanwhile, may have used up all of their good karma in their amazing comeback last week.
Straight Up: Indianapolis
Against the Spread: Indianapolis
The Match-up: Houston (+3.0) @ Oakland
The Skinny: The Raiders fired their offensive coordinator this week. It warrants mentioning that the guy was managing a bed and breakfast a year ago. No telling whether or not Al Davis is going to hire the Maitre D from IHOP as his replacement.
Straight Up: Oakland
Against the Spread: Oakland
The Match-up: Jacksonville (+1.5) @ Miami
The Skinny: I know the Jags have struggled on the road this year, and they’ll have a tough task against the Dolphins in Miami. But Jacksonville seems to play to the level of their competition and should do so again.
Straight Up: Jacksonville
Against the Spread: Jacksonville
The Match-up: Dallas (-3.5) @ New York Giants
The Skinny: Here’s hoping we can stop all the “Tony Romo is the next Roger Staubach” nonsense. I’d like nothing more than to see the Giants plant him next to Jimmy Hoffa in the Meadowlands turf.
Straight Up: New York Giants
Against the Spread: New York Giants
The Match-up: Tampa Bay (+7.0) @ Pittsburgh
The Skinny: Much like Carroll downplaying rumors about leaving USC for the NFL, I don’t see any reason why Bill Cowher would leave Pittsburgh for N.C. State.
Straight Up: Pittsburgh
Against the Spread: Pittsburgh
The Match-up: Seattle (+3.0) @ Denver
The Skinny: Last week’s Sunday night affair was a coming out party for rookie Joseph Addai. This week could be the same for new Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler.
Straight Up: Denver
Against the Spread: Denver
Monday, December 4th, 2006
The Match-up: Carolina (Off) @ Philadelphia
The Skinny: One of these teams needs to show some heart and effort and prove that they can still make a run to the playoffs. I think you know who I’m talking about…
Straight Up: Philadelphia
Against the Spread: Philadelphia
Another poor Thursday showing has The Kid starting from behind the eight ball in Week 13. Last week, we were done in by the Lions and Bucs on Thanksgiving, and last night the Bengals defense decided to show up to keep the Ravens from clinching the North.
What’s worse, I traded for a Cincinnati wide receiver this week. Chad Johnson (eight catches for 91 yards)? Nope. T.J. Hoochie-mama (ten for 106 and a TD)? No. Chris Henry (no catches, no yards, zero Fantasy points)? You guessed it.
Luckily this season, I’ve gained valuable experience at swimming upstream, skiing uphill, playing from behind. And I’m sure that trend will continue through December.
Sunday, December 3rd, 2006
The Match-up: Arizona (+6.5) @ St. Louis
The Skinny: Why would Pete Carroll want to leave a football factory like USC to take the Cardinals job (which, by the way, is still not technically available)?
Straight Up: St. Louis
Against the Spread: St. Louis
The Match-up: Detroit (+13.5) @ New England
The Skinny: The Patriots have had their way with the rest of the NFC North, why not the Lions?
Straight Up: New England
Against the Spread: New England
The Match-up: San Diego (-6.0) @ Buffalo
The Skinny: While San Diego is clearly the better team (led by the best offensive player in the league), a California team in Buffalo in December could be in for a rude awakening. I like the Chargers, but not by much.
Straight Up: San Diego
Against the Spread: Buffalo
The Match-up: San Francisco (+7.0) @ New Orleans
The Skinny: Another virtual elimination game for the Saints, who are still in the thick of the NFC playoff race and can ill-afford a loss.
Straight Up: New Orleans
Against the Spread: New Orleans
The Match-up: Minnesota (+9.0) @ Chicago
The Skinny: Rex Grossman’s grip on the starting quarterback job is slipping. Paging Brian Griese!
Straight Up: Chicago
Against the Spread: Chicago
The Match-up: Kansas City (-5.0) @ Cleveland
The Skinny: The Browns are the latest team to suffer from internal strife, with Charlie Frye and Braylon Edwards nearly going at each other on the sideline last week. And with Larry Johnson running the ball, the sideline is where Frye and Edwards will spend most of Sunday afternoon.
Straight Up: Kansas City
Against the Spread: Kansas City
The Match-up: Atlanta (+2.0) @ Washington
The Skinny: Watch out for Ron “Double Barrel” Mexico and the Falcons to rebound this week in D.C.
Straight Up: Atlanta
Against the Spread: Atlanta
The Match-up: New York Jets (-1.5) @ Green Bay
The Skinny: I’ve flip-flopped on this one a few times, but I’ve got a hunch that the Packers will play for sixty minutes at home like they did for the first thirty in Seattle on Monday.
Straight Up: Green Bay
Against the Spread: Green Bay
The Match-up: Indianapolis (-7.5) @ Tennessee
The Skinny: Peyton Manning may have more fans in Tennessee that in Indianapolis. The Titans, meanwhile, may have used up all of their good karma in their amazing comeback last week.
Straight Up: Indianapolis
Against the Spread: Indianapolis
The Match-up: Houston (+3.0) @ Oakland
The Skinny: The Raiders fired their offensive coordinator this week. It warrants mentioning that the guy was managing a bed and breakfast a year ago. No telling whether or not Al Davis is going to hire the Maitre D from IHOP as his replacement.
Straight Up: Oakland
Against the Spread: Oakland
The Match-up: Jacksonville (+1.5) @ Miami
The Skinny: I know the Jags have struggled on the road this year, and they’ll have a tough task against the Dolphins in Miami. But Jacksonville seems to play to the level of their competition and should do so again.
Straight Up: Jacksonville
Against the Spread: Jacksonville
The Match-up: Dallas (-3.5) @ New York Giants
The Skinny: Here’s hoping we can stop all the “Tony Romo is the next Roger Staubach” nonsense. I’d like nothing more than to see the Giants plant him next to Jimmy Hoffa in the Meadowlands turf.
Straight Up: New York Giants
Against the Spread: New York Giants
The Match-up: Tampa Bay (+7.0) @ Pittsburgh
The Skinny: Much like Carroll downplaying rumors about leaving USC for the NFL, I don’t see any reason why Bill Cowher would leave Pittsburgh for N.C. State.
Straight Up: Pittsburgh
Against the Spread: Pittsburgh
The Match-up: Seattle (+3.0) @ Denver
The Skinny: Last week’s Sunday night affair was a coming out party for rookie Joseph Addai. This week could be the same for new Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler.
Straight Up: Denver
Against the Spread: Denver
Monday, December 4th, 2006
The Match-up: Carolina (Off) @ Philadelphia
The Skinny: One of these teams needs to show some heart and effort and prove that they can still make a run to the playoffs. I think you know who I’m talking about…
Straight Up: Philadelphia
Against the Spread: Philadelphia
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