Mark’s Picks of the Week! NFL Game Picks for Week 16 (no point spread)

♣My Picks for Week 16:♣

THU, DEC 18
Indianapolis at Jacksonville

My Pick: Indianapolis.

Indy Has just been to much of a good team over the past 5 years for me to pick against them in December

SAT, DEC 20

Baltimore at Dallas

My pick: Baltimore

Dallas has over achieved, and they played a sorry Giants defense last week. Romo will have at least 2 Interceptions which maybe all Baltimore needs as they apply pressure with their smash mouth running game. I predict at least two passes for Joe Flacco that will be over 35+ yards since Dallas will have to keep 8 in the box.

SUN, DEC 21

Cincinnati at Cleveland

My Pick: Cincinatti

Cleveland has already lost this game with who they have starting at QB. Cincinnati has played to well of late, and Cedric Benson looks like he has find a home! Benson is a possible start if your season has not expired and you need a RB!

San Francisco at St. Louis

My Pick: San Fransico 49ers.

I don’t think they 49ers have to really do anything to win this game. St Louis usually will just get in their own way and work to lose a ball game. I know Singletary has his team under control and he won’t make the mistakes that will allow this sorry excuse for a club beat him. There are no individuals on Mike’s team but thats a lesson that will eventually turn this squad into a Championship contender. Also S. Hill has been playing very well, so don’t be surprised if he throws 2-4 TD passes!

New Orleans at Detroit

My Pick: Detroit

I believe that every dog has it’s day in the sun, and when you look at Detroit you just got to believe some day it will happen. I don’t believe that the Saints should lose this game, but lets just say I believe that the “angels are on the field this week” and give the Loins a early Christmas present. Calvin has a huge game, and Stewart scores!

Pittsburgh at Tennessee

My Pick: Tennessee

This is by far the toughest call of the week. Pittsburgh has a historic defense, yet they struggle to put up any points on offense. As of late Big Ben has look like Tiny Tim with his merger attempts at producing offense. Also the Steelers cannot run the football, yet due to the injury of Hanyesworth you never can tell how this defense will manage without the star DT. I am going to give the advantage to the home team in this one because of the fact that they have fast RB’s and Big RB’s and maybe with the right mix they will be able to tire out the Pittsburgh D and score atleast 1 TD. Either way its going to be a great game!

Miami at Kansas City

My Pick: Miami

KC has been playing better of late, but they still are KC. With the way Joey Porter has been leading this Miami Defense you should expect several sacks and rushed pass attempts which will inevitably end in Miami being victorious!

Arizona at New England

My Pick: New England

My reason is simple. After we look at this game your going say, “I think they wanted it more” (joke)

(But True)
San Diego at Tampa Bay

My Pick: Tampa Bay

Seriously, Did you see Antonio Bryant the last two weeks? This guy has looked so good, he should get a endorsement deal with Elmers for that One Hand grab. Also, I am feeling the reemergence of the superstar Caddy this week, and I doubt San Diego can stop it. This San Diego team is over-rated straight up and they just aren’t going to be tough enough to play against Tampa Bay in their own house. Expect to see light showers and lots of cannon fire on Sunday!
Houston at Oakland

My Pick: Houston

All Hail Steve Slaton, the boy legend that came from WVU and into our NFL Highlight films. This guy is the Total Package. This could potentially be a good game but I doubt the Oakland QB who hasn’t earned the respect of me saying his name, will be able to handle Mario “Mad Dog” Williams up in his grill. Andre Johnson is a top flight kind of guy and should have a pretty good game, yet he will be matched up with Nnamdi Asomugha, who may have the he size and speed to present him a challenge. I am pretty sure on this one though, Houston comes up on top and some Oakland Raiders fans will go out and stab someone!

Buffalo at Denver

Denver:

Buffalo seems to have packed it in. But we will see. Denver may have some issues with protecting Cutler due to Marcus Shroud, but if they play the outside and edges they should slice through this Defense. They have such speed at the RB position it will look ridiculous. The bills always have a chance when Marshawn Plays so we will see. This is the kind of guy that can will and try so hard it motivates his team to win.

NY Jets at Seattle

My Pick Jets

Brett Farve will get it done. Seattle is a joke and he would love nothing more than to say good bye to his old coach by slapping another L on his resume!

Atlanta at Minnesota

My Pick: Atlanta

They are just the better team, and Tavaris Jackson is not the answer.
Philadelphia at Washington

My Pick: Philadelphia

Donovan McNabb has been playing very well recently and with a healthy Westbrook the Redskins could be in for some real trouble. Since it is a divisional game it could still be a close game, but don’t be surprised if this one turns ugly early!
Carolina at NY Giants

MON, DEC 22
Green Bay at Chicago

NFL Game Picks for Week 12 (no point spread)

Thursday, Nov. 20

Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers, 8:15 p.m.

My Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers

This should be a lock for the Pittsburgh Steelers. This team has been playing way below average the entire season. The Steelers recent success has been due to its dominate defense. Pittsburgh is awful offensively, and are struggling to run the ball. I would not be surprised at all, if the Bengals pull out a win on this struggling Steelers team, because the Bengals are explosive and if they can put points up they may be able to take the struggling Steelers Offense out. Also the Bengals have a reemerging RB in Cedric Benson. I can’t pick against the Steelers in Hines Field however against this rival team. STEELERS WIN!

Sunday, Nov. 23

Houston Texans at Cleveland Browns, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Texans

Cleveland with have their hands full this week from a defensive standpoint. They will have to deal with the Rookie sensation Steve Slaton, whom is one of the fastest RB in the league. I feel to combat Slaton’s raw speed they may gameplan to leave more defenders in the box or even have a player shadow him, which will in turn leave Owen Daneils as well as Andre Johnson with more room to make the big play. Sorry Brady Quinn I don’t think Sunday is your day. Rogers should be ineffective on Slaton, because The Texans should and will test the edges of this Cleveland Defense. The Texans have lost a lot of close ones this season and their record is really not representative of their talent. I give this game to Houston without any doubts.

Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Atlanta Falcons

After last weeks performance how could you pick against these guys. They are at home, they are rolling over teams with “After Burner” Turner leading the way. Carolina had a great week last week, and have 2 top teir atheletes at RB, but I believe the better line in this one will be the Atlanta falcons. They should win the war on both sides of the field. I realize that the Panthers have a great D-line, but this week in ATL it sure won’t look like it. I am doing the dirty bird all night long as the Falcons win.

San Francisco 49ers at Dallas Cowboys, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Dallas Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys have a lot to prove after they have looks like a bunch of children among men. Tony Romo is back in the saddle of the cowboys offense, and Jerry Jones must be happy he has the greatest team in the history of the league on paper. Dallas should roll over the 49ers, but if Mike Singletary message is starting to take, we could be in for a great game. The 49ers best chance at success is being more physical then the soft cowboys team. If he lets Frank Gore punch the cowboys Defense in the mouth for at least 28 carries they will have their best chance to win. If you play tougher than the cowboys they usually fold. I will be rooting for Mike Singletary’s 49ers but this game should be all Dallas all day !
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers have already won this game. Thier will be no need to even predict it’s outcome because it has already happened. The Headline read, “Bucs win big and Jump-start the Caddy”

Buffalo Bills at Kansas City Chiefs, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Kansas City Chiefs

With the improving play of Thigpen, and Bradley the chiefs offense have more ability to score. Buffalo laid a egg on Monday night, and have a shorter week to prepare for this road game. I believe that KC will have their work cut out for them, because they may get dominated by the Bill’s defensive line. I however am going to go with the hotter team at the moment, who just so happens to be the home team. Trust me this might be the new KC masterpiece.
New York Jets at Tennessee Titans, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Tennessee Titans

This will be the best game of the week without a doubt. Anytime a team makes it to week 12 during the NFL season, while remaining undefeated, everyone has an interest in them. The Titans have been so successful because of their attitude. The Titans are a tough team that will wear you down as the game goes on with their tenacious defense and their violent rushing attack.  If the Jets can contain their rushing attack due to the acquisition of superstar tackle Chris Jenkins, they may have a shot. They Jets however cannot turn the ball over if they really want to have a chance so Brett Farve is going to need to be extra careful. I don’t believe the Jets will be able to run on this D-line so expect Brett to have to make some plays. This is why I don’t see the Jets pulling out the win.Defensively the Jets should be able to stop the Titans Offense yet I think the Jets offense is going to get mauled. Expect a multi interception game for Farve. Regardless the ending still is the same Titans win.

Chicago Bears at St. Louis Rams, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Chicago Bears

Da Bears Da Bears Da Bears Da Bears. Mike Ditka knows that Forte goes nutz this week and the Rams waive the white flag by the 3rd quarter.

Minnesota Vikings at Jacksonville Jaguars, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Minnesota Vikings

The only reason that Minnesota wins this game is because they will man handle the Jags on the defensive side of the ball by winning the battle in the trenches. The Jags are a very bad team, when their Rushing attack is shut down and they are forced to pass. Expect to see this in Week 12. The Jags are living proof how different a team can be when you are missing key lineman. They were a top team in the NFL last year and now look at them. Minnesota wins in Florida. oh yeah, wouldn’t it be great to see Tavares Jackson again?

New England Patriots at Miami Dolphins, 1:00 p.m.

My Pick: Miami Dolphins

Honestly this is Bill’s game to win or lose. He controls the outcome. The Dolphins are not as good of a team unit as the Patriots and I might be picking with my heart on this one and not my brain. The Dolphins I feel are ready to jump the hurdle of the Patriots this year and this is the week. I don’t have any idea on how this could pan out, but expect Joey Porter to be involved on defense at making some huge momentum impacting hits and some turnovers. Rickey and Ronnie will have a tough time running but maybe they together will be able to wear down that good D-line that the Patriots have. I wonder how many times the Patriots are going to film, “The Wildcat Formation” during Dolphins team practice? Haha, screw cheaters I’ll take the FInS!!

(Isn’t it ironic that before “spy-gate” was leaked Bill was winning a lot more games than his is now?)

Philadelphia Eagles at Baltimore Ravens, 1 p.m.

My Pick: Eagles

This game is going to be ugly, with both Offenses struggling. Expect a good amount of pressure to be placed on Joe Flacco and for that reason we may see more rushes called that normal. Ray Rice could become a big factor in this game. Regardless the eagles are in a must win situation, and now that Mcnabb knows that you can tie, maybe they will finish this one up before the final whistle. Don’t expect many rushing yards for Westbrook because the Ravens are not going to let another 100 yard rusher for a while, you just know Ray Lewis is still pissed about last weeks GMEN game.

Oakland Raiders at Denver Broncos, 4:05 p.m.

My Pick: Denver Broncos

Yeah if they loose, I think Shanahan should retire!

Washington Redskins at Seattle Seahawks, 4:15 p.m.

My Pick: Washington Redskins

After blowing a game against the cowboys last week, they can not  afford to screw this game up. Expect Zorn to be on the top of his game. They will not allow themselves to lose this game, and will stop at nothing to win. The Redskins defense will produce at least 2 turnovers in this game, that’s a guarantee. We all know that Seattle is one of the hardest places to play in for opposing teams, so expect silent counts and less shotgun formations and no empty sets for the Redskins. Clinton Portis literally will be the game breaker for the skins this week. Skins win in a close game in Seattle.

New York Giants at Arizona Cardinals, 4:15 p.m.

My Pick:New York Giants

The New York Giants have a history of ending QB’s careers, and I would not be surprised to see Kurt hold on the ball 1 second to long in this game. Kurt has not gone against a team that can rush the passer as well as the Giants can, and it has showed in his statistics. Expect the Superbowl Champs to dominate the Cardinals from the first whistle physically. They will pound the Cardinals back into their nests, sending them migrating home for the rest of the winter. Giants Win, and Kurt gets hit. Hit a lot.

Indianapolis Colts at San Diego Chargers, 8:15 p.m.

My Pick: Indianapolis Colts

The Colts are finally healthy and are playing up to their potential.  This San Diego team is over rated in my book and I refuse to take them as a real contender. They have top tier players whom look great on paper still have yet to prove that they win big games as a team. I just don’t think will be able to pull out the W this week. The Colts are just the better team, and come Sunday night everyone will see it. Peyton cuts up the charges and scores 2+ TD’s. Colts win.

Monday, Nov. 24

Green Bay Packers at New Orleans Saints, 8:30 p.m.

My Pick: Green Bay Packers

This should be a really excited game, involving Drew Brees dropping back for over 50 to 60 attempts. I have a pretty good feeling that the Packer’s Rushing attack will be the thing that wins this game. Ryan Grant will have a big day pounding and punishing Saints defenders. Expect a great & Exciting game, but still this game should end with the Pack on top.

Week 11 NFL Picks

NYJ 6-3 at N.E. 6-3

The Jets are starting to show some consistency winning convincingly against the Buffalo Bills and Rams in the last two weeks. They now face the biggest game of their season thus far in New England on Thursday night. New England has been proving that life without Brady is still manageable, but I think the Jets steady improvement on defense, solid ground game behind Thomas Jones, and lately less turnover-prone passing by Brett Favre will rue the day.

DEN 5-4 at ATL 6-3

The Falcons are becoming a model of consistency. Their ability to jump out to big early leads is remarkable for a young team. They play at home against the league’s 28^th ranked passing defense and 27^th ranked rushing defense. That doesn’t bode well for a Bronco team playing against an efficient Matt Ryan, and yard-racking Michael Turner. Falcons win.

DET 0-9 at CAR 7-2

Carolina has the luxury of facing a team like the Raiders last week, who even if Delhomme throws four interceptions again to, should still beat. I don’t see Jake tossing that many picks this week. Panthers win handily.

PHI 5-4 at CIN 1-8

With Carson Palmer out again, and the Eagles reeling from a Sunday night loss at home to the giants, the Bengals are set to lose… again.

N.O. 4-5 at K.C. 1-8

The Saints are proving that all they have is a superb passing game that can’t save a running game hovering around mediocrity, and a defense benchmarking at incapability. The Chiefs have not been the walk-in-the-park they were earlier this season losing by one point to San Diego last weekend, losing to Tampa Bay at home in OT the week before, and only losing by four in New York to the Jets the week before that. I’m going with K.C.

BAL 6-3 at NYG 8-1

The Baltimore Ravens are actually scoring on offense these days. In fact, they are becoming a mirror image of the Giants; strong pressure-causing defense, a more than capable stable of running backs, and an efficient and play-making pass offense. Look for a close game with the more experienced Giants coming out on top.

MIN 5-4 at T.B. 6-3

If there is one thing that the Minnesota Vikings have to have learned in last week’s heart attack inducing one-point win to the Packers last week it is the following… give the ball to Adrian Peterson. I believe Gus Frerotte’s passing attempts will be cut down by almost half of last week’s 28. Even though the Bucs are known for solid defense, I will bank on Peterson to run rampant. Vikings win convincingly.

OAK 2-7 at MIA 5-4

Although the Raiders now share the same record as the underachieving Seahawks who came to within two points of upsetting the Dolphins in Miami last week, I wouldn’t count on a similar performance from them this week. The surprising Dolphins will move to 6-4 and second place in the AFC East.

CHI 5-4 at G.B. 4-5

Green Bay should count their lucky stars that they have this opportunity. They get the division leading Bears at home with a chance to get a tie-breaker on Chicago and second place in the division if they win, and a first place tie if they win and the Vikings lose. I’ll take the Packers to clean things up in their passing game this week after Rodgers was a not-so-great 15-25 with only 142 passing yards and no touchdowns. Pack wins.

HOU 3-6 at IND 5-4

The Texans look to make up for the 21 points they gave up in the last seven plus minutes of a week five loss to the Colts at home. However, the Colts have won two straight and look to be getting back in contention. Colts win.

STL 2-7 at S.F. 2-7

This division matchup may not even be worth discussing, but for the sake of fairness let’s do it. The Rams looked back to what they were with Scott Linehan as coach in their 47-3 loss to the Jets last week. On the other side, the 49ers looked more believable as a team with Shaun Hill under center on Monday Night. After the harrowing performance they put on in Arizona, I will take San Francisco to win.

ARI 6-3 at SEA 2-7

The Cardinals have a chance to clean house in Seattle this week with a win. They get to play another one of their weak divisional opponents, all of whom are 2-7 (Saint Louis and San Francisco are the other two). Even though the Hawks are at home, I cannot see the Cardinals having another close letdown like they did against the Niners this past Monday. Cardinals win.

TEN 9-0 at JAC 4-5

The performance of Kerry Collins last week (30-41, 289 yards, two TDs and no INTs) is making the Titans look all the more legitimate as the league’s lone unbeaten team. The Jaguars proved nothing in beating the Lions last weekend 38-14. Titans win easy.

S.D. 4-5 at PIT 6-3

The Steelers blew it last weekend at home to the Colts… or should I say Ben Roethlisberger blew it. History should say that Ben will be looking to make up for his performance, but I’m not so sure about his confidence right now. He has been getting hit too many times, and blew two games to the Manning brothers at home that should have been in the bag. On the other hand, San Diego has hardly been consistent this year. Steelers win convincingly with their number one defense and a better performance from Big Ben.

DAL 5-4 at WAS 6-3

This game marks the return to the Dallas lineup of Tony Romo. This team has been in quite a bind since he left. Look for Romo to have a huge game and perhaps put his team on his back. The Redskins are coming off their worst offensive performance since their week one loss to the Giants after scoring just six points in the week nine Monday night loss to Pittsburgh. Their points came from two field goals after going three-and-out when they recovered and opening onside kick attempt by the Steelers, and another three-and-out after an INT on Ben Roethlisberger. Look for the return of the Dallas high-octane offense along with the defensive play calling of Wade Phillips to take down the Redskins in Washington.

CLE 3-6 at BUF 5-4

The Bills have not been living up to the hype the last two weeks. And the fact that they have lost three of their four to Miami, New York, and New England (in order), who are all divisional opponents, does not bode well. Brady Quinn was solid in his first start going 23-35, 239 yards, with two TDs and no interceptions against Denver last Thursday. However, I’ll take the Bills on the national stage at home.

Week 10 NFL Picks

DEN 4-4 at CLE 3-5

 

This one is a true toss-up. The Bronco defense is atrocious, and the Browns have Brady Quinn starting. Inexperience surrounded by some talent and a home crowd versus a lost, but not found defense, wins the game.

 

NO 4-4 at ATL 5-3

 

It seems as though now the Falcons have become a team that is consistent at what they do. Not to say what they do makes them an elite team. However, the things they are doing are playing solid and potentially explosive offense and better defense than the Saints. Falcons win.

 

TEN 8-0 at CHI 5-3

 

Rex Grossman is in, and that doesn’t look good for Chicago. Plus their defense has had a tendency to let opponents back in the game and put up some solid numbers. But I feel Kerry Collins has been getting lucky as the Packers and Colts, the Titans two previous opponents respectively, have eached let three interceptions slip away. The Bears don’t let those kinds of opportunities pass by, Grossman has something to prove, the Bears are at home… Bears hand Titans their first loss.

 

JAC 3-5 at DET 0-8

 

The Jags continue to play to the level of their opponent. The Lions have been getting closer to their first win of the season. Can they do it against the Jags? Not so optimistic. But with Jack Del Rio questioning his team’s chemistry, and upset is in the making. However, I believe the Jags will get their act together in this one and win.

 

BAL 5-3 at HOU 3-5

 

The Ravens defense gave up a lot of yardage and points last week to the Browns, but they are familiar with the Ravens as they play in the same division. On the other side, the Texans look good in some games, and don’t continue their production even in their losses. Ravens win with Joe Flacco seeming to get more comfortable as the weeks go by.

 

SEA 2-6 at MIA 4-4

 

Miami looks a like a squad that is truly building an identity, while the ‘Hawks are failing to give Mike Holmgren a going-away party to be proud of. Dolphins win easily at home.

 

BUF 5-3 at N.E. 5-3

 

New England looked solid against the Colts last Sunday night, as did Matt Cassel. The Bills show their true colors as a team that started 4-0 due to a soft schedule and a visiting west coast team in the Chargers. Pats win.

 

STL 2-6 at NYJ 5-3

 

Brett Favre is still mistake prone, but with the way the Rams played last weekend, I think the Jets can afford some mistakes in this one. Jets win.

 

CAR 6-2 at OAK 2-6

 

Boy do the Raiders ever look like trash. They have two wins, and yet the Lions and Bengals are much more competitive than they are as of late. The “under the radar” Panthers win easy.

 

IND 4-4 at PIT 6-2

 

Both teams had big wins last week that boosted confidence after big losses the week prior. However, Pittsburgh’s “Blitzburgh” defense is hitting it’s stride and coming into its own. Steelers win at home, with either Roethlisberger or Leftwich at the helm.

 

K.C. 1-7 at S.D. 3-5

 

What better way for the Chargers to get healthy this weekend than a date at home against the Chiefs. Even though the Chiefs showed spirit last week, they’ll still lose to the Chargers.

 

NYG 7-1 at PHI 5-3

 

The Eagles may be returning to form, but the fact remains that the Giants are a better team all around. Giants win despite the Eagles being at home.

 

S.F. 2-6 at ARI 5-3

 

What a shame this game had to be on Monday Night Football. Too bad they can’t move the schedule around on Mondays. Cardinals win, and San Fran will not be mustering any “Monday Night Magic.”

Alex V’s NFL Week 9 Picks

NYJ 4-3 at BUF 5-2

If Brett Favre can cut down on his mistakes for at least one week he can put his team in great position to perhaps win the AFC East. But the Buffalo Bills have shown more consistency and are better all around than the Jets. For this, the Bills should win at home.

DET 0-7 at CHI 4-3

The last time these two teams met was in week five when Kyle Orton torched the Lions for 334 yards and two TDs with no turnovers. Expect to see more of the same. Bears move to 5-3.

JAC 3-4 at CIN 0-8

The Bengals are a team in absolute despair. They may very well be worse than the 0-7 Lions as they are 32^nd in scoring with 13 points per game (while the Lions are 28^th with 16.3 per game). However, Carson Palmer returns and I’m feeling that the inconsistent Jaguars, who have shown over the years a propensity to play down to the level of their opponent, will be the prime candidate for this team to get its first win against. Bengals win.

BAL 4-3 at CLE 3-5

This is a tough one. Joe Flacco is improving and the Baltimore defense is playing as good as ever minus their 31-3 loss to the Colts. Meanwhile, the Browns have picked up their defense and Derek Anderson has been getting closer to what he looked like last year. I will take the Browns at home in a close game.

T.B. 5-3 at K.C. 1-6

Tampa Bay has a great opportunity to get back in the win column versus the lowly Chiefs. As long as Jeff Garcia can protect the ball, the Bucs should win this one. I’ll take Tampa Bay.

HOU 3-4 at MIN 3-4

Even though Minnesota is coming off a bye and playing at home, I am taking the Texans in this matchup. The Vikings can’t keep a streak going, while the Texans seem to be getting things back together as they are the second hottest team after the 7-0 Titans.

ARI 4-3 at STL 2-5

The Cardinals have been unable to solve their road woes where they have only won when they played the lowly 49ers in San Francisco back in week one. However, they weren’t far off last week losing 23-27 and owning the lead for the better part of the game against Carolina. The Rams have been more competitive with Jim Haslett at the helm, but I’m picking the Cards to snag the “W.”

G.B. 4-3 at TEN 7-0

The 31-21 win the Titans earned against Indy last Monday night was huge. They are looking like one of the strongest teams in the league. But Green Bay did a number on the Colts as well in week 7 winning 34-14 and forcing two pics by Manning just like the Titans on Monday. Although the Titans have better defense (1^st in pts per game), the Packers make up for the yardage they give up ranking 16^th in points with sacks and INTs. I’ll take the play of Aaron Rodgers over Kerry Collins to win this game for Green Bay.

MIA 3-5 at DEN 4-3

Get ready for the problems in Denver to unfold even further when they blow it against the strong ground game and 100.5 QB rating and 69.3% completion percentage that Chad Pennington is sporting thus far. Dolphins win big in Denver.

DAL 5-3 at NYG 6-1

The moment in the NFC East that we’ve all been waiting for has finally arrived. Too bad it won’t truly show who the better team is if Brad Johnson is playing as Tony Romo looks to be a potential game-time decision… but just potentially. What’s worse is that Dallas’ three top corners are out as well, and no name rookie Orlando Scandrick will be called upon to pick up the slack which is great news for Eli Manning. Even if Romo comes in, he’ll still be favoring his right pinkie. Giants win.

ATL 4-3 at OAK 2-5

Atlanta looked sloppy in their loss to the Eagles last week, but they looked “rookie quarterback” sloppy. All Matt Ryan has to do to get his team a win against the sometimes feisty Raiders is keep his mistakes to a minimum. But even that might not be enough as I feel the Raiders will pull it out.

PHI 4-3 at SEA 2-5

Don’t look now, but Seattle with a 2-5 record is second in its division behind 4-3 Arizona. The Eagles have been somewhat inconsistent this season and a win against a young Atlanta team last week cannot really be taken as proof that they have solved their issues. Expect a tough battle out of both teams with the Eagles pulling out a close one.

N.E. 5-2 at IND 3-4

Who would have thought that with Brady gone that the Patriots would have a better record than the Colts this far into the season? Make that a records that is two more wins and two less losses better! This is a tough game to call. Matt Cassel may have led his team to victory last weekend and first place in the AFC East, but he still tossed two pics. But on the other end, the Colts’ offense seems out of sync as Manning tossed two pics as well. Both team’s starting running backs are out, Laurence Maroney for New England, and Joseph Addai for Indy, and both defenses have been questionable. Bottom line, until Cassel shows some more consistency I have to go with Peyton Manning and his team in this one.

PIT 5-2 at WAS 6-2

This is the game where the Redskins get to prove they’re no fluke. They may have beaten Dallas and Philly, but as the season has progressed, those two wins don’t look like such a surprise anymore. The Steelers are reeling after a mistake-filled, give-the-game-away performance to the Giants last weekend. But… I expect the mistakes to mount for the Steelers which derive mainly from an O-line that can’t block and gets called for penalties, while the Redskins will do what they’ve been doing thus far this season… rise to the occasion against another team that is perceived to be a contender.

The Mad’Nuff Monday Night Guarantee

by Madison Mad’nuff

The Mad’Nuff Monday Night Football Guarantee

Well From now until the playoffs I will only be picking on game a week and that is Monday night Football and yes I have the point spread.  This pick is a guarantee and when I say guarantee I mean a guarantee that I am correct.  So this Monday night we have the  Jets vs the Chargers,  the Chargers are desperate after starting the season 0-2 while the Jets aren’t any worse for were at 1-1.  So my call for this Game

Chargers over the Jets 35-17 (Point Spread)

Jet won’t be able to run the ball and the Chargers secondary have made their name picking off reckless throws, (and Brett is famous for those). Look for the chargers to get back on track with this game.
And that my friends is a Guarantee.

Alex V’s Week 2 Predictions

by Alex V

It is hard to gauge a team after only one week of play. But that is what Alex V. is going to do anyways. We’ll see how I do and I’ll even keep track! Week in and week out from here-on-in. We’re gonna see who actually gives a shit!

CHI at CAR

The Panthers went toe-to-toe with the Chargers last weekend and showed a lot of heart pulling out a two-minute drill drive to pull out their victory. However, the Bears showed more consistency with their playmaking defense, strong running, and turnover free passing game. I say the Bears win.

TEN at CIN

Cincinnati is a team in shambles. They are starting this season right where they left off last year, and if they don’t improve soon they’ll easily finish the same way they did last year… going nowhere. The Titans won last week with their usual great defense and key, if not strong, offensive play. Aided by a veteran quarterback in Kerry Collins, and a strong defense, I’m going with the Titans over the defensively challenged and no-offensive chemistry having Bengals.

GB at DET

Detroit showed last week that they have no defense. Even though Michael Turner is highly-touted, there is no excuse for giving up that much yardage against a team who should have the box stacked against them while sporting a rookie quarterback. Aaron Rodgers showed a lot of promise last week, and just about every other piece of a 13-3 team from last year remains this year too. This is an easy one. Packers win.

BUF at JAC

Jacksonville did what they do best last week… play to the level of their opponent. Buffalo looks like a team on the rise. The Jaguars would be hard-pressed to play to the level of Buffalo, because they are running on pure youthful energy and excitement. I’m really feeling Buffalo pulling out the victory in a close contest.

OAK at KC

Honestly, who cares about this game aside from Raiders and Chiefs fans? In reality the NFL is crazy, and both these teams have many weeks to turn out one of the surprise teams of the year. But in a strong AFC, that is so not going to happen. This game is a toss-up! I’ll go with the veteran experience of the Chiefs over the undisciplined inexperience of the Raiders.

IND at MIN

Last week, Indy’s offense laid an egg against the Bears. On the contrary, the Vikings kept their game versus the Packers last week competitive. Indy is charged with facing another team like they did last week; strong defense, great running game, and desirably a game-managing quarterback. However, I don’t think Tarvaris Jackson is ready to lead this team. Surprisingly though, something in my gut tells me upset special once again. I’m going with the Vikings!

NYG at STL

The Rams are another team who have started this season right where they left off last season. The Rams looked like the standard defense they usually are as they missed tackles and gave up big plays, while their inept offense produced just 158 passing yards, and 36 rushing yards to the Eagles 368 passing yards, and 108 rushing yards. The Giants defense looked like they could be just as disruptive as they were last year, even without Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora. I won’t even bother wasting another sentence analyzing the Rams. Giants win.

NO at WAS

New Orleans looks like they are ready to make good on the promise they displayed in 2006. The Redskins look like a team still trying to see where they stand with Jason Campbell at the helm. Even though the Skins won the last time these teams met, I believe it will be the Saints’ offense and improving defense that gets the better of Washington.

SF at SEA

The 49ers started off pretty decently against the Cardinals last week going up 10-3 at one point. However, they finished on the wrong end of a 23-13 score. The Seahawks look like they are on the usual road to mediocrity that they’ve been traveling the two years before the Super Bowl run, and the two years since. With JT O-Who taking snaps for the Niners, I give this one to Seattle since they play at home and tend to show a little more consistency there than on the road.

ATL at TB

Last week Matt Ryan played solidly going 9 for 13 with 161 yards, one touchdown, and no turnovers. But that was last week. And last week’s opponent was the untamed Lions. The Buccaneers will be coming off a crushing season-opening loss against a division rival, like the one they’ll be facing this week. And although the Bucs may be getting old, the coaching staff and players should still be wily enough to force the young QB into making a few mistakes. I’ll go with the Buccaneers.

MIA at ARI

The Dolphins will have no business improving too much this year. This team should be rebuilding, but they are starting an aging and skill deteriorating Chad Pennington, and have known highly-regarded draft picks. Even though the Cardinals start an older QB in Kurt Warner, at least he can throw deep consistently, whereas Pennington throws either low or to the other team rather consistently. Cardinals are on the rise, so Cardinals are in the “W” column.

SD at DEN

San Diego blew a home opener this weekend by losing. But they allowed that against a team who is easily a contender when Jake Delhomme is in the line-up and, most of all, healthy. Denver looked promising with their blow-out of the Raiders. But Oakland played so badly that it is tough to gauge the Broncos’ place in the 2008 season. Until the Broncos beat a worthy opponent, I’ll put my money on the Chargers to win this one.

NE at NYJ

This game is funny. It won’t b Brady vs. Pennington. It will be Cassel vs. Favre! Even though the Jets showed big play ability against the Dolphins last week, they still could have lost if Pennington would have been able to get Miami into the end zone in the final two minutes of their game last weekend. The Patriots also won in a rather nail biting fashion as they almost let one go into overtime against the Chiefs. Matt Cassel had to settle into a game he didn’t have the feel of from the beginning. The Jets are still growing, while every other piece on the Patriots knows where it stands aside from Matt Cassel. I’ll go with the Patriots.

PIT at CLE

The Steelers last week looked great in almost every facet of the game; an O-line pushing defensive front, ball-hawking and ball-carrier shadowing linebackers, solid secondary play, and great running mixed in with some efficient passing. Cleveland embarrassed themselves at home last weekend against a heavily favored Super Bowl contender in Dallas. But they still could have put up a better fight than they did last week based on their offensive potency during the 2007 campaign. The Browns are playing at home, on prime-time television Sunday night, and should be looking to make up for their virtual no-show from last week. However, until the Browns beat the Steelers as they haven’t managed to once in their last seven meetings, I’m still picking the Steelers.

PHI at DAL

Both teams laid waste to their opponents last week. Donovan McNabb looked great going 21 of 33 for 361 yards, three touchdowns, and no turnovers which shouldn’t come as a surprise to people. The only reason he hasn’t posted great numbers the last couple seasons is because of injuries and not because he is past his time as a good number of people believe. The Cowboys looked like a team that simply out-matched their opponent with the dynamic play of Tony Romo, great receivers in Owens, Crayton, Whitten, and a sound defense. However, I think what the Eagles have demonstrated over the last few years is that they always play with passion whereas the Cowboys seem to go through the motions and let their talent do the talking. I’m going with the Eagles to attain a close, but convincing win against the Cowboys on Monday Night Football

BAL at HOU

Good old hurricane Ike has forced these two teams to move their games to Monday Night as well… just not Monday Night Football. The Ravens managed to beat the hapless Bengals last week with good defense and a few key plays here and there on offense (namely rookie quarterback Joe Flacco’s 38 yard rushing TD). Houston looked downright awful last week as they struggled to move the ball all day, and didn’t tackle worth a lick on defense. However, the Texans are the same team from last year that finished 8-8 and looked to be improving, while the Ravens are still the same team that finished last year at 5-11 and looked like they needed to rebuild with the retirement of Steve McNair. I’m going with the Texans at home.

NFL Game Picks for Week 2 (no point spread)

Week 2 NFL PICKS

Composed by Mark M (12-4)

COLTS AT VIKINGS
My Pick: Colts

GIANTS AT RAMS
My Pick: Giants

BILLS AT JAGUARS:

My Pick: Jaguars

RAVENS AT TEXANS
My Pick: Ravens

PATRIOTS AT JETS
My Pick: Patriots

PACKERS AT LIONS
My Pick: Packers

TITANS AT BENGALS
My Pick: Titans

RAIDERS AT CHIEFS
My Pick: Chiefs

SAINTS AT REDSKINS
My Pick: Redskins

BEARS AT PANTHERS
My Pick: Bears

FALCONS AT BUCCANEERS
My Pick: Buccaneers

DOLPHINS AT CARDINALS
My Pick: Dolphins

STEELERS AT BROWNS
My Pick: Steelers

EAGLES AT COWBOYS
My Pick: Eagles

CHARGERS AT BRONCOS
My Pick: Broncos

49ERS AT SEAHAWKS
Pick: Seahawks

There they are. I know there are a few upsets but I really believe is this how it is going to pan out for week 2 of the NFL’s 2008 season. Please post back if there is anything you really don’t like and want to debate.

Mark’s NFL PICKS OF THE WEEK

1. Sunday, Sept. 7 Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens 1 p.m

MY PICK: Ravens

2. Sunday, Sept. 7 New York Jets at Miami Dolphins 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Jets

3. Sunday, Sept. 7 Kansas City Chiefs at New England Patriots 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Pats

4. Sunday, Sept. 7 Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Pittsburgh

5. Sunday, Sept. 7 Jacksonville Jaguars at Tennessee Titans 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Jacksonville

6. Sunday, Sept. 7 Detroit Lions at Atlanta Falcons 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Falcons

7. Sunday, Sept. 7 Seattle Seahawks at Buffalo Bills 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Bills

8. Sunday, Sept. 7 Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New Orleans Saints

MY PICK: Saints

9. Sunday, Sept. 7 St. Louis Rams at Philadelphia Eagles 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Eagles

10. Sunday, Sept. 7 Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns 4:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Dallas

11. Sunday, Sept. 7 Carolina Panthers at San Diego Chargers 4:15 p.m

MY PICK: Chargers

12. Sunday, Sept. 7 Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers 4:15 p.m.

MY PICK: 49ers

13. Sunday, Sept. 7 Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts 8:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Colts

14 Monday, Sept. 8 Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers 7 p.m.

MY PICK: Green Bay Packers

15 Monday, Sept. 8 Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders 10:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Denver Broncos

-Mark M

Mark’s NFL PICKS OF THE WEEK

1. Sunday, Sept. 7 Cincinnati Bengals at Baltimore Ravens 1 p.m

MY PICK: Ravens

2. Sunday, Sept. 7 New York Jets at Miami Dolphins 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Jets

3. Sunday, Sept. 7 Kansas City Chiefs at New England Patriots 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Pats

4. Sunday, Sept. 7 Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Pittsburgh

5. Sunday, Sept. 7 Jacksonville Jaguars at Tennessee Titans 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Jacksonville

6. Sunday, Sept. 7 Detroit Lions at Atlanta Falcons 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Falcons

7. Sunday, Sept. 7 Seattle Seahawks at Buffalo Bills 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Bills

8. Sunday, Sept. 7 Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New Orleans Saints

MY PICK: Saints

9. Sunday, Sept. 7 St. Louis Rams at Philadelphia Eagles 1 p.m.

MY PICK: Eagles

10. Sunday, Sept. 7 Dallas Cowboys at Cleveland Browns 4:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Dallas

11. Sunday, Sept. 7 Carolina Panthers at San Diego Chargers 4:15 p.m

MY PICK: Chargers

12. Sunday, Sept. 7 Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers 4:15 p.m.

MY PICK: 49ers

13. Sunday, Sept. 7 Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts 8:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Colts

14 Monday, Sept. 8 Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers 7 p.m.

MY PICK: Green Bay Packers

15 Monday, Sept. 8 Denver Broncos at Oakland Raiders 10:15 p.m.

MY PICK: Denver Broncos

-Mark M

Mad’Nuff’s Superbowl Picks NFL

Mad Nuff writes:

Well it’s the beginning of the season so who is going to win the Superbowl? TO early to tell?

Not for me. I am going to call it right here and right now before the season even starts, before a single snap is taken. Bold you say. Very; but I called it when the Steelers won in 05 and called it when the Colts won in 06 before a single snap was ever taken.Will I be right? probably, but the statistics are against me. So who am I saying? You really want to know?

Well For the AFC I have the Pittsburgh Steelers after winning the Division and fighting through the toughest schedule in the NFL the Steelers will push out to the super bowl.

For the NFC I have the Dallas Cowboys. Yes the boys, no they are not my boys (I hate them) but I gotta keep it real. After they come in second behind the Eagles in the Division the Cowboys will make the push to the Super Bowl. Which means a repeat of the 1995 match up probably with the Steelers playing the colts in the AFC Championship game again. With the Steelers winning it all. Why? After losing to the Cowboys in the regular season they will win this rematch because in the NFL the losing team always has the upper hand. So there you have it folks. My super bowl picks, so make sure you write them down, note the time, date and lock it up because I called it.

-Madison Mad’Nuff