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Saturday, December 28, 2013

2013 Week 17 Picks

Panthers (11-4) vs. Falcons (4-11)
Pick: Panthers
Redskins (3-12) vs. Giants (6-9)
Pick: Giants
Browns (4-11) vs. Steelers (7-8)
Pick: Steelers
Texans (2-13) vs. Titans (6-9)
Pick: Titans
Lions (7-8) vs. Vikings (4-10-1)
Pick: Lions
Jets (7-8) vs. Dolphins (8-7)
Pick: Dolphins
Ravens (8-7) vs. Bengals (10-5)
Pick: Ravens
Jaguars (4-11) vs. Colts (10-5)
Pick: Colts
Rams (7-8) vs. Seahawks (12-3)
Pick: Seahawks
Broncos (12-3) vs. Raiders (4-11)
Pick: Broncos
49ers (11-4) vs. Cardinals (10-5)
Pick: Cardinals
Chiefs (11-4) vs. Chargers (8-7)
Pick: Chiefs
Bills (6-9) vs. Patriots (11-4)
Pick: Patriots
Buccaneers (4-11) vs. Saints (10-5)
Pick: Saints
Packers (7-7-1) vs. Bears (8-7)
Pick: Packers
Eagles (9-6) vs. Cowboys (8-7)
Pick: Eagles

Saturday, December 21, 2013

2013 Week 16 Picks

Dolphins (8-6) vs. Bills (5-9)
Pick: Dolphins     S: Dolphins
Buccaneers (4-10) vs. Rams (6-8)
Pick: Rams      S: Rams
Cowboys (7-7) vs. Redskins (3-11)
Pick: Cowboys    S: Cowboys
Colts (9-5) vs. Chiefs (11-3)
Pick: Chiefs    S:Chiefs
Browns (4-10) vs. Jets (6-8)
Pick: Browns    S: Jets
Titans (5-9) vs. Jaguars (4-10)
Pick: Titans     S: Titans
Vikings (4-9-1) vs. Bengals (9-5)
Pick: Vikings      S: Bengals
Saints (10-4) vs. Panthers (10-4)
Pick: Panthers     S: Panthers
Broncos (11-3) vs. Texans (2-12)
Pick: Broncos     S: Broncos
Cardinals (9-5) vs. Seahawks (12-2)
Pick: Seahawks     S: Seahawks
Giants (5-9) vs. Lions (7-7)
Pick: Lions    S: Lions
Raiders (4-10) vs. Chargers (7-7)
Pick: Chargers    S: Chargers
Steelers (6-8) vs. Packers (7-6-1)
Pick: Steelers     S: Packers
Patriots (10-4) vs. Ravens (8-6)
Pick: Ravens      S: Patriots
Bears (8-6) vs. Eagles (8-6)
Pick: Eagles     S: Eagles
Falcons (4-10) vs. 49ers (10-4)
Pick: 49ers     S: 49ers

Sunday, December 15, 2013

2013 Week 15 Game Picks

Eagles (8-5) vs. Vikings (3-9-1)
Pick: Eagles
49ers (9-4) vs. Buccaneers (4-9)
Pick: 49ers
Patriots (10-3) vs. Dolphins (7-6)
Pick: Patriots
Seahawks (11-2) vs. Giants (5-8)
Pick: Seahawks
Bills (4-9) vs. Jaguars (4-9)
Pick: Jaguars
Redskins (3-10) vs. Falcons (3-10)
Pick: Falcons
Bears (7-6) vs. Browns (4-9)
Pick: Bears
Texans (3-11) vs. Colts (8-5)
Pick: Colts
Jets (6-7) vs. Panthers (9-4)
Pick: Panthers
Chiefs (10-3) vs. Raiders (4-9)
Pick: Chiefs
Packers (6-6-1) vs. Cowboys (7-6)
Pick: Cowboys
Cardinals (8-5) vs. Titans (5-8)
Pick: Cardinals
Saints (10-3) vs. Rams (5-8)
Pick: Saints
Bengals (9-4) vs. Steelers (5-8)
Pick: Bengals
Ravens (7-6) vs. Lions (7-6)
Pick: Ravens 

Saturday, December 7, 2013

2013 Week 14 Picks

Bills (4-8) vs. Buccaneers (3-9)
Pick: Buccaneers     S: Buccaneers
Chiefs (9-3) vs. Redskins (3-9)
Pick: Chiefs     S: Chiefs
Falcons (3-9) vs. Packers (5-6-1)
Pick: Packers     S: Packers
Lions (7-5) vs. Eagles (7-5) 
Pick: Lions     S: Lions
Dolphins (6-6) vs. Steelers (5-7)
Pick: Steelers     S: Steelers
Colts (8-4) vs. Bengals (8-4)
Pick: Colts     S: Bengals
Browns (4-8) vs. Patriots (9-3)
Pick: Patriots     S: Patriots
Raiders (4-8) vs. Jets (5-7)
Pick: Jets     S: Jets
Vikings (3-8-1) vs. Ravens (6-6)
Pick: Ravens     S: Ravens
Titans (5-7) vs. Broncos (10-2)
Pick: Broncos    S: Broncos
Rams (5-7) vs. Cardinals (7-5) 
Pick: Cardinals    S: Cardinals
Seahawks (11-1) vs. 49ers (8-4)
Pick: Seahawks     S: Seahawks
Giants (5-7) vs. Chargers (5-7)
Pick: Giants     S: Chargers
Panthers (9-3) vs. Saints (9-3)
Pick: Saints    S: Saints
Cowboys (7-5) vs. Bears (6-6)
Pick: Cowboys    S: Cowboys

Saturday, November 30, 2013

2013 Week 13 Game Picks

First, I would like to apologize for my brief hiatus last weekend -- I was out of town attending a conference. But I'm back in full force this week with game picks!

Dolphins (5-6) vs. Jets (5-6)
Pick: Dolphins
Cardinals (7-4) vs. Eagles (6-5)
Pick: Eagles
Patriots (8-3) vs. Texans (2-9)
Pick: Patriots
Jaguars (2-9) vs. Browns (4-7)
Pick: Browns
Titans (5-6) vs. Colts (7-4)
Pick: Colts
Buccaneers (3-8) vs. Panthers (8-3)
Pick: Panthers
Rams (5-6) vs. 49ers (7-4)
Pick: Rams
Falcons (2-9) vs. Bi;;s (4-7)
Pick: Bills
Broncos (9-2) vs. Chiefs (9-2)
Pick: Broncos
Bengals (7-4) vs. Chargers (5-6)
Pick: Chargers
Giants (4-7) vs. Redskins (3-8)
Pick: Giants
Saints (9-2) vs. Seahawks (10-1)
Pick: Saints

Saturday, November 16, 2013

2013 Week 11 Picks

Lions (6-3) vs. Steelers (3-6)
Pick: Lions    S: Lions
Falcons (2-7) vs. Buccaneers (1-8)
Pick: Falcons    S: Buccaneers
Cardinals (5-4) vs. Jaguars (1-8)
Pick: Cardinals     S: Cardinals
Redskins (3-6) vs. Eagles (5-5)
Pick: Eagles        S: Eagles
Raiders (3-6) vs. Texans (2-7)
Pick: Raiders       S: Texans
Ravens (4-5) vs. Bears (5-4)
Pick: Ravens       S: Ravens
Jets (5-4) vs. Bills (3-7)
Pick: Jets       S: Jets
Browns (4-5) vs. Bengals (6-4)
Pick: Bengals    S: Bengals
Chargers (4-5) vs. Dolphins (4-5)
Pick: Chargers      S: Chargers
Vikings (2-7) vs. Seahawks (9-1)
Pick: Seahawks    S: Seahawks
Packers (5-4) vs. Giants (3-6)
Pick: Giants        S: Giants
49ers (6-3) vs. Saints (7-2)
Pick: Saints       S: Saints
Chiefs (9-0) vs. Broncos (8-1)
Pick: Broncos     S: Broncos
Patriots (7-2) vs. Panthers (6-3)
Pick: Patriots      S: Patriots

Thursday, November 14, 2013

2013 Week 11 Thursday Night

Colts (6-3) vs. Titans (4-5)
Pick: Colts

What We've Learned:

5. Many division races are still wide open, including the NFC East and the AFC North.

4. There will be no winless teams in the NFL this year ('08 Lions, crack your champagne).

3. The Carolina Panthers might be the surprise team of the year.

2. The Colts cannot play consistently...and no one quite knows why.

1. The NFL locker room is not a nice place 

Sunday, November 10, 2013

2013 Week 10 Picks

Bills (3-6) vs. Steelers (2-6)
Pick: Bills
Jaguars (0-8) vs. Titans (4-4)
Pick: Titans
Rams (3-6) vs. Colts (6-2)
Pick: Colts
Raiders (3-5) vs. Giants (2-6)
Pick: Raiders
Seahawks (8-1) vs. Falcons (2-6)
Pick: Seahawks
Bengals (6-3) vs. Ravens (3-5)
Pick: Ravens
Lions (5-3) vs. Bears (5-3)
Pick: Lions
Eagles (4-5) vs. Packers (5-3)
Pick: Eagles
Panthers (5-3) vs. 49ers (6-2)
Pick: 49ers
Texans (2-6) vs. Cardinals (4-4)
Pick: Cardinals
Broncos (7-1) vs. Chargers (4-4)
Pick: Broncos
Cowboys (5-4) vs. Saints (6-2)
Pick: Saints
Dolphins (4-4) vs. Buccaneers (0-8)
Pick: Dolphins

Sunday, November 3, 2013

2013 Week 9 Picks

Titans (3-4) vs. Rams (3-5)
Pick: Rams       S: Titans
Saints (6-1) vs. Jets (4-4)
Pick: Saints      S: Saints
Chargers (4-3) vs. Redskins (2-5)
Pick: Chargers
Chiefs (8-0) vs. Bills (3-5)
Pick: Chiefs       S: Chiefs
Falcons (2-5) vs. Panthers (4-3)
Pick: Panthers     S: Falcons
Vikings (1-6) vs. Cowboys (4-4)
Pick: Cowboys    S: Cowboys
Buccaneers (0-7) vs. Seahawks (7-1)
Pick: Seahawks      S: Seahawks
Eagles (3-5) vs. Raiders (3-4)
Pick: Raiders    S: Raiders
Steelers (2-5) vs. Patriots (6-2) 
Pick: Patriots     S: Patriots
Ravens (3-4) vs. Browns (3-5)
Pick: Ravens     S: Ravens
Colts (5-2) vs. Texans (2-5)
Pick: Colts      S: Colts
Bears (4-3) vs. Packers (5-2)
Pick: Packers     S: Packers

Saturday, October 26, 2013

2013 Week 8 Picks

Bills (3-4) vs. Saints (5-1)
Pick: Saints   S: Saints
Dolphins (3-3) vs. Patriots (5-2)
Pick: Patriots       S: Patriots
Giants (1-6) vs. Eagles (3-4)
Pick: Eagles      S: Eagles
Cowboys (4-3) vs. Lions (4-3)
Pick: Lions       S: Lions
49ers (5-2) vs. Jaguars (0-7)
Pick: 49ers      S: 49ers
Browns (3-4) vs. Chiefs (7-0)
Pick: Chiefs      S: Chiefs
Jets (4-3) vs. Bengals (5-2)
Pick: Bengals     S: Bengals
Steelers (2-4) vs. Raiders (2-4)
Pick: Steelers     S: Steelers
Redskins (2-4) vs. Broncos (6-1)
Pick: Broncos    S: Broncos
Falcons (2-4) vs. Cardinals (3-4)
Pick: Cardinals   S: Cardinals 
Packers (4-2) vs. Vikings (1-5)
Pick: Packers     S: Packers
Seahawks (6-1) vs. Rams (3-4)
Pick: Seahawks      S: Seahawks

Thursday, October 24, 2013

2013 Week 8 Thursday Night Pick

Game Pick:
Panthers (3-3) vs. Buccaneers (0-6)
Pick: Panthers

What we learned

5. Games have been decided by closer margins; though what this says about the league and the teams is set to be seen. Have we reached the point where teams can scout each other so well?

4. The Jaguars have the potential to go 0-16 this season, and in my opinion will. 

3. Though RGIII has shown improvement, he is not back to as much form as he thinks and the Redskins will miss the playoffs. 

2. The Broncos are still one of the best teams in the AFC, but if they want to remain so they must improve the defense. 

1. The Colts are the real deal and must be treated as a serious contender. 

Saturday, October 19, 2013

2013 Week 7 Picks

Patriots (5-1) vs. Jets (3-3)
Pick: Patriots       S: Patriots
Cowboys (3-3) vs. Eagles (3-3)
Pick: Eagles            S: Cowboys
Bears (4-2) vs. Redskins (1-4)
Pick: Bears       S: Redskins
Chargers (3-3) vs. Jaguars (0-6)
Pick: Chargers       S: Chargers
Bills (2-4) vs. Dolphins (3-2)
Pick: Dolphins  S: Dolphins
Rams (3-3) vs. Panthers (2-3)
Pick: Rams       S: Rams
Bengals (4-2) vs. Lions (4-2)
Pick: Lions          S: Lions
Buccaneers (0-5) vs. Falcons (1-4)
Pick: Falcons            S: Falcons
49ers (4-2) vs. Titans (3-3)
Pick: 49ers       S: Titans
Texans (2-4) vs. Chiefs (6-0)
Pick: Chiefs        S: Texans
Ravens (3-3) vs. Steelers (1-4)
Pick: Ravens        S: Ravens
Browns (3-3) vs. Packers (3-2)
Pick: Packers      S: Packers
Broncos (6-0) vs. Colts (4-2)
Pick: Broncos       S: Broncos
Vikings (1-4) vs. Giants (0-6)
Pick: Vikings       S: Vikings

Thursday, October 17, 2013

2013 Week 7 Thursday Night Pick and Wrap up

Firstly,
Seahawks (5-1) vs. Cardinals (3-3)
Pick: Seahawks

5. RGIII is not the same as last season. Recovered or not, he's clearly not the same QB. Not sure if the team is holding him back, or if he personally feels concerned about his recovery. 

4. The Rams are rising and no one is paying attention. (Everyone is too distracted by the Texans falling). 

3. The Lions are the real deal. (And yes, I will harp on it until they win a playoff game.)

2. There is a larger gap between teams -- basically it seems like teams tend to either be really good or quite bad, with a few teams floundering in between.

1. The power in the league is shifting slightly, from the traditionally good teams to some new playoff figures. 

Saturday, October 12, 2013

2013 Week 6 Picks

Panthers (1-3) vs. Vikings (1-3)
Pick: Vikings       S: Vikings
Eagles (2-3) vs. Buccaneers (0-4)
Pick: Eagles     S: Eagles
Raiders (2-3) vs. Chiefs (5-0)
Pick: Chiefs     S: Chiefs
Steelers (0-4) vs. Jets (3-2)
Pick: Jets    S: Jets
Rams (2-3) vs. Texans (2-3)
Pick: Texans     S: Texans
Packers (2-2) vs. Ravens (3-2)
Pick: Packers    S: Ravens
Bengals (3-2) vs. Bills (2-3)
Pick: Bengals     S: Bengals
Lions (3-2) vs. Browns (3-2)
Pick: Lions    S: Lions 
Titans (3-2) vs. Seahawks (4-1)
Pick: Seahawks   S: Seahawks
Jaguars (0-5) vs. Broncos (5-0)
Pick: Broncos    S: Broncos
Saints (5-0) vs. Patriots (4-1)
Pick: Saints     S: Patriots
Cardinals (3-2) vs. 49ers (3-2)
Pick: 49ers    S: 49ers
Redskins (1-3) vs. Cowboys (2-3)
Pick: Cowboys    S: Cowboys
Colts (4-1) vs. Chargers (2-3)
Pick: Colts     S: Chargers

Saturday, October 5, 2013

2013 Week 5 Picks

Jaguars (0-4) vs. Rams (1-3)
Pick: Rams
Chiefs (4-0) vs. Titans (3-1)
Pick: Chiefs
Ravens (2-2) vs. Dolphins (3-1)
Pick: Ravens
Eagles (1-3) vs. Giants (0-4)
Pick: Eagles
Saints (4-0) vs. Bears (3-1)
Pick: Saints
Patriots (4-0) vs. Bengals (2-2)
Pick: Patriots
Lions (3-1) vs. Packers (1-2)
Pick: Packers
Seahawks (4-0) vs. Colts (3-1)
Pick: Colts
Panthers (1-2) vs. Cardinals (2-2)
Pick: Cardinals
Broncos (4-0) vs. Cowboys (2-2)
Pick: Broncos
Texans (2-2) vs. 49ers (2-2)
Pick: 49ers
Chargers (2-2) vs. Raiders (1-3)
Pick: Chargers
Jets (2-2) vs. Falcons (1-3)
Pick: Falcons 

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Thursday Night Picks and Wrap Up

Bills (2-2) vs. Browns (1-1)
Pick: Bills

This was actually a tough game to pick because both teams have surprised the league so far this season. Both had big wins last weekend and both are under new leadership. The Bills beat a better opponent last week and their defense looked amazing.

Here are five things we learned last week:

5. The Texans are in trouble, though they know it and will try to fix it. However, it will probably be too late for them to catch the Colts.

4. The Steelers will not make the playoffs.

3. Having byes in week 4 isn't good.

2. Matt Flynn will never be a starting QB in the league.

1. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a ship that's sinking fast and will be the next New York Jets if they're not careful.

Sunday, September 29, 2013

2013 Week 4 Picks

Giants (0-3) vs. Chiefs (3-0)
Pick: Chiefs
Cardinals (1-2) vs. Buccaneers (0-3)
Pick: Cardinals
Colts (2-1) vs. Jaguars (0-3)
Pick: Colts
Steelers (0-3) vs. Vikings (0-3)
Pick: Vikings
Ravens (2-1) vs. Bills (1-2)
Pick: Ravens
Bengals (2-1) vs. Browns (1-2)
Pick: Bengals
Bears (3-0) vs. Lions (2-1)
Pick: Lions
Seahawks (3-0) vs. Texans (2-1)
Pick: Seahawks
Jets (2-1) vs. Titans (2-1)
Pick: Titans
Eagles (1-2) vs. Broncos (3-0)
Pick: Broncos
Cowboys (2-1) vs. Chargers (1-2)
Pick: Cowboys
Redskins (0-3) vs. Raiders (1-2)
Pick: Raiders
Patriots (3-0) vs. Falcons (1-2)
Pick: Falcons
Dolphins (3-0) vs. Saints (3-0)
Pick: Saints

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Thursday Night Pick and Wrap Up

Tonight, I am bold.
Tonight I am picking the Rams to beat the 49ers.
49ers (1-2) vs. Rams (1-2) 
Pick: Rams

Things we learned in Week 3

5. The Giants and 49ers are in trouble.

4. The Ravens are returning to championship form and haven't allowed a touchdown in the last two games.

3. Coaches are beginning to feel the heat (Schiano, Coughlin, Jim Harbaugh).

2. The Lions are going to turn the corner.

1. The Chiefs are the real deal.

Saturday, September 21, 2013

2013 Week 3 Game Picks

Week 3 picks for your viewing pleasure!

Texans (2-0) vs. Ravens (1-1)
Pick: Ravens      S: Ravens
Packers (1-1) vs. Bengals (1-1)
Pick: Packers       S: Packers
Rams (1-1) vs. Cowboys (1-1)
Pick: Rams       S: Rams
Falcons (1-1) vs. Dolphins (2-0)
Pick: Dolphins    S: Dolphins
Browns (0-2) vs. Vikings (0-2)
Pick: Vikings        S: Vikings
Bills (1-1) vs. Jets (1-1)
Pick: Bills       S: Jets
Buccaneers (0-2) vs. Patriots (2-0)
Pick: Patriots             S: Patriots
Chargers (1-1) vs. Titans (1-1)
Pick: Chargers       S: Titans
Lions (1-1) vs. Redskins (0-2)
Pick: Lions      S: Redskins
Giants (0-2) vs. Panthers (0-2) 
Pick: Giants       S: Giants
Colts (1-1) vs. 49ers (1-1)
Pick: 49ers       S: 49ers
Jaguars (0-2) vs. Seahawks (2-0)
Pick: Seahawks      S: Seahawks 
Bears (2-0) vs. Steelers (0-2)
Pick: Bears       S: Steelers
Raiders (1-1) vs. Broncos (2-0)
Pick: Broncos     S: Broncos

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Thursday Game Pick and Weekly Wrap

First, a game pick for the revenge game tonight:
Chiefs (2-0) vs. Eagles (1-1)
Pick: Chiefs
(Though I think it will be a good game and a close one. I have more faith in the Chiefs as a whole. They have something to play for.)

Let's take a look back at the week and discuss what we've learned about a few things. Here are the top 5 things we learned in week 2.

5. The 49ers have a weakness and are not the indestructible force previously believed to be, even within their division.

4. Patriots fans should be deeply concerned; maybe the Bills game in week one wasn't a fluke.

3. Could the Rams, Dolphins and Bills be the real deal?

2. The Jaguars will have the number one pick in next year's draft.

1. The Steelers will not make the playoffs. 

Sunday, September 15, 2013

2013 Week 2 Picks

Browns (0-1) vs. Ravens (0-1)
Pick: Ravens
Rams (1-0) vs. Falcons (0-1)
Pick: Falcons
Panthers (0-1) vs. Bills (0-1)
Pick: Bills
Redskins (0-1) vs. Packers (0-1) 
Pick: Packers
Dolphins (1-0) vs. Colts (1-0)
Pick: Colts
Cowboys (1-0) vs. Chiefs (1-0)
Pick: Chiefs
Vikings (0-1) vs. Bears (1-0)
Pick: Vikings
Chargers (0-1) vs. Eagles (1-0)
Pick: Eagles
Titans (1-0) vs. Texans (1-0)
Pick: Texans
Lions (1-0) vs. Cardinals (0-1)
Pick: Lions
Saints (1-0) vs. Buccaneers (0-1)
Pick: Saints
Jaguars (0-1) vs. Raiders (0-1)
Pick: Raiders
Broncos (1-0) vs. Giants (0-1)
Pick: Broncos
49ers (1-0) vs. Seahawks (1-0)
Pick: 49ers
Steelers (0-1) vs. Bengals (0-1)
Pick: Bengals

Sunday, September 8, 2013

2013 Week 1 Picks

Here we are at week one once again. Because all the teams are 0-0, I haven't written the records out after every team. The first week features some interesting games, like Packers vs. 49ers and Falcons vs. Saints, along with the night games.

Patriots vs. Bills
Pick: Patriots
Seahawks vs. Panthers 
Pick: Seahawks
Bengals vs. Bears
Pick: Bengals
Dolphins vs. Browns
Pick: Dolphins
Vikings vs. Lions
Pick: Lions
Raiders vs. Colts
Pick: Colts
Chiefs vs. Jaguars 
Pick: Chiefs
Buccaneers vs. Jets
Pick: Buccaneers
Falcons vs. Saints
Pick: Saints
Titans vs. Steelers
Pick: Steelers
Cardinals vs. Rams
Pick: Rams
Packers vs. 49ers 
Pick: 49ers
Giants vs. Cowboys
Pick: Giants
Eagles vs. Redskins
Pick: Redskins
Texans vs. Chargers
Pick: Texans

Thursday, September 5, 2013

Who Will Protect This House? I Will.

Tonight the defending World Champions Baltimore Ravens open their season against the Denver Broncos...away at Denver. The Ravens were unable to continue the tradition of opening their season at home because of the Orioles' schedule. Yet, though they can't literally defend their house, the Ravens have plenty to defend. The idea of the house here is the championship. The Ravens must prove that they are more than a magical team of destiny, that they can be a dynasty. It is the goal that Harbaugh and Flacco have both vocalized. Can the Ravens make the leap? I believe they can. In many ways, they have improved their defense through adding youth and progressing towards the future. That is the idea of dynasty. Progressing, even if others doubt how the methods and the signings. The new look Ravens are faster and younger, though they must gel quickly to stop Peyton Manning. The Broncos are loaded on offense, but the defense has taken several hits on defense. The game tonight has a high chance of being high scoring, with both defenses reeling to control two explosive offenses. The Broncos have revenge on their mind, but the Ravens still have a chip on their shoulder and are entering a new era -- for the first time Ray Lewis is not the roster. It is Flacco's team now and he has risen to take control. At the Ravens home game, the fans chant "Who will protect this house? I will. I will." The chant will be absent tonight in Denver, but the idea behind it will certainly not be.

Pick: Ravens
Steven's Pick: Ravens

Monday, September 2, 2013

2013 NFC West Predictions

1. San Francisco 49ers
There is a reason that the 49ers were the NFC representative in the Super Bowl last year. They have talent littering both sides of the ball and a successful coaching staff to keep order. They managed to avoid tragic losses of talent, though they are now a little thin at the WR position. If injuries hit the WRs or Kaepernick then this team could be in deep trouble. But that being said, a healthy 49ers team must simply remain constant and carry on where they left off last year.

2. Seattle Seahawks
The Seahawks have a chance to knock the 49ers from the top of the division. Pete Carroll has somehow worked magic and found talent from other teams and through the draft. QB Wilson was the surprise of the year last year, though I expect a little regression as all second year quarterbacks tend to have. Defenses will also be able to defend the read option better after an off-season of study. But the strength of this team is really the defense, especially the secondary. The loss of CB Trufant hurts a little, but the depth here is so great the unit should remain solid with CB Sherman and CB Browner. They have a chance to keep the major quarterbacks of the entire NFC in check.

3. St. Louis Rams
The Rams showed enormous improvement under Jeff Fisher in his first year and expect them to improve even more. Unfortunately, they play in a highly competitive division which will hamper them. Yet, last year they held their own against the big boy 49ers and can expect to again. QB Bradford has his last shot to prove himself this year. The addition of T Jake Long should help this by keeping Bradford on his feet, rather than on his back. The departure of RB Jackson hurts more than anything for this team. Still, look for the whole team to improve in the second year of Fisher's system.

4. Arizona Cardinals
Bruce Arians was the coaching catch off the off-season and the Cardinals landed him. Unfortunately, he doesn't have much to work with besides Larry Fitzgerald. Carson Palmer has come in to sort of help the quarterback situation, but he's aging and hasn't shown true talent since he was with the Bengals. Off season additions have been mostly to sure up the defense -- CBs Arenas, Cason and Power, as well as S Bell and LB Brinkley. Maybe RB Mendenhall will give an offensive boost, but he's had problems with injuries and isn't considered an every down back. Overall, there is future hope for the Cardinals, but not this year. This is the first rebuilding year. 

Sunday, September 1, 2013

2013 NFC East Predictions

1. New York Giants
The Giants had everything under control last year, until they fell apart. I'm still not quite sure what happened, but their own failings allowed the Redskins to come up and steal the division from the Cowboys of all people. As always in New York, the talent is there. Eli Manning has proved himself to be a worthy quarterback and I believe is capable of winning another Super Bowl. (Bold prediction, I know.) They have good wideouts in Cruz and Nicks (if he can stay healthy.) They need a running back, with injuries once again plaguing the position already. However, the defense is a concern with major losses including LB Blackburn, LB Boley, DT Canty and DE Umenyiora. The arrival of Cullen Jenkins DT will help, but they need more. The secondary must sure up to in case the pass rush isn't there.

2. Washington Redskins
The RGIII show took off last year, but I'm still not sold. I don't like the way he handles certain things in the media and the second surgery on the knee is a major concern. Also, his lack of desire to play to protect himself, and therefore the team, is a major concern. He is this team. Without him, they are average. Alfred Morris is a good solid running back, but he's not the sort of back that can carry an entire team. RGIII said this season he has 'nothing to prove'. How about a playoff win? How about a conference Championship? How about a Super Bowl? I think he gets none of the above this year.

3. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys window has closed. I have always been a supporter of Tony Romo, though he has always under-performed. There have been flashes of brilliance, but overall he has been a disappointment since he burst onto the scene. The talent around him has been there including WR Bryant, TE Witten, and RB Murray. The defense mirrors Romo in the sense of having lots of talent and under-performing; they were ranked 19th last year. The Cowboys can't come together as a team and make it work and this year it will cost Head Coach Garrett his job.

4. Philadelphia Eagles
Welcome to the Chip Kelly era. Where the goal is to recreate Oregon's success on the NFL level. The question remains if this is even possible, but the Eagles have nothing to lose and everything to gain. However, they must protect Michael Vick, who will fit in Kelly's system if he remains on his feet. However, this is a rebuilding year for the whole team and I don't think Kelly can have instant success. He needs to highest level of performances out of his players and I'm not sure if the talent can live up to the hype. They've added a lot of new pieces that need to come together and that always takes time.

2013 NFC South Predictions

1. New Orleans Saints
I'm putting the Saints above the Falcons because of their schedule. They only have four games that could be tricky (Atlanta twice, New England and San Francisco). Plus, the return of Sean Peyton makes a huge difference -- this team missed him last year. New defensive coordinator Rob Ryan has his work cut out for him to improve the unit which held the team back last year. A full year for Jonathan Vilma will bring stablity to the unit as a whole. Look for the Saints to have a bounce back year.

2. Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons have had 13 wins in two of the last seasons and have finally tasted playoff success. Matt Ryan has silenced some of the critics, but not all of them. Especially now that Flacco, his draft mate, has won a Super Bowl, Ryan needs to at least get to one. He has the weapons; WR Jones and TE Gonzalez. The loss of RB Turner hurts, but picking up RB Jackson was brilliant. The defense has reassured itself after the loss DE Abraham. They brought in Osi Umenyiora from the Giants. They must learn to control not only Drew Brees in their own division, but the high powered quarterbacks they will face in the playoffs.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccs floundered after some improvement in previous year, but seem to be once again on the up with second year head coach Greg Schiano. QB Freeman must prove himself for real this year, showing that he was not merely a one shot wonder. The muscle hamster, RB Martin proved to be an excellent find for the team to bring another level the offense. The defense was terrible, ranking 29th in the league last year. Improvement here is a must, though they only brought in one 'name' and that's Revis who is coming off an injury. One player doesn't make a defense and improvement will take time.

4. Carolina Panthers
I have never been sold on Cam Newton. And am still not. Sophomore slump hit him hard and he showed a few cracks this year in the public eye. The weapons around him are aging and eventually the will run out of time. The defense seemed to be the only redeeming quality of the team last year, ranking 10th in the NFL. LB Luke Kuechky leads the charge and is the heart and the soul of the defense. But there are not many bright spots on the horizon for the Panthers, who will continue to be mediocre until they can find a real quarterback. Coach Ron Rivera isn't on the hot seat yet, but he's very very close. 

Friday, August 30, 2013

2013 NFC North Predictions

1. Green Bay Packers
The Packers under-performed last year. Yes, they made the playoffs, but they didn't win the division. And they got knocked out by the 49ers. The offense's production fell off and the defense couldn't make a stop when they needed to. Letting San Fran put up 45 points is not good. They haven't had too much player movement, besides the departures of S Woodson, WR Jennings and C Saturday (who was injured much of last season anyway.) However, they also don't have any notable pick ups. The only things this team needs to do is perform up to expectations. But that is easier said than done.

2. Detroit Lions
I put the Lions here last year and they disappointed me. But I've liked what I've seen from them so far in the preseason and have high hopes for them this year. This is another team in the division that far under-performed compared to the level of talent on their roster. Stafford, Johnson and the new addition of Reggie Bush should be a lethal combination. Should be. The defense must improve. The addition of S Quin from Houston should help as well as building through the draft with CB Slay. The Lions lost many games last year either on the final drive or by 7 points or less. If they can find some discipline they can take the league by storm again. Otherwise Schwartz's job might be in question.

3. Minnesota Vikings
It is tough to downplay any team with Adrian Peterson on it. But Christian Ponder has only shown flashes of brilliance and must improve if this team is to have long term success. Losing WR Harvin is a blow, but picking up WR Jennings should give them more stability and less injuries to the position. I just don't think that the Vikings have the ability to compete with the other teams in their division, let alone in the league. They may make playoffs again, though I am doubtful. Defense must improve especially against the pass, which hurt them significantly last year. Lesile Frazier is a defensively minded head coach and he needs to show it.

4. Chicago Bears
The Bears had 10 wins last year, but didn't make playoffs and the result was the firing of their head coach. Now there's a new man in tow, Marc Trestman, from the Canadian football league. I'm not sure if he's prepared for the speed and competition at the NFL level. Cutler has improved and Brandon Marshall has settled down and become a reliable receiver. The offensive line must improve and keep Culter on his feet. Blocking for Matt Forte is also incredibly important, as he can be their strongest offensive weapon. The defense ranked highly last year (5th in the NFL), but it will be interesting to see how they perform without the leadership of LB Brain Urlacher, who left discontented with the team and management. Though he may have been aging, there is no replacement for the leadership. 

Thursday, August 29, 2013

AFC West 2013 Predictions

1. Denver Broncos
Though Denver is the easy choice here, it is not like this team hasn't made changes during the off-season. After what one might call a 'lucky' loss to the Ravens in the post season, Denver reloaded...on offense. Bringing in Wes Welker (WR) and Monte Ball (RB) will give Peyton more weapons in an already powerful aresenal. However, the defense has serious problems, including the losses of DE Dumervil, DT Bannan and LB Williams. Also, Von Miller, LB, has been suspended for the first six games of the season, which will do more than hurt. But as always, with Peyton Manning on offense, the team will have enough firepower to compensate for a perhaps lacking defense.

2. Kansas City Chiefs
They are my 'sleeper' pick this year. The Chiefs had plenty of talent last year with six Pro Bowl players on the roster. That talent never materialized and trouble off the field gave the Chiefs some unwanted attention. But with Andy Reid at the helm and Alex Smith to lead the offense, the rest of the talent should fall into line. Reid is notorious for developing QBs and struggling offenses and building consistent success. The Chiefs never lacked weapons -- it was more the execution. Remember, this team won the division in 2010 and can count on seeing major improvement this season.

3. San Diego Chargers
The Chargers are on their last legs. In fact, some people would say that the window for their championship run has closed. I believe this, to a degree. Philip Rivers is not past his prime, but he does not have much talent around him. TE Gates is always consistent, but RB Matthews has under-performed and been injury prone. Unfortunately, they haven't added many offensive pieces, except to grab Danny Woodhead from the Patriots. The defense ranked well last year (9th in the NFL), but lost many key pieces including S Bigby, CB Cason, CB Jammer, LB Phillips and LB Spikes. Only bringing in CB Cox (from W&M!) and drafting LB T'eo doesn't seem to fill those gaps. A new coaching staff is in for a rebuilding year.

4. Oakland Raiders
The Raiders have been out of the playoffs for longer than anyone in Oakland would care to remember. They are seen as a joke of the NFL and never seem to have a feel for building through the draft. Al Davis has been gone for nearly two years now and there is a consistent GM trying to take control. The biggest change here MIGHT be the addition of QB Matt Flynn. Flynn hasn't played in a regular season game since he was with Green Bay and is still at risk of getting edged out by a combination of Pryor and injuries. Until Flynn takes the field, it is impossible to tell if he can replicate his brief success in Green Bay. the defense was middle of the pack last year, but look for it to improve under the second year of DC Jason Traver. The whole team should improve in their head coach's second year, but still won't be able to compete with the others in the division. 

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

AFC South Predictions

1. Houston Texans
Since starting their upward trend in 2011 by making the playoffs for the first time in franchise history, the Texans have only improved. That being said, I don't think they will beat their win total from last year (12), but I do think they will win the division. Key pieces on offense, including QB Schaub, WR Johnson and RB Foster, all return, somewhat healthy. Losses on defense include LB Barwin, S Demps and S Quin, which will hurt, though the addition of Ed Reed and the return on Brain Cushing will ease the blow. The Texans are still the most complete team in this division, though they will not be a true Super Bowl contender.

2. Indianapolis Colts
After the devastating loss of Peyton Manning, the Colts got "Lucky" once again with a clear franchise quarterback to pick number one in the draft. Luck turned out to be everything advertised, and in many ways more. He will continue to improve in his second year, along with the attention of Pep Hamilton, a familiar face from Stanford, as offensive coordinator. Though there are minor questions at running back, the addition of speed Heyward-Bey will give Luck another weapon. Additions in the secondary of Landry and Toler will attempt to sure up a secondary that struggled last year. The Colts won a lot of game based on emotion and playing for a cause -- they won't have that this year, but they will have improved talent and players.

3. Tennessee Titans
The Titans have been looking for a firm identity and quarterback since the departure of Steve McNair. The further departure of Jeff Fisher didn't help and Mike Munchak hasn't been able to find the magic. I am not sold on QB Locker, and his mediocre receiving core. RB Johnson has under-performed since his record season. The defense must improve to control Luck and Schaub, though bringing in SS Pollard should help bring some physicality to the defense. But it simply won't be enough in this division and certainly not enough to make the playoffs.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars do not have a single redeeming quality among them. No quarterback, wide receiving cores always in trouble and an aging running back, a defense that ranked 30th last year and a new head coach; all of these things combine to spell disaster for Jacksonville. 1st round pick Luke Joeckel has turned out to be injury prone. Nothing on this team excites me as far as talent. It will be another tough year for Jacksonville.  

Tuesday, August 27, 2013

AFC East Predictions 2013

1. New England Patriots
Is there any other choice in this division besides the Patriots? Even given their rare off-season problems and drama, the team still has many key pieces. They lost Hernandez, Lloyd, Welker, Woodhead and Chung, and injuries are threatening to hurt them -- especially the one to Gronkowski. Most importantly, they still have Belichick leading them. With Tom Brady, he is the glue that makes the Patriots a force every year. The team is fading, and I don't see a Super Bowl run in their future. I don't see another Super Bowl for the Patriots in the Brady/Belichick era, but they will win the division.

2. Miami Dolphins
I don't have much reason to put the Dolphins here, except for the fact that both the Jets and Bills are in shambles. The Dolphins are on an upward trend and showed promise many times last year. They've made some interesting additions to help Tannehill -- Gibson, Wallace and Keller, though Keller has been knocked out in the preseason. On the defense they added Ellerbe and Grimes, which should help sure it up a little bit, though not enough to control Tom Brady and company. The loss of Bush, Long and Dansby hurts, but some of the important faces, like Wake remain. If Tannehill continues to develop, they should see improvement to at least a .500 record.

3. New York Jets
The New York Jets are a show. That's about it. There is major debate about whether Rex Ryan has already lost control of this team...before the year has even started! I believe he has. With the way the Jets have spiraled down in the last two years, I think he is a coach on the hot seat. There needs to be improvement this year, but there won't be. The losses are heavy, including major hits in the secondary -- Bell, Reviws and Landry. They haven't brought in anyone of note, except for Geno Smith, who has looked mostly lack luster in practice and in games. But now with Sanchez injured, they may not have a choice but to start Smith in the first game. And you all know my feelings on Sanchez anyway, no great loss. Rex Ryan is probably relieved that he doesn't have another decision to screw up.

4. Buffalo Bills
If the Jets quarterback sitution is bad, then the Bills is worse. If that's possible. Kolb has yet another concussion and EJ Manuel, their quarterback of the future just had minor knee surgery. They are left with undrafted free agent Jeff Tuel, though they signed Matt Leinart. If Tuel starts week one, he will make history and be the first undrafted rookie free agent quarterback to start a game on week one. It's not even worth mentioning much more about the Bills team because there's really not much to say, sadly. New head coach Doug Marrone has his work cut out for him. 

Monday, August 26, 2013

AFC North Predictions 2013

1. Baltimore Ravens
Say what you want about the former champs, but they are still the defending champions. They won it all last year through a combination of luck, talent and destiny. Though the talent has changed, it is still there. In today's NFL with free agency and big money, all Super Bowl Champions lose much of their team. But rarely do they get the chance to make pick ups like the Ravens have. Losing big names like Lewis, Reed, Boldin and Kruger hurts, but picking up names like Canty, Huff, Spears, Clark, Stokley and most importantly Dumervil lessens the blow. The important pieces are still there, like Flacco, Rice, Jones, Smith, Suggs and Ngata. The coaching staff remains remarkably intact; this is the first year in three years they haven't had a chance in offensive or defensive coordinator. The Ravens have made the playoffs five years in a row -- don't expect that trend to chance.

2. Cincinnati Bengals
Everyone is high on the Bengals this year. They've made the playoffs the last two years and Marvin Lewis seems to have righted the ship. Under the constancy of Dalton and Green, the offense has performed well. The running back position is a little questionable, because BenJarvus Green-Ellis has never proven that he is an every down back. And other than Green, there receiving corps are limited. The defense flew under the radar last year, but was good, ranking 3rd in the AFC. The addition of James Harrison will aid them, though one player can only do so much. He is also basically the Bengals' only notable addition (in my opinion). They will do well, probably make the playoffs, but not beat the Ravens.

3. Pittsburgh Steelers
I would have put the Steelers above the Bengals, but the preseason has not been kind to them. The team overall hasn't looked good and the offense is struggling. One almost wonders if OC Todd Haley and QB Roethlisberger are still not on the same page, though both insist things are fine. More than anything, their long list of important player losses rings alarm bells. Allen, Harrison, Lewis, Hampton and Pope head the defensive losses, while Colon, Mendenhall and Wallace are the casualties on the offensive side of the ball. The Steelers have been on a downward trend in the last two years and in an increasingly good division they must improve, not take steps backwards.

4. Cleveland Browns
Is there really any other place to put the Browns besides in the bottom of what could be argued as the most competitive division in the AFC, if not the NFL. They haven't won more than five games in any of the last five seasons. The only notable addition is Kruger from Baltimore, while the losses of Cribbs, Watson, Brown and McCoy raise alarm bells. There is no talent to replace them on this team. A new head coach and new staff will do their best to work with what they have, but I'm not sold on Weeden, especially considering how little talent he has around him. Even if the no name defense could improve, this is an offensive league where passing the ball is your most important weapon. As long as the Browns remain incapable of doing so, they will stay in the bottom of the league and division.

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Post Super Bowl Reaction

My dear readers,
Firstly, sorry for the long break. Let me spin you a tale of being completely in awe and in shock of what I witnessed on February third.

For those of you who don't know, I had the privilege to attend the Super Bowl in New Orleans. Yes, I had tickets to the game. Yes, I supported the Ravens. Yes, they won. Yes, I cried.

But the game had larger implications than my own personal emotions; SuperHarBowl I, the possibility of 6 Super Bowls for the 49ers, Ray Lewis going out on top, the coming of Kaepernick, a proper farewell for Art Modell.

The game was everything it promised to be and more. But I won't spill more ink over a description of the game, but rather as I did last year, write about the implications and what the future may hold for both teams, beginning with the victorious Baltimore Ravens.

For the Ravens, it was the second Super Bowl win in their short history, already separating them from long standing organizations. It meant a ride into the sunset for Ray Lewis, who despite his divided history, will go down as one of the greatest linebackers of all time. It was further vindication for the late Art Modell, who bravely moved the team from Cleveland and knew when it was time to share the reigns with both Ozzie Newsome and Steve Bisciotti, both of whom will continue building on his foundations.
 
As far as football implications, both Coach John (I will be referring to both coaches by first name to avoid confusion) and Joe Flacco were vindicated. After two AFC championship losses, they proved that they could break through the barrier and win one on the biggest stage of them all. That Flacco was worth the first round pick. That Harbaugh was a good choice for head coach, seemingly coming out of no where. That they choke. That they couldn't beat the Colts. That they couldn't beat Peyton Manning. That they couldn't beat Tom Brady. That all being said, I see Flacco as an elite QB, though I think his contract was a little over-inflated, as most NFL contracts are these days. If these two can put together another championship run, they have a chance to be seen as an dynasty and put all the doubts to rest.

For the 49ers, the game brought their first Super Bowl loss. But by all means they are not down and out. In fact, many have penciled them into the big game again this year. Coach Jim proved that he made the right choice by pulling Alex Smith for Kaepernick. He also proved that despite his sometimes emotional and abrasive manor, he is both a great college and professional coach. It is clear that his team wanted to run through a wall for him, which pushed them to come back when all hope seemed lost. It takes a strong team to make a push like that, which would have been the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history. (Though the long blackout didn't hurt, either.)

The future looks more than bright for the 49ers. I would be surprised if they don't find their way back to another Super Bowl soon. They seem to be doing most things the right way, even if their coach sometimes brings the media down on his head. They must continue to build if they are to stave off the Seahawks within their own division, much less the rest of the NFC pack. They cannot get complacent if they wish to bring the 49ers back to their former glory of Montana, Walsh, Rice and Young.

Overall, the Super Bowl went from a normal blowout into an epic struggle, one which will take its place among the Super Bowls of the past for its many firsts. But the Ravens, the team of destiny, walked away with the trophy, the glory and most importantly the family bragging rights. 

Saturday, February 2, 2013

Super Bowl XLVII Prediction

Here it is -- the day we've all been waiting for.
The Super Bowl. The Big Dance. In the Big Easy.

First, let me say a few things. Yes, I am biased because I am a Ravens fan. I've gone so far picking them, I really can't in good conscious go back. And yes, I am here in New Orleans. And yes, I have real tickets to the game and will be in the Superdome tomorrow. And yes, it is going to be one of the greatest days of my life regardless of the outcome.

Baltimore Ravens vs. San Francisco 49ers
6:30 EST CBS
49ers by 4.5
Game Pick: Ravens    Spread Pick: Ravens
Reason: The Ravens are simply a better team than the 49ers. They're a more experienced team in so many ways -- vertern leadership, including a tenured head coach, playoff success and a quarterback who had just outperformed the two best quarterbacks of the decade. Football playoffs are all about the mometum, and guess what, the Ravens most certainly have it. Yes, the 49ers have had success. But the Falcons and the Packers are not the teams that the Broncos and the Patriots are. IF the Ravens can control Kaepernick, and I believe they can, they will win the game. Don't underestimate the 49ers, but I just believe that they're not ready and Jim isn't the coach that John is. Sorry. It'll be a close game, and I wouldn't be surprised if the Ravens pulled one out in a last mintue field goal. Take note, Justin Tucker, the world is watching.

Monday, January 28, 2013

Pro Bowl: Stay or Go?

I almost feel obliged to chime in regarding the Pro Bowl debate -- should it stay or should it go?

For me the bottom line is that people watch it and most of the players enjoy it. For the players that suffer all year on a bad team, but they themselves have talent, this is a reward. Who doesn't want to visit Hawaii? When big name players like the Manning brothers and Adrian Peterson are coming out in favor of the game, it should say something to rest of us. And they're not the only prominent players to speak up in favor, asking Goodell to keep the game. It's truly a game for the fans to see big stars all at once, especially in Hawaii, where  live football is as distant as the mainland.

I understand the people who say that the game is sloppy and that it is too high scoring. But they need to understand this -- it is both a rest for the players and not very long to prepare for a game. Playing football isn't the same as playing baseball or hockey -- while the offense can be put together rather quickly, defense takes much longer. When you have players coming together from all different schemes, from 3-4 to 4-3 and everything in-between, a coherent defense is not going to come together in four days of practice. Sorry; it's just a fact of today's complex game.

To me, it simply boils down to if enough players and enough fans enjoy it. I believe they do. The mere fact that so many have spoken in favor of it says so. I've never really been quite sure why Rodger Goodell has been so against the Pro Bowl. The players already don't like him -- he shouldn't make it worse by taking away something they like.

Just a little food for thought.

Saturday, January 19, 2013

2012 Conference Championship Picks

It's that time of the year again -- the time when though there are only two games, they matter more than anything else so far. Isn't that the story of the playoffs?

NFC -- 3:00 PM
(3) San Francisco 49ers vs. (1) Atlanta Falcons 
Falcons by 3
Pick: 49ers    Spread Pick: 49ers

Reasons: This game baffles me. Neither team really sticks out to me because both have been inconsistent  The 49ers lost to the Seahawks (big) but beat the Packers? The Falcons should have lost last week and have really been skating by all season. But the bottom line is that they didn't lose. Should doesn't count. But I'm concerned because of how well Russell Wilson did aganist the Atlanta defense. Kaep is better than him (perhaps...). Atlanta better have a solution. However, I don't think they do. My gut tells me to pick the 49ers, but I also believe it could go either way. I haven't believed in the Falcons all year -- why start now?


AFC -- 6:30 PM
(4) Baltimore Ravens vs. (2) New England Patriots
Patriots by 9.5
Pick: Ravens   Spread Pick: Ravens

Reasons: Does the phrase 'Team of Destiny' mean anything to you? It should. Teams such as the Giants (both recent years) and the Packers are notable for their own improbable 'team of destiny' runs through the playoffs and to the Super Bowl. Here's the deal -- the Ravens beat the Patriots in week 3, in an emotional win and with a great field goal. They should have won this game last year (and yes, it is exactly the same game as last year, for those of you who don't remember). It'll be an amazing game, but after last week can anything stand in the way of the Ravens? I don't think so.

Friday, January 11, 2013

2012 Division Weekend Picks

Saturday

4:30 PM
(4) Ravens vs. (1) Broncos
Broncos by 10
Pick: Broncos   Spread Pick: Ravens
Reason: Peyton Manning has never lost to the Ravens. The Ravens have never beaten Peyton. But Peyton also is 0-4 in playoff games played in weather under 40 degrees. Something has to give.

8:00 PM
(3) Packers vs. (2) 49ers
49ers by 2.5
Pick: Packers   Spread Pick: Packers
Reason: The Packers beat down Vikings. The 49ers are better than the Vikings to be sure, but the Packers are getting that Super Bowl run look to them. Aaron Rodgers has a little bit of a grudge here, as does Mike McCarthy. Should be a close game.

Sunday

1:00 PM
(5) Seahawks vs. (1) Falcons
Falcons by 2.5
Pick: Seahawks   Spread Pick: Seahawks
Reason: The Seahawks are hot right now. The Falcons are not. I know two east coast games in a row is a little extreme, but I think Pete Carroll after those years in USC will know how to handle these East coast trips. Momentum is everything in the playoffs and the Seahawks have it. The Falcons should panic.


4:30 PM
(3) Texans vs. (2) Patriots
Patriots by 10
Pick: Patriots   Spread Pick: Patriots
Reason: Did you not see the tape of the last game? Someone needs to wake up the Texans. They didn't play outstandingly against the Bengals, who are not even close to the level of the Patriots. Two weeks to prepare for this game and playing at home -- Belichick won't lose.

Friday, January 4, 2013

2012 Wild Card Weekend Picks

Alright everyone, it's playoff time. That means brackets. But for right now, I'm just gonna offer my picks and the line like I did last year. Hopefully my picks will be correct and then I won't have to post my possibly incorrect bracket. I'll chime in on the coaching carousel when the dust has settled.

SATURDAY

4:30 pm 
(6) Bengals (10-6) vs. (3) Texans (12-4)
 Texans by 4.5
Pick: Texans    Spread pick: Cinncy
Reason: Texans will get back on track and win this game, though don't expect them to get much further.

8:30 pm
(6) Vikings (10-6) vs. (3) Packers (11-5)
Packers by 7.5
Pick: Packers    Spread pick: Packers
Reason: The Packers won't allow the Vikings the same leyway as last week. They'll assert themselves and dominate a Christian Ponder who played unusually well last week.

SUNDAY

1:00 pm
(5) Colts (11-5) vs. (4) Ravens (10-6)
Ravens by 7
Pick: Ravens    Spread Pick: Colts
Reason: The Ravens have won a playoff game each of the last four years. And this time they get to play at home. Look for continued late revenge on the team that left. Ravens/Colts is always tough, especially with the return of Ray Lewis.

4:30 pm
(5) Seahawks (11-5) vs. (4) Redskins (10-6)
Seahawks by 3
Pick: Seahawks   Spread Pick: Seahawks
Reason: The Redskins are a nice story, but Luck (or even Wilson?) is the rookie of the year and RG3 is still a little out of sorts. The Seahawks will dominate, even though it's away from their home turf.