Super Bowl XLVI Wrap

What a game.

Super Bowl XLVI certainly lived up to the hype – yet the end result was the same.

The Giants outplayed the Patriots in the clutch. I’m not even going to touch the specifics of the game right now for several reasons. I haven’t looked at the game film and ESPN and co. have dealt with it plenty. I probably will go through it at some point.

Rather, I would like to discuss the ramifications of this game – basically what it all means.

Firstly, the question now needs to be raised ‘Are the Giants a dynasty in the making?’ Let me elaborate. Over the course of the last five Super Bowls, the Giants have won two of them. Once knocking off the ‘perfect’ Patriots through superior play in the clutch, something New England used to be known for. If Eli and Coughlin win one more in the next three or four years, I think the topic needs to come up.

On a similar subject, Eli had become ELIte. Leave him alone. I know many people don’t like him because of the way he acted on draft day. That was eight years ago. And it looks like a pretty good decision now, doesn’t it? Regardless of how one personally feels about him, one must admit that he has turned elite. I’m not a huge fan of Brady, but will admit that he is an elite quarterback. Between setting the record for 4^th quarter touchdowns and beating Green Bay, Sand Francisco and the Patriots (all on the road), in the playoffs when it mattered most, Eli had proven he needs to be in the conversation. Big bro Peyton may have four NFL MVPS, but Eli had two Super Bowl MVPs and rings. Both against New England, Peyton’s kryptonite.

Tom Coughlin—now the oldest coach to ever win a Super Bowl—has also changed the way he will be viewed in NFL history. He has now won as many Super Bowls as greats such as Lombardi and Parcells. He has survived New York. He has prepared his team under pressure. He has adapted to the new NFL, yet maintained enough of the ‘old’ coaching style. He had proved that the way to win Super Bowls is the way coaches have for years—quiet preparation, not big talk. He is not Rex Ryan. He controls his team, but not with an iron fist like he used to. And he had maintained a winning atmosphere  

Now, on to New England’s Head Coach and Quarterback.

Let me start by saying that I understand both Brady and Belichick are first ballot hall of famers. Nothing will change that. What I’m  talking about is how they’re viewed. Basically the legacy effect.

Here’s what it comes down to—for Brady more than Belichick.

They won their three Super Bowls in a small window of time—just four years. Yes, dynasty. No doubt. But long term, they didn’t have dominant success. Yes, the 16-0 season, but Indy gave theirs up two years later and Green Bay almost had one this year. And because they did lost the super Bowl that year, it becomes a novelty in NFL history. A what if statement. Then followed several years of regular season success and playoff disappointment. This year, they once again fell short on the big stage.

All I’m saying is that a lot of the credit for New England’s success in those years (2001-2004) went to Brady. Though he was good during those years, the Patriots of today have shown that there was more going on there than just a good quarterback. Those teams proved attitude, that a team first mentality can win championships without dominant players and create a dynasty. Players on those teams say that this mentality was the key to their success –it helped them stay together in times of trouble and have faith they could win the tough games. Those Patriots teams were great—there is no doubt. All I want to raise here is how much of a role Brady truly played. Widen the scope on those teams. Next time you want to say Brady is better than Manning look closer at the talent around each of them. Compare the mentality of the teams. Anyway, that is a discussion for a later time. It appears now that Brady and Belichick have lost the magic.

Over all, this Super Bowl was good for the Giants’ legacy, yet a blemish on New England’s long term picture. It will go down as a great Super Bowl, though not as epic as the first match-up. After all, you only get a chance to make a team go 18-1 once. 

Super Bowl XVLI

Let’s talk about the Super Bowl.

Firstly, I was right in thinking it would be rematch of a fairly recent Super Bowl. I was just about seven years too early. On a later date, I’ll address the conference championship games. Right now, it hurts too much for us poor, 35 yard field goal victims.

So it’s Giants vs. Patriots in the Super Bowl. A rematch of the infamous Super Bowl XLII—the one that changed how the recent Patriots were seen for a long time and still does today. And this one could have similar ramifications. Here they are.

If the Giants win:

Tom Coughlin will be seen as an elite coach.

Eli will be “Elite Eli”, as he claimed he was before the season started.

The Giants pass rush, their entire defense, will go down as a unit that performs well under pressure and as one of the elite units, if it isn’t already.

The Patriots’ legacy will be challenged – except for Belichick’s. (More on this later).

If the Patriots win:

Belichick will go down in history s the modern Walsh, with Tom Brady as his Montana, unequaled in the last fifteen years.

The Patriots will prove that they don’t choke in the big games, playoff games, in recent memory.

Defense doesn’t need to win championships.

However, I think the Giants will win. Here’s why – defense still wins championships.

They’ve already beaten New England once this season. It will be a close game, don’t get me wrong. But Eli will pull it out, like he has all season, setting the record for fourth quarter touchdowns this season. The Giants are their best under pressure and there is no greater pressure than the Super Bowl.

New England has offense, but several key players are banged up. Notably “Gronk” and Matt Light. Those two players could tip the balance in favor of the Giants if they don’t play well. And the Giants are fairly healthy. Advantage – Giants.

But I really feel that the Giants’ defense will tip this game for New York. They’ve got great players n every level—defensive line, linebackers and secondary. Because their front four can bring so much pressure, so consistently, they will throw Brady off, out of rhythm. This takes the pressure off the ‘backers and the secondary. The secondary is opportunistic, and many of them were here for the last Super Bowl—notably, Webster, the leader. They will not waste any misfires by Tom Brady. And there will be some, with all the pressure brought in the trenches.

With ‘Gronk’ hobbled, the pressure will rest on the shoulders of the other receivers and running backs. Wait, they have other offensive players? The Giants need to be careful of Welker, always a threat, but manageable with their big linebackers to jam him on the line of scrimmage. Just don’t let him out into the flat. He’ll kill you out there.

All this being said, I think that it will be a low scoring, close game.

23-20 Giants.

Bring it Super Sunday. 

Conference Championships

Here we are, basically two weeks away from the Super Bowl. Now, let me begin by saying I'm proud to report that both of my Super Bowl picks are still in the game. That's better than last year, when they both got knocked out in the second round. I think both championships this year will be good, close games, but here's who will come out on top and why. 

Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots
In my bracket, I have the Ravens in the Super Bowl. So I can't exactly back down now. I've said all along that I'm not scared of New England. Baltimore has won playoff games on the road there before. They key for the Ravens in this game is simply to run the ball. It will take clock away, keeping Brady and company off the field, and exploit one of the Patriots' major weaknesses -- one of the worst run defenses in the league. Also, Joe Flacco has to play well. He's been under heavy fire, from both inside the locker room and out, being called the weak link on a team that has a star running back and defense. If you're going to believe in the Ravens, you must believe in Joe Flacco. And Cam Cameron's ability to call runs - lots of them. Ray Rice can make up the difference if Flacco struggles. Yes, Tom Brady is formidable. But the defense isn't. And they say defense wins championships. It'll be a good game, regardless of who wins. But I think it's the Ravens' game to lose.

New York Giants at San Francisco 49ers
This is an interesting game, one no one would have predicted at the beginning of the season, featuring another one of my Super Bowl bracket picks -- the Giants. San Francisco is a great story. Rookie Coach, redeemed first round quarterback. But right now I believe that's where the story rends. Alex Smith is not Eli Manning. When both defense are as stellar as these two, then to get the result of the game, one must look at the respective offenses. Yes, the 49ers have Frank Gore and Vernon Davis. But the Giants have Bradshaw, Jacobs, Cruz and Eli. For all the Eli haters out there, you must admit that he has at least gotten it together at the end of the season and in the playoffs. I'm not saying that the Giants are going to blow them out -- but I do believe they will win with a combination of hot offense and stingy defense.


Conclusion? 
Super Bowl XLVI will be Ravens v. Giants, a rematch of Super Bowl XXXV. 

Divisional Round 2011

So, here are the picks for this weekends playoff games.

Saints over 49ers. The spread is 3.5, in favor of the Saints and I would take the Saints.
Reasoning -- at the very least, the Saints will win by a touchdown. They say offense sells tickets and defense wins championships. That principle has had a lot of influence on the picks this week, because several of these match ups show a heavily offensive team with a heavily defensive one. Regardless, I think the Saints offense is too much for the 49ers defense in this case. Saints by a touchdown.

Patriots over Broncos. The spread is 13.5 in favor of the Patriots. I want to say Denver will beat the spread.
Reasoning -- Tim Tebow. If he can continue the upward trend, he has a chance to keep this game close. The defense will have to play better than they did in the last meeting. Remember, Denver owned the first quarter last time. They did fall apart, but they showed they have the potential. Don't be surprised if Denver wins this one -- the Patriots haven't won a playoff game since 2007.

SUNDAY GAMES
Ravens over Texans. The spread is 9, in favor of the Ravens. Take the Ravens. TJ Yates is going to have a long day.
Reasoning -- The Ravens are playing at home. They're strongest there. TJ Yates is a rookie quarterback, who has definitely impressed me, but he's still a rookie. He's got a lot of learning to do here, and it's not going to be pretty. With a week off, Baltimore is rested and prepared for this.

Giants over Packers. The spread is the Packers favored by 8. Take the Giants.
Reasoning -- Remember 2007. Please. This Giants team reminds me so much of that one. Yes, the Packers are an offensive powerhouse. But the Giants can bring the pressure like no one else in the NFC. I would not be surprised to see them win, as they almost did in week 13. So, I'm just going to go out on a limb and pick them. Sorry, Packers nation.

Week 17 Picks!

Here are the final picks of the 2011 season, though they are ironically the first picks of 2012. Playoffs are on the line for a lot of the teams here. Ravens and Giants win their respective divisions. Denver loses, but gets in. Whatcha think? Wish I could say the Bills would knock off New England...

Ravens (11-4) v. Bengals (9-6)

Pick: Ravens

Lions (10-5) v. Green Bay (14-1)

Pick: Lions

49ers (12-3) v. Rams (2-13)

Pick: 49ers

Jets (8-7) v. Dolphins (5-10)

Pick: Dolphins

Bears (7-8) v. Vikings (3-12)

Pick: Bears

Bills (6-9) v. Patriots (12-3)

Pick: Patriots 

Panthers (6-9) v. Saints (12-3)

Pick: Saints

Redskins (5-10) v. Eagles (7-8)

Pick: Eagles

Colts (2-13) v. Jaguars (4-11)

Pick: Colts

Titans (8-7) v. Texans (10-5)

Pick: Texans

Buccaneers (4-11) v. Falcons (9-6)

Pick: Falcons

Steelers (11-4) v. Browns (4-11)

Pick: Steelers

Chiefs (6-9) v. Denver (8-7)

Pick: Chiefs

Chargers (7-8) v. Raiders (8-7)

Pick: Chargers

Seahawks (7-8) v. Cardinals (7-8)

Pick: Seahawks

Cowboys (8-7) v. Giants (8-7)

Pick: Giants 

Week 16 wrap

Pleased to report that the WRAP is back! Week 16 tied up for your reading pleasure. 

Giants v. Jets (29-14)

This battle for New York was a lot closer than the score indicates. However, a few key mistakes by Mark Sanchez of the Jets killed them, putting the game completely out of range. These included a safety and an interception, as well as a fumble into the end zone – all of which were caplitzated on by the Giants. The Giants are fighting to keep their Coach in his job. This game showed that a team, even one which talks, needs to show up on game day to win, something the Giants know only too well from losses to the Seahawks and Redskins. And now Rex Ryan has thrown Sanchez under the bus. They say his players love him, but they won’t much longer if he keeps this up.

Chargers v. Lions (10-38)

Well, hello to you too, Detroit. You’ve finally clinched a playoff spot and are rocking into the last week of the regular season. This game was more about the Chargers than how Matt Stafford got snubbed for the Pro Bowl. The Chargers lost, throwing them out of the playoff race. Who are these Chargers? And will Norv Turner make it through the New Year? This team has consistently underperformed, but who is at fault for that? And now Drew Brees, Darren Sproles and Michael Turner (all former Chargers) have made a name for themselves ON OTHER TEAMS. Someone needs to right the ship here.

Broncos v. Bills (14-40)

Looks like Tim Tebow has been figured out by the AFC East. First the Patriots take them to town, then the Bills. I’d be worried about going into next week, Tebow fans, I mean Bronco fans. At the rate he’s turning the ball over, the Chiefs will have easy pickin’s this Sunday. Seriously, PICKS. Tebow needs to refocus and change his game – he’s now too predictable and the defense has fallen apart on him. Remember that Romeo Cranel comes from the same tree as Bellichik and that he’ll be watching the tape from the Bills and Patriots games. Sorry Tebow.

Dolphins v. Patriots (24-27)

If there had been anyone but Brady and the Hoodie on that sideline, the Dolphins would have won this game. Who are these Fins? They’ve really gotten it together in the second half of the season. Unfortunately, they couldn’t hold on to this game but the fact remains that they did play well. Considering they have nothing to play for, they’ve really put together a strong second half campaign. Yes, they will finish below .500. But good things have started to take hold in Miami.

Falcons v. Saints (16-45)

This game is notable for two reasons. The lesser one is that the Saints are NFC South champions. The bigger one is that Drew Brees finally broke Dan Marino’s single season passing record. I was heart broken when he didn’t achieve the feet in 2008, and honestly thought he’d never get another shot at it. But I am so glad he did, as is the whole city of New Orleans and his teammates. He’s a brilliant quarterback and a generally great guy. He is an example of the standard for NFL players. It has swung back from the loudmouths to the quiet, hardworking team players. And it’s a great change. 

Week 15 picks

Here are the week 15 picks! I'm sorry I didn't do a week 14 wrap -- I needed a bye week, so to speak. I had exams and such. But now I am fully rested for the playoffs! All you need to know about week 14 is two names -- TJ Yates and Tim Tebow. 

These are the picks for this week--I see Tebow magic overcome by the Hoodie and a few more teams fighting for their playoff spots. The clinching begins today. 

Bengals (7-6) v. Rams (2-11)

Pick: Bengals

Saints (10-3) v. Vikings (2-11)

Pick: Saints

Packers (13-0) v. Chiefs (5-8)

Pick: Packers

Seahawks (6-7) v. Bears (7-6)

Pick: Bears

Titans (7-6) v. Colts (0-13)

Pick: Titans

Redskins (4-9) v. Giants (7-6)

Pick: Giants

Panthers (4-9) v. Texans (10-3)

Pick: Texans

Dolphins (4-9) v. Bills (5-8)

Pick: Dolphins

Lions (8-5) v. Raiders (7-6)

Pick: Lions

Browns (4-9) v. Cardinals (6-7)

Pick: Cardinals

Jets (8-5) v. Eagles (5-8)

Pick: Eagles

Patriots (10-3) v. Broncos (8-5)

Pick: Patriots

Ravens (10-3) v. Chargers (6-7)

Pick: Ravens

Steelers (10-3) v. 49ers (10-3)

Pick: 49ers 

Week 13 Wrap

So, I have a story to tell you all. I wouldn't normally toot my own horn like this, but this was pretty epic. My uncle called me on Sunday morning and was asking me about the Redskins/Jets game. I don't beat, but sometimes will pick the spread for fun. He asked me what the spread would have to be for me to pick the Redskins. I told him I'd take them if the spread was sixteen points or more. (I don't know what the actual spread was, however.) I hope he took that bet, because it was dead on. The Redskins lost by 15. Which means they beat my spread. And I was one point off in predicting that game. Just saying. 

Chiefs v. Bears (10-3)

This was actually a moderately entertaining game. The reason I’m writing about it is the two quarterbacks playing in this one. Tyler Palko did just enough to win, which basically was throwing an incredible hail Mary pass right before half time. Teams laugh at that, but in this case it was the difference in the game. He may be headed for the bench once Kyle Orton gets his feet under him, but at least he gave them one moment of brilliance. On the other side, Caleb Hanie didn’t screw things up that badly. So he hasn’t been an instant winner, but Martz’s offense is known for being complex. Give him a few more games – he may yet save the Bears playoff hopes.

Raiders v. Dolphins (14-34)

These Miami Dolphins may save Tony Sparano’s job. MAY. But they have really turned things around. It’s a shame that they didn’t get it together before they lost the first seven. If they finish at five hundred, then I predict his job may be okay, just because of positive momentum. However, regardless of the beat-downs they seem to deliever every week (now), I still think Sparano is one of the top coaches on the hot seat. We’ve already seen one go—so I wouldn’t be surprised if Sparano goes. It would be almost a tragedy, because he has gotten things together. Go strong, Miami, play for your coach.

Falcons v. Texans (10-17)

Who is T.J Yates? Well, he doesn’t seem to be a bad quarterback. Gary Kubiak has a reputation for having his back-ups ready and this season has shown it. But by having both Yates and Leinart ready to go when he lost his starter, and a pro-bowler at that, he has shown why he has remained the Texans’ head coach when many wanted to fire him. They’re poised to make the playoffs for the first time in team history. They might not get very far, but winning the division is just the first step. Manning won’t be around forever, so this might be a sign of things to come.

Packers v. Giants (38-35)

For a moment, I was thinking that the Giants could do it again. Twice in five years would have been quite an accomplishment. But they fell just short. It’s a shame they’re fighting for a playoff spot because they’ve had one of the toughest schedules of the NFC, if not the whole league. If the season ended today, they would be out and Detroit would be in. But they have a chance to win the division, being one game behind the Cowboys. The PACK is BACK. However, they don’t look as unbeatable as I thought they should. But I’ve been talking about them going undefeated (at least in the regular season) for a while now. However, I think going undefeated in the regular season, while awesome, is not a Super Bowl ring

Colts v. Patriots (24-31)

It’s a shame that what was once one of the best rivalries in the game was moved out of the top spot due to lack of interest. But let’s face it, without Manning, this isn’t much of a game. The Colts gave it a shot, like they have all season, but fell just short. It almost breaks my heart that the Colts are thrown out of primetime without Manning. Give them a chance. They’re playing well, but not producing. I think that Jim Caldwell is on the hot seat now. If they go 0-16, then there’s no way the management can justify not cleaning house. There’s so much more wrong with this team than just the loss of Manning. Two seasons removed from what was going to be an undefeated season, they can’t win a game. What does that say about the head coach? About everyone in that organization? Watch for some major changes here. 

Week 13 Picks

It's sad to think that what was once one of the most desirable match-ups in the league (Colts/Patriots) has now become a throw away game that no one will watch. That's all. 

Ravens (8-3) v. Browns (4-7)

Pick: Ravens

Bengals (7-4) v. Steelers (8-3)

Pick: Steelers

Panthers (3-8) v. Buccaneers (4-7)

Pick: Panthers

Chiefs (4-7) v. Bears (7-4)

Pick: Bears

Jets (6-5) v. Redskins (4-7)

Pick: Jets

Falcons (7-4) v. Texans (8-3)

Pick: Falcons

Raiders (7-4) v. Dolphins (3-8)

Pick: Dolphins

Lions (7-4) v. Saints (8-3)

Pick: Saints

Titans (6-5) v. Bills (5-6)

Pick: Bills

Broncos (6-5) v. Vikings (2-9)

Pick: Broncos

Rams (2-9) v. 49ers (9-2)

Pick: 49ers

 Cowboys (7-4) v. Cardinals (4-7)

Pick: Cowboys

Packers (11-0) v. Giants (6-5)

Pick: Packers (? Because the Giants have been here before…)

Colts (0-11) v. Patriots (8-3)

Pick: Patriots

Chargers (4-7) v. Jaguars (3-8)

Pick: Chargers (because it’s December) 

Week 12 Wrap

Here's the week 12 wrap! I was at the Ravens game, which was just as epic as advertised. I loved every second of it. What a great game to pick to go to. Oh, and they won. Speaking of winning, Tebow Time seems win everything. 'all he does is win... all he does is win' -- wasn't that a song somewhere? Tebow's theme song, as a matter of fact. Bills' fans, don't despair. Steelers' fans, panic? 

49ers v. Ravens (6-16)

The Baltimore Ravens have developed this incredible tendency of performing to the level of their competition. 3-3 against teams at .500 or below and 5-0 against teams with winning records. This baffles me. But they show in the big games. The 49ers are a good team. Except for the Packers, they would have the best record in the NFC. This game was about more than brother v. brother, though that was an important historical moment for the NFL and the Harbaughs. But it was about two good teams battling out on Thanksgiving Day. And the Ravens came out on top. Even without Ray Lewis.

Bills v. Jets (24-28)

The Bills may have fallen a little bit. But I have a feeling they are on the rise. This was a good game between the Bills and the Jets. The Bills played very well and fought until the end, losing on a last minute drive by the Jets. Their playoff hopes are on the fritz now, but if they win out they still have a shot. Don’t write them off yet—this game showed that when they play well, they can go with the best of them. The Jets have a mixed bag here. They should be proud of Sanchez, but worried about this defense. This is not really a Rex Ryan defense. Too many points given up, too many running yards given up. It’s is not fixed yet.

Broncos v. Chargers (16-13)

This game was almost a tie. Almost. Thirty seconds away from being one, one might say. However, besides the Chargers’ slide, we must once again talk about Tim Tebow. The Broncos at 5-1 with him leading the charge. Clearly all this kid does is win. I still have a feeling that it might be short lived. He still can’t throw as well as he should be able to and is still more of a single wing tail back than a true quarterback. But John Fox is known for developing young quarterbacks. We’ll see if he can be the one who fixes Tebow. Elway’s not sold yet, so no one else should be either. Someone please put the Chargers out of their misery. I wouldn’t be surprised if Norv Turner bit the dust at the end of this season, or before.

Panthers v. Colts (27-19)

This game was within the Colts’ reach, but once again they dropped the ball. Benching Painter will not solve this. These problems run so much deeper than a lack of quarterback. The defense is terrible, the pass rush in nonexistent and the whole thing has just gone completely to hell without Peyton. Yet I still hear trade rumors about Peyton Manning. That will never happen. They would have to be stupid. They need to draft Luck, and let him sit behind Peyton for a year or two or as many as it takes before he retired. They have a unique situation here, and they should take advantage of it to ensure that the Colts never seen another season like this.

Steelers v. Chiefs (13-9)

If the Chiefs hadn’t kicked field goals, but rather gotten touchdowns, they would have won this game. But their quarterback (what was his name again?) threw three interceptions and doomed them. But perhaps Chiefs fans can take solace from this. After all, with a real quarterback like Kyle Orton at the helm, there might be hope for this team. Steelers’ fans should be a little concerned. Where are the points this offense is capable of generating? They should have blown out the Chiefs, rather than taking the game down the wire. And if they lose Troy out of this, then they’re really in trouble. After all they have to keep up with those pesky Ravens, who own the tie break.

Week 12 Picks

Here they are -- the rest of week twelve! There are no more bye weeks--it's a straight shot to the home finish. It's been tough to make some of these picks, because you don't just want to pick the obvious choices. As football fans, we know that there is always some team who comes out of no where and wins at least one game on any given week. That's why they play the game! My goal is to find those teams.
So the only pick I got wrong was Packers/Lions—I had both the Cowboys and the Ravens in their respective games. Not a bad start.

Vikings (2-8) v. Falcons (6-4)

Pick: Falcons

Panthers (2-8) v. Colts (0-10)

Pick: Panthers

Browns (4-6) v. Bengals (6-4)

Pick: Browns (if Hillis is back)

Bills (5-5) v. Jets (5-5)

Pick: Bills

Texans (7-3) v. Jaguars (3-7)

Pick: Texans

Buccaneers (4-6) v. Titans (5-5)

Pick: Titans

Cardinals (3-7) v. Rams (2-8)

Pick: Rams

Redskins (3-7) v. Seahawks (4-6)

Pick: Seahawks

Bears (7-3) v. Raiders (6-4)

Pick: Raiders

Patriots (7-3) v. Eagles (4-6)

Pick: Patriots

Broncos (5-5) v. Chargers (4-6)

Pick: Broncos

Steelers (7-3) v. Chiefs (4-6)

Pick: Steelers

Turkey Day Football

Well, NFL, you finally get what you want. Some decent games on Thanksgiving.
From calling for the game to be taken away from the Lions and Cowboys last year, we're screaming with delight at the games this year. The Lions have a chance to unseat the undeafeated Packers, the Dolphins and Cowboys are both on three game winning streaks and the brothers face off for the first time tonight. Every game has something interesting for fans. Congrats, NFL, eat your heart out.

PICKS

Lions (7-3) v. Packers (10-0)
Pick: Lions
Dolphins(3-7) v. Cowboys (6-4)
Pick: Cowboys
49ers (9-1) v. Ravens (7-3)
Pick: Ravens
(I will be at that game)

PS Also, I am sorry for dropping the ball last weekend on getting picks up here. I have them written down and will be posting a week 11 wrap-up. I had to go out of town and didn't have internet access.

Week 10 Picks!

Welcome to week 10! It's do or die now for a lot of teams (though it's really been do or die for the Eagles all season). The Colts will finally win a game, perhaps? The Panthers are going to start turning those flashy numbers into wins, hopefully. Ravens will continue to dominate, while the Steelers will show Andy Dalton what it's like to face a playoff caliber team. Lots to look forward to here. 

Saints (6-3) v. Falcons (5-3)

Pick: Saints

Lions (6-2) v. Bears (5-3)

Pick:  Lions

Jaguars (3-5) v. Colts (0-9)

Pick: Colts

Broncos (3-5) v. Chiefs (4-4)

Pick: Chiefs

Steelers (5-3) v. Bengals (6-2)

Pick: Steelers

Titans (4-4) v. Panthers (2-6)

Pick: Panthers

Texans (6-3) v. Buccaneers (4-4)

Pick: Texans

Redskins (3-5) v. Dolphins (1-7)

Pick: Dolphins

Rams (1-7) v. Browns  (3-5)

Pick: Rams

Bills (5-3) v. Cowboys (4-4)

Pick: Cowboys

Cardinals (2-6) v. Eagles (3-5)

Pick: Eagles

Ravens (6-2) v. Seahawks (2-6)

Pick: Ravens

Giants (6-2) v. 49ers (7-1)

Pick: Giants

Patriots (5-3) v. Jets (5-3)

Pick: Patriots

Vikings (2-6) v. Packers (8-0)

Pick: Packers 

Week 9 Wrap-up

Everything you needed to know about Week 9, all written out for your reading pleasure. If you read nothing else of this post, please read the bit about the Ravens Steelers game at the end. I've tried to let it go, but I'm tired of hearing it. Joe Flacco and the Ravens have earned some respect, and it's time to give it to them. 

Dolphins v. Chiefs (31-3)

The Dolphins finally won a game. I’m not going to brag too much about how I picked them to win this game, but there it is. At any rate, they finally won. Though it’s been coming for a while (many of their games have been close theses last few weeks, I don’t know how much positives can be taken from it. Yes, they beat the Chiefs, who have resurged and are fighting. However, I still don’t believe the chiefs are a true contender, so that’s that. Tony Sparano can’t breathe a sigh of relief yet. He’s got one monkey off his back, but he needs to prove this wasn’t a one-time deal. For now though, congratulations Miami, you earned it.

Broncos v. Raiders (38-24)

Tim Tebow, where do you come from? One week you stink so badly everyone is calling for your head, the next week you’re off the charts. Make up your mind. This kind of inconsistency can really hurt a team. However, there is the issue of who they were playing. The Lions and the Raiders are not the same two teams. The Lions are a power team, poised to make a run at the playoffs. The Raiders are also an inconsistent team with a struggling quarterback. All that being said, Tebow did play well. The debate isn’t over yet, and won’t be until the end of the season. Even then, it probably won’t be. Get ready for the rollercoaster Denver.

Giants v. Patriots (24-20)

A rematch of Super Bowl XLII, the Patriots have been itching for this game since. However, they once again let the Giants get them on the last drive. The Giants, after that strange loss to the Seahawks, have been playing quite well. They’ve got a tough schedule coming up, but it appears as if they are up to the task. Expect the Giants to come out swinging for the last remainder of the season and possibly win the NFC East. Is it finally time to take the Patriots off their pedestal as the best team in the AFC? Yes, it is. For the last few years the Patriots have been on the downslide, since that home playoff loss to the Ravens. Not in the regular season, but for sure in the playoffs. And now it seems to be occurring in the regular season as well. With the Bills and Jets coming up in the division behind them, New England needs to act fast to save their playoff hopes.

Packers v. Chargers (45-38)

The Packers are the only undefeated team left at the halfway point of the season. People are crowning them the Super Bowl champs again. But after seeing this game, I’m not quite ready to go that far. Where was the defense? The hallowed defense that kept them in and won them so many games last year. Where are they? Sure they created turnovers against the Chargers, but they let them come back and have a true chance to win. Fix it, Green Bay and maybe you can fulfill the dream of another perfect season. I’m still trying to create that bandwagon…but we’ll see how long it lasts. Be glad Aaron Rodgers can put up 50 points by himself.

Ravens v. Steelers  (23-20)

I’m going to go all over this one because it’s a big deal. A really big deal. Ravens Steelers, possibly the best rivalry of the NFL today. This game did not disappoint. It had everything –a close score, a last second drive and good defense. But this time, the RAVENS came out on top. Not the Steelers. It was Joe Flacco who led the last minute drive to win the game, threw the perfect pass and kept it all together. It is time for people, especially the Steelers players, to lay off Joe Flacco. I’m so tired of hearing that he’s a mediocre QB and that he can never win a Super Bowl. Newsflash, Pittsburgh players, he just beat you. Twice. AGAIN. Stop saying that he’s not good enough. Clearly, he is. Every QB has bad games and moments where things just don’t click. You trying to tell me Ben Roethlisberger hasn’t had those games? I know he has, because at least one came against the Ravens at the beginning of the season. Every QB, even the great ones, have games where things don’t work out. Where they look bad. But Joe Flacco has led his team to the playoffs in each of his first three seasons. Not too shabby. I know he hasn’t won a Super Bowl yet, but it took Peyton Manning, possibly the greatest QB of all time, if not certainly of our age, almost ten seasons to win a Super Bowl. Oh, and he lost one. Does that make him not an elite QB? Of course not. Long story short, lay off Flacco and start giving the Ravens the respect they’ve earned. 

Week 9 Picks

Here they are! I've got Miami finally winning a game -- I figure the Chiefs can't ride that high forever. Indy is not so lucky though. Bills over Jets because Mark Sanchez can't face the pressure. The Eagles will continue to get back on track. And Ravens Steelers? Can I really pick anyone besides the Ravens?

Dolphins (0-7) v. Chiefs (5-3)

Pick: Dolphins

Seahawks (2-5) v. Cowboys (3-4)

Pick: Cowboys

Buccaneers (4-3) v. Saints (5-3)

Pick: Saints

49ers (6-1) v. Redskins (3-4)

Pick: 49ers

Jets (4-3) v. Bills (5-2)

Pick: Bills

Browns (3-4) v. Texans (5-3)

Pick: Texans

Falcons (4-3) v. Colts (0-8)

Pick: Falcons

Bengals (4-3) v. Titans (4-3)

Pick: Bengals

Broncos (2-5) v. Raiders (4-3)

Pick: Raiders

Giants (5-2) v. Patriots (5-2)

Pick: Patriots

Packers (7-0) v. Chargers (4-3)

Pick: Packers

Rams (1-6) v. Cardinals (1-6)

Pick: Cardinals

Ravens (5-2) v. Steelers (6-2)

Pick: Ravens

Bears(4-3) v. Eagles (3-4)

Pick: Eagles

Byes: Panthers, Lions, Jaguars, Vikings 

Week 8 Wrap-up

Here are my week 8 wraps! Enjoy them --- and comment, if you so desire. Let the Tebow debate begin... or not. 

Vikings v. Panthers (24-21)

This was actually a good game. Despite the records of both teams, the game was close and well played. Both rookie quarterbacks played pretty well – Ponder and Newton continued to impress. However, I’m not sold on either. Ponder has time to convince me he is the answer, because he’s only played two games and won one of them. Newton, on the other hand, has played all of the games for his team and has only won two of them. He has put up flashy numbers, but if they don’t translate into wins, what does it matter in the long run? Look out for Ponder to continue to improve. Newton needs a little bit more of a running game and a defense before those flashy numbers can turn into wins.

Saints v. Rams (21-31)

What just happened? In all seriousness, what just happened? I have no idea what went down here. The Saints laid down for the Rams. Or were on such a high from last week’s utter beat down of the Colts. I have no idea what happened. The Saints need to take a long look at this tape and figure out how to avoid this in the future. First the Seahawks last year in the playoffs and now this. Good job, Rams. Save Spagnolo please!!

Lions v. Broncos (45-10)

The Lions are BACK. YAY. They got their swag back and are back on track. Stafford and the defense played well. However, there is  much to be said on the subject on Tim Tebow. The best Tebow related thing that happened was when one of the Lions’ defensive lineman ‘Tebowed’ on Tebow. I am not sold on Tebow. Really. Not at all. He’s a great human being, but that doesn’t mean he can play football. He looked great last week but now is questionable. He played terribly. Really badly. All of his problems came out in this one game – not going through his progressions, long delivery and poor accuracy. Welcome to Tebow time, Denver.

Patriots v. Steelers (17-25)

The Steelers are playing the best ball of their season right now. They’ve looked pretty good in all the recent games. Beat the Patriots is always an impressive feat. They’ve gotten their swag back and are ready to put up a fight against Baltimore. What was most impressive about this game, besides Ben’s accuracy, was the fact that they gave Tom Brady the ball with time left and stopped him. Not only stopped him, but scored points. However, this all being said, the Patriots mismanaged the clock when they had the ball down at the goal line in the 4^th. If they hadn’t done that, the outcome of this game might have been different.

Chargers v. Chiefs (20-23)

This was a good game. Newsflash – who are these Chiefs? They’ve won four in a row and are showing no signs of slowing down. They prevented the Chargers from getting in the end zone. That being said, the Chargers also didn’t capitalize on the chances they had. They let this one go away, but equal amount of credit should go to the Chiefs defense. These Chiefs have gotten their act together and really surprised me. I must admit I was ready to stick a fork in them so to speak when they were 0-3. Nice job, Haley and Cassel.

Cowboys v. Eagles (7-34)

The Eagles are back on track. Sorry Dallas, you ran right into the ACTUAL Eagles, rather than the turnover prone imitation that existed for the first few weeks. 

Week 8 PICKS

I was out really late last night (the joy of college) but hope these picks sound pretty good to you all. I see no wins for the Colts or Rams, and redemption for the Ravens. Let's see how right I am!

Colts (0-7) v. Titans (3-3)

Pick: Titans

Jaguars (3-4) v. Texans (4-3)

Pick: Texans

Cardinals (2-4) v. Ravens (4-2)

Pick: Ravens

Dolphins (0-6) v. Giants (4-2)

Pick: Giants

Vikings (1-6) v. Panthers (2-5)

Pick: Panthers

Saints (5-2) v. Rams (0-6)

Pick: Saints

Redskins (3-3) v. Bills (4-2)

Pick: Bills

Lions (5-2) v. Broncos (2-4)

Pick: Lions

Browns (3-3) v. 49ers (5-1)

Pick: 49ers

Bengals (4-2) v. Seahawks (2-4)

Pick: Bengals

Patriots (5-1) v. Steelers (5-2)

Pick: Patriots

Cowboys (3-3) v. Eagles (2-4)

Pick: Eagles

Chargers (4-2) v. Chiefs (3-3)

Pick: Chargers

BYES: Falcons, Bears, Packers, Jets, Raiders, Buccaneers

Week 7 Picks!

Week 7

Here are picks for week 7! Not a whole bunch of games that are super interesting... I'm sensing some blowouts. No game really jumps out at me, but maybe one does for you. Only upset I might see is Panthers over Redskins? 

Texans (3-3) v. Titans (3-2)

Pick: Texans

Seahawks (2-3) v. Browns (2-3)

Pick: Browns

Falcons (3-3) v. Lions (5-1)

Pick: Lions

Broncos (1-4) v. Dolphins (0-5)

Pick: Broncos

Chargers (4-1) v. Jets (3-3)

Pick: Chargers

Bears (3-3) v. Buccaneers (4-2)

Pick: Buccaneers

Redskins (3-2) v. Panthers (1-5)

Pick: Panthers

Chiefs (2-3) v. Raiders (4-2)

Pick: Chiefs

Steelers (4-2) v. Cardinals (2-3)

Pick: Steelers

Packers (6-0) v. Vikings (1-5)

Pick: Packers

Rams (0-5) v. Cowboys (2-3)

Pick: Cowboys

Colts (0-5) v. Saints (4-2)

Pick: Saints

Ravens (4-2) v. Jaguars (2-4)

Pick: Ravens

Byes: Bills, Bengals, Patriots, Giants, Eagles, 49ers

Week 6 Picks

I'm not really feeling these picks this week -- a little unsure about a lot of games. We'll see how it goes. 

End of the day - Packers and Lions = only two undefeated teams? 

Panthers (1-4) v. Falcons  (2-3)

Pick: Falcons

Eagles (1-4) v. Redskins (3-1)

Pick: Eagles

Bills (4-1) v. Giants (3-2)

Pick: Giants

Colts (0-5) v. Bengals (3-2)

Pick: Colts

Jaguars (1-4) v. Steelers (3-2)

Pick: Steelers

49ers (4-1) v. Lions (5-0)

Pick: Lions

Rams (0-5) v. Packers (5-0)

Pick: Packers

Texans (3-2) v. Ravens (4-1)

Pick:  Ravens

Browns (2-2) v. Raiders (3-2)

Pick: Raiders

Saints (4-1) v. Buccaneers (3-2)

Pick: Saints

Cowboys (2-2) v. Patriots (4-1)

Pick: Cowboys

Vikings (1-4) v. Bears (2-3)

Pick: Bears

Dolphins (0-4) v. Jets (2-3)

Pick:  Dolphins

Byes: Cardinals, Broncos, Chiefs, Chargers, Seahawks, Titans

Week 5 picks

Here they are! Week 5.... hope you enjoy the snippy comments I felt compelled to include... 

Last week, 13-3 

Just saying.... 

Saints (3-1) v. Panthers (1-3)

Pick: Saints

Eagles (1-3) v. Bills (3-1)

Pick: Eagles (week the Eagles get back on track?)

Bengals (2-2) v. Jaguars (1-3)

Pick: Bengals

Seahawks (1-3) v. Giants (3-1)

Pick: Giants

Titans (3-1) v. Steelers (2-2)

Pick: Steelers

Raiders (2-2) v. Texans (3-1)

Pick: Raiders (“Just win baby”)

Chiefs (1-3) v. Colts (0-4)

Pick: Colts (Curtis Painter what?!)

Cardinals (1-3) v. Vikings (0-4)

Pick: Vikings

Buccaneers (3-1) v. 49ers (3-1)

Pick: 49ers

Chargers (3-1) v. Broncos (2-2)

Pick: Chargers

Jets (2-2) v. Patriots (3-1)

Pick: Patriots

Bears (2-2) v. Lions (4-0)

Pick: Lions (The Lions, on Monday night football?!?)