NFL Week 14 Predictions

Courtesy of printableteamschedules.com

The Thursday Night game saw Minnesota choke away a chance to tie the Cardinals on a botched late play with 13 seconds remaining.  The play called for a clear out route to the sidelines to try and give kicker, Blair Walsh some more room to try to tie the game and set it up for overtime.  But, Bridgewater held the ball far too long and was sacked and fumbled the ball, and Arizona recovered, sealing the win for the Cardinals and making them the 2nd team to clinch an NFC playoff spot.  

                                                             Courtesy of duluthnewstribune.com

With almost every other game having playoff implications, it should be an exciting week.  The only 2 games that really won't affect the playoff picture is San Francisco at Cleveland, which sees the return of Johnny Manziel, and Detroit at St. Louis, which sees Jeff Fisher try and keep his job, as the Rams already have 8 losses.  So, let's get to some games.

                                                            Courtesy of pbs.twimg.com

Buffalo

at Philadelphia   -1

Ah, Shady McCoy's return to Philadelphia.  Will the Philly fans side with McCoy or Chip Kelly in this feud that's been brewing all week?  In any event, these two teams are both fighting for the post season.  The Bills currently sit at 6-6 and are a game out of the last AFC playoff spot, while the Eagles are 5-7 and in a three way tie for the NFC East lead.  Rex Ryan is going to give the ball to McCoy no less than 25 times in this game.   He may even send McCoy out by himself as the sole captain for the coin toss, as a big middle finger to the Eagles and Chip Kelly, but the Bills are going to have to find other ways to score if they hope to get a win today.  The Eagles are coming off a huge win against the Patriots and I think they'll throw everything they have at the Bills, because they pretty much have to win at least 2 of the next 4 games, and with a schedule that has Arizona, Washington, and the Giants left, they'll need every win they can get.  Philly gets it done at home, but just barely 23-20.

                                                          Courtesy of usatoday.com

San Francisco

at Cleveland   -1.5

It is in fact a Blaine Gabbert vs. Jonathan Football Manziel showdown in the Dawg Pound.   After coming off a 2 game suspension by the Browns, Manziel will get the start today, due largely to see if he's going to be with the team next year or they'll cut/trade him to another team in the off season.   You really have to feel for the fans in Cleveland and their QB situation.  As for San Francisco, they are coming off an overtime win against the Bears where Blaine Gabbert threw a game winning walk off touchdown to Torrey Smith.  So, who wins this game?  I think San Francisco has the better roster, and Cleveland is a mess, but with all the hype surrounding Manziel, I think he finds a way to get it done, and gives the media something to talk about all week.  It's too perfect not to happen.  Browns 24 49ers 17. 

                                                         Courtesy of fansided.com

Detroit   -3.5

at St. Louis

Both the Rams and the Lions sit at 4-8, but the Lions have looked good the last few weeks, and should be 5-7 if it wasn't for a Hail Mary last Thursday night, whereas the Rams have looked terrible.  Nick Foles should get the start again for the Rams this week, which is why I'm going with the Lions.  In his last 2 starts Foles has thrown 4 INTs and zero, count that, ZERO Touchdowns.   If you stop Todd Gurley, the Rams can't move the ball.  Lions 17 Rams 13.

                                                 Courtesy of usaftw.files.wordpress.com

New Orleans

at Tampa Bay   -4.5

The Saints had their Super Bowl last week against Carolina.  They threw everything they had at the Panthers, and put up a hell of a fight, but couldn't close it out.  The Bucs still think they've got a shot at the playoffs, and while they're likely going to fall short, they have far more to play for this week.  The Saints defense didn't get much better since Rob Ryan left, and I think Tampa Bay fires the cannon early and often today.  New Orleans won't roll over, but at this point, they need to look at rebuilding.  Bucs 31 Saints 24.

                                                         Courtesy of concordmonitor.com

Tennessee

at NY Jets   -7

The Jets currently hold the last wild card playoff spot at 7-5, and they are lucky they get the 3-9 Titans at home this week.  The Jets have the Cowboys, Patriots, and Bills remaining on their schedule, and they'll need to likely win at least 2 of the next 4 to get to the playoffs, and hope for some help.  Barring a complete collapse or Mariota running all over them, the Jets should get it done this week at home.  Fitzpatrick will play well enough to put the Jets in position to get to 8-5 and hold their lead in the playoffs.  Jets 27 Titans 13.

                                              Courtesy of profootballfocus.com

Pittsburgh

at Cincinnati   -2.5

This is arguably the most intriguing game of the week.  The Steelers need to keep pace with the rest of the AFC, and they need a win in Cincy to do so.  Right now the Bengals have the No. 1 overall seed, but a loss and wins by New England and Denver mean they'd drop to No. 3 and lose a first round bye.  Being that this is a huge game for the Steelers and Andy Dalton hasn't exactly shined in big spots, I'm going with Pittsburgh to get a victory on the road in an extremely hard fought game.  I still think Cincy wins the AFC North, but every game going forward for Pittsburgh is a must win.  Steelers 31 Bengals 28.

                                                        Courtesy of bleacherreport.com

Indianapolis

at Jacksonville  -1.5

Hasselbeck should play again for the Colts today despite suffering a rib separation and a neck injury last week.  The Jags have lost a lot of close games this year and Allen Robinson is emerging as a top NFL receiver.  If the Jags put pressure on Hasselbeck and force him out of the pocket, they should be in good shape today.   That's a big if, and Indy usually beats Jacksonville fairly easily, but I don't think that happens today.  I think the Jags get a win at home today and the Colts drop to 6-7 as Hasselbeck is under pressure all day.  Jags 22 Indy 17. 

                                                        Courtesy of nydailynews.com

 San Diego

at Kansas City     -11

11 points is a lot to give in a divisional game, but these two franchises are headed in opposite directions.  The Chiefs have been unstoppable lately, winning their last 6 games in a row, while the Chargers have lost 7 of their last 8 games.  The Chiefs are sitting at 7-5 and are currently 5th in the AFC playoff standings with games left against San Diego, Baltimore, Cleveland, and Oakland, so they're going to the playoffs.  With Philip Rivers fighting the flu, give me the Chiefs to win big at home.  Chiefs 34 Chargers 14.

                                                         Courtesy of chicagonow.com

Washington

at Chicago    -3.5

The Redskins had every opportunity to take a lead in the NFC East, but a Monday Night loss to Dallas puts the NFC East lead in a 3 way tie at 5-7, with Dallas only a game back at 4-8.  The Bears meanwhile lost a thrilling overtime game to the 49ers thanks to a missed Robbie Gould field goal.  This is probably the hardest game of the week to pick, because both of these teams are unpredictable.  Kirk Cousins and Jay Cutler have run hot and cold all year.  Being that this game is in Chicago, I'm going with the Bears, but I don't feel good about it.  Bears 24 Redskins 21.   

                                                     Courtesy of tumblr.com

Atlanta

at Carolina   -8

Though this is a divisional game, this is clearly a tale of two different teams from when both were 5-0.  Carolina sits at 12-0 and Atlanta is 6-6, but they've lost 5 of their last 6, and they haven't looked good in any of those games.  Carolina got a scare last week, but I think that was the wake up call they needed, and Cam Newton has 10 touchdowns in the last two games.  They've done a great job at finding ways to win games this year, even if it means winning ugly.  I'd be surprised if this game was a blowout, but Matty Ice has been a turnover machine this fall, and the Carolina defense isn't going to make it easier on him.  It'll be interesting to see how often he throws to Julio Jones with Josh Norman sitting across from him.  Panthers 31 Falcons 20.  

                                                   Courtesy of gannett-cdn.com

Seattle     -11

at Baltimore   

So, Seattle heads to Baltimore and will face Jimmy Clausen for a 2nd time this year, after he was waived by Chicago and picked up by Baltimore.  What did Jimmy Clausen do to deserve the kind of beating he's going to get today?  The Seahawks have been red hot of late and they don't look to be slowing down.  Baltimore hopefully won't get embarrassed, but they have almost zero chance of winning this game.  Seahawks 28 Ravens 10.

                                                               Courtesy of ibtimes.com

Oakland

at Denver   -6.5

Oakland has done some nice things this year, but it's going to be a tough day against that Broncos defense for Derek Carr and the Raiders.  Brock Osweiler looks to be the future in Denver, but he only threw for 166 yards last week.  Still he's 3-0 as a starter this year, and the Broncos should rely on their running game and defense to keep them in the hunt for a playoff bye.  They've got some injury concerns, and Oakland is a decent football team, so it won't be an easy game today.  Time for Michael Crabtree to earn that new contract he got this week.  Give me the Broncos to get the win at home, but I like Oakland to cover.  Broncos 23 Oakland 17.    

                                                                  Courtesy of si.com

Dallas

at Green Bay   -6.5

Green Bay finds themselves in a good position at 8-4, after an amazing Hail Mary win against Detroit, and a Vikings loss to Arizona.  I think it's pretty clear both Carolina and Arizona are likely getting a bye in the NFC, but the Packers still can make some ground in the division, by taking a 1 game lead over the Vikings with a win against a bad Dallas team.  I don't think there's a snowball's chance Dallas gets a win in Lambeau today.  Green Bay 30 Dallas 16.  

                                              Courtesy of cbsboston.files.wordpress.com

New England      -3.5

at Houston

New England vs. New New England.  The Pats head down to Houston today to try and get back on track after dropping 2 straight.  With Gronk back, you have to give the edge to the Patriots.  Houston knows New England well, as many of their players and coaches were once employed by the Patriots.  I don't see Tom Terrific and the Pats losing 3 in a row, even against a Houston team that plays great defense.  I'm curious to see if Watt is hindered by his broken hand.  Patriots 24 Houston 20.  

                                                          Courtesy of nydailynews.com

NY Giants    -2

at Miami

Has any team found more ways to lose games this year than the Giants?  They'll need to get a win in South Beach today if they want to keep pace in the NFC East.  The Giants have Miami, Carolina, Minnesota, and Philly to close out the year.  They'll likely need to get at least 2 wins to get to the postseason, and this is one that they're favored to win.  Jarvis Landry and Odell Beckham, Jr. should put on a show today with their ability to make circus-like catches.  I'm hoping for a high scoring game, and I think the Giants make enough plays to get a win, and hopefully won't go for it on 4th down, when they should clearly kick a field goal.  Giants 35 Dolphins 31. 

                                                       Courtesy of photobucket.com

The League had it's Series Finale this week, and I for one will be sad to see it go.  The show was brilliantly written, and though it had its ups (Ghost Monkey) and downs (Rafi and Dirty Randy's episode), it was legitimately hilarious throughout every season.  From Mr. McGibblets to Kegel the Elf and of course Andre as the Expert Witness, the characters were spot on.  You will be missed.  Cheers to Football Sunday and the Christmas/Hanukkah Holiday Season.  

                                                  Courtesy of childstarlets.com

NFL Thanksgiving Games Predictions

                                                       Courtesy of dystnow.com

Normally, I don't predict Thursday games; well if you've been reading these posts I don't really predict the Sunday games either, but anyway with 3 games being played on Thanksgiving, and all 3 having playoff implications I thought I'd give you my limited insight as to games this Thanksgiving.  So here we go.  

                                                                  Courtesy of phillymag.com


Philadelphia
at Detroit  -2

The Lions are done, so they have nothing to lose, while the Eagles sit at 4-6, but only 1 game back on the Giants for 1st place in the NFC East.  The reports out of Philly this week are that Chip Kelly has lost the Eagles locker room.  Has he really, or is he just looking to the infinite number of college jobs that seem to be opening up?  The Lions have managed to win the last two games against the Packers and Raiders, but the Eagles haven't really had an impressive win outside of the game against the Giants all year.  This is clearly a must win game for the Eagles as they have a brutal stretch going forward:  At New England, Buffalo, Arizona, Washington, at NY Giants.  

                                                Courtesy of thephillyvoice.com

Sanchez isn't a franchise QB, but the Lions have multiple issues.  I think Kelly knows that if he doesn't win this game and the Giants win, with the schedule going forward, he's looking at heading back to college.  Sanchez needs to target Jordan Matthews and get rid of the ball as quick as possible if the Eagles hope to win the NFC East.

                                                                 Courtesy of philly.com

Despite everything spiraling downward, I think the Eagles somehow pull out of the tailspin and get a win on the road to get to 5-6.  Things aren't going well in Philly; as evidenced by the fact they gave up 45 points at home to a rookie QB, but things haven't gone well for any team in the NFC East.  Philly 27 Detroit 17.

                                                              Courtesy of thesource.com

Carolina
at Dallas   -2

3-7 Dallas is favored against the 10-0 Carolina Panthers, because apparently the massive number of Dallas fans who gamble have the same amount of logic and reasoning as people who think Donald Trump should be President.  Dallas fans will tell you that under Tony Romo, their Cowboys are 3-0.  Yes, you're 3-0 against the 5-5 Giants, who you needed a last second drive to beat at home, the 4-6 Eagles, who just got trounced by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and the 4-6 Dolphins who fired their head coach before the leaves started to change.  The Panthers on the other hand haven't been dominant in a lot of their wins, but they've looked pretty good all year.  The team plays good defense, runs the ball well, and their receivers have looked really impressive in the last couple of weeks. 

                                                          Courtesy of panthers.com

Here's where things get interesting:  Josh Norman vs. Dez Bryant.  If Josh Norman shuts down Dez Bryant, the way he's shut down every other top tier WR this year and last year for that matter, the Cowboys are going to have a long day.  Josh Norman didn't cover Desean Jackson on 1 major play where he scored on a 56 yard touchdown, because Colin Jones blew the assignment, but the rest of the day Jackson only had 31 yards receiving.  With Charles Tillman questionable, that means Colin Jones is likely going to be shadowing Terrance Williams/Cole Beasley.  Which means Romo will be looking to them a lot, because Kuechly and Thomas Davis will be covering Jason Witten.  

                                                   Courtesy of dallasnews.com

The battle up front is going to be one for the ages.  Greg Hardy vs. Michael Oher.  These two guys both played at the same high school, Briarcrest Christian School in Memphis, and college, Ole Miss together.   There might not be two guys in the league who know more about each other's characteristics more than these two players.  Greg Hardy has made it known he doesn't appreciate the way the Panthers treated him, while Michael Oher has found a resurgence in Charlotte, not seen since he won a ring with the Ravens in the 2012 season.  If you haven't been paying attention to the news or the history of these two players in the last 5 years, one has been tried for domestic violence and then paid off the victim not to testify, and the other has been a model citizen with an Academy Award winning film made about his life.   

                                                           Courtesy of cbssports.com

The Panthers are clearly the better football team, and despite Romo's success against the Dolphins, I think Carolina gets the win. "Analytical Ron," with his transition lenses, have the Panthers stay the course and they'll be steady throughout the game.  Vegas is begging people to take the Cowboys, because suddenly Romo is back so Dallas, and their huge fan base who think it's 1995, think the Cowboys are going to the Super Bowl, which ain't happening.  Give me the Panthers to win 31-23.

                                                              Courtesy of media.giphy.com

Chicago
at Green Bay   -8.5

The night cap sees the Bears heading to Green Bay.  Chicago has looked better than expected, but they are still 4-6 and have to go to Lambeau.  Green Bay snapped their 3 game losing streak by beating a good Vikings team soundly on the road 30-13 to retake the lead in the NFC North.  With Arizona playing the 49ers, the Packers know they have to keep pace with a win this week.  

                                                             Courtesy of wgnradio.com

Despite their 7-3 record the Packers have some serious problems running the ball and playing defense.  It's been the A-Aron show since the season started, but Jay Cutler has actually played fairly well the last few weeks, despite being 2-2 in the last 4 games.  The Bears aren't heading to the post season, but they can still have a decent year.  

                                                      Courtesy of trbimg.com

Brett Favre's jersey will be retired on Thursday night, and HOW HAS THIS NOT HAPPENED YET?  He's the best QB the Packers have ever had.  Sorry Aaron Rodgers fans, but I'll take Favre over Rodgers.  The Bears expect to have Alshon Jeffrey and Matt Forte back which means this should be a really close game, but I still like Green Bay to get the win at home.  They just have too much talent, and they own Chicago at Lambeau.  Green Bay 24 Chicago 16.

                                                            Courtesy of n4g.com

Enjoy your Thanksgiving this holiday season and may the Good Lord help you if you're going shopping on Black Friday.  God Speed.  Cheers!

NFL Week 11 Predictions

                                               Courtesy of printableteamschedules.com

The Thursday Night game saw a color rush match up between the Titans and Jaguars, and the Jaguars uniforms looked like the gutter outside Pat O'Brien's at 3AM.  The Titans uniforms on the other hand looked pretty cool.  That powder blue works, but unfortunately for the Titans their offense didn't and they lost to the Jags 19-13.

                                                                 Courtesy of ninersnation.com

The Jaguars are 4-6 and if Indy and Houston both lose today, both of which are highly possible, they'll be a 3 way tie for 1st place in the AFC South at 4-6.  The other key games this week see Green Bay trying to stop their 3 game skid by heading to Minnesota to face a Vikings team that is 7-2 and in 1st place in the NFC North.  Tony Romo returns for Dallas in hopes they can run the table and make the playoffs.  The 49ers head up to Seattle, but this game just doesn't have the juice it did in recent years as the 49ers are 3-6, while Seattle is 4-5.  Lastly, Cincy heads to Arizona on Sunday Night, for a game between 2 future playoff teams, and it'll be interesting to see Carson Palmer face his former team, as many people think he quit on the Bengals.  Let's take a look at Week 11.

                                                                Courtesy of foxnews.com

Oakland
at Detroit    Even

I've taken Oakland the last couple of weeks and gotten burned.  This game is a pick em, but the real show down everyone should be watching is Megatron vs. Charles Woodson.  I doubt Stafford goes all day without throwing a pick.  The Lions are riding high after getting a win at Green Bay for the first time since 1991.  The numbers between Carr and Stafford are very similar, as are the numbers between Meagtron and Amari Cooper.  This one should be a high scoring game, and I think Oakland is the better football team with the better head coach and the better QB.  I'm stubbornly going with the Raiders yet again.  Oakland 38 Detroit 35.

                                                              Courtesy of bettingsports.com

Indianapolis
at Atlanta    -4.5

The Falcons and Colts both had last week off, and Indy is without Andrew Luck, but the Colts have actually been better without him.  They are 2-0 with Matt Hasselbeck under center, and 2-5 with Luck as their QB this year.   Now granted, Hasselbeck played the Jags and Texans in his 2 games, but there's no question Luck has struggled this year.  The Falcons meanwhile started off red hot at 5-0 and have since gone 1-3.  Atlanta has a 2 game lead on a litany of 4-5 teams for that last Wild Card spot, so they desperately need this win, and I think with it being at home they'll get it.  Freeman and Julio Jones should both have big games against a bad Colts defense.  Atlanta 27 Indy 21. 

                                                        Courtesy of sportsworldreport.com

NY Jets    -3
at Houston

The Texans shocked the world on Monday Night bouncing Cincy from the ranks of the unbeaten.  The Jets however, completely blew their chance to get a game up in the Wild Card by losing to Rex and the Bills on Thursday Night.  I think the Jets get back on track this week and beat a Texans team that is playing it's 2nd string Running Back, and TJ Yates.  Ryan Fitzpatrick gets some revenge on his old team today, even with that injured non-throwing hand, and the Jets win 23-13.

                                                           Courtesy of gcobb.com

Tampa Bay
at Philadelphia  -6

Jameis pulled out a late comeback win against the Cowboys last week, and the Bucs will hope to do the same against Mark Sanchez and the Eagles in Philly today.  Sanchez practically gave a win to the Dolphins last week, as all he had to do was fall down 3 times and kick a FG to beat the Dolphins, instead he decided to throw an INT in the end zone to cost the Eagles the game.  If this game was in Tampa, I'd have the Eagles on upset alert and they may still be, but I think Philly gets it done today.  They need every win they can get, because they have a brutal stretch to end the season.  Philly 34 Tampa 23.

                                                               Courtesy of weheartit.com

Denver    -1.5
at Chicago  

The Broncos parted ways with John Fox, Jay Cutler, and Adam Gase, and now their starting QB is Brock Osweiler.  It's freezing in Chicago right now, actually it's below freezing, as the ground crews are shoveling snow and ice off the field.  Cutler has played pretty well this season, especially of late, and I'm sure he'd love to get some revenge on the Broncos.  The Bears aren't sure if Matt Forte will play today, but Jeremy Langford has done a great job for them in Forte's absence.  Fox downplayed the "revenge game" mantra surrounding this game all week, but this looks like a game where the Bears are primed to upset the Broncos.  The Bears are 3-0 against the AFC West so far this year, and I think they make it 4 in a close game.  Chicago 20 Denver 18.

                                                             Courtesy of foxsports.com

St. Louis/Los Angeles
at Baltimore    -2.5

How bad are things for the Rams?  They're playing a 2-7 team and they're underdogs.  The Rams benched Nick Foles, less than 4 months after giving him a 2 year contract extension that will guarantee he gets paid nearly $14 million.  For the Ravens though, things are actually worse.  The NFL admitted this week that the Jaguars stole a win from Baltimore last week due to bad officiating at the end of the game, but at this point for Baltimore it was probably a gift, because they'll get a better draft pick.  The Ravens have found every way possible to lose close games this year, but I think they beat Case Keenum and the Rams this week to get to 3-7.  Ravens 23 Rams 16. 

                                                                    Courtesy of cbssports.com

Dallas   -2
at Miami

Dallas gets Tony Romo back today, but it may be too little too late.  They'll almost have to run the table if they want to make the playoffs.  With Tony and Dez both back for the Cowboys, I think they'll get a win in Miami today, but it'll be a close game.  You'll see some rust from Romo out of the gate, but he'll settle in and lead the Cowboys to victory in South Beach.  Dallas 20 Miami 16. 

                                                                            Courtesy of SBNation.com

Washington
at Carolina   -7

Did Cam Newton maybe dance a little too long last week against the Titans?  Yes.  Does it matter?  No.  Sports are supposed to be fun, and having a come apart for someone dancing after a touchdown reeks of manufactured bias masquerading as moral outrage.  By the way, I didn't hear anyone complaining when Avery Williamson, the same player who was upset at Newton for dancing, did his best Drake impression after a sack earlier in the same game.  

                                                              Courtesy of SBNation.com

The Panthers sit at 9-0, as a decent Redskins team comes to Charlotte looking for an upset.  There are a lot of Redskins fans in the Carolinas, so expect Washington to be well represented, just don't hang any banners in Bank of America Stadium.  Bill Callahan has done a great job with that Redskins offensive line, and Kirk Cousins looks like he might be the long term QB for Washington.  He'll have his hands full today though with that Panthers defense.  Philly Brown is out for today, which means Devin Funchess opposite Ted Ginn, Jr. will get his first NFL start.  He struggled early on, but has made some big plays in recent weeks.  Look for another hard fought game between both teams as the Panthers focus on their run game and Greg Olsen.  The Redskins will give Carolina a fight, but the Panthers make enough plays to stay perfect and beat the Redskins 31-24.    

                                                               Courtesy of zimbio.com

Kansas City   -3
at San Diego

The Chargers sit at 2-7 despite having a good offense, because their defense leaves a lot to be desired.  The Chiefs are 4-5 with the ultimate game manager at the helm.  This is a game where all signs point to the Chiefs winning.  They've won their last 3 games, and San Diego has been riddled with injuries, especially along the offensive line.  Additionally, the Chargers Malcolm Floyd has a torn labrum in his shoulder, but will somehow play through it today.  I'm going with the Chiefs to get the win today, but this game could be a fluky one where Philip Rivers just puts the team on his back.  Kansas City 24 San Diego 20.  

                                                                           Courtesy of makeagif.com

Green Bay   -1
at Minnesota

P-A-N-I-C.  If Green Bay wants to host a playoff game, they better get it together this week against the Vikings, because right now the NFC North goes through Minnesota.  The Packers can't run the ball, and their defense is atrocious, which makes perfect sense that they're going up against a team that has Adrian Peterson and plays great defense.  That having been said, I think Green Bay knows that this is a must win game and Rodgers makes enough plays and they grit out a win on the road.  Packers 28 Vikings 27.    

                                                     Courtesy of sacbee.com

San Francisco
at Seattle   -13.5

One of these two men will be an NFL head coach in 2016.  This used to be the best rivalry in the NFL over the last 4 years, but those days are long gone.  Colin Kaepernick is set to have season ending surgery this week, and probably will never play another down for the 49ers.  The 49ers are likely going to be in the QB business come this off season and the draft, because I can't see them starting Blaine Gabbert next year.  As for today, Seattle has too much talent, and the 49ers are going to have a long day in the Pacific Northwest.  This game has blowout written all over it.  Seattle 27 San Francisco 9.    

                                                              Courtesy of abc15.com

Cincinnati 
at Arizona  -5

Carson Palmer faces his old team in the desert tonight, as the 8-1 Bengals come to town.  I think this is one where the Bengals are going to drop their 2nd game in a row, not because they've been exposed, but because they're having to go on the road and face a good football team in the Arizona Cardinals.  Andy Dalton will play better, but it won't be enough as the Cardinals move to 8-2.  Arizona 31 Cincy 24. 

Courtesy of en.yibada.com

Buffalo
at New England   -7

The Patriots vs. The World Tour continues in Foxboro on Monday Night.  What's really been impressive is that New England has been plugging in players along the offensive line all season without missing a beat.  With Edelman out with a broken foot for the what could be the rest of the regular season, someone else is going to have to step up for New England.  Look for Brandon LaFell to get an increased number of targets this week.  For the Bills, they beat the Jets last week and currently hold that last playoff spot in the AFC.  I've already picked the Jets to beat the Texans, and I'm going with the Patriots because they're the Patriots and they're playing at home.  So that means that the Bills and Jets should flip positions this week for the last Wild Card spot.  Patriots 34 Bills 24.

                                                 Courtesy of ballparkbiz.files.wordpress.com

Is this the week Carolina and/or New England finally lose?  What a story it would be if the Super Bowl had 2 undefeated teams playing for perfection.  It's unlikely to happen, but the media is dreaming about this scenario.  Enjoy football Sunday.  Cheers.

NFL Week 9 Predictions

                                                 Courtesy of printableteamschedules.com


Cincinnati showed yet again on Thursday night that they're an elite team.  The Bengals hammered the Browns in the 2nd half winning 31-10 at home against Johnny Football.  Today's key games start with Green Bay heading to Carolina, as the Packers try and get back on track after a dreadful performance against the Broncos.  Speaking of the Broncos, they head back to the house that Peyton built as they go up against Andrew Luck and the 3-5 Colts.  Then the day ends with Chip Kelly and the Eagles heading to Dallas to try and keep their playoff hopes alive, while simultaneously knocking the Cowboys out of the race.  Let's take a look at how the games could play out this week.

                                                         Courtesy of foxsports.com

Green Bay  -2.5
at Carolina 

Both the Packers and Panthers got a scare last week.  The Packers realized they have some major issues, as they got thumped by the Broncos on the road.  The Panthers meanwhile choked away a 17 point 4th quarter lead at home to Indianapolis, only to make some huge plays in overtime to escape with a win.   The Panthers have a better defense, and running game.  The Packers have Aaron Rodgers, who almost never loses two regular season games in a row.  This game could be the preview for the NFC Championship game, as both teams seem headed for January.  The Panthers have been riding high, but they haven't been winning pretty, and I think Rodgers knows this is a must win game if the Packers want to get home field advantage, so they'll throw everything they have at Carolina.   I'm reluctantly going with the Packers in a close one, 24-21.

                                                  Courtesy of washingtonpost.com

Washington
at New England  -14

The Tom Brady Revenge Tour continues this week in Foxboro as the Redskins come to town.  I don't think there's any question the Patriots will win this game, the only real debate is by how much.  Giving 14 points in the NFL is like giving 30 in College Football.   I hope Kirk Cousin's enjoyed his week off because he's not going to like what will happen this week.   Patriots 38 Redskins 17.

                                                              Courtesy of musiccitymiracles.com

Tennessee
at New Orleans   -7.5

The Titans let go of Ken Whisenhunt this week, and it was really the only decision they could make, as Whisenhunt was just deplorable as a head coach.  His record at Tennessee was an embarrassing 3-20.  Mariota didn't fit his system and they need a coach who can use Mariota's skill set to get the Titans back to respectability.  The reports are that Marcus Mariota will start today in New Orleans.  I don't think it matters, but I like Tennessee's chances with him under center rather than Mettenberger.  The Saints are 4-4 and I think despite their completely awful defense, they'll put up enough points to get the win at home against the Titans to go to 5-4.  As bad as the NFC South was last year, they could get 3 teams into the playoffs this season.  The Saints to win and cover 34-24.

                                                         Courtesy of bleachereport.com

Miami
at Buffalo    -3

The Bills crushed the Dolphins earlier this year in Miami, but that was when Joe Philbin was still employed.  This is essentially an elimination game, as the loser will drop to 3-5.  Tyrod Taylor is expected to start today, and that's good news for Bills fans, as EJ Manuel clearly isn't the answer.  The smart money would be on the Bills, but I'm going with Miami in the upset.  I think Ryan Tannehill and the Dolphins will see this as a revenge game and get a gritty win on the road.  Miami 26 Buffalo 24.

                                                           Courtesy of sbnation.com

St. Louis
at Minnesota   -2

This might actually be the most important game of the week.  The Rams and Vikings are both fighting for Wild Card spots, and it's likely only one of them is going to have a shot to make it.  On top of the playoff ramifications, it's going to be fun to watch Adrian Peterson, the old guard of running backs go against Todd Gurley, who is seen as the new Adrian Peterson.  Gurley has been the best back in the league the last 4 games, and there's no reason to see why he should slow down now.  I'd normally go with the home team since this is a pick em game, but I'm going to go with the Rams based on their defense and youth to get an upset win at Minnesota.  Rams 30 Vikings 24.

                                                  Courtesy of nydailynews.com

Jacksonville
at NY Jets   -8

The Jets will start Ryan Fitzpatrick today against the Jags, even with the damage to his left thumb, because their other option is Geno Smith.  The real issue that should concern the Jets though is their defense, which got absolutely torched by Derek Carr and the Raiders.  I think the Jets bounce back this week and get a to 5-4 against the Jags.  The Jags had an exciting win against the Bills last week in London, but they'll get brought back down to earth today.  Jets 27 Jags 20.

                                                                  Courtesy of bleacherreport.com

Oakland
at Pittsburgh    -5.5

This game will give football veterans memories of the wars that existed between Madden and Noll in the 70s.  But it's Del Rio vs. Tomlin today in another game with Wild Card playoff implications.  It's fairly safe to say the Steelers and Raiders aren't winning their divisions, but they both have a chance to make the playoffs as a Wild Card team which means they may have an opportunity to play the winner of the AFC South.  I think the Steelers get it going this week against the red hot Raiders and eek out a victory at Heinz field.  Big Ben leads the Steelers on a late 4th quarter drive and Deangelo Williams has a big day filling in for Le'Veon Bell.  Steelers 32 Raiders 27.

                                                                     Courtesy of newsday.com

NY Giants      -2
at Tampa Bay

Eli Manning put on a show last week down in New Orleans, throwing for 350 yards 6 TDs and 0 Ints in a heartbreaking loss.  I don't think he'll have that kind of day against the Bucs, but I do think he'll do enough to get a win.  This game is a fantasy owner's dream as both the Bucs and Giants have trouble stopping the other team from scoring.  This one should be a shootout, but I'm going with the Giants to win and cover.  Giants 38 Bucs 34.

                                                            Courtesy of 49ers.com

Atlanta   -7.5
at San Francisco 

If the Falcons lose this game, they have no one to blame but themselves.  The 49ers are practically handing the Falcons a win by benching Kaepernick and starting Blaine Gabbert.   The 49ers have officially gone from one of the best organizations in the NFL to one of the worst in less than 12 months.  Congrats Trent Baalke.  Give me Atlanta and the points.  Dirty Birds 30 Gold Diggers 13.

                                                               Courtesy of fansided.com

Denver    -4.5
at Indianapolis

Alright, here we go.  Peyton Manning vs. Andrew Luck.  The Colts showed a lot of heart and fight in their overtime loss to the Panthers on Monday Night, and their reward will be that they get to face an even better defense this week as the undefeated Broncos come to town.  Manning throwing in a dome against a weak Colts defense should really help Denver's chances.  Andrew Luck on the other hand is going to be running for his life all day as his extremely shaky offensive line is going to have their hands full stopping Denver's pass rushers.  Give me the Broncos to win and cover.  Denver 35 Indy 24.

                                           Courtesy of cowboysblog.dallasnews.com

Philadelphia   -3
at Dallas   

Matt Cassel will get the start again this week as Tony Romo still isn't healthy enough to warrant playing against the Eagles.  Being that the Cowboys have yet to win a game without Romo, and the Eagles got embarrassed at home against the Cowboys in Week 2, I think the Eagles return the favor in Dallas.  Kelly's team is still a half game behind the Giants for the NFC East, so this is almost a must win game to keep up with them as they face the Bucs today.  The real story this week was the photos leaked this week of Greg Hardy's ex-girlfriend's injuries, hasn't give Dallas much to cheer about this week, as they've continued to stand by him.  Dallas drops to 2-6 this week and their playoff hopes are likely gone.  Philly 31 Dallas 27.

                                                     Courtesy of youtube.com

Chicago
at San Diego   -4.5

Lastly, we come to the Monday Night Game between 2 teams who are looking to the draft.  With Keenan Allen now out for the rest of the season, the Chargers will have to replace his production by committee.  The Bears on their end will be without their best player as Matt Forte's knee was injured in last week's loss to the Vikings.  I think you'll see a lot of passing in this game with Forte out and the Charges unable to find a consistent running back.  Chargers Offensive Coordinator Frank Reich says he'll continue to give Melvin Gordon the ball, but he certainly hadn't produced like the Charges has hoped he would.  If this game was in Chicago I'd go with the Bears, but being that the game is on the West Coast, I'll go with San Diego to get the win.  Chargers 28 Bears 20.   

                                                               Courtesy of telegraph.co.uk

With the season half over, we're starting to get a look at how the playoffs could shape up.  Hopefully, this Sunday gives us some exciting games.  If your games don't go well today, you can always end the weekend with 007 as SPECTRE is now out in theaters, and though it's not Skyfall or Casino Royale, it's well worth the seeing.  Cheers.