NFL Picks: Week 17

Last week: 9-7
Season record: 142-98

Well the regular season is coming crashing to a close, which is good for all of us who are tired of playoff scenarios. But it's not good if you love football, and especially with the uncertainty hanging over the 2011 season. Anyway, here are the Week 17 prognostications....

Carolina at Atlanta--The Falcons are mostly lethal at home and here they get to beat up on their little brother division rival. Look away from the TV, folks. Falcons 31, Panthers 10

Cincinnati at Baltimore--Do you get the feeling Carson Palmer was auditioning for his next job last week? Ravens 20, Bengals 16

Pittsburgh at Cleveland--Do you get the feeling Eric Mangini is auditioning for his next job this week? Steelers 30, Browns 20

Minnesota at Detroit--The Vikings have a brighter future because of two people--Leslie Frazier (assuming the ownership does the right thing), and Joe Webb. Vikings 21, Lions 17

Chicago at Green Bay--If the Falcons win, and you can't possibly argue that they won't, the Bears will be locked in to the 2 seed. But they have a chance here to knock the Packers out of the postseason party, and they have to want to do that. Right? But they won't. Packers 24, Bears 20

Jacksonville at Houston--The Texans' defense makes me scratch my head. I know Mario Williams is on IR, but you have Brian Cushing and Amobi Okoye, and yet you can't seem to tackle anyone. Heads are gonna roll. Jaguars 27, Texans 20

Tennessee at Indianapolis--This is probably Jeff Fisher's last game as HC of the Titans. That's a shame, but wouldn't it be funny if he beat Indy going away? Colts 34, Titans 17

Oakland at Kansas City--The Chiefs have clinched the AFC West but can move up to the 3-seed. Pick your poison, the Ravens or Jets. Yikes. Chiefs 28, Raiders 14

Miami at New England--The Dolphins are world beaters away from home (6-1), but the Pats are not likely to take their foot off the gas. Patriots 27, Dolphins 13

Tampa Bay at New Orleans--The Bucs have an outside shot at making the playoffs, if the Giants and Packers both lose and they win. The Saints are already the 5 seed. Hmmm. Bucs 23, Saints 20

Buffalo at NY Jets--The Jets get a playoff tune-up, and you know their fans expect them to do it right. Jets 19, Bills 16

Dallas at Philadelphia--The Eagles are locked in to the 3-seed in the NFC, but they sometimes struggle against Dallas, even when Dallas isn't good. Still....Eagles 31, Cowboys 26

NY Giants at Washington--The Giants, no matter how bad they look at times, just seem to have the Skins' number. Giants 23, Redskins 20

San Diego at Denver--How the mighty have fallen. Broncos 27, Chargers 20

Arizona at San Francisco--Blech. Cardinals 16, Niners 13

St. Louis at Seattle--This is the Sunday night game and the regular season finale. And it's blasphemous that the 6-9 Seahawks can win the division and the 4-seed in the NFC with a win. But there it is. Then again, the Rams might have something to say about that. Rams 24, Seahawks 21

Happy New Year everyone!

NFL Picks: Week 16

Last week: 9-7
Season record: 133-91

So I thought I'd give you the Week 16 predictions in full since tomorrow is Christmas Eve. Merry Christmas everyone!

Thurday, Carolina at Pittsburgh--Wow, you think the NFL Network asked if they could have this choice back? Steelers 23, Panthers 0

Saturday, Dallas at Arizona--Merry Freaking Christmas, NFL fans. Another game equivalent to a lump of coal, but at least it's football on Christmas day. Cowboys 27, Cardinals 17

New England at Buffalo--You mean this one wasn't an option for Christmas? Then again, the Bills usually play the Pats well. Not this time. Patriots 38, Bills 16

NY Jets at Chicago--This is not easy, but it appears the Jets need it more. Jets 13, Bears 9

Baltimore at Cleveland--Has it really been 15 years since Art Modell moved the Browns to Baltimore? Ravens 20, Browns 17

Washington at Jacksonville--This time, Rex is going to have 4 interceptions instead of 4 TDs. Jaguars 21, Redskins 14

Tennessee at Kansas City--Hang on to your hats, Chiefs fans. You might get that elusive playoff berth this year. Chiefs 22, Titans 17

Detroit at Miami--The Dolphins are 6-1 on the road, 1-6 at home. Hmmm. Lions 17, Dolphins 16

Minnesota at Philadelphia--After the Bears scored 40 on the Vikes in the cold of Minnesota, I'm afraid of what Michael Vick might do to them. Eagles 45, Vikings 14

San Francisco at St. Louis--Please, please, Steve Spanguolo. Don't let the 5-9 Niners have any more ridiculous postseason aspirations. Rams 20, Niners 17

Seattle at Tampa Bay--The Bucs will prove why the Seahawks also should not have ridiculous playoff aspirations. Bucs 24, Seahawks 14

Houston at Denver--The underachieving Texans should be able to go into Denver and beat the just plain awful Broncos. Texans 34, Broncos 20

Indianapolis at Oakland--When I heard the Colts could win out and win the division, I was like, "Well, duh!" Colts 27, Raiders 23

NY Giants at Green Bay--The colors of blue and green will be trumped by the red on Tom Coughlin's nose. Giants 24, Packers 23

San Diego at Cincinnati--The Chargers are fighting for a playoff spot, the Bengals are fighting for....well, wait, remind me of what they're playing for. Oh yeah, a high draft pick and coach Marvin Lewis' job. Chargers 31, Bengals 13

New Orleans at Atlanta--Once and for all, we get to see who the real Saints are and who the real Falcons are. Saints 27, Falcons 24

NFL Picks: Week 15

Last week: 11-5
Season record: 125-84 (including last night)

New Orleans at Baltimore--Everyone is focused on Giants/Eagles, but this one is a beauty too. Saints 23, Ravens 20

Arizona at Carolina--Really? Who will be watching this? Probably Panthers' fans to see if they can finally win one, and Cards' fans to see if Jay Feely can beat the Panthers. Panthers 20, Cards 13

Cleveland at Cincinnati--Just when the Bengals thought they could give up on winning any games the rest of the way, in comes Eric Mangini. Bengals 13, Browns 10

Washington at Dallas--Jason Garrett's fiery team is going to just smack Mike Shanahan's team all over the field. Cowboys 26, Redskins 10

Jacksonville at Indianapolis--Do you think the Colts are pissed about that 59 yard field goal Josh Scobee nailed to beat them last time? I think they're just pissed that they're looking up at the Jags right now in the standings. Colts 27, Jags 24

Buffalo at Miami--The only reason for them to play this game is that I have the Dolphins' D in the fantasy playoffs. Dolphins 17, Bills 9

Philadelphia at NY Giants--The Giants are done being charitable to the Eagles. Giants 33, Eagles 27

Kansas City at St. Louis--Who would have thought the battle of Missouri would have major postseason implications? Rams 21, Chiefs 17

Detroit at Tampa Bay--The Bucs need this one more, so they will prevail. But an upset would not surprise me in the least. Bucs 22, Lions 17

Houston at Tennessee--There are two reasons and two reasons only to watch this one--Corland Finnegan and Andre Johnson. Texans 24, Titans 20

Atlanta at Seattle--This could be a knockout punch to the Seahawks' playoff hopes. Oh wait, they play in the NFC West. Falcons 30, Seahawks 14

Denver at Oakland--Have the Broncos begun rebuilding yet? Raiders 24, Broncos 10

NY Jets at Pittsburgh--This would have been a great game if the Jets' offense didn't go missing after Week 8. Well, it'll still be a good game. Steelers 16, Jets 14

Green Bay at New England--Poor Matt Flynn. Poor any defense trying to stop Tom Brady these days, no matter where, when or in what weather conditions. Patriots 31, Packers 13

Chicago at Minnesota--Bring your long johns! This is how mother nature intended for football to be played in December, on some frozen tundra. But man, I sure wouldn't want to be there. Bears 10, Vikings 9

NFL Picks: Week 14

Last week: 10-6
Season record: 114-79 (including last night)

Wow, just four more weeks of the regular season. This is when it gets exciting, though I keep thinking about the fact that we are likely looking at a lockout in 2011. So we all need to enjoy NFL football while we can.

New England at Chicago--Something's gotta give here. The Patriots are on fire, playing like the 2007 version of themselves. Meanwhile, the Bears' D has been playing inspired and the team keeps finding ways to win. Patriots 23, Bears 22

Cleveland at Buffalo--I'm really, really afraid to look at the weather forecast for this one. It seems like every time these two teams play each other, it's in December and you can't see the field. Bills 16, Browns 10

Cincinnati at Pittsburgh--The weather can't be much better here. To say the Bengals are struggling is like saying Cincinnati chili goes right through you. Steelers 35, Bengals 10

Oakland at Jacksonville--Amazingly, this game has a ton of playoff implications for BOTH teams. Jaguars 27, Raiders 24

Tampa Bay at Washington--The Redskins are thinking about golf, beaches, and pizzas. The Bucs are hoping they don't have to think about those things just yet. Bucs 17, Redskins 13

Green Bay at Detroit--It's hard to believe the Packers would miss the playoffs if the season ended today. But that's why the season is not 12 games. Packers 30, Lions 17

NY Giants at Minnesota--The Giants are 0-4 against Minnesota since 2005. This time, they aren't messing around. Giants 31, Vikings 23

Atlanta at Carolina--As hard as the Panthers try, they can't string four quarters together, and this week that's going to be very evident. Falcons 27, Panthers 6

St. Louis at New Orleans--This is a chance for the Rams to show they are playoff worthy. Incredibly, it's also a possible wild card round preview. Saints 24, Rams 16

Seattle at San Francisco--For the Niners, see Redskins, Washington above; meanwhile, Seattle is battling St. Louis for the NFC West title and a not-really-deserved 4-seed. Seahawks 20, Niners 10

Denver at Arizona--I didn't even look to see who was coaching the Broncos now, but their opponent this week is the baseball equivalent of soft-toss. Broncos 23, Cardinals 17

Miami at NY Jets--The Dolphins are practicing at the Giants' facility today and got to NY early so they could see "Lombardi." Too bad they still can't match the Jets' talent on the field. Jets 21, Dolphins 14

Kansas City at San Diego--If the Chiefs want to show us they've grown up, they will end the Chargers' season on Sunday. I don't think they are grown up enough yet. Chargers 27, Chiefs 20

Philadelphia at Dallas--The difference between the Cowboys in October and the Cowboys now is that they have gone from looking like the Bengals to looking like the Patriots. However, the Eagles just need this game more. Eagles 31, Cowboys 27

Baltimore at Houston--Maybe not billing this as the game of the year will work out better this week for Monday Night Football. Texans 20, Ravens 19

NFL Picks: Thursday Night Edition

Last week: 10-6
Season record: 113-79

I'm not sure who plans these Thursday night games, but it's too bad that the one tonight is now looking like a BO-ring one. But brace yourselves....next week it's the Niners and Chargers, and the following week it's the Panthers and Steelers. Damn, now that's football! I'm joking, of course. Still, with a possible lockout looming, we have to appreciate every game.

Indianapolis at Tennessee--Yeah, we even have to appreciate this one. America gets to watch Peyton Manning either exact revenge on his own demons or get pick-sixed a couple times again. They also get to see how far the mighty Titans have fallen in the past month. Colts 24, Titans 13

NFL Picks: Week 13

Last week: 10-6
Season record: 104-73 (including last night)

New Orleans at Cincinnati--How bad are the Bengals? Worse after the Saints come to town. Saints 28, Bengals 13

Chicago at Detroit--Sometimes the Bears look awesome, sometimes they look like the Bengals (though the latter is far less frequent). This week, I'm taking a flyer on the upstart Lions in Detroit. Lions 23, Bears 20

San Francisco at Green Bay--Sometimes the Niners look, aw nevermind. Packers 24, Niners 10

Denver at Kansas City--All anyone remembers is that finger-pointing thing Todd Haley did at Josh McDaniels when the Broncs ran the score up in Denver. Sunday, it's payback time, and Haley has the weapons in Dwayne Bowe and Jamaal Charles to get it done. Chiefs 51, Broncos 17

Cleveland at Miami--How did the Browns draw all three Florida teams in one season? Well, they're about to be 0-3 against those teams. Dolphins 20, Browns 17

Buffalo at Minnesota--Can anyone get a read on this one? The Bills were a Stevie Johnson dropped bomb away from beating the Steelers last week, and the Vikes were inspired under Leslie Frazier. At least there will be no "Fire Chilly" chants Sunday. Vikings 30, Bills 20

Washington at NY Giants--Donovan McNabb makes his return to the Meadowlands in a different uniform. This time, his team won't get it done. Giants 27, Redskins 20

Atlanta at Tampa Bay--What happens in the NFL this year when everyone anoints one team as the best? Yep, they lay an egg. And that's what Matt Ryan's Falcons are gonna do Sunday. Bucs 26, Falcons 17

Jacksonville at Tennessee--I still have no idea how that Houston defense stuffed Chris Johnson for like five yards last week. Not this time. Titans 27, Jaguars 24

Oakland at San Diego--How hot are the Chargers? Yikes. Chargers 33, Raiders 10

St. Louis at Arizona--How bad are the Cards? Yikes. Rams 28, Cardinals 17

Dallas at Indianapolis--The Cowboys have had 10 days to rest and think about a game that got away on Turkey Day. The Colts have had 7 days to think about that beatdown they took at home against San Diego. Well, I just feel bad for the Cowboys' defense. Colts 38, Cowboys 24

Carolina at Seattle--Am I dreaming, or are the Rams and Seahawks tied for first with a losing record? Yes, and who knows what would happen if the Panthers were in this division. Seahawks 24, Panthers 21

Pittsburgh at Baltimore--Whenever I think of these two teams playing in cold weather, I just think about how much it must hurt to hit that hard. Steelers 17, Ravens 16

NY Jets at New England--One of the best games of the week and of the year. Two 9-2 teams square off for AFC supremacy. This is why we can't not have football next year. Patriots 30, Jets 27

NBA: Miami at Cleveland

LeBron returns to the land of boos. Well, it's going to be a land of boos for this dude. And even better that Miami comes to town with an 11-8 record, 3.5 games back of Orlando in their division. They are also the 5-seed in the Eastern conference. The James-less Cavs, who have far less talent than the Heat, are 7-10 and currently sit as the 8-seed in the conference. If the Cavs were able to put a couple of win streaks together, it's feasible for them to move up in this mediocre conference to the 5-seed, with Miami at 4, and you know what that would mean. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Tonight is LeBron's first trip to Cleveland as a villain in another uniform. There is going to be absolute mayhem in Cleveland and this is one night that I wish I still lived there, even though I moved away right after LeBron was drafted by the Cavs. So who wins tonight? Come on, is there really any doubt? Cavs 93, Heat 91, as LeBron misses a 3-pointer at the buzzer.

NFL Picks: Thursday Night Edition

Last Week: 10-6 (thought I forgot to post my picks)
Season Record: 103-73

Houston at Philadelphia--Does anyone think Dimitri Patterson is afraid of having to face Sugar Ray Andre Johnson this week? I mean, aside from the fact that he's the best receiver in the game? Probably not, because the Eagles fear no one. And they shouldn't fear a team from the suddenly mediocre AFC South. Eagles 37, Texans 20

UGH

Folks, I can't believe I did this. I forgot to post my picks for this past Sunday's games on Friday, probably because I was sleepwalking when my wife got up at 2:30 am to go shopping and I couldn't fall back to sleep! Anyway, I can tell you that I went 10-6 for the week based on my picks elsewhere. And I won't forget this week!

NFL Picks: Turkey Day Edition

Last Week: 10-6
Season Record: 93-67

New England at Detroit--The Lions typically play hard on Thanksgiving, for whatever reason. But here they are facing one of the best teams in the NFL, and they can't possibly match up. Stranger things have happened, but no. Patriots 38, Lions 24

New Orleans at Dallas--Remember last year when Dallas marched into the Big Easy and blemished the Saints' perfect record? Don't think the Saints don't remember, and they face a Dallas team that is inspired under a new coach, but will be horribly overmatched in this one. Saints 31, Cowboys 17

Cincinnati at NY Jets--This was a playoff game last year? Yikes. The Bengals have become, well, the Lions. Jets 24, Bengals 6

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

NFL Picks: Week 11

Last week: 5-9
Season record: 83-62 (including last night)

This season has been weird. Every week there are upsets and usually upsets that make no sense based on the previous week or the season as a whole. But it all has me thinking....this is a great game and we love it like we love little else in the sports world. Let's hope the owners and players can reach agreement on a new CBA so that we'll have football next year and beyond.

Baltimore at Carolina--Whew. Should the Panthers even show up? Well, based on this season, who knows? But when the name Brian St. Pierre comes up as starting QB for Carolina against that Ravens' D. Just ouch. Ravens 27, Panthers 3

Buffalo at Cincinnati--Don't think this won't be an upset. Then again, the Bengals have won only one game more than Buffalo. Bengals 24, Bills 20

Detroit at Dallas--A stunning matchup of 2-7 teams. The Cowboys are feeling good again with a new coach and a victory against the Giants under their belt, but the Lions are pesky and will play much harder. Lions 23, Cowboys 20

Cleveland at Jacksonville--Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance, and the Jags are actually 5-4 and just one game out of first in the AFC South. That just doesn't seem right. Browns 27, Jaguars 17

Arizona at Kansas City--The Chiefs will win this game for one reason and I'll sum it up in one word: Jamaalcharles. Chiefs 30, Cards 20

Green Bay at Minnesota--The ol' gunslinger tries to make magic one more time against his former team. Let's face it though, even with a win, the Vikes would have to leapfrong the Packers and/or Bears for any hope at the playoffs. A loss, and Favre could be done for good. Packers 28, Vikings 24

Houston at NY Jets--What happened to the Texans' being everyone's darling and possible Super Bowl pick? Here is a prediction: Gary Kubiak will be looking for a job soon. Jets 34, Texans 24

Oakland at Pittsburgh--The Steelers remember last year well, when the Raiders shocked them at home, setting off a tailspin. It won't happen this time around. Steelers 27, Raiders 13

Washington at Tennessee--Albert Hayensworth returns to his roots, with his tail between his legs after that beating from Michael Vick. Titans 20, Redskins 10

Seattle at New Orleans--This is another surprise, as the 5-4 and division leading Seahawks face the second place and 6-3 Saints. It won't be that close on the scoreboard. Saints 38, Seahawks 20

Atlanta at St. Louis--Sure, the Rams are improved, but come on. Falcons 23, Rams 14

Tampa Bay at San Francisco--The Niners are trying desperately to make a surge, but there are three reasons they won't continue that Sunday--Freeman, Williams, Blount. Bucs 27, Niners 24

Indianapolis at New England--This one is always a beauty, and there is no reason to think this won't be either. Patriots 34, Colts 31

NY Giants at Philadelphia--All the talk is about Mike Vick and the flying Eagles, but let's not forget the Giants were and are legitimate Super Bowl contenders, and Philly is due for a letdown. Giants 30, Eagles 27

Denver at San Diego--Boy, these NFC West teams sure don't like each other. Chargers 38, Broncos 27

NFL picks: Thursday Night Edition

Last week: 5-9
Season record: 83-61

Sure is getting tough to make these picks! Tonight's game is no exception:

Chicago at Miami--This could be Lovie and company's first trip to Miami since the 2006 Super Bowl. And both his Bears and Tony Sparano's Dolphins are two of the harder teams to figure out this season. Sure, the Dolphins have struggled at home (1-3) and the Bears are 3-1 on the road. But something tells me Jay Cutler will be running for his life all night. Dolphins 20, Bears 16

NFL Picks: Week 10

Last week: 9-4
Season record: 79-52

Will the season's weirdness continue or will the good teams continue to distinguish themselves from the rest of the pack? Who knows, and that's why they play the games (and why we love the NFL so much.

Detroit at Buffalo--Believe it or not, this is one game I wouldn't mind watching. The Bills are STILL looking for win number one, and the Lions are so much more talented than their record suggests. They'll show it on Sunday. Lions 30, Bills 27

Minnesota at Chicago--The Vikings kept their slim playoff hopes alive last week with another Favre stunner in OT, and now they look to narrow the gap between them and second place Chicago. I say they do it. Or more accurately, Favre does it. Vikings 27, Bears 20

NY Jets at Cleveland--Suddenly this game is intriguing, as the Browns have knocked off the Saints and Patriots in their last two games. And you just know Eric Mangini wants to stick it to his former employer. Jets 20, Browns 17

Cincinnati at Indianapolis--The Bengals have lost a stunning five straight, and they are rewarded with a game in Indy? It's a weird season, but not that weird. Colts 33, Bengals 17

Houston at Jacksonville--These two teams are tied for second, or last, in the AFC South at 4-4. But the talent on the Texans is just so much greater, and Arian Foster is putting up Marshall Faulk-like fantasy numbers. Texans 31, Jags 28

Tennessee at Miami--Both of these teams play hard-hitting, low-scoring bore-fests, except when Chris Johnson has the ball in his hands. CJ and now Randy Moss make this game more interesting. Oh, and Miami is 0-3 at home, 4-1 on the road. Titans 17, Dolphins 13

Carolina at Tampa Bay--Okay, this is a game I really don't want to watch. Bucs 21, Panthers 10

Kansas City at Denver--The Broncos' run defense is like a sieve, and they get to face that blur that is Jamaal Charles. Of course, Todd Haley will probably start Thomas Jones. Chiefs 34, Broncos 17

Dallas at NY Giants--New coach for the Cowboys, but the same personnel that has gone 1-7. The Cowboys wound up making the game in Dallas a few weeks ago competitive with Jon Kitna, but there is too much talent differential right now. Giants 38, Cowboys 27

Seattle at Arizona--Another game that only fans of these two teams will watch. Cards 17, Seahawks 14

St. Louis at San Francisco--If the Rams win and Seattle loses, the Rams will have sole possession of first place in the NFC West after Week 10. Not only might that happen, it probably will. Rams 23, 49ers 20

New England at Pittsburgh--If the Pats can lose to Cleveland on the road, this one could be downright ugly? Still, you never know. Steelers 24, Patriots 21

Philadelphia at Washington--The McNabb vs. Philly Bowl II, or will Rex Grossman start for Washington if Shanny deems McNabb unfit to play? Eagles 30, Redskins 17

Bye week banter:
Green Bay Packers--Suddenly looking like NFC title contender again
New Orleans Saints--Reggie Bush comes back soon
Oakland Raiders--They could actually WIN AFC West. We're talking about the RAIDERS
San Diego Chargers--Vincent Jackson comes back soon, to Philip Rivers' delight

NFL Picks: Thursday night edition

Last week: 9-4
Season record: 78-52

Hey folks, there is a game tonight. How awesome is that? And it's not even a stinker!

Baltimore at Atlanta--The Ravens are a very good team, but they are 4-0 at home, 2-2 on the road. The Falcons are also a very good team, maybe more quietly than Baltimore. And they are also 4-0 at home, 2-2 on the road. But wait, there's more. Atlanta is 17-3 at home the last three seasons combined. And Roddy White is having a career year. Falcons 24, Ravens 20

Hello, Vegas?

Here were three of my picks from Friday, and if you would like to pat me on the back, pats on said back are being accepted today :)

Jets 23, Lions 20

Raiders 23, Chiefs 20

Eagles 26, Colts 24 (exact score, reversed teams)

NFL Picks: Week 9

Last week: 9-4
Season record: 69-48

Still staying above the curve, but still lots of goofy happenings in the NFL last week! Here are my Week 9 picks:

Tampa Bay at Atlanta--The Bucs are 5-2 and would make a really impactful statement if they won Sunday. But let's face it...it's not going to happen. Falcons 20, Bucs 16

Miami at Baltimore--The low-scoring special of the week. Ravens 13, Dolphins 9

Chicago vs. Buffalo at Toronto--Kinda funny that the Bills will get their first win on foreign soil. Bills 27, Bears 20

New Orleans at Carolina--The Saints are one of the hardest teams to figure out this year. The Panthers, well, they're not hard to figure out. Saints 30, Panthers 10

New England at Cleveland--The Browns aren't that bad, but bad enough to lose to the on-fire Patriots. Patriots 34, Browns 20

NY Jets at Detroit--You just know Jets' fans are terrified of this game. And the Lions will surely make them sweat on Sunday. Jets 23, Lions 20

San Diego at Houston--I predict that if Antonio Gates does not play Sunday, that Darren Sproles will have 200 all-purpose yards. But the Chargers will lose. Texans 34, Chargers 24

Arizona at Minnesota--Yours truly will be at this game, and looking forward to seeing old man Favre and young man Adrian Peterson in person. Vikings 27, Cards 20

NY Giants at Seattle--Charlie Whitehurst will start at QB for the Seahawks, as Matt Hasselbeck was declared out of this game by HC Pete Carroll. Which begs the question, who is Seattle's third string quarterback? Giants 28, Seahawks 17

Indianapolis at Philadelphia--Michael Vick returns but runs head first into Dwight Freeney. Colts 26, Eagles 24

Kansas City at Oakland--Two teams with a big-time resurgence. Hard to imagine the Raiders stopping Jamaal Charles, but hard to pick against them as a hot home team. Raiders 23, Chiefs 20

Dallas at Green Bay--By the time my flight from Minneapolis lands in Madison, the Packers will be up 17-0. That's how bad Dallas is right now. In fact, Jerry Jones might make Wade Phillips walk home. Packers 38, Cowboys 17

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati--Last season when the Bengals swept their division games? That is a distant memory. Steelers 17, Bengals 13

Bye week banter:
Denver Broncos: Josh McDaniels gets an extra week off to get his resume together
Jacksonville Jaguars: Is it crazy that in this crazy NFL season, the Jags are actually in contention?
St. Louis Rams: A good time to rest a rookie QB who has probably never played more than 12 games in a season
San Francisco 49ers: Mike Singletary saved his job last Sunday, at least for now
Tennessee Titans: Randy Moss' third team in about a five-week span
Washington Redskins: The Albert Haynesworth mess was nothing compared to Shanahan benching Donovan McNabb in the fourth quarter last Sunday.

NFL Picks: Week 8

Last Week: 10-4
Season Record: 60-44

Wow, back on track last week. I even predicted the exact final score of the New England/San Diego game, but with the wrong winner. Here are the Week 8 prognostications....

Miami at Cincinnati--The Bengals are just hard to figure out, but they keep figuring out ways to lose. Dolphins 16, Bengals 13

Jacksonville at Dallas--The Cowboys actually played pretty good for a half Monday night, and with Jon Kitna having a full week of practice, they should prevail this time. Cowboys 24, Jaguars 17

Washington at Detroit--The Redskins are playing up or down to their competition. The Lions have had two weeks to prepare and they aren't as bad as their record indicates. Lions 20, Redskins 17

Buffalo at Kansas City--What's more surprising? That the Chiefs are one of the up and coming AFC teams or that the Bills almost beat Baltimore last week? Chiefs 27, Bills 24

Green Bay at NY Jets--Giving the Jets 2 weeks to prepare just isn't fair. Jets 26, Packers 17

Carolina at St. Louis--I bet the Panthers think this will be a cakewalk after beating the Niners for their first win. Alas, it will not be. Rams 23, Panthers 10

Denver vs. San Francisco at London--I just hope it's not raining there, because these two teams are lousy as it is. Broncos 16, 49ers 10

Tennessee at San Diego--I know the records and I know the Titans are playing really well. But the Chargers are kryptonite to Jeff Fisher. Chargers 27, Titans 20

Minnesota at New England--Favre will play, but the Patriots are going to make him wish he hadn't. Patriots 30, Vikings 20

Seattle at Oakland--Can anyone figure out either of these teams? Raiders 20, Seahawks 14

Tampa Bay at Arizona--Every week there is at least one game that makes me want to watch basketball. And here it is. Bucs 21, Cards 17

Pittsburgh at New Orleans--The Saints are due for a better game, right? Still, if they lost to Cleveland, the Steelers are going to make them look really bad. Steelers 20, Saints 10

Houston at Indianapolis--Don't think the Colts aren't looking for revenge after that embarrassment in Week 1. Colts 40, Texans 34

Bye week banter:
Atlanta--Are they good, or not? The second half will show us something
Baltimore--A near miss against Buffalo has everyone scratching their heads. Oh, and will all due respect to Mr. Big Hair, Ed Reed is the best safety I've ever seen
Chicago--Jay Cutler needs rest, and the O-line needs to sew their uniforms together
Cleveland--That fake punt was maybe my favorite play of the season
NY Giants--Their bye week is just good news for opposing quarterbacks
Philadelphia--Two weeks to figure out how they gave up 27 points to the Titans in the 4th quarter

NFL Picks: Week 7

Last Week: 7-7
Season Record: 50-40

I think I feel pretty good about being 50-40 in this wacky season, which keeps getting wackier. I mean, the Rams beat the Chargers? Yikes.

Cincinnati at Atlanta--The Bengals had an extra week off to think about that ugly loss to the Bucs. The Falcons had one less week than that to think about that ugly loss to the Eagles. But they are home and usually a different team in the Dome. Falcons 27, Bengals 20

Buffalo at Baltimore--Okay, if the Bills upset the Ravens, that would be the wackiest upset of them all. But it ain't gonna happen. Right? No, I mean, right? Right. Ravens 34, Bills 3

San Francisco at Carolina--Matt Moore is going to have a fire under his butt, and he's going to lead this putrid Panthers team to victory. And then Mike Singletary will yell and scream at his team some more. Panthers 20, 49ers 10

Washington at Chicago--Somebody better block Brian Orakpo. Oh, wait.....it's the Bears. Somebody better put Jay Cutler in an armored suit. Redskins 22, Bears 16

Jacksonville at Kansas City--The Jags are trotting out Todd Bouman or Patrick Ramsey if David Garrard (concussion) can't play. Yikes. Chiefs 31, Jaguars 13

Pittsburgh at Miami--Don't be looking for a lot of points in this one. In fact, if you want points in Miami, go watch the Heat play (apologies to my Cleveland peeps). Steelers 12, Dolphins 10

Cleveland at New Orleans--Apologies to my Cleveland peeps again. Saints 30, Browns 17

St. Louis at Tampa Bay--Really, I have to pick this game? Well, it's better to pick it than watch it, I guess. Bucs 17, Rams 14

Philadelphia at Tennessee--Do you get the feeling Chris Johnson is going to bust a couple of really long runs in this game? He's just due. And that Titans' D-line is going to just mangle Kevin Kolb. Titans 31, Eagles 24

Arizona at Seattle--Another one that's just shaping up to be a classic. Not. Seahawks 37, Cards 20

New England at San Diego--This is a fun match-up no matter when or where it's played. Rivers against a crappy secondary and Belichick probably pulling out a few fake plays to piss the Chargers off. Chargers 23, Patriots 20 (and I'm predicting OT for this one)

Oakland at Denver--Seriously, aren't there any good games this weekend? Broncos 21, Raiders 16

Minnesota at Green Bay--Ah, that's right...they saved the good games for Sunday and Monday night. And this one's a beauty, probably Brett Favre's last game ever at Lambeau, as he brings a banged up elbow, surgically repaired ankle and legal issues on his mind when facing a banged up Packers' team. If only the Pack had half the running game the Vikings do.....Vikings 27, Packers 24

NY Giants at Dallas--So long as the Giants are able to put an extra blocker on DeMarcus Ware, the Cowboys will once again figure out a way to self-destruct. Giants 28, Cowboys 24

Bonus--in baseball, the Phillies will come all the way back to win their series in 7. The Yankees will win Game 6, and lose Game 7, setting up a Rangers/Phils World Series.

NFL Picks: Week 6

Last week 5-9
Season record: 43-33

Okay, last week was a mess....what's up with this NFL season anyway? I'm pretty sure I have never gone 5-9 before, but I'm pretty sure many of you had the same type of luck with your picks last week. So let's shake things up here...mmmkay?

Seattle at Chicago--Remember a few years ago when these teams were meeting in the playoffs? The Bears, despite their O-line woes, are likely heading back there while the Seahawks are heading into the abyss. Bears 24, Seahawks 10

Miami at Green Bay--If Aaron Rodgers does not play, this could be ugly. But it could be ugly even if he does play. Dolphins 20, Packers 17

Kansas City at Houston--With all of the talk about the Chiefs' suddenly awesome defense, I have to say that I just don't see another team holding the Texans' offense in check in back to back weeks. Texans 30, Chiefs 20

Baltimore at New England--I keep wanting to pick the Ravens here, and I think I may have in a few other forums, but I have this twitch that keeps the cursor leaning toward New England. It's the same twitch that makes me reach for that second doughnut when I know I shouldn't eat it. Patriots 23, Ravens 16

Detroit at NY Giants--As a Giants' fan, I want to keep picking against my team, because when I do that, they win. But let's face it.....trap game or not, they won't lose this one. Will they? PS Hakeem Nicks is awesome, isn't he? Giants 33, Lions 17

Atlanta at Philadelphia--If Kevin Kolb starts again, I can't pick the Eagles. Not against a surging Falcons' squad. But if former Falcon Mike Vick starts.....ah, who are we kidding? Falcons 21, Eagles 17

Cleveland at Pittsburgh--Big Ben gets a bye his first week back...ooh, snap. Steelers 41, Browns 13

San Diego at St. Louis--After being brought back down to earth by the Lions last weekend, the Rams now face the high-flying Chargers. And that's a last-place schedule. Chargers 28, Rams 14

New Orleans at Tampa Bay--I don't know what is wrong with the Saints' offense, but if they can't beat the Cardinals, they won't be able to beat a newly confident Bucs' team in Tampa. Bucs 23, Saints 13

NY Jets at Denver--Just a hunch, because logic surely would not agree with me. Broncos 24, Jets 20

Oakland at San Francisco--You'd think that the Niners should finally win one, right? Not so fast, because the Raiders have been playing tough. Then again.....49ers 17, Raiders 13

Dallas at Minnesota--Two wins between them in Week 6. Damn, that's crazy. And one of these teams, barring a tie, will be 1-4 after Sunday. Vikings 27, Cowboys 24

Indianapolis at Washington--If the Chiefs can slow Peyton Manning in Indy, the 'Skins should be able to do the same. Redskins 23, Colts 21

Tennessee at Jacksonville--The Titans should win this game, but should is not a word that describes the 2010 NFL season. Jaguars 28, Titans 23

NFL Picks: Week 5

Last week: 8-6
Season record: 38-24

Wow. A quarter of the NFL season is now in the books. It's been a weird year so far, too....but give it another 4 weeks and we'll see some races start to really materialize. Meanwhile, here are your Week 5 Crystal Ball picks:

Denver at Baltimore--The Broncos gutted out a tough win on the road in Nashville last weekend, but facing the Ravens in Baltimore is altogether different. Ravens 20, Broncos 13

Jacksonville at Buffalo--Sure, the Jags beat Indy a week ago. Sure, the Bills can't seem to beat anyone or even look good in losing games. But that's why the tables will turn this weekend. Bills 23, Jaguars 21

Chicago at Carolina--This is my second out of four picks for 0-4 teams to reach 1-4. I was going to pick the Bears until I saw that Todd Collins would start in place of Jay Cutler. Panthers 20, Bears 18

Tampa Bay at Cincinnati--The Bucs had a bye and some rest, while the Bengals continue to show why they are impostors. Still, they do have some talent and their defense should shut down Tampa pretty good. Bengals 17, Bucs 10

Atlanta at Cleveland--This one should be the Matt Ryan/Roddy White/Tony Gonzalez/Michael Turner show. Sorry, Cleveland. Falcons 30, Browns 17

St. Louis at Detroit--It's really hard to believe that the Rams have given up just 13 points per game, when they gave up an astounding 31 per game a year ago. But Sunday, I just have the feeling that Shaun Hill is just gonna light them up. Lions 38, Rams 24

Kansas City at Indianapolis--Along with the winless teams all winning, it's time for someone to beat the Chiefs. And who better than Peyton Manning? Colts 27, Chiefs 17

NY Giants at Houston--The Giants are about as hard to figure out as any team in the NFL. The Texans just have an explosive offense, and if Matt Schaub can stay upright and hand the ball off to Arian Foster about 25 times, it may just wear down the Giants' D. Texans 33, Giants 24

Green Bay at Washington--If the Packers can ever get some sort of running game going, they could be lethal. But until then, they aren't really able to control the clock. Meanwhile, the Redskins keep scores low and close. Packers 20, Redskins 16

New Orleans at Arizona--The Saints need to get their running game in gear in order to allow Drew Brees to find his receivers down field. But let's face it--this is the suddenly horrendous Arizona Cardinals we're talking about. Saints 23, Cardinals 10

Tennessee at Dallas--This should be a really interesting game. The Titans, like the Redskins, keep games close and low-scoring while hitting hard and making the other team take penalties. That should play right into Jeff Fisher's teams' hands, but Tony Romo and company have had an extra week off and should score enough points to win. Cowboys 27, Titans 17

San Diego at Oakland--When I had Antonio Gates on my fantasy team last year, he didn't do much for me. Which is why he's having an awesome season already. Thanks, Antonio. Chargers 40, Raiders 21

Philadelphia at San Francisco--If Michael Vick were playing, this would be a different ball game. But Kevin Kolb? Against a Mike Singletary team that is winless and extremely angry? Um, no way. 49ers 24, Eagles 20

Minnesota at NY Jets--This is probably the game of the week. The Jets at home on the big stage, Brett Favre returning to the Meadowlands to face his former team, and Randy Moss also returning to the Meadowlands for the second time in the first five games. Jets 22, Vikings 19

MLB playoff predictions

This isn't going to be just a football site, though that's where my expertise is. But I thought it would be fun to pick the MLB playoffs too. It's either this, or pick the NBA preseason games, but ESPN's Heat-a-thon has all that covered, right? Anyway, here we go....

NY Yankees vs. Minnesota--The Yankees enter this series having skidded into the wild card spot, though rumor has it that they just wanted to avoid facing Cliff Lee in the ALDS. And they will send CC Sabathia to the mound twice in the first four games if necessary, because he's their only reliable starter. The Yanks have recently dominated the Twins in postseason play, but this year may be different. I just have this feeling Joe Mauer will carry the Twins on his back, and Jim Thome will hit a couple of big bombs. Twins 3, Yankees 2

Texas vs. Tampa Bay--Yeah, the Rangers have Cliff Lee, but this one is more about the Rays' pitching staff vs. the Rangers' big bats. That would mean David Price, James Shields and Matt Garza against Josh Hamilton, Vlad Guerrero and Nelson Cruz. You know that old adage about how great pitching trumps great hitting? Yep. Rays 3, Rangers 1

Atlanta vs. San Francisco--The Braves snuck in as a wild card in manager Bobby Cox's last season, and they get to face Tim Lincecum tomorrow night to open the series, as well as Matt Cain and Jonathan Sanchez. These teams both have awesome closers in Billy Wagner and Brian Wilson, but with Chipper and Prado out for the Braves, this one could be over before you blink. Giants 3, Braves 0

Cincinnati vs. Philadelphia--Poor Dusty Baker gets his team into the postseason, and has to face Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt and Cole Hamels back to back to back. But with Joey Votto, a legitimate MVP candidate leading the offense for the Reds, and a Cincinnati team that led the NL in batting (.272) and home runs (188), this could be interesting. Still, tough to go against recent playoff experience. The Phils were World Champs two years ago and have represented the NL two straight years. Cincinnati hasn't been to the playoffs since 1995. Phillies 3, Reds 2

Oh, and regardless of what happens, for the love of G-d, can we not have more than one first-round sweep? In the last five seasons, there have been 11 sweeps in 20 first-round series. That just sucks for true baseball fans! Anyway, play ball!

NFL Picks: Week 4

Last week: 10-6
Season record: 30-18

San Francisco at Atlanta--The Niners have to win at some point, don't they? Well, not with Michael Turner running in the dome. And how about this? SF fired their offensive coordinator last week, but it's their defense that has failed them miserably, giving up an NFL high 87 points (tied with Buffalo). Yikes, Mr. Singletary. Falcons 34, 49ers 17

NY Jets at Buffalo--The rejuvenated Bills are home and play the Jets tough, but come on. Jets 23, Bills 13

Cincinnati at Cleveland--The Browns always play Cincy tough, and Peyton Hillis almost single-handedly beat Baltimore last weekend. But there is just too much talent for the Bengals not to pick them. Bengals 28, Browns 27

Detroit at Green Bay--Mike McCarthy will absolutely not let his team sink to 2-2, but that doesn't mean the feisty Lions will make this easy. Packers 30, Lions 23

Carolina at New Orleans--I might have to cover my eyes for this game. Jimmy Claussen should fear for his life. Saints 33, Panthers 10

Baltimore at Pittsburgh--Charlie Batch hit the lottery last Sunday, but the Ravens are just more talented as a whole and will barely eke this one out. Ravens 16, Steelers 13

Seattle at St. Louis--I love Steve Spagnuolo and he may have his team believing. And the Seahawks are going to be let down after another upset last weekend. Rams 27, Seahawks 24

Denver at Tennessee--Chris Johnson and that Titans' O-line will dominate. Titans 23, Broncos 17

Indianapolis at Jacksonville--MJD will play well as he always does against Indy, but the Jaguars are destined for a last place finish in the AFC South. Can Austin Collie have another insanely big game? Colts 40, Jaguars 17

Houston at Oakland--Everyone wants to pick Oakland in an upset here, but Arian Foster may have 300 rushing yards against this weak rush D of the Raiders. Texans 30, Raiders 20

Washington at Philadelphia--The game of the week. Donovan McNabb returns to Philly while the Eagles and Mike Vick are flying really high. Get your popcorn ready. Eagles 27, Redskins 17

Arizona at San Diego--How the mighty have fallen in Arizona. And, well, the Chargers never seem to rev up until November. But they won't lose to this team at home. Chargers 31, Cardinals 14

Chicago at NY Giants--My heart says G-men, what with the Ring of Honor being unveiled at halftime. But my head says they will find another way to lose. Bears 30, Giants 17

New England at Miami--Very, very tough one to call. I'm going to have to go with the home team, though. Dolphins 21, Patriots 18

NFL Picks: Week 3

Last Week 8-8
Season Record: 20-12

So last week was a ball of suck for me, and I'm not proud of an 8-8 record. It kinda feels like an NFL team that just had a game end in a tie (yeah, Donovan, it's possible). Hopefully this week will be different and we'll get back on track in a big way. Either way, enjoy the games this weekend...it sure is great to have football back, isn't it?

Cleveland at Baltimore--Are the Browns this bad again? They lost to two 2-0 teams, but those teams are the Bucs and Chiefs. Meanwhile, the Ravens were embarrassed by the Bengals last Sunday but they have not allowed a touchdown this season. And they probably won't allow one to the Browns unless Josh Cribbs takes one to the house on a kick return. Ravens 24, Browns 3

Cincinnati at Carolina--Jimmy Claussen takes the helm for the Panthers, but QB isn't the only problem in Carolina. The Bengals proved last week that they will keep up with Baltimore and Pittsburgh in the AFC North. Bengals 20, Panthers 17

Dallas at Houston--Wow, could the Cowboys get to 0-3 and the Texans to 3-0? When someone from the NFL Network picked the Texans to get to the Super Bowl, I laughed. I'm not laughing now. Wade Phillips' butt is getting sore from that hot seat. Texans 30, Cowboys 24

San Francisco at Kansas City--The Niners could also reach 0-3 with KC getting to 3-0. But the Chiefs have to stop Frank Gore for that to happen, and Todd Haley needs to give Jamaal Charles the ball more often. I'm not sure either will happen, but I still like the Chiefs riding momentum at home. Chiefs 23, Niners 20

Detroit at Minnesota--I've written that if the Lions beat the Vikings Sunday, Brett Favre will retire on Monday, for good. I mean, if the Vikings show they might not make the playoffs, he has no reason to keep hanging around. Vikings 28, Lions 20

Buffalo at New England--Last season, the Bills almost pulled off a remarkable upset in New England. This year, the Bills are one of the worst teams in football while the Pats are smarting from that Jets' beat-down, but still very talented. Patriots 38, Bills 10

Atlanta at New Orleans--The Falcons always play the Saints tough, but I have a feeling that won't be the case Sunday. Saints 30, Falcons 20

Tennessee at NY Giants--It pains me to think the Giants could lose AGAIN to the Titans. I went to that game in Nashville four years ago when the Giants were up 21-0 and lost 24-21. Despite the Giants sucking against Indy and Chris Johnson being Chris Johnson, I think my G-men will hold it together this time. Giants 20, Titans 16

Pittsburgh at Tampa Bay--Both teams are 2-0 and Super Bowl bound, right? Um, not really. Well, maybe Pittsburgh with a healthy Polamalu. But the Bucs are going to come back down to earth. Steelers 22, Bucs 16

Philadelphia at Jacksonville--Michael Vick was named the starter, because if Andy Reid didn't make that decision, he'd be hearing about it for years. The Jags are a team in transition and MJD is not healthy. Eagles 27, Jaguars 24

Washington at St. Louis--In 2008, the Rams upset the Redskins 19-17. In 2009, the Redskins barely beat the Rams 9-7, and the Rams wound up 1-15. Mike Shanahan cannot let an upset happen, but it wouldn't be shocking. Redskins 21, Rams 17

Oakland at Arizona--The Raiders looked awful in Week 1 (38-13 loss to Titans) and the Cards looked awful in Week 2 (41-7 drubbing by Falcons). But each team is 1-1 because they each beat the Rams. This one could wind up in a tie, but I'd never predict one of those. Cardinals 23, Raiders 20

Indianapolis at Denver--After a dismal opener in Houston, the Colts took out their frustrations on the Giants, looking Super in the process. That's the real Colts. The Broncos are just not in this class yet. Colts 34, Broncos 27

San Diego at Seattle--Despite the fact that AJ Smith is a moron, the Chargers are still a good team. Pete Carroll will have his Hawks fired up, but come on. Chargers 27, Seahawks 17

NY Jets at Miami--One of the best games of the week. The Dolphins are 2-0 and at home while their division rival Jets almost beat Baltimore and beat the Pats by 2 touchdowns last Sunday. It's just really tough to go against the Jets and that defense, though Miami has a great D as well. Jets 10, Dolphins 6

Green Bay at Chicago--Another marquee matchup. Both teams are 2-0 and tied for the NFC North lead. But the Packers have scored 61 points and given up 27. Sure, the Bears are home but Jay Cutler will get antsy in a Monday night nationally televised game, and throw 3, maybe 4 interceptions. Packers 30, Bears 21

NFL Picks: Week 2

Last week: 12-4
Season record: 12-4

Arizona at Atlanta--This ain't the Rams, Ken Whisenhunt. And the Falcons will be hungry for their first win at home. Michael Turner might have 200 yards. Falcons 31, Cardinals 14

Tampa Bay at Carolina--Whether or not Matt Moore plays (he probably will), this will be a low-scoring affair. But the Panthers aren't as bad as they looked last week against the G-men. Panthers 17, Bucs 10

Baltimore at Cincinnati--The Ravens are still pissed that the Bengals swept the season series a year ago. It's not gonna happen this time. Ravens 20, Bengals 16

Kansas City at Cleveland--The Chiefs has better not take Cleveland too lightly after beating the Chargers last week. Still, their offense should prove too much for the Browns. Chiefs 24, Browns 17

Chicago at Dallas--The battle of the overrated. I repeat...what has Mike Martz done since those days when he had Kurt Warner, Marshall Faulk, Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce? The Bears don't have anyone like that. And Tony Romo should have fun with a mediocre Bears' D. Cowboys 31, Bears 20

Philadelphia at Detroit--This one is hard to pick. The Eagles are good with Michael Vick, not so good with Kevin Kolb. The Lions almost (and technically should have) won at Soldier Field, and they will be home with a much improved team. Lions 22, Eagles 20

Buffalo at Green Bay--The laugher of the week. If you have Aaron Rodgers on your fantasy team, you can sit back and let him carry you. Packers 44, Bills 13

Miami at Minnesota--Brett Favre has had 10 days to rest his ankle, and the Dolphins get another road game. Oh, and the Vikings have #28. Vikings 24, Dolphins 20

Pittsburgh at Tennessee--Remember last year, when the Titans lost the opener to Pittsburgh and went into a six-game tailspin? This year will be different, and it doesn't matter who the defense is, Chris Johnson just broke off another long run. Titans 20, Steelers 17

Seattle at Denver--Two teams that are hard to read this early in the season. Is Matt Hasselbeck '10 for real? And who carries the ball for Denver these days? Me? I'm taking Denver for one reason: Champ Bailey. Broncos 26, Seahawks 17

St. Louis at Oakland--How bad are the Raiders? The worst run defense in the NFL is going to have fits against Steven Jackson, and the Rams will get their first W early in 2010. Rams 28, Raiders 21

New England at NY Jets--What will stun Tom Brady more--that car crash he was in or the Jets' defense? I'm going with the latter. Jets 17, Patriots 16

Jacksonville at San Diego--The Chargers are another team that lost on the road in Week 1 and will take that out on their opponent. Chargers 31, Jaguars 20

Houston at Washington--Are you kidding me? How are we supposed to read this one? I'll tell you how...the Redskins' D is stifling, and they will stifle Matt Schaub and Arian Foster. Redskins 16, Texans 13

NY Giants at Indianapolis--Manning vs. Manning 2. Both QBs have Super Bowl rings and Super Bowl MVP trophies, but Eli is still the little brother, and while both teams have big question marks, the Colts are the home team and are not happy about losing their opener. Colts 30, Giants 24

New Orleans at San Francisco--If the Niners can give up 28 points to the Seahawks, what will Drew Brees do to them? Will Mike Singletary thank Sean Payton for the butt-whipping afterward? Saints 27, Niners 17

NFL Picks: Week 1

Season Record: 1-0 (yeah, that's right!)
Here are the rest of the games.....enjoy the first football Sunday everyone!

Miami at Buffalo--The Bills are setting up to be a pretty bad team, even before the season begins. Lucky for the Dolphins they don't have to travel to Buffalo in December. Dolphins 20, Bills 10

Detroit at Chicago--The Lions still have a long way to go, but in many ways, so do the Bears. Bears 23, Lions 17

Indianapolis at Houston--The schedule gods are not kind to the Texans. They finally have a winning season last year, their first ever since coming into the NFL in 2002. Then they get to start the season like this? Colts 30, Texans 24

Denver at Jacksonville--Remember last year, when the Broncos rode that fluke Brandon Stokely TD catch to a 6-0 start? This year, they won't be 6-0. Jaguars 21, Broncos 14

Cincinnati at New England--Was last year a fluke for the Bengals? We'll find out starting Sunday, as the Patriots in Foxboro will be a big, big test. Patriots 31, Bengals 20

Carolina at NY Giants--The Panthers crushed the Giants 41-9 in the old Meadowlands in December. Sunday, the new Meadowlands will have a different outcome. Giants 24, Panthers 17

Atlanta at Pittsburgh--It doesn't matter if the QB is Dennis Dixon or me, the Steelers are just tough at home. Steelers 27, Falcons 24

Cleveland at Tampa Bay--A battle of two of the worst teams in the NFL, so we'll go with the home team. Bucs 20, Browns 16

Oakland at Tennessee--The Chris Johnson show resumes. Titans 28, Raiders 20

Green Bay at Philadelphia--Can Kevin Kolb throw those TD bombs McNabb used to throw to help his team jump out to leads? That remains to be seen, but against Green Bay he may have to throw bombs to keep up. Packers 26, Eagles 20

Arizona at St. Louis--It's not just losing Kurt Warner, it's losing Antrel Rolle and Karlos Dansby and Anquan Boldin. Upset city. Rams 20, Cardinals 19

San Francisco at Seattle--Everyone has the 49ers as a sexy pick to win this division, but I need to see to believe. Seahawks 17, 49ers 14

Dallas at Washington--The Redskins always seem to have the Cowboys' collective number, but I'd say even more so now that they have Donovan McNabb and Mike Shanahan. Redskins 27, Cowboys 23

Baltimore at NY Jets--The Jets will officially get to let us know if all of their preseason hype is for real. I like Baltimore to reach the Super Bowl, but I think the Jets win this Monday night home opener. Jets 14, Ravens 10

San Diego at Kansas City--The Chargers' receiving situation is a bit of a mess, but they are still a better team than KC. Chargers 24, Chiefs 14

Mikey's Crystal Ball: Thursday Night Edition

It's a clean slate, folks, but here we go!

Minnesota at New Orleans--A rematch of the NFC Championship game, in which Brett Favre threw a pick against the team he grew up rooting for. Remember how crazy loud that dome is for big games? It's gonna be even louder tonight, as the Saints go into this season as defending champs. Meanwhile, the Vikes and Favre set out to atone for that loss in January, but they will fall short again due to Superdome magic, among other things. Saints 30, Vikings 24

Welcome to My New Blog

Hey folks....thanks for signing up for this new blog....during the NFL season we'll be publishing our picks for the games each Friday, and we'll also get into postseason baseball picks when that fun begins. And hey, football season is only two months away!