NFL 2011 (Week 3) - The SFB Podcast (9/23/2011).....

Week 3 of the NFL season. Below are my picks for the week, while the podcast will preview the week and breakdown my picks. Enjoy.

The SportsFan Buzz: September 23, 2011 (right click to "save as target")
You can find and subscribe to the podcast on iTunes.
Voice over talent provided by Morgan Thomas.

NFL 2011 - Week 3 picks (Home Team in CAPS)

Patriots (-8 1/2) over BILLS
BENGALS (-2 1/2) over 49ers
Dolphins (+2 1/2) over BROWNS
TITANS (-6 1/2) over Broncos
Lions (-3 1/2) over VIKINGS
SAINTS (-3 1/2) over Texans
Giants (+7 1/2) over EAGLES
Jaguars (+2 1/2) over PANTHERS
CHARGERS (-14 1/2) over Chiefs
RAIDERS (+3 1/2) over Jets
Ravens (-3 1/2) over RAMS
Falcons (+1 1/2) over BUCCANEEERS
Packers (-3 1/2) over BEARS
Cardinals (-3 1/2) over SEAHAWKS
Steelers (-10 1/2) over COLTS
Redskins (+6 1/2) over COWBOYS

Week 2: 10-6
2011 season: 19-12-1

NFL 2011 - Week 1.....

First week of the 2011 season after the long lockout. As mentioned in my preview, I don't expect to see much in the way of movement from "worst to first" like what seems to happen each year, because of the development time lost this spring / summer.

As for the weekly picks, I hope to improve on last year (134-108-14 during regular season and 10-1 for the playoffs), but would be just as happy matching that positive record.

NFL 2011 - Week 1 picks (Home Team in CAPS)

PACKERS (-4) over Saints - Tough game to start year for both teams, but I am riding the Packers again in 2011. Best 2 teams in the NFC and could be critical in determining playoff seedings.
Steelers (+2 1/2) over RAVENS - Hate to see this match-up so early in the season. Steelers show the Ravens they still control the division and get the win on the road.
Lions (+2) over BUCCANEERS - Think the Lions are this year's Buccaneers and will have a nice year, but just miss the playoffs and it starts with a tough road victory.
Falcons (-3) over BEARS - Chicago will take a step back this year and it starts with the Falcons pounding them and showing off their more explosive offense.
Bills (+6 1/2) over CHIEFS - Chiefs are not as good as last year, while the Bills will again be competitive in their games, but just fall short. Kansas City wins, but Buffalo keeps it close.
TEXANS (-9) over Colts - Houston needs to take complete advantage of this situation and will show no mercy to the "Manning less" Colts. Have doubts about Indianapolis rallying around Kerry Collins.
RAMS (+5) over Eagles - Rams play good defense and will keep this close at home. Eagles will stumble a little to start, but end up getting the close win to start their "dream" season.
BROWNS (-6 1/2) over Bengals - Think the Browns show they are an improved team and take it out on their decimated in-state rivals. Will be a tough day for Bengal starter, Andy Dalton.
Titans (+3) over JAGUARS - Not sure about either team, but I will believe more in Chris Johnson besting Maurice Jones-Drew
Giants (-3) over REDSKINS - The New York defense is torn up with injuries, but their offense is so good that it will overcome those injuries against a Rex Grossman led Redskin offense.
CARDINALS (-7) over Panthers - The Kevin Kolb era starts in Arizona and they get Cam Newton and the Panthers as their first guests. Still not thrilled with the Cardinal defense, but they do the job against this year #1 overall pick.
49ERS (-5 1/2) over Seahawks - It is the final chance for Alex Smith to show he can lead an offense and it helps to get Seattle as his first opponent. Still shaking my head over the Seahawk moves at QB during the off season.
Vikings (+9) over CHARGERS - San Diego is my pick to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl and while they'll beat the Vikings, Adrian Peterson's running will keep the game close.
Cowboys (+4 1/2) over JETS - Rex again predicting Super Bowl for his Jets, while the Cowboys have been under the radar this off-season (besides Rex's twin, Rob being hired as DC). Tony Romo has something to prove this year and some nice weapons around him to make that offense click.
Patriots (-7) over DOLPHINS - National TV audience will get to see early why Miami was QB shopping this off-season. Dolphins always seem to play New England tough, but not this time as Brady and company roll to an easy victory.
BRONCOS (-3) over Raiders - Broncos are healthy on defense and with the addition of rookie, Von Miller, will be a better team than 2010. Same can't be said for a Raider team, which just when you think might be moving forward, instead takes two steps backwards.

2010 Season: 134-108-14

NFL Divisional Weekend picks.....

I am really looking forward to this Divisional Playoff round, especially the matchups on the AFC side with both games being the third game of the year between the divisional foes. On the NFC side, they are also rematch games that were both three point affairs.

As for my Wildcard weekend picks, I was 3-1 against the spread (lost with the Colts), but only 2-2 overall in picking the winners (0-2 Saturday and 2-0 on Sunday), with me thinking the Seahawks would keep it close, but never expecting them to pull off the victory.

Divisional Round Weekend:

STEELERS (-3) over Ravens
Many consider this the best rivalry in the NFL, myself included, and NFL fans gets to see it for the third time this season and eighth time in the past three seasons. Unlike the last time they played in the 2008 AFC Championship Game where both teams played the prior week, this matchup has the Steelers coming off the bye week and I think that is an advantage for Pittsburgh. I look for at least one or two big plays by Ben Roethlisberger outside the pocket to the speedy wide receivers, Mike Wallace or Emmanuel Sanders, being the difference in this game. The Ravens need Ray Rice to have a big game running the ball and that will be difficult against this Steeler defense.
Steelers 23
Ravens 19

Packers (+3) over FALCONS
Atlanta beat Grren Bay with a last second field goal back in week 12 and we can only hope for a game with as much drama in this matchup. The Falcons are the #1 seed, but are the quiet team in this matchup as all the talk is about how well the Packers are playing,coming off their victory last week in Philadelphia. Atlanta plays solid football and at home they are a great team, but the Packers are a team that matches up well with them, especially when they spread the field in four and five receiver sets. Atlanta will need to control the ball for more than 35 minutes in order to keep the Green Bay offense in control and are capable of doing that, but in the end Aaron Rodgers gets the best of the Falcons and keeps the Packers moving forward.
Packers 24
Falcons 20

BEARS (-10) over Seahawks
There sure seems to be quite a few "Seattle can make some noise" statements and articles this week after they knocked out the New Orleans Saints last week. Well, if the Seahawks were this good as being said this week, shouldn't they have finished with a record better than 7-9 for the season? Seattle got the perfect opponent last week in a Saint team that overlooked them and played their worst defensive game of the season. An overlooked fact is the the Saints made it to the red zone seven times and scored each of those times. Chivago is rested and the overall better team. Unless the Bears play their worst defensive game, i don't see how Seattle pulls off this upset. Yes, Seattle won in Chicago during the regular season, but that was in week 6 and the Bears are much better than that early season team. My fear is the "bad" Jay Cutler shows up, and while that is possible, that Cutler hasn't been around for a couple of months and i don't think he makes an appearance this week.
Bears 31
Seahawks 14

Jets (+9) over PATRIOTS
There is a large part of my thinking that leans towards a blowout for New England in this matchup as the bye week and the third game against the same opponent is the perfect formula for Tom Brady and Bill Belichick to take advantage of, but something just says to me that this game is closer than the large spread. I think the Patriots win this game, but the Jets will and must run the ball to stay with New England and will find enough success doing so to keep this a low scoring matchup. If New York decided to put the ball in Mark Sanchez's hands, then that plays into New England's hands and then we could see a double digit blowout. This Patriot team is different than the 2007 team as it has gotten better over the season, while that 2007 team was not as good coming into the playoffs. They take the Jets best shots at the Patriots, but in the end Tom Brady shows why he his this year's NFL MVP and leads New England to the AFC Championship.
Patriots 27
Jets 19

Wildcard weekend record: 3-1


Win/Loss picks:
Wildcard weekend: Sal (2-2) / Mike (3-1)

--- Ravens at Steelers --- Sal / Mike
Sal / Mike --- Packers at Falcons ---
--- Seahawks at Bears --- Sal / Mike
--- Jets at Patriots --- Sal / Mike

NFL 2010 - Week 17 picks.....

The final week of the NFL season has arrived and we still have division titles up for grabs, three NFC teams fighting for the final Wildcard spot and much of the playoff seeding still in play. There are a few games with absolutely no meaning this week, but overall a good final Sunday of games on the slate.

As for the picks, I was 11-5 both against the spread and straight up win/loss. Picked up two games on Mike and come into the last week two games behind for bragging rights.

Below are the point spread games and following them are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker and my wife, Morgan.

NFL Week 17 picks (Home Team in CAPS)

FALCONS (-14 1/2) over Panthers
BROWNS (+6) over Steelers
LIONS (-3 1/2) over Vikings
CHIEFS (-4) over Raiders
Dolphins (+2 1/2) over Patriots
Buccaneers (+8) over SAINTS
JETS (no line) over Bills
Bengals (+9 1/2) over RAVENS
Chargers (-3 1/2) over BRONCOS
PACKERS (-10) over Bears
COLTS (-8 1/2) over Titans
EAGLES (no line) over Cowboys
Cardinals (+6 1/2) over 49ERS
Giants (-3) over REDSKINS
TEXANS (-2 1/2) over Jaguars
Rams (-3) over SEAHAWKS

Week 16 picks: 11-5
2010 season: 127-100-13


Win / Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 17: my wife, Morgan

Week 16 results: Mike (9-7) / Sal (11-5) / Guest (8-8)
2010 season: Mike (152-88) / Sal (150-90) / Guest (135-105)

Week 17 picks:
--- Panthers at Falcons --- Sal / Mike / Morgan
Sal / Mike / Morgan --- Steelers at Browns ---
Mike --- Vikings at Lions --- Sal / Morgan
Morgan --- Raiders at Chiefs --- Sal / Mike
Sal --- Dolphins at Patriots --- Mike / Morgan
--- Buccaneers at Saints --- Sal / Mike / Morgan
Morgan --- Bills at Jets ---Sal / Mike
--- Bengals at Ravens --- Sal / Mike / Morgan
Sal / Mike / Morgan --- Chargers at Broncos ---
--- Bears at Packers --- Sal / Mike / Morgan
Morgan --- Titans at Colts --- Sal / Mike
--- Cowboys at Eagles ---Sal / Mike / Morgan
--- Cardinals at 49ers --- Sal / Mike / Morgan
Sal / Mike / Morgan --- Giants at Redskins ---
Morgan --- Jaguars at Texans --- Sal / Mike
Sal / Mike / Morgan --- Rams at Seahawks ---

NFL 2010 - Week 15 picks.....

For the first time since 1992, I won't have to factor Brett Favre into the week's picks. Three games left on everyone's schedules and and only the Patriots have clinched a playoff spot. Quite a few nice match-ups this week and plenty of games with playoff and seeding implications. Who thought in week 15 the Colts could actually be knocked out of the playoffs?

As for the picks, the Redskins' holder and kicker helped Mike move ahead of me for the week and overall for the year. On the "spread" side, three "pushes" made the record nice, but I am getting tired of all these betting ties. Guess it is better than losses.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker and podcast listener, Len.

NFL Week 15 picks (Home Team in CAPS)

CHARGERS (-9) over 49ers
Browns (+1) over BENGALS
COWBOYS (-6) over Redskins
Texans (+1)over TITANS
COLTS (-5) over Jaguars
Chiefs (NL) over RAMS
Bills (+6) over DOLPHINS
Lions (+5) over BUCCANEERS
Cardinals (+2) over PANTHERS
Saints (+2 1/2) over RAVENS
GIANTS (-3)over Eagles
SEAHAWKS (+6 1/2) over Falcons
Jets (+6) over STEELERS
RAIDERS (-6) over Broncos
PATRIOTS (NL) over Packers
Bears (NL) over VIKINGS

Week 14 picks: 9-4-3
2010 season: 107-88-13


Win / Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 14: podcast listener, Len

Week 14 results: Mike (12-4) / Sal (10-6) / Guest (12-4)
2010 season: Mike (132-76) / Sal (130-78) / Guest (117-91)

Week 15 picks:
--- 49ers at Chargers --- Sal / Mike / Len
Sal / Len --- Browns at Bengals --- Mike
--- Redskins at Cowboys --- Sal / Mike / Len
Sal / Mike / Len --- Texans at Titans ---
--- Jaguars at Colts --- Sal / Mike / Len
Sal / Len --- Chiefs at Rams --- Mike
--- Bills at Dolphins --- Sal / Mike / Len
--- Lions at Buccaneers --- Sal / Mike / Len
Sal / Mike / Len --- Cardinals at Panthers ---
Sal / Len --- Saints at Ravens --- Mike
Mike / Len --- Eagles at Giants --- Sal
Sal / Mike / Len --- Falcons at Seahawks ---
--- Jets at Steelers --- Sal / Mike / Len
--- Broncos at Raiders --- Sal / Mike / Len
--- Packers at Patriots --- Sal / Mike / Len
Sal / Mike / Len --- Bears at Vikings ---

NFL 2010 - Week 14 picks.....

We are down to the last quarter of the NFL season and there is still a large amount of good football and important football remaining. In the NFC it is starting to look like a very ggod team will miss the playoffs, while in the AFC we might be seeing the end of the Colts playoff run, but I for one will not bet against Peyton Manning until they are officially gone. As for the slate of games, it is good, but the game of the week will be the clash between the Patriots and Bears in Soldier Field.

As for the picks, Mike had a great week and we are tied going into these last four weeks. Should be fun on who gets bragging rights. For my picks against the spread, an even week is ok with me and keeps the record 14 games above the balance line for the season.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker and podcast listener, Cody.

NFL Week 14 picks (Home Team in CAPS)

Colts (-2) over TITANS
Browns (+1 1/2) over BILLS
Packers (-6 1/2) over LIONS
Giants (+1) over VIKINGS
STEELERS (-9) over Bengals
REDSKINS (+1) over Buccaneers
Falcons (-7) over PANTHERS
JAGUARS (-4 1/2) over Raiders
SAINTS (-9 1/2) over Rams
Seahawks (+4) over 49ERS
Patriots (-3) over BEARS
Dolphins (+6) over JETS
Broncos (+5 1/2) over CARDINALS
CHARGERS (-7) over Chiefs
COWBOYS (+3) over Eagles
Ravens (-3) over TEXANS

Week 13 picks: 8-8
2010 season: 98-84-10


Win / Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 14: podcast listener, Cody

Week 13 results: Mike (13-3) / Sal (11-5) / Guest (12-4)
2010 season: Mike (120-72) / Sal (120-72) / Guest (105-87)

Week 14 picks:
Sal / Mike / Cody --- Colts at Titans ---
Sal / Cody --- Browns at Bills --- Mike
Sal / Mike / Cody --- Packers at Lions ---
Sal / Mike / Cody --- Giants at Vikings ---
--- Bengals at Steelers --- Sal / Mike / Cody
Mike / Cody --- Buccaneers at Redskins --- Sal
Sal / Mike / Cody --- Falcons at Panthers ---
--- Raiders at Jaguars --- Sal / Mike / Cody
--- Rams at Saints --- Sal / Mike / Cody
Sal --- Seahawks at 49ers --- Mike / Cody
Sal / Cody --- Patriots at Bears --- Mike
Sal --- Dolphins at Jets --- Mike / Cody
Sal / Mike / Cody --- Broncos at Cardinals ---
--- Chiefs at Chargers --- Sal / Mike / Cody
Mike / Cody --- Eagles at Cowboys --- Sal
Sal / Mike / Cody --- Ravens at Texans ---

NFL 2010 - Week 13 picks.....

More good match-ups this week, especially in the Sunday and Monday night games as four of the best five AFC teams will be meeting to see who jumps into the division leads and top two seeds for the AFC after the week is completed. Last week gave us a very good Green Bay / Atlanta match-up and we can only help the two AFC offereings are as good.

As for the picks, good weeks against the spread and just straight winners (jumping ahead of Mike for the season), but I will not hurt my arm patting my back as it can change very quickly to negative side.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker and podcast listener, Travis.

NFL Week 13 picks (Home Team in CAPS)

Texans (+7) over EAGLES
Saints (-6 1/2) over BENGALS
Bears (-3 1/2) over LIONS
PACKERS (-9 1/2) over 49ers
TITANS (NL) over Jaguars
Broncos (+6 1/2) over CHIEFS
Browns (+5 1/2) over DOLPHINS
Bills (+6 1/2) over VIKINGS
Redskins (+8) over GIANTS
CHARGERS (-12 1/2) over Raiders
SEAHAWKS (-6 1/2) over Panthers
Falcons (-2 1/2) over BUCCANEERS
Rams (+3) over CARDINALS
COLTS (-5) over Cowboys
RAVENS (-2 1/2) over Steelers
PATRIOTS (-3) over Jets

Week 12 picks: 11-5
2010 season: 90-76-10


Win / Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 13: podcast listener, Travis

Week 12 results: Mike (10-6) / Sal (13-3) / Guest (11-5)
2010 season: Mike (107-69) / Sal (109-67) / Guest (93-83)

Week 13 picks:
--- Texans at Eagles --- Sal / Mike / Travis
Sal / Mike / Travis --- Saints at Bengals ---
Sal / Mike / Travis --- Bears at Lions ---
--- 49ers at Packers --- Sal / Mike / Travis
Mike / Travis --- Jaguars at Titans --- Sal
--- Broncos at Chiefs --- Sal / Mike / Travis
--- Browns at Dolphins --- Sal / Mike / Travis
--- Bills at Vikings --- Sal / Mike / Travis
--- Redskins at Giants --- Sal / Mike / Travis
--- Raiders at Chargers --- Sal / Mike / Travis
--- Panthers at Seahawks --- Sal / Mike / Travis
Sal / Mike / Travis --- Falcons at Buccaneers ---
Sal / Mike / Travis --- Rams at Cardinals ---
Mike --- Cowboys at Colts --- Sal / Travis
Mike --- Steelers at Ravens --- Sal / Travis
Mike --- Jets at Patriots --- Sal / Travis

NFL 2010 - Week 12 picks.....

Thanksgiving week starts the unofficial "turn for home" of the NFL season as we are down to the final six weeks of the season. A very good slate of games this week with many interesting match-ups that will effect the playoffs and possibly seeding, especially on the NFC side. Still no consensus best team, and that's ok, as it will make these final weeks even better.

As for the picks, hooray for the win/loss choices, but my work against the spread needs some more fine tuning.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker and podcast listener, Scott.

NFL Week 12 picks (Home Team in CAPS)

Patriots (-7) over LIONS
Saints (-1) over COWBOYS
Bengals (+9) over JETS
Packers (+1) over FALCONS
Steelers (-5) over BILLS
BROWNS (NL) over Panthers
Jaguars (+9) over GIANTS
Vikings (+3) over REDSKINS
TEXANS (NL) over Titans
SEAHAWKS (+1) over Chiefs
Dolphins (NL) over RAIDERS
Rams (+5) over BRONCOS
BEARS (+3 1/2) over Eagles
RAVENS (-6) over Buccaneers
Chargers (+3) over COLTS
CARDINALS (+2 1/2) over 49ers

Week 11 picks: 7-8-1
2010 season: 79-71-10


Win / Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 12: podcast listener, Scott

Week 11 results: Mike (8-8) / Sal (12-4) / Guest (9-7)
2010 season: Mike (97-63) / Sal (96-64) / Guest (82-78)

Week 12 picks:
Sal / Mike / Scott --- Patriots at Lions ---
Sal / Mike / Scott --- Saints at Cowboys ---
--- Bengals at Jets --- Sal / Mike /Scott
Sal --- Packers at Falcons --- Mike / Scott
Sal / Mike /Scott --- Steelers at Bills ---
--- Panthers at Browns --- Sal / Mike / Scott
--- Jaguars at Giants --- Sal / Mike / Scott
Sal --- Vikings at Redskins --- Mike / Scott
--- Titans at Texans --- Sal / Mike / Scott
Scott --- Chiefs at Seahawks --- Sal / Mike
Sal --- Dolphins at Raiders --- Mike / Scott
Sal --- Rams at Broncos --- Mike / Scott
Sal / Mike / Scott --- Eagles at Bears ---
--- Buccaneers at Ravens --- Sal / Mike / Scott
Sal --- Chargers at Colts --- Mike / Scott
Sal / Mike / Scott --- 49ers at Cardinals ---

NFL 2010 - Week 11 picks.....

The bye weeks are done and all teams have now played the same amount of games as we start the seven week home stretch. It is impossible to name a top team this year without finding flaws that make you question the selection. New England whips Pittsburgh after looking bad in losing to Cleveland. Dallas fires its coach, then goes into New York, knocks them around and looks like the team with thought they would be at the start of the season. Now we have Philadelphia looking like the kings of the NFL. Guess we will see.

As for the picks, I also did the impossible by being 3 games better against the spread than in straight picking of the winner. Hard to do.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker and podcast listener, Casey.

NFL Week 11 picks (Home Team in CAPS)

DOLPHINS (-1 1/2) over Bears - Short week with a new starting quarterback does not look good for Miami, but they didn't have to travel so they have a slight advantage. The key will be if the Dolphin defense can put pressure on Jay Cutler to cause turnovers.
BENGALS (-4 1/2) over Bills - Buffalo finally got their first victory last week and look for two in a row against a reeling Cincinnati team. At home I expect the Bengals to show a little pride in their season and get a much needed victory.
COWBOYS (-7) over Lions - The only team without a home win this season resides in Dallas, but that will change this week as the Cowboys keep up the good play for new coach Jason Garrett and go into their Thanksgiving game on a little winning streak.
TITANS (-6 1/2) over Redskins - Washington seems to be a mess and were embarrassed last week by Michael Vick and now they get Chris Johnson and Randy Moss. Tennessee has two beat up quarterbacks, but whoever is back there needs to find Moss to help stretch the defense for Johnson.
Cardinals (+7 1/2) over CHIEFS Kansas City loses a tough one to the Raiders then gets blown out by Denver. They look to get back to the friendly confines of Arrowhead and back in the win column. Chiefs win, but the Cardinals give them a scare.
Packers (-2 1/2) over VIKINGS - A part of me wants to give Minnesota one more shot to gather themselves, but they get a Green Bay team coming off the bye and starting to get healthy. The Packers take advantage of the rest and help bury the Vikings for the season.
JETS (-5) over Texans - Houston's defense has been one of the worst in the league and their offense has not been as productive as prior years. New York has been sluggish the past 4 games, but will get healthy this week at home against the struggling Texans.
Raiders (+9) over STEELERS - Oakland has been a pleasant surprise and have been doing it behind the running of Darren McFadden. That will be tough against the Steeler running defense. Pittsburgh is coming off getting whipped by New England and will bounce back,but the Raiders will keep it close.
Ravens (-10) over PANTHERS - Carolina is down to their 3rd string quarterback against a Baltimore defense that can get after their opponents. The Ravens were stung in losing late last week to Atlanta, but had ten days off since then to get right. Expect a big game from Ray Rice.
Browns (+3) over JAGUARS - Cleveland loses a heartbreaker to the Jets, while Jacksonville wins on a deflected "Hail Mary". Have been very impressed by Colt McCoy managing of the Brown offense. The Browns have been playing tough and will take advantage of the Jaguars poor running defense with the big armed Peyton Hillis.
Falcons (-3) over RAMS - I so wanted to back St. Louis here, but I just couldn't pull the trigger. Again, the ten day layoff that Atlanta received is a plus this late in the season that they will take advantage of against the Rams.
SAINTS (-12 1/2) over Seahawks - The defending champions are "under the radar" sitting a game behind Atlanta in the NFC South. They are also coming off their bye week, getting Reggie Bush back and just getting healthy in general. Seattle has been poor on the road and it won't get any better against the rested Saints in the Superdome.
Buccaneers (+4) over 49ERS - I have been very late getting on Tampa Bay, while holding on to San Francisco. That gets reversed this week as I think the Buccaneers are playing well enough to go cross country and keep up this surprising season. The Bucs defense will be the reason they keep it close and could get the win.
PATRIOTS (-3) over Colts - Not a fan of giving points to Peyton Manning, even in New England, but the Colts are still beat up and will have a tough time against Tom Brady and the Patriots. New England rides their offensive success from last week at Pittsburgh to outscore Manning and the Colts.
EAGLES (-3) over Giants - Don't like be a "prisoner of the moment", but last week's results have to give you pause. While I think the Giants are not as bad as they looked or the Eagles as good, Philadelphia will ride momentum and the home field advantage to move to the top of the NFC East standings. Key for Michael Vick will be to avoid the big hitters on the Giant defense.
Broncos (+9 1/2) over CHARGERS - Are we seeing another San Diego late season surge in the making? Sure looks that way and they are being led by MVP candidate, Philip Rivers. The Charger offense is still without Antonio Gates, but will be getting Malcom Floyd back for the game and Vincent Jackson returns next week. Denver can score points and will score enough to keep this close, but the Chargers get the home win.

Week 10 picks: 9-5
2010 season: 72-63-9


Win / Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 11: podcast listener, Casey

Week 10 results: Mike (7-7) / Sal (6-8) / Guest (6-8)
2010 season: Mike (89-55) / Sal (84-60) / Guest (73-71)

Week 11 picks:
--- Bears at Dolphins --- Sal / Mike / Casey
--- Bills at Bengals --- Sal / Mike / Casey
--- Lions at Cowboys --- Sal / Mike / Casey
--- Redskins at Titans --- Sal / Mike / Casey
--- Cardinals at Chiefs --- Sal / Mike / Casey
Sal / Casey --- Packers at Vikings --- Mike
Mike / Casey --- Texans at Jets --- Sal
--- Raiders at Steelers --- Sal / Mike / Casey
Sal / Mike / Casey --- Ravens at Panthers ---
Sal / Mike / Casey --- Browns at Jaguars ---
Sal / Mike / Casey --- Falcons at Rams ---
--- Seahawks at Saints --- Sal / Mike / Casey
Sal --- Buccaneers at 49ers --- Mike / Casey
Mike --- Colts at Patriots --- Sal / Casey
--- Giants at Eagles --- Sal / Mike / Casey
Casey --- Broncos at Chargers --- Sal / Mike

NFL 2010 - Week 10 picks.....

Finally, the last of the "bye" weeks is this weekend, but at the same time the NFL now starts those terrible Thursday night games where teams must handle those short turnarounds. As for the teams, we will see if the Cowboys have learned anything this week after they got Wade Phillips fired, while in Washington the Donovan McNabb / Mike Shanahan show gets back on the field after a very strange bye week.

As for the picks, let's just say they were not good.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker and podcast listener, Greg.

NFL Week 10 picks (Home Team in Caps)
Bye Week: Chargers, Packers, Raiders, Saints

Ravens (+1) over FALCONS - After last week's game, the Ravens finally looked like the offense we expected at the start of the season and that is because Ray Rice got the ball running and catching. While Atlanta is considered one of the top teams in the NFC and Matt Ryan is 13-1 at home as a starter, Baltimore will step up to this challenge and get a tough road victory.
Lions (+3) over BILLS - Detroit lost a tough one last week and also Matthew Stafford at the same time. This would seem to set up for the Bills to get their first victory, but Buffalo fans get teased again as the Lion defense steps up and help backup Shaun Hill lead Detroit to the win.
Jets (-1) over BROWNS -The "Ryan" battle has been the storyline, but the Jets can't overlook that the Browns have been playing well each week with rookie Colt McCoy as their starter and the running game led by Peyton Hillis. This should be a low scoring game, and I think the more talented Jets and older brother Rex (by 5 minutes) get the win.
Vikings (-1) over BEARS - Can this soap opera in Minnesota get any crazier? We'll see as the veterans seem to be taking control of this team and could make a run at the playoffs, but that only starts if they can beat the Bears in Chicago. The Viking defense bothers Jay Cutler and causes him into turnovers that helps Minnesota to the win.
BUCCANEERS (-7) over Panthers - Tampa Bay a touchdown favorite? Yes, and Raheem Morris has this team believing, even after a tough loss in Atlanta last week. Carolina is back with Jimmy Clausen as their starter after Matt Moore was lost for the remainder of the season and are also hurting at running back. This looks like a very long remainder of the season for the Panthers.
Texans (+3) over JAGUARS - After the first two weeks of the season, Houston looked like they had matured, but 2-4 since then raises many questions. The Texans need to get it going and should do so against their division foe, Jacksonville. Arian Foster has been the bright spot for the Texans and I think he has a big roll in the victory.
Bengals (+8) over COLTS - Another soap opera destination could be Cincinnati as the Bengals are floundering at 2-6, despite all their talent. On the other side, the Colts are so beat up Peyton Manning must introduce himself to his teammates, but he keeps the Indy machine moving. The Colts win, but the Bengals keep it close and suffer another dissappointment.
DOLPHINS (+1) over Titans - Randy Moss gets to play with his third team of the season, while for Miami Chad Pennington gets the start at quarterback. Miami needs to get its run game going and that will be tough against the Tennessee defense. The difference in Miami winning will be Pennington not turning the ball over and getting the Dolphins into the end zone as opposed to the field goals they have been settling for this season.
Chiefs (-2 1/2) over Broncos - A tough loss for Kansas City last week in Oakland and now they travel to Denver. The Chief defense was not good in the second half of that game, but they get back into form against the Broncos. Denver has had its problems the last few weeks and are hoping they fixed them over the bye week, but that quick KC defense will make it difficult.
Cowboys (+13 1/2) over GIANTS - New York got past their "west coast letdown" last week in beating up on Seattle and now get the lowly Cowboys with new head coach, Jason Garrett. Seems to cry blowout, but I will give the Cowboys one more chance to show they can play like professionals as they keep this game close and give the Giants a scare.
CARDINALS (-3) over Seahawks - Fully admit that I have no confidence in this game on one side or the other. The Cardinals blow the 14 point lead last week against Minnesota, while Seattle got beat up and down the field at home last week aginst the Giants. Cardinals playing at home is the only reason I can see in giving them the edge in this matchup against their divisional foes.
Rams (+5) over 49ERS - San Francisco sits after eight games at 2-6, but only two games out of the divisional lead. St. Louis sits ahead of them and has suceeded expectations so far this season. The Rams will keep this close, but in the end the 49ers,behind their horse in Frank Gore, will get the win and really put this division into a four team royal rumble for the second half of the year.
Patriots (+4 1/2) over STEELERS - Pittsburgh loses another offensive lineman for the year when Max Starks was lost last week to a neck injury. Meanwhile the Patriots took it on the chin with Cleveland running all over them last Sunday. A battle of two of the top AFC teams and while I think the Steelers will sneak out the victory, it will be a close game that gets won late in the 4th quarter.
Eagles (-3) over REDSKINS - Another NFL soap opera with the Donovan McNabb / Mike Shanahan storyline of the past two weeks. That will not be the reason why Philadelphia gets this Monday Night road win. It will be the improved quarterback play of Michael Vick, who makes this Eagle team an "X factor" as we look for the top team in the NFC. The Eagles get revenge for the early season loss in that took place in Philadelphia.

Week 9 picks: 5-7-1
2010 season: 63-58-9


Win / Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 10: podcast listener, Greg

Week 9 results: Mike (11-2) / Sal (7-6) / Guest (10-3)
2010 season: Mike (82-48) / Sal (78-52) / Guest (67-63)

Week 10 picks:
Sal / Greg --- Ravens at Falcons --- Mike
Sal --- Lions at Bills --- Mike / Greg
Sal / Mike / Greg --- Vikings at Bears ---
Sal / Greg --- Jets at Browns --- Mike
--- Panthers at Buccaneers --- Sal / Mike / Greg
Sal / Mike / Greg --- Texans at Jaguars ---
--- Bengals at Colts --- Sal / Mike / Greg
Mike / Greg --- Titans at Dolphins --- Sal
Sal / Greg --- Chiefs at Broncos --- Mike
--- Cowboys at Giants --- Sal / Mike / Greg
--- Seahawks at Cardinals --- Sal / Mike / Greg
--- Rams at 49ers --- Sal / Mike / Greg
--- Patriots at Steelers --- Sal / Mike / Greg
Sal / Mike / Greg --- Eagles at Redskins ---

NFL 2010 - Week 9 picks.....

OK, not even the most ardent "Cowboy hater" would have predicted the Dallas Cowboys to be 1-6 (0-4 in The Palace) after eight weeks of this NFL season. Plus we have the Chiefs and Buccaneers sitting atop their divisions with 5-2 records. So should we say these are no longer aberrations, but how these teams really will look at season's end? The next few weeks should start to tell that story better as we head into November games and really separate pretenders from contenders.

As for the picks against the spread, we'll take anything on the winning side of the ledger.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker and podcast listener, Aaron.

NFL Week 9 picks (Home Team in Caps)
Bye Week: 49ers, Broncos, Jaguars, Rams, Redskins, Titans

Buccaneers (+9 1/2) over FALCONS - Tampa Bay's 5-2 record is a bunch of "smoke & mirrors", but they are an improved team. I think they keep it close against Atlanta.
BILLS (-1) over Bears - Chicago is off a bye week and Buffalo is playing the game in their second home of Toronto. The Bills have been close to getting their first win the past couple of weeks and finally pull it out this week against Jay Cutler and the Bears.
Patriots (-6 1/2) over BROWNS - Cleveland has been playing close games and have looked ok at times, but I have a strange feeling that if given the opportunity, Patriots' coach Bill Belicheck takes it to his former division rival Eric Mangini and his Browns.
Jets (-3 1/2) over LIONS - The first meeting between the top two quarterbacks taken in last year's draft. There is a part of me that want to take the Lions and maybe even outright, but I just can't pull the trigger on Detroit. Will be interesting to see how the Lions' front four does against the New York offensive line.
VIKINGS (-8) over Cardinals - The Minnesota defense has to take advantage of playing against an offense led by Derek Anderson and without a healthy Beanie Wells. Not sure who will catch the ball for the Vikings, but I hear their running back is pretty good.
Saints (-6 1/2) over PANTHERS - I give the Panthers a second chance last week and they dive on me. The Saints gets a huge push from that victory over the Steelers and start a roll back to the front of the NFC line.
Dolphins (+7) over RAVENS - Miami and Baltimore both play tough football by trying to run the ball and play good defense. Even though the Ravens are home and off the bye, that formula of running and defense should make for a closely played game.
TEXANS (-1 1/2) over Chargers - I am not thrilled picking the Texans here as it seems like they peaked when they beat the Colts in week one, but the Chargers are too beat up and with Antonio Gates joining that injury list it points to a Houston home victory.
Giants (-5) over SEAHAWKS - The New York defense gets after the quarterback and that will make for a long day for new starter Charlie Whitehurst. The long trip from coast to coast can be a speed bump, but the Giants are coming off their bye and that should negate that effect.
Chiefs (+3) over RAIDERS - Both teams have been running the ball real well and that has been the biggest reason for their respective turnarounds. The Kansas City defense is a little better against the run and quicker than the Raiders, and those advantages help lead the Chiefs over their rivals from Oakland.
Colts (+2 1/2) over EAGLES - Michael Vick comes back this week and could give the Indianapolis defense some trouble, but Peyton Manning will bother the Philadelphia defense even more.
Cowboys (+9 1/2) over PACKERS - Dallas is a train wreck, but the Packers are coming off a good road win over the Jets and have a much needed bye week in front of them. Those factors lead to a game that is still a Green Bay win, but closer than many expect.
Steelers (-3 1/2) over BENGALS - Last year Cincinnati swept the AFC North games in taking the division, while this year they are fighting for their season in week nine. Pittsburgh took a loss last week in New Orleans and will look to get back on track and get a little payback at the same time.

Week 8 picks: 8-5
2010 season: 58-51-8


Win/Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 9: podcast listener, Aaron

Week 8 results: Mike (7-6) / Sal (9-4) / Guest (7-6)
2010 season: Mike (71-46) / Sal (71-46) / Guest (57-60)

Week 9 picks:
--- Buccaneers at Falcons --- Sal / Mike / Aaron
Mike / Aaron --- Bears at Bills --- Sal
Sal / Mike / Aaron --- Patriots at Browns ---
Sal / Mike / Aaron --- Jets at Lions ---
--- Cardinals at Vikings --- Sal / Mike / Aaron
Sal / Mike / Aaron --- Saints at Panthers ---
Sal --- Dolphins at Ravens --- Mike / Aaron
--- Chargers at Texans --- Sal /Mike / Aaron
Sal / Mike / Aaron --- Giants at Seahawks ---
Sal --- Chiefs at Raiders --- Mike / Aaron
Sal / Aaron --- Colts at Eagles --- Mike
--- Cowboys at Packers --- Sal / Mike / Aaron
Sal / Mike / Aaron --- Steelers at Bengals ---

NFL 2010 - Week 8 picks.....

Another NFL week, another round of scratching your head wondering what is happening this NFL season. The Bills bringing the Raven to overtime, in Baltimore, while the Super Bowl champs look like chumps in losing at home to Cleveland by 20 points and now have the Steelers coming to town. This week we send the Broncos and 49ers to London for the NFL's annual trip "over the pond". Why are we punishing the English?

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker and podcast listener, Shaun.

NFL Week 8 picks (Home Team in Caps)
Bye Week: Bears, Browns, Eagles, Falcons, Giants, Ravens

Dolphins (+3) over BENGALS
COWBOYS (-7) over Jaguars
LIONS (-1 1/2) over Redskins
CHIEFS (-7 1/2) over Bills
Panthers (+3) over RAMS
Packers (+4 1/2) over JETS
Broncos (+1) over 49ERS
CHARGERS (-4) over Titans
RAIDERS (-2) over Seahawks
PATRIOTS (-4) over Vikings
CARDINALS (-3) over Buccaneers
SAINTS (-1) over Steelers
COLTS (-5) over Texans

Week 7 picks: 7-7
2010 season: 50-46-8


Win/Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 8: podcast listener, Shaun

Week 7 results: Mike (9-5) / Sal (6-8) / Guest (6-8)
2010 season: Mike (64-40) / Sal (62-42) / Guest (50-54)

Week 8 picks:
Sal / Mike / Shaun --- Dolphins at Bengals ---
--- Jaguars at Cowboys --- Sal / Mike / Shaun
Mike / Shaun --- Redskins at Lions --- Sal
--- Bills at Chiefs --- Sal / Mike /Shaun
Sal --- Panthers at Rams --- Mike / Shaun
Sal --- Packers at Jets --- Mike / Shaun
Sal / Shaun --- Broncos at 49ers --- Mike
Mike / Shaun --- Titans at Chargers --- Sal
--- Seahawks at Raiders --- Sal / Mike / Shaun
Mike --- Vikings at Patriots --- Sal / Shaun
Mike / Shaun --- Buccaneers at Cardinals --- Sal
Mike /Shaun --- Steelers at Saints --- Sal
--- Texans at Colts --- Sal / Mike / Shaun

NFL 2010 - Week 7 picks.....

Got back on the winning side with my picks last week, but four of the games ended in ties with the point spreads. Those are losses in Vegas, but just tie games for me here on the blog. Week 7 is filled with a very interesting slate of good match-up games. Enjoy.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker, Nate Heldman. Nate is a gaming buddy of mine who works in the inner city of Chicago. A good man.


NFL Week 7 picks (Home Team in Caps)
Bye Week: Colts, Jets, Lions, Texans

Bengals (+5 1/2) over FALCONS
Redskins (+3) over BEARS
TITANS (-3) over Eagles
CHIEFS (-1) over Jaguars
DOLPHINS (+2 1/2) over Steelers
SAINTS (-11 1/2) over Browns
Rams (+3) over BUCCANEERS
49ers (-3) over PANTHERS
RAVENS (-12) over Bills
SEAHAWKS (-3) over Cardinals
BRONCOS (-7) over Raiders
Patriots (+3) over CHARGERS
Vikings (+3) over PACKERS
COWBOYS (-3) over Giants

Week 6 picks: 8-2-4
2010 season: 43-39-8


Win/Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 7: Nate Heldman

Week 6 results: Mike (11-3) / Sal (11-3) / Guest (7-7)
2010 season: Mike (55-35) / Sal (56-34) / Guest (44-46)

Week 7 picks:
Sal --- Bengals at Falcons --- Mike / Nate
Sal / Mike /Nate --- Redskins over Bears ---
--- Eagles at Titans --- Sal / Mike / Nate
--- Jaguars at Chiefs --- Sal / Mike / Nate
Mike / Nate --- Steelers at Dolphins --- Sal
--- Browns at Saints --- Sal / Mike / Nate
Sal / Nate --- Rams at Buccaneers --- Mike
Sal / Mike / Nate --- 49ers at Panthers ---
--- Bills at Ravens --- Sal / Mike / Nate
Nate --- Cardinals at Seahawks --- Sal / Mike
--- Raiders at Broncos --- Sal / Mike / Nate
Sal --- Patriots at Chargers --- Mike / Nate
Sal / Mike / Nate --- Vikings at Packers ---
Mike --- Giants at Cowboys --- Sal / Nate

NFL 2010 - Week 6 picks.....

Well, I hope you followed my advice and did not bet the house, because if you did, you are reading this in a cardboard box. Only 4 wins for the week against the spread? Yikes. Well, we wipe the slate and move forward to week 6. Some interesting match-ups this week, including the battle of the two unlikely 1-3 teams when the Cowboys visit the Vikings. Plus the two worst teams in the NFL (Bills and Panthers) get the week off. Enjoy.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker, childhood friend and podcast listener, Joe Cuomo.

NFL Week 6 picks (Home Team in Caps)
Bye Week: Bengals, Bills, Cardinals, Panthers

BEARS (-7) over Seahawks
Dolphins (Even) over PACKERS
Chargers (-7 1/2) over RAMS
Ravens (+3) over PATRIOTS
GIANTS (-8) over Lions
EAGLES (-3) over Falcons
STEELERS (-13) over Browns
Saints (-4) over BUCCANEERS
TEXANS (-4) over Chiefs
Jets (-3) over BRONCOS
49ERS (-7) over Raiders
VIKINGS (-1 1/2) over Cowboys
Colts (+3) over REDSKINS
Titans (-3) over JAGUARS

Week 5 picks: 4-10

2010 season: 35-37-4


Win/Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 6: Longtime friend and listener, Joe Cuomo

Week 5 results: Mike (6-8) / Sal (6-8) / Guest (6-8)
2010 season: Mike (44-32) / Sal (45-31) / Guest (37-39)

Week 6 picks:
--- Seahawks at Bears --- Sal / Mike / Joe
Sal / Mike --- Dolphins at Packers --- Joe
Sal / Mike / Joe --- Chargers at Rams ---
Sal / Mike / Joe --- Ravens at Patriots ---
Sal / Mike / Joe --- Saints at Buccaneers ---
--- Lions at Giants --- Sal / Mike / Joe
--- Falcons at Eagles --- Sal / Mike / Joe
--- Browns at Steelers --- Sal / Mike / Joe
Joe --- Chiefs at Texans --- Sal / Mike
--- Raiders at 49ers --- Sal / Mike / Joe
Sal / Mike / Joe --- Jets at Broncos ---
Joe --- Cowboys at Vikings --- Sal / Mike
Sal / Mike / Joe --- Colts at Redskins ---
Sal / Mike --- Titans at Jaguars --- Joe

NFL 2010 - Week 5 picks.....

Four weeks down for most of the NFL (sans the Cowboys, Vikings, Chiefs and Buccaneers who had last week's bye), so the kinks need to be out as we head into the second quarter of the season. Plus we now have Randy Moss moving from New England to Minnesota, which could shake up division races and the power of each conference.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker, podcast listener Mark Felty.

NFL Week 5 picks (Home Team in Caps)
Bye Week: Dolphins, Patriots, Seahawks, Steelers

Jaguars (-1) over BILLS
BENGALS (-5 1/2) over Buccaneers
Falcons (-3) over BROWNS
LIONS (-3) over Rams
Chiefs (+7 1/2) over COLTS
Packers (-1) over REDSKINS
Bears (-3) over PANTHERS
Broncos (+6) over RAVENS
TEXANS (-3) over Giants
Saints (-7 1/2) over CARDINALS
COWBOYS (-5 1/2) over Titans
Chargers (-5) over RAIDERS
49ERS (-3) over Eagles
Vikings (+6 1/2) over JETS


Week 4 picks: 7-6-1
2010 season: 31-27-4

Win/Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 5: SportsFan Buzz listener, Mark Felty

Week 4 results: Mike (6-8) / Sal (9-5) / Guest (6-8)
2010 season: Mike (38-24) / Sal (39-23) / Guest (31-31)

Week 5 picks:
Sal / Mike / Mark --- Jaguars at Bills ---
Mark --- Buccaneers at Bengals --- Sal / Mike
Sal / Mike / Mark --- Falcons at Browns ---
Mark --- Rams at Lions --- Sal / Mike
Mark --- Chiefs at Colts --- Sal / Mike
Sal / Mike --- Packers at Redskins --- Mark
Sal / Mark --- Bears at Panthers --- Mike
--- Broncos at Ravens --- Sal / Mike / Mark
--- Giants at Texans --- Sal / Mike / Mark
Sal / Mike / Mark --- Saints at Cardinals ---
--- Titans at Cowboys --- Sal / Mike / Mark
Sal / Mike / Mark --- Chargers at Raiders ---
Mark --- Eagles at 49ers --- Sal / Mike
Sal / Mike --- Vikings at Jets --- Mark

NFL 2010 - Week 4 picks.....

Three weeks are done and we have three surprising teams at 3-0. Teams that needed wins (Dallas and Minnesota) got them and now a bye week to get their teams in order, while one (San Francisco) took a tough loss and doesn't see its path getting easier with a cross country trip to Atlanta on tap. As for the picks, week three was a hard week on my picking record and my ego.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike, myself and our guest picker, Cassie (my daughter who better not show up daddy).

NFL Week 4 picks (Home Team in Caps)
Bye Week: Buccaneers, Chiefs, Cowboys, Vikings

49ers (+6 1/2) over FALCONS
Atlanta got a huge win against the Saints last week on the road and now they gets a struggling San Francisco team who looks like the team we expected coming into the season. While I think the Falcons win this game, I think there will be a bit of a letdown from last week and they allow the 49ers to keep it close before pulling out the victory.

Jets (-4 1/2) over BILLS
This seems like a small number for two teams on opposite ends of the NFL "good scale". Jets will be without Darrelle Revis again this week, but it will not matter against the anemic Bills' offense. Expect a big day from LaDainian Tomlinson as New York pounds the ball against the Buffalo defense.

Bengals (+3) over BROWNS
The Bengal offense has been terrible and you have to wonder if it is all on Carson Palmer's shoulders? This week will be the test as the Cincinnati offense should be able to move the ball against a Browns team that gave up three TD passes through the air last week. Bengals' offense does get on track and they roll Cleveland.

PACKERS (-14 1/2) over Lions
This is a huge number, but the Packers gave Monday night's game to the Bears with multiple penalties and mental breakdowns and they take out their anger on the Lions' defense. Long day for Detroit at Lambeau Field as Aaron Rodgers leads a Packer team that knows they let one slip away against the Bears.

Broncos (+8 1/2) over TITANS
The Denver offense has been moving the ball well through the air, but need to put more points on the board. Tennessee has not looked great the last two weeks, despite the win against the Giants, and this game is close until the Titans pull off the victory late in the fourth quarter.

Seahawks (-1 1/2) over RAMS
There is a part of me that wants to give more love to the Rams after their first victory last week, but I just can't pull the trigger on them unless Steven Jackson is 100% healthy. Seattle needed two kickoff returns to beat the Chargers, but they were tough when needed in keeping the San Diego offense out of the end zone. Seahawks have enough to get the win and take early control of the bad NFC West.

SAINTS (-13) over Panthers
Carolina is a mess and Jimmy Clausen will have to learn on the job. That lesson will be tough against an opportunistic Saints defense. The New Orleans defense was exposed the last two weeks with both the 49ers and Falcons running against them, but because they won't be afraid of Clausen, they will stack the line and stuff DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Drew Brees has a big game and the Saints get back into the win column.

Ravens (+3) over STEELERS
Pittsburgh is playing with "house money" as they sit at 3-0 coming into the last game of the Ben Roethlisberger suspension. The Steeler defense has been great, but the Raven offense is better than any of the first three Pittsburgh has faced and they will put up enough points to get a tough divisional victory on the road.

Texans (-2) over RAIDERS
Houston looked like the Dallas team they were facing last week as they made mistakes that cost them chances and possibly the victory on Sunday. The Raiders suffered a tough loss in Arizona when the game winning field goal was pushed left by Sebastian Janikowski. Oakland has been running the ball well with Darren McFadden and will try to shorten the game against an explosive Texan offense. Some concern over Andre Johnson's ankle, but the Texans have too much for the Raiders.

Colts (-7) over JAGUARS
Jacksonville has been a turnover machine the last two weeks and having Peyton Manning and the Colts coming in will not make things easier for them as a shootout is not how the Jaguars want to play the game. Colts defense came up big when Denver threatened them last week and will step up to frustrate David Garrard and the Jag offense.

Redskins (+6 1/2) over EAGLES
Donovan McNabb returns to Philadelphia and it will be interesting to see how the Philly fans greet him. Washington did not look good in losing to the Rams, while the Eagles are riding Michael Vick sparking the offense, but it should be tempered a little as it has been the Jags and Lions the past two weeks. Eagles win, but the Redskins keep it close.

CHARGERS (-8) over Cardinals
The "slow start" curse has again hit the Chargers after their loss up in Seattle. Ryan Mathews should be back this week which will help San Diego balance their offense. The Cardinals ran the ball more with the return of Beanie Wells to help Tim Hightower and will probably try it against a suspect Charger running defense. Look for Philip Rivers and the offense to get the ball into the endzone more and get back to even for the season.

Bears (+3) over GIANTS
Does this Chicago team have the look of the 2006 team? A defense that is good and takes advantages of their opponents mistakes, while the offense does enough to put up the points to get victories. This Giant team is the perfect foe for them as they have been terrible protecting the ball and have self-destructed the past two weeks. New York needs to get back on track, but it may not happen against a Bear team still riding their early season success.

DOLPHINS (Even) over Patriots
Miami hurt themselves with a few defensive breakdowns against the Jets, especially against Dustin Keller and on third downs. Not a good combination against a Tom Brady led offense his passing weapons. On the flip side, the Dolphin offense moved the ball very well against the New York defense and the New England defense is nowhere nearly as good. Look for another big game from Brandon Marshall as the Dolphins take advantage against the young Patriot secondary.

Week 3 picks: 7-9
2010 season: 24-21-3

Win/Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 4: Cassie (my daughter)

Week 3 results: Mike (9-7) / Sal (8-8) / Guest (7-9)
2010 season: Mike (32-16) / Sal (30-18) / Guest (25-23)

Week 4 picks:
--- 49ers at Falcons --- Sal / Mike / Cassie
Sal / Mike / Cassie --- Jets at Bills ---
Sal / Mike / Cassie --- Bengals at Browns ---
--- Lions at Packers --- Sal / Mike / Cassie
Sal / Cassie --- Broncos at Titans --- Mike
Sal / Mike / Cassie --- Seahawks at Rams ---
--- Panthers at Saints --- Sal / Mike / Cassie
Sal --- Ravens at Steelers --- Mike / Cassie
Sal / Mike --- Texans at Raiders --- Cassie
Sal / Mike / Cassie --- Colts at Jaguars ---
Sal --- Redskins at Eagles --- Mike / Cassie
Cassie --- Cardinals at Chargers --- Sal / Mike
Sal / Mike --- Bears at Giants --- Cassie
--- Patriots at Dolphins --- Sal / Mike / Cassie

NFL 2010 - Week 3 picks.....

Two weeks down and it is not much clearer than before the season started. Some trends starting to take shape, but not many after these two weeks. Some of the 2-0 teams make you say "wow" (Kansas City and Tampa Bay), while some of the 0-2 teams have you scratching your head (Dallas and Minnesota).

My season is the same, as no trends are developing. Losing record the first week, while great numbers in week 2.

Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks of Mike (not as good as week 1), myself (better than week 1) and our guest picker, Richard Ramos.

NFL Week 3 picks (Home Team in Caps)

49ers (-1) over CHIEFS
The 49ers had a tough time in Seattle to open the season and Kansas City has been known to also give visitors a difficult time and the stadium should be rocking as the Chiefs are 2-0. The Chief offense has not played well and the 49er defense will be no easier for them. Look for quite a bit of Frank Gore running and the first win of the season for Mike Singletary's 49ers.

VIKINGS (-11) over Lions
Still lots of passing offense questions for the Vikings after two weeks, but they get healthy and on the same page against the Lions. Adrian Peterson ran hard against the Dolphins and will have another big day to help Minnesota get a win on the board.

PATRIOTS (-13 1/2) over Bills
New England's offense got bottled up in the second half against the Jets, but gets the perfect opponent to get back on track with Buffalo coming to town. Look for Tom Brady to rack up big numbers in this glorified scrimmage against the worst team in the NFL.

SAINTS (-5) over Falcons
Short week for the Saints after pulling out a tough victory Monday night over the 49ers and they suffer a big loss with the Reggie Bush broken leg. Atlanta crushed Arizona, but also lost Michael Turner to a groin injury. The Saints take advantage of that loud Superdome crowd and gets a tough divisional victory to stay undefeated.

Titans (+3) over GIANTS
The Giants have not looked good the first two weeks, despite the week one victory. While the Titan offense looked dismal against Pittsburgh, I think we will be saying that more this year when opponents fact the Steelers. Vince Young and the Titan offense gets back on track and grabs the road victory.

Steelers (-3) over BUCCANEERS
Battle of 2-0 teams. Who had that to start the season? Even though the Steeler quarterback situation is questionable, the Pittsburgh defense looks like the 2008 defense and hands the surprising Bucs their first loss of the season.

Bengals (-1 1/2) over PANTHERS
Jimmy Clausen gets his first NFL start and its against a tough Bengal defense. The Panther offense will have to run the ball and Cincinnati will dare Clausen to throw the ball. Could make for a long day. Carson Palmer still needs to get the offense going and this week could be the launching point.

RAVENS (-8 1/2) over Browns
This is a test week for Joe Flacco and the Raven offense. Ten points each of the first two games is not what was expected of this team. Could not have a better remedy than facing the Browns. If the Raven offense struggles again, there will be lots of questions and finger pointing at Flacco and offense coordinator Cam Cameron.

TEXANS (-3) over Cowboys
The records say Texans, but the fact that the Houston defense has given up more than 400 yards the first two weeks, plus the loss of left tackle Daune Brown to a four week suspension points to the Cowboys being able to get the victory. Dallas still not running the ball well and the Houston crowd will be loud and fierce and that will be enough to push Houston over their in-state rivals.

RAMS (+3 1/2) over Redskins
The Rams have played tough the first two weeks and are looking to give Sam Bradford his first NFL victory. Washington could be looking past St. Louis, but they have more talent than the Rams and it will be enough to get them a close victory.

Eagles (-3) over JAGUARS
Michael Vick is now the Eagles' starting quarterback and while this change could cause a distraction, it seems the Eagles are all on the same page with this move. Jacksonville was shredded by the San Diego passing game last week and Philly will do the same.

Colts (-5 1/2) over BRONCOS
Knowson Moreno is out for the Broncos, so the thought of running the ball at the Colts and shortening the game is now in trouble. Add in the emotions form the death of wide receiver, Kenny McKinley, and this is a very difficult week for Denver.

Raiders (+4) over CARDINALS
The change for the Raiders to quarterback Bruce Gradkowski has me taking Oakland against the Cardinals in Arizona. While I still think Jason Campbell should be their quarterback, Gradkowski gave them a spark last year and he does it against this week.

Chargers (-6) over SEAHAWKS
The Seattle crowd can be tough to deal with and the San Diego locker room might be a little bit upset after the Vincent Jackson non-trade this week, plus Ryan Mathews injured ankle points to a Seahawks upset. But, Philip Rivers is tough and will help carry the Chargers to a difficult road win with the help of his big man, Antonio Gates.

DOLPHINS (-1) over Jets
The New York defense struggled against the Dolphins' Wildcat offense last year and many expect them to again see heavy doses. I think Miami runs a more conventional run heavy offense, but makes sure it tries to get Brandon Marshall involved and they do against Antonio Cromartie's

Packers (-1) over BEARS
The Mike Martz / Jay Cutler "marriage" seems to be working so far after two games. Martz still not using the running game to balance the attack, but so far, so good. Problem is this Packer defense will harass Cutler and their offense is very good and will put up more points than the Bears in a Monday night shootout.

Week 2 picks: 10-4-2
2010 season: 17-12-3


Win/Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 3: Richard Ramos

Week 2 results: Mike (11-5) / Sal (12-4) / Guest (8-8)
2010 season: Mike (23-9) / Sal (22-10) / Guest (18-14)

Week 3 picks:
Sal --- Titans at Giants --- Mike / Rich
Sal / Mike / Rich --- Steelers at Buccaneers ---
Sal / Mike / Rich --- Bengals at Panthers ---
--- Browns at Ravens --- Sal / Mike / Rich
--- Cowboys at Texans --- Sal / Mike / Rich
Sal / Mike / Rich --- 49ers at Chiefs ---
--- Lions at Vikings --- Sal / Mike / Rich
--- Bills at Patriots --- Sal / Mike / Rich
--- Falcons at Saints --- Sal / Mike /Rich
Sal / Mike / Rich --- Redskins at Rams ---
Sal / Mike --- Eagles at Jaguars --- Rich
Sal / Rich --- Raiders at Cardinals --- Mike
Sal / Rich --- Chargers at Seahawks --- Mike
Sal / Mike / Rich --- Colts at Broncos ---
Rich --- Jets at Dolphins --- Sal / Mike
Sal / Mike / Rich --- Packers at Bears ---

NFL 2010 - Week 2 picks.....

A tough first week of picking as some teams followed their pre-season trends, while others went in the opposite direction of what they showed. Below the point spread games are the win/lose picks that Mike, myself and our weekly guest picker have for week 2.

NFL Week 2 picks (Home Team in Caps)

FALCONS (-7) over Cardinals
Arizona needed all 60 minutes and 3 INTs from Sam Bradford before beating the Rams. Beanie Wells should be back to help the offense. Atlanta suffered a tough loss last week in Pittsburgh and will bounce back a much weaker opponent.

BENGALS (+1) over Ravens
All sane judgement goes against the Bengals bouncing back against a tough Raven team after last week's no show up in New England. Baltimore is on a short week after a tough Monday night game and again on the road. Don't believe the Bengal defense is as bad as they looked against the Patriots. Carson Palmer gets his offense in gear and they squeak out a tough home divisional win.

Chiefs (+2 1/2) over BROWNS
The Chiefs won Monday night despite Matt Cassel going 8 for 22. Their defense looks to be improved, but it is still young in areas. That might not matter as the Browns looked like a mess against Tampa Bay. KC gets the passing on track and starts the season at 2-0.

Bears (+8 1/2) over COWBOYS
Both offensive lines did not protect well last week and both face tough defensive lines in this matchup. Jay Cutler seems to like throwing the ball all over the yard and Matt Forte looks healthy. The Cowboys are too talented to be 0-2, but are still having trouble in the red zone and that is why the Bears keep it close.

Eagles (-3) over LIONS
Michael Vick gets the start for Philadelphia, while it will be Shaun Hill for the Lions. Advantage Eagles. Let the quarterback controversy begin in Philly.

PACKERS (-13 1/2) over Bills
Green Bay will be without Ryan Grant for the rest of the season, but they get Buffalo for Brandon Jackson to make his first NFL start. Aaron Rodgers looked a little rusty last week against the Eagles, but gets himself on track against The Bills' secondary.

Steelers (+6) over TITANS
The Pittsburgh defense stood up against Atlanta's Michael Turner last week and now get Chris Johnson. Plus, Vince Young was effective, but it was against Oakland. The Steelers minus Ben Roethlisberger will have trouble scoring against the Titans' defense, but the Steeler D helps in keeping this close.

Dolphins (+5 1/2) over VIKINGS
Miami got a win, but did not look great against Buffalo. Meanwhile, there is still a bit of concern about the Vikings' receiving corps. Both teams will want to run the ball and the game will come down to which team can move the ball through the air. Miami keeps it close and pull off the out-right victory.

PANTHERS (-3) over Buccaneers
Carolina looked terrible against the Giants, while Tampa Bay got a season opening home victory against the Browns. Cleveland was able to run the ball against the Bucs' defense and expect the Panthers to do the same as they try to protect whichever quarterback starts for them.

BRONCOS (-3) over Seahawks
The Pete Carrol era could not have started any better than it did last week. This week they are on the road and away from their over-friendly crowd. Kyle Orton threw for almost 300 yards and the offense looked better than I had anticipated. Denver gets the win at home.

RAIDERS (-3 1/2) over Rams
Sam Bradford threw the ball 55 times last week. That cannot happen again. I thought the Raiders were a better team headed into 2010 and I will stick with them again this week at home. They ran the ball well against the Titans and should look to keep it up against the St. Louis defense.

Patriots (+1 1/2) over JETS
All the Jet talk this off-season was not lost on New England. Now they get the Jets a little on the downside, after a loss, with their offense in a mess and Darrelle Revis possibly having a sore hamstring. Tom Brady and the Patriot offense shows New York how to put points on the board and gives the Jets their second loss (both at home).

CHARGERS (-8) over Jaguars
San Diego at least knows it won't be raining like it was Monday night in Kansas City. Yes, they miss Vincent Jackson, but probably miss Marcus McNeill more. Just like last year, the Charger defense gave up yards on the ground and will have to be careful with Maurice Jones-Drew running for the Jags. Too much talent on the San Diego side of the ball and they right last week's wrong.

Texans (-3) over REDSKINS
Everything points to "letdown game" and that can be said for both teams, but more to the Texans because they are traveling and are favorites. Arian Foster will have a tougher time finding holes this week. It is student (Gary Kubiak) versus teacher (Mike Shanahan). With a much better offense, student gets the best of his mentor.

COLTS (-5 1/2) over Giants
The Colts' defense got shredded on the ground by Arian Foster and the Texans, and now face a Giant team who will want to run the ball. New York got the win last week, but were helped by Carolina's turnovers. Don't see Peyton giving little brother Eli the same opportunities. Indy gets back on track and avoids their first 0-2 start since Peyton's rookie year.

Saints (-4 1/2) over 49ERS
There was no worse way for a promising team to start their season then the way San Fransisco started up in Seattle and it does not get any easier, even at home, as the Super Bowl Champions come to town. New Orleans' offense looked sluggish most of the game against Minnesota, but had eleven days to get back on track. I think they do and put the team favored to win the NFC West in a 0-2 hole.

Week 1 picks: 7-8-1
2010 season: 7-8-1


Win/Lose picks:
Guest picker for week 2: Paul Lebowitz

Week 1 results: Mike (12-4) / Sal (10-6) / Guest (10-6)
2010 season: Mike (12-4) / Sal (10-6) / Guest (10-6)

Week 2 picks:
Paul --- Steelers at Titans --- Sal / Mike
Sal --- Dolphins at Vikings --- Mike / Paul
--- Cardinals at Falcons --- Sal / Mike / Paul
Mike --- Ravens at Bengals --- Sal / Paul
Sal / Mike / Paul --- Chiefs at Browns ---
--- Bears at Cowboys --- Sal / Mike / Paul
Sal / Mike --- Eagles at Lions --- Paul
Paul --- Bills at Packers --- Sal / Mike
Paul --- Buccaneers at Panthers --- Sal / Mike
--- Seahawks at Broncos --- Sal / Mike / Paul
--- Rams at Raiders --- Sal / Mike / Paul
Sal / Mike --- Texans at Redskins --- Paul
Sal / Paul --- Patriots at Jets --- Mike
--- Jaguars at Chargers --- Sal / Mike / Paul
Paul --- Giants at Colts --- Sal / Mike
Sal / Mike --- Saints at 49ers --- Paul

NFL Week 16 picks.....

Week 16 picks (Home team in CAPS)

TITANS (-3) over Chargers
Yes, the Chargers have won nine in a row, but their defense is still a weak link. The Titans pass defense has been good, but Tennessee has some defensive injuries and will also be tested. With Chris Johnson so close to 2000 rushing yards and very close to breaking Marshall Faulk's yard from scrimmage record, San Diego will see a very heavy dose of #28.

PACKERS (-14) over Seahawks
Green Bay looks to bounce back after the tough loss to Pittsburgh and takes it out on a poor Seattle defense. Look for the Packers to have big offensive numbers.

Raiders (NL) over BROWNS
Giving the Raiders some holiday love after their come from behind upset win in Denver on Sunday. The Browns will have to play this game, and the rest of the season, without Brady Quinn who has an injured foot. As long as Oakland keep the ball away from Joshua Cribbs, they should win the game.

Chiefs (+14) over BENGALS
The Chiefs are bad, but they have shown they can score some points. Cincinnati is coming off the tough loss in San Diego, and then Chris Henry's funeral on Tuesday. Bengals win, but their distractions will make it close.

Bills (+8 1/2) over FALCONS
Atlanta got the win last week against the Jets, but did not look like world beaters on the offensive side of the ball. Buffalo has been playing better, and keeps it close against the Falcons.

DOLPHINS (-3) over Texans
A furious 18 point comeback by Miami last week against Tennessee was wasted when Chad Henne was picked off in overtime. Andre Johnson has been a monster for Houston, and will give the Dolphin rookie DBs a handful. That said, the Dolphins keep the turnovers to a minimal and get back on track to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Panthers (+7) over GIANTS
Carolina starting to play better football under quarterback Matt Moore and will keep this close. The Giants played a great game against a bad Redskin team on Monday Night, but will be in a tougher fight as they look to keep pace in the NFC Wildcard race.

SAINTS (-14 1/2) over Bucs
We'll see how the Saints react after suffering their first loss of the year. Having Tampa Bay in town as your opponent after that defeat is the best medicine New Orleans could have wished for, and they will roll in a big victory.

Jaguars (+8) over PATRIOTS
Jacksonville was "oh so close" to beating the Colts last Thursday night, and now they travel to New England to face the Patriots. The Jaguars are part of that 7-7 mess of teams in the AFC, but the Patriots will get the close home win and stay ahead of the others in the AFC East.

STEELERS (-2 1/2) over Ravens
The Steelers were seconds away from packing for the holidays, but the Mike Wallace touchdown catch as time expired to beat the Packers, when added to the losses suffered by the other AFC teams, has given Pittsburgh new life. The defending champions take advantage of that life and beat their division foes.

EAGLES (-7) over Broncos
Someone still has to explain to me how Denver allowed Oakland to comeback on Denver's own home field and get that victory last Sunday. I've been with the Broncos much of the year, but I think that was the beginning of the end for their playoff chances. Meanwhile, Philadelphia is playing their best football of the year. The Eagles win and upset the Brian Dawkins homecoming.

CARDINALS (-14) over Rams
St. Louis played Arizona tough a few weeks ago in their place, but this time the game is in the desert. The Cardinals have clinched the NFC West, but they play hard and try to fine tune themselves in order to make another long playoff run.

49ERS (-12) over Lions
Even though this is a large number, the Lions are pretty bad, while the 49ers offense can put up points when Alex Smith is not turning the ball over to his opponents. This week they keep the ball and get a big win.

COLTS (-5 1/2) over Jets
I might have leaned towards the Jets in this one if not for the poor performance last Sunday at home against Atlanta. Peyton Manning now says he would like to stay undefeated, and it seems what Peyton wants, Peyton gets. Colts end the day 15-0, and one win away from regular season perfection.

REDSKINS (+7) over Cowboys
Dallas has the huge win over New Orleans on Saturday night, and should roll over a Redskin team who looked terrible Monday night, but there is just something that says Washington keeps this close and cares the Cowboys and their fans. Dallas wins in the end, but they sweat it out.

BEARS (+7) over Vikings
Trouble in Minnesota paradise between Brett Favre and Brad Childress and how the offense is game planned and the audibles. The Vikings are better then the Bears, but with this is another outdoor game for the Vikings and they have not looked good in their last two played in nature. Bears play hard against a division rival for Lovie Smith.

Week 15 record (9-6-1)
2009 season (68-64-2)

Week 15 NFL Picks.....

The SportsFan Buzz "Best of the Decade" podcast has been rescheduled for Monday, December 28th and will be posted the next day.


Week 15 picks (home team in CAPS)

JAGUARS (+3) over Colts
Here we go again. Another shot at someone knocking off the undefeated team. While the Colts have everything wrapped up, this is a playoff game for the Jaguars. Plus for the first time all season, Jacksonville will be playing in front of a sellout crowd. Jags keep it close and possibly pull the upset.

Cowboys (+7) over SAINTS
Our second undefeated team, and just like the Colts, the Saints will be tested. Yes, the Cowboys are in their December swoon, but if they attack the Saints weakness of defending the run, and stick with it, Dallas should keep it close and can be the team to push New Orleans from the perfect mountain.

Packers (+1 ½) over STEELERS
One team has won five in the row, while the other has lost five in a row, so this should be a no-brainer, but I struggled with it before deciding on the Packers. I can’t imagine the defending champs losing six in a row, but I had this Packer team at the start of the season and I believe they keep the roll going.

Dolphins (+3 ½) over TITANS
Both teams are playing good, tough football led by their respective running games. Don’t blink if watching this one, as both teams will run and run some more against the other. A hobbled Vince Young means the Dolphins can key a little more on Chris Johnson, and that will be the difference in the game.

Patriots (-7) over BILLS
Buffalo had the Patriots down and out in the opening week Monday Night game, then watched Tom Brady and company score two late touchdowns, helped by Bills’ kick returner, Leodis McKelvin fumble which set up the Patriots for the go ahead touchdown. New England is still looking for their first win this year in an opponent’s stadium, and they get it in Buffalo.

Cardinals (-12) over LIONS
Arizona lost their opportunity to wrap up the NFC West on Monday Night with a very sloppy (7 turnovers) and uninspired effort. They will make up for it on Sunday when visiting Detroit. The Lions are beat up, and even though their offense has improved in 2009, their defense has not done the same. Kurt Warner and his receivers put up big numbers and clinch their division in the process.

EAGLES (-9) over 49ers
The Eagles showed off their offensive weapons on Sunday Night against the Giants, and they will do the same Sunday when the 49ers come to town. The defensive effort was suspect against New York, but I think they get it settled at home. Donovan McNabb and his teammates have the NFC East title in their sights, and they keep up their good play against San Francisco.

JETS (NL) over Falcons
Atlanta still is not sure if either Matt Ryan or Michael Turner will be on the field for them against the tough New York defense. While Mark Sanchez will be behind center for the Jets (albeit wearing two knee braces), but I expect him to be turning and handing off to Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene most of the game. Jets keep the playoff hopes alive for another week.

RAVENS (-10 ½) over Bears
The Bears seemed like a lost team after their defeat last week to Green Bay. It has been a long season for them between the injuries on defense and inconsistent offense, and this trip to Baltimore will not help them as the Ravens got the offense rolling last week against Detroit, and will look to continue the good play as they try to gain the last AFC playoff spot.

Browns (+1 ½) over CHIEFS
Maybe the Browns will get some momentum off their big win against Pittsburgh last Thursday, against a Kansas City team which is waiting for the season to end. If the Browns defense put in another effort like they did last week, Cleveland will be riding a two game winning streak.

Texans (-12 1/2) over RAMS
The Rams are another team looking forward to the off season. The Texans are too strong, and still have a slim chance at the final wildcard spot, so expect a good effort from Houston against a weaker opponent.

Bengals (+6 ½) over CHARGERS
This one takes on a whole different tone in the wake of Chris Henry’s death. The winner has the inside track to the number two seed in the AFC, and the important bye week. The Bengals need to run the ball, and keep running against the weak Charger run defense, while keeping the Chargers passing game from making the big play downfield. The Bengals’ safety, Chris Crocker, is out of the game, so it is even more important that the defensive line help the secondary by putting pressure on Philip Rivers. Cincinnati rides emotion to keep it close and if able to run, get the victory.

BRONCOS (-14) over Raiders
It is so bad in Oakland that Charlie Frye is the Raiders’ starting quarterback over number one overall pick Jamarcus Russell. Denver stays focused at home, and wins big over this dysfunctional franchise.

SEAHAWKS (-7) over Bucs
Battle of the two 1976 expansion teams is about the only thing I can think of interest about this match-up. Seattle has played well at home, and Tampa Bay is making a very long trip and bringing a pretty bad team.

PANTHERS (+9) over Vikings
While the Panthers’ season is over, they might be playing for their coaches’, as well as their own jobs. The possibility of bad field conditions in Charlotte, along with this being the Vikings first cold weather game of the season should mean a low scoring close affair. Minnesota wins, but Carolina will keep it close.

Giants (-3) over REDSKINS
New York gave up 45 points to the Eagles last Sunday, but even with the poor performance and loss, they still have a good chance at capturing the second NFC wildcard slot. The Redskins will be looking to spoil their division rival’s season, but the Giants put together enough of a game to get the victory.

Week 14 record (5-11) OUCH!
2009 season (59-58-1)