Well, we are down to the last week of the season and have wrapped up winning records but we aren't much on the plus side of the money. Although, a win is a win and it's always better to walk away with a little money than losing it. The last week of the year is always one of the hardest to pick games because of teams resting players for the playoffs or losing for a better draft pick. However, not many teams will be resting because other than Kansas City no team is locked into their spot and many of them are fighting for one last chance to make it to the postseason. For the last time, let's get it.
SuperContest Picks (Home team in CAPS)
Packers -3 over BEARS Rodgers is back so expect the Pack to win.
Redskins +3.5 over GIANTS Eli will keep Skins in it with turnovers.
STEELERS -7 over Browns Big Ben smells the playoffs, plays big against rival.
PATRIOTS -7 over Bills NE won't take Bills lightly after they shut out Miami.
VIKINGS PK over Lions Detroit is in the gutters and don't want out.
Other NFL
FALCONS +6 over Panthers Matt Ryan finally coming around, but too little too late.
TITANS -7 over Texans Texans ready for the #1 pick in the draft.
Ravens +6.5 over BENGALS Defending champs won't go down easy.
COLTS -10.5 over Jaguars Indy outscoring foes 48-10 in last 2 games.
COWBOYS +7 over Eagles Dallas held Foles' Eagles to 3 points in Philly.
Jets +7.5 over DOLPHINS Haven't been sold on Miami all year, won't make playoffs.
SAINTS -10.5 over Bucs Brees at home has been money all year, 6-1 ATS.
Broncos -10 over RAIDERS Peyton setting records, will run up the score.
CARDINALS -2.5 over 49ers Arizona still fighting for playoffs, great at home.
Chiefs +10 over CHARGERS KC playing backups, will still cover.
SEAHAWKS -12.5 over Rams Seattle looks to lock up home field advantage.
SuperContest
Last Week: 4-1
Season Total: 43-33-4
Overall
Last Week: 10-5-1
Season Total: 124-107-8
Showing posts with label Minnesota Vikings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Minnesota Vikings. Show all posts
Friday, January 3, 2014
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
NFL Week 13 Pick'em
Well, it feels good to get rid of that losing streak. We had a nice 9-5 overall week but the SuperContest picks could have been better than 3-2 (thanks a lot Panthers). The New England Patriots had a huge comeback win over the Denver Broncos 34-31 in OT. Tom Brady's offense was lost in the first half falling behind 24-0. However, he rallied his team to score 31 straight points. But, it was a muffed punt in overtime that set up the Patriots for the game winning field goal. This wasn't the only game to go into OT either as Minnesota and Green Bay played to a tie. This was the second tie in two years. Each team scored a field goal on their first possession of the extra time but couldn't score again. I think they need to get rid of ties in the NFL altogether but a debate for another time. We'll stick with our shorter breakdowns again this week because we all know that gamblers are superstitious and like to stay with what works.
SuperContest Picks (Home team in CAPS)
EAGLES -3 over Cardinals Foles has Eagles hot and coming off bye.
CHARGERS -1 over Bengals Chargers solid at home, Bengals struggle on the road.
VIKINGS PK over Bears Bears can't stop run, Peterson runs wild
BILLS -3 over Falcons Atlanta having all kinds of trouble.
Jaguars +7 over BROWNS Jags playing better and Weedon back as starter for Browns.
Other NFL
Packers +6.5 over LIONS Remember what happened last time Matt Flynn started against Detroit?
Raiders +9.5 over COWBOYS Raiders control pace with Jennings ground game.
RAVENS -3 over Steelers Steelers playing well but Ravens tough at home.
Titans +4 over COLTS Titans 5-0 ATS away, Colts reeling.
CHIEFS +4.5 over Broncos KC has been waiting to get revenge.
Bucs +8 over PANTHERS Bucs on 3 game win streak, stay within two scores.
JETS -1.5 over Dolphins Can't figure out Jets, let's try'em again.
49ERS -8 over Rams SF Defense too much for Rams possibly without Zac Stacy.
Patriots -7.5 over TEXANS Texans 0-6 ATS at home, biggest disappointment in NFL.
REDSKINS +1 over Giants Both teams suck, go with who's at home.
Saints +5.5 over SEAHAWKS Brees and offense will keep it close.
SuperContest
Last Week: 3-2
Season Total: 31-26-3
Overall
Last Week: 9-5
Season Total: 87-82-6
SuperContest Picks (Home team in CAPS)
EAGLES -3 over Cardinals Foles has Eagles hot and coming off bye.
CHARGERS -1 over Bengals Chargers solid at home, Bengals struggle on the road.
VIKINGS PK over Bears Bears can't stop run, Peterson runs wild
BILLS -3 over Falcons Atlanta having all kinds of trouble.
Jaguars +7 over BROWNS Jags playing better and Weedon back as starter for Browns.
Other NFL
Packers +6.5 over LIONS Remember what happened last time Matt Flynn started against Detroit?
Raiders +9.5 over COWBOYS Raiders control pace with Jennings ground game.
RAVENS -3 over Steelers Steelers playing well but Ravens tough at home.
Titans +4 over COLTS Titans 5-0 ATS away, Colts reeling.
CHIEFS +4.5 over Broncos KC has been waiting to get revenge.
Bucs +8 over PANTHERS Bucs on 3 game win streak, stay within two scores.
JETS -1.5 over Dolphins Can't figure out Jets, let's try'em again.
49ERS -8 over Rams SF Defense too much for Rams possibly without Zac Stacy.
Patriots -7.5 over TEXANS Texans 0-6 ATS at home, biggest disappointment in NFL.
REDSKINS +1 over Giants Both teams suck, go with who's at home.
Saints +5.5 over SEAHAWKS Brees and offense will keep it close.
SuperContest
Last Week: 3-2
Season Total: 31-26-3
Overall
Last Week: 9-5
Season Total: 87-82-6
Friday, October 11, 2013
NFL Week 6 Pick'em
After our best week, we follow that up with our worst. But, our SuperContest picks were great going 4-1. There were some big story lines as well as Peyton Manning and Tony Romo had a shootout for the ages, the Jets had a two-minute comeback, while Julio Jones is lost for the year, and two unbeaten teams went down. This week everybody is talking about the largest spread in NFL history. The Denver Broncos opened as a 28-point favorite at home over the Jacksonville Jaguars. I was shocked in Week 3 when the Seahawks were almost a 20-point favorite against the Jags, but this is crazy. College football has bigger numbers than this all the time (every Oregon game), but we just don't see spreads like this in the NFL. Other than that there aren't too many good games outside of New Orleans-New England and Washington-Dallas. So, let's improve on last week's poor performance.
SuperContest Picks (Home team in CAPS)
Eagles -1.5 over BUCS
Tampa Bay has lost three of its four games by a field goal or less and are coming off a bye. All of this would matter for any other team that wasn't in shambles. Ever since this whole Josh Freeman thing started the Bucs have not been right. Freeman is now in Minnesota so that means rookie Mike Glennon must take over. He looked less than good in his first start against Arizona and I expect more of the same this week. Yes, Mike Vick is out for Philly, but his backup, Nick Foles, is more than capable of leading this high powered offense. He came in last week against the Giants and threw for 197 yards and two TD's in little over half the game. Tampa Bay's offense will be lucky to score more than 14 points and LeSean McCoy will score twice himself.
VIKINGS -2.5 over Panthers
A team that will get some help coming off the bye, and possibly from new addition Josh Freeman, are the Minnesota Vikings. Last time we saw them they were getting their first win over the Steelers in London 34-27. Matt Cassel got the start for an injured Christian Ponder and played well (248 yards, 2 TDs). Carolina will be in its second straight road game after falling to the Cardinals 22-6 last week. Cam Newton has been a big disappointment again this year. Not only is his arm not producing but he can't get anything going on the ground either. Freeman won't figure much in this game but will be in a competition for the starting job once he gets the playbook down. Until then, Cassel will get the job done against the Panthers.
Raiders +8.5 over CHIEFS
Kansas City is a team I've been riding all year and they are 4-1 ATS, but this Oakland team has been really competitive with Terrelle Pryor at the helm. He's taken a hold of the starting job and he also leads the Raiders in rushing. Yes, the Chiefs are one of the top five teams in the league with arguably the best defense. But, Oakland doesn't give up much on the ground and that's where the Chiefs bread and butter is with Jamaal Charles. This game will go by fast with how much running will be by both teams and I think Oakland can score 17 to keep it close.
PATRIOTS -2.5 over Saints
Two of the best quarterbacks in the league will go at it in the best game of the week. Drew Brees has outperformed Tom Brady so far this year and in head-to-head matchups as well, going 3-0 against the Pats QB. The Saints have been close to unstoppable on offense and Jimmy Graham is not only the best tight end in the league but also turning into the best overall receiver. On the other side, New England has been hampered by injures to their receiving corps all year. Players are slowly starting to comeback as Danny Amendola returned last week and Rob Gronkowski will likely play against the Saints. It's not often the betting public is not on the Patriots at home but this is one of those scenarios. And that's why I think they will win. The moment you count this team out is the moment the prove they are still a team to reckon with.
SEAHAWKS -13.5 over Titans
Tennessee was been a pleasant surprise to start the year 3-1 with Jake Locker at QB. Then he went down with an injury and in stepped Ryan Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick started his first game for the Titans last week and looked rusty. Seattle has struggled on the road but are a completely different beast at home. This defense will be all over Fitzpatrick forcing bad throws and turnovers. The Titans D is much improved but I just don't see their offense doing enough to keep it close in this one.
Other NFL in 10 or less
Giants +7.5 over BEARS Eli has to cover sooner or later...right?
RAVENS +2.5 over Packers Rut row Ray Rice, he's back as the focal point.
BROWNS +3 over Lions Megatron is questionable and Browns defense is tough.
TEXANS -7.5 over Rams Schaub comes through with his job on the line.
JETS -1.5 over Steelers Jets coming home after emotional comeback in ATL.
BILLS +7 over Bengals Bills rushing attack keeps them in it.
Jaguars +27.5 over BRONCOS Gotta take the points, even against Peyton.
49ERS -10.5 over Cardinals SF defense getting back to form, Palmer too erratic.
Redskins +5.5 over COWBOYS Redskins coming off the bye in rivalry game.
Colts -2 over CHARGERS Indy on a roll and Chargers have no defense.
SuperContest
Last Week: 4-1
Season Total: 15-9-1
Overall
Last Week: 6-8
Season Total: 41-32-3
SuperContest Picks (Home team in CAPS)
Eagles -1.5 over BUCS
Tampa Bay has lost three of its four games by a field goal or less and are coming off a bye. All of this would matter for any other team that wasn't in shambles. Ever since this whole Josh Freeman thing started the Bucs have not been right. Freeman is now in Minnesota so that means rookie Mike Glennon must take over. He looked less than good in his first start against Arizona and I expect more of the same this week. Yes, Mike Vick is out for Philly, but his backup, Nick Foles, is more than capable of leading this high powered offense. He came in last week against the Giants and threw for 197 yards and two TD's in little over half the game. Tampa Bay's offense will be lucky to score more than 14 points and LeSean McCoy will score twice himself.
VIKINGS -2.5 over Panthers
A team that will get some help coming off the bye, and possibly from new addition Josh Freeman, are the Minnesota Vikings. Last time we saw them they were getting their first win over the Steelers in London 34-27. Matt Cassel got the start for an injured Christian Ponder and played well (248 yards, 2 TDs). Carolina will be in its second straight road game after falling to the Cardinals 22-6 last week. Cam Newton has been a big disappointment again this year. Not only is his arm not producing but he can't get anything going on the ground either. Freeman won't figure much in this game but will be in a competition for the starting job once he gets the playbook down. Until then, Cassel will get the job done against the Panthers.
Raiders +8.5 over CHIEFS
Kansas City is a team I've been riding all year and they are 4-1 ATS, but this Oakland team has been really competitive with Terrelle Pryor at the helm. He's taken a hold of the starting job and he also leads the Raiders in rushing. Yes, the Chiefs are one of the top five teams in the league with arguably the best defense. But, Oakland doesn't give up much on the ground and that's where the Chiefs bread and butter is with Jamaal Charles. This game will go by fast with how much running will be by both teams and I think Oakland can score 17 to keep it close.
PATRIOTS -2.5 over Saints
Two of the best quarterbacks in the league will go at it in the best game of the week. Drew Brees has outperformed Tom Brady so far this year and in head-to-head matchups as well, going 3-0 against the Pats QB. The Saints have been close to unstoppable on offense and Jimmy Graham is not only the best tight end in the league but also turning into the best overall receiver. On the other side, New England has been hampered by injures to their receiving corps all year. Players are slowly starting to comeback as Danny Amendola returned last week and Rob Gronkowski will likely play against the Saints. It's not often the betting public is not on the Patriots at home but this is one of those scenarios. And that's why I think they will win. The moment you count this team out is the moment the prove they are still a team to reckon with.
SEAHAWKS -13.5 over Titans
Tennessee was been a pleasant surprise to start the year 3-1 with Jake Locker at QB. Then he went down with an injury and in stepped Ryan Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick started his first game for the Titans last week and looked rusty. Seattle has struggled on the road but are a completely different beast at home. This defense will be all over Fitzpatrick forcing bad throws and turnovers. The Titans D is much improved but I just don't see their offense doing enough to keep it close in this one.
Other NFL in 10 or less
Giants +7.5 over BEARS Eli has to cover sooner or later...right?
RAVENS +2.5 over Packers Rut row Ray Rice, he's back as the focal point.
BROWNS +3 over Lions Megatron is questionable and Browns defense is tough.
TEXANS -7.5 over Rams Schaub comes through with his job on the line.
JETS -1.5 over Steelers Jets coming home after emotional comeback in ATL.
BILLS +7 over Bengals Bills rushing attack keeps them in it.
Jaguars +27.5 over BRONCOS Gotta take the points, even against Peyton.
49ERS -10.5 over Cardinals SF defense getting back to form, Palmer too erratic.
Redskins +5.5 over COWBOYS Redskins coming off the bye in rivalry game.
Colts -2 over CHARGERS Indy on a roll and Chargers have no defense.
SuperContest
Last Week: 4-1
Season Total: 15-9-1
Overall
Last Week: 6-8
Season Total: 41-32-3
Thursday, September 19, 2013
NFL Week 3 Pick'em
The big news in the NFL was Trent Richardson being dealt to the
Indianapolis Colts for a first round draft pick. When I saw this I
didn't believe it. T-Rich was the #3 overall pick in the 2012 draft and
he's already been traded. If the Browns are interested in rebuilding wouldn't you want to do that around a great running back like Richardson? I'm kind of confused but I do know that the Browns will have a hard time winning games now and I guess they are in a fight for the #1 pick in the 2014 draft with Jacksonville.
It was a struggle last week as we needed the Sunday and Monday night games just to get back to .500 for the weekend. However, the SuperContest stats were improved going 3-2. It could have been better but the New Orleans Saints won and didn't cover as they couldn't finish in the redzone. The Tennessee Titans and San Diego Chargers both covered big numbers again. They look like projected bad teams to keep our eye this year. The Buffalo Bills and New York Jets are also 2-0 ATS (against the spread). Let's get back on track in Week 3.
SuperContest Picks (Home team in CAPS)
VIKINGS -6.5 over Browns
I liked this game before Richardson was traded and like it even more now. The Browns offense has been inept in its first two games and losing their best offensive player won't help. Neither will starting the third string quarterback Brian Hoyer. Cleveland's defense is definitely better than average and have the ability to stop Adrian Peterson. But they will be on the field a lot since their offense will have a hard time controlling the ball. This also will be Minnesota's first home game as they are only one of three teams yet to play at home. AP will eventually find holes in the defense and Christian Ponder will play well enough in the dome to cover by a touchdown.
Bills +2.5 over JETS
Even though the Jets covered and could have won last week at New England I still have no faith in this team. Both are led by rookie QB's but EJ Manuel has looked better for Buffalo than Geno Smith has for New York. Last week was a perfect example of this. Smith had the opportunity to make a comeback against the Patriots but threw three 4th quarter interceptions to lose 13-10. However, Manuel went 80 yards in 1:36 to throw the game winner to Steve Johnson with two seconds left as the Bills beat the Panthers 24-23. I'll take the better QB and the points.
DOLPHINS -2.5 over Falcons
I totally doubted Miami coming into this year. I had no faith in Ryan Tannehill, Lamar Miller, or Mike Wallace. But after two road wins to open the season I'm starting to come around. Tannehill has managed games well and not made too many bad decisions. Miller is still struggling but Wallace had 115 yards and a TD last week after complaining about not getting enough targets in week 1. Atlanta comes into this game after being hit with the injury bug. They will be without starting running back Steven Jackson, defensive end Kory Biermann, linebacker Sean Weatherspoon and possibly cornerback Asante Samuel. Wideout Roddy White has been battling an ankle injury to start the season and has been a none factor. Too many problems for the Falcons so go with Miami.
Packers -3 over BENGALS
The Green Bay Packers absolutely dismantled the Redskins defense as Aaron Rodgers was on point all day. Green Bay also found new life at the running back position. After rookie Eddie Lacy went down on his first run of the game with a concussion, James Starks entered and went wild. Starks finished with 132 yards and one TD. The Bengals looked good last week as well taking down the Steelers. Their defense has been solid and Andy Dalton seems to be clicking with AJ Green and his tight ends. This could turn into a shootout between these two QB's and if it does Rodgers has a lot more weapons to choose from.
Cardinals +7.5 over SAINTS
I felt with Sean Payton back this year the New Orleans Saints would be back to playoff form from two years ago. They are 2-0, so definitely on pace to make the postseason after missing it in 2012, but have not looked convincing especially after squeaking by the Bucs. Drew Brees isn't off to his best start either, throwing three touchdowns and three INT's. For Arizona, Carson Palmer led a late touchdown drive against the Lions to take a 25-21 victory. The Cardinals might not win enough games to make the playoffs but they will play a lot of teams tough. Getting a touchdown for an Arizona offense that can put up points is a good reason for me to take the underdog.
Other NFL in 10 or less
Chiefs +3 over EAGLES Andy Reid comes back to Philly and gets a win.
TITANS -3 over Chargers Tennessee finally gets a home game and have looked good.
Bucs +7 over PATRIOTS If Gronk doesn't play Pats still have offensive struggles.
RAVENS +2.5 over Texans Rice's health a concern but Texans have been sloppy.
Rams +4 over COWBOYS Rams passing attack keeps it close in big D.
Lions +2.5 over REDSKINS Skins have worst defense in NFL, Stafford has field day.
PANTHERS -1 over Giants Panthers should have won last week, bounce back at home.
Colts +10 over 49ERS Colts pumped by getting T-Rich, Niners on a short week.
Jaguars +19 over SEAHAWKS Getting 3 touchdowns is hard to pass up.
STEELERS +2.5 over Bears Tough to see the Steelers start 0-3 even with injuries.
BRONCOS -15 over Raiders Rolling with Peyton until their offense slows down.
SuperContest
Last Week: 3-2
Season Total: 7-3
Overall
Last Week: 8-8
Season Total: 17-13-1
It was a struggle last week as we needed the Sunday and Monday night games just to get back to .500 for the weekend. However, the SuperContest stats were improved going 3-2. It could have been better but the New Orleans Saints won and didn't cover as they couldn't finish in the redzone. The Tennessee Titans and San Diego Chargers both covered big numbers again. They look like projected bad teams to keep our eye this year. The Buffalo Bills and New York Jets are also 2-0 ATS (against the spread). Let's get back on track in Week 3.
SuperContest Picks (Home team in CAPS)
VIKINGS -6.5 over Browns
I liked this game before Richardson was traded and like it even more now. The Browns offense has been inept in its first two games and losing their best offensive player won't help. Neither will starting the third string quarterback Brian Hoyer. Cleveland's defense is definitely better than average and have the ability to stop Adrian Peterson. But they will be on the field a lot since their offense will have a hard time controlling the ball. This also will be Minnesota's first home game as they are only one of three teams yet to play at home. AP will eventually find holes in the defense and Christian Ponder will play well enough in the dome to cover by a touchdown.
Bills +2.5 over JETS
Even though the Jets covered and could have won last week at New England I still have no faith in this team. Both are led by rookie QB's but EJ Manuel has looked better for Buffalo than Geno Smith has for New York. Last week was a perfect example of this. Smith had the opportunity to make a comeback against the Patriots but threw three 4th quarter interceptions to lose 13-10. However, Manuel went 80 yards in 1:36 to throw the game winner to Steve Johnson with two seconds left as the Bills beat the Panthers 24-23. I'll take the better QB and the points.
DOLPHINS -2.5 over Falcons
I totally doubted Miami coming into this year. I had no faith in Ryan Tannehill, Lamar Miller, or Mike Wallace. But after two road wins to open the season I'm starting to come around. Tannehill has managed games well and not made too many bad decisions. Miller is still struggling but Wallace had 115 yards and a TD last week after complaining about not getting enough targets in week 1. Atlanta comes into this game after being hit with the injury bug. They will be without starting running back Steven Jackson, defensive end Kory Biermann, linebacker Sean Weatherspoon and possibly cornerback Asante Samuel. Wideout Roddy White has been battling an ankle injury to start the season and has been a none factor. Too many problems for the Falcons so go with Miami.
Packers -3 over BENGALS
The Green Bay Packers absolutely dismantled the Redskins defense as Aaron Rodgers was on point all day. Green Bay also found new life at the running back position. After rookie Eddie Lacy went down on his first run of the game with a concussion, James Starks entered and went wild. Starks finished with 132 yards and one TD. The Bengals looked good last week as well taking down the Steelers. Their defense has been solid and Andy Dalton seems to be clicking with AJ Green and his tight ends. This could turn into a shootout between these two QB's and if it does Rodgers has a lot more weapons to choose from.
Cardinals +7.5 over SAINTS
I felt with Sean Payton back this year the New Orleans Saints would be back to playoff form from two years ago. They are 2-0, so definitely on pace to make the postseason after missing it in 2012, but have not looked convincing especially after squeaking by the Bucs. Drew Brees isn't off to his best start either, throwing three touchdowns and three INT's. For Arizona, Carson Palmer led a late touchdown drive against the Lions to take a 25-21 victory. The Cardinals might not win enough games to make the playoffs but they will play a lot of teams tough. Getting a touchdown for an Arizona offense that can put up points is a good reason for me to take the underdog.
Other NFL in 10 or less
Chiefs +3 over EAGLES Andy Reid comes back to Philly and gets a win.
TITANS -3 over Chargers Tennessee finally gets a home game and have looked good.
Bucs +7 over PATRIOTS If Gronk doesn't play Pats still have offensive struggles.
RAVENS +2.5 over Texans Rice's health a concern but Texans have been sloppy.
Rams +4 over COWBOYS Rams passing attack keeps it close in big D.
Lions +2.5 over REDSKINS Skins have worst defense in NFL, Stafford has field day.
PANTHERS -1 over Giants Panthers should have won last week, bounce back at home.
Colts +10 over 49ERS Colts pumped by getting T-Rich, Niners on a short week.
Jaguars +19 over SEAHAWKS Getting 3 touchdowns is hard to pass up.
STEELERS +2.5 over Bears Tough to see the Steelers start 0-3 even with injuries.
BRONCOS -15 over Raiders Rolling with Peyton until their offense slows down.
SuperContest
Last Week: 3-2
Season Total: 7-3
Overall
Last Week: 8-8
Season Total: 17-13-1
Saturday, January 5, 2013
NFL Wild-Card Weekend
The NFL playoffs have arrived and it's time to throw the records out because as the New York Giants showed us last year all you have to do is make the post-season and anything can happen. This weekend brings a rematch of a wild-card game last year, a rematch between Week 17 opponents and division rivals, a rookie quarterback against a retiring defensive star, and two more rookie QB's going head-to-head. The last two Super Bowl champions have played on wild-card weekend so there is plenty to pay attention to in these games.
Cincinnati Bengals (10-6) @ Houston Texans (12-4) -4.5 at 4:30pm Sat.
These are two teams heading in different directions coming into the playoffs. The Cincinnati Bengals won 7 of their last 8 to close out the season. On the other hand the Houston Texans lost 3 of 4 while squeaking out OT wins over the lowly Detroit Lions and Jacksonville Jaguars down the stretch to lose the #1 seed and a first round bye. When the season started Houston was a popular pick for the Super Bowl, now they are a popular pick to be upset, but should they? Lest we forget, these two teams played in the first round a year ago with the Texans winning 31-10 with backup quarterback T.J. Yates at the helm. That game also marked J.J. Watt's coming out party with an athletic pick six of Andy Dalton. Houston's defense is coming in a little banged up especially at the linebacker position but they are more worried about stopping Bengals emerging wideout A.J. Green who will see a lot of cornerback Jonathan Joseph. Cincinnati has an underrated defense that ranks in the top ten in yards and points per game but they will have to find a way to slow down Texans running back Arian Foster who torched them for 153 yards and two TD's last year. I know that Houston has struggled to end the year but I still think they will pull this game out. Give the young Bengals another year to mature and they take this game, until then give me the Texans but in a close one.
Game: Houston
Bet: Cincinnati
Minnesota Vikings (10-6) @ Green Bay Packers (11-5) -7.5 at 8:00pm Sat.
Familiar foes meet in this game of division rivals which is also a rematch of a game the Minnesota Vikings needed to win to make it to the playoffs. The Vikes took that one on a last second field goal 37-34 and behind legs of Adrian Peterson who ran for 199 yards. Peterson is a remarkable story coming back from a serious knee injury to rush for 2,097 yards, nine yards shy of breaking the all-time single-season record. In their earlier meeting he rushed for 210 yards but Minnesota fell to the Packers 23-14. Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers was consistent as usual this year throwing for 4,295 yards, 39 TD's and leading the NFL with a 108 QB rating. Mr. Discount Double Check put up those numbers without having a 1,000 yard receiver as Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, and Randall Cobb all missed games due to injuries. But, all those guys are now healthy (Charles Woodson will also be back for the defense) and the Pack will look to make another run to the Super Bowl. The Vikings did what they had to do at home to make the playoffs and Peterson made his case for MVP, but it's a whole different story playing in Green Bay in December. Minnesota's QB Christian Ponder has been too inconsistent for them to get a win at the frozen tundra. I expect to see Aaron Rodgers clicking with his full compliment of receiving options and their defense to pressure Ponder into making poor decisions and turnovers. Go Pack Go in a rout.
Game: Green Bay
Bet: Green Bay
Indianapolis Colts (11-5) @ Baltimore Ravens (10-6) -7 at 1:00pm Sun.
The Indianapolis Colts selected Andrew Luck #1 overall in the draft and it paid off as he lead them to the playoffs in his first season. While the Colts have a franchise player coming in, the Baltimore Ravens have one leaving as 2-time Defensive Player of the Year, Ray Lewis, will be retiring at the end of the season. Again we have two teams going in opposite directions as the Colts have won 5 of 6 and the Ravens have dropped 4 of 5. The Colts are an interesting team as they have a winning record at 11-5 but are the only team to make the playoffs that has been outscored by their opponent (22.3-24.2 per game). However, all that matters are W's and the Colts find themselves facing a Ravens team that has been hampered by injuries all season and struggling down the stretch. Their normally stout defense has been mediocre as players at almost every position have been out. Starters Ray Lewis LB, Terrell Suggs LB, Haloti Ngata DE, Lardarius Webb CB, Jimmy Smith CB, and Bernard Pollard SS have all missed time, some out for the season. On the offensive end Ray Rice's numbers have been down compared to last year but is still capable of having a big game against the Colts 29th ranked rushing defense. Luck has played well but has also committed 23 turnovers (18 INT's and 5 fumbles) and will have to limit those if he was to get his team a victory. To me, this game will be decided by Ravens QB Joe Flacco. He has won at least one playoff game in each of his first four years and it looks like that trend will continue if he is able to play with confidence and manage the offense. I also feel this defense will get a huge boost from knowing their star Ray Lewis is making his last playoff appearance.
Game: Baltimore
Bet: Baltimore
Seattle Seahawks (11-5) -3.5 @ Washington Redskins (10-6) at 4:30pm Sun.
Both of these teams are very similar as they each have rookie quarterback's, strong running games, and strong defenses. Each team is lead by Seattle's Russell Wilson and Washington's Robert Griffin III, and each rank in the top 4 in QB passer rating. Wilson is definitely the bigger surprise. In the off-season Seattle spent big money to bring Matt Flynn over from the Packers, then drafted Wilson in the third round. Wilson won the job and hasn't looked back throwing for 26 TD's. RGIII came into Washington knowing he will be the starter and showed his Heisman trophy season at Baylor translated to the NFL throwing for 3,200 yards and 20 TD's while rushing for for over 800 yards and 7 TD's. The two running backs in this game ranked only behind Adrian Peterson in rushing yards. Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch is as tough a runner there is in the NFL (so much determination doe) as he ran for 1,590 yards and 11 TD's. The Redskins have another rookie in the backfield, sixth round draft pick out of Florida Atlantic, Alfred Morris, who totaled 1,613 and 13 TD's on the ground. Nobody saw this coming from Morris, but on most Mike Shanahan coached teams, whoever he finally chooses to be his running back usually has a big year. RGIII and Morris combined to have the best rushing attack in the league. As for the defenses, Seattle had the best in the NFL, giving up the fewest points per game at 15.3 and ranked 4th in total yards. Washington has an underrated defense as they rank 4th in takeaways, 2nd in turnover differential and 5th in rushing defense. The one thing to watch is how Russell Wilson and the Seahawks play on the road. They were 8-0 at home beating the likes of Green Bay (controversially), New England (last secondly), and San Francisco (blow-outly). However, on the road they were 3-5 (one win coming in Canada) losing to Arizona, Detroit, and Miami. The Redskins have won 7 straight, including their final game against the Dallas Cowboys to make the playoffs, so they are coming in hot. I like to think that defense wins championships and if I go by that, Seattle has a great chance. This game can honestly go either way, but the Seahawks D will stifle RGIII and Morris and put their road questions to bed. I will stick with the road favorite.
Game: Seattle
Bet: Washington
Cincinnati Bengals (10-6) @ Houston Texans (12-4) -4.5 at 4:30pm Sat.
These are two teams heading in different directions coming into the playoffs. The Cincinnati Bengals won 7 of their last 8 to close out the season. On the other hand the Houston Texans lost 3 of 4 while squeaking out OT wins over the lowly Detroit Lions and Jacksonville Jaguars down the stretch to lose the #1 seed and a first round bye. When the season started Houston was a popular pick for the Super Bowl, now they are a popular pick to be upset, but should they? Lest we forget, these two teams played in the first round a year ago with the Texans winning 31-10 with backup quarterback T.J. Yates at the helm. That game also marked J.J. Watt's coming out party with an athletic pick six of Andy Dalton. Houston's defense is coming in a little banged up especially at the linebacker position but they are more worried about stopping Bengals emerging wideout A.J. Green who will see a lot of cornerback Jonathan Joseph. Cincinnati has an underrated defense that ranks in the top ten in yards and points per game but they will have to find a way to slow down Texans running back Arian Foster who torched them for 153 yards and two TD's last year. I know that Houston has struggled to end the year but I still think they will pull this game out. Give the young Bengals another year to mature and they take this game, until then give me the Texans but in a close one.
Game: Houston
Bet: Cincinnati
Minnesota Vikings (10-6) @ Green Bay Packers (11-5) -7.5 at 8:00pm Sat.
Familiar foes meet in this game of division rivals which is also a rematch of a game the Minnesota Vikings needed to win to make it to the playoffs. The Vikes took that one on a last second field goal 37-34 and behind legs of Adrian Peterson who ran for 199 yards. Peterson is a remarkable story coming back from a serious knee injury to rush for 2,097 yards, nine yards shy of breaking the all-time single-season record. In their earlier meeting he rushed for 210 yards but Minnesota fell to the Packers 23-14. Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers was consistent as usual this year throwing for 4,295 yards, 39 TD's and leading the NFL with a 108 QB rating. Mr. Discount Double Check put up those numbers without having a 1,000 yard receiver as Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, and Randall Cobb all missed games due to injuries. But, all those guys are now healthy (Charles Woodson will also be back for the defense) and the Pack will look to make another run to the Super Bowl. The Vikings did what they had to do at home to make the playoffs and Peterson made his case for MVP, but it's a whole different story playing in Green Bay in December. Minnesota's QB Christian Ponder has been too inconsistent for them to get a win at the frozen tundra. I expect to see Aaron Rodgers clicking with his full compliment of receiving options and their defense to pressure Ponder into making poor decisions and turnovers. Go Pack Go in a rout.
Game: Green Bay
Bet: Green Bay
Indianapolis Colts (11-5) @ Baltimore Ravens (10-6) -7 at 1:00pm Sun.
The Indianapolis Colts selected Andrew Luck #1 overall in the draft and it paid off as he lead them to the playoffs in his first season. While the Colts have a franchise player coming in, the Baltimore Ravens have one leaving as 2-time Defensive Player of the Year, Ray Lewis, will be retiring at the end of the season. Again we have two teams going in opposite directions as the Colts have won 5 of 6 and the Ravens have dropped 4 of 5. The Colts are an interesting team as they have a winning record at 11-5 but are the only team to make the playoffs that has been outscored by their opponent (22.3-24.2 per game). However, all that matters are W's and the Colts find themselves facing a Ravens team that has been hampered by injuries all season and struggling down the stretch. Their normally stout defense has been mediocre as players at almost every position have been out. Starters Ray Lewis LB, Terrell Suggs LB, Haloti Ngata DE, Lardarius Webb CB, Jimmy Smith CB, and Bernard Pollard SS have all missed time, some out for the season. On the offensive end Ray Rice's numbers have been down compared to last year but is still capable of having a big game against the Colts 29th ranked rushing defense. Luck has played well but has also committed 23 turnovers (18 INT's and 5 fumbles) and will have to limit those if he was to get his team a victory. To me, this game will be decided by Ravens QB Joe Flacco. He has won at least one playoff game in each of his first four years and it looks like that trend will continue if he is able to play with confidence and manage the offense. I also feel this defense will get a huge boost from knowing their star Ray Lewis is making his last playoff appearance.
Game: Baltimore
Bet: Baltimore
Seattle Seahawks (11-5) -3.5 @ Washington Redskins (10-6) at 4:30pm Sun.
Both of these teams are very similar as they each have rookie quarterback's, strong running games, and strong defenses. Each team is lead by Seattle's Russell Wilson and Washington's Robert Griffin III, and each rank in the top 4 in QB passer rating. Wilson is definitely the bigger surprise. In the off-season Seattle spent big money to bring Matt Flynn over from the Packers, then drafted Wilson in the third round. Wilson won the job and hasn't looked back throwing for 26 TD's. RGIII came into Washington knowing he will be the starter and showed his Heisman trophy season at Baylor translated to the NFL throwing for 3,200 yards and 20 TD's while rushing for for over 800 yards and 7 TD's. The two running backs in this game ranked only behind Adrian Peterson in rushing yards. Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch is as tough a runner there is in the NFL (so much determination doe) as he ran for 1,590 yards and 11 TD's. The Redskins have another rookie in the backfield, sixth round draft pick out of Florida Atlantic, Alfred Morris, who totaled 1,613 and 13 TD's on the ground. Nobody saw this coming from Morris, but on most Mike Shanahan coached teams, whoever he finally chooses to be his running back usually has a big year. RGIII and Morris combined to have the best rushing attack in the league. As for the defenses, Seattle had the best in the NFL, giving up the fewest points per game at 15.3 and ranked 4th in total yards. Washington has an underrated defense as they rank 4th in takeaways, 2nd in turnover differential and 5th in rushing defense. The one thing to watch is how Russell Wilson and the Seahawks play on the road. They were 8-0 at home beating the likes of Green Bay (controversially), New England (last secondly), and San Francisco (blow-outly). However, on the road they were 3-5 (one win coming in Canada) losing to Arizona, Detroit, and Miami. The Redskins have won 7 straight, including their final game against the Dallas Cowboys to make the playoffs, so they are coming in hot. I like to think that defense wins championships and if I go by that, Seattle has a great chance. This game can honestly go either way, but the Seahawks D will stifle RGIII and Morris and put their road questions to bed. I will stick with the road favorite.
Game: Seattle
Bet: Washington
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