Disappointment

We had no expectations during the Giants run to a Super Bowl championship. This season buoyed by an 11-1 start, we had very high expectations. At the very least, to return to the NFC championship game. But it's all for naught.

We watched Hancock last night and though that was bad. It was an Oscar winner compared to today's game. The Giants played an abysmal game on the offensive side of the ball en route to a 23-11 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Eli Manning, as we've seen before, played poorly in front of a rabid home playoff crowd. He continued to show that he struggles in his home, windy field.

They can deny it all they want, but their teammate Plaxico Burress really cost them this/the season. They lost 3 of their last 4 to finish their season, (We threw the Vikings game out the window since it was meaningless and the starters hardly played.) largely because they didn't have Burress to distract defenses and make big plays.

Don't get us wrong, there were other reasons the Giants lost today besides Manning's play and Burress' absence.

The defense could not stop the Eagles in third down situations and put next to no pressure on Donovan McNabb.

Kevin Gilbride made some very questionable play calls (where was Buddy Ryan when you need him?).

Tom Coughlin made some questionable decisions, including a challenge that he was clearly going to lose, costing the Giants a time out.

John Carney missed field goals from 46 and 47 yards. Had he made even one of them, the Giants would have only needed one score, rather than two, down the stretch.

So it's Eagles-Cardinals in the NFC championship game and the Ravens against the Steelers-Chargers winner today. And we are disappointed.

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NFL Picks - Week 17

We've reached the regular season end of the line (Mrs. MM is very happy about this). Another mediocre 8-8 week leaves us at 122-113-15 for the season. And this, of course, is the toughest week to decipher. Teams are trying to make the playoffs, others can't get home soon enough. So who knows who cares and who doesn't?

The Giants have nothing to play for on this Sunday, but their opponents, the Vikings, are looking to capture the NFC North or at worst a Wildcard spot. Big Blue will rest plenty of regulars - this is nothing like the regular season finale with the Pats last year. Therefore we have to go with the Vikings despite laying 7 points. Vikings -7 Prediction: Vikings 27 Giants 13

Jets -3 vs. Dolphins
What incredible finale to the regular season - Favre vs. Pennington in a possible do or die match that no one saw coming. We actually think the Jets will bounce back from last week's snowy misery to win it. Of course, being they are the Jets, we could be completely wrong.

Bucs -13 vs. Raiders
The Bucs need a win and some help to make the playoffs. Jon Gruden will make sure the first part happens against his old nemesis.

Packers -11 vs. Lions
Part of us was thinking that the Lions would keep this close...then we had coffee and cleared our heads.

Eagles -1.5 vs. Cowboys
The Cowboys are the better team. The Eagles actually could make the playoffs with a win and a bunch of other teams losing. While the latter isn't likely, we do think they'll spoil the 'boys day, and we would love that.

Bears +3 vs. Texans
We could see the Texans winning this game to finish at .500 and match their best home record (6-2). Somehow we think Da Bears will prevail.

Panthers -2 at Saints
Panthers have a playoff spot locked up, but not the division or a bye in round one. Their defense should be able to contain Drew Brees enough and the Saints won't stop the Panthers running game.

Falcons -14 vs. Rams
Matt Ryan and Co. will do all they can to win the AFC South.

Bengals -2.5 vs Chiefs
No one cares, but Ryan Fitzpatrick and Tyler Thigpen might at least put on a pretty good show.

Jaguars +11 vs Ravens
Jags quit on the season a long time ago, but we think Jack Del Rio will get his team pumped up for this one. Ravens win, but don't cover.

Titans -3 vs. Colts
No clue how this one plays out, because we have no clue how much either side will play their starters.

Steelers -11 vs. Browns
Even if Big Ben and his fellow starters sit most of the day, this should still be a cake walk. Romeo Crennel's nightmare is almost over.

Patriots -5.5 at Bills
Buffalo may be getting all revved up to play spoiler, but it ain't happening.

Seahawks +7 at Cardinals
Cards probably win, but 'hawks are good enough and Cards are bad enough to make this close.

Redskins +3 vs. 49ers
Again, tough to call. We're not sure who'll win, but something like 17-16 sounds pretty good.

Chargers -8 vs. Broncos
At first we though the Broncos would keep it close, but the more we thought about it, the Chargers are going to blow Denver off the field to win the AFC West. Wonder if Ed Hoculi will be watching?

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NFL Picks - Week 16

Wow, we stunk out the joint last week and we're "fortunate" to go 6-9-1. That dropped ups to 114-105-15 . We've gotten off to a 1-0 start with the Colts win over the Jags, but these last weeks of the season are very hard to read. Speaking of hard to read, it's hard to take the temperature of the Giants right now. Big Blue has some key injuries and the Plaxico Burress mess, which has effected the offense more than we thought it would.

From looking like they had the #1 seed wrapped up, the Gints now have a tough game with the Panthers, who are tied with the Giants at 11-3. Brandon Jacobs is questionable, but right now is more probably than out. The Giants need Fred Robbins back as well to stop the Panthers running game, and Dominik Hixon to fill in for Buress. We could see thePanthers winning this, but we have to go with the Giants -3. Prediction Giants 19 Panthers 17

Cowboys -5.5 vs. Ravens
The last regular season game at Texas Stadium and the crowd and Cowboys will fired up. It will be too much for Joe Flacco and the Ravens. Too bad this game is on the NFL Network. You guys suck.

Seahawks +3.5 at Jets
Flip flopped on this one too. We're convinced the Jets will win this game, but it will come down to a field goal. This is Mike Holmgren's last home game coaching the 'hawks and we think Seattle will be amped up.

Steelers -2 at Titans
Wow, what a tough schedule the Steelers have had down the stretch. But they've come out on top and have only gotten stronger. We see them making it a long day for Kerry Collins.

Eagles -4.5 at Redskins
Eagles are on a roll and the Redskins are rolling over.

Dolphins -3.5 at Chiefs
Dolphins have been playing all close ones and they better not look ahead to the finale with the Jets.

Saints -7 at Lions
Should be a Brees.

49ers -5 vs. Rams
zzzzzzz, but Shaun Hill should have a big day.

Patriots -8.5 vs. Cardinals
Tough one. Pats blew out the hapless Raiders last week, but they've had some tough ones, and the Cards are a division leader. But as we have said before, is there a worse 1st place team than the Cardinals?

Bengals +3 at Browns
Remember when this was a good game?

Falcons +3.5 at Vikings
The Vikings are playing really well on the defensive side of the ball and Adrian Peterson is a monster. But the Matt Ryan and the Falcons are finding ways to win.

Texans -7 at Raiders
Wow, the Texans will be over .500 when the game is over. Who'd have thunk it?

Broncos -6.5 vs. Bills
No reason to go with the Bills.

Bucs -3.5 vs. Chargers
Bucs 'D' should make the difference.

Bears -4 vs. Packers
Packers season is done.

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NFL Picks - Week 15

UPDATE 8:10 PM - WOW, did we stink out the joint today.

A decent 9-7 record in week 14 put us at 108-96-14 for the year. We're 1-0 this week having taken underdog New Orleans against Chicago in the Thursday night game.

Big doings in Big 'D' tonight as Big Blue go to Dallas for the Sunday night game. And if you've read this blog you know just how much we hate the Giants in prime time. Stressful games, bad games, some wins. Scary. Giants don't have Brandon Jacobs or Plaxigun, but the Cowboys have been in-fighting (and possibly T.O. and Jason Witten literally coming to blows) all week, at least according to Dallas papers. We still like the Giants though, especially as 3 point underdogs. Oh how we hate the 'Boys. Giants +3 Prediction: Giants 27 Cowboys 17

Jets -7.5 vs. Bills
The Jets are coming off back to back disappointing weeks, but the Bills have been pathetic for longer than that. Jet fans jump back on the bandwagon after this one.
The Jets got big time lucky in winning, but that didn't help those who sided with them on the point spread. Loss

Packers -2 vs. Jaguars
The Pack has been struggling, but the Jags quit weeks ago.
The Pack is just not a good team and it showed today. 20-16 Jags. Loss

Colts -17 vs. Lions
We hate huge spreads, but we hate the Lions more.
We certainly didn't expect the Lions to hang in there, but they did in only losing by 10. Loss

Redskins -7 at Bengals
Some (Mike Francesa) would have you believe that the Deadskins season is done. Clinton Portis went after coach Jim Zorn on the radio, the offensive line is banged up, etc.. But the Skins could still save their season and we don't trust Cincy.
We really hate when Francesa is right. Loss

49ers +6.5 at Dolphins
Miami has been getting undeserved good sized spreads. Sure they are 8-5, but for the most part they don't win by much. Same goes for today even if Frank Gore doesn't play.
Pegged this one perfectly. Unfortunately, we didn't do that too often today. Win

Seahawks -2.5 at Rams
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
Looks like it was a better game than we expected and we got it right. Win

Titans -3 at Texans
With Houston's improved play this could be an entertaining one.
The Texans are hot, 4 straight wins and hand the Titans their 2nd loss. Loss

Steelers +3 at Ravens
Along with the Giants-Cowboys, the game of the week. Black and blue football sees the Steelers continue to rise to the top of the AFC.
Just as advertised and Steelers with another come from behind win. Win

Broncos +8 at Panthers
Despite their big win over the Bucs, we're not jumping back on the Panthers bandwagon so fast. Their offense has still been erratic and the Broncos big play 'O' can keep this close. Carolina wins though.
Boy did we have the wrong take on this one. Loss

Chargers -5.5 at Chiefs
Norv Turner's time in SD is almost over.
Chargers win, but very unimpressively. Loss

Cardinals -3 vs. Vikings
Tough one. Both teams are inconsistent. Toss of an imaginary coin.
Is there a worse looking first place team than the Cardinals? Loss

Patriots -7 at Raiders
Despite Matt Cassel grieving for the loss of his Dad, this game shouldn't be close for the Pats like last week's squeaker with Seattle.
Blow out city. Nice game for Cassel. Win

Falcons -3 vs. Bucs
We're on the Matt Ryan bandwagon for sure.
The Ryans do it again with a late FG. Push

Eagles -14 vs. Browns
Poor Romeo Crennel.

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NFL Picks - Week 14

After a good 2-1 start on Thanksgiving day, we were a miserable 6-10 overall. Yes, that means 4-9 on Sunday/Monday. We're now 99-89-14 after going just 14-18 the last 2 weeks. But we've got the Thursday night Chargers-Raiders game in our pocket as we begin week 14.

Big Blue has had all the Plaxico Burress-Antonio Pierce nonsense (believe us we're not dismissing it by calling it nonsense), but it shouldn't distract them from the latest task at hand, the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles played two horrendous games in a row, epitomized by the play of Donovan McChunky Soup, but made like the Phoenix in routing the Cardinals on Thanksgiving day. Snow flurries, high winds, and freezing temps in Giants Stadium today will impact that Eagles ability to put those same points on the board (or the 31 they scored against the Giants in Philly the first time they met).
Giants -6.5 vs. Eagles Prediction: Giants 27 Eagles 19

Jets -4 at 49ers
The Jets embarrassed themselves against the Broncos last week, causing some to jump off the bandwagon. But they should have no trouble with the Niners today. San Fran has been playing better of late, but they won't have an answer for the Jets offense.

Colts -13.5 vs. Bengals
Is there any reason to pick the Bengals? Seriously?

Bears -6.5 vs. Jaguars
The Jags totally humiliated themselves and their coach Jack Del Rio on Monday night. They quit, there's no debate about it. So while the Bears aren't exactly clicking on all cylinders they should handle a Jags team that probably won't like the Chicago weather either.

Texans +6 at Packers
The Texans, an indoor team, are not going to like the sub 20 degree temperature in Green Bay today, but some confidence from Monday's game should make this one close. Packers by 3.

Titans -14 vs. Browns
The Browns are down to their third string QB...it's going to make for a long final month for coach Romeo Crennel, who will probably resurface with one of his old pals (Bill Parcell, BillBelichik) next year.

Vikings -10 at Lions
We don't love this Vikings team by any measure, but these Lions flat out stink. They used to win at home, but don't even do that any more. A.P. should have 100 yards by halftime.

Ravens -5.5 vs. Redskins
The Ravens defense should be too much for the Redskins even with Clinton Portis playing. Joe Flacco takes the Ravens to another victory.

Falcons +3 at Saints
The Saints are merely favorites because they're at home. Shouldn't this game be a pick 'em at best?

Dolphins +1 at Bills (in Toronto)
A home road game for the Bills who were absolutely pathetic against the 49ers last week. 3 points? The Dolphins haven't played very well on the offensive side of the ball the last 3 weeks, but they should take this one.

Broncos -9 vs. Chiefs
Tricky pick. The Chiefs are rotten, with occasional flashes of mediocrity. The Broncos are mediocre with occasional flashes of wow, like last Sunday's win against the Jets. Maybe it will finally kick start them. Broncos win it something like 41-23.

Cardinals -14 vs. Rams
The Cardinals made a proud showing against the Giants 2 weeks ago, but they looked like high schoolers against the Eagles last week. They should beat up on a pathetic, injured Rams team though.

Steelers -3.5 vs. Cowboys
Game of the week! Had Marion Barber played, we probably would have gone with the Cowboys, thinking the Steelers would win by 1. But with Barber out and no proven running back to fill in for him, we like the Steelers. 23-16?

Patriots -7 at Seahawks
It wasn't that long ago that these two teams were meeting in the Super Bowl. It's been downhill since for the Seahawks.

Bucs +3 at Panthers
We liked this Panthers team earlier on and didn't like the Bucs. Roles have reversed. We're not that enamored with Tampa, but Jake Delhomme's bad elbow is effecting the offense. Bucs win a low scorer.

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NFL Picks - Week 13

Before we get into anything else, we continue to be, surprisingly, shocked at Plaxico Burress' antics. We have to agree with Steve Politi of the Star Ledger, the sooner he's gone, the better.

Back to football. We were 2-1 on Thursday. Still shocked that the Eagles were favored by 3. Apparently they should have been favored by 15. Amazing how ordinary Kurt Warner can look under a pass rush.

Big Blue won't have Burress, who wasn't going to play anyway, but may have Brandon Jacobs back. We'll see at 1:oo EST, when the Giants and Redskins take the field at FEDEX Field. It'll be a wet, muddy ball game with rain expected all day in the D.C. area. The Giants are favored by 3.5 and that sounds good to us. Giants -3.5 Prediction: Giants 27 Redskins 13
We weren't far off on this though it looked early on that the Giants would win in a blow out. By half time it was a game, but the Giants superiority shined through. WON

Jets -8 vs. Broncos
It wasn't that long ago we would have thought there would be no way the Jets would be favored by 8, especially against a potent Broncos offense. But the Jets have won 5 in a row and the Broncos defense has been more porous than Paris Hilton's pants.
Did not see the Broncos offense rolling and playing good enough defense to win. LOSS

Bills -6.5 vs 49ers
The Bills have been a tremendous let down this year. They looked like they could easily take the AFC East once Tom Brady went down, but they've been miserable, especially QB Trent Edwards. Edwards bounced back with a big game in the Bills win last week against the Chiefs. He and the Bills will need to do it again this week against a Niners team that has nothing to lose. San Fran won't have to worry about the weather, as the temps will be at a mild Buffalo 41.
Trent Edwards missed the 2nd half, but this Bills team is pathetic. A 10-3 loss to the Niners? C'mon! LOSS

Bucs -4 vs. Saints
This is a huge game for the Bucs who have a chance to lock up the #2 seed in the NFC playoffs. The Saints can get back in the NFC South and Wildcard races with a win. Bucs 'D' prevails.
Close ball game, the Bucs blew a 20-10 lead before prevailing 23-20. Not good enough to cover though. LOSS

Packers -3 vs. Panthers
Carolina had a lot of the warts exposed by the Falcons last week. QB Jake Delhomme admitted he's still hurting from off-season elbow surgery. The Pack is just a game behind in the NFC North despite a 5-6 record. With the Vikings and Bears squaring off, the Packers can make up some ground.
Another good game that saw the Pack rally from a 21-10 deficit to take a 28-21 lead, only to lose 35-31. LOSS

Dolphins -8 at Rams
The fish aren't likely to catch the Jets or Pats in the division, but they're still in the Wildcard mix. They barely beat the Raiders 2 weeks ago and were embarrassed by the Pats last week. They should bounce back this week against a hapless Rams team.
The Dolphins are not really that good. Yes, they won 16-12, but they should have crushed this Rams team. LOSS

Ravens -7 at Bengals
Another favorite, but how can you blame us? The Ravens bounced back nicely from their loss to the Giants, with a blow out win over Philly. They sit just one game back of the Steelers in the AFC North. The Bengals have one win. 'Nuff said.
Never a contest, Ravens roll. WON

Colts -4.5 at Browns
Brady Quinn is out for the year with a broken finger, which means Derek Anderson is back in. The Colts are without star DB Bob Sanders, but their offense has been clicking and their 'D' has improved.
Dull..this game was on CBS while the Giants were on Fox. Can't imagine too many people chose this game to watch. Browns already lost Quinn, now Anderson is probably done for the year too. Browns covered though. LOSS

Falcons +5 at Chargers
The Chargers season is slipping away, but if they run the table they can get back to the playoffs. No matter what happens, Norv Turner is probably done as coach in San Diego. The Falcons are rolling by rookie QB Matt Ryan and it should continue today.
We were on the money here. Ryan's great rookie season continues. WON

Steelers -1 at Patriots
Great game...Matt Cassell and the Pats offense has been red hot, but the Steelers defense is still solid. Should be a low scoring game with the boys from iron city prevailing.
Not even close, the Steelers blow out the Pats, 33-10. WON

Raiders -3 vs. Chiefs
Boy is this game now what it used to be. The Raiders are playing a little better since Tom Cable took over and had a resounding win over the Broncs last week. Both teams stink, but this game could actually be entertaining.
The Chiefs won this 20-13. You want to know why? Because for some reason Cable ran a fake FG with Jankowski running the ball. WTF! LOSS

Bears +3 at Vikings
A huge game in the NFC North, where these two teams are tied at an underwhelming 6-5. Will go with the Bears 'D' in this one, thought we also expect a big day from A.P..

Jaguars +3 at Texans
Good God, who scheduled this one? Even if the Jags were playing up to par, did anyone think the Texans were worthy of MNF?

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NFL Picks - Week 12

UPDATED 11/24 2:15 PM
Two weeks ago we lost the Thursday night game and had a great Sunday. No so in week 11, where we screwed up the Jets-Pats and the trend continued on Sunday. A miserable 5-11 week put us at 85-71-14. We hope to have a bounce back week after winning this past Thursday's Steelers-Bengals game.

Big Blue is out in AZ, where until last season's Super Bowl, they have always struggled. Of course that game was against the Cardinals. The Cards are 7-3, but they're division simply stinks. Kurt Warner is having a big year, but will still cough up the football under pressure. This is a different Giants team than the ones that gagged on games out west. We expect them to drive Warner crazy and cover the 3 points even if Plaxico Burress doesn't play and Brandon Jacobs is limited by his sore knee. Giants +3 Prediction: Giants 27 Cardinals 17
An entertaining game that showed the most important thing on the offensive side of the ball is to keep the offensive line healthy. No Brandon Jacobs or Plaxico Burress, but thanks to the heroics of Domenik Hixon, another 37 points on the board. WIN

Titans -5.5 at Jets
The game of the week pits the unbeaten Titans against the suddenly hot Jets (7-3). We still don't trust the Jets though. They have the top scoring team in the NFL, but 103 of those points came against the Rams and Cardinals in 2 games. They had a huge win over the Pats on Thursday and plenty of time to prep for the Titans. That being said the Titans are a better all around team and Kerry Collins is having a super year. We did get a good laugh last Sunday night though when NBC analyst and former Collins teammate Tiki Barber said he trusted Collins more than Brett Favre in a big spot. It seems Tiki forgot about that Super Bowl with the Ravens.
Okay, we admit it. We're going to have to start respecting the Jets. They dominated to win their 5th straight. Hey Tiki Barber, still think Kerry Collins is better than Brett Favre under pressure? LOSS

Browns -3 vs. Texans
Brady Quinn is going to try to play with a broken finger, but even if he can't go, we trust Derek Anderson a whole lot more than Sage Rosenfels who is filling in for Matt Schaub.
What a stinker of a game. Sage Rosenfels was far from great, but was compared to the two headed combo of Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson (13-32 145 yds 3 INT) LOSS

Bills -3 at Chiefs
Buffalo has to turn their season around very quickly or this is going to be a lost year. The Bills have lost 4 in a row after starting out the season 5-1. They have a chance to get back in the playoff hunt with this week's game and next week's match with the 49ers.
Bill snap their losing streak in dominant fashion by embarassing the Chiefs at home. Trent Edwards threw for 2 scores and ran for 2 more as the Bills put 54 points on the board. WIN

Patriots PK at Dolphins
The Pats have a number of injuries, especially at running back, but they should be able to bounce back from their OT loss to the Jets 11 days ago. The Dolphins barely escaped with a win against the woeful Raiders and haven't proven enough to be picked in this one.
The Pats wanted to show their world, "hey, we're still here" after losing to the Jets last week and the Dolphins earlier this season. It was all NE this time around, putting uo 530 total yards and 48 points. Matt Cassel threw for over 400 yards for the second straight game. WIN

Cowboys -9.5 at 49ers
The Cowboys car is definitely not running on all cylinders, but they should be able to handle a 3-win Niners team. Washington's offense is a lot better than San Fran's and Dallas' 'D' was able to hold them down.
Beating up on a patsy always makes you feel good. Yesterday 35-22 Cowboys win wasn't as close as it sounded. T.O. with 213 yards in receptions. WIN

Lions +8 vs. Bucs
This is a big stretch. It's difficult, we mean really difficult to take the Lions. Daunte Culpepper is only playing his 3rd game of the year and that's without a training camp. But the Lions play better at home and this Bucs team is overrated (we now expect a 34-13 blowout).
We thought we actually had something when the Lions went up 17-0. Final score, Bucs 38-20. Bucs used punt and INT returns to make up for only 255 total yards. Lions remain winless. LOSS

Ravens -1.5 vs. Eagles
Rookie Joe Flacco faces a tough pass rush for the second straight week. The Eagles are coming off their putrid performance against the Bengals. We think Flacco outplays Donovan McNabb in a tight one.
The Donovan McNabb era may very well be over in Philly. After last week's OT debacle, McNabb was pulled at halftime after an 8-18, 2 INT start. The Ravens bounced back from last week's loss to the Giants by dominating in every way imaginable. Quintin Demps (100 yd kick return) and Ed Reed (108 yd INT return) scored TD's while Saverio Rocca blocked a punt for a safety. WIN

Bears -8 at Rams
The Bears made us look real bad against the Packers last week, but Kyle Orton had the chance to shake some rust off. The Rams are pathetic. Without Stephen Jackson they are REALLY pathetic.
The Bears bounced back from last weeks drubbing at the hands of the Packers by steamrolling an awful Rams team. Matt Forte rushed for 132 yds and 2 scores. WIN

Jaguars -2 vs. Vikings
The Jags have been banged up all season, particularly the offensive line. It's led to a 4-6 record for a team that came into the season as one of the AFC favorites. The Vikings are only a game better (5-5), but it's got them in a three way tie in the NFC North. Jags should be able to a decent job of keeping Adrian Peterson in check.
All right, we give up on the Jags. We keep expecting things to change, but this team is done. LOSS

Panthers +1 at Falcons
Another great game. There's a lot of feeling that the Panthers are overrated. They certainly have underachieved on the offensive side of the ball. Matt Ryan is playing great and will have a good test today. We could have gone either way on this, but heck, we needed to pig some 'dogs.
The eeny meeny miney mo methodology didn't work on this one. The Falcons took a big step forward with a win that exposed the Panthers warts. LOSS

Broncos -9 vs. Raiders
Oakland has beaten the Broncos a number of times in Denver, but not today. The Broncos give up plenty of points, but they will score plenty today too.
Mike Shanahan must be using a ton of dye in his hair. How else would he not be silver or pulled every hair out of his head after watching his team's performance. 31-10? To the Raiders? LOSS

Redskins -3.5 at Seahawks
Deadskins are coming off the tough loss against the Cowboys last week, and need a win to get back on track. Seattle has been awful, but they do have Matt Hasselback back. Shouldn't be enough to pull off an upset though.
Clinton Portis rushed for 143 yards. The Seahawks only had 228 yards. The Seahawks had 2 turnovers to the Redskins 1. So did this end up only being a 3 point Redskin win? Wich was a loss for us! LOSS

Colts +2.5 at Chargers
The Colts will probably be without their all world defender, Bob Sanders, but Peyton Manning is playing a lot better (translation - knee is healthier) and the Chargers find one way after another to lose.
Adam Vinatieri is still money. A 51-yd FG to win it for the Colts. The Chargers season is sliddddddding away. WIN

Packers +2.5 at Saints
We don't trust either of these teams. We're not reading anything into the Packers romp over the Bears last week. We really don't trust this Saints team that has continually led us down after making the NFC championship game 2 years ago. Ryan Grant will have a big night and the Pack will win MNF.

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NFL Picks - Week 10

It's been a busy week, works, elections, general chaos, but now we're back. Plenty of Yankees stuff to talk about, but for now we're just going to make our NFL picks. We were 8-6 last week thanks to success in the late games and MNF. That puts us at 71-55-4 for the season.

We're already off to an -01 start after getting the Browns (-3.5) vs. Broncos game wrong on Thursday night. Big Blue with another big game tonight against the Eagles. You already know how we feel about prime time games. Despite that we will stay take the Giants and the 3 points.
Giants +3 Prediction Giants 19 Eagles 17

Jets -9.5 vs. Rams
We probably would have taken the Rams had Stephen Jackson been able to play, but since he's not we feel the Jets will manhandle the Rams. Yeah we know, we saw how the Jets had their skirts on against the Chiefs and Raiders.

Jaguars -6.5 at Lions
The Jags have some making up to do after last week's embarrassing loss to the Bengals.

Titans -3 at Bears
No Kyle Orton, which means a return to the unreliable Rex Grossman for Da Bears. The Bears 'D' should keep the game close, but the Titans will remain unbeaten.

Patriots -3.5 vs. Bills
We are off the Bills bandwagon for now. This team has looked horrible the last couple of weeks. The Pats without Brady still find ways to win.

Falcons -1.5 vs. Saints
The Saints lack of defense is absurd and their offense is hit or miss. It's only made worse with injuries.

Dolphins -8 vs. Seahawks
The fish laying 8? This is the Miami Dolphins that won one game last year? Oh yeah, they've brought excitement back to the retirement state.

Packers +2.5 at Vikings
Big test for Aaron Rodgers and company. Same can be said for Minny.

Panthers -10 at Raiders
You know things are going bad when you're a 10 pt dog at home. The Raiders had 77 total yards last week. Take it away Joe Biden, "let me say that again, 77 yards".

Chargers -14.5 vs. Chiefs
The Chargers are extreme underachievers, but they will have no problem scoring 40 or more against this KC team.

Steelers -3.5 vs Colts
Ben Roethlisberger or no Ben Roethlisberger, the Steelers 'D' should be the difference maker. It helps that the Colts have no running game.

Ravens +2 at Texans
Baltimore would be favored if this were a home game. Schaub out, Rosenfels in at QB for Houston.

Cardinals -9.5 vs. 49ers
First Miami now this. The Cards by 9.5? Yeah, they're mediocre, but by far the best in their division.

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NFL Picks - Week 8

We bounced back beautifully from our 5-9 Week 6 debacle to put together a 10-4 Week 7. That puts us at 57-42-3. The big Giants-Steelers, 4:15 pm EDT battle on Sunday culminates a big Pittsburgh-Metro area weekend showdown. It starts today with Rutgers going against Top 25 ranked Pitt. This evening the Rangers and Penguins go at it in an NHL intra-division game, and the NFL counterparts smack each other around tomorrow.

This should be a good one and it will be a real test for the Giants, who have struggled offensively the last two weeks. It's a road game, which actually might help the Giants, since they've won 12 of 13 on the road. It's a game they could easily lose, but we'll go with Big Blue in this one.
Giants +3 at Steelers Prediction: Giants 20 Steelers 17

Jets -14 vs. Chiefs
This could be some really ugly football, but the Jets are still the better team. Could be a blow out.

Ravens -7.5 vs. Raiders
We're not letting that Raiders win last week go anywhere near our heads. They stink. Actually they aren't the only ones. Most of the NFL stinks.

Chargers -3 vs. Saints in London
Blimey! We were thinking this could be an old AFL high scoring game. We know neither of these teams is doing much on the defensive side of the ball. With Reggie Bush already out of the Saints lineup, word is that running back Deuce McAllister has tested positive for steroids and could be suspended. Chargers in a blow out.

Bills -1 at Dolphins
We're surprised the Buffalonians are only favored by a point.

Bucs +2 at Cowboys
We're going out on a bit of a limb here. Even without Romo, could the Cowboys really lose three straight? We're thinking the Bucs defense can make it a reality.

Falcons +9 at Eagles
We're surprised the Eagles are favored by that much. Matt Ryan is playing well and this should be closer than 9 points.

Patriots -7.5 vs. Rams
Rams may be without Stephen Jackson. Can't see the Rams winning three straight.

Panthers -4 vs. Cardinals
You never know with these things, but the Panthers 'D' is the difference maker.

Redskins -8 at Lions
Blow out city.

Browns +7 vs. Jaguars
This is the "what are we thinking pick". It worked out well with the Ravens last week.

Seahawks +5.5 at 49ers
Two teams in disarray.

Bengals +9 at Texans
The Bungles are bad, but the Texans have no business being favored by 9 over anyone.

Titans -4 vs. Colts
What has happened to this Colts team?...besides poor play, injuries, etc.

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NFL Picks - Week 6

Last week 7-5-2
To date 42-29-3

We have to wait until Monday Night Football (we still hear Howard Cosell's voice saying MNF) to see Big Blue play. We hate when the Giants play on Sunday or Monday night. It generally does not go well. But we have confidence that should not be the case this time around and the Giants should remain unbeaten. The Browns went from the precipice of the playoffs last season to underachievers this season. They're 1-3 with their "great find", Derek Andersen, playing like a lost soul. Prediction Giants 31 Browns 13
Giants -8 at Browns

Jets -9.5 vs. Bengals
We flip flopped on the Bengals last week and we got burned by not taking them. The Jets are no world beaters, but the Bengals are in complete disarray right now.

Saints -7 vs. Raiders
The Raiders are working under new interim coach Tom Cable (is anything more interim than coaching under Al Davis?), but things shouldn't change much. On the other side of the ball, we're not hearing that genius tag thrown at Sean Payton much any more.

Ravens +3.5 at Colts
We don't like this Ravens team, but the Colts have been lucky to win at all this year. We can see this being a FG game.

Panthers +2 at Bucs
Whether it's is Garcia or Griese, there's no way should the Bucs be favored (some sites have the Panthers favored, but we use the line from Football Locks.com.

Vikings - 13.5 vs. Lions
We don't like this Vikings squad or double digit spreads, but we can see A.P. destroying the Lions today.

Bears -3 at Falcons
Wow, suddenly we have faith in Kyle Orton and Da Bears.

Dolphins +3 at Texans
Never thought we would be picking the Dolphins, but they have had some impressive wins. Houston could win this one, but it will be a nail biter.

Redskins -12.5 vs. Rams
What a turn out since week 1 in DC. Which is unfortunate, because we hate the Deadskins and it makes the NFC East even tougher.

Jags +3.5 at Broncos
Should be a high scoring game, but the Jags 'D' is much better than Denver's.

Eagles -4.5 at 49ers
Even without Brian Westbrook, the Eagles should win by a touchdown.

Cowboys -4.5 at Cardinals
Arizona isn't as good as their blow out win over the Bills and they're not as bad as their blow out loss to the Jets, but they're not nearly as good as the Cowboys.

Packers +1 at Seahawks
Most lines are now favoring the Pack as Seattle is down to 3rd string QB Charlie Frye. Pack should romp.

Patriots +5 at Chargers
Since their disappointing playoff loss to New England in the 2006 season, this San Diego team has just not been the same. They could very well win today, but it should be close.

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NFL Picks - Week 5

We were 8-5 last week, putting us at 35-24-1 thru 4 weeks.


Big Blue is back in action this week against an underachieving Seattle Seahawks squad. No Plaxico Burress though as he sits out with his suspension. The Giants should have plenty of other weapons to go to though in his absence.
Giants -7 vs. Seahawks
We like this spread a lot better than when it was 9.5. Prediction Giants 27 Seahawks 17

Colts -3 at Texans
Texans could pull off an upset against a struggling Colts team, but the Peyton Mannings should be okay for another week.

Titans -3 at Ravens
It's a road game, but we're surprised the Titans are only laying 3 points. We'll take them quite happily.

Chargers -6.5 at Dolphins
The Dolphins should score some points, but their defense won't stop the Chargers offense.

Panthers -9.5 vs. Chiefs
Larry Johnson won't be rushing for 198 yards against the Panthers defense.

Redskins +6 at Eagles
Maybe we're putting too much into a 'skins team that we knew would play well against the Cowboys last week. We think the Eagles still win, but a field goal is the difference.

Bears -3.5 at Lions
How can anyone even consider taking the Lions.

Packers -4 vs Falcons
The Falcons have really baffled us this season. We keep taking them at the wrong time. We waffled on this one too with Aaron Rodgers being a game time decision. But we'll go with the Pack at home.

Broncos -3 at Bucs
Broncos defense shouldn't be challenged by the Bucs offense, and that will be the difference.

Patriots -3 at 49ers
Frank Gore should have a big day, but the Pats should win by six.

Bills +1 at Cardinals
Why are the Cardinals favored?

Cowboys -16 vs. Bengals
We were going to go with the Bengals and then we chickened out. Big spread or crappy team. Tough one, but the Cowboys will take out their frustration from last week's loss.

Steelers -4 at Jaguars
This should be a great game. Who scheduled Pburg for all these night games?

Saints -3 vs. Vikings
Hard to make heads or tails out of this Vikings squad. Brees should breeze.

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Football Friday - Week 2

Time for our fearless predictions (of course they're fearless, there's no money on it) for week 2 of the NFL season.

Giants -8.5 at Rams
Big spread for a road team, but that's just how bad the Rams were last week. We've never liked big spreads associated with Big Blue either, but this time we have to go with it. Giants 27 Rams 13

Patrios +1.5 at Jets
Brady is gone, Favre is in, but we're not ready to annoint the Jets just yet. Pats are still a better football team.

Chiefs -3.5 at Raiders
KC would have gotten blown out last week had Brady not gone down. That being said, the "Raiduhs" are God awful.

Titans +1 at Bengals
The Bungles were at it again last week, but there's the Vince Young fiasco in Tennessee. Having a veteran in Kerry Collins should allow the Titans to win it.

Colts -1.5 at Vikings
Two 0-1 teams that both have a solid shot at winning this week. We just don't see the Colts losing two in a row after the way the Bears embarrassed them.

Saints PK at Redskins
Not sure why this is only a pick 'em. The Redskins offense is awful, or at least it will be until they get the West Coast style down. Drew Brees should have a breeze picking apart the Skins 'D'.

Packers -3 at Lions
Here we go again. The Lions do well at home, but we just don't trust them, especially after taking them on the road last week. Here's to a 2-0 start for Aaron Rodgers.

Panthers -3 vs. Bears
Sorry, we're not buying into Kyle Orton and Da Bears just 'cause they beat the Colts. Panthers' D and Jake Delhomme are flat out better.

Bills +5 at Jaguars
Bills may not be as good as they looked last week and the Jags are a better defensive team than they showed. But the Jags are beat up on their offensive line. This should be a tight one.

Falcons +7 at Bucs
We haven't had faith in the Bucs offense in years. We don't expect a huge day from Matt Ryan, but the game should be a close one.

Seahawks -7 vs. 49ers
The Seahawks killed us last week, but the Niners stink.

Dolphins +6.5 at Cardinals
Dicey pick. We're not big on Tuna's Dolphins, but the Cardinals are fishy. Okay, enough bad humor. We think ineptitude will keep this close.

Chargers PK at Broncos
San Diego disappointed us time and time again last year. Should be a good one with the Chargers winning it late.

Steelers -6 at Browns
Good sized road spread that the P-Town crew should have no trouble covering.

Texans -4.5 vs. Ravens
The game was moved from Sunday to Monday because of Hurricane Ike. No clue how much difference one day will make, and we wouldn't be surprised if this were postponed completely, or moved to Baltimore.

Eagles +7 at Cowboys
Awesome Monday night game. We hate both of them!

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Week 1 Recap

A Giants win over the Deadskins to open the season and a 10-6 week for us for starters.

Here's a look at how we did on the individual games.

Giants -4.5 vs. Redskins. Correct
On the money, though we though both teams would score more. Giants should have, but we gave the Redskins more credit than they're worth. Giants cruised 16-7.

Jets -3 vs. Dolpins Correct
How bad to you think Chad Pennington wanted this one? He'll get another chance this year, but for now it's Favre and the Jets 1 up. Jets 20-14

Bengals -2 vs. Ravens Wrong
Why did we get back on the Bengals bandwagon? If we were wagering they'd rob a liquor store or get a DUI, we'd have a better chance. Joe Flacco made a great first impression for the Ravens. Ravens 17-10.

Patrios -16 vs. Chiefs Wrong
Needless to say, we didn't expect Brady to get hurt, but our chances went with him. Hard to believe the Pats still couldn't put more on the board, even with Matt Cassel at QB. Pats 17-10.

Steelers -6.5 vs. Texans Correct
Willie Parker would still be running through the Texans if not for the final gun sounding. Some teams just seem destinted to stink. Steelers 38-17

Titans +3 vs. Jags Correct
The whole Vince Young thing is quite bizarre, and shouldn't be dismissed. Meanwhile though, we thought the Titans would play tough in a big rivalry game and they did. Didn't necessarily think they would win straight out, but Young played well until he hurt his knee. Titans 17-10

Lions -3 vs. Falcons Wrong
What were we thinking picking the Lions on the road. We didn't know that rookie Matt Ryan and running back Michael Turner (220 yds) would destroy the Lions. And yet, Matt Millen still has a job. Go figure. Falcons 34-21

Seahawks +1 vs. Bills Wrong
Wow! Did we ever overrate the 'hawks and underestimate the Bills. Mike Holmgren has to go one of these days, doesn't he? Bills 34-10

Saints -3 vs. Bucs Correct
Big early season battle that saw Drew Brees (343 yds passing) bring the Saints out on top. Reggie Bush contributed like it was 2006. Saints 24-20

Rams +8 vs. Eagles Wrong
Similar to the Seahawks-Bills, we were way off track on this one. Donovan McNabb, at least for one week, is back on top. Eagles 38-3

Cowboys -5.5 vs. Browns Correct
No trouble for Tony Simpson Romo and company. We'll find out real quick if Derek Anderson and the Browns were a tease last year or for real. Cowboys 28-10

Panthers +9 vs. Chargers Correct
This was our best pick of the week. We thought the Panthers 'D' would keep it close, but Carolina won straight out on the last play of the game. Panthers 26-24

Cardinals -2.5 vs. 49ers Correct
These are NOT your father's 49ers. Edgarrin James rushed for 100 yards for just the third time in 17 games. Cardinals 23-13.

Colts -9.5 vs. Bears Wrong
Oops. Who saw this coming? Yeah, sure you did. About as much as the Colts expected rookie Matt Forte (123 yards) to rush the football down their throats. Bears 29-13

Packers -2.5 vs. Vikings Correct
Brett Who? Okay, it was one game, but Aaron Rodgers first time out was a huge win against a division foe. Loved Adrian Peterson drilling Al Harris. Packers 24-19

Broncos -3 vs. Raiders Correct
Are the Broncos that good or are the Raiders that bad. Perhaps a little of both. The Raiders won't get better until Davis gives up the ship. Broncos 41-14

YTD 10-6

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