Last week went well, finishing 10-3. Doubt anyone picked the upset of Green Bay by Tampa Bay ( In hindsight: Bucs at home, new QB, bye week vs the Packers coming off a big loss to the Vikings. Yes it all makes sense now!). Still think the Eagles should have beaten the Cowboys as well as the 49ers over the Titans. Let's breakdown week 10:
Chicago Bears at San Francisco 49ers
Pick - 49ers: Both teams are playing bad lately, but Frank Gore is heating up since his injury. Look for both teams to run the ball...it is not like they both have top notch Wide Receivers. Go with the 49ers at home.
Atlanta Falcons at Carolina Panthers
Pick - Falcons (coin toss): Atlanta has won three of the past four meetings. When Ryan has a 100-plus passer rating, the Falcons are 8-0. Turner rushed for over 100 yards in both games against the Panthers last year. Delhomme has thrown for at least 294 yards in three straight games against the Falcons. Look for the Falcons to get it done on the road.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Miami Dolphins
Pick - Dolphins: Tampa was lucky last week (although playing at home, and coming off a bye is always a good combination for a win) but don't look for lightning to strike twice. Tampa Bay has taken three in a row though against the Dolphins. Miami's Joey Porter has seven sacks in three career games against the Bucs (rumor is that Porter is not playing though). Still taking the Dolphins although fate is on the side of the Bucs.
Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings
Pick - Vikings: Minnesota has won 14 of the past 15 meetings. Minnesota has scored in 29 of 32 quarters this season. Favre has beaten the Lions six times in a row. Vikings should handle the Lions easily.
Jacksonville Jaguars at New York Jets
Pick - Jets: Jacksonville has won four of the past five meetings. When Garrard has a 100-plus rating as a starter, the Jaguars are 15-4. The Jets lead the NFL in rushing. With one more sack, Shaun Ellis would become New York's all-time leader in sacks. Hate picking the Jets, but they will get it done at home.
Cincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick - Steelers (coin toss): Most likely the game of the week! The Steelers have won five of the past six meetings and own a 48-30 overall series edge, including the playoffs. Pittsburgh was without its Pro Bowl safety in the first meeting between these teams (Steelers loss) and he was missed. The Bengals have not beaten the Steelers two consecutive times since 1998. When Cincinnati has at least 25 rushing attempts in a game under Marvin Lewis, it is 26-1. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is undefeated against the AFC North at home (7-0). Chris Henry is on IR. Have to take the Steelers at home.
New Orleans Saints at St. Louis Rams
Pick - Saints: The Rams have won three of the past four meetings. New Orleans rallied from an early 14-point deficit to knock off rival Carolina, 30-20. New Orleans is going for its first 8-0 start ever. The Saints average a league-high 37.9 points per game. Don't look for an upset here. Saints win on the road.
Buffalo Bills at Tennessee Titans
Pick - Titans (coin toss): The Titans have won five of the past six meetings. The Bills are 14-6 all-time after a bye. Buffalo ranks second in the NFL with 15 interceptions. Young has won six consecutive games as a starter. Titans RB Chris Johnson leads the NFL in rushing with 959 yards. Take the Titans at home.
Denver Broncos at Washington Redskins
Pick - Broncos: The Broncos have won three of the past four meetings. The Broncos have won five of six against NFC opponents. Denver is third in the NFL with 26 sacks. The Redskins are just 4-12 in their last 16 games. Portis is out, and Betts is banged up. Look for the Broncos to get back to their winning ways.
Kansas City Chiefs at Oakland Raiders
Pick - Raiders (coin toss): Oakland has won three of the past four meetings. The Chiefs have won six consecutive games at Oakland. Kansas City QB Matt Cassel is 7-4 on the road as a starter in his career. Kansas City has surrendered an AFC-high 30 sacks this season and that has kept the offense from sustaining many drives. The Raiders have enough talented pass rushers (Richard Seymour, Greg Ellis, Tommy Kelly) to exploit the Chiefs' weakness. This game could go either way. Go with the home team.
Seattle Seahawks at Arizona Cardinals
Pick - Cardinals: The Cardinals have won four of the past five meetings. Seahawks DE Patrick Kerney has 11.5 sacks in his last six outings against the Cardinals. After playing extremely well at home last year and struggling on the road, the script has completely flipped this season for the Cardinals. They are just 1-3 in front of the home crowd, and have been outscored by 39 points in those three losses. Still taking the Cardinals at home.
Dallas Cowboys at Green Bay Packers
Pick - Cowboys (coin toss): The Cowboys have won three of the past four and own a 16-12 overall series edge, including the playoffs. Cowboys QB Tony Romo has won 13 consecutive November starts -- the longest such streak for a quarterback since 1950. When Ryan Grant has 22 or more rushing attempts, Green Bay is 10-1. Dallas is heating up, Green Bay is cooling off. Take the Cowboys on the road.
Philadelphia Eagles at San Diego Chargers
Pick - Chargers (coin toss): The Eagles have won two in a row, but trail the overall series, 5-4. Philadelphia's Brent Celek leads NFC tight ends with 486 receiving yards this year. Fourteen of Eagles CB Sheldon Brown's 18 career interceptions have led to scores. The Chargers have won four consecutive games against the Eagles at home. San Diego WR Vincent Jackson has a touchdown catch in four consecutive games. Eagles should struggle going to the west coast, so take the Chargers at home.
New England Patriots at Indianapolis Colts
Pick - Patriots (coin toss): Another game of the week! Indianapolis has won four of the last five meetings, but has a decisive disadvantage in the overall series, 44-28, including the playoffs. Brady has thrown for at least 300 yards in three consecutive games. Patriots RB Laurence Maroney has a rushing TD in three consecutive games. Indianapolis has won 17 consecutive regular-season games. Manning leads the NFL with 222 completions this year. Manning vs Brady (and Belichick), I am going with the Patriots on the Road (a tall order to fill!)
Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns
Pick - Ravens: Baltimore has won five of the past seven and has a 14-7 overall series edge. Baltimore's Ed Reed has more interceptions vs. Cleveland (eight) than any other team. Even though Cleveland is coming off a bye week and are at home, it just will not be enough. Raven's win on the road.
Please note, nerangers picks are done for fun only!
Stat info from NFL.COM
wk1: 13-3, wk2: 8-8, wk3: 14-2, wk4: 14-0 wk5: 9-5 wk6: 9-5 wk7: 10-3 wk8: 8-5 wk9: 10-3
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Monday, November 9, 2009
Patriots vs. Dolphins: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Patriots 27, Miami 17
The Good:
Tom Brady went 25 for 37 for 332 yards, his third straight game with more than 300 yards and team-record 27th of his career.
Randy Moss had two big plays for the Patriots. He hauled in a 36-yard reception to set up Laurence Maroney's 1-yard TD plunge in the first quarter, and took a short pass and raced 71 yards for the go-ahead score. Moss finished with six receptions for 147 yards.
Laurence Maroney rushed 20 times for 82 yards and a touchdown.
The Bad:
Field Goals instead of Touch Downs! The Patriots settled for field goals after facing first and 10 from the 24-, 27-, 11-, and 12-yard lines.
The Dolphins ran 11 plays out of the Wildcat for eight yards and six plays for 59 yards out of the Pistol formation. The Dolphins used both formation extensively on both of their touchdown drives, but the Patriots stifled both by the fourth quarter.
The Ugly:
Miami quarterback Chad Henne was in the midst of making a throw when Tully Banta-Cain came in with the hit. The loose ball was ruled a fumble and Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas picked it up and returned it for the touchdown. The ruling was changed to an incomplete pass as the Dolphins keep possession.
Game Notes:
With their victory over the Dolphins, the Patriots took a two-game lead over the second-place New York Jets and a three-game lead over the third-place, defending division champion Dolphins in the AFC East.
Junior Seau, who rejoined New England Oct. 14, has won his last 25 regular-season games with the Patriots, the longest personal winning streak by a player since the 1970 merger.
Since 2001, the Patriots are 71-17 in games played after Nov. 1, including playoffs. Bill Belichick is 11-8 vs Miami as Patriots coach.
The Patriots snapped the Dolphins' four-game streak of scoring more than 30 points in a game.
The Patriots have now won seven consecutive games coming off a bye.
The Patriots' streak of coming up with a turnover in 15 consecutive games ended.
Notable Quotes:
"We can't just keep kicking field goals out there." -- NE Patriots QB Tom Brady
"He's so fast,It's always nice for a quarterback when you see the back of (No.) 81 sprinting down the field." -- NE Patriots QB Tom Brady
"Everybody did what they had to do and 71 yards later it was a touchdown." -- NE Patriots WR Randy Moss
Scoring:
Miami Dan Carpenter kicked a 52-yard field goal (Miami 3, Patriots 0, 9:34, 1st quarter)
Patriots RB Maroney scores TD (Patriots 7, Miami 3, 6:58, 1st quarter)
The Patriots were 7 yards away from the end zone but were unable to score a touchdown, settling for Gostkowski's 30-yard field goal. (Patriots 10, Miami 3, ,9:05 2nd quarter)
Pat White, the Wildcat and a pass interference call against the Patriots moved the Dolphins down the field, eventually setting up Ricky Williams' 15-yard touchdown run. (Patriots 10, Miami 10, ,6:03 2nd quarter)
Stephen Gostkowski kicked a 38-yard field goal to give the Patriots a 13-10 lead. (Patriots 13, Miami 10, 2:45, 2nd quarter)
The Patriots squeezed out another 3 points on Gostkowski's 34-yard field goal with .01 left in the first half. (Patriots 16, Miami 10, 0:00, 2nd quarter)
The Dolphins burned 10:09 off the clock and ended the 16-play drive with a 1-yard touchdown pass from running back Ronnie Brown to Joey Haynos. (Miami 17, Patriots 16, 4:51, 3rd quarter)
Tom Brady found Randy Moss up the middle and Moss handled the rest, avoiding a tackle and sprinting 71 yards for the touchdown. Moss also caught the 2-point conversion to give the Patriots a 24-17 lead. (Patriots 24, Miami 17, 3:15, 3rd quarter)
Stephen Gostkowski kicked a 40-yard field goal in the final two minutes, his fourth of the day. Patriots win! (Patriots 27, Miami 17, FINAL)
Game Info from NFL.Com and Boston.com
The Good:
Tom Brady went 25 for 37 for 332 yards, his third straight game with more than 300 yards and team-record 27th of his career.
Randy Moss had two big plays for the Patriots. He hauled in a 36-yard reception to set up Laurence Maroney's 1-yard TD plunge in the first quarter, and took a short pass and raced 71 yards for the go-ahead score. Moss finished with six receptions for 147 yards.
Laurence Maroney rushed 20 times for 82 yards and a touchdown.
The Bad:
Field Goals instead of Touch Downs! The Patriots settled for field goals after facing first and 10 from the 24-, 27-, 11-, and 12-yard lines.
The Dolphins ran 11 plays out of the Wildcat for eight yards and six plays for 59 yards out of the Pistol formation. The Dolphins used both formation extensively on both of their touchdown drives, but the Patriots stifled both by the fourth quarter.
The Ugly:
Miami quarterback Chad Henne was in the midst of making a throw when Tully Banta-Cain came in with the hit. The loose ball was ruled a fumble and Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas picked it up and returned it for the touchdown. The ruling was changed to an incomplete pass as the Dolphins keep possession.
Game Notes:
With their victory over the Dolphins, the Patriots took a two-game lead over the second-place New York Jets and a three-game lead over the third-place, defending division champion Dolphins in the AFC East.
Junior Seau, who rejoined New England Oct. 14, has won his last 25 regular-season games with the Patriots, the longest personal winning streak by a player since the 1970 merger.
Since 2001, the Patriots are 71-17 in games played after Nov. 1, including playoffs. Bill Belichick is 11-8 vs Miami as Patriots coach.
The Patriots snapped the Dolphins' four-game streak of scoring more than 30 points in a game.
The Patriots have now won seven consecutive games coming off a bye.
The Patriots' streak of coming up with a turnover in 15 consecutive games ended.
Notable Quotes:
"We can't just keep kicking field goals out there." -- NE Patriots QB Tom Brady
"He's so fast,It's always nice for a quarterback when you see the back of (No.) 81 sprinting down the field." -- NE Patriots QB Tom Brady
"Everybody did what they had to do and 71 yards later it was a touchdown." -- NE Patriots WR Randy Moss
Scoring:
Miami Dan Carpenter kicked a 52-yard field goal (Miami 3, Patriots 0, 9:34, 1st quarter)
Patriots RB Maroney scores TD (Patriots 7, Miami 3, 6:58, 1st quarter)
The Patriots were 7 yards away from the end zone but were unable to score a touchdown, settling for Gostkowski's 30-yard field goal. (Patriots 10, Miami 3, ,9:05 2nd quarter)
Pat White, the Wildcat and a pass interference call against the Patriots moved the Dolphins down the field, eventually setting up Ricky Williams' 15-yard touchdown run. (Patriots 10, Miami 10, ,6:03 2nd quarter)
Stephen Gostkowski kicked a 38-yard field goal to give the Patriots a 13-10 lead. (Patriots 13, Miami 10, 2:45, 2nd quarter)
The Patriots squeezed out another 3 points on Gostkowski's 34-yard field goal with .01 left in the first half. (Patriots 16, Miami 10, 0:00, 2nd quarter)
The Dolphins burned 10:09 off the clock and ended the 16-play drive with a 1-yard touchdown pass from running back Ronnie Brown to Joey Haynos. (Miami 17, Patriots 16, 4:51, 3rd quarter)
Tom Brady found Randy Moss up the middle and Moss handled the rest, avoiding a tackle and sprinting 71 yards for the touchdown. Moss also caught the 2-point conversion to give the Patriots a 24-17 lead. (Patriots 24, Miami 17, 3:15, 3rd quarter)
Stephen Gostkowski kicked a 40-yard field goal in the final two minutes, his fourth of the day. Patriots win! (Patriots 27, Miami 17, FINAL)
Game Info from NFL.Com and Boston.com
Sunday, November 8, 2009
NFL Week 9: Putting it on the line
Last week went extremely bad ... should have gone with my gut on two of the games (Ravens, Titans) instead of going safe. I originally had the Vikings, but flipped to the Packers at home. Not sure what happen to the Cardinals against the Panthers...the defense really stepped up. The Rams had to beat someone this year, so why not the Lions! Let's see if we can make up on some wins this week.
Washington Redskins at Atlanta Falcons
Pick - Falcons: The Redskins have won six of the last eight meetings. Falcons QB Matt Ryan is 10-1 in his career at home. ... Atlanta's Tony Gonzalez has scored in all three of his home games this season. The Redskins' have the second-ranked pass defense.
Arizona Cardinals at Chicago Bears
Pick - Cardinals (coin toss): The Bears have won five of the past six meetings. The Cardinals are 3-0 on the road for the first time since 1982. Arizona's Tim Hightower leads all NFL running backs with 39 catches. When Jay Cutler has at least a 100 passer rating, his team is 13-0. Johnny Knox is second among rookies with four touchdown catches.
Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals
Pick - Bengals: The Bengals have won seven of the past 10 meetings. Ravens QB Joe Flacco has at least one touchdown pass in seven consecutive games. Carson Palmer is 7-3 in his career against the Ravens.
Houston Texans at Indianapolis Colts
Pick - Colts (coin toss): Indianapolis has owned this series, having won 13 of the 14 all-time matchups. Texans QB Matt Schaub has already thrown for a career-high 16 touchdowns. Peyton Manning is 7-0 at home against the Texans and has 20 touchdown passes and only two interceptions in those games. Schaub will be missing Owen Daniels. The Colts secondary is depleted after three player injuries this week. Houston actually has a chance to beat the Colts this week.
Kansas City Chiefs at Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick - Jaguars (coin toss): Jacksonville has a 5-2 overall series advantage. Chiefs QB Matt Cassel has a 7-3 career record on the road as a starter. Jones-Drew has 50 touchdowns in 53 career games. With Larry Johnson suspended for this game, Charles has his chance to show he can be the team's No. 1 running back.
Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots
Pick - Patriots: New England has won four of the past six meetings, but still trails the overall series, 49-38, including the playoffs. Dolphins coach Tony Sparano is 7-2 against the AFC East. New England has won 24 consecutive regular season games with Junior Seau on the roster.
Green Bay Packers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick - Packers: Six of the last nine games have gone Tampa Bay's way. Josh Freeman debuts as the starting QB for Tampa Bay. Packers QB Aaron Rodgers has posted a 100-plus passer rating in five consecutive games.
Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints
Pick - Saints: Carolina has won six of the past seven meetings and has a 16-12 overall series edge. Panthers QB Jake Delhomme, who started his career in New Orleans, is 8-2 against the Saints. When DeAngelo Williams rushes for 110 yards or more, the Panthers are 10-0. New Orleans is averaging a league-best 39 points per game.
Detroit Lions at Seattle Seahawks
Pick - Seahawks: The Lions have won three of the past five, but trail the overall series, 6-4. Former Seahawks Maurice Morris and Julian Peterson, now with the Lions, face their former team for the first time. Seattle's John Carlson has five touchdowns in his past seven home games.
San Diego Chargers at New York Giants
Pick - Chargers (coin toss): San Diego has won two of three, but New York has the overall series edge, 5-4. New York's secondary has failed to defend the long pass over the past three weeks and that flaw could prove to be fatal against the Chargers. Rivers has 11 touchdowns in his past five outings against the NFC. Though the Giants are enduring a three-game losing skid, Brandon Jacobs has actually played his best over the past three weeks. He is averaging 4.9 yards per carry over that span and has added five catches for 34 yards. When Justin Tuck records a sack, the Giants are 15-3.
Tennessee Titans at San Francisco 49ers
Pick - 49ers: The Niners have won two of the past three meetings and have a 7-4 overall series edge. The Titans have won five straight against the NFC. Niners RB Frank Gore has three 60-plus yard TD runs this year. Chris JOhnson has become the king of long touchdown scampers with four rushing scores of at least 50 yards already this season.
Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles
Pick - Eagles: The Eagles have won four of the past six meetings. Romo has won 12 consecutive Nov. starts. Eagles QB Donovan McNabb has won 11 of his past 16 starts against Dallas.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Denver Broncos
Pick - Steelers (coin toss): The Broncos have won four of the past five and have a commanding 16-9-1 overall series edge, including the playoffs. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is 4-0 on Monday Night Football. Roethlisberger has a touchdown in seven consecutive games. Orton has lost just two home games in his career. Denver's Elvis Dumervil leads the AFC with 10 sacks.
Please note, nerangers picks are done for fun only!
Stat info from NFL.COM
wk1: 13-3, wk2: 8-8, wk3: 14-2, wk4: 14-0 wk5: 9-5 wk6: 9-5 wk7: 10-3 wk8: 8-5
Washington Redskins at Atlanta Falcons
Pick - Falcons: The Redskins have won six of the last eight meetings. Falcons QB Matt Ryan is 10-1 in his career at home. ... Atlanta's Tony Gonzalez has scored in all three of his home games this season. The Redskins' have the second-ranked pass defense.
Arizona Cardinals at Chicago Bears
Pick - Cardinals (coin toss): The Bears have won five of the past six meetings. The Cardinals are 3-0 on the road for the first time since 1982. Arizona's Tim Hightower leads all NFL running backs with 39 catches. When Jay Cutler has at least a 100 passer rating, his team is 13-0. Johnny Knox is second among rookies with four touchdown catches.
Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals
Pick - Bengals: The Bengals have won seven of the past 10 meetings. Ravens QB Joe Flacco has at least one touchdown pass in seven consecutive games. Carson Palmer is 7-3 in his career against the Ravens.
Houston Texans at Indianapolis Colts
Pick - Colts (coin toss): Indianapolis has owned this series, having won 13 of the 14 all-time matchups. Texans QB Matt Schaub has already thrown for a career-high 16 touchdowns. Peyton Manning is 7-0 at home against the Texans and has 20 touchdown passes and only two interceptions in those games. Schaub will be missing Owen Daniels. The Colts secondary is depleted after three player injuries this week. Houston actually has a chance to beat the Colts this week.
Kansas City Chiefs at Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick - Jaguars (coin toss): Jacksonville has a 5-2 overall series advantage. Chiefs QB Matt Cassel has a 7-3 career record on the road as a starter. Jones-Drew has 50 touchdowns in 53 career games. With Larry Johnson suspended for this game, Charles has his chance to show he can be the team's No. 1 running back.
Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots
Pick - Patriots: New England has won four of the past six meetings, but still trails the overall series, 49-38, including the playoffs. Dolphins coach Tony Sparano is 7-2 against the AFC East. New England has won 24 consecutive regular season games with Junior Seau on the roster.
Green Bay Packers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick - Packers: Six of the last nine games have gone Tampa Bay's way. Josh Freeman debuts as the starting QB for Tampa Bay. Packers QB Aaron Rodgers has posted a 100-plus passer rating in five consecutive games.
Carolina Panthers at New Orleans Saints
Pick - Saints: Carolina has won six of the past seven meetings and has a 16-12 overall series edge. Panthers QB Jake Delhomme, who started his career in New Orleans, is 8-2 against the Saints. When DeAngelo Williams rushes for 110 yards or more, the Panthers are 10-0. New Orleans is averaging a league-best 39 points per game.
Detroit Lions at Seattle Seahawks
Pick - Seahawks: The Lions have won three of the past five, but trail the overall series, 6-4. Former Seahawks Maurice Morris and Julian Peterson, now with the Lions, face their former team for the first time. Seattle's John Carlson has five touchdowns in his past seven home games.
San Diego Chargers at New York Giants
Pick - Chargers (coin toss): San Diego has won two of three, but New York has the overall series edge, 5-4. New York's secondary has failed to defend the long pass over the past three weeks and that flaw could prove to be fatal against the Chargers. Rivers has 11 touchdowns in his past five outings against the NFC. Though the Giants are enduring a three-game losing skid, Brandon Jacobs has actually played his best over the past three weeks. He is averaging 4.9 yards per carry over that span and has added five catches for 34 yards. When Justin Tuck records a sack, the Giants are 15-3.
Tennessee Titans at San Francisco 49ers
Pick - 49ers: The Niners have won two of the past three meetings and have a 7-4 overall series edge. The Titans have won five straight against the NFC. Niners RB Frank Gore has three 60-plus yard TD runs this year. Chris JOhnson has become the king of long touchdown scampers with four rushing scores of at least 50 yards already this season.
Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles
Pick - Eagles: The Eagles have won four of the past six meetings. Romo has won 12 consecutive Nov. starts. Eagles QB Donovan McNabb has won 11 of his past 16 starts against Dallas.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Denver Broncos
Pick - Steelers (coin toss): The Broncos have won four of the past five and have a commanding 16-9-1 overall series edge, including the playoffs. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is 4-0 on Monday Night Football. Roethlisberger has a touchdown in seven consecutive games. Orton has lost just two home games in his career. Denver's Elvis Dumervil leads the AFC with 10 sacks.
Please note, nerangers picks are done for fun only!
Stat info from NFL.COM
wk1: 13-3, wk2: 8-8, wk3: 14-2, wk4: 14-0 wk5: 9-5 wk6: 9-5 wk7: 10-3 wk8: 8-5
Sunday, November 1, 2009
NFL Week 8: Putting it on the Line
Denver Broncos at Baltimore Ravens
Pick - Broncos (coin toss): The Broncos are going for their first 7-0 start since 1998. ... Denver has a 15-5 all-time mark after a bye. Flacco has thrown at least one touchdown in six straight games. Broncos are hot, Ravens are not. Sticking with the Broncos until they prove different.
Houston Texans at Buffalo Bills
Pick - Texans: The Bills have won the last two meeting. Houston has won four of its past six road games. Texans LB Brian Cushing leads all NFL rookies with 56 tackles. Owen Daniels leads all tight ends with 39 catches, 497 yards and five touchdowns and could be a matchup nightmare for a Bills team that has struggled with tight ends all season. The Bill can suprise you, but the Texans should have enough offense to win this one on the road.
Cleveland Browns at Chicago Bears
Pick - Bears: The Browns have won three of the past four meetings. Cutler can put his road woes behind him this week as the Bears head back to Soldier Field. At home, Cutler has been one of the league's best quarterbacks, throwing four touchdowns, without an interception in two games. Browns QB Derek Anderson has 10 touchdowns in his past eight games against the NFC. Cleveland LB Kamerion Wimbley has a sack in each of his last two road games. Bears WR Johnny Knox is tied for the rookie lead with four touchdowns. Chicago's Greg Olsen has a touchdown in three of his last four games. Bears need to step up from last week.
Seattle Seahawks at Dallas Cowboys
Pick - Cowboys (coin toss): In his first three seasons, the Cowboys' Austin had 18 career catches for 354 yards and three touchdowns. In the past three weeks alone, he has surpassed all of those numbers, with 19 catches for 440 yards and four touchdowns. Seahawks WR Nate Burleson has nine receiving touchdowns in his past 12 games. Seattle's Patrick Kerney has four sacks in his last four games. Leaning towards the Cowboys since they are at home.
St. Louis Rams at Detroit Lions
Pick - Lions (coin toss): Battle of the Bad! The Lions have won four of the past six meetings. St. Louis' star running back is the league's third-leading rusher this season, but he has yet to score a touchdown. Lions RB Kevin Smith has 515 yards from scrimmage in his last five home games. Detroit K Jason Hanson needs 16 points to reach 1,800 for his career. Take the Lions only because they are at home.
Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers
Pick - Packers (coin toss): The Packers have won six of the past seven meetings and have a 49-46-1 overall series edge, including the playoffs. While the Vikings suffered their first loss of the season in a 27-17 loss to the Steelers at Heinz Field, the Packers cruised to a 31-3 victory over the Browns in Cleveland. Favre has won eight of his last 10 November starts. Minnesota's Percy Harvin leads all rookies with four touchdowns. Rodgers has a 100-plus passer rating in five straight games. Packers WR Greg Jennings has a touchdown catch in his last three November games. Hard for a team to beat an opponent a second time. Look for the Packers to step it up at home.
San Francisco 49ers at Indianapolis Colts
Pick - Colts: San Francisco has won seven of the last nine meetings. When Alex Smith has a 95-plus passer rating, the 49ers are 5-0. Peyton Manning has 108 touchdown passes in his career against NFC opponents. Colts WR Reggie Wayne has a touchdown catch in four consecutive games. Colts look unbeatable right now, especially at home.
Miami Dolphins at New York Jets
Pick - Dolphins (coin toss): The Jets have won eight of the last 11 meetings. This game features the league's top two rushing teams. The Dolphins have won six of their past seven against AFC East opponents. The Jets are 4-1 when Mark Sanchez has a touchdown pass. Miami is a surprising team with the wildcat...look for the win on the road.
Oakland Raiders at San Diego Chargers
Pick - Chargers: The Chargers have won 12 in a row. This game features two of the eight original AFL franchises. Russell was benched after turning the ball over three times in the first half against the Jets, but he will apparently get the start in San Diego. Oakland's Zach Miller leads all NFL tight ends with a 16-yard per catch average. San Diego's Shaun Phillips has 9.5 sacks against Oakland in his career. The Raiders are a mess, so go with the home team.
Jacksonville Jaguars at Tennessee Titans
Pick - Jaguars: Jacksonville has won three of the past four meetings. When Garrard throws two or more touchdowns, the Jaguars are 12-4. Maurice Jones-Drew has scored 48 touchdowns in 52 career games. Titans QB Vince Young has an 18-11 record as a starter. Young will be a good change of pace for the Titans, but the Jaguars should still do well on the road.
Carolina Panthers at Arizona Cardinals
Pick - Cardinals: The Panthers have won five of the past six meetings. If you take out a blowout loss to Peyton Manning and the Colts, the Cardinals have had one of the best defenses in the league. Delhomme has won all four of his regular-season starts against the Cardinals. This is not the same Panthers team of the past. Delhomme might be benched if he starts off bad. Take the Cardinals at home.
New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles
Pick - Eagles: The Giants have won four of the past seven meetings. After starting the season on fire, Manning has cooled off in his last two games. He has completed just 48.5 percent of his passes with two touchdowns and four interceptions over that span. Manning has won four straight starts at Philadelphia. Giants rookie Hakeem Nicks has a touchdown in four consecutive games. When Eagles CB Asante Samuel has an interception, his teams are 22-2. Eagles might not have Westbrook, which could make all the difference in this game. Take the Eagles at home.
Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints
Pick - Saints: The Saints have won five of the past six meetings. When Michael Turner has at least 19 carries, his teams are 14-1. John Abraham has 6.5 sacks in eight Monday night games. The Saints are the first team in history to score 45-plus points in four of their first six games. Since joining New Orleans, Brees has beaten Atlanta five out of six times. Saints are too hot to pick against...plus they are at home.
Please note, nerangers picks are done for fun only!
Stat info from NFL.COM
wk1: 13-3, wk2: 8-8, wk3: 14-2, wk4: 14-0 wk5: 9-5 wk6: 9-5 wk7: 10-3
Pick - Broncos (coin toss): The Broncos are going for their first 7-0 start since 1998. ... Denver has a 15-5 all-time mark after a bye. Flacco has thrown at least one touchdown in six straight games. Broncos are hot, Ravens are not. Sticking with the Broncos until they prove different.
Houston Texans at Buffalo Bills
Pick - Texans: The Bills have won the last two meeting. Houston has won four of its past six road games. Texans LB Brian Cushing leads all NFL rookies with 56 tackles. Owen Daniels leads all tight ends with 39 catches, 497 yards and five touchdowns and could be a matchup nightmare for a Bills team that has struggled with tight ends all season. The Bill can suprise you, but the Texans should have enough offense to win this one on the road.
Cleveland Browns at Chicago Bears
Pick - Bears: The Browns have won three of the past four meetings. Cutler can put his road woes behind him this week as the Bears head back to Soldier Field. At home, Cutler has been one of the league's best quarterbacks, throwing four touchdowns, without an interception in two games. Browns QB Derek Anderson has 10 touchdowns in his past eight games against the NFC. Cleveland LB Kamerion Wimbley has a sack in each of his last two road games. Bears WR Johnny Knox is tied for the rookie lead with four touchdowns. Chicago's Greg Olsen has a touchdown in three of his last four games. Bears need to step up from last week.
Seattle Seahawks at Dallas Cowboys
Pick - Cowboys (coin toss): In his first three seasons, the Cowboys' Austin had 18 career catches for 354 yards and three touchdowns. In the past three weeks alone, he has surpassed all of those numbers, with 19 catches for 440 yards and four touchdowns. Seahawks WR Nate Burleson has nine receiving touchdowns in his past 12 games. Seattle's Patrick Kerney has four sacks in his last four games. Leaning towards the Cowboys since they are at home.
St. Louis Rams at Detroit Lions
Pick - Lions (coin toss): Battle of the Bad! The Lions have won four of the past six meetings. St. Louis' star running back is the league's third-leading rusher this season, but he has yet to score a touchdown. Lions RB Kevin Smith has 515 yards from scrimmage in his last five home games. Detroit K Jason Hanson needs 16 points to reach 1,800 for his career. Take the Lions only because they are at home.
Minnesota Vikings at Green Bay Packers
Pick - Packers (coin toss): The Packers have won six of the past seven meetings and have a 49-46-1 overall series edge, including the playoffs. While the Vikings suffered their first loss of the season in a 27-17 loss to the Steelers at Heinz Field, the Packers cruised to a 31-3 victory over the Browns in Cleveland. Favre has won eight of his last 10 November starts. Minnesota's Percy Harvin leads all rookies with four touchdowns. Rodgers has a 100-plus passer rating in five straight games. Packers WR Greg Jennings has a touchdown catch in his last three November games. Hard for a team to beat an opponent a second time. Look for the Packers to step it up at home.
San Francisco 49ers at Indianapolis Colts
Pick - Colts: San Francisco has won seven of the last nine meetings. When Alex Smith has a 95-plus passer rating, the 49ers are 5-0. Peyton Manning has 108 touchdown passes in his career against NFC opponents. Colts WR Reggie Wayne has a touchdown catch in four consecutive games. Colts look unbeatable right now, especially at home.
Miami Dolphins at New York Jets
Pick - Dolphins (coin toss): The Jets have won eight of the last 11 meetings. This game features the league's top two rushing teams. The Dolphins have won six of their past seven against AFC East opponents. The Jets are 4-1 when Mark Sanchez has a touchdown pass. Miami is a surprising team with the wildcat...look for the win on the road.
Oakland Raiders at San Diego Chargers
Pick - Chargers: The Chargers have won 12 in a row. This game features two of the eight original AFL franchises. Russell was benched after turning the ball over three times in the first half against the Jets, but he will apparently get the start in San Diego. Oakland's Zach Miller leads all NFL tight ends with a 16-yard per catch average. San Diego's Shaun Phillips has 9.5 sacks against Oakland in his career. The Raiders are a mess, so go with the home team.
Jacksonville Jaguars at Tennessee Titans
Pick - Jaguars: Jacksonville has won three of the past four meetings. When Garrard throws two or more touchdowns, the Jaguars are 12-4. Maurice Jones-Drew has scored 48 touchdowns in 52 career games. Titans QB Vince Young has an 18-11 record as a starter. Young will be a good change of pace for the Titans, but the Jaguars should still do well on the road.
Carolina Panthers at Arizona Cardinals
Pick - Cardinals: The Panthers have won five of the past six meetings. If you take out a blowout loss to Peyton Manning and the Colts, the Cardinals have had one of the best defenses in the league. Delhomme has won all four of his regular-season starts against the Cardinals. This is not the same Panthers team of the past. Delhomme might be benched if he starts off bad. Take the Cardinals at home.
New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles
Pick - Eagles: The Giants have won four of the past seven meetings. After starting the season on fire, Manning has cooled off in his last two games. He has completed just 48.5 percent of his passes with two touchdowns and four interceptions over that span. Manning has won four straight starts at Philadelphia. Giants rookie Hakeem Nicks has a touchdown in four consecutive games. When Eagles CB Asante Samuel has an interception, his teams are 22-2. Eagles might not have Westbrook, which could make all the difference in this game. Take the Eagles at home.
Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints
Pick - Saints: The Saints have won five of the past six meetings. When Michael Turner has at least 19 carries, his teams are 14-1. John Abraham has 6.5 sacks in eight Monday night games. The Saints are the first team in history to score 45-plus points in four of their first six games. Since joining New Orleans, Brees has beaten Atlanta five out of six times. Saints are too hot to pick against...plus they are at home.
Please note, nerangers picks are done for fun only!
Stat info from NFL.COM
wk1: 13-3, wk2: 8-8, wk3: 14-2, wk4: 14-0 wk5: 9-5 wk6: 9-5 wk7: 10-3
Monday, October 26, 2009
Pats vs Bucs: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Patriots vs. Buccaneers (35 - 7)
The Good:
Tom Brady threw three touchdown passes and had more than 300 yards as the Patriots (5-2) beat the Buccaneers 35-7 at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.
Patriots safety Brandon Meriweather intercepted Josh Johnson on Tampa Bay's first two drives, including a 39-yard pick-six on the Bucs' opening drive, after which the Patriots never trailed. Meriweather finished with two tackles to go along with his pair of interceptions.
For the Patriots, it was their first victory on the road this season after losses at the New York Jets and Denver Broncos.
The Bad:
The Buccaneers forced Brady into two interceptions, but followed both takeaways with a three-and-out.
The Ugly:
Patriots DE Ty Warren was carted to the locker room with an ankle injury and did not return.
Game Notes:
Tom Brady threw two interceptions, breaking a streak of 184 pass attempts without an interception.
New England has at least one takeaway in 14 straight games.
With two receptions, New England's Kevin Faulk became the 26th RB in NFL history to reach 500 receptions.
Notable Quotes:
"I'm feeling great," Brady said. "I keep rolling. That's two wins in a row. We went out there and put two touchdowns on the board there in the second half. We had plenty of distractions coming over here, but everybody was really energized. To get the win and fly home and have a (bye) week off is just great."
"It's a great way to end this week," Bill Belichick said. "It's been an enjoyable couple days here and glad we could end it on a positive note."
Patriots vs. Titans (59 - 0)
The Good:
It took six weeks, but Brady finally looked like himself, albeit against the Titans' 31st-ranked pass defense. Playing in the rain and snow, Brady completed 19 of his first 20 passes, displaying the accuracy -- especially on the long ball -- that was missing from his first five starts. Brady finished 29 of 34 with 380 yards and tied a career-high with six touchdowns before he was replaced by rookie QB Brian Hoyer on New England's second drive in the third quarter.
Patriots LB Junior Seau was active for the Patriots, finishing with two tackles and a fumble recovery.
Wes Welker caught 10 passes for a career-high 150 yards and two touchdowns.
The Bad:
When you win 59 - 0, not too many things could go bad.
The Ugly:
Patriots RB Sammy Morris left the game in the first quarter with a knee injury and did not return.
Game Notes:
The Patriots' 59 points on 619 total yards are both franchise records. They scored 45 points in the first half, the most for any team in a half since 2002.
The Good:
Tom Brady threw three touchdown passes and had more than 300 yards as the Patriots (5-2) beat the Buccaneers 35-7 at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.
Patriots safety Brandon Meriweather intercepted Josh Johnson on Tampa Bay's first two drives, including a 39-yard pick-six on the Bucs' opening drive, after which the Patriots never trailed. Meriweather finished with two tackles to go along with his pair of interceptions.
For the Patriots, it was their first victory on the road this season after losses at the New York Jets and Denver Broncos.
The Bad:
The Buccaneers forced Brady into two interceptions, but followed both takeaways with a three-and-out.
The Ugly:
Patriots DE Ty Warren was carted to the locker room with an ankle injury and did not return.
Game Notes:
Tom Brady threw two interceptions, breaking a streak of 184 pass attempts without an interception.
New England has at least one takeaway in 14 straight games.
With two receptions, New England's Kevin Faulk became the 26th RB in NFL history to reach 500 receptions.
Notable Quotes:
"I'm feeling great," Brady said. "I keep rolling. That's two wins in a row. We went out there and put two touchdowns on the board there in the second half. We had plenty of distractions coming over here, but everybody was really energized. To get the win and fly home and have a (bye) week off is just great."
"It's a great way to end this week," Bill Belichick said. "It's been an enjoyable couple days here and glad we could end it on a positive note."
Patriots vs. Titans (59 - 0)
The Good:
It took six weeks, but Brady finally looked like himself, albeit against the Titans' 31st-ranked pass defense. Playing in the rain and snow, Brady completed 19 of his first 20 passes, displaying the accuracy -- especially on the long ball -- that was missing from his first five starts. Brady finished 29 of 34 with 380 yards and tied a career-high with six touchdowns before he was replaced by rookie QB Brian Hoyer on New England's second drive in the third quarter.
Patriots LB Junior Seau was active for the Patriots, finishing with two tackles and a fumble recovery.
Wes Welker caught 10 passes for a career-high 150 yards and two touchdowns.
The Bad:
When you win 59 - 0, not too many things could go bad.
The Ugly:
Patriots RB Sammy Morris left the game in the first quarter with a knee injury and did not return.
Game Notes:
The Patriots' 59 points on 619 total yards are both franchise records. They scored 45 points in the first half, the most for any team in a half since 2002.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
NFL Week 7: Putting it on the Line
Just returned from vacation, but wanted to at least get my picks done. :-)
Chicago Bears at Cincinnati Bengals
Pick - Bengals (coin toss): The Bengals have won four straight over the Bear. The Bears' second-year running back has been a disappointment so far this year. He has more fumbles (three) than touchdowns (one) and is averaging just 3.4 yards per carry. Tough to go against the Bears coming off the bye week, but leaning to the Bengals at home.
Green Bay Packers at Cleveland Browns
Pick - Packers: Green Bay hasn't played in Cleveland since 1995 (Green Bay has split its last four games with Cleveland). Rodgers has been sacked a league-high 25 times. The Browns' best chance to score may come with Cribbs returning punts or kicks or scrambling out of the Wildcat formation. Taking the Packers on the road.
San Francisco 49ers at Houston Texans
Pick - Texans (coin toss): Schaub has put up stunning statistics. He has 1,644 passing yards, 14 touchdowns and only four interceptions in the past five weeks. After a lengthy holdout, San Francisco's rookie wide receiver is expected to see plenty of action against the Texans and may even get the start. Frank Gore will be returning from his Ankle injury. Giving the edge to the Texans at home.
San Diego Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs
Pick - Chargers: San Diego has won four of the past five meetings. San Diego swept Kansas City last season, winning each game by a single point. Chiefs QB Matt Cassel has thrown 132 consecutive passes without an interception. The Chargers should have enough offensive weapons to win this game on the road.
Minnesota Vikings at Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick - Vikings (coin toss): The teams have split their last eight meetings. Despite suffering a defensive meltdown in the fourth quarter, the Vikings survived to beat the Ravens, 33-31, when Baltimore kicker Steven Hauschka missed a 44-yard field goal try as time expired. QB Brett Favre aims for his fourth straight game with a 100-plus passer rating. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger has a 9-1 record against the NFC at home. Since 2007, the Steelers lead the AFC with 104 sacks. Tough to pick against the Steelers, but they are struggling to hold on at the end of games.
Indianapolis Colts at St. Louis Rams
Pick - Colts: Indianapolis has a league-high 14-game regular-season winning streak. Since 2004, the Colts are 48-7 when Manning has at least two touchdown passes. Just can't imagine the Rams having the upset here, even playing at home. Colts didn't need the bye week to prepare.
New England Patriots vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers (in London)
Pick - Patriots: These teams have met only six times and the Patriots have won four of those matchups. Tampa Bay has given up the league's third-most passing touchdowns (13) and is allowing opposing quarterbacks a 101.0 passer rating this season. Tom Brady threw for five touchdowns in the second quarter as the Patriots leveled the Titans, 59-0. This is a great matchup for the Patriots to win overseas.
Buffalo Bills at Carolina Panthers
Pick - Panthers: Carolina QB Jake Delhomme has won eight of his last 10 games against the AFC. When Jonathan Stewart has at least 14 carries, the Panthers are 9-0. Take the Panthers at home.
New York Jets at Oakland Raiders
Pick - Jets: Thomas Jones rushed for a career-high 210 yards last week. JaMarcus Russell has 10 turnovers already this season and Ryan's aggressive scheme is built around forcing mistakes from the opposing quarterback and creating takeaways. Leaning towards the Jets on the road.
Atlanta Falcons at Dallas Cowboys
Pick - Cowboys (coin toss): Dallas has won four of the past six meetings. Marion Barber has the most rushing touchdowns in the NFC since 2006 with 34. Jason Witten has 422 receptions since 2004, the second-highest number among tight ends. Actually feel Atlanta is a better team, but the Cowboys have had an extra week to prepare.
New Orleans Saints at Miami Dolphins
Pick - Saints: While Brees and the Saints' passing offense gets all the attention, it is actually the running game that is ranked in the top five this season. The Saints are averaging the most points in the league (38.4). Brees has won five straight against the AFC. The Dolphins are 12-8 after a bye. Miami has won two straight at home. Take the Saints until they show they can actually be beaten.
Arizona Cardinals at New York Giants
Pick - Giants (coin toss): The Cardinals established a new team record by allowing just 14 rushing yards last week. The Giants pride themselves on having one of the best and deepest defensive lines in the NFL. That unit, however, is coming off perhaps its worst game of the year against the Saints. Look for the Giants to bounce back at home.
Philadelphia Eagles at Washington Redskins
Pick - Eagles: The Redskins have won three of the past four meeting. Washington's offensive struggles continued in a 14-6 loss to previously winless Kansas City. Philadelphia suffered a 13-9 upset loss in Oakland. Still shocked that the Eagles lost to the Raiders last week...look for the birds to get back on track on the road.
Please note, nerangers picks are done for fun only!
Stat info from NFL.COM
wk1: 13-3, wk2: 8-8, wk3: 14-2, wk4: 14-0 wk5: 9-5 wk6: 9-5
Chicago Bears at Cincinnati Bengals
Pick - Bengals (coin toss): The Bengals have won four straight over the Bear. The Bears' second-year running back has been a disappointment so far this year. He has more fumbles (three) than touchdowns (one) and is averaging just 3.4 yards per carry. Tough to go against the Bears coming off the bye week, but leaning to the Bengals at home.
Green Bay Packers at Cleveland Browns
Pick - Packers: Green Bay hasn't played in Cleveland since 1995 (Green Bay has split its last four games with Cleveland). Rodgers has been sacked a league-high 25 times. The Browns' best chance to score may come with Cribbs returning punts or kicks or scrambling out of the Wildcat formation. Taking the Packers on the road.
San Francisco 49ers at Houston Texans
Pick - Texans (coin toss): Schaub has put up stunning statistics. He has 1,644 passing yards, 14 touchdowns and only four interceptions in the past five weeks. After a lengthy holdout, San Francisco's rookie wide receiver is expected to see plenty of action against the Texans and may even get the start. Frank Gore will be returning from his Ankle injury. Giving the edge to the Texans at home.
San Diego Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs
Pick - Chargers: San Diego has won four of the past five meetings. San Diego swept Kansas City last season, winning each game by a single point. Chiefs QB Matt Cassel has thrown 132 consecutive passes without an interception. The Chargers should have enough offensive weapons to win this game on the road.
Minnesota Vikings at Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick - Vikings (coin toss): The teams have split their last eight meetings. Despite suffering a defensive meltdown in the fourth quarter, the Vikings survived to beat the Ravens, 33-31, when Baltimore kicker Steven Hauschka missed a 44-yard field goal try as time expired. QB Brett Favre aims for his fourth straight game with a 100-plus passer rating. Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger has a 9-1 record against the NFC at home. Since 2007, the Steelers lead the AFC with 104 sacks. Tough to pick against the Steelers, but they are struggling to hold on at the end of games.
Indianapolis Colts at St. Louis Rams
Pick - Colts: Indianapolis has a league-high 14-game regular-season winning streak. Since 2004, the Colts are 48-7 when Manning has at least two touchdown passes. Just can't imagine the Rams having the upset here, even playing at home. Colts didn't need the bye week to prepare.
New England Patriots vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers (in London)
Pick - Patriots: These teams have met only six times and the Patriots have won four of those matchups. Tampa Bay has given up the league's third-most passing touchdowns (13) and is allowing opposing quarterbacks a 101.0 passer rating this season. Tom Brady threw for five touchdowns in the second quarter as the Patriots leveled the Titans, 59-0. This is a great matchup for the Patriots to win overseas.
Buffalo Bills at Carolina Panthers
Pick - Panthers: Carolina QB Jake Delhomme has won eight of his last 10 games against the AFC. When Jonathan Stewart has at least 14 carries, the Panthers are 9-0. Take the Panthers at home.
New York Jets at Oakland Raiders
Pick - Jets: Thomas Jones rushed for a career-high 210 yards last week. JaMarcus Russell has 10 turnovers already this season and Ryan's aggressive scheme is built around forcing mistakes from the opposing quarterback and creating takeaways. Leaning towards the Jets on the road.
Atlanta Falcons at Dallas Cowboys
Pick - Cowboys (coin toss): Dallas has won four of the past six meetings. Marion Barber has the most rushing touchdowns in the NFC since 2006 with 34. Jason Witten has 422 receptions since 2004, the second-highest number among tight ends. Actually feel Atlanta is a better team, but the Cowboys have had an extra week to prepare.
New Orleans Saints at Miami Dolphins
Pick - Saints: While Brees and the Saints' passing offense gets all the attention, it is actually the running game that is ranked in the top five this season. The Saints are averaging the most points in the league (38.4). Brees has won five straight against the AFC. The Dolphins are 12-8 after a bye. Miami has won two straight at home. Take the Saints until they show they can actually be beaten.
Arizona Cardinals at New York Giants
Pick - Giants (coin toss): The Cardinals established a new team record by allowing just 14 rushing yards last week. The Giants pride themselves on having one of the best and deepest defensive lines in the NFL. That unit, however, is coming off perhaps its worst game of the year against the Saints. Look for the Giants to bounce back at home.
Philadelphia Eagles at Washington Redskins
Pick - Eagles: The Redskins have won three of the past four meeting. Washington's offensive struggles continued in a 14-6 loss to previously winless Kansas City. Philadelphia suffered a 13-9 upset loss in Oakland. Still shocked that the Eagles lost to the Raiders last week...look for the birds to get back on track on the road.
Please note, nerangers picks are done for fun only!
Stat info from NFL.COM
wk1: 13-3, wk2: 8-8, wk3: 14-2, wk4: 14-0 wk5: 9-5 wk6: 9-5
Saturday, October 17, 2009
NFL Week 6: Putting it on the Line
Tough week for picks...lots of coin tosses. Let's look at how Week 6 in the NFL could unfold.
Houston Texans at Cincinnati Bengals
Pick - Bengals: (coin toss) The Bengals had a 3-0 series lead, until losing last season. They now have a 3-1 edge. For the fifth consecutive week, Cincinnati played a game that was decided in the final minute. Houston was stuffed four times at the goal line in the final minute at Arizona and lost, 28-21. In games against three of the top six run-stopping units in the league (Pittsburgh, Baltimore and Denver), Ced Benson has averaged 91 yards and a touchdown. Now he gets to play the Texans' 26th-ranked run defense.
Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers
Pick - Packers: Green Bay has owned Detroit over the last decade, having won 15 of the last 17 meetings. The main culprit for Green Bay's sluggish 2-2 start has been its offensive line. The Packers have surrendered a league-high 20 sacks. The Lions have improved from last in total defense to 22nd this year. Lions' Matthew Stafford, and Calvin Johnson still out with knee injuries. Doubt the Packers needed the bye week to prepare for the Lions.
St. Louis Rams at Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick - Jaguars: The Rams were undone by four turnovers in a 38-10 blowout loss to the Vikings. ... Jacksonville showed up in Seattle, but did not exactly perform, in a 41-0 loss to the Seahawks. Backup Kyle Boller failed to energize the Rams' offense in his two-game stint as a starter and now Bulger returns after sitting out with a shoulder injury. WR Mike Sims-Walker was held out last week for the Jags for breaking team rules.
Baltimore Ravens at Minnesota Vikings
Pick - Vikings: (coin toss) Baltimore fell victim to Cincinnati's latest fourth-quarter rally, losing 17-14 at home. ... Minnesota jumped on St. Louis early and coasted to a 38-10 victory. Over its two-game losing skid, Baltimore has been called for 19 penalties, resulting in 161 penalty yards. After getting sacked nine times in the first three games, Favre has been taken down just twice in the last two weeks. It may get tougher to avoid sacks against a Ravens defense that already has 11 sacks. Minnesota QB Brett Favre is 5-0 for the first time in his career.
New York Giants at New Orlean Saints
Pick - Saints: (coin toss) Giants Defense vs. Saints Offense! The Giants have won four of the past six meetings. Giants QB Eli Manning, who grew up in New Orleans, is 6-1 as a starter indoors, including a win in Super Bowl XLIII. New Orleans is averaging 36 points per game, which leads the NFL. Coming off the bye week, and playing at home gives the edge to the Saints, although the Giants are the better team in the NFC.
Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick - Steelers: The Steelers have beaten the Browns 11 straight time. Pittsburgh's Pro Bowl safety has not played since he suffered a knee injury in Week 1. His absence has had an impact on a Steelers pass defense that has slipped to 14th. Anderson is coming off the worst statistical game of his career, having completed 2-of-17 passes for just 23 yards with no touchdowns and an interception. Steelers have struggled late in games lately...shouldn't be an issue this Sunday though.
Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick - Panthers: The two teams have split their last four meetings. Carolina got its first victory of the season by rallying past Washington, 20-17. ... Tampa Bay was unable to keep up with Philadelphia and suffered a 33-14 loss. Panthers QB Jake Delhomme is 8-2 in 10 career starts against the Buccaneers. TE Kellen Winslow had his first 100-yard receiving game for the Buccaneers last week, with nine receptions for 102 yards and two touchdowns. Look for the Panthers to win on the road.
Kansas City Chiefs at Washington Redskins
Pick - Redskins: (coin toss) The Chiefs have dominated this matchup, owning a 6-1 overall series edge. Chiefs LB Mike Vrabel recorded his 11th career touchdown catch last week. ... Kansas City QB Matt Cassel is going for his fourth straight game with two touchdown passes. ... When RB Clinton Portis rushes for 100-plus yards, his teams are 33-10. Going with the home team...only real advantage the Redskins have in this game.
Philadelphia Eagles at Oakland Raiders
Pick - Eagles: Beyond issues with accuracy, decision-making and reading defenses, Russell's biggest problem in recent weeks has been his ability to keep hold of the ball. He has lost four fumbles in the past two weeks. The Eagles have an attacking defense that has forced five fumbles this season, so Russell could be in trouble if he does not improve his ball security.
Arizona Cardinals at Seattle Seahawks
Pick - Seahawks: (coin toss) Arizona used a goal-line stand to hold off visiting Houston, 28-21. ... Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck had four touchdown passes as the Seahawks leveled the Jaguars, 41-0. In three home games, the Seahawks have 10 sacks (they have only four in two road games) and are allowing just eight points a game. The Cardinals can put up the points though.
Tennessee Titans at New England Patriots
Pick - Patriots: New England struggled offensively in the second half and allowed Denver to rally for a 20-17 overtime win. ... The Titans fell to 0-5 with a 31-9 home loss to the Colts. Since 2007, Tom Brady is 12-0 at Gillette Stadium with 25 touchdowns and just five interceptions. While Brady is completing 61.7 percent of his passes, his precision has deserted him at key moments this season. Tennessee is better than the record reflects, but the Patriots should have enough to get it done at home.
Buffalo Bills at New York Jets
Pick - Jets: The Bills have won three of the past five meetings. Buffalo's offense continued to sputter in a 6-3 loss to Cleveland. ... A thrilling Monday Night Football game ended with the Jets suffering a 31-27 defeat at the hands of the Dolphins. In his first game with the Jets, Edwards was sensational, catching five passes for 64 yards and a touchdown. QB Mark Sanchez has a touchdown pass in four of the Jets' five games.
Chicago Bears at Atlanta Falcons
Pick - Falcons: (coin toss) The Bears have won eight of the last 10. Chicago has struggled to contain opponent's top receivers this season and White is coming off his best game of the year. The Falcons are likely to challenge a vulnerable Bears secondary by getting the ball to White on a variety of patterns. The Georgia Dome is a tough place to play and the Falcons' offense is especially potent on its home turf. Jay Cutler is the first Bears quarterback since 1970 to post a 100-plus passer rating in three straight games. Look for a close game, but Matty Ice wins it at home.
Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers
Pick - Broncos: (coin toss) The Chargers have won five of the last six meetings, are at home and coming off a bye. That should be enough reasons to pick them. Though to go against them, but the Broncos are firing on all pistons right now. Broncos QB Kyle Orton is 26-12 as a starter. ... Denver RB Knowshon Moreno leads all rookies with 337 rushing yards. ... Chargers QB Philip Rivers is 4-0 on Monday Night Football with a 106.9 passer rating.
Please note, nerangers picks are done for fun only!
Stat info from NFL.COM
wk1: 13-3, wk2: 8-8, wk3: 14-2, wk4: 14-0 wk5: 9-5
Houston Texans at Cincinnati Bengals
Pick - Bengals: (coin toss) The Bengals had a 3-0 series lead, until losing last season. They now have a 3-1 edge. For the fifth consecutive week, Cincinnati played a game that was decided in the final minute. Houston was stuffed four times at the goal line in the final minute at Arizona and lost, 28-21. In games against three of the top six run-stopping units in the league (Pittsburgh, Baltimore and Denver), Ced Benson has averaged 91 yards and a touchdown. Now he gets to play the Texans' 26th-ranked run defense.
Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers
Pick - Packers: Green Bay has owned Detroit over the last decade, having won 15 of the last 17 meetings. The main culprit for Green Bay's sluggish 2-2 start has been its offensive line. The Packers have surrendered a league-high 20 sacks. The Lions have improved from last in total defense to 22nd this year. Lions' Matthew Stafford, and Calvin Johnson still out with knee injuries. Doubt the Packers needed the bye week to prepare for the Lions.
St. Louis Rams at Jacksonville Jaguars
Pick - Jaguars: The Rams were undone by four turnovers in a 38-10 blowout loss to the Vikings. ... Jacksonville showed up in Seattle, but did not exactly perform, in a 41-0 loss to the Seahawks. Backup Kyle Boller failed to energize the Rams' offense in his two-game stint as a starter and now Bulger returns after sitting out with a shoulder injury. WR Mike Sims-Walker was held out last week for the Jags for breaking team rules.
Baltimore Ravens at Minnesota Vikings
Pick - Vikings: (coin toss) Baltimore fell victim to Cincinnati's latest fourth-quarter rally, losing 17-14 at home. ... Minnesota jumped on St. Louis early and coasted to a 38-10 victory. Over its two-game losing skid, Baltimore has been called for 19 penalties, resulting in 161 penalty yards. After getting sacked nine times in the first three games, Favre has been taken down just twice in the last two weeks. It may get tougher to avoid sacks against a Ravens defense that already has 11 sacks. Minnesota QB Brett Favre is 5-0 for the first time in his career.
New York Giants at New Orlean Saints
Pick - Saints: (coin toss) Giants Defense vs. Saints Offense! The Giants have won four of the past six meetings. Giants QB Eli Manning, who grew up in New Orleans, is 6-1 as a starter indoors, including a win in Super Bowl XLIII. New Orleans is averaging 36 points per game, which leads the NFL. Coming off the bye week, and playing at home gives the edge to the Saints, although the Giants are the better team in the NFC.
Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers
Pick - Steelers: The Steelers have beaten the Browns 11 straight time. Pittsburgh's Pro Bowl safety has not played since he suffered a knee injury in Week 1. His absence has had an impact on a Steelers pass defense that has slipped to 14th. Anderson is coming off the worst statistical game of his career, having completed 2-of-17 passes for just 23 yards with no touchdowns and an interception. Steelers have struggled late in games lately...shouldn't be an issue this Sunday though.
Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick - Panthers: The two teams have split their last four meetings. Carolina got its first victory of the season by rallying past Washington, 20-17. ... Tampa Bay was unable to keep up with Philadelphia and suffered a 33-14 loss. Panthers QB Jake Delhomme is 8-2 in 10 career starts against the Buccaneers. TE Kellen Winslow had his first 100-yard receiving game for the Buccaneers last week, with nine receptions for 102 yards and two touchdowns. Look for the Panthers to win on the road.
Kansas City Chiefs at Washington Redskins
Pick - Redskins: (coin toss) The Chiefs have dominated this matchup, owning a 6-1 overall series edge. Chiefs LB Mike Vrabel recorded his 11th career touchdown catch last week. ... Kansas City QB Matt Cassel is going for his fourth straight game with two touchdown passes. ... When RB Clinton Portis rushes for 100-plus yards, his teams are 33-10. Going with the home team...only real advantage the Redskins have in this game.
Philadelphia Eagles at Oakland Raiders
Pick - Eagles: Beyond issues with accuracy, decision-making and reading defenses, Russell's biggest problem in recent weeks has been his ability to keep hold of the ball. He has lost four fumbles in the past two weeks. The Eagles have an attacking defense that has forced five fumbles this season, so Russell could be in trouble if he does not improve his ball security.
Arizona Cardinals at Seattle Seahawks
Pick - Seahawks: (coin toss) Arizona used a goal-line stand to hold off visiting Houston, 28-21. ... Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck had four touchdown passes as the Seahawks leveled the Jaguars, 41-0. In three home games, the Seahawks have 10 sacks (they have only four in two road games) and are allowing just eight points a game. The Cardinals can put up the points though.
Tennessee Titans at New England Patriots
Pick - Patriots: New England struggled offensively in the second half and allowed Denver to rally for a 20-17 overtime win. ... The Titans fell to 0-5 with a 31-9 home loss to the Colts. Since 2007, Tom Brady is 12-0 at Gillette Stadium with 25 touchdowns and just five interceptions. While Brady is completing 61.7 percent of his passes, his precision has deserted him at key moments this season. Tennessee is better than the record reflects, but the Patriots should have enough to get it done at home.
Buffalo Bills at New York Jets
Pick - Jets: The Bills have won three of the past five meetings. Buffalo's offense continued to sputter in a 6-3 loss to Cleveland. ... A thrilling Monday Night Football game ended with the Jets suffering a 31-27 defeat at the hands of the Dolphins. In his first game with the Jets, Edwards was sensational, catching five passes for 64 yards and a touchdown. QB Mark Sanchez has a touchdown pass in four of the Jets' five games.
Chicago Bears at Atlanta Falcons
Pick - Falcons: (coin toss) The Bears have won eight of the last 10. Chicago has struggled to contain opponent's top receivers this season and White is coming off his best game of the year. The Falcons are likely to challenge a vulnerable Bears secondary by getting the ball to White on a variety of patterns. The Georgia Dome is a tough place to play and the Falcons' offense is especially potent on its home turf. Jay Cutler is the first Bears quarterback since 1970 to post a 100-plus passer rating in three straight games. Look for a close game, but Matty Ice wins it at home.
Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers
Pick - Broncos: (coin toss) The Chargers have won five of the last six meetings, are at home and coming off a bye. That should be enough reasons to pick them. Though to go against them, but the Broncos are firing on all pistons right now. Broncos QB Kyle Orton is 26-12 as a starter. ... Denver RB Knowshon Moreno leads all rookies with 337 rushing yards. ... Chargers QB Philip Rivers is 4-0 on Monday Night Football with a 106.9 passer rating.
Please note, nerangers picks are done for fun only!
Stat info from NFL.COM
wk1: 13-3, wk2: 8-8, wk3: 14-2, wk4: 14-0 wk5: 9-5
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