2016 NFL Week 11..the stretch run starts NOW! Plus The NASCAR Championship and WWE Survivor Series!

Last week:




Season:






Teams on Bye:
1. Atlanta (7-3):



2. New York Jets (2-9):



3. San Diego (5-6):


4. Denver (7-3):




Thursday Night Football on NBC/NFL Network:
New Orleans at Carolina:





Who wins? Two desperate teams, two teams that have struggled this year. Who wants it more (this week)?



Carolina 24 New Orleans 23

Sunday's Games:

Buffalo at Cincinnati:



Buffalo 27 Cincinnati 24

Pittsburgh at Cleveland: Ugh. This may be welcome news to the Steelers to get Cleveland now...even on the road. Of course, they have to win the game first, right?


Who wins? Really?


Pittsburgh 28 Cleveland 27

Jacksonville at Detroit:


Detroit 31 Jacksonville 20

Arizona at Minnesota:

Arizona 33 Minnesota 27

Chicago at New York Giants:




New  York Giants 29 Chicago 27

Tennessee at Indianapolis:




Tennessee 32 Indianapolis 31

Tampa Bay at Kansas City:



Tampa Bay 38 Kansas City 35 (OT)

Miami at Los Angeles Rams:




Los Angeles 25 Miami 22 (OT)

New England at San Francisco:


Who wins? Right. Seriously?

New England 40 San Francisco 24

Philadelphia at Seattle:



Seattle 28 Philadelphia 20

Dallas at Baltimore:




Baltimore 27 Dallas 24 (OT)

Sunday Night Football on NBC:
Green Bay at Washington:




Washington 34 Green Bay 31 (OT)

Monday Night Football on ESPN: At Mexico City:
Houston at Oakland:





Oakland 34 Houston 28 (OT)

Bonus Picks: The NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup: Championship Four Finale: Race Ten: Homestead (Miami):

Four drivers left. One Race. Winner Take All. Simple matter: Whomever of the four finalists finishes highest in this race (or wins) wins the championship. All four drivers will start between 9th and 14th in the starting grid, so no real advantage on qualifying. DVR this race for sure while you watch football. I am, History is made today, period. Here are the finalists and my choice.

1. Jimmie Johnson: Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet: The six time champ finally gets his chance to get the record-tying seventh Sprint Cup title, to tie Hall of Famers Dale Earnhardt (Sr) and Richard Petty. Years ago, the Chase was Johnson's playground, but recent bad luck in Chase races and the new tiered elimination format has stymied him, until now. He will be the favorite today, but FAR from a sure thing.
2. Kyle Busch: Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota: The one-time and defending Sprint Cup champ has had to work this year, but not nearly as much as last year overcoming injury that cost him a third of the season to still make the Chase and win the whole thing anyway. Busch has the mindset to win it all and will not fear Johnson. But this will not be easy. Not with a 6 time champ, a rival and a hungry teammate in the final four.
3. Carl Edwards: Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota: The "sleeper" of the four Gibbs Toyota cars and the surprising finalist. He is one of two drivers who has never been champ, losing the title to Tony Stewart a few years ago via TIEBREAKER when Stewart won Homestead and Edwards finished second. He hasn't forgotten. He knows to surely win the title, he must win this race by whatever means necessary. But does his calm demeanor, compared to Busch, especially and the others allow him to finally win the big one?
4. Joey Logano: Penske Motorsports Ford: This car should have been in the finale last year but friction and a payback crash out done by Gibbs teammate Matt Kenseth took out Logano late in the Chase last  year. Now he made it to the final and looks for his first title and to give Penske their first title since teammate Brad Keselowski took his lame-duck Dodge and beat ALL of the Hendrick cars plus 5 other power teams to win the title 4 years ago. Logano has the talent and the nerve to do it, but can he keep his cool and not make the big mistake against the other more experienced finalists? He could be the first driver in the Chase era to win Daytona AND the championship in the same year if he wins.

My pick: Edwards. He will get the least press and the worst odds and is the quietest of the four. He has more hunger than all of them and knows he may well not get another chance at this with teammate Denny Hamlin and others wanting a shot at the title in the near future. With three great teammates (2 champs) on his own team without counting the Hendrick cars, Logano and Brad K and the Stewart-Haas cars (Hendrick and Clint Bowyer taking over for the retiring owner Stewart in 2017), Edwards' time must be NOW. Logano has time and the others have won titles before. Edwards wins the race and the title in a MASSIVE upset!

Bonus Picks: Sunday night: WWE Survivor Series winners:

Kalisto (Smackdown Live!) defeats Brian Kendrick (Raw) to win the Cruiserweight Championship and brings the ENTIRE Cruiserweight division to Smackdown Live! as well. Kalisto is no joke and is a former two time US champ. He is the Rey Mysterio of today's WWE. Kendrick is good...but he cannot handle a focused Kalisto. Plus, some say that the cruiserweights may be better on Smackdown Live! anyway. This change would almost then justify making Smackdown a three hour show and/or shorten Raw down to two hours. Just a thought.

The Miz (Smackdown Live!) defends and defeats Sami Zahn (Raw) to retain the Intercontinental Title and keep it on Smackdown Live! But, I do think that a future trade (maybe send former champ Dolph Ziggler to Raw?) may bring Zahn to Smackdown Live! and he wins his first main roster singles title in early 2017.

Team Raw defeats Team Smackdown Live! in a Traditional 10 on 10 (5 Tag Teams) Elimination Match:  Smackdown Live! has two decent and one upcoming tag team on their team, and one lucky  but okay team  as the champs. Team Raw has the three, perhaps four best tag teams in WWE on their team and the fifth team is nearly as good as any on Smackdown Live! And almost all of them are bigger and heavier hitters than those on the blue brand. Though the red brand may have more turmoil within the team, Team Raw will win without too much worry.

Team Raw defeats Team Smackdown Live! in a Traditional 5 on 5 Women's Elimination Match:
Same situation as the 10 on 10 match. Smackdown Live! has some good women, including captain Nikki Bella. But the fact that champ Becky Lynch is NOT the captain of the blue team, veteran Natalya is the "coach" and not actually wrestling and the other three on this team are either young and/or hungry for the Smackdown title that Lynch holds says it all. Also, Raw has arguably the three best (and all young) women wrestlers in WWE on their team, plus a former champ in Alicia Fox AND the largest (in stature) and most powerful female in WWE since Beth Phoenix or Kharma in Nia Jax, who will be a future champ? Without cheating or outside interference, Team Smackdown Live has no chance here. If fewer than three of the Raw ladies are not standing at the end of this match, I will be surprised.

Team Smackdown Live! defeats Team Raw in a Traditional 5 on 5 Men's Elimination Match:
Same situation as the 10 on 10 match. Raw has the power with US Champ Reigns and former Wyatt Family giant Braun Strowman.  However, both teams has tensions within the teams and from outside. Seeing Smackdown Live! Commissioner Shane McMahon in the match is strange and risky. The Undertaker would have been an better choice, but he is technically still a free agent, despite his appearance on Tuesday's 900th episode. The bottom line is that the experience is almost even...but the wildcards (McMahon, Wyatt and Orton) are all on Team Blue. I kind of see former teams reforming during this match (Wyatt with Stroman, The Shield all together) for moments. At the end, McMahon somehow gets Team Blue the win...and little else is solved.

Goldberg upsets Brock Lesnar:  Lesnar winning does nothing for the pay per view or his standing in WWE. There is almost no one on the current roster on either brand who can stand up to Lesnar for long...much less beat him, clean or otherwise. Undertaker and Big Show and honestly, Cena and other stars are too old or not big enough and Strowman is too green, among other things. Goldberg is the only one who might be able to beat him...like Mickie James almost beat the undefeated Asuka for the NXT womens title last night...but the NXT womens division is bare with everyone good now on the main roster..and they all were beat by the champ anyway. We all knew that. A Goldberg win will be like Undertaker losing to Lesnar at Wrestlemania XXX. But the bottom line is that Lesnar will be unstoppable until that young star comes around to beat him. That may not happen anytime soon. A loss by Lesnar makes him more vulnerable, but does not hurt his aura. WWE will disagree, hence Lesnar will ultimately win. Unfortunate.

2016 NFL Picks Week Ten....and the Chase goes west for the next to the last race of the year!

Last Week:




Season:



Teams on Bye:

1. Oakland (7-2): I have told folk for years the Raiders were on their way back. This year, many talking heads said this would be the year the Raiders come back. Better late than never. But most importantly, these young Raiders are doing it. 5 road wins...true, maybe not against top teams..but 5 road wins are 5 road wins. Especially since the revamping defense has sucked all year. Even with DE Khalil Mack. The offense runs this ship, but the defense is getting better...and if they come together late in the year with three road division games to finish the year, ending with Denver at Mile High..and they win. Playoffs. More importantly...home playoff game? Top two AFC seed? What if that happens? If they avoid a letdown and/or injuries especially on offense...it could happen. And as of now, barring injuries...these Raiders may be the last real AFC threat to New England rolling off to another Super Bowl. And if these teams meet in the AFC Championship game..even in frigid New England....do you want to bet against the Silver and Black?????? And this team can only get better. That should scare everyone in the NFL. Don't you ever say that THIS Raider fan didn't warn you years in advance....

2. Detroit (5-4): It is a surprise to see the Lions with a winning record. Many figured the Lions would be useless with the surprise retirement of WR Calvin Johnson, However, QB Matthew Stafford (congrats to him and his wife on their upcoming twins) has had a good season and has done well with a not great group of pass-catchers and a mostly shaky running game. Detroit's defense is still weak, but they at least keep them in games, but if Detroit can get hot especially with a Thanksgiving showdown with Minnesota coming soon, could the Lions actually come and steal a NFC wild-card spot, or even the NFC North title? Stay tuned.

3. Indianapolis (4-5): The Colts are not much different than what they were when Peyton Manning was their QB. Good QB in recently resigned QB Andrew Luck, decent receivers led by dangerous WR T.Y, Hilton. But weak running game, not much in a defense and a really ugh offensive line. Some argue that the massive contract to resign Luck is hamstringing the team from improving the other parts of the team. Here is the problem with that.

4. Buffalo (4-5): Buffalo is a mess. But they can play some defense. They even can play some offense. Rex Ryan has some pieces here and can make this a good team. But they just have too much bad luck, too many errors and too many damn injuries...everywhere. Hell, they even had to convince WR Percy Harvin to come out of retirement to play last week...didn't do much. Even if this team finishes with maybe 6-7 wins, I do think Ryan should return as coach..but he needs the killer draft of the century, plus some healthy players to make this team a real contender...not the damaged pretender it is now. I feel bad for the fans, but that is what this team is. Period. Prove us all wrong...if you can.


Thursday Night Football on NFL Network:
Cleveland at Baltimore: Ugh. This is a really bad prime-time game in a long string of such on Thursday night. We had a thriller last Sunday night and drama and errors on Monday. Tonight, either would be a big help to a bad game. This game on a short week may be the Browns' last viable shot at avoiding 0-16 hell. The Ravens have to expect some letdown after a exciting win over the Steelers to get to first place in the AFC North, for now...and they didn't have to travel. But the shakiness of this team all year, especially how it went in the first meeting in Cleveland gives me pause. If backup Josh McCown had not gotten hurt when the Browns were up 20 points near halftime, the season might be a little different for both teams right now. Ugh.

Who wins? The Ravens are no stronger overall now, than they were in the first matchup. True they have some close losses, but their wins were almost losses, too. This team has been very close to being where Cleveland is. Injuries and ineffectiveness will do that. Both teams know that, but the Ravens have a stable front office. Cleveland...not so much..and certainly not so for decades, especially for Browns 2.0. Browns 1.0 got stable in Baltimore after being not good for 20 years. Jim Brown has to be pissed about that..as should every Browns fan. I am taking Cleveland because I just don't see this as a 0-16 team...and I don't have great faith in the Ravens right now, either. Sounds just like the election we just had Tuesday. Damn. Browns win...somehow.

Cleveland 20 Detroit 17 (OT)

Sunday's Games:

Green Bay at Tennessee: The Packers are in trouble. They have lost two straight in games they should have won and where one win would have put them in a first-place tie with the reeling Vikings. But they are in the shaky NFC North so they are still fully in a three-way race for the division. While a wild-card is not off the table, these Packers need some wins and to get a home playoff game. QB Aaron Rodgers just has not looked right virtually all year, even with the return of WR Jordy Nelson. The virtual destruction of their running game due to injury after injury has a lot to do with that. Tennessee is showing signs of becoming better, but this young squad has a way to go. The sick part is that the Titans are NOT out of the AFC South race yet, but with still another week or two until their bye, they need a win, A win over the Packers would make their season if they cannot come close to a playoff berth or it could be the turning point if they make a run to the playoffs, a run some thought Jacksonville was poised to make. Oh well. Titans QB Marcus Mariota is the real deal, but he will be better if he could have some more (healthy) help, especially a top WR to go with the potentially powerful 1-2 punch at RB they have. This will be a fun game.

Who wins? Who is more desperate? Green Bay. They know that with the Lions, who they beat, on bye and Minnesota reeling and not a sure thing to win in Washington, where the Packers go to next week, they must win. A Titans win will be nice but could likely mean little in the overall season race if Houston keeps winning. Green Bay's experience and having Rodgers and whatever offense he has left will be the difference, along with their okay defense. Green Bay wins on the road.

Green Bay 29 Tennessee 24

Chicago at Tampa Bay: This is a whatever game. Neither team is going anywhere so this is about assessing for the future. The Bucs need experience and a healthy roster. RB Doug Martin seems finally able to return, but for what? Unless Atlanta does a collapse similar to last year, Tampa won't catch them. But they can build toward 2017, I guess. Same with Chicago, though if Minnesota and Green Bay keep losing, could the Bears dig their way back into this race? And if they did, would they keep embattled QB Jay Cutler for next year? Too early to say. Few will watch this game..wait for box scores.

Who wins? Few care besides the teams, but the winner gets some good feeling. The Bears really need it more, but I just don't think they can do it this week on the road. I am taking the young Bucs who get it going at home....at least for this week.

Tampa Bay 29 Chicago 25

Kansas City at Carolina: The Carolina comeback tour continues, but a big roadblock is this week against the strong Chiefs squad. QB Alex Smith returns this week, but this is no easy task and it can be a letdown. A Chiefs win puts them in a first place tie with idle Oakland and the Chiefs have the tiebreaker, for now. But they cannot afford a loss, really, knowing Denver is right behind them and they have to face them twice in the final six weeks (four division games in all), but knowing they have winnable games around such, like this one. Carolina is believing they can rally and steal a wild-card spot in the playoffs, but winning this game, plus 6-7 more in a row...tough. But QB Cam Newton is no rookie and his talent does help. But the thin Panthers defense is a big problem. If they get solid starting here...who knows? Trap game for KC.

Who wins? I think the Chiefs will overlook the Panthers and worse yet, Smith may not be so good after his recent injuries, at least this week. Worse yet, the injury to starting WR Jeremy Maclin is a big problem. I think this will allow Carolina to steal this win since it is at home. In KC...no way. Knowing coach Andy Reid, there is always a no-excuses loss coming up. This is it for this year. Panthers win in a minor upset.

Carolina 35 Kansas City 34

Los Angeles Rams at New York Jets: Another not entertaining game. The Rams looked good for a short while, then they crashed hard. The Jets barely left the ground before they crashed..and burned..and burned and is still burning. I feel bad for Jets coach Todd Bowles, who may not be back next year, because he was dealt a nasty hand, especially at QB. The Rams is trying to get better, too, but they need time. Maybe a new coach...hard to say. This is not a watchable game, unless coach Jeff Fisher finally allows top overall pick QB Jared Goff to see the field. Don't bet on it this week since the Rams are not out the playoff race...yet.

Who wins? Again, very few care. But the Rams have defense and the Jets have little offense. Despite the long flight east, defense will win out this time. I am taking the Rams in a low-scoring affair. If they get past 45 points combined, I will be surprised...or there were multiple defensive or special teams touchdowns. Ha.

Los Angeles 20 New York Jets 14

Atlanta at Philadelphia: BIRD WAR!!!!! These teams will go to war in cool Philadelphia. The Eagles have crashed hard after a good start, but so did the Falcons but they may have gotten their wind under their wings back. They had better with the Saints rising like a phoenix to get back in the division race. The Eagles are toast in the NFC East with Dallas way ahead, but a wild-card is a thought, but they must start winning now! The passing show between rookie Eagles QB Carson Wentz and veteran Falcons QB Matt Ryan will be interesting. But can the Falcons play well outdoors in cool and windy conditions? We will see.

Who wins? I just don't see the Eagles winning unless the defense forces many turnovers. Ryan typically does not throw a lot of interceptions, but if the weather (wind) makes it tough, it could happen. But Atlanta has not totally convinced me they are fully legit on the road. I am taking the Eagles in a upset.

Philadelphia 29 Atlanta 27

Miami at San Diego: This is basically a wild-card elimination game here. Whomever loses will be basically done in the race due to having too many conference losses. Miami has looked better behind their running game, but this is still a flawed team. Now they fly west to face a dangerous San Diego team, who could well be 8-1 if late mistakes hadn't buried them. Can the Miami defense slow down QB Philip Rivers and the resilient Chargers offense at home? Don't think so.

Who wins? Miami has won three straight on near-record running from RB Ajayi, but the Chargers offense is a lot better than previous opponents and they can control the clock AND score. Miami mostly cannot. I see the Chargers as more desperate and motivated to win at home, for they may not have many home games left after the election results. Chargers win.

San Diego 33 Miami 28

San Francisco at Arizona:  Like Carolina, the Cardinals pretty much need to win out to make the playoffs. But the Seahawks are only 2 games ahead and could likely lose at New England on SNF. Hence, the Cardinals has to win this home game against lowly San Francisco. The Niners are just spoilers now, and just want to end the 7 game losing streak, since they haven't done much since their surprising home shutout win in Week 1. The Cardinals, coming off of their bye, may be healthier and the offense may be finally ready to go. Let's hope so. Lose here...and if Seattle wins...season over.

Who wins? The Niners will fight, but the Cardinals have too much and will not give this game away barring injuries or the flukiest of the fluke occurring. This is not Denver coming in, folks. Cardinals do their job and win.

Arizona 30 San Francisco 20

Houston at Jacksonville: Houston is cruising toward another AFC South title. But this flawed team is not home free with the Colts and Titans right behind them. They have to take down last place Jacksonville on the road to stay ahead. This season has been a disaster for the young Jaguars. Many thought this was the year they rise and slip into the playoffs along with Oakland. Well, Oakland is close to doing more than slip in, if they can finish strong. Jacksonville...not so much. Youth is a issue, but better days are ahead...they hope.

Who wins? This is a trap game for the Texans. I don't think they will blow this game, but their new QB has been shaky all year. Today will be no different. I will take the home team in a upset, that may not matter later. Maybe.

Jacksonville 28 Houston 25 (OT)

Denver at New Orleans: The Saints have rallied from nearly dead to 4-4 at halfway. Now they are back in the division and playoff race. But this a big roadblock to start the second half. Denver is reeling after losing to Oakland on SNF and with it, the division lead and dropping to third in the AFC West with San Diego also close. How does Denver bounce back on the road, where they are shaky, knowing most of their wins were at home? This is a bad time to have to face QB Drew Brees and the Saints offense in New Orleans, no less. Can the Saints, who need this win BAD, take advantage of the reeling world champs?

Who wins?  These Saints almost beat the Raiders on Opening Day here but the Raiders stole the win away at the end. Denver's offense is not as good (right now). Defense notwithstanding, the Saints have a chance to get a BIG win here. And they will. Saints win.

New Orleans 38 Denver 34

Dallas at Pittsburgh: This is a classic rivalry that we don't see often anymore. But we have a 2016 twist to it. The young Cowboys, rolling with a rookie QB and RB behind arguably the best offensive line in football comes north to face a battered Steelers squad. But they do have their QB back, but can this team rally after a demoralizing loss at Baltimore, plus knowing they must win to stay with the Ravens who already have beat down the winless Browns on TNF this week?

Who wins? Biased or not, Denver has shown they are shaky on offense and shaky on the road...unlike the Raiders. The Saints have no offensive issues and while the Denver defense will slow down Brees...they cannot stop him. The Saints will get just enough to win at home...barely. Not good for Denver.

New Orleans 27 Denver 24 (OT)

Minnesota at Washington: Washington returns from bye after that inexcusable TIE in London. But now they are dealt a bigger blow with all-world LT Trent Williams out for 4 weeks (drug suspension). Worse yet, this starts a very tough second half with four games that will be hard to win including a Thanksgiving game at Dallas. However, Minnesota, who looked so good weeks ago, is really reeling and has a shakier offense who can't run nor protect QB Sam Bradford. Good news for a Redskins defense that is actually starting to do something. That gives the home team a chance. QB Kirk Cousins, playing for a long-term deal, has played decent if not well all year. But if the Washington revamped line cannot protect him nor open holes for new starting RB Rob Kelley, this could be a 7-6 quagmire game..without the muddy field. Must win for both teams, regardless.

Who wins? Despite everything, the Redskins have offensive weapons, a QB who can get the ball out and move around (unlike the far more brittle Bradford) and has a improving defense, though still not as good as the Minnesota one. Bottom line, the Redskins can still score and have a offense. The Vikings cannot..especially on the road. Redskins survive...this week.

Washington 27 Minnesota 23

Sunday Night Football on NBC:

Seattle at New England: Wow. This is a big game. Two great SNF games in a row is great. Doesn't overcome a full slate of bad TNF games, but oh well. The NFC West leaders go east to face the best of the AFC in a rematch of Super Bowl 49. The Patriots rarely lose at home, but also rarely face a defense like that of Seattle's. A less than 100 percent QB Russell Wilson will not scare the decent Patriots defense but Wilson is very good. But NE has QB Tom Brady and he has been nearly perfect since returning from his suspension. This is one of New England's few real tests before the playoffs (since they don't play Oakland, among others, in the regular season) with only Baltimore, and Denver being the only possibly strong opponents left after Sunday night. Oh and with New England coming off of their very well-placed bye, they have had extra time to prepare for these Seahawks who are not 100 percent but are still winning...usually. Could this be a Super Bowl preview? I have my doubts, but it is not out of the question.

Who wins? Seattle is good, but they are far weaker away from home. Wilson's nagging injuries worry me and though he seems better, New England still has too much offense, are getting healthier, are coming off of bye, are at HOME, and most importantly, they have Brady and coach Belichick. Simple choice..Patriots win..but I would be very happy if I am wrong...or they tie (no really....lol....).

New England 33 Seattle 24


Monday Night Football on ESPN;

Cincinnati at New York Giants: Must win for the Giants to stay in the playoff race. But the Bengals, returning from their bye after that inexcusable TIE (WTF???) in London, see a path to the playoffs with the shaky Ravens in their sights and the now-shaky Steelers, who beat them, falling behind them. This is a prime chance for the Bengals to improve their spot and be in position to take out Baltimore later and claim the division title...again. The Giants will be no easy out. They partially control their playoff destiny and they do have to face Dallas at home again..who they beat in Dallas on Opening Day due to late Dallas errors. Keep winning, and they might get to shock Dallas later. And we get to see Odell Beckham, Jr in primetime. Yes! Finally, a decently good MNF game. Let's hope these teams are up to the task.

Who wins? The Bengals are not as desperate at the Giants, but after the tie and the travel and the bye, I am not convinced the Bengals will be fully focused....and will look ahead to division games coming up. Plus that defense is not all that. And stopping Giants QB Eli Manning, and Beckham and dealing with a sometimes okay Giants defense...and doing it under the lights in New Jersey? I see a surprise Giants win. Too much Beckham..not enough (Bengals WR) A.J. Green.

New York Giants 34 Cincinnati 30

Bonus pick:  NASCAR Sprint Cup Chase for the Sprint Cup: Round of Eight Finale: Chase Race Nine: Phoenix

     This is the big race. Two drivers have qualified for the Championship Four next week at Homestead. After this race, we will know which two drivers join them. Win or (in essence) go home. This will be a dogfight to the final lap. Below is my thoughts on the drivers fighting for these two spots and their chances. and I will say who I think will advance to the Championship Four. Notice I did not say win the race.

Clinched spots in the Championship Four: Jimmie Johnson, Carl Edwards

If any of these drivers WIN this race, he qualifies for the Championship Four. If a non-Chase driver OR Johnson OR Edwards wins, the top TWO drivers of these six in points advances. Either way, all must finish strong and get help.

1-2 Joey Logano and (defending champion) Kyle Busch: Each has 4,074 points and lead the race. If neither wins and none of the others below wins this race, Logano advances with a 2nd place finish and lead 1 lap. Busch advances with a 2nd place finish and leading the most laps. Hence one can win the race and the other finishes second and both would advance, especially if Busch wins,

3. Matt Kenseth (1 point behind the above): Kenseth can win this race, but he needs help knowing that two of his teammates are also fighting for the spots. As a former champ, he has less pressure than non-champs like Logano and teammate Hamlin. But his title is pre-Chase. He wants this, but can he do it?

4. Denny Hamlin (2 points behind Logano and Busch): Hamlin also has the talent to win this race, but he has often had bad luck at the worst times, like when championship slots are on the line. Hamlin knows how to lose a title in the final race. Can he finally prove he can win the big race to have a chance, like Edwards to upset Johnson and win his first Sprint Cup title?

5. Kevin Harvick (18 points back): Harvick must win this race to advance. Forget about points, he is too far back, unless ALL of the other Chase drivers wreck out VERY early, But Phoenix is like home for Harvick, He seems to rule Phoenix. He is the favorite to win this race, regardless. Can "The Closer" do it again in the desert?

6. Kurt Busch (34 points back): The older Busch brother needs a win (meaning) a miracle to advance. He has skill and talent and experience, but his car is arguably inferior to the 3 Gibbs, 1 Stewart-Haas and 1 Penske car ahead of him. He will have to take the most risks to get to the front. If he does, he must do whatever it takes to stay ahead to the checkered flag. Good luck.

Who advances? I am taking Hamlin and....Logano. I would like to see a first time champ crowned next week. These two are the only two, besides Edwards who haven't been champion left in the Chase. So why not? Otherwise, Harvick will win and advance., again.

2016 NFL Picks Week Nine: Halfway through the 2016 Regular Season plus the Chase goes to Texas!

No more London games for 2016. One more International game...Oakland versus Houston in Mexico City on MNF in a few weeks.




Last week:



Season:




Teams on Bye:
1. New England (7-1):



2. Washington (4-3-1): A TIE???? WTF?????


3. Arizona (3-4-1):
4. Cincinnati (3-4-1):
5. Chicago (2-6):
6. Houston (5-3):


Thursday Night Football on NFL Network:
Atlanta at Tampa Bay: This is another so-so Thursday night game. This game might have looked better on the schedule in April, and again so after Tampa upset the Falcons in Week One. But the Falcons, especially QB Matt Ryan and WR Julio Jones have blown up this season, including a 500 yard passing game and RARE 300 yard receiving game, respectively. Tampa..except in a few flashes.. behind QB Jameis Winston...not so much. Bottom line, Tampa doesn't have the defense to slow down these high flying Falcons, even outdoors. Worse yet, the horrific injuries at RB have made Tampa one-dimensional. This Tampa team won't slow down the Atlanta offense...much.

Who wins? Seriously? Barring a lot of errors, the Falcons should win. I do not see another 500-yard passing night because this game is not indoors (and yes, for teams who play in domes, it does matter!), but this should be a comfy win. Tampa...another loss. They need more bodies and some health. In a couple of years, if they get more sturdy help, this team will contend, but not now. Falcons win.

Atlanta 34 Tampa Bay 20

Sunday's Games:
Detroit at Minnesota: The Vikings started so well after so much adversity, but as we reach the halfway point in the season, reality has set in. You cannot lose so much on offense, even with a good defense, and not pay the price over a long season. Now seems to be that time for first-place Minnesota. Detroit is starting to rally after a poor start, and they are back in the division race. Only the 5-0 start and the Lions and Packers having 3 losses (including the home head-to-head win over GB) has them still ahead. Now offensive coordinator Norv Turner resigns during the week as the Vikings offense, battered and ineffective still looks horrible. Detroit has had offense, despite their (usual) many injuries, due to the surprisingly good season by QB Matthew Stafford...so far. Perhaps the retirement of WR Calvin Johnson HAS helped the Lions offense. Maybe not. If Minnesota loses again, Detroit and possibly Green Bay will be right there with eight to play. And Chicago is not quite done yet (and has as many division wins as the rest of the division...combined.). The loser of this game is in big trouble, especially if it is reeling Minnesota. A tie could be WORSE. Really.

Who wins? Changing offensive coordinators mid-week is not a good sign. I don't think it will help much...at least not this week. Injuries and bad play has hurt more than the one calling the plays. Shurmur as OC will not do much better than Turner as OC. Detroit knows they need this dome win to stay in the playoff race and a win may help make their Thanksgiving Day game mean something...for Detroit...for once in recent history. I just have to take Detroit in a close game...and Detroit has a great closer in Stafford. Bradford is all right, but Detroit has a little more on offense...and that is the difference. Lions win.

Detroit 30 Minnesota 27 (OT)

Philadelphia at New York Giants: This is another big divisional game in the midpoint week. With Washington on bye after that (bleeping) inexcusable tie in London and Dallas likely to put 50 up at Cleveland, this game becomes bigger, especially if Dallas chokes, for the loser falls to 4 losses and may well be done in the division race, and maybe in the NFC wild-card race too. The Eagles behind rookie QB Carson Wentz, has fallen to earth after a hot start behind 3 home wins...but now, Wentz needs to get a road division win. This will be hard to do at the Meadowlands. The experience of Giants QB Eli Manning and the explosiveness of mercurial WR Odell Beckham Jr. will be hard to stop at home. This is likely a elimination game with no more byes left. Must win game for BOTH teams.

Who wins? Wentz has skills, and if the Eagles add good pieces around him and also improve a decently good defense, these Eagles will be a force for years to come, especially against Dallas who have hit lotto with TWO major young offensive pieces in one draft. The Giants have Beckham, but who will be the young passer to ultimately replace Manning? or all those high-priced defenders who are not young, nor have done that great of a job based on the money spent? Hard to say. Today, experience will carry the day, and the home team has that. Wentz will learn...today will be a big lesson. Giants win.

New York Giants 33 Philadelphia 30 (OT)

New York Jets at Miami: The emergence of young Miami RB Jay Ajayi is a pleasant surprise in Miami with back to back 200-plus rushing games. If he has a chance to make it a unprecedented 3 in a row (having not been done since 1960!), the Jets may be the team, outside of Cleveland to attempt it against. The problem is that the Jets have the best run defense, by statistics, in the league (perhaps because it is much easier to throw against this defense?). Whatever. Neither team is going anywhere as far as the playoffs are concerned, barring their running the table and a LOT of help. Both teams have won two straight, but something has to give. The Jets just look bad and their QB situation is a mess. However, the Dolphins still look shaky at QB with Ryan Tannehill not looking that impressive, especially with a big contract extension in hand. Again, this is a likely elimination game where the loser is all-but done for 2016. Of course, seeing how many yards Ajayi can rack up today is the only real reason to glance at this game.

Who wins? The Jets may be able to slow down Ajayi the runner, but can they stop the receivers or Tannehill? I am not convinced. Miami has some defense too, but the Jets just don't have enough to steal a road win, especially if Ajayi gets 100 yards. I have to take the Dolphins at home. Real simple.

Miami 30 New York Jets 25

Jacksonville at Kansas City: Ugh. The Jaguars are in the midst of a poor season, when folk thought this young team was ready to contend for the playoffs this year. Ugh. This team will have to reconsider some things in the offseason. They are playing out the schedule now. The Chiefs are in the AFC West and wild-card race and need wins. They also will watch the Denver-Oakland showdown tonight and have to wonder if they can get past whomever loses (or both) to win the West. Yes, they did beat Oakland, but they split with the Chargers and have two games with Denver's D and the Raiders at home late in the season. But this is a must win and should win game. Oakland already beat the Jags in Jacksonville. Losing to this team AT HOME will be inexcusable..even with QB Chase Daniel replacing starter Alex Smith (concussion) this week. This is why KC made sure to get a viable backup QB. Fail to take advantage...and KC may be in trouble later.

Who wins? True, I see no way the Jaguars win in very tough Arrowhead Stadium. But with Smith and RB Jamaal Charles (knee-IR) out and this being another trap game, a upset has to come somewhere. Here it is. I am taking the Jags in a upset....they have a much better shot that Cleveland does!

Jacksonville 27 Kansas City 24

New Orleans at San Francisco:  Another game no one wants to watch. The Niners have not won since Week 1. Changing QBs (finally) has meant little so far, partially because the young Niners have so many holes that still need filling, more so than QB, plus injuries. The Saints are trying to dig back into the division race, but they are 3 games and a head to head loss behind the Falcons. But when you have QB Drew Brees...anything is possible. He could run up some yards in Santa Clara because the Niners defense will not stop this future HOF QB. Period. Can the Saints defense stop QB Colin Kaepernick? Maybe...that is the best I can say.

Who wins? Do we really care? Not really. But if the Saints can continue to rally toward .500, then that will make things interesting in the NFC wild-card race. Still, we just want to see Brees go off. He will. Saints win going away.

New Orleans 34 San Francisco 28

Indianapolis at Green Bay: This would be a cool battle with future HOF QB Aaron Rodgers facing the exciting Colts QB Andrew Luck at historic Lambeau Field. The problem is that Rodgers has not been great much of this year and Luck..has not been lucky, except that he is still upright at this point in the year. And the Colts just plain suck. Green Bay, despite their injuries at RB and other struggles, know that Minnesota is still right in the crosshairs with a lot of time left to play. The Colts had a chance to be right on the heels of the first-place Texans earlier...and they blew it. The Colts have no defense (nothing new) and just to be honest, a shaky offense WITH Luck! Not good. This game will be ugly.

Who wins? Really? For all the talent Luck has..his team is not great outdoors at their best. They are far from that. This is a must win for Green Bay, especially at home. Rodgers and friends are too good to let this game slip away, with or without a viable RB, with Lacy on IR. Better fix that quick...somehow. Packers win.

Green Bay 30 Indianapolis 20

Tennessee at San Diego: Tennessee is not supposed to be contending. San Diego should have been. But things are crazy in the NFL these days. The 4-4 Titans need every win as they have the Texans (on bye) in their sights. But these Chargers are no joke and are too dangerous to ignore in the wild-card race, even though they are last in the AFC West, especially if one or more of those teams falter. Chargers QB Philip Rivers has had player after player go down, but these guys have more heart and fight than just about any team in the league, especially at home. If the young Titans want to show they are for real (and move over .500), they must win this game on the road. This is a REAL test, forget the records. But can they?

Who wins? This is a game to watch in the late games today. Titans QB Marcus Mariota is good, but it is too early to say how good. A road battle against a potential future HOF QB in Rivers will help tell that story. But it is the supporting cast that tells the tale. San Diego has more...hence they win at home. Sorry.

San Diego 35 Tennessee 28

Carolina at Los Angeles Rams: The Carolina desperation tour continues. The Panthers likely must run the table to steal a NFC wild-card. They have the offense under QB Cam Newton to do it...if he can stay healthy, but that defense is bad...real bad. With that and all the injuries and the battering of Newton all year, which will continue, I just don't see it happening.The Rams have defenders...but that offense...is not good. Three straight losses after 3 straight upset wins after getting (bleeped) at the Niners in the MNF opener (who have not won since). Not good. Maybe Rams QB Case Keenum has game...and he does have RB Todd Gurley...but this team needs more. I know it is year one back in LA, but this team should be better, with that defense. Should top overall pick QB Jared Goff be playing? Maybe not...yet. The Rams must win to stay in the playoff race, especially with the Panthers not looking good. If they don;'t. time to get Goff on the field and consider whether you have to trade one of these QBs for some picks in the off-season to get more help. If Carolina loses, they may well be done.

Who wins? Too close to call. But I do think Carolina has more offense that is proven to pull this out in a close one. But if Newton gets beat up and/or gets concussed again....season over. Backup QB Derek Anderson had better be ready with his running shoes on. These Rams will be tough, but won't score enough to win. Panthers win.

Carolina 24 Los Angeles 17

Dallas at Cleveland:  This is like like Alabama playing....Virginia in college football right now. This is the trap game of trap games. If there is any game coming home that Dallas CAN afford to lose, it is this one with a 2 game division lead, and the closest two playing each other and Washington on bye with three losses and that (bleeping) TIE!....never mind. Cleveland just needs a win to avoid the possibility of 0-16. Doing it over a (likely) playoff team at home would be huge. With the Niners the only major contender for the top overall pick that Cleveland is in position for right now, surely a win is coming for the Browns, right?

Who wins? Yes, a win is coming, but I cannot see it this week. However, with nothing to lose, rookie QB Cody Kessler and the Browns might as well go for it against Dallas, especially with a few injuries on them, the looming shadow of a QB Tony Romo return in the Cowboys' minds and surely looking ahead to looming division games down the road. Still, Dallas can just run the ball and win. They have WR Dez Bryant back and RB Ezekiel Elliott is running toward (rookie) history. QB Dak Prescott will have a okay game. If that is NOT enough to beat the Browns on the road, Dallas may be in more trouble than they think, with or without a (allegedly) healthy Romo. Cowboys win.

Dallas 30 Cleveland 21

Pittsburgh at Baltimore: Co-game of the week. Period. Pittsburgh. Baltimore. Enough said. With Cincinnati and that (bleeping) TIE...in London...on bye this week sitting between these two in the standings, this game becomes bigger. Will injured Steelers QB Ben Roethisberger (knee) start or will he back up QB Landry Jones in this big game? I think Big Ben will be the backup and dress. Remember, the Ravens have defense and the last time this situation came up...Jones started...got hurt and Big Ben came in and WON the game. I see a similar situation here. Can Jones lead the Steelers with RB Le'Veon Bell and WR Antonio Brown over the shaky Ravens on the road, who are also coming off a bye? Maybe, but not likely without help. Even without the above...WATCH THIS GAME!!!

Who wins? This will be a war...always is. Should Big Ben play? I think he should sit and make sure he is ready to play starting next week with a lot of games left. Be smart, Coach Tomlin (what's up, Nupe??). Eight more games...be smart. The Ravens have to get this win, whether Big Ben plays or not..by any means necessary. Ravens QB Joe Flacco has the experience and the talent, but does he have enough around him to do it at home? Barely..with a capital B. Ravens steal this win.

Baltimore 30 Pittsburgh 27 (OT)

Sunday Night Football on NBC:
Denver at Oakland: This is the best Sunday Night match-up so far, and may well be all damn season. Both teams are 6-2 and win games with different means. Oakland has arguably the better QB and the better offense, especially with Denver losing starting RB C.J. Anderson (knee-IR) for virtually the regular season, if not the year. However, the WR battle will be epic. The Broncos have the better defense, but with S Aquib Talib injured and NOT playing tonight...that is a problem. The Raiders defense has arguably been the worst in the league and once again, the team racks up penalties. Once again, most in the league..setting a league record in (accepted) penalties against last week in Tampa Bay....(23)...but they STILL won and have not lost a road game yet (5-0). A team with 5 road wins is dangerous...unless they can't win at home. Oakland is 1-2 at home, but enter a stretch of home games, around next week's bye, before finishing the season with 3 road division games in the final four weeks (at Denver is the finale). The loser of this game is not done in any playoff race, since the loser will still be in the second wild-card spot with a minimum game lead over all non-division leaders in the AFC (assuming KC wins who also has 2 losses) so they have a advantage. A Denver win keeps the status quo for another week as they fight toward their bye in 2 weeks so they can get healthier with 4 more road games left after this one. But if Oakland wins...undisputed first place...a week off...and needing 2 wins to end the drought of non-winning seasons and maybe only needing 3-4 wins to end the drought of playoff appearances, too... with 7 to play. Epic game. WATCH this game...for after Tuesday night...we may be all too much in WTF-ville to care about the games next week.

Who wins? People finally believe in Oakland. I kept telling people they are coming. But folk thought I was dumb, or a homer..or worse. (Double middle finger to you all!) How do you like me now? This team is young, hungry and (except for the defense) is on FIRE and has stability at last to return to glory. Denver has done what they had to do, but we all know, Denver should have at least 3 or 4 losses right now, and took advantage of many home games to get here. Oakland had 5 road games in the first 8 games..and WON THEM ALL. Denver needs to push Oakland back now for facing this team in the playoffs..even in Denver...is trouble. Problem is...Denver's offense is in trouble. Oakland's defense will get better....and this team BELIEVES...and fears no one. Give this team a playoff game, especially at home...everyone is in trouble..EVEN New England (on bye). Watch closely, world. The Oakland Raiders are back...and whatever it takes, no many how many penalties....or BS.. the guard changes NOW, win or lose. We are not waiting until Week 17. Oakland earned their spot in first place. And after tonight, they will be in first....alone. Oakland PK Sebastian Janikowski puts last week behind them and will bring us home..in OT. Raiders win.

Oakland 30 Denver 27 (OT)

Monday Night Football on ESPN:
Buffalo at Seattle: The ESPN intro montage was nice for this game...though it would have been better for a Washington game...but then again...good thing they didn't use it back in Week One...lol. Seattle is the shakiest of division leaders and they have that inexcusable TIE (WTF????????) with Arizona (on bye) and they have a hurt QB in Russell Wilson and a FUBAR running game. True RB Thomas Rawls (knee) may be back in 2 weeks, but that doesn't help now. The Bills have RB issues too, but dangerous RB LeSean McCoy supposedly will play. And the vaunted Seattle secondary, the Legion of Boom, is not that great against the run, especially with hard-hitting S Chancellor still injured (not sure if he is playing). But the bottom line is this game is in Seattle and this team is nearly unbeatable here. With Minnesota and Atlanta faltering, Seattle could back into a top-2 NFC playoff seed and the bye week that goes with it (which Seattle likely needs more than anyone right now), especially if Dallas cannot keep winning down the stretch. If so, that tie may save Seattle from a wild-card home game. But the Bills, despite the ass-kicking the Patriots just gave them last week in Buffalo, has the ONLY win over a (then Brady-less) Patriots. Can this team make the playoffs? Not if they don't win (likely) 6 if not all of their final 7 games after this game as they get ready for their bye. Must win game for both. This may be the best game on MNF all year (other than Raiders-Texans in Mexico City later...maybe), certainly for intrigue and from a must-win standpoint. I will watch this game. So should you.

Who wins? That Bills defense is dangerous. This is not a good team to face with a hurting and less than totally mobile QB in Wilson right now, even at home. Seattle cannot score many points with ease and the Legion of Boom cannot win 4-6 more games without some viable offense. Buffalo doesn't have that concern and are far closer to balanced..and their QB, the dangerous and mobile Tyrod Taylor IS healthy..for now. I am taking Buffalo in a LOW-scoring upset. Of course this will end up 38-35, so go figure. But, please, Seattle. DO NOT TIE AGAIN!

Buffalo 24 Seattle 21 (OT)

Bonus Picks: NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup Playoffs: Round of Eight Semifinals: Race Eight:
Texas Motor Speedway:
This race becomes even more vital. Six-time champ Jimmie Johnson wins last week at Martinsville and clinches his spot in the Championship Four for the first time in years and a legit shot to win a record-tying seventh Sprint Cup drivers title and join Hall of Fame drivers Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt (Sr.) there and bringing Hendrick Motorsports with him. But that chance is in two weeks. Johnson gets to drive around and keep things smooth today and next week in Phoenix and make sure nothing happens to Johnson. For the other seven Chase semifinalists, this is a must win. Win and you are in the finals. But if Johnson, or a non-Chase driver (the other 32 cars) wins, that is one spot that will go to the driver with the most points in the standings after Phoenix. The four Gibbs Toyota cars are all in it...but only a maximum of 3 MIGHT make the final four. Does the two Stewart-Haas Chevys (Kurt Busch and favorite Kevin Harvick) or the lone remaining Ford (Penske's Joey Logano) have a shot? If not, which Gibbs car fails to make the final four?

Prediction: All seven drivers can win this race, period. However, they all know that Harvick is a undisputed favorite at Phoenix next week, so he may not panic if he doesn't win today at Texas. But never assume on that. However, with Logano on the front row, Harick right behind him and Gibbs drivers Kenseth and Carl Edwards (8th in the standings) all starting in the top 10, that is huge. I think, barring early wrecks, all 8 cars will finish in the top 20 in this race, But whichever 4-5 Chase cars finish outside the top 10 will be in deep trouble next week, especially if a Chase driver other than Johnson wins today. They will all have to win next week to make the Championship Four.

I think Logano shocks everyone and wins the race, with Harvick and Denny Hamlin (3rd in points) finishing in the top 5. The other 5 Chase drivers will be outside the top ten and will be desperate next week, because no one will be far enough ahead on points to clinch with a shaky finish next week. Period. I don't think Kurt Busch, Edwards or Kenseth will make the final four unless one (or two of them) win outright. I sense Kyle Busch (defending champ) and Harvick will make the Championship Four somehow, but that final spot...too close to call. Texas won't help settle that either.

The 2016 Presidential Election: Too close to call. You know the issues...you know the problems with each candidate. The third party candidates are a joke...and I could not get enough votes to win the job myself...and somehow, I think my wife won't want me to be President...though I think Collette would be a hell of a First Lady...lol...let me stop there. Bottom line...here is my prediction for Tuesday: (Make sure YOU VOTE!!!!!!!)

(Former) Secretary (of State and NY Senator) Hillary Clinton (Democrat) will win the popular vote over businessman Donald Trump (Republican) 48 percent to 44 percent. The third party and write-in candidates will get the other 6 percent.

HOWEVER, the ELECTORAL VOTES is what matters NOT the popular vote. Remember 2000?
A candidate needs 270 electoral votes to win.

Prediction: Clinton finishes with 285 electoral votes and wins the election. She carries Virginia and North Carolina in a vote straight down party lines (Republicans win the South, including Texas and Florida, Democrats win the North, Illinois, California and Pennsylvania) to surpass 270. I do not see Trump getting enough (or the right)states to win the Electoral College outright, nor the overall popular vote.

HOWEVER, I will not be surprised if Secretary Clinton DOES NOT earn 270 electoral votes, which would then throw the election into the House of Representatives. The 50 state delegates vote: 1 state=1 vote for the top THREE presidential Electoral College vote-earners.

IF it comes up, it would be the top TWO vote-earners for Vice President would be voted on by the Senate

But because the Republican delegations control more states in the House (29-30 states by my count), they will vote in Donald Trump as President, IF it gets this far.

Pray that it does not. But VOTE to make sure it doesn't.

2016 NFL Picks Week Seven...and the Chase for the Sprint Cup reaches...TALLEDEGA!!!!

Last Week:


Season:

Teams on Bye this week:

1. Dallas (5-1):


2. Carolina (1-5):




Damn,.....we have a London game this week AND next week, too? Crazy! Fantasy football people, go fix your lineups for Sunday tonight! Don't wait until Saturday or early Sunday morning!

Thursday Night Football on CBS/NFL Network/Twitter:
Chicago at Green Bay: We all might have hoped that this game would mean more when the schedule was released 6 months ago. But those of us who did so were fooling ourselves. Outside of Chicago, how many are really surprised that the Bears suck? How many are surprised that starter QB Jay Cutler is out injured (or just playing bad)? Right. But most of us, especially those of us who play fantasy football ARE shocked that 1) Green Bay is struggling 2) is NOT leading the NFC North and 3) Green Bay QB Aaron Rodgers is playing like (bleep). This is real football and crazy stuff is what the NFL wants to make games more suspenseful. Whatever.

Lesson from ME: the 8-time fantasy football CHAMPION: ALWAYS draft NO FEWER than two good to great players at EVERY position in the draft if you can no matter WHAT..even team defenses/special teams.....if you want a better chance to make, much less make your league's playoffs. This is NOT JUST because every team must take a bye week..but it is because great players can have a bad week (or several). One bad week can cost you a high playoff seed...several bad weeks can cost you the entire season...especially at QB. You think I am wrong? How many titles have you won doing that BS?  Luck matters..but using brains matters too. End of lesson.

Now, Green Bay is in deep bleep. Down two games (really 3 games) to undefeated Minnesota, the Packers cannot lose any more ground, especially to a pathetic Bears team...much less at Lambeau Field. Minnesota is no sure thing to win at Philadelphia on Sunday, but if they do...that makes this game even more important. I am not sure what will get Rodgers going like the Rodgers we fans have come to expect in the last 5-6 years including their championship year a few years ago. But the comeback will start tonight against a weak Bears team...or else. Can the Bears cause "or else"? If they are feeding off the energy of the Cubs in a dogfight in the NLCS back in Chicago...maybe.

Who wins? Positive energy or not, these Bears just don't have the horses to score on the Packers defense. They surely cannot stop the Packers offense...if they are playing well. However, the loss of lead RB Eddie Lacy (ankle-IR) today, along with backup James Stark out recovering from surgery, Green Bay has no running game, even with trading for Chiefs RB Knile Davis earlier in the week and promoting a RB from the practice squad. A team with a one-dimensional offense is not good...even against a inferior opponent at home. A team with a shaky passing game is even worse. I really hope Rodgers does well tonight, but I fear a upset. If Green Bay loses anyone else to injury for any length of time, especially Rodgers and/or WRs Jordy Nelson or Randall Cobb (who may have to play some halfback, too!)...season may be over. Green Bay wins...but not by much.

Green Bay 28 Chicago 24

Sunday's Games:
International Series Game on NFL Network:
New York Giants at Los Angeles from Twickenham Stadium in London:
    This is a pivotal game for both teams as teams fight for playoff position. Both teams are 3-3 and need this win. The loser will be really in trouble as far as a wild-card spot and likely could be done as far as a division title is concerned. The Rams looked like world beaters for a short while but reality may have set in for this team, but that rugged defense is still there. QB Case Keenum has shown flashes of being a competent quarterback while top overall pick QB Jared Goff continues to watch and learn from the bench as others in his QB class flourish and set rookie records for their teams and may already be more than halfway to their first playoff appearances. Luck of the draw. The Giants are dangerous with QB Eli Manning and emotional but scary brilliant WR Odell Beckham, Jr., but injuries and mistakes continue to threaten this team's chances for any playoff spot as they are almost too far behind Dallas already to allow their Week 1 win in Dallas to mean anything later. This may be the best London game of the season...but that is NOT saying much.

Who wins? The Rams are a work in progress...and the defense can play. But you have to go with the more experienced and explosive team with the game on a serious neutral field. If no one (else) gets hurt in this one, the Giants will prevail simply since the Rams cannot score easily enough to keep up. Giants win.

New York Giants 33 Los Angeles 24


Cleveland at Cincinnati: The Browns continue to march toward 0-16..lol. They travel to Cincinnati where the Bengals don't look that good. They must win to stay in the AFC wild-card race as they hope that Baltimore and Pittsburgh (without Big Ben) will continue to fall back to them in the AFC North race. The Bengals should win this game, especially at home...but this is also the definition of a trap game.  Oh my.

Who wins? Ugh. Do we care? Not really..lol. Bottom line, the Browns have nothing to lose other than risk their path to the first overall pick in the draft. I sense a upset here. I will take the Browns, since this will be almost as big a upset as Penn State over 2nd ranked Ohio State last night..lol.

Cleveland 30 Cincinnati 27


New Orleans at Kansas City: This game can be a major air show. KC QB Alex Smith is not known for huge passing days, but he could get some serious yards against a weak Saints defense. On the other side, the KC defense will have a hard time stopping future Hall of Fame Saints QB Drew Brees as well. This could be interesting. Both teams are still in their division race, but need this win. The loser of this game will be in deep trouble as far as making the playoffs is concerned, especially if it is the Saints.

Who wins? This will be a shootout, but the Chiefs are usually tougher at home than the Saints are away from their dome. But Brees can overcome a lot a we all know. I am taking the Saints in a minor upset, for the Saints may have too many weapons for the Chiefs to stop, much less keep up with. Saints win.

New Orleans 39 Kansas City 37


Buffalo at Miami: This is not a big game, but divisional battles can be fun. Buffalo has won 4 straight and can use another big division win with the Patriots right in front of them and a win in hand already. The other big story is dangerous Bills RB LeSean McCoy playing in a game where he was reported to be out (supposedly for several weeks) earlier in the week. How much he plays and how well may tip the balance of the game. Miami may be out of the playoff race already, but being a spoiler in a division game...such is always fun.

Who wins? The Dolphins are a big disappointment, but they are not done yet. Teams playing in a warm Miami, especially early to mid-season have had issues with the humidity. However, I sense these Bills will have no issues with the weather nor the weakened Dolphins and will get their 5th win in a row, with or without McCoy. Bills win.

Buffalo 33 Miami 28

Baltimore at  New York Jets: Baltimore is free-falling after a good start. The Jets have been falling all year. But the Ravens are still in the AFC North race and could have a chance to move up with the Steelers losing their great QB for a while with a knee injury. But the Ravens must win this game or their promising season may be all but over. The Jets are just playing for pride....again. Without some more wins, their head coach may be fired. Not good.

Who wins? The Ravens have had some tough losses to good teams. The Jets, with all of their turmoil at quarterback, is not a good team. Baltimore had better win this one...and not get more folk hurt in the process or this season is over. Baltimore wins.

Baltimore 30 New York Jets 20


Minnesota at Philadelphia: This game has far more intrigue than it did in April. With the Vikings losing their QB, then trading their 2017 first round pick for Eagles starter Sam Bradford and now finding themselves as the last undefeated team, they are flying. The Eagles, who as a result of the above ended up starting rookie 2nd overall pick QB Carson Wentz started 3-0, but has fallen back to 3-2 after their early bye, now must right the ship as Dallas and Washington have both passed them. This may have been a rebuilding year for one or both, but neither team can complain about this trade..yet. This game will go a long way in seeing where two teams may end up as far as the playoffs. This is a must-watch game.

Who wins? The Eagles seem to be falling to earth after a lofty start...which is not good with games against Dallas and the second game with Washington to come. The Vikings control their fate as long as they keep winning. Every win matters and this team is far more balanced than we all thought and with a powerful defense to lead them, these Vikings are going to be a force...as long as no one else goes down for any length of time. Bradford will not be scared by the Eagles defense. The Vikings will show some grit on the road and get a big road win.

Minnesota 28 Philadelphia 24


Indianapolis at Tennessee: This is not a great game. The Colts blew a great chance to cut down division leader Houston last week. I am not convinced they can do better in another road division teat at Tennessee. The Colts are still dangerous with QB Andrew Luck, but that has not been enough for most of this year. Titans QB Marcus Mariota may be as good as Luck, and he has more weapons. This is not must see TV.

Who wins? The Colts are fighters, and the AFC South is still in reach, but the Titans are ready to do the same and have the least to lose. I am taking the home team for this squad may be the most ready to do something in the playoffs in this division. Simple as that. These Colts are just not ready. Period. Titans win.

Tennessee 29 Indianapolis 24

San Diego at Atlanta: This game is another high scoring affair and don't expect a lot of running yards outside of inside of the other team's 5 yard line..lol. San Diego QB Philip Rivers versus Atlanta QB Matt Ryan. Party!!!!! I expect these two to total no less than 650 yards passing in this game (700 total will not surprise me). Enjoy this game for these two will light it up. Plus, I am not betting Rivers will still be around when these teams play in the regular season again in four years. So watch some of this game!

Who wins? The Chargers can score with anyone. They just cannot finish games too well, as we have seen week after week after week. Atlanta has been, but after last year's finish...nothing is assured. But Atlanta has too many offensive weapons to lose this one at home. I have to take the Falcons here.

Atlanta 42 San Diego 31

New England at Pittsburgh: The luster of this game is seriously dulled with the Steelers losing QB Ben Roethlisberger (knee). The Steelers know the Ravens and  Bengals are reeling, but can the Steelers stay ahead in the AFC North until their offensive leader returns? Hard to say. New England weathered the storm of QB Tom Brady's suspension and TE Rob Gronkowski's (and others) injuries,  and now they are rolling right along. Pittsburgh was supposed to be a major test for these Patriots, but with QB Landry Jones now the starter, even with RB Le'Veon Bell back and having WR Antonio Brown around, does the Steelers have a chance?

Who wins? Really? If it wasn't for the Patriots bending over for Miami just before Brady's return, this would be a undefeated team. Pittsburgh is tougher overall, but without Big Ben...barring injuries...there is no way these Steelers can win this one. Patriots win again.

New England 30 Pittsburgh 21


Tampa Bay at San Francisco:


San Francisco 30 Tampa Bay 28

Washington at Detroit:






Washington 28 Detroit 25 (OT)
Oakland at Jacksonville: Despite losing to KC at home last week, Oakland is a dangerous team, sitting tied for first in the AFC West with Denver. But this team is undefeated on the road. Road wins do matter and Oakland knows they finish with three road division games at the end of the year. Every winnable game gotten now may mean everything entering December. Jacksonville is a big disappointment so far, since so many felt these young Jags, along with the Raiders were the sleeper picks to make the AFC playoffs this year. The Jags have not gotten it done. Can they trip up the Raiders?

Who wins? The Raiders are just too good and just and young as the Jaguars. They have grown up fast and they are not letting a lesser team slow them down now. Oakland gets their fourth road win and continue to march toward a playoff berth. Raiders win again.

Oakland 30 Jacksonville 20

Sunday Night Football on NBC:
Seattle at Arizona:



Arizona 24 Seattle 23

Monday Night Football on ESPN:
Houston at Denver: Houston QB Brock Osweiler returns to Denver where he won a Super Bowl ring backing up now-retired QB Peyton Manning.





Denver 33  Houston 20


Bonus picks: NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup Playoffs: Round of 12 Elimination Race: Chase Race Six: Talledega:

Of the 26 "regular season" races, there are 6-8 races that stand out on the schedule. Daytona 500 and Firecracker 400...Brickyard....Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte..Bristol twice..Darlington...September race at Richmond (Chase cut-off race). Every Chase race matters, but especially the cutoff races and the championship finale at Homestead Miami. But there are two races that almost dwarf even Daytona. The two races at Talledega (Alabama), especially this one in the Chase. This racetrack is the biggest on the circuit...has the highest speeds for the longest periods. Some might say it is the most boring race...others say it is the most exciting race..because for the danger of wrecks..and "The Big One". No other track has more danger or the risk of one wreck taking out more (potential) cars..or worse...than this track. Google past race highlights if you think I am kidding.
    If there is one race on the schedule you should watch live (or DVR it like I will, because my Raiders are playing and I am working), besides Daytona or Richmond or Homestead...it is this one. This race has the potential of shuffling the Chase standings greatly. So much so that this race was moved to Race 5 in the Chase for next year and Kansas moved down one week on the schedule just to make it easier on the Chase teams to have a more fair chance to qualify for the Chase semifinals (Round of 8) after Talledega since this race could make or destroy a team's season...in a instant. More reason to watch. Below is the list of Chase drivers and who I think will advance and why. 10 drivers going for 6 spots...there will be oil and metal (and hopefully not blood) spilled. Enjoy

Already Advanced with Round of 12 race wins: Jimmie Johnson and Kevin Harvick: These drivers must just start the race and survive it, no matter where they finish. Simple as that.

Will Advance to Round of 8 on points OR by winning this race:
1. Brad Keselowski- He is only 7 points out of 8th after getting wrecked last week. But he did actually win Talledega a few years ago to advance to the next round. If anyone can do it again, he can. Especially since Kevin Harvick has already clinched his spot in the Round of 8. I believe Brad will take his his qualifying spot and use it to advance.
2. Kyle Busch- He is too good to not advance. Remember, the defending champ had to rally after missing the first third of the season last year due to serious injuries to not only make the Chase, but win the whole thing. I am not betting against him. Four Joe Gibbs Toyota are fighting to make the Round of 8...if only one makes it, Kyle Busch is the one I will bet on (Sorry, Denny).
3. Carl Edwards-I just have a feeling that Carl will slip through this time. He has experience and he is cool as they come. Edwards advances.
4. Martin Truex, Jr.-Like Edwards, Truex is a good driver and has been running well of late. He is the remaining feel good story of the Chase as well. He will make it.
5. Joey Logano-This year's Daytona winner got kind of screwed out of the semifinals last year due to feuding with Kenseth and his uncharacteristic retaliation when Logano was in position to win an race and advance. This time, Hamlin will get through will Kenseth is left out of the final 8. Karma...lol.
6. Denny Hamlin- I know he is the lowest in points of the four JGR cars. But I am not going to bet against him either. He is from my hometown, so I got his back. Also, he is the hungriest of the 4 drivers, even more than Carl Edwards, the other JGR driver without a championship. Hamlin will find a way.


Will be Eliminated from the Chase after Talladega:
1. Kurt Busch- He is a great driver and past champ. But he has too much bad luck in big races to get through this time. Sorry.
2. Matt Kenseth- Like Busch, a former champion, but also has bad luck hit him too often to make him a factor. I sense this will happen again. Sorry.
3. Austin Dillon- The other Chase rookie may have slipped through the first round, but his luck ends here. Too much experience to fight through to advance. He will have his day...just will not be today.
4. Chase Elliott-25 points behind 8th-He has the capability to win a race. The unpredictability  of Talladega makes such possible...IF the big one happens while Elliott was leading AND it takes out virtually all of the Chase drivers besides Harvick and Johnson. Not impossible..but with a talented rookie against a bunch of veterans and current and former NASCAR champs? I don;t think so.

2016 NFL picks Week 6....and the Chase for the Sprint Cup moves on to Kansas as Talledega looms.

Last week's results:


Season:

Only two teams on bye this week? This scheduling makes no sense at all.

Teams on bye this week:

1. Minnesota (5-0): When the schedule came out in April...before any training camps or any injuries had occurred, the thought never crossed my mind that these Vikings would do this well from the start, especially now with the injuries that have occurred, or the things they have done to address said losses. Coul this team be the surprising (then)St. Louis Rams of 2016? That was also a team who lost their starting QB in preseason and rode their totally unknown backup all the way to a Super Bowl championship. Can these Vikings do the same. Maybe. QB Sam Bradford is more known than Kurt Warner was then, but he has just as much to prove at this point in his career. With a team with heart beside him and a stronger than expected defense and special teams..this team is trouble for all who must face them in the NFC. I am not saying they will 16-0 or beyond....but this team has a shot to do big things THIS year and might have the schedule to pull if off, if they don't forget what got them this far...down the road. If they do...this long-suffering fan base will get some happiness not seen in this area in a long time.

2. Tampa Bay (2-3): The Bucs are working toward building a contender. They have a lot of pieces already, starting with QB Jameis Winston. However, the injuries that their best weapons on offense seem to keep having has hurt. Also, the defense is not too good right now. Having two wins after 5 games is progress.

Thursday Night Football on NFL Network/CBS: Denver at San Diego:
     The Chargers just cannot catch a break. Between the injuries to key players they have suffered in the first month of the season, to the many ways this team has blown leads and lost games they were leading late in the game, the Chargers have looked like the win-less Browns. But these guys have unbelievable fight, and is the most dangerous 1-4 team the NFL has seen in years..WITH the injuries. Imagine what the team would be if they were full strength! Denver, has had a lot of lucky bounces and a great defense to carry them this year. But last week, they fell at home to a dangerous Atlanta team with their starting QB Trevor Simien (shoulder) out. Rookie backup Paxton Lynch was not horrible, but not enough  to counter the dangerous QB Matt Ryan and friends. Now the Broncos must go west on a short week, with their starter back to try to beat a desperate team who is more than game to upset the Broncos and potentially knock them all the way out of first place (if Oakland wins Sunday), especially with QB Philip Rivers just as potent as ever, with or without their best offensive weapons. This will be a fun Thursday game to watch opposite the NL divisional winner-take-all game.

Who wins? The Broncos should be better with their defense and QB back. But the Chargers know that if they lose this game, they are all but done as far as a playoff berth is concerned...AND their coach might also get fired (by the weekend) as well. Considering how close this damaged team has come to win in every game this year and could EASILY be 5-0 right now...I am taking the underdog Chargers to win.

San Diego 30 Denver 27 (OT)

Sunday's Games:
San Francisco at Buffalo:



San Francisco 30 Buffalo 27 (OT)

Jacksonville at Chicago:



Jacksonville 23 Chicago 17
Los Angeles at Detroit:





Detroit 27 Los Angeles 23

 Pittsburgh at Miami:




Pittsburgh 34 Miami 21

Cincinnati at New England:



New England 33 Cincinnati 27
Cleveland at Tennessee:



Cleveland 27 Tennessee 24 (OT)

Dallas at Green Bay:





Dallas 34 Green Bay 31 (OT)
Atlanta at Seattle:



Seattle 38 Atlanta 36

Philadelphia at Washington:




Washington 34 Philadelphia 31


Kansas City at Oakland:





Oakland 37 Kansas City 30
Sunday Night Football on NBC: Indianapolis at Houston:




Indianapolis 34 Houston 27


Monday Night Football on ESPN: New York Jets at Arizona:








Arizona 27 New York Jets 25

Bonus pick:


Joey Logano wins the race....4 Chase drives finish worse than 28th due to wrecks and are in deep (bleep) for Talledega next week, including Elliott, Kurt Bush, Kenseth and Dillon.

2016 NFL Picks Week 5: Busy weekend of sports and WWE pay-per-view too!

2016 NFL Picks Week Five

Last Week: 9-6 plus 3-1 on bonus picks

Season: 35-28, plus 11-6-1 on bonus picks. I am starting to move up on picks, but I know I left a lot of winning picks on the table.

Teams on Bye:

1.       Seattle (3-1): This is a rather shaky 3-1 team. Despite having the majority of the defense being as strong as ever, especially the Legion of Boom secondary, the offense is in trouble. The running game is in shreds, both due to ineffectiveness and also ongoing injuries to shaky starter RB Thomas Rawls. New FA pickup RB C.J. Spiller may help through the season...or he may not. Their best weapon is QB Russell Wilson, who has already been one of the biggest draft steals of all-time. However, his badly hurt ankle has affected this offense greatly in the early going. Without his mobility, Wilson is greatly diminished as a quaterback and it would make his smaller-than NFL average height and arm strength a much more important (negative) factor. Hence, this bye is huge for him. However, even if Wilson returns next week recovered...the running game is still weak. The receivers are still...middle of the road at best. Even with the strong defense, Seattle is more like a paper-thin 3-1...and they still must face the Rams again,..in LA. Can Wilson stay healthy? Can he and this defense carry Seattle to the playoffs, especially if the Rams can keep up their surprising start? Hard to say. Ask me again after Week 10.

2.       Kansas City (2-2): The Chiefs look shaky. Yes, they escaped with the opener in OT. But the Chiefs haven't been that great since. With the Raiders and the Broncos already having passed them, they are in a hole. If the two win again, the Chiefs will be in  worse trouble with a game at Oakland next week. Getting RB Jamaal Charles back is good, but the team had been doing better without him than with him. Go figure. These Chiefs may need 10 straight wins to make the playoffs, never mind win the division. Can they do this?I have my doubts...but they have a good QB and coach...and defense..so who knows?

3.       Jacksonville (1-3): The Jaguars are shaky and has already blown at least two games they could have won. They stole away a win from the Colts in London, but they have been useless otherwise. Will they be better after the bye? Maybe...the early bye could help them down the road. But they are a young team. Playoffs may be too much to ask for this year. But building for a playoff run next year? That starts NOW!

4.       New Orleans (1-3): These Saints are in a transition right now. Their start clearly says that this is not a serious playoff threat. Too many young pieces and inexperience around veteran QB Drew Brees. But...the NFC South is no sure thing, even for 3-1 Atlanta. The early bye may help New Orleans rally...or it might not. But that offense can still do work...so we will see. I won't count these guys or Brees out...yet.

Thursday Night Football on CBS/NFL Network:

Arizona at San Francisco: This game may well be a (wild-card) playoff elimination game...in Week 5. Yes...it is that big. Few folk thought Arizona would be in this spot. But bad breaks, injuries and shaky play has them here. Worse yet, the Cardinals must play at least this game (likely more) without QB Carson Palmer (concussion) and that will all but kill this offense, as we have seen in recent years. Unless.....backup QB Drew Stanton can get this offense going and get a win outdoors at night on the road. The defense is decent...but not on a Denver or Minnesota (?) level. The Niners were not expected to be a contender in 2016. People took notice when they blanked the Rams on the late MNF game from Week 1. But the Niners have been beat up ever since. So one does not expect a lot from this team. If the Niners hope to steal another division win....this is the one they must grab..especially at home!

Who wins? This game will be ugly. I do not see a lot of scoring. But if either or both of these teams makes the playoffs...this game could be the springboard toward such. With Palmer out, the  QBs are even...and that is something Arizona will take...and run with. Because the Cardinals roster and coaching staff is better top to bottom than that of San Francisco...I am taking the Cardinals to survive..this week. Next week...is another story.

Arizona 27 San Francisco 21

Sunday’s Games:

New England at Cleveland: Tom Brady is back! Patriots Nation is very happy about that. But how fortunate that the Patriots to get...Cleveland (WTF?) for his first game? But the game is in Cleveland. Cleveland (not surprisingly) is the NFL's last win-less team. They are on their third starting QB. They have shaky defense and little offense. Except for last week's shocking loss at HOME to Buffalo, the Patriots have weathered a near record amount of QB woes (Cleveland is still the standard-bearer in this regard. 2016 is a great example of that!) , this team refuses to lose. What chance does the Browns have to win?

Who wins? The Patriots will be at full strength, while the Browns are short-handed (as usual). The only things that could cause the Pats to lose their second straight game is TE Rob Gronkowski getting hurt (again...unlikely), Brady himself getting hurt and/or has the worst game of his career due to rust or whatever (highly unlikely) and the Browns that can play playing a perfect game for 60 minutes. Get real. Patriots will win.

New England 30 Cleveland 17

Philadelphia at Detroit: The surprising Eagles return from their early bye to face the reeling Lions. Detroit is a tougher team when they are at Ford Field than they are on the road, especially outdoors. Having a rookie coach and rookie QB has not hurt the Eagles so far, most of their games was at home. Winning on the road is another matter...especially for games that you are allegedly "supposed to win". With the rest of the NFC East not that far behind...even Washington.... every win matters. This is a classic trap game....if Detroit can channel some inner lion and play like such and without mistakes. Even with dangerous passer QB Matthew Stafford leading the way...good luck with that.

Who wins? Detroit has enough talent to pull off the upset. If Detroit controls the clock and Stafford throws the ball around like what QB Matt Ryan did for Atlanta last week, which he is capable of, I see a upset coming. However, I don't think that will happen. I see some rust and rookie errors from Wentz, but the Eagles will still win...this week.

Philadelphia 34 Detroit 25

Chicago at Indianapolis: The Bears got a much needed first win over Detroit last week. The Colts found a way to give away a needed win in London. Unlike the Jaguars, the Colts are playing this week instead of being on bye. If they win this winnable game at home, this could be a good thing. But can QB Andrew Luck and friends get it done? I have my concerns. This is a weak Bears team who doesn't even have shaky starter QB Jay Cutler (thumb) on the field. This team is far weaker than the Jaguars. Surely the Colts with a mostly healthy Luck can win this game, right?

Who wins? The Bears with backup QB Brian Hoyer has a chance to score another upset over these Colts who have to be tired after having to travel to and play in London seven days ago and then fly right back home to play again a week later. Some teams work better in such adversity. But the Colts do have a clear talent advantage. The Colts will get this right this time. Colts win.

Indianapolis 30 Chicago 23

Tennessee at Miami: This game will be kind of wet with Hurricane Matthew having passed by on Friday. Both teams was hoping for a better start, but that did not happen. Bottom line...every game matters from here on. Miami just isn't playing well and they have some injury issues. The Titans are young and not carrying a huge amount of talent which limits what QB Marcus Mariota can do. Plus the defense is not great. This game will not be that great, but it will be wet.

Who wins? The game is in Miami, but considering the weather that has come through there, home field won't help a already shaky team. The Titans are due for a win and they have a running game which is better on a super wet field. Plus the Titans have more talent..but not by much. Titans win.

Tennessee 26 Miami 24

Houston at Minnesota: Houston brings their good, but currently not great defense into Minnesota's new palace to face the undefeated Vikings and their BETTER team defense. The Texans still have a offense that is so-so and not super good yet. They have weapons but no consistency. Minnesota's resurgent defense can stuff this offense. The Vikings offense under QB Sam Bradford has done well considering the major injuries they have had...but injuries are still coming in. Can Houston's Watt-less defense stop these guys? I am not liking it.

Who wins? This will be a game of defenses ruling and offenses just going fetal and taking it. The team that makes the fewest mistakes and the fewest turnovers will win. That will be Minnesota. Every win they get to start off is one less win the Vikings need after their bye to make the playoffs. And if Green Bay loses again, the Vikings may be a few wins away from being gone in the NFC North. And if they get RB Adrian Peterson back at the end of the season? Oh, my. The Texans can lose today and still have great position in their division, but this one will sting. Minnesota wins and stays undefeated.

Minnesota 29 Houston 20

New York Jets at Pittsburgh: The Jets look real weak. Period. They have had some bad luck, but the bottom line is that this team is not winning. Pittsburgh is looking good, except for the ass-kicking they took in Philadelphia. They did get by the Bengals at home, but with five division games left, we will see how strong they really are. For today, the Steelers have everything they need to win, including home field and the returned RB Le'Veon Bell. What else is there to say?

Who wins? The Jets need a game like what Philly did...and then some...to be able to upset Pittsburgh. I am not saying it is impossible, but it is not likely. The Eagles have more overall talent, and Bell wasn't playing. Plus Jets QB Ryan Fitzpatrick has thrown 9 INTs the last two weeks. Expect some more here. Steelers win again.

Pittsburgh 31 New York Jets 20

Atlanta at Denver:  The Falcons go west after their record setting passing game for QB Matt Ryan and WR Julio Jones at home last week. They are 3-1. They are on fire. The problem is....this team is usually not as good outdoors, and they get to face the deadly undefeated Denver defense. If these two rack up HALF of what they did last week, that will be a miracle. But here is the other side of the coin: Denver has to start rookie QB Paxton Lynch in place of injured starter Trevor Siemien. Lynch was not bad in finishing a win last week, but this defense is not the one to see in your first career start, even with the game at home. This could be interesting.

Who wins? Despite everything said above, remember...the Falcons has no defense. They are giving up 30-plus points a game. Yes that is NOT the worst in the league, but how long  can the offense cover for the defense? Won't happen this week. But if they really get to Lynch...you never know. But Denver's defense will not slow down Atlanta enough...and if Atlanta's offense stays on the field for more than 40 minutes and keep their defense on the bench, even in the thin Denver air, this Broncos defense will fold late. Atlanta somehow upsets Denver.

Atlanta 39 Denver 38

Cincinnati at Dallas: Dallas is rolling but QB Tony Romo is going to be back soon. Can the Cowboys bench rookie QB Dak Prescott when Romo returns? This game will go a ways in deciding that. The Bengals are shaky, but they are fare from the worst team in football (named Cleveland). The Dallas defense will be tested, even with some players returning to the lineup. This is a big game for both, because a loss could drop the loser 2 games behind the division leader...not good. This is a good late game to watch.

Who wins? I am not saying what I think about Dallas' QB dilemma right now, but the team has other concerns. They need this win, but so does the Bengals. I really have no faith in the shaky Bengals in QB Andy Dalton, but Dallas does still have a lot of weakness on defense, and what if WR Dez Bryant (knee) does not play like Bengals TE Tyler Eifert(back) again? I see a upset here. I am taking the Bengals.

Cincinnati 34 Dallas 27 (OT)

Buffalo at Los Angeles: Well, Buffalo upset the Patriots in Foxboro. Didn't see that coming. But the 2-2 Bills must go west to face the tougher Rams defense and their surprising 3-0 run after they got shut out in the opener. With the continuing injuries at WR, they will have a hard time just running the ball on the rugged Rams defense. This will be interesting. Can the Bills pull off a second straight road upset?

Who wins? Look, the Bills will NOT shut out these Rams. However, can the Bills score on offense? Can the Rams score a bunch on offense? After being so wrong on that with the Tampa game, I am not saying this will be low scoring, because it won't be. But Buffalo won't stop this offense and the Rams can score. That long flight west will sap the Bills. Rams keep rolling.

Los Angeles 31 Buffalo 20

Washington at Baltimore: This will be a interesting game. The Ravens field will be wet due to the bands from Hurricane Matthew which did delay the MLB playoff game in Washington. But this would be the same, if not worse, if this game was held in suburban Maryland. Whatever. The Redskins have won two straight, but Baltimore is a tough challenge, especially after being upset by Oakland last week. This is a must see game. The teams may not see this as a rivalry since they only play each other in the regular season every 4 years. Whatever. You will see differently.

Who wins? This will be a shootout. The wet field may slow down the passing game some...for both teams. So the running game will be the key. Baltimore's surprise release of RB Justin Forsett leaves young backs who have talent to run against the weak run defense of Washington. Who blinks the least? Washington will, because they have better runners...for now. I am taking Washington in a upset.

Washington 27 Baltimore 24 (OT)

San Diego at Oakland: I never thought I would say this...3 road wins to start the season? Raiders? WTF???? Yes, that is true. The Raiders survived the first 3 out of 4 road game trip 3-1. Good for them. But now, they come home and open their division schedule against a decimated, but still dangerous Chargers team. But Oakland's lead RB, Latavius Murray (toe) is OUT...so their young backups will have to carry the load. However, does it matter? The Raiders passing game is on fire, led by QB Derek Carr and his group of young AND old receivers. This team can score. The defense has allowed WAY too many yards and points and must get better. How long can the offense save them (like in Atlanta, who barely won here 2 weeks ago)? The Chargers have lost much of their offensive weapons, but as long as QB Philip Rivers is upright, you can never count this team out. Expect fireworks of passing here.

Who wins? I fear the Raiders defense may let Rivers throw for 500 yards (or the team totals 500-plus yards of offense), like Atlanta ran up last week on the battered Panthers. But Ryan didn't do that when they played the Raiders, so who knows. But the Chargers don't have defense to slow down Carr and friends either and the offense is hurting.  Bottom line, the Raiders defense might allow less than 500 yards, but not by much. But the Raiders offense is too steady and hot to be stopped by a decimated Chargers team, even at home. Raiders get their first home win and stay in the chase behind Denver.

Oakland 38 San Diego 31

Sunday Night Football on NBC:

New York Giants at Green Bay: Green Bay returns from their early bye week and plays at home against the now-shakier Giants. The Green Bay offense has looked like shit so far, but Green Bay keeps winning. But with Minnesota still undefeated, the Packers must win to stay close, having lost at Minnesota already. The Giants are in the same boat, with the undefeated Eagles returning from a early bye too, and looking like they could crush Detroit, right? Another conference loss will bury the Giants behind a lot of teams in the NFC, including EVERYONE in the NFC East. The Giants need to be desperate NOW..but can they win here?

Who wins? Green Bay can weather a loss a lot more than the Giants can, having gone from finally getting past Dallas to being shocked by Washington and finding themselves dropping from first to last in 4 weeks. Go figure. Am I surprised? No. Rookie head coach and turmoil aplenty across the roster, and not just the meltdowns of OBJ. Green Bay is more stable...more R-E-L-A-X-E-D and they are at home. Oh, and they have QB Aaron Rodgers. Sorry Eli..you may have more rings, but Rodgers will make the Hall of Fame before you based on the total resume. I am taking stable. Green Bay wins again.

Green Bay 35 New York Giants 30

Monday Night Football on ESPN:

Tampa Bay at Carolina: This game is likely to be a elimination game like the Arizona game at the Niners seems to be. Whomever loses will be 1-4, and it will be hard, if not impossible to overcome such to win ANY playoff berth in the competitive NFC. For Carolina, it looks like reigning MVP QB Cam Newton (concussion) will not play. Backup Derek Anderson is far from the worst backup in the league. But can he, a pocket passer, match his performance with that of the mobile and linebacker sized Newton to help the Panthers win? If not, can the Buccaneers take advantage, despite having a shaky offense and also missing key players in the run and pass game...and not having much of a defense either?

Who wins? Tough call. Tampa's QB Jameis Winston is talented, though his play in the last few weeks has shown little of that. But can he and the Bucs steal this win on the road with Newton on the sidelines? The simple answer is....no. Anderson is no slouch, otherwise Carolina would have drafted  a youngster to back up Newton by now. Carolina still has a better defense. That will make the difference of a injured and still young and inexperienced Buccaneers offense (and coaching staff). Hence, Carolina wins at home.

Carolina 28 Tampa Bay 20

Bonus Picks:

NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup Playoffs: Race 4: Round of 12 Race 1 at Charlotte:

This is the start of the quarterfinal round of the playoffs with 12 drivers left. As before, if a Chase driver wins this race, which will be the final Saturday night race of the season, barring weather delays, or either of the next two races, he automatically advances to the Round of 8 semifinal round, regardless of points. As before, the four drivers with the fewest points after the Talledega race will be eliminated. Points from earlier wins mean nothing at this point. As such, this race and next week’s race at Kansas are huge, specifically knowing how…unpredictable Talledega can be, being the largest, fastest and most…dangerous track on the circuit. I will discuss that more in two weeks, but the bottom line is: If a Chase driver does not win at Charlotte or Kansas, no driver will be safe at Talledega, no matter what the point lead is…or is not. Below is my thoughts on the remaining drivers, listed in the order I think they will finish in this round of 3 races. Below will be my prediction of who does what at Charlotte on Saturday night (NOW Sunday afternoon/evening due to rain delay from the hurricane):

1.      Martin Truex, Jr.: Thought to be a big underdog in the Chase, he now is the favorite to win it all after winning two of the first 3 Chase races, plus a race in the regular season. He has been consistent, fast and a contender to win every race and has stayed out of trouble. If he and his team can continue to run their race and do it error-free, he should advance.

2.       Kevin Harvick: The former champ and lead Stewart-Hass driver won the other race in the first round and is as good a driver in the Chase as you can find. He is very strong at 1.5 mile length tracks like Charlotte and Kansas and a threat to win one or both races. His team is also strong and consistent. Only really bad luck, surprising major errors during pit stops and mechanical failures (remember Jimmie Johnson in this round last year) could or will prevent Harvick from advancing.

3.       Kyle Busch: The defending champion is in great shape here. Like the others above, the younger Busch brother is strong and a serious threat to win at least one race in this round, if not all three races. It also helps to have all three of his teammates still in the Chase as well. I don’t think all of the Joe Gibbs Racing cars will advance to the Round of 8, but Kyle Busch is the most likely to advance…even if the other 3 (unlikely) do not.

4.       Matt Kenseth: A former (pre-Chase) Cup champion also, Kenseth is experienced in the Chase, but has not had great luck in such and has lost his cool in the past dealing with Joey Logano last year and getting suspended by NASCAR as a result. This year, he has just done his job, but knowing Logano is also in the Chase…what might happen? For all his skill and experience, Kenseth is one that I am concerned about advancing.

5.       Joey Logano: After Truex, Jr., Logano is the first non-champ listed in the standings. Logano is very good and had a fair shot at winning a title last year before getting into a situation with Kenseth and ultimately getting wrecked by him while leading a race which ultimately got him knocked out early. He has the equipment, skill and attitude to win a race in this round. Can he? Maybe. He is also no sure thing to advance, but he might just sneak through on points due to crazy wrecks at Talledega. Somebody will...and if so, Logano is the one who does.

6.       Chase Elliott: The young rookie has had a great year to make the Chase, much less advance to this round without winning a race. It would be huge to win this week or next to assure he advances. Otherwise, he will have problems advancing to the round of 8, even with driving a strong Hendrick car and having six-time champ and teammate Jimmie Johnson also in the round of 12. Those things, I sense will not be enough, especially if he ends up needing a huge finish or win at Talledega to advance since 10 of the other Chase drivers have FAR more Chase AND experience at these tracks than he does. I think his Chase run ends here, unless he gets his first Sprint Cup win in the next 3 races.

7.       Brad Keselowski: The 2012 Cup champ has the same skiils as Logano, his teammate. The difference is that Brad has a bit more Chase experience and also more experience in on and off track battles with other drivers. Brad K. did also win the title with a lame duck car (Dodge) with no teammates in the Chase AND beat a Chase field that included ALL FOUR Hendrick drivers (Kahne and Earnhardt, Jr were the other two in THAT Chase). He even won a race (maybe Talledega?) where he had to either win or be eliminated from the Chase and he did just that. You can never count him out, unless his car is totally wrecked. Brad K. will find a way to advance...again.

8.       Kurt Busch: Older brother of Kyle and also a former (pre-Chase) Cup champ, Busch is good enough to win anywhere. Can his team and equipment, along with some good luck help him advance? Maybe. But him being on a less-funded team, plus him often being in the wrong place at the wrong time and getting wrecked will keep him out of the top-8, NOT his driving skill. And his famous temper has been cool all year. He is a sleeper pick to win this whole thing.

9.       Denny Hamlin: The third JGR car, Hamlin is a Chase veteran who came within one race at Homestead to winning the title (lost to Jimmie Johnson) and has the skill and momentum with his three wins to do well and advance on points. But he has had bad luck and injuries before. I am biased because Hamlin and I are from the same area, but Hamlin will advance to the round of 8 this year.

1     Carl Edwards: Another experienced Chase driver who drives the fourth JGR car, Edwards can win races and advance. However, I just do not see more than 2 JGR drivers advancing. Unless he finds a way to win, I think Edwards will get caught up in wrecks and will not earn enough points to advance.

1    Jimmie Johnson: You can never count out the six-time champ who has mostly dominated the Chase in overall wins and titles. However, his surprise elimination due to a (cheap car) part failing and destroying his engine last year has got to be fueling Johnson and his team this year. Having not won since the spring is a concern, but if any driver can win a Chase race, it is Jimmie…even at Talledega.

Austin Dillon: The other remaining Chase rookie has done well to make the Chase at all by winning a race. However, Dillon’s low experience will hurt and Dillon must win to advance. Unless he gets a lucky rain-shortened win, I just don’t see Dillon advancing to the round of 8, at least not this year. Next year or 2018...very possible.

The race: This race has been affected by the march of Hurricane Matthew whose rains forced the delay of the race to Sunday afternoon. No big deal. The Chase drivers will all be in the mix, but when it is done, I see the rookies, Dillon and Elliott, plus Edwards and Kurt Busch in the bottom 4 after this race.Kenseth, Edwards, Hamlin and Logano won't be far in front of them. If a Chase driver wins here, bet on Jimmie Johnson, either Busch brother, especially Kyle, or Brad Keselowski in a crazy close finish.

WWE No Mercy (Smackdown Live!-exclusive PPV) Match predictions:

Randy Orton beats Bray Wyatt: Orton has not won much since his return from injury. Wyatt is established now and can afford a loss to this future Hall of Famer. The win likely won't be clean, but Orton will get it done.

Baron Corbin beats Jack Swagger: Swagger is not that big of a deal on the roster, and some forget that he did win the World title....years ago. He is not a major contender for the WWE title now, but Corbin could be within a year, and needs this win to help improve his resume. Swagger is a good company man and will oblige.

The Usos win the Smackdown Tag Team titles from Rhyno and Heath Slater: Smackdown needs some bad guys to be champs, if not to offset babyfaces The New Day still being the MNR tag champs. It was a big deal to turn the twins to heels and they need the titles to support a program against babyface American Alpha anyway. Rhyno and Slater was a nice story to win the titles in the tournament and officially put Slater on the Smackdown roster. Mission done. Now it is time for them to fade away and let the established tag teams fight for these titles.

Nikki Bella defeats Carmella: Carmella is young and may be the future in the Womens division for Smackdown...but Nikki needs to win to start her drive toward winning the (Smackdown) Womens title one more time. Bella likely doesn't have much time left in the ring (likely like her boyfriend Cena), and seeing her sister Brie Bella and brother-in-law (Smackdown GM and retired world champ Daniel Bryan) just announce she is pregnant with their first child, may push her to work faster for one more title shot before maybe she and Cena also ride off into the sunset. Just a thought.


The Miz defends his Intercontinental title and "ends" Dolph Ziggler's career: The rumors have said Ziggler is going to lose here so he can rest and recharge and return with a new gimmick in a few months, likely at or just after Royal Rumble in time for The Road to Wrestlemania...and I see no reason to believe otherwise. Miz without the title is basically just nothing for WWE or Smackdown Live...and that is worse than Ziggler right now. The two are close off screen, both being from Cleveland, so a title vs career match makes sense if Ziggler is gone...for a while or for good. This is a match I will watch for sure.

Becky Lynch defends her Smackdown Womens Title over Alexa Bliss: Bliss may be good, but she is still mostly unknown after being drafted from NXT. Lynch is a fan favorite and has taken too much shit to win her first major title to lose it in her first defense. Maybe she will at Survivor Series but now here. But this won't be a must see match...sorry.

John Cena upsets Dean Ambrose and AJ Styles to win the WWE World Title: Cena is supposed to be going off WWE TV shortly to go film the second season of his reality show "American Grit". But..still hanging over his head is that...Cena is almost 40 and may only have a short time left as a full-time wrestler, especially with all of his non-WWE stuff going on. He is not the main focus of Smackdown nor the WWE. If Cena is to tie Ric Flair's record of 16 World Title wins, now is the time for his chances are much better in a Triple Threat environment. Ambrose and Styles are the hot things now and for them to battle each other in the fall, Cena needs to be out of the way. Just because Cena wins, does NOT mean he would hold the title for long. I see one last shocking upset win for Cena to be The Champ now...and then we can see what happens in 2017 when he returns (be the Undertaker's likely last opponent at Wrestlemania 33 next April?) Just a thought.