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.
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.
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