Tagged: Bengals
NFL Week 1 Picks
Salutations Good People,
After many long months, I am back at my desk and getting ready to make my picks for the week. Last year, I had the goal of 170 wins during the season…. and I fell juuuuust short (169 wins). It really was just one bad week that I had last season that not only robbed me of my 170-win goal BUT robbed me of shattering it. That said, Week 1 is always a little dicey simply because I really only pay attention to a few teams, and so, Week 1, is my first opportunity to sit down and see what the rest of the League is offering. For those who didn’t follow my picks last year, I’m not a journalist and I am open with my biases; I’ll give my thoughts on the match-up where I feel inspired to, but, ultimately, I’m just picking who I think will win. Usually, I’m right — however, I don’t gamble so what does my accuracy really matter? It’s all for good fun.
Here are my picks for Week 1.
Week 1 Picks
Packers @ Seahawks –
We have gotten a fair dosing of the “Fail Mary” story in the past week, leading up to this game, but hopefully it is long past. This game is a tough one. “Fail Mary” aside, the Packers played well in Seattle the last time that they were up there; for it being the first game of the season, too, I reckon that everyone is healthy and ready to go (except for BJ Raji, but I hear that he may be more of a big name on the defense than a big factor… I don’t know, though; I don’t follow the Packers that closely). It’s tough to bet against Aaron Rodgers (even if up against a great pass-defense) and now that he has a reliable running game, as well, there’s nothing in me that thinks that the Packers do not have a chance at winning this game. I think that they do have a chance. That said, the NFC West has had the Packers’ number as of late, especially in exploiting the Packers’ often-porous defense — most notably with my beloved 49ers and Colin Kaepernick: the Packer Killer. While I’m not comfortable with the pick, I’m going to go with the Seahawks at home, simply because I’d rather pick them and have them lose (and take the loss in my Picks) than I would picking the Packers and having them lose AND taking the loss in my Picks — then I’ve just screwed my night. At least this way, I’ll have some silver lining at the end of the night…. but I’m not confident on this pick. Seahawks over Packers.
Saints @ Falcons –
While I think that the Falcons will bounce back this year — sure, they may not have much of a running game and their defense is suspect, but they’ll have Roddy White and Julio Jones healthy, and that has to be worth a few wins — I think that the Saints are going to win the division and also get home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, on the NFC side of the coin. With Graham happy, Brees having some weapons (and, I believe, he is recovered from his abdominal strain by now), plus they have reinforced their defense, I think that they will win this game. I’m not sold on the Falcons whereas I am sold on the Saints. Saints over Falcons.
Vikings @ Rams –
I think that the beginning of this season is going to be tough sledding for the Rams. Losing Bradford like they did, when they did, and now having to build the offense around Shaun Hill is a bit of a challenge. Sure, they have a good running game but Hill is the wild card; I don’t know what to expect from him. Meanwhile, I see a lot of promise with the Vikings — I don’t think that they’ll make the playoffs this year but I think that they could turn some heads as the season goes along. I think that, despite the tough predicament the Rams are in, I’ll go with the Rams in this game simply because their defense is one of the best; quietly one of the best. They have a great pass-rush and if the Vikings are rolling with Cassel as their guy in Week 1, I like the Rams defense against him. Rams over Vikings.
Browns @ Steelers –
I’m going Steelers. Not because I have a lot of faith in the Steelers (even though Big Ben and Tomlin are due for a good season) but simply because Cleveland appears to be a circus right now; I have no faith in them. Which is exactly how I like it. (Side Note: I put a curse on the city of Cleveland some 7yrs ago; so far, so good. End Side Note.) Steelers over Browns.
Jags @ Eagles –
From the highlights that I saw from the preseason (as well as how they performed down the stretch last year), I think that the Jags may have a chance in the AFC this year. By “have a chance” I mean that I think that they can put together a respectable season; maybe not playoff-bound but I think that they could be good enough to be a spoiler team for other teams that are on the post-season bubble. That said, I think that the Eagles will win the NFC East this year (again) and I’ll take their fast-paced offense, at home, over the Jags. Eagles over Jags.
Raiders @ Jets –
The Raiders appear to be a mess. While the Jets may not be in a much better situation, I still think that they are better than the Raiders (with Smith or Vick) and, being at home, I am going to go with the Jets in this game. Jets over Raiders.
Bengals @ Ravens –
This could be a fun game. The Bengals, I think, have more talent than the Ravens — but the Bengals also tend to not perform well when I want them to, haha. I have more questions about the Ravens, though, than I do the Bengals. And so I’m going to ride with the Bengals in this game, with their defense, and that Andy Dalton usually performs well during the regular season….. but I’m not 100% confident on this pick. Bengals over Ravens.
Bills @ Bears –
I’m going to go with the Bears in this game simply because I haven’t heard anything about the Bills’ defense. Everything seems to be focused on EJ Manuel and Sammy Watkins (who may or may not be nursing a rib injury from the preseason). Meanwhile, the Bears’ offense could be pretty explosive this season, and I think that could cause problems for the Bills. I don’t have much faith in the Bears’ defense, either, but — if looking at two teams with unimpressive defenses — I’ll take the offense that is stocked with proven veterans over the youthful offense that is banking a lot on the production from a (potentially not 100% healthy) rookie WR. Bears over Bills.
Redskins @ Texans –
The only football-related story that I have heard coming out of DC this summer is the questions surrounding if RGIII is going to be healthy to start the season. I don’t follow them closely and so I haven’t heard much — one way or the other — with any great deal of confidence. That said, being on the road and going up against a potentially great pass rush (in Watts and Clowney) does make me concerned for RGIII, especially if he does not have his mobility. Unlike other “mobile” QBs, I don’t think that RGIII can play well without mobility; I think that is a much bigger part of his game than the other “mobile” QBs. I have a lot of questions about the Texans’ offense (ex. I have no idea who their starting QB is going to be…but it doesn’t seem like they have a solid pick, either…and that’s never good)….but I’d say it’s almost on par with the amount of questions that I have on the Redskins’ defense. Ergo, I’ll take the superior defense/pass rush and the home team: Texans over Redskins.
Titans @ Chiefs –
Last season, as you may recall, I was big on the Chiefs. They had been a terrible team in the recent pass…but consistently had 8 or so Pro Bowl players on their team…..so they had talent but lacked a reliable QB and solid coaching. Then they got Reid and Alex Smith, addressing both of those areas…. and for the first half of the season they were making me look like a genius, haha. Even though they stumbled as the season progressed and, ultimately, got bit (with a vengeance) by the Injury Bug in that playoff game in Indy, I felt as though they lived up to my expectations. This year, though, I’m not sure. No one seems to be talking about them — everyone is occupied with the Broncos (obviously) and there’s a bit of buzz around the Chargers, I hear as well; but I don’t know why the Chiefs can’t be competitive. If anything, given another year with the offense, Alex Smith and the rest of those pieces should be clicking better; their defense hasn’t changed all that much from last year, either, I don’t believe. However, for as quiet as the Chiefs have been this off-season and preseason, the Titans have been quieter (in my world). Ergo, I’ll stick with the home team in this one, simply because the Titans are not on my radar as a team to look out for in the AFC this season. Chiefs over Titans.
Patriots @ Dolphins –
I don’t follow the Dolphins, really, but I know that last year they had the whole media circus revolving Incognito and Martin, and that probably did have some impact on their performance. Meanwhile, the Patriots had an incredibly mediocre roster of talent last year….and still won the division….and still made it to the AFC Championship game. I don’t know if Gronk has been cleared to play (and how many games he will play this season; injury or re-injury seems inevitable) but I imagine that it’s Week 1 and the Patriots are as healthy as they’ll be, so I imagine that they will be able to get this win on the road. Patriots over Dolphins.
Panthers @ Buccaneers –
The Panthers’ offense has me concerned. Similar to the Bills, they seem to be relying a lot on young players on offense; really, just two young players on offense. While I think that Cam Newton is better than EJ Manuel, I believe that Cam is still nursing a rib injury and his ankle may be a concern, plus is O-line is not a strength of the offense. Team that with the departure of Steve Smith and thus a rather unproven receiver corps, I don’t know what to think of their offense. I reckon that their defense will still be a great defense so they do have that going for them. Meanwhile, the Buccs have a new head coach, are removed from the QB distraction from last year, and I think could make progress this year within the division. Because I have a few questions marks surrounding the Panthers’ offense right now, I’m going to stay with the home team and pick the Buccs, and then re-evaluate my opinion of the Panthers after I see them in action. Buccs over Panthers.
49ers @ Cowboys –
For all of the talk about how my beloved 49ers are in shambles right now (and some media folks even writing them off this season), the word that I keep reading and hearing from players and coaches is that things are just fine; so I’ll trust them on that. I think that the Cowboys’ offense will be able to move the ball against us — passing defense is not our strength, especially when we’ll be without 2 of our best pass-pressure players (Aldon & Bowman), but who knows? Maybe our secondary will be better this year with the changes that we have made? Regardless, the Cowboys’ defense is supposed to be one of the worst…..ever…..and so I imagine that our offense will be able to move the ball on them, as well. In that case, I will take the more all-around-talented team and I hope to see some good performances from our younger players: namely, Carlos Hyde and LaMichael James. 49ers over Cowboys.
Colts @ Broncos –
The Colts tempt me in this game. However, seeing how they needed the Injury Bug to strike KC in that playoff game last season in order to win, coupled with the fact that the Broncos are in full-on Super-Bowl-or-Bust mode right now (with their off-season spending spree), I don’t think that the Broncos are going to come out of the gates with a loss….at home. My concerns with the Broncos’ veteran additions (and their ability to hold up for the whole season) is irrelevant in Week 1, so I’ll be taking the Broncos at home. Broncos over Colts.
Giants @ Lions –
The Lions are one of the more talented teams in the League, in my opinion, and perhaps their late-season collapses were more the result of their coaching than of the players on the field? We’ll find out this year, as Jim Caldwell is the new head coach. I wasn’t impressed with Caldwell when he was at the helm of the Colts but he took that talented team to the Super Bowl….where he was promptly out-coached and the Colts were out-played by the Saints. That said, I don’t think that the Lions are Super Bowl-bound, but I think that they’ll make the post-season, sure. Meanwhile, I don’t think that the Giants will do much this year and so I’ll stick with the more talented team, especially while at home in the season-opener. Lions over Giants.
Chargers @ Cardinals –
I don’t know if I’ve bought into the hype of the Chargers or just have too many questions to back the Cardinals in this game, but in what little action I saw from the Chargers’ starters in their preseason game against us, they seem to be in a good place right now. Rivers seems happy in the new system, he was making good decisions, high-percentage passes, and such an approach could be successful against the Cards since they lost Dockett and another defensive star on the line. Patrick Peterson, I believe, is no longer handling punt return duties and we’ll see how the Honey Badger rebounds this season. Ultimately, though, my questions with the Cards are with Carson Palmer: he hasn’t been the same since his knee got blown out in that playoff game as a Bengal and now, I believe, he is in his upper 30s and I expect his production to fall off this season — but will that drop off start to happen in Week 1? That is the question. I haven’t made many bold picks this week so I’ll roll with the Chargers in this game and see what happens. Chargers over Cardinals.
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We’ll see how Week 1 goes and I’ll recap it on Tuesday evening.
-Ryan.
Recap: Wild Card Weekend
There’s no way around it: I got hosed on Wild Card Weekend. I went 1-3 on the weekend, my worst finish since Week 6 (I believe, when I went 6-9), and it was a very up-and-down kind of stretch for me. So, let’s tend to the wounds quickly so that I can move on with the week:
The Chiefs’ heart-breaking loss to the Colts was a tough one. As I was quite proud throughout the season, but I had picked the Chiefs to win the AFC as a 10-6 Wild Card team, in the pre-season, because I thought that the AFC was wide open and they’d be the rugged team that could do it all to win. I was wrong. I also thought that after their “bye week” of sorts, in Week 17, that they’d be ready to go to shut down the Colts…which they did….until the injury plague ravaged them. When Charles went down on the 6th play of the game, I thought that they were done – but they persevered. Then their back-up RB went down, and I thought: “Well, Alex Smith is playing a solid game, as long as he protects the ball and moves the chains, they have a sizable lead, their defense can hold.” Then Flowers went down. Then Houston went down. It got to the point where it seemed like every 3-4 plays one of their guys went down with an injury. Meanwhile, the Colts battled back and rode Hilton to the victory. It was a tough loss. I still don’t know if I’m riding the Colts – who, once again, screwed me this season – especially on the road in New England, but I might just have to do it. If for the hope that they finally lose and then I don’t have to worry about them until next year. That may be a big deciding factor when I make my Divisional Round picks later this week. (0-1)
The Saints eeked the win in Philly and was not impressive, in my opinion. I’ll be picking the Seahawks next week (and wagering on it, in fact) simply because I didn’t see enough from the Saints to make me think that they can compete against the top tier of this tournament on the road – us, Carolina, Seattle, and Green Bay. While I wanted the Eagles to win, for seeding purposes, I was concerned with their defense. When Orton and Matt Cassel can have big games against you, it reasons to suggest that Drew Brees and the Saints can, too. However, Brees threw a couple of picks and their offense seemed to struggle and stall at times, going 1-4 in the red zone. That doesn’t build much confidence in me, against the weakest team in the NFC post-season. Not to hate on the Eagles, but they are an average team from a bad division. While I don’t advocate for the rules to change, but the Cardinals were much better than them. I could be talked into the Rams competing, too. My point? Hearing the talk about how the Saints proved that they can win anywhere is something that I roll my eyes towards. I was not impressed. However, I gambled with Philly and they let me down. (0-2)
The Bengals lost to the Chargers in a game that I didn’t watch but was disappointed to have heard about later. I just looked to my clinched fist and said: “Dalton!” I admit it: I have no idea what to expect from the AFC now. As I said in my prediction post, I was going with the Bengals solely because they were (up to this point) undefeated at home and the Chargers looked like they had their hands full with the Chiefs’ reserves last week, in a must-win game. I sort of expected the Chargers to be more of a “happy to be here” type of team, but now I have to rethink that – since they’re going to Denver next weekend, where they have already won once this season. As stated, I didn’t watch this game (I don’t get CBS very well at my place due to the forest outside of my window), plus, I was getting ready for my own game. But, hearing that the Chargers won, convincingly, was disappointing. (0-3)
Starting off 0-3 and with our struggles early on, had me concerned that I was set up for a sweep but then…
My Niners pulled off the clutch win at Green Bay, and all was worth while. I have no problem losing games, but I prefer to win the ones that mean the most to me. It was an ugly game, both in the fact that the refs were not calling much of anything* (5 TOTAL penalties in the ENTIRE GAME….) and that, for whatever reason, our offense couldn’t get in rhythm for most of the game. Burning time outs here and there because guys were lined up in the wrong positions, or thought that someone else was supposed to be in motion, it was not a pretty game. I am hoping (and believe, based on our offense moving smoothly prior to today) that it was just a side effect of the cold or something like that. We definitely will have the toughest road through the post-season this year having to go through Green Bay in frigid conditions, then going up against a very good and physical Carolina team, before being rewarded with another epic show down with an equally physical and very good Seattle team, if we are to make it to New Jersey in 3 weeks. It is going to be tough but I think that we have a shot at it. I’m glad to have came out of there with the win, it gives some confidence that we can play anywhere AND that we can finally answer adversity and win the game with offense instead of needing our defense to bail us out. That was probably the biggest thing that I pulled from that game. In recent history, when the opposing team has driven down and tied the game with 5 minutes left, we would either get nothing or get a FG and give them the ball back with an opportunity to tie or go for the win. Not today, though. Today, we got the first downs when we needed them and were able to run out the clock to the situation where Rodgers was not going to be able to beat us (in regulation, at least). We are a tough team and it’ll be a tough road, so hopefully we can build on the momentum of our 7th straight win as we head to Carolina next weekend. #GoNiners (1-3)
*I will write to greater length on my criticism of NFL officiating, it needs to be ranted upon.
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That will do it for a Wild Card Weekend, and I’ll aim to have my picks up for the Divisional Round later this week.
-Ryan.
NFL Picks: Wild Card Weekend
Ho-ly mo-ly…. having Wednesday off mere days before the start of the playoffs is tough and cruel thing to have the mind endure. It really threw me off…repeatedly. I kept thinking that it was Saturday and then getting continually bummed out when I realized that it was only Wednesday…AND, not only were the playoffs not starting, BUT that I had two full days of work between me and Wild Card Weekend. So disappointing.
But, alas, it’s now Friday night, I have survived the final two days of my week, and am mere hours away from the start of the playoffs!!
My Wild Card Weekend Picks:
Saturday, to me, are the low-key games that, oddly, are both on NBC. I don’t know how NBC got in on this action. I figured it would have been the domain of CBS & FOX, but that’s how it goes sometimes, I suppose. Naturally, I am much more interested in the NFC games this weekend, but I will make picks (albeit, largely uninformed picks, haha) for the AFC, as well. Speaking of which…
Chiefs @ Colts-
The AFC’s Saturday game is (at least out here) flying well under the radar. I’m not sure what to expect from this game. On the one-hand, we have the Chiefs who I seemed to have been pretty spot on with my 10-6, Wild Card pre-season pick (they’re 11-5), and so, rolling with my pre-season prediction, the Chiefs have a berth in the Super Bowl awaiting them in a month. But then there are the Colts who I don’t like, and who are responsible for more losses in my Pick Em League this year than any other team, so they are wildly unpredictable (for me). BUT they did play and beat the Chiefs in KC a few weeks ago, so now having them at home is kind of concerning for the Chiefs. At the same time, the Colts also got blown out by the Rams at home this year (one of the many times I got burned by the Colts). So, short story: I don’t have trust in the Colts in any environment.
I haven’t seen any of the Chiefs’ games this season, thus, I am not sure how they lost at home to the Colts. I don’t know if it was just a bad game, if Andrew Luck had one of his seemingly-signature comeback wins; I know that the Chiefs’ defense was banged up there for a little bit – so maybe that was the edge that the Colts needed? In any matter, I am going to go with the Chiefs here for, really, just a few reasons:
1) I picked them to win the AFC. Sure, it may have been an implausible pick in August, and may still be an implausible pick heading into the playoffs, but when you predict a 2-14 team one year to go 10-6 and be a Wild Card team the next year…and they end up going 11-5 and being a Wild Card team, you stick with them. Or, at least that’s what I am going to do.
2) The Chiefs’ offense I think will step up. I think that they will get Charles involved early and often, through a variety of looks. People talk badly about Smith but he’s a solid QB. He can make plays when he needs to and I am thinking/hoping that the Andy Reid has just been keeping it basic in order for the new offense to mesh during the regular season. I anticipate and expect them to open it up more in the post-season where, really, everyone is beatable. The AFC is wide open, I think, and so the Chiefs need just 3 wins to make me look like a genius.
3) Chiefs’ defense will get physical. I read that injuries and typical wear-and-tear of the NFL season was one of the stated causes of the Chiefs’ skid in the latter half of the season (sure, 5 of their final 7 were against Playoff-bound teams; two also being division rivals), BUT by having a “bye week” last week, I think that it should help getting their defense ready to play a physical game – because I think that is what they are going to need to do. Luck – who, I think, is a lot like Rodgers – may not have big-name receivers (save for Hilton), but he puts his receivers in positions to make plays. And, like Rodgers, I think the way to beat them is to make life difficult for Luck and keep him in the pocket. I think that the Chiefs’ line will be able to apply pressure, while the secondary disrupts routes/timing, and brings a physical game to the Colts. I think that is how they are beaten.
While I cannot be confident with this pick – as the Colts have been a menace to my picking this season – I am hoping that it is the last time that I have to pick a Colts game this season. Chiefs over Colts.
Saints @ Eagles-
I really want the Eagles to win this game. I don’t know yet if I will pick them, though, but I really do want them to win. Normally, I would take the Eagles without hesitation, and bank solely on the Saints inability to perform well outside in the elements. But, two things: 1) the Eagles did not look impressive against the Cowboys last weekend; and 2) Foles is making his playoffs debut, and I’m not sure how he will respond to the pressure of the higher-intensity game. From what little I hear/read about him, is that a lot of commentators and “experts” seem to think that he is the real deal, and has potential to be a great QB in this League. Let’s hope so.
Sure, last week was a divisional game, and I think that we can all agree to cut some slack in the divisional games. And, sure, Dallas had as much to play for in that game as the Eagles did – so they were giving it their all to win. Both of those statements are very true. However, Dallas’ oft-mocked incompetent defense looked awfully competent against the Eagles’ high-flying offense. AND, furthermore, Orton stepped in and put up big numbers on the Eagles’ defense – which I thought was better than maybe it actually is. Looking at their season to this point, they’ve allowed a lot of points, and sometimes not to offenses that you’d expect. If Orton can come in with a week’s preparation and have so much success with Dallas’ offensive weapons, it makes it quite plausible to suggest that Brees would be able to replicate. So, that worries me.
At the same time, though, the Saints defense isn’t as good as they have been in the past. Also, their offense is banged up – I believe Thomas has been declared out, Jimmy Graham (I’m told by Saints fans) is not 100%, and they are heading outside into a cold and snowy environment. While I read, I believe, that Brees is 2-3 (or somewhat close to 0.500) in freezing temperatures, their offense doesn’t perform at the same level in the cold as they do in a dome. While the Eagles defense may not be as good as I thought, if the Saints offense performs at 80% of its potential, that may be all the Eagles’ defense needs in order to get the win.
I want to play the Seahawks in the Divisional Round, and the only way that can happen (presuming that we win, of course) is if the Saints lose. I think that if the Saints win in Philly tomorrow, then the Seahawks just about clinch the Conference. Mark my words: the Saints do not stand a chance in Seattle in the Divisional Round. They are completely over-matched and incapable of exploiting the ‘Hawks weaknesses. Furthermore, the Saints are not physical enough of a team to even do the other side of the bracket a solid, and weaken the ‘Hawks. The Saints winning tomorrow, I think, gives the ‘Hawks a big advantage in the post-season.
Even if the Packers beat us on Sunday, I don’t see them running a gauntlet of the 49ers, Panthers, and Seahawks (the latter two on the road) and coming out victorious. Rodgers may be back and, yes, their offense is more potent now, but they are not a contender this year, in my opinion. The Panthers may have a shot (if playing the Packers in the Divisional Round) of beating Seattle on the road for the Conference Championship, but I don’t know what to expect from the Panthers who, by and large, are an inexperienced playoff team. They are a solid team, no doubt; but I don’t know how they will handle the pressure of the post-season. I would like a show down with the Seahawks in the Divisional Round because I believe that we are built in a matter that can beat them in Seattle (or at least make it a challenge). So, with that said, I’m picking the Eagles and going for them even harder. Eagles over Saints.
That will conclude our Saturday games, and onto the Sunday lineup…
Chargers @ Bengals-
Again, not being terribly familiar with either of these teams, I am going to pick the Bengals and for two reasons: 1) They were undefeated at home this year; and 2) the way that the Chargers had trouble with the Chiefs’ reserves is rather concerning for them.
I’m sure that we can talk about the Division Games (like how I gave Philly a pass earlier, haha), but it’s completely different – in my opinion – when you are playing for the last spot in the playoffs, and you’re going up against a team (granted, division rival) who has sat, I believe, 19 of their 22 starters….and you need OT to win?? AND a missed penalty that, reasonably, could have given them the opportunity to STILL win, despite resting 19 of their 22 starters. That is concerning. While I hear a lot of talk about Andy Dalton and how the Bengals’ defense has had to carry the load for them this year, covering for some of his mistakes/turnovers, and that is concerning – you don’t want your QB to be the question mark of your post-season – Dalton doesn’t concern me as much as the Chargers’ performance did in Week 17. Team that with the fact that the Bengals are at home, where they haven’t lost this year, and you get my pick for this game. Bengals over Chargers.
49ers @ Packers-
People, I think, are giving the cold weather too much press. Last time I checked, it’s going to be -15F (or -25F from some sources) on both sides of the field. And, I think it was one of the Packers’ linemen that said once you get below 0F, it’s just cold. No one is going to be more “used to it” than anyone else. I think that the conditions may help us out a little bit by taking the crowd out of the game because, honestly, that is a terrible environment to have to play in, let alone observe. And, I reckon it will be difficult to make a lot of noise when bundled up to the maximum extent possible. Granted, we haven’t played in THAT cold of weather before, but this unit has had cold weather games in the recent past, and I don’t recall our performance being hampered by it.
The key to this game — which sounds obvious, I know — is executing. I think that we are the superior team, and I don’t think many people will argue that. So, as long as we execute and play 49er football, we should be able to win this game. Should be. Rodgers, in my opinion, is the best QB in the League…when healthy. I’m told that he is healthy and that he played well against the Bears, but we are not the Chicago Bears. Our defense is one of the best in the League and we also match-up well against the Packers (or, at least, in the last few meetings that we have had). And, I don’t know how much the weather (i.e. cold and wind) will affect the passing game – which, undoubtedly, where Rodgers & the Packers have the big advantage. I think the best scenario for us is to run the ball, let our big guys up front do the work, and short, high-percentage passes to receivers and let them do the work (which is, likely, what Green Bay’s game plan will likely be). Lacey shows promise of being a solid back, but I think that our front will be able to clog the lanes and make it tough for him to play. I also read that he is opting to not wear sleeves — so as to eliminate a layer of clothing between his arm and the ball, out of fear for fumbling — and I don’t know if that is a great decision. I’ve never been in temperatures that cold, but, I imagine, that exposed skin probably will lose feeling quickly — and if you’re cradling a ball against a numb bicep while the likes of Patrick Willis is ripping and tearing at it, I think it could lead to turnovers.
What we need to do, I think, is control the clock, keep the chains moving, keep their defense freezing on the field, and finish drives off with TDs. Even though Dawson has been reliable this season, I think that if we can jump out to a big lead in this game, and keep their defense out in the elements for long stretches of time, that it puts the game heavily in our favor. If we can get the game to a point when we can pin back our ears and focus on Rodgers, and make them one-dimensional, then I think we have a very good chance at winning this game. He is the one that is going to win (or lose) this game for the Packers, so if we can get the game into a position that he has to take the reigns, I think that our defense will rise to the occasion and get us our first road win of this playoff season. 49ers over Packers.
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I am excited to get this weekend started and head out on the journey to Super Bowl XLVIII. I am hoping for some good games and, ideally, things breaking the way that I want them to, as well. Go Niners!
-Ryan.
NFL Recap: Week 17
Salutations Good People,
Well, I fell just short of my goal. I was eying a 170-win season, and needing what-I-thought-to-be-improbable 14-2 finish in order to secure that goal. I finished today: 13-3. 13 & 3!!! –head back in frustrated pose– Thus, I finish the regular season with a record of 169-87 (.660).
Here’s how it played out:
The Panthers held on to beat the Falcons, going to show that: a) division games are dicey; and b) the Falcons are a good team having a bad year. The Panthers’ defense is also pretty good – legitimately kind of scary in the post-season, but I’m not quite sure what to expect from their offense, yet. The Falcons almost stole this one, too, as Ryan was trying to communicate a blocking adjustment, when the center misfired the snap – taking the Falcons from their own 40-ish with 30 seconds to play (and down by 1pt), to pinning them deep in their own territory with a dozen clicks on the clock. They had a good shot at winning that game, too. The Panthers came through for me, though. (1-0)
The Bengals beat the Ravens to stay undefeated at home and, also, eliminate the defending champions. I was really banking on the Bengals’ home field advantage in this one when I made the pick, and I’m glad that they didn’t let me down. I didn’t see much of anything from this game, though. (2-0)
The Titans beat the Texans, so now the Texans will have the #1 overall pick in the Draft – just as I suspected. I also did not watch this game, nor did I see much in the way of highlights, sooo….I don’t have much to say on this one, except: good job, Titans, keeping me undefeated to this point in the day. (3-0)
The Colts creamed the Jaguars and got me to 4-0 on the day. I was kind of surprised to have seen highlights from this game that showed Luck playing late in the game. I guess they had to play until the Bengals won, but, still, they shouldn’t have had much problems with the Jags – I wouldn’t have risked Luck. (4-0)
The Jets shut down the Dolphins, and this one really upset me. After the poor performance the Dolphins displayed last week on the road, in Buffalo, I figured that, surely, with their playoff hopes on the line, that they would come out to play — ESPECIALLY at home — and they disappointed me again. The Dolphins may, now, hold the record this season for costing me more wins than any other team. It used to be the Colts but I think that the Dolphins may have taken the crown, with their skid to end the season. I’ll have to check my records. That got me my first loss of the day, and I won’t forget this, Miami. (4-1)
The Vikings edged the Lions in a game that I was really 50/50 on. I didn’t (and don’t) like either of these teams, but I gave the pick to the Vikings simply because they were at home, and that may have been the difference-maker in this 1pt win. The Lions are a mess. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a team with more opportunities to win the division and then fail to do so than the 2013 Lions. (5-1)
The Giants put the Redskins out of their misery in a game that I, thankfully, was unable to watch. I don’t recall seeing highlights from this game; only the imagery of Coach Shanahan on the side lines looking like Mike Shanahan always looks, and the speculation of if he’s getting fired at his meeting with management in the morning. Hey, at least the Redskins will have a really good draft pick….oh…wait…. (6-1)
The Steelers beat the Browns, which did not surprise me. What did surprise me, though, was that with their victory, and the losses from Baltimore and Miami, they were leading the race for the Wild Card at the time of victory. To think, this Steelers team started out, I believe, 0-5 and, after winning their game, they were leading for the final Wild Card spot. Wild. (7-1)
The Packers beat the Bears, in one of those ways that leaves you just shaking your head in disappointment. I didn’t start watching this game until it got towards the end of the 4th quarter, but, from what I am told, is that Rodgers was playing well. Regardless, when you can hold the Packers’ offense to three 4th downs on one possession, and allow them to convert on ALL three of them…that says something about your defense. Plus, the final one, the 4th & 8 that they got beat bad by Cobb for the touch down was ridiculous — I guess they really stuck to the “& 8” part of the statement. I was hoping that the Bears could have pulled out this win only because they do not look like a good team. They and Dallas were the two teams that, I think, the NFC was hoping would make it: both are very vulnerable and probably the most beatable of the NFC representatives. I still think that the Packers have vulnerabilities that they are not able to address in the post-season to afford them the opportunity to go deep into the playoffs, but they are definitely a more dangerous team than the Bears. (7-2)
The Broncos beat up on the Raiders – no surprise there. And, from what I saw from the highlights, apparently Peyton Manning set more single-season records, and the 2013 Broncos are the highest scoring, single-season offense in NFL history. Congrats. It’s one of those things, though, that doesn’t matter if/when you lose in the Divisional Round of the playoffs – which may happen to them, again. There was talk that their defense played well today and so, maybe, they will be able to piece it together for the next month. There was also commentator talk about how no defense in the AFC can stop the Broncos’ offense, but I’m not sure that is true. The Chargers are in the playoffs, now, and they beat the Broncos in Denver a few weeks ago. I still think that the Chiefs have the ability to pull some upsets – and I will continue toting them as my AFC Champions prediction until they are eliminated. Anyway, it is kind of weird how negative the Patriots were viewed when they were setting the record a few years back, but that the Broncos have universal support for running up the score on a crappy Raiders team at the end of the season, solely for the purpose of setting a record. I don’t like that, but, hey, the Broncos got me the win on the week. (8-2)
The Patriots beat the Bills and locked up the 2-seed. I only saw the highlights from this game – mostly Blount breaking off some big runs. I don’t know what to make of the Patriots going into the post-season. They’ve lost a lot of key personnel this season…but they keep winning, and, most importantly, winning against teams with something to play for. Well, not the Bills this week, but last week, going on the road to Baltimore – a team that has provided them some really close finishes over the years – and just dominating them. I didn’t see that coming. Especially, since the Ravens really needed that game. So yeah, I’m not sure what to make of the Patriots going into the post-season, so that will be interesting, for sure. (9-2)
The Saints dominated the Buccs, which did not surprise most, I reckon. The Saints in the Superdome are a much better team than on the road, AND, with how close our game with the Cardinals was going, it was not something that they could afford to let up on. They handled business and got the win. Although, since Carolina won, they now have the pleasure of going on the road next weekend. Will they be one-and-done? I’ll get to my playoff predictions later in the week. 😉 (10-2)
My 49ers outlasted the Cardinals in Arizona, and while this will go down as the loss that ended my 170-win dream, I still blame the Dolphins and the Bears more. And, to be fair, I didn’t think that we would play our starters for the ENTIRE game. I wasn’t pleased with the game-management, in that respect. Once it became quite obvious, in the Seattle game, that the Rams were not going to be able to pull an upset, I would have started pulling the stars out. The game became meaningless to us, in my opinion, and was, officially, more of a risk than a reward to have the stars in the game. I still would have liked to have a blend of back-ups in there so that they could get some game experience against a really good team. The only two positives that I take from this game is: 1) we have won 6-straight now, and so that sort of momentum (if only in the minds of the players) is always good to have; and 2) no one got injured or excessively beaten up, like I suspected could have happened.
Some will say – my friends included – that winning was important to get the 5-seed so then we won’t have to play Seattle until the Championship game; I say: nonsense. I want to play them in the Divisional Round. I firmly believe that we can play, and win, anywhere – we are a solid team, with talent at almost every position. HOWEVER, Seattle will be a tough game because: 1) they’re a good team; 2) the familiarity between us; 3) their physicality; and 4) the emotion that comes with that game, being division rivals. I would much rather play one game on the road and then go to Seattle, than play one game on the road, then play a very physical/talented Carolina team (presumably), and THEN make the trek up to Seattle for another tough/emotional game. The Packers are a good team but I don’t think that they are a physically punishing team – as opposed to the Panthers and the Seahawks. So, I think that we would be fresher going to Seattle in the Divisional Round as opposed to the Championship Round. But, until we are eliminated, we are the defending Conference Champions and we are definitely in a good position to break off a streak here in the post-season. Go Niners! (10-3)
The Chargers bested the Chiefs’ backups in a game that was much closer than I thought. When I heard that the Chiefs were sitting most of their starters for this game, I declared it a no-brainer to pick the Chargers at home. It ended up working out for me, but, for awhile there, it did get a little scary when the Chargers were, seemingly, always playing from behind. Also, in the post-game (or halftime show, I don’t recall) for the Sunday Night Football game, they did a replay of the Chiefs’ missed, would-be-game-winning FG that, apparently, should have been re-attempted from 5yds closer, due to a penalty that wasn’t called on the Chargers. Interesting, indeed. (11-3)
The Seahawks shut down the Rams to lock-up home-field advantage. I was disappointed in the Rams. I gave them too much credit, apparently, by suggesting that it was going to be a wild game; a “kitchen sink” game from them. I don’t think they attempted a single fake-punt, or reverse punt/kick return, or flea-flicker, nothing. Oh, speaking of penalties that weren’t called, there weren’t many of those – they were calling EV-ERY-THING. As a 49ers fan, and living in the Pacific Northwest (thus, seeing a lot of the Seahawks), it is tough to play in Seattle because they will bait you into reacting; they are masters when it comes to instigating scuffles, shoves, and, ultimately, drawing penalties. The Rams should have been prepared for it, but they bit on a lot of those plays and it cost them. I don’t think that the crowd noise causes problems for teams that play there regularly. But the Seahawks talk a lot, they do quick jabs when no one is looking, and bait you into pushing back. Even though the League had said they were going to penalize instigators – and not just the reactors – that doesn’t seem to happen all that often around the League. You have to be smart and keep your emotions in check when playing up there because it very easy to get called for personal fouls over and over again. (12-3)
The Eagles beat the Cowboys in a game that was much closer than I expected. Dallas’ defense finally showed up. I thought that with the way that Foles has been playing this season against the Dallas defense that was one of the worst in the League, that the Eagles would be able to have their way on offense: Foles could pick them apart through the air, while McCoy could gash them on the ground. But, by and large, the Dallas defense kept them in the game, with some key stops, and even a clutch turnover. On Dallas’ final drive, with the seeming momentum that they had and knowing that, realistically, they had about 90 seconds to get 60 yards for a game-winning field goal attempt, they looked poised for an upset. In my mind, though, as I was watching the game with Spaz, I thought to myself: “Wouldn’t it be kind of funny and fitting if Orton threw a pick on this drive that sealed the game?” Sure enough, as if right on cue, Orton then threw the pick that sealed the game. Jerry Jones is a true professional, though. I don’t know if many others saw it but he turned his back to the window as he started (presumably) swearing up a storm. He knew that once that ball was picked, that a camera would be swiveled up to his box for his reaction. That’s a head’s up and professional move, Jerry. Well-played. (13-3)
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Going 13-3 today means I fall a little shy of my goal, but, hey, that’s been my 2013 year in a nutshell: Just short. With a repeat of last week’s weird schedule ahead of me – having Wednesday off for New Year’s Day holiday – I will look to have my picks in for the Wild Card Round later this week. Thanks for reading,
-Ryan.
NFL Week 17 Picks
Salutations Good People,
I need to go (an improbable) 14-2 in order to achieve my goal of 170 wins on the season. While improbable, I’ve come this far and I’m not going to give up! 170 in 2013!!! (My Excel datasheet, for the season, predicts that I’ll finish with 166 wins…with a logically smug look). That said, it will be some tough sledding and I’ll need a few post-Christmas Miracles to go my way, but, by and large, I am comfortable with this offering. Onto my picks…
NFL Week 17 Picks:
Panthers @ Falcons-
The Falcons played a great game against us on Monday night and almost pulled out a huge win for them. I think that we overlooked the Falcons a little bit, as was apparent that – despite the undoubted talent advantage that we had, on both sides of the ball – our offense couldn’t get clicking, and our defense made some very rare big-play mistakes. Why we were playing 10yds off Roddy White, knowing that he is faster than all of our secondary and the one guy that Matt Ryan likes to throw to more than anyone else on the team, with a penchant for the long ball, is beyond me. I also don’t know why we had Bowman out there on the “Hands Unit” to recover that punt. But, anyway, the Falcons opened some eyes on Monday night as they came very close to earning a big win on the road. However, the Panthers know the Falcons and they are playing pretty well themselves, PLUS will secure the division title AND the 2-seed with a win. Because it’s a divisional game, and Tony Gonzalez’ last game in the NFL, I imagine it will be an emotional game and hard fought, but I still like the Panthers coming into Atlanta and handling their business. They’re a young, hungry team with a defense firing on all cylinders right now and an offense that, despite losing Smith, can make plays and score points. Panthers over the Falcons.
Ravens @ Bengals-
The Bengals are undefeated at home this season, and are eyeing an outside-chance of getting a bye week (if the Patriots lose). The Ravens, on the other hand, are chasing the final Wild Card spot, and, in the Harbaugh-Flacco era, have never missed the playoffs. While the Ravens have every reason to win, I think that the Bengals at home (with a huge incentive to win, as well) is the deciding factor in this game. Bengals over Ravens.
Texans @ Titans-
It is the in the Texans’ future best interests to lose this game and secure the #1 overall draft pick. This is a team with a perennial playoff appearance history that had a bad season. I don’t know what will happen with them – in regards to coaching changes – in the off-season, but they have some talent on the team and getting the #1 overall draft pick could be a big move for them. So, I think that they have every incentive to lose this game, and, especially going on the road, I think that the Titans will hand them that coveted loss. Titans over Texans.
Jaguars @ Colts-
I would be surprised if the Colts’ starters play the entire game. If I were to guess, I think that they come out and play hard for the first half or so, and then that is the last we see of them for the game. The Colts are either going to be the 3- or 4-seed, which still gets them a home game and, probably, only comes into play depending on who finishes 1 and 2. That said, I think that the Colts will be preparing for a playoff push and give the starters some action early on, so they can keep the wheels greased and mind in game-mode, but I don’t think that we see many of the starters gradually throughout the game. I especially think this if the Colts jump out to an early lead on the Jags – which is possible, too. Regardless, I’m picking the Colts in this game but have been impressed in the latter half of the season with the way that the Jags have been playing. Colts over Jags.
Jets @ Dolphins-
Tannehill’s limited mobility, paired with a likely “kitchen sink” game from the Jets and Rex Ryan (who I think is fired after the season), is what makes this game interesting, to me. I think that the Dolphins have what it takes to win, ESPECIALLY, when their game plan is simple: Win and In. Even if the Jets are able to put a ton of pressure on the Tannehill, I think that the Jets are in a tougher position to win this game, and, especially, on the road. Dolphins over Jets.
Lions @ Vikings-
This is one game that I have no interest in watching and that I have really no idea how I will pick. It’s hard to believe that the Lions could have ran away with the division with the talent that they have and the small fact that Aaron Rodgers hasn’t played in almost two months. But, as seems to be the trend with the Lions, they faltered towards the end. I don’t know what to expect from the Vikings – who, I believe, have Matt Cassel as their QB now – but I think that they still want to play football and, more importantly, win games. The Lions seem like they’ve given up, or that they view the season as a loss (which it is). I read somewhere that Calvin Johnson is banged up and so that may limit the Lions’ offensive plans, but I also don’t think that the Vikings are very good. I’m going to side with the home team on this one and go with the Vikings, although, I’m not comfortable with it, and this is my “Going Out on a Limb” Game of the Week. Vikings over Lions.
Redskins @ Giants-
I think that Cousins makes this game interesting. RGIII hasn’t looked good this year, as if he isn’t 100% healthy from that knee injury last season (which I hold the management responsible for; they shouldn’t have let him play in that Wild Card game), and it has hurt the ‘Skins all season. Cousins, while not the dual-threat that RGIII is/was, I think can stabilize the offense and make plays; especially against the Giants. Speaking of which, I don’t know what is up with the Giants. I saw the highlights (lowlights?) from the Seattle game and some of those picks that Eli was throwing were terrible.
I think that this game comes down to turnovers. If Eli & Co. give up another handful of turnovers, then the Redskins have a shot at winning this game. They, the Redskins, really have nothing to lose, at this point, except pride…and maybe their head coach…who is probably going to be fired at the end of the season regardless of the outcome. Actually, I guess the same could be said for the Giants, too. Giants over Redskins.
Browns @ Steelers-
I was trying to think of a scenario in which I think that the Browns can win this game, but I don’t see it happening. The Steelers are playing better right now whereas the Browns are looking at a top 5 pick in the 2014 Draft. I like the Steelers in this game. Steelers over Browns.
Packers @ Bears-
Having Aaron Rodgers back is big for the Packers, but I’m not sure how much of a boost they will get, overall. I read that Rodgers has been throwing in practice for the past month or so, and thus it not expected that he will be rusty, but we’ll see. He hasn’t been in a game environment in almost 2 months, and is making his return on the road, against a team that needs this win just as much as he does. Rodgers is the best QB in the NFC, though, and a Super Bowl champion, so I don’t think it will take long for him to get comfortable in the game – presuming he starts out rusty. But, the Packers’ defense is what has me concerned. Being in Chicago, and facing the passing attack that the Bears’ have, would concern me – if I were a Packers’ fan. While the Packers have undoubtedly struggled offensively with Rodgers injured, their defense hasn’t done much to help them in some of these games, either, and that’s what I think it comes down to. While I’m not comfortable with it, and am already regretting it, I’ll go against the seeming conventional wisdom that I hear and pick the Bears in this game. Bears over Packers.
Broncos @ Raiders-
I’m going with the Broncos in this game. For one, the Broncos need to win because if they lose, and the Patriots win (like I predict), then they also lose home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Also, Peyton Manning is out to set records this season, so there is that added motivation. Oh, and, lastly, it is the Raiders. I have been off on the Raiders this season but even with Miller out, and so I think that Denver’s defense will be vulnerable from here on out, I don’t think that the Raiders have the talent to exploit those vulnerabilities. Broncos over Raiders.
Bills @ Patriots-
The Patriots are banged up…but still, amazingly, finding ways to win games, and convincingly, too. They clinched their division and, now, are just playing for the 2-seed, which I think that they really need. If the Bengals win, and the Patriots lose, then the Patriots (likely) get to host the rested Chiefs in the Wild Card round. Ergo, I like the Patriots in this game. I think that they execute another great game plan, and lock up the 2-seed and make the most of the bye week. Patriots over Bills.
Buccaneers @ Saints-
While I think that the Buccs are a solid team, I think that next year they will be more competitive. They have played some tough games, and played them well, and, namely, their performance in Seattle – which is much more difficult to play in than New Orleans – gives them a puncher’s chance of an upset in this game. However, the Saints need this game. I don’t think that they can get the 2-seed, because, as stated, I don’t think that the Panthers will lose to the Falcons, but you never know, and the Saints are professionals and a seasoned team that is going to play hard just in case. They also need this game because if they lose, I don’t think that they make the playoffs, with the Cardinals right behind them and, in my opinion, the favored team at home against my 49ers. While I expect the Buccs to come in and play a good game, I also thought that about the Panthers, and that didn’t work out so well. I’m going with the Saints in this one because they play much better at home than they do on the road, and this game means everything to them. Saints over Buccs.
49ers @ Cardinals-
I’m not sure what to expect with this game because there isn’t really anything on the line (realistically), in my opinion. We need to win and have the Seahawks lose at home, again, in order to secure a bye-week; both of those are tall orders. The way that the Cardinals are playing right now is really a blessing and a travesty that they, likely, will not be in the playoffs – unless they beat us and, some how, the Saints lose at home (the latter of which I don’t think is likely to happen). That said, we have locked up our appearance in the post-season which is what you want, first and foremost. Once in, anything is possible.
Especially with the physicality that the Cardinals most certainly are going to bring, I wouldn’t be surprised if we rested people and let some of our support roles get some playing experience against a very good team. I say this because — sparing an unprecedented Seattle late-season collapse — we are going to have 4 road games to prepare for (yes, I’m aiming high, haha), so why get our bodies beaten up to start a 4-game road trip? If it were me, I’d play our starters like normal – so that they get some reps and keep that game-mentality flowing – for the first half, UNLESS the Rams are hanging in there with the Seahawks. If the Rams are winning or staying competitive in Seattle, then we have to keep playing to win. But, if it’s like the Saints game up there and the Seahawks are dominating early, I would shut down our starters, as the game would no longer mean anything to us, and preventing injury and/or unnecessary fatigue would be our top priority. PLUS, getting some of our support players some playing time is always a good thing – you never know when they may be needed.
I know what to expect from the Cardinals: they are going to come out and play hard because, they still have to keep playing and trying to win. While I don’t think that they are going to make the playoffs — since I don’t see the Saints losing at home on Sunday — they are not quitters and so they are going to play hard until their season is officially over. And I also know that they are a physical team, on both sides of the ball, and so I expect a lot of hard hits and physicality throughout the game. I think that the Cardinals are going to win this game simply because they need it more than we do. However, I am okay with that. As I’ve said, I think that we are a better road team this year than a home team (which is weird), so I feel oddly confident about us playing on the road. Cardinals over my 49ers.
Chiefs @ Chargers-
A few weeks ago, the Chargers went into Arrowhead and got the win from the Chiefs. I read somewhere that the Chiefs plan on playing a blend of starters and reserves in this game, as their focus is on being healthy for the post-season; as winning (or losing) this game does nothing for them: they’re the 5-seed regardless, and, likely heading to Indy for a rematch. While I don’t think that the Chargers will make the playoffs, I think that they will be playing for the chance to make the playoffs. Primarily because of hearing of the Chiefs’ personnel plans, I’m going with the Chargers in this game – they are at home and have more to play for. Simple enough. Chargers over Chiefs.
Rams @ Seahawks-
I think that people put way too much into Seattle’s home-field advantage. Is it good? Yes. Are they invincible? No. And they weren’t invincible prior to the Cardinals winning there last weekend. Teams can play the Seahawks hard in Seattle, but, prior to last weekend, the Seahawks have done what good teams do: find a way to win.
Of their 7 home games thus far this year, 3 have been true blow outs, but the other 4 have been tough games. In Week 2, we went up to Seattle and played them tough despite having Kyle Williams (who isn’t on our team anymore) as a starting WR – to show how far down our depth chart, offensively, we were digging. Yes, the final score of that game was 29-3, and some call it a ‘blow out’, but the final score is misleading: it was 5-0 at halftime, and 12-3 going into the 4th quarter. Our defense had held their offense to 10 points through 3 quarters – despite offensive stalls and turnovers – before collapsing in the 4th. You can’t ask for much more from a defense on the road, in my opinion. The Titans then went into Seattle and hung in that game for 3.5 quarters, before the ‘Hawks eventually put them away – Titans lost by 7. They had the then-winless Buccs go up to Seattle and dominate for most of that game, BUT, again, they eventually battled back and won in OT – on a decision that I question in the new OT era. And, then, they finally got a team who was playing hot and had the talent necessary, and knowledge of how, to finish the game, and lost to the Cardinals. So, while I figured that – as in the prior games – the Seahawks would eventually find a way to win, their loss to the Cardinals was not surprising to me; the ‘Hawks were due for a loss.
That said, can the Rams beat them there? Yes. I think that they can. The NFC West, the best division in all of football, is a collection of teams who are built similarly and know each other very well. And, the Rams are not a slouch team, either. They’ve had some impressive wins this season….to go with some impressive losses, too, haha. I’m not sure which Rams team will show up on Sunday, but when the Rams hosted the ‘Hawks earlier in the season, their defense dominated the Seahawks’ offense (holding them to NEGATIVE yards in the first quarter), while their RBs had no problem finding huge holes in the ‘Hawks defense. Will that happen again? Probably not. But don’t sleep on the Rams. I am always scared of the Rams; especially a “mediocre” Rams team who knows the division incredibly well, and has nothing to lose, and everything to gain by making a huge statement upset. If my 49ers weren’t playing at the same time, I’d want to watch this game; I won’t be surprised if it becomes a kitchen-sink game where the Rams show all sorts of crazy stuff that has never been seen before.
However, because my goal is 14-2 on the week, I am going with my head on this pick (instead of my gut) and picking the Seahawks at home. I won’t be surprised if the Rams pull off the upset, but I also don’t see the Seahawks losing back-to-back home games. Seahawks over Rams.
Eagles @ Cowboys-
I don’t think that Romo being out this game will change the outcome. In a one-game showdown to get into the playoffs (as this, realistically, is; the Cowboys are not a contender in the Conference), Orton is competent enough to win the game. However, just like with Romo, I think that he will struggle to compensate for the Cowboys’ atrocious defense. Against an Eagles offense that is on a tear, I don’t think that the Cowboys’ defense can make the stops or plays necessary to keep them in this game. I’m kind of surprised that this was selected as the Sunday Night Football game; it should have been one of the NFC West games, in my (biased) opinion. Eagles over Cowboys.
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There we go. The finale to the 2013 NFL regular season is upon us and, once again, the magic number, this week, is “14”. If I get to 170 wins, I’ll get a commemorative cake, or something, and share it with all of you….pictures, that is. I’ll share pictures. I enjoy cake too much.
-Ryan.
The Peanut Gallery 