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The Final Week: Seven Teams Still Chasing Three Playoff Spots

Posted on December 29, 2011 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment

We get to make big money one more time. It’s Week 17 in the NFL, the final week of the 2011 regular season and it could be the most exciting week of the season.

matt 199x300 The Final Week: Seven Teams Still Chasing Three Playoff Spots

Matt Stafford gets Lions Into Playoffs for first time this Century.

With one week to play, only nine of 12 teams have secured spots in the post-season.

Last weekend, Detroit and Atlanta clinched playoff spots – the Lions for the first time in this Century – and that means five teams in the NFC have punched their tickets to the post-season – Green Bay, which clinched homefield advantage throughout the playoffs, New Orleans, which clinched the NFC South last Monday night, and NFC West champion San Francisco (both 12-3 and battling for the No. 2 seed) and Wild Cards Detroit and Atlanta.

This week, the winner of the Dallas at New York Giants game will win the NFC East and clinch the final spot in the Conference.

In the AFC, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Houston and New England have clinched playoff spots while five teams still have a shot at a post-season berth.

That means there is a chance for some tremendous games this week. Besides the Sunday Nighter between the Giants and Dallas in New York, the big games with playoff implications — all in the AFC —  include the Jets at Miami, Kansas City at Denver, Baltimore at Cincinnati, Tennessee at Houston and San Diego at Oakland.

Last week the Doc went 14-2 (156-83) and was 13-3 (134-105) against the spread. The Coach went 12-4 (161-78) straight up and 8-8 (131-108) against the spread.

This week, The Doc writes our rationalizations while The Coach makes smart-ass remarks.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

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Rex Grossman Going Nowhere

Washington Redskins (5-10) at Philadelphia Eagles (7-8)
              Line: Eagles by 8.5

A disappointing season for both teams comes to an end in this one. The Eagles will have another great game offensively as the Redskins defense doesn’t have the all-around talent to stop them. Expect Philly to utilize LeSean McCoy a ton, and this will spell an Eagles victory. (Coach sez: If you can figure out the Redskins, you’re a better man than I. It’s a box of chocolates football team that shows up one week and stays home the next. Of course, Rex Grossman is the quarterback. Who knows what he’s going to do? This team is coach Mike Shanahan’s Waterloo.)

DR FOOTBALL: EAGLES TO WIN BUT NOT COVER

THE COACH: EAGLES TO WIN AND COVER

San Francisco 49ers (12-3) at St. Louis Rams (2-13)
                         Line: 49ers by 10.5

With or without Sam Bradford, the Rams are doomed. Who would want to win and jeopardize the Number 1 draft pick?

DR FOOTBALL: 49ers TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: 49ers TO WIN AND COVER

Joe+Webb+Denver+Broncos+v+Minnesota+Vikings+KZ5HIsAXsRBl 207x300 The Final Week: Seven Teams Still Chasing Three Playoff Spots

Joe Webb: If he plays, the Vikings win.

Chicago Bears (7-8) at Minnesota Vikings (3-12) Line: Vikings by 1 

What looked like an exciting New Year’s Day game in September is in reality, a dud. Both teams are finishing the season with this one, and both teams are missing their starting running backs. Chicago put in QB Josh McCown last week, and he played much better than Caleb Hanie ever has. Expect McCown to get the start this week, and his first win. (Coach sez: the Insane Clown Posse that runs the Vikings keeps saying Christian Ponder “could be ready to go this week.” That’s just nuts. Joe Webb has proven he’s the quarterback of now and the future and yet the bat-shit crazies who run this football team keep talking about Ponder. Loonie).

DR FOOTBALL: BEARS TO WIN

THE COACH: VIKINGS TO WIN AND COVER (if Webb plays). 

Detroit Lions (10-5) at Green Bay Packers (14-1)
                               Line: Lions by 3.5

Both teams have locked up playoff spots, the Lions however, are playing for the number five seed, and depending on how post-season plays out, could give them home-field advantage at some point. The Packers have home field advantage throughout the playoffs regardless and since they aren’t playing for a perfect season, expect to see most of the starters on the bench. The Lions have more to play for.

DR FOOTBALL: LIONS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER

THE COACH: PACKERS TO WIN.

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NFC Rookie of the Year Cam Newton

Carolina Panthers (6-9) at New Orleans Saints (12-3)
                     Line: Saints by 8.5

Drew Brees will be adding to his “most passing yards in a single season” record this week as the Saints will be playing for the number two seed in the playoffs. The Saints offense is going to dominate this game as the Panthers defense does not have enough to stop them. (Coach sez: True, the Saints are clearly the better team, but this will be a game in which Cam Newton announces his presence with authority. Don’t be surprised if Newton throws for 350 yards and four touchdowns and yet the Saints still cover. What’s that tell you about the Panthers defence and Drew Brees? Of course, there is a chance Drew Brees doesn’t play much this week and that means Carolina could win the football game.)

DR FOOTBALL: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER (if Brees plays).

Tennessee Titans (8-7) at Houston Texans (10-5)
                             Line: Titans by 3

The Texans are in the playoffs and regardless of a win, their seed won’t change. Expect them to rest their starters to keep them healthy.

DR FOOTBALL: TITANS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: TITANS TO WIN AND COVER

Indianapolis Colts (2-13) at Jacksonville Jaguars (4-11)
                   Line: Jaguars by 3.5

The Colts won’t be able to stop Maurice Jones-Drew and will be picking number one in the 2012 NFL draft.

DR FOOTBALL: JAGUARS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: JAGUARS TO WIN AND COVER

Matt+Moore+Philadelphia+Eagles+v+Miami+Dolphins+RRYs BPYrkfl 226x300 The Final Week: Seven Teams Still Chasing Three Playoff Spots

Matt Moore plays for his job.

New York Jets (8-7) at Miami Dolphins (5-10)                              
Line: Dolphins by 1.5

The Jets are a team in desperate need of a win, and Miami is the last place the Jets want to be this week. The Dolphins have nothing to lose in this game and will be attacking the Jets defensive secondary while and spreading out the playbook with their running game. Offensively, the Jets, specifically QB Mark Sanchez is going to struggle against Dolphins defense that knows how to put pressure on a QB.

DR FOOTBALL: DOLPHINS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: DOLPHINS TO WIN AND COVER 

Buffalo Bills (6-9) at New England Patriots (12-3)                           
Line: Patriots by 11 

A win for the Pats and they get home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. The first time these two teams played each other, the Bills won in overtime. This time, New England have huge momentum and incentive and Tom Brady won’t make the same mistakes he made last time these two teams met.

DR FOOTBALL: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-11) at Atlanta Falcons (9-6)
                    Line: Falcons by 12

Atlanta will be playing for playoff positioning, so they will have their starters on the field. The Bucs are going want to play spoiler, but expect Falcons QB Matt Ryan to shake of Monday’s loss and put a lot of points on the board.

DR FOOTBALL: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER

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Andy Dalton: Ginger Power

Baltimore Ravens (11-4) at Cincinnati Bengals (9-6)
 Line: Ravens by 2.5

Big game for both teams. The Ravens have already clinched a playoff spot, but with a win could clinch the number two seed which would mean a first-round bye and at least one home game in the playoffs. For the Bengals, it’s win or no playoffs. The key to this game for the Ravens is QB Joe Flacco to give the ball as many times as he can to RB Ray Rice which will wear the Bengals defense down. This game will be a close one.

DR FOOTBALL: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: BENGALS TO WIN 

Pittsburgh Steelers (11-4) at Cleveland Browns (4-11)
                     Line: Steelers by 7.5

The Steelers are playing for a first-round bye (with a win and a Ravens loss) so they will have their starters on the field. With or without Big Ben, Pittsburgh is a way better team than the Browns. Dog pounded!

DR FOOTBALL: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: BROWNS TO WIN 

San Diego Chargers (7-8) at Oakland Raiders (8-7)
                          Line: Raiders by 3

Oakland needs a win to get into the playoffs, San Diego was eliminated last week. The silver and black will make their former owner Al Davis proud as they win and make the playoffs this year.

DR FOOTBALL: RAIDERS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: RAIDERS TO WIN AND COVER

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Tim Tebow: This is it.

Kansas City Chiefs (6-9) at Denver Broncos (8-7) Line: Broncos by 3

Denver needs a win to make the playoffs, the game means nothing to the Chiefs except pride and wanting to knock out a division foe out of the past season. The Broncos defense is going to enable Tim Tebow to prevail late in the fourth quarter to continue his fairy tale season.

DR FOOTBALL: BRONCOS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: BRONCOS TO WIN AND COVER 

Seattle Seahawks (7-8) at Arizona Cardinals (7-8)
                            Line: Cardinals by 3

Neither team has a chance at the playoffs and are playing their last game this season. Watch for Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch to have a huge day running the ball. This will be the reason for Seattle to finish 8-8 this season.

DR FOOTBALL: SEAHAWKS TO WIN

 THE COACH: CARDINALS TO WIN AND COVER

SUNDAY NIGHT

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Tony Romo

Dallas Cowboys (8-7) at New York Giants (8-7) 
Line: Giants by 3

There couldn’t be a more perfect end to the 2011 regular season and on Sunday Night Football no less. This game means one thing to both teams. Win and you are in. Lose and you are done. As I said last week against the Jets, go with the QB who is has proven he can win the big one. Eli Manning. (Coach sez: This might be the culmination of everything Tony Romo is. He will either emerge from this game as a guy who is considered “a million dollar arm with a 10 cent brain,” or a winner. For Romo’s career, this one game is absolutely huge. As for Eli Manning, he’s in a position to get back to the playoffs with a team that isn’t that good.)

DR FOOTBALL: GIANTS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: GIANTS TO WIN AND COVER

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It’s Week 15. We like the Cowboys, Packers, Texans and Steelers. Yeah, I know. Quite a limb.

Posted on December 17, 2011 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment
atlanta falcons matt ryan 776 207x300 Its Week 15. We like the Cowboys, Packers, Texans and Steelers. Yeah, I know. Quite a limb.

Matt Ryan

This week’s Thursday night NFL affair wasn’t even fair. Of course, pretty much everyone expected that outcome.

The Atlanta Falcons built a 27-0 lead at the half and coasted to a 41-14 win over the gawd-awful Jacksonville Jaguars. Atlanta QB Matt Ryan threw three touchdown passes and the Falcons improved to 9-5.

No surprise there, but it’s nice to go to 1-0 both straight up anad against the spread to start the week.

It is Week 15 in the NFL and I must say, when it comes to National Football League prognostications, we have been pretty spectacular this season. Last week the Doc went 12-4 (132-75) straight up and 8-8 (110-97) against the spread. The Coach went 12-4 straight up (140-67) and 9-7 against the spread (114-93). If you’ve been picking with us all season, you’ve been a big winner both in Vegas and on Sport Select.

Once again The Doc writes our rationalizations and The Coach just makes the occasional snide comment.

SATURDAY NIGHT

tony romo is pumped 279x362 231x300 Its Week 15. We like the Cowboys, Packers, Texans and Steelers. Yeah, I know. Quite a limb.

Tony Romo

Dallas Cowboys (7-6) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-9)
Line: Cowboys by 6.5

Yay! The first Saturday game of this season, and it features the Cowboys who have suffered two straight losses in the final seconds of both games. This week, their defense faces a Buc’s offense that has struggled all season; QB Josh Freeman has been inconsistent and has nowhere near the level most thought he would in this his sophomore season. The Cowboys defense is going to control this game, giving Tony Romo and Co. plenty of opportunities to score, and they will as they smell a wildcard spot.

DR FOOTBALL: COWBOYS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: COWBOYS TO WIN AND COVER.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Washington Redskins (4-9) at New York Giants (7-6)
Line: Giants by 7

Eli Manning’s performance against the Cowboys last week was awesome. This week, the Giants face another tough defensive line, but with their running game and Eli’s aerial attack, the Redskins won’t be able to stop the Giants from outscoring them.

DR FOOTBALL: GIANTS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: GIANTS TO WIN AND COVER.

James Jones 200x300 Its Week 15. We like the Cowboys, Packers, Texans and Steelers. Yeah, I know. Quite a limb.

James Jones

Green Bay Packers (13-0) at Kansas City Chiefs (5-8)
Line: Packers by 14

Sunday marks the 364 day anniversary of the Packers’ last loss, a 31-27 loss to the Patriots.  The Packers have since won 19 straight games, the second longest win streak including postseason games in league history behind the 2003-04 Patriots winners of 21 consecutive games. Enough history. The Pack will be without wide receiver Greg Jennings, but don’t expect that to limit Aaron Rodgers and the offense. The post-Todd Haley era in Kansas City will begin with Kyle Orton starting opposite Rodgers, assuming Orton’s injured finger has healed. If Orton can’t play, rookie Ricky Stanzi will start. Like it matters.

DR FOOTBALL: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER.

New Orleans Saints (10-3) at Minnesota Vikings (2-11) 

Line: Saints by 7

Christmas comes early for the Saints as their boy, Drew Brees gets to do his thing in a Dome away from Dome. Sure, Jared Allen might provide a little pressure once in a while, but the rest of the time Brees will be picking apart an awful Vikings secondary.

DR FOOTBALL: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER. 

Seattle Seahawks (6-7) at Chicago Bears (7-6)
Line: Bears by 4

The Seahawks have won four of their last five. The Bears have lost three in a row, and have scored just one touchdown in their last two games. Soldier Field won’t be a factor in this one as the Bears are done for the year.

DR FOOTBALL: SEAHAWKS TO WIN

THE COACH: BEARS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

ryan fitzpatrick bills 300x209 Its Week 15. We like the Cowboys, Packers, Texans and Steelers. Yeah, I know. Quite a limb.

Ryan Fitzpatrick

Miami Dolphins (4-9) at Buffalo Bills (5-8)
Line: Bills by 1.5

Miami’s defense is going to be the dominate force in this game as Buffalo won’t have much time to pass, and their run game will be successful but it won’t be enough to put up more points. The Dolphins could be without QB Matt Moore and while their offense may struggle initially, I believe that they have enough to beat these sad sack Bills. (Coach sez: The Bills will win one last game at home).

DR FOOTBALL: DOLPHINS TO WIN

THE COACH: BILLS TO WIN AND COVER.

Carolina Panthers (4-9) at Houston Texans (10-3)
Line: Texans by 6.5

T.J. Yates beating Cincinnati in the final seconds on the road was a pretty big deal in only his second start even with Arian Foster struggling. Now they face the Panthers who have to travel off a tough loss. The Texans realize the urgency of every game as they can still get home field in the AFC. Gary Kubiak for Coach of the year?

DR FOOTBALL: TEXANS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

THE COACH: TEXANS TO WIN AND COVER.

chris johnson 203 275x300 Its Week 15. We like the Cowboys, Packers, Texans and Steelers. Yeah, I know. Quite a limb.

Chris Johnson

Tennessee Titans (7-6) at Indianapolis Colts (0-13)
Line: Titans by 7

Tennessee will have second-string QB Jake Locker at the helm; he looked good last week, in relief of Hasselbeck, against a tough Saints defense. This week he will be able to settle in to his role as he faces a very tired Colts defense whose level of play continues to decline. How can you blame them, when their offense does nothing to maintain possession of the ball?

DR FOOTBALL: TITANS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER

THE COACH: TITANS TO WIN AND COVER.

Cincinnati Bengals (7-6) at St. Louis Rams (2-11)
Line: Bengals by 6.

Cincinnati has taken a nose dive in the playoff race, but they get a bit of a breather and a chance to get back to basics against a suspect and banged up Rams front. The Steven Jackson is the only bright spot for the hopeless Rams…he’s gotta be talking to his agent about going someplace else. The Bengals get it done on the road.

DR FOOTBALL: BENGALS TO WIN AND COVER.

THE COACH:  BENGALS TO WIN AND COVER.

Ndamukong+Suh+Washington+Redskins+v+Detroit+FElOvKJIyUIl 200x300 Its Week 15. We like the Cowboys, Packers, Texans and Steelers. Yeah, I know. Quite a limb.

Ndamukong Suh Back to Stomp the Raiders

Detroit Lions (8-5) at Oakland Raiders (7-6)
Line: Lions by 1

It’s kind of funny that this game features a team that’s known as undisciplined, while racking up penalties and cheap shots, and yet it’s not the Raiders. This will be a tough road game for Matthew Stafford against a fired-up Oakland pass rush. Offensively, Oakland knows that they need to get Michael Bush going again to take pressure off Carson Palmer and with the distraction caused by the return of Ndamukong Suh, Oakland will sneak out a close win. (Coach sez: Maybe. But it’s more likely that the Lions, who play pretty well on the road against mediocre AFC West clubs, will win quite easily. And the only “distraction” will be the media’s distraction. Squirrel!).

DR FOOTBALL: RAIDERS TO WIN.

THE COACH: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER.

New England Patriots (10-3) at Denver Broncos (8-5)
Line: Patriots by 6

Interesting matchup. Last week the Patriots jumped to a big lead early, and couldn’t hold the spread only winning by 7. As efficient as their offense is, their defense is just as inefficient. Denver always starts slow, and if you don’t put Tim Tebow behind by at least 20 points in the 4th quarter, a comeback is within his range (Coach sez: Love Tim Tebow, but this week Denver has to play against a legitimate Super Bowl contender. It won’t be pretty).

DR FOOTBALL: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

Michael Vick 234x300 Its Week 15. We like the Cowboys, Packers, Texans and Steelers. Yeah, I know. Quite a limb.

Michael Vick

New York Jets (8-5) at Philadelphia Eagles (5-8)
Line: Eagles by 3

Michael Vick is back, but that’s not a big deal. Philly’s defense is going to pressure Jets QB Mark Sanchez into several turnovers. This will give the Eagles offense ample opportunity to run up the score. The Jets secondary, will be able to keep up with the receivers but they won’t be able to maintain Vick and the Eagles running game (Coach sez: Jets must win. We’ll find out this week if they will be a force in the post-season or not).

DR FOOTBALL: EAGLES TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: JETS TO WIN.

Cleveland Browns (4-9) at Arizona Cardinals (6-7)
Line: Cardinals by 7

Arizona is coming off a huge win against the 49ers last week and offensively, the Cardinals have too much talent in Larry Fitzgerald, Beanie Wells and Early Doucet for the Browns to keep up. With QB Colt McCoy still questionable to play this week, and even if he was able to play, they just can’t score at all.

DR FOOTBALL: CARDINALS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: CARDINALS TO WIN AND COVER.

SUNDAY NIGHT

ray rice 511 200x300 Its Week 15. We like the Cowboys, Packers, Texans and Steelers. Yeah, I know. Quite a limb.

Ray Rice

Baltimore Ravens (10-3) at San Diego Chargers (6-7)
Line: Ravens by 2.5

Are the Chargers shooting for a big finish? Aside from a fumble in the 3rd Quarter, Philip Rivers had another good game against Buffalo last week. They may have waited too long to come to life, but this is the team that was expected by so many before the season. Baltimore will have trouble moving the ball through the air, and if San Diego can slow down Ray Rice early then they have a huge chance. Expect an upset. (Coach sez: It’s also December, and Rivers wins in December).

DR FOOTBALL: CHARGERS TO WIN

 THE COACH: CHARGERS TO WIN.

MONDAY NIGHT

Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3) at San Francisco 49ers (10-3)
Line: Steelers by 1.5

No James Harrison, and possibly a hobbled Ben Roethlisberger, will make it difficult for the Steelers — but certainly not impossible. It’s a good thing they’ve had a good rest — they last played against Cleveland back on Thursday night, 11 days ago. San Francisco is severely limited in the passing game, but they’ve been getting by keeping it simple on the ground and playing solid defense. However, that ground game has been less effective lately and they face another powerful team that can knock them off their game early.

DR FOOTBALL: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER.

THE COACH: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER.

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Jets to Win Thursday, Pats to Win Monday. Packers to Go 10-0 on Sunday

Posted on November 16, 2011 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment
Aaron+Rodgers+Chicago+Bears+v+Green+Bay+Packers+CiwJFzA6ONNl 200x300 Jets to Win Thursday, Pats to Win Monday. Packers to Go 10 0 on Sunday

The Great Aaron Rodgers

TAMPA, Fla. — I remember when I asked Green Bay’s Jermichael Finley a couple of weeks ago if he believed his team could go 16-0 this season. Finley didn’t like the question.

“I ain’t goin’ there man, no way. I ain’t talkin’ about that stuff. I just ain’t goin’ there.”

Finley was not pleased when the Packers beat Minnesota the first time to improve to 7-0 and then was immediately asked if his team was good enough to go undefeated this season. Guess the timing was wrong. Wonder how he feels now?

To his credit, Aaron Rodgers didn’t care when I posed the question to him. He said he expected his team to get better as the season went along. He thought it was possible that the Packers could go 16-0, as long as they kept improving. He’s been quite prophetic.

The Packers look unbeatable. They look unbeatable because Rodgers is almost perfect and the rest of the team is improving. He is clearly the best quarterback in the game right now and last week threw four touchdown passes against Minnesota in a 45-7 victory. This week, the Packers get Tampa at home and this one could get very ugly.

It’s Week 11 in the NFL and the Texans, Colts, Saints and Steelers have the byes this week. There are 14 games and the unbeaten Packers are about to go to 10-0.

And I guarantee that The Doc and The Coach will improve, as well.

Last week the Doc was 7-9 (87-59) straight up and 6-10 (76-70) against the spread. The Coach went 8-8 (95-51) straight up and 7-9 (77-69) against the spread.

This week, as always, the Doc writes our rationalizations and I just make snide remarks when necessary.

THURSDAY NIGHT

Mark+Sanchez+New+England+Patriots+v+New+York+61xFxVWdJ3fl 200x300 Jets to Win Thursday, Pats to Win Monday. Packers to Go 10 0 on Sunday

The Jets Mark Sanchez

New York Jets (5-4) at Denver Broncos (4-5)
Line: Jets by 6

Both teams have been up and down all season long, although Denver has surprisingly won two in a row. The Jets still must be stinging from their failure to defend their home turf against the New England Patriots, and now they have to head across the country to face the Broncos. One thing has been established in Denver: Tim Tebow is not a passer as he threw only eight times in last week’s win against K.C. The Jets defense is better than the Chiefs so Tebow won’t find much room to manoeuvre, and if he tries to throw the Jets secondary is one of the best in the league (Coach sez: I expect the Jets to win and cover, but if it will make Merrill Hoge’s head explode on ESPN, I’d love to see Tim Tebow go to 4-1 as the Broncos quarterback).

Dr. Football: JETS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: JETS TO WIN AND COVER. 

Buffalo Bills (5-4) at Miami Dolphins (2-7)

Line: Dolphins by 2.5

The Dolphins are now riding a two game winning streak which seemed impossible after seven weeks of the season, while the Bills are riding a two game losing streak which has brought them crashing back to earth in a hurry. Dolphins QB Matt Moore and WR Brandon Marshall have started to connect, and RB Reggie Bush seems to have found himself again. Look for the Fish to pick up the home win.

Dr. Football: DOLPHINS TO WIN AND COVER

The Coach: BILLS TO WIN. 

Joe+Flacco+Arizona+Cardinals+v+Baltimore+Ravens+3NVwUY EOQwl 200x300 Jets to Win Thursday, Pats to Win Monday. Packers to Go 10 0 on Sunday

The Ravens Joe Flacco

Cincinnati Bengals (6-3) at Baltimore Ravens (6-3)
Line: Ravens by 7

Who would of thought that after playing nine games each, the Ravens and the Bengals are tied for second place in the AFC North? The Ravens offense is quite possibly the most inconsistent offense in the NFL, and the majority of the blame goes to QB Joe Flacco. The Bengals defense has proven to be able to get to opposing quarterbacks, and this could be a long day for Flacco. Look for the Ravens defense to pull it off here as the motivation is huge; if the Ravens win, they move straight into 1st place thanks to their tiebreaker edge over the Steelers. (Coach sez: I’m taking the Ravens, but relying on the Ravens defense these days is nebulous. It appears as if they have all become one step too slow all at once.)

Dr. Football: RAVENS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER

The Coach: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER. 

Jacksonville Jaguars (3-6) at Cleveland Browns (3-6)
Line: Jaguars by 1

Neither the Jaguars nor the Browns are very good teams. But the best player in this one is Maurice Jones Drew. Look for him to have a big game in Cleveland and pile up a lot of yards and a few touchdowns to lead the Jaguars in a road win.

Dr Football: JAGUARS TO WIN AND COVER

 The Coach: BROWNS TO WIN. 

Carson+Palmer+Oakland+Raiders+v+San+Diego+2UBUtpVVtjMl 215x300 Jets to Win Thursday, Pats to Win Monday. Packers to Go 10 0 on Sunday

The Raiders Carson Palmer

Oakland Raiders (5-4) at Minnesota Vikings (2-7)
Line: Raiders by 1

The Vikings continue to look terrible week in and week out, and guys like Adrian Peterson and Jared Allen don’t feel like they’re getting any help. The Raiders are trying to make a push and maintain their divisional lead, and if Carson Palmer (who looked way more comfortable wearing silver and black last week against the Chargers) has another strong outing, the Raiders should have no problem in the Dome. (Coach sez: If the Vikings give Adrian Peterson the football, they win. If they don’t, they lose. I’m going to guess — hope? — that they will give Peterson the football.)

Dr. Football: RAIDERS TO WIN AND COVER

The Coach: VIKINGS TO WIN.

Carolina Panthers (2-7) at Detroit Lions (6-3)
Line: Lions by 7

The Lions are heavy favourites over the inconsistent Panthers, but don’t forget that Detroit is 1-3 in its last four games after starting 5-0. So they have been stumbling lately, but the Panthers are just what they need to get back on their winning ways.

Dr. Football: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER

The Coach: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-5) at Green Bay Packers (9-0)
Line: Packers by 14

As much as I hate to say this, the undefeated Packers are the class of the NFL right now. The once hot Buccaneers have lost three in a row, and four of five, to fall to 4-5 on the season. The Buccaneers are coming off a big blowout loss, and I can’t see them putting anything together in Green Bay.

Dr. Football: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER.

Tony+Romo+Buffalo+Bills+v+Dallas+Cowboys+zSolNyyOT ql Jets to Win Thursday, Pats to Win Monday. Packers to Go 10 0 on Sunday

The Cowboys Tony Romo

Dallas Cowboys (5-4) at Washington Redskins (3-6)
Line: Cowboys by 7.5

The Cowboys have fought their way back into the playoff picture and are just one game behind the Giants now, and a win would keep the pressure on as the Giants prepare for their hardest stretch of the year. It doesn’t matter who will behind center for the Redskins, they both stink. Tony Romo is on fire now, and he’ll beat the ‘Skins on the road.

Dr. Football: COWBOYS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: COWBOYS TO WIN AND COVER.

Alex+Smith+Cleveland+Browns+v+San+Francisco+N 8xQyPzJ 1l 202x300 Jets to Win Thursday, Pats to Win Monday. Packers to Go 10 0 on Sunday

The Niners Alex Smith

Arizona Cardinals (3-6) at San Francisco 49ers (8-1)
Line: 49ers by 9.5

Earlier in the season the Cardinals looked like a dead team walking, but then they win two games in a row and they build up some momentum…and this week will put them back in the graveyard. The 49ers are one of the hottest teams in the NFL, and even with the fact that Frank Gore, who injured his knee and ankle in last week’s victory over the Giants, could be limited this Sunday, the 49ers will still run wild at home.

Dr. Football: 49ers TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: 49ers TO WIN AND COVER.

Seattle Seahawks (3-6) at St. Louis Rams (2-7)
Line: Rams by 2

Not many will be tuning into watch this one. The Rams will have Stephen Jackson healthy, and Seattle is horrible on the road. The less said about this dud the better.

Dr. Football: RAMS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: RAMS TO WIN AND COVER.

Tennessee Titans (5-4) at Atlanta Falcons (5-4)
Line: Falcons by 6

The Falcons, who couldn’t get the job done need to win if they want to stay in the thick of the wild card race. Dubious play calling will do that. Meanwhile, the Titans are sitting at 5-4, and are fighting for their own playoff spot, and now have Chris Johnson back at full steam. He’ll have a good game, but it won’t be enough.

Dr. Football: FALCONS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER

The Coach: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER

Israel+Idonije+Divisional+Playoffs+Seattle+1wtkJpz46IPl 200x300 Jets to Win Thursday, Pats to Win Monday. Packers to Go 10 0 on Sunday

The Bears Israel Idonije

San Diego Chargers (4-5) at Chicago Bears (6-3)
Line: Bears by 3.5

The Bears are on a hot streak right now, winners of four straight, including a convincing win last week over the Lions. This week they host the completely lost Chargers, who just couldn’t come up with any kind of a plan last week when Marcus McNeill went down. Philip Rivers plays well when he is the underdog, but I believe the Bears defense will prove too tough. One of the reasons for that re-born Bears defense is the improved play of Brandon’s favorite son, Israel Idonije. The Manitoban has been exceptional this season and is truly worthy of being called one of the “Monsters of the Midway.” He is slowly becoming one of the great Bears defensive players and Manitoba sports fans should be proud.

Dr. Football: BEARS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: BEARS TO WIN AND COVER

SUNDAY NIGHT

Philadelphia Eagles (3-6) at New York Giants (6-3)
Line: Giants by 5

The Eagles “dream into nightmare” season continues at Giants Stadium. With Michael Vick doubtful as well. Let’s face it, even if he does play what kind of a performance will you get out of a man with broken ribs? The Giants have been looking very good of late, beating New England and playing the 49ers tough on the road. The Eagles are no match.

Dr. Football: GIANTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: GIANTS TO WIN AND COVER.

MONDAY NIGHT

Danny+Woodhead+Dallas+Cowboys+v+New+England+IBxeUFHUW62l 208x300 Jets to Win Thursday, Pats to Win Monday. Packers to Go 10 0 on Sunday

The Pats Danny Woodhead

Kansas City Chiefs (4-5) at New England Patriots (6-3)
Line: Patriots by 14.5

Good grief. Tom Brady completely destroyed the Jets like he was a man possessed. What will he do against the Chiefs on Monday night? Yikes. The Chiefs are a remarkably disappointing team and that’s why Monday night’s game could get very ugly. I wonder which TV executive thought this was going to be a good football game, a game worthy of Monday Night Football. It’s amazing what’s happened to MNF over the years. Sunday Night Football has stolen the mantle of great games and MNF is a shell of its former self. (Coach sez: He’ll use Danny Woodhead and Wes Welker, the two best undersized players in pro football.)

Dr. Football: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

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Teams With Challenges At Home in Week 10: Bucs and a Dozen others…

Posted on November 9, 2011 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment

TAMPA, Fla. — We’re in beautiful Tampa, Fla., this week for a matchup between the 6-3 Houston Texans and the 4-4 Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs are one of about a dozen teams — Chicago, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, Indianapolis, Dallas Carolina, Miami, Atlanta, San Francisco and the New York Jets — that play home games this week and will not have an easy time against opponents they all believe, or did believe at one time, that they could beat (we didn’t include Seattle in that list because they’re going to get pasted at home by Baltimore).

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Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Fla.

This is a battle of two teams going in different directions. The Texans have won three straight while Tampa has lost two in a row. Maybe that’s the reason that prompted the Bucs into claiming bad boy Albert Haynesworth off waivers from New England today. If Haynesworth reports and attends practice on Thursday, he’ll start on Sunday and Bucs coach Raheem Morris says he has no problem with the club’s decision to sign a guy who couldn’t cut it in Washington and New England after seven great seasons in Tennessee. Haynesworth will play the position he played with the Titans — Gap 1 D Tackle in a 4-3 — and Morris hopes that will help Haynesworth become engaged again.

One can always hope.

Game time is 1 p.m. EST on Sunday and it should be a much better game than advertised — in a week full of games that will be better than they look.

It’s Week 10 in the NFL and all 32 teams will play this week. There are no byes. And there is also a Thursday night game as the Oakland Raiders play the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium.

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Tim Tebow

Then, on Sunday, the big games include Denver (read: Tim Tebow) at Kansas City (read: the official team of the ESPN Tebow Haters Club this week) ; Buffalo at Dallas; Pittsburgh at Cincinnati; Detroit at Chicago and New England at the Jets. Monday night, the Minnesota Vikings meet the undefeated 8-0 Green Bay Packers. We fully expect Green bay to go to 9-0.

Meanwhile, NFL games continued to be hairline close last weekend, as the final seven games of Week 9 were all decided in the last three minutes of the fourth quarter or overtime. Then again, that’s really nothing new this season.

Through nine weeks of the 2011 campaign, 66.2 percent of games played (86 of 130) have been within seven points in the fourth quarter. That’s tied for the fourth-most in any season in NFL history through Week 9. The most ever? Eighty-nine in 2004.

Frankly, if you look at the number of games in which Doc and The Coach disagree, you’ll get a pretty good feel for how close things will be this week.

Last week the Doc went 9-5 (80-50) straight up and 9-5 (70-60) against the spread while The Coach went 7-7 (87-43) straight up and 7-7 (70-60) against the spread.

This week, The Doc writes our previews and rationalizations. The Coach reserves the right to answer when he disagrees. Which, this week, is often.

 THURSDAY NIGHT

Oakland Raiders (4-4) at San Diego Chargers (4-4)
Line: Chargers by 7

U.S. Thanksgiving comes a couple of weeks early as the first Thursday night game of the season is a big AFC West match up. Both teams are struggling right now, and the division is up for grabs. Wasn’t Carson Palmer supposed to be an upgrade in Oakland?  Norv Turner’s club is taking steps backwards but they do have home field advantage and a high scoring offense, so that should give them the edge in this one.

Dr Football: CHARGERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: CHARGERS TO WIN AND COVER

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Mike+Wallace+Pittsburgh+Steelers+v+Arizona+hEHGW8xHJ0Nl 204x300 Teams With Challenges At Home in Week 10: Bucs and a Dozen others...

(17) Mike Wallace of the Pittsburgh Steelers

Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3) at Cincinnati Bengals (6-2)
Line: Steelers by 3

The Steelers are coming off a home loss to the Ravens, and will hopefully (for them, at least) take the road to redemption against the Cincinnati Bengals, who look pretty smart right now after drafting Andy Dalton and trading away Carson Palmer. The Bengals are are sitting pretty with a 6-2 record, but haven’t really played anyone that will contend for a title in January. This week, they do. Lately, the 6-3 Steelers have not  and probably will not lose back to back divisional games, and the smart money this week says they’ll make a statement against the upstart Bengals. Watch for Pittsburgh to do more offensively than they have the past two weeks against a Cincinnati defense that really isn’t as good as the numbers might suggest.

Dr. Football: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER

Denver Broncos (3-5) at Kansas City Chiefs (4-4)
Line: Chiefs by 3

The only team in the AFC West that won last week was the Broncos, and suddenly they are just one game behind the rest of the pack. Kansas City is coming off a humiliating loss at home to the winless Dolphins, and won’t let it happen again. (Coach sez: They won’t? Sure they will. And they’ll lose because of Tim Tebow. Whenever Tim Tebow plays well, Merrill Hoge has to go on ESPN radio and TV and make up some kind of excuse for the fact he’s a complete buffoon. Tebow might not look like the type of player Hoge believes should be an NFL quarterback, but there is one thing he does — he wins. He’s 2-1 at the helm of the sad-sack Broncos and he’ll win again on Sunday — just to make Merrill Hoge look like a buffoon again).

Dr. Football: CHIEFS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: BRONCOS TO WIN AND COVER

Maurice+Jones+Drew+Baltimore+Ravens+v+Jacksonville+nNuniGJoIHsl 199x300 Teams With Challenges At Home in Week 10: Bucs and a Dozen others...

Maurice Jones-Drew

Jacksonville Jaguars (2-6) at Indianapolis Colts (0-9)
Line: Jaguars by 3

When a team goes on the road with a 2-6 record and is a three-point favorite against a divisional rival, you know the home team must be terrible. Everyone wants the Colts on the schedule this season. But maybe Indy’s due? Jags quarterback Blaine Gabbert is terrible, and the Colts have to win sometime don’t they? This game is not for the faint of heart. Of course, it’s not for people who expect a lot of passing. (Coach sez: Maurice Jones-Drew will rush for 150 yards and three touchdowns)

Dr. Football: COLTS TO WIN.

The Coach: JAGUARS TO WIN AND COVER.

Buffalo Bills (5-3) at Dallas Cowboys (4-4)
Line: Cowboys by 5.5

Buffalo may give them more of a challenge than the Seahawks did last week, but I still think Tony Romo and the rest of the Cowboys will win their first game against an AFC opponent this season.  This game won’t have the magic of Super Bowls XXVII or XXVII, but it will have the same outcome of those two games, just a bit closer.

Dr. Football: COWBOYS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: COWBOYS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

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Josh Freeman of the Bucs

Houston Texans (6-3) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-4)
Line: Texans by 3

The Texans are riding a lot of momentum right now and have a divisional championship firmly in their sights, but visiting Tampa Bay isn’t an easy task. This is also a must-win for the Buccaneers, who now sit in 3rd place in their division and need a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Bucs offense has to come up with a game plan for third downs after going 2 of 12 in the loss to the Saints which won’t happen this week as the Texans have the NFL’s No.1 ranked defense.

Dr. Football: TEXANS TO WIN AND COVER

The Coach: BUCCANEERS TO WIN.

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Cool Cat Cam Newton

Tennessee Titans (4-4) at Carolina Panthers (2-6)
Line: Panthers by 3

Cam Newton has played well above expectations this season for the favoured Panthers, and this is a winnable game for them. But they won’t. Chris Johnson is just to get into form, and he Titans are a way better team no matter what the odds makers say. just may be.

Dr. Football: TITANS TO WIN

The Coach: PANTHERS TO WIN AND COVER.

Washington Redskins (3-5) at Miami Dolphins (1-7)
Line: Dolphins by 4

The Dolphins finally have their first win of the season, so maybe it’s time to put back to back wins, and the Redskins are the perfect opponent for that. Washington has been terrible recently; when you don’t have a QB in this NFL, you don’t have a chance. The Redskins are also a banged up bunch and won’t put up much of a fight in this one.

Dr. Football: DOLPHINS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: DOLPHINS TO WIN AND COVER

New Orleans Saints (6-3) at Atlanta Falcons (5-3)
Line: Saints by 1

Both teams are coming off wins last week. The Falcons will be looking for their fourth-straight victory. The Saints (aside from the Colts game) aren’t as dominant as in years past, and the Falcons are pretty hot right now. A great NFC South division battle in “Hot Lanta”!  Both teams play better in a Dome, but the Falcons play a lot better at home so I’ll take them in what should be a close game.

Dr. Football: FALCONS TO WIN.

The Coach: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER

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Colt McCoy of the Browns

St. Louis Rams (1-7) at Cleveland Browns (3-5)
Line: Browns by 2.5

The Rams are one of the worst teams in the league, and their sole win on the season was at home and they go outside of their nice comfy building to travel to Cleveland. The Browns don’t have much going on this season either and it’s a wonder how they’ve won three games so far. Take the banged up Browns to pick up the easy win at home.

Dr. Football: BROWNS TO WIN AND COVER

The Coach: BROWNS TO WIN AND COVER

Arizona Cardinals (2-6) at Philadelphia Eagles (3-5)
Line: Eagles by 14

Arizona is coming off an overtime win against the Rams but that game was hard to watch. The Eagles will be playing with one less day of rest following their Monday night game against the Bears and playing at home, they should get the easy win, but two touchdowns is a stretch for almost any game. Philly will still win, but the Cardinals will keep it close.

Dr. Football: EAGLES TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: EAGLES TO WIN AND COVER.

Baltimore Ravens (6-2) at Seattle Seahawks (2-6)
Line: Ravens by 6.5

The Ravens are favorites by nearly a touchdown on the road against the struggling Seahawks. The Seahawks are a better team at home, but their real hope has to be that the Ravens suffer a letdown after the big win over the Steelers on the road. I can’t see that happening.

Dr. Football: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER

The Coach: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER.

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Titus Young and Jahvid Best of the Lions

Detroit Lions (6-2) at Chicago Bears (5-3)
Line: Bears by 3

Bears have won three in a row and are playing good ball and are in the playoff mix and will be looking to even the score from their 24-13 loss to Detroit back on Oct. 10. The Lions were rolling before their bye week and have had an extra week to come up with a plan for their ferocious defense to rattle Jay Cutler. I think this will be a long night for Cutler.

Dr. Football: LIONS TO WIN.

The Coach: LIONS TO WIN.

New York Giants (6-2) at San Francisco 49ers (7-1)
Line: 49ers by 3.5

49ers and Giants both in first place? What year are we in? That sounds like a headline from the 1980′s. The 49ers are on a roll, winners of six straight, and sit at 7-1. The next nearest teams are Seattle and Arizona both at 2-6. If they can beat the Giants this week, the 49ers are almost guaranteed a spot in the playoffs. The Giants have won three in a row including knocking off the Patriots at home, and are looking to maintain their lead over the Cowboys and Eagles in the NFC East. This should be a great game.

Dr. Football: GIANTS TO WIN.

The Coach: 49ers TO WIN AND COVER.

SUNDAY NIGHT 

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Mark Sanchez

New England Patriots (5-3) at New York Jets (5-3)
Line: Jets by 2

Both teams have identical records and whoever wins this game will be in sole possession of the AFC East. The Jets have won three in a row, and the Patriots are trying to avoid losing three in a row. This is a must-win for New England. They usually do very well in those situations. But I thought that they wouldn’t lose two in a row at either. And there is this little thing about them having the 32nd ranked defense…

Dr. Football: PATRIOTS TO WIN

The Coach: JETS TO WIN AND COVER

MONDAY NIGHT

Greg+Jennings+Green+Bay+Packers+v+Atlanta+9 R WpuJSEml 200x300 Teams With Challenges At Home in Week 10: Bucs and a Dozen others...

Greg Jennings Celebrates Another TD Pass from Aaron Rodgers

Minnesota Vikings (2-6) at Green Bay Packers (8-0)
Line: Packers by 13.5

Conventional wisdom would only wonder whether or not the Packers would cover the spread. The Vikings relaxed last week while The Packers won a shoot out over the Chargers. All season long we have watched Aaron Rodgers carve up opponent’s secondary’s and this game probably won’t be an exception. I do think the Vikings will “bring it” but they just don’t have enough to win.

Dr. Football: PACKERS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER

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It’s Division Playoffs Time. Hope It’s Better than Wild Card Week.

Posted on January 13, 2011 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment

Here’s what scares me about this week’s games. If the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks win, next week’s NFC Championship game will be played at the home stadium of a team that was 7-9 in the regular season.

Let’s hope it doesn’t happen for the sake of a 16-game schedule. I mean what’s the point? Other than to gamble on football, a 16-game schedule is meaningless if a 7-9 team has a chance to win the Conference championship. Start the playoffs in Week 1 and eliminate the bad teams week-by-week. That way you’ll get a real champion.

Hopefully, we won’t have to worry about it.

According to the NFL’s front office media department, since the league moved to a 12-team playoff format in 1990, No.1 seeds in the NFC are 18-2 (.900) in the Divisional Playoffs.  However, the NFC top seed has lost in the Divisional round in two of the past three seasons.

In the AFC, the No. 1 seed has compiled a 12-8 (.600) record in the Divisional round during that span.

Both the No. 1 seeds are in action this weekend when the top-seeded Atlanta Falcons host the Green Bay Packers in the NFC and the No. 1-seed New England Patriots face the New York Jets in the AFC.

Young Dr. Football is still winning, so the good Doctor continues to write our game-by-game outlines:

Baltimore Ravens (13-4) at Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4)  Line: Steelers by 3

This will be a good old fashioned AFC street fight; the last time they played in the playoffs (the 2008 AFC Championship) it was a nasty game. I think momentum is key here and the Ravens have it. Joe Flacco gets help from Ray Rice it will take the pressure off the receivers and Flacco was very consistent last week in KC. I smell an upset.

Dr. Football: RAVENS TO WIN.

The Coach: RAVENS TO WIN

Green Bay Packers (11-6) at Atlanta Falcons (13-3) Line: Falcons by 2.5

Although we saw the emergence of a top notch running game last week with James Stark rushing for over 100 yards against the Eagles, the Packers have it a lot tougher in Atlanta where Matt Ryan owns the home stadium with a lifetime record of 20-2. The Packers are also coming off a short week, having played last Sunday and the Falcons are nice and rested. The last time the two teams met, the Packers despite controlling most of the game, lost 20-17. The Falcons will find a way to win.

Dr. Football: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER.

Seattle Seahawks (8-9) at Chicago Bears (11-5) Line: Bears by 10

Who were those guys in the ugly uniforms that beat the defending champs last week? The QB playing the part of Matt Hasselbeck was unbelievable tossing four touchdown passes.

The team that caused an earthquakes in Washington state travels to Illinois, where the Bears are primed and ready. Look for Jay Cutler to further expose the Seahawks shaky secondary.  Bears are gonna win big here, as last week was Seattle’s Super Bowl…they’ll have nothing left in the tank.

Dr. Football: BEARS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: BEARS TO WIN AND COVER.

New York Jets (12-5) at New England Patriots (14-2) Line: Patriots by 8.5

Anyone with a brain knows you don’t poke a bear with a stick. Rex Ryan and company have completely lost their collective minds as spending your week yapping to the media is no way to prepare for the Patriots. Tom Brady will once again pick apart the Jets defense and give the Patriots another huge win shutting up Rex Ryan for a couple of months.

Dr. Football: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Doc went 2-2 straight up last week and is 159-101 on the season. Against the spread he was 2-2 and is now 142-118. The Coach went 1-3 and finished 149-111 straight up. Against the spread he was 1-3 and is now 117-136-7 on the season.

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The NFL Playoffs Begin. Here are Our Picks for Week 1

Posted on January 7, 2011 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment

It’s playoff time in the National Football League this weekend. In fact, it’s called the Wild Card Weekend and quite frankly, it should be pretty wild. There are two potentially outstanding games and two potential blowouts as the New Orleans Saints become the biggest road favorites in NFL playoff history.

First things first, however, it was quite a week around The League:

(1) The Dolphins talked to Stanford head coach Jim Harbaugh on Thursday and then called up their current coach, Tony Sparano, and told him that he’ll be back next season. That’s classy.

(2) As we told you Monday on NCI FM, the Cowboys finally made it official on Thursday and announced that Jason Garrett will be the full-time head coach in Dallas.

(3) The Tennessee Titans said that quarterback Vince Young would be traded or released, but there is no word on the future of head coach Jeff Fisher.

(4) Before sitting down with the Dolphins, Harbaugh interviewed with the the San Francisco 49ers. If Harbaugh doesn’t accept an offer from the 49ers, he’ll stay with Stanford.

(5) Darrell Bevel is out as offensive co-ordinator in Minnesota and the Vikings interviewed Mike Singletary to be their linebackers coach.

(6) And Brett Favre is still retired.

This Saturday, New Orleans plays at Seattle at 3:30 while the Jets play at Indianapolis at 7, both games are on NBC. On Sunday, Baltimore is at Kansas City at 12 Noon on CBS and Green Bay is at Philadelphia at 3:30 on FOX. New England and Pittsburgh have the byes in the AFC while Atlanta and Chicago have the byes in the NFC. New England and Atlanta have home field throughout the playoffs – as long as they keep winning.

Because Dr. Football won the season, he’ll keep writing our weekly picks. At least, until I beat him. Let’s take a close look at Wild Card Weekend:

Saturday…

New Orleans Saints (11-5) at Seattle Seahawks (7-9) Line: Saints by 10.5

The Seahawks will look to pull a massive upset against the defending Super Bowl champs, but it won’t be easy. Did you know the Saints never have won a road playoff game in their entire team history? This will change on Saturday. The worst division winners in the annals of the NFL will get blown out by Drew Brees and company.

Dr. Football: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER.

New York Jets (11-5) at Indianapolis Colts (10-6) Line: Colts by 2.5

In a rematch of last year’s conference championship game, the Jets visit a Colts club that overcame numerous injuries to reach the post season for a ninth straight time. The Jets took a 17-6 advantage late in the second quarter versus Indy last year, but failed to score again as Colts QB Peyton Manning threw three touchdown passes; two in the second half to rally his team to a 30-17 victory. The Colts are not the team they were during last year’s run to the AFC title game, but Peyton is still Peyton. In what should be an excellent battle, expect the experience of Manning to beat the Jets one more time.

Dr. Football: COLTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: COLTS TO WIN AND COVER.

Sunday afternoon….

Baltimore Ravens (12-4) at Kansas City Chiefs (10-6) Line: Ravens by 3

The Chiefs are a young team with a lot of players in their first postseason game as the Chiefs haven’t played this late in the season since 2006. The Ravens have played great football all season; look for Ray Rice to put on a run clinic on Sunday. Despite the home crowd cheering on the Chiefs, the experience of the Ravens will leave the KC fans hoping for next year.

Dr. Football: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER.

Green Bay Packers (10-6) at Philadelphia Eagles (10-6) Line: Eagles by 2.5

These two teams have squared off seven times since 2003, including a 2004 Wild Card game that the Eagles won, 20-17, in overtime. That game featured one of the all-time great plays in Eagles history; a Donovan McNabb to Freddie Mitchell fourth-and-26 conversion with just over a minute to play. Prior to Green Bay’s win in Philly in week 1, the home team has won five straight.  Despite that week 1 win, the Packers three road wins this season is the second fewest of any of the playoff teams. Fortunately for them the Eagles’ 4-4 home record is the worst of any team in the postseason. This is the toughest game of the week to pick, as I smell an upset.

Dr. Football: PACKERS TO WIN.

The Coach: EAGLES TO WIN AND COVER.

The Doc went 10-6 last week and finished up 157-99 on the season. Against the spread I was 10-6 and finished up 140-116. The Coach went 8-8 straight up last week and finished 148-108 on the season. Against the spread he was 6-10 and finished  116-133-7.

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Week 17: It All Comes Down to This

Posted on December 31, 2010 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment

One thing about the NFL: It’s always unpredictable. According to the NFL’s outstanding media and communications department, for the 15th consecutive season, five or more teams will qualify for the playoffs that were not in the postseason the previous year. Atlanta, Chicago, Kansas City and Pittsburgh did not make the playoffs in 2009 but will play in January this season.

This Sunday, that number could grow to as many as seven.  The Jacksonville Jaguars are the remaining club in contention for a playoff spot in the AFC that did not qualify in 2009.  Of the five teams in contention for the remaining two playoff spots in the NFC, four did not qualify for the postseason last year:  the New York Giants, St. Louis Rams, Seattle Seahawks and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The biggest single game this week is also the end of a turtle race to the playoffs. Sunday night, St. Louis (7-8) plays in Seattle (6-9) and the winner take sole ownership of the championship of the NFC West. If it’s Seattle, the Seahawks and their fans should be freakin’ embarrassed.

So let’s get at it. Week 17. Because he has the season-series locked up, Dr. Football gets to write our final regular season picks of 2010… for 2011. Or something:

SUNDAY AFTERNOON:

Carolina Panthers (2-13) at Atlanta Falcons (12-3)  Line: Falcons by 14.5

Look for Matt Ryan to regroup and have a big game against the horrible Panthers and clinch the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Carolina will be a emotional mess as this will be Coach John Fox’s last game. And not a moment too soon.

Dr. Football: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER.

Pittsburgh Steelers (11-4) at Cleveland Browns (5-10) Line: Steelers by 6

Destiny is the Steelers hands. Win and they get the bye as the No. 2 seed in the AFC. If they lose and the Ravens win they will have to go to the post season via the wild card. Colt McCoy won’t have the same success as he did the last time these two teams met.

Dr. Football: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: BROWNS TO WIN.

Minnesota Vikings (6-9) at Detroit Lions (5-10) Line: Lions by 3

The Lions are coming off a successful road trip in Florida and the Vikings are essentially playing their fourth road game in a row, and they just played on a Tuesday night. I think the Lions return to Detroit as heroes and Joe Webb can’t recreate the Philly magic (Coach’s note: What Philly magic? That win was ALL defence. Joe who?).

Dr. Football: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER.

Oakland Raiders (7-8) at Kansas City Chiefs (10-5) Line: Chiefs by 3.5

The Chiefs have already clinched the division title, so look for them to rest some key starters. The Raiders will need to establish Darren McFadden to keep Jason Campbell out of third-and-long situations. The Chiefs have generated 12 sacks the past four weeks, and they’ll have Campbell running for his life.

Dr. Football: CHIEFS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: CHIEFS TO WIN AND COVER.

Miami Dolphins (7-8) at New England Patriots (13-2) Line: Patriots by 3

This is a nothing game to the Patriots. The Dolphins were embarrassed last week at home against the lowly Lions, but have played tough (and successful) on the road all season. Dolphins coach Tony Sparano and quarterback Chad Henne might be playing for their jobs and I think they’ll beat the Patriots second stringers.

Dr. Football: DOLPHINS TO WIN.

The Coach: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

Cincinnati Bengals (4-11) at Baltimore Ravens (11-4) Line: Ravens by 10

The Ravens will be focused as they still can win the AFC North if the Steelers lose to Cleveland. Although the Bengals came to life last week, the Ravens will put them out of their season long misery.

Dr. Football: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (9-6) at New Orleans Saints (11-4) Line: Saints by 7.5.

This game has playoff implications for both teams; if the Packers and Giants both lose and the Bucs win they’re in. The Saints can be the NFC’s No. 1 seed if they win and the Falcons lose. Despite the huge game Drew Brees and the Saints played last Monday against the Falcons, I think the Bucs will test the Saints.

Dr. Football: SAINTS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER.

Buffalo Bills (4-11) at New York Jets (10-5) Line: Jets by 1

It is likely the Jets will rest a lot of their starters, although Rex “Foot Fetish” Ryan says he will start Mark Sanchez. No big whoop as Sanchez is actually second stringer calibre, the 28th QB in the league. The Bills will be playing for 2011 roster spots.

Dr. Football: JETS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: JETS TO WIN AND COVER.

Arizona Cardinals (5-10) at San Francisco 49ers (5-10) Line: 49ers by 6

The 49ers will be playing under interim coach Jim Tomsula after the firing of Mike Singletary. I think it will be the first time the 49ers will have fun playing football all year. They will reward management with a win.

Dr. Football: 49ERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: CARDINALS TO WIN.

San Diego Chargers (8-7) at Denver Broncos (4-11) Line: Chargers by 3.5

San Diego has to be embarrassed after losing last week to the Bengals and have to be concerned with the poor play of their defense. Denver’s Tim Tebow played well last week against the Texans, but despite being out of the playoffs, the Chargers are a much better team than the Broncos.

Dr. Football: CHARGERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: BRONCOS TO WIN.

Jacksonville Jaguars (8-7) at Houston Texans (5-10) Line: Jaguars by 2.5.

This is a big game for the Jaguars. If they win and Indy loses, they win the division. They’ll have it tough as they will be without David Garrard at quarterback as Trent Edwards will get the start. The Texans are a disappointing squad that needs major retooling in the off season.

Dr. Football: JAGUARS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: TEXANS TO WIN.

Tennessee Titans (6-9) at Indianapolis Colts (9-6) Line: Colts by 10

Another “win and you’re in” game. For the Colts that is. If they win, they will be in the playoffs for the ninth consecutive season. The Titans have been phoning it in all season and are playing their second road game in a row. They are doomed as Peyton Manning will have a huge game.

Dr. Football: COLTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: COLTS TO WIN AND COVER.

New York Giants (9-6) at Washington Redskins (6-9) Line: Giants by 4

The Giants stunk out Lambeau Field last week and now have to pray to the football gods for a win on the road and a Packers loss against the Bears to sneak into the postseason. I don’t like their chances. They are a better team than the Redskins but that huge beating last week exposed a lot of flaws. I don’t think they will recover.

Dr. Football: REDSKINS TO WIN.

The Coach: REDSKINS TO WIN.

Chicago Bears (11-4) at Green Bay Packers (9-6) Line: Packers by 10.

Depending what happens in the early games, this one could be meaningful to both teams. If the Packers win, they are in the playoffs. If the Falcons and Saints lose, the Bears could be playing for the NFC’s No. 1 seed. The Packers destroyed the Giants last week and I believe they will have an easy time with the Bears.

Dr. Football: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER.

Dallas Cowboys (5-10) at Philadelphia Eagles (10-5) Line: Eagles by 11.5

Michael Vick missed practise Thursday and is unlikely to start. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that backup Kevin Kolb will start in Vick’s place. The game with is meaningless since Philadelphia has already wrapped up the NFC East title, No. 3 seed and will host a first round game. I see the Eagles coming back strong against the lousy Cowboys but with Kolb in I see it a much closer game than it should be.

Dr. Football: EAGLES TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: EAGLES TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

SUNDAY NIGHT

St. Louis Rams (7-8) at Seattle Seahawks (6-9) Line: Rams by 3

Good grief. This game is for the NFC West title. Although the Rams have the better record and have been a surprise this season, the Seahawks do play tough at home, and with their faithful at Qwest Field cheering them on, look for an upset. Next year will be the Rams year.

Dr. Football: SEAHAWKS TO WIN.

The Coach: RAMS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Doc went 9-7 last week and is 147-93 on the season. Against the spread he was 8-8 and is 130-110 YTD. The Coach went 9-7 straight up last week and is now 140-100 on the season. Against the spread, he was also 9-7 and is now 110-123-7 on the year.

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Week 15 Could be Best Week of 2010

Posted on December 17, 2010 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment

It’s always nice to start a Sunday at 1-0, both straight up and against the spread.

That’s our blessing this week after the San Diego Chargers blasted the San Francisco 49ers 34-7 on Thursday night as Vincent Jackson caught three touchdown passes from Philip Rivers. With the win, the Chargers improved to 8-6 on the season and are now only a half game back of Kansas City in the race for first in the AFC West.

There are some big games this Sunday: Kansas City (with either Matt Cassell or Brodie Croyle at quarterback) is at St. Louis; 9-4 Philadelphia plays at the 9-4 Giants; 10-3 New Orleans is at 9-4 Baltimore; 8-5 Jacksonville plays at 7-6 Indianapolis; the 9-4 Jets are at 10-3 Pittsburgh and 8-5 Green Bay is at 11-2 New England on Sunday night.

Meanwhile, there are 23 teams still in contention for a trip to Super Bowl XLV in North Texas.

In a gigantic matchup in the AFC South this Sunday, the Jacksonville Jaguars can clinch the division crown with a win over the Indianapolis Colts.  If the Jaguars win, it will be the eighth consecutive season that at least one team has gone from last place to first place  in its division from one season to the next. That would be the longest such streak in NFL history. Of the 32 teams that have gone from “worst-to-first” in NFL annals, 15 of them have done so in the past 10 years (2000-09), including the defending Super Bowl Champion New Orleans Saints last season.

It’s going to be a tremendous week and we’ll let the white-hot Dr. Football keep writing away. Both of our picks for all the games on the Week 15 schedule are as follows:

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Cleveland Browns (5-8) at Cincinnati Bengals (2-11) Line: Bengals by 1.5.

The Battle of Ohio just ain’t what it used to be. Cincinnati’s 23-20 loss at Cleveland on Oct. 3 was the first of 10 straight defeats for the Bengals, tying the franchise-record streak for futility in one season. They need a win to avoid tying the franchise-record skid for consecutive losses (11, spanning the 1992-93 seasons). The Browns have won five of their past 10 games and believe it or not are 4-2 in games in December under head coach Eric Mangini. No matter who quarterbacks for the Browns (Colt McCoy or Jake Delhomme), he should be able to toss touchdowns at will against the Bengals’ secondary which has been depleted by injuries. Cincinnati are 26th versus the run, so look for Peyton Hillis to have another big day.

Dr. Football BROWNS TO WIN.

The Coach: BROWNS TO WIN.

Washington Redskins (5-8) at Dallas Cowboys (4-9) Line: Cowboys by 6.5

Just like the Battle of Ohio mentioned above, this once mighty NFC division game and rivalry is about nothing this late in the season. Expectations were high for both teams heading into the season. Dallas were favourites to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl in their own building after ending a 12-year drought without a playoff victory a season ago. Washington was touted as playoff bound after bringing in two-time Super Bowl-winning coach Mike Shanahan and six-time Pro Bowl quarterback Donovan McNabb. I guess both teams didn’t get the memo. Dallas has struggled at home all season (1-6), but they are 15-3 at home against the Redskins dating back to 1992.

Dr. Football: COWBOYS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: COWBOYS TO WIN AND COVER

Houston Texans (5-8) at Tennessee Titans (5-8) Line: Titans by 1.5

Another meaningless divisional game. Most figured at the beginning of the season that this game would have playoff implications, but with both teams at 5-8 that ain’t gonna happen. Despite the fact that both teams have identical records, it is surprising to see the Vegas line favouring the Titans as they are in the midst of a 6 game losing streak, and the Texans are still a team that can score a lot of points. They’re the ninth ranked scoring offense in the NFL, seventh in passing and seventh in rushing, and have scored more than 20 points in six consecutive games. That’s more than the Titans can claim as they’ve gone over 20 points just twice in their last six games.

Dr. Football: TEXANS TO WIN.

The Coach: TITANS TO WIN AND COVER

Jacksonville Jaguars (8-5) at Indianapolis Colts (7-6) Line: Colts by 5.5

Simply put, if the Colts don’t win this one, their run of eight consecutive postseason berths likely comes to an end. The Jaguars have an opportunity to do something they have never done, win the AFC South and they clinch it if they can win on the road. The Colts have always had trouble with the Jaguars at home; the last six meetings in Indy have been decided by a touchdown or less with Jacksonville winning twice. The last three meetings have been decided by a field goal once and two points twice. Peyton Manning got his game back on track last week, and he should have a huge day as he faces a pass defense that is ranked 28th and has just four sacks in the last three games.

Dr. Football: COLTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: COLTS TO WIN AND COVER

Kansas City Chiefs (8-5) at St. Louis Rams (6-7) Line: Rams by 1.5

It looks like Matt Cassel will start for the Chiefs after missing last week’s massacre at the hands of the Chargers because of an emergency appendectomy and one has to wonder if he will be 100%…but even at 25% he will be a better choice than Brodie Croyle. The Rams will try and chase him back to the hospital; they are fifth in the NFL with 36 sacks and will put tons of pressure on him.  The Rams are coming off a big loss to the Saints on the road where Sam Bradford looked especially bad. He always plays better at home, and I think he bounces back here.

Dr. Football: RAMS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: RAMS TO WIN AND COVER

Buffalo Bills (3-10) at Miami Dolphins (7-6) Line: Dolphins by 5.5

The Dolphins have established themselves as the NFL’s version of the “Road Warriors” (the wrestling team that kicked the snot out of ol’ Doc Football in 1984), with six wins in seven road games this season, but it’s been a much different story in their own building. Miami is just 1-5 in South Florida so far in 2010, with the only win a 29-17 decision over the horrible Titans in Week 10. . Buffalo is a team that doesn’t do a lot on offense and the Dolphins are pretty good on defense ranked 5th overall this year. Miami gets a rare home victory.

Dr. Football: DOLPHINS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: DOLPHINS TO WIN AND COVER

Detroit Lions (3-10) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-5) Line: Bucs by 6.5

Both teams are going into this game fresh off of wins last week. The Lions defeated the Packers 7-3 in a game where Aaron Rodgers left early due to a concussion and the Buccaneers stole a victory against the Redskins because of a botched extra point attempt by Washington which would have forced overtime. Although the Buccaneers home record is nothing to boast about 3-3, the Lions have an even worse road record 0-6. The Bucs are still very much alive in the playoff race; the Lions are toast. The one or two Lions fans in North America might think that the Bucs won’t be able to overcome the loss of Gerald McCoy and linebacker Quincy Black, but the simple fact is that it won’t matter, the Lions are terrible on offense.

Dr Football: BUCS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: BUCS TO WIN AND COVER

Arizona Cardinals (4-9) at Carolina Panthers (1-12) Line: Panthers by 3.5

The Cardinals will start rookie John Skelton again this week, even if Derek Anderson is healthy enough to play. Skelton completed just 15 of 37 passes for 146 yards with no touchdowns, but didn’t throw an interception and wasn’t sacked once in last week’s game against the Broncos, showing that he might be a QB that can lead the Cards into the future. One can’t say the same about Jimmy Clausen; he hasn’t exactly gave fans a lot to be excited about in years to come, as he has just one touchdown to seven interceptions this season. This will be a dreadful game to watch, and I’m sure that many in Charlotte will stay at home to avoid watching a live performance of “football follies”.  The Panthers will win it on the ground; Arizona ranks 30th in the league, allowing 143 yards a game, and the Panthers have rushed for at least 100 yards in six straight games, including a 212 yard performance last week against the Falcons.

Dr. Football: PANTHERS TO WIN AND COVER

The Coach: PANTHERS TO WIN AND COVER

New Orleans Saints (10-3) at Baltimore Ravens (9-4) Line: Ravens by 2.5

This is a big game for both teams. The Saints carry a six-game winning streak into this game and are one game back of the first-place Atlanta Falcons in the NFC South. The Ravens trail the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC North by a game as well and have won three of four and five of their last seven outings.The Baltimore pass defense really struggled Monday night against Houston, nearly costing them a game. They aren’t as good against the pass this season, and that’s not a good thing against Drew Brees, as the Saints have put up at least 30 points in five straight games.

Dr. Football: SAINTS TO WIN

The Coach: SAINTS TO WIN

Philadelphia Eagles (9-4) at New York Giants (9-4) Line: Giants by 3.5

The Giants will be out to end a five-game skid against the Eagles in a matchup that will likely decide the division title and possibly propel the winner to a first-round bye for the playoffs. The Eagles have already beat the Giants this season, so if they win they have a two game lead with two games left to go. The Giants are the only team to hold Michael Vick without a touchdown pass when he has played an entire game this season. Vick threw for 258 yards and ran for 34 and one score in the earlier meeting. The Giants will have Vick’s number.

Dr. Football: GIANTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: EAGLES TO WIN

Atlanta Falcons (11-2) at Seattle Seahawks (6-7) Line: Falcons by 6.5

The Falcons are playing their third consecutive road game and it’s a brutal one; playing on the west coast is always tough for east based teams, and Qwest field historically been a tough place to play for a team that plays indoors. There could be rain, snow, or both. The Falcons are lucky that the Seahawks aren’t any good, their offense will run wild against Seattle’s 31st-ranked defense. Matt Ryan will have a big game, as Seattle’s pass defense ranks 30th in the NFL at 266.0 yards allowed per game. The Seahawks let San Francisco’s Alex Smith, who was making his first start since Oct. 24, throw for 255 yards with three touchdowns last week.

Dr. Football: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER

New York Jets (9-4) at Pittsburgh Steelers (10-3) Line: Steelers by 6.5

The Jets have been exposed over the last two weeks and they have major issues on offense. Mark Sanchez looks like he has lost his confidence and the receiving core have been dropping passes that hit them right in their hands. The Jets haven’t scored a touchdown in the past eight quarters. Going to Pittsburgh is not going to solve these issues, as the Steelers have one of the best defenses in the NFL, ranked 4th overall. Although Troy Polamalu, one of the two or three top defensive players in the NFL  is questionable for Sunday’s game with a leg injury, Pittsburgh will still shut down the Jets running attack and make Sanchez try and beat them with his arm. That won’t happen.

Dr. Football: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER.

Denver Broncos (3-10) at Oakland Raiders (6-7) Line: Raiders by 6.5

The Broncos are another team playing their third consecutive road game this weekend, but they won’t share the same result as the Falcons will. The Broncos can’t stop the run, ranking 31st in the NFL. Look for Oakland to have big success on the ground and Darren McFadden and Michael Bush will have huge games. This one will be ugly.

Dr. Football: RAIDERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: RAIDERS TO WIN AND COVER

SUNDAY NIGHT

Green Bay Packers (8-5) at New England Patriots (11-2) Line: Patriots by 10.5

If I was Aaron Rodgers, I’d be walking around mumbling so the coach would think I would be unable to play. Who would want to start at anything less than 100% against the Patriots? If Rodgers can’t start, look for Matt Flynn to be thrown to the wolves. However, the Packers play solid pass defense, so I think that they will keep Tom Brady from doing his thing.

Dr. Football: PATRIOTS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER

Chicago Bears (9-4) at Minnesota Vikings (5-8) Line: Bears by 2.5

This will be a fun game on so many levels. First, they will try and squeeze 64,000 fans into a 50,000 seat stadium. With no beer. Second, it will be very cold. With no beer. Third, the Vikings will probably start wide receiver  Joe Webb as Jackson is out, and Favre probably will be too sore to go. Would you?  Maybe Fran Tarkenton will suit up, hell he will be in town for the Vikings 50th year celebration. Bears will be more focused as the division title is in sight. I hate to say this but

Dr. Football: BEARS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: VIKINGS TO WIN.

The Doc was 13-3 last week and is 130-78 this year, and against the spread he was 9-7 and is 114-94 YTD. The Coach went 11-5 straight up and is 116-92 this year and against the spread, he was 8-8 and is now 94-107-7 on the season.

Dave

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Week 17 in the NFL. It Ends — And Then Begins — This Sunday.

Posted on December 31, 2009 by Scott Taylor| 1 Comment

MINNEAPOLIS — Bill Polian is either a very stupid man or a man who has trouble with the truth. The vice-president of the Indianapolis Colts told an NFL Network audience that he was surprised at the fans negative reaction to the Colts, throwing a football game last Sunday.

Surprised? Yeah, right.

Now I know Bill Polian from his days in Winnipeg and I know he’s not a stupid man. But I don’t believe he didn’t expect a backlash from fans after his coach dumped a perfect season and gave the New York Jets a ticket to the playoffs by benching the Colts starters in the third quarter of a game in which the club charged money for tickets. Sorry, don’t believe it.

Giving up is dishonorable. Coaching scared is an invitation to disaster. I’d be surprised if the Colts won another game this season.

The worst thing they did was dump on all the other teams in the AFC by giving up and then giving the Jets a ticket to the playoffs (OK, so the Jets do have beat Cincinnati at home this week). The Colts played hard and beat Jacksonville (twice), Houston (twice), Tennessee, Miami and Baltimore and then rolled over for the Jets. That’s unforgivable.

The NFL should force the Colts to refund every ticket they sold last Sunday. Those tickets were sold under false pretenses. With apologies to Herman Edwards, you play to win the game. The Colts didn’t do that. It’s called a fix. The game was thrown and Polian had better come to terms with the fact that he stole people’s money and cheated the rest of the AFC.

There is one week remaining in the 2009 NFL season ad the playoff picture is clearing up. In the AFC, Indianapolis, San Diego, Cincinnati and New England are all in the playoffs. Denver, the Jets, Pittsburgh, Houston, Jacksonville, Miami and Baltimore still have a chance.

In the NFC, it’s done: New Orleans, Minnesota, Arizona, Dallas, Green Bay and Philadelphia are all in. This week will determine who plays whom and when.

We’ll be in the Twin Towns for the Vikings-Giants game this weekend. We’ll also be on the road throughout the playoffs and in South Florida for the Pro Bowl and Super Bowl from Jan. 28 – Feb. 9.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Indianapolis Colts 14-1 at Buffalo Bills 5-10 (OFF)

The Colts have no interest here. They are just 3-10 against the spread in Weeks 16 and 17 (i.e. when resting starters) since 2002. We just can’t see them game planning for the Bills at all. At post time, no line has been.

Dr. Sports: Bills to win.

The Coach: Bills to win.

New Orleans Saints 13-2 at Carolina Panthers 7-8 (OFF)

This is the Panthers’ Super Bowl. They won’t be going to the playoffs, but winning this game would give them some validation and would provide momentum for what seems like a great 2010 season.

Dr. Sports: Panthers to win.

The Coach: Panthers to win.

Jacksonville Jaguars 7-8 at Cleveland Browns 4-11 (-1.5)

Jacksonville, a team with a playoff shot, has to be pretty pissed that it’s giving points to the lowly Browns. The Browns should not be laying points to anyone. Despite their three-game winning streak, they’re not that good. They’ve only covered once when favoured in the past two seasons. That was last week against the lowly Raiders.

Dr. Sports: Jaguars to win.

The Coach: Browns to win and cover.

Philadelphia Eagles 11-4 at Dallas Cowboys 10-5 (-2.5)

The Eagles own the Cowboys in December. It could be Tony Aurora Snowmo’s time to reveal himself.

Dr. Sports: Eagles to win.

The Coach: Cowboys to win and cover.

Chicago Bears 6-9 at Detroit Lions 2-13 (+2.5)

The big question here is whether or not the Bears will be motivated to play the Lions. Chicago just won its Super Bowl by slaying the Vikings on Monday night as massive underdogs. Can they possibly get up for Detroit? I did some research. In 2007, the 5-9 Bears hosted a playoff-bound Packers team in Week 16. They were 7.5-point dogs. Sound familiar? Chicago won that game 35-7. The following week, they played the Saints, who were just 7-8 at the time. The Bears showed up and triumphed again, 33-25. If history repeats itself, the Bears will play hard in Detroit.

Dr. Sports: Bears to win and cover.

The Coach: Bears to win and cover.

New England Patriots 10-5 at Houston Texans 8-7 (-7.5)

This is the worst spread in NFL history. The assumption is that this game means nothing to the Patriots, which is dead wrong. That’s exactly why Belichick said his healthy starters would play. But what about the Texans? Don’t they need a victory more than New England? Of course they do. And that’s exactly why we love the Pats here. The Texans are the biggest choke artists in the NFL. How are they going to win this game, let alone cover a touchdown? We just  don’t get it.

Dr. Sports: Patriots to win.

The Coach: Patriots to win.

Pittsburgh Steelers 8-7 at Miami Dolphins 7-8  (PK)

The big wild card here is Troy Polamalu. Polamalu hasn’t been ruled out this week, and he ran on Monday and Tuesday to see how his knee would respond. He’ll push to play, but ultimately could be a game-time decision, making this selection a pretty difficult one.

Dr. Sports: Dolphins to win (and cover if the line is in their favour).

The Coach: Steelers to win.

New York Giants 8-7 at Minnesota Vikings 11-4 (-8.5)

The Giants were just humiliated last week in what was the final home game in their stadium. They are pissed, and they’ll fight for a victory against a Vikings team that is playing like crap right now. Minnesota is favoured by way too much. The Vikings have been struggling against both the run and the pass ever since E.J. Henderson suffered a season-ending injury four weeks ago. In the four games without Henderson, Minnesota has surrendered at least 100 rushing yards to each opponent, and 258-plus passing yards to all but one foe. It’s been really bad, and even Jay Cutler was able to look like a Pro Bowler on Monday night.

Dr. Sports: Vikings to win, but not cover.

The Coach: Vikings to win and cover.

San Francisco 49ers 7-8 at St. Louis 1-14 (+6.5)

The 49ers are clearly the better team in this matchup. But that doesn’t mean that they’ll cover the spread. Laying a touchdown in a divisional road game is a bit too much for San Francisco. Think about it this way – the 49ers are just 1-6 straight up away from Candlestick, and that sole victory was by just four points. Could the 49ers cover seven on the road?

Dr. Sports: 49ers to win but not cover.

The Coach: 49ers to win and cover.

Atlanta Falcons 8-7 at Tampa Bay Buccaneeers 3-12 (+1.5)

Everyone expects the Falcons to win this game because of two assumptions: 1) They’re the better team. 2) They’re going to play harder than Tampa because a victory would give them the first back-to-back winning seasons in franchise history. Those assumptions are wrong. First of all, Tampa is a pretty solid squad as long as Freeman doesn’t turn the ball over. And it’s not like the Buccaneers won’t be motivated. They won’t idly stand by as the Falcons achieve history. Tampa just had a big victory over the Saints and will want to knock off another divisional rival.

Dr. Sports: Buccaneers to win.

The Coach: Buccaneers to win.

Green Bay Packers 10-5 at Arizona Cardinals 10-5 (-2.5)

If Minnesota loses, the Cardinals would have a legitimate chance at a bye and probably would go with Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin. If I’m right in assuming that the Packers will rest their starters, Warner will easily slice through Green Bay’s backups.

Dr. Sports: Cardinals to win and cover

The Coach: Cardinals to win and cover.

Kansas City Chiefs 3-12 at Denver Broncos 8-7 (-12.5)

The Broncos are definitely not that good. Their once-great defence is leaky, while their offense can be completely stagnant at times. We can’t recommend laying 12.5 points with a team that has scored 19, 16, 3, 17, 10 and 7 in six of its previous nine contests.

Dr. Sports: Broncos to win, but not cover.

The Coach: Broncos to win but not cover.

Baltimore Ravens 8-7 at Oakland Raiders 5-10 (+10.5)

The Ravens obviously need to win this game, but that doesn’t mean much.  We both like the Raiders to cover the spread here. They’ve already beaten the Eagles, Bengals, Steelers and Broncos, and almost knocked off the Chargers twice. Why can’t they give the Ravens a tough time?

Dr. Sports: Ravens to win but not cover.

The Coach: Ravens to win, but not cover.

Washington Redskins 4-11 at San Diego Chargers 12-3 (-3.5)

A quote from Norv Turner: “Playing and staying game-sharp, to me, is big. (But) it’s not only how you stay sharp, but how you get better. We’re going to play our players. They’re going to play and they want to play.” Expect a blow out.

Dr. Sports: Chargers to win and cover.

The Coach: Chargers to win and cover.

Tennessee Titans 7-8 at Seattle Seahawks 5-10 (+4.5)

Dr. Sports doesn’t think the Titans came all the way back from 0-6 to just quit in the final week to avoid a shot at 8-8. They’ll at least try hard enough for Chris Johnson to get his 2,000 yards. Meanwhile, the Seahawks have completely fallen apart, losing by a combined score of 106-24 in the past three weeks. Jim Mora Jr. is easily one of the worst head coaches of all time, and has a dubious history of teams that quit on him. That’s exactly what’s happening here. Seattle will continue to struggle and disappoint as long as Mora is patrolling the sidelines.

Dr. Sports: Titans to win and cover.

The Coach: Titans to win and cover.

SUNDAY NIGHT

Cincinnati Bengals 10-5 at New York Jets 8-7 (-9.5)

If that awful Browns-Steelers Thursday night affair taught us anything, it’s that in severe weather conditions, all bets are off. People tend to look at snow and rain as potential weather roadblocks, but wind is the greatest factor. Anything worse than 30 mph can ruin any football game. The deep passing game is completely eliminated, while any field goal longer than 35 yards out is virtually impossible. Winds blowing at a possible 35 mph are bad enough, so imagine how bad it’s going to be at the Meadowlands on Sunday. Also, remember who’s starting at quarterback for the Jets. There was a big deal about Sanchez playing in 45-degree weather back in October. That’s nothing compared to what he’ll see on Sunday night.

Dr. Sports: Jets to win but not cover.

The Coach: Jets to win and cover.

The Doc is 156-84 overall and 123-107 against the spread. The Coach is 146-94 straight up and 116-114 against the spread.

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Week 16, Just Two Weeks to go…

Posted on December 24, 2009 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment

There are two weeks remaining in the 2009 NFL season and while most of the playoff participants have been locked down, this is still going to be a very interesting post-season.

In fact, whenever people ask, for weeks I’ve been saying I like Indianapolis and New Orleans in the Super Bowl. And I still do. However, if it happened to be Green Bay and New England I wouldn’t be at all surprised. That’s the beauty of the NFL.

The post-season is going to be tremendous. But first, there is a lot of unfinished business, especially in the AFC.

Just two weeks to go. Let’s take a closer look at Week 16….

FRIDAY NIGHT

San Diego Chargers 11-3  at Tennessee Titans 7-7 (-2.5)

The Chargers have pretty much sealed up the second seed in the AFC. They have nothing to gain with a win here. Meanwhile, the Titans’ season is on the line. On a holiday weeknight, they’ll be playing in front of a raucous crowd and they’ll be able to feed off that energy.

Dr. Sports: Titans to win and cover.

The Coach: Titans to win and cover.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Buffalo Bills 5-9 at Atlanta Falcons 7-7 (-8.5)

The Bills lost what Chris Berman called their “Super Bowl.” Also, Brian Brohm is now in for Ryan Fitzpatrick. There’s a reason he was so willingly discarded by the Packers. Why would the Bills put in a lot of effort off a very emotional defeat for some guy they don’t even know?

Dr. Sports: Falcons to win and cover.

The Coach: Falcons to win and cover.

Kansas City Chiefs 3-11 at Cincinnati Bengals 9-5 (-13.5)

The Bengals will dedicate the rest of their season to Chris Henry, but they still had Henry’s funeral to attend to this week. Plus, it’s not like you have to get up for the lowly Chiefs.

Dr. Sports: Bengals will win but they won’t cover.

The Coach: Bengals will win and cover.

Oakland Raiders 5-9 at Cleveland Browns 3-11 (-3.5)

Derek Anderson will get the nod at Browns QB because Brady Quinn is done for the year. Anderson has the bigger arm and superior downfield accuracy, but he also forces in way too many unwarranted balls into double coverage. Since the beginning of the 2008 season, the Browns are 0-4 against the spread when favoured. However, thy have won two straight.

Dr. Sports: Raiders to win.

The Coach: Browns to win and cover.

Seattle Seahawks 5-9 at Green Bay Packers 9-5 (-13.5)

This has “blowout” written all over it. The Seahawks absolutely stink, especially on the road, while the Packers are one of the top teams in the league. The only thing that bothers me here is the fact that Green Bay is coming off an emotional loss at Pittsburgh. Still, even if the Packers are playing at 75-80 percent, there’s a good chance they’ll still cover this high number.

Dr. Sports: Packers to win and cover.

The Coach: Packers to win and cover.

Houston Texans 7-7 at Miami Dolphins 7-7 (-2.5)

It’s worth noting that Houston owns Miami; in the four meetings between these two teams, the Texans have won each one, oddly enough by three points or less each time.

Dr. Sports: Texans to win.

The Coach: Dolphins to win and cover.

Jacksonville Jaguars 7-7 at New England Patriots 9-5 (-7.5)

This is a case where the game means a ton to one team and very little to the other. The Patriots don’t really have anything to play for here, as they pretty much have the AFC East locked up. Meanwhile, the Jaguars must win to stay alive in the playoff hunt. That being said, whenever the Jaguars are favoured or expected to win, they really struggle. Conversely, when no one believes in them, they thrive. This will be a close one,

Dr. Sports: Patriots to win, but they won’t cover.

The Coach: Patriots to win and cover.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2-12 at New Orleans Saints 13-1 (-14.5)

I like the Buccaneers in this spot. The last two 13-0 teams that lost their 14th game of the year went on to lose the following contest as well. I don’t think the Saints will suffer a defeat to Tampa Bay, but I don’t like their chances of covering the spread in this meaningless game.

Dr. Sports: Saints to win, but not cover.

The Coach: Saints to win but not cover.

Carolina Panthers 6-8 at New York Giants 8-6 (-6.5)

New York is the one NFC team no one wants to face right now. They know how to win in the postseason and they completely dominated a Redskins squad that had been playing well in recent weeks. I think the Giants parlay that Monday night victory into several more and get on a roll. I’m confident they’ll get into the playoffs and upset at least one team in January.

Dr. Sports: Giants to win and cover.

The Coach: Giants to win and cover.

Denver Broncos 8-6 at Philadelphia Eagles 10-4 (-6.5)

Meaningless game for the Eagles. Even if they win here, they’ll still need to beat Dallas next week to win the NFC East. Also, the players will be too preoccupied with Brian Dawkins’ return.

Dr. Sports: Broncos to win.

The Coach: Eagles to win and cover.

Baltimore Ravens 8-6 at Pittsburgh Steelers 7-7 (-2.5)

I know the Ravens beat the Steelers last time, but Joe Flacco still hasn’t defeated Ben Roethlisberger. Though he’s a very cool quarterback under pressure, that has to weigh on his mind.

Dr. Sports: Steelers to win and cover.

The Coach: Ravens to win.

St. Louis Rams 1-13 at Arizona Cardinals 9-5 (-13.5)

A meaningless game for the Cardinals, but they’ve shown us in the past that they love to beat up on the Rams and Seahawks – even in late December.

Dr. Sports: Cardinals to win and cover.

The Coach: Cardinals to win and cover.

Detroit Lions 2-12 at San Francisco 49ers 6-8 (-11.5)

The 49ers are obviously the much better team, but I’m concerned with their mindset here. They had to beat the Eagles to stay alive for the divisional crown. Instead, they lost, which officially knocked them out of the playoff hunt. I’m not sure how San Francisco bounces back from that, especially against the lowly Lions. What’s their incentive here?

Dr. Sports: Lions to win.

The Coach: 49ers to win and cover.

New York Jets 7-7 at Indianapolis Colts 14-0 (-5.5)

The Jets are playing their Super Bowl here. Their season’s on the line. They’ll give the Colts their best shot…but it won’t be enough.

Dr. Sports: Colts to win and cover.

The Coach: Colts to win and cover.

SUNDAY NIGHT

Dallas Cowboys 9-5 at Washington Redskins 4-10 (+6.5)

Despite knocking off the Saints last week, Dr. Sports just doesn’t understand how this team is any different. They have the same idiot coach. They have the same quarterback who takes trips to Vegas before games. They have a malcontent receiver (Roy Williams). And they have the same prodding owner who makes “suggestions” each week. They are lucky to be playing the ‘Skins who officially quit on Jim Zorn Monday night.

Dr. Sports: Cowboys to win, but not cover.

The Coach: Cowboys to win and cover.

MONDAY NIGHT

Minnesota Vikings 11-3 at Chicago Bears 5-9 (+6.5)

This is just what the (Sports) Doctor ordered for the Vikings; the Bears. The Bears haven’t covered a single point spread since Nov. 1. Their offense stinks, their defence stinks, they’re dominated at the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, and their quarterback just doesn’t seem to care anymore. We just watched the Redskins mail it in on Monday night. Now, it could be Chicago’s turn in what might just be Lovie Smith’s final game in the Windy City.

Dr. Sports: Vikings to win and cover.

The Coach: Vikings to win and cover.

The Doc shit the bed last week and is now 148-77 overall and 115-110 against the spread. The Coach is 139-86 straight up and 113-112 against the spread.

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