Tag Archives: winning nfl picks

We Both Like New England. After That…

Posted on January 19, 2012 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment
tom brady photos1 219x300 We Both Like New England. After That...

The Brady

There will be four starting quarterbacks playing in this Sunday’s NFC and AFC championship games. Three of them were first round draft picks. Which one wasn’t?

If I didn’t know, my first guess would be Alex Smith. After all, as he toiled under a handful of second-rate offensive coordinators and off-and-on head coaches, Smith spent six seasons bouncing from the bench to the action and back to the bench. But the reality is this: Smith was the first overall pick in 2005 NFL draft out of the University of Utah.

So then, my second guess would be Joe Flacco. He doesn’t put up big numbers and he’s kind of inconsistent, playing on a team with a  monster defense that scares the crap out of most opponents. But no. He was the first round pick of the Ravens (18th overall) out of the University of Delaware in 2008.

Uh, oh. I know it wasn’t Eli Manning. He was the No. 1 overall pick by the Giants out of Mississippi in 2004. Knew that.

It’s amazing, isn’t it? After all of his championships (three Super Bowl titles), his huge numbers, his long list of record-setting performances and all his awards (two-time Super Bowl MVP), not to mention he was actor Bridget Moynihan’s baby-daddy and he’s married to super model Giselle Bundchen, Tom Brady was a sixth-round pick, (199th overall) by the Patriots in 2000 and didn’t even get a chance to play until Drew Bledsoe got hurt.

Amazingly, he is still the best all-around quarterback in football today and he will lead the Patriots into another Super Bowl this Sunday when New England demolishes Baltimore.

However, neither The Doc nor I can agree on what’s going to happen when two No. 1 overall picks meet in San Francisco. Will it be the Manning and the Giants or Smith and the Niners? For that answer, you’ll have to read on.

Last week the Doc was 2-2 (173-91) straight up and 1-3 (148-116) against the spread. The Coach was 2-2-(176-88) straight up and 2-2 (144-120) against the spread.

The Doc will write this week’s justifications and The Coach will do what he does best: Make snot-ass remarks.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

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Rob Gronkowski

AFC CHAMPIONSHIP

Baltimore Ravens (13-4) at New England Patriots (14-3)
Line: Patriots by 7

This game is tougher to pick than the Vegas spread makes it out to be. On Wild Card Weekend in 2010, the Ravens went into New England and whooped them 33-14 with Ray Rice rushing for 159 yards and 2 TDs so the Ravens have a little history on their side…but that’s about all that’s on their side. Sure the Ravens bring a defense that features some heavy hitters like Terrell Suggs, Haloti Ngata and Ray Lewis and a ball hawk like Ed Reed. They’re not going to give up 40 points like the Broncos did, but they will struggle containing Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez and Tom Brady’s also coming off a record setting performance and he is on a roll and I expect him to have another big game. The Patriots are heading to Indy. (Coach sez: As good as the Baltimore defensive secondary is, and it is good, they will not have an answer for Brady and his two tight ends).

DR FOOTBALL: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

THE COACH: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

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Eli Manning

NFC CHAMPIONSHIP

New York Giants (11-7) at San Francisco 49ers (14-3)
Line: 49ers by 2.5

I like the 49ers. Their defense is solid and their offense showed it can score. putting up 36 points in an exciting win over the Saints. But there’s something going on with the Giants. They made Green Bay pay for every mistake it made and they made every big play in the game in a huge win at Lambeau. QB Eli Manning was calculating and used all his weapons effectively in a game where very few people gave them a chance. The last time these two teams met, back on Nov. 13, the 49ers won 27-20, mostly without the services of their best player, Frank Gore. While the Giants’ defense has been good lately, their run defense is below average (19th in the NFL). One has to think that with a healthy Gore, the 49ers will head to Indy as well. (Coach sez: The Giants beat Green Bay on the road. That defense will roast the Niners).

DR FOOTBALL: 49ers TO WIN AND COVER.

THE COACH: GIANTS TO WIN.

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How Far Can the Tebow Dream Soar?

Posted on January 12, 2012 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment
Tebow Broncos 300x206 How Far Can the Tebow Dream Soar?

Tim Tebow: Is it Magic or Faith?

He pulled off the miracle last Sunday at home. Can the Chosen One do it again?

Tim Tebow’s brilliant pass to Demaryius Thomas (a Gator to a Golden Knight) for an 80-yard touchdown on the first play of overtime gave the 8-8 Denver Broncos and almost unthinkable 29-23 win over the 10-6 Pittsburgh Steelers in the final game of Wild Card Weekend. With the victory, the Broncos stunned the football world and yet their reward is another impossible task: the New England Patriots, a team that beat them 41-23 in Denver on Dec. 18.

Now were this game in Denver, I might be inclined to continue to believe in the magic and the hype, but it’s not in Denver and it involves an opposing quarterback who is not only perfectly healthy (last week the Steelers’ Ben Roethlisberger couldn’t walk, let alone run) but has won big games before — Tom Brady. We’ll find out this weekend if Tebow just magical or if this is the result of pure, unadulterated faith.

This week, Tebow will face one of the worst defenses ever to be part of a 13-3 team and yet he’s still going to have to put up a huge number of points because we all know Brady will. This could mean the end of the Denver Dream, but if it doesn’t, then the sky is definitely the limit.

This week it’s Division Playoff Weekend and even though Vegas has handed us four prohibitive favorites, there is always a chance something wild, wonderful and wacky could happen. Unlikely, sure, but there is always a chance. After all, the Broncos won last week.

And last week the Doc was 3-1 (171-89) straight up and 2-2 (147-113) against the spread. Coach was 2-2 straight up (174-86) and 2-2 (142-118) against the spread.

This week, The Doc is on holidays, so the responsibility for our weekly NFL picks falls at the feet  of The Coach alone. And make no mistake, The Coach has picked up the mantle. Of course, if The Doc gets off the beach (or out of the bar) to send in his picks, we’ll add them later. (Note: The Doc left the bar. His picks are included).

SATURDAY AFTERNOON

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Drew Brees

New Orleans Saints (14-3) at San Francisco 49ers (13-3)
Line: Saints by 3.5

At his news conference this week, New Orleans coach Sean Payton said this about the 49ers: “They’ve been very consistent all year. The formula has been outstanding defense. They’re the No. 1 team in taking the football away and they’re the No. 1 team in protecting the football offensively. Those are significant numbers.” Indeed. Especially in the playoffs. However, the Saints simply ripped up NFL defenses. Drew Brees and the Saints set NFL records for total yards on offense (7,474) and yards passing (5,347, including sacks). Brees also blew up Dan Marino’s 27-year-old record of 5,084 yards passing by throwing for 5,476. He had 468 completions, breaking Peyton Manning’s 2010 mark of 450, and completed 71.6 percent of his passes, breaking his own 2009 record of a 70.6 completion percentage. Meanwhile, little Darren Sproles set an NFL record with 2,696 combined yards, easily breaking the previous mark of 2,690 set by Derrick Mason with Tennessee in 2000. The Saints simply have too much offense.

DR. FOOTBALL: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER 

SATURDAY NIGHT

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Tom Brady

Denver Broncos (9-8) at New England Patriots (13-3)
Line: Patriots by 13.5

Back in December, QB Tim Tebow played very well early in a game with New England and built a 16-7 first quarter lead. But the lead was short-lived and the Patriots won handily 41-23. That game was in Denver. This one is in Foxboro and it’s unlikely Brady and his powerful Patriots offense will start so slowly  Still, that game against New England was probably Tebow’s best performance until last week’s game with Pittsburgh. Rev. Tim threw  for 194 yards and ran for 93 more and scored two touchdowns. But it was clear by halftime that the Broncos simply weren’t good enough and despite the fact New England’s defense is banged up and porous, this Patriots team is still too much for Denver. Even with Tim Tebow at quarterback.

DR. FOOTBALL: PATRIOTS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

THE COACH: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER 

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

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Joe Flacco

Houston Texans (11-6) at Baltimore Ravens (12-4)
Line: Ravens by 7.5

It’s hard not to like the Ravens in a romp, but the numbers give me pause. Baltimore was only 4-3-1 against the spread at home during the regular season.  In the final four games of the season, Baltimore’s offense was not very good at all. They put up only 24 points at home against Indy, the worst team in the NFL, 14 on the road against San Diego, 20 against the Browns and 24 against Cincinnati. Not awful, but certainly not outstanding. Baltimore’s defense wasn’t great either (I know that because Baltimore was my fantasy D). Terrell Suggs and Co. gave up 34 to San Diego on Dec. 18. Not good. Right now, Houston’s defense might be better than Baltimore’s. In fact, Houston is playing quite well under the circumstances. T.J. Yates ain’t no Matt Schaub, but he was certainly good enough last weekend in the Wild Card playoff game against Cincinnati. Meanwhile, Houston’s D was ranked second in the NFL right behind Pittsburgh. If the Ravens were on the road, I’d have a different opinion of this one.

DR. FOOTBALL: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER.

THE COACH: RAVENS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

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Aaron Rodgers: Maybe it IS faith.

New York Giants (10-7) at Green Bay Packers (15-1)
Line: Packers by 7.5. 

The Giants were terrific on both sides of the football in last week’s 24-2 thrashing of the Atlanta Falcons, but that was on a balmy day in New Jersey. This week, the Jints have to play at Lambeau and it’s supposed to be very cold and very windy. Still, the Giants think a great deal of themselves. ESPN radio picked the Giants to win and All-Pro defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul guaranteed a victory: ”We are very confident,” Pierre-Paul said following the Atlanta game. “Last time [the Packers] came in here and they beat us, which they shouldn’t have, and we are just going to go out there and play some great football. It’s going to be cold and the atmosphere will be theirs, but we’re going to be ready to play.” Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers is rested and ready and he’s demolished the Giants in their last two meetings, putting up 776 passing yards against them. The Packers also know that New York is going to run Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs at them all day long. Still, despite the Giants swagger — and their running game — it’s hard not to like Green Bay.

DR. FOOTBALL: PACKERS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER

THE COACH: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER 

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It’s Wild Card Weekend and There is Always a Surprise… Well, Maybe.

Posted on January 6, 2012 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment
Matthew+Stafford+Detroit+Lions+v+Chicago+Bears+vXLAkXngcIYl 253x300 Its Wild Card Weekend and There is Always a Surprise... Well, Maybe.

Matt Stafford

It’s Post-Season Time in the NFL and around here, everyone is stoked. You got your Arian Foster and Ben Tate up against Chris Johnson, you have your Matt Stafford pitching against God’s Saints and you have Michael Turner rushing against a Giants defense that can be beaten on the ground.

This is a bigger holiday than Christmas.

Last weekend, the playoffs were set and Green Bay (with homefield advantage throughout in the NFC)  and San Francisco have the first-round byes in the NFC while New England (with homefield in the AFC) and Baltimore have the first-round byes in the AFC. It’s time to fire the first salvo leading up to Indianapolis in early February.

And this is what the schedule will look like this coming Wild Card Weekend: It starts Saturday at 3:30 with Cincinnati at Houston in an AFC showdown and then at 7 p.m. it’s Detroit at New Orleans in an NFC match-up. On Sunday, it’s Atlanta at the New York Giants in the NFC game at Noon and then Pittsburgh, who will be playing without runningback Rashard Mendenhall, will be at Denver in the AFC game at 3:30.

There is plenty to say about all of this, but when you’re going to Vegas or buying Sport Select tickets here in Canada, who cares? You want to get to The Doc’s picks and start making some dough.

Last week the Doc was 12-4 (168-88) straight up and 10-6 (145-111) against the spread. Coach was 11-5 straight up (172-84) and 9-7 (140-116) against the spread.

As always, the Doc writes the reasons and The Coach just sits back and criticizes.

SATURDAY AFTERNOON

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T.J. Yates

Cincinnati Bengals (9-7) at Houston Texans (10-6)
Line: Texans by 3

Houston could really use QB Matt Schaub right now, but the key to this game will be Texans running game and Arian Foster. He will make enough first downs on the ground to keep the Texans in control of the clock. The Bengals offense has been quite explosive at times this year, but Houston’s defense is in the top three at preventing third down conversions. The Bengals have been able to knock off some good teams this year, but this is the end of the line.

DR FOOTBALL: TEXANS TO WIN AND COVER.

THE COACH: TEXANS TO WIN AND COVER 

SATURDAY NIGHT

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Drew Brees

Detroit Lions (10-6) at New Orleans Saints (13-3)
Line: Saints by 10.5

The Saints look to be one of the best teams in the NFL right now. They won their final 8 games of the season, and they also finished the year unbeaten at home, one of only three teams to do so. Drew Brees had one of the best seasons for a quarterback ever, and he’ll be looking to continue his hot streak. Matt Stafford and company can put up their own big numbers, and they have the defensive front to pressure Brees. The Saints will win, but it will be close. (Coach sez: I love the Lions like a man loves his dog, but I just don’t think that defense is ready yet. Matt Flynn — yeah, Matt Flynn — tore it up last week. Imagine what Drew Brees will do.)

DR FOOTBALL: SAINTS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

THE COACH: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER 

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

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Matt Ryan

Atlanta Falcons (10-6) at New York Giants (9-7)
Line: Giants by 3

Can the Falcons pull off a win outside of their dome? The Giants are absolutely ready for the playoffs, looking similar to the 2007 Giants team that won the Super Bowl.

The Giants won their final two games of the season to win the NFC East, and the Falcons clawed their way back into the playoffs after a slow start, and simply couldn’t overtake New Orleans in their own division. Peyton’s little brother is on a role, while Matt Ryan still has to prove himself in the playoffs. He won’t in this one. (Coach sez: Matty Ice will rip the Giants defensive secondary to shreds).

DR. FOOTBALL: GIANTS TO WIN AND COVER.

THE COACH: FALCONS TO WIN. 

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Ben Roethlisberger

Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4) at Denver Broncos (8-8)
Line: Steelers by 9. 

It’s not often you see a road team favoured by more than a touchdown in the playoffs, but that’s what you get in this one thanks to the goofy NFL playoff system. The home team, the Broncos, have looked horrible in their last three games, and one has to wonder if Tim Tebow has any magic left? If Denver’s defense gets back to dominating like they were for that 6 game winning streak, then the Broncos have a shot. The Broncos defense should have no problem stopping the Steelers run game as Rashard Mendenhall is out. In addition, Big Ben is far from 100 percent as his ankle is not fully healed. But I’d take a one legged Roethlisberger over Mr. Tebow any day.

DR. FOOTBALL: STEELERS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

THE COACH: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER 

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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.

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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

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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

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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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What’s Next in Jacksonville? Burn Down the Stadium?

Posted on December 1, 2011 by Scott Taylor| 1 Comment
r 300x205 Whats Next in Jacksonville? Burn Down the Stadium?

Jack Del Rio

Here’s how crazy it was in Jacksonville this week: Owner Wayne Weaver fired head coach Jack Del Rio and replaced him with defensive coach Mel Tucker.

Then, a few hours later Weaver announced he had sold the franchise to Shahid Khan from Chicago, a guy who made his fortune in auto parts. Whether or not Khan can fix all the problems in Jacksonville is anyone’s guess. One supposes he could move the team to L.A. or Toronto.

In the meantime, the moves in Jag-City didn’t end with the coach. The day after De Rio was fired, the Jags  fired wide receivers coach Johnny Cox and also shifted quarterbacks coach Mike Sheppard to wide receivers coach and offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter to quarterbacks coach. The team also waived starting wide receiver Jason Hill, evidently taking a step toward preparing for next season. Huh?

As Dr. Football said yesterday: “What’s next, burn down the building?” Well, ahh, maybe.

 

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Ndamukong Suh

With the Jags in mind, with Ndamukong Suh suspended and with half the quarterbacks in the NFL hurt, it’s time for our weekly picks. It’s Week 13 in the National Football League and it opens Thursday night with Philadelphia at Seattle. There are 14 games on Sunday including Oakland at Miami, Denver is in Minnesota, Cincinnati is at Pittsburgh, Atlanta plays at Houston, Green Bay, trying to go to 12-0, plays in New York against the Giants and on Sunday Night Football, Detroit is at New Orleans.

Last week the Doc went 13-3 (110-65) straight up and 11-5 (94-81) against the spread while The Coach went 13-3 (117-58) straight up and 10-6 (95-80) against the spread.

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Tarvaris Jackson

Philadelphia Eagles (4-7) at Seattle Seahawks (4-7)
Line: Eagles by 3

Philadelphia will be without Michael Vick at quarterback, as he lets his ribs heal. His replacement Vince Young threw for 400 yards last week against the Patriots, but he still has a passer rating of just 69.6. The Eagles need a big game from running back LeSean McCoy to make up for Young’s ineptness. DeSean Jackson’s mind is on his contract, he dropped two potential touchdowns last week. The Seahawks counter the Philadelphia firepower with a defense that gave up 314 yards passing to Washington’s Rex Grossman in its last game. Should be an easy Eagles win.

DR. FOOTBALL: EAGLES TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: SEAHAWKS TO WIN.

stevie johnson has a touchdown celebration ready for the chiefs week one claims bills players were e2 80 9cshocked e2 80 9d lee evans was traded 300x224 Whats Next in Jacksonville? Burn Down the Stadium?

Stevie Johnson: Why So Serious?

Tennessee Titans (6-5)  at Buffalo Bills (5-6)
Line: Bills by 1.5

Both teams are fighting to get a postseason berth. The Bills’ offense is trying to make do without Fred Jackson, while the Titans’  Chris Johnson, has started to play up to his billing. Tennessee still has a chance to take the AFC South, and both Johnson and QB Matt Hasselbeck should be able to exploit Buffalo’s 28th-ranked scoring defense.

DR. FOOTBALL: TITANS TO WIN

THE COACH: BILLS TO WIN AND COVER.

Kansas City Chiefs (4-7) at Chicago Bears (7-4)
Line: Bears by 7

Cover your eyes as Tyler Palko battles Caleb Hanie.  What’s the over/under on how many programs they will sell as no one knows who those two are. The Chiefs might be better off playing Kyle Orton who the Bears know well. If that happens, Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs will help their teammates play off the tendencies of Orton, who no doubt will rusty in a new offense. The key here is for Hanie is to use Matt Forte and let the defense do the rest.

DR. FOOTBALL: BEARS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: BEARS TO WIN AND COVER.

Whats Next in Jacksonville? Burn Down the Stadium?

The Raiders' Denarius Moore

Oakland Raiders (7-4) at Miami Dolphins (3-8)
Line: Dolphins by 3

The Raiders seem to have some pretty good chemistry going on on offense as QB Carson Palmer is succeeding in the air and on the ground. His biggest target in recent weeks has nee the talented but long-underused Denarius Moore and look for Moore to be a threat again this week. This is going to be the deciding factor in this game as the Raiders maintain possession and wear down the Dolphins defense. The Dolphins streak ends here. (Coach sez: Yeah right. The Dolphins are at home and Matt Moore has thrown the ball extremely well in recent weeks. The Dolphins looked good in Dallas and they can beat Oakland).

DR. FOOTBALL: RAIDERS TO WIN

THE COACH: DOLPHINS TO WIN AND COVER.

Cincinnati Bengals (7-4) at Pittsburgh Steelers (8-3)
Line: Steelers by 6.5.

Bengals QB Any Dalton has proven he can put points on the board and seems to be in a grove with A.J. Green and Jermaine Gresham.  It won’t be enough though because even though Big Ben didn’t so much against the Chiefs last week, he is very difficult to stop at home.

DR. FOOTBALL: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER.

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Former Bomber Mike Sellers of the Redskins got more snaps last week than he had during the rest of the season combined.

New York Jets (6-5) at Washington Redskins (4-7)
Line: Jets by 3

I’m pretty sure the Redskins win last week was more about the Seahawks self-destructing late in the fourth quarter. I’m also unsure of Rex Grossman’s ability to move the ball against the Jets defense. One  has to wonder how did Mark Sanchez as awful as he did, but still tossed four TD’s and beat the Bills last week?  The Jets do know how to win, which will be the difference.

DR. FOOTBALL: JETS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: JETS TO WIN AND COVER.

tj yates Whats Next in Jacksonville? Burn Down the Stadium?

T.J. Yates

Atlanta Falcons (7-4) at Houston Texans (8-3)
Line: Falcons by 3

Down to their number three QB T.J. Yates, the Texans will really rely on the their top ranked defense and running game.  But it won’t be enough.  Falcons are hitting their stride, and Yates will wish he was still a back up to a guy holding a clip board. T.J. Yates would probably be the only quarterback anywhere in the world who would be worried about losing his job to Jake Delhomme this week. I mean, there are semi-pro teams that would not have tried to sign Delhomme, who last destroyed the Cleveland Browns — while he was playing for them– in 2010. Delhomme is a turnover waiting to happen and yet he could play this week against Atlanta.

DR. FOOTBALL: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER.

Carolina Panthers (3-8) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-7)
Line: Buccaneers by 3.5

It doesn’t matter how well Cam Newton will play, Carolina’s defensive line will struggle against Bucs RB LeGarrette Blount. The Bucs defense is good, but they may struggle a bit with Newton, so expect a high scoring shoot out. The Bucs have better guns.

DR. FOOTBALL: BUCCANEERS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: BUCCANEERS TO WIN AND COVER.

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Jared Allen

Denver Broncos (6-5) at Minnesota Vikings (2-9)
Line: Vikings by 1

Minnesota will be without RB Adrian Peterson again this week, and this will hurt them. Denver’s defense has given the Broncos their wins, not their offense. Lost in all the Tebow talk, the Broncos on defense have allowed 13, 13 and 10 points over the last three games. That will be the difference this week as the score will remain low, and the Broncos will prevail.

DR. FOOTBALL: BRONCOS TO WIN

THE COACH: BRONCOS TO WIN.

Indianapolis Colts (0-11) at New England Patriots (8-3)
Line: Patriots by 20

Good grief. This used to be the NFL’s game of the year.  Now, the only thing you wonder about is how much the Patriots will win by.

DR. FOOTBALL: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: PATRIOTS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

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Peyton Hillis

Baltimore Ravens (8-3) at Cleveland Browns (4-7)
Line: Ravens by 6.5

Baltimore is coming off a mini bye week having last played on US Thanksgiving. I can’t see the Browns giving the well- rested Ravens any kind of a fight. (Coach sez: First of all, the Ravens tend to play down to their competition. Secondly, the Browns played very well in Cincinnati last week. No. 3, if Colt McCoy and company are smart enough to give the ball to big Peyton Hillis they can win this game. Whether or not they’ll do that, remains to be seen, however).

DR. FOOTBALL: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER.

St. Louis Rams (2-9) at San Francisco 49ers (9-2)
Line: 49ers by 13

The 49ers should be fired up after their loss last week. They have the league’s best run defense; the Rams have the worst. The Niners also have the league’s top scoring defense, and the Rams are No. 31 in scoring offense. They shouldn’t have any trouble with the awful Rams. This could be a shutout.

DR. FOOTBALL: 49ers TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: 49ers TO WIN AND COVER.

demarco murray st louis rams VS dallas cowboys Whats Next in Jacksonville? Burn Down the Stadium?

DeMarco Murray runs for Cowboys TD.

Dallas Cowboys (7-4) at Arizona Cardinals (4-7)
Line: Cowboys by 4.5

Arizona doesn’t have the talent on defense to stop a well rested Cowboys squad, especially with WR Miles Austin back on the roster. Tony Romo has plenty of options and he will utilize them successfully.

DR. FOOTBALL: COWBOYS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: COWBOYS TO WIN AND COVER.

aj hawk Whats Next in Jacksonville? Burn Down the Stadium?

A.J. Hawk

Green Bay Packers (11-0) at New York Giants (6-5)
Line: Packers by 7

The Green Bay Packers have won 17 consecutive games, and if they get through the 2011 NFL regular season without losing, they’ll have the record for the longest winning streak, beating out the 2003-04 New England Patriots’ mark of 21. The Giants were lit up by the Saints Drew Brees for four TDs last week. Now they face Aaron Rodgers, who burned them for four TDs last season. Their pass rush struggled to get to Brees, and they gave him plenty of time to pick the secondary apart. Rodgers has similar weapons to cause problems for Giants linebackers and defensive backs.

DR. FOOTBALL: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER.

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Darren Sproles of the Saints

Detroit Lions (7-4) at New Orleans Saints (8-3)
Line: Saints by 9

The Detroit Stomper Ndamukong Suh will be out for this one, and that will make life a lot easier for Drew Brees and company. Brees torched the Giants for 4 TDs last week, and with the weakened Lions defense, look for similar results.

DR. FOOTBALL: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER

THE COACH: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER.

San Diego Chargers (4-7) at Jacksonville Jaguars (3-8)
Line: Chargers by 2.5.

Coach fired, team sold, what’s next; burn the building. San Diego is a mess, but nothing like Jacksonville. Why is this game on MNF?

DR. FOOTBALL: CHARGERS TO WIN AND COVER.

THE COACH: CHARGERS 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

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(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

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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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Washington and Buffalo in Toronto. Pats and Steelers to the Death.

Posted on October 28, 2011 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment
popb2anack1azzo Washington and Buffalo in Toronto. Pats and Steelers to the Death.

Have you Tebowed yet?

It’s another strange week in the NFL. The Buffalo Bills play a “home” game in Toronto, “Tebowing” becomes the new craze and the Indianapolis Colts, a team that had a legitimate chance to go 16-0 a few years ago, could actually go 0-16 this year.

It’s Week 8 in the old National Football League. This week, the Falcons, Bears, Packers, Jets, Raiders and Buccaneers have the byes. Among the big games, Minnesota is at Carolina (it’s big because it’s Cam Newton against Christian Ponder); Detroit is at Denver (it’s bigbecause it’s Matt Stafford against Tim Tebow); New England plays at Pittsburgh (it’s big because it is); Washington plays Buffalo in Toronto (it’s big because it’s in Toronto); Dallas is at Philadelphia (it’s big because it’s Romo vs. Vick) on Sunday night and San Diego plays at Kansas City on Monday Night Football (it’s big because it’s Monday Night Football).

By the way, have you participated in a little “Tebowing” yet. For the uninitiated, a young New York fan named Jared Kleinstein, said he “was mesmerized by Tebow’s peaceful demeanor kneeling on the turf amid all the chaos going on around him.” He launched a website where fans could submit photos of themselves Tebowing: getting down on a knee and praying, even if everyone else around you is doing something completely different. Apparently, it’s catching on.

I think Dr. Football should probably do it. Not the Tebowing part, but the actual praying part. Last week, The Doc was 7-6 both straight up and against the spread, so he’s now 62-41 straight up this season and 53-50 against the spread.

Meanwhile  The Coach went 8-5 straight up (70-33) and 7-6 against the spread (53-50).

This week, Doc Football writes our rationalizations. The Coach reserves the right to disagree.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

Cincinnati+Bengals+v+Indianapolis+Colts+g9UW4RX1wYal 210x300 Washington and Buffalo in Toronto. Pats and Steelers to the Death.

Curtis Painter of the Colts

Indianapolis Colts (0-7) at Tennessee Titans (3-3)
Line: Titans by 8.5.

The Colts took a pretty good beating last Sunday in New Orleans and probably can’t play any worse. Colts QB Curtis Painter will have more time to get the ball downfield as Tennessee’s defense is nowhere near as talented as the Saints defense. However, the Titans resurging Matt Hasselbeck — at least he was “resurging” until he got hammered by Houston last week — will put more points on the board. We’re looking at two teams that aren’t that good, but Tennessee is just a little less bad that the Clots… I mean the Colts.

Dr. Football: TITANS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: TITANS TO WIN AND COVER.

Jacksonville Jaguars (2-5) at Houston Texans (4-3)
Line: Texans by 9.5

The Jags defense put on quite the clinic on Monday night against the Ravens…where did that come from? Houston put up 41 points last week, but probably won’t to do that again this week. Jacksonville’s weakness is their offense, and that is going to be the key in this game as this time Houston’s defense will dominate. The Texans will be able to work underneath against the Jaguars’ defense; something the Ravens were not able to do by using tight end Owen Daniels and running back Arian Foster as their key receivers.

Dr. Football: TEXANS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: TEXANS TO WIN AND COVER. 

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Jared Allen

Minnesota Vikings (1-6) at Carolina Panthers (2-5)
Line: Panthers by 3

An interesting matchup because of the two rookie QBs. Last week, Christian Ponder provided an immediate spark for the Vikings, something Cam Newton has done all season for the Panthers. The difference maker in this one is Ponder’s  teammates; Adrian Peterson and Jared Allen. Peterson should rumble for a huge day against the Panthers’ run defense while Allen should pad his sack total against Newton, who was dropped four times against the Redskins last week.

Dr. Football: VIKINGS TO WIN.

The Coach: VIKINGS TO WIN.

New Orleans Saints (5-2) at St. Louis Rams (0-6)
Line: Saints by 13.5

The Rams are in danger of being as embarrassed as the Colts were last Sunday as their defense is worse than the Colts. The Saints scored 62 points last week, which is more than St. Louis has all season. The Saints will completely dominate offensively and defensively. The Rams don’t have much of a chance at even scoring a point in this game. This will be a blow-out.

Dr. Football: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER.

Kevin+Kolb+Arizona+Cardinals+v+Minnesota+Vikings+N2u6DHsvgahl 180x300 Washington and Buffalo in Toronto. Pats and Steelers to the Death.

Kevin Kolb of the Cardinals

Arizona Cardinals (1-5) at Baltimore Ravens (4-2)
Line: Ravens by 12.5

The question after last week’s Monday nighter was what happened to the Ravens offense? Their defense did their job almost perfectly and you could see the frustration on Ray Lewis’ face each time the offense failed to produce anything. This week Joe Flacco and company face a weak Cardinal defense and should have no problem moving the ball down field. “Should”. As usual, Baltimore’s defense will show up and control this game.

Dr. Football: RAVENS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: RAVENS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

Miami Dolphins (0-6) at New York Giants (4-2)
Line: Giants by 9.5

Miami stinks. The Giants defense will have no problem keeping the Dolphins out of the end-zone as this is exactly why the Dolphins have no wins – their offense is a mess. The Dolphins were struck down by Tim Tebow last week to stay winless, and now they face a more experienced passer (and former Super Bowl MVP ) in Eli Manning, who will make the Dolphins defense look silly.

Dr. Football: GIANTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: GIANTS TO WIN AND COVER.

Fred+Jackson+Philadelphia+Eagles+v+Buffalo+hZkvm6Wn7o1l 252x300 Washington and Buffalo in Toronto. Pats and Steelers to the Death.

Freddie Jackson of the Toronto Bills

Washington Redskins (3-3) at Toronto Bills (4-2)
Line: Bills by 6

The Redskins’ defense struggled against a strong quarterback-receiver connection last week (Cam Newton-Steve Smith), and it will have similar trouble with Ryan Fitzpatrick and Stevie Johnson. If the Bills protect QB Ryan Fitzpatrick often enough, they will have no problem winning this game. If they don’t, they will need to rely on their defense, and that should be no problem with Tim Hightower and Santana Moss out for the Redskins.

Dr. Football: BILLS TO WIN AND COVER

The Coach: BILLS TO WIN AND COVER.

Detroit Lions (5-2) at Denver Broncos (2-4)
Line: Lions by 3

Detroit could be without QB Matthew Stafford this week due to an ankle sprain (although I am told he looked good Thursday practicing with a boot on).Regardless of whether it’s Matthew Stafford, Shaun Hill or Drew Stanton as Detroit’s quarterback, the Broncos’ pass defense can’t stop Calvin Johnson. Denver is putting their faith into QB Tim Tebow, and I’m not sold on him yet. He might spend all afternoon running from  Ndamukong Suh, who will be in seek-and-destroy mode. The Lions defense may allow some rushing yards, but will be dominate against the pass.

Dr. Football: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER.

Tom+Brady+Dallas+Cowboys+v+New+England+Patriots+qf29qhUeZSvl 211x300 Washington and Buffalo in Toronto. Pats and Steelers to the Death.

Tom Brady

New England Patriots (5-1) at Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2)
Line: Patriots by 3

As with every season, the Patriots best defense is their offense eating away at the clock. This will be the key to this game. The Steelers defense is allowing over 100 rush yards per game, and New England has a trio of great running backs to dominate this game. Ben Roethlisberger comes into the game sizzling, and for the Steelers to have a shot at beating Brady they must let him loose. The Patriots don’t have the cornerbacks to handle all three of the Steelers young speedsters;  Mike Wallace, Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders. This should make for a fun, high-scoring game, but you can’t go against a Bill Belichick-coached team coming off a bye. This will be the Game of the Week.

Dr. Football: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

Cleveland Browns (3-3) at San Francisco 49ers (5-1)
Line: 49ers by 8.5

Cleveland’s defense just cannot seem to get it together against the run, so my guess is that the 49ers game plan is going to be use Frank Gore and Kendall Hunter a lot.  This has the makings of a game-long defensive struggle, but with Michael Crabtree and former Brown Braylon Edwards expected to return, expect the 49ers to run away with this one (you see what I did there…”run away”).

Dr. Football: 49ers TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: 49ers TO WIN AND COVER.

Andy+Dalton+Indianapolis+Colts+v+Cincinnati+2hSKMq9bog4l 200x300 Washington and Buffalo in Toronto. Pats and Steelers to the Death.

Andy Dalton

Cincinnati Bengals (4-2) at Seattle Seahawks (2-4)
Line: Bengals by 3

Seattle has too many offensive questions; who will it be at QB? Charlie Whitehurst or Tavaris Jackson? Is Marshawn Lynch healthy enough to play? The Bengals have a real opportunity to put this game away early. QB Andy Dalton and WR A.J. Green are firing on all cylinders and while the Seahawk defense is talented, they won’t be able to stop this duo. And Cedric Benson’s suspension gives Cincy more pop in the running game with replacement Bernard Scott.

Dr. Football: BENGALS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: BENGALS TO WIN AND COVER. 

SUNDAY NIGHT 

Dallas Cowboys (3-3) at Philadelphia Eagles (2-4)
Line: Eagles by 3.5

Defensively, Dallas is ranked in the top three against the run. This is going to make for an interesting match-up against Eagles QB Michael Vick, and RB LeSean McCoy. The Eagles under  Andy Reid are 12-0 in the week after a bye and they just started to figure things out before their week off, especially on defense. But Philly’s offensive line has struggled all season to protect Vick, and this week it’s going to be no different. The game will be close, but the Cowboys offense will prevail both on the pass and the run (The Coach sez: Romo will be pressured, will panic and will go fetal).

Dr. Football: COWBOYS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: EAGLES TO WIN.

MONDAY NIGHT 

Mike+Tolbert+San+Diego+Chargers+v+New+York+JmuHiWtPk9Xl 239x300 Washington and Buffalo in Toronto. Pats and Steelers to the Death.

Mike Tolbert of the Super Chargers

San Diego Chargers (4-2) at Kansas City Chiefs (3-3)
Line: Chargers by 3.5.

Forget about trick-or-treating, Arrowhead Stadium is hosting a MNF battle for first in the AFC West! I think this is the game where Philip Rivers will finally stand up. Vincent Jackson and Antonio Gates might be banged up, but their size will be a big advantage in this one. Rivers will also expect consistent support from Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert in the running game. Kansas City started off horribly this season, but has improved week to week. QB Matt Cassel has played well, proving that without RB Jamaal Charles, the Chiefs can contend. The stadium will be rocking, but the Chargers will take the fans out of it early.

Dr. Football: CHARGERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: CHARGERS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

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The Packers Will Still Be Unbeaten on Monday

Posted on October 21, 2011 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment
clay matthews 214x300 The Packers Will Still Be Unbeaten on Monday

Green Bay's Clay Matthews

MINNEAPOLIS — While the Minnesota Vikings get set to start Christian Ponder at quarterback, the defending Super Bowl champion Green Bay Packers just keep rolling along.

The Packers have beaten New Orleans (42-34), Carolina (30-23), Chicago (27-17), Denver (49-23), Atlanta (25-14) and St. Louis (24-3) so far this season. They beat Carolina, Chicago and Atlanta on the road. If you take a close look at their schedule, there is a legitimate chance the Pack could run the table.

After this week’s gimme against the Vikings, they go to San Diego (tough one), play the Vikings at home, get Tampa at home, go to Detroit (San Francisco put an end to the “Myth of the Lions”), go to the Giants, play Oakland at Lambeau, go to Kansas City, get the Bears at home and then finish with Detroit at home. If this team continues to play as well as it has in its first six games, there is no reason to believe that 16-0 is an impossibility.

Of course, Aaron Rodgers must stay healthy. That goes without saying.

Meanwhile The Coach and Dr. Football are NOT going to go 16-0 any time soon. There always seems to be some team(s) that beats us up. Last week, The Doc was 7-6 straight up (55-35 on the season) and 5-8 against the spread (46-44 YTD). Meanwhile The Coach went 8-5 straight up (62-28) and 5-8 against the spread (46-44).

Once again this week, Dr. Football writes up our excuses while the Coach reserves the right to criticize.

Oh, and by the way, despite what the Doc says, take the Packers by a bunch.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON 

Cam+Newton+Carolina+Panthers+v+Arizona+Cardinals+B0SNQjwu htl 210x300 The Packers Will Still Be Unbeaten on Monday

Carolina's Cam Newton

Washington Redskins (3-2) at Carolina Panthers (1-5)
Line: Panthers by 2.5

If the Panthers could stop the run, then they would be able to top the Skins. The loss of Jon Beason and Thomas Davis a few weeks back has made the Panthers susceptible to the run, and the Redskins will take advantage of that. Cam Newton should be able to have a solid game against the Redskins defense; just not good enough to win. (The Coach sez: Cam Newton will throw for 450 yards and four touchdowns).

Dr. Football: REDSKINS TO WIN.

The Coach: PANTHERS TO WIN AND COVER.

San Diego Chargers (4-1) at New York Jets (3-3)
Line: Chargers by 2

Any team that comes off of a bye week usually comes out strong against whatever team they are playing. It doesn’t help that the Jets are playing on a short week after playing the Dolphins in a snoozer on Monday Night. The Jets desperately needs a win against a top team, and defeating the Chargers would accomplish that, however, the Chargers are a hot team with a solid offense that can run the ball and pass it, and all of that spells trouble for the New York Jets. (The Coach sez, the Chargers will wilt in the cooler weather).

Dr. Football: CHARGERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: JETS TO WIN.

Jay+Cutler+Chicago+Bears+v+New+Orleans+Saints+ty8YNsD4CDal 300x200 The Packers Will Still Be Unbeaten on Monday

Chicago's Jay Cutler

Chicago Bears (3-3) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-2)
Line: Bears by 1.5.

Tampa Bay’s only two losses have come at the hands of the only two teams in the NFC whose success thus far is more surprising than theirs: the Lions and 49ers. Two out of their four wins have been against the worst teams in the league; the Vikings and Colts. But their other two wins were over divisional rivalsSaints and Falcons. If you beat teams in your division on a consistent basis you will make the playoffs. Josh Freeman should also be able to dissect the Bears secondary which has been struggling as of late. The Bears have benched their best defensive back, Chris Harris, and even now they are attempting to trade him. The Bears in order to win must protect Cutler, which has proved incredibly difficult and thus it seems impossible for this team to do so.

Dr. Football: BUCS TO WIN.

The Coach: BUCS TO WIN.

Seattle Seahawks (2-3) at Cleveland Browns (2-3)
Line: Browns by 3

Seahawks pulled huge upset in New York two weeks ago, upending the heavily favoured Giants. Don’t expect lightning to strike twice. While the Browns don’t exactly instil fear in the hearts of anyone, the Seahawks are down their starting quarterback and it doesn’t seem likely that Charlie Whitehurst could come into Cleveland and win in his first start of the season. The Browns have a decent enough quarterback and a solid defense while they also have the benefit of playing at home.

Dr. Football: BROWNS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: BROWNS TO WIN AND COVER.


Matt+Hasselbeck+Tennessee+Titans+v+Pittsburgh+Z INYKpEajVl 300x235 The Packers Will Still Be Unbeaten on Monday

Tennessee's Matt Hasselbeck

Houston Texans (3-3) at Tennessee Titans (3-2)
Line: Titans by 3

The Texans played great during the first half against the Ravens, but came apart in the second. With all the injuries that they have suffered, it seems likely that will continue to happen. The Titans get the benefit of preparing an extra week to face the Texans and playing in their backyard. Chris Johnson is too good of a runner to be held to an average of three yards per carry and with an extra week to work with his blockers, we him to have a breakout game. The Titans passing attack has been impressive under Matt Hasselbeck and looks to continue upon the success that they have had in airing it out.

Dr. Football: TITANS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: TITANS TO WIN AND COVER.

Denver Broncos (1-4) at Miami Dolphins (0-5)
Line: Dolphins by 1.5

What time is it? Tebow time. It’s what every Broncos fan wants. Tebow will also be playing in familiar territory as he gets to play in Miami for his first start of the season. He is also benefiting from being able to practice with the starters for an extra week with the Broncos being on the bye week. The thing Tebow will have to do in this game to win is to keep his emotions in check. It’ll be an emotionally homecoming of sorts for him, but if he has his wits about him and plays his game then his team should come out with the win.

Dr. Football: BRONCOS TO WIN.

The Coach: BRONCOS TO WIN.

Brandon+Pettigrew+Chicago+Bears+v+Detroit+BzexGDEMeKPl 300x233 The Packers Will Still Be Unbeaten on Monday

Matt Stafford to Brandon Pettigrew

Atlanta Falcons (3-3) at Detroit Lions (5-1)
Line: Lions by 3.5

The Lions will be fired up as they look to bounce back from last week’s loss to the 49ers. They will have a hard time against the Falcons as they seem to be back on track offensively, but not so much defensivley. The money they spent on Ray Edwards has not helped their pass rush and the injury to John Abraham has not helped. The pressure the Lions are able to get with their defensive line will also be a nightmare for the struggling Falcons offensive line.

Dr. Football: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER. 

The Coach: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER.

Kansas City Chiefs (2-3) at Oakland Raiders (4-2)
Line: Raiders by 4.5

The Raiders are playing great football in this very emotional season. It doesn’t seem likely that they will slow down against the banged up Chiefs, even though these divisional games are sometimes hard to predict. The Raiders will look to run the ball down the Chiefs throats and put up some early points forcing Matt Cassel to look deep to want to play catch up, which will lead to him throwing some interceptions.

Dr. Football: RAIDERS TO WIN AND COVER. 

The Coach: RAIDERS TO WIN AND COVER.

Larry+Fitzgerald+Arizona+Cardinals+Training+NIUrq30dscRl 300x210 The Packers Will Still Be Unbeaten on Monday

The great Larry Fitzgerald at Practice.

Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2) at Arizona Cardinals (1-4)
Line: Steelers by 4

The Steelers could be missing Troy Polamalu for this game, but even without him they should be able to smoke the Cardinals. The Cardinals with Kevin Kolb have not looked sharp week to week, while the Steelers have seem to be a better team since that week one loss. Kolb has been putting up decent numbers but has been put in long third down situations far too often, and that is the recipe for failure against a team like the Steelers.

Dr. Football: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER. 

The Coach: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER.

Dez+Bryant+Washington+Redskins+v+Dallas+Cowboys+BbjO35x6jYsl 300x200 The Packers Will Still Be Unbeaten on Monday

The Cowboys Dez Bryant

St. Louis Rams (0-4) at Dallas Cowboys (2-2)
Line: Cowboys by 12.5

The Cowboys played in New England surprisingly well last week, and considering how the Rams have struggled this season the Cowboys should get the easy win here. The Rams have struggled to get a consistent pass rush against opposing teams, and have not been able to make consistent plays on the offensive side of the ball. The Rams offensive line also has not done a good job in protecting Sam Bradford, which will be a huge problem against the Cowboys.

Dr. Football: COWBOYS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: COWBOYS TO WIN AND COVER.

Green Bay Packers (6-0) at Minnesota Vikings (1-5)
Line: Packers by 8 

The Packers are the best team in the NFL right now and continue to embarrass teams week after week. The Vikings have struggled to move the ball on offense, and they have struggled to stop offenses on the other side of the ball. Christian Ponder will get the start for the Vikings this week despite Donovan McNabb coming off his best outing as a Viking in that blowout loss to the Bears. However, Leslie Frazier had to make this move. Ponder is mobile, so he will be able to avoid being sacked whereas McNabb had no chance behind the team’s horrible offensive line. Vikings will put up a fight, but they don’t have enough.

Dr. Football: PACKERS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER.

SUNDAY NIGHT

Drew+Brees+New+Orleans+Saints+v+Jacksonville+hxPJD1GoFIyl 300x217 The Packers Will Still Be Unbeaten on Monday

Drew Brees

Indianapolis Colts (0-6) at New Orleans Saints (4-2)
Line: Saints by 14

I really think they should revise the Sunday Night schedule for the season. The Colts seem to be televised almost every week and it’s like watching reruns. Painter has done a decent job since stepping into the role of starting quarterback but the team still lacks leadership. The Saints will come out firing after last week’s divisional loss to the Buccaneers.

Dr. Football: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER.

MONDAY NIGHT

Blaine+Gabbert+Jacksonville+Jaguars+v+Carolina+oi0GTBelqpyl 185x300 The Packers Will Still Be Unbeaten on Monday

The Jags' Blaine Gabbert

Baltimore Ravens (4-1) at Jacksonville Jaguars (1-5)
Line: Ravens by 7

The Jaguars showed some grit against the Steelers last week as they never gave up, but it still obvious that they struggle to score points. Rookie quarterback Blaine Gabbert (pictured left) will get better as his freshman season continues but he will have trouble against the Ravens defense. Heck, great quarterbacks often struggle against the Ravens defense. The Jags defense, meanwhile, will keep them in games, but the offense will not win them any. The Ravens offense looks better each week, and the defense is obviously just as good as it’s always has been. It’s impossible not to pick the Ravens. (Coach sez: This just in: Ed Reed is a great football player).

Dr. Football: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: RAVENS TO WIN AND COVER.

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Week 6: Lions and Packers Stay Undefeated

Posted on October 14, 2011 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment
CALVIN 234x300 Week 6: Lions and Packers Stay Undefeated

Calvin (Megatron) Johnson

As my pal Fort Rouge Ted pointed out this week, scientists have been studying Calvin (Megatron) Johnson of the Detroit Lions.

Apparently, when you look closely at his height, vertical jump, wingspan, size of arms and hands etc., a group of experts on physiology and biomechanics have determined that Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford has a target comparable to the size of your average two-car garage.

Or, for you old school types, the broad side of a barn.

So it has been scientifically determined that Stafford can, indeed, hit the broad side of a barn.

Michael Vick, Jay Cutler, Kyle Orton and Donovan McNabb? The scientists still aren’t sure.

They aren’t sure about Doc Football these days, either. He’s a brilliant guy who has been somewhat confused by the old NFL this season. Last week The Doc was 9-4 straight up and is 48-29 on the season. He was 8-5 against the spread, and is 41-36 to date.

Meanwhile, The Coach was 8-5 straight up (54-23 on the season) and 7-6 against the spread (40-37). The hunt continues.

This week, the Doc writes our rationalizations. The Coach reserves the right to argue.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON

aaron rodgers 223x300 Week 6: Lions and Packers Stay Undefeated

Aaron Rodgers: Pick him 'till he loses

St. Louis Rams (0-4) at Green Bay Packers (5-0)

Line: Packers by 14.5

Come on. Do I need to explain how the Packers are gonna kill the Rams? At home yet. Do I? Really? OK, how about this? Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings, A.J. Hawk, Clay Matthews. That enough? There’s more. OK, enough then. You continue to pick the defending Super Bowl until such time as someone actually beats them. Even if the spread is 14.5 points.

Dr. Football: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: PACKERS TO WIN AND COVER.

Jacksonville Jaguars (1-4) at Pittsburgh Steelers (3-2)

Line: Steelers by 12

The Jaguars offense, with the exception of Maurice Jones-Drew, is horrible. Consider this fact; they have scored only one touchdown in the second half of their five games so far this season. Pittsburgh’s defense is going to be the key here; they’ll force three and outs and a bunch of turnovers. Big Ben is not at his best so far, but he’ll put up enough points to pull this one off.

Dr. Football: STEELERS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: STEELERS TO WIN AND COVER.

Redskins Santana Moss 200x300 Week 6: Lions and Packers Stay Undefeated

Santana Moss

Philadelphia Eagles (1-4) at Washington Redskins (3-1)

Line: Eagles by 1.5

It’s fun to watch the Eagles lose week after week because the hype was so loud surrounding the “dream turned into nightmare” team. The O-Line is not able to protect Michael Vick and it’s taking a toll on the entire offense. The Redskins are going to blitz often, creating havoc with the Eagle offense. Philly’s defense ain’t much better this year, and even ol’ Rex Grossman will have no problem put points on the board.

Dr. Football: REDSKINS TO WIN.

The Coach: REDSKINS TO WIN.

San Francisco 49ers (4-1) at Detroit Lions (5-0)
Line: Lions by 4

Detroit’s defense is going to dominate this game. The 49ers who laid a whoppin’ on the Bucs last week, might get in the red zone a couple of times, but the Lions defense will outlast the offense just as they have in their last five games. Watch for RB Jahvid Best to have a career game in front of the hometown crowd.

Dr. Football: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: LIONS TO WIN AND COVER.

Atlanta+Falcons+Training+Camp+WFnsj9oqbwzl 216x300 Week 6: Lions and Packers Stay Undefeated

Michael Turner

Carolina Panthers (1-4) at Atlanta Falcons (2-3)
Line: Falcons by 4

A lot of people smell an upset in the making, but I can’t see that happening. The Panthers rookie QB Cam Newton is having a great season so far and the team seems to be keeping up with the good teams and will put together a few more wins this season that’s for sure. The Falcons don’t look sharp. Their defense gave up 25 straight points on Sunday night against the Packers, and their offense didn’t answer at all. Atlanta is a better team, and they won’t make the same mistakes they did last week.

Dr. Football: FALCONS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: FALCONS TO WIN AND COVER.

Indianapolis Colts (0-5) at Cincinnati Bengals (3-2)
Line: Bengals by 7

Indy’s replacement for Peyton Manning, Curtis Painter, looked better last week. He seemed calm and is settling in with the offense. Look for the Colts defense to blitz a lot and Bengals QB Andy Dalton won’t be able to handle the pressure. The Colts defense will be the key to this game as they’ll pull off the upset on the road.

Dr. Football COLTS TO WIN.

The Coach: BENGALS TO WIN AND COVER.

Ryan+Fitzpatrick+New+England+Patriots+v+Buffalo+K osTsuUDZMl 209x300 Week 6: Lions and Packers Stay Undefeated

Ryan Fitzpatrick

Buffalo Bills (4-1) at New York Giants (3-2)
Line: Giants by 3

The Giants have to be embarrassed in their loss to the Seahawks last week. This week they face a focused Bills team that is moving forward. Regardless of which version of Eli Manning shows up, the Bills will be prepared. The Giants will struggle to pass and run the ball. The battle of New York will be won by the boys from Buffalo.

Dr. Football: BILLS TO WIN.

The Coach: BILLS TO WIN.

Houston Texans (3-2) at Baltimore Ravens (3-1)

Line: Ravens by 7.5

This should be the game of the week. Houston is coming off a tough loss at home and the Ravens had a bye and will be seeking to get back on the winning track. It comes down to quarterbacks, and as much as I like the Texans Matt Schaub, Joe Flacco’s experience will prevail in a close one.

Dr. Football: RAVENS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

The Coach: RAVENS TO WIN BUT NOT COVER.

Dallas Cowboys (2-2) at New England Patriots (4-1)
Line: Patriots by 6.5

New England is going to own this game. They are a much better team than the Cowboys on both sides of the ball. Tom Brady is a machine and he will expose the Cowboy’s defense. This one will be a blowout.

Dr. Football: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: PATRIOTS TO WIN AND COVER.

Darren+McFadden+Indianapolis+Colts+v+Oakland+A7QkErbafFUl 300x222 Week 6: Lions and Packers Stay Undefeated

Darren McFadden

Cleveland Browns (2-2) at Oakland Raiders (3-2)
Line: Raiders by 6.5

After a big emotional road win for the Raiders last week, the momentum should continue at home. They are playing tough both offensively and defensively. A message for Browns QB Colt McCoy; Oakland is not a fun place to play in.

Dr. Football: RAIDERS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: RAIDERS TO WIN AND COVER.

New Orleans Saints (4-1) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3-2)
Line: Saints by 4

After last week’s “shitting of the bed” in San Francisco, the Bucs season is about to get real bad. The Saints defense will stopping the run and pass. All Drew Brees has to do is show up.

Dr. Football: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: SAINTS TO WIN AND COVER.

SUNDAY NIGHT

Adrian+Peterson+Detroit+Lions+v+Minnesota+7xBQ05637wtl Week 6: Lions and Packers Stay Undefeated

Adrian Peterson

Minnesota Vikings (1-4) at Chicago Bears (2-3)
Line: Bears by 3

Adrian Peterson was on fire last week for the Vikings with three touchdowns in the first quarter alone. Perhaps the Vikings should consider a new game plan; keep the ball out of Donovan McNabb’s hands. Defensively, the Vikings front line will get to Bears Jay Cutler knocking him off his game.

Dr. Football: VIKINGS TO WIN.

The Coach: VIKINGS TO WIN.

MONDAY NIGHT

Miami Dolphins (0-4) at New York Jets (2-3)
Line: Jets by 7

The Jets are home after losing three consecutive road games. The Dolphins are coming off a bye without a win in their first four games. Is there any doubt the MNF on ESPN gets the lousy games?. Matt Moore is Chad Henne…or is Chad Henne Matt Moore?  Doesn’t matter. Both are bums.

Dr. Football: JETS TO WIN AND COVER.

The Coach: JETS TO WIN AND COVER.

 

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It’s the Conference Finals. Should be a Dandy Sunday.

Posted on January 20, 2010 by Scott Taylor| Leave a comment

It’s the National Football League’s Conference finals and here’s how it all sets up: It will be the Indianapolis Colts and New York Jets in the AFC championship game at 2 o’clock (CST) this coming Sunday and the Minnesota Vikings against the New Orleans Saints in the NFC final at 5:40 p.m. on Sunday.

We can’t wait.

Let’s take a closer look at this Sunday’s games:

5. New York Jets 11-7 at 1. Indianapolis Colts 15-2 (-7.5)

Tons of pressure on the Colts here, especially after they pulled the plug in Week 16 and allowed the Jets to get into the playoffs. If Indy loses this game, they’ll be ridiculed. The Colts just shut down Baltimore’s running game, so the same will happen here, right? Dr. Sports isn’t so sure about that. Unlike the Ravens, the Jets are more of a power-rushing team; they slam it down the opposition’s throat, as opposed to Baltimore, whose star runner relies on speed and elusiveness.

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

The Coach: Colts to win and cover.

2. Minnesota Vikings 13-4 at 1. New Orleans Saints 14-3 (-3.5)

Both the Saints and Vikings were able to win convincingly this past weekend because of the crowd noise. When a team is good and the fans are loud, the dome provides such a huge advantage. Kurt Warner and Tony Romo were completely flustered, combining for seven sacks and four fumbles. We just can’t bet against Father Time. This season is his.

Dr. Sports: Vikings to win.

The Coach: Vikings to win.

The Doc is 168-96 this season and 140-124 against the spread. The Coach is 165-99 straight up and 141-123 against the spread.

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