JACKSONVILLE (44.5) TENNESSEE (-3.5)
We have two second division teams that play in probably the weakest division in the NFL. However, believe it or not, this is a big divisional game, for both teams. Tennessee’s record 3-4, Jacksonville’s record 2-4. The Texans lead the division with a record of 4-3. The only way these teams of having a chance for the playoffs, is to win their division outright. Tennessee’s QB Mariota, didn’t show up last week versus the lowly Colts. The Colts have one of the worst NFL defenses, and Mariota was inconsistent the entire game, in which they lost. Now they face a Jaguar team that has a better defense, which has a decent secondary, However, Jacksonville on offense is suspect. QB Bortles, is inconsistent, and makes to many wrong decisions, and can turn over the football in critical situations. The Jags running game is nonexistent, and the Titans have a stout front seven defending the rush. Besides Titan QB Mariota being inconsistent, their secondary gets beat like a drum every game. The question is, can the inept Bortles, take advantage of this mismatch, without losing the game? Tennessee, doesn’t have playmakers at wide receiver. Their passing game is focused on Delanie Walker, and he is banged up, and the Titans have one of the best NFL defenses versus a Tight End. The key to a Tennessee victory, is their running game. De Marco Murray, goes against a suspect Jaguar rush defense. The Jags, lost their best player on defense that specialized stopping the run last week. So expect Tennessee, to establish a running attack, and Murray to gain 100 yards. Although the Titans have an awful secondary, they do possess a good pass rush. The key to rattling Bortles into mistakes, is constant pressure. In conclusion, after looking at the pros and cons of each team, I see a low scoring game. The Titans will keep the ball on the ground, and will emphasis time management. Keeping the ball out of Bortles hands, will make Tennessee’s secondary less vulnerable. Mariota is the better QB in this spot. However, laying -3.5 points as a favorite is tough. PREDICTED SCORE: TENNESSEE 21 JACKSONVILLE 17, TAKE TENNESSEE -3.5, AND PLAY THE UNDER 44.5.
CINCINNATI (46.5) WASHINGTON (+3)
Back to London, and we don’t know what the physical toll will have on the players, after a long trip across the pond. The biggest uncertainty, is the status of CB Josh Norman’s concussion protocol. If Norman gets the okay to play, I love Washington all the way. Without Norman, this game can be a struggle for the Skins. I expect both teams to run the football often, and take advantage of their suspect rush defenses. Washington gets Jordan Reed back, which is a plus. I have a couple of reasons why you should pick Washington to win this game. First, the Redskins have a solid pass rush that can pressure Dalton in the pocket. Secondly, Washington Head Coach Gruden, was once Dalton’s Offensive Coordinator in Cincinnati, and knows all of his tendencies. Just keep an eye on Josh Norman’s status. PREDICTED SCORE: WASHINGTON 23 CINCINNATI 21, TAKE WASHINGTON +3, AND PLAY UNDER 46.5.
DETROIT (44.5) HOUSTON (-2.5)
The Detroit Lions, is a team of walking wounded. They lost another top starter last week, and injury list keeps growing. Houston, comes off an embarrassing loss to Denver, to a National audience, and I expect the Texans to rebound this game. QB Osweiler, has played terrible this season. However, the injury riddled Lion’s defense and secondary, should help Osweiler’s passing woes. In addition, RB Lamar Miller should have no problem gaining rushing yardage. The only way to beat Houston, is to run the football. Problem is that Detroit doesn’t possess a running game. So as solid, and how great QB Stafford has been in 2016, Houston will be pass rushing, and blitzing. Houston’s concern is their injured secondary, and the only way to protect it, is to put constant pressure on the QB. Lastly, the Houston Texans, play their best football at home. This game is one of my best plays this week. PREDICTED SCORE: HOUSTON 27 DETROIT 23. TAKE HOUSTON -2.5, TAKE OVER 44.5.
SEATTLE (47.5) NEW ORLEANS (+3)
Believe it or not, I may be calling for an upset in this game. Let me first list the reasons why Seattle may falter in this contest. QB Wilson, I watched last week, and he lost all of his mobility. Wilson’s mobility, is the key to his success at quarterback. Wilson, has probably one of the worst NFL Offensive lines to protect him, in addition, since Marshawn Lynch retired, the Seahawk running game, is nowhere to be found. Next, the status of Chandler not on defense is a big factor in coverage versus a QB like Drew Brees. Lastly, Seattle just came off a rock’em, sock’em physical game against the Cardinals last week. The fatigue, and the travel, can take its toll. Here is why the Saints can hang with the Hawks. QB Drew Brees, at home, can overcome Seattle excellent secondary, especially if Chandler is out. Secondly, New Orleans, has a great pass rush, and win in the trenches against Seattle’s awful offensive line, that can’t pass protect. Don’t get me wrong, the New Orleans secondary is terrible, and Wilson should get his scoring shots in the game. I envision a high scoring game, where Brees outlast Wilson, and simply out scores him. PREDICTED SCORE NEW ORLEANS 31 SEATTLE 30, TAKE NEW ORLEANS +3, AND PLAY OVER 47.5.
NEW ENGLAND (47.5) BUFFALO (+6)
There are two things you should immediately look at, since Buffalo defeated the Patriots in a blowout 16-0. First, the Patriots were without Tom Brady, and their third string QB played the game with a broken hand, Secondly, the Bills’ running back performance of Shady McCoy, made the difference. So expect Brady, and Belichick to revenge that loss. We can thank Head Coach Rex Ryan, for playing a already hobbled McCoy in Miami last week. The result, further damage to his hamstring, and he will be out for this game. Buffalo’s offense is Shady McCoy, and that is why the Bills were winning. So Buffalo will have to rely on their secondary, and pass rush, to keep them in this game. Problem is, that New England loves to spread the ball all over the field, and this will create a tough task for Buffalo to defend. Buffalo’s weakness on defense this season, has been their inability to stop the run. I expect RB Blount to have a huge game, and help open the passing lanes for Brady. Overall, the Pats are playing good football. Keep this trend in mind. Belichick, in season revenge games is 10 – 0 against the spread, winning by an average margin of 14 to 34 points. This is an excellent play. PREDICTED SCORE: NEW ENGLAND 27 BUFFALO 17, TAKE NEW ENGLAND -6, PLAY THE UNDER 47.5.
OAKLAND (49.5) TAMPA BAY (-1)
Right off, Oakland is the better team. When I look at these matchups, immediately, the Raider playmakers at wide receiver, goes up against a horrid Tampa Bay secondary. So expect Oakland to pass, pass, and pass the ball again. Oakland has an excellent offensive line, and Tampa Bay’s only defense, will be to blitz, and pressure QB Carr. So it looks like the Raiders own that matchup too. As for Oakland’s defense. Their secondary was one of the NFL’s worst. However, they have shown signs of improvement, and get better each week. This will not help Tampa Bay’s QB Winston, that has played inconsistent the entire season, and his passing numbers have suffered. The only alternative for Tampa Bay on offense, is to run the football at the Raiders weak front seven with Jacquizz Rodgers. I expect a high scoring game. I like Oakland in this spot. PREDICTED SCORE: OAKLAND 30 TAMPA BAY 28, TAKE OAKLAND +1, AND PLAY THE OVER 49.5.
KANSAS CITY (50.0) INDIANAPOLIS (+2.5)
Quarterback Andrew Luck, is the whole team. This is a bad Colt football team, which lives off the arm of Andrew Luck. The best way to put this, is if the Colts didn’t have Andrew luck, they would become the Cleveland Browns. Okay, given, Indianapolis has an awful offensive line, and Kansas City has an effective pass rush. So Luck can expect to be under fire. Last week, when KC played Drew Brees, they held the Saint offense to 21 points. Brees is a better QB than Luck, however, Luck is still in that elite class of QB’s. Luck hasn’t any playmakers on offense, cannot run on KC’s front seven. I see KC, playing a conservative game, by running the football constantly, and keeping the football out of Luck’s hands. This was the time management approach, the Chiefs utilized against the Saints last week, and it worked. If KC could beat New Orleans by 6 last week, they should surely do the same against the Colts. PREDICTED SCORE: KANSAS CITY 27 INDIANAPOLIS 21, TAKE KANSAS CITY -2.5, PLAY THE UNDER 50.0.
ARIZONA (48.0) CAROLINA (-2.5)
I keep checking the line, and I am trying to understand why the Panthers are favorites. Yes, Arizona, has come off a physical, and exhausting game against Seattle, However, that reason alone, can’t be the reason why they are favorites. Let me break this game down. Carson Palmer at this point, is better than Newton. Both QB’s are in a slump, and neither player has lived up to their 2015 expectations. Newton, has had two weeks rest, coming off that concussion, so he is good to go. Newton, does have the advantage with his mobility, and he will needs his legs, to escape the clutches of the Cardinal pass rush. Simply put, Carolina’s offensive line, cannot pass block, or protect their QB. If Newton does have time to throw, he has the playmakers on the outside to do so. As for Arizona, although Palmer has been a shell of himself, look for him to rebound exploiting the Panther’s awful secondary trying to cover Fitzgerald. Also look for RB David Johnson, to run for big yardage. I am going to side with the Cards in this game. My thinking is that, the Arizona Cardinals lost the NFC Championship game to Carolina last season 49 -15. Carolina doesn’t have the same invincible team, and Arizona is looking for revenge. PREDICTED SCORE: ARIZONA 27 CAROLINA 20, TAKE ARIZONA +2.5, PLAY UNDER 48.0.
SAN DIEGO (44.5) DENVER (-6)
I see another possible upset on the horizon. San Diego’s QB Rivers, is having a Hall Of Fame season. Through adversity, losing most of his playmakers to injury during the season, Rivers has the will to win. So this break down looks like this. By far, the better QB is Rivers, over Siemian. Siemian, lacks the offensive punch, and Denver’s defense makes up the difference. Although Denver has excellent cornerbacks, their weakness is exposed when covering the opposing team’s Tight Ends. So look for Rivers, to hook up often with Antonio Gates. In addition RB Melvin Gordon, ran for 94 yards in their first meeting this season. The Broncos defensive line has trouble stopping the run. I expect Gordon to go over 100 yards, and set up the play action passing, for Rivers to locate his open receivers. San Diego’s defense has improved dramatically, since Joey Bosa returned to the lineup. So look for the Charger front seven, to pass rush, and press Siemian throughout the game. My power chart tells me, that both teams are about even. The other, Phillip Rivers is 9-2 against the spread at home. PREDICTED SCORE: SAN DIEGO 23 DENVER 21. TAKE SAN DIEGO +6, AND PLAY UNDER 44.5.
GREEN BAY (52.5) ATLANTA (-3)
Everyone is talking about Aaron Rodgers decline at QB. I did some research, and discovered that Rodgers only had only one 40 plus yard completion this season. Maybe if Rodgers takes a page from Brett Favre’s playbook, he would try to go deep more often. However, his receivers are limited, and I guess they don’t have a wide out with speed, they can line up outside the numbers. So the Pack is back after ten days of needed rest, to reorganize. One thing is for sure, Atlanta doesn’t have a steady pass rush, and that will give Rodgers that extra time to find the open man. The other thing, go back two weeks ago, when GB played Dallas with Virtually no running back. Just a couple of days before that game, the newly signed running back, wasn’t prepared. Now, RB Ty Montgomery, had time to study his playbook, and should know enough to be effective on the field. Atlanta’s QB Ryan, should have a good game, going up against a weak GB secondary, with Julio Jones. The Falcons have excellent pass protection, and GB has trouble rushing the passer. Green Bay’s front seven, is good enough to take Atlanta’s running backs out of the equation. My question is, will Atlanta be focused, with their next contest only four days away, versus their divisional foes, Tampa Bay? This game could go either way. On one hand I can see Atlanta winning by 3, and the game becomes a push. I will gamble, and take the points. Love the idea, that GB had ten days to prepare for this game. PREDICTED SCORE: GREEN BAY 28 ATLANTA 27, TAKE GREEN BAY +3, AND PLAY OVER 52.5.
NEW YORK JETS (43.0) CLEVELAND (+5)
I waited as long as I could before posting. The reason, who will be the starting QB for the Browns? We know Kessler is out, McCown is still nursing his injuries, and Kevin Hogan, is the third string QB. Last that I heard, the Browns will try to activate McCown. However, I will proceed with the notion, that Hogan will be the starting signal caller. Hogan is a terrible quarterback, and all he can do is throw to short passing routes. He is a runner and nothing else. Kind of reminds me of the Patriots situation weeks ago, when they suited up their third string QB Brissett, when they were shut out by Buffalo 16-0. So I expect no more, or less if Hogan starts. The only way to beat the Jets, is attacking their weak secondary, and Hogan doesn’t have the arm to do so. Cleveland’s situation will improve, if McCown will be named the starter. Regardless, picture the Browns as a running team now, with no fire power. The problem the Browns will face, is the Jet front seven, is excellent verses the run on defense. The NY Jets Avenue to win this game, rest on the arm of QB Fitzpatrick. Can he come in and attack Cleveland’s suspect secondary? Or, will he revert back to his old ways, before he was benched? However, look for the Jets to take a conservative approach, knowing that RB Forte can beat Cleveland’s terrible defensive line on the ground. This game has low scoring, written all over it. PREDICTED SCORE: NEW YORK 17 CLEVELAND 10. TAKE NEW YORK JETS -5, AND PLAY UNDER 43.0.
PHILADELPHIA (43.5) DALLAS (-4.5)
Dallas comes off their bye week, and Dez Bryant returns to the starting lineup. Dallas’s offensive line, is rated the best in the NFL. Another reason why rookie QB Prescott, has enjoyed much success. Also benefiting from their offensive line is RB Elliott. So with this combination in mind, Dallas will attack Philadelphia’s weak secondary, and RB Elliott will be able to exploit the Eagles injured run defense. In Philadelphia, it looks like the wheels are falling off the cart for their rookie QB. Wentz, is starting to make those rookie mistakes, and teams now have a book on him. Thus far, the Eagle defense has bailed him out. The Philly offensive line is banged up, and Wentz will not be afforded much in the pocket. Dallas’s front seven, is stout verses the run. I don’t like either side, with this point spread. Dallas slightly has the better team, however, this is a divisional game. PREDICTED SCORE: DALLAS 27 PHILADELPHIA 21, TAKE DALLAS -4.5, PLAY OVER 43.5.
MINNESOTA (40.5) CHICAGO (+5.5)
Sound the trumpets, Jay Cutler is returning as the Bears starting QB. I don’t know if that is a good thing. Jay Cutler, is still wondering the same thing. Anyhow, Jay comes back only to face the best defense in the NFL. Jay, better strap on a pair of running shoes, when Minnesota’s front seven, meets the worst NFL blocking offensive line. Minnesota’s offensive line, is nothing to brag about, since Bradford is constantly under pressure, and has been sacked 14 times this season. So expect Minnesota, to go back to the basics, with a conservative game plan, and run the football. They would certainly get an offensive boost if Diggs returns. I think the line is too high. However, Minnesota’s awful performance last week against Philadelphia, will motivate them even more on Monday Night. This will be a low scoring affair. PREDICTED SCORE: MINNESOTA 17 Chicago 10, TAKE MINNESOTA -5.5, AND PLAY UNDER 40.5.
We have two second division teams that play in probably the weakest division in the NFL. However, believe it or not, this is a big divisional game, for both teams. Tennessee’s record 3-4, Jacksonville’s record 2-4. The Texans lead the division with a record of 4-3. The only way these teams of having a chance for the playoffs, is to win their division outright. Tennessee’s QB Mariota, didn’t show up last week versus the lowly Colts. The Colts have one of the worst NFL defenses, and Mariota was inconsistent the entire game, in which they lost. Now they face a Jaguar team that has a better defense, which has a decent secondary, However, Jacksonville on offense is suspect. QB Bortles, is inconsistent, and makes to many wrong decisions, and can turn over the football in critical situations. The Jags running game is nonexistent, and the Titans have a stout front seven defending the rush. Besides Titan QB Mariota being inconsistent, their secondary gets beat like a drum every game. The question is, can the inept Bortles, take advantage of this mismatch, without losing the game? Tennessee, doesn’t have playmakers at wide receiver. Their passing game is focused on Delanie Walker, and he is banged up, and the Titans have one of the best NFL defenses versus a Tight End. The key to a Tennessee victory, is their running game. De Marco Murray, goes against a suspect Jaguar rush defense. The Jags, lost their best player on defense that specialized stopping the run last week. So expect Tennessee, to establish a running attack, and Murray to gain 100 yards. Although the Titans have an awful secondary, they do possess a good pass rush. The key to rattling Bortles into mistakes, is constant pressure. In conclusion, after looking at the pros and cons of each team, I see a low scoring game. The Titans will keep the ball on the ground, and will emphasis time management. Keeping the ball out of Bortles hands, will make Tennessee’s secondary less vulnerable. Mariota is the better QB in this spot. However, laying -3.5 points as a favorite is tough. PREDICTED SCORE: TENNESSEE 21 JACKSONVILLE 17, TAKE TENNESSEE -3.5, AND PLAY THE UNDER 44.5.
CINCINNATI (46.5) WASHINGTON (+3)
Back to London, and we don’t know what the physical toll will have on the players, after a long trip across the pond. The biggest uncertainty, is the status of CB Josh Norman’s concussion protocol. If Norman gets the okay to play, I love Washington all the way. Without Norman, this game can be a struggle for the Skins. I expect both teams to run the football often, and take advantage of their suspect rush defenses. Washington gets Jordan Reed back, which is a plus. I have a couple of reasons why you should pick Washington to win this game. First, the Redskins have a solid pass rush that can pressure Dalton in the pocket. Secondly, Washington Head Coach Gruden, was once Dalton’s Offensive Coordinator in Cincinnati, and knows all of his tendencies. Just keep an eye on Josh Norman’s status. PREDICTED SCORE: WASHINGTON 23 CINCINNATI 21, TAKE WASHINGTON +3, AND PLAY UNDER 46.5.
DETROIT (44.5) HOUSTON (-2.5)
The Detroit Lions, is a team of walking wounded. They lost another top starter last week, and injury list keeps growing. Houston, comes off an embarrassing loss to Denver, to a National audience, and I expect the Texans to rebound this game. QB Osweiler, has played terrible this season. However, the injury riddled Lion’s defense and secondary, should help Osweiler’s passing woes. In addition, RB Lamar Miller should have no problem gaining rushing yardage. The only way to beat Houston, is to run the football. Problem is that Detroit doesn’t possess a running game. So as solid, and how great QB Stafford has been in 2016, Houston will be pass rushing, and blitzing. Houston’s concern is their injured secondary, and the only way to protect it, is to put constant pressure on the QB. Lastly, the Houston Texans, play their best football at home. This game is one of my best plays this week. PREDICTED SCORE: HOUSTON 27 DETROIT 23. TAKE HOUSTON -2.5, TAKE OVER 44.5.
SEATTLE (47.5) NEW ORLEANS (+3)
Believe it or not, I may be calling for an upset in this game. Let me first list the reasons why Seattle may falter in this contest. QB Wilson, I watched last week, and he lost all of his mobility. Wilson’s mobility, is the key to his success at quarterback. Wilson, has probably one of the worst NFL Offensive lines to protect him, in addition, since Marshawn Lynch retired, the Seahawk running game, is nowhere to be found. Next, the status of Chandler not on defense is a big factor in coverage versus a QB like Drew Brees. Lastly, Seattle just came off a rock’em, sock’em physical game against the Cardinals last week. The fatigue, and the travel, can take its toll. Here is why the Saints can hang with the Hawks. QB Drew Brees, at home, can overcome Seattle excellent secondary, especially if Chandler is out. Secondly, New Orleans, has a great pass rush, and win in the trenches against Seattle’s awful offensive line, that can’t pass protect. Don’t get me wrong, the New Orleans secondary is terrible, and Wilson should get his scoring shots in the game. I envision a high scoring game, where Brees outlast Wilson, and simply out scores him. PREDICTED SCORE NEW ORLEANS 31 SEATTLE 30, TAKE NEW ORLEANS +3, AND PLAY OVER 47.5.
NEW ENGLAND (47.5) BUFFALO (+6)
There are two things you should immediately look at, since Buffalo defeated the Patriots in a blowout 16-0. First, the Patriots were without Tom Brady, and their third string QB played the game with a broken hand, Secondly, the Bills’ running back performance of Shady McCoy, made the difference. So expect Brady, and Belichick to revenge that loss. We can thank Head Coach Rex Ryan, for playing a already hobbled McCoy in Miami last week. The result, further damage to his hamstring, and he will be out for this game. Buffalo’s offense is Shady McCoy, and that is why the Bills were winning. So Buffalo will have to rely on their secondary, and pass rush, to keep them in this game. Problem is, that New England loves to spread the ball all over the field, and this will create a tough task for Buffalo to defend. Buffalo’s weakness on defense this season, has been their inability to stop the run. I expect RB Blount to have a huge game, and help open the passing lanes for Brady. Overall, the Pats are playing good football. Keep this trend in mind. Belichick, in season revenge games is 10 – 0 against the spread, winning by an average margin of 14 to 34 points. This is an excellent play. PREDICTED SCORE: NEW ENGLAND 27 BUFFALO 17, TAKE NEW ENGLAND -6, PLAY THE UNDER 47.5.
OAKLAND (49.5) TAMPA BAY (-1)
Right off, Oakland is the better team. When I look at these matchups, immediately, the Raider playmakers at wide receiver, goes up against a horrid Tampa Bay secondary. So expect Oakland to pass, pass, and pass the ball again. Oakland has an excellent offensive line, and Tampa Bay’s only defense, will be to blitz, and pressure QB Carr. So it looks like the Raiders own that matchup too. As for Oakland’s defense. Their secondary was one of the NFL’s worst. However, they have shown signs of improvement, and get better each week. This will not help Tampa Bay’s QB Winston, that has played inconsistent the entire season, and his passing numbers have suffered. The only alternative for Tampa Bay on offense, is to run the football at the Raiders weak front seven with Jacquizz Rodgers. I expect a high scoring game. I like Oakland in this spot. PREDICTED SCORE: OAKLAND 30 TAMPA BAY 28, TAKE OAKLAND +1, AND PLAY THE OVER 49.5.
KANSAS CITY (50.0) INDIANAPOLIS (+2.5)
Quarterback Andrew Luck, is the whole team. This is a bad Colt football team, which lives off the arm of Andrew Luck. The best way to put this, is if the Colts didn’t have Andrew luck, they would become the Cleveland Browns. Okay, given, Indianapolis has an awful offensive line, and Kansas City has an effective pass rush. So Luck can expect to be under fire. Last week, when KC played Drew Brees, they held the Saint offense to 21 points. Brees is a better QB than Luck, however, Luck is still in that elite class of QB’s. Luck hasn’t any playmakers on offense, cannot run on KC’s front seven. I see KC, playing a conservative game, by running the football constantly, and keeping the football out of Luck’s hands. This was the time management approach, the Chiefs utilized against the Saints last week, and it worked. If KC could beat New Orleans by 6 last week, they should surely do the same against the Colts. PREDICTED SCORE: KANSAS CITY 27 INDIANAPOLIS 21, TAKE KANSAS CITY -2.5, PLAY THE UNDER 50.0.
ARIZONA (48.0) CAROLINA (-2.5)
I keep checking the line, and I am trying to understand why the Panthers are favorites. Yes, Arizona, has come off a physical, and exhausting game against Seattle, However, that reason alone, can’t be the reason why they are favorites. Let me break this game down. Carson Palmer at this point, is better than Newton. Both QB’s are in a slump, and neither player has lived up to their 2015 expectations. Newton, has had two weeks rest, coming off that concussion, so he is good to go. Newton, does have the advantage with his mobility, and he will needs his legs, to escape the clutches of the Cardinal pass rush. Simply put, Carolina’s offensive line, cannot pass block, or protect their QB. If Newton does have time to throw, he has the playmakers on the outside to do so. As for Arizona, although Palmer has been a shell of himself, look for him to rebound exploiting the Panther’s awful secondary trying to cover Fitzgerald. Also look for RB David Johnson, to run for big yardage. I am going to side with the Cards in this game. My thinking is that, the Arizona Cardinals lost the NFC Championship game to Carolina last season 49 -15. Carolina doesn’t have the same invincible team, and Arizona is looking for revenge. PREDICTED SCORE: ARIZONA 27 CAROLINA 20, TAKE ARIZONA +2.5, PLAY UNDER 48.0.
SAN DIEGO (44.5) DENVER (-6)
I see another possible upset on the horizon. San Diego’s QB Rivers, is having a Hall Of Fame season. Through adversity, losing most of his playmakers to injury during the season, Rivers has the will to win. So this break down looks like this. By far, the better QB is Rivers, over Siemian. Siemian, lacks the offensive punch, and Denver’s defense makes up the difference. Although Denver has excellent cornerbacks, their weakness is exposed when covering the opposing team’s Tight Ends. So look for Rivers, to hook up often with Antonio Gates. In addition RB Melvin Gordon, ran for 94 yards in their first meeting this season. The Broncos defensive line has trouble stopping the run. I expect Gordon to go over 100 yards, and set up the play action passing, for Rivers to locate his open receivers. San Diego’s defense has improved dramatically, since Joey Bosa returned to the lineup. So look for the Charger front seven, to pass rush, and press Siemian throughout the game. My power chart tells me, that both teams are about even. The other, Phillip Rivers is 9-2 against the spread at home. PREDICTED SCORE: SAN DIEGO 23 DENVER 21. TAKE SAN DIEGO +6, AND PLAY UNDER 44.5.
GREEN BAY (52.5) ATLANTA (-3)
Everyone is talking about Aaron Rodgers decline at QB. I did some research, and discovered that Rodgers only had only one 40 plus yard completion this season. Maybe if Rodgers takes a page from Brett Favre’s playbook, he would try to go deep more often. However, his receivers are limited, and I guess they don’t have a wide out with speed, they can line up outside the numbers. So the Pack is back after ten days of needed rest, to reorganize. One thing is for sure, Atlanta doesn’t have a steady pass rush, and that will give Rodgers that extra time to find the open man. The other thing, go back two weeks ago, when GB played Dallas with Virtually no running back. Just a couple of days before that game, the newly signed running back, wasn’t prepared. Now, RB Ty Montgomery, had time to study his playbook, and should know enough to be effective on the field. Atlanta’s QB Ryan, should have a good game, going up against a weak GB secondary, with Julio Jones. The Falcons have excellent pass protection, and GB has trouble rushing the passer. Green Bay’s front seven, is good enough to take Atlanta’s running backs out of the equation. My question is, will Atlanta be focused, with their next contest only four days away, versus their divisional foes, Tampa Bay? This game could go either way. On one hand I can see Atlanta winning by 3, and the game becomes a push. I will gamble, and take the points. Love the idea, that GB had ten days to prepare for this game. PREDICTED SCORE: GREEN BAY 28 ATLANTA 27, TAKE GREEN BAY +3, AND PLAY OVER 52.5.
NEW YORK JETS (43.0) CLEVELAND (+5)
I waited as long as I could before posting. The reason, who will be the starting QB for the Browns? We know Kessler is out, McCown is still nursing his injuries, and Kevin Hogan, is the third string QB. Last that I heard, the Browns will try to activate McCown. However, I will proceed with the notion, that Hogan will be the starting signal caller. Hogan is a terrible quarterback, and all he can do is throw to short passing routes. He is a runner and nothing else. Kind of reminds me of the Patriots situation weeks ago, when they suited up their third string QB Brissett, when they were shut out by Buffalo 16-0. So I expect no more, or less if Hogan starts. The only way to beat the Jets, is attacking their weak secondary, and Hogan doesn’t have the arm to do so. Cleveland’s situation will improve, if McCown will be named the starter. Regardless, picture the Browns as a running team now, with no fire power. The problem the Browns will face, is the Jet front seven, is excellent verses the run on defense. The NY Jets Avenue to win this game, rest on the arm of QB Fitzpatrick. Can he come in and attack Cleveland’s suspect secondary? Or, will he revert back to his old ways, before he was benched? However, look for the Jets to take a conservative approach, knowing that RB Forte can beat Cleveland’s terrible defensive line on the ground. This game has low scoring, written all over it. PREDICTED SCORE: NEW YORK 17 CLEVELAND 10. TAKE NEW YORK JETS -5, AND PLAY UNDER 43.0.
PHILADELPHIA (43.5) DALLAS (-4.5)
Dallas comes off their bye week, and Dez Bryant returns to the starting lineup. Dallas’s offensive line, is rated the best in the NFL. Another reason why rookie QB Prescott, has enjoyed much success. Also benefiting from their offensive line is RB Elliott. So with this combination in mind, Dallas will attack Philadelphia’s weak secondary, and RB Elliott will be able to exploit the Eagles injured run defense. In Philadelphia, it looks like the wheels are falling off the cart for their rookie QB. Wentz, is starting to make those rookie mistakes, and teams now have a book on him. Thus far, the Eagle defense has bailed him out. The Philly offensive line is banged up, and Wentz will not be afforded much in the pocket. Dallas’s front seven, is stout verses the run. I don’t like either side, with this point spread. Dallas slightly has the better team, however, this is a divisional game. PREDICTED SCORE: DALLAS 27 PHILADELPHIA 21, TAKE DALLAS -4.5, PLAY OVER 43.5.
MINNESOTA (40.5) CHICAGO (+5.5)
Sound the trumpets, Jay Cutler is returning as the Bears starting QB. I don’t know if that is a good thing. Jay Cutler, is still wondering the same thing. Anyhow, Jay comes back only to face the best defense in the NFL. Jay, better strap on a pair of running shoes, when Minnesota’s front seven, meets the worst NFL blocking offensive line. Minnesota’s offensive line, is nothing to brag about, since Bradford is constantly under pressure, and has been sacked 14 times this season. So expect Minnesota, to go back to the basics, with a conservative game plan, and run the football. They would certainly get an offensive boost if Diggs returns. I think the line is too high. However, Minnesota’s awful performance last week against Philadelphia, will motivate them even more on Monday Night. This will be a low scoring affair. PREDICTED SCORE: MINNESOTA 17 Chicago 10, TAKE MINNESOTA -5.5, AND PLAY UNDER 40.5.
