2017 NFL PICKS, AND SELECTIONS, WEEK #1
KANSAS CITY (47.5) @ NEW ENGLAND (-8)
KC is loaded with talent, offensively, and defensively. However, during the preseason, they lost their top running back Spencer Ware for the season. His replacement, Kareem Hunt, is almost as talented, and KC shouldn’t miss a beat on offense rushing the football. Bill Belichick, will scheme a defensive game plan, to take away KC’s other offensive weapons.TE Travis Kelce, and WR Tyreek Hill. New England has an excellent secondary, and should basically shut down the Chiefs aerial attack with QB Alex Smith. KC has a top defensive team, last season, they were #1 in forcing turnovers. New England, opens the NFL season at Gillette Stadium, and have an outstanding record at home. The number one thing the Patriots have to be concerned about, is the offensive line, providing pass protection. Offensively, as for their running game, that remains unpredictable. The Pats don’t rely on a single RB, and Belichick prefers to rush the football by a three headed committee. TE Gronkowski, entered the preseason in good health, and in excellent physical shape. So he will be a hand full for the KC defense, as well as the entire NFL, if he stays healthy. As for receiver, they lost Edelman for the season. However, they have a plug in and play slot receiver, Chris Hogan that can pick up most of the slack. The Pats also upgraded, by trading for vertical threat Brandin Cooks. This is the best deep speed receiver, since Randy Moss was a Patriot. The Chiefs are a good team, and should be playoff bound. New England is better, and should win this game. Las Vegas set the line at +8 KC, I predicted NE winning by 9 points. The spread is too close to call. Predicted Score: NE 29 KC 20. NE -8, Over 47.5.
NEW YORK JETS (40 ½) @ BUFFALO (-9 ½)
LOL. The Wise guys made the Bills, a -9 ½ favorite?. When was the last time Buffalo, was almost a double digit favorite?. To start with, the Jets don’t have a true starting QB, and are probably the worst talented at that position, in the NFL . They have no playmakers at wide receiver, and No versatile TE’s. They do have a running attack, led by Powell, and Forte (Forte, rumored to be traded) .Between them, they should get over 20 carries, and expect Buffalo to play eight men in the box on defense. Although the Jets might have the worst offense in the NFL, defensively, the Jets secondary will be beaten like a drum. As for Buffalo, they are in the middle of their rebuilding stage. They made many moves in the off season, and during training camp. Offensively, they have RB Shady McCoy, a top five NFL runner. Their receiver depth is loaded with Vets, regardless of the Sammy Watkins trade. The Watkins trade, enabled the Bills to upgrade their poor secondary, by obtaining EJ Gaines. What I did notice, that Buffalo had a poor preseason, and there were rumblings that starting Bill QB Tyrod Taylor, wasn’t happy. Buffalo may have more talent wise by comparison to the Jets. However, with a poor training camp, and team chemistry, are the Bills capable to covering the spread? Predicted Score: BUFFALO 21 NYJ 13. NYJ +9 ½, UNDER 40 ½.
ATLANTA (50 ½) @ CHICAGO (+7)
I expect Atlanta, to shake off their Super Bowl hangover, and take care of business in Chicago to open the season. Although the Bears had a good preseason, this doesn’t measure up in the regular season. Atlanta QB Ryan, should be able to pass on the Bears suspect secondary. They have the NFL’s best receiver, Julio Jones, and should have a huge game. Atlanta will have to rely on their passing game, since RB Devonta Freeman, goes up against a solid front seven defense. Atlanta’s defense is above average, but lacks a pass rush. Chicago has Jordan Howard at RB. It looks like he matches up against the Falcon front seven, and should have success. At the receiver position, the Bears suffered a big blow in the preseason, losing their top WR to I/R for the year. The receiver corps has is basically new, lack experience, and familiarity with each other. That combination of receivers, with Mike Glennon at the Helm, may slow their offense. Predicted Score: ATLANTA 34 CHICAGO 20. ATL -7, OVER 50 ½.
JACKSONVILLE (40.0) @ HOUSTON (-5)
First, my prayers are with you Houston. This is a tough game to call. Hurricane Harvey may have put a dent into the Texans practice schedule, and may have interfered with their game preparation. Fortunately, the Jags named Bortles their starting QB for this game. The Texans also have controversies of their own, so offensively, it kind of cancels each other out. The other comparison. The Jags strengthened their defense, and now have a talented unit. The Texans, have an elite NFL defense. That ranks in the top five. The QB situation in Houston, has affected the passing game for the worst, and they are going against a good jag defense. The same can be said with the Jags passing game. WR Allen Robinson, may be their only talented pass catcher, however, hooking up with Bortles, will be tough this week. That leaves us with the running game. I match both sides running the football equally with Fournette, and Lamar Miller. Both have tough matchups, against solid front sevens. However, Jacksonville looked awful stopping the rush in the preseason. This is going to be a low scoring game. Since Jacksonville has had trouble stopping the run, I will give the edge to the Texans. The other factor, how the people of Houston will rally around their football team, and become a 12[SUP]th[/SUP] man. Predicted Score: HOUSTON 19 JACKSONVILLE 17. JACKSONVILLE +5, UNDER 40
PHILADELPHIA (47 ½) @WASHINGTON (+1)
The Eagles have improved offensively, with Wentz, Jeffery, and Torrey Smith, but have shown no improvement defensive during the off season. Philly did recently trade for cornerback Ronald Darby from Buffalo, and only time will tell if this move will help them. I expect Wentz to come on strong his sophomore season, with the offensive weapons he was provided with. In the passing game, lock down Washington cornerback Josh Norman, will be in coverage with the Eagles best receiver. This leaves TE Ertz, open, to have a big game. As for the Philly running game, LeGarrette Blount has had a poor preseason, and we won’t know if this will affect the start of their regular season. Washington, failed to sign their QB Cousins, to a long term contract, and the distraction continues into the regular season. We will see on opening night, when Cousins goes up against an improved, but suspect secondary. His main target will be Jamison Crowder, followed by TE Jordan Reed that should have a good game. On defense, the Redskins field a new 3-4 defensive scheme, and lost their best pass rusher for the season with a torn ACL.Washington’s secondary does have good corners, and safeties. The new front seven, has yet to be tested. After judging both team’s preseasons, Washington, has the edge, and had a better camp. I caution anyone jumping on the Eagle bandwagon. Last season, they were swept by the Redskins, and have lost five in a row to them. Predicted Score: PHILADEPHIA 28 WASHINGTON 27. PHI -1, OVER 47 ½.
ARIZONA (48.0) @ DETROIT (+1 ½)
The 2016 Cardinals, didn’t live up to their expectations, and were looked upon by many to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. Instead we witnessed a QB Carson Palmer have his worst season of his career, they committed to many turnovers, inept special teams play, and a head coach suffering with health problems. The Cardinals survived on their tenacious defense, and recorded 48 sacks, 28 takeaways, and allowed the second fewest yards in the NFL. The other factor, was the play of RB David Johnson, who ranks as one of the top three running backs, in the league. It should be noted that Arizona’s defense may drop a notch, because they lost a bunch of players on that side of the football during the off season. They say, that Palmer has looked better this preseason, and he may have his health problems behind him. Palmer has the pro bowl receiver Larry Fitzgerald, to a suspect lion secondary. The Detroit Lions, just came off a successful NFL season. The lions have talented players on the offensive side of the ball. The only thing they haven’t produced is a consistent running back. Their defense needs help, and the front office in the off season, went and tried to improve it.QB Matthew Stafford, will have a difficult time this game, avoiding the fierce Cardinal pass rush. The lions hope that their best running back Ameer Abdullah can stay healthy all season. He has the ability, but can’t stay on the field. At wide receiver, Golden Tate is the man, but will have a tough match up against Cardinal CB Patrick Peterson. Predicted Score: ARIZONA 26 DETROIT 21. ARIZONA -1 ½, UNDER 48.
OAKLAND (50 ½) @ TENNESSEE (-2)
A tough game for the season opener for both teams. They are both improved, and almost equal. Oakland QB Carr, will face a Titan secondary that was upgraded in the off season. We don’t know how much the Titans secondary improved yet, so with that said, Carr should have a decent game. The reason, is the Raiders have two top playmakers at wide receiver, Cooper, and Crabtree. Marshawn Lynch, Faces a good Tennessee front seven, with an excellent offensive line to block for him. He will have difficulty gaining at least 100 yards. Tennessee, enters the season with high expectations. QB Marcus Mariota, should have field day against the Raider Linebackers, and secondary. However, their best talented receiver is Tight End Delanie Walker, and their fire power can be limited. If anything, the Titans have the edge in the trenches. Tennessee’s offensive line is better than the Raiders front seven. Considering that Oakland, are weak at linebacker, RB De Marco Murray should run for 100 yards. This game could go either way, but I have to take the Titans at home. Predicted Score: TENNESSEE 27 OAKLAND 24. TENNESSEE -2, OVER 50 ½.
TAMPA BAY (45.0) @ MIAMI (+2 ½)
This off season, brought free agents, and trades, and high expectations to win this season. The glaring stat that opens my eyes, is the Buc’s defense last season. Their defense carried the team, by recording 29 takeaways, in their last 12 games. Tampa Bay also went 8-4 during that stretch. Their tenacious defense can carry them over into the 2017 season.QB Winston, will be able to attack Miami’s weak secondary at will. They now have the receiver corps to do it, with Mike Evans, and DeSean Jackson. Miami also has problems at linebacker, and TE Cameron Brate, should be able to get open. Miami’s strength is on defense, stopping the run. As for the Dolphins, the Tannehill season ending injury, might now be a blessing in disguise. Jay Cutler is the better quarterback, and he reunites with his coach from his playing days in Chicago. Looks like Cutler will rely on WR De Vante Parker, to catch the football. The other receiver, Jarvis Landry should get his share of passes. We will see what chemistry develops, as the season moves on. The Dolphin top weapon on offense is Jay Ajayi. He has looked fantastic in the preseason, and we can expect big games from him. In this matchup, what immediately catches my eye is the point spread, with Miami as 2 ½ underdogs at home?. That’s a bad omen for the Dolphins, for their home season opener. Predicted Score: TAMPA BAY 24 MIAMI 20. TAMPA BAY -2 ½, UNDER 45.
BALTIMORE (42 ½) @ CINCINNATI (-3)
Both these teams didn’t look good in the preseason. The Bengals played better by comparison to Baltimore, during their exhibition games. Other than that, both squads rank about the same. With the Ravens, it all starts with Flacco, his back injuries, and lack of reps in the off season. With Flacco’s status up in the air, how effective will be his receivers, starting with Jeremy Maclin. The other wide receiver Mike Wallace, is inconsistent, and not a factor. As for the Raven running game, injuries, have forced them to go with Danny Woodhead. Woodhead, is an injury prone player, and won’t last the season as the starting RB. Baltimore defensively, has a horrid secondary. They allowed 58 TD passes in the past 32 games. They do have a decent front seven to stop the run. Moving over to the Bengals, their offensive line lost top talent in the off season. Not a good sign for QB Dalton’s pass protection in the pocket. AJ Green, will be Dalton’s go to guy. Recall, last season AJ didn’t play against the Ravens in 2016. This will be a factor this weekend in favor of Cincinnati. TE Tyler Eifert, is a top pass catching TE, and should be a factor in the slot. The Bengals RB Joe Mixon, will have trouble finding holes to run through. Baltimore’s front seven is stout. Cincinnati on defense has difficulty stopping the run, the secondary is sound. With all their loss of talent, the question remains if this team’s chemistry will gel together as a unit. The Bengals have won 6 of their last 7 games played against the Ravens. The Ravens aren’t exactly a great road team, their bread and butter is playing at home. Predicted Score: CINCINNATI 21 BALTIMORE 17. CINCINNATI -3, UNDER 42 ½.
PITTSBURGH (47.0) @ CLEVELAND (+8)
Pittsburgh is a top 5 NFL team, and Cleveland is a terrible team, but improving. Defensively, the Steelers secondary is inept, and the question is if the front office made enough moves to make them better? Cleveland, in the meantime, Cleveland now has a quality offensive line, to challenge Pittsburgh’s. However, the Browns still have a 31[SUP]st[/SUP] ranked defense to fix. So with this in mind, Roethlisberger will win this matchup, with his playmaker receivers. With the return of Le’Veon Bell, you’re looking at possibly the best running back in football today. The Browns front seven, will not be able to stop him. Although the Browns had a good preseason, they still have a long way to go. Rookie QB DeShone Kizer lacks experience. WR Coleman isn’t a big playmaker, and their best offensive player is RB Isaiah Crowell, that has a solid offensive line, to run block for him. Predicted Score: PITTSBURGH 30 CLEVELAND 16. PITTSBURGH -8, UNDER 47.
SEATTLE (50 ½) @ GREEN BAY (-3)
Two top 10 NFL teams squaring off to open the season. Seattle has a sound team, except they stood idle in the offseason, by failing to bolster their offensive line. This has been a problem for Seattle, these last few seasons, and GB’s front seven should be able to exploit them. However, before I jump the gun, QB Russell Wilson faces a terrible GB secondary. If the Packers want to pass rush to sack the QB, Wilson has the speed to escape the pocket, and extend the play. Wilson has WR Baldwin, and TE Jimmy Graham, that can easily out match the Packer secondary. The Seahawk running back situation is up in the air, and the only back I could come up with, is Thomas Rawls.As for Aaron Rodgers, he threw three TD’s against the Seahawks last season. So as good as Seattle’s defense is, Rodgers can’t be taken for granted. So considering, Rodgers still has his playmakers to pass to, Jordy Nelson, DaVante Adams, and TE Martellus Bennett. As for the Packer running game, forget it. Ty Montgomery will not be able to matriculate the football, against the superior Seattle defensive line. I see two teams that have above average QB’s, facing terrible opposing secondaries. They both should light up the scoreboard. Predicted Score: GREEN BAY 28 SEATTLE 27. SEATTLE +3, OVER 50 ½.
INDIANAPOLIS (41 ½) @ LA RAMS (-3 ½)
Immediately, let me state the obvious, Andrew Luck will not quarterback the Colts this weekend. So it will be Scott Tolzien, and Jared Goff at QB, which tells me that this may be a low scoring game. TY Hilton is useless at wide receiver without Luck. Goff likes to hook up with Cooper Kupp at the flanker position, and Sammy Watkins is the newest addition to the team, that should take some pressure off Gurley. The Rams will look to generate offense mainly with RB Todd Gurley. He looked good in camp this season, and has improved his game. The Colts will counter with RB Frank Gore. The difference is that the Rams front seven is stout. The Colts have a lousy secondary, so expect the Ram front seven, to put pressure on Tolzien the entire game. In 2016, teams didn’t fare well against the Rams in Los Angeles. The Rams defense kept their game close, even when they lost. They have a huge advantage, now with some added offense, to overtake the Colts at home. Predicted Score: LA RAMS 20 INDIANAPOLIS 13. LA RAMS -3 ½ , UNDER 41 ½ .
CAROLINA (48.0) @ SAN FRANCISCO (+5 ½)
During early preseason, I thought that by week #1, Newton would have recovered from his injury, and ready to go. Now the latest is on Cam is, he will not be 100%, and it’s a mystery how he will matriculate the ball in the air. Given, we know SF is a poor team, and this season, the new front office, is trying to return this team to respectability. Thus far, they appear to be making the right moves, however, 2017 will be a long season for those Niners. SF still has an inept secondary, a terrible offensive line, and have a below average pass rush. One improvement they did make, was bolstering their defensive front seven. SF has too many holes, and not enough talented players to fill them. As for Carolina, not knowing what Cam Newton’s status really is until game day, let’s assume he is healthy enough to return to old form. Problem is, he still has a poor offensive line, and there is no protection blocking their opponent’s defensive ends. So you can expect short passes, and running the football. SF will start their patch work QB Hoyer. Hoyer is efficient enough to run their system, and he is an upgrade from last season’s quarterbacks. SF, offense in the preseason was terrible, and they don’t look like they have the fire power, to go up against the Panther defense. Basically, they have to rely on their running game, with an offensive line that can’t open running lanes. This game should be a low scoring affair. If Can Newton was 100%, without a doubt this game would be a runaway. Instead, the outcome should be the opposite. Predicted Score: CAROLINA 20 SAN FRANCISCO 13. CAROLINA -5 ½, UNDER 48.0.
NY GIANTS (47 ½) @ DALLAS (-3 ½)
The biggest question in this game, involves two playmakers, Odell Beckham, and Ezekiel Elliott. Will they play? Their absence can change the complexion of this game. So, with that said, I will do my best to analyze this game. You need monitor, and check the status of these players, up to game time. The New York Giants , still have a suspect offensive line, that can’t pass or run block. QB Eli Manning , without his playmaker Beckham , will affect the outcome of this game. Picture this, last season, the Giants failed to score at least 20 points, in their last six games. That was with a healthy Beckham. Where will the Giants be without him in the opener? If there is no Beckham, the Giants don’t have a good enough running game to compensate for his offense. Perkins, can’t run the ball against the Cowboys front seven. Their defensive line out matches the Giant offensive line. Dallas, has more going for them in this game, even without Elliott. QB Dak Prescott, had a terrific preseason. He also has more playmakers to go to than the Giants. Dallas has the better offensive line, and New York has problems in their secondary. So without Elliott’s services, the Cowboys still have an edge. Keep in mind, that the Cowboys lost two games in the division to these Giants last season. Maybe a revenge factor at home perhaps? Predicted Score: DALLAS 23 NEW YORK GIANTS 17. DALLAS -3 ½, UNDER 47 ½.
NEW ORLEANS (48.0) @ MINNESOTA (-3 ½)
Regardless if you like the Vikings in this game, the number one reason you should be concerned about, is that Adrian Peterson returns to Minnesota, and all he has is revenge on his mind. A Saints win here is possible, even without a revenge factor. Bottom line the Vikings can’t stop the run. The Saints feature Ingram, and Peterson, to run, and catch the football. Minnesota has a decent secondary, with a pass rush, so it is that more important to establish a ground attack, instead of Drew Brees playing gun slinger. The Vikings, don’t seem to win with Bradford at QB. Just look at their record during the second half of 2016. Bradford, has no protection, because their offensive line can’t block. The Vikes will have to rely on rookie Dalvin Cook, to run the ball to get yardage. The Vikings best match up is TE Kyle Rudolph, versus the Saints linebackers. Still, the Saint Pass defense will be tested, and we will see how improved they really are, opposed to 2016. I will give the Saints a slight edge to win this game. Predicted Score: NEW ORLEANS 24 MINNESOTA 23. NEW ORLEANS +3 ½, UNDER 48.
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS (43.0) @ DENVER (-3 ½)
There are so many factors, favoring the LA Chargers to win this game. This matchup indicates that LAC statistically, is much better than Denver. The reasons, Denver’s offense is struggling, Denver’s has lost playmakers on defense, in the past few seasons. Although Denver has lockdown cornerbacks, they can’t stop the run, and they can’t cover tight ends with their linebackers. The result, RB Gordon, TE Gates, and TE Henry, will exploit them LAC, has an above average defense overall, and RB CJ Anderson will not be able to penetrate the Chargers front seven. Denver’s top receiver Demaryius Thomas, isn’t at 100 %, and LA has a good secondary. Lastly, QB Phillip Rivers is the difference maker in this game. Elite QB’s love these matchups. Predicted Score: LA CHARGERS 23 DENVER 17. LA CHARGERS +3 ½, UNDER 43.
KANSAS CITY (47.5) @ NEW ENGLAND (-8)
KC is loaded with talent, offensively, and defensively. However, during the preseason, they lost their top running back Spencer Ware for the season. His replacement, Kareem Hunt, is almost as talented, and KC shouldn’t miss a beat on offense rushing the football. Bill Belichick, will scheme a defensive game plan, to take away KC’s other offensive weapons.TE Travis Kelce, and WR Tyreek Hill. New England has an excellent secondary, and should basically shut down the Chiefs aerial attack with QB Alex Smith. KC has a top defensive team, last season, they were #1 in forcing turnovers. New England, opens the NFL season at Gillette Stadium, and have an outstanding record at home. The number one thing the Patriots have to be concerned about, is the offensive line, providing pass protection. Offensively, as for their running game, that remains unpredictable. The Pats don’t rely on a single RB, and Belichick prefers to rush the football by a three headed committee. TE Gronkowski, entered the preseason in good health, and in excellent physical shape. So he will be a hand full for the KC defense, as well as the entire NFL, if he stays healthy. As for receiver, they lost Edelman for the season. However, they have a plug in and play slot receiver, Chris Hogan that can pick up most of the slack. The Pats also upgraded, by trading for vertical threat Brandin Cooks. This is the best deep speed receiver, since Randy Moss was a Patriot. The Chiefs are a good team, and should be playoff bound. New England is better, and should win this game. Las Vegas set the line at +8 KC, I predicted NE winning by 9 points. The spread is too close to call. Predicted Score: NE 29 KC 20. NE -8, Over 47.5.
NEW YORK JETS (40 ½) @ BUFFALO (-9 ½)
LOL. The Wise guys made the Bills, a -9 ½ favorite?. When was the last time Buffalo, was almost a double digit favorite?. To start with, the Jets don’t have a true starting QB, and are probably the worst talented at that position, in the NFL . They have no playmakers at wide receiver, and No versatile TE’s. They do have a running attack, led by Powell, and Forte (Forte, rumored to be traded) .Between them, they should get over 20 carries, and expect Buffalo to play eight men in the box on defense. Although the Jets might have the worst offense in the NFL, defensively, the Jets secondary will be beaten like a drum. As for Buffalo, they are in the middle of their rebuilding stage. They made many moves in the off season, and during training camp. Offensively, they have RB Shady McCoy, a top five NFL runner. Their receiver depth is loaded with Vets, regardless of the Sammy Watkins trade. The Watkins trade, enabled the Bills to upgrade their poor secondary, by obtaining EJ Gaines. What I did notice, that Buffalo had a poor preseason, and there were rumblings that starting Bill QB Tyrod Taylor, wasn’t happy. Buffalo may have more talent wise by comparison to the Jets. However, with a poor training camp, and team chemistry, are the Bills capable to covering the spread? Predicted Score: BUFFALO 21 NYJ 13. NYJ +9 ½, UNDER 40 ½.
ATLANTA (50 ½) @ CHICAGO (+7)
I expect Atlanta, to shake off their Super Bowl hangover, and take care of business in Chicago to open the season. Although the Bears had a good preseason, this doesn’t measure up in the regular season. Atlanta QB Ryan, should be able to pass on the Bears suspect secondary. They have the NFL’s best receiver, Julio Jones, and should have a huge game. Atlanta will have to rely on their passing game, since RB Devonta Freeman, goes up against a solid front seven defense. Atlanta’s defense is above average, but lacks a pass rush. Chicago has Jordan Howard at RB. It looks like he matches up against the Falcon front seven, and should have success. At the receiver position, the Bears suffered a big blow in the preseason, losing their top WR to I/R for the year. The receiver corps has is basically new, lack experience, and familiarity with each other. That combination of receivers, with Mike Glennon at the Helm, may slow their offense. Predicted Score: ATLANTA 34 CHICAGO 20. ATL -7, OVER 50 ½.
JACKSONVILLE (40.0) @ HOUSTON (-5)
First, my prayers are with you Houston. This is a tough game to call. Hurricane Harvey may have put a dent into the Texans practice schedule, and may have interfered with their game preparation. Fortunately, the Jags named Bortles their starting QB for this game. The Texans also have controversies of their own, so offensively, it kind of cancels each other out. The other comparison. The Jags strengthened their defense, and now have a talented unit. The Texans, have an elite NFL defense. That ranks in the top five. The QB situation in Houston, has affected the passing game for the worst, and they are going against a good jag defense. The same can be said with the Jags passing game. WR Allen Robinson, may be their only talented pass catcher, however, hooking up with Bortles, will be tough this week. That leaves us with the running game. I match both sides running the football equally with Fournette, and Lamar Miller. Both have tough matchups, against solid front sevens. However, Jacksonville looked awful stopping the rush in the preseason. This is going to be a low scoring game. Since Jacksonville has had trouble stopping the run, I will give the edge to the Texans. The other factor, how the people of Houston will rally around their football team, and become a 12[SUP]th[/SUP] man. Predicted Score: HOUSTON 19 JACKSONVILLE 17. JACKSONVILLE +5, UNDER 40
PHILADELPHIA (47 ½) @WASHINGTON (+1)
The Eagles have improved offensively, with Wentz, Jeffery, and Torrey Smith, but have shown no improvement defensive during the off season. Philly did recently trade for cornerback Ronald Darby from Buffalo, and only time will tell if this move will help them. I expect Wentz to come on strong his sophomore season, with the offensive weapons he was provided with. In the passing game, lock down Washington cornerback Josh Norman, will be in coverage with the Eagles best receiver. This leaves TE Ertz, open, to have a big game. As for the Philly running game, LeGarrette Blount has had a poor preseason, and we won’t know if this will affect the start of their regular season. Washington, failed to sign their QB Cousins, to a long term contract, and the distraction continues into the regular season. We will see on opening night, when Cousins goes up against an improved, but suspect secondary. His main target will be Jamison Crowder, followed by TE Jordan Reed that should have a good game. On defense, the Redskins field a new 3-4 defensive scheme, and lost their best pass rusher for the season with a torn ACL.Washington’s secondary does have good corners, and safeties. The new front seven, has yet to be tested. After judging both team’s preseasons, Washington, has the edge, and had a better camp. I caution anyone jumping on the Eagle bandwagon. Last season, they were swept by the Redskins, and have lost five in a row to them. Predicted Score: PHILADEPHIA 28 WASHINGTON 27. PHI -1, OVER 47 ½.
ARIZONA (48.0) @ DETROIT (+1 ½)
The 2016 Cardinals, didn’t live up to their expectations, and were looked upon by many to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. Instead we witnessed a QB Carson Palmer have his worst season of his career, they committed to many turnovers, inept special teams play, and a head coach suffering with health problems. The Cardinals survived on their tenacious defense, and recorded 48 sacks, 28 takeaways, and allowed the second fewest yards in the NFL. The other factor, was the play of RB David Johnson, who ranks as one of the top three running backs, in the league. It should be noted that Arizona’s defense may drop a notch, because they lost a bunch of players on that side of the football during the off season. They say, that Palmer has looked better this preseason, and he may have his health problems behind him. Palmer has the pro bowl receiver Larry Fitzgerald, to a suspect lion secondary. The Detroit Lions, just came off a successful NFL season. The lions have talented players on the offensive side of the ball. The only thing they haven’t produced is a consistent running back. Their defense needs help, and the front office in the off season, went and tried to improve it.QB Matthew Stafford, will have a difficult time this game, avoiding the fierce Cardinal pass rush. The lions hope that their best running back Ameer Abdullah can stay healthy all season. He has the ability, but can’t stay on the field. At wide receiver, Golden Tate is the man, but will have a tough match up against Cardinal CB Patrick Peterson. Predicted Score: ARIZONA 26 DETROIT 21. ARIZONA -1 ½, UNDER 48.
OAKLAND (50 ½) @ TENNESSEE (-2)
A tough game for the season opener for both teams. They are both improved, and almost equal. Oakland QB Carr, will face a Titan secondary that was upgraded in the off season. We don’t know how much the Titans secondary improved yet, so with that said, Carr should have a decent game. The reason, is the Raiders have two top playmakers at wide receiver, Cooper, and Crabtree. Marshawn Lynch, Faces a good Tennessee front seven, with an excellent offensive line to block for him. He will have difficulty gaining at least 100 yards. Tennessee, enters the season with high expectations. QB Marcus Mariota, should have field day against the Raider Linebackers, and secondary. However, their best talented receiver is Tight End Delanie Walker, and their fire power can be limited. If anything, the Titans have the edge in the trenches. Tennessee’s offensive line is better than the Raiders front seven. Considering that Oakland, are weak at linebacker, RB De Marco Murray should run for 100 yards. This game could go either way, but I have to take the Titans at home. Predicted Score: TENNESSEE 27 OAKLAND 24. TENNESSEE -2, OVER 50 ½.
TAMPA BAY (45.0) @ MIAMI (+2 ½)
This off season, brought free agents, and trades, and high expectations to win this season. The glaring stat that opens my eyes, is the Buc’s defense last season. Their defense carried the team, by recording 29 takeaways, in their last 12 games. Tampa Bay also went 8-4 during that stretch. Their tenacious defense can carry them over into the 2017 season.QB Winston, will be able to attack Miami’s weak secondary at will. They now have the receiver corps to do it, with Mike Evans, and DeSean Jackson. Miami also has problems at linebacker, and TE Cameron Brate, should be able to get open. Miami’s strength is on defense, stopping the run. As for the Dolphins, the Tannehill season ending injury, might now be a blessing in disguise. Jay Cutler is the better quarterback, and he reunites with his coach from his playing days in Chicago. Looks like Cutler will rely on WR De Vante Parker, to catch the football. The other receiver, Jarvis Landry should get his share of passes. We will see what chemistry develops, as the season moves on. The Dolphin top weapon on offense is Jay Ajayi. He has looked fantastic in the preseason, and we can expect big games from him. In this matchup, what immediately catches my eye is the point spread, with Miami as 2 ½ underdogs at home?. That’s a bad omen for the Dolphins, for their home season opener. Predicted Score: TAMPA BAY 24 MIAMI 20. TAMPA BAY -2 ½, UNDER 45.
BALTIMORE (42 ½) @ CINCINNATI (-3)
Both these teams didn’t look good in the preseason. The Bengals played better by comparison to Baltimore, during their exhibition games. Other than that, both squads rank about the same. With the Ravens, it all starts with Flacco, his back injuries, and lack of reps in the off season. With Flacco’s status up in the air, how effective will be his receivers, starting with Jeremy Maclin. The other wide receiver Mike Wallace, is inconsistent, and not a factor. As for the Raven running game, injuries, have forced them to go with Danny Woodhead. Woodhead, is an injury prone player, and won’t last the season as the starting RB. Baltimore defensively, has a horrid secondary. They allowed 58 TD passes in the past 32 games. They do have a decent front seven to stop the run. Moving over to the Bengals, their offensive line lost top talent in the off season. Not a good sign for QB Dalton’s pass protection in the pocket. AJ Green, will be Dalton’s go to guy. Recall, last season AJ didn’t play against the Ravens in 2016. This will be a factor this weekend in favor of Cincinnati. TE Tyler Eifert, is a top pass catching TE, and should be a factor in the slot. The Bengals RB Joe Mixon, will have trouble finding holes to run through. Baltimore’s front seven is stout. Cincinnati on defense has difficulty stopping the run, the secondary is sound. With all their loss of talent, the question remains if this team’s chemistry will gel together as a unit. The Bengals have won 6 of their last 7 games played against the Ravens. The Ravens aren’t exactly a great road team, their bread and butter is playing at home. Predicted Score: CINCINNATI 21 BALTIMORE 17. CINCINNATI -3, UNDER 42 ½.
PITTSBURGH (47.0) @ CLEVELAND (+8)
Pittsburgh is a top 5 NFL team, and Cleveland is a terrible team, but improving. Defensively, the Steelers secondary is inept, and the question is if the front office made enough moves to make them better? Cleveland, in the meantime, Cleveland now has a quality offensive line, to challenge Pittsburgh’s. However, the Browns still have a 31[SUP]st[/SUP] ranked defense to fix. So with this in mind, Roethlisberger will win this matchup, with his playmaker receivers. With the return of Le’Veon Bell, you’re looking at possibly the best running back in football today. The Browns front seven, will not be able to stop him. Although the Browns had a good preseason, they still have a long way to go. Rookie QB DeShone Kizer lacks experience. WR Coleman isn’t a big playmaker, and their best offensive player is RB Isaiah Crowell, that has a solid offensive line, to run block for him. Predicted Score: PITTSBURGH 30 CLEVELAND 16. PITTSBURGH -8, UNDER 47.
SEATTLE (50 ½) @ GREEN BAY (-3)
Two top 10 NFL teams squaring off to open the season. Seattle has a sound team, except they stood idle in the offseason, by failing to bolster their offensive line. This has been a problem for Seattle, these last few seasons, and GB’s front seven should be able to exploit them. However, before I jump the gun, QB Russell Wilson faces a terrible GB secondary. If the Packers want to pass rush to sack the QB, Wilson has the speed to escape the pocket, and extend the play. Wilson has WR Baldwin, and TE Jimmy Graham, that can easily out match the Packer secondary. The Seahawk running back situation is up in the air, and the only back I could come up with, is Thomas Rawls.As for Aaron Rodgers, he threw three TD’s against the Seahawks last season. So as good as Seattle’s defense is, Rodgers can’t be taken for granted. So considering, Rodgers still has his playmakers to pass to, Jordy Nelson, DaVante Adams, and TE Martellus Bennett. As for the Packer running game, forget it. Ty Montgomery will not be able to matriculate the football, against the superior Seattle defensive line. I see two teams that have above average QB’s, facing terrible opposing secondaries. They both should light up the scoreboard. Predicted Score: GREEN BAY 28 SEATTLE 27. SEATTLE +3, OVER 50 ½.
INDIANAPOLIS (41 ½) @ LA RAMS (-3 ½)
Immediately, let me state the obvious, Andrew Luck will not quarterback the Colts this weekend. So it will be Scott Tolzien, and Jared Goff at QB, which tells me that this may be a low scoring game. TY Hilton is useless at wide receiver without Luck. Goff likes to hook up with Cooper Kupp at the flanker position, and Sammy Watkins is the newest addition to the team, that should take some pressure off Gurley. The Rams will look to generate offense mainly with RB Todd Gurley. He looked good in camp this season, and has improved his game. The Colts will counter with RB Frank Gore. The difference is that the Rams front seven is stout. The Colts have a lousy secondary, so expect the Ram front seven, to put pressure on Tolzien the entire game. In 2016, teams didn’t fare well against the Rams in Los Angeles. The Rams defense kept their game close, even when they lost. They have a huge advantage, now with some added offense, to overtake the Colts at home. Predicted Score: LA RAMS 20 INDIANAPOLIS 13. LA RAMS -3 ½ , UNDER 41 ½ .
CAROLINA (48.0) @ SAN FRANCISCO (+5 ½)
During early preseason, I thought that by week #1, Newton would have recovered from his injury, and ready to go. Now the latest is on Cam is, he will not be 100%, and it’s a mystery how he will matriculate the ball in the air. Given, we know SF is a poor team, and this season, the new front office, is trying to return this team to respectability. Thus far, they appear to be making the right moves, however, 2017 will be a long season for those Niners. SF still has an inept secondary, a terrible offensive line, and have a below average pass rush. One improvement they did make, was bolstering their defensive front seven. SF has too many holes, and not enough talented players to fill them. As for Carolina, not knowing what Cam Newton’s status really is until game day, let’s assume he is healthy enough to return to old form. Problem is, he still has a poor offensive line, and there is no protection blocking their opponent’s defensive ends. So you can expect short passes, and running the football. SF will start their patch work QB Hoyer. Hoyer is efficient enough to run their system, and he is an upgrade from last season’s quarterbacks. SF, offense in the preseason was terrible, and they don’t look like they have the fire power, to go up against the Panther defense. Basically, they have to rely on their running game, with an offensive line that can’t open running lanes. This game should be a low scoring affair. If Can Newton was 100%, without a doubt this game would be a runaway. Instead, the outcome should be the opposite. Predicted Score: CAROLINA 20 SAN FRANCISCO 13. CAROLINA -5 ½, UNDER 48.0.
NY GIANTS (47 ½) @ DALLAS (-3 ½)
The biggest question in this game, involves two playmakers, Odell Beckham, and Ezekiel Elliott. Will they play? Their absence can change the complexion of this game. So, with that said, I will do my best to analyze this game. You need monitor, and check the status of these players, up to game time. The New York Giants , still have a suspect offensive line, that can’t pass or run block. QB Eli Manning , without his playmaker Beckham , will affect the outcome of this game. Picture this, last season, the Giants failed to score at least 20 points, in their last six games. That was with a healthy Beckham. Where will the Giants be without him in the opener? If there is no Beckham, the Giants don’t have a good enough running game to compensate for his offense. Perkins, can’t run the ball against the Cowboys front seven. Their defensive line out matches the Giant offensive line. Dallas, has more going for them in this game, even without Elliott. QB Dak Prescott, had a terrific preseason. He also has more playmakers to go to than the Giants. Dallas has the better offensive line, and New York has problems in their secondary. So without Elliott’s services, the Cowboys still have an edge. Keep in mind, that the Cowboys lost two games in the division to these Giants last season. Maybe a revenge factor at home perhaps? Predicted Score: DALLAS 23 NEW YORK GIANTS 17. DALLAS -3 ½, UNDER 47 ½.
NEW ORLEANS (48.0) @ MINNESOTA (-3 ½)
Regardless if you like the Vikings in this game, the number one reason you should be concerned about, is that Adrian Peterson returns to Minnesota, and all he has is revenge on his mind. A Saints win here is possible, even without a revenge factor. Bottom line the Vikings can’t stop the run. The Saints feature Ingram, and Peterson, to run, and catch the football. Minnesota has a decent secondary, with a pass rush, so it is that more important to establish a ground attack, instead of Drew Brees playing gun slinger. The Vikings, don’t seem to win with Bradford at QB. Just look at their record during the second half of 2016. Bradford, has no protection, because their offensive line can’t block. The Vikes will have to rely on rookie Dalvin Cook, to run the ball to get yardage. The Vikings best match up is TE Kyle Rudolph, versus the Saints linebackers. Still, the Saint Pass defense will be tested, and we will see how improved they really are, opposed to 2016. I will give the Saints a slight edge to win this game. Predicted Score: NEW ORLEANS 24 MINNESOTA 23. NEW ORLEANS +3 ½, UNDER 48.
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS (43.0) @ DENVER (-3 ½)
There are so many factors, favoring the LA Chargers to win this game. This matchup indicates that LAC statistically, is much better than Denver. The reasons, Denver’s offense is struggling, Denver’s has lost playmakers on defense, in the past few seasons. Although Denver has lockdown cornerbacks, they can’t stop the run, and they can’t cover tight ends with their linebackers. The result, RB Gordon, TE Gates, and TE Henry, will exploit them LAC, has an above average defense overall, and RB CJ Anderson will not be able to penetrate the Chargers front seven. Denver’s top receiver Demaryius Thomas, isn’t at 100 %, and LA has a good secondary. Lastly, QB Phillip Rivers is the difference maker in this game. Elite QB’s love these matchups. Predicted Score: LA CHARGERS 23 DENVER 17. LA CHARGERS +3 ½, UNDER 43.
