AFC
Jets @ Indianapolis(-7.5)
I really, really want the Jets to win this game. It would be such sweet, sweet justice if the Colts lost to a team that they tanked a game to, wouldn’t it? (Plus of course I hate the Colts, so it gets the double.) I don’t see it happening, though, as the Colts are just way too good. On the other hand, the Colts have mostly not been blowing people out this year (last week notwithstanding), and the Jets will be way fired up, and can cover a lot better than the Ravens can. I’ll take the points on the theory that the Jets will at least be in the game, probably aided by more inexplicable missed field goals, since Matt Stover is like 62 years old now.
NFC
Vikings @ New Orleans(-3.5)
I knew I had it last week when everybody was taking the Cowboys. Well, this time I’ve heard a few pundits and TV/radio talking head take the Vikings… Not a good sign. I said weeks ago that I don’t think the Vikings can win in New Orleans, and I’ve seen nothing since then that changes that. Saints. (But I’ll be rooting for the Vikings!)
Al’s picks from email:
Colts vs. Jets +7.5
Clearly there’s no way to Jets win this game. It’s hopeless. But yet…if not for some crazy flukes, the Ravens could have beaten the Colts. Certainly they should have covered. Two red zone fumbles and many dumb-ass penalties (which I called btw) which the Jets don’t make. It’s too much to hope for a win, but I can hope for the Jets not to roll over. Take the points.
Vikings vs. Saints -3.5
The Saints O-Line is magnificent. The Vikings won’t sniff Brees. Also note the quality of the Saints defense – they stymied Arizona. Furthermore, the Vikings aren’t a great road team. They lost their last three games on the road, including losses to the Panthers and Bears. And lets not forget how hostile an environment the Superdome can be. It will be too much for Favre’s aging magic to overcome. Give the points.