Saturday
Ravens @ Pittsburgh(-3)
Yes, Baltimore blew out the Chefs. However, that was as much about KC playing like ass as it was the Ravens playing well. The Chefs looked like they panicked in the second half for no apparent reason, since they were only down by seven. Both defenses very tough, both teams set up to stop the run. I think the difference in this game is the quarterbacks, and while Flacco looked OK last week, when the game is on the line, I trust Big Ben more than Flacco. I’d really rather have to give two because I’m worried about a 9-7 kind of thing happening. However, I’ll still take the Stillers.
Packers @ Atlanta(-1.5)
I have absolutely no idea whatsoever. I love the way the Green Bay defense is playing, but the Falcons have been fantastic at home over the last couple years. The last meeting was close, and I see no reason to think that it’ll be anything other than that this time around. I will guess that Al will go with his local team, the Falcons, so I’ll take the Packers to riverside.
Sunday
Seahawks @ Chicago(-10)
The Seahawks have played inspired football the last couple of weeks. I think the Bears are the better team (unless Cutler flakes out), especially on defense, but I just don’t see the Bears turning it into a blowout. I’ll take the points.
Jets @ New England(-9)
It’s a shame they can’t delay this game for a few days, because the war or words leading into it has been so good that I’ll be sad to see it go. The Welker thing the other day was fan-freaking-tastic; how he kept such a perfectly straight face I’ll never know. Just the best stuff ever. I thought the Jets really played well last week in Indy. Again, I think the Pas are the better team, but I’m guessing that the Jets can hang with them, no matter what happened last time.’’
Good luck!
Saturday
Ravens @ Pittsburgh(-3)
The Ravens D is top 10 against the run and number one against the pass. The big key for them, of course, is getting pressure on Ben so he doesn’t scramble and make plays. A tall order, but I still think the Pittsburgh O-Line is mediocre due to injury. For the Ravens offense, they should be able to get some passing going and that should help set up the run – pretty much the same as they did against KC. Of course, the Steelers won’t give up like the Chiefs did. This will likely be a push, but I’ll take the Ravens and the points.
Packers @ Atlanta(-1.5)
The last time they played, the Packers outgained the Falcons significantly. This same trend was evident in the Saints/Seattle game. Turner will be able to run to set up Ryans’ passing so the Falcons will get some scoring, but Rodgers is one of the best QB’s in the league and he hasn’t lost a game this season by more than 3 points. I think it will be a tall order for the Falcons to outscore Green Bay in this one. Take the points and Green Bay.
Sunday
Seahawks @ Chicago(-10)
10 Points? Really? Chicago hasn’t been favored by more than a touchdown all year. Both teams have stout rush defenses so don’t expect big games from Lynch or Forte. And remember, Seattle beat Chicago earlier in the year. Seattle is playing inspired football and Chicago ended their year with a loss. I love getting the 10 points. Seahawks.
Jets @ New England(-9)
Here’s another big spread, but this is just a terrible matchup for the Jets. But who knows, maybe Ryan will come up with something to combat a team that makes almost no execution errors. But even if he did, why do you have to incite Brady? I mean the guy has the biggest chip on his shoulder ever and you want to make it bigger? Still that’s a lot of points…ok, what the hell, I’m taking my Jets! GO GO!