Week 14 Predictions

I have exams this upcoming week so my thoughts and predictions will be brief. Enjoy...

New England @ Buffalo

The Bills are coming off a really tough loss to the Dolphins. Unforunately for Buffalo fans do not expect this 3 game losing streak to end now. This time of the year is when Brady is at his best.

Pats 28 Bills 17


Cleveland @ Cincinnati

Cincinnati is having one heck of a season. Carson and Chad are go together like peanut butter and jelly. Browns are still a young team under Romeo. Going against a high powered offense such as Cincy's will be too much.

Bengals 38 Browns 19


Houston @ Tennessee

Both of these teams are not having the seasons they hoped for. Texans have really had it tough the last 3 weeks. Despite having leads late in the game, this Houston team has found a way to lose everytime. On Sunday, they will finally close one out.

Texans 29 Titans 24


St. Louis @ Minnesota

Rough year for STL. Injuries have plagued this team so much. For crying out loud a Harvard grad is playing QB for them. Mike Tice has surprised so many by turning the Vikings' season around. Brad Johnson has shown great patience.

Vikings 28 Rams 21

Oakland @ NYJ

Oakland can't play defense, and to be honest not even offense some times. The Jets are a great defensive team with a pathetic offense. I really don't know what to say. Not a lot of hype for this showdown.

Raiders 37 Jets 15


Chicago @ Pittsburgh

Bears' D is overtaking the league. They seemed to have not lost in quite a while. As for Pitt, Cowher's team is on a 3 game losing streak. Without an offense as consistent as Pitt, Chicago will fall for the first time in a while.

Steelers 25 Bears 17


Tampa Bay @ Carolina

The NFC South is always such a competitve division. Tampa and Carolina will be challenging each other for the division lead. I want to say the Panthers will come through, but for some reason this is just one of those game Gruden's Gang surprises America.

Bucs 28 Panthers 24


Indianapolis @ Jacksonville

This game would have had even more hype had Leftwich not gotten injured the other week. Jacksonville will keep it close, but a late TD by Indy will seal the 13th victory.

Colts 21 Jaguars 12


NYG @ Philadelphia

Giants seem to be running on all cylinders. SEEM. The Eagles have a different situation. They just got shut out on Monday Night Football. 42-0. Wow! I think the team won't be as fired up as you may think.

Giants 31 Eagles 18


Washington @ Arizona

Washington has lost so many down to the wire games this year. Joe Gibbs's team is really in a hole right now for the playoff race. Arizona is a roller coaster team. You never know what to expect.

Cardinals 35 Redskins 31


San Francisco @ Seattle

I think Seattle is going to be a bit relaxed heading into this game. San Fran will scare them. Being so much better, the Seahawks will easily be able to rebound.

Seahawks 27 49ers 24


Kansas City @ Dallas

Man oh man! What a big game! Whoever loses can pretty much kiss a postseason trip goodbye! KC is playing good ball mainly because Larry Johnson is a machine when pounding the ball. Dallas looked very disappointing last week. Bledsoe wants to prove that was a fluke.

Cowboys 30 Chiefs 22


Balitmore @ Denver

I am sure we all thought this would be a closer game. Not today. Boller may have had a 'game winning' drive against Houston, but Denver is no Houston. Besides the offense of Baltimore is so predictable.

Broncos 38 Ravens 17


Miami @ San Diego

Miami is playing well currently. They could sneak up on an unsuspecting Chargers team. Yet, Miami does have one problem. They do not have a good enough defense to stop LT.

Chargers 35 Dolphins 21


Detroit @ Green Bay

Well I am pretty sure that one of these struggling teams have to win. The Lions will not be as focused as they were earlier in the season. A lot of drama has risen with the Mooch firing and Bly bashing Harrington. Meanwhile, Green Bay has a 2-10 record, yet the whole team still plays their hearts out.

Packers 24 Lions 13


New Orleans @ Atlanta

ATL is really in need of some wins to get back in the playoff picture. N.O. on the other hand, has just lost another game by single digits. As a Saints fan I am hoping for a brillant showing, but Falcons know how important this game is. Mora's team will be fired up.

Falcons 42 Saints 24

Late Season Playoff Predictions

The regular season is almost over and that means one thing. The battle for a playoff spot heats up even more. A few teams are already gimmes on getting into the playoffs, but will they do anything? What about wildcards? Now there's a mess! Below are my predictions to get into the playoffs and what is going to happen in the playoffs. Prepare to be surprised. One more thing, I know my sports, but I am pretty awful as far as predictions go. Look at some of my previous posts. Enjoy.

AFC

Wildcard

3rd seeded Denver beats 6th seeded Jacksonville
4th seeded N.E. beats 5th seeded San Diego
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Divisional

1st seeded Indy beats 3rd seeded Denver
4th seeded N.E. beats 2nd seeded Cincy
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Conference

1st seeded Indy beats 4th seeded N.E.
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NFC

Wildcard

6th seeded Tampa beats 3rd seeded Chicago
5th seeded Dallas beats 4th seeded NYG
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Divisional

6th seeded Tampa beats 1st seeded Seattle
2nd seeded Carolina beats 5th seeded Dallas
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Conference

2nd seeded Carolina beats 6th seeded Tampa
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SUPER BOWL XL

1st seeded Indy defeats 2nd seeded Carolina
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Analysis

Yes, it does seem like a fairy tale. Peyton Manning and Tony Dungy finally win a Super Bowl. The most important thing during their run to the Super Bowl will certainly be home field advantage. Jon Gruden's ball club is going to make a run in the playoffs because Chris Simms is coming around, and the fact that their defense is a force to reckon with. Besides Chicago doesn't have a consistent offense and Seattle has not faced a speedy defense like Tampa's yet. Dallas will shatter a NYG Super Bowl trip just because Eli is still young and the playoffs will be a new experience for him. Denver is going to finally get by the first round, yet once again the Colts will beat them in Indy. New England over San Diego because Tom Brady is a winner and I don't think Brees and LT are use to New England weather. Even though they've had a rough season, the Pats will make noise in the playoffs. Going into Cincy during the cold will be an epic win. Though the ultimate fate of the 2x defending Super Bowl Champs will be decided when Indy finally prevails over N.E. John Fox's team will make yet another impressive run, but fall short...again. Panthers will have the defense to slow down the Colts, but eventually Indy is going to get scoring on offense. Indy will jump out to an early lead in which Carolina will slowly trim down quarter by quarter. In the end Colts will score a crucial touchdown to put the game out of reach. In a last ditch effort Dungy's D will intercept a pass and history will have been made.

Dem Saints

The greatest saying said regarding the New Orleans Saints was said by my father Thomas Ballay. "They are like babies Chris, you get mad at them, but always end up going back because you love them." That quote is so true for every fan out there who has suffered Sunday after Sunday watching the black and gold lose yet another game. Despite all the turmoil this franchise has gone through, the fans have always been there. Sure, the organization itself has only 1 playoff win, but none the less the fans are always there supporting the tam. Each year (I can relate to this very much) die hard Saints fans eagerly picture a Super Bowl trophy finally being won by their beloved team. That dream seems even farther than ever right now. The New Orleans Saints are in jeopardy of moving out of Louisiana FOREVER. My dream of one day saying "Saints are the champs!", is something that could quite possibly be wiped out from ever occurring. As much as us fans joke, if the Saints move to San Antonio, it will be impossible to ever bring home a Super Bowl trophy to New Orleans. It has come apparent to me that no longer are so many Saint fans worried about the team's record. Instead, like myself, a lot of fans are worried about whether or not this team will even stay in New Orleans. To think that the city of New Orleans is going to lose their franchise because of a natural disaster makes my stomach turn. Commissioner Paul Tagilibue helped schedule 4 home games for the New Orleans Saints in Tiger Stadium. After drawing 61,000+ fans to the first Baton Rouge home game it looked as it though the support for this team was going to be present. Yet, that is obviously not the case now. The past two games in Death Valley have drawn around 30,000+ fans a game. Looking in the stadium is like watching an Arizona Cardinals' home game. As frustrating as it is to see that image, I still disagree that that fact alone should be used as a reason the Saints should move. Don't tell me only 30,000 fans are going to Tiger Stadium because nobody cares about them. The New Orleans Saints have been heavily supported by the Big Easy since 1967 despite the team's little success. Are you telling me that the team might move because of poor attendence in 2 games? Shouldn't Paul Tagilibue look at the fact that for so many years fans have supported and supported this franchise? I am not saying that having a mere 30,000 fans at a NFL game is okay for a team. It is flat out pathetic, don't get me wrong. I am just saying that the ultimate fate of the Saints shouldn't be decided because of 2 recent games. This has been a nightmare of a year for so many people. Going to a football game isn't as important as finding a home, or getting a job. I hope when the decision in finally made in the future, Paul Tagilibue looks at the New Orleans Saints and sees a franchise that is destined for one thing. To remain in New Orleans no matter what it takes. 'Nuff said.

The Day After...

It is the Day After. The Day After Hell erupted for the LSU Nation. I went to the much anticipated game. The hype was unbeatable. LSU fans showed up and from my experiences were much louder than the Georgia fans. The activities that were arranged due to the SEC Championship game were numerous. Through all the tailgating, all the football activities, I kept thinking in the back of my mind about the fact that this Bulldog team was good. Georgia had 2 losses. One to the Gators because Shockley was out. The other, Auburn, resulted because the UGA defense couldn't make a play on 4th and 10. Once the game started the tension grew even greater inside the Georgia Dome. Going into the game, my friends and I knew that JaMarcus needed to put on a performance like he did against various teams during the course of the season. If he came out sloppy, then the crowd of UGA would become even more of a factor. I knew Georgia fans would outnumber LSU fans, but not 2:1. To get a delay of game, then a sack on our first offensive possession was not the way to start the game. JaMarcus was flat, but the score was still 0-0. That changed instantly once DJ Shockley nailed Sean Bailey for a long TD pass. To make matters worse, on the next possession JaMarcus threw an INT to a Bulldog. Not just any INT, an INT that made JaMarcus Russell come off to the United States of America as a quarterback with little experience. It immediately set the tone for the rest of the game. With the blink of an eye the Tigers were down 14-0 and Sean Bailey had 2 TDs. LSU didn't fall down. A long drive by the Tigers ended on a JaMarcus Russell QB sneak for 6 points. It was 14-7 and I was thinking LSU was back in this game. Our defense disappointed the LSU viewer once again as Georgia put up 6 more points. UGA 21 LSU 7. With under a minute left LSU was going to get the ball back and have a chance to do something right before halftime. For those of us who watched the game, that punt UGA booted was something I've never seen. On initial contact with the ground, the ball hit at the 1 yard line. You would think just like 99.999% of the time, the ball would roll into the endzone. Not today. The ball rolled back and was downed on about the 3 yard line. As I look back that punt play was a perfect picture of the day the Tigers had. After halftime the Tigers got the ball. LSU needed to score, something needed to be shown. Life was still there inside that Les Mile's football team. 3 and out. Georgia got the ball and BOOM! it's 24-7. I didn't give up then, but my thoughts of really winning dramatically decreased. To make matters even worse (it's possible) JaMarcus was injured. Number 4 had a nightmare of an evening for the first SEC Championship Game he started. When Matt Flynn came in the next series, the LSU fan was once again thinking that good things were going to happen. Sure it was 27-7 UGA, but we had Mr. Flynn under center now. (Hopefully he plays like Frank Reich.) Deep in our own territory Flynn threw an INT that was taken back for 6. All hope was officially shattered. Down 34-7, Les knew the Tigers had to score for pure dignity. LSU cut it 34-14, and then got an onsides kick. As silly as it was sounds, I still thought that the Tigers could pull out the amazing come from behind victory. Flynn was sacked on 4th and 10. Nevermind about that thought. Final score: UGA 34 LSU 14. It was a huge disappointment. The loss can't be thrown entirely on JaMarcus's shoulders. The WHOLE team looked bad. The defense and offense were both beat physically. Getting beat physically is the worst feeling because that's the point that every viewer knows you are at the mercy of your opponent's will. As lousy as LSU played, going to the Peach Bowl is still a raw deal. With only 2 losses you are telling me LSU is not good enough for a January bowl game? Wow. I don't know what to think or say. Nothing can be done. Though at least LSU is playing a very worthy opponent in Miami Florida. So many thoughts are racing through Tiger Nation. What happened? Are we that bad? What is going to happen on the 30th against the Hurricanes? All in all, my trip to Atlanta was enjoyable and fun, yet it ended in the way I only think is fitting for a nightmare. A nightmare were the Tigers of LSU were outplayed, outcoached, and flat out beaten by the Georgia Bulldogs. 34-14. Shivers are still shooting up my spine...

Championship Week

I am sorry to be late, but I am in ATL for the LSU/Georgia showdown. I don't have the time to give you my full thoughts on the games this weekend, but I will give you who I think will win.

BIG 12

#2 Texas vs.Colorado

Longhorns struggle in beginning, but win nicely. Hello Pasadena!

UT 40 Colorado 20

SEC

#3 LSU vs. #13 Georgia

I'm very superstitious so I'll be the one that will jinx LSU. Georgia is a really good football team. They lost to Florida because DJ was out and that Auburn loss was a result of a forunate 4th down conversion. Tigers almost blew it against a 4-7 Razorback squad. Thank goodness they didn't. The team will be ready tomorrow night. But my thoughts are LSU pulls together in the end...

LSU 28 Georgia 17

C-USA

UCF vs. Tulsa

Yes C-USA has a championship game. It's the league's first year with this new format. Coach O'Leary has to be given his props. UCF was winless last year and now they are 8-3. To be honest I don't know anything about Tulsa football. That could be a great advantage for the folks of Oklahoma.

UCF 33 Tulsa 28


ACC

#5 VTech vs. Florida State

Bowden's Crew was lucky to get in this game. Very young team in Florida and it will be shown Saturday. VTech is a great ball club very worthy of a BCS bowl. The team is full of speed, power, and excellence.

VTech 38 Florida State 22


and now the other games.....


Army vs. Navy

Always a classic. Fun game to watch no matter the records of each team. Navy is once again in the bowl picture, as for Army...not so much. Thoug Coach Ross is making progress. Don't be surprised if he pulls out a W against the Midshipmen.

Navy 34 Army 19


#1 USC vs. #10 UCLA

UCLA has got an offense to match USC. The problem is they don't have a defense. They will scare the Trojans, but as for finishing them off...not going to happen. Besides Carroll's team is determined for the Rose Bowl.

USC 41 UCLA 31


...wait one more!

Bucs @ Saints

Ah! The Saints vs. the Bucs in Tiger Stadium. Nice win for the Saints against an 'awesome' Jets team. I love them, but they just are having a rough year. Oh and by the way they aren't that good!

Bucs 27 Saints 18

Reply to a Comment

I recently received a question dealing with Arkansas's head football coach, Houston Nutt. The question dealt with whether or not LSU pursued Mr. Nutt once Coach Saban left for Miami. The simple answer is yes. Though it's much more detailed than that. Athletic Director Skip Bertman was interested in having Coach Nutt come to Baton Rouge. LSU had an interest. Not a strong desire. Also, Houston Nutt had recently turned down the Nebraska job. To pry him away from Fayetteville would have been quite difficult. It is that simple. Bertman was more interested in pursuing other coaches such as Les Miles before seriously considering Houston Nutt as the new LSU football coach. 'Nuff said.

Saints/Jets

It's about time the Saints won another game. I was starting to get sick of watching them lose every weekend. That six game losing streak needed to end. Not a better team to end it against than the New York Jets, who like the Saints are pretty much enduring a very forgettable season. Aaron Brooks was not himself Sunday night. He didn't throw any interceptions which is not like him at all. When the team needed a score, Mr. Brooks was able to succeed to the fullest. His third touchdown of the day that gave New Orleans the lead for good, was a 30 yard strike to Devery Henderson the former LSU Tiger. I could go on about the fact that the D looked better than usual or how the offense in general wasn't plagued with as many penalties. Though, let me be honest I would be happy if the Saints won 4-2. It's just nice to see the team get a much needed win during this disastrous season. I can only continue to hope that Haslett has the team playing it's hardest each and every week. Through all the turmoil he has been able to keep the team focused and competitive. Each week the Saints come out ready to win.

LSU/Arkansas Afterthoughts

After LSU held on for a 19-17 win against Arkansas I can say I am just pleased we were able to hold on. I am still baffled by the very fact that LSU put themselves in a situation of losing to a 4-6 ball club at Death Valley. Even though he has grown so much over this past season, JaMarcus Russell still displayed that inconsistency that causes every LSU Tiger fan to lose sleep. The way JaMarcus ran the offense in the late second half was just like that of the Tennessee game. The deep ball that was picked off sent shivers down my spine as I realized the great possibility of a Razorback victory. To blame the poor performance all on Mr. Russell is absolutely bogus. It did not help that numerous passes were dropped by the wide recievers or how Justin Vincent coughed up a fumble. As unimpressive as LSU looked, Arkansas has to be given credit for the great fight they put up. The more I watch Arkansas football, the more I realize that Houston Nutt is in fact a one of a kind coach. Coach Nutt brought a Razorback team to Baton Rouge ready to pull off the upset. Despite their losing record, Houston believed he could win. Being in a state such as Arkansas, it is quite evident Houston Nutt won't be getting the top athletes of the nation as opposed to schools like Texas and USC. None the less, Coach Nutt always seems to muster together teams that give the Bayou Bengals trouble. When down 19-3, Coach Nutt was able to pull the team together and give Les Miles a run for his money. Overall LSU did not look like the SEC West Champs at all this past Friday. Yet, do not forget that they still did win. I have watched many LSU/Arkansas games in the past where Houston Nutt ruined LSU's season. Two examples would be the 14-3 loss in 2000 and the 21-20 loss in 2002. That loss in 2002 kept LSU out of the SEC Championship Game. Looking back it was a rough game to watch. Just thinking how we blew a 16 point lead still causes my stomach to become uneasy. The Tigers will be ready come Saturday in Atlanta. Unlike Georgia this coming weekend, the team seemed a little bit too relaxed going into their season finale game against Arkansas. All the players realize they are quite forunate to have escaped Friday with a win. To prove it was nothing but a fluke, LSU will come out fired up to take on the Bulldogs of Athens. I don't know who will win this SEC Championship Showdown, but I do know the Tigers will be ready.

Thanksgiving Classics

I apologize for not having updated my web site recently. I've just gotten back to Ohio. Baton Rouge to Toledo, Ohio is not a walk down the street. Especially when you spend the night at the Atlanta airport. None the less, there are some GOOD matchups on Thanksgiving for once. Don't get me wrong if there are two 1-9 teams duking it out on Turkey Day, I'll still enjoy it. It's better though when you have a maturing Detroit Lions team taking on an up and down Atlanta Falcons team. Yet, the better matchup will be the Denver Broncos at the Dallas Cowboys. It will be the first time since 1979 two first place teams have played each other on Thanksgiving Day. Because I am so late with my predictions and with all the holiday hoopla going on I only had time to predict the games taking place on Thanksgiving Day....

Atlanta Falcons @ Detriot Lions

Storyline: Atlanta is on a 2 game losing streak, and the Lions are well....the Lions. Lions need to get some consistency from Mr. Harrington. Is that going to happen? Probably not. Vick seems to be fumbling quite a lot lately. On the contrary, Vick is throwing the ball nicely. First round pick Rod White is starting to come around.

Fantasy Star: Warrick Dunn. The Lions are not good against the run. Warrick is a shifty back who can run and catch the ball out of the backfield. Expect him to get loose a number of times against the Lions.

Prediction: Is ATL really going to lose 3 straight? I think Vick and Dunn will give Mooch a handful, but I still think Detroit will win this one. Why? It's Thanksgiving and Lions always play well on Turkey Day. Besides the Falcons are not looking great now. There motivation will be down with 2 tough losses. As for Detroit, they will be fired up once again to compete on Thanksgiving.

Lions 31 Falcons 29


Denver Broncos @ Dallas Cowboys

Storyline: This will a sort of playoff game for both teams. Cowboys have surprised everyone with their impressive record. Parcells really does know how to win. The Broncos are once again rolling through the season with a good record. But for once they actually seem like they are a team capable of doing some playoff damage. Lately, Shannan's teams have just fallen apart come playoff time. (Think Indy past two years.)

Fantasy Star: Mike Anderson. He was able to hold off Tatum Bell for the starting job. Anderson had an awesome 3 touchdowns last week, but the big question is this Thursday. Can Anderson be productive on a stingy defense that knows he is in fact the man who's in charge of carrying the offense? It'll be a tough job for Mike, but something tells me he is up for the challenge.

Prediction: I think who ever is the home team is the winner in a game like this. Cowboys are really starting to take command of the NFC. Parcells wants to continue to show America that these guys are for real. Shannan will catch Parcells off guard a few times, but not enough to beat Dallas.

Cowboys 28 Broncos 23

Oh Michael We All Love You!

Did anyone hear Michael Vick's postgame comments after the Buccaneer loss? Mr. Vick was complaining about the officiating. He was disgusted how the refs seemed to be favoring the Bucs. Favoring? Please don't tell me you said favoring. How about that Saints/Falcons game earlier in the year? Now Michael do you remember how Todd Peterson missed a chance at a game winning field goal? Was it not the refs who threw a silly flag that gave your team another chance? I thought so. Don't tell me about unfair refs because the following week the Saints got hosed again during the closing minutes at St. Louis. I could not have enjoyed the way the Falcons lost anymore. Vick had a key fumble that lead to the game winning points for Tampa. To ice it off, on a last ditch effort the Falcons missed a field goal. 'Nuff said.

NFL: 11/20/05

New Orleans 2-7 @ New England 5-4

Synopsis: The Patriots got a much needed win, while the Saints got a much needed Bye week. Saints have lost every possible way this year. Changing that is going to be very tough when you are going to play in the backyard of the two time defending Super Bowl champs.

Spotlight Player: Aaron Brooks. Being Saints fan I am obviously going to have a Saints player as the guy to watch. Brooks has thrown 7 TDs and 12 INTs. I think you can pretty much say this has been a nightmare season for him. Despite this forgettable season, Brooks is still the leader on the team. A 'W' can only be a remote possibility if #2 plays well.

Prediction: I would like to think the Saints will run the tables and finish 9-7. But let's be honest, they are going against Tom Brady in Foxboro. That's like fighting a crocodile in the water. Disaster is bound to happen. And happen it will. Plus, the Saints D is too weak to stop a winner like Tom Brady.

Patriots 37 Saints 17



Detroit 4-5 @ Dallas 6-3

Synopsis: Dallas is coming in off of an amazing come from behind win against the Eagles. The Lions on the other hand are coming off one of the few games Harrington looked good. Problem is Harrington always looks good against Arizona.

Spotlight Player: Joey Harrington. Once again I am going to have to go with a QB as being the spotlight player. Harrington has lost the fans and now the coach. Mooch prefers Garcia more than Joey. Even though he's as inconsistent as Aaron Brooks, Harrington will get yet another chance to prove his critics wrong come Sunday.

Prediction: This one may seem easy, but don't think so fast. If the game where in Detroit things would be different. It's not so I am going to go with a Dallas team that is starting to look like a real sleeper in the Super Bowl race.

Cowboys 30 Lions 18



Miami 3-6 @ Cleveland 3-6

Synopsis: The Fins have lost the past two weeks because their offense couldn't punch the ball in the endzone when they had it inside their opponents 10 yard line. Miami could easily be a 5-4 ball club, but the thing of it is...they aren't. Cleveland, as suspected, is having a tough season under Coach Romeo. Though more success has occurred than anticipated. Biggest issue for the Browns is the QB situation...again.

Spotlight Player: Trent Dilfer. In Cleveland's 3 wins he's thrown 6 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. In 6 losses, this Fresno State graduate has thrown a horrid 3 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. He's no Peyton Manning, but Trent is a heck of a leader. Browns need him to help out as much as he can both mentally and physically.

Prediction: Matching up, the Fins are a bit better than the Browns. Matching up. Though, I think all that goes out of the window when the game is in Cleveland. The Dawg Pound can be an intense play for a visiting team. Also, Dolphins will still be down after last week's loss. I don't know what he has in plan, but Romeo is going to have some trick plays to help his team jump out to an early lead.

Browns 22 Dolphins 17



Carolina 7-2 @ Chicago 6-3

Synopsis: Carolina has won 6 straight, Chicago has won 5 straight. Both teams are at the top of their divisions. Not much respect is being given to the Bears so Sunday's game against the Panthers is going to be a big measuring stick on how good this Chicago team really is.

Spotlight Player: Adrian Peterson. This is the other Mr. Peterson. Don't get him confused with the RB at Oklahoma. With Cedric Benson out, and Thomas Jones banged up, Peterson will again be getting many looks. A lot of people are thinking big things for the young man considering he busted out for a 100+ yards against the 49ers. Was it a fluke or just the tip of the iceberg?

Prediction: This is a major game for Chicago. Everyone knows the Panthers are good, but the Bears? Not so much. They have a good defense, a smart quarterback, and can run the ball. Sorry I don't see this team being able to put up enough points on a top notch Carolina defense. This loss will only add more coating to the fact that the NFC North is only average at best.

Panthers 28 Bears 16


Pittsburgh 7-2 @ Baltimore 2-7

Synopsis: When this game was scheduled this was suppose to be a late season grudge match. Though the trouble with that is Steelers have a solid offense (with Big Ben) and a furious D. The Ravens have no offense and a slipping D. Baltimore's season is only going to get worse.

Spotlight Player: Kyle Boller. I was going to put who ever was the Steelers' QB, but this is bigger. Last week was Boller's first time on the field since Week 1. He was 19/33 142 yards and 3 interceptions. Oh and the Ravens finished with an astounding 3 points.

Prediction: For a second I was thinking that maybe Boller might come out and prove his doubters wrong. Yet, when I thought about it I realized Boller has really never lived up to his expectations. Even without Big Ben the Steelers will still get more offense with their backup than the Ravens can get with their first round draft pick.

Steelers 30 Ravens 14


Tampa Bay 6-3 @ Atlanta 6-3

Synopsis: Well nothing is better than a nice second place showdown. Tampa is going off an awesome win against the Redskins. Going for two like that was so gutsy and thrilling to watch. The Falcons are coming off an embarrassing loss to the Pack. Vick had 3 fumbles and the team lost by the score of 33-25.

Spotlight Player: Chris Simms. Who is this guy? Is he that guy who's lost 2 games and has thrown 2 TDs and 4 INTs? Or maybe he's that guy who threw for 279 yards and 3 TDs? Come Sunday people are going to start to see whether this guy can really be a quarterback. One thing is for sure. If he plays like he did last week, Mr. Griese will be out of the job...again.

Prediction: The NFC South is very unpredictable. Right now the Bucs, Panthers, and Falcons are all about even. One week it looks like Carolina is the best, and the next week Atlana looks awesome. Though just when you think you understand this division BOOM! the Bucs come out and beat a good Redskins team. I like Chris Simms. When he plays you saw what he can do.

Buccaneers 34 Falcons 27


Oakland 3-6 @ Washington 5-4

Synopsis: The Oakland Raiders are on a 2 game losing streak. This team seems to keep sinking each week after that epic Kansas City loss. The Redskins are coming off a loss to the Bucs in which they lost on a late two point conversion made by Tampa.

Spotlight Player: Randy Moss. Randy Moss has not had over 100 yards receiving since Week 4. With all this Terrell Owens hoopla you don't think Moss wants to show the media who's the real WR in the league and put up some All-Pro numbers?

Prediction: Coach Gibbs has been in control of this team long enough to the point where they are starting to become an elite club. Of Washington's 4 losses, 3 of them have come by an average of just over 3 points. Oakland on the other hand is in disarray. Norv Turner's coaching career for the Raiders is starting to look like former coach Bill Callahan's last year under Al Davis.

Redskins 27 Raiders 17


Jacksonville 6-3 @ Tennessee 2-7

Synopsis: The Jaguars are coming off a win in which they scored 30 points. Until last week Jacksonville had not scored 30 points or more in over 50+ games. Jacksonville is going against a young Titans team that is still maturing. Despite this, you never know what to expect with a coach like Jeff Fisher.

Spotlight Player: Chris Brown. This powerful Tennessee running back has yet to run over 100 yards this season. Criticism seems to be on the fact that Brown seems to be injured a lot. If he does not start performing better, than Travis Henry may be the go-to guy in the future.

Prediction: Jaguars are notorious for losing those easy games. I want to think that they will slip up again, but I think Del Rio is getting this team to notice it's potiential. Titans will keep it close, but in the end the defense of Jacksonville will ultimately seal the W.

Jaguars 28 Titans 23


Arizona 2-7 @ St. Louis 4-5

Synopsis: Kurt Warner is going to face his old team. The team he achieved the award of 2 MVPs along with a Super Bowl trophy. Arizona has been a huge disappointment this year. The Rams have gone through quite a bit of struggles this season. Coach Martz is unable to aid the team, and injuries to Bulger and Hort have really hindered this once offensive juggernaut.

Spotlight Player: Arizona running backs. The Cardinal have one rushing touchdown this season. Period. The offense can not be effective if everyone knows that Warner is going to be throwing the ball 90% of the time. Marcel Shipp and J.J. Arrington have to do something against a weak Rams D or the city of Phoenix can start getting use to a 2-8 record.

Prediction: Dennis Green's dream season is more like a nightmare. The Rams offense will overwhelm the Cardinals all day. Fitzgerald will be terrific, but the score is all that will matter in the end.

Rams 38 Cardinals 20


Philadelphia 4-5 @ NY Giants 6-3

Synopsis: Wow! Where do I start? The troubles in Philly are only getting worse. McNabb is done for the year and an inexperienced Mike McMahon is the QB who is suppose to save the season. Giants played awful last week against the Vikings. Eli Manning is going to come out and make a statement that last week was an absolute fluke.

Spotlight Player: Mike McMahon. He is being thrown in one tough situation. McMahon is not a savior, but he is not expected to be one. All he needs to do is HIS part. In order to accomplish this mission he'll have to do it against a hungry, underrated Giants D.

Prediction: I think the Eagles will suprise a lot of people on their performance Sunday. McMahon will do better than expected. Giants are still going to beat them because I can assure you Coach Tom Coughlin is still aggravated after the team's poor performance against Minnesota.

Giants 33 Eagles 21


Seattle 7-2 @ San Francisco 2-7

Synopsis: The Seahawks are really starting to play like an elite team. Shaun Alexander is a touchdown machine. I can't explain it any other way. The guy lives in the endzone. He has at least 15 TDs in 5 consecutive seasons. Phenomenal. San Francisco is seems to be running out of QBs. Don't worry Ken Dorsey is here to play.

Spotlight Player: Shaun Alexander. I think this one is pretty obvious. If Shaun Alexander can be hindered from his typical days of stardom then, and only then, will the 49ers have a chance. Fat chance on that considering San Fran is last in total defense.

Prediction: Seattle is looking good right now. I mean goooood. Hasselback is doing his part and Alexander is once again tearing run defenses apart. Even though San Fran has had it's upsets this year, don't look for it Sunday. The D the 49ers have is horrendous. Some NBA teams I think give up less points than the 49ers.

Seahawks 38 49ers 17


Buffalo 4-5 @ San Diego 5-4

Synopsis: San Diego is coming off of a bye week. Maybe this team is finally going to start winning week after week. They are going against a Bills team that is great on defense, but inconsistent on offense.

Spotlight Player: J.P. Losman. Losman got his starting job back when Holcomb went down with an injury last week. He was able to get the Bills a win over the Chiefs and to be honest he looked like he had the offense in control. Earlier in the year J.P. was having lots of difficulty, but during all that time on the bench he seems to have grown a better understanding of the game.

Prediction: Buffalo has the better D, and San Diego has the better offense. In the end, the main difference will be the run defense of both teams. San Diego has the best run defense and Buffalo has the second to worst run defense. Good news for LT, bad news for MaGahee.

Chargers 35 Bills 10

NY Jets 2-7 @ Denver 7-2

Synopsis: Herman Edwards is doing his best with a team that is QB-less. The season seems to only be getting more and more chaotic. To make matters worse the Jets have to play the Broncos in Denver.

Spotlight Player: Jets Offense. The D in NY is awesome, but you need an offense to put up points. When Pennington went down so did the team's season. The RB situation is a nightmare. Curtis Martin can't seem to get anything going. He has only one game this year of over a 100 yards. The WR position isn't much better. Offseason acquisitions Laveranues Coles and Doug Jolley are struggling to get in a consistent rhythmn of being productive every week.

Prediction: I know I haven't picked many upsets if any, but come on! I mean the Jets are hopeless right now. The QB situation as I stated is pathetic. The Broncos are going to pound the ball all game. By the time the game ends, the Jets's D will be exhausted and the Broncos offense will be grinning.

Broncos 32 Jets 13


Indianapolis 9-0 @ Cincinnati 7-2

Synopsis: (Drum roll) THE GAME YOU'VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR. THE UNDEFEATED INDIANAPOLIS COLTS TRAVEL INTO CINCINNATI TO PLAY IN THE JUNGLE AGAINST THE RAGING BENGALS. IT WILL BE A GAME OF GUTS, GLORY, AND DETERMINATION.

Spotlight Player: Chad Johnson. He loves the attention of the media like T.O. He just can't help giving his 2 cents on every issue. Chad didn't predict a win, but he did predict he'd have a big day. The whole Colts D is going to be doing everything they can to stop #85. If Chad can still achieve a big day than that is what I call backing it up.

Prediction: Everyone is thinking the Bengals will be victorious. Sorry, it ain't happening. Dungy is going to have the Colts ready. It'll be close, but in the end the play of #18 will crown the Colts the winners.

Colts 30 Bengals 27


Kansas City 5-4 @ Houston 1-8

Synopsis: I am going to have to agree with the fact that this is in fact a playoff game for Kansas City. They have a gruesome remaining schedule and if they lose to the Texans than kiss your playoff hopes good bye.

Spotlight Player: David Carr. This is not what we expected. 4-12, 5-11, 7-9 to a current record of 1-8? Where they not getting better? What has happened to this organization that looked to be a potiental playoff contender this season? As the losing continues so does the scrutiny of #1 draft pick David Carr. If Carr wants to keep his starting job for next year he better play these final 7 games with absolutely everything he's got.

Prediction: Hmmm. Quite the intriguing matchup. I am pondering of what I think shall happen in this unique matchup. KC rolls over the already steamrolled Houston Texans, or Houston wins in a classic fashion and KC's season has self-destructed. I have concluded that the Chiefs know just how important this game is and improve drastically on that weak 3 point performance against Buffalo last Sunday.

Chiefs 27 Texans 19


Minnesota 4-5 @ Green Bay 2-7

Synopsis: The Vikings are on a 2 game winning streak and Brad Johnson is playing well for the injured Daunte Culpepper. The Pack are coming of a big upset in Atlanta. Favre is showing that he can still muster wins out of a team plagued with injuries.

Spotlight Player: Brett Favre. Yes, you could say Brad Johnson, or Gado is more important, but I disagree. Favre is having a really rough year. He leads the league in INTs with 15. And his team has so many injuries that the towel boy might be playing come Sunday. Favre needs to have another complete game like he had last week to prove once again he is Da Master.

Prediction: Don't start talking about the Vikings turning around a disappointing season. Tice's crew is going into Lambeau against a Packers team that is coming together. Favre is going to be glorious on the Monday Night stage once again.

Packers 30 Vikings 20

College Football: 11/19/05

Last week I thought I did pretty good. My record was 5-3.

Analysis of Last Week's Picks
48 Ohio State/7 Northwestern----Yep that NW team is suuure consistent.
41 Michigan/14 Indiana----Michigan beat Indiana! No way!
35 Clemson/14 Florida State----I can't believe this one. Bobby got whooped.
35 USC/10 California----This was suppose to be an upset? HA!
16 LSU/13 Alabama OT----I hit this on the nose. Offense would ultimately choose the victor.
30 South Carolina/22 Florida----Auburn is better than we all thought. Nice away win.
31Auburn/30 Georgia----Wow. I mean I never thought Spurrier would actually pull this off.
20 Iowa/10 Wisconsin---- I was right about this one. Barry loses home finale.

Here's my picks for this week of intense grudge matches...

9 Ohio State Buckeyes @ 17 Michigan Wolverines

Story: The Buckeyes offense has been rolling these last few weeks. Troy Smith is finally becoming that quarterback Buckeye fans have been dreaming about. Michigan seems to have turned there season around after falling to 3-3 earlier in the year.

Matchup to Watch For: Troy Smith vs. Michigan DL. Troy Smith leads the Big Ten with an astounding passer rating of 160.27. He has already tossed 13 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. As productive as he's been, he'll be going against a rejuvenated Wolverine DL. In order to stop Troy Smith the Michigan defensive line has to force him to pass, and not let him scramble to the outside for huge gains. If Troy Smith is forced to throw more, the offense of Columbus will be greatly weakened.

Prediction: When these 2 teams play it is always a classic. In my mind, the greatest rivalry in sports will be yet another epic tale. The Buckeyes offense is looking mighty fine, and the Wolverines are doing pretty well after that awful start to the season. None the less, the game rests on Troy Smith's shoulders. This is a tough one, but I think Wolverines win because of the inexperience Troy Smith has in playing in hostile environments.

UM 26 OSU 17


8 Alabama Crimson Tide @ 11 Auburn Tigers

Story: I don't think the Iron Bowl has been this close of a matchup in a while. The Tide are coming off an emotioinal loss in which there dreams of a National Championship were shattered. (Geaux Tigers!) Auburn on the other hand, is coming on an impressive win @ Georgia.

Matchup to Watch For: Brodie Croyle vs. Auburn D. How will Croyle respond after a devastating loss to LSU? His play will dictate the mood of the team. Croyle will be going against yet another top SEC defense. If Auburn is able to get the penetration on Croyle like the Tigers did than you can expect an Auburn win.

Prediction: Alabama is still bummed out about that LSU loss, but none the less the team will be ready to play in the Iron Bowl. Problem is, Alabama is going against a very underrated Auburn team. Auburn is coming off a big win, while Bama is coming off a tough loss. Do the math.

Auburn 29 Alabama 20


5 Penn State Nittany Lions @ Michigan State Spartans

Story: I'll admit I thought Joe Pa was done. I thought we should have retired 4 years ago. The coach still has it. He is one win aways from a BCS game. One game. He'll be going against a disappointing MSU team. Hopefully Paterno is aware that many refer to the Spartans as the Spoilers.

Matchup to Watch For: Michigan State D vs. Penn State offense. Yes, that is a vague matchup to watch for, but this Spartans D is horrendous. MSU is giving up about 30 points per game. Most wins for this club are offensive shootouts. The Spartans are going to have to stop a Penn State offense putting up 36 points a game! Oh dear, oh dear...

Prediction: We all know how the Spartans are the Spoilers, but not Saturday. Penn State a focused ball club with an explosive offense and a hard hitting defense. More importantly, is the fact that the Spartans don't have a defense.

PSU 41 MSU 21


Oregon State Beavers @ 10 Oregon Ducks

Story: The Ducks are the most popular one loss team that nobody knows about. After their loss to USC, Oregon has slowly been creeping back up the rankings. If they can win the Civil War game against arch rival Oregon State, then the possibility of an Oregon BCS bowl is very likely.

Matchup to Watch For: Dennis Dixon vs. the Beavers D. Dixon is taking over for Kellen Clemens who suffered a season ending injury. Dixon showed great potential when he drove the Ducks down for a winning score against Washington State last week. Dixon can really get going as he will be taking on a defense giving up an average of 30 points per game. Oregon State is already a big underdog, but if they can't disrupt Dixon's timing at all then it will be a long day for Coach Riley.

Prediction: I want to say the Beavers pull out the upset, but the game is in Eugene. Oregon is an even better football team at Autzen Stadium. Besides, Oregon State hasn't won at Autzen since 1993.

Oregon 44 Oregon State 28


Clemson Tigers @ 19 South Carolina Gamecocks

Story: Coach Spurrier is coming off a win against his former team. Gamecocks are looking good right now. Once again, Clemson is the team nobody understands, once again. Last week I had them losing to Florida State. I still am shocked on the convincing win Coach Bowden handed to his dad.

Matchup to Watch For: Charlie Whitehurt vs. the South Carolina D. My friend Jonny Mahoney tells me, "Charlie Whitehurt has the prettiest pass in college football." Mr. Whitehurst has fallen off the map since the disappointing season he had last year. Whitehurst is now back on the map with an impressive FSU win. His stats were 21/32 269 yards and 2 TDs. To make matters even worse for Spurrier's D, Whitehurst is 3-0 against the Gamecocks and has thrown for 740 yards, 4 TDs, and 2 INTs. All in all, look for Spurrier to once again throw some surprises at the Clemson offense.

Prediction: This is a big rivarly and the Gamecocks frankly haven't been winning in it much. Huge win last week for both universities. The Gamecocks are hot right now, and aren't inconsistent like Clemson.

South Carolina 31 Clemson 28


4 LSU Tigers @ Mississippi Rebels

Story: The Tigers are coming of an amazing win that shattered Alabama's hopes of a National Championship. LSU controls their own destiny to Atlanta. As for Ole Miss they haven't had nearly the type of season they anticipated. Perfect ingredients for an upset?

Matchup to Watch For: Ethan Flatt vs. LSU D. Ethan is the latest QB for the Rebels. He'll quickly be under the spotlight as his goes against a Bayou Bengal defense that is a force to be reckoned with.

Prediction: LSU just had an emotional victory against the Crimson Tide. The Rebels just might be able to pull off the upset of the season. This a big rivalry and destroying LSU's SEC Championship hopes would be a thrill for the people of Oxford. Though, Ole Miss has a new QB under center and they have only scored over 20 points this season once. (Vanderbilt)

LSU 31 Ole Miss 14


Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets @ 3 Miami (FL) Hurricanes

Story: The Hurricanes have slowly climbed up to #3 in the BCS. A USC or Texas loss and Miami Florida will get it's shot at the Rose Bowl. They are battling a GTech team that has been very unpredictable throughout the season.

Matchup to Watch For: Reggie Ball vs. Hurricane D. Reggie Ball has completed a mere 47% of his passes. He has taken a step back from his great success last year. Ball will be going against the best defense in the ACC. Reggie Ball + A Hungry Hurricane D= Trouble!

Prediction: Miami Florida looked like they were going to slip against the Demon Deacons last week. Coker's team which was down 17-14 turned the game around and won 47-17. They'll be focused come Saturday.

Miami Florida 45 Georgia Tech 19


16 Fresno State Bulldogs @ 1 USC Trojans

Story: It's going to happen, right? USC hasn't lost in 779 days, but they will be facing an underrated Fresno State football team. The Bulldogs only loss this season was to Oregon. In order to pull off the upset of a lifetime Pat Hill will have to find a way to stop the 3-headed monster known only as Matt LenDale Bush.

Matchup to Watch For: Paul Pinegar vs. USC D. He came in after David Carr and was said to be better. He currently has thrown 18 TDs and 5 INTs this season. He leads an offense averaging over 40 points a game. Despite his impressive college career, that will be nothing if he doesn't come to play against the Trojans. If this upset is going to happen Mr. Pinegar can't play a good game or a great game. He has to play an unforgettable game.

Prediction: Yes this looks like an upset in the making into you realize that USC is the team some think might lose. They won't. Why? Matt Leinert is such a tremendous leader and athlete who makes plays game in and game out. Oh and there is also that unstoppable RB who seems to average a TD every blink of an eye. Sorry Bulldog fans, but it ain't happening.

USC 48 Fresno State 23