NFL Week #5
After Sunday's melt down by the Texans, I'm not in my usual mood to write about the NFL. So this is a very abbreviated version of my weekly NFL idiocy.
Joe Pisarcik/Carson Palmer Player of the Week: Sage Rosenfel. Three turnovers in the final minutes of what looked to be a Texans victory allowed the biggest collapse of a football game I've witnessed in person. Congrats to the Texans. That took some real creativity to blow a lead like this one. A big middle finger to the Texans last week.
Regardless, I'll be there again this Sunday. I plan on being there every year even if I have to pay someone to wheel me in there when I'm old and drool is running out of my mouth.
Week #5 vs. the Spread Results
This week I did much better than the previous two weeks with a 7-3-2 record. The Titans and Broncos tied the line so those two games were a push. I don't see any really big shockers other than the Chargers losing to the Dolphins. I had a hard time in taking the Cowboys to cover at -17 but the Bengals have been terrible. Should have gone with my gut. The only other game that I lost was the pick 'em between the Bills and Cardinals. I went with the Bills.
In the Redskins vs. Eagles, I figured the 'skins would at least cover if
they didn't win and that worked out for me. I knew -3.5 for the Bears at
Lions was to small a line.
Week #6 Picks
Last week I some what reversed a downward trend. Hopefully I can continue the upward trend.
Raiders(+7) @Saints - Very few things make me happier than a Saints loss. Believe me if you've ever been around their fans you'd understand. Unfortunately I think the Raiders will be trampled by the Saints.
Raven(+4) @Colts - This was a tough choice. The opening line was -6 Colts but since tightened up. I think the Colts just might have enough to overcome the Ravens defense. Colts
Bengals(+5.5) @Jets - I'm surprised the line is this low. I'd expected a higher spread given that Brett Farve is liable to go off against a shaky Bengals defense. Jets
Panthers(+1) @Buccaneers - To me this comes down to how the Bucs defense holds up against the Panthers running game and Steve Smith. Panthers
Lions(+13) @Vikings - Lions are in complete disarray. Getting your ass kicked by Kyle Orton is embarrassing. Take the Vikings.
Bears(-3) @Falcons - This might be my upset special. I'm going with the Falcons
Dolphins(+3) @Texans - The Dolphins bring Ronnie Brown and the Wildcat formation to Houston. The Texans still have to be spinning from the major collapse against the Colts. It will be interesting on how they respond. Texans
Rams(+13.5) @Redskins - Why is there even a spread on this game? Redskins
Jaguars(+3.5) @ Broncos - Another slugfest for the Broncos and opponent. I figure like the other shoot outs that the Broncos win.
Eagles(-5) @49ers - I think the spread is to low. I think the Eagles win by a healthy margin.
Cowboys(-5) @Cardinals - Cowboys cover but lose. That's what I hope and never bet on hope. Cowboys
Packers(+1.5) @Seahawks - Aaron Rodgers doesn't seem to be bothered by his injury and the Hawks are still short of quality receivers. Packers
Patriots(+5) @Chargers - Pats are mediocre at best without Tom Brady and Chargers' LT is hobbled. Chargers though have enough other firepower to overcome a shaky and aging Pat's defense. Chargers
Giants-(9) @Browns - Giants are due to stumble soon but not this week. Browns
Friday, October 10, 2008
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Hey Cubs and Cub fans!
The Curse of the Billy Goat Lives! All is well in the World by the latest Chicago Cub choke job. So once again I say
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Unkle Monkee vs. the Spread Week #4, Week #5 picks
Not unlike my grades in my first years in college, my score against the spread is sinking quick. This week I went a pathetic 4-9 against the spread.
The only games I managed to win were the Panthers, Saints, Redskins and Bills. I whiffed big time on every other game. The Broncos had a big let down against the Chiefs. The Cards took an unexpected woodshed beating by the Jets. The Vikings continue to tailspin out while the Titans continue to improve. The Bears defense is going to make picks involving the Bears tough.
I'll try better this week and see if I can reverse my downward trend. There would be nothing more embarrassing that a goose egg.
On to the games!
Colts (-3) @ Texans - My heart is telling to go with my hometown Texans. My head tells my heart to shut the f*** up. I listen to my head, Colts
Titans(-3) @ Ravens - QB Joe Flacco looked great in that first half. This will be the toughest defense the Titans face to date. I originally circled the Ravens on my cheat sheet but am having second thoughts. Flacco was rattled in the second half by the Steelers defense for a bit. He did recover but enough damage was done. I expect the same from the Titans. This is a tough choice but I'm going sticking to my pick of the Ravens.
Chargers(-6.5) @ Dolphins - The Chargers defense is no Patriots defense. Ronnie Brown doesn't go off on the Bolts. Taking the Chargers easily.
Chiefs(+9.5) @ Panthers - The Chiefs played well for one week and upset the Broncos. The Broncos defense is made of pappier mache. Panthers are tougher. Panthers
Redskins(+6) @ Eagles - This hinges on if Michael Westbrook is fully healthy. My guess is that he plays in a big divisional matchup. Jason Campbell has improved light years since the opening loss debacle to the Giants. The Eagles defense is more physical than the Cowboys. I see the Eagles winning this one straight up but not covering. I take the road dog Redskins again.
Bears(-3.5) @ Lions - I think -3.5 is to low even for the inept Bears offense against a hapless Lions. Matt Forte leads the charge as the Bears win handily.
Falcons @ Packers - no line on this one so far. I don't know if one will be set or why one isn't set yet. I can't pick if there is no line to pick against.
Seahawks (+9.5) @ Giants - Giants a playing some mean football and the Seahawks are barely getting their receivers back. Giants
Buc(+3) @ Broncos - The Broncos offense was only held in check by Jay Cutler miscues. That doesn't happen this week. The offense is scary good but the defense is scary bad. Regardless I'm taking the home favorites. Broncos
Bills (PK) @ Cardinals - It's a pick 'em with a slight favorite to the home team. Bills have been more impressive as of late than the Cards. Taking the Bills to win straight up.
Bengals (+17) @ Cowboys - Whew that's a nasty spread. Cowboys are that good early on and the Bengals are that bad. Don't even know if Carson Palmer will play. Take the Cowboys and the large spread.
Steelers(+4) @ Jaguars - Jags had a difficult time against the Texans offense. The Steelers though are with out Willie Parker and Rashard Mendenhall is out for the year. This is another tough one but I'm going with the Jags.
Vikings(+3) @ Saints - Vikings have been a massive disappointment and the Saints are hurting. The Saints don't have much of an defense in my opinion. Look for Adrian Peterson to put up some big numbers. Vikings
The only games I managed to win were the Panthers, Saints, Redskins and Bills. I whiffed big time on every other game. The Broncos had a big let down against the Chiefs. The Cards took an unexpected woodshed beating by the Jets. The Vikings continue to tailspin out while the Titans continue to improve. The Bears defense is going to make picks involving the Bears tough.
I'll try better this week and see if I can reverse my downward trend. There would be nothing more embarrassing that a goose egg.
On to the games!
Colts (-3) @ Texans - My heart is telling to go with my hometown Texans. My head tells my heart to shut the f*** up. I listen to my head, Colts
Titans(-3) @ Ravens - QB Joe Flacco looked great in that first half. This will be the toughest defense the Titans face to date. I originally circled the Ravens on my cheat sheet but am having second thoughts. Flacco was rattled in the second half by the Steelers defense for a bit. He did recover but enough damage was done. I expect the same from the Titans. This is a tough choice but I'm going sticking to my pick of the Ravens.
Chargers(-6.5) @ Dolphins - The Chargers defense is no Patriots defense. Ronnie Brown doesn't go off on the Bolts. Taking the Chargers easily.
Chiefs(+9.5) @ Panthers - The Chiefs played well for one week and upset the Broncos. The Broncos defense is made of pappier mache. Panthers are tougher. Panthers
Redskins(+6) @ Eagles - This hinges on if Michael Westbrook is fully healthy. My guess is that he plays in a big divisional matchup. Jason Campbell has improved light years since the opening loss debacle to the Giants. The Eagles defense is more physical than the Cowboys. I see the Eagles winning this one straight up but not covering. I take the road dog Redskins again.
Bears(-3.5) @ Lions - I think -3.5 is to low even for the inept Bears offense against a hapless Lions. Matt Forte leads the charge as the Bears win handily.
Falcons @ Packers - no line on this one so far. I don't know if one will be set or why one isn't set yet. I can't pick if there is no line to pick against.
Seahawks (+9.5) @ Giants - Giants a playing some mean football and the Seahawks are barely getting their receivers back. Giants
Buc(+3) @ Broncos - The Broncos offense was only held in check by Jay Cutler miscues. That doesn't happen this week. The offense is scary good but the defense is scary bad. Regardless I'm taking the home favorites. Broncos
Bills (PK) @ Cardinals - It's a pick 'em with a slight favorite to the home team. Bills have been more impressive as of late than the Cards. Taking the Bills to win straight up.
Bengals (+17) @ Cowboys - Whew that's a nasty spread. Cowboys are that good early on and the Bengals are that bad. Don't even know if Carson Palmer will play. Take the Cowboys and the large spread.
Steelers(+4) @ Jaguars - Jags had a difficult time against the Texans offense. The Steelers though are with out Willie Parker and Rashard Mendenhall is out for the year. This is another tough one but I'm going with the Jags.
Vikings(+3) @ Saints - Vikings have been a massive disappointment and the Saints are hurting. The Saints don't have much of an defense in my opinion. Look for Adrian Peterson to put up some big numbers. Vikings
NFL Week #4
What was that in week four that seemed so different than previous weeks or seasons? It's the first week in the NFL with out the stench and smell of Matt Millen polluting the NFL. Unfortunately his taint is still all over the Detroit franchise and will be for a few more years. But here's a big middle finger to Millen and a bigger middle finger to Old Man Ford for taking so long to fire Millen.
Another big middle finger goes out to, who else, but Worst Coach in the NFL Herm Edwards. To quote Edward from Sport Illustrated's Peter King,"I told Mike Shanahan,'You've got a hell of a football team. But we were better today..." The last person in the league that should be talking any smack is Edwards. This the Chiefs first win since October of last season. Edwards instead should be looking over his shoulder for Owner Hunt sneaking around Arrowhead Stadium with a gun looking to pop one through Edward's eye. It happened down the road to Scott Linehan in St. Louis. Edwards should be next.
While I'm passing out middle fingers, I'll throw one at Terrell Owens. The Owens Waahmbulance is in full force. After the Cowboys were upset by the Redskins, TO cried that not enough plays were called for him. Here's an interesting stat: Tony Romo threw the ball towards TO 17 times and he had one end around. Now a baffling stat: the Cowboys only rushed 11 carries with 8 going to Marion Barber. Even more baffling was not getting Felix Jones more involved. He was limited to kick returns only.
Sadly, the George Costanza vs. Emperor Palpatine sitcom has been cancelled. Palpatine finally used force lightening on Costanza. Lane Kiffin joins the ranks of Art Shell, Norv Turner and Mike Callahan as a short term head coach in Oakland. Ever since Chucky left and Callahan accidentally took the Raiduhs to the Super Bowl, it's been down hill. It is my opinion that Al Davis is just growing senile by the day. Of course he has a colossal ego. The best thing, short of selling the franchise, Palpatine can do is hire a GM and let him run the show. It won't happen.
The Toilet Bowl game between Cincy and Cleveland gets Carson Palmer another middle finger from me. So far Palmer leads the league in middle fingers from me this season. Despite a win, Marv Lewis remains on the hot seat in Cincy. I figure though that Lewis resigns before he gets fired. I think he gets fed up with GM Mike Brown and quits. The beginning of the end was probably when Brown overruled Lewis in bringing back problem child Chris Henry.
Things are no better for Romeo Crennell in Cleveland. I'm guessing that we see Brady Quinn pretty soon. Starting QB Dave Anderson isn't producing and Quinn is a first rounder sitting on the bench. At this point he's got nothing to lose.
Player of the week: Brett Farve? Larry Johnson? No, it's Matt Bryant the kicker from Tampa Bay. His three month old son died last week and buried him on Saturday. Everyone mourns differently and it would have been perfectly understandable if he chose not to play. Instead he does play, saving a player from getting cut for one week to replace Bryant on the roster and had three field goals including the game winner with 2:56 left to play. After the kick he wiped his eyes and looked to the sky.
FoxSports.com's John Czarnecki makes an interesting point in his column. He asks why doesn't the NFL grant a one game exemption to allow a team sign a player in extraordinary situations. Like in Bryant's case, a player would have to be cut in order for the Bucs to sign a kicker. Why not allow him time off and not have to cut a player to sign a one game replacement?
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/8619724
Now this week's Joe Pisarcik/Carson Palmer Player of the Week. There's a reason Palmer shares the title with Pisarcik on this dubious distinction and that's because Palmer has just been a dud this year. Palmer earns the award this week for not playing. He's hurt but it wasn't announced until game time. Thanks @$$h0le. Cost me my fantasy game this week. Just a step below Palmer as a dud has been Pittsburgh Steelers TE Heath Miller. All I needed from him was four more lousy points I'd have won despite Palmer's goose egg. I dangle my genitals in their general direction.
Speaking of the Steelers, that was a hell of a game Monday night. They were just flat out beat in the first half and they looked deflated. Quarterback Brent Musburger rallied the troops after convincing coach Mike Tomlin to let him call the plays. It was a costly game though with rookie running back Rashard Mendenhall and starting right guard Kendall Simmons are out for the season. Watch out if there are anymore Steellers with two "Ls" in their name. It might be a season ender.
And finally the Texans. Please owner Bob McNair, GM Rich Smith or coach Gary Kubiak, please fire defensive coordinator Richard Smith. The defensive effort was pathetic Sunday. With the game on the line, David Garrard was able to scramble for a crucial first down and then for the go ahead touchdown. On the TD run, no one was spying the QB. He could have crawled into the endzone. After that first down run, someone should have stayed home to watch Garrard.
The special teams were equally inept. How the hell does no one call timeout when it's obvious the Jaguars are going for it on fourth? Instead the Texans scrambled around like a Chinese fire drill. Hell I was screaming timeout at the TV. A really good clue is when the Jaguars lined up in punt formation with no punter. It was pretty disgusting.
I don't think Kubiak's job is on the line yet but inept plays that cost games if not corrected will add up. Kubiak is in his third year. Plays like those, especially the special teams debacles, shouldn't be happening. If things continue like that for the season, I will have to question Kubiak's already shaky game time decisions. I'm not calling for his head by any means but I am starting to really question his game day choices. Some of them are bothersome and a troubling trend is starting to show. Some things a third year coach shouldn't be doing anymore.
Regardless I'll be a season ticket holder until the day I'm called to the great football stadium in the beyond.
Fuck Baseball.
Another big middle finger goes out to, who else, but Worst Coach in the NFL Herm Edwards. To quote Edward from Sport Illustrated's Peter King,"I told Mike Shanahan,'You've got a hell of a football team. But we were better today..." The last person in the league that should be talking any smack is Edwards. This the Chiefs first win since October of last season. Edwards instead should be looking over his shoulder for Owner Hunt sneaking around Arrowhead Stadium with a gun looking to pop one through Edward's eye. It happened down the road to Scott Linehan in St. Louis. Edwards should be next.
While I'm passing out middle fingers, I'll throw one at Terrell Owens. The Owens Waahmbulance is in full force. After the Cowboys were upset by the Redskins, TO cried that not enough plays were called for him. Here's an interesting stat: Tony Romo threw the ball towards TO 17 times and he had one end around. Now a baffling stat: the Cowboys only rushed 11 carries with 8 going to Marion Barber. Even more baffling was not getting Felix Jones more involved. He was limited to kick returns only.
Sadly, the George Costanza vs. Emperor Palpatine sitcom has been cancelled. Palpatine finally used force lightening on Costanza. Lane Kiffin joins the ranks of Art Shell, Norv Turner and Mike Callahan as a short term head coach in Oakland. Ever since Chucky left and Callahan accidentally took the Raiduhs to the Super Bowl, it's been down hill. It is my opinion that Al Davis is just growing senile by the day. Of course he has a colossal ego. The best thing, short of selling the franchise, Palpatine can do is hire a GM and let him run the show. It won't happen.
The Toilet Bowl game between Cincy and Cleveland gets Carson Palmer another middle finger from me. So far Palmer leads the league in middle fingers from me this season. Despite a win, Marv Lewis remains on the hot seat in Cincy. I figure though that Lewis resigns before he gets fired. I think he gets fed up with GM Mike Brown and quits. The beginning of the end was probably when Brown overruled Lewis in bringing back problem child Chris Henry.
Things are no better for Romeo Crennell in Cleveland. I'm guessing that we see Brady Quinn pretty soon. Starting QB Dave Anderson isn't producing and Quinn is a first rounder sitting on the bench. At this point he's got nothing to lose.
Player of the week: Brett Farve? Larry Johnson? No, it's Matt Bryant the kicker from Tampa Bay. His three month old son died last week and buried him on Saturday. Everyone mourns differently and it would have been perfectly understandable if he chose not to play. Instead he does play, saving a player from getting cut for one week to replace Bryant on the roster and had three field goals including the game winner with 2:56 left to play. After the kick he wiped his eyes and looked to the sky.
FoxSports.com's John Czarnecki makes an interesting point in his column. He asks why doesn't the NFL grant a one game exemption to allow a team sign a player in extraordinary situations. Like in Bryant's case, a player would have to be cut in order for the Bucs to sign a kicker. Why not allow him time off and not have to cut a player to sign a one game replacement?
http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/8619724
Now this week's Joe Pisarcik/Carson Palmer Player of the Week. There's a reason Palmer shares the title with Pisarcik on this dubious distinction and that's because Palmer has just been a dud this year. Palmer earns the award this week for not playing. He's hurt but it wasn't announced until game time. Thanks @$$h0le. Cost me my fantasy game this week. Just a step below Palmer as a dud has been Pittsburgh Steelers TE Heath Miller. All I needed from him was four more lousy points I'd have won despite Palmer's goose egg. I dangle my genitals in their general direction.
Speaking of the Steelers, that was a hell of a game Monday night. They were just flat out beat in the first half and they looked deflated. Quarterback Brent Musburger rallied the troops after convincing coach Mike Tomlin to let him call the plays. It was a costly game though with rookie running back Rashard Mendenhall and starting right guard Kendall Simmons are out for the season. Watch out if there are anymore Steellers with two "Ls" in their name. It might be a season ender.
And finally the Texans. Please owner Bob McNair, GM Rich Smith or coach Gary Kubiak, please fire defensive coordinator Richard Smith. The defensive effort was pathetic Sunday. With the game on the line, David Garrard was able to scramble for a crucial first down and then for the go ahead touchdown. On the TD run, no one was spying the QB. He could have crawled into the endzone. After that first down run, someone should have stayed home to watch Garrard.
The special teams were equally inept. How the hell does no one call timeout when it's obvious the Jaguars are going for it on fourth? Instead the Texans scrambled around like a Chinese fire drill. Hell I was screaming timeout at the TV. A really good clue is when the Jaguars lined up in punt formation with no punter. It was pretty disgusting.
I don't think Kubiak's job is on the line yet but inept plays that cost games if not corrected will add up. Kubiak is in his third year. Plays like those, especially the special teams debacles, shouldn't be happening. If things continue like that for the season, I will have to question Kubiak's already shaky game time decisions. I'm not calling for his head by any means but I am starting to really question his game day choices. Some of them are bothersome and a troubling trend is starting to show. Some things a third year coach shouldn't be doing anymore.
Regardless I'll be a season ticket holder until the day I'm called to the great football stadium in the beyond.
Fuck Baseball.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Houston Cougars upend former No. 23 ECU Pirates
For one day at least, the Coogs played like a real football team. It was a total team effort. The defense made the trip and actually played a big part in pulling off the upset. The defense had a big part in helping overcome Case Keenum's turnovers. He lost two fumbles while scrambling and had a pass picked off and returned for a TD.
Special teams also continue to be a problem. Two kickoffs went out of bounds, one FG attempt had a high snap and the kicker missed two FG attempts. In a closer game those things can come back to bite you in the ass.
Fortunately the team didn't fold when things could have gone south. They hung tough, made plays and in the end pulled off the upset.
Way to go Coogs!
Special teams also continue to be a problem. Two kickoffs went out of bounds, one FG attempt had a high snap and the kicker missed two FG attempts. In a closer game those things can come back to bite you in the ass.
Fortunately the team didn't fold when things could have gone south. They hung tough, made plays and in the end pulled off the upset.
Way to go Coogs!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Unkle Monkee vs. the Spread - Week 3, Week 4 Picks
Week #3 Unkle Monkee vs. The Spread
What a way to start off the day. Get to work, log in to my computer and check how I did this week against the spread.
Week 1 I went 10-5 (excluded the Giants vs. 'skins) and week 2 Hurricane Ike got in the way. Week 3 wasn't so good. I went 8-8 vs. the spread.
A break down of what went right and what went wrong:
The Herm Edwards Era is probably closing in KC. Falcons had little trouble covering.
Despite the rumors swirling about Lane Kiffin's demise, the Raiders managed to cover and put an "L" on my record.
Carson Palmer made a cameo and the Bengals covered. I didn't expect the Bengals to improve against a tough Giants defense but they managed to keep the score close enough so that the Giants didn't cover.
I really thought that the Cards would win but the Redskins look like they've made weekly improvements under new head coach Jim Zorn.
I didn't think the Pats would cover against the 'fins with Matt Cassel at quarterback but I didn't think Ronnie Brown would just go off like that either. I just thought +12.5 was too much with Cassel at QB.
Taking the Bears and Panthers bit me in the ass. I thought the Bears would beat the Bucs and that the Panthers would play better against the Vikes. I lost both those games straight up. Same thing with taking the Colts and Jets. I thought the Colts would win straight up but they lost and cost me. I thought the Chargers would win but fail to cover. They routed the Jets. Ouch. The Broncos lost a big lead and failed to cover for me.
The Packers were the only home dog this week against the Cowboys. I played my gut and went with the Cowboys. If they game was in December I'd probably have taken the Pack.
This week's record: 8-8
Over all record: 18-13
Week #4 vs. the Spread
I'm trying to bounce back from last week's 8-8 showing. For reference, I'm using FoxSports.com's page showing NFL odds
Broncos(-10) @ KC. The Bronco's defense gave up 32 and 38 points against the Chargers and Saints, respectively. If the Chiefs had any kind of fire power I'd take them but they don't. Broncos
Browns(+3.5) @ Bengals - Both teams have been awful to start and both head coaches are on the hot seat. I'll bake the Bengals.
Texans(+7) @ Jaguars - Texans still looking to get on track. It won't be this week. Go with the Jaguars.
Cardinals(+1.5) @ Jets - In a game close I go with who I think will win straight up. Cardinals
49ers(+5.5) @ Saints - Line opened at +6.5 for the niners. One book has it at +4.5. They showed some life last week but I don't think the Saints fail to cover. Saints
Falcons(+6.5) @ Panthers - How will Michael Turner do against a tough Panther's defense on the road? This line has been the biggest move yet of the season. It opened at +9. I'll take the Panthers to beat the spread.
Vikings(+3) @ Titans - Vikes are already a team in flux with last week's quarterback change. I think they will win though. Vikings
Packers(+1) @ Buccaneers - Take Aaron Rodgers and the Pack to win on the road. Packers
Bills(-8) @ Rams - No contest. Bills
Chargers(-7.5) @ Raiders - Big rivalry game on the road for the Chargers. They fail to cover. Raiders
Redskin(+11) @ Cowboys - Another big rivalry game I think the Cowboys suffer a let down after a big win in Green Bay. Redskins
Eagles (-3) @ Bears - Da Bears have the defense but the offense, outside of Matt Forte, is offensive. Eagles
Ravens (+5) @ Steelers - Not contest or explanation needed. Steelers
What a way to start off the day. Get to work, log in to my computer and check how I did this week against the spread.
Week 1 I went 10-5 (excluded the Giants vs. 'skins) and week 2 Hurricane Ike got in the way. Week 3 wasn't so good. I went 8-8 vs. the spread.
A break down of what went right and what went wrong:
The Herm Edwards Era is probably closing in KC. Falcons had little trouble covering.
Despite the rumors swirling about Lane Kiffin's demise, the Raiders managed to cover and put an "L" on my record.
Carson Palmer made a cameo and the Bengals covered. I didn't expect the Bengals to improve against a tough Giants defense but they managed to keep the score close enough so that the Giants didn't cover.
I really thought that the Cards would win but the Redskins look like they've made weekly improvements under new head coach Jim Zorn.
I didn't think the Pats would cover against the 'fins with Matt Cassel at quarterback but I didn't think Ronnie Brown would just go off like that either. I just thought +12.5 was too much with Cassel at QB.
Taking the Bears and Panthers bit me in the ass. I thought the Bears would beat the Bucs and that the Panthers would play better against the Vikes. I lost both those games straight up. Same thing with taking the Colts and Jets. I thought the Colts would win straight up but they lost and cost me. I thought the Chargers would win but fail to cover. They routed the Jets. Ouch. The Broncos lost a big lead and failed to cover for me.
The Packers were the only home dog this week against the Cowboys. I played my gut and went with the Cowboys. If they game was in December I'd probably have taken the Pack.
This week's record: 8-8
Over all record: 18-13
Week #4 vs. the Spread
I'm trying to bounce back from last week's 8-8 showing. For reference, I'm using FoxSports.com's page showing NFL odds
Broncos(-10) @ KC. The Bronco's defense gave up 32 and 38 points against the Chargers and Saints, respectively. If the Chiefs had any kind of fire power I'd take them but they don't. Broncos
Browns(+3.5) @ Bengals - Both teams have been awful to start and both head coaches are on the hot seat. I'll bake the Bengals.
Texans(+7) @ Jaguars - Texans still looking to get on track. It won't be this week. Go with the Jaguars.
Cardinals(+1.5) @ Jets - In a game close I go with who I think will win straight up. Cardinals
49ers(+5.5) @ Saints - Line opened at +6.5 for the niners. One book has it at +4.5. They showed some life last week but I don't think the Saints fail to cover. Saints
Falcons(+6.5) @ Panthers - How will Michael Turner do against a tough Panther's defense on the road? This line has been the biggest move yet of the season. It opened at +9. I'll take the Panthers to beat the spread.
Vikings(+3) @ Titans - Vikes are already a team in flux with last week's quarterback change. I think they will win though. Vikings
Packers(+1) @ Buccaneers - Take Aaron Rodgers and the Pack to win on the road. Packers
Bills(-8) @ Rams - No contest. Bills
Chargers(-7.5) @ Raiders - Big rivalry game on the road for the Chargers. They fail to cover. Raiders
Redskin(+11) @ Cowboys - Another big rivalry game I think the Cowboys suffer a let down after a big win in Green Bay. Redskins
Eagles (-3) @ Bears - Da Bears have the defense but the offense, outside of Matt Forte, is offensive. Eagles
Ravens (+5) @ Steelers - Not contest or explanation needed. Steelers
NFL Week #3
Well week three is in the books and I have absolutely nothing better to do at work so I'm getting this weekly ranting, raving and observing out of the way early. You blame high gas prices on high oil? Stupid you. Blame my salary and my lack of productivity as the reason. Hey at least I'm not running office pools and other gambling out of here anymore. It took me forever to scrub all that shit off the network.
The first draft of this email had a long commentary on broadcasters and how much most of them suck and those that are damn good. Instead, I'll give you the brief version. Chris Berman's act has gotten old and tired. He hit a new low with Josh Scobee-doobie-doobie doo. I changed the channel after that only to hear it again by someone else on NBC.
On to the field of play. Well sort of. The George Costanza vs. Emperor Palpatine drama has gotten funnier. Rumors were swirling around that Al Davis was going to fire Lane Kiffin on Monday. As of Tuesday morning, Costanza still has a job. I wonder if he's having to crawl through the duct work to get into his office. (Seinfeld episode "The Voice" where George's boss want him to quit so he won't have to pay him). I'm wondering why law and order Commish Goodell hasn't stepped in. He seems bent on getting his players to behave but let's an owner and coach have their own sitcom.
With Tom Brady out and the Colts stagger, now would seem the time for the Steelers step up. After routing the Texans in week one, the Steelers have looked like anything but world beaters or the team to beat. Good news is they are 2-1 and can still fine tune their game. Only though if the offensive line that showed up against the Eagles doesn't make another appearance. They just flat out got their ass kicked by the Eagles defense.
Who gets fired first? Romeo Crennell or Marv Lewis? The Browns so far have been a massive flop for a team that has Super Bowl aspirations. The Bengals circus is in full force and Carson Palmer has looked like crap all year. They woke up from their funk but still lost to the Giants. Both are 0-3 with coaches on the hot seat. Someone has to win this game but it won't be pretty.
The Denver Broncos offense and Jay Cutler look like they are ready for prime time. Unfortunately the defense doesn't having given up 38 and 32 points the last two weeks. Fortunately they play KC twice, Oakland once more and have already beaten the Chargers once. They have the division lead for now with the Chargers probably still pissed about the missed call last week. The second match up between the teams should be a good one the last week of the season if they are both still fighting for the division lead or a playoff spot is on the line.
It's only three weeks but who would have thought Broncos, Ravens, Titans and Bills would be atop the AFC divisions and the Colts, Pats and Steelers hobbling along?
Great Sunday night win for the Cowboys against the Pack. It's fun to see them win early and often. It just makes the playoff collapse that much more fun.
It's nice to see the Chargers quit whining enough about last week's blown call to play this week. They seem to forget they still had chances to stop the Broncos on a fourth down play and on the two point conversion.
It looks like someone is finally listening to me over in Detroit. Little Boy Ford wants Matt Millen gone. But Daddy Ford runs the team and won't fire Millen. Little Boy Ford says if he were in charge Millen would be gone.
This week's Player of the Week is freaking Ronnie Brown: 1-1 passing with a TD plus 113 yards, 19 carries and 4 TDs in a complete dismantling of the Patriots.
This week's Joe Pisarcik/Carson Palmer Player of the Week is none other than Houston Texan Matt Schaub. His stat line: 17-37 for 188 yards, goose egg for TDs and 3 INTs. It's okay, according to the Houston Chronicle, Texans head coach Gary Kubiak will continue start Schaub and all will be fine.
The name has changed but the number and the play remain the same. Schaub is starting to look like the second coming of David Carr. Like Carr, Schaub has the skills and the arm to be an NFL starter. Like Carr, Schaub looks gun shy, scared and confused. Schaub looks in way over his head and makes piss poor decisions. I put the blame mostly on the coaches though. They've made no game plan adjustments to let Schaub get rid of the ball quicker to his great possession receivers of Kevin Walters, Owen Daniels and Andre Johnson. Plus Johnson has the ability to break a big one after a pass completion. They don't always have to look down field to go deep.
It's official. I've started the Fire Richard Smith campaign to go along with the Herm Edwards Sucks campaign and the Fire the Worst GM in the NFL Matt Millen campaign. Smith is the defensive coordinator for the Texans. It's time to let Smith go and let Ray Rhodes loose on the players. Smith's schemes and game planning are too soft.
If you are still reading you quiet possibly have more time on your hands than I do. That's a scary thought. At least you didn't get to hear my political tirade I just gave in the break room about the government bailout of the financial institutions and looking for a third party presidential candidate to vote for. I think I pissed one person off pretty good.
The first draft of this email had a long commentary on broadcasters and how much most of them suck and those that are damn good. Instead, I'll give you the brief version. Chris Berman's act has gotten old and tired. He hit a new low with Josh Scobee-doobie-doobie doo. I changed the channel after that only to hear it again by someone else on NBC.
On to the field of play. Well sort of. The George Costanza vs. Emperor Palpatine drama has gotten funnier. Rumors were swirling around that Al Davis was going to fire Lane Kiffin on Monday. As of Tuesday morning, Costanza still has a job. I wonder if he's having to crawl through the duct work to get into his office. (Seinfeld episode "The Voice" where George's boss want him to quit so he won't have to pay him). I'm wondering why law and order Commish Goodell hasn't stepped in. He seems bent on getting his players to behave but let's an owner and coach have their own sitcom.
With Tom Brady out and the Colts stagger, now would seem the time for the Steelers step up. After routing the Texans in week one, the Steelers have looked like anything but world beaters or the team to beat. Good news is they are 2-1 and can still fine tune their game. Only though if the offensive line that showed up against the Eagles doesn't make another appearance. They just flat out got their ass kicked by the Eagles defense.
Who gets fired first? Romeo Crennell or Marv Lewis? The Browns so far have been a massive flop for a team that has Super Bowl aspirations. The Bengals circus is in full force and Carson Palmer has looked like crap all year. They woke up from their funk but still lost to the Giants. Both are 0-3 with coaches on the hot seat. Someone has to win this game but it won't be pretty.
The Denver Broncos offense and Jay Cutler look like they are ready for prime time. Unfortunately the defense doesn't having given up 38 and 32 points the last two weeks. Fortunately they play KC twice, Oakland once more and have already beaten the Chargers once. They have the division lead for now with the Chargers probably still pissed about the missed call last week. The second match up between the teams should be a good one the last week of the season if they are both still fighting for the division lead or a playoff spot is on the line.
It's only three weeks but who would have thought Broncos, Ravens, Titans and Bills would be atop the AFC divisions and the Colts, Pats and Steelers hobbling along?
Great Sunday night win for the Cowboys against the Pack. It's fun to see them win early and often. It just makes the playoff collapse that much more fun.
It's nice to see the Chargers quit whining enough about last week's blown call to play this week. They seem to forget they still had chances to stop the Broncos on a fourth down play and on the two point conversion.
It looks like someone is finally listening to me over in Detroit. Little Boy Ford wants Matt Millen gone. But Daddy Ford runs the team and won't fire Millen. Little Boy Ford says if he were in charge Millen would be gone.
This week's Player of the Week is freaking Ronnie Brown: 1-1 passing with a TD plus 113 yards, 19 carries and 4 TDs in a complete dismantling of the Patriots.
This week's Joe Pisarcik/Carson Palmer Player of the Week is none other than Houston Texan Matt Schaub. His stat line: 17-37 for 188 yards, goose egg for TDs and 3 INTs. It's okay, according to the Houston Chronicle, Texans head coach Gary Kubiak will continue start Schaub and all will be fine.
The name has changed but the number and the play remain the same. Schaub is starting to look like the second coming of David Carr. Like Carr, Schaub has the skills and the arm to be an NFL starter. Like Carr, Schaub looks gun shy, scared and confused. Schaub looks in way over his head and makes piss poor decisions. I put the blame mostly on the coaches though. They've made no game plan adjustments to let Schaub get rid of the ball quicker to his great possession receivers of Kevin Walters, Owen Daniels and Andre Johnson. Plus Johnson has the ability to break a big one after a pass completion. They don't always have to look down field to go deep.
It's official. I've started the Fire Richard Smith campaign to go along with the Herm Edwards Sucks campaign and the Fire the Worst GM in the NFL Matt Millen campaign. Smith is the defensive coordinator for the Texans. It's time to let Smith go and let Ray Rhodes loose on the players. Smith's schemes and game planning are too soft.
If you are still reading you quiet possibly have more time on your hands than I do. That's a scary thought. At least you didn't get to hear my political tirade I just gave in the break room about the government bailout of the financial institutions and looking for a third party presidential candidate to vote for. I think I pissed one person off pretty good.
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