Blacksheet

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Espn.com Hector & Victor

HECTOR AND VICTOR'S PROJECTIONS

@ Cowboys 24, Browns 20 More...

@ Packers 27, Bears 20 More...

@ Chiefs 34, Panthers 17 More...

@ Saints 31, 49ers 17 More...

Redskins 24, @ Giants 14 More...

Broncos 23, @ Jaguars 13 More...

@ Lions 24, Texans 20 More...

Rams 31, @ Falcons 21 More...

Steelers 13, @ Ravens 10 More...

Patriots 30, @ Cardinals 10 More...

Bills 21, @ Raiders 16 More...

Jets 20, @ Chargers 14 More...

@ Titans 31, Colts 27 More...

Seahawks 19, @ Buccaneers 7 More...

Dolphins 17, @ Bengals 16 More...

@ Eagles 30, Vikings 24 More...

[Blackbeard]

SI.com/Stewart Mandel

Sept. 18

Sat., 3:30 p.m. ET | CBS No. 5 LSU (2-0) at No. 14 Auburn (2-0)
With the locals raiding the local department stores earlier this week in anticipation of Hurricane Ivan, one question hovers over this game like no other: Will there be any toilet paper left to roll Toomer's Corner?
Auburn 16, LSU 14

Sat., 8 p.m. ET | CBS No. 11 Florida (1-0) at No. 13 Tennessee (1-0)
Poor C.J. Leak. This was supposed to be his year to play quarterback against his brother, Chris, until he slipped somewhere between the managers and Smokey on the Vols' depth chart. Don't feel bad, C.J. You could still start at Florida State.
Florida 42, Tennessee 17

Sat., Noon ET | ESPN2 No. 21 Maryland (2-0) at No. 7 West Virginia (2-0)
In speaking of the notoriously rowdy atmosphere in Morgantown, Terps head coach Ralph Friedgen said he expects "to dodge the first four whiskey bottles." Umm, coach, no offense, but you're not exactly a moving target.
West Virginia 24, Maryland 17

Sat., 3:30 p.m. ET | ABC No. 9 Ohio State (2-0) at N.C State (1-0)
One of the most consistent events in college football is the headline "Wolfpack's McLendon uncertain for Saturday." T.A. is a tremendous player, but he's been day-to-day longer than the Jimmy Kimmel Show.
Ohio State 23, N.C. State 12

Sat., 7 p.m. ET | ESPN Notre Dame (1-1) at Michigan State (1-1)
OK, it's official. John L. Smith has decided on his starting quarterback: It's Stephen Reaves. Or maybe Damon Dowdell. With a slight chance of Drew Stanton. Ah, what does it matter, have you seen ND's defense?
Notre Dame 27, Michigan State 6

Sat., Noon ET | ABC Nebraska (1-1) at Pittsburgh (1-0)
In just the second game under Bill Callahan's West Coast system, Nebraska racked up 476 yards. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh threw for 49 yards last week -- and it's been running the same system for nine years.
Nebraska 24, Pittsburgh 3

Sat., 7 p.m. ET | TBS Clemson (1-1) at Texas A&M (1-1)
Can the 12th Man play safety? The Aggies could use all the help they can get on that side of the ball. Fortunately for them, their opponent this week is likely to be still devastated from last week's punt snap gone awry.
Texas A&M 28, Clemson 23

Sat., 10 p.m. ET | FSN This week's upset special:
No. 16 Iowa (2-0) at Arizona State (2-0)
For two years now, I've been grossly underestimating the Hawkeyes and blindly overestimating the Sun Devils. In fact, I seem to recall picking ASU in this one last year -- Iowa won 21-2. No reason to wise up now.
Arizona State 21, Iowa 17
Last week: 4-4. Overall: 10-6. Upset specials: 3-1.

[Blackbeard]

MSNBC Predicitons Jay Novacek NFL

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3690072/

[Blackbeard]

MSNBC Predicitons 101/ John Tamanaha

No. 21 Maryland
at No. 7 West Virginia
Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen isn’t fussing around. After Temple scored 15 fourth-quarter points last week, he pulled his second stringers. Not for the third team though. “The Fridge” put his starters back in the ballgame to preserve a 45-22 victory.
West Virginia hasn’t been taking it easy either. In winning their first two games, the Mountaineers amassed 1,081 yards and 101 points. Those numbers probably would be even larger if RB Kay-Jay Harris didn’t injure his hamstring early in last week’s 45-20 victory at Central Florida. QB Rasheed Marshall picked up the slack nicely, throwing for four scores and running for another.

This will be the third time these two teams have gotten together in the past year and the Mountaineers are out for revenge after getting thoroughly throttled in both games by a combined score of 75-14 … first in College Park last September and then to open the New Year in the Gator Bowl.

Friedgen has West Virginia’s number and QB Joel Statham has found his groove. But playing in Morgantown will be the difference this time around, especially with a young signal caller.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: West Virginia by 6

Pick: West Virginia 27-24



Nebraska at Pittsburgh
It hasn’t been pretty for these two teams in the early going.
If Nebraska continues to be in such a giving mood, this will be an extremely difficult campaign. Miscues are inevitable when converting to a new offense, but 11 turnovers in the two games is a travesty. The Huskers defense, which was respectable in holding Southern Miss to just 239 yards in a stunning loss last week in Lincoln, deserves better.

If the Nebraska offense can limit the times it transfers possession, the Rutherford-and-Fitzgerald-less Panthers will have a difficult time scoring enough points to win. A blocked punt and interception return for a score helped Pittsburgh overcome an inept offense and defeat lowly Ohio last week.

Averaging 528.5 total yards, Bill Callahan’s West Coast Offense hasn’t been punch-less by any means, just careless. QB Joe Dailey has thrown for six touchdowns and Cory Ross has been making a habit of 100-yard games. Expect to see smoother execution versus a Panther defense that returns a lot of players … but was among the nation’s worst units a year ago.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Nebraska by 4

Pick: Nebraska 26-3



TCU at Texas Tech
This Lone Star shootout could be a 1,000-yard game.
Sonny Cumbie is the latest Texas Tech QB putting up ungodly numbers. He’s got 919 passing yards to his name after just two games, but points are tougher to come by for the Red Raiders, who are averaging just 25.5 of those.

TCU, on the other hand, gave up over 600 yards to Northwestern, but outscored and outkicked the Wildcats in double-overtime, 48-45. The Horned Frogs followed that up by blanking a hapless SMU squad that lost at home to Texas Tech the previous week. Most of the offensive damage came courtesy of QB Tye Gunn, who is looking to improve his record as a starter to 11-0.

Both teams can pass the football, but the Horned Frogs’ ability to run it could make the difference. Lack of a running threat cost the Red Raiders in their 27-24 loss at New Mexico last week, among other things, putting Cumbie in a position to toss a pair of costly interceptions. TCU, which can rely on tailback Lonta Hobbs to get the tough yards and finish off drives, pulls off the upset in routine fashion on the road.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Texas Tech by 7

Pick: TCU 41-28



No. 5 LSU
at No. 14 Auburn
After a threat Hurricane Ivan might postpone the game, two Tigers will tussle on Tommy Tuberville’s 50th birthday.
Tuberville celebrated his 45th birthday with a 41-7 victory at LSU in 1999. It won’t be that easy this time around. Nick Saban was at Michigan State back then.

The LSU run defense is allowing just 69 yards per game and has yet to allow a TD on the ground, which is something that dates back to last season when the Tigers allowed only one rushing score in SEC play. Auburn, however, comes into the game with both Carnell Williams (112.5) and Ronnie Brown (101.0) averaging more than a buck on the ground. In last week’s victory at Mississippi State, “Cadillac” ran for 122 yards and two scores.

Defensively, Auburn looked like Johan Santana, pitching a shutout for the first 118 minutes and 37 seconds of the season, until Mississippi State got two quick passing scores at the end of last week’s 43-14 Tiger win.

Auburn has made 190 consecutive PATs, so LSU can’t hope to be as lucky as it was versus Oregon State and its offense still has a ways to go to post a victory like this. Marcus Randall figures to be too ineffective and JaMarcus Russell too green to get the job done at raucous Jordan-Hare Stadium.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Auburn by 1

Pick: Auburn 24-13



No. 9 Ohio St. at NC St.
One yard … that’s all that stood between North Carolina State and a landmark victory at Ohio State last season. That was also with Philip Rivers in the pocket for the Wolfpack.
With inexperienced QB Jay Davis this time around, it will be difficult for N.C. State to duplicate that come-from-17-points-behind triple-overtime effort.

Meanwhile, the Buckeye defense has once again reloaded and shut down the aerial attacks of two experienced passers to open the season. The only thing it hasn’t done so far is force any turnovers (while the offense has given it away seven times). Starting CB and team captain Dustin Fox broke his arm in last week’s thriller over Marshall, but the Buckeyes will still have enough to handle an N.C. State attack that will be in the all too familiar situation of having RB T.A. McLendon returning to the field off the injured list.

Ohio State game breakers Lydell Ross and Santonio Holmes will continue to make up for the inexperience of QB Justin Zwick and allow the Bucks to score points against an experienced, yet marginally talented N.C. State defense.

Wolfpack coach Chuck Amato is 11-0 versus non-conference foes at Carter-Finley Stadium, but good times usually come to an end when the lucky-charmed Buckeyes roll into your town.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Ohio State by 2.5

Pick: Ohio State 24-7



ND at Michigan St.
The Fighting Irish have us at a loss and with barely a clue as to which team is going to show up in Lansing. Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde? Sen. Kerry or Sen. Kerry? It’s tough to figure out, but although the loss at BYU wasn’t as shocking as the home victory over Michigan, we’ll have to side with the more recent result and consider Notre Dame’s numerous problems to be on the mend.
After rushing for just 11 yards up in Provo, the Irish turned to freshman Darius Walker, who debuted with 115 yards, including 14 carries for 61 yards and two touchdowns in Notre Dame’s stunning fourth quarter alone.

Having to replace 15 starters has made things tough on Michigan State head coach John L. Smith, as evidenced by a 19-14 loss at Rutgers in the opener. There was some improvement in the bounce-back victory over Central Michigan, but the rebuilt OL shouldn’t be able to keep Irish DE Justin Tuck from becoming the Notre Dame’s all-time sack leader.

We’ll back Notre Dame’s Tyrone Willingham in this one as he returns to his alma mater. His Irish know all to well that their current glory rots into “fluke” if they don’t follow up strong.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Notre Dame by 3

Pick: Notre Dame 23-13



UCLA at Washington
Embattled coaches collide at Husky Stadium with UCLA’s Karl Dorrell in a better position than Washington’s Keith Gilbertson. The Bruins are coming off a strong victory -- although over hapless Illinois -- but at least they showed that they could come back following their humbling home opener versus Oklahoma State and win on the road. The Huskies are fresh off one of those routine losses to Fresno State that doesn’t even remotely resemble an upset. That’s how bad it has gotten in Seattle.
Under the direction of new coordinator Tom Cable, UCLA’s offense actually has some weapons to work with now that QB Drew Olson looks as if he may have grown into his role at the helm.

The question is on the other side of the ball where the Bruins displayed a shocking inability to stop the run in their opening loss to Oklahoma State. This could be a problem versus the Huskies who would be wise to resort to ground warfare in this one in light of their highly unsettled situation at quarterback.

The Bruins have had Washington’s number as of late and soon they’ll be regarded as a “surprise team” on the rise.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Even

Pick: UCLA 31-24



No. 11 Florida
at No. 13 Tennessee
Tennessee is coming off a bye week before playing Florida for the eighth time in the last nine years, but that hasn’t always spelled success for the Vols. They would probably prefer to have some experience at QB going into this one. The freshman duo of Brent Schaeffer and Erik Ainge has been nothing short of sensational all things considered, but UNLV doesn’t spell SEC, and they are unlikely to be able to take advantage of the retooled Gator secondary.
Florida counters with super soph Chris Leak, a dynamic playmaker who now also safeguards the football. He has thrown only one interception in his last 123 attempts, dating back to last season. That will be important in front of a six-figure crowd at Neyland Stadium.

Although obscured by the “Ron Zook Watch,” the Gators have proven they can win the big ones away from The Swamp. Remember last season’s consecutive road wins at LSU and Arkansas, followed by the victory over Georgia in Jacksonville?

Most will focus on the collection of young quarterbacks in the game, but the team that has rushed the football for more yards has won 12 of the past 14 meetings between the two.

UNLV ran for 164 yards in its 42-17 loss to the Volunteers last week, averaging 4.4 yards per carry. Tennessee’s effort in that department will need to be tighter versus the Gators’ fleet of backs led by Ciatrick Fason. And if they get things going, Leak will strike for a couple big ones against the Vols’ young defense.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Tennessee by 4

Pick: Florida 34-21



No. 1 USC at BYU
Judging by the two Pac-10 vs. MWC match-ups of last week, this one shouldn’t be close. Top-ranked USC shut out a capable Colorado State club, 49-0, and Stanford surprisingly took BYU apart, 37-10.
The wheels fell off for the Cougars after taking a 10-0 lead over the Cardinal. Seven turnovers and 14 penalties for 125 yards spelled doom rather quickly. Having to play four quarterbacks due to injuries (if not interceptions) was part of the problem, but it doesn’t explain the lackluster effort by the defense or overall inept play. The BYU defense that didn’t offer much resistance against Stanford sophomore QB Trent Edwards can’t hope to contain Matt Leinart and Co.

On the flipside, BYU’s once lofty signal caller situation is in shambles. Not good when facing a bloodthirsty Trojan defense eager to keep its scoreless streak going.

There could be an “attention given to an offensive coordinator” record set in this one, as USC’s pass-game guru Norm Chow returns to the stadium that he coached in for 27 years, tutoring six of the top passers in collegiate history. After LaVell Edwards’ retirement following the 2000 season, the Cougars didn’t turn to Chow, instead choosing Gary Crowton, who has won only nine of his last 27. The game will be tough for grumbling BYU boosters, reminding them of where they’ve been and where they are.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: USC by 26

Pick: USC 41-3



No. 16 Iowa at Ariz. St.
Arizona State had the luxury of facing the Pac-10ish Northwestern Wildcats last week and took advantage with a 30-21 victory. The Sun Devils aren’t as lucky this week with the every-bit-a-Big-10 team Iowa Hawkeyes visiting Tempe.
Sun Devils QB Andrew Walter is off to a flawless start in 2004, having thrown six TD passes and no interceptions. However, he will face a stern test against an Iowa defense, which returns seven starters from last year’s unit that shut down the ASU attack during a 21-2 romp in Iowa City. In two games this season, the Hawkeyes have allowed just 336 yards and 17 points.

On offense Iowa carries a different tune, averaging just 2.8 yards per rushing attempt (Robert Gallery, where are you?) and sophomore QB Drew Tate has dinked and dunked his way to three TD passes, while throwing two picks.

Having snapped their five-game losing streak to in-state rival Iowa State last week and possibly looking ahead to their conference opener at Michigan next weekend, the Hawkeyes are in danger of suffering an emotional letdown.

In his fourth year at the helm, with just a 19-20 record, it’s make or break time for Sun Devil coach Dirk Koetter. He’ll have his squad ready to match Iowa’s physical play.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Arizona State by 1

Pick: Arizona State 24-14




Total: Outright 13-6; Against spread 10-9
Week 2: Outright 6-4; Against spread 5-5
WW: Miami (-1.5) 27, Flor. St. 20 (Miami 16-10, OT)
WW: Boise St. (-7.5) 38, Oregon St. 21 (BSU 53-34)
LL: Nebraska (-13.5) 27, So. Miss 6 (USM 21-17)
WL: Auburn (-12.5) 20, Miss. St. 17 (Auburn 43-14)
LL: Michigan (-13.5) 34, Notre Dame 7 (ND 28-20)
WW: Colorado (+2.5) 24, Wash. St. 13 (CU 20-12)
LW: S. Carolina (+8) 27, Georgia 24 (UGA 20-16)
WW: USC (-24) 49, Colorado St. 17 (USC 49-0)
LL: Penn St. (-2.5) 34, B.C. 13 (B.C. 21-7)
WL: Texas (-10.5) 49, Arkansas 14 (Texas 22-20)

Week 1: Outright 7-2; Against spread 5-4

Key: W/L outright, W/L vs. spread, pick, final score

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Sun Times/Dan Mann NFL

NFL Forecast

September 17, 2004

BY DAN MANN Advertisement







THE CHEAT SHEET

NFL FORECAST BY JEFF AGREST


BEARS AT PACKERS



Time: Noon, Fox-32.
Records: Bears 0-1; Packers 1-0.
Line: Packers by 81/2.
Trends: Since 1992, the Bears are 4-20 ATS against the Packers. ... The Bears have failed to cover the spread in 11 of their last 13 divisional games.
Outlook: The first goal Lovie Smith stated upon being named Bears coach was beating the Packers. It's a nice thought, but it won't be accomplished in his first meeting. It used to be bad enough for the Bears against Packers quarterback Brett Favre, who has more wins against the Bears than any other team (20-4 record). But when running back Ahman Green (right) joined the Packers in 2000, the dominance grew. In his last eight games against the Bears, Green averaged 110 rushing yards, and the Packers went 7-1. Smith had success against the Packers with the Rams. His defense even intercepted Favre seven times in a playoff game. His new defenders don't have it in them -- yet.
Pick: Packers 33, Bears 19.


BRONCOS AT JAGUARS




Time: Noon.
Records: Broncos 1-0; Jaguars 1-0.
Line: Broncos by 3.
Trends: Since 1992, the Broncos are 19-4 ATS in the first two weeks of the season.
Outlook: The Jaguars' run defense has picked up where it left off last season. But quarterback Byron Leftwich will have his hands full with the Broncos' defense, which held the Chiefs' passing game in check.
Pick: Broncos 24, Jaguars 16.





STEELERS AT RAVENS




Time: Noon.
Records: Steelers 1-0; Ravens 0-1.
Line: Ravens by 4.
Trends: The Steelers have covered the spread in their last four trips to Baltimore.
Outlook: Games between these teams usually are defensive struggles, but the Steelers have the offensive firepower to loosen the Ravens' grip. Ravens quarterback Kyle Boller can't stretch defenses yet, and that means trouble for Jamal Lewis.
Pick: Steelers 16, Ravens 13.





LIONS AT TEXANS




Time: Noon.
Records: Lions 1-0; Texans 0-1.
Line: Lions by 3.
Trends: The Texans were 5-0 ATS last season coming off a home loss.
Outlook: A healthy Lions team wins this game, but without wideout Charles Rogers (collarbone) and cornerback Dre' Bly (knee), the task is too tough.
Pick: Texans 27, Lions 20.





COLTS AT TITANS




Time: Noon, Ch. 2.
Records: Colts 0-1; Titans 1-0.
Line: Titans by 1.
Trends: The Titans are 16-6 ATS against teams with a winning record over the last three seasons.
Outlook: The problem with the trend is that two of those six losses came against the Colts last season. But that gives the Titans enough ammunition to pull this off. It will be much easier if running back Chris Brown can shake off an ankle injury.
Pick: Titans 28, Colts 24.





49ERS AT SAINTS




Time: Noon.
Records: 49ers 0-1; Saints 0-1.
Line: Saints by 7.
Outlook: Niners quarterback Ken Dorsey is expected to make his first start in place of Tim Rattay (shoulder). Dorsey looked good last week in relief, and with running back Kevan Barlow's help, this should stay close.
Pick: Saints 24, 49ers 20.





REDSKINS AT GIANTS




Time: Noon.
Records: Redskins 1-0; Giants 0-1.
Line: Redskins by 3.
Trends: The Redskins went 6-2 ATS on the road last season.
Outlook: The Redskins will throw all kinds of blitzes at Giants quarterback Kurt Warner, who still struggles against pressure. Redskins quarterback Mark Brunell should have a better game against a Giants secondary that was picked apart last week.
Pick: Redskins 20, Giants 13.





SEAHAWKS AT BUCCANEERS




Time: 3:05 p.m.
Records: Seahawks 1-0; Bucs 0-1.
Line: Seahawks by 3.
Outlook: The fate of Seahawks running back Shaun Alexander (knee) could be decided today. It won't matter if the Seahawks' defense plays like it did last week.
Pick: Seahawks 23, Buccaneers 17.





BROWNS AT COWBOYS




Time: 3:15 p.m, Ch. 2.
Records: Browns 1-0; Cowboys 0-1.
Line: Cowboys by 41/2.
Trends: The Cowboys are 12-7 in their last 19 games coming off a road loss by 14 points or more.
Outlook: If rookie running back Julius Jones plays, he could give the Cowboys the balance they lacked last week. But Vinny Testaverde showed he could still sling it.
Pick: Cowboys 31, Browns 23.





BILLS AT RAIDERS




Time: 3:15 p.m.
Records: Bills 0-1; Raiders 0-1.
Line: Raiders by 3-1/2.
Outlook: Rich Gannon's 58-yard TD pass last week proved he's still capable of the big play. And what better place to bounce back from a last-second defeat than the Black Hole.
Pick: Raiders 20, Bills 16.





JETS AT CHARGERS




Time: 3:15 p.m.
Records: Jets 1-0; Chargers 1-0.
Line: Jets by 3.
Trends: The Chargers are 1-8 ATS in their last nine games coming off an upset win as an underdog.
Outlook: Jets running back Curtis Martin probably won't match his effort last week, but quarterback Chad Pennington could surpass his against a susceptible Chargers secondary.
Pick: Jets 30, Chargers 21.





PATRIOTS AT CARDINALS




Time: 3:15 p.m.
Records: Patriots 1-0; Cardinals 0-1.
Line: Patriots by 8.
Trends: Five of the Patriots' six road wins last season came by six points or fewer.
Outlook: If nothing else, the Cardinals appear to be a good cover team under Dennis Green.
Pick: Patriots 22, Cardinals 15.





DOLPHINS AT BENGALS




Time: 7:30 p.m., ESPN
Records: Dolphins 0-1; Bengals 0-1.
Line: Bengals by 5.
Trends: The Dolphins are 13-5 ATS after a game in which they forced one or fewer turnovers over the last three years.
Outlook: The Dolphins should be able to run the ball with Lamar Gordon against a Bengals defense that has allowed more than 200 rushing yards in three of its last five games.
Pick: Dolphins 19, Bengals 17.


* -- Top play Jeff Agrest Brad Biggs Mark Malone Dan McNeil Mike North CAPS -- best bet Sun-Times Sun-Times Ch. 2 WMVP WSCR

PACKERS -81/2 vs. Bears PACKERS Packers Packers Packers Bears

Broncos -3 vs. JAGUARS Broncos Broncos Broncos* Jaguars Jaguars

RAVENS -4 vs. Steelers Steelers Ravens Ravens Ravens* Ravens

LIONS -3 vs. Texans Texans Texans Texans Lions TEXANS

TITANS -1 vs. Colts Titans COLTS Colts Colts Titans

Redskins -3 vs. GIANTS Redskins Giants REDSKINS Giants Giants*

SAINTS -7 vs. 49ers 49ers 49ers Saints Saints Saints

FALCONS -2-1/2 vs. Rams Rams* Rams Rams* Rams* Rams


CHIEFS -6 vs. Panthers Chiefs* Chiefs Chiefs CHIEFS Panthers

Seahawks -3 vs. BUCCANEERS Seahawks Buccaneers Seahawks Buccaneers Buccaneers

COWBOYS -41/2 vs. Browns Cowboys Cowboys* Browns Cowboys Browns

Patriots -8 vs. CARDINALS Cardinals Patriots* Patriots* Patriots Cardinals

RAIDERS -3-1/2 vs. Bills Raiders Raiders Bills Bills Bills*

Jets -3 vs. CHARGERS Jets Jets* Chargers Jets Chargers

BENGALS -5 vs. Dolphins Dolphins Dolphins Bengals Bengals Dolphins*

EAGLES -3 vs. Vikings Eagles* Vikings Eagles Eagles* Eagles

LAST WEEK (Best bet/Top plays) 7-8-1 (1-0/2-1) 10-5-1 (0-1/1-2) 3-12-1 (0-1/1-2) 7-8-1 (0-1/1-2) 11-4-1 (0-1/3-0)


VIKINGS AT EAGLES




Time: 8 p.m. Monday, Ch. 7.
Records: Vikings 1-0; Eagles 1-0.
Line: Eagles by 3.
Trends: The Vikings are 1-5 ATS in their last six games after a win by 14 points or more.
Outlook: After throttling the Seahawks 34-7 in Week 14 last season, the Vikings lost to the Bears 13-10. Then they trounced the Chiefs 45-20 before losing to the Cardinals 18-17. Coming off a 35-17 pasting of the Cowboys, the Vikings will test the trend again. All eyes will be on Randy Moss and Terrell Owens, but neither defense can forget about the running game. The Vikings' Onterrio Smith and the Eagles' Brian Westbrook are big-play threats, but Westbrook brings more to the table.
Pick: Eagles 34, Vikings 28.


PANTHERS AT CHIEFS




Time: Noon.
Records: Panthers 0-1; Chiefs 0-1.
Line: Chiefs by 6.
Trends: Since 1992, the Chiefs are 26-11 ATS after a loss by 10 points or more.
Outlook: The Panthers' Monday-night loss to the Packers showed this isn't the same team that won the NFC title last season. The offensive line is in shambles, and now wide receiver Steve Smith is out with a broken leg. The Chiefs haven't rectified their defensive problems, but they'll have an easier time defending the Panthers without a deep threat to worry about. Ahman Green's 119-yard rushing effort Monday night bodes well for Priest Holmes, who had his way with a formidable Broncos defense last week.
Pick: Chiefs 42, Panthers 20.


RAMS AT FALCONS




Time: Noon.
Records: Rams 1-0; Falcons 1-0.
Line: Falcons by 2-1/2.
Trends: In their last seven meetings, the Rams have beaten the Falcons by an average of 25 points.
Outlook: If there's a team that can bounce back from a win, it's the Rams, who trailed the Cardinals 10-9 last week entering the fourth quarter. A 446-yard effort almost was erased by three turnovers. The Falcons have had their problems with the Rams, as the trend proves. And though they kept the 49ers out of the end zone until the fourth quarter last week, they still allowed 346 yards. Quarterback Michael Vick isn't comfortable with the new offense yet, either.
Pick: Rams 30, Falcons 20.

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Tribune/Terry Bannon NFL

Terry Bannon's NFL picks

September 17, 2004


Last week's record: 10-6. GAME OF WEEK: Minnesota at Philadelphia Monday night. OTHER TOP GAMES: Broncos at Jaguars, Panthers at Chiefs, Colts at Titans.

Bears (0-1) at Packers (1-0)
TV/radio: Noon Sunday; WFLD-Ch. 32, WBBM-AM 780.



Line: Packers by 8½.
Last meeting: The Packers won 34-21 at Green Bay on Dec. 7, 2003.
Key stat: The Packers have beaten the Bears seven straight times.
Players to watch: Will David Terrell repeat his 126-yard receiving day in the opener? Will the Packers give the ball to Ahman Green 33 times as they did in their opener?
The buzz: Lovie Smith has made beating the Packers a priority, but with Brett Favre around, it's never easy for the Bears. Defense must get several turnovers for the Bears to have a chance.
Bannon's pick: Packers 27, Bears 17.

Rams (1-0) at Falcons (1-0)
Time: Noon Sunday
Line: Falcons by 2½.
Last meeting: The Rams won 36-0 at St. Louis on Oct. 13, 2003.
Key stat: The Rams have won last seven vs. the Falcons.
Players to watch: In last year's win over the Falcons, Torry Holt had 11 catches for 161 yards and two TDs. Falcons tight end Alge Crumpler led the Falcons with six catches, one for a TD, in their opening win over the 49ers.
The buzz: After an opening-day win over lowly San Francisco, Jim Mora brings his Falcons home for a bigger challenge. They'll have trouble with Holt and the 1-2 rushing combination of Marshall Faulk and rookie Steven Jackson.
Bannon's pick: Rams 24, Falcons 20.

Steelers (1-0) at Ravens (0-1)
Time: Noon Sunday
Line: Ravens by 4.
Last meeting: The Ravens won 13-10 in OT at Baltimore on Dec. 28, 2003.
Key stat: The Steelers had won four straight vs. the Ravens until their last meeting.
Players to watch: Steelers' Hines Ward has had at least four receptions in 17 of his last 18 games, including seven in the opener. Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis, who had a sack in the opener, has one interception in each of his last two games vs. the Steelers.
The buzz: The Ravens have serious problems on offense, which was clear in their opening loss at Cleveland. But playing at home, they should be able to control the game with the running of Jamal Lewis.
Bannon's pick: Ravens 20, Steelers 14.

Texans (0-1) at Lions (1-0)
Time: Noon Sunday
Line: Lions by 3.
Last meeting: This is their first meeting.
Key stat: The Lions were 5-3 at home in '03.
Players to watch: Lions rookie receiver Roy Williams, who had four catches vs. the Bears, will make big plays all season. The Texans' Domanick Davis has rushed for five TDs in his last three games but fumbled twice in the opener.
The buzz: Lions might be reeling after losing receiver Charles Rogers for the season and cornerback Dre' Bly for a couple of weeks. But can the Texans win on the road?
Bannon's pick: Lions 17, Texans 16.

Broncos (1-0) at Jaguars (1-0)
Time: Noon Sunday
Line: Broncos by 3.
Last meeting: The Jaguars won 27-24 at Jacksonville on Dec. 13, 1999.
Key stat: The Jaguars are going for their fifth 2-0 start in seven seasons.
Players to watch: New starting running back Quentin Griffin rushed for 156 yards and two TDs in Denver's opening victory. Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich struggled in opener but has won four of his last six starts.
The buzz: It's a big chance for the Jaguars to prove they can contend for a playoff spot, and the Broncos could be ripe for a letdown after opening win over the Chiefs. The Jaguars know how to stop the run, but their offense remains suspect.
Bannon's pick: Broncos 24, Jaguars 20.

Panthers (0-1) at Chiefs (0-1)
Time: Noon Sunday
Line: Chiefs by 6.
Last meeting: The Chiefs won 15-14 at Kansas City on Dec. 10, 2000.
Key stat: The Chiefs have won 13 straight regular-season home games, by an average of 19.1 points.
Players to watch: The Chiefs' Priest Holmes, who has rushed for a TD in 25 of his last 29 games, already has three rushing scores this season. The Panthers need big game from Stephen Davis, who was held to 26 yards in their opening loss to the Packers.
The buzz: Both 2003 playoff teams opened up with tough schedules, but it's the Panthers who will start 0-2. The loss to Green Bay revealed problems in their rebuilt offensive line, and Arrowhead is no place to get well.
Bannon's pick: Chiefs 27, Panthers 17.

49ers (0-1) at Saints (0-1)
Time: Noon Sunday
Line: Saints by 7.
Last meeting: The Saints won 35-27 at New Orleans on Oct. 20, 2002.
Key stat: The Saints have won four of the last six meetings.
Players to watch: Ken Dorsey, a seventh-round pick from Miami in 2003, makes his first start for the 49ers. The Saints' Deuce McAllister has been held to 80 rushing yards or less in his last five regular-season games.
The buzz: Tim Rattay's separated shoulder gives Dorsey a chance to prove that his 38-2 record as a starter at Miami means something. His arm strength has always been the question, and look for the Saints to take advantage.
Bannon's pick: Saints 24, 49ers 13.

Redskins (1-0) at Giants (0-1)
Time: Noon Sunday
Line: Redskins by 3.
Last meeting: Redskins won 20-7 at New York on Dec. 7, 2003.
Key stat: Giants have lost nine straight regular-season games.
Players to watch: Tiki Barber accounted for 200 yards (125 rushing, 75 receiving) in the Giants' opener. The Redskins' Clinton Portis could have his second straight 100-yard game against this defense.
The buzz: The Giants have plenty of problems on offense, and the Redskins' defense got off to a fast start, holding Tampa Bay without a touchdown last week. The Giants are at home, but it won't help.
Bannon's pick: Redskins 20, Giants 13.

Colts (0-1) at Titans (1-0)
TV: Noon Sunday, WBBM-Ch. 2
Line: Titans by 1.
Last meeting: The Colts won 29-27 at Tennessee on Dec. 7, 2003.
Key stat: The Colts won both meetings last season.
Players to watch: Steve McNair has completed 67.3 percent of his passes with five TD passes and zero interceptions in four starts vs. Indianapolis. The Colts' Marvin Harrison had 10 catches for 124 yards in his last game vs. Tennessee.
The buzz: Brutal opening schedule continues for the Colts, who at least are rested after their opening loss at New England last Thursday night. Peyton Manning and Harrison are the keys, although the Colts must control the ball to keep it away from McNair, last year's co-MVP with Manning.
Bannon's pick: Colts 27, Titans 21.

Seahawks (1-0) at Bucs (0-1)
Time: 3:05 p.m. Sunday
Line: Seahawks by 3.
Last meeting: The Bucs won 16-3 at Seattle on Nov. 28, 1999.
Key stat: The Seahawks are going for their first 2-0 record after two road games since '94.
Players to watch: Bucs rookie Michael Clayton, who had seven catches in opener, takes on a larger role because of injuries. The Seahawks' top receiver is Darrell Jackson, who has 27 TD catches in four seasons.
The buzz: Their opening win at New Orleans indicates the Seahawks may be shaking their reputation as a poor road team. Unless running back Shaun Alexander is hampered by an ankle injury, the Seahawks should roll.
Bannon's pick: Seahawks 21, Bucs 20.

Patriots (1-0) at Cardinals (0-1)
Time: 3:15 p.m. Sunday
Line: Patriots by 8.
Last meeting: The Patriots won 27-3 at Arizona on Oct. 31, 1999.
Key stat: The Patriots have won 16 straight games, two short of the NFL record held by five teams.
Players to watch: The Patriots' Corey Dillon delivered on his early promise with 86 yards (5.7 per carry) in the opener. Emmitt Smith may still have something left. He rushed for 87 yards (5.4 per carry) in the Cardinals' loss to the Rams.
The buzz: The Patriots are well-rested after their opening win over the Colts last Thursday night. The Cardinals have to prove they can generate a passing offense with Josh McCown in charge.
Bannon's pick: Patriots 30, Cardinals 20.

Browns (0-1) at Cowboys (0-1)
TV: 3:15 p.m. Sunday, WBBM-Ch. 2
Line: Cowboys by 4½.
Last meeting: It's the first meeting since the Browns rejoined NFL as expansion team in 1999.
Key stat: The Cowboys were 6-2 at home in '03.
Players to watch: Jeff Garcia showed he still knows how to win, engineering an upset of the Ravens last week with a 15-for-24 passing day. Antonio Bryant is emerging as a leader of the Cowboys' offense after an eight-catch, 112-yard showing in the opener.
The buzz: Cowboys QB Vinny Testaverde had a solid opening day and should lead the way to a home-opening win. The Browns beat the Ravens, but are they good enough to pull off two straight upsets?
Bannon's pick: Cowboys 23, Browns 17.

Bills (0-1) at Raiders (0-1)
Time: 3:15 p.m. Sunday
Line: Raiders by 3½.
Last meeting: The Raiders won 49-31 at Buffalo on Oct. 6, 2002.
Key stat: The Bills were 2-6 on the road in '03.
Players to watch: The Bills' Drew Bledsoe threw for 417 yards against the Raiders two years ago. Rich Gannon threw for 357 yards and three TDs in that game.
The buzz: Both teams endured last-minute losses in their openers, and the Raiders are better equipped to cope.
Bannon's pick: Raiders 24, Bills 17.

Jets (1-0) at Chargers (1-0)
Time: 3:15 p.m. Sunday
Line: Jets by 3.
Last meeting: The Jets won 44-13 at San Diego on Nov. 3, 2002.
Key stat: The Jets were 2-6 on the road in '03.
Players to watch: Can Curtis Martin keep this up—29 carries for 196 yards at age 31? Can Drew Brees complete 17 of 24 passes for two TDs for the second straight week?
The buzz: The Chargers are encouraged after starting the season with a win at Houston, and now they can turn LaDainian Tomlinson loose against a mediocre defense.
Bannon's pick: Chargers 30, Jets 24.

Dolphins (0-1) at Bengals (0-1)
TV/radio: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, ESPN, WSCR-AM 670
Line: Bengals by 5.
Last meeting: The Dolphins won 31-16 at Cincinnati on Oct. 1, 2000.
Key stat: The Dolphins have won all nine meetings in the last 27 years.
Players to watch: QB A.J. Feeley, who won four of his five starts for the Eagles, gets his first start for the Dolphins. In his last five home games, the Bengals' Rudi Johnson has averaged 134.8 yards rushing and scored seven TDs.
The buzz: Carson Palmer's promising debut last week, the excitement surrounding a rare national TV appearance for the Bengals, and the Dolphins' myriad problems all add up to a Cincinnati win.
Bannon's pick: Bengals 20, Dolphins 12.

Vikings (1-0) at Eagles (1-0)
TV/radio: 8 p.m. Monday, WLS-Ch, 7, WSCR-AM 670.
Line: Eagles by 3.
Last meeting: The Eagles won 48-17 at Philadelphia on Nov. 11, 2001.
Key stat: The Eagles are 6-1 on Monday nights under coach Andy Reid.
Players to watch: The quarterbacks, who combined for nine TD passes and zero interceptions last week: Five for the Vikings' Daunte Culpepper, four for the Eagles' Donovan McNabb. They are legitimate MVP candidates.
The buzz: It won't be a good night to be a defensive back, with Culpepper aiming for Randy Moss and McNabb searching for Terrell Owens, who caught three TD passes in his Eagles debut.
Bannon's pick: Eagles 28, Vikings 24.

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Tribune/Whizzer NFL

Whizzer's NFL picks

By Whizzer
The Prognosticating Pooch from RedEye

September 17, 2004, 12:08 PM CDT


It was nice to see Week 1 was full of lots of upsets, not counting my choice of the spicy noodles over the fried rice as an in-between-games snack.

What was not nice was seeing some runt pooch staying with me stride for stride on my picks. Stupid dog, you can't even spell "over-under."




Dear Wallace: Week 2 is just like Week 1 except we turn up the volume Whizzer style. Eat my shorts, if I wore any.

Look at me. I'm all frazzled. He's just a dog. That's all. Nothing more. I don't fear that face.

Must ... focus ... on NFL picks. Be strong. Courage.

Bears (0-1) at Green Bay (1-0)
Sunday, noon WFLD-Ch. 32
Things you should know: Seems like it was only last Dec. 7 when the Bears made five turnovers against the Packers, including a 90-yard interception return by Mike McKenzie. That's because it was. Look, Rex Grossman is the future and a bright one at that. But the Packers came out roaring on Monday night and they're as healthy as they'll ever be. And they're at home. And Brett Favre still
rules. And despite my calls on the floor of the United Nations, Ahman Green hasn't retired yet.
The line: Packers by 8½
Over/under: 41
Final shake: Packers. But prove me wrong.

Indianapolis (0-1) at Tennessee (1-0)
Noon Sunday, WBBM-Ch. 2
Things you should know: You know, these two teams won 24 games combined last year. They could have finished ahead of the Detroit Tigers. Sure, it seems silly to think Peyton Manning's high-powered Colts could start 0-2 and yet ...
The line: Titans by 1
Over/under: 46½
Final shake: Titans. Hey, I'm a silly pup. Sue me.

St. Louis (1-0) at Atlanta (0-1)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Going back to their old NFC West days when men were men and Falcons wore dresses, the Rams have beaten the Falcons seven straight times scoring 30-plus points in those victories. Mercy.
The line: Falcons by 2½
Over/under: 46
Final shake: Rams stuff the West Coast offense.

Washington (1-0) at N.Y. Giants (0-1)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: QB Eli Manning got into the game last week, and that's not a good thing right now. Joe Gibbs has taken back his place as D.C.'s biggest star. So unless you can hit consistently from 50 yards and in, move over, Freddy Adu.
The line: 'Skins by 3
Over/under: 42½
Final shake: Redskins in a possible bloodbath.

Denver (1-0) at Jacksonville (1-0)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Quentin Griffin, one of six NFL players to score three TDs last week, will be the only one to score four TDs this weekend. Then five the next, then six, then... but I'm getting ahead of myself.
The line: Broncos by 3
Over/under: 39½
Final shake: Broncos. Don't ask. Do.

Carolina (0-1) at Kansas City (0-1)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Chiefs have a 13-game winning streak at home. So they should run home and get it. Ha-ha, but really, folks, 13 games. At home. And Carolina is clearly hung over from last year's Super Bowl. Forget the Gatorade, have a Bloody Mary.
The line: Chiefs by 6
Over/under: 46½
Final shake: Chiefs in a kinda-must-win game.

Pittsburgh (1-0) at Baltimore (0-1)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: On average, the Ravens are the heaviest team in the league at 251.62 pounds per fellow. Steelers are one of the lightest at 246.45 pounds per gent. That's a difference of, let's see, carry the one and ... look, you do the math. Lighter is faster. Faster is better.
The line: Ravens by 4
Over/under: 36
Final shake: Steelers in an upsetting upset.

San Francisco (0-1) at New Orleans (0-1)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: I got high on my own hype after sniffing the Saints -- I said "hype" and "Saints" -- but they managed just seven points last week. Ken Dorsey, the 49ers' second-worst (and yet also their second-best) QB, makes his first start. Forget the over, bet the under, and pat my behind.
The line: Saints by 7
Over/under: 42
Final shake: 49ers, not to win but to show.

Houston (0-1) at Detroit (1-0)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: The Texans must stop Bears killer Bracy Walker. I speak from experience. And don't be fooled by the girlie name. He'll bite your head off. Also, Houston just feels shaky to me. Maybe it's the uniforms, I dunno.
The line: Lions by 3
Over/under: 43½
Final shake: Lions. Follow your nose; it leads to your gut.

Seattle (1-0) at Tampa Bay (0-1)
3:05 p.m. Sunday
Things you should know: Seahawks were 2-6 on the road last year and play six of their first nine games away this year. But this is at Tampa Bay and "bay" implies water and Seahawks love the water as much as kids love Kool-Aid. See where I'm headed?
The line: 'Hawks by 3
Over/under: 37
Final shake: Seahawks. But please, don't feed the birds.

Cleveland (1-0) at Dallas (0-1)
3:15 p.m. Sunday, WBBM-Ch. 2
Things you should know: Jeff Garcia dates a former Playboy playmate, the second Browns QB to do so. Tim Couch started the trend with Heather Kozar. What does this have to do with Sunday's game at Dallas? I have no idea. Now what were we discussing?
The line: 'Boys by 4½
Over/under: 39
Final shake: Cowboys. Vinny Testaverde is married and the father of three.

New England (1-0) at Arizona (0-1)
3:15 p.m. Sunday
Things you should know: Congratulations to offensive guard Leonard Davis, officially the NFL's heaviest man at 384 pounds. Distracting him with huge bags of fries, look for the Pats to notch five sacks on Arizona's QB, whoever that is.
The line: Pats by 8
Over/under: 42
Final shake: Cardinals ... lose by 7.

N.Y. Jets (1-0) at San Diego (1-0)
3:15 p.m. Sunday
Things you should know: Yes, the Chargers are tied for first place in the division. Yes, they go could 16-0. No, they won't. Yes, I talk to myself like this all the time. Put it another way: Jets QB Chad Pennington is not a thrower, he's a passer. But I don't want to kiss him.
The line: Jets by 3
Over/under: 45½
Final shake: J-E-T-S! Jet! Jets! Jets!

Miami (0-1) at Cincinnati (0-1)
7:30 p.m. Sunday, ESPN
Things you should know: This could be a match-up of this year's Super Bowl teams only if Miami was the Eagles and the Bengals were the Colts. Someone named A.J. Feeley starts for Miami and I'm guessing it's at QB. Man, the Dolphins. What a train wreck.
The line: Bengals by 5
Over/under: 39
Final shake: Bengals. Unless Hurricane Ivan hits central Ohio.

Buffalo (0-1) at Oakland (0-1)
3:15 p.m. Sunday
Things you should know: Forget last week. This is the week Drew Bledsoe goes off for about 350 yards passing. Why? Because things are flying all over the place in Oakland these days. Raiders defense hasn't earned my respect yet, either.
The line: Raiders by 3½
Over/under: 38
Final shake: Bills. And no chair-throwing, fellas.

Minnesota (1-0) at Philadelphia (1-0)
8 p.m. Monday, WLS-Ch. 7
Things you should know: The only real question in this game is "Who pulls off the most dramatic TD celebration?" My vote: Terrell Owens over Randy Moss, since sources tell me T.O.'s version of "Lady Marmalade" is jaw-dropping.
The line: Eagles by 3
Over/under: 48½
Final shake: Vikings. But we love the rouge, T.O.

[Blackbeard]

Dallas news staff picks

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcont...18colpicks.pdf

requires adobe acrobat

[Blackbeard]

NY Post NCAA staff predictions

http://nypost.com/sports/betting/collegepicks.htm

[Blackbeard]

Vegas Vic

College Game Of The Week
RICE -2.5 over Hawaii
The Owls are 5-0 ATS in this match-up as they play ball control against Mr. Chang. (9/18)

College Parlay Of The Week
N.C. State +4 over OHIO STATE
Buckeyes were lucky last week. This week their weaknesses lose the game. (9/17)

ARIZONA STATE -3.5 over Iowa
Sun Devils are for real while Hawkeyes are unpredictable at best. (9/17)

Wiseguy Move Of The Week
SOUTH CAROLINA -13.5 over South Florida
Gamecocks played Georgia tough and this puts them back in the win column. (9/16)

Underdog NFL Game Of The Week
Indianapolis +2 over TENNESSEE
Bounce back from the Super Bowl champs should have Indy in bad mood. (9/15

Underdog College Game Of The Week
San Diego State +23 over MICHIGAN
They almost beat the Buckeyes in the Shoe last year and everyone is back. (9/14)

College Early Bird Special
GEORGIA -18.5 over Marshall................The Bulldogs had to come from behind to get the victory with the Gamecocks and ran the ball well. (9/13)

[Blackbeard]

USA Today/Jeff Zillgitt NFL

Denver (minus-3) at Jacksonville

Serious: I don't care if it's the running back or the system. Whatever it is, it works for Denver.

Flippant: But just to prove it is indeed the system, Broncos coach Mike Shanahan will clandestinely insert an assistant equipment manager in at running back for a few plays. And he will gain 20 yards on three carries.

Broncos 24, Jaguars 13

***

Pittsburgh (plus-4) at Baltimore

Serious: The Ravens' defense will play much better than it did against Cleveland. It remains to be seen if their offense can play any better.

Flippant: Steelers running back Jerome Bettis wants to become the first running back in NFL history to average more touchdowns per game than rushing yards per game.

Upset special: Steelers 17, Ravens 14

***

Houston (plus-3) at Detroit

Serious: The Texans turned the ball over four times against the Chargers, and the Lions had four takeaways against Bears on Sunday.

Flippant: Spending too much time with his cousin, golfer Padraig Harrington, at the Ryder Cup in suburban Detroit, Lions quarterback Joey Harrington has been putting too much backspin on his passes at practice this week.

Lions 20, Texans 16

***

Indianapolis (plus-2) at Tennessee

Serious: The Colts came close to beating the Patriots on the road. They won't fall to 0-2.

Flippant: The Titans signed 45-year-old kicker Gary Anderson, the NFL's all-time leading scorer. What, they couldn't come to terms with George Blanda?

Colts 24, Titans 20

***

Washington (minus-3) at New York Giants

Serious: The Redskins are a better team under Joe Gibbs. The Giants are not a better team under Tom Coughlin, who is on the verge of losing the team.

Flippant: "If you are on time, you are on time. Meetings start five minutes early," Giants coach Tom Coughlin told reporters.

Conversation overheard between rookie QB Eli Manning and veteran QB Kurt Warner:

"Hey Kurt, game time against Washington on Sunday is scheduled for 1 p.m. Does that mean kickoff is 12:55?" Manning said.

Redskins 20, Giants 17

***

San Francisco (plus-7) at New Orleans

Serious: Both teams struggled in their season-opening losses, but the Saints are relieved the 49ers are headed to town rather than the Patriots or Eagles.

Flippant: 49ers GM Terry Donahue received an extension that will keep him with the team through the 2008 season. To deserve this extension, under his watch, the 49ers' record has not improved in the last two seasons. Donahue forced out Steve Mariucci (57-39 as coach of the 49ers) and replaced him with Dennis Erickson, who had a 31-33 NFL record before last season's 7-9 finish. An 8-8 record this year just might make Donahue GM for life.

Saints 24, 49ers 14

***

Chicago (plus-9) at Green Bay

Serious: The Bears lost to the lowly Lions at home. They have no chance of beating the Packers on the road.

Flippant: With Packers backup Najeh Davenport bothered by a hamstring problem, it looks like Tony Fisher might be Green Bay's new No. 2.

Lock of the week: Packers 28, Bears 10

***

St. Louis (plus-2 ½) at Atlanta

Serious: Don't panic — yet — about Rams quarterback Marc Bulger. A so-so Falcons secondary might serve Bulger well this week.

Flippant: Lesson to all the kids: It's good to be like Mike (Vick). It's not good to be like Marcus (Vick).

Rams 27, Falcons 21

***

Carolina (plus-6) at Kansas City

Serious: Just two teams have lost the Super Bowl one year and won it the next — Dallas in 1972 and Miami in 1973. Carolina won't be third.

Flippant: Vermeil watched tape of his team's 34-24 loss to Denver. And wept.

Chiefs 28, Panthers 14

***

Seattle (no line) at Tampa Bay

Serious: The Bucs have one of the worst looking offenses in the NFL. They go east-west instead of north-south.

Flippant: If Pittsburgh's Jerome Bettis is intent on averaging more touchdowns per game than rushing yards per game, Bucs QB Brad Johnson wants to set a record for fewest yards per pass completion. After four completions against Washington, Johnson had amassed 12 yards passing. Three yards per rush barely gets in done in the NFL. Three yards per completion will not lead to many victories.

Seahawks 24, Buccaneers 10

***

Cleveland (plus-4) at Dallas

Serious: Good thing for the Cowboys this game isn't on the road.

Flippant: Cleveland QB Jeff Garcia's girlfriend, Playboy's playmate of the year Carmella DeCesare, was charged with assault after allegedly kicking Garcia's ex-girlfriend in the head. Get that playmate a uniform.

Cowboys 20, Browns 13

***

New England (minus-8) at Arizona

Serious: It was nice to see Emmitt Smith have a nice day rushing Sunday. But defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel is going to have a field day with Cardinals QB Josh McCown.

Flippant: Is Tom Brady really Mr. All-American QB? He must have some flaws.

Patriots 28, Cardinals 14

***

Buffalo (plus-3 ½ ) at Oakland

Serious: The Bills have scored one touchdown in their last three games. A new head coach, a new offensive coordinator. Same old Bills.

Flippant: And everyone thought Raiders fans were nasty. The Raiders ought to bring some of those rambunctious A's fans over to heckle Drew Bledsoe and the Bills.

Raiders 20, Bills 17

***

New York Jets (minus-3) at San Diego

Serious: If QB Chad Pennington and RB Curtis Martin can produce like they did Sunday, the Jets can contend for a playoff spot.

Flippant: Hey Chargers fans, don't get used to the victories.

Jets 21, Chargers 17

***

Miami (plus-4 ½) at Cincinnati

Serious: The Dolphins have serious issues. At coach. At quarterback. At running back. And that's not a flippant remark, either.

Flippant: I wrote last week that one cannot go on making Ricky Williams weed references forever. I lied. I wonder if Williams, now that he's retired, thinks the grass is greener on the other side of the hill.

Bengals 21, Dolphins 14

***

Minnesota (plus-3 ½) at Philadelphia

Serious: I wouldn't mind seeing these two teams meet again in the playoffs.

Flippant: Word is the Eagles are going to pump extra oxygen into Lincoln Financial Field to account for the amount being used by receivers Randy Moss and Terrell Owens.

Eagles 31, Vikings 24

***

Last week: 9-7 straight up, 8-7-1 against the spread.

[Blackbeard]

USA Today/Eric Smith

No. 1 Southern Cal at BYU, 10 p.m.

First Notre Dame, now USC? Two big upsets is asking too much of the Cougars, who should be aided by the return of quarterback John Beck. But the game might be closer than you'd think in the rarified air of Provo. Southern Cal 31, Brigham Young 16.

No. 2 Oklahoma vs. Oregon, 3:30 p.m.

The Sooner Schooner keeps on rolling and the Ducks will be looking for answers after a 0-2 start. Oklahoma 45, Oregon 13.

No. 3 Georgia vs. Marshall, 1 p.m.

Tough spot for the Bulldogs after their emotional win at South Carolina. On the other hand, they could be in the Thundering Herd's position. Bob Pruett's team must rebound quickly after self-destructing in the final minutes of a heartbreaking loss at Ohio State. Georgia 30, Marshall 10.

No. 4 LSU at No. 15 Auburn, 3:30 p.m.

The quarterback position is at a premium on the road in the SEC. With uncertainty for LSU and a comfort level in Jason Campbell at Auburn, the edge goes to Tommy Tuberville's team. Toss in the running back duo of Carnell Williams and Ronnie Brown and the home team should get an early edge in the SEC West race. Auburn 23, LSU 16.

No. 5 Miami (Fla.) vs. Louisiana Tech, 1 p.m.

The win against Florida State shouldn't overshadow some serious problems for the Miami offense. Brock Berlin is still shaky and the offensive line needs an opportunity to jell. This is a good time to address both those problems. Miami 38, Louisiana Tech 10.

No. 7 Ohio State at N.C. State, 3:30 p.m.

With Philip Rivers, the Wolfpack might be the favorite in the ACC. They still might win the league if Jay Davis just plays mistake-free football. That should be enough with Ohio State still struggling to put away teams on its own. N.C. State 21, Ohio State 20.

No. 8 West Virginia vs. No. 19 Maryland, noon

With sophomore Joel Statham behind center for the Terrapins, you can disregard recent history and back West Virginia — even with Kay-Jay Harris questionable because of a hamstring injury. West Virginia 28, Maryland 17.

No. 9 Florida at No. 13 Tennessee, 8 p.m.

Ron Zook excels when expectations are low. This could be another opportunity to for him to surprise, especially with Chris Leak providing his team a huge edge at the quarterback position. Florida 24, Tennessee 23.

No. 11 Florida State vs. UAB, 6:30 p.m.

Is it really a vote of confidence for Chris Rix when the senior keeps his job because there is not a talented backup behind him? He won't have a long leash if he continues to struggle. Florida State 35, UAB 13.

No. 12 Iowa at Arizona State, 10 p.m.

Andrew Walter's Heisman hopes ended last year in a poor performance against Iowa. History has a way of repeating itself. Iowa 24, Arizona State 17.

No. 14 Utah at Utah State, 7 p.m.

Utes continue their ascension in the poll and increase their BCS chances. There are potential stormy clouds on the horizon, however. Utah 35, Utah State 16.

No. 16 Virginia vs. Akron, 3 p.m.

Al Groh has to be pleased with the play of the Cavaliers and the lack of scrutiny his team is receiving. Virginia 40, Akron 6.

No. 17 Michigan vs. San Diego State, noon

This is more of the competition level that Lloyd Carr and the Wolverines can handle with ease. Michigan 38, San Diego State 19.

No. 20 Fresno State vs. Portland State, 10 p.m.

After opening on the road with wins against Washington and Kansas State, the Bulldogs have a much-deserved respite. Fresno State 42, Portland State 7.

No. 21 Wisconsin at Arizona, 4 p.m.

The coaches may have changed but Arizona is still the fumbling, bumbling team of previous regimes. The Wildcats do have a shot here, assuming the turnovers and mistakes can be cleaned up because the Badgers lack any big-play dimension with new quarterback John Stocco. Wisconsin 21, Arizona 17.

No. 22 Minnesota at Colorado State, 10 p.m.

You can forgive the Gophers for being flat against Illinois State. The first road game of the season against a motivated foe will be more of a litmus test for how good the year will be for Glen Mason. Minnesota 30, Colorado State 21.

No. 23 Boise State at UTEP, 9 p.m.

Mike Price may be regretting his return to coaching after getting an up-close look at the Broncos and their top-ranked scoring offense. Boise State 44, UTEP 20.

No. 25 Clemson at Texas A&M, 7 p.m.

Both teams are at a crossroads early in the season. After being torched by Utah, the Aggies defense rebounded last week with a shutout of Wyoming. Clemson, which is another team off an emotional loss, has to recover quickly. Clemson 26, Texas A&M 24.

Last week's record: 17-6 SU (14-8 ATS)

Season record: 36-7 SU (21-17 ATS)

[Blackbeard]

Sagarin Ratings NFL & NCAA

If you use these, go lightly untill a few more weeks have passed..

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/sagarin/nfl04.htm

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/sagarin/fbt04.htm

[Blackbeard]

Miami herald/Greg Cote NFL picks

Greg Cote's Week 2 picks


Helmet Ratings
This week's ratings as an NFL salute to Martha Stewart now saying she wishes to soon begin her five-month prison sentence for lying about a stock sale . . .

**** With admirable courage and brave confidence, Stewart announces plans to be a free woman by spring planting season and -- unscathed -- reclaim her throne as America's lifestyle diva.

*** Her loyal fans continue to show support, as evidenced by strong sales for the debut of her new magazine, Martha Stewart Living, Somehow, Without Fresh Flowers In A Hand-Cut European Lead-Crystal Vase.

** Oops. Stewart likening her plight to that of Nelson Mandela may have backfired as a judge re-sentences her to serve 27 years at Robben Island Prison near Cape Town.

* Stewart is released from jail but -- in what proves unsettling to some supporters -- now wears a crew cut, smokes Camels and insists she be called Marty.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

AFC
DOLPHINS AT BENGALS
8:30 p.m. Sunday, ESPN, Ch. 33

'AAAWWWK!'' trills the Upset Bird. ``This is historic. My 700th career homer pick. Barry Baaawwwk!'' Seriously, the betting number begs taking a shot with Dolphins here. Line is either a serious overestimation of Cincy (based on what I saw of the 'Gals' defense last week) or an overboard dismissal of Miami. Finland has won nine straight in series and is 18-5 all-time on Sunday night. Dolphs have enough defense to make it a shaky home debut for Carson Palmer and spoil Cincy's first time hosting a prime-timer since '97. And A.J. Feeley could make Dave Wannstedt look smart, thanks to Cincy's vulnerable D. This presumes Miami cuts down on last week's egregious 14 penalties, which were so upsetting that offending players were fined by Giants coach Tom Coughlin. Finally, a quick shoutout to the Dalai Lama, who's in town on a speaking tour sharing his Tibetan wisdom. ``It was he who divined to me this upset pick,'' confides the U-Bird. ``DALAI LAAAWWWK!''

• Cote says: Dolphins, 20-17.

• Favorite: Bengals by 4 ½.

* *

Records: Dolphins 0-1; Bengals 0-1.

Dolphins injuries: RB Rob Konrad (thigh) and RB Travis Minor (ankle) are out; DT Tim Bowens (back) is doubtful; RB Sammy Morris (ankle), T John St. Clair (ankle) and CB Patrick Surtain (groin) are questionable.

Bengals injuries: T Stacy Andrews (ankle), DT Matthias Askew (knee), S Kim Herring (foot) and C Larry Moore (knee) are out; LB Caleb Miller (ankle) is doubtful; S Rogers Beckett (concussion), C Rich Braham (knee), DE Robert Geathers (ankle), RB Chris Perry (hamstring) and WR Peter Warrick (shin) are questionable.


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BRONCOS AT JAGUARS
1 p.m. Sunday

Denver faces letdown after big opening win over rival KC, but has enough firepower to outscore Jax. Jags lucked to win at Buffville on a time-expired pass that disguised what an awful game Byron Leftwich had.

• Cote says: Broncos, 27-13.

• Favorite: Broncos by 3.

* ½

Records: Broncos 1-0; Jaguars 1-0.

Broncos injuries: CB Lenny Walls (shoulder) is out; LB Patrick Chukwurah (back), DT Luther Elliss (shoulder), T Cornell Green (groin) and RB Garrison Hearst (ankle) are questionable.

Jaguars injuries: TE Kyle Brady (finger) is out; RB Chris Fuamatu-Ma'afala (foot) is questionable.


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STEELERS AT RAVENS
1 p.m. Sunday

Balts, smarting from upset loss to Cleveland, should see a nice bounceback effect and get by at home. Vegas numeral seems a tad fat, though. After all: Bill Cowher is 12-5 vs. Crows, road team is on a 5-2 roll in series, and Pitters have scored 26-plus on Ray Lewis in five of past six meetings.

• Cote says: Ravens, 19-17.

• Favorite: Ravens by 4.

* *

Records: Steelers 1-0; Ravens 0-1.

Steelers injuries: DE Chris Hoke (staph infection in arm) is doubtful; LB Kendrell Bell (groin) is questionable.

Ravens injuries: T Ethan Brooks (knee), C Mike Flynn (clavicle) and DT Kelly Gregg (knee) are out; T Jonathan Ogden (knee) and WR Travis Taylor (groin) are questionable.


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COLTS AT TITANS
1 p.m. Sunday, Chs. 4, 12

AFC heavyweight bout matches last season's NFL co-MVPs in superarms Peyton Manning and Steve McNair. Give me the visitors in a mild upset. Indy has had three extra days to prepare and swept the Titans last season. As much as that, Tony Dungy has a track record of bouncing back from losses. Colts haven't been saddled with consecutive L's in 25 straight game-weeks.

• Cote says: Colts, 27-24.

• Favorite: Titans by 1 ½.

* * * ½

Records: Colts 0-1; Titans 1-0.

Colts injuries: S Mike Doss (hamstring), CB Joseph Jefferson (knee), S Bob Sanders (foot) and WR Troy Walters (upper arm fracture) are out; LB Gilbert Gardner (ankle) is doubtful; S Cory Bird (concussion), CB Nicholas Harper (shoulder) and RB James Mungro (wrist) are questionable.

Titans injuries: LB Brad Kassell (Achilles') and G Zach Piller (biceps) are out; RB Chris Brown (ankle), WR Tyrone Calico (knee), LB Rocky Calmus (back), CB Andre Dyson (shoulder), P Craig Hentrich (back), DE Travis LaBoy (concussion), WR Jake Schifino (hamstring) and S Lamont Thompson (shoulder/wrist) are questionable.


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BILLS AT RAIDERS
4:15 p.m. Sunday

Strong venue edge here, plus Oakies showed pretty stout defense even in losing last week, and have beaten Williams in four of past five meetings. Make it a happy home debut, then, for Norv Turner.

• Cote says: Raiders, 24-17.

• Favorite: Raiders by 3 ½.

* *

Records: Bills 0-1; Raiders 0-1.

Bills injuries: QB J.P. Losman (lower leg) and S Lawyer Milloy (forearm) are out.

Raiders injuries: LB Sam Williams (shoulder) is doubtful; RB Justin Fargas (toe) and LB Napoleon Harris (knee) are questionable.


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JETS AT CHARGERS
4:15 p.m. Sunday

Who'd have believed this might be an interesting matchup? Curtis Martin looked like his old self last week, and Chad Pennington has been great on the road in his young career, while Bolts shed their cloak of dreadfulness at least temporarily with an opening win at Houston. San-D makes a tempting home mutt, but fly safe with Planes.

• Cote says: Jets, 20-13.

• Favorite: Jets by 3.

* *

Records: Jets 1-0; Chargers 1-0.

Jets injuries: None worse than probable.

Chargers injuries: DE Adrian Dingle (thigh) is out; DE Dave Ball (shoulder) and WR Tim Dwight (hamstring) are questionable.


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NFC
BEARS AT PACKERS
1 p.m. Sunday

Venerable franchises' 167th all-time meeting finds GeeBees on a seven-game series win streak. A letdown after Monday night might be a worry, but home debut takes care of that. Call me crazy, but I like Brett Favre arm-to-arm over Rex Grossman, especially against a banged-up Cub secondary.

• Cote says: Packers, 30-13.

• Favorite: Packers by 9.

* *

Records: Bears 0-1; Packers 1-0.

Bears injuries: CB Jerry Azumah (neck), LB Marcus Reese (hamstring) and G Rex Tucker (elbow) are out; CB R.W. McQuarters (ankle) is questionable.

Packers injuries: DT Grady Jackson (knee) is out; DT Kenny Peterson (ankle) is doubtful; RB Najeh Davenport (hamstring) and LB Torrance Marshall (hamstring) are questionable.


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REDSKINS AT GIANTS
1 p.m. Sunday, Ch. 29

Matchup has sizzle for the coaches alone. Joe Gibbs is your early favorite for resurrection of the year, while Tom Coughlin, already embattled for fining players who aren't early for meetings, might find his rump in the early hot at 0-2. Skins QB Mark Brunell faces his ex-Jax coach, but this one turns on Washers' much-improved defense stifling Kurt Warner and crew.

• Cote says: Redskins, 24-10.

• Favorite: Redskins by 3.

* * *

Records: Redskins 1-0; Giants 0-1.

Redskins injuries: LB Mike Barrow (knee) is questionable.

Giants injuries: S Omar Stoutmire (knee, injured reserve), WR Jamaar Taylor (hamstring) and CB Frank Walker (foot) are out; LB Carlos Emmons (groin) and C Wayne Lucier (back) are questionable.


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49ERS AT SAINTS
1 p.m. Sunday

New Orleans spent the week more concerned with Hurricane Ivan's arrival than with the Niners', and practices moved to San Antonio undoubtedly amplified the distraction. That's one reason the line feels plump. Frans should keep it close, even with -- or maybe because -- Ken Dorsey is pinchthrowing for injured Tim Rattay.

• Cote says: Saints, 24-20.

• Favorite: Saints by 7.

* *

Records: 49ers 0-1; Saints 0-1.

49ers injuries: DE Andrew Williams (shin/lower leg fracture) is out; DE Andre Carter (back) and CB Mike Rumph (groin) are doubtful; RB Fred Beasley (ankle), S Dwaine Carpenter (knee), C Jeremy Newberry (knee), QB Tim Rattay (right shoulder) and DE Brandon Whiting (back/shoulder) are questionable.

Saints injuries: CB Jason Craft (ankle) and DE Darren Howard (neck) are questionable.


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RAMS AT FALCONS
1 p.m. Sunday

Upset! Although it hardly feels like one. St. Lous have won seven straight in series and topped 30 points each time. That's a lot to instantly overcome, even for defense-minded new Falcs coach Jim Mora.

• Cote says: Rams, 28-21.

• Favorite: Falcons by 2 ½.

* * ½

Records: Rams 1-0; Falcons 1-0.

Rams injuries: CB Travis Fisher (forearm) and DT Jimmy Kennedy (foot) are out; LB Trev Faulk (hamstring) and G Tom Nutten (toe) are doubtful; C Andy McCollum (ankle) is questionable.

Falcons injuries: LB Jamie Duncan (pectoral), CB DeAngelo Hall (hip), G Michael Moore (shoulder, injured reserve) and DE Karon Riley (groin) are out; T Kevin Shaffer (knee/ribs) is questionable.


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SEAHAWKS AT BUCS
4:05 p.m. Sunday, Ch. 7

Man, the Upset Bird is flying this week. Like home dogs here for our fourth outright U-turn. Seattle hasn't opened with consecutive road wins since '94, and Tampa remains a tough venue.

• Cote says: Bucs, 20-17.

• Favorite: Seahawks by 3.

* * *

Records: Seahawks 1-0; Buccaneers 0-1.

Seahawks injuries: LB Chad Brown (fibula) is out; RB Shaun Alexander (knee), LB Solomon Bates (groin) and S Terreal Bierria (quadriceps) are questionable.

Buccaneers injuries: WR Joey Galloway (groin) is out.


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INTERCONFERENCE
PANTHERS AT CHIEFS
1 p.m. Sunday

Defending Super Bowlers getting six make a tempting pick . . . but not at Arrowhead. Chiefs ride a 13-game home winning streak during which 33-14 has been the average score, and Trent Green should shake off a shaky debut.

• Cote says: Chiefs, 31-17.

• Favorite: Chiefs by 6.

* * *

Records: Panthers 0-1; Chiefs 0-1.

Panthers injuries: WR Steve Smith (fibula) is out.

Chiefs injuries: TE Kris Wilson (ankle) is out; CB William Bartee (neck), LB Keyaron Fox (quadriceps), DE Vonnie Holliday (groin), LB Kawika Mitchell (ankle), WR Samie Parker (hamstring) and S Greg Wesley (hamstring) are questionable.


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TEXANS AT LIONS
1 p.m. Sunday

Houston lost at home to lowly Diego, while Detroit won on the road -- for, like, the first time since the 1800s. So figure the Lions as a clear pick in this week's Bob Barker special. So why does this game make me nervous?

• Cote says: Lions, 27-20.

• Favorite: Lions by 3.

* ½

Records: Texans 0-1; Lions 1-0.

Texans injuries: None worse than probable.

Lions injuries: LB Boss Bailey (knee) and CB Dre' Bly (knee) are out; DE James Hall (thumb) and T Matt Joyce (elbow) are questionable.


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BROWNS AT COWBOYS
4:15 p.m. Sunday, Chs. 4, 12

In clubs' first meeting since 1994, like Team Tuna and its ageless arm ( Vinny T) to prevent Cleve's first 2-0 breakout in forever. Hedge, though, with Earthtones plus the number. Jeff Garcia gives Butchie D a legitimacy he hasn't had.

• Cote says: Cowboys, 20-17.

• Favorite: Cowboys by 4.

* * ½

Records: Browns 1-0; Cowboys 0-1.

Browns injuries: TE Steve Heiden (knee) is out; DE Ebenezer Ekuban (groin), C Melvin Fowler (ankle), DE Corey Jackson (ankle), RB Lee Suggs (neck) and DT Gerard Warren (pectoral) are questionable.

Cowboys injuries: WR Randal Williams (shoulder) is out; RB Richie Anderson (knee), G Andre Gurode (knee) and C Tyson Walter (knee) are questionable.


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PATRIOTS AT CARDINALS
4:15 p.m. Sunday

NE faces a letdown here, plus the emotion of Arizona's big home-opening tribute to Pat Tillman. Hunch a bland, auto-pilot win for the champs.

• Cote says: Patriots, 24-17.

• Favorite: Patriots by 8.

* *

Records: Patriots 1-0; Cardinals 0-1.

Patriots injuries: RB Kevin Faulk (personal) is out; WR Troy Brown (knee) is questionable.

Cardinals injuries: WR Anquan Boldin (knee) is out; LB Levar Fisher (knee) and LB Raynoch Thompson (knee) are doubtful.


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MONDAY NIGHT
VIKINGS AT EAGLES
9 p.m., Chs. 10, 25

Oh my! I haven't been this excited about MNF since Dandy Don was tugging at Howard's toupee. You've got two QBs who between 'em had nine TD passes last week. You've got Randy Moss vs. Terrell Owens. You've got a fireworks matchup sufficient to send any defensive coordinator into immediate therapy. Big stars. Big stage. Geez, for John Madden, this is the next best thing to a second helping. Speaking of second helpings, Andy Reid is 11-1 in prime time.

• Cote says: Eagles, 34-27.

• Favorite: Eagles by 3 ½.

* * * *

Records: Vikings 1-0; Eagles 1-0.

Vikings injuries: RB Michael Bennett (knee) and TE Jim Kleinsasser (knee) are out; RB Moe Williams (ankle) is questionable.

Eagles injuries: DT Paul Grasmanis (Achilles'/knee) is doubtful.


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How the Darts Landed
We accurately presaged the Lions finally ending their three-year road losing streak in our Upset Bird call (''Detraawwk!'') to launch our 14th season on The Friday Page with a solid week overall and a decent one against the betting line.

Unfortunately we missed on the Monday night game, incurring a substantial fine from Giants coach Tom Coughlin.

Been getting a bunch of calls about those new Swift Boat Veterans For Truth attack ads implying I have exaggerated my record. Ignore them. Trust me, if I exaggerated my record, it would be considerably better than shown.

Overall vs. spread
Last week 12-4, .750 8-7-1, .531
Final 2003 161-95, .629 127-118-11, .518

[Blackbeard]

Miami herald ncaa

COLLEGE FOOTBALL PICKS


• FLORIDA 20, TENNESSEE 17: The game's being played on Rocky Top, in front of some 105,000 loud pumpkins urging vengeance. It's likely to be played in a downpour. UF still needs a go-to receiver. In other words, this game sets up perfectly for the Gators. Hey, don't fight it. UF has won four of the past five meetings in Knoxville, whether they have had the better talent or not. The setup brings to mind the 2002 meeting, when the Vols fumbled seven times in the first half as UF rolled to a 30-13 win. Beware of Vols freshman QB Brent Schaeffer (Deerfield Beach), who's bound for stardom. (Favorite: Tennessee by 3. TV: 8 p.m., Chs. 4, 12.)

• AUBURN 22, LSU 16: It's how you allocate the weapons -- two RBs and one QB (Auburn) are better than two QBs and one RB. Auburn's Jason Campbell won't be compared to Brett Favre, but the pressure is eased by the running of Carnell Williams and Ronnie Brown. The iffy status of WR Skyler Green also hampers LSU. (Favorite: Pick 'em. TV: 3:30 p.m., Chs. 4, 12.)

• MIAMI 44, LOUISIANA TECH 10: The Hurricanes should get plenty of chances to work out their offensive kinks after oversleeping vs. FSU. UM's defense can focus on shutting down RB Ryan Moats, who'll be lucky to get one-fifth of his 257-yard average. That leaves QB Donald Allen trying to solve UM's secondary. (Favorite: UM by 30 ½.)

• FLORIDA STATE 28, UAB 16: Potential ambush game for the Seminoles, still in a funk over the UM loss and dealing with brief QB controversy and off-field trauma. The Blazers are better than folks realize, and Darrell Hackney might be the best QB on the Doak Campbell Stadium field. (Favorite: FSU by 24 ½. TV: 6:30 p.m., ESPN2.)

• OHIO STATE 18, N.C. STATE 14: Tempted to pick Wolfpack, but there are too many question marks on offense. RB T.A. McLendon gave OSU fits last year, but is his hamstring healthy? New QB Jay Davis dissected Richmond in the opener, but the Buckeyes are a huge step up. Despite squeaking past Marshall, Ohio State is battle-tested. (Favorite: OSU by 2. TV: 3:30 p.m., Chs. 10, 25.)

• WEST VIRGINIA 30, MARYLAND 27: The Mountaineers have been pointing to this one since the Gator Bowl, when they took a third straight drubbing from the Terps. WVU's multi-dimensional attack should be tough for Maryland to stop, especially if RB Kay-Jay Harris returns to action. It'll be close, though. (Favorite: West Virginia by 6 ½. TV: noon, ESPN2.)

• ARIZONA STATE 16, IOWA 10: Potential ''sandwich'' test for the Hawkeyes, coming off a tough win vs. their state rival and seeing Michigan ahead. The Iowa offense has struggled against lesser foes, and Sun Devils QB Andrew Walter has a point to prove after last year's 21-2 embarrassment. Arizona State pulls this one out late. (Favorite: ASU by 1 ½.)

• FLORIDA ATLANTIC 23, MIDDLE TENNESSEE 21: Beware the Burly Owls, who are a surprising 2 for 2 against last season's bowl teams. The Blue Raiders will be out to avenge last year's final-second loss, but Hawaii and North Texas were ambushed by FAU and have better talent. Owls' confidence is sky-high right now. (Favorite: MTSU by 2 ½.)

• LAST WEEK: 7-2. Could have been bolder with Notre Dame, but who knew Irish had that freshman stud RB waiting in the wings? Vs. spread: 7-2.

• SEASON: 14-3 (11-6 vs. spread).