Blacksheet

[Blackbeard]

Miami herald/Greg Cote NFL picks

AFC
STEELERS AT DOLPHINS
1 p.m. Sunday, Chs. 4, 12

Steelers guard Alan Faneca says he'd rather not play with a rookie QB, meaning Ben Roethlisberger, who replaces injured veteran Tommy Maddox. Well, boo hoo and get in line, Al! Lots of teams have pocket anxiety. You happen to be playing one such team Sunday, with A.J. Feeley tantamount to a rook himself in terms of starting experience. Difference here is the two defenses they'll face. Miami brings enough to make trouble for a raw QB, as it did most of last week against Carson Palmer, whereas Pitt's pass-D is softer than Colin Montgomerie. (Beg pardon for the excursive golf reference). Could be a nice week for fantasy-heads to deploy Chris Chambers.

• Cote says: Dolphins, 23-17.
• Favorite: Dolphins by 1.
• Stars: * * ½
• Records: Steelers 1-1; Dolphins 0-2.
• Steelers injuries: QB Tommy Maddox (right elbow) is out; LB Kendrell Bell (groin), RB Verron Haynes (hip pointer), S Mike Logan (hamstring) and CB Chad Scott (groin) are questionable.
• Dolphins injuries: RB Travis Minor (ankle) is out; DT Tim Bowens (back), LB Tony Bua (hamstring) and RB Rob Konrad (thigh) are doubtful; CB Reggie Howard (hamstring) and CB Patrick Surtain (groin) are questionable.


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TEXANS AT CHIEFS
1 p.m. Sunday

Oddly enough, the week's only duel of winless teams -- with K.C. the most surprising/disappointing of the seven 0-2ers league-wide. Trent Green is off to a horrible start, Priest Holmes is gimpy, and Chiefs are 4-6 since starting last season 9-0. Still, I like homies in a breakout performance here.

• Cote says: Chiefs, 31-20.
• Favorite: Chiefs by 8.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Texans 0-2; Chiefs 0-2.
• Texans injuries: S Eric Brown (knee) is out; RB Tony Hollings (knee) and G Zach Wiegert (elbow) are questionable.
• Chiefs injuries: TE Kris Wilson (ankle) is out; LB Keyaron Fox (thigh), DE Vonnie Holliday (groin), RB Priest Holmes (ankle), WR Eddie Kennison (hamstring), WR Samie Parker (hamstring) and S Greg Wesley (hamstring) are questionable.


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JAGUARS AT TITANS
1 p.m. Sunday

Comeuppance is due the Jags, who are a lucky 2-0, winning on a time-expired TD pass at Buffalo and then thanks to a late Denver fumble. Titans have beaten Jax five straight and 10 of the past 12. Visitors don't bring enough offensive pop to outscore Steve McNair.

• Cote says: Titans, 20-10.
• Favorite: Titans by 6.
• Stars: * * ½
• Records: Jaguars 2-0; Titans 1-1.
• Jaguars injuries: DE Paul Spicer (lower leg) is out; TE Kyle Brady (finger) is doubtful; RB Chris Fuamatu-Ma'afala (foot) is questionable.
• Titans injuries: G Zach Piller (biceps) is out; WR Drew Bennett (ribs), WR Tyrone Calico (knee), LB Rocky Calmus (back), C Justin Hartwig (shoulder), WR Darrell Hill (hip), T Brad Hopkins (knee), LB Brad Kassell (Achilles') and WR Jake Schifino (hamstring) are questionable.


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RAVENS AT BENGALS
1 p.m. Sunday

'AAAWWWK!'' cantillates the Upset Bird. ``Cincinnaawwk!'' We defy the series trend, which has Balts winning 10 of past 12. Like 'Gals as one of only two home 'dogs this week as Marvin Lewis one-ups his ex-team. Kyle Boller has been awful, Jamal Lewis (2.7) has been cold, and now Crows also are missing a big weapon in injured TE Todd Heap. ``That spells a Heap o' trouble,'' concludes U-Bird. 'Heap o' traawwk!''

• Cote says: Bengals, 20-17.
• Favorite: Ravens by 3.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Ravens 1-1; Bengals 1-1.
• Ravens injuries: C Mike Flynn (shoulder) is out; TE Todd Heap (ankle) and WR Travis Taylor (thigh) are doubtful; T Ethan Brooks (knee), DT Kelly Gregg (knee) and CB Deion Sanders (hamstring) are questionable.
• Bengals injuries: DT Matthias Askew (knee), S Kim Herring (foot) and DE Carl Powell (knee) are out; T Stacy Andrews (knee), LB Caleb Miller (ankle) and G Larry Moore (knee) are doubtful; S Rogers Beckett (concussion) and C Rich Braham (knee) are questionable.


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CHARGERS AT BRONCOS
4:05 p.m. Sunday

Good teams tend to bounce back big from upset losses, and Denver will here, after a later turnover handed last week's game to Jacksonville. Broncs have won 11 of past 14 in series -- Mike Shanahan is 10-1 at Mile High vs. Bolts -- and Jake Plummer tore up Diego twice last season.

• Cote says: Broncos, 37-13.
• Favorite: Broncos by 10.
• Stars: * ½
• Records: Chargers 1-1; Broncos 1-1.
• Chargers injuries: DE Adrian Dingle (thigh) and TE Antonio Gates (foot) are questionable.
• Broncos injuries: DE Trevor Pryce (back) is out; CB Lenny Walls (shoulder) is doubtful; RB Garrison Hearst (ankle) is questionable.


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NFC
CARDINALS AT FALCONS
1 p.m. Sunday

Jim Mora is the only one of seven new coaches still unbeaten. Not yet convinced his Falcs are all that, but they bring enough to win Bird Bowl over House of Cards. Michael Vick is 10-2 as starter at home-dome, and he'll deliver Hotlanta's first 3-0 bustout since distant 1986.

• Cote says: Falcons, 31-14.
• Favorite: Falcons by 10.
• Stars: *
• Records: Cardinals 0-2; Falcons 2-0.
• Cardinals injuries: WR Anquan Boldin (knee) is out; LB Raynoch Thompson (knee) is doubtful.
• Falcons injuries: LB Jamie Duncan (pectoral) and CB DeAngelo Hall (hip) are out; DT Roderick Coleman (hamstring), RB Warrick Dunn (knee), WR Brian Finneran (ankle/Achilles') and DE Karon Riley (groin) are questionable.


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EAGLES AT LIONS
1 p.m. Sunday

The week's only battle of unbeatens -- a phrase that goes with ''Detroit Lions'' about as naturally as Baghdad goes with ''civic tranquility.'' Lions last got to 3-0 in 1980. Can't see Motown getting to three-nil, but post-Monday letdown by Philly is possible. Chance home 'dawgs with the points.

• Cote says: Eagles, 23-20.
• Favorite: Eagles by 4 ½.
• Stars: * * * ½
• Records: Eagles 2-0; Lions 2-0.
• Eagles injuries: DE Jerome McDougle (groin) and DT Darwin Walker (calf) are questionable.
• Lions injuries: LB Boss Bailey (knee) is out; CB Dre' Bly (knee), DE Kalimba Edwards (foot), CB Andre' Goodman (thigh) and T Matt Joyce (elbow) are questionable.


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SAINTS AT RAMS
1 p.m. Sunday

St. Lou has won 15 straight home games, a fact that should overcome N'Awlins being a pretty good traveler: 19-13 on the road under Jim Haslett. Venue call, augmented by Saints missing a huge weapon in injured RB Deuce McAllister. Line feels an ounce fat, but roll bones with the Rammies.

• Cote says: Rams, 28-20.
• Favorite: Rams by 7.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Saints 1-1; Rams 1-1.
• Saints injuries: CB Jason Craft (ankle), WR Joe Horn (knee), DE Darren Howard (neck), RB Deuce McAllister (ankle) and DT Brian Young (hip) are questionable.
• Rams injuries: CB Travis Fisher (forearm) and DT Jimmy Kennedy (foot) are out; LB Trev Faulk (hamstring) is doubtful; CB Dejuan Groce (knee) and G Tom Nutten (toe) are questionable.


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BEARS AT VIKINGS
1 p.m. Sunday

Daunte Culpepper and Randy Moss versus an injury-depleted Bears secondary. That, for me, trumps Chitown coming off a big win at Lambeau, and having beaten the Vikes in four of the past six meetings. Sidelight: Minny PK Morten Andersen plays in his 341st game, breaking the NFL record set by George Blanda in the Paleolithic Era.

• Cote says: Vikings, 30-20.
• Favorite: Vikings by 9.
• Stars: * * ½
• Records: Bears 1-1; Vikings 1-1.
• Bears injuries: CB Jerry Azumah (neck), DT Alfonso Boone (knee), S Mike Brown (Achilles'/injured reserve), CB Charles Tillman (knee) and G Rex Tucker (elbow) are out; G Mike Gandy (hamstring) and S Cameron Worrell (hamstring) are questionable.
• Vikings injuries: TE Jim Kleinsasser (knee), T Mike Rosenthal (foot) and TE Jermaine Wiggins (hand) are out; RB Michael Bennett (knee) and RB Moe Williams (ankle) are questionable.


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49ERS AT SEAHAWKS
4:15 p.m. Sunday

Desperation plus 11 points makes the Niners a pretty good buy as Dennis Erickson faces the team he coached in 1995-98 before being fired. Mike Holmgren is a former Niners assistant. Matt Hasslebeck has won nine straight home starts, but hunch the better-than-awful Frans keep it close. Their two losses have been by a combined five points.

• Cote says: Seahawks, 24-17.
• Favorite: Seahawks by 11.
• Stars: * *
• Records: 49ers 0-2; Seahawks 2-0.
• 49ers injuries: C Jeremy Newberry (knee) and DE Andrew Williams (shin, lower leg fracture) are out; DE Andre Carter (back) and T Kwame Harris (knee/ankle) are doubtful; QB Tim Rattay (right shoulder), CB Mike Rumph (groin) and WR Cedrick Wilson (hamstring) are questionable.
• Seahawks injuries: LB Chad Brown (fibula) is out.


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Interconference
PACKERS AT COLTS
4:15 p.m. Sunday, Chs. 7, 29

Brett Favre vs. Peyton Manning: The consensus two best QBs in the NFL in their first arm-to-arm meeting since 2000. That's enough to get you Game of the Week honors in this league. (Or at least on this page). Favre's next completion will be No. 4,000. Manning? All he has done is take 6,164 of 6,229 career snaps -- missing precisely one on account of injury. Like Colts here, even with Edgerrin James galloping on a tender hammy. Favre is 12-21 all-time in domes, and Manning CEO's the league's most explosive offense.

• Cote says: Colts, 34-24.
• Favorite: Colts by 6.
• Stars: * * * ½
• Records: Packers 1-1; Colts 1-1.
• Packers injuries: DT Grady Jackson (knee) and DT James Lee (knee) are out; RB Najeh Davenport (hamstring) and DT Kenny Peterson (ankle) are questionable.
• Colts injuries: CB Joseph Jefferson (knee), S Bob Sanders (foot) and WR Troy Walters (upper arm fracture) are out; S Mike Doss (hamstring), LB Gilbert Gardner (ankle) and RB Edgerrin James (hamstring) are questionable.


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BROWNS AT GIANTS
1 p.m. Sunday

Upset! Giants? Bad team. Received the gift of seven turnovers (!) last week and still barely beat Washington. Browns? Not real good, either. And pocked with injuries, now including rookie TE Kellen Winslow. Sometimes you roll with a gut feeling, though. I see Jeff Garcia rallying from last week's nightmare, and I see Kurt Warner picked off three times. Also, I see dead people. But that's another story.

• Cote says: Browns, 19-17.
• Favorite: Giants by 3.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Browns 1-1; Giants 1-1.
• Browns injuries: DE Courtney Brown (foot), T Ryan Tucker (quad), DT Gerard Warren (pectoral) and TE Kellen Winslow (ankle) are out; TE Steve Heiden (knee) is doubtful; DE Ebenezer Ekuban (groin), CB Anthony Henry (concussion), CB Daylon McCutcheon (finger), RB Lee Suggs (neck) and G Paul Zukauskas (knee) are questionable.
• Giants injuries: RB Ron Dayne (calf), LB Carlos Emmons (groin), LB Barrett Green (ankle), WR Jamaar Taylor (hamstring) and CB Frank Walker (foot) are questionable.


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BUCS AT RAIDERS
8:30 p.m. Sunday, ESPN

Bucs and Oakies are a combined 12-24 since meeting in the 2003 Super Bowl. It isn't the rematch that gives this prime-timer sex appeal, though. It's the soap opera. It's Oakland's Warren Sapp and Tampa's Tim Brown facing their longtime former teams. It's Jerry Rice, fuming that his 274-game reception streak ended last week. It's fading QB Brad Johnson, trying to stave off young Chris Simms. Boil it all down to a venue pick, and the sight of a hungry, grinning Mr. Sapp letting loose against a weak, weak offense.

• Cote says: Raiders, 17-7.
• Favorite: Raiders by 3.
• Stars: * * * ½
• Records: Bucs 0-2; Raiders 1-1.
• Bucs injuries: WR Joey Galloway (groin) is out.
• Raiders injuries: DE Sam Williams (shoulder) is doubtful; RB Justin Fargas (toe), LB Napoleon Harris (knee) and TE Roland Williams (knee) are questionable.


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Monday Night
COWBOYS AT REDSKINS
9 p.m., Chs. 10, 25

Bill Parcells vs. Joe Gibbs. There. Rarely does a coaching matchup resonate or loom larger than the game, but drinks are on me if hyperventilating MNF doesn't go on as if Tuna and Brother Gibbs were football gods slinging lightning bolts in the cosmos. Like Dallas here in a mild upset. Parcells is 10-6 vs. Gibbs, Mark Brunell is gimped up, and Cowboys are on a 5-1 run in D.C. I just hope the 'Skins and 'Boys are sharper than last week, when they combined for 11 turnovers. Gotta be bad coaching, right?

• Cote says: Cowboys, 20-17.
• Favorite: Redskins by 2.
• Stars: * * *
• Records: Cowboys 1-1; Redskins 1-1.
• Cowboys injuries: RB Julius Jones (shoulder) is out; G Andre Gurode (knee) and WR Randal Williams (shoulder) are questionable.
• Redskins injuries: DE Phillip Daniels (groin) and LB LaVar Arrington (knee) are out; LB Mike Barrow (knee) and QB Mark Brunell (hamstring) are questionable.


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Off this week
• Bills (0-2; next vs. Patriots): Winless, with a QB ( Drew Bledsoe) under fire, and with champ Pats on deck. Buffs trying to keep pace with Miami on the AFC East Bleak-o-Meter.

• Jets (2-0; next at Dolphins): Miami's next opponent, naturally, will be unbeaten and coming off a bye after opening its season with back-to-back 30-point games for the first time since 1987.

• Panthers (1-1; next vs. Falcons): Carolina was awarded bye after lawsuit successfully arguing it took extra time to prepare for Michael Vick.

• Patriots (2-0; next at Bills): Pats have won 17 straight, one shy of all-time record held by five clubs, including Miami. Dolphins' 1972 Perfectos will spend bye week trying to convince Tonya Harding to break Tom Brady's shin.


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How the Darts Landed
The good news? We nailed the Colts' upset win at Tennessee, had Niners-with-points over Saints, and presaged Dolphonics covering at Cincy.

The bad news? Most everything else.

Barely kept our beak above water overall through some lunatic results -- Bears winning at Lambeau? C'mon! -- and took a humbling hit against the spread.

``Mama said there'd be days like this, there'd be days like this, Mama said.'' Many more of them, however, and Mama might be taking over the picks.

Overall vs. spread
Last Week 9-7 .563 6-10 .375
Season 21-11 .656 14-17-1 .453
Final 2003 161-105-1, .605 127-118-11, .518

[SHORE BET]

Blackbeard, thanks and very much appreciated for all your posts.

[Blackbeard]

Thanks Shore Bet, I'll have about 15 more later tonight and tomorrow

[coverman]

Thanks for all the work in advance.

[Blackbeard]

No problem coverman, lets all get some winners this weekend

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Sun Times/JEFF AGREST NFL

NFL Forecast

September 24, 2004

BY JEFF AGREST





EAGLES AT LIONS

Time: Noon.
Records: Eagles 2-0; Lions 2-0.
Line: Eagles by 41/2.
Trend: In the last five seasons, the Eagles are 31-12-2 ATS on the road, including the postseason.
Outlook: The Lions always have been tough at home, but they figure to be outclassed by the Eagles. Lions QB Joey Harrington will be tested by an Eagles defense that had the Vikings' Daunte Culpepper on the run. If Harrington hangs on to the ball too long, it could get ugly. Injuries have the Lions perilously thin at cornerback, which doesn't bode well against Donovan McNabb and Terrell Owens. McNabb's 45-21 record as a starter ranks second among active QBs.
Pick: Eagles 27, Lions 13.


SAINTS AT RAMS

Time: Noon.
Records: Saints 1-1; Rams 1-1.
Line: Rams by 7.
Trend: The Rams are 5-2 ATS in their last seven homes games with a total of 451/2 or more (471/2 this week).
Outlook: Having allowed 5.7 yards per rush in two games, the Rams catch a huge break with Saints RB Deuce McAllister out with a sprained ankle. McAllister is the Saints' most indispensable player, so the offense will have to rely on QB Aaron Brooks and the passing game -- which isn't all that bad. WR Donte' Stallworth appears to be putting it together in his third year. But the lack of balance will come back to bite the Saints, whose defense won't be able to pick up the slack.
Pick: Rams 31, Saints 21.


JAGUARS AT TITANS

Time: Noon.
Records: Jaguars 2-0; Titans 1-1.
Line: Titans by 6.
Outlook: The Titans' Chris Brown has been the breakout running back of the young season, ranking third in the league with 252 yards. But he'll face a stiff test against the Jaguars, who have allowed only 2.8 yards per carry. The Jaguars have gone 17 games without allowing a 100-yard rusher. The difference in the game will be Titans QB Steve McNair, who will exploit a Jaguars defense that has struggled with its pass rush. But the Jaguars should be able to hang around, especially if QB Byron Leftwich makes plays against a Titans defense set on stopping RB Fred Taylor.
Pick: Titans 20, Jaguars 16.


BEARS AT VIKINGS

Time: Noon, Fox-32.
Records: Bears 1-1; Vikings 1-1.
Line: Vikings by 9.
Trend: Since 1992, the Bears are 14-23 ATS coming off an upset win.
Outlook: The Bears couldn't pick a worse time to have three-fourths of their starting secondary out with injuries. After facing Randy Moss on Sunday, they'll face the Eagles' Terrell Owens next week. But first things first. The Bears appear ill-equipped to slow the Vikings' passing game, and the offense doesn't have the firepower to keep up.
Pick: Vikings 31, Bears 19.





CARDINALS AT FALCONS

Time: Noon.
Records: Cardinals 0-2; Falcons 2-0.
Line: Falcons by 10.
Trend: The Cardinals have failed to cover the spread in nine of their last 10 road games.
Outlook: The Falcons are seeking their first 3-0 start since 1986, and they're likely to get it. QB Michael Vick is growing more comfortable in the team's West Coast offense, and he brings a 10-2 home record as a starter into the game. The Cardinals have no defense to speak of, while the Falcons' defense suddenly has some game.
Pick: Falcons 34, Cardinals 13.





STEELERS AT DOLPHINS

Time: Noon.
Records: Steelers 1-1; Dolphins 0-2.
Line: Dolphins by 1.
Trend: The Steelers are 26-13 ATS in all games in which the total is 35 or less (34 this week).
Outlook: With Dolphins DRT Larry Chester out and DLT Tim Bowens possibly out, the Steelers should be able to make QB Ben Roethlisberger's first NFL start more tolerable. They'll give the Dolphins a heavy dose of RBs Duce Staley, Jerome Bettis and Verron Hayes to prevent the rookie quarterback from dealing with a tough Dolphins secondary.
Pick: Steelers 16, Dolphins 10.





TEXANS AT CHIEFS

Time: Noon.
Records: Texans 0-2; Chiefs 0-2.
Line: Chiefs by 71/2.
Trend: The Texans are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games coming off two or more losses in a row.
Outlook: The Chiefs are a mess. The defense looked awful in a loss to the Panthers last week. Then CB Eric Warfield, who returned an interception for a touchdown in the game, was arrested on suspicion of driving drunk the night after the game. Now
RB Priest Holmes is questionable with a sprained left ankle. They're ripe for another upset.
Pick: Texans 24, Chiefs 20.





RAVENS AT BENGALS

Time: Noon.
Records: Ravens 1-1; Bengals 1-1.
Line: Ravens by 3.
Trend: In the last three years, the Ravens are 15-5 ATS coming off a loss.
Outlook: Ravens RB Jamal Lewis has rushed for fewer than 100 yards in consecutive games; that never happened last year. He should snap that streak against a team he burned for 281 yards on 49 carries in 2003. Bengals QB Carson Palmer had problems with the Dolphins last week. Wait till he sees the Ravens.
Pick: Ravens 17, Bengals 12.





CHARGERS AT BRONCOS

Time: 3:05 p.m., Ch. 2.
Records: Chargers 1-1; Broncos 1-1.
Line: Broncos by 10.
Trend: The Chargers are 2-9 ATS in their last 11 games as an underdog of 10 or more points.
Outlook: Broncos coach Mike Shanahan has the Chargers' number. He's 16-5 against them -- his most wins against any opponent -- including 10-1 at home. He should have his team ready after a 7-6 loss to the Jaguars last week.
Pick: Broncos 30, Chargers 16.





PACKERS AT COLTS

Time: 3:15 p.m., Fox-32.
Records: Packers 1-1; Colts 1-1.
Line: Colts by 6.
Trend: Since 1992, the Colts are 21-40 ATS as a home favorite.
Outlook: The Packers' problems in domes have been well-documented, but the Colts haven't been the greatest dome team either, as the trend shows. Their case takes a greater hit if RB Edgerrin James sits with a knee injury. That would give Packers QB Brett Favre the chance to exorcise some dome demons.
Pick: Packers 34, Colts 31.





49ERS AT SEAHAWKS

Time: 3:15 p.m.
Records: 49ers 0-2; Seahawks 2-0.
Line: Seahawks by 11.
Outlook: The 49ers have covered 3-1/2- and seven-point spreads, so an 11-spot shouldn't be a problem. It helps that Seahawks RB Shaun Alexander is nursing a knee injury. The 49ers have an underrated defense that has allowed only 2.7 yards per rush.
Pick: Seahawks 24, 49ers 16.





BUCCANEERS AT RAIDERS

Time: 7:30 p.m., ESPN.
Records: Buccaneers 0-2; Raiders 1-1.
Line: Raiders by 3.
Outlook: Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden returns to Oakland, but he's not bringing a lot of offense with him. The Bucs have scored a league-low 16 points, and their receiving corps is a patchwork unit. The Raiders aren't in great shape either with a sputtering ground game, but at least they can make a big play through the air. This game won't resemble Super Bowl XXXVII in any way.
Pick: Raiders 19, Buccaneers 10.





COWBOYS AT REDSKINS

Time: 8 p.m. Monday, Ch. 7.
Records: Cowboys 1-1; Redskins 1-1.
Line: Redskins by 2.
Outlook: The Cowboys have owned this series of late, winning 12 of the last 13 meetings. But Redskins RB Clinton Portis could change that. The Cowboys have no answer for him, forcing them to rely on Vinny Testaverde's arm. It has worked well so far, but the Redskins' aggressive defense could change that, too.
Pick: Redskins 20, Cowboys 14.


BROWNS AT GIANTS

Time: Noon.
Records: Browns 1-1; Giants 1-1.
Line: Giants by 3.
Trend: Since 1992, the Giants are 15-6 ATS coming off an upset win over a division rival.
Outlook: The Browns lost much more than a game against the Cowboys last week. They lost TE Kellen Winslow, DLE Courtney Brown, ORT Ryan Tucker, DLT Gerard Warren, CB Daylon McCutcheon and OLG Paul Zukauskas to injury. On top of that, QB Jeff Garcia is coming off an awful performance (8-for-27, 71 yards, three interceptions), and he'll face a Giants defense that forced seven turnovers last week. The injury that could affect Garcia the most is Tucker's. The veteran right tackle would have given Giants DLE Michael Strahan a better fight than Joaquin Gonzalez will. Giants QB Kurt Warner (right) has gone 92 passes without an interception, and that streak should continue against a very susceptible Browns secondary. TE Jeremy Shockey has 41 catches for 463 yards in last five games against the AFC.
Pick: Giants 23, Browns 16.

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Tribune/Terry Bannon NFL

Terry Bannon's Week 3 NFL picks


Last week's record: 10-6. Season record: 20-12. (NOT SURE IF SU OR ATS)

Bears (1-1) at Vikings (1-1)
Noon Sunday
TV/radio: WFLD-Ch. 32, WBBM-AM 780
Line: Vikings by 9
Last meeting: Bears won 13-10 on Dec. 14, 2003, at Soldier Field.
Key stat: Vikings have won 8 of their last 10 home games.
Keep your eye on: In eight games vs. Bears, Daunte Culpepper has thrown 9 TD passes vs. 5 interceptions. Thomas Jones leads Bears in rushing (219 yards, 5.0 avg.) and receiving (7 catches, 6.4 avg.).
The buzz: Bears will need to get turnovers and make big plays to overcome injuries on defense, especially the loss of cornerback Charles Tillman and safety Mike Brown.
Bannon's pick: Vikings 24, Bears 16.

Cardinals (0-2) at Falcons (2-0)
Noon Sunday
Line: Falcons by 10
Last meeting: Falcons won 34-14 at Arizona on Sept. 30, 2001.
Key stat: Falcons going for their first 3-0 start since 1986.
Keep your eye on: Michael Vick has won 10 of 12 starts at home. Cardinals' Josh McCown hasn't thrown a TD pass this season.
The buzz: A healthy Vick is on his way to challenging for the NFL's MVP award and making new coach Jim Mora look good in the process. Cardinals not ready to challenge.
Bannon's pick: Falcons 31, Cardinals 14.

Eagles (2-0) at Lions (2-0)
Noon Sunday
Line: Eagles by 4½
Last meeting: Eagles won 10-9 at Philadelphia on Nov. 8, 1998.
Key stat: Eagles are 2-0 for the first time since 1993, when they started 4-0.
Keep your eye on: Eagles' Donovan McNabb has thrown league-high 6 TD passes and leads NFL in passing. Lions' Joey Harrington has thrown 7 TD passes vs. 3 interceptions in last three regular-season games, all victories.
The buzz: Newcomers Terrell Owens and Jevon Kearse are earning their keep for Eagles. Detroit stepping up a notch in competition this week.
Bannon's pick: Eagles 27, Lions 20.

Browns (1-1) at Giants (1-1)
Noon Sunday
Line: Giants by 3
Last meeting: Giants won 24-3 at Cleveland on Nov. 15, 2000.
Key stat: After getting 7 takeaways vs. Redskins on Sunday, Giants lead NFL with turnover differential of plus-5.
Keep your eye on: Giants' Kurt Warner has completed 62 percent of his passes with no interceptions (61 attempts). Browns' Jeff Garcia has completed less than half his passes (23 of 51).
The buzz: Warner is regaining some confidence. He ended his seven-game losing streak last week vs. Washington and should make it two in a row against a Cleveland team battling injuries on defense.
Bannon's pick: Giants 17, Browns 13.

Steelers (1-1) at Dolphins (0-2)
Noon Sunday
Line: Dolphins by 1
Last meeting: Dolphins won 21-0 at Miami on Sept. 20, 1998.
Key stat: Miami's defense has allowed only 1 TD in two games.
Keep your eye on: Dolphins tight end Randy McMichael has 14 catches, 1 for a TD. Steelers' Hines Ward has 13 catches for a league-leading 250 yards.
The buzz: Dolphins showed some heart last week, almost getting a road victory at Cincinnati. Miami defense will be too much for rookie QB Ben Roethlisberger, making his first start for injured Tommy Maddox.
Bannon's pick: Dolphins 21, Steelers 17.

Texans (0-2) at Chiefs (0-2)
Noon Sunday
Line: Chiefs by 71/2
Last meeting: Chiefs won 42-14 at Houston on Sept. 21, 2003.
Key stat: Chiefs have allowed a generous 770 yards in two games.
Keep your eye on: Texans' David Carr has completed 71.2 percent of his passes. Chiefs' Trent Green hasn't thrown a TD pass this season after throwing 24 a year ago.
The buzz: Chiefs needed more than a new defensive coordinator—they needed new defensive players. Chiefs may have to go without RB Priest Holmes (ankle), but Texans don't have the weapons to exploit Chiefs' problems.
Bannon's pick: Chiefs 27, Texans 20.

Saints (1-1) at Rams (1-1)
Noon Sunday.
Line: Rams by 7
Last meeting: Rams won 34-21 at New Orleans on Dec. 17, 2001.
Key stat: Rams have won 15 straight home games.
Players to watch: Rams' Isaac Bruce leads NFL with 17 catches, 1 TD. Saints' Joey Horn has 14, 1 TD.
The buzz: With Deuce McAllister out with a knee injury, the Saints will have trouble generating much offense. Rams have come down a notch, but still tough at home.
Bannon's pick: Rams 27, Saints 17.

Jaguars (2-0) at Titans (1-1)
Noon Sunday
Line: Titans by 6
Last meeting: Titans won 10-3 at Tennessee on Nov. 16, 2003.
Key stat: Titans have won last five meetings.
Players to watch: Jaguars' Byron Leftwich has thrown a TD pass in seven straight games. Titans' Derrick Mason has 20 catches (10.9 avg.) in last four games vs. Jaguars.
The buzz: The Jaguars, who have allowed only 16 points, have a chance to prove they are AFC contenders after going 5-11 a year ago. Titans have too much experience, defense.
Bannon's pick: Titans 20, Jaguars 13.

Ravens (1-1) at Bengals (1-1)
Noon Sunday
Line: Ravens by 3
Last meeting: Ravens won 31-13 at Baltimore on Dec. 7, 2003.
Key stat: Ravens have won 10 of last 12 meetings.
Players to watch: The second-year quarterbacks: Ravens' Kyle Boller hasn't thrown a TD pass yet this season; Bengals' Carson Palmer has 2.
The buzz: Both teams are struggling on offense, and Ravens' passing game may be non-existent without tight end Todd Heap (ankle). Can Jamal Lewis save the Ravens by himself?
Bannon's pick: Bengals 17, Ravens 13.

Chargers (1-1) at Broncos (1-1)
3:05 p.m. Sunday
TV: WBBM-Ch. 2
Line: Broncos by 10
Last meeting: Broncos won 37-8 at Denver on Nov. 16, 2003.
Key stat: Broncos have won 11 of last 14 meetings.
Players to watch: Chargers' Antonio Gates leads tight ends with 12 catches. In two victories vs. Chargers in '03, Jake Plummer completed 32 of 47 for 347 yards with 6 TD passes and one interception.
The buzz: Broncos will take out their frustration of last week's one-point loss at Jacksonville on the Chargers, who won't be able to contain Plummer and RB Quentin Griffin.
Bannon's pick: Broncos 31, Chargers 17.

Packers (1-1) at Colts (1-1)
3:15 p.m. Sunday
TV: WFLD-Ch. 32
Line: Colts by 6.
Last meeting: Packers won 26-24 at Green Bay on Nov. 19, 2000.
Key stat: Colts' opponents (Patriots, Titans) have completed 66.7 percent of passes.
Players to watch: Peyton Manning and Brett Favre, two of the best quarterbacks of their era.
The buzz: Manning has 4 TD passes and Marvin Harrison leads NFL with 17 catches. Even if hamstring injury slows Edgerrin James (266 yards, 5.2 avg.), Colts will have enough offense.
Bannon's pick: Colts 27, Packers 24.

49ers (0-2) at Seahawks (2-0)
3:15 p.m. Sunday
Line: Seahawks by 10
Last meeting: Seahawks won 24-17 at San Francisco on Dec. 27, 2003.
Key stat: Seahawks going for their second straight 3-0 start.
Players to watch: San Francisco's Kevan Barlow off to his best start, with 190 yards rushing (4.9 avg.), but has a sore knee. Seahawks' Shaun Alexander has 180 yards, 4.0 avg.
The buzz: Seahawks won two on the road to start the season, indicating all that Super Bowl buzz may be for real. Seattle has problems on offense.
Bannon's pick: Seahawks 27, 49ers 13.

Bucs (0-2) at Raiders (1-1)
7:30 p.m. Sunday
TV/radio: ESPN; WSCR-AM 670
Line: Raiders by 3
Last meeting: Bucs won 48-21 at San Diego in Super Bowl XXXVII on Jan. 26, 2003.
Key stat: Raiders have won 5 of last 7 Sunday night games.
Players to watch: Raiders' Rich Gannon off to a solid start—514 yards and 3 TD passes. Ex-Raider Charlie Garner leads Bucs with only 100 yards rushing (4.2 avg.).
The buzz: Some Super Bowl rematch this is. For Tampa Bay, Jon Gruden's plan of going with middle-aged and older players is backfiring, and he's sticking with Brad Johnson at QB—for now.
Bannon's pick: Raiders, 21, Bucs 16.

Cowboys (1-1) at Redskins (1-1)
8 p.m. Monday
TV/radio: WLS-Ch. 7; WSCR-AM 670
Line: Redskins by 2.
Last meeting: Cowboys won 27-0 at Washington on Dec. 14, 2003.
Key stat: Cowboys have won five of last six at Washington.
Players to watch: Cowboys' Vinny Testaverde off to a fast start, going for third straight 300-yard passing game. Redskins' Patrick Ramsey expected to get first start of season in place of injured Mark Brunell.
The buzz: Powerhouse coaching matchup, Bill Parcells vs. Joe Gibbs. Gibbs can end Cowboys' hold over Redskins.
Bannon's pick: Redskins 20, Cowboys 17.

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Tribune/Whizzer NFL

By Whizzer
The Prognosticating Pooch from RedEye

September 24, 2004, 2:01 PM CDT


NFL WEEK 3 I finally figured it out.
After two weeks of dismal NFL picks, I realized I forgot to plug in my crystal ball. Who knew?

It's fired up now, but I've also made some of my other pre-pick preparation traditions. During my picks I no longer listen to Paul McCartney and Wings' "Live and Let Die" (off the James Bond soundtrack, which is a nice little CD). From now on, I dial up the Smashing Pumpkins "Bullet with Butterfly Wings." And yes, mine goes to 11.

And now I burn incense, which draws stares from the neighbors. Oddly enough, no one stared at a bloodhound living in 3-A before, but apparently when that bloodhound starts burning incense, the whole building puts 911 on speed dial.

And I fired my yogi and replaced him with a personal grocer. Her name is Fran. She suggested more celery and cabbages, and I can already see a difference: No more picking the Titans.

There. I think we're good. Should be zero losses from here on out.

Despite all my roughage I am still just a rat in a cage.

Bears (1-1) at Minnesota (1-1)
Noon Sunday, WFLD-Ch. 32
Things you should know: The buzz from the win at Green Bay lasted only until we realized how badly Mike Brown and Charles Tillman were hurt. The question: Can the Bears defense put a third straight solid game together without these guys? The answer: I don't know, but the question keeps me up at night. Meanwhile, those aren't brain surgeons walking the Minnesota sideline. Coach Mike Tice said he wishes he would have challenged Terrell Owens' TD catch Monday night. So do I, Mike, so do I.
The line: Vikings by 9
Over/under: 44½
Final shake: Vikings. You're on a short leash.

Arizona (0-2) at Atlanta (2-0)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Both teams start with the letter "A," and the similarities end there. Michael Vick is the world's first rocket-propelled QB and can score from anywhere on the field, even the restroom. Quick, name the Cardinals QB. And there you have it.
Over/under: 42½
The line: Falcons by 10
Final shake: Falcons. A is for "amazing."

Philadelphia (2-0) at Detroit (2-0)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Don't jump on the Eagles too quickly. With Joey Harrington and Roy Williams clicking, the Lions could pull a stunner ... OK, I can't keep a straight face any longer. No Lions rushing game equals no chance.
Over/under: 44
The line: Eagles by 4½
Final shake: Eagles in a moonwalk.

Cleveland (1-1) at N.Y. Giants (1-1)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Giants are such an unknown commodity. New coach, new QB, new haircuts. If it's a close game, Browns kicker Phil Dawson has made 16 FGs in row, the longest current streak in the NFL. But I guess Cleveland's No. 1 weapon, Kellen Winslow Jr., will not play. Something about a broken leg. Oh well.
Over/under: 37
The line: Giants by 3
Final shake: They might be ... Giants.

Pittsburgh (1-1) at Miami (0-2)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Let's get it out of the way right now. Neither team is going to the playoffs. Steelers start rookie Ben Roethlisberger at QB; Miami starts A.J. Feeley, whose biggest claim to fame so far is that he dates soccer player Heather Mitts. The two teams may score less than five points combined.
Over/under: 34
The line: Fish by 1
Final shake: Steelers. Bad feeling about this one, though.

Houston (0-2) at Kansas City (0-2)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: What a dog this one could be. Fantasy players everywhere hold their collective Dorito-flavored breath as Chiefs RB Priest Holmes (ankle) remains questionable. And the Texans have outgained each of their first two opponents, but they can't seem to close the deal. Unacceptable.
Over/under: 47½
The line: Chiefs by 7½
Final shake: Beloved Texans remain winless. Go Chiefs.

Baltimore (1-1) at Cincinnati (1-1)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Ravens coach Brian Billick is 8-2 against the Bengals, but these are the new "We Dress Like Extras From 'Rollerball'" Bengals, so take that! I don't see Cincy moving the ball against the Ravens, mainly because we didn't see them move the ball against Miami.
Over/under: 34½
The line: Ravens by 3
Final shake: Ravens. Birds trump big cats? Two words: Sharp beaks.

Jacksonville (2-0) at Tennessee (1-1)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Don't get too jazzed over the Jags, who have scored 10 total points this season. But five of their last seven games have been decided by single digits. Hey look at this: Coach Jeff Fisher and Coach Jack Del Rio both played college ball at USC. It means nothing, but it's cool.
Over/under: 35½
The line: Titans by 6
Final shake: Jaguars, who might go undefeated.

New Orleans (1-1) at St. Louis (1-1)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Rams are looking for their 16th straight home win. Pssst, check over there behind the sofa. The Saints go without RB Deuce McAllister, who felt "a pop" in his ankle during last week's game. Never a good sign for the man who is the only engine in that offense right now.
Over/under: 47½
The line: Rams by 7
Final shake: They're Rams-tastic!

San Diego (1-1) at Denver (1-1)
3:05 p.m. Sunday, WBBM-Ch. 2
Things you should know: 24 hours after his mild concussion, Chargers QB Drew Brees said, "At this point I'm looking great for Sunday." Drew, over here, Drew. The Broncos have yet to convince me they're one of the AFC's bullies. But who am I to judge? I didn't send them a Christmas card last year. It's personal.
Over/under: 46½
The line: Broncs by 10
Final shake: Chargers to keep it close. Happy holidays, Denver.

San Francisco (0-2) at Seattle (2-0)
3:15 p.m. Sunday
Things you should know: The Seahawks won their first three last season, too. Oh shoot, I tipped my hand. Humor me and keep reading. Ken Dorsey starts again at QB for the 49ers. He said he's so competitive, he throws his video game controllers at the TV when he's playing against his girlfriend. Chivalry is soooo, like, 2002.
Over/under: 44
The line: 'Hawks by 11
Final shake: Seahawks. Payback for the Dennis Erickson era.

Tampa Bay (0-2) at Oakland (1-1)
7:30 p.m. Sunday, ESPN
Things you should know: It's a rematch of the 2003 Super Bowl opponents. How depressing. Think Warren Sapp and Jon Gruden hug at midfield? Only if Gruden is dipped in chocolate and sprinkles and Sapp hasn't eaten in days. Seriously, 20 months ago these guys were on top of the world. Now the Bucs' offense hasn't scored a TD. Oh, and Oakland had seven sacks last week.
Over/under: 34½
The line: Raiders by 3
Final shake: Raiders. Time flies, huh?

Green Bay (1-1) at Indianapolis (1-1)
3:15 p.m. Sunday, WFLD-Ch. 32
Things you should know: Last year, Brett Favre (32 TD passes in '03) and Peyton Manning (29) finished first and second in TD passes. They're playing in a dome. The field is turf. Let's hope the city of Indianapolis has fully functioning air raid sirens.
Over/under: 48½
The line: Colts by 6
Final shake: Colts. Brett Favre is ... mortal.

Dallas (1-1) at Washington (1-1)
8 p.m. Monday, WLS-Ch. 7
Things you should know: Bill Parcells, meet Joe Gibbs . Joe, Bill. Oh, I'm sorry, you've met before. The two coaches renew a rivalry they had when Parcells coached the Giants from 1983-90 and Gibbs was in his first run with the Redskins. The two went to six Super Bowls in that time and won five of them (Gibbs 3; Parcells 2). It's East Coast vs. Gulf Coast (sort of). Watch for Dallas to have a solution for Clinton Portis. Oh, and Cowboys have won five of last six games in D.C.
Over/under: 35½
The line: Redskins by 2
Final shake: Cowboys in a classic. I'm tempted to break out my flared pants. If I wore pants.

[Blackbeard]

Dallas news ncaa staff picks

Requires adobe acrobat:

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcont...25colpicks.pdf

[Blackbeard]

NY Post NFL staff predictions

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

[Blackbeard]

USA Today/Jeff Zillgitt NFL

I'm a little sore this week.
From the beating I took on a couple of picks last week as a result of all the Kool-Aid I drank.

I have more excuses for my lame picks than Deion Sanders has for taking off his helmet on the field against Pittsburgh.

Since injuries are topical this season, I blame my substandard picks on a sprained right index finger and sprained left thumb. Do you realize how difficult it is to evaluate matchups with injured typing fingers?

Even more so, I blame last week's mediocre record on parity. Eighteen teams are 1-1, seven are 2-0 and seven are 0-2. It's great for the NFL, sure. But it's not great for prognosticators. C'mon, the Bears over the Packers in Green Bay? The banged-up Panthers over the Chiefs in Kansas City? What next, the Bills beat the Patriots in Foxboro?

The hot phrase these days is a variation of "drinking the (fill in the blank) Kool-Aid," a reference to the mass suicide led by Jim Jones in Guyana and an admission that one is not using his/her better senses.

So, maybe I was drinking too much of the Chiefs Kool-Aid and too much of the Packers Kool-Aid.

If you followed my picks in your office pool last week, you drank too much of the Zillgitt Kool-Aid.

On to the picks.

(By the way, thanks for all the suggestions for naming this picks column. We should have a name next week.)

Arizona (plus-10) at Atlanta

The Cards rank 30th in team defense and 31st in team offense. Dennis Green might be longing for his old ESPN gig at season's end. Possibly by the end of Sunday after watching Michael Vick.

Lock of the week: Falcons 28, Cardinals 10

Baltimore (minus-3) at Cincinnati

Deion Sanders claims he took off his helmet on the field after a punt return because his skull cap covered his eyes and he couldn't see, prompting sportscasters to call it a wardrobe malfunction.

First off, there should be a moratorium on the phrase "wardrobe malfunction."

Second off, it wasn't a wardrobe malfunction. It was a boneheaded move that cost the Ravens 15 yards.

Third off, if you believe Sanders' excuse, you've been drinking too much of the Deion Kool-Aid.

Ravens 19, Bengals 14

Houston (plus-8½) at Kansas City

Only two teams have started 0-2 and won the Super Bowl. The 2001 Patriots and the 1993 Cowboys did it. Since 1978, 192 teams started 0-2, and just 20 have reached the playoffs. However, not all hope is lost. The Eagles started the 2003 season 0-2 and reached the NFC Championship game.

Chiefs 28, Texans 17

Pittsburgh (plus-1) at Miami

Hmm, I wonder if Steelers linebacker Joey Porter will knock over a Dolphins player during pregame calisthenics.

Dolphins 16, Steelers 13

Chicago (plus-9) at Minnesota

The Bears' victory over the Packers was impressive, but this week, they head to Minnesota with a depleted secondary. Mike Brown and Charles Tillman are out with injuries, and R.W. McQuarters is bothered by an ankle injury. Daunte Culpepper and his receivers (read: Randy Moss) should be able to exploit Chicago's secondary.

Vikings 28, Bears 14

Cleveland (plus-3) at New York Giants


By The Associated Press
Are CNN's Tucker Carlson and New York Giants QB Eli Manning long lost brothers?


Know why Giants QB Eli Manning isn't playing? He's spending too much time as the host of CNN's Crossfire.

Giants 20, Browns 16

New Orleans (plus-7) at St. Louis

This is pivotal game for the Saints. If they beat the Rams without Deuce McAllister, they will prove they don't need their ace running back every game to compete in the tough NFC South.

Rams 24, Saints 20

Jacksonville (plus-6) at Tennessee

Whereas in a Broncos-Chiefs game, the first team to 30 wins, in this game, first team to nine wins.

Titans 17, Jaguars 13

San Diego (plus-10) at Denver

Denver ran former coach Wade Phillips out of town almost 10 years ago. Now Broncos fans welcome back Phillips, the defensive coordinator of the Chargers, who are giving up 27 points a game.

Broncos 30, Chargers 14

Green Bay (plus-5½) at Indianapolis

Edgerrin James knows what it's all about even if it means an injury to himself. James suffered a strained hamstring on his final carry of the game, a 30-yard touchdown run. James could have gone down short of the end zone, allowing the Colts to run more time off the clock. James didn't even consider that.

"The fantasy football people would have been mad at me," he said. "I had to please the fantasy guys."

Then again, if he's out this week, he won't be helping any of the fantasy guys. Unless you have Dominic Rhodes.

Colts 27, Packers 21

San Francisco (plus-10½) at Seattle

The Seahawks were 8-0 at home last season. They are 2-0 on the road this year. Hard to see Seattle losing at home to the 49ers.

Seahawks 27, 49ers 20

Tampa Bay (plus-3) at Oakland

Here's Jonny — Bucs coach Jon Gruden makes his first appearance in Oakland since he left as the Raiders' coach after the 2001 season. The fans (can you call them fans?) in Oakland's Black Hole will have fun at this game.

Raiders 17, Buccaneers 10

Philadelphia (minus-4) at Detroit

Donovan McNabb did the moonwalk after scoring a touchdown Monday. The moonwalk? What is this, the '80s?

Eagles 24, Lions 17

Dallas (plus-2) at Washington

Bill Parcells vs. Joe Gibbs. Yeah, I guess it still could be the '80s.

Upset special: Cowboys 20, Redskins 17

***

Last week: 10-6 straight up (19-13 overall); 7-7-1 against the spread (15-14-2 overall)

[Blackbeard]

SI.com/B. Duane Cross NFL

Philadelphia at Detroit
Yeah, a month ago we all had this one pegged for a showdown of undefeateds. ... Philly flies into the Motor City with the No. 6 offense, but who would believe this: Only 'Zona is giving up more yards per game (412.5 vs. 411.5) than the Iggles?
Eagles 31, Lions 17

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Jacksonville at Tennessee
It'll be a grind-it-out afternoon for the Titans against the stingiest run D over the past 17 games (zero 100-yard rushers allowed). Bar trivia alert: The Jags are the first team since the 1942 Chicago Cardinals to start 2-0 while scoring only 20 points.
Titans 17, Jaguars 13

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup New Orleans at St. Louis
After playing San Fran last week and now the Rams on Sunday, the Saints must feel like the hands of time have been turned back to the old NFC West. But Marc Bulger isn't Ken Dorsey and St. Louis' offense will offer a much greater challenge. Despite Mike Martz.
Rams 24, Saints 17

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Baltimore at Cincinnati
Is this the week that Jamal Lewis finally gets back on track? He did have 281 yards and three TDs against the Bengals last year, but to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth: Jamal is running like his mind is on other things besides football.
Ravens 20, Bengals 14

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Preview Houston at Kansas City
These were supposed to be two high-powered offenses that could keep their team in the game no matter what their defenses did. So much for that theory. Houston has outgained its opponents 722-590 but, like the Chiefs, cannot seem to get out of its own way to victory.
Chiefs 28, Texans 17

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Chicago at Minnesota
When was the last time anyone mentioned the "Randy Ratio?" Let me be the first to go out on a limb: With the Bears' secondary resembling a M*A*S*H unit, the Vikings will throw to Randy a lot. Belated memo to Lovie Smith: There's more to the NFC North than Green Bay.
Vikings 38, Bears 17

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Arizona at Atlanta
Believe it or not, William Orland Kilmer Jr. holds the record for the most 100-yard rushing games by a quarterback (four). Michael Vick has three. However, Billy also had 27 receptions for 288 yards and a TD. The gauntlet has been thrown down, Mike; are you an all-around QB?
Falcons 24, Cardinals 13

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Cleveland at N.Y. Giants
I don't know about you, but Kellen Winslow Jr.'s broken leg has robbed -- robbed, I say! -- the football fandom of being subjected to three hours of unrelenting fawning over the Soldier and Jeremy Shockey. ... Well, maybe there is a silver lining to losing my fantasy TE.
Giants 17, Browns 14

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Pittsburgh at Miami
OK, Bill Cowher, you can take the pins out of the Tommy Maddox voodoo doll. ... The Steelers' next great first-round QB, following in the footsteps of Terry Bradshaw and Mark Malone, is ready for his close-up: No. 7 in your program, No. 1 in your heart ... Ben Roethlisberger.
Dolphins 17, Steelers 13

Sunday, 4:05 p.m.
Preview | Matchup San Diego at Denver
My buddy Don Banks noted Jake Plummer is more Brian Griese than John Elway. I dunno; maybe more Steve Tensi, Frank Tripucka or Steve Ramsey. But Griese? I mean, when was the last time Plummer tripped over a dog? Now, lose to a 'dog on back-to-back Sundays ...
Broncos 31, Chargers 21

Sunday, 4:15 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Green Bay at Indianapolis
How do I explain to my 6-year-old daughter Peyton that it's nothing personal, but I'm picking her namesake to lose on Sunday? Who am I kidding? She doesn't read my stuff; I don't mention Lizzie McGuire or SpongeBob SquarePants enough to hold her interest.
Packers 24, Colts 21 (OT)

Sunday, 4:15 p.m.
Preview | Matchup San Francisco at Seattle
You know the adage "I can beat you with one hand tied behind my back?" That's what Mike Holmgren is taunting Dennis Erickson with this week -- except it's with "one Shaun Alexander out of the lineup." With or without Alex the Great, the Seahawks are better than the sad-sack Niners.
Seahawks 28, 49ers 13

Sunday, 8:30 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Tampa Bay at Oakland
Word on the street is oft-traveled Bucs QB Brad Johnson is looking to make a documentary with Michael Moore. It's tentatively titled Rand McNally & Me. Johnson played 38 games in Minnesota, 28 games for Washington. His 47-game tenure is Tampa is a record or something.
Raiders 24, Buccaneers 14

Monday, 9 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Dallas at Washington
Vinny Testaverde has done more for the geriatric crowd than Viagra, and he'll have to be up for MNF's return to the Franchise That Joe Built (Again). Of course, Gibbs knows a little something about beating Viagra; his NASCAR teams routinely kept Mark Martin zipped up.
Cowboys 21, Redskins 13
Last week: 8-8 (50%). Overall: 19-13 (59%). Bye: Bills, Jets, Panthers, Patriots

[Blackbeard]

SI.com/Stewart Mandel NCAA

Alabama (3-0) at Arkansas (2-1)
If it seems like Arkansas QB Matt Jones has been in school forever, that's because the guy's played in enough overtime periods to last an extra season. I believe it's written into CBS' contract that this one goes at least three.
Arkansas 20, Alabama 17

Sat., 3:30 p.m. ET | ABC Iowa (2-1) at No. 18 Michigan (2-1)
A Big Ten grudge match. A revenge game. A fight for the Rose Bowl. Or at least that's what it was being billed as coming into the season. Now, it's a chance to find out which team can run the ball past the line of scrimmage.
Michigan 24, Iowa 10

Sat., 5:45 p.m. ET | ESPN Penn State (2-1) at No. 20 Wisconsin (3-0)
Nittany Lions QB Zack Mills has 10 turnovers the past two games. His backup, Michael Robinson, is too good of a receiver to change positions. Perhaps Robinson could throw to himself. What's the worst that could happen? A turnover?
Wisconsin 17, Penn State 13

Sat., 3:30 p.m. ET | ABC Clemson (1-2) at No. 8 Florida State (1-1)
The Bowden Bowl was fun when it first started. Now, it's gotten to the point where whichever coach loses, that team's fans will be calling for his head. Is that a sadder indictment of Tommy or Bobby?
Florida State 19, Clemson 14

Sat., Noon ET | ESPN N.C. State (1-1) at Virginia Tech (2-1)
A week after facing Ohio State, the Wolfpack turn around and travel to Lane Stadium. Sound thankless? In a few weeks, they'll visit Maryland, then turn around and host Miami. In between, each player must visit the dentist.
N.C. State 21, Virginia Tech 19

Sat., 3:30 p.m. ET | FSN Texas Tech (2-1) at Kansas (2-1)
In his first three starts, Sonny Crumbie has been consistent: 470, 449 and 441 yards. Yet his team has been all over the place, struggling with SMU, losing to New Mexico, then throttling TCU. In other words, nice and easy to predict.
Kansas 37, Texas Tech 30

Sat., Noon ET | ESPN2 Boston College (3-0) at Wake Forest (2-1)
ACC fans, welcome to your future. The wife wants you to blow off the early games and accompany her to J.C. Penney, and you're left pleading, "Honey, please! BC-Wake is on! I'll make it up to you, I swear."
Boston College 27, Wake Forest 22

Sat., 10:15 p.m. ET | FSN This week's upset special:
Oregon State (1-2) at No. 22 Arizona State (3-0)
Following ASU's victory over Iowa, one Arizona columnist proclaimed them fit for the national championship. Easy, fella. The Devils have been hearing people praise them all week, and the Beavers are too good to start 1-3.
Oregon State 28, Arizona State 27
Last week: 7-1. Overall: 17-7. Upset specials: 4-1.

[rwall]

from the sports netwok


http://www.sportsnetwork.com/default.../tsn-picks.htm

[rwall]

heres 30 different sets of power ratings with predictions


http://tbeck.freeshell.org/fb/predncaa.html