Blacksheet

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Sun Times NFL

PANTHERS AT SEAHAWKS



Time: 3:05 p.m.
Records: Panthers 1-5; Seahawks 3-3.
Line: Seahawks by 8.
Trend: The Seahawks are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games coming off an upset loss.
Outlook: If there ever was a team in need of some home cooking, it's the Seahawks. Since blowing that lead to the Rams in Week 5, the Seahawks have lost consecutive road games. With two more road games following this contest, the Seahawks won't let a home date slip away. Carolina has lost four in a row, averaging only 10.3 points during the skid. Even in defeat, the Seahawks have averaged 21.3 points. Injuries have prevented the Panthers from achieving the balance that made them so formidable last season. Without WR Steve Smith, they can't stretch defenses. Without RBs Stephen Davis and DeShaun Foster, they can't control the pace of games. The Seahawks have the ability to do both, but against a Panthers defense struggling to stop the run, RB Shaun Alexander (right) will take center stage.
Pick: Seahawks 28, Panthers 12.


49ERS AT BEARS




Time: 7:30 p.m., ESPN, Ch. 7, 780-AM.
Records: 49ers 1-5; Bears 1-5.
Line: Bears by 1-1/2.
Trend: In the last three years, the 49ers are 2-8 ATS coming off two or more consecutive wins ATS.
Outlook: If misery loves company, then the Bears are glad to see the 49ers. Only the Saints have given up more points per game than the Niners (26.5), whose defense has been decimated by injuries. That should make life easier for rookie QB Craig Krenzel. The 49ers' offense has pop, but QB Tim Rattay has been bothered by a sore right forearm that has limited his practice time.
Pick: Bears 20, 49ers 16.





PACKERS AT REDSKINS




Time: Noon.
Records: Packers 3-4; Redskins 2-4.
Line: Packers by 2.
Trend: The Packers are 5-16 ATS in their last 21 games against teams with a winning percentage of .250 or worse.
Outlook: The Packers' offense has come to life with coach Mike Sherman calling the plays, totaling 914 yards in the last two weeks. But the Redskins have allowed the fewest yards in the league, and they've had the bye week to circle the wagons after a slow start. Their key will be keeping RB Clinton Portis on track. He broke out two weeks ago against the Bears and should keep it up.
Pick: Redskins 21, Packers 18.





RAVENS AT EAGLES




Time: Noon, Ch. 2.
Records: Ravens 4-2; Eagles 6-0.
Line: Eagles by 71/2.
Trend: The Ravens are 22-14 ATS as an underdog of 3-1/2 to 91/2 points.
Outlook: The Eagles' 28.5 points per game rank second in the league, but they'll be fortunate to reach that number against the Ravens, who have allowed the fewest points per game (14.2). But the Eagles are in luck. The Ravens will be without RB Jamal Lewis (suspension) and OT Jonathan Ogden (hamstring).
Pick: Eagles 20, Ravens 13.





CARDINALS AT BILLS




Time: Noon.
Records: Cardinals 2-4; Bills 1-5.
Line: Bills by 3.
Outlook: With their top three receivers -- Anquan Boldin, Larry Fitzgerald and Bryant Johnson -- together for the first time, the Cardinals have a good chance to snap their NFL-high 16-game road losing streak. Their run defense has made strides, and the Bills have struggled moving the ball.
Pick: Cardinals 19, Bills 14.





GIANTS AT VIKINGS




Time: Noon.
Records: Giants 4-2; Vikings 5-1.
Line: Vikings by 7.
Outlook: Giants QB Kurt Warner took the blame for the loss to the Lions last week because of his third-quarter interception in the end zone with a 10-7 lead. But the fact is, the Giants rank second-to-last in red-zone touchdown percentage for and last in red-zone TD percentage against. That won't do against the Vikings.
Pick: Vikings 28, Giants 18.


BENGALS AT TITANS




Time: Noon.
Records: Bengals 2-4; Titans 2-5.
Line: Titans by 3.
Trend: The Titans are 12-5 ATS in their last 17 games coming off a road loss by 14 points or more.
Outlook: The trend holds more water if QB Steve McNair (sternum) plays. But even if backup Billy Volek is forced into action, he should have the support of a strong running game. In fact, neither team has defended the run well, but coming off their first short week in a long time, the Bengals figure to have a letdown.
Pick: Titans 24, Bengals 13.





COLTS AT CHIEFS




Time: Noon.
Records: Colts 4-2; Chiefs 2-4.
Line: Colts by 1.
Trend: The Colts are 11-4 ATS in their last 15 games as a road favorite of three points or fewer.
Outlook: The Colts have gone an NFL-best 30 consecutive weeks without back-to-back losses, and they've taken seven in a row overall from the Chiefs. This game figures to mirror the teams' playoff meeting last season, in which the Colts reached the end zone on five of their first seven drives in a 38-31 win. Even the result shouldn't change.
Pick: Colts 41, Chiefs 36.





LIONS AT COWBOYS




Time: Noon.
Records: Lions 4-2; Cowboys 2-4.
Line: Cowboys 3.
Trend: The Cowboys are 13-7 ATS in their last 20 games coming off a road loss by 14 points or more.
Outlook: With no running game to speak of, the Cowboys have been forced to rely on 40-year-old QB Vinny Testaverde, and they've lost three in a row. But considering how tough the Lions have been against the run (3.6 yards per carry), airing it out might be the best way to tame the league's new road warriors.
Pick: Cowboys 24, Lions 16.





RAIDERS AT CHARGERS




Time: 3:15 p.m.
Records: Raiders 2-5; Chargers 4-3.
Line: Chargers by 6.
Trend: Since 1992, the Chargers are 33-19 ATS coming off two or more consecutive wins ATS.
Outlook: Acquiring WR Keenan McCardell was quite a coup for the Chargers, who finally have the weapons to take pressure off RB LaDainian Tomlinson. The new-look offense should have a few extra drives against the Raiders, who have a league-low minus-12 turnover ratio.
Pick: Chargers 27, Raiders 17.





DOLPHINS AT JETS




Time: 8 p.m. Monday, Ch. 7, 670-AM.
Records: Dolphins 1-6; Jets 5-1.
Line: Jets by 61/2.
Outlook: After scoring 31 points last week, the Dolphins figure to come back to earth against the Jets, who haven't allowed more than 14 points in four consecutive weeks. The Jets won't be lighting up the scoreboard either. Since scoring 65 points in their first two games, the Jets have scored 62 points in four games.
Pick: Jets 16, Dolphins 13.



JAGUARS AT TEXANS




Time: Noon.
Records: Jaguars 5-2; Texans 3-3.
Line: Texans by 1.
Trend: The Texans are 9-5 ATS in their last 14 games against teams with a winning record.
Outlook: Last season, the Jaguars and Texans finished 5-11, seven games back of the Colts and Titans. But behind two emerging quarterbacks, these teams are turning the corner. The Texans' David Carr (AFC's third-highest passer rating at 97.8) and the Jaguars' Byron Leftwich (AFC's second-most passing yards with 1,664) have become tough, versatile playmakers, and they're still developing. Both should produce against subpar defenses, sending this game well over its 42-1/2-point total.
Pick: Texans 31, Jaguars 24.


FALCONS AT BRONCOS




Time: 3:05 p.m.
Records: Falcons 5-2; Broncos 5-2.
Line: Broncos by 61/2.
Trend: The Falcons are 5-10 ATS in their last 15 games against AFC West teams.
Outlook: For six weeks, the Falcons had the league's top run defense. Then they allowed 271 yards to the Chiefs last week. This week, we'll learn which is the real Falcons run defense. Broncos RB Reuben Droughns, who has averaged 159.7 yards in the last three games, will provide a stiff test. Falcons QB Michael Vick can be the great equalizer, but he has been so erratic, he can't be trusted. And he has a tough matchup against a Broncos defense looking to bounce back.
Pick: Broncos 24, Falcons 13.


PATRIOTS AT STEELERS




Time: 3:15 p.m., Ch. 2.
Records: Patriots 6-0; Steelers 5-1.
Line: Patriots by 3.
Trend: Since 1992, the Steelers are 17-4 ATS against teams with a winning percentage of .750 or better.
Outlook: This is the Steelers' first game against a team with more than two wins. But as the trend shows, historically, they rise to the occasion. This will be rookie QB Ben Roethlisberger's toughest test yet, so he'll need the Steelers' fifth-ranked running game to keep him out of tough spots. Problem is, without NT Casey Hampton (knee), the Steelers will have a hard time stopping Patriots RB Corey Dillon, who is averaging 4.9 yards per carry in his last six road games.
Pick: Patriots 17, Steelers 16.

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Tribune/Terry Bannon NFL

LAST WEEK'S RECORD: 9-5
SEASON RECORD: 60-42.
GAME OF WEEK: Giants at Vikings




49ers (1-5) at Bears (1-5)
Time: ESPN, WLS-Ch. 7, WBBM-AM 780, 7:30 p.m.
Line: Bears by 1½.
Last meeting: 49ers won 49-7 at San Francisco on Sept. 7, 2003.
Key stat: It's Bears' 30th-ranked rushing defense vs. 49ers' No. 28 rushing offense.
Players to watch: Tim Rattay, making his eighth career start, has thrown 7 TD passes vs. 3 interceptions this season. Rookie Craig Krenzel becomes Bears' third QB of season.
The buzz: Bears' offense has scored only two TDs in three games, but Thomas Jones could have a big game against this defense. Bears will need Paul Edinger too.
Bannon's pick: Bears 16, 49ers 14.

Cardinals (2-4) at Bills (1-5)
Time: Noon.
Line: Bills by 3.
Last meeting: Bills won 31-21 at Arizona on Dec. 19, 1999.
Key stat: Cards' defense leads NFL with 18 turnovers.
Players to watch: Emmitt Smith having a comeback year, averaging 4.2 yards for Cards. Willis McGahee, averaging 3.9 yards per carry, new Bills starter.
The buzz: Cards are 0-3 on the road, and the losses have come by a total of 13 points. It's time for Bills QB Drew Bledsoe, who has 6 TD passes vs. 7 interceptions, to make a difference.
Bannon's pick: Bills 21, Cardinals 17.

Lions (4-2) at Cowboys (2-4)
Time: Noon.
Line: Cowboys by 3.
Last meeting: Cowboys won 38-7 at Detroit on Oct. 19, 2003.
Key stat: Lions lead NFL with plus-10 turnover differential.
Players to watch: Rookie Roy Williams leads Lions with 24 catches, 5 for TDs. Eddie George getting just 3.5 yards per carry for Cowboys.
The buzz: Lions suddenly have become road warriors, going 3-0 after losing 24 straight as Joey Harrington emerges as a solid QB. Cowboys aren't even playing well at home (1-2)
Bannon's pick: Lions 23, Cowboys 17.

Jaguars (5-2) at Texans (3-3)
Time: Noon.
Line: Texans by 1.
Last meeting: Jaguars won 27-0 at Jacksonville on Dec. 7, 2003.
Key stat: This is the first time in their three seasons Texans are .500 after six games.
Players to watch: Two of the game's best young QBs: Jags' Byron Leftwich has 9 TDs s. 5 interceptions; Texans' David Carr has 8 TDs vs. 5 interceptions.
The buzz: Two teams that know how to throw the ball could go down to the final minute. Texans are rested after a week off; Jaguars in for a letdown after beating Colts.
Bannon's pick: Texans 28, Jaguars 23

Colts (4-2) at Chiefs (2-4)
Time: Noon.
Line: Colts by 1.
Last meeting: Colts won AFC divisional playoff 38-31 at Kansas City on Jan. 11, 2004.
Key stat: Colts are 14-5 on the road under coach Tony Dungy.
Players to watch: Chiefs' Priest Holmes leads NFL rushers with 690 yards and 10 TDs. Colts' Peyton Manning has thrown 17 TD passes vs. 3 interceptions.
The buzz: Chiefs are getting some of their swagger back, but Colts are a veteran team that was stung by home loss to Jaguars. They know how to win at K.C.
Bannon's pick: Colts 38, Chiefs 31.

Giants (4-2) at Vikings (5-1)
Time: Noon.
Line: Vikings by 7.
Last meeting: Giants won 29-17 at Minnesota on Oct. 26, 2003.
Key stat: Vikings have 300-plus yards of offense in NFL record 35 straight games.
Players to watch: Amani Toomer leads Giants with 21 catches, but no TDs. Ex-Bear Marcus Robinson has 21 catches, 6 TDs for Vikings.
The buzz: Even if Randy Moss is slowed by a hamstring injury, Vikings' deep receiving corps will make the difference.
Bannon's pick: Vikings 31, Giants 21.

Ravens (4-2) at Eagles (6-0)
Time: WBBM-Ch. 2, noon.
Line: Eagles by 7½.
Last meeting: Teams tied 10-10 at Baltimore on Nov. 16, 1997.
Key stat: Eagles going for first 7-0 start.
Players to watch: Eagles' Dorsey Levens gets a chance to start at running back for injured Michael Westbrook. Ravens' Kyle Boller has thrown only 2 TD passes vs. 5 interceptions.
The buzz: Bad blood in this one because Ravens tried to trade 49ers for Terrell Owens, who fought the deal and wound up where he wanted to be. Eagles can cope without Westbrook better than Ravens can without suspended Jamal Lewis.
Bannon's pick: Eagles 24, Ravens 13.

Bengals (2-4) at Titans (2-5)
Time: Noon.
Line: Titans by 3.
Last meeting: Titans won 30-24 at Cincinnati on Oct. 27, 2002.
Key stat: Titans 0-3 at home, losing by average of 9 points.
Players to watch: Bengals' cornerback Tory James leads NFL with 4 interceptions. Chris Brown averaging 4.9 yards per carry for Titans.
The buzz: Bengals are coming off an emotional home Monday night victory over Broncos, and Titans QB Steve McNair is sore again. Titans have desperation factor on their side.
Bannon's pick: Titans 17, Bengals 16.

Packers (3-4) at Redskins (2-4)
Time: WFLD-Ch. 32, noon.
Line: Packers by 2.
Last meeting: Packers won 30-9 at Green Bay on Oct. 20, 2002.
Key stat: It's Packers' No. 2 offense vs. Redskins' No. 1 defense.
Players to watch: Ahman Green averaging 4.8 yards per carry. Clinton Portis getting only 3.9 for Redskins.
The buzz: Brett Favre and Green will give the Redskins a challenge they haven't seen yet. But Joe Gibbs has had an extra week to prepare.
Bannon's pick: Redskins 23, Packers 21.

Falcons (5-2) at Broncos (5-2)
Time: 3:05 p.m.
Line: Broncos by 7.
Last meeting: Broncos won 42-14 at Denver on Sept. 10, 2000.
Key stat: Falcons third in NFL with 143.1 rushing yards per game.
Players to watch: Falcons' Peerless Price has caught a pass in 78 straight games, with 19 TDs—but none this year. Rod Smith paces Broncos with 32 catches, 2 for TDs.
The buzz: Falcons' vulnerabilities were exposed in KC last week, and Broncos' defense will do it again.
Bannon's pick: Broncos 27, Falcons 16.

Panthers (1-5) at Seahawks (3-3)
Time: 3:05 p.m.
Line: Seahawks by 8.
Last meeting: Panthers won 26-3 at Carolina on Oct. 8, 2000.
Key stat: Seahawks have allowed 29.3 points per game in three-game losing streak.
Players to watch: Ex-Bear Bobby Engram averaging a healthy 16.7 yards on 12 catches for Seahawks. Panthers' second-round pick Keary Colbert has 20 catches, 2 TDs.
The buzz: This looked like a great matchup in August. Now it features two of the league's most disappointing teams. Yawn.
Bannon's pick: Seahawks 23, Panthers 14.

Patriots (6-0) at Steelers (5-1)
Time: WBBM-Ch. 2, 3:15 p.m.
Line: Patriots by 3.
Last meeting: Patriots won 30-14 at New England on Sept. 9, 2002.
Key stat: Pats going for 22nd straight regular season/playoff victory.
Players to watch: Pats' Tom Brady is completed 67.2 percent with 3 TDs and no interceptions in last two games vs. Steelers. Plaxico Burress second in NFL with 19.8 yards per catch for Steelers.
The buzz: Rookie QB Ben Roethlisberger has won all four of his starts, but now he faces a Bill Belichick defense. Until proven otherwise, assume Pats can stop anybody.
Bannon's pick: Patriots 24, Steelers 20.

Raiders (2-5) at Chargers (4-3)
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Line: Chargers by 6.
Last meeting: Chargers won 21-14 at San Diego on Dec. 28, 2003.
Key stat: Raiders are 0-3 on road, losing by 12.3 per game.
Players to watch: Chargers' LaDainian Tomlinson ran for career-high 243 yards and 2 TDs in last meeting with Raiders. Raiders' Kerry Collins has thrown more than twice as many interceptions as TDs (9-4).
The buzz: Like the Bears, Raiders aren't getting production out of their backup QB. At least the Bears have won on the road. Chargers' playoff drive continues.
Bannon's pick: Chargers 27, Raiders 20.

Dolphins (1-6) at Jets (5-1)
Time: WLS-Ch. 7, WSCR-AM 670, 8 p.m. Monday.
Line: Jets by 7.
Last meeting: Jets won 17-9 at Miami on Oct. 3.
Key stat: Teams have split eight Monday night meetings.
Players to watch: Sammy Morris averaging modest 3.6 yards per carry for Dolphins. Jets' Curtis Martin has 683 yards, second in league, and 4.5 average.
The buzz: Jets one of the NFL's turnaround teams, but getting two games against Dolphins in first seven weeks sure helps.
Bannon's pick: Jets 26, Dolphins 17.

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Tribune/Whizzer NFL

LAST WEEK: 7-7. YEAR-TO-DATE: 52-47-3

San Francisco (1-5) at BEARS (1-5)
7:30 p.m. Sunday ESPN (and WLS-Ch. 7 for those without cable)
Things you should know: Everyone knows that rookie Craig Krenzel is starting this week. Last week he completed 9-of-19 passes for 69 yards with an interception and guided the Bears to their only touchdown. On the 49ers side, they have more injuries than a Chicago Bears training camp. Hey-ho. QB Tim Rattay has a sore forearm, and I think we all know how painful that can be.
The line: Bears by 1½
Over/under: 36
Final shake: 49ers. In a battle of 1-5 teams, the one-eyed man is king.

Green Bay (3-4) at Washington (2-4)
Noon Sunday, WFLD-Ch. 32
Things you should know: New Englander Mike Sherman hasn't been able to enjoy the great playoff performances of his beloved Boston Red Sox because he's busy with his team. What kind of example is that to set for your team? Ridiculous. Sports on TV comes before ALL other things.
The line: Packers by 2
Over/under: 40½
Final shake: Packers. And Mike, ever here of TiVo?

Baltimore (4-2) at Philadelphia (6-0)
Noon Sunday, WBBM-Ch. 2
Things you should know: Ooooh, the sexy matchup of the week. Remember, Philly's Terrell Owens was supposed to be a Raven, but he cried his way out of it. Now Owens (eight TD catches) faces a defense that will make him cry for an entirely different reason.
The line: Eagles by 7½
Over/under: 38
Final shake: Ravens. Not to win, though. OK, yes, to win.

Detroit (4-2) at Dallas (2-4)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Forget the rest of the game. Lions WR Roy Williams will play against Cowboys free safety Roy Williams. So when Roy Williams makes the catch and Roy Williams goes to tackle him, the first Roy Williams should say, "Hey Roy, go easy on yourself." Maybe he will.
The line: 'Boys by 3
Over/under: 41
Final shake: Lions. After the game, let's eat at Roy Rogers.

Cincinnati (2-4) at Tennessee (2-5)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Are these bounce-back Bengals for real? "We were 1-4 last year, and we bounced back," Bengals receiver Chad Johnson said. I wasn't talking to you. "There's no reason we can't play this way every week," said LB Brian Simmons. OK, lemme think about it.
The line: Titans by 3
Over/under: 40½
Final shake: I thought long and hard. Bengals.

Jacksonville (5-2) at Houston (3-3)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: The Texans have three of the last four after a bye week. But the Jaguars look good in teal. But Houston has nine picks on defense. But the Jaguars' Fred Taylor shredded the Texans for 163 yards last time. But I can't make up my mind. But I have to. But I don't want to.
The line: Texans by 1
Over/under: 42½
Final shake: Too close to call. You do it. OK, good. Jaguars.

Indianapolis (4-2) at Kansas City (2-4)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Before last week, the Colts' 19 penalties were the fewest in the NFL. Then they committed 12 in one game. That's it, I'm calling the cops. And the Chiefs don't want to talk about avenging last season's 38-31 playoff loss to the Colts. Good, neither do I.
The line: Colts by 1
Over/under: 57
Final shake: Colts. It won't be that close. Next!

Arizona (2-4) at Buffalo (1-5)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Willis McGahee starts at RB for the Bills, who need a spark so bad a few coaches are sitting in the parking lot smashing rocks together. Buffalo hasn't scored more than 20 points in a game yet. Cardinals need to take care of the ball (+8 on turnovers) and improve their base running. No, wait, what?
The line: Bills by 3
Over/under: 33½
Final shake: Cardinals. Buffalo's pitching is suspect.

N.Y. Giants (4-2) at Minnesota (5-1)
Noon Sunday
Things you should know: Randy Moss has a bum hammy, which is better than having a ham bummy, trust me. Daunte Culpepper (19 TD passes) continues to be the QB we all dreamed we would be if we were 6-foot-4 and 284 pounds, but the Giants have topped Minny on the road the last two times. They must be staying at a Holiday Inn Express.
The line: Vikings by 7
Over/under: 48
Final shake: Giants. No mint on my pillow?

Carolina (1-5) at Seattle (3-3)
3:05 p.m. Sunday
Things you should know: Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck is coming off what he called "probably the worst game I've ever played." Don't hold back, Matt. "Honestly, I never really got it going," Hasselbeck said. OK, we get the point. "It sort of felt like I was at the driving range," Hasselbeck said. "You know it's bad, but you just can't fix it."
The line: 'Hawks by 8
Over/under: 39
Final shake: Panthers. And Matt, get a rubdown.

Atlanta (5-2) at Denver (5-2)
3:05 p.m. Sunday
Things you should know: The Falcons lost 56-10 last week. And to the Chiefs. The Broncos lost 23-10. And to the Bengals. The trick here is which team has the shortest memory. Birds or horses? I think the Falcons squish the Broncos like one of those Shrek Twinkies. Had one of those a week ago, and I'm still burping it up.
The line: Broncos by 6½
Over/under: 39
Final shake: Falcons. No. That's my final answer.

New England (6-0) at Pittsburgh (5-1)
3:15 p.m. Sunday, WBBM-Ch. 2
Things you should know: New England has scored first in its past 11 regular season victories, so the Steelers would be wise to duct tape the Patriots' locker-room door shut. Pittsburgh has forced 15 turnovers, only 10 fewer than during all of last year. This is the week. The Patriots will definitely fall. Maybe.
Patriots by 3
Over/under: 42½
Final shake: Steelers. This is the week. Did I say that?

Oakland (2-5) at San Diego (4-3)
3:15 p.m. Sunday
Things you should know: Raiders have won 10 of the past 13 meetings in the series, which would be a good sign if any of those wins came under Norv Turner. Sadly, none have. LaDainian Tomlinson (groin) will play even though he's ailing. Not illin', but ailing.
The line: Chargers by 6
Over/under: 46
Final shake: Chargers. I'm down. Word up. Whatever.

Miami (1-6) at N.Y. Jets (5-1)
8 p.m. Monday WLS-Ch. 7
Things you should know: You know how the Dolphins and Jets always have those crazy games? Yeah, well, that ain't happening this week. Although last year, the Dolphins broke their five-game road losing streak to the Jets. Hmmm. And in 2000 the Jets had that crazy 23-point comeback on Monday night. Yes, OK, you sold me. Pass the noisemakers and party hats, and let's get crazy!
The line: Jets by 6½
Over/under: 35
Final shake: J-E-T-S! Jets! Jets! Jets! Final score: 50-42(???seems a bit high)

[Blackbeard]

Miami herald/Greg Cote NFL picks

Monday Night
DOLPHINS AT JETS
9 p.m., Chs. 10, 25

Jets rallied for a 40-37 overtime victory when NYJ and Miami last Mondayed in 2000, in an epic voted the greatest MNF game ever. This one figures not to pack the same wallop. Finally getting off the winless schneid last week -- using every trick play short of a Garo pass -- doesn't mean the Dolphonics suddenly have boarded the magic escalator leading to, say, .500. Too late for that. But they can compete credibly, and should here. Heck, Miami out-yardaged NYJ just 26 days ago before turnovers spelled a 17-9 loss -- and Dolphin offense has advanced since then from abysmal to something admirably close to mediocrity. Also, Aquas won in Planeville last year, so those famously courteous Jerk fans (oops, I mean Jet fans) with their original ''J-E-T-S!'' chant won't be a factor. But Curtis Martin will be, alas. Homies should control the clock, especially with Miami's run-D once again minus Tim Bowens. Give Dolphs a fair outright upset shot, but it's more likely they simply keep it close.

• Cote says: Jets, 24-20.
• Favorite: Jets by 7.
• Stars: * * ½
• Records: Dolphins 1-6; Jets 5-1.
• Dolphins injuries: DT Tim Bowens (back) is out; S Antuan Edwards (groin), LB Morlon Greenwood (quadricep), K Olindo Mare (right calf), RB Sammy Morris (wrist) and LB Junior Seau (groin/quadricep) are questionable.
• Jets injuries: LB Jason Glenn (forearm) is out. LB Sam Cowart (knee), G Brandon Moore (hamstring), CB Derrick Strait (foot) and S Rashad Washington (foot) are questionable.


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AFC
JAGUARS AT TEXANS
1 p.m. Sunday

Call it a mini-upset. Jax packs a 3-1 road record, a hot Byron Leftwich and enough good luck to make you beg Jack Del Rio for his lottery numbers, with all five wins having come in the final minute. Houston is hot and off a bye, but Cardiac Jags find a way. Bonus fact: Leftwich and Texan David Carr join Peyton Manning and Steve McNair to make AFC South only division whose QB starters all are former No. 1 picks.

• Cote says: Jaguars, 30-27.
• Favorite: Texans by 1.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Jaguars 5-2; Texans 3-3.
• Jaguars injuries: TE George Wrighster (back) is doubtful; G Chris Naeole (ankle) and RB Fred Taylor (quadricep) are questionable.
• Texans injuries: WR Corey Bradford (groin), S Glenn Earl (hip), S Jason Simmons (head) and T Todd Wade (ankle) are questionable.


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COLTS AT CHIEFS
1 p.m. Sunday

K-Cee is NFL's scariest losing-record team if G-Bay isn't. A record eight rushing TDs last week and a heating-up Trent Green give Chiefs the firepower to stay with Colts in a pointfest. I like Indy off a loss, though. Colts have played a league-best 30 straight games/weeks without consecutive L's, are 14-5 on the road under Tony Dungy and have won seven straight in this series including a playoff shootout last year. Look for Manning and Reggie Wayne to end their little spat with a touchdown pass.

• Cote says: Colts, 37-31.
• Favorite: Colts by 1.
• Stars: * * *
• Records: Colts 4-2; Chiefs 2-4.
• Colts injuries: WR Troy Walters (arm) is out; S Cory Bird (leg), CB Nicholas Harper (shoulder), G Tupe Peko (back) and WR Brad Pyatt (ankle) are questionable.
• Chiefs injuries: TE Kris Wilson (ankle) is out; LB Monty Beisel (calf) is doubtful; RB Omar Easy (hamstring), CB Dexter McCleon (hamstring) and DT Junior Siavii (ankle) are questionable.


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BENGALS AT TITANS
1 p.m. Sunday

Tough game to pick, not knowing if the perpetually injured McNair will play or for how long, or if the Planet Volek will be called upon. So play it safe. Figure 'Gals will return to form after Monday shocker and figure Titans will play like the reeling, desperate team they are. Venue call, augmented by your friend the trend: Tenners have won eight of past nine in series.

• Cote says: Titans, 24-17.
• Favorite: Titans by 3.
• Stars: * ½
• Records: Bengals 2-4; Titans 2-5.
• Bengals injuries: DT Tony Williams (ankle) is out; CB Rashad Bauman (Achilles) is doubtful; S Rogers Beckett (concussion), RB Chris Perry (abdomen), WR Peter Warrick (shin) and WR Kelley Washington (ankle) are questionable.
• Titans injuries: WR Tyrone Calico (knee) and S Lance Schulters (foot) are out; RB Chris Brown (toe); LB Rocky Calmus (back), DT Jared Clauss (concussion), DE Carlos Hall (knee), TE Erron Kinney (calf), QB Steve McNair (sternum), TE Shad Meier (appendix), T Fred Miller (ankle), DE Antwan Odom (sternum), G Benji Olson (groin) and DE Juqua Thomas (ankle) are questionable.


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PATRIOTS AT STEELERS
4:15 p.m. Sunday

''AAAWWWK!'' blares the Upset Bird. ``Tom Brady will play drunk after celebrating the Red Saaawwwk!'' We just missed last week, so let's give a Pats loss one more shot, shall we? Steelers are 3-0 at home, have won four straight overall and are coming off a bye. And Bill Belichick has an un-genius-like 5-8 career mark vs. Pitt. A record 21 straight victories make NE way overdue for a stumble, and hot rookie Big Ben Roethlisberger can do some damage against Pats' secondary. English have scored first in 14 straight games.

• Cote says: Steelers, 21-20.
• Favorite: Patriots by 3.
• Stars: * * * *
• Records: Patriots 6-0; Steelers 5-1.
• Patriots injuries: LB Dan Klecko (knee) is out; WR Deion Branch (knee) is doubtful; T Tom Ashworth (back), WR Troy Brown (shoulder), RB Patrick Pass (thigh) and CB Tyrone Poole (knee) are questionable.
• Steelers injuries: QB Tommy Maddox (right elbow) and CB Chad Scott (quadricep) are out; LB Kendrell Bell (sports hernia) and WR Lee Mays (toe) are questionable.


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RAIDERS AT CHARGERS
4:15 p.m. Sunday

Oaks have dominated SD past several years, but rarely in that span has Al Davis' team been so bad, or the Bolts so respectable. Marty Schottenheimer is 21-7 all-time vs. Raiders, and LaDainian Tomlinson has legged for 640 yards in past four meetings.

• Cote says: Chargers, 30-17.
• Favorite: Chargers by 6.
• Stars: * ½
• Records: Raiders 2-5; Chargers 4-3.
• Raiders injuries: WR Carlos Francis (knee) and G Frank Middleton (quadricep) are out; LB Travian Smith (knee), G Ron Stone (knee); DT Ted Washington (ribs), RB Tyrone Wheatley (shoulder) and CB Charles Woodson (hip) are doubtful; WR Ronald Curry (hamstring), RB Justin Fargas (toe) and WR Doug Gabriel (hamstring) are questionable.
• Chargers injuries: CB Drayton Florence (ankle) is questionable.


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NFC
LIONS AT COWBOYS
1 p.m. Sunday

Detroit-Dallas? Is it Thanksgiving already? Lions are a better team right now (and a shocking 3-0 on the road), but Bill Parcells has lost three straight and will find a way to get his Cows back on the moooove. (Sorry).

• Cote says: Cowboys, 19-13.
• Favorite: Cowboys by 3.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Lions 4-2; Cowboys 2-4.
• Lions injuries: LB Boss Bailey (knee) and LB Donte' Curry (knee) out; CB Fernando Bryant (groin), LB James Davis (knee), WR Az-Zahir Hakim (ankle), RB Cory Schlesinger (hamstring) and WR Roy Williams (ankle) are questionable.
• Cowboys injuries: WR Terry Glenn (foot) and RB Julius Jones (shoulder) are out; WR Quincy Morgan (hamstring) is questionable.


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GIANTS AT VIKINGS
1 p.m. Sunday

Biggies have beaten Minnies two straight, and Randy Moss again will be very limited if he plays at all. Plus Vikes have the possible distraction of Manning and Indy up next. All of that makes this a danger game for the home faves. I still like Purples and Daunte Culpepper, who has a league-record 35 straight games of 300-plus yards.

• Cote says: Vikings, 28-17.
• Favorite: Vikings by 7.
• Stars: * * ½
• Records: Giants 4-2; Vikings 5-1.
• Giants injuries: DT Fred Robbins (shoulder), WR Amani Toomer (hamstring), CB Frank Walker (ankle) are questionable.
• Vikings injuries: LB Chris Claiborne (calf) and C Cory Withrow (knee) are doubtful; G Adam Goldberg (knee) and WR Randy Moss (hamstring) are questionable.


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PACKERS AT REDSKINS
1 p.m. Sunday

The Packers, John Kerry's favorite team [see above column], bring a potent, coalescing offense against a stout Washers defense that might be without LB LaVar Arrington and will be without top safety Sean Taylor, who got popped for DUI. I'll take Brett Favre, Ahman Green and an offense converting a league-best 52 percent of its third downs. Pack has won two straight by combined 79-30.

• Cote says: Packers, 27-20.
• Favorite: Packers by 2.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Packers 3-4; Redskins 2-4.
• Packers injuries: CB Al Harris (knee), G Marco Rivera (ankle) and S Darren Sharper (knee) are questionable.
• Redskins injuries: LB LaVar Arrington (knee) and K John Hall (groin) are doubtful; QB Mike Barrow (knee); DE Phillip Daniels (groin) and RB Chad Morton (knee) are questionable.


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PANTHERS AT SEAHAWKS
4:05 p.m. Sunday

The Mighty Holmgrens opened with three straight wins (allowing 13 total points) and have since lost three straight (allowing 88 points). Can you say defensive collapse? But here comes Team Carol. Can you say remedy?

• Cote says: Seahawks, 28-7.
• Favorite: Seahawks by 8.
• Stars: * ½
• Records: Panthers 1-5; Seahawks 3-3.
• Panthers injuries: RB Stephen Davis (knee), RB DeShaun Foster (collarbone), RB Rod Smart (knee) and WR Steve Smith (ankle) are out; S Travares Tillman (forearm) is questionable.
• Seahawks injuries: WR Bobby Engram (ankle), LB Anthony Simmons (shoulder) and DE Grant Wistrom (knee) are out; LB Isaiah Kacyvenski (ankle) is doubtful.


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49ERS AT BEARS
8:30 p.m. Sunday

Sunday night stinker might be the worst thing on prime-time TV since that Geraldo Rivera special in which he dramatically unearthed Al Capone's private hideaway only to discover a whole lotta nuthin'. It's a game only a player's mother could love. Or at least force herself to watch. Take Niners, who are on a 4-1 series run, off a bye and facing a virgin QB starter in Craig Krenzel. Upset.

• Cote says: 49ers, 24-16.
• Favorite: Bears by 1 ½.
• Stars: *
• Records: 49ers 1-5; Bears 1-5.
• 49ers injuries: C Jeremy Newberry (knee) and DE Andrew Williams (shin) are out; LB Saleem Rasheed (knee) is doubtful.
• Bears injuries: RB Jason McKie (knee) and CB Charles Tillman (knee) are out; G Mike Gandy (hamstring) and S Bobby Gray (groin) are doubtful.


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Interconference
CARDINALS AT BILLS
1 p.m. Sunday

Neat contrast of running backs, with old, amazing Redbird Emmitt Smith enjoying his best season since '99, and young, exciting Willis McGahee taking over in attempt to jump-start Buffs.

• Cote says: Bills, 17-13.
• Favorite: Bills by 3.
• Stars: *
• Records: Cardinals 2-4; Bills 1-5.
• Cardinals injuries: RB Josh Scobey (knee) is out; WR Anquan Boldin (knee) is questionable.
• Bills injuries: QB J.P. Losman (lower leg), C Trey Teague (knee) and CB Troy Vincent (knee) are doubtful; WR Drew Haddad (hamstring), CB Terrence McGee (foot) and T Marcus Price (knee) are questionable.


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RAVENS AT EAGLES
1 p.m. Sunday

Could be a champagne-toasting day for the '72 Dolphins, with Pats and Eagles both in could-lose games. But chance of both falling is slim. Philly should smother Kyle Boller's offense, but Donovan McNabb might not McDo much either, with Balts' D giving up only 11.3 points in past six road games. Take Baldies in the Bird Bowl. Warning, though: Turn the volume down on your TV. Deion Sanders and Terrell Owens in the same stadium.

• Cote says: Eagles, 20-10.
• Favorite: Eagles by 7 ½.
• Stars: * * * ½
• Records: Ravens 4-2; Eagles 6-0.
• Ravens injuries: WR Devard Darling (heel), TE Todd Heap (ankle), RB Ovie Mughelli (hamstring) and T Jonathan Ogden (hamstring) are questionable.
• Eagles injuries: LB Jason Short (concussion/ankle) is doubtful; WR Greg Lewis (quadricep), T Jon Runyan (groin), DT Darwin Walker (calf) and RB Brian Westbrook (rib) are questionable.


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FALCONS AT BRONCOS
4:05 p.m. Sunday

If embarrassment is fuel, this is a high-octane game. Rematch of most recent Super Bowl played in Miami finds both teams coming off humiliation last week: 'Lanta trounced by KC 56-10, and Denver routed on Monday night by (oy!) Cincy.

• Cote says: Broncos, 31-13.
• Favorite: Broncos by 6 ½.
• Stars: * * *
• Records: Falcons 5-2; Broncos 5-2.
• Falcons injuries: TE Eric Beverly (shoulder) and DT Roderick Coleman (knee) are out; CB Aaron Beasley (foot) and S Cory Hall (foot) are questionable.
• Broncos injuries: DE Trevor Pryce (back) is out; RB Tatum Bell (hamstring) is doubtful; CB Lenny Walls (shoulder) is questionable.


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Off this week
• Browns (3-4; next at Ravens): Uh oh, Butch. Eagles last week, now four of next five are vs. combined 20-4 in Ravens, Steelers, Jets, Pats.

• Buccaneers (2-5; next vs. Chiefs): Small signs of life, but injury loss of Mike Alstott won't help a tepid offense.

• Rams (4-3; next vs. Patriots): Embarrassed by Miami, yes. But St. Lou preps for Pats with 4-0 record after byes under Mike Martz.

• Saints (3-4; next at Chargers): Expect coach Jim Haslett to get the boot if Cajuns don't rally to somehow make playoffs.


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How the Darts Landed
Nailed outright upsets by Chargers (over Carolina) and Saints (over Oakland), and also had Jets-with-points over Pats. But let's not put lipstick on a wart hog here. Our strong, three-week streak against the betting line hit a wall.

My season winning percentage? We haven't seen anything fall harder since the Yankees in the ALCS, or Fidel Castro down those concrete steps.

Foolishly, however, I'm back on the metaphoric saddle, ready for another ride on the metaphoric rodeo bull that is the NFL prognostication.

------------- Overall -------------vs. spread
Last Week 8-6, .571-----------5-9, .357
Season 62-40, .608------------50-48-4, .510
Final 2003 161-105-1, .605---127-118-11, .518

[Blackbeard]

NY Newsday/Ed Mcnamara

Best bet: Colts
All picks against the spread


Giants: Time to bounce back
Giants (4-2) at Vikings (5-1)
Line: Vikings by 7. Over-Under: 48.
There are no easy weeks picking the NFL. The only sure thing is aggravation, even when you're over .500. Voice of Conscience That Sounds Like Mom: "Well, betting on football is illegal, so you deserve to suffer." The Giants just got shocked by the Lions, whose offense is one of the league's worst. The Vikings, led by Daunte Culpepper, average 28 points and 449 yards. Is it time for a predictably unpredictable switcheroo? NFL (Nonlinear Football Logic) says yes. Maybe the Giants will put up a good fight at a stadium where they won the last two years. They're 3-0 against the spread as an underdog this season.
The pick: Giants



Jets: Shake off that loss
Dolphins (1-6) at Jets (5-1)
Line: Jets by 7. O-U: 35.
The Jets are 10-2-1 ATS in the last 13 games in this venom-filled series. Does that mean something? They struggled at Miami in Week 4 and averaged only 15 points the past three weeks, so Chad Pennington is due for a good day. I suspect that the Dolphins' breakout win over the Rams was an aberration and that they'll backslide. They can't stop the run (131 yards a game) and their offense is sad. Like so many teams, the Jets came close but couldn't finish off New England. Their second-half schedule isn't easy, so they need a win to offset a likely slump later.
The pick: Jets



Marquee matchups
Colts (4-2) at Chiefs (2-4)
Line: Colts by 1. O-U: 57.
Here's a rematch of last-season's playoff game that Indy won, 38-31, at Arrowhead. Neither team could stop the other, and turnovers beat KC. Whoever can keep its defense off the field longer should win, or whoever has the ball last. After a bad loss at home to the Jaguars, Peyton Manning's offense will bring its 'A' game against a very leaky defense.
The pick: Colts

Ravens (4-2) at Eagles (6-0)
Line: Eagles by 7 1/2. O-U: 38.
It's Deion Sanders vs. Terrell Owens, a clash of monstrous egos on Halloween. Will the merciless Ray Lewis try to decapitate T.O. going over the middle? Will hateful Philly fans hurl cheesesteaks from the upper deck at Prime Time? The Ravens won't have suspended RB Jamal Lewis and injured T Jonathan Ogden, and QB Kyle Boller is stunningly inept. Unless Deion takes another interception all the way, Baltimore may not reach the end zone.
The pick: Eagles.

Patriots (6-0) at Steelers (5-1)
Line: Patriots by 3. O-U: 42 1/2.
Erik the Browns fan tells me it costs an obscene $35 to park at Gillette Stadium. The price to pay for success is high, especially up in Taxachusetts. How have the Pats won 21 in a row without an overwhelming talent edge? It's one of the most amazing runs in sports history. Sure, they're overdue to lose, but that's been true for 15 games. Pittsburgh has beaten only bad teams (Raiders, Dolphins, Bengals, Browns, Cowboys).
The pick: Patriots



Around the league
Lions (4-2) at Cowboys (2-4)
Line: Cowboys by 3. O-U: 41.
Bill Parcells' honeymoon in Big D is over, and Kevin the Cowboy Hater is thrilled. After being fried for 41 points and 480 yards at Green Bay, Dallas is desperate. After 24 straight road losses, Detroit somehow is 3-0 away (all ******) after upsetting the Giants. Use the Rebound/Letdown Theory and give Dallas one more chance.
The pick: Cowboys

Cardinals (2-4) at Bills (1-5)
Line: Bills by 3. O-U: 34.
Road teams are traveling in style (57-42-3 ATS), while favorites (44-54-3 ATS, 1 pick 'em) struggle. Arizona (4-2 ATS) is playing hard for Dennis Green but has lost 16 consecutive away games (0-3 this year, two ******). Buffalo is also useless on the road but competitive at home (2-1 ATS).
The pick: Bills

Bengals (2-5) at Titans (2-5)
Line: Titans by 3. O-U: 40 1/2.
Esmeralda needed Denver Monday to sweep her all-psychics survivor pool. "The Bengals win straight up?" she said. "None of us could see that coming." Cincinnati (1-5 ATS) was the last team to cover and could do it again against reeling Tennessee. QB Steve McNair (questionable, chest) isn't himself and the Titans are in a 1-6 ATS slump at home.
The pick: Bengals

Packers (3-4) at Redskins (2-4)
Line: Packers by 2. O-U: 40 1/2.
Meaningless stat: The Packers have lost four straight in Washington. Then again, they haven't played there since 1979. Even after blowouts of Detroit and Dallas, I'm not sold on Green Bay. Its defense is bad and its secondary has many injury problems. Washington's defense is underrated and RB Clinton Portis is dangerous.
The pick: Redskins

Jaguars (5-2) at Texans (3-3)
Line: Texans by 1. O-U: 42 1/2.
Here's a refreshing pairing of young teams on the rise. Thanks to five last-minute miracles, the Jaguars lead the AFC South despite allowing more points than they've scored. Houston has a quick-strike offense but is much more attractive getting at least 4 points.
The pick: Jaguars

Panthers (1-5) at Seahawks (3-3)
Line: Seahawks by 8. O-U: 39.
The Seahawks, despite three straight defeats, run into a team that's much more messed up. Injuries wrecked Carolina's running game, leaving QB Jake Delhomme to do it alone, which hasn't worked. The Panthers' defense also has keeled over. RB Shaun Alexander should have a big day as Seattle bounces back.
The pick: Seahawks.

Falcons (5-2) at Broncos (5-2)
Line: Broncos by. 7. O-U: 39.
Atlanta could use three byes after a 56-10 crushing by the Chiefs. As Warner Wolf would say: "If you took the Falcons and 451/2, you lost." Sad to say, they were your Gridiron Guide's best bet. Yankee fans, I share your eternal shame. The Broncos also were embarrassed, groveling to the lowly Bengals. Strange trend: Denver covered once in its last 13 (1-11-1 ATS) against teams outside its division.
The pick: Falcons.

Raiders (2-5) at Chargers (4-3)
Line: Chargers by 6. O-U: 46.
Oakland has lost four straight, giving up 31.8 ppg, and turnover-prone Kerry Collins and the Black Hole freaks are at odds. San Diego (5-1-1 ATS) has been one of the league's most pleasant surprises.
The pick: Chargers

49ers (1-5) at Bears (1-5)
Line: Bears by 1 1/2. O-U: 36.
As Professor Van Helsing said in the 1931 film "Dracula": "Gentlemen, we are dealing with the undead." This battle of zombies is perfect for Halloween, with hopeless jokes staggering in prime time. Bears rookie QB Craig Krenzel will make his first start, and the forward pass is not a concept he's comfortable with.
The pick: 49ers

[Blackbeard]

Dallas news ncaa staff picks

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcont...cks.5f532.html


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[Blackbeard]

SI.com/Stewart Mandel NCAA

Oct. 30

Sat., Noon ET | ABC No. 2 Oklahoma (7-0) at No. 20 Oklahoma State (6-1)
Every year, the Sooners play a rivalry game on the grounds of a state fair, surrounded by ferris wheels and livestock -- and that's not the one they call Bedlam. The Cowboys have won two of the past three, and they've only gotten better.
Oklahoma 27, Oklahoma State 24

Sat., 10 p.m. ET | TBS No. 20 Arizona State (6-1) at No. 7 Cal (5-1)
Both teams already have lost to Pac-10 leader USC, yet this game is being billed as a showdown for the Rose Bowl. See, the BCS really does make dreams come true. The only way the Sun Devils are going to Pasadena, though, is with a ticket.
Cal 34, Arizona State 20

Sat., 3:30 p.m. ET | ABC Michigan State (4-3) at No. 12 Michigan (7-1)
Wolverines freshman running back Michael Hart has carried the ball 108 times the past three weeks. His predecessor, Chris Perry, carried 51 times against the Spartans last year. Not to be outdone, look for Hart to reach a cool 70.
Michigan 21, Michigan State 13

Sat., 3:30 p.m. ET | ABC No. 8 Texas (6-1) at Colorado (4-3)
If you believed some of the things written about the Buffs this summer, you'd think they would have folded the program by now. They've hung tough so far, but unfortunately, the last month of the season might not be as pleasant.
Texas 34, Colorado 13

Sat., Noon ET | FSN Missouri (4-3) at Nebraska (4-3)
Brace yourselves, ladies and gentlemen. The winner here will take over sole possession of first place in the Big 12 North and take one step closer to playing for a BCS berth. Which do you prefer, the one that gave up 70 or the one that lost to Troy?
Missouri 20, Nebraska 18

Sat., 3:30 p.m. ET | FSN Stanford (4-3) at UCLA (4-3)
Last year, UCLA's tough defense couldn't compensate for its anemic offense. This year, the now-productive offense can't quite make up for the Bruins' porous D. It might not win them more games, but it sure is a lot more fun to watch.
UCLA 30, Stanford 27

Sat., 3:30 p.m. ET | CBS This week's upset special, Part I
No. 10 Georgia (6-1) vs. Florida (4-3)
If ever there was a year Georgia should win the Cocktail Party, after losing 13 of the past 14, this would be it. The Gators just lost to Mississippi State. Their coach just got fired. You know, the perfect recipe for an upset.
Florida 21, Georgia 18

Sat., 12:30 p.m. ET This week's upset special, Part II
No. 11 Tennessee (6-1) at South Carolina (5-2)
Phillip Fulmer says his offense has "hit a wall." If that's the case, South Carolina's, which put up 12 points against Kentucky, has hit the Great Wall. Someone's due to break out -- why not the team with stud receiver Troy Williamson?
South Carolina 17, Tennessee 16

Last week: 3-5. Overall: 40-24. Upset specials: 5-5.

[Blackbeard]

SI.com/Peter King NFL

Arizona at Buffalo
I hate to do this to the Bills, a team I thought would be better than the Jets in August. But I love how Dennis Green has his team playing better on offense than everyone thought. Defensive coordinator of the year: the Cardinals' Clancy Pendergast.
Arizona 19, Buffalo 14

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Detroit at Dallas
The end of the 3-0 streak for the road warriors from Detroit. Put simply, Bill Parcells has the entire city of Dallas on high alert to win this game. He will figure out a way to tighten the screws on defense and pressure Joey Harrington.
Dallas 21, Detroit 17

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Jacksonville at Houston
David Carr 290 yards, Byron Leftwich 163. I admit the Texans have to prove something to me -- and to the rest of America -- here. But this is the weekend the money Houston spent on defensive tackle Robaire Smith in free agency pays off.
Houston 20, Jacksonville 9

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Indianapolis at Kansas City
A scorefest, but what else would you expect? Trent Green and Peyton Manning will combine for 723 passing yards. There will be a moral victory for the Chiefs, however. Hunter Smith will punt twice for Indianapolis.
Indianapolis 31, Kansas City 27

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup N.Y. Giants at Minnesota
Even without the hamstring-addled Randy Moss, the Vikings have enough for a double-digit win over a team that might have already played its best football this year. Antoine Winfield picks Kurt Warner twice.
Minnesota 27, Giants 13

Sunday, 1 p.m. Preview | Matchup Baltimore at Philadelphia
I don't like much of what I see in Kyle Boller, and even less if Jonathan Ogden's bad hammy prevents him from playing. Last time Ogden sat, the Browns ate Baltimore alive. Prediction: Terrell Owens' neck veins will bulge out 59 times.
Philadelphia 16, Baltimore 3

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Cincinnati at Tennesee
Chad Johnson sends Samari Rolle Alka-Seltzer. Just like it didn't matter with the Browns, it has absolutely no impact on a football game. Chris Brown does, however. He runs for 141 and three scores.
Tennessee 30, Cincinnati 21.

Sunday, 1 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Green Bay at Washington
An old-fashioned Lombardi-Era score. Washington's defense will harrass Brett Favre and bruise more than his hand. But this just might be the day the fans' booing Mark Brunell helps convince Joe Gibbs to go to Patrick Ramsey.
Green Bay 14, Washington 10

Sunday, 4:05 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Atlanta at Denver
I can't believe Atlanta and Denver a.) are as bad as they looked last week; b.) are not going to make the playoffs; c.) haven't clinched their divisions yet; d.) all of the above. The answer is D.
Denver 24, Atlanta 22

Sunday, 4:05 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Carolina at Seattle
Put-up or shut-up time for the Holmgrens, and I can't fathom that they'll blow this one against a totally beat-up team like the Panthers. No way. But I'm the same guy who tought Denver would win by four TDs Monday night.
Seattle 30, Carolina 10

Sunday, 4:15 p.m.
Preview | Matchup New England at Pittsburgh
A year ago this week, Ben Roethlisberger threw for 408 yards against Kent State. I feel safe in saying the big guy won't throw for 408 this week against the Bruschis.
New England 16, Pittsburgh 13

Sunday, 4:15 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Oakland at San Diego
Remember back in the summer when you wouldn't have traded Drew Brees and Javon Walker in fantasy football for Kerry Collins? My, how times have changed.
San Diego 19, Oakland 10

Sunday, 8:30 p.m.
Preview | Matchup San Francisco at Chicago
Great Sunday night game, huh? Can't help it. I think the Bears are the worst team in football. The only way they win this game is if Thomas Jones runs for 142, or if they force five 49ers turnovers. Or both.
San Francisco 20, Chicago 9

Monday, 9 p.m.
Preview | Matchup Miami at N.Y. Jets
The Dolphins will play tougher than you'd think. In part because it's the Jets and in part because I still need to see Chad Pennington take this team down the field a few times on solid drives against a good defense.
New York 20, Miami 12

Last week: 6-8 Overall: 59-43 Bye: Cleveland, New Orleans, St. Louis, Tampa Bay

[Blackbeard]

MSNBC Predicitons 101/ John Tamanaha

No. 2 Oklahoma
at No. 20 Oklahoma St.
With "Bedlam" erupting for the 99th time, we've got to start our focus on a certain running back who is the key to the game. You know him. He's rushed for more than 100 yards in all seven games this season and already has a grand total of 1,153 yards on the ground this year ... Vernand Morency. Yup, better numbers than his young Sooner counterpart, who needs no introduction.

Led by Morency, the Cowboy running game is averaging 269.4 yards per game and 4.9 yards per carry, which means something will have to give. The stingy Sooners are allowing an average of just 76.4 yards rushing per game.

The Pokes, who will go as far as Morency can take them, also will be buoyed by the home crowd and momentum from scoring the final 20 points in last week’s 20-17 road win at Missouri. However, that won't be enough to escape the Oklahoma onslaught.

With a Heisman candidate rushing for an average of 146.1 yards per game and a Heisman winner completing 63 percent of his passes on third-and-long, it's hard to slow down the Sooners.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Oklahoma by 12

Pick: Oklahoma 35-17




No. 5 FSU at Maryland
Terrapins coach Ralph Friedgen has sent out a search party to look for his AWOL offense that has scored only two touchdowns in its last three games, which were all ugly losses. In two of those contests, Maryland proved that it is indeed possible to gain less than 100 yards of total offense in 60 minutes of play.

This malaise puts the Terps in a most difficult situation as the Seminoles, who have never lost to Maryland in 14 previous meetings, visit College Park.

The Florida State defense hasn't allowed a touchdown in its last 11 quarters of play, so the momentum is set for yet another easy victory over the Terrapins, who have lost their last five in the series by an average of nearly 33 points.

With Maryland expected to replicate the blitz tactics that Wake Forest unleashed on young QB Wyatt Sexton last week, he and sophomore TB Lorenzo Booker need to be careful with the football.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Florida State by 10.5

Pick: Florida State 33-6



Florida
vs. No. 10 Georgia
Other than their dismantling of LSU at the beginning of the month, Georgia is the national leader in pulling teeth. With all the talent he’s got on that team, you'd think a lot would come easy for Mark Richt, but it doesn't. The Bulldogs seem destined to struggle through the rest of the campaign, which includes a titanic clash at Auburn in two weeks.

The Gators have won six in a row in this series and 13 of the last 14. And say what you want about Ron Zook, but he is 5-1 away from home versus teams ranked within the Top 11 (this game, as always, is at Jacksonville). Mix those bits of history together with the unknown factor of how the Florida players, who lashed out at the decision to fire Zook, respond to his lame duck status and you've got the possibility of something happening that will make the powers that be in Gainesville ecstatic and embarrassed at the same time.

Georgia is fundamentally the better team by a significant margin, but there are so many of intangibles at play here in this heated rivalry. If the Bulldogs aren’t sharp in the first quarter, the Gators will be snapping at their heels all day.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Georgia by 7

Pick: Georgia 26-20



Michigan St.
at No. 12 Michigan
It figures that Michigan and Michigan State’s annual skirmish for a trophy depicting a workhorse such as Paul Bunyan be won and lost on the merits of something as rugged as running the football. In 34 of the last 36 games between the Wolverines and Spartans, the team that has won the rushing battle earned possession of a four-foot wooden trophy as well.

After winning the ground game 216-36 in last season’s 27-20 victory and with freshman TB Michael Hart in the backfield, fresh off back-to-back 200-yard games, Michigan figures to have the advantage. But, Michigan State has dramatically improved its rushing attack since the last meeting. Utilizing a variety of weapons, including QB Drew Stanton, the Spartans are averaging 212.9 yards per game on the ground (an improvement of 115.5 over 2003).

So, both teams can run it, but Michigan is much more adept at stuffing it. Combine that with the Wolverines’ tremendous success at forcing turnovers this season and Michigan State will have its usual difficulties in the Big House.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Michigan by 12

Pick: Michigan 31-17



Stanford at UCLA
With identical records (4-3 overall, 2-2 in the Pac-10) and similar offensive rejuvenations providing positive thinking, the Bruins and Cardinal will battle hard for bowl positioning against each other.

Both teams can move the football. Stanford with its gigantic receiving corps is averaging 26.6 points and 370.7 yards per game, while UCLA offensive coordinator Tom Cable and TB Maurice Drew have the Bruin ground attack gaining 213.7 yards in each outing.

This is the sort of tight game that will tilt in favor of the team that does the little things right throughout. Stanford, which has shown the ability to start games strongly, is probably that team. The Cardinal have been careful with the football (only eight turnovers) and T.J. Rushing is a serious threat in the return game.

UCLA, on the other hand, has a disturbing tendency to give up big plays -- if not touchdowns -- on third down this season, which won’t help versus a focused Stanford team that will bounce back from yet another loss with a win.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: UCLA by 6

Pick: Stanford 24-23




No. 1 USC at Wash. St.
Pullman hosts its first top-ranked team this weekend as USC puts its 16-game winning streak on the line versus Washington State. But, don't expect any welcoming party in the Paloose. In fact, there will be a lot of inhospitableness with temperatures dropping into the 30s with a good chance of rain.

California kids aren't at their best playing in weather such as that, but at what level of proficiency will USC need to perform at to pass this test? If the Trojan front seven can rattle the Cougars' redshirt freshman QB Alex Brink enough, the game could be over in the first half. Brink, who will be making only his second start since replacing the injured Josh Swogger, will need to get some movement on the ground from JC transfer TB Jerome Harrison to keep DT Shaun Cody and the rest of the Trojan pass rushers honest.

The last time USC visited Pullman, Washington State pulled out a 30-27 overtime victory. The Cougars won't be as fortunate this time around, but will find a way to keep it "close."

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: USC by 24

Pick: USC 31-13



No. 4 Miami at UNC
During their bye week, do you think the Tar Heels thought more about giving up a school-record 669 yards in a 30-point loss at Utah or what might be ahead as the Miami Hurricanes take aim at Chapel Hill for the first time since 1963? Perhaps North Carolina is getting accustomed to this sort of unpleasantness with this being the sixth ranked foe it has had to face.

Miami, which gave up only a total 26 points in its first four games, has allowed an average of 34.5 in its last two. That gives the Tar Heels and senior TB Jacque Lewis, who is averaging 7.1 yards per carry, some hope.

However, any points that North Carolina comes up with aren't likely to be enough as Miami QB Brock Berlin is now in a groove, passing for eight touchdowns over the course of the last two games.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Miami by 21.5

Pick: Miami 37-23



No. 3 Auburn
at Mississippi
The Tigers host Georgia next week in one of the biggest games of the season, but don't expect there to be any inappropriate looking ahead past the Rebels. There are two reasons for that. First of all, the memories of Ole Miss coming into Jordan-Hare Stadium last season and leaving with a 24-20 victory are still fresh in the mind. Secondly, an Auburn win wraps up a berth in the SEC Championship Game.

All but one of the Tigers' victories this season have been of the blowout variety and the Rebels don't fit the profile of a team sturdy enough to buck that ominous trend.

The Ole Miss QB rotation headed by Ethan Flatt, who has thrown seven interceptions and only four touchdowns this season, pales in comparison to Auburn's Jason Campbell, who has completed 76 percent of his passes in the last four games and owns a QB rating of 176.9 this season (significantly better than both Jason White's and Matt Leinart's).

Tommy Tuberville's tailback tandem of "Cadillac" Williams and Ronnie Brown will roll through Oxford in style.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: Auburn by 17.5

Pick: Auburn 38-7



No. 20 Arizona St.
at No. 7 California
In what probably amounts to a Rose Bowl-elimination game, California has the decided edge. In the last two meetings, both in Tempe, the Golden Bears mauled the Sun Devils, 55-28 and 51-23.

Although Andrew Walter is likely to surpass John Elway's Pac-10 record for career touchdown passes (77) in this game, he'll need a lot of help from his ASU teammates on the other side of the football if they hope to outscore Cal.

The Bears, who lead the nation in total offense with 508.3 yards per game, have been amazingly balanced and nearly impossible to defend. Cal averages 245.5 yards on the ground and 262.8 though the air. QB Aaron Rodgers gets the bulk of the attention, but TB J.J. Arrington is by far the league's leading rusher and needs just 82 more yards to reach 1,000.

Jeff Tedford gets the better of Dirk Koetter once again in this on-going battle between former Oregon offensive coordinators.

Weather updates: Click here

Opening point spread: California by 14.5

Pick: California 49-27






href=/modules/interactive.asp?type=lv&id=spt_1026_FBCWeekly&parentID=spt_FBCWeeklyPicks04&brand=0&fmt=frame





Total: Outright 62-18; Against spread 38-39-3
Week 9: Outright: 1-0; Against spread 1-0
WW: Va. Tech (-5) 20, Ga. Tech 13 (VT 34-20)

Week 8: Outright: 9-1; Against spread 5-5
WW: W. Virginia (-15) 34, Syracuse 10 (WV 27-6)
WL: Oklahoma 31, Kansas (+26.5) 17 (OU 41-10)
WW: TexasA&M 27, CU (+20) 17 (A&M 29-26, OT)
LL: Notre Dame 30, Boston College 13 (BC 24-23)
WW: Michigan (+5) 24, Purdue 23 (Mich. 16-14)
WL: Tennessee (-7) 31, 'Bama 10 (Tenn. 17-13)
WW: Arizona St. 24, UCLA (+7.5) 23 (ASU 48-42)
WW: USC (-34) 61, Washington 0 (USC 38-0)
WL: Miami 20, N.C. St. (+7.5) 17 (Miami 45-31)
WL: BoiseSt. 31, Fres.St. (+11.5) 27 (BSU 33-16)

Week 7: Outright: 9-1; Against spread 6-4
Week 6: Outright: 6-4; Against spread 2-8
Week 5: Outright: 7-3; Against spread 4-6
Week 4: Outright 9-1; Against spread 2-6-2
Week 3: Outright 8-2; Against spread 8-1-1
Week 2: Outright 6-4; Against spread 5-5
Week 1: Outright 7-2; Against spread 5-4

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

[Blackbeard]

Foxsports fearless predictions

No. 2 Oklahoma at Oklahoma State
Saturday at Noon ET
Line:
OU -12.5


There's a feeling in the college football world that it's just a matter of time. Once again Oklahoma is among the nation's most talented teams and in the national title hunt, but the yearly setback is just around the corner, right? In 2001 and 2002, that came against Oklahoma State in stunning upsets and everyone expected the resurgent Cowboy program to trip up the mighty Sooners last year. 52-9 OU. This is the best Oklahoma State team in several years and looking to once again pull off the shocker and be in the mix for the Big XII South title, but Oklahoma is playing with brutal efficiency on both sides of the ball as the most complete team in the nation after seven games. With a move up to the number two spot in the BCS and a ticket to the national title there for the taking, OU wants to come up with a complete performance and end all upset talk before going on to face Texas A&M.


Prediction: Oklahoma 31 ... Oklahoma State 14
Complete Preview | GameTrax



Florida vs. No. 10 Georgia at Jacksonville
Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET
Line:
UGA -7


It doesn't matter if you're an SEC fan or not, this is college football appointment television. Florida head coach Ron Zook and his staff got canned after the debacle at Mississippi State, along with several other strange losses and off-the-field shenanigans, but they're still working until the end of the season. The extra motivation is there for them to prove they can still coach wanting to go on a run so they'll be quickly hired somewhere else. More importantly, this is the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party and yet another chance for Georgia to try to get past the Gators after losing six straight in the series and 12 of the last 13 in one of the more bizarre one-sided rivalries. Florida still has a nasty game with South Carolina ahead along with a trip to Florida State, so it's possible this won't be a bowl season if there isn't a win here. Georgia is still in the hunt for the SEC East title needing to win out and for Tennessee to slip somewhere.


Prediction: Florida 20 ... Georgia 17
Complete Preview | GameTrax




No. 22 Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech
Thursday at 7:30 p.m. ET
Line:
VT -5

Two of the nation's best defenses go at it in an ACC slugfest that'll go a long way to determining the upper-level of the league rankings. Neither has a realistic shot of winning the title, but each has eyes on a good bowl bid and a top three finish. This is more critical for Georgia Tech with only three D-I wins and with a road trip to NC State along with dates with Virginia and Georgia ahead. The Hokies have it a bit easier, but they still have to face the Cavaliers and 'Canes. Call this the ultimate toss up, the two teams are so alike.


Prediction: Georgia Tech 16 ... Virginia Tech 13
Complete Preview | GameTrax

Hawaii at No. 18 Boise State
Friday at 8 p.m. ET
Line:
BSU -22

Sit back, relax, get comfortable and enjoy as two of the nation's most prolific passing attacks will bomb away with the spotlight shining on Hawaii's Timmy Chang. The senior needs 241 yards to be the NCAA's all-time passing leader surpassing Ty Detmer's mark of 15,031 yards and should have it after three quarters. Boise State has won 18 straight games and wants to keep things rolling on the way to another WAC title and hope beyond all reasonable hope for a BCS bid. This should be one of the most explosive games of the weekend.


Prediction: Boise State 52 ... Hawaii 34
Complete Preview | GameTrax


No. 23 Iowa at Illinois
Saturday at Noon ET
Line:
Iowa -11.5

Don't look now, but Iowa is in the Big Ten title hunt. The Hawkeyes need a Michigan loss and have to find some semblance of an offense, but the schedule works out with Purdue and Wisconsin coming to the beartrap known as Kinnick Stadium and a road trip to Minnesota that might as well be another home game. Illinois is going through the motions seeing its season completely tank with a 45-0 loss to Minnesota. Even so, a win over Iowa would do wonders with IU and Northwestern ahead.


Prediction: Iowa 27 ... Illinois 13
Complete Preview | GameTrax

No. 17 Purdue at Northwestern
Saturday at Noon ET
Line:
Purdue -9.5

Purdue will try to pick itself up off the mat after fumbling away a shot at the Big Ten title in the crucial two-game home stand against Wisconsin and Michigan. With a road date at Iowa next week, the Northwestern game becomes a must win to avoid what might be a four game losing streak and a slide into total Big Ten irrelevance. Northwestern won two straight overtime games before running into the brick wall that is Wisconsin's defense, and now it needs a win to keep any bowl hopes alive.


Prediction: Purdue 31 ... Northwestern 21
Complete Preview | GameTrax


No. 15 West Virginia at Rutgers
Saturday at Noon ET
Line:
WV -14.5

It's West Virginia's Big East world and everyone else is simply taking up space. The Mountaineers didn't have any problems in its first two conference games and still has Boston College and Pittsburgh ahead. But first things first, they have to take care of the potentially dangerous Scarlet Knights. Rutgers is 3-1 at home with the only loss coming in a letdown against DI-AA New Hampshire, and a win over the heavy Big East favorite would be the monster victory head coach Greg Schiano needs to get the warm fuzzies back that were there after the season opening 19-14 win over Michigan State.


Prediction: West Virginia 30 ... Rutgers 17
Complete Preview | GameTrax

No. 11 Tennessee at South Carolina
Saturday at 12:30 p.m. ET
Line:
Tenn -2.5

This is it. This is Tennessee's SEC East title game with only Vanderbilt and Kentucky to go, but South Carolina isn't going to roll over and die. The Gamecocks have had two weeks off to rest and recuperate after a disappointing and bizarre two game stretch losing to Ole Miss and beating woeful Kentucky 12-7. This is a big chance to finally beat a good team again, something USC hasn't been able to much of over the last two years, and can even have an outside shot at the SEC East title with a win. This will be a hard-hitting, hard-fought defensive battle. The team that makes the fewest mistakes will win.


Prediction: South Carolina 17 ... Tennessee 13
Complete Preview | GameTrax


No. 8 Texas at Colorado
Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET
Line:
Texas -14

Everyone has forgotten about Texas after the loss to Oklahoma, but this is a tremendous team coming off one of the most important wins in the Mack Brown era blowing away Texas Tech 51-21 and in the mix for a BCS game if it keeps winning. It was the type of explosive win in a possible upset situation that showed just how good the team is, but all the good will could quickly go away if there's a let down against Colorado. The Buffs battled Texas A&M in a 29-26 overtime loss and need the upset win to be in the mix for the post-season. With only the Big XII North ahead, the Buffs could go on a big run with a win.


Prediction: Texas 31 ... Colorado 20
Complete Preview | GameTrax

No. 5 Florida State at Maryland
Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET
Line:
FSU -10.5

Florida State is on a roll winning its last six games proving to be the ACC's second best team behind Miami. The Terps have hit an inexplicable wall only scoring 17 points over the last three games in losses to Georgia Tech, NC State and Clemson and is desperate to turn things around in a brutally one-sided series. How bad has it been? Over the last 12 years, Florida State is 12-0 against Maryland by whopping a score of 548 to 173 (an average score of 45.7 to 14.4). FSU's offense might have problems on the road, but the defense doesn't have any issues. It'll be a shock if the Terps get to double-digits.


Prediction: Florida State 20 ... Maryland 10
Complete Preview | GameTrax


Michigan State at No. 12 Michigan
Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET
Line:
Mich -11

Sort of the stepbrother of Big Ten rivalries, at least to most Michigan and other non-Spartan Big Ten fans, this is a little nastier. a little meaner, and a little edgier than the yearly Michigan-Ohio State showdown which usually has more at stake. The Spartans have had two weeks off to bask in the glow of the 51-17 destruction of Minnesota and have a chance to make a serious run in the Big Ten title race if they can come up with a win. Wisconsin is coming to East Lansing in two weeks, so MSU controls its own destiny for the Rose Bowl if Iowa loses once more. Michigan hasn't been a be-all-end-all killer so far, but it has gotten the job done with a 5-0 conference record highlighted by a clutch late drive from the offense to beat Minnesota and a huge hit from Ernest Shazor to preserve the lead late against Purdue. This is a sound, strong team that's only getting better as the freshmen backfield gets more experience.


Prediction: Michigan 27 ... Michigan State 20
Complete Preview | GameTrax

No. 4 Miami (FL) at North Carolina
Saturday at 7 p.m. ET
Line:
Miami -22

Miami has a few problems still working on its consistency on offense and starting to have problems on D, but it keeps winning and passing every test thrown its way. After surviving upset alerts vs. Louisville and NC State, the Canes get an apparent breather against a rested Tar Heel team with two weeks to prepare after getting stomped by Utah. They have an explosive offense just good enough to pull off the shocker if there's even the slightest let down by the 'Canes. The Hurricane offense is starting to sizzle just at the right time scoring 86 points over the last two weeks blowing up L'Ville's D, currently 13th in the nation in total defense and seventh scoring D, and an NC State defense currently ranked second in the country. North Carolina's defense is 116th in the nation allowing 504 yards per game and giving up over 35 points per outing. Outside of a stunning 34-13 win over Ga Tech, the UNC D has given up fewer than 34 points once.


Prediction: Miami 40 ... North Carolina 20
Complete Preview | GameTrax


No. 1 USC at Washington State
Saturday at 7 p.m. ET
Line:
USC -24

In all the greatness and glory of the Pete Carroll era at USC, it's easy to forget that the team hasn't gone unbeaten in Pac 10 play during his tenure. It's even easier to forget that Washington State was, by tie breaker, the Pac 10 champion two years ago as the only team to beat Carson Palmer and the boys. All season long, many thought that if there was going to be a regular season slip up by the nation's number one team, it would either be this week or in next week's road trip to Oregon State only because the Trojans are finally away from L.A. where they've been unstoppable. However, Washington State hasn't shown any signs that it can pull off the upset currently on a three-game losing streak and unable all year long to find any consistency to the offense. Meanwhile, USC has gotten better and better winning its last two games by a combined score of 83-7.


Prediction: USC 34 ... Washington State 13
Complete Preview | GameTrax

No. 16 Texas A&M at Baylor
Saturday at 7 p.m. ET
Line:
A&M -24

Focus. That's Texas A&M's job this week coming off a tough overtime win over Colorado and with Oklahoma, Texas Tech and Texas ahead. Even in the debacle of the 2003 season, the Aggies had fun with Baylor in a 73-10 win. The Bears lost in the final minute against Iowa State and can show the program is headed in a positive direction with a monster upset. Baylor turns the ball over, Texas A&M doesn't. The Bears are 116th in the nation in turnover margin losing 21 and only forcing five. Only SMU is worse in takeaways forcing four. A&M is number one losing one measly fumble and forcing 17 mistakes. With all the current success of the Aggie running game and the play of Reggie McNeal, one of the superstars has been a bit forgotten about: WR Terrence Murphy. The senior speed demon only has two TD catches this year and has only gone for over 100 yards once since the season opener.


Prediction: Texas A&M 34 ... Baylor 14
Complete Preview | GameTrax


No. 3 Auburn at Mississippi
Saturday at 7:45 p.m. ET
Line:
FSU -14

A win over Ole Miss would wrap up the SEC East title for Auburn and a spot in the championship game, but it's looking for an even bigger prize. Currently fourth in the BCS, the Tigers need to keep winning in impressive fashion to stay alive for the Orange Bowl, but they can't look past a Rebel team playing far better than its record would indicate. Ole Miss is coming off a good performance in a 21-17 loss to Tennessee and beat South Carolina 31-28 two weeks ago. A win over Auburn wouldn't just be a sweet victory over one of the nation's best teams, it would also keep bowl hopes alive.


Prediction: Auburn 34 ... Ole Miss 17
Complete Preview | GameTrax

Vanderbilt at No. 19 LSU
Saturday at 8 p.m. ET
Line:
LSU -23.5

LSU is looking to come out roaring after struggling the past few weeks needing late drives to beat Florida and Troy after getting stomped by Georgia. The SEC title and the BCS aren't there, but this can still turn out to be a big season by winning out and finishing with ten wins. Vandy is looking for the program-changing win coming off a 19-7 victory over Eastern Kentucky. With the way LSU is playing, this could be closer than expected. LSU will get its groove back coming from a great game from the defense. If the offense can hang on to the ball then LSU will have few problems.


Prediction: LSU 35 ... Vanderbilt 10
Complete Preview | GameTrax


No. 9 Utah at San Diego State
Saturday at 9 p.m. ET
Line:
Utah -18.5

Danger, danger, danger. Now it becomes critical for Utah to play at its highest level as the reality is there for a BCS bid by winning out. Currently ranked in the top six in the BCS and with the Fiesta Bowl more than just a little interested, the Utes have to get by a San Diego State team desperate for a big win. The Aztecs have been one of the league's biggest disappointments with no offense whatsoever to help out its tremendous D. They can still get to a bowl by winning out, but they have a huge mountain to climb first. SDSU's defense will hold firm for a while, but the offense won't be able to do nearly enough to come up with the upset.


Prediction: Utah 24 ... San Diego State 10
Complete Preview | GameTrax

No. 20 Arizona State at No. 7 California
Saturday at 10 p.m. ET
Line:
Cal -15

Where's the respect for Cal? If USC is the far and away number one team, at least according to the polls, than shouldn't Cal be somewhere in the top five? As good as the Bears have been, they still obviously need some help getting the overall national love and that could come with a win over the Pac 10's third best team, Arizona State. The Sun Devils can move up to the honor of being league's second best squad with a tough road win over Cal to earn a bit of respect of their own. They needed a brilliant fourth quarter from QB Andrew Walter to beat UCLA last week and have to try to keep the momentum going against the one of the nation's most potent attacks.


Prediction: California 45 ... Arizona State 28

[Blackbeard]

sporting news/Vinnie Iyer

GAME OF THE WEEK



New England at Pittsburgh. The Patriots had their biggest stakes game since the Super Bowl last week and responded by grounding the Jets' balanced offense at Foxborough. It gets only harder this week, however, on the road against the AFC North-leading Steelers, who are well-rested coming off a bye week. That's why many have this game circled as the one that will end the Pats' 21-game winning streak.


The Patriots might want to try this approach in defending Steelers wide receiver Plaxico Burress Sunday. (Amy Conn Gutierrez / AP)


The Steelers have shown mettle on both sides of the ball. Their 3-4 defense is playing up to its past successes. The 1-2 running punch of Duce Staley and Jerome Bettis has meshed well with the poised presence of Ben Roethlisberger. Under Bill Cowher, the Steelers have the physical and mental toughness to match the Pats.



Will that be enough to sink the defending champs? No. This is the kind of game in which ubercompetitor Tom Brady brings out his best. The Steelers should slow down Corey Dillon, but in that case, the Pats will simply spread the field and throw the ball often against nickel and dime packages.



Roethlisberger might not be a typical rookie, but he still is a rookie. You can bet Bill Belichick and Romeo Crennel will have a mixed bag of goodies for him -- the rock candy of disguised coverages and blitzes.



With the Red Sox on the verge of a World Series championship, the Pats will make it a very celebratory weekend for the sports fans of New England. Patriots 21, Steelers 17.



DECISION OF THE WEEK



Green Bay at Washington. It's been a tradition since 1936: Whenever the Redskins have lost a home game right before the presidential election, the incumbent also has lost. So don't be surprised to see DC Democrats dressed up as Cheeseheads for Halloween.



I'm no maven of the political arena, however, so I will stick with the NFL stadium -- in this case, FedEx Field. The Redskins got Clinton Portis going before the bye week, and he should cause trouble for the Packers' front seven. The Pack finally have all their offense cogs clicking, led by Ahman Green, Brett Favre and Javon Walker, the league's leading receiver.



There will be plenty of blitzing from both sides, and the key will be which team responds better. Mark Brunell is more likely to make critical mistakes, while Green Bay will take advantage with screens to Green and big passes from Favre against single coverage. And, oh yeah, vote on Tuesday. Packers 23, Redskins 20.



ROY WILLIAMSES OF THE WEEK



Detroit at Dallas. Roy Williams, the Lions' rookie wide receiver, continues to be a big-time playmaker. Roy Williams, the Cowboys' strong safety, is trying to make more plays for a defense that has plummeted from No. 1 in the league last season to 25th this season.



So much for Detroit's road woes -- the team is 3-0 away from Ford Field this season. The Lions even found their missing running game last week. Their Roy Williams will break free often against a suspect secondary, which will take the other Roy Williams away from run support. Bill Parcells is a great coach, but Steve Mariucci is currently doing a better job. Lions 23, Cowboys 20.



SCARE OF THE WEEK



Baltimore at Philadelphia. The undefeated Eagles usually grab headlines for the play of Donovan McNabb and Terrell Owens, but to be the better birds this week, it's on their defense.



The points won't come so easy. Ray Lewis will have more tricks than treats for T.O., who spurned Baltimore in the offseason. The rest of the speedy Ravens will swarm to the ball to keep Philly's West Coast passing game in check.



The Eagles' defense needs to feed off the energy of its home crowd and put together a dominant performance against Kyle Boller -- sacks, turnovers and even some points. Boller won't have Jonathan Ogden and Jamal Lewis to give him support, so it should be a field day for blitzing. Eagles 20, Ravens 16.



SHOOTOUT OF THE WEEK



Indianapolis at Kansas City. You were expecting something else? Peyton Manning and the Colts didn't punt once in scoring 38 points in last season's divisional playoff win at Arrowhead, while Priest Holmes and the Chiefs fell just one possession short of tying it up.



Neither team did much to improve its defense personnel-wise in the offseason, while both offenses stayed intact. Indy will do much of its damage from Manning's hands to keep up with what Holmes does on the ground. The bad news for the hosts: The Colts also have Edgerrin James, who will help them control the clock late. Colts 38, Chiefs 35.



UPSET OF THE WEEK



Jacksonville over Houston. OK, this is as mild as an upset as they come, but the 5-2 AFC South-leading Jags continue to get no respect. They've won at Tennessee, they've won at Indianapolis, and it's time to make it a trifecta of division road games.



This should be an exciting display of offense with quarterbacks David Carr and Byron Leftwich trading blows with big plays downfield. The difference will be a healthy Fred Taylor and the running game -- Houston's backfield is too banged up to whittle the clock and keep the ball away from Leftwich in the clutch. Jaguars 27, Texans 24.



LOCK OF THE WEEK



Seattle over Carolina. The Seahawks, losers of three consecutive games, are looking for some kind of spark to get back on track. Returning home to play the banged-up and listless Panthers will be exactly that.



Jake Delhomme has limited options around him as Steve Smith, Stephen Davis and DeShaun Foster have all succumbed to injuries. The Panthers' run defense is very vulnerable without tackle Kris Jenkins anchoring the middle.



Matt Hasselbeck also has struggled, but Mike Holmgren plans to simplify the Seahawks' offense to take pressure off his young QB. That means Shaun Alexander to the rescue with a monster ground game. Seahawks 30, Panthers 13.



REST OF THE WEEK



New York Giants at Minnesota. The Giants' defense and Daunte Culpepper both came back to earth last week, but only one of them will struggle this week. Culpepper, with the help of a healthy Randy Moss and a continued prolific running game, will burn the G-Men's back seven all over the field. Unfortunately for Kurt Warner, he doesn't have the same supporting cast to keep his team up to speed on the scoreboard. Vikings 31, Giants 20.



Cincinnati at Tennessee. The Bengals' finally got their Johnson & Johnson attack going last week, while the Titans sputtered again without Steve McNair. But away from Paul Brown, Chris Brown will get the better of Cincy's run defense as Jeff Fisher's team rebounds from a bad road loss. Titans 26, Bengals 24.



Arizona at Buffalo. The Cards ran up the charges in shocking the 'Hawks, which means they need to pay the Bills this week. The hosts' buffaloed offense will offer enough free gifts to keep Dennis Green's team in the game, but their own defense will enjoy a bigger cashback bonus. Bills 13, Cardinals 10.



Atlanta at Denver. The Falcons' formerly top run defense was exposed by the league's best offensive line in KC last week, and the Broncos' pulling, trapping and blocking front five plays nearly at the same level to open holes for Reuben Droughns. Denver's D also will be fired up and aggressive vs. Michael Vick after last week's bungle in the Jungle. Broncos 24, Falcons 13.



Oakland at San Diego. Suddenly, with the emergence of Drew Brees, tight end Antonio Gates and backup back Jesse Chatman and the addition of Keenan McCardell, the Bolts aren't all about LaDainian Tomlinson anymore. Of course, that's until this week, when LT runs all over the Raiders -- a team he rushed for 430 yards against last season. Chargers 27, Raiders 21.



San Francisco at Chicago. Jim McMahon, Vince Evans, Mike Tomczak and Peter Tom Willis are all waiting by the phone just in case the Bears need another quarterback. The 49ers' passing game had similar concerns heading into the season -- Tim Rattay has answered those. 49ers 24, Bears 15.



Miami at New York Jets. I guess the producers of Monday Night Football were hoping for another "Miracle in the Meadowlands" when they scheduled this game. And that's what it will take for the punchless Fins to put together another solid performance and win back-to-back games. Jets 17, Dolphins 10.



BYES OF THE WEEK



The Browns might not finish on the bright side of .500, but they won't go down without a fight. Jeff Garcia has given them a gritty, gutty leader, and they can't be taken lightly on any given week. ...



The Saints can't be counted out in the NFC South race, considering Atlanta's offensive struggles. They just need to -- surprise -- be more consistent. Their own offense needs to pump itself up for a big game at San Diego in Week 9. ...



The Buccaneers also have found a little offense with the combination of Brian Griese, Michael Clayton and Michael Pittman. Their defense, however, has a huge test ahead vs. Kansas City next week. ...



The Rams have made a habit of winning improbable games -- see Seattle in Week 5 -- and also losing ones they shouldn't -- see Miami last week. They should have no trouble getting up for next week's game -- a Super Bowl rematch with New England.



STATS OF THE WEEK



Week 7 record straight up: 9-5


Season record straight up: 61-41


Week 7 record vs. the spread: 10-4


Season record vs. the spread: 52-48-2


Locks (straight up): 7-0


Upsets (straight up): 3-4

[Blackbeard]

Espn.com staff picks(SU)

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/features/talent

[Blackbeard]

Espn.com Hector & Victor

Lions 20, @ Cowboys 13 More...

@ Texans 23, Jaguars 21 More...

Colts 31, @ Chiefs 27 More...

@ Vikings 24, Giants 17 More...

Bengals 17, @ Titans 10 More...

Packers 20, @ Redskins 17 More...

Patriots 17, @ Steelers 13 More...

@ Bills 16, Cardinals 13 More...

@ Seahawks 23, Panthers 13 More...

Raiders 31, @ Chargers 27 More...

@ Broncos 24, Falcons 3 More...

@ Eagles 23, Ravens 0 More...

49ers 27, @ Bears 17 More...

@ Jets 20, Dolphins 10 More...

[Blackbeard]

USA Today/Jeff Zillgitt NFL

Arizona (+3) at Buffalo

Following Diamondbacks pitcher Randy Johnson's lead, Arizona QB Josh McCown will fire 100 mph passes at Larry Fitzgerald and Freddie Jones. And they will catch the ball.

Cardinals 20, Buffalo 14

***

Detroit (+3) at Dallas

As the Tigers improve, so do the Lions.

Speaking of football and baseball, when is Cowboys coach Bill Parcells going to give QB Drew Henson a shot?

Cowboys 24, Lions 20

***

Jacksonville (+1) at Houston

If the Texans can play as well at home as the Astros, then they might have a chance against Jacksonville. But probably, the Jags will pull it out in the bottom of the ninth as they have been doing all season.

Jaguars 20, Texans 17

***

Indianapolis (-1) at Kansas City

Two sluggers hack away at it in this contest. Whoever has the last at-bat, er, the last possession, will end up winning.

Chiefs 28, Colts 27

***

New York Giants (+6½) at Minnesota

Few quarterbacks can throw the home run ball like Minnesota's Daunte Culpepper.

Vikings 31, Giants 21

***

Baltimore (+8) at Philadelphia

This game will be the equivalent of Jim Thome taking batting practice.

Lock of the Week: Eagles 20, Ravens 10

***

Cincinnati (+3) at Tennessee

This game holds all the excitement of a 5-3, K, F-6 inning. (Just when it was starting to become Mike Brown joke time, the Bengals upset the Broncos on Monday Night Football.)

Upset special: Bengals 19, Titans 17

***

Green Bay (+2) at Washington

Washington now has a baseball team. We'll see Sunday if it still has a football team.

Redskins 27, Packers 24

***

Atlanta (+6½) at Denver

Maybe the Rocky Mountain air will help the Broncos' offense like it helps baseball teams at Coors Field.

Broncos 27, Falcons 20

***

Carolina (+8) at Seattle

Just as the Mariners' Ichiro Suzuki collects hits, Seahawks running back Shaun Alexander will amass rushing yards against the Panthers.

Seahawks 21, Panthers 14

***

New England (-3) at Pittsburgh

Tom Brady makes like Pedro Martinez and Curt Schilling. He carves up Pittsburgh.

Patriots 24, Steelers 20

***

Oakland (+6) at San Diego

Fans at this game will feel the Brees when the Raiders take big swings and miss against the Chargers.

Chargers 28, Raiders 21

***

San Francisco (+1½) at Chicago

Dusty Baker knows both teams well. Oh wait, this isn't a matchup of two decent baseball teams, it's a matchup of two awful football teams.

49ers 20, Bears 17

***

Miami (+6½) at New York Jets

Let's just says the Jets are the '86 Mets and the Dolphins are the '98 Marlins.

Jets 20, Dolphins 13

***

Last week: 9-5 straight up; 5-8-1 against the spread

Overall: 60-42; 49-47-5

Lock of the week: 4-2

Upset special: 2-4