Blacksheet

[Blackbeard]

Bettorschat or Wayne please sticky, thanks, BB

Note: this thread contains picks from major newspapers and sports websites. Feel free to post any other handicapping info like trends and stats, lets make some $$$$

[Blackbeard]

Mejia Ncaa fb

Last week: 14-13 | Season record: 460-155 (74.8 %) SU


Projected Scores
Week 15
Oklahoma 38 Colorado 17
Toledo 45 Miami (Ohio) 34
Auburn 24 Tennessee 6
California 36 Southern Mississippi 13
Pittsburgh 24 South Florida 23
Louisville 59 Tulane 24
Hawaii 38 Michigan State 34
Southern California 34 UCLA 17
Navy 27 Army 10
Miami (FLA.) 24 Virginia Tech 19

[Blackbeard]

Harmon Forecast NCAA

Game of the Week
Navy 21, Army 13
It's the 105th Army-Navy game, with Navy our eight-point favorite to win its third straight in this historic rivalry. How evenly matched have the Midshipmen and Cadets been over the generations? Army leads the series, which began in 1890, 49-48-7.



Week of Dec. 4
Major Colleges - Div. I-A
Auburn 29 Tennessee 14
California 36 *Southern Mississippi 10
Florida Atlantic 27 Florida International 9
Louisville 28 *Tulane 7
*Miami 21 Virginia Tech 19
Michigan State 29 *Hawaii 18
Navy 21 Army 13
Oklahoma 32 Colorado 13
Southern California 28 *UCLA 14
Toledo 21 Miami (Ohio) 19

[Blackbeard]

Harmon Forecast NFL

Week 13 - Sunday, Dec. 5, 2004
Atlanta 19 *Tampa Bay 13 - As we predicted three weeks ago, the Falcons’ defense cinched a 24-14 win over the Buccaneers, holding them to 68 rushing yards. Staying on the ground, Atlanta should dominate a so-so T.B. defensive line.
*Baltimore 21 Cincinnati 16 - As we predicted in Week Three, the Bengals gave up too much ground -- 186 yards to Jamal Lewis alone -- in losing to the Ravens 23-9. Still running, Baltimore will make it six for the last seven against Cincy.
Buffalo 22 *Miami 14 - In October the Bills sacked Jay Fiedler five times and ended a seven-game losing streak by beating the hapless Dolphins 20-13. Buffalo’s defense should lead it to its second sweep of Miami in three seasons.
Carolina 20 *New Orleans 17 - If the Panthers can avoid self-destructing on offense and disrupt the Saints’ passing, which is a lot to ask of them, they’ll beat N.O. Carolina has won three in a row in the series -- 19-13 and 23-20 in ’03.
Denver 27 *San Diego 21 - The Chargers fell to 1-9 in Denver since ’95 10 weeks ago, losing to the Broncos 23-13 in a game with just 122 rushing yards. S.D. knows only run defense, so look for Denver to go to the air and win again.
*Detroit 20 Arizona 15 - Scoring more points than they seem capable of this time around, the Lions ended a five-game Arizona series winning streak last year, 42-24. With both teams barely alive, this shapes up as a desperate battle.
*Indianapolis 32 Tennessee 17 - In Week Two the Colts sailed past the Titans with 21 points in the fourth quarter, 31-17. Tennessee can score on the inconsistent Indy defense to hold off a Peyton Manning-engineered blowout. Or maybe not.
Kansas City 24 *Oakland 18 - Sadly, the best thing about this matchup this year is that the standings don’t count; the rivalry is enough -- and the Chiefs’ offense should get the best of it. K.C. swept Oakland in ’03, 17-10 and 27-24.
Minnesota 28 *Chicago 21 - Another Week Three rematch, and a very big game for the Vikings, who’ve lost three straight in Chicago. In September Daunte Culpepper threw for two TD’s and ran for one as Minnesota outlasted the Bears 27-22.
New England 25 *Cleveland 12 - Hardly the foe the Browns need after they scored 48 points and lost, then changed coaches. Last year the Patriots’ defense ruled in a 9-3, all-kickers affair, allowing Cleveland to cross midfield only once.
N.Y. Giants 13 *Washington 7 The Giants beat the Redskins in September, 20-14, forcing seven Redskins turnovers. With a passing attack that doesn’t scare Washington, now-desperate N.Y. needs more than the 62 rushing yards it gained then.
*N.Y. Jets 24 Houston 20 With a restless Chad Pennington making noises about making his return -- it’s time, because the Jets’ air game needs work -- N.Y. is feeling cocky. Down 14-0 to Houston in ’03, the Jets came back to win 19-14.
*Philadelphia 32 Green Bay 28 - The game of the week, with more throw-and-catch talent than either secondary can handle. The Eagles -- who beat the Packers twice last year -- have the defensive edge, but how do you pick against Brett Favre?
Pittsburgh 18 *Jacksonville 13 - Talk about evenly matched series: Jacksonville leads this one 8-7, but the Steelers won most recently, in ’02. Pittsburgh needs to run well to tie it, though, and the Jags’ defensive line will make that tough.
*St. Louis 23 San Francisco 9 - Nine weeks ago the Rams limited the 49ers to just 58 yards on the ground in a 24-14 victory. There are no guarantees with St. Louis’s ragtag D, but this should complete its fourth sweep of S.F. in six years.
Week 13 - Monday, Dec. 6, 2004
*Seattle 26 Dallas 14 While the Cowboys have been wildly inconsistent without the ball, the Seahawks -- who should be able to run Dallas over -- are trying too hard not to sink to the ’Boys’ level. Seattle won last, in ’02, 17-14.

[Blackbeard]

CBS Sportsline expert picks NCAA (SU) & NFL (ATS)

http://www.sportsline.com/collegefootball/expertpicks

http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/NFL_SC-PRED

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Sun Times NFL

BY JEFF AGREST

BENGALS AT RAVENS
Time: Noon.
Records: Bengals 5-6; Ravens 7-4.
Line: Ravens by 61/2.
Trends: Since 2001, the Ravens are 18-5 ATS coming off a loss, including 3-0 this season. ... The Ravens are 8-2 ATS in the teams' last 10 meetings.
Outlook: This was the problem with my Sunday night success: Before I was even aware I had such success, I was 8-0 ATS. Afterward, I went 1-1-1, with the Raiders' comeback against the Broncos handing me loss No. 1 last week. It's like enjoying a foreign dish but preferring not to know the ingredients. The handicapping gods were doing me a favor, and I exploited them. So let's try a Sunday afternoon game. The trend above is one of the strongest around. The last time the Ravens lost consecutive regular-season games ATS was Weeks 1-2 in 2002. They've covered with ease in their last seven home meetings with the Bengals, who don't figure to score 58 points again. Led by LB Ray Lewis (right), the Ravens have allowed 14.9 points per game, tied for the league low.
Pick: Ravens 24, Bengals 6.


VIKINGS AT BEARS
Time: Noon, Fox-32, 780-AM.
Records: Vikings 7-4; Bears 4-7.
Line: Vikings by 7.
Trends: The Vikings are 6-2 ATS in their last eight games. ... The Bears are 2-7 ATS in their last nine December games.
Outlook: The Bears usually give the Vikings problems, but there's little evidence they can here. The Vikings have covered in both of their games as a road favorite this season after failing to in nine of their previous 11.
Pick: Vikings 28, Bears 16.





TEXANS AT JETS
Time: Noon.
Records: Texans 5-6; Jets 8-3.
Line: Jets by 7.
Trends: The Jets are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 December games. ... The Texans are 4-8 ATS in their last 12 road games.
Outlook: There's a good chance QB Chad Pennington (shoulder) could return this week. But even if Quincy Carter starts, the Jets' offense should be revitalized against the Texans' 29th-ranked defense.
Pick: Jets 24, Texans 16.





PATRIOTS AT BROWNS
Time: Noon.
Records: Patriots 10-1; Browns 3-8.
Line: Patriots by 10.
Trend: The Patriots are 22-4-3 ATS in their last 29 games overall.
Outlook: The Dolphins responded to a coaching change with a cover in Seattle. How will the Browns react? Let's just say having Butch Davis around another week wouldn't have made much difference.
Pick: Patriots 31, Browns 16.





CARDINALS AT LIONS
Time: Noon.
Records: Cardinals 4-7; Lions 4-7.
Line: Lions by 6.
Outlook: There wasn't much striking in the trend department. The personnel department is another story. The Cardinals will feature rookie QB John Navarre and rookie RB Larry Croom, both making their first start.
Pick: Lions 21, Cardinals 12.





TITANS AT COLTS
Time: Noon.
Records: Titans 4-7; Colts 8-3.
Line: Colts by 101/2.
Trend: The Colts are 7-13 ATS in their last 20 games coming off three or more consecutive wins ATS.
Outlook: It's about time the Colts taste some of their own medicine. Titans QB Steve McNair, who shared the 2003 MVP with Colts QB Peyton Manning, will be happy to oblige.
Pick: Colts 34, Titans 31.





FALCONS AT BUCCANEERS
Time: Noon.
Records: Falcons 9-2; Bucs 4-7.
Line: Buccaneers by 1-1/2.
Trend: The Falcons are 3-1 ATS in their last four road games.
Outlook: The Buccaneers' defense ranks fifth in the league, but QB Michael Vick has looked awfully good and should give the Bucs fits.
Pick: Falcons 23, Buccaneers 21.


PANTHERS AT SAINTS
Time: Noon.
Records: Panthers 4-7; Saints 4-7.
Line: Saints by 1-1/2.
Trends: The Panthers are 4-1 ATS on the road this season and 3-0 ATS in their last three trips to New Orleans.
Outlook: Last season, the onus wasn't on QB Jake Delhomme to carry the Panthers. This season, because of injuries, it is, and he has responded. Delhomme should exploit the league's worst pass defense.
Pick: Panthers 27, Saints 24.





CHIEFS AT RAIDERS
Time: 3:05 p.m.
Records: Chiefs 3-8; Raiders 4-7.
Line: Pick 'em.
Trend: The Raiders are 7-19-1 ATS in their last 27 games.
Outlook: Despite a nightmarish season, the Chiefs remain competitive, and they'll be rewarded here. Neither defense has played well, but the Chiefs have more balance on offense.
Pick: Chiefs 41, Raiders 38.





GIANTS AT REDSKINS
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Records: Giants 5-6; Redskins 3-8.
Line: Redskins by 2.
Trends: This season, the Redskins are 1-4 ATS as a favorite and 0-3 ATS in their division.
Outlook: If only the Redskins' offense was as productive as their defense. But they're averaging a league-low 12.5 points per game, and the Giants have the weapons to at least make a dent in that defense.
Pick: Giants 12, Redskins 11.





PACKERS AT EAGLES
Time: 3:15 p.m., Fox-32.
Records: Packers 7-4; Eagles 10-1.
Line: Eagles by 6.
Trend: In the last three years, the Packers are 7-1 ATS in road games after a game in which they committed one or fewer turnovers.
Outlook: The Eagles remain vulnerable against the run, allowing an average of 4.5 yards per rush. The Packers have broken 200 rushing yards in three of their last six games.
Pick: Packers 27, Eagles 26.





STEELERS AT JAGUARS
Time: 7:30 p.m., ESPN, 670-AM.
Records: Steelers 10-1; Jaguars 6-5.
Line: Steelers by 3.
Trend: The Steelers are 4-1 ATS on the road this season.
Outlook: QB Ben Roethlisberger has looked more like a rookie the last few weeks, but with strong play from the Steelers' defense and running game, it hasn't mattered.
Pick: Steelers 20, Jaguars 14.





COWBOYS AT SEAHAWKS
Time: 8 p.m., Ch. 7, 670-AM.
Records: Cowboys 4-7; Seahawks 6-5.
Line: Seahawks by 7 (42-1/2).
Trends: The over is 4-1 in the Cowboys' last five road games and 7-1 in the Seahawks' last eight overall.
Outlook: The over has had more success than these teams, both 4-7 ATS. The Seahawks' saving grace: RB Shaun Alexander.
Pick: Seahawks 28, Cowboys 14.


BILLS AT DOLPHINS
Time: Noon.
Records: Bills 5-6; Dolphins 2-9.
Line: Bills by 3-1/2.
Trends: The Bills are 6-2 ATS in their last eight games. ... The Dolphins are 1-10 ATS in their last 11 home games.
Outlook: This pick has nothing to do with the Dolphins' December doldrums, though they are 17-34 ATS in the month since 1992. These Dolphins would struggle in any month. The pick has more to do with the Bills' strong play of late, thanks to RB Willis McGahee, who should produce against the Dolphins' 29th-ranked run defense. The Bills also have been stifling on defense, save a blip against the Patriots. Besides, the Dolphins can't win two in a row, can they?
Pick: Bills 17, Dolphins 10.


49ERS AT RAMS
Time: Noon.
Records: 49ers 1-10; Rams 5-6.
Line: Rams by 101/2.
Trends: The 49ers have lost five in a row ATS. ... The Rams are 3-0-2 in the teams' last five meetings.
Outlook: The Rams are close to becoming the Saints. In other words, they have all kinds of talent but little to show for it. Some blame coach Mike Martz because of his rash decisions on offense, such as a seemingly stubborn refusal to run the ball consistently. But here, it won't matter how they move the ball. The 49ers are allowing a league-worst 29.1 points per game, and their offense has fallen apart. The Rams' 27.2 points against isn't much better, but the offense will win this one.
Pick: Rams 40, 49ers 24.


BRONCOS AT CHARGERS
Time: 3:05 p.m., Ch. 2, 1000-AM.
Records: Broncos 7-4; Chargers 8-3.
Line: Chargers by 3.
Trends: The Chargers are 9-1-1 ATS this season and 37-19 ATS coming off two or more consecutive victories ATS.
Outlook: I've picked the Chargers to cover in seven consecutive games and won them all, including the last three as top plays. These teams last met in Week 3, a 23-13 Broncos (-10) win. The Chargers have covered in every game since. The Broncos have had their way with Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson, holding him to an average of 57.5 yards in the last four meetings. But the Chargers haven't had the balance they now boast, or the confidence that has accompanied it.
Pick: Chargers 28, Broncos 23.

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Tribune/Terry Bannon NFL

LAST WEEK'S RECORD: 12-4. SEASON RECORD: 109-67. GAME OF WEEK: Packers vs. Eagles

Vikings (7-4) at Bears (4-7)

Line: Vikings by 7.
Last meeting: Vikings won 27-22 at Minnesota on Sept. 26, 2004.
Key stat: Bears have won last 3 home games vs. Vikings.
Players to watch: Chad Hutchinson, 2-7 as Cowboys' starter in '02, becomes Bears' fourth starting quarterback. Onterrio Smith, averaging 4.5 yards per carry, has emerged as Vikings' key runner.
The buzz: Vikings usually don't like cold, but this Minnesota team can win on road. Bears have shot if MLB Brian Urlacher returns from calf injury.
Bannon's pick: Vikings 20, Bears 14.

Cardinals (4-7) at Lions (4-7)
Time: Noon Sunday.
Line: Lions by 6.
Last meeting: Lions won 42-24 at Detroit on Sept. 7, 2003.
Key stat: Lions have gone 4 games without scoring 20 points, Cardinals 3.
Players to watch: Cardinals rookie QB John Navarre, 7th-round pick from Michigan, makes first start. Lions rookie Roy Williams has 35 catches, 5 for TDs.
The buzz: In game featuring 2 fading teams, Lions have advantage with experienced quarterback, even though 5-game losing streak has built pressure on Joey Harrington.
Bannon's pick: Lions 24, Cardinals 20.

Bills (5-6) at Dolphins (2-9)
Time: Noon, Sunday.
Line: Bills by 3½.
Last meeting: Bills won 20-13 at Buffalo on Oct. 17, 2004.
Key stat: Bills have won 4 of 5, scoring at least 37 points 3 times.
Players to watch: Bills' Eric Moulds having a good year, with 63 catches, 4 for TDs. Jason Taylor leads Dolphins with 7½ sacks.
The buzz: Running of Willis McGahee, with 5 100-yard games, has made Bills team to be dealt with. Will that big win at San Francisco go to Dolphins' heads?
Bannon's pick: Bills 24, Dolphins 17.

Texans (5-6) at Jets (8-3)
Time: Noon, Sunday.
Line: OFF.
Last meeting: Jets won 19-14 at Houston on Oct. 19, 2003.
Key stat: Jets have been held to 17 or fewer points in 5 of last 6 games.
Players to watch: Jets' Curtis Martin having another big year with 1,171 yards, 4.5 average. Texans' Andre Johnson has 61 catches, 5 for TDs.
The buzz: Jets chasing Pats in AFC East, but realistic goal is wild-card berth. Jets QB Chad Pennington may return from shoulder injury. Texans QB David Carr could struggle against this defense.
Bannon's pick: Jets 23, Texans 17.

Titans (4-7) at Colts (8-3)
Time: Noon, Sunday.
Line: Colts by 10½.
Last meeting: Colts won 31-17 at Tennessee on Sept. 19, 2004.
Key stat: Colts lead NFL in turnover differential with plus-17 (29 takeaways, 12 giveaways).
Players to watch: Peyton Manning just 8 TD passes from breaking Dan Marino's single-season record of 48. Titans' Derrick Mason leads NFL with 70 catches, 5 for TDs.
The buzz: Colts have scored at least 41 points in last 3 games, and beaten-up Titans won't be able to slow them down.
Bannon's pick: Colts 40, Titans 20.

Bengals (5-6) at Ravens (7-4)
Time: Noon, Sunday.
Line: Ravens by 6½.
Last meeting: Ravens won 23-9 at Cincinnati on Sept. 26, 2004.
Key stat: Ravens have won 11 of last 13 meetings.
Players to watch: Bengals' Rudi Johnson, who rushed for 98 yards in 1st Ravens game, averaging 4.2 yards per carry. Ravens' Kyle Boller muddling along with 7 TD passes, 7 interceptions.
The buzz: Talk about change of environment for Bengals, who scored 58 against Browns last week. It would take 4 games to get that against Ravens' defense, which will control game.
Bannon's pick: Ravens 21, Bengals 13.

49ers (1-10) at Rams (5-6)
Time: Noon, Sunday.
Line: Rams by 10½.
Last meeting: Rams won 24-14 at San Francisco on Oct. 3, 2004.
Key stat: Rams have won 3 of last 4 meetings.
Players to watch: Rams' Marc Bulger having solid year, leading NFL with 3,267 yards passing. Kevan Barlow getting just 3.2 yards per carry for 49ers.
The buzz: With 4 losses in 5 games, Rams are reeling. But there's no medicine like visit from worst team in league.
Bannon's pick: Rams 33, 49ers 20.

Falcons (9-2) at Bucs (4-7)
Time: Noon, Sunday.
Line: Bucs by 1½.
Last meeting: Falcons won 24-14 at Atlanta on Nov. 14, 2004.
Key stat: Bucs have won 3 straight at home (Bears, Chiefs, 49ers).
Players to watch: Tight end Alge Crumpler, who had 4 catches for 118 yards and TD against Bucs 3 weeks ago, leads Falcons with 43 catches. Bucs' Brian Griese has been steady with TD-interception ratio of 12-5.
The buzz: Bucs have gone 4-3 since Griese took over and can still climb into wild-card race. If they can keep Michael Vick in pocket, they can win.
Bannon's pick: Bucs 20, Falcons 17.

Panthers (4-7) at Saints (4-7)
Time: Noon Sunday.
Line: Saints by 1½.
Last meeting: Panthers won 23-20 (OT) at New Orleans on Oct. 26, 2003.
Key stat: Panthers have won last three meetings.
Players to watch: Nick Goings averaging 4.5 yards per carry for Panthers. Deuce McAllister getting 4.1 for Saints.
The buzz: Panthers have won last 3 and climbed back into playoff race. With Goings producing, Panthers have chance at .500 finish.
Bannon's pick: Panthers 27, Saints 24.

Patriots (10-1) at Browns (3-8)
Time: Noon, Sunday.
Line: OFF.
Last meeting: Patriots won 9-3 at New England on Oct. 26, 2003.
Key stat: Patriots have won 47 of 48 in which they've had 14-point lead.
Players to watch: Corey Dillon averaging 4.8 yards per carry for Patriots. William Green getting just 4.1 for Browns.
The buzz: Terry Robiskie takes over as Browns' interim coach, but with same underachieving players. Browns' quarterbacks are playing hurt, so Pats should cruise.
Bannon's pick: Patriots 30, Browns 16.

Broncos (7-4) at Chargers (8-3)
Time: WBBM-Ch. 2, WMVP-AM 1000, 3:05 p.m. Sunday.
Line: Chargers by 3.
Last meeting: Broncos won 23-13 at Denver on Sept. 26, 2004.
Key stat: Broncos have won 5 of last 6 meetings.
Players to watch: 2 quarterbacks having good seasons: Broncos' Jake Plummer has 22 TDs vs. 11 interceptions; Chargers' Drew Brees has 21 TD passes vs. 3 interceptions.
The buzz: Reuben Droughns, averaging 4.7 yards per carry, and Plummer, who has 8 TD passes in last 3 games vs. Chargers, will lead Broncos to share of 1st place in AFC West.
Bannon's pick: Broncos 27, Chargers 24.

Chiefs (3-8) at Raiders (4-7)
Time: 3:05 p.m. Sunday.
Line: OFF.
Last meeting: Chiefs won 27-24 at Kansas City on Dec. 23, 2003.
Key stat: Chiefs have won 3 of last 4 meetings.
Players to watch: Chiefs' Derrick Blaylock averaging 4.9 yards per carry. Raiders' Jerry Porter has 44 catches for 15-yard average and 4 TDs.
The buzz: Raiders, especially QB Kerry Collins, showed lot of heart in Sunday night's win in snow at Denver. Chiefs in trouble if QB Trent Green can't play.
Bannon's pick: Raiders 24, Chiefs 17.

Giants (5-6) at Redskins (3-8)
Time: 3:15 p.m. Sunday.
Line: Redskins by 2.
Last meeting: Giants won 20-14 at New York on Sept. 19, 2004.
Key stat: Giants have won 4 of last 5 meetings.
Players to watch: Giants' Tiki Barber having another big season, averaging 5.1 yards per carry. Redskins' Clinton Portis having disappointing year, getting only 3.9.
The buzz: Giants have been outscored 41-16 and are 0-2 with Eli Manning as starter. Redskins also have lost last 2 with QB Patrick Ramsey, but they have NFL's 2nd-ranked defense to cover for him.
Bannon's pick: Redskins 20, Giants 17.

Packers (7-4) at Eagles (10-1)
Time: WFLD-Ch. 32, 3:15 p.m., Sunday.
Line: Eagles by 6.
Last meeting: Eagles won 20-17 (OT) in NFC divisional playoff at Philadelphia on Jan. 11, 2004.
Key stat: Eagles have allowed only 14.9 points per game, tied for lowest in NFL.
Players to watch: Classic QB battle: Packers' Brett Favre (22 TD passes) vs. Eagles' Donovan McNabb (23).
The buzz: Packers take 6-game win streak to site of their playoff disaster, where they let Eagles convert 4th-and-26 to tie game. Packers are hotter, but Eagles' defense can contain Favre.
Bannon's pick: Eagles 27, Packers 24.

Steelers (10-1) at Jaguars (6-5)
Time: ESPN, WSCR-AM 670, 7:30 p.m. Sunday.
Line: Steelers by 3.
Last meeting: Steelers won 25-23 at Jacksonville on Dec. 1, 2002.
Key stat: Steelers lead NFL in total defense, allowing just 244.2 yards per game.
Players to watch: Duce Staley, averaging 4.7 yards per carry, returns to lineup after missing 4 games with sore hamstring. Fred Taylor quietly having good year for Jaguars, getting 4.8 per carry.
The buzz: Steelers have relied on defense in recent weeks, and Jaguars lack firepower to pull off upset—unless they pull off few big plays.
Bannon's pick: Steelers 24, Jaguars 20.

Cowboys (4-7) at Seahawks (6-5)
Time: WLS-Ch. 7, WSCR-AM 670, 8 p.m.
Line: Seahawks by 7.
Last meeting: Seahawks won 17-14 at Dallas on Oct. 27, 2002.
Key stat: Seahawks only 3-2 at home, beating 49ers, Panthers and Dolphins.
Players to watch: After coming off bench to beat Bears, Vinny Testaverde returns as Cowboys' starter. Seahawks' Shaun Alexander continues to lead league with 1,190 yards rushing (5.0 avg.).
The buzz: Gut-check time for Seahawks, who need this 1 badly with games vs. Vikings, Jets and Falcons still left. Desperation always motivator.
Bannon's pick: Seahawks 27, Cowboys 17.

[Blackbeard]

Dallas news nfl & ncaa staff picks

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcont...cks.6baa3.html


http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcont...cks.641c9.html

[Blackbeard]

Miami herald/Greg Cote NFL picks

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

I give the Dolphonics a large shot at an outright upset here. Not because Miami is surfing its one-game win streak toward an epiphany. Rather, because Buffalo is on a roll, fresh off a 38-9 dismantling of Seattle, and setting out to play four straight games against opponents who are a combined 11-33. Billies are liable to arrive overconfident and on auto-pilot, in other words. Plus, Aquas had won six of past seven in series before Buffs got by 20-13 in October. Might have pulled the trigger for the home 'dog if Zach Thomas weren't out injured. Now, there'll be no stopping Willis McGahee.

• Cote says: Bills, 24-20.
• Favorite: Bills by 3 ½.
• Stars: * ½
• Records: Bills 5-6; Dolphins 2-9.
• Bills injuries: RB Travis Henry (ankle) is out; WR Josh Reed (knee) and CB Troy Vincent (knee) are questionable.
• Dolphins injuries: LB Tony Bua (quadriceps) and LB Zach Thomas (hamstring) are out; RB Sammy Morris (ribs) is doubtful; G Jeno James (knee) is questionable.


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

TEXANS AT JETS
1 p.m. Sunday

Houston is on far, far edge of playoff contention and desperate. But Planes are 4-1 at home, with a coalescing defense that has allowed a total of 10 points in past two games. Now (though he's officially questionable) they get QB Chad Pennington back after three games' injury absence.

• Cote says: Jets, 30-20.
• Favorite: Off the board.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Texans 5-6; Jets 8-3.
• Texans injuries: RB Tony Hollings (hamstring) is doubtful; LB Jay Foreman (shoulder) and S Jason Simmons (head) are questionable.
• Jets injuries: WR Jerricho Cotchery (hamstring), LB Victor Hobson (ankle) and QB Chad Pennington (right shoulder) are questionable.


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

TITANS AT COLTS
1 p.m. Sunday

Duel of last season's league co-MVPs finds Peyton Manning on record-breaking pace and headed for another MVP award, while Steve McNair slogs through an injury-wracked off-year and threatens retirement. Indy beat Tenners by 14 in September, and Colts have amassed 131 points in past three games. So it's a plain hunch that tells me Peyton's offense is due a mortal week.

• Cote says: Colts, 24-17.
• Favorite: Colts by 10 ½.
• Stars: * * ½
• Records: Titans 4-7; Colts 8-3.
• Titans injuries: T Brad Hopkins (hand), S Lance Schulters (foot) and CB Andre Woolfolk (wrist) are out; CB Tony Beckham (knee), LB Rocky Boiman (calf), RB Chris Brown (toe), DT Albert Haynesworth (elbow), DT Rien Long (knee), QB Steve McNair (sternum), T Fred Miller (ankle), CB Samari Rolle (knee) and LB Cody Spencer (abdomen) are questionable.
• Colts injuries: S Bob Sanders (knee) and DE Josh Thomas (knee) are out; G Tupe Peko (ankle) is doubtful; CB Nick Harper (head) and C Jeff Saturday (calf) are questionable.


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

BENGALS AT RAVENS
1 p.m. Sunday

Can you say ''hitting a brick wall?'' Cincy hammers 58 nails in Butch Davis' coaching coffin a week ago, and now confronts maybe the NFL's finest defense in the frenzied men of ex-Canes Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. You are in for a serious downsizing, Rudi Johnson.

• Cote says: Ravens, 27-10.
• Favorite: Ravens by 7.
• Stars: * * ½
• Records: Bengals 5-6; Ravens 7-4.
• Bengals injuries: DT Matthias Askew (knee) is out; S Rogers Beckett (neck), RB Chris Perry (abdomen), DE Carl Powell (knee) and WR Cliff Russell (head) are questionable.
• Ravens injuries: RB Jamal Lewis (ankle), CB Deion Sanders (foot) and P Dave Zastudil (shoulder) are doubtful; LB Cornell Brown (infection), T Orlando Brown (knee), TE Todd Heap (ankle), CB Chris McAlister (shoulder), RB Alan Ricard (knee) and LB Bart Scott (ankle) are questionable.


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

PATRIOTS AT BROWNS
1 p.m. Sunday

Game went off betting board because both Cleve QBs ( Jeff Garcia's shoulder, Kelly Holcomb's ribs) are iffy. Like it matters? Earthtones have lost three straight home games as interim guy Terry Robiskie takes over after Butch Davis (wink, wink) ''resigned.'' Home Dawgs aren't a terrible hunch -- Pats are due an off-week, and only beat Cleveland 9-3 last year -- but game is off the charts in terms of talent disparity.

• Cote says: Patriots, 31-13.
• Favorite: Off the board.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Patriots 10-1; Browns 3-8.
• Patriots injuries: CB Ty Law (foot) is out; CB Tyrone Poole (knee) is doubtful; LB Roman Phifer (calf), CB Asante Samuel (shoulder) and LB Mike Vrabel (foot) are questionable.
• Browns injuries: WR Andre' Davis (toe/injured reserve), QB Jeff Garcia (shoulder), QB Kelly Holcomb (ribs), CB Michael Lehan (hamstring), CB Daylon McCutcheon (shoulder) and RB Lee Suggs (toe) are questionable.


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

BRONCOS AT CHARGERS
4:05 p.m. Sunday

Mucho grande game in the playoff race, with AFC West lead at stake -- and an upset in store. The red-hot Chargers -- still a phrase that trips queerly off the tongue -- are overdue for a stumble, as is Drew Brees. Broncs have won 12 of past 15 in series, including by 10 in September, when Brees and LaDainian Tomlinson both were held in check. Hunch Stallions with a nice bounceback after tough, blocked-FG loss to Raiders.

• Cote says: Broncos, 30-27.
• Favorite: Chargers by 3.
• Stars: * * * ½
• Records: Broncos 7-4; Chargers 8-3.
• Broncos injuries: DE Trevor Pryce (back) is out; DT Luther Elliss (calf) is doubtful.
• Chargers injuries: CB Sammy Davis (lower leg fracture) is out.


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

CHIEFS AT RAIDERS
4:05 p.m. Sunday

KayCee has lost four straight, is 1-4 away from home, doesn't play defense, is still missing Priest Holmes, and now might also be without QB Trent Green (ribs). There is every reason to like the Oakies, coming off a big win and on a 6-3 run in series. But this is the NFL, where willy is nilly. So watch Dick Vermeil sit bolt upright in his coffin.

• Cote says: Chiefs, 37-34.
• Favorite: Off the board.
• Stars: * ½
• Records: Chiefs 3-8; Raiders 4-7.
• Chiefs injuries: DE Vonnie Holliday (groin) and RB Priest Holmes (knee) are out; S Greg Wesley (hamstring) and TE Kris Wilson (ankle) are doubtful; LB Monty Beisel (calf), QB Trent Green (ribs), DT Junior Siavii (ankle) and S Jerome Woods (knee) are questionable.
• Raiders injuries: TE Courtney Anderson (knee), WR Johnnie Morant (foot), LB Travian Smith (knee), G Ron Stone (knee) and RB Tyrone Wheatley (hamstring/foot) are out; S Marques Anderson (quadriceps) and DE Tyler Brayton (neck) are doubtful; WR Alvis Whitted (hip) is questionable.


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

STEELERS AT JAGUARS
8:30 p.m. Sunday, ESPN

Prime-time matchup is tasty like a Big-MAC: Miami of Ohio's Ben Roethlisberger vs. Marshall's Byron Leftwich. Tempting to like Jaggers -- they're more desperate to hang on in playoff chase, and Pitters are due a stubbed toe after nine straight wins -- but the Cowhers bring a balanced offense that dominates clocks, and a run defense that will suffocate Fred Taylor.

• Cote says: Steelers, 23-13.
• Favorite: Steelers by 3.
• Stars: * * *
• Records: Steelers 10-1; Jaguars 6-5.
• Steelers injuries: LB Kendrell Bell (groin), DE Brett Keisel (hamstring) and CB Chad Scott (knee) are out; WR Plaxico Burress (hamstring), RB Verron Haynes (knee) and CB Chidi Iwuoma (hamstring) are questionable.
• Jaguars injuries: WR Jermaine Lewis (concussion) and DE Rob Meier (ankle) are out; CB Juran Bolden (groin) is questionable.


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

NFC
CARDINALS AT LIONS
1 p.m. Sunday

Redbirds are beset with key injuries and 1-5 on the road. Lions are 1-5 at home. Can we just call this a tie and skip it altogether? Hunch a big Motown show, but mostly because Arizona's QB and RB are rookie nobodies John Navarre and Larry Croom. This is the NFL, right?

• Cote says: Lions, 27-10.
• Favorite: Lions by 6.
• Stars: *
• Records: Cardinals 4-7; Lions 4-7.
• Cardinals injuries: RB Emmitt Smith (toe) is questionable.
• Lions injuries: LB Boss Bailey (knee) and WR Eddie Drummond (shoulder) are out; DE Jared DeVries (groin) is questionable.


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

VIKINGS AT BEARS
1 p.m. Sunday

Quarterback-challenged Pandas are down to Chad Hutchinson, in his first action of '04, after a grand total of two passes last year. Vikes? They have Daunte Culpepper. One caveat: Chitown tends to play Minny tough, as in a 27-22 September loss.

• Cote says: Vikings, 24-13.
• Favorite: Vikings by 7.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Vikings 7-4; Bears 4-7.
• Vikings injuries: C Matt Birk (abdomen) is out; LB Raonall Smith (concussion) is doubtful.
• Bears injuries: T John Tait (knee) is doubtful; DT Tommie Harris (ankle), RB Bryan Johnson (foot), LB Marcus Reese (foot) and LB Brian Urlacher (leg) are questionable.


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

49ERS AT RAMS
1 p.m. Sunday

Stumbling, bumbling, fumbling Niners are 0-5 on the road and facing an angry St. Lou team out to get past its Monday embarrassment and (despite being 5-6) stay in control in playoff chase. StL only beat Frans by 24-14 in October, but this one could get ugly.

• Cote says: Rams, 42-21.
• Favorite: Rams by 10 ½.
• Stars: *
• Records: 49ers 1-10; Rams 5-6.
• 49ers injuries: C Jeremy Newberry (back/knee) and CB Ahmed Plummer (neck) are out; LB Ray Wells (ankle) is questionable.
• Rams injuries: G Chris Dishman (knee) is out; CB Dejuan Groce (knee) is doubtful; S Aeneas Williams (neck) is questionable.


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

FALCONS AT BUCCANEERS
1 p.m. Sunday, Ch. 29

Betting line tells you all you need to know about NFL parity: that a Bucs team set to watch the playoffs on TV would be favored over 9-2 Falcons. Mike Vick's gang is 4-1 on road, beat TeeBees 24-14 only three weeks ago, and deserves respect. Birds will run on Bucs and clinch first division title since '98.

• Cote says: Falcons, 20-17.
• Favorite: Bucs by 1 ½.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Falcons 9-2; Buccaners 4-7.
• Falcons injuries: WR Brian Finneran (ankle) and CB Jason Webster (groin) are questionable.
• Buccaneers injuries: S Jermaine Phillips (arm) is out.


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

PANTHERS AT SAINTS
1 p.m. Sunday

Here are two teams needing a miracle to make a playoff run, and looking for a vision in a grilled cheese sandwich, perhaps. Carols have won three straight, but too late. Hunch that N'Awlins rents some pride and brings Jim Haslett a W for his last meal en route to the coaching gallows.

• Cote says: Saints, 28-21.
• Favorite: Saints by 1 ½.
• Stars: *
• Records: Panthers 4-7; Saints 4-7.
• Panthers injuries: LB Dan Morgan (concussion) is doubtful; LB Brian Allen (pectoral), DT Brentson Buckner (knee) and WR Karl Hankton (hamstring) are questionable.
• Saints injuries: LB Derrick Rodgers (back) is doubtful; LB Colby Bockwoldt (shoulder), LB Sedrick Hodge (knee), G Montrae Holland (foot), G Kendyl Jacox (knee) and WR Michael Lewis (ankle) are questionable.


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

GIANTS AT REDSKINS
4:15 p.m. Sunday

Once-proud franchises have lost seven straight between them as Tom Coughlin and Joe Gibbs remember how nice life used to be as a former coach. Remarkably, Biggies still are playoff-chasing in the weak NFC, but going nowhere fast.

• Cote says: Redskins, 23-20.
• Favorite: Redskins by 2.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Giants 5-6; Redskins 3-8.
• Giants injuries: DE Lorenzo Bromell (knee) and DE Chuck Wiley (knee) are out; DT Norman Hand (groin) and S Gibril Wilson (neck) are doubtful; LB Nick Greisen (ankle) and C Shaun O'Hara (ankle) are questionable.
• Redskins injuries: LB LaVar Arrington (knee) is out; G Randy Thomas (hamstring) is doubtful; DE Phillip Daniels (groin) and T Mark Wilson (knee) are questionable.


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

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

'AAAWWWK!'' carols the Upset Bird. ``Brett Fa-la-la-la-la-la-la-la-laawwk!'' Phils already have clinched their division and are due a hiccup. And part of it is that the smokin'-hot GeeBees are 4-1 on the road and (especially with Ahman Green back) can run on 'Delphia. So make it Heads over Steaks in the Cheese Bowl. ``Steve Miller's `Fly Like an Eagle,' '' notes U-Bird, 'originally was called, `Fly Like a Packer.' AAWWK!''

• Cote says: Packers, 27-24.
• Favorite: Eagles by 6.
• Stars: * * * ½
• Records: Packers 7-4; Eagles 10-1.
• Packers injuries: RB Najeh Davenport (ribs) is questionable.
• Eagles injuries: RB Reno Mahe (ankle) and DE Jerome McDougle (knee) are doubtful; DE Derrick Burgess (ribs), G Artis Hicks (knee), G Jermane Mayberry (calf) and LB Nate Wayne (hamstring) are questionable.


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

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

Bill Parcells and Mike Holmgren are down on the field on all fours. Missing contact lens? No. Looking for their misplaced reputations. At least Seabirds still have a playoff shot. Like Space Needles on a bounceback, but see Team Tuna -- with extra time to prepare and with Vinny the T back pitching -- keeping it close.

• Cote says: Seahawks, 21-16.
• Favorite: Seahawks by 7.
• Stars: * *
• Records: Cowboys 4-7; Seahawks 6-5.
• Cowboys injuries: G Andre Gurode (knee) is questionable.
• Seahawks injuries: LB Chad Brown (knee) and LB Tracy White (hamstring) are out; RB Kerry Carter (ribs), DE Chike Okeafor (ankle) and CB Bobby Taylor (knee) are questionable.


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

How the Darts Landed
Another strong week against the betting line included outright upset calls on Texans over Titans and Panthers over Bucs. Also bull's-eyed Saints-with-points over Atlanta in our Bird call ("Aawwk!"), and Redskins-plus at Pittsburgh.

We're 22-9-1 vs. the spread the past two weeks, imbuing the Upset Bird with a cocky giddiness that is at once charming and annoying.

Overall vs. spread
Last Week 11-5, .688 11-5, .688
Season 112-64, .636 87-83-6, .511
Final 2003 161-105-1, .605 127-118-11, .518

[Blackbeard]

NY Post NFL & NCAA(not up yet) staff predictions

http://nypost.com/sports/betting/nflpicks.htm (Greg Gallo has best record ATS)

[Blackbeard]

USA Today/Jeff Zillgitt NFL

With five games remaining in the NFL season, the AFC playoffs are shaping up nicely with quality teams headed to the postseason.
San Diego, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh and New England are legitimate AFC title contenders. There are at least four other valid playoff teams — the New York Jets, Baltimore, Jacksonville and Denver. Houston is a fringe playoff team, especially with its 3-1 record in the AFC South.

The NFC, however, is a different story. Philadelphia might be the only real NFC title contender right now, but Green Bay and Atlanta certainly have the opportunity. Someone has to play the Eagles in the NFC Championship. But the rest of the NFC is a mess. Well, the Vikings might be OK, depending on Moss' availability.

After that, talk about wild cards.

St. Louis and Seattle, in the NFC West, have done little to make anyone believe they could win more than one playoff game. It's even possible a team that's 4-7 now will make the playoffs in the NFC.

The 5-6 Giants certainly don't look like a playoff team, not if Eli Manning continues to struggle. Carolina, a Super Bowl loser last season, is 4-7 and making a push for the playoffs after a weak start. The 4-7 Bucs have a chance, but with games against Atlanta, San Diego, Carolina and New Orleans, it seems unlikely they can reach eight or nine wins. It seems that way with all of the 4-7 NFC teams.

For argument's sake, say the Eagles, Packers, Falcons and Seahawks make the playoffs. That leaves two playoff spots, up for grabs for every team except the 49ers and Redskins. It's likely the Rams and the Vikings will step forward. But if one of those teams doesn't, who will?

It's doubtful the 4-7 Lions, Cowboys, Bears or Cardinals can do it. The 5-6 Giants, perhaps? Don't think they can do it either. That leaves the Saints, Bucs and Panthers. Until the Saints can stop giving up so many points and until the Bucs prove they can win on the road, the Panthers — with their experience and despite their injuries — have the best chance to sneak into the postseason.

***

Arizona (+6) at Detroit

If Dennis Green weren't playing musical quarterbacks, the Cardinals might have a better chance to win this game. But starting rookie QB John Navarre for the first time, after 11 weeks on the inactive list, on the road ... well, that's nary a formula for victory. Lions quarterback Joey Harrington needs to start playing better, or the Lions will be looking at a quarterback earlier in the draft than they had planned.

Lions 24, Cardinals 20

***

Atlanta (+2) at Tampa Bay

This is a perfect game for the Falcons to prove they are serious about a run at the NFC title. It's late in the season, on the road, against a team that's not as bad as its record indicates. This is Michael Vick's time to bolster his reputation.

Upset special: Falcons 23, Buccaneers 17

***

Buffalo (-3½) at Miami

We know which Miami team we're going to get. Good defense, bad offense. But which Bills team will show up? The one that has won four of its last five games, including three wins over possible playoff teams (Seattle, St. Louis and the Jets)? Or the one that is 1-4 on the road? I'm giving the Bills the benefit of the doubt.

Bills 21, Dolphins 14

***

Carolina (+1) at New Orleans

At his weekly press conference, Saints coach Jim Haslett did his best Jim Mora (must be something to that Nola voodoo): "I'm sick of it," Haslett said of his team's pre-snap penalties against the Falcons. "I'm sick of seeing it. I'm sick of watching it, just like our fans are.. .. I think it's bullcrap."

Panthers 24, Saints 21

***

Cincinnati (+7) at Baltimore

No way on earth the Bengals score 58. They won't hit 29. They probably won't hit 15.

Ravens 20, Bengals 14

***

Houston (no line) at New York Jets

Jets coach Herman Edwards, defensive coordinator Donnie Henderson and the Jets defense have not received enough credit. The Jets are one of eight teams allowing fewer than 300 yards per game, and they are third in scoring defense, yielding 15.3 points a game.

Jets 24, Texans 17

***

Minnesota (-7) at Chicago

For a team that has had to play with either Craig Krenzel or Jonathan Quinn at quarterback for most of the season and is now giving Chad Hutchinson his first start of the season after signing Jeff George earlier this week, the Bears have had an OK season.

That long-winded sentence leads to the inevitable — a Vikings win.

Vikings 28, Bears 20

***

New England (-7½) at Cleveland

Browns coach Butch Davis resigns and offensive coordinator Terry Robiskie takes over a team that just gave up 50-plus points, with the defending Super Bowl champs, the 10-1 Patriots, coming to town. Sounds like fun.

Lock of the Week: Patriots 30, Browns 20

***

San Francisco (+10½) at St. Louis

Rams quarterback Marc Bulger might throw 60 passes in this game.

Rams 34, 49ers 21

***

Tennessee (+10½) at Indianapolis

Manning throws a touchdown pass to James. Manning hits Harrison for his second touchdown. Manning to Stokley for another TD. Manning to Pollard. Manning to Clark. Manning to … Manning. He's on such a roll, he could pass it to himself like kids do when playing one-on-one football in the yard.

Colts 34, Titans 20

***

Denver (+3) at San Diego

Should be the best game of the week. Denver won the first meeting, sending the Chargers to 1-2. Chargers QB Drew Brees was on the verge of losing his job to rookie Philip Rivers. Since then, the Chargers are 7-1 and Brees, with 2,458 passing yards, 21 TDs and three INTs, has put himself in position to cash in on a big contract with a new team next season.

Chargers 31, Broncos 27

***

Kansas City (no line) at Oakland

The Raiders had no business beating the Broncos in snowy Denver on Sunday night. Likewise, the Raiders will have no business losing to the Chiefs at home this Sunday. Yet …

Chiefs 28, Raiders 24

***

Green Bay (+6) at Philadelphia

In what should be an interesting rematch of last year's NFC Divisional playoff game in Philadelphia, the outcome will be the same, an Eagles victory. I like the way the Packers are playing. I just like the Eagles a little more right now. These are the two hottest teams in the NFC, and it could be a preview of another NFC playoff game.

Eagles 24, Packers 20

***

New York Giants (+2) at Washington

The Bengals scored 58 points Sunday against Cleveland. The Redskins have scored 54 points ... in their last five games. But they should score enough to beat the Giants.

Redskins 20, Giants 17

***

Pittsburgh (-3) at Jacksonville

I just don't see the Steelers going 15-1 with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger winning every start as a rookie. But the Jaguars won't be the team to beat the Steelers. The Jaguars have been hampered by injuries, especially on the defensive line. The Steelers offensive line will dominate in the trenches, control the clock and protect Roethlisberger.

Steelers 24, Jaguars 20

***

Dallas (+7) at Seattle

This is not a game the Seahawks can afford to lose, especially after Sunday's home loss to Buffalo in a game quality teams win. With games on the road against Minnesota and the Jets and a home game against Atlanta, the Seahawks have little room for error. This was supposed to be another year of improvement after last season's 10-6 mark.

Seahawks 23, Cowboys 17

***

Last week: 11-5 straight up; 9-6 against the spread (no line was set for one game when I made my picks)

Overall: 102-74; 73-95-6

Upset Special: 3-8

Lock of the Week: 8-3

[Blackbeard]

USA Today/Eric Smith

No. 1 Southern California vs. UCLA, 4:30 p.m.

After continuing USC's domination of Notre Dame, Pete Carroll now gets to polish off the other big rival of the Trojans. The last three games have seen Southern Cal dominate by an average score of 42-14. Hmm, that sounds like a nice prediction. Southern California 42, UCLA 14.

No. 2 Oklahoma vs. Colorado, 8 p.m.

Gary Barnett and the Buffaloes have been one of the more amazing stories of the year. A Big 12 title game appearance and upcoming bowl game should help overshadow what will be a difficult night in Kansas City as the Sooners wrap up their third title game appearance in five years. Oklahoma 31, Colorado 7.

No. 3 Auburn vs. No. 15 Tennessee, 6 p.m.

Another year, another rematch in the SEC title game. The theory goes that the winning team has a disadvantage of trying to beat an opponent for the second time. However, the Volunteers are down to their third-string quarterback and the defense hasn't been able to contain Vanderbilt or Kentucky in recent weeks. A big night for the Tigers will be unfortunately bittersweet. Auburn 30, Tennessee 13.

No. 4 California at Southern Miss, 7:45 p.m.

With a narrow margin on Texas in the BCS, you better believe that the Golden Bears will ready to play. Maybe a final impressive effort will give Aaron Rodgers a much-deserved trip to New York for the Heisman Trophy presentation. California 37, Southern Mississippi 14.

No. 8 Louisville vs. Tulane, 2:30 p.m.

Tulane didn't have much chance to celebrate its win at TCU, knowing that Louisville stands in the way of becoming bowl-eligible. No chance the Green Wave crashes the postseason party by beating the Cardinals, who have scored at least 55 points in their last four games. Louisville 48, Tulane 20.

No. 9 Miami (Fla.) vs. No. 11 Virginia Tech, 1 p.m.

The old-guard ACC must love that conference newbies Virginia Tech and Miami are fighting for the league championship. Applaud the Hokies for a remarkable season that was probably a year ahead of schedule. Give the BCS berth, however, to the Hurricanes, who have been lifted by a resurgent Brock Berlin. Miami 24, Virginia Tech 21.

No. 19 Pittsburgh at South Florida, 11 a.m.

Those calls for Walt Harris' head in Pittsburgh have gotten awfully quiet after wins against Notre Dame and West Virginia. On the verge of their first BCS berth, the Panthers won't fall short against a deflated Bulls team that had its bowl chances squashed last week. Pittsburgh 27, South Florida 17.

Last week's record: 8-5 (8-5)

Season record: 176-48 (126-102-2)

[Blackbeard]

HBO: Inside the NFL host picks(SU)

http://www.hbo.com/apps/inflpicksgame/hostpicks.do

[Blackbeard]

College football news staff picks

http://www.collegefootballnews.com/2...taff_Picks.htm

[Blackbeard]

College football news fearless predictions

Hers the link for the full write ups and I've also posted the projected scores:

http://www.collegefootballnews.com/2...redictions.htm

Miami 23 ... Virginia Tech 21... Line: Miami -7
Pittsburgh 31 ... South Florida 23 ... Line: Pittsburgh -7
Michigan State 48 ... Hawaii 38 ... Line: Michigan State -7
Oklahoma 38 ... Colorado 16... Line: Oklahoma -21.5
Louisville 62 ... Tulane 34 ... Line: Louisville -28
Navy 38 ... Army 20 ... Line: Navy -13
California 38 ... Southern Miss 17 ... Line: California -22.5
Auburn 28 ... Tennessee 14...Line: Auburn -13
Michigan State 48 ... Hawaii 38 ... Line: Michigan State -7