Free NFL & College Picks + Fades

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Fox Sports~Andy Nesbitt

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati: Ben Roethlisberger is back! Tommy Maddox is on the bench! But the Steelers still can't win a big game! Bengals 24, Steelers 17.

Detroit at Cleveland: Parents in both cities this week have been heard issuing the following threat to their kids: "Keep it up and we'll make you watch the entire Lions-Browns game!" Lions 13, Browns 6.

Indianapolis at Houston: Picking against the Texans is like beating up an eight-year-old: Rather easy to do but nothing to brag about. Colts 38, Texans 6.

Green Bay at Minnesota: I added Fred Smoot this week to my fantasy team. Not because I needed him, but I've heard he treats his friends to some pretty cool things. Green Bay 27, Vikings 21.


Mike Holmgren actually banned his Seahawks players from going out to bars. Is he for real? (Otto Greule, Jr / Getty Images)

San Diego at Philadelphia: LaDainian Tomlinson does it all for the Chargers. I mean, he's no Fred Smoot, but he's still pretty valuable. Chargers 28, Eagles 17.

New Orleans at St. Louis: After watching Jamie Martin fill in for the injured Marc Bulger last week, the Rams should have put the starting QB duties up for bid on Ebay. Saints 28, Rams 13.

San Francisco at Washington: Saying the 49ers are good at football is like saying Ellen DeGeneres is good at dancing (or entertaining for that matter). Redskins 24, 49ers 0.

Dallas at Seattle: Mike Holmgren has banned his players from going out to bars. If my boss told me I couldn't go to bars, I'd tell him I couldn't go to work. Cowboys 31, Seahawks 30.

Tennessee at Arizona: Another philosophical question to ponder: Can a team that no one cares about really have a quarterback controversy? Cardinals 33, Titans 24.

Baltimore at Chicago: There's no proof to this rumor, but we've heard the Ravens' offense takes the short bus to their games. Bears 12, Ravens 6.

Denver at New York Giants: The Broncos' hot 5-1 start is kind of like the WNBA: People know it's out there, but they don't pay much attention to it. Giants 31, Broncos 14.

Buffalo at Oakland: The last time Buffalo had a quarterback named Kelly they almost won four straight Super Bowls. Bills 20, Raiders 7.

New York Jets at Atlanta (Monday night): Vinny Testaverde hasn't been up this late since his University of Miami days. And that was in like 1954 or something. Falcons 17, Jets 7.

Andy Nesbitt is an editor at FOXSports.com

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Sporting News

AFC GAME OF THE WEEK

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati. Last week's Tommy Maddox disaster proved two things: 1) Maddox isn't very good 2) Ben Roethlisberger is pretty darn good, and not just a "caretaker." Although Big Ben doesn't always dazzle with big plays, more important, he doesn't make the big mistakes that cost his team games. His return is timely, as his team needs him and its offense to get back on track in a most important NFC North road game.

With Hines Ward and Antwaan Randle El battling injuries, expect even more of the classic run-heavy Steelers, making full use of Willie Parker and Jerome Bettis. Rookie tight end Heath Miller also should remain involved in the ball-control passing game. All that is necessary to control time of possession and keep the ball out of Carson Palmer's hands.

Palmer, however, also has established himself as an efficiency expert. He can spread the ball around or have Rudi Johnson pound it. While the running game will provide some needed physical jabs against the Steelers' mighty D, the knockout blows will come through the air.

The Steelers' weaknesses lie at the corners, meaning Chad Johnson and rookie Chris Henry should have some chances for game-turning plays. Chad went sans celebration after last week's TD, and he and his teammates will be all business again in a "we've arrived" mission. The Bengals' improved defense, energized by a hungry home crowd, will do its part in slowing down the Steelers' running game just enough. Bengals 23, Steelers 17.

NFC GAME OF THE WEEK

Dallas at Seattle. It's anyone's conference, and few teams are playing better defensively and offensively, respectively, than these two teams. The Cowboys have started to click with their 3-4 alignment, led by rookie DeMarcus Ware, and are getting more disciplined secondary play to go with it. For the Seahawks, Matt Hasselbeck has come of age as his receivers are now starting to catch everything. Shaun Alexander, of course, remains a scoring machine.

That Dallas D has been much better in Big D, however, and Seattle brings its best balanced attack at home. The 'Hawks also remember last year's Monday night heartbreaker and will be ready for some revenge. Seahawks 27, Cowboys 26.

INITIALS OF THE WEEK

LT at TO. I don't think it's possible to stop LaDainian Tomlinson, unless the Chargers don't use him enough. The Eagles' run defense is vulnerable, and he should help his team stay in this tough cross-country game for four quarters. A running game is a foreign concept to the Eagles, but they realized in their loss at Dallas that being too one-dimensional means clever opponents (such as a Bill Parcells-coached team) will work to take Terrell Owens and Brian Westbrook out of the game as receivers, leaving few big-play options for a banged-up Donovan McNabb.

The key this week is making Westbrook more like LT, a runner first, which will open more room downfield for TO, who can burn San Diego's DBs underneath and deep. After a bye, TO and the Eagles' O will get back on track just in time to hold off the Bolts. Eagles 31, Chargers 20.

AFC-NFC GAME OF THE WEEK

Denver at New York Giants. I knew this game was worthy of some category, so I made up one. I think the Giants, despite having a limited defense, have enough of it at home to slow down a Broncos offense that tends to struggle on the road. Same thing on the other sides of the ball -- the Giants' offense rolls at the Meadowlands, and the Broncos leave their best D at Mile High.

Let's just go to simple facts to make the call: While Denver is off to a 5-1 start, four of those wins came at home. New York is 3-0 at home. Just like in the playoffs, it's a Manning over Jake Plummer. Giants 24, Broncos 21.

SHOOTOUT OF THE WEEK

Green Bay at Minnesota. The NFC North race is getting ridiculous. Ridiculous enough that one of these two 1-4 teams could put itself in the "passenger's seat" by just winning this game. The Packers are coming off a 52-3 rout of New Orleans and a bye, while the Vikings somehow gave up 28 points to Chicago last week.

Brett Favre has played much better than Daunte Culpepper, but I'm willing to give the Vikes' QB one last chance. Rarely do teams for which everything seems lost get a chance to find everything in just one week. Minnesota's defense has come up with some big plays at home, and Culpepper, with Nate Burleson likely back, should in theory make big plays against a bad Packers defense. If a familiar rival doesn't bring Daunte back to life, nothing might. Vikings 34, Packers 31.

UPSET OF THE WEEK

Tennessee over Arizona. I have this wacky theory about teams who win games: They usually run the ball well. The Cardinals would welcome an old Emmitt Smith right about now. It's fun to see them throw to receivers as gifted as Larry Fitzergald and Anquan Boldin on almost every play, but it's not exactly a winning formula.

Hopefully, they will stick to Josh McCown so they continue to have some fireworks. Passing often, however, puts more pressure on their defense, especially against the run. Chris Brown is starting to hit his stride for the Titans, and even without Drew Bennett, Steve McNair can spread the ball around well and steal this victory. Titans 27, Cardinals 24.

LOCK OF THE WEEK

Washington over San Francisco. The fire that Niners rookie QB Alex Smith has been thrown into turns into an inferno this week -- in the form of Gregg Williams' fiery, aggressive Redskins defense, and now there's no Tim Rattay to fan any flames.

As long as we're on this pyro kick, someone better check Santana Moss' shoes, because I think they're smokin'. Washington's primary team color is burgundy, but the whole team should come out in blazin' orange this week. Redskins 23, 49ers 10.

REST OF THE WEEK

Detroit at Cleveland. Joey Harrington's play has been Motor City Maddening enough to send Ted Nugent on a Lion hunt, so they'll need their keep their offensive engines grounded by pounding the ball more. I still like Romeo Crennel's defense to rattle Harrington when it counts, and the Browns' passing game should find a little more hum at home. Besides, I am way more into rock 'n' roll than cars. Browns 20, Lions 17.

Indianapolis at Houston. I'm giving both teams a break from Lock of the Week mention, but in this wacky parity-filled league, it's good that the NFL throws struggling prognosticators a bone with this 6-0 vs. 0-5 game. Edgerrin James will take the road well traveled by Alexander last week, and after getting worked over by Orlando Pace, Dwight Freeney will find the David Carr chase to be a much easier pursuit. Colts 41, Texans 17.

Kansas City at Miami. I was hoping the Dolphins would have traded for Michael Bennett at the deadline so he could complete their Bel Biv Devoe backfield with Ricky and Ronnie (in that case, it would be Wil Ben Brown, right?). Even with just two of the trio, their running game should be more dope than poison against a vulnerable KC front seven. The Chiefs will counter with plenty of Priest Holmes, but I see Nick Saban's scheming getting the better of Trent Green. Dolphins 23, Chiefs 20.

New Orleans at St. Louis. The Rams' offense hasn't missed much of a beat without Mike Martz and Isaac Bruce, and it should be operate well even without Marc Bulger this week against the Saints' struggling defense. Torry Holt, Kevin Curtis, Steven Jackson and Marshall Faulk will be too much for NO, which can't keep up with both Deuce McAllister and Joe Horn hurt. Rams 34, Saints 24.

Baltimore at Chicago. I keep looking for style points with Lovie Smith's team, but now I'm starting to appreciate the Black and Blue that it does so well. The Bears should keep smashing mouths against the Ravens, who haven't been able to pound the ball with Jamal Lewis -- something the Bears have been able to do with Thomas Jones. White Sox 6, Orioles 3 -- sorry, wrong sport -- Bears 6, Ravens 3.

Buffalo at Oakland. LaMont Jordan is the right kind of back with whom to pound a bad Bills run defense, and look for him to follow in the footsteps of former teammate Curtis Martin with a big rushing day. A more conservative ball-control approach -- potentially without Randy Moss -- will help the team, keeping both the defense well rested and the explosiveness of Willis McGahee off the field. Raiders 20, Bills 17.

New York Jets at Atlanta. The Georgia Dome brought down the house on another team in green, the Eagles in Week 1, so the Jets will need to stay calm and stick to the running game with Curtis Martin if they are to stay in this game. I think they will, because they will be desperate enough to save their fading playoff hopes, but that won't be enough to overcome Michael Vick's prime-time performance. Falcons 27, Jets 23.

BYES OF THE WEEK

The Patriots are searching for their defensive mojo, and I think just having Tedy Bruschi back at practice will be a big lift. Look for an inspired performance from that side of the ball next week at home against Buffalo. ...

The Buccaneers now must turn their offense to young Chris Simms, but the bigger concern is getting young Cadillac Williams healthy. Williams and Michael Pittman will need to be even bigger parts of that offense in the second half. ...

The Jaguars are a gritty bunch, but they will need to find some offensive consistency to stay with the more explosive teams in the league. They will have a good chance to do that in Week 8 against St. Louis' defense. . . .

The Panthers were my preseason pick to win the Super Bowl, and now that I've all but lost Gang Green in the AFC, I'm sticking by my NFC favorite. They tend to make things a little too close on the scoreboard as the Cardiac Cats, but their ability to win the close ones has made them 4-2 and bodes well for their tough NFC South games.

[griffey_mojo]

ESPN~Bill Simmons

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2...immons/0510121

[griffey_mojo]

Miami Herald~Greg Cote

Posted on Fri, Oct. 21, 2005





Greg Cote's Week 7 Picks

By GREG COTE

[email protected]


Dolphins this week
CHIEFS (3-2) AT DOLPHINS (2-3)

• When: 7 tonight • TV: 4, 12

• Line: MIA by 1 ½ • Cote: MIA 23-20

Game was moved ahead to tonight at 7 to preempt Hurricane Wilma. Chiefs rushed to get here and have big division test at San Diego on deck, making for a high distraction factor. So figure Team Schizophrenia looking good at home, as usual. Visitors will scheme to limit Ronnie Brown/Ricky Williams, leaving a next-to-awful pass defense (despite Patrick Surtain) to be whipped around good. See a big night for Gus Frerotte, and good-enough defense, presuming Jason Taylor and his bum foot play. By the way, who else thinks Wilma is a ridiculous name for a hurricane? Yabba dabba do!

Game of the week
CHARGERS (3-3) AT EAGLES (3-2)

• When: 1 p.m. Sunday • TV: None

• Line: PHI by 4 • Cote: PHI 27-24

Philly has won six straight following a bye and is on a 17-3 run after a loss, so you gotta like Andy Reid's National Birds at home here. But barely. So I'm going to put a saddle on the betting line's fourth point and ride it, trusting Drew Brees and phenomenal LaDainian Tomlinson to keep it close against an at-times vulnerable Phils D. Incidentally, San Diego acquiring A.J. Feeley from Miami this week has fueled a storm of NFL grapevine speculation that either Brees or first-round quarterback Philip Rivers will be on the trade block after this season. Are you hearing that, Dolphins?

Upset of the week
SAINTS (2-4) AT RAMS (2-4)

• When: 1 p.m. Sunday • TV: None

• Line: STL by 3 • Cote: NO 25-20

``AAWWK!'' heralds the Upset Bird. ``Saints vs. Saint Louis. Who's the referee? Pope Benedict XVI? Pope Benedaawwk!'' Rams have a fill-in coach (Joe Vitt for Mike Martz) and now a fill-in QB (Jamie Martin for Marc Bulger) and weren't that good even at full strength. N'awlins showed some spine against 'Lanta last week and tends to play Rams tough -- including three straight series wins in St. Lou. Plus, rumors of an improved Rams defense are thoroughly unconfirmed. ``Hard to believe, but it's that time of the month,'' notes U-Bird. ``Aaron Brooks averages one good game in four, and here it is. AAWWK!''
Dog of the week
COLTS (6-0) AT TEXANS (0-5)

• When: 1 p.m. Sunday • TV: None

• Line: IND by 16 • Cote: IND 27-13

The Dog tag is all but mandated by the Saturday-ish point spread and likelihood of an embarrassing rout in this collision of King Sport's only undefeated and winless teams. Will the Colts flirt with perfection long enough to make a '72 Dolphin reach for his Maalox? Will Houston get off the schneid in time to avoid becoming a punch line in late-night monologues? Hey, maybe the Texans will derive inspiration from the World Series Astros! Nah. But let's hunch the NFL's sad sacks somehow manage to lose by less than 16, if only because Indy is on auto-pilot, or feeling charitable.

STEELERS (3-2) AT BENGALS (5-1)

• When: 1 p.m. Sunday • TV: 4, 12

• Line: CIN by 1 • Cote: CIN 24-20

Game of Week candidate marks first time in 15 years these teams 290 miles apart meet with both having winning records. Pitters get Ben Roethlisberger back and likely Hines Ward, too, but are banged up on defense. See Bengals' D picking Big Ben twice, and Cincy ending Pitt's 9-game road win streak.

BILLS (3-3) AT RAIDERS (1-4)

• When: 4:15 p.m. Sunday • TV: None

• Line: OAK by 3 • Cote: OAK 23-16

Buffs' top-ranked pass defense vs. a likely Randy Moss-less Kerry Collins makes this a difficult call. But Oaks have won three straight in series so we'll ride that trend and chance a venue pick, albeit nervously. Raiders have had a pitiable ground game and need a breakout game by LaMont Jordan.

PACKERS (1-4) AT VIKINGS (1-4)

• When: 1 p.m. Sunday • TV: 7, 29

• Line: OFF • Cote: MIN 30-27

Five straight games in series have been decided by five or fewer points. Trends conflict. Green Bay is on an 8-1 run after byes and has won three straight in series. But: Daunte Culpepper is 16-0 on TDs/picks in past five vs. Gee Bees. Can Purples set aside the sex-cruise scandal? Aye aye. The Love Boat sails!

49ERS (1-4) AT REDSKINS (3-2)

• When: 1 p.m. Sunday • TV: None

• Line: WAS by 12 ½ • Cote: WAS 24-13

Can in no way see solid Washers losing outright to the NFL's worst team (sorry, Houston). But I can see, on a gut-hunch, San Franlousy keeping it inside the big number. Niners are coming off a bye and have won three straight in Skintown, and Alex Smith can't be as awful as in his first start. Can he?

COWBOYS (4-2) AT SEAHAWKS (4-2)

• When: 4:05 p.m. Sunday • TV: None

• Line: SEA by 3 • Cote: SEA 31-27

Another Game of the Week candidate, this is Week 7's only duel of outright division leaders. Teams went nuts last December, 'Boys rallying to nip 'Hawks 43-39 in a Monday thriller -- and this one should be as close. I'll take the home field, especially when it has Seattle's great offensive balance all over it.

LIONS (2-3) AT BROWNS (2-3)

• When: 1 p.m. Sunday • TV: None

• Line: CLE by 3 • Cote: DET 19-17

Upset! Home team has won five straight in series, but see that trend expiring. Both teams have credible defenses, but Detroit, for all its QB problems, has more pop than offense-shy Earthtones. And now Jeff Garcia is healthy enough to either start or make it a quick hook on slumping Joey Harrington.TITANS (2-4) AT CARDINALS (1-4)

• When: 4:15 p.m. Sunday • TV: None

• Line: ARI by 3 • Cote: ARI 34-28

Steve McNair is hurt and questionable. Or did that go without saying? For Redbirds, coach Dennis Green was coy whether Josh McCown or now-healthy Kurt Warner would pitch. The bet here is McCown will, and should. But either way, somebody will hoist big stats vs. Tenners' beatable secondary.

RAVENS (2-3) AT BEARS (2-3)

• When: 4:15 p.m. Sunday • TV: None

• Line: CHI by 1 • Cote: BAL 10-9

Two very good defenses trying to overcome both opponents and their own team's offensive ineptitude. Final score could look like a game played on a diamond, not a gridiron. Call it a mild upset. Kyle Orton out-awfuls Anthony Wright, and slight defensive edge to Crows even with safety Ed Reed likely out.

BRONCOS (5-1) AT GIANTS (3-2)

• When: 4:15 p.m. Sunday • TV: 4, 12

• Line: NYG by 2 • Cote: NYG 34-30

Two teams with offensive pop and subpar air defense suggests passes and points will be flying. See efficient NYG (plus-10 on turnovers) ending Jake Plummer's 17-quarter no-pick streak. Broncs beat Pats last week, but don't see Denver duplicating that intensity on the road. When in doubt, stay home.

JETS (2-4) AT FALCONS (4-2)

• When: 9 p.m. Monday • TV: 10, 25

• Line: ATL by 7 • Cote: ATL 28-10

I'm not sold on Michael Vick as God's gift to football (see column at left), but he directs an awesome running game. Falcs will leg-it all over Planes' so-so ground D, and on other side should dominate ancient Vinny the T. Could be the kind of Monday blowout that used to make ol' Dandy Don start singing.

OFF THIS WEEK

BUCS

(5-1; next at 49ers): With Brian Griese gone, Chris Simms gets another chance to convince doubters he is the franchise's future.

JAGUARS

(4-2; next at Rams): Last week's OT win over Steelers had an asterisk (*no Big Ben); still, Jags' defense looks playoff-good.

PANTHERS

(4-2; next vs. Vikings): Off a one-point escape vs. Detroit, and with shaky pass-D, doubts remain about how good the Cats really are.

PATRIOTS

(3-3; next vs. Bills): LB Tedy Bruschi is making unexpected return from stroke after reexamination determined that Pats were struggling.

HOW THE DARTS LANDED

Not complaining about an 11-3 straight-up, but had a fighting chance at an unheard-of Perfect Week. In our three L's, upset shots looked good until Giants and Titans blew early leads, and Steelers pick (wrongly) assumed Big Ben would play.

Not complaining about a 9-5 vs. the spread, either. Had NYG with points at Dallas in our Bird call (''Aawwk!'') and also nailed Carolina's mini-upset at Detroit. Thought Dolphs would keep it close, but Road(kill) Warriors did the away swoon once more.

[Blackbeard]

Thanks Griff!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Blackbeard]

Chicago sun times:
Mark Potash / Dan McNeil / Mike North / Brad Palmer / Mike Ditka


Bears -1 vs. Ravens Ravens Bears Bears Bears Bears

Rams -3 vs. Saints Rams Rams SAINTS Saints Saints

Packers -1-1/2 at Vikings Vikings Packers Vikings PACKERS Packers

Colts -16 at Texans Colts Colts Colts Colts Colts

Bengals -1 vs. Steelers Steelers Bengals Bengals Steelers Bengals

Eagles -4 vs. Chargers Eagles Chargers Chargers Chargers Chargers

Dolphins -1-1/2 vs. Chiefs Dolphins Chiefs Dolphins Dolphins Dolphins

Browns -3 vs. Lions Browns Lions Lions Lions Browns

Redskins -12-1/2 vs. 49ers 49ERS 49ers 49ers Redskins Redskins

Seahawks -3 vs. Cowboys Seahawks Seahawks Seahawks Seahawks Seahawks

Raiders -3 vs. Bills Bills Raiders Raiders Bills Bills

Cardinals -3 vs. Titans Titans Cardinals Cardinals Cardinals Titans

Giants -2 vs. Broncos Giants BRONCOS Giants Giants Broncos

Falcons -7 vs. Jets Falcons Falcons Falcons Falcons Falcons

Last week (season) 9-5 (40-44-2) 7-7 (41-43-2) 6-8 (45-39-2) 8-6 (38-46-2) 10-4 (44-40-2)

Best bet (season) 0-1 (1-5) 0-1 (3-3) 1-0 (3-2-1) 1-0 (3-3) 1-0 (3-3)

Best bet + top plays (season) 2-2 (10-12-2) 2-2 (14-9-1) 2-2 (12-11-1) 4-0 (11-12-1) 3-1 (9-15)


NFL Forecast

October 21, 2005

BY BY MARK POTASH Advertisement









RAVENS AT BEARS

Time: 3:15 p.m. TV: Ch. 2.
Line: Bears by 1. Total: 301/2.
Records (overall/ATS): Ravens 2-3/2-3; Bears 2-3/3-2.
Trend: Ravens are 0-5 ATS in last five road games.
Outlook: The last time the Bears played while the White Sox were in the World Series -- Oct. 4, 1959 -- the Bears beat eventual NFL champion Baltimore 26-21, sparked by rookie Richie Petibon's 33-yard interception return for a TD against ****** Unitas. That team finished 8-4, but second to the Colts. If this year's team wins eight games, it might coast to the division title. Kyle Orton will have to be at his managerial best Sunday.
Pick: Ravens 13, Bears 10.


SAINTS AT RAMS

Time: Noon.
Line: Rams by 3. Total: 471/2.
Records (overall/ATS): Saints 2-4/3-3; Rams 2-4/1-5.
Trend: The Saints have yet to cover two weeks in a row.
Outlook: It's good to know Barkley is just like the rest of us: He doesn't know when to quit. After losing on the Texans, he went with the Rams on Monday night. He was ahead 301/2-0 in the second quarter, but after Marc Bulger left with an injury, the Rams were outscored 45-11. Rams are due for a big win.
Pick:Rams 27, Saints 21.


PACKERS AT VIKINGS

Time: Noon. TV: Fox-32.
Line: Packers by 1-1/2. Total: 44.
Records (overall/ATS): Vikings 1-4/1-4; Packers 1-4/3-2.
Trend: Vikings are 7-2 ATS in last nine against the Packers.
Outlook: Fans and players are going in opposite directions on the ''Love Boat'' controversy. Players are doing all they can to prove they were nowhere near the place. Fans want to know when the next one sails. Owner Zygi Wilf's new code of conduct can't obscure the obvious: The Vikings are a bad team. But so are the Packers.
Pick:Packers 17, Vikings 17.


CHIEFS AT DOLPHINS

Time: 6 p.m. today.
Line: Dolphins by 1-1/2. Total: 41.
Outlook: The return of Ricky Williams was a bust for Williams (five carries, eight yards) and for Ronnie Brown (nine carries, 22 yards). They'll break out this week.
Pick: Dolphins 21, Chiefs 17.


CHARGERS AT EAGLES

Time: Noon.
Line: Eagles by 4. Total: 47.
Records (overall/ATS): Chargers 3-3/3-2-1; Eagles 3-2/2-3.
Trend: Eagles are 9-0 SU after a bye week under Andy Reid.
Outlook: See if you can spot the trend: Jevon Kearse's sack totals in his five full seasons in the NFL --14.5, 11.5, 10.0, 9.5, 7.5. This year he has one sack in five games, which puts him on a pace for 3.3. The upshot: The Eagles have allowed 850 passing yards and seven touchdowns in their last three weeks.
Pick: Eagles 28, Chargers 20.


BILLS AT RAIDERS

Time: 3:15 p.m.
Line: Raiders by 3. Total: 401/2.
Records (overall/ATS): Bills 3-3/3-3; Raiders 1-4/2-3.
Trend: Oakland's last six games have gone under.
Outlook: Say what you want about Raiders WR Randy Moss, but only one team has been better without him than with him: Marshall. Moss, suffering from bruised ribs and a sore groin, is doubtful for Sunday.
Pick: Bills 20, Raiders 17.


COWBOYS AT SEAHAWKS

Time: 3:05 p.m.
Line: Seahawks by 3. Total: 451/2.
Records (overall/ATS): Cowboys 4-2, 2-4; Seahawks 4-2/4-2.
Trend: Cowboys are 4-9 ATS in last 13 road games.
Outlook: The Seahawks are reeling from the loss of safety Ken Hamlin, who learned the hard way that nothing good happens at 2 a.m. Hamlin suffered serious head injuries in a brawl outside a Seattle nightclub. Still hospitalized but out of intensive care, Hamlin is out indefinitely.
Pick: Seahawks 27, Cowboys 20.


LIONS AT BROWNS

Time: Noon.
Line: Browns by 3. Total: 341/2.
Records (overall/ATS): Lions 2-3/3-2; Browns 2-3/3-2.
Trend: Browns are 4-0 ATS in last four games against NFC teams.
Outlook: What do Bears fans and Lions fans have in common? They both are reassessing their underappreciation of Erik Kramer. Joey Harrington was practically booed off the field last week by Lions fans, who are clamoring for the return of Jeff Garcia. Actually, they're clamoring for the return of Bobby Layne, but at this point, they'll settle for Garcia.
Pick: Browns 24, Lions 12.


TITANS AT CARDINALS

Time: 3:15 p.m.
Line: Cardinals by 3. Total: 45.
Records (overall/ATS): Titans 2-4/3-3; Cardinals 1-4/1-4.
Trend: Titans are 8-2 ATS in last 10 games against NFC teams.
Outlook: As the old NFL adage goes, give Dennis Green an extra week to prepare and ... uh, what is that saying, anyway? In the 45 years since the Bidwills moved the former Comiskey Park denizens to St. Louis, the Cardinals have won one playoff game. The White Sox finally have won the pennant.
Pick: Titans 16, Cardinals 14.


BRONCOS AT GIANTS

Time: 7:30 p.m. TV: ESPN.
Line: Giants by 2. Total: 47.
Records (overall/ATS): Broncos 5-1/3-2-1; Giants 3-2/4-1.
Trend: Giants are 6-1-1 ATS in last eight games.
Outlook: Broncos are much better defensively with Champ Bailey in the lineup -- they led the Patriots 28-3 until he left last week. But the Giants are averaging 43 points a game at home, and Eli Manning is getting better every week.
Pick: Giants 24, Broncos 21.


JETS AT FALCONS

Time: 8 p.m. Monday. TV: Ch. 7.
Line: Falcons by 7. Total: 41.
Records (overall/ATS): Jets 2-4/2-4; Falcons 4-2/3-3.
Trend: Jets are 7-1-1 ATS in last nine night games.
Outlook: If the Falcons allowed 211 yards to Antowain Smith and Aaron Stecker last week, how many yards will Curtis Martin get Sunday? He had 148 last week.
Pick: Falcons 27, Jets 17.





Time: Noon.
Line: Skins by 12-1/2. Total: 361/2.
Records (overall/ATS): 49ers 1-4/2-3; Redskins 3-2/4-1.
Trend: Redskins are 2-10 ATS as favorite of seven points or more. Outlook: In the spirit of Sports Illustrated's Michael Bamberger's snitching on Michelle Wie, I alerted the NFL office to holding call that was missed at a crucial juncture of the Chiefs-Redskins game -- not only costing the Redskins the game, but four Cheat Sheet panelists a cover. Alas, my protest was to no avail. ''The officials are in charge of enforcing the rules on the field,'' a high-ranking NFL source said. Not so in golf, where everybody wears a striped shirt. But should reporters? If we're going to make ourselves part of the story, let's stick to the things we do best: fabricating, plagiarizing and lying on our resumes. How can we ever complain about a late flag or an instant-replay delay when one of our own waits 22 hours to finally make a call? Give Phil Luckett a day to think about it and he'll get almost every call right. To paraphrase former NFL coordinataor deluxe Charlie Weis, it ain't cheatin' if you can get away with it. That's why the only Skins game I want to see is this one.
Pick: Redskins 23, 49ers 17.


STEELERS AT BENGALS

Time: Noon.
Line: Bengals by 1. Total: 43-1/2.
Records (overall/ATS): Steelers 3-2/3-2; Bengals 5-1/4-1-1.
Trend: Steelers have won their last nine road games.
Outlook: Bengals coach Marvin Lewis is so skittish about his team getting too caught up in a big game, he all but shut off access to national outlets, including ESPN. Bill Cowher, on the other hand -- who always looks like he's wound tighter than King Farouk in Gary Cooper's bathing suit -- is cool as can be, accepting the blame for last week's loss and not crying about injuries to Roethlisberger, Ward, Faneca and other starters.
Pick: Steelers 16, Bengals 14.


COLTS AT TEXANS

Time: Noon. TV: Ch. 2.
Line: Colts by 16. Total: 45.
Records (overall/ATS): Colts 6-0, 4-2; Texans 0-5/1-4.
Trend: Texans are 3-1 ATS in last four against the Colts.
Outlook: How brutal are the Texans? Charles Barkley, the former NBA player, told "Tonight Show" host Jay Leno he was 9-0 at the window last week -- until he bet on Houston. He thought the Texans would rise to the occasion in the spotlight of national television. ''I was wrong,'' he said. At least he could handle the $5,500 hit. Last time a winless team faced an undefeated team at this point in the season, the winless team won.
Pick: Colts 42, Texans 17.

[Blackbeard]

Chicago Tribune/Terry Bannon NFL

Terry Bannon's NFL picks

October 20, 2005, 8:22 PM CDT


GAME OF WEEK: Steelers at Bengals
OFF: Patriots, Bucs, Jaguars, Panthers
Last week's record: 12-2.
Season record: 51-37.
Ravens (2-3) at Bears (2-3)
3:15 p.m. SUNDAY
TV/Radio: WBBM-Ch. 2, WBBM-AM 780.
Line: Bears by 1
Last meeting: Ravens won 17-6 at Baltimore on Sept. 9, 2001
Key stat: Ravens No. 2 in defense, Bears No. 3.
Fantasy factor: Who's better replacement QB? Ravens' Anthony Wright has 5 TDs vs. 7 interceptions, Bears' Kyle Orton has 4 TDs vs. 7 interceptions.
The buzz: Defenses will dominate, but Thomas Jones (4.6 yards per carry, 6 TDs) can carry Bears into field-goal position.
Bannon's pick: Bears 13, Ravens 9.

Chiefs (3-2) at Dolphins (2-3)
NOON SUNDAY
Line: Dolphins by 1½.
Last meeting: Chiefs won 48-30 at K.C. on Sept. 29, 2002
Key stat: Dolphins have won 4 straight at home, 2 this season.
Fantasy factor: Priest Holmes averaging only 3.7 yards per carry, but has scored 5 TDs (4 rushing, 1 receiving). Chris Chambers leads Dolphins with 21 catches, 1 TD.
The buzz: Nick Saban has Dolphins playing tough at home, and Chiefs defense still can't be counted on, especially against pass.
Bannon's pick: Dolphins 24, Chiefs 20.

Colts (6-0) at Texans (0-5)
NOON SUNDAY
TV: WBBM-Ch. 2
Line: Colts by 16.
Last meeting: Colts won 23-14 at Houston on Dec. 12, 2004
Key stat: Colts have won all 6 meetings.
Fantasy factor: Peyton Manning loves facing Texans: he's completed 69.6 percent of his passes with 14 TDs vs. 3 INTs. Texans' David Carr has thrown 4 TD passes vs. 4 INTs.
The buzz: You don't see matchups like this very often: NFL's best team visits worst. On any given Sunday … nah.
Bannon's pick: Colts 34, Texans 13.

Saints (2-4) at Rams (2-4)
NOON SUNDAY
Line: Rams by 3
Last meeting: Saints won 28-25 (OT) at St. Louis on Sept. 26, 2004
Key stat: Saints have lost 4 of 5 since opening day win.
Fantasy factor: Saints' Donte Stallworth, with 28 catches and 1 TD, has become key. Rams' Torry Holt has 5 100-yard receiving games in his last 9.
The buzz: QB Marc Bulger (shoulder) expected out until after St. Louis' week off (Nov. 6), which will give Saints chance.
Bannon's pick: Rams 28, Saints 27.

Lions (2-3) at Browns (2-3)
NOON SUNDAY
Line: Browns by 3
Last meeting: Browns won 24-14 at Cleveland on Sept. 23, 2001
Key stat: Lions have lost 7 straight road games.
Fantasy factor: Kevin Johnson leads Lions with 17 catches, but no TDs. Antonio Bryant leads Browns with 25 catches, 2 TDs.
The buzz: 2 of NFL's worst offenses will try to get something going. Browns QB Trent Dilfer will find way to make play or two, which should be enough.
Bannon's pick: Browns 17, Lions 13.

49ers (1-4) at Redskins (3-2)
NOON SUNDAY
Line: Redskins by 11½.
Last meeting: Redskins won 26-16 at San Francisco on Dec. 18, 2004
Key stat: Niners seek 4th straight win vs. Redskins at Washington.
Fantasy factor: 49ers' Brandon Lloyd has 17 catches, 3 for TDs. Redskins' Santana Moss 2nd in NFL with 631 receiving yards, and has 4 TDs.
The buzz: San Francisco rookie QB Alex Smith makes his 2nd start, and against tough, aggressive defense. Sometimes, life just isn't fair.
Bannon's pick: Redskins 30, 49ers 16.

Steelers (3-2) at Bengals (5-1)
NOON SUNDAY
Line: Bengals by 1
Last meeting: Steelers won 19-14 at Cincinnati on Nov. 21, 2004
Key stat: Steelers have won 9 straight road games.
Fantasy factor: NFL's top-ranked passers go for it: Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger has thrown 7 TD passes and no INTs; Bengals' Carson Palmer leads NFL with 13 TD passes vs. 2 INTs.
The buzz: Despite quarterbacks, Steelers' ability to exploit Bengals' soft run defense with Jerome Bettis and Willie Parker will decide it.
Bannon's pick: Steelers 27, Bengals 24.

Chargers (3-3) at Eagles (3-2)
NOON SUNDAY
Line: Eagles by 4
Last meeting: Eagles won 24-14 at Philadelphia on Dec. 9, 2001
Key stat: Eagles have won six straight after week off.
Fantasy factor: Chargers' LaDainian Tomlinson, who has 11 TDs, goes for NFL record 19th straight game with TD. Eagles' Donovan McNabb has thrown 11 TD passes, tied for 3rd in NFL.
The buzz: Both offenses capable of big days against soft defenses. Will Eagles' Terrell Owens outscore Tomlinson?
Bannon's pick: Eagles 34, Chargers 27.

Packers (1-4) at Vikings (1-4)
NOON SUNDAY
TV: WFLD-Ch. 32
Line: OFF
Last meeting: Packers won 34-31 at Minnesota on Dec. 24, 2004
Key stat: Last 5 regular-season meetings decided by 5 points or less.
Fantasy factor: Donald Driver, with 23 catches and 2 TDs, leads Packers' receivers. Tight end Jermaine Wiggins, who had 6-catch game vs. Packers last year, leads Vikings with 26 receptions.
The buzz: Packers are rested and healthier after week off, and Vikings look like team that can't beat anybody.
Bannon's pick: Packers 24, Vikings 17.

Cowboys (4-2) at Seahawks (4-2)
3:05 P.M. SUNDAY
Line: Seahawks by 3
Last meeting: Cowboys won 43-39 at Seattle on Dec. 6, 2004
Key stat: Seahawks 3-0 at home, winning by average of 20 points.
Fantasy factor: Cowboys' Drew Bledsoe tied for 3rd in NFL with 11 TD passes. Seahawks' Shaun Alexander leads league with 12 TDs (all rushing).
The buzz: Seahawks will rely on Alexander, averaging 5.5 yards per carry. Cowboys can slow him down, but not enough.
Bannon's pick: Seahawks 27, Cowboys 21.

Broncos (5-1) at Giants (3-2)
3:15 P.M. SUNDAY
Line: Giants by 2
Last meeting: Broncos won 31-20 at Denver on Sept. 10, 2001
Key stat: Giants average 29.8 points per game, most in NFL.
Fantasy factor: Tatum Bell leads Broncos with 395 rushing yards, 3 TDs. Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey has two 100-yard receiving days in last 3 weeks.
The buzz: Giants, with struggling defense, haven't shown they can beat playoff caliber team, which Denver is. Will Broncos suffer letdown after beating Pats?
Bannon's pick: Broncos 27 Giants 24.

Titans (2-4) at Cardinals (1-4)
3:15 P.M. SUNDAY
Line: Cardinals by 3
Last meeting: Houston Oilers won 41-14 at Arizona on Oct. 26, 1997
Key stat: Titans have won 18 of past 25 vs. NFC. It's Cardinals' No. 2 passing offense vs. Titans' No. 20 passing defense.
Fantasy factor: Titans' Steve McNair quietly having bounceback season with 7 TD passes vs. 6 INTs. Larry Fitzgerald has 36 catches, 3 for TDs.
The buzz: Cardinals' inability to run ball could hurt them in this one.
Bannon's pick: Titans 20, Cardinals 17.

Bills (3-3) at Raiders (1-4)
3:15 P.M. SUNDAY
Line: Raiders by 3
Last meeting: Raiders won 13-10 at Oakland on Sept. 19, 2004
Key stat: Bills 0-2 on road and have been outscored 38-10
Fantasy factor: Bills' Kelly Holcomb has thrown 3 TD passes vs. 2 interceptions in two starts. Raiders' Lamont Jordan has 5 TDs--4 rushing, 1 receiving.
The buzz: Holcomb has guided Bills to 2 straight wins, but on road is another matter. Jordan can attack Bills' soft run defense.
Bannon's pick: Raiders 20, Bills 17.

Jets (2-4) at Falcons (4-2)
8 P.M. MONDAY
TV/radio: WLS-Ch. 7, WSCR-AM 670
Line: Falcons by 7
Last meeting: Jets won 28-3 at New York on Oct. 25, 1998
Key stat: Jets have won 7 of last 10 on MNF.
Fantasy factor: Laveranues Coles leads Jets with 26 catches, 1 TD. Warrick Dunn having big year with 577 yards rushing, 5.2 avg.
The buzz: Falcons, averaging 29 points in their last 4 games (3 wins), should be able to move ball at will against this defense. And move it into end zone.
Bannon's pick: Falcons 30, Jets 17.

[Blackbeard]

The sports network:

Home in CAPS Preston| Jim |Brian | Matt |Mickey| Brad | Dan |Roger |

STL (3) Nos | STL | STL | STL | STL |*STL | Nos | STL | Nos |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
MIN (1) Gbp | MIN | Gbp | Gbp | Gbp | Gbp | Gbp | MIN | Gbp |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
Ind (16.5) HOU | HOU | Ind |*HOU | Ind | Ind | Ind | HOU | Hou |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
CIN (1.5) Pit | Pit |*Pit | Pit | CIN | Pit | Pit |*Pit | CIN |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
PHI (4) Sdc | PHI | Sdc | PHI | PHI | Sdc | PHI | Sdc | PHI |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
Fri. Oct. 21st | | | | | | | | |
MIA (1.5) Kan | Kan | Kan | Kan | Kan | Kan | MIA | MIA |*Kan |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
CLE (3) Det | Det | CLE | Det | CLE | Det | CLE | Det | Det |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
WAS (11.5) Sfx | Sfx | WAS | Sfx | Sfx | Sfx | Sfx | Sfx | Sfx |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
SEA (3) Dal | Dal | SEA | SEA | SEA | SEA |*SEA | SEA | SEA |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
OAK (3) Buf |*Buf | OAK | OAK | Buf | OAK | OAK | Buf | OAK |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
CHI (1) Bal | CHI | CHI | Bal | CHI | CHI | Bal | CHI | CHI |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
ARI (3) Ten | Ten | ARI | Ten |*Ten | ARI | Ten | Ari | Ten |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
NYG (2) Den | NYG | Den | Den | NYG | NYG | NYG | Den | NYG |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
Mon. Oct. 24th | | | | | | | | |
ATL (7.5) Nyj | ATL | ATL | ATL | ATL | ATL | Nyj | ATL | Nyj |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|

-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Home in CAPS | T.J. |David |Robert| Tony | Dean |Glenn |Kevin |Damian|

STL (3) Nos | STL | Nos | STL | STL | STL | STL | STL | STL* |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
MIN (1) Gbp | Gbp | Gbp | Gbp | MIN | Gbp | Gbp | Gbp | Gbp |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
Ind (16.5) HOU | HOU | Ind | HOU | Ind | HOU | HOU | Ind | Ind |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
CIN (1.5) Pit | Pit | Pit | CIN | Pit | CIN | Pit | CIN | CIN |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
PHI (4) Sdc | PHI | Sdc | Sdc | PHI | Sdc | PHI | PHI | Sdc |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
Fri. Oct. 21st | | | | | | | | |
MIA (1.5) Kan | Kan | Kan | MIA | MIA | MIA | MIA | Kan | Kan |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
CLE (3) Det | CLE | Det | CLE | CLE | Det | Det | CLE | CLE |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
WAS (11.5) Sfx | Sfx | Sfx | Sfx | Sfx | Sfx | WAS | Sfx | WAS |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
SEA (3) Dal |*SEA | SEA |*SEA | SEA | SEA | SEA | SEA | Dal |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
OAK (3) Buf | OAK | Buf | OAK | OAK | OAK | OAK | Buf | OAK |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
CHI (1) Bal | CHI | Bal | CHI | Bal |*CHI | CHI | Bal | Bal |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
ARI (3) Ten | Ten |*ARI | ARI | ARI | ARI | Ten | ARI | Ten |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
NYG (2) Den | NYG | Den | NYG | NYG | NYG |*NYG | NYG | NYG |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|
Mon. Oct. 24th | | | | | | | | |
ATL (7.5) Nyj | ATL | ATL | Nyj |*ATL | ATL | ATL |*ATL | Nyj |
----------------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|------|

Consensus - STL, Gbp, Pit, Kan, Sfx, SEA, OAK, CHI, NYG, ATL
Split - Ind/HOU, CLE/Det, ARI/Ten
Consensus Choice - SEA

* - Best Bet

[Blackbeard]

Dallas News:

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcont...21nflpicks.pdf

[Blackbeard]

LSU just cant seem to score like in past years... not happy with the fades lately....

[Blackbeard]

NY Post NFL

..

[Blackbeard]

NY Daily News

;-)

[jerry's kid]

I don't know if anyone listens to Scott Ferrall on Fox sports radio but he is on fire the last 2 weeks. These are from his website. Believe me, he's uncanny. Picks every game and almost every toatal. I don't think he's lost on Mon. night yet this year. GL.



Pro LOCKS:



Lions/Over, Pack, Indy/Over, , Saints/Over, Steelers/Under, Philly/Over, Washington/Over, Seattle/Over, Baltimore/Under, Oak/Under, G-MEN/Under, Ariz/Over, Falcons/Over





SO BE IT!

[Blackbeard]

NY NEWSDAY:


http://www.newsday.com/sports/footba...sports-utility

[Blackbeard]

SI.COM/Peter King:

Detroit (2-3) at Cleveland (2-3)
Jeff Garcia throws for 450 yards and six touchdowns ... What? Er, oh, sorry. Just trying to interpret the nightmare Joey Harrington had last night. I can't imagine Steve Mariucci starting Harrington unless Garcia's on crutches.
Detroit 16, Cleveland 13

1 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup Indianapolis (6-0) at Houston (0-5)
No. 1 versus No. 32. And every bit the mismatch.
Indianapolis 38, Houston 16

1 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup New Orleans (2-4) at St. Louis (2-4)
I don't know you watch the Monday-nighter and come away thinking Jamie Martin has a prayer of winning this week's game. Even though the Saints always do something stupid at the end of games, I liked their grit last Sunday.
New Orleans 24, St. Louis 16

1 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup San Diego (3-3) at Philadelphia (3-2)
My upset special. I just can't get the vision of San Diego's rout at Foxborough out of my head, and I also vividly remember the Eagles' horror show at Dallas. This is more of a pro-San Diego vote, though, than anti-Iggle.
San Diego 17, Philadelphia 13

1 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup Green Bay (1-4) at Minnesota (1-4)
I don't trust the Green Bay running game. I don't trust Green Bay at the Metrodome. I don't trust Green Bay's 52-3 win over New Orleans. So all of that should tell you exactly what I think of the men in purple.
Green Bay 31, Minnesota 20

1 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup Pittsburgh (3-2) at Cincinnati (5-1)
I lived in Cincinnati the last time this rivalry was good, in the early '80's. Cincinnati always felt like the Steelers' stepchild, and rightfully so. But now, the worm is turning.
Cincinnati 24, Pittsburgh 20

1 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup San Francisco (1-4) at Washington (3-2)
This is the kind of eight-sack game Alex Smith will just have to endure until his team gets better around him.
Washington 29, San Francisco 10

4:05 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup Dallas (4-2) at Seattle (4-2)
I love this game. Two rising teams, both likely headed for the playoffs, and two old warhorses on the coaching lines. (Hard to call Mike Holmgren a warhorse, but you get the picture.) I see a battered Shawn Alexander scoring late to win it.
Seattle 26, Dallas 24

4:15 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup Tennessee (2-4) at Arizona (1-4)
First of all, Denny Green' has to stick with Josh McCown. Tough luck for Kurt Warner, but McCown's on a roll. I look for the more physical Titans to bump Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin all day in the five-yard bump zone.
Tennessee 21, Arizona 17

4:15 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup Buffalo (3-3) at Oakland (1-4)
Kelly Holcomb cements his starting job for the rest of the season (he'd better) with a 326-yard passing day in the Black Hole.
Buffalo 27, Oakland 20

4:15 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup Baltimore (2-3) at Chicago (2-3)
More runs will be scored in the World Series game on the South Side Sunday night than in this yawner at Soldier Field.
Chicago 6, Baltimore 3

4:15 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup Denver (5-1) at New York (3-2)
I know, I know. You're all calling this a trap game for Denver. East Coast trip, pretty good opponent, Broncos coming down after a big win over the Patriots. Not now. Jake Plummer's not going to fail the way he did the last few years. He won't turn it over.
Denver 19, Giants 17

9 p.m. ET
Preview | Matchup New York (2-4) at Atlanta (4-2)
The Falcons, rightfully so, are worried about their run defense, and they're facing a back with a hot hand, Curtis Martin, coming off a 148-yard rushing day. If the Jets had a passing game right now, I'd pick them. But they don't.
Atlanta 23, Jets 21