Week 4 Picks

Week 3: 10-6  Overall: 27-22

Thanks to the best quarterback in the league’s (in his opinion) 356 passing yards out of 46 passing attempts the Ravens handled the lowly Browns last Thursday.  Now for the rest of the week:

Patriots vs. Bills

The Bills are 2-1 very much with the help of their running game.  It has eased some of the pressure off of Fitzpatrick allowing him to not be forced to force the ball.  Spiller is questionable to start but it seems Jackson will get back on the field sooner than initially expecting.  I still think Brady and Bilichick are angry and plan on rolling over the divisional rival Bills.

Pick: Patriots

49ers vs. Jets

The 49ers were stunned last week against the Vikings.  This week they face a struggling Jets team with inconsistency on offense and no Revis on defense.  I look for the Niners to bounce back to their dominating form.

Pick: 49ers

Seahawks vs. Rams

The Seahawks have proven to me so far that season that they have a good defense, a quality running game and the refs who shall not be named anymore, absolutely favored them in 2 out of their 3 games.  They won’t need it in this one.  Seattle’s athletic corners should be able to handle their only receiving threat, Amendola. 

Pick: Seahawks

Panthers vs. Falcons

Cam Newton is struggling so far this season.  And after seeing what the Atlanta pass defense did to Rivers once they had a lead does not bode well for Newton.  I have a hard time believing you can stop this Falcons offense right now and if anyone is, it is unlikely that Carolina will be that team.

Pick: Falcons

Vikings vs. Lions

After a hot start last year the Lions open the gates 1-2.  Stafford hasn’t been quite himself and is now battling another injury.  Leshore’s emergance as a running threat along with the best receiver in football gives them a chance every week to put up numbers.  They haven’t been able to stop very many people though.  Ponder has looked great so far this season but did so against 2 poor defenses and what was that other one?  Oh right the 49ers.  Last week Ponder only threw for 198 yards but has yet to through a pick this year and threw two redzone TDs.  If it’s a shooting match I see the Lions winning, if its low scoring the Vikings should win. 

Pick: Lions

Chargers vs. Chiefs

Chargers had a horrible lost last week as the Chiefs finally got a win with the help of Jamaal Charles (he’s back!).  Rivers and Turner will be happy they are facing a Cheifs defense that ranks 28th in points allowed this season.  If the Cheifs get out to t a slow start again and have to abandon the run, it could be bad news for them.  If they stick to the running game (although I don’t see Charles getting 30+ carries again), they will be in better shape.

Pick: Chargers

Texans vs. Titans

Although Locker had a big game last week, they still have yet to get productivity out of their star running back Chris Johnson and this week they face the Texans.  Houston is the most balanced team in football (and possibly the best).  Look for Foster and the gang to keep rolling.

Pick: Texans

Bengals vs. Jaguars

MJD is still a monster out of the backfield.  Outside of that though, the Jags aren’t impressive at all.  Dalton, however continues to impress me as he takes more control of the offense.  Also A.J. Green week in and week out is proving he is one of the top receivers in the league.

Pick: Bengals

Raiders vs. Broncos

You have Peyton Manning now what?  Well starting 1-2 probably isn’t what they expected, yet it isn’t all that surprising  to people who aren’t Denver fans. The Raiders had a big win over the Steelers last week and look to keep the ball rolling.  Maybe that Carson Palmer deal could work out in the end.  Like last year this division will be very much up for grabs.  Even though Heyward Bey’s absence hurts, leaning on McFadden will help.

Pick: Raiders

Dolphins vs. Cardinals

Everyone is picking the Cardinals.  Their defense destroyed Vick last week so if your Ryan Tannehill you must be having a rough time getting some sleep this week.  The Dolphins are good at the running game (both offensively and defensively) and the Eagles when they ran the ball last week (which wasn’t much) did so well against AZ.  Gotta stay with the hot hand and Ray Horton’s defense though.

Pick: Cardinals

Redskins vs. Buccaneers

RG3 although exciting is having trouble winning games (sound familiar Carolina fans?).  The Bucs look inconsistent at times as well.  This week I look for all those fancy stats for RG3 to amount to a win. 

Pick: Redskins

Saints vs. Packers

I wouldn’t have believed it if you told me these two teams combined record would be 1-5.  Sadly for the Saints the play on the road again.  In a possible high scoring affair, I just think the Packers are an all around better team.

Pick: Packers

Giants vs. Eagles

Last week Arizona showed everyone Philly’s true colors.  They can’t hold on to the football and don’t run the ball as much as they should.  The Giants continue to look like a dominant football team and much of this is without the help of Hakeem Nicks who is doubtful to play again.  They have so many options though that they should be fine.

Pick: Giants

Bears vs. Cowboys

Both teams got victories last week off of lack luster performances.  The Cutler to Marshal combination hasn’t been seen since week one and they face a tough Dallas secondary who could shut them down much like Green Bay did.  The Cowboys are having trouble finding an offensive rhythm as Jason Witten continues to be a non-factor.  I strongly believe that once Forte is truly back to full health, this Chicago team will begin to roll.  This week I don’t think is the week for that however. 

Pick: Cowboys

Week 3 Overview and Thursday Night Pick

Week 3: 10-6  Overall: 26-22

Week 3 is another step in the right direction.  I’m not sure if there were just less upsets or I’m actually improving.  Things that stood out in week 3:

 There are no certainties in the NFL.

Simply looking at records who would have thought that so many teams that were successful last year would be not so much this year (yet).  The Patriots (1-2), Packers (1-2), Steelers (1-2), Lions (1-2), and the Saints (0-3) all post losing records.  The QBs don’t seem to be playing at as high as a level as one would expect (unless you are Big Ben or Matt Ryan).  I mean who would have though that through three weeks that Kevin Kolb, Andy Dalton and Christian Ponder would all have higher QB ratings than Brees, Rodgers, and Brady.  Through the first two weeks the most prolific runners in the game were Reggie Bush and C.J. Spiller.  Then they both get hurt in week 3.  These rankings are sure to change and the some of the regular super stars will climb back to superiority but for now, the NFL is refreshingly out of the ordinary. 

 If Kolb plays like he did in week 3 the Cards are scary.

Ok.  We get it.  The Cardinals defense is scary good.  Their secondary has been locking down receivers with their safeties clocking people all over the field.  I mean just ask Mike Vick (if he can even remember) how hard Kerry Rhodes hit him last week.  Not only that but their linebacking core is young and deep.  With a slender Dan Williams and the always impressive Docket and Campbell, the rush has been superb.  Although Beannie will be out for a significant amount of time with turf toe, almost rookie (missed all of last season) Ryan Williams looked explosive in 2 drives late in the game against the Eagles.  Fitz showed why he is still considered on of the best and undervalued Andre Roberts continues to contribute.  If Kolb plays like he did last week with 17/24, 222 yards with 2 TDs and no picks, the Cardinals might be a forced to be reckoned  with.  Quick fact: Kolb is 3rd in the league in QB rating through 3 weeks.

 The Green Bay, Seattle game forced the leagues hand, the Refs are back

I wont spend too much time on it.  It was an awful call on the field, awful job at reviewing the play and awful job of not taking ownership after the fact by Goodell. People were outraged and deservedly so.  Now we all get our wish and the old refs are back.  Finally a familiar face when we complain on sunday about how much the refereeing sucks.

Thursday night game:

Browns vs. Ravens

The Ravens are clearly a better team over all.  Weeden has looked ok at times and Richardson is a dynamic option out of the backfield.  The Browns also have one of the best corners in the league but he won’t be playing.  The Ravens will let Flacco fly in this one.  It could get ugly.

Pick: Ravens

Week 3 Picks

Week 2: 7-9    Overall: 17-16

Rams vs. Bears

Jay Cutler and the Bears had an extended week to get over their week 2 fall out.  Forte’s injury isn’t as bad as originally thought and should be back soon, just not this week.  Meanwhile Bush will get a similar opportunity to shine like in Oakland last year.  Sam Bradford might be without Steven Jackson this week.  Maybe he’s been spiking footballs during practice and got benched again.  As much as I don’t trust Jay Cutler week to week, if they rely on Bush’s running game they’ll fair better. 

Pick: Bears

Bills vs. Browns

The Browns offense has improved from last year with their two rookies Weeden and Richardson.  If the Bills keep riding the the C.J. Spiller train though they will be hard to stop.  Especially if it keeps Ryan Fitzpatrick’s attempts to a minimum.  If they hold on to the ball the Bills should be set.

Pick: Bills

Buccaneers vs. Cowboys

The Cowboys are a confusing team.  They go in and beat the Super Bowl champs in style then get dominated by the Seahawks.  The Seahawks are a solid team but aren’t really Super Bowl favorites.  The Bucs are looking to improve from last year’s step backwards but I think their progress will get slowed down by an angry Cowboys team.

Pick: Cowboys

Jaguars vs. Colts

MJD looks to take some of the pressure from Gabbart who has looked much improved in week 1 of his sophomore season but struggled against the Texans.The highly anticipated Luck has looked mature and truly has all the tools to be great in this league.  He didn’t focus on the veteran Wayne in week 2 allowing Avery to shine a bit.  If MJD can dominate the game, then the Jags have a chance but if Luck and Colts get out to an early lead, Gabbart will struggle to keep up.

Pick: Colts

Jets vs. Dolphins

The Dolphins were in a close match against the Raiders until Reggie Bush had some USC flashbacks run through his head.  If the NFL’s second leading rusher can play like he has been the Dolphins have a good chance of upsetting the Jets.  The Jets didn’t look so hot against Big Ben and the Steelers last week.  One thing they did do well though was stop the run.  If Sanchez plays like he did in week one and Bush doesn’t break a long run or two, the Jets should pull this one out.

Pick: Jets

49ers vs. Vikings

The 49ers still look to be the best team in the NFL right now.  The Vikings only have 2 weapons (but a healthy Peterson might count for 2)  on offense and will struggle to get in the endzone.  San Francisco will lean on the seemingly ageless Gore and win handily. 

Pick: 49ers

Chiefs vs. Saints

Neither the Chiefs nor the Saints are playing that well.  The Chiefs have definitely looked worse.  The only time they can move the ball on anyone is once they are already getting their asses kicked.  Look for Brees to return to form and put up some points early.

Pick: Saints

Lions vs. Titans

The Titans look lost on the field against the Chargers last week.  The Lions although were relatively dominated by the 49ers still have the potential to outscore anyone.  All it takes is for Stafford to finally return to last years form.  This will be the week that happens.

Pick: Lions

Bengals vs. Redskins

Dalton has looked much more commanding of the offense this season (not to say he wasn’t last year, simply an improvement).  The defense however, who was great at limiting yards last year, allowed the Browns to score 27 on them.  Not facing Trent Richardson this week will help, even though RG3 has looked dynamic.  If the Bengals can sustain long drives and keep the Skins of the field, they’ll win this one.

Pick: Bengals

Eagles vs. Cardinals

The Cardinals pulled out the upset of the week against the Patriots.  Their defense has proven to be dominant and if the Kolb relies on the runnings game and limits turnovers they will be tough to beat.  The Eagles are suprisingly 2-0.  Not because they aren’t talented but it’s how they did it.  Vick has turned the ball over 7 times in two games, many of which were in the redzone.  They will struggle again this week especially if they forget to utilize McCoy.  This may be a low scoring affair, which favors the Cardinals.

Pick: Cardinals

Falcons vs. Chargers

Rivers looks back to form this year after recording a career high in INTs last year.  The Falcons pass defense hasn’t looked the best but when your throwing the ball like they are right now, it doesn’t matter.  Turner who go a DUI last week thinks he’s starting against San Diego.  Honestly though, Rogers fits the offense better.  Once ATL realizes this their offense becomes scarier.  Matthews should be back after his pre-season broken clavicle.  His carries may still be limited.  This could turned into a competition between Rivers and Ryan.  I’m sticking with the hot hand and picking Ryan.

Pick: Falcons

Texans vs. Broncos

The Texans are looking very dominant with the help of two amazing running backs.  Schaub doesn’t hardly need to throw the ball but when he does he is more than capable.  Each week it seems the Broncos get out to a slow start and then decide to turn on the offense.  Peyton who is healthy and playing well at times, doesn’t seem to be the MVP he once was.  Maybe it’s just rust.    If the Texans can maintain time of possession with the best runnings game in the NFL they should be fine.

Pick: Texans

Steelers vs. Oakland

The Steelers will continue to ride Big Ben and their great receiving core.  A full offseason didn’t fix the Raiders offensive woes.  The Steelers should have another sizable victory.

Pick: Steelers

Patriots vs. Ravens

The Patriots were considered by some to be the second best team in the NFL but after their offensive struggles against the Cardinals, maybe that was a hasty assumption.  An angered Tom Brady might be a force to be reckoned  with but they are facing another tough defense this week.  The Ravens were in the same boat.  After a smashing the Bengals in week 1 the Ravens couldn’t manage to beat the turnover crazy Eagles.  With a Hernandezless Patriots including fazing out Welker might struggle again this week.  Heavy doses of Ray Rice will give them trouble as well.

Pick: Ravens

Packers vs. Seahawks

The Seahawks practically owned the Cowboys in week 2 and have another tough opponent this week with the Packers.  The Packers will desperately need Jennings’ help against a tough Seattle secondary.  If the Green Bay defense can make Cutler look that foolish last week the rookie Wilson will be in trouble.  This game may be closer than some may expect but the Packers should be able to take care of business in one of the toughest places to play in the NFL.

Pick: Packers

Week 2 Overview and Thursday Night Pick

Week 2: 7-9    Overall: 16-16

Ok so this week I took a step in the wrong direction.  There were upsets and just poor decisions by me.  Here are the 3 things I took a away from week 2:

1. The NFC West isn’t as bad as people think. 
    The Rams on the back of Bradford and Danny Amendola’s double digit catches before the half, helped the Rams overcome the streaking RG3 powered Redskins.  The Seahawks handled the Cowboys with with ease.  The 49ers continued to show their dominance as probably the best team in NFC by making the Lions look like a watered down version of its offense a year ago.  The most shocking of last week was the Cardinals upsetting the Patriots.  Brady only looked like Brady on one drive of the game (which they scored a TD).  The offense did just enough to get points on the board with the assist of a slightly better performance from their running game.  Also the defense is proving they are a top tier defense of the league behind veterans Wilson, Docket, Campbell and emerging star Washington.

 2. Bounty Gate will end up costing the Saints.
    The offense hasn’t been on point like usual.  The rhythm isn’t there and maybe Sean Payton ran the show more than Drew Brees would want you to believe.  The truth is they are scoring enough to win but the defense can’t stop anyone (especially athletic quarterbacks apparently).  Teams don’t typically make the playoffs after starting 0-2 and the Falcons look to take the NFC by storm this year so look out.

 3. Although the replacement referees are terrible, it won’t effect ratings.
    Lets face it the replacement referees aren’t very good.  They often appear afraid to make calls and are indecisive.  Then once they make a bad call, and review it, they still get it wrong.  We all miss the old refs but....it won’t keep me from watching the NFL.  I’ll complain about the refs but I won’t stop watching football just to get them back.  In the grand scheme they don’t “cost” people games, although they might very soon.  I hope the strike is resolved but I won’t be losing sleep over it as a NFL fan.

Giants Vs. Panthers

The Giants showed they can just throw their way to victory.  Eli Manning who threw for (510 yards, 378 of which were to Cruz and Nicks) made it clear that they can be last in the league in rushing again and still win it all.  This week however they are short Nicks and Bradshaw.  I still see Eli putting up yards, getting in the endzone might be a little tougher.  The Giants defense will be matched up against the athletic specimen of Cam Newton.  They may be able to slow him down some with their quick D-Line but he’ll be hard to stop completely.  I see this to be a relatively close matchup but the Giants experience will help them prevail. 

Pick: Giants

Week 2 Picks

Week 1: 9-7 Overall:  10-7

Thursday night’s game between Green Bay and Chicago was not quite what I expected.  Green Bay did win the game but Jay Cutler’s and the Bears’ o-line looked awful to say the least.  Here are my picks for week 2:

Chiefs vs. Bills

The Chiefs look to rebound after a poor outing in week 1.  If Fitzpatrick continues to turn the ball over like he did last week KC’s chances are good.  Although CJ Spiller is a great fill in for Jackson, I just don’t see the Bills hanging around this week either.

Pick: Chiefs

Saints vs. Panthers

The Saints losing to the Skins was the upset of the week.  Meanwhile Cam looked mediocre struggling offensively.  Look for the Saints to bounce back in this one as with the help of turnovers and a Brees take-over. 

Pick: Saints

Browns vs. Bengals

The Browns are just as bad as last year.  The Bengals D is good enough to slow down the talented Trent Richardson.  Look for Cincy to rebound after last week also.

Pick: Bengals

Vikings vs. Colts

Neither the Vikings or the Colts offense looked all that great last week.  Luck looks to target Wayne ALOT next tomorrow as the Vikings will look to shut down the Colts only weapon.  Meanwhile Peterson looked as good as new, fully recovered from his injury and migraine free Harvin will rack up those all-purpose yards.

Pick: Vikings

Texans vs. Jaguars

The Texans will run up and down the Jaguars, although they look better than last year.  With a healthy Andre Johnson and the loaded backfield of Foster and Tate, Jacksonville will have trouble keeping up.

Pick: Texans

Raiders vs. Dolphins

The Dolphins can’t rely on Bush to cary the load.  The Raiders meanwhile are loaded with speed and a ready McFadden.  The Dolphins will have trouble in the possible low scoring game.

Pick: Raiders

Cardinals vs. Patriots

The Cardinals can’t keep up with the Patriots regardless who starts at QB.  They might slow down New England’s offense but can’t stop it.  The underrated Cards D can’t save them this time.

Pick: Patriots

Buccaneers vs. Giants

The Giants will need Nicks to be 100% this year as the Bucs looked improved.  Doug Martin was as advertised and Tampa now has more weapons than last year.  The Giants always get a slow start to the year but this week they will get the victory.

Pick: Giants

Ravens vs. Eagles

Vick struggled to to produce any offensive continuity.  The Ravens however looked like an elite team much like last year.  The Ravens will take this one.

Pick: Ravens

Cowboys vs. Seahawks

The Cowboys defense will rattle Russell Wilson and shut down Lynch.  Romo has too many weapons for the Seahawks mediocre team to overcome.

Pick: Cowboys

Redskins vs. Rams

RG3 looked like the real deal, beating the offensive juggernaut Saints.  Bradford has the ability to put up yards but will struggle to find the endzone.  Look for the RG3 train to continue for now.

Pick: Redskins

Jets vs. Pittsburgh

No Revis this week but Pitts defense is also fighting injuries.  Big Ben is more poised to put up large numbers however.  Look for Antonio Brown to light it up this week.

Pick: Steelers


Titans vs. Chargers

The Titans will keep up with the Chargers and look for a surprisingly close game.  Chris Johnson might finally break as Ryan Mathews still won’t play a full game (if play at all).  This is my upset this week as the Titans look to shock the always slow starting Chargers.

Pick: Titans

Lions vs. 49ers

Matthew Stafford did not look like a top 5 QB last week as he had a tough time getting any rhythm on offense.  The 49ers on the other hand got to showcase their new offensive prowless.  Davis who has also been the focal point along with Gore (who tore it up last week by the way) wasn’t involved at all.  Look for the 49ers to continue their winning ways by doubling up on the best Wr in the game, exploiting the Lions unbalanced offense.

Pick: 49ers

Broncos vs. Falcons

Manning once in the no huddle looked like Manning.  The Falcons offense looked scary once Julio Jones became the focal point rather than the always consistent although deteriorating Roddy White.   Look for these two QB’s to shoot it out against each-other.  I think the Falcons are a better team overall and will do a better job at keeping the opposition off the field.

Pick: Falcons

Enjoy week 2 everybody!!!

Week 1 Overview and Thursday Night Pick

Week 1: 9-7 Overall:  9-7

So week one is in the bag.  There were some predictable victories and some upsets.  Here are the top 3 things that I noticed during week one. 

1.  RG3 is the real deal.  He not only upset the new look Saints but did so with style.  Scrambling around, finding open targets, and busting big plays.  He made a team that had no offensive rhythm last year look stunning.  Griffin threw for 320 yards with 2 TDs and no picks.  The Saints defense is a watered down version of years past but this still was an impressive performance.  With a tougher pass rush this week facing the Rams, lets see if RG3 can keep up this high level of performance. 

2.  Either the 49ers aren’t a fluke team or Aaron Rodgers isn’t as perfect as we expected him to be.  I will not doubt the fact that the 49ers defense is VERY good and that the Green Bay defense is exploitable.  But with the extra weapons the 49ers added this off season with Manningham and (gasp) Randy Moss, there are viable options other than Gore and Davis.  This looks to be much of the same formula as last year and if Smith continues to complete 77% of his passes they will be a top seed once again.

3. All the reports were right.  Atlanta will throw the ball more and Julio Jones is a top receiver in this league.  Roddy White has always been Ryan’s go to guy but with more of a game plan surrounding Jones, the sophomore receiver had a huge game.  Michael Turner and Jacquizz Rodgers combined for only 18 rushing attempts.  Once The Falcons took to the air in the second half, what was a close game became 16 point victory.

Overall last week I was at least positive. I went 9-7.  This week I vow to not get worse.
Here is my pick for the Thursday night game:


Bears vs. Packers

Last week Aaron Rodgers didn’t look quite like Aaron Rodgers.  Green Bay couldn’t get anything going with a lack of a running game, a beaten up Jennings meanwhile facing a tough 49ers defense.  Randall Cobb showed to have an improved role in the offense yet still the team fell up short.  The defense still struggled like it did last year allowing Gore to run up and down the field.  They even allowed Randy Moss to stroll his walker into the endzone to catch a TD pass. 

The Bears played a much easier opponent in the Colts.  They faced a rookie QB and a soft defense.  Brandon Marshall was reunited and I’m sure it felt good as the former duo hooked up for 119 yards on 9 catches.  Meanwhile the rushing tandem of Forte and Bush look deadly.  Rookie Alshon Jeffery also looks to be a good 2nd option for Cutler.

I see this game being more high scoring than Green Bay’s week one outing.  Both teams have the talent to put up high numbers.  I don’t see Rodgers disappointing two weeks in a row and I do see Cutler scorching this Green Bay defense.  I think this game will come down to 2 things: special teams and turnovers.  Both teams have electric return men, which ever one gets better field position will help their team get the W.  Chicago should rely a bit on their run game this week.  If Cutler gets into a throwing match with Rodgers, history shows he will force a throw which leads to turnovers. In the end I see this costing the Bears the W.  The Bears are a more balanced team but I can’t see Rodgers and his cheese heads losing two in Lambeau. 

Pick: Packers

NFL Predictions for Week 1

So I haven’t made one of these in a while and I’m going to match myself up with the pros this NFL season and pick victors week to week. Here is week 1:

Cowboys Vs Giants    

On paper I think this matchup is very even.  Both defenses have potential to shut you down although consistency has been an issue past.  The fragile running backs are explosive as I’m sure the Cowboys are more excited than anybody to be getting Demarco Murray back out there.  Lets face it though this game will come down to the last quarter and who is more poised (the best by far last year in that quarter by the way) to lead their team to victory than Eli Manning.  Even a banged up Nicks is one of the best in the NFL and Cruz lived and died on his big play making ability last year.  I’ve always rooted for Romo unless he pulls another broken rib performance out of the bag I don’t see it likely that he will overcome the 2 time Super Bowl winner.

Winner: Giants

Colts Vs Bears

I’m very excited to see what what the touted Andrew Luck can do in the NFL.  Although Chicago’s defense isn’t as intimidating without the presence of Urlacher in the middle but still is good enough to put pressure on the rookie.  This Bear’s team is good folks.  Last year they were on a roll before Cutler (who was having one of his better years) went down with a thumb injury and Forte (who was one of the yards from scrimmage leaders) went down as well.  Add in a blast from Denver’s past, Brandon Marshal and you have a potentially scary offense.  Luck just doesn’t have the supporting cast to keep up.

Winner: Bears

Eagles Vs Browns

The dream team is talented but I don’t see them winning a Super Bowl this year.  This is mainly because of Vicks health issues.  That being said its just week one and everyone should be poised to put the smack down on the Browns to get the smack talk starting.  The Browns are starting their 28 year old rookie Weeden and are without their highly anticipated rookie Trent Richardson who is recovering from surgery.  The Eagles shouldn’t have too much trouble with this one.

Winner: Eagles

Rams Vs Lions

The Lions finally put it all together last year, had a winning record and squeaked into the playoffs.  Their season completely is hinging on Stafford's ability to stay on the field however.  When he’s on the Stafford/Johnson duo is formidable.  The Rams took a step backwards last year as it was Bradford’s turn to have a injury ridden season.  The Rams have the always consistent Steven Jackson but it is matched up against the intense Suh.  Look for the Lions to air it out to keep Jackson at bay.

Winner: Lions

Dolphins Vs Texans

Fantasy hero Arian Foster looks to take down Miami single handedly which he could very well do.  Ben Tate could even help out a bit too.  With a healthy Andre Johnson and Matt Schaub the Texans look to pull away.  Ryan Tannehill gets his first NFL start but simply lacks the weapons to catch up if their fall behind early.

Winner: Texans

Falcons Vs Chiefs

The Falcons have come out and said they will be airing it out more this year.  Hurry up and draft Matt Ryan and Julio Jones in your fantasy draft now!  The Cheifs who were ready to make some noise last year fell on their face due to the Charles injury (and later Cassel).  I like the Chiefs to surprise some people mainly by leaning on their running game with Charles and the hopeful Hillis.  If those two guys get going and keep the ball away from Ryan and his potent receivers and consistent Turner, look out.

Winner: Chiefs

Jaguars Vs Vikings

The Jags should still be able to run the ball with the help of the electric Rashad Jennings.  Odds are this will be a low scoring affair.  Gabbart looks to kick off his sophomore year with the help of rookie Justin Blackman.  Gabbarts counterpart Ponder had the better year last year and has better options in the backfield with Peterson and at receiver with a migrainless Harvin.  I still haven’t been convince Gabbart is the answer so I’m going to have to go with Minnesota. 

Winner: Vikings

Redskins Vs Saints

Everyone wants to see what RG3 can do in the NFL including New Orleans.  Promise their is no bounty on him.  The saints are without mastermind Sean Peyton, they have a new D Coordinator, players are suspended and Robert Meachem is now a Charger!  They’ll be fine.  I’ve always gave more praise to Brees for their success than Peyton (although he is very good too).  RG3 will most likely try to do too much too quick and get careless with the ball.

Winner: Saints

Bills Vs Jets

The Bills were on a roll when all of the sudden Ryan Fitzpatrick got a huge deal.  Then the turnovers came and Fred Jackson couldn’t stay on the field.  The Jets underperformed and decided that Tim Tebow was the answer.  With the addition of Tebow and Sparano the Jets most likely will look to running the ball much more.  This only helps their defense as it did Denver’s last year and keeps the ball way from the Bills offense. 

Winner: Jets

Patriots Vs Titans

Brady.  Gronk.  Welker.  Hernandez.  Locker.  Johnson.  Britt.  Superbowls and offensive juggernauts vs a young quarterback utilizing playmakers with character issues.  I think I’ll take the proven ones here.

Winner: Patriots

Seahawks Vs Cardinals

Each team has some talent but a whole lot of issues.  While the Seahawks stockpile back up quarterbacks the explosive rookie Wilson gets the nod.  Meanwhile the “but all I do is turn it on in the forth quarter and win” Skelton wins the battle over Skelton.  Both defenses are improved and on the rise so the big difference maker to me is the running game.  Lynch should be out.  Beannie and the exciting Williams need to step it up big time for Arizona to win.

Winner: Cardinals

49ers Vs Packers

The 49ers in my opinion will take a step backwards this year.  Alex Smith will revert back to being a game manager and the “ra ra” of Jim Harbough will fizzle.  The Packers are one of the best in the NFL and I look for their offense and the play makers on their defense to showcase it on Sunday.

Winner: Packers

Panthers Vs Buccaneers

Cam Newton shocked many NFL fans with the numbers he posted last year.  With a lackluster defense though the team struggled to find wins.  The Bucs who showed glimpses of potential the year before took a step backwards last year.  With Bucs organization questioning if Josh Freeman is the future, I think I’ll go with the Madden’s second place finisher and his talented backfield and white out. 

Winner: Panthers

Steelers Vs Denver

This is one of the more intriguing match-ups of the week. Manning’s return to football vs the always difficult Steelers squad.  How will Manning manage the lack of weapons when facing a tough Pittsburgh defense.  Lets face it, although Decker and Moore are nice receivers, their are no Wayne and Harrison.  Big Ben on the other hand has plenty of targets.  We all know the speed and playmaking ability of Wallace but last year Brown showed he can contribute heavily as well.  I’m rooting for ‘ya but sorry Peyton not this week.

Winner:  Steelers

Bengals Vs Ravens

This rivalry had some nice match-ups last year.  Dalton proved that he can hang with the big boys and we saw first hand how talented AJ Green and tight end Gresham can be.  The Ravens look to lean once again on Ray Rice who tore it up last year.  With Ray Lewis at the helm, no matter the age, I cannot doubt the Ravens defense.  And although the Bengals D was stout with the yardage last year they just didn’t create enough turnovers.  If Flacco can get any sort of lead, I see Dalton trying to force passes.

Winner:  Ravens

Chargers Vs Raiders

This matchup could put up some points.  Oakland has hoarded speed the past few years and plan on it showing some dividends here shortly.  With a full offseason under his belt Carson Palmer looks to make an improved effort to running the Oakland offense.  A healthy McFadden returns to the fold (maybe if it is only for half the season) which is a scary thought for week 1 and the Chargers.  Although I don’t see Rivers being as pick happy and although the switch of Jackson for Meachem isn’t all that bad, the loss of Mathews for the first few weeks hurts.  I see the Raiders pulling this one out IF their defense holds off on stupid penalties (which never seems to be the case). 

Winner: Raiders


Hopefully that wasn’t too bad.  I know it was kind of a QB heavy analysis but it is week one and I haven’t done as much research as I should have before writing this.  Anyways feel free to rip my picks apart and when I do this again next week, I’ll include my record.  Thanks for reading!  Enjoy week one of the NFL, I know I will!!!