Sport Chit Chat

This week order will be restored in the NFC East. That I can say. After a big win on Thursday night football, the NY Jets sit alone at the top of the AFC East. I was fortunate enough to put in Favre at 8:12 pm Thursday night, and I’m very thankful I did considering my line up this week. Anyway, on to this week’s picks.

Broncos and Falcons
Last week I picked the Falcons to fall against the Saints, but they managed to pull out a convincing win so this week I’m gonna go Falcons. They are 4-0 at home and Denver has nothing in terms of a ground game. They picked up Tatum Bell and I’m not to sure what to expect from him on Sunday. Matt Ryan will be tossing the ball downfield especially with Roddy White making ridiculous catches in the endzone. Oh ye, and they still have Michael Turner on the ground.
Broncos 24, Falcons 31

Eagles and Bengals
This is pretty much a no brainer. The second worst team in the leauge is playing a hungry NFC East Eagles team. Although the Bengals won their first game last week, let’s remember that Carson Palmer is not QB and I can’t even remember who wears number 85. The Eagles need to make up ground especially with the Cowboys coming off a bye week and Romo supposedly starting. The Eagles will throw everything at the Bengals, most likely as a scare tactic to the rest of the division. Woooo, I’m scared!
Eagles 34, Bengals 20

Saints and Chiefs
The Saints are coming off a tough loss to the Falcons and rumor has it that the Bush will be back in action on Sunday. But don’t count the Chiefs out. They are fighters at the bottom of the barrel. I know there has been a lot of talk about L. Johnson and his off field antics, but the man can still run. Thigpen has evolved as a decent QB throwing 6 TD’s and no INT’s in his short career. I’m taking this as my upset of the week.
Saints 20, Chiefs 24

Raiders and Dolphins
The Dolphins are so hot, I can smell spicy tuna from my house. The Raiders are just a mess. I think the team should just collapse and move.

Forget the Raider nation. Just fold the team. The Dolphins have won 3 straight and they will not lose to the Raiders. Even though rumor has it that Jamarcus will be back, the Fins will take this one away. And let’s not forget the two men that will run over Raider Nation, RONNIE BROWN and RICKY WILLIAMS!
Raiders 13, Dolphins 27

Ravens and Giants
So most people wouldn’t think that this would be a defensive game considering both teams are averaging 30+ points in their last 4 wins. But the Ravens have the best run defense and a great pass rush and the Giants are poised to keep pushing towards another Lombardi. Joe Flacco has turned out to be a very reliable QB amassing more than 40 points last week. Don’t expect that this week. Low scores will be the result of this one. By the way, Plaxico is a sloppy mess.
Ravens 20, Giants 17

Vikings and Buccaneers
So this game looks like a twilight game featuring Garcia and Frerrotte at QB. I’m pretty sure that some of these players could be their sons. Regardless, AP is coming off a 192 yard game against the Packers but don’t expect that on Sunday. The Bucs are suffering similar ailments to Denver, very shallow at RB. Cadillac maybe back, but don’t expect too many touches. Apparently, Tampa has been asking Williams to run “like Adrian Peterson”. Well let’s hope he stays on his feet.
Vikings 21, Bucs 17

Lions and Panthers
So this rumble in the jungle is gonna be an ugly one. Daunte Culpepper is starting again and what a way to come back playing the Jags and then the Panthers. (What’s with all the animals?) Don’t expect too much from the Lions but let it be known that the Panthers are out for blood, especially Delhomme. He threw 4 INT’s last week against Oakland so expect him to be on the ball and threading the needle. Panthers become the new king of the jungle.
Lions 14, Panthers 31

Bears and Packers
If the Bears need to start Rex Grossman then the Packers have this in the bag as the Bears game plan will revolve around rookie Matt Forte. Expect the Packers to go out strong as they need to make up ground in the NFC. Rodgers has established himself as a leader on the team so look for the Pack to rally around him. One question: What the hell has happened to Brian Urlacher?
Bears 14, Packers 21

Texans and Colts
Sage Rosenfels is awful. And for the first time in a long time, the Colts are playing for a wild card spot. Let’s break this down to who is healthy and who plays smart. The Colts are healthy again, and your damn right Peyton is smarter than Sage Rosenfels. The Texans should lose because their QB’s first name is herb! Anyway, the Colts are coming off a tuff trip of games against the Titans, Pats and Steelers, so don’t expect a ton of points in this one. Oh and another thing Marvin Harrison is playing like an old man. He needs to shave that stash of his.
Texans 20, Colts 23

Rams and 49′ers
If Sage Rosenfels was on the Rams then I can outright say that they would be the worst team I’ve ever seen in football. You know what, even without Sage the Rams are terrible. The Rams can’t do anything and I’m convinced that Torry Holt will want a trade or want to retire at the end of this season. Mike Singletary has learned that keeping his clothes on might help him win some games. 49′ers Shaun Hill is learning the NFL ropes everyweek and there is no better time to pump up your stats then against the Rams.
Rams 13, 49′ers 23

Cardinals and Seahawks
On paper this one doesn’t look close, but the Card’s are putting all their faith in the glove wearing Kurt Warner, but their defense isn’t exactly stellar. The Seahawks might have Hasselbeck back so we might be able to expect something of a game here. If Kurt can keep slinging and the NFL’s best receiving tandem can bring them down then the Cardinals have a great shot. But if their D is sloppy then the Seahawks might win this battle of the birds.
Cardinals 24, Seahawks 21

Titans and Jags
I was watching ESPN and they are picking the Jags. Now you know how i feel about ESPN so i’m going Titans. MJD had 33 yards on the ground last time these two teams met and the Titans D is fierce. It has been since Week 1 and not much has changed since then. Kerry Collins can throw it deep and LenDale White is running like a train. It appears that the Titans have all the pieces.
Titans 27, Jags 20

Chargers and Steelers
LT has been a bust this season and the Chargers have nothing to show except Philip Rivers having a great individual season. Big Ben keeps practicing with his injured shoulder and Byron Leftwich looked good coming in as his replacement. Willie will be back so expect the load to come off Big Ben a bit. Hopefully Ben can keep the INT’s down, he has 8 in three games.
Chargers 14, Steelers 20

Cowboys and Redskins
Never has it been so important for the Cowboys to win a game. Winning this game will not only help in the Division but also in overall NFC standings. The Giants have the division locked up so the best the Cowboys can do is get a decent wildcard spot. Romo is back and with two great options at receiver now, Williams and Owens. DeAngelo Hall will be playing but Campbell has been in a slump. The Steelers D blanketed him and he had a very low production. The Cowboys are on the road, but when Romo is playing, every game is a winnable one. Let’s just hope this doesn’t turn into a spitting war.
Cowboys 30, Redskins 24

Browns and Bills
The Bills have been struggling lately and Brady Quinn makes his 2nd start after a loss last thursday. Quinn needs to relax and just play. He has a year of NFL training under his belt even though rookie QB’s seem to be out performing him, Flacco and Ryan. Quinn’s time is now and he’s in a great position to show off, the Browns have nothing to lose. The Bills are in a very fragile position and need to gain some ground in a separating AFC division. Braylon Edwards, please catch 2 TD’s this week!
Browns 27, Bills 20

Well those are the picks for this week. I’ll be honest, i’m not really happy with some of these match ups but hey, in this league anything can happen. The Titans will remain undefeated and my Cowboys will get back on track and into the playoffs. If you have a look at my last post, i’ve given my comments on the first half of the season. The second half will definitely be entertaining as teams will be clawing their way to try and steal a spot into the playoffs. But don’t be surprised if you see some unexpected teams playing in January. You know my deal, I don’t endorse gambling, nor do I endorse using these picks as a source of income. Enjoy, and see you on the gridiron.

QUANSTRONG

p.s. MB, good luck in the office pool.

I thought this would be a good time to throw in my two cents on the first half of the NFL season. For some reason, this season has felt a little bit odd with radical predictions going out the window and Pro-Bowlers going down left right and under centre. There are a number of big stories playing out this season and some are going as expected, others not so much.

First, a Brady-less season. No one saw this coming, an NFL season without Tom Brady. I know Robert Kraft is kicking himself but Matt Cassell has stepped up nicely and the Patriots are atop their division. That’s not to say that the Pats don’t need Brady to win, but it goes to show that Bilichek can coach and is doing brilliantly with what he’s got. I’m not sure how far the Pats will go into the playoffs but look for them to play like they have something to prove.

The Rodgers Show and Brett the Jet. Having the cheese heads hopes and dreams on your shoulders is no easy task. But let’s commend Aaron Rodgers for burdening the load and not completely crumbling underneath all the pressure. The Packers’ season isn’t anything special they sit in 11th in the NFC but there is a second half of a season to play. Brett the Jet, just when you thought he could do no more, Brett Favre throws 6TD’s to add another mileston to his already elustrious career. The Jets are having a great turn around season and it is definitely thanks to Favre being able to create plays from nothing and hit receivers deep. Thomas Jones has also picked up his production and has helped in the running game. If the Jets’ defence could just get things together then I think Brett may have a chance at a playoff apperance in January.

Giant doubt and Giant expectations. When the Giants won the Superbowl in February, everyone thought it was a 1-time deal and Eli Manning was just hot at the time. But the Giants have established themselves atop the NFC and are poised to make another Superbowl appearance. The way the rest of the conference is playing, there is a damn good chance they will be there in February. Eli Manning has solidified his presence on the field and should no longer be referred to as Peyton’s little brother. If you asked him who to pick up in a fantasy draft if it were to start today, I’d take Eli over Peyton in a second, even with a stone-handed Plaxico Burress on my team.

Cowboys too slow in a Texas Showdown. The Superbowl favorites have had a mediocre season at best after being plagued by injury the last few weeks and realizing that if Tony Romo goes down again, there is no one to take his place. This coupled with a low production from T.O. is spelling bad news for the ‘Boys.

They will need to win 5 of the remaining 7 games to have a chance at the wildcard this season. And obviously I have faith in them. Felix Jones was also a surprise this season as all the Jerry Jones doubters are probably being gagged right now and told never to doubt JJ again. Rashard Mendenhall has done nothing this season and i’m pretty sure is out for the remainder due to an injury. The Cowboys need to and will shape up for the second half.

AFC Shuffle. The 4 powerhouses that have dominated the AFC the last 5 seasons are showing signs of aging and new teams have emerged. The most surprising is an undefeated season thus far by the Titans and Kerry Collins doing a superb job for the mental patient Vince Young. The Tennesse defence though had high expectations and is living up to the hype. If they can keep up this great production defensively the Titans may go all the way. My only doubt is their lack of playoff experience but their ability to win close games may prove helpful if the pressure gets to them in January.

The Chargers have had just a plain unlucky season losing 2 early games by a point. That would’ve changed a lot of things in the AFC. The Colts are also just hanging in there with a record of 5-4. Marvin Harrison is having a terrible season and Peyton, to be honest, looks tired. He doesn’t have that poise and fire that I’m used to seeing in him. The Colt’s are by no means out of the playoff race. They have excellent coaching and experience which goes along way in this league. Finally, the Patriots have surprised everyone holding the 3rd spot in the AFC. Many thought that without Brady a winning Patriots season was looking very slim.

Second Half Hot Streak, Second Half Meltdown.

Meltdown:
Let’s cut the bullshit about the Buffalo Bills. Yes they had a good start to the season with surprising wins, but this is a 16 game season (soon to be 18…. YES) and the Bills have shown that they have changed, but not that much. I predict the Bills finish 9-7 after losing their last 3 games going into the second half.

The Falcons. I just have this terrible feeling that the Falcons are going to hit a wall when they start to play decent teams. Matt Ryan showed that he can crumble when under pressure and make bad decisions. They still have to play the Chargers, Panthers and Vikings this season and that’s where we will see the Falcons fail.

Denver. Injuries have gutted this team to the bone. With no real RB in the game, the Bronco’s offense has become extremely predictable. Denver’s schedule is pretty balanced as they should pull out wins from the Chiefs, Raiders, Bills and possibly the Jets. But with no Bye’s in the second half if the Broncos can muster up a 5-4 record, I will be impressed.

Hot Streaks
The Cardinals. Last night as I was watching MNF I was startled and puzzelled to see Kurt Warner wearing clothes on BOTH his hands. That’s right. BOTH his hands. Now they were playing in Arizona so i don’t see weather being a factor here, regardless, Kurt and the Cards are having a great season both on the ground and in the air.
(Please notice his hands)
Boldin and Fitzgeraled are undoubtedly the best 2 receiver tandem in the league this year (Unless Roy Williams and T.O. can get on the same page). With an impressive 6-3 record this season Arizona is poised to make a playoff run. With two games against the Seahawks and one against the Rams, the Cardinals can definitely finish 11-5 in my mind. They have some tough games against, the Giants, Patriots and Vikings, but pulling out a 1-3 against these teams will be a success.

Ravens. Amassing 41 points last week is no easy task, just ask the Jet’s who’ve done it twice this season. The Ravens have quietly moved through the season, picking up wins here and there and by midpoint they are sitting 5th in the AFC and have won their last 3 games. Joe Flacco has a cannon of an arm and defensivley the Ravens are sound. If Flacco can keep up his production and keep the rookie mistakes to a minimum Ray and the boys might be looking at some overtime come January.

Giants. Silencing the critics is one thing, slapping the face of all the writers at ESPN is another. The Giants have overcome huge doubt in the minds of analysts and may very well take another stab at grabbing the Lombardi. The Giants seem to have a plan for everyone and I guess this was evident against the Patriots last season. Being able to adapt quickly and effectively has allowed the Giants to stay on top othe NFC. Now, if the Superbowl were this Sunday and the Titans and Giants faced off, I’d pick the Giants to win. They have a balanced offensive and a blinding pass rush. The Giants may drop 1 or 2 games in the second half, but don’t be surprised if they finish 15-1.

Tennesse. Yes the Titans are for real. Although people have said that the Titans’ oppenents have been less than worthy, who gives a shit! They are 9-0. Does it matter who you beat during the season to get to the playoffs? Hell no! You worry about it when you get there. The Titans’ D has been relentless putting up an average of 13 points a game. If the entire Detriot Lions team played only the Tennesse defense, they would still lose!

Those are my thoughts on the first half of the season. Like I said before, this league is unpredictable. One week you might be starting, the next you’re being hand fed by a Victoria Secret model. My picks have been pretty good if any of you are playing in office pools or what not. I’m picking an average of 62.5% winners thus far. I’ll get on the horn with my boy John Anthony and see if we can bump that up.

QUANSTRONG

So I know most of you have missed the tantilating information that I bestow onto the NFL world. The last few weeks I’ve been oversee’s but my return was inevitable. I’ll let you know this, my fantasy team went to shambles as I was away and so did the Cowboys. Anyway, on to this week’s games.

Saints and Falcons
With the injury to Reggie Bush, Deuce will be carrying the load. Drew Brees is establishing himself as an MVP caliber QB this season among a lackluster group so look for another great game against the Falcons. The Falcons have won 3 of their last 4 but the Saints are coming off a bye week. This game should be pretty decent, but rest is always a good thing. Take the Saints. Oh ye and what has Michael Turner been up to?
Saints 24, Falcons 21.

Titans and Bears
So I doubt anyone predicted that this season the Titans would be 8-0 by the mid break of the season. Their defense has been relentless amassing 94 points for my fantasy team. Kyle Orton is nursing a high ankle sprain but all you Bears’ fans pray that Rex Grossman stays on the bench. Kerry Collins will try to spread the field but we’ll have to see how the much pressure he gets from the Bear’s defence. Titans go 9-0.
Titans 24, Bears 17

Jaguars and Lions
So.. Daunte Culpepper has pulled a Brett Favre and is now under centre for the Lions. The Jags have had some issues in the locker room and this has caused a rift within the team. The Lions haven’t won a game this season and to be quite honest, they should have at least 3 wins, but not playing 4 full quarters of football is what has hurt them. This game is definitely a bottom barrel and I wouldn’t recommend putting any money on it or even watching it for that matter. But Jags take this and hopefully Jake Del Rio can get his teams’ shit together.
Jags 21, Lions 17

Ravens and Texans
My last memory of Sage Rosenfels is when he was helicoptered as he tried to run the ball. If things haven’t changed with the Texans since I’ve been gone then I expect the same idiot moves by Rosenfels so that means the Texans are in for a rough game. Earlier in the season their D showed signs of brilliance but look to the Ravens to exploit a week run D. Ravens by 3.
Ravens 20, Texans 17.

Seahawks and Dolphins
I don’t think Mike Holmgren expected his last season as head coach to go like this. A dissappointing 2-6. The Dolphins on the other hand have made huge improvements from last season mainly because of the new Brian Westbrook of the league, Ronnie Brown. Chad Pennington has settled in and pulled out big wins over Denver and Buffalo the last two weeks. The Dolphins are playing with nothing to lose and lots to prove. Sorry Mike, but the fish take the birds this time around.
Seahawks 20, Dolphins 27

Packers and Vikings
Remember when there was all this talk about the Vikings going to the Superbowl and winning and all the great things this team would be able to do this season? Ye, well Jared Allen was fined $50K for low hits on players and the pass game has become almost non-existent. I guess that happens when you have AP running. The Aaron Rodgers show will continue on and he’ll have to be sharp against a rush happy Vikings D. My mid-season report on Rodgers, the man is handling the burden of Carrying the Green Bay Favres on his back pretty well. Give him credit for not shitting his pants every game this season.
Packers 21, Vikings 23.

Bills and Patriots
I’m excited about this game because I have tickets for the last meeting between these two this season, which could end up being a battle for 1st place in the division. The Pats are just trying to get by and Matt Cassel will need to be sharp in Foxborough. Marshawn Lynch was shutdown by the Jets and he’ll need to pick up production if they want to win this one.
Bills 17, Pats 24

Rams and Jets
Steven Jackson is probably out for Sunday so that means Marc Bulger will have to win this game throwing. But let’s not forget what happened when the Rams played the Cardinals, and lost 34-13 to the cannon named Kurt Warner. If Brett can throw more TD’s and no INT’s (I know wishful thinking) then the Jets will take this one away. I’m starting Brett this week hoping for another 6 TD performance.
Rams 17, Jets 42 (Ye i’m telling you, 6 TD’s)

Panthers and Raiders
So the once touted fastest man in the NFL is now in Washington so expect the Panthers to Delhomme and Smith to connect for some big yardage. The Raiders failed to score a single point last week against the Falcons. Having said that, I hope they manage to muster up something. Carolina is looking very good, and the Raider nation is just a black hole of losses.
Panthers 31, Raiders 20

Colts and Steelers
Big Ben is hurt, and he’s hurting my fantasy team, although back up Byron Leftwich looked very good last week stepping in for the injured Ben. The Steelers defence is also very good only allowing 14.5 points per game. The Colts as of late have been looking mediocre at best. The fastest feet on the team belong to Peyton Manning but the Colt’s offensive system still seems to be putting points on the board, just without consistency. It’ll be interesting to see how this plays out and will no doubt be a great game to watch. Whether the Steelers put in Big Ben or Big Byron I think their chances look very good.
Colts 20, Steelers 24

Chiefs and Chargers
So this is another bottom feeder game. Phillip Rivers is having a great season, but LT is hobbling in the backfield and I don’t expect much from him during the second half of the season but a bunch of empty Campbell’s soup cans. Being injured in this league causes a slew of problems no matter how minor you think the injury is. The Chiefs in my eyes have always been cursed with bad luck even though going into the season no one ever has high expectations of them anyway. I like Herm Edwards, I like his passion for the game, but i don’t like his QB’s.
Chiefs 14, Chargers 27

Giants and Eagles
In this divisional match up the Giants are coming off an ass-whopping of a game against Dallas but I don’t have to remind you who was QBing during that game. Donovan McNabb is mobile and the Giants D will actually have to move their legs if they want to sack him. Brian Westbrook, as i mentioned at the start of the season, is having one hell of year and in my opinion is the best back out there. Plax hasn’t done anything for the Giants except bitch, moan and drop passes. But it comes down to who needs this game. The Eagles do.
Giants 24, Eagles 31

49′ers and Cardinals
This is by no means worth watching on MNF, but if you want to see Kurt Warner light up the sky with footballs, then by all means tune in. Things are ugly in San Fran especially when you have Mike Singletary pulling his pants down in the locker room to psych the guys up at half time. I suggest the 49ers go to the draft board for next season and try to do something productive. Tim Hightower has taken over for Edgerrin James so San Fran will have their work cut out for them both in the air and on the ground. Hell this game is pretty much a shoein, you might as well start Leinhart.
49ers 17, Cardinals 28.

I hope none of you have dug yourselves into financial holes that are 6ft under. My mid-season evaluation is this; teams we thought were going to explode have busted, and players that we thought were going to have breakout or record seasons have been hurt. One thing is for sure. The Giants have proven that a Superbowl win does not make you soft, too much hype makes losing unbearable and you don’t win games based on analysts predictions. T.O. this week talked about the troubled Cowboys and how not living up to expectations can hurt a team very badly. Snap back to reality and play the game, 1 quarter at a time, 1 play at a time, 1 yard a time.

QUANSTRONG

So trying to bet against the Cowboys cost me this time around. Still +2 on the Bucs, I’d take in a heartbeat but I must say I have to rethink taking road teams a lot more.

This week is interesting to say the least, not many teams that you could say will outrightly win. Let’s take a look.

Home dogs:

Tampa Bay Buc (-9, -435) vs Kansas City Chiefs (+9, +365)
Pick: 9 points is what the Bucs last week against a very good Dallas d. So to expect them to make up a 9 point differential against a good defense is kind of a) unfair b) not worth betting. I do love Garcia though. He’s also good at picking up very hot women, and in turn making them having cat fights with each other. Even though TO doesn’t like him and calls him gay, maybe he’s just jealous?

Arizona Cardinals (-3, -155) vs St. Louis Rams (+3, +135)
Pick: Cardinals. While the Rams have played decent enough at times to get their spreads in decent range. The Cardinals are better… granted this isn’t a game I would bet on. Divisional game and this game would be huge for the Rams if they win. Haslett has been doing good things. Wouldn’t that be messed up (in a nice way) for the Rams to make the playoffs?

Atlanta Falcons (-3,-145) vs Oakland Raiders (+3, +125)
Pick: Falcons but those damn Raiders can beat people. I’d feel less confident with the Falcons instead of the Jets so I can see the Raiders doing well here. It’s much more of a toss up, so maybe betting the Raiders here may be a wiser choice.

Philadelphia Eagles (-6.5) vs Seattle Seahawks (+6.5)
With recent losses, it’s clear: The NFC East is overrated. It looked absolutely crazy a few weeks ago but now, it looks rather average. To make matters worse, they are losing to the worst division in football. Losses to the Cardinals and Rams stick out.
So if it’s any trend, don’t take the Eagles. The +6.5 line may be worth a play.

Jacksonville Jaguars (-7.5) vs Cinncinati Bengals (+7.5)
The Jags lost at home to the Browns.. the Browns could barely beat the Bengals. I think if there’s any game for the Bengals to win, it’s this one. The Jags are struggling mightily. Defensively their line is just not doing well without Stroud. While Fitzpatrick does suck, he does show some positive things at times. Go with the Bengals here.

Close games:

Houston Texans (+4.5, +180) vs Minnesota Vikings (-210, -4.5)
Pick: Houston
If I could choose an upset of the week, it would be the Texans. Both teams have a good defense but the difference maker is the Texan’s ability to make plays through the air as Schuab finally has his groove back. Please bring in Tavaris Jackson back or instead of trying to trade for Brady Quinn, trade for Leinart.

Baltimore Ravens (+1.5) vs Cleveland Browns (-1.5)
Pick: Ravens
Yes it’s a divisional game and yes it’s also a rivalry and yes the Browns are at home. Unfortunately I’m going to overlook those things and take a reasonable spread on a reasonable team.

Green Bay Packers (+4.5) vs Tennessee Titans (-4.5)
Pick: Titans.
Much better team, the Pack isn’t that good on the road as well.

Miami vs Denver (-3): I’d pick Miami but… I just hate Denver so i think my judgment may be clouded.

Pittsburgh vs Washington: Hmm.. toss up. Can’t decide.

Quick picks: Jets (+5.5) @ Buffalo : Buffalo should win

Sorry for the off week last week. Got swamped with work…. On to the pick-ups.

Dallas Cowboys QB Brad Johnson: Well, out with Romo’s pinkie, Felix Jones, Pacman Jones and punter MrBriar, in Brad Johnson & Roy Williams. With Romo down, Johnson steps into the starting role on the most potent offense in the league. If he hasn’t already been grabbed, Johnson is a must pick-up for anyone with a sketchy QB situation. With Witten, T.O. and Roy Williams now offensive options, all Johnson has to do is be sound and effective int he short game to gain the numbers necessary. Look for anywhere from 150-250 yards + a TD.

Denver Broncos RB Ryan Torain: This is not a pick-up for now. But there are rumors that the Broncos are just keeping the starting RB job warm until Torain is fully healed from injury. This pick-up could really help down the road in playoff weeks. If you have the empty bench spot, do it!

Houston Texans QB Matt Schaub: If he’s out there think of adding him for his match-up with the Lions this week. Schaub has back-to-back 300 yard games and is going up against a winless, shotty defense in the Lions.

Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan: Another, “if he’s there, grab him” guys. He has shown that he is a legit QB in the NFL. He won’t help this week as he has a bye but if you need a QB for the stretch run, snag him!

New England RB Sammy Morris: Maroney is not preforming up to par. Morris has stepped in and taken over the majority of the work load. If you need a low end RB or RB3 or are in a deep league, take a look if Morris can help you out.

P.S. Don’t feel too bad for Romo. 4 Weeks at home with Jessica Simpson is not such a terrible consolation prize!

-Maxmillien the Fantasy Guru

Straight to the pick-ups…

Philadelphia Eagles WR Kevin Curtis: If he’s available still, grab him. If he was dropped at some point this season by a frustrated owner, then snag him and stash him. He could pay HUGE dividends if him and McNabb rediscover their rhythm.

Chicago Bears WR Devin Hester: Hester is a definite 50-50 crap shoot each week. But if your in a league that counts all purpose yards then Hester is clearly your man. If Orton and him ever begin to connect in the passing game, it’s only up from here.

Philadelphia Eagles RB Correll Buckhalter: Well, he’s back on the radar. With Westbrook’s broken ribs Buckhalter will have to step in an take the snaps. If you need a bye week fill in or are desperate for a RB2, then Correll is your man!

New England Patriots QB Matt Cassell: After some pretty awful starts, the owner who added him after Tom’s injury may have given up and dropped him.After showing some deep ball skills last week with a deep throw to Moss, Cassell looks more like a real QB. For the Pats to win, Moss will have to be involved and Cassell will have to air it out from time to time, leading to some scores for the QB. If you need a desperate/bye week fill in, or you just want some ack-up QB security, look at Cassell.

Denver Broncos WR Brandon Stokley: Eddie Royal left with an injury and that’s all you need to know. If Royal misses any time then Stokley will benefit from Cutler and the Broncos passing game.

-Maxmillien

I’ve got to do this quick…

Home dogs:
Indianapolis Colts (-3, -170) vs Houston Texans (+3, +150)
Easy pick. Colts. They need a win as they sit at 1-2 and I can see them winning by 3 points or more.

Tennessee Titans (-2.5, -140) vs Baltimore Ravens (+2.5, +120)
This was going to be my pick of the week until the spread changed. The Ravens create a match up a problem for the Titans with their defense and Flacco is capable of moving the ball. They were winning against Pitt but failed to close it out. The Titans is a tough team to bet against though and at this point, I’m probably passing out taking the Ravens since the line dipped.

San Diego Chargers (-6, -265) vs Miami Dolphins (+6, +225)
Pick: Chargers at -6. I think the Chargers have been covering the spread except for their 1st loss and the Dolphins have no easy task today. They do have a good running attack but you ultimately kill the Chargers through the air and they are getting better.

Chicago Bears (-3, -175) vs Detroit Lions (+3, +155)
Pick: None. Never bet on the Lions but the Bears are too much of a wildcard team. They lose to the Panthers but play very well against the Eagles. Some people probably paid the price financially and I’m probably going to watch and see how the Bears do.

New England Patriots (-3, -170) vs San Francisco Giants (+3, +150)
Pick: I like SF at +3. Why? Frank Gore. JT O’sullivan isn’t anything special but ditto for Pennington and Ronnie Brown ran all over the Pats defense. It’ll be a surprise to see the Pats scoring more then 20.

Close games:
Buffalo Bills (+1.5, +105) vs Arizona Cardinals (-1.5, -125)
Pick: Buffalo (may be biased ;), this is a 4-0 team that still doesn’t have believers. They’ll easily be a playoff team and yeah they won’t go far but they have a great defense, a running game and by the far the best special teams in the game that will help them win these close games. Arizona is not the team that will beat the Bills. It’ll be San Diego and their division games that will be more problemsome.

Tampa Bay (+3, +160) vs Denver Broncos (-3, -190)
Pick: Tampa Bay. Can Denver be reliable to cover the spread on any team other then the Raiders? Probably not. When you call a team overrated, it’s always put a smile on your face to watch them to lose to one of worst teams in the league. I could see Tampa getting the upset or at least covering.

Atlanta Falcons (+3.5, +160) vs Green Bay Packers (-3.5, -190)
Pick: Green Bay but only if Rodgers is playing. I think the Packers lost due to the inexperience displays by Rodgers. He didn’t play too well without the home crowd against a very physical team as well. Atlanta is physical but the Packers are much better.

New Orleans Saints (-3, -160) vs Minnesota Vikings (+3, +140)
Pick: Toss up. I’m overthinking this one but the Vikings d will be problematic for the Saints.

I’m too tired to do the other games.

Maybe you should try your luck on Cinci at +160 or +700 otherwise, ultimately trust your own gut and good luck to you.

I was 0-1 on my bets which is what I care about more. I’m paying the price of taking two road teams outright which on hindsight looks poor on my part. Still I’m taking the Colts at -3 and I’m leaning toward taking the Bills at +1.5 but I may be playing a biased game.

Okay kids, last week was not so pretty. I bombed most of my picks and my upset of the week ended up being a HUGE blow out. I don’t have a lot of time this weekend, so i’m laying out my picks today and hoping for the best. Also, achengy wanted me to pick the over/under so i will do that as well. This one’s gonna be short, and no pics, just picture them in your head. I’m going 15 - 1 this week because i have my friend John Anthony helping me out. Just to let you know ahead of time, next week will be my last prediction post for a few weeks, i’m travelling across the globe. If i have access and time i will update you on the latest in the sports world (maybe i’ll get it 12 hours before you guys).

Colts 24, Texans 17 : Under
Titans 20, Ravens 17: Over
Chargers 27, Dolphins 20: Over
Chiefs 20, Panthers 24: Over
Redskins 24, Eagles 30: Over
Bears 30, Lions 17: Over
Seahawks 14, Giants 27: Under
Buccaneers 27, Broncos 24: Over
Patriots 17, 49′ers 24: Under
Bills 27, Cardinals 30: Over
Steelers 20, Jaguars 23: Over
Bengals 21, Cowboys 31: Over
Vikings 17, Saints 21: Under

I feel remarkably confident about these picks. I like the balls out, no reasoning and added flavor to them. Enjoy. In no way do these picks endorse gambling, nor should they be used as a source of income for an individual. See you on the gridiron.

QUANSTRONG

p.s. Okay maybe one pic.

Another week in the books. A huge week from my man Brett Favre, a career day of 6 TD’s! It also looks like Lavereus Coles is finally in the mix catching 3 of the 6 TD passes. In addition, I hope Carson Palmer’s game day sit down didn’t screw you as it did someone in my league. Anyways, onto the pick ups…

Pittsburgh Steelers RB Mewelde Moore: Ok so I had Mendenhall here last week but that ended badly and I’m sorry if you started him. But he’s done for the season with a shoulder injury and now Moore emerges with some value. If your in desperate need of a low low low end RB2 or an ok bench RB grab Moore, he may help in a bye week down the road if Parker is unable to return.

St. Louis Rams QB Marc Bulger: Now clearly he was drafted in all leagues but after a terrible first 3 games, and then a benching for Trent Green he may have made his way onto your leagues waiverwire. The Rams could turn it around a little and at least turn out to have a semi-competent offense. If you need a back-up QB with a high ceiling, see if Bulger was dropped and is out there.

Carolina Panthers WR Mushin Muhammad: He may be gone in your pool already, in fact he may have been swiped up several weeks ago. But I was able to grab him in my 10 team pool so maybe you can do the same. I’m using him as bye week fill in, but with 147 yards, 8 receptions and 1 TD he is a legit 3rd WR on a good team. Scour your waiver wire and see if he’s still out there.

Philadelphia Eagles WR Kevin Curtis: Now this pick-up won’t help you this week, or maybe even next. But when Curtis returns he’s sure to regain his starting job. The Eagles have shown that they are contenders this year and if McNabb stays healthy Curtis could show to have some value. Sure, DeSean Jackson may have taken over #1 duties but Curtis will get he ball for sure.

-Maxmillien, Fantasy Guru at your sercive

I know it’s friday, and yes some things can change in one day when you’re talking about the NFL, but i’m busy tomorrow and this is the only time I have. So again i was 10 - 6 last week, which is better than 60% of the ESPN analysts which includes Mike Ditka and Keyshawn. That being said week 4 is upon us and after reading Maximillien’s fantasy report, Chansi Stuckey was a HUGE pick up for me last week. Here we go, 12 - 4 baby! C”MON!!!!

Vikings and Titans
This will be a defensive onslaught. Both QB’s are nothing special in this game. Look for the Vikings to establish the run early and then beat the Titans late with some post routes. AP is having another great season. If i could sum up the Vikings game in one word, it’d be efficient. They do what needs to be done to win games (Thank you John Madden) but without a lot of flare. The defense is a huge help and with Gus Frerotte behind centre it’s definitly a running game. This one will be close and defenses will have a field day. Lots of INT’s.
Vikings 27, Titans 24

49er’s and Saints
Gore vs. Bush. Reggie Bush is emerging as a great back, both rushing and receiving. Frank Gore’s power house style will give JT O’Sullivan some time to throw. I like the Saints even though San Fran has the better record going into this one. You don’t mess with team who has outlasted two hurricanes in the last 4 years.
49′ers 20, Saints 30

Packers and Buccaneers
Aaron Rodgers’ 15 minutes came to an end last week when Dallas marched in and stole the show. Earnest Graham was held to less than 20 yards last week in Chicago. But this is Green Bay, 26th in the run defense. Graham will be running and running hard. Rodger’s will look to secure the critic’s votes in Tampa and I feel will be throwing a lot more. Could be a few INT’s in this one. Aaron get’s 2.
Packers 24, Bucs 30

Browns and Bengals
Wow, never has it been so important for two teams to pull out a win in week 4. Derek Anderson is in the hot seat and if a big lead is not made early, Brady Quinn, the EAS superathlete will be finishing this one. Braylon Edwards needs to smarten up to. I think he’s been talking to Vince Young too much. Carson Palmer is having an okay season, it’s just that O-Line that is absolutely dreadful. Chad Johnson hasn’t done anything in his 3 games. To put things in perspective. In one game, Miles Austin had more receiving yards and touchdowns than Chad has in 3 games. Nuff Said.
Browns 20, Bengals 10

Texans and Jaguars
The Jags have found life in their defense, and Matt Shaub will be under fire all game. That’s not to say that the Texans will let Garrard have a cup of tea back there. This is another defensive game and I like the Texans. They lost last week to a great Tennesse defense but RB Steve Slaton emerged as a premier back and look for him to do some running. The Texans also had that bye in week 2 because of the weather. More rest= more better. All in all, this game will be close, not a lot of offensive elements here that spell a high scoring game to me.
Texans 20, Jags 17

Broncos and Chiefs
Finally, the horse will ride the Chief in this one. Jay Cutler has been playing great and Mike Shanahan’s play calling has been as ballsy as Boise State. The Chief’s really don’t stand a chance in this one. Cutler loves Brandon Marshall and Brandon Marshall catches footballs. Damon Huard is starting for the Chiefs. Oh gosh. This one could be ugly. I like the Bronco’s D but that’s because i’m a Bailey’s fan. (Just the brothers, not the drink).
Broncos 31, Chiefs 24

Cardinals and Jets
War of the Old QB’s. Warner vs. Favre, this is just as good a match up as Balboa vs. Drago. Brett is nursing a sprained ankle but like Cal Ripken Jr. Brett is starting. The Cardinals have really turned things around in my eyes this season and that is definitely thanks to Kurt. Fitzgerald and Boldin have been doing wonders for this team and Edggerin James is starting to really re-emerge as a back. Although, Coles, Stuckey and Cotchery are great WR’s, the Cardinals will fly higher than the Jet’s in this one.
Cardinals 30, Jets 27

Chargers and Raiders
Who would’ve thought that in 2008, the Raiders and Chargers would have the same record going into week 4? No one! The Chargers have received the short end of the stick in their first 3 games and I don’t know how much Norv Turner is gonna take. The Raider’s defense is something of an inconsistency and I don’t see them doing much against this offense. Last week the Chargers steam rolled over the Jets, so i don’t see anything different against Oakland. Plus it’s a Cali showdown. Chargers win. Oh and L.T looks like a ninja turtle.
Chargers 34, Raiders 17

Bills and Rams
The Bills bandwagon is growing every week. Who knew that such an underdog team would end up being a “playoff contender”. Roscoe Parrish is out, so special teams will be taking a hit. Marshawn Lynch looks like a catfish, but that doesn’t stop him now does it? The Rams are just awful. But awful enough to go 0-4? I’m gonna take the Ram’s on a whim here. The Bills are young, and i’m hoping all this winning is getting to their head.
Bills 20, Rams 21

Redskins and Cowboys
Hello! Another NFC rivalry game. Jason Campbell has made me happy since week 2, but c’mon it’s the Cowboys. The Packers lost to a mediocre performance from Tony Romo, so i don’t really see daylight for the Redskins if the same situation occurs. T.O. had 17 yards receiving but Marion had 157 all purpose yards. When one is silent the other speaks volumes. Oh yeah, and let’s not forget that other guy Miles Austin.
Redskins 20, Cowboys 34

Eagles and Bears
This will definitely be a great game. We are looking at a two great teams at the moment, even though the Bears are 1-2, they did beat the Colts for that one win. The Eagles D killed Big Ben last week, and this week I see Chicago repaying the favor. McNabb is injured (sore chest), but what else is new? Hopefully DeSean Jackson will hold on to the damn ball till he breaks the touchdown barrier. The Eagle’s have the best run defense in the league so it’ll be tested against rookie Matt Forte.
Eagles 27, Bears 24.

Ravens and Steelers
Big story around this game? Rashard Mendenhall makes his start and Ray Lewis is licking his chops. Big Ben is beat up nursing a shoulder and throwing hand injury. If that O-Line doesn’t do a better job i’m gonna have to pick up a new QB for my fantasy league. Steelers lost a crappy game to the Eagles and it wasn’t the D that kept the score low. Joe Flacco and company take this one.
Ravens 20, Steelers 17.

So that’s it, i’m consistently 10 - 6. If your making money off me then congrats. I don’t endorse betting nor do i recommend using these picks are a source of income. Happy Fantasy this week and enjoy!

QUANSTRONG

p.s. Reggie Bush is a lucky man.