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Week 12 Predictions- Thanksgiving Edition

November 22, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Rodgers will be all smiles after he leads his team to a victory in New York this weekend.

The NFL season keeps on rolling and so do the weekly predictions; we can’t stop the fury!

Last week I took a little heat for picking “mostly favorites” but, sometimes, its just a favorite type of week as I call it. Luckily, I was correct in my picks as I finished 13 -1! Oh you pesky New York Jets you got me again. This week is going to be much different though as we have some tight battles; expect the dogs to be barking this week.

As for the short holiday week, nothing is better than some snow on the ground, turkey cooking in the oven and watching some football. I’ll never forget growing up and always watching the Lions and Cowboys on Thanksgiving.

Barry Sanders was always my favorite player to watch; I don’t think there was a more elusive running back than Sanders. The guy could cross and turn fields unlike anyone else and is probably the only player in NFL history to run for as many negative yards as regular rushing yards!

Oh how I miss Thanksgiving and the seasons!

Short week for everyone involved including the Cover 4. Now to these predictions…..

Houston Texans @ Detroit Lions

Analysis: Am I crazy? Yeah I think I might be with all these underdog picks this week but after watching Jacksonville torch the Texans secondary last week, I don’t see how the Lions won’t do the same (if not worse- believe it or not). The Jags have struggled all season while the Lions are the number one passing offense in the league. I don’t expect Houston defense to have two rough games in a row (I know the coaches are sleeping in the office this week). In the short week, the Lions will look to emulate the results of the Jaguars last week. The Lions squeak out a victory against the favorited Houston Texans.

Key Player: Matthew Stafford. If you have been watching the young gun slinger this year you can tell he is forcing the ball entirely too much. The strong armed quarterback is making a number of questionable decisions on the field and is not setting his feet while throwing (he looks like Cutler trying to force some throws!). I put a majority of last weeks loss against the Packers on Stafford, who threw ball after ball into the grass. If Stafford has his act together this week, the Lions will beat the Houston Texans.

Washington Redskins @ Dallas Cowboys

Analysis: I am going with the underdog ‘skins in this matchup. I understand that this in a home matchup and the Cowboys expect to throw all over the Redskins but something inside of me is telling me the Redskins are going to be turning things around for the rest of the season. I expect RGIII to continue to make all the necessary plays to keep his team in this game.

New England Patriots @ New York Jets

Analysis: The loss of Gronkowski is huge for the Patriot offense as Gronk has been one of the most productive players (touchdown wise) in the past three seasons. Aaron Hernandez must return from injury to provide the Pats offense the matchup issues that are vital to their success. The Jets are coming off a much needed W against the Rams but I don’t think they will get things together two weeks in a row.

Score Prediction: Patriots 35 – Jets 17

Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears

Analysis: As much as I don’t trust Jason Campbell (if Jay Cutler isn’t playing), I don’t expect Christian Ponder against the Bears defense (granted they were torched by second stringer Colin Kaepernick). The Chicago offensive line is just terrible and will be the reason the Bears offense continues to falter. The Bears defense must slow down Adrian Peterson and continue to make the plays they have made all season.

Key Player: Brandon Marshall. Marshall is putting up monster numbers this season. The success of the offense is heavy on his shoulders as he takes pressure off the rest of the Bears weapons and allows the run game to get going.

Oakland Raiders @ Cincinnati Bengals

Analysis: Should we all give up on Darren McFadden? McFadden posses a top five skill set at running back but can’t stay healthy. The Bengals look good on both sides of the ball. The passing attack will create a number of matchup problems with the Raiders terrible defense. I expect things to be ugly in Cincinnati this weekend as Dalton and crew take care of business.

Fantasy Stud: Marcel Reece. The running back put up solid numbers last week on the ground and in the air. Expect much the same this week.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cleveland Browns

Analysis: Can you believe it? Am I really seeing the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns as a pick ’em?! (Some lines have now moved to Steelers +1 now). Understandably some people believe this may be a little closer than usual but are we all forgetting the Pittsburgh Steelers defense is playing stellar right now? With or without a starting caliber quarterback, the Steelers get the W in this one. Cleveland has had very little luck, if any, against the Steelers since coming back into the NFL just a few years ago. Charlie Batch, although old, has been a more than capable backup in the league and has been productive while doing so. Steelers pull out the W in this one by shutting down the Cleveland offense.

Key Player: Charlie Batch. Obviously this is a no-brainer as Batch must lead the team to victory. Batch won’t be beating anyone with his laser arm but he will manage the game and keep turnovers to a minimum. Expect Batch to make all the necessary (and easy) throws without taking too many big shots down the field.

Buffalo Bills @ Indianapolis Colts

Analysis: After all the sports networks blew up the possibility of the Colts beating New England last week (uh Cover 4 was very correct in how the Colts wouldn’t win if it became a scoring spree), we are now back down to earth and realize the Colts are a good, but not great, football team. The Bills have had their fair share of ups and downs this season but I’m taking Luck in this one.

Denver Broncos @ Kansas City Chiefs

Analysis: The Broncos are really firing on all cylinders right now and that doesn’t bode well for the Chiefs, losers of 7 straight. The Chiefs are 0-5 at home and don’t have much to look forward to for the rest of the season (except obviously the draft boards). Arrowhead is a tough place to play but it shouldn’t be a problem for the Broncos this week.

Seattle Seahawks @ Miami Dolphins

Analysis: I just can’t pick the Dolphins as the team is just too inconsistent and you never know how they are going to play. The Seahawks aren’t the best road team but I believe they go into Miami and come out victors.

Score Prediction: Seahawks 20 – Dolphins 10

Tennessee Titans @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Analysis: Chad Henne had a great game last week but I don’t expect him to have another monster performance. It was nice to see a Justin Blackmon sighting after his MONSTER game but I like Locker and squad in this one.

Fantasy Stud: Cecil Shorts.

Baltimore Ravens @ San Diego Chargers

Analysis: I really escaped with my pick center last week with the Chargers late touchdown to my fantasy stud of the week Danario Alexander. The Ravens survived a close battle with the division rival Steelers. I fully expect the Ravens to take advantage of the Chargers despite only being one point favorites.

Pick Center of the Week: Atlanta Falcons @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers +2

Analysis: Yup, call me crazy again but I am riding the dogs this week. The Falcons looked horrible last week but still came out with a victory against a bad Arizona Cardinal team. On the other side of the ball, the Buccs looked horrible for the majority of the game until a fourth quarter rally and a win in OT against the beaten Carolina Panthers. I understand the matchup, on paper, looks terrible for the Buccs secondary as they are allowing the most passing yards per game but the team is finding ways to win. I expect a battle to come down to a late field goal in this one.

Score Prediction: Buccaneers 28 – Falcons 27

San Francisco 49ers @ New Orleans Saints

Analysis: This game really doesn’t look great for the pass happy Saints. The Saints, who have been very one dimensional for the past few seasons, will look to throw all over the 49ers. But, we all know that really isn’t going to happen, regardless if the game will be in New Orleans or not. The Niners are coming off a very impressive win against the Bears with a backup quarterback. With Colin Kaepernick starting this week, I expect the niners to pound the ball away toward victory in this one.

Key Player: Drew Brees. Brees will have to be near perfect for the Saints to get the W this weekend as the Niner defense has been very tough to pass against.

St. Louis Rams @ Arizona Cardinals

Analysis: After watching the Cardinals offense struggle last week with Ryan Lindley, who posted a 4.7 QBR, I am taking the Rams as a no brainer pick. The Cardinals could be 10 point favorites but I don’t expect them to have the same success running the ball like they dad against the Falcons. Rams win this division road matchup behind Sam Bradfords solid game.

Game of the Week: Green Bay Packers @ New York Giants

Analysis: I expect a great game between the Packers and Giants. The Giants are on a downward spiral but this game will allow them to get back on track and control their own destiny in the NFC. The Packers, winners of five straight, will look to Aaron Rodgers to continue his hot hand in the passing game against a Giants defense that has had a number of subpar games.

Fantasy Stud: James Jones. After a hot start and cooling off a bit, look for Jones to get a number of catches in this outing.

Carolina Panthers @ Philadelphia Eagles

Analysis: Andy Reid on Monday Night Football thus should be taking the Eagles at home right? Wrong. I am taking the underdog Panthers as Ron Rivera and squad is due to get a W this week; this team is being tortured by bad luck and late collapses. I hate to see things go this way for the Panthers but lets not forget Newton put up big numbers as a rookie in garbage time playing catchup (aka this team isn’t ready to take the next step). Foles won’t be able to do enough for his squad as the Panthers win.

Score Prediction: Panthers 27 – Eagles 21

Call it a quick week but we expect a wild one this week. With a number of dog picks, we expect another great week out of the Cover 4. Enjoy the Holiday.

A little video of two of the best: Barry Sanders & Tony Dorsett.

James Kaikis

Chief Sports Activist for The Cover 4

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Week 10, Lets Do It Again…NFL Predictions

November 8, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Don’t look so upset Eli! Your Giants will rebound against the Bengals…right? …..

Alright readers! Thanks for following our site and reading our weekly predictions. I was so close to going perfect on the week but I’m okay with two losses (one of them being the Steelers). Thats win win situation right?

So the Eagles lose a must win game against the Saints? As usual, Andy Reid has some questionable play calling.

Well Andy, this is all we have to say to you.

I will never understand why Reid refuses to utilize the ground game more? Shady McCoy is a top tier running back- RUN THE BALL! On a real note, I think Reid is one of the best coaches in football but its time for a change of scenery.

As we pass the 65% mark, I am glad to announce I am 1-0 on underdogs versus the spread. Big accomplishment right? I should be so proud. Thank you all for forcing me to do one spread pick. This week I may throw in a few games against the spread or moneyline picks as some of the lines are pretty high. I’ll chose them sparingly.

Glad to say last week I was pretty accurate in my predictions, analysis and key factors/fantasy. Glad Larry Fitz had a touchdown though; it makes me feel good when I am wrong when it helps my fantasy teams.

I know I gave the Chiefs/Chargers a hard time for their Thursday night matchup but we have a DOOZY on our hands tonight. About the only good thing about the game tonight will be Andrew Luck. Luck will have a primetime game and show why he is quietly breaking all of Peyton Manning’s rookie records (Might I add that the NFL is turning into the NFFL- National Flag Football League. I respect what teams are doing now and the evolution of the game but passing and offensive records are being broken with ease. You can’t compare the rookie numbers of Cam Newton & Andrew Luck to the NFL Legends of the Past. This is a tangent for another day though).

Indianapolis Colts @  Jacksonville Jaguars

Analysis: The Colts are quietly sneaking into the playoff picture. Andrew Luck and the rest of the Colt squad are playing fierce and winning close games. Granted the last three weeks haven’t been the toughest opponents for the Colts but NFL games are hard to win. The Jaguars are improving but they aren’t there just yet. I dont know what it is but this team can’t consistently put it all together (oh wait, maybe its the fact that they dont have much talent on the field, ever). They have been beating the spread every week and I think they do again this week.

Score Prediction: Colts 24 – Jaguars 21

Pick Center of the Week: New York Giants @ Cincinnati Bengals + 4

Analysis: Can you say trap game for the Giants? After coming off a disappointing loss to the Steelers, the Giants will be ready to step it into gear. Just hold the brakes though because I think the Bengals cover the spread in this one. Giants may earn a W but the Bengals will keep this one close; they may even pull the upset. Look for the Bengals to throw the ball early and often!

Key Players: Lawfirm & Eli Manning! The Bengal running back must get the ground game going. Green-Ellis is a consistent player but he isn’t a game changer. The Bengals better hope he can make some extra plays this week. As for Manning, the Giants are hoping he responds from a less than stellar effort versus the Steelers.

Fantasy Stud: Andy Dalton.

Tennessee Titans @ Miami Dolphins 

Analysis: I AM ON THE DOLPHINS BANDWAGON THIS WEEK! I still think Matt Moore is the better option (for this season at least) but in Tannehill (and his hot girlfriend) we trust. Although not the most talented team, I really like this Dolphins squad. They are missing some pieces but this week they earn the W from the tough Titans. How many fumbles will Chris Johnson have?

Detroit Lions @ Minnesota Vikings

Analysis: This game is a tough one. Division matchup and a home underdog? I am going with the Vikings AS LONG AS THEY RIDE THE AP TRAIN. Have you seen a common theme in Vikings wins v losses? When the Vikings run the ball with one of the best running backs in the past decade, they win the game. Simple strategy right? I think the Lions are going to take advantage of the Vikings secondary. If this game becomes a shoot out, the Lions will win because Christian Ponder isn’t leading anyone to victory (sorry but its true).

Key Players: Lions Wide Receivers. Megatron came on strong last week (as expected) against the Jags but will this week be the same? If Johnson is doubled, it will be up to Young & Broyles to make plays.

Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots 

Analysis: The Patriots won’t stop the pain train in this one so expect some major points. I really liked Buffalo this year too!

Score Prediction: Patriots 34 – Bills 17

Atlanta Falcons @ New Orleans Saints

Analysis: Is this the week the Falcons finally lose? The Saints won last week against Philadelphia but can they do it against the leagues hottest team? I expect another thriller in New Orleans this week.

Score Predictor: Falcons 31 – Saints 27

San Diego Chargers @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Key Player: Ryan Matthews. The first round pick has so much potential and promise yet hasn’t had a great game all year. He will need to be more productive with his touches on the ground for the Chargers to win this cross country battle.

Fantasy Stud: Doug Martin. I can’t pick against him right now. He is on FIRE.

Denver Broncos @ Carolina Panthers

Analysis: All good things come to an end, like the Panthers one game winning streak (that was a good call last week right? thanks). Which Carolina team will come out to play? I don’t think the matchup is very favorable for the Panthers in this one. Peyton and the Broncos will get the W easily.

Fantasy Stud: Broncos Defense! You can always expect JaMarcus Russell, I mean Vince Young, er Cam Newton to give the ball up a few times.

Oakland Raiders @ Baltimore Ravens

Analysis: What is going on in Baltimore? A loss to the Browns last week off the bye would have been huge for the city of Cleveland. The Ravens are fading fast but don’t count them out as a top tier team just yet. I really like the Raiders in this one if McFadden was going to be full strength (or even playing). I think this game has trap written all over it. Palmer has been chucking the ball much better recently and I expect that to continue this week. Expect Ray Rice to torch the Raider defense (as long as he gets enough carries).

Fantasy Stud: Darius Heyward-Bay. DHB will have a solid game this week with Moore getting a little more of the coverage shifted his way.

New York Jets @ Seattle Seahawks

Analysis: Is it Tebow time yet? Nope. The Seahawks are easy favorites at home each week. Russell Wilson continues his steady play and the Seahawks defense will terrorize Mark Sanchez (Viva la Sanchez!).

Matchup to Watch: Seahawks defensive line v the Jets offensive line. It could be a very long day for Sanchez as he will be facing steady pressure in his face.

Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles

Analysis: Is this the week the Eagles get their desperate W or will the Cowboys put it all together and come away with a victory? I am going with the Cowboys on this one. I think the Eagles are in such a must win situation that it is going to hurt them. Look for Dallas to take a solid road victory in a tough division matchup.

Key Player: Michael Vick. We all know his time in Phili is coming to a close. He needs to have a solid game (without turnovers) to keep his job.

Fantasy Stud: Tony Romo. Did I really just say this? Yeah I did. The matchup doesn’t favor Romo but he will have a nice game (I hope).

St. Louis Rams @ San Francisco 49ers

Analysis: Tough division matchup but the 49ers come away with this one; the 49er defense will just be too much for Sam Bradford. I expect a low scoring game on both sides.

Key Player: Vernon Davis. Where are you? Step up to the plate young man and make some things happen.

GAME OF THE WEEK: Houston Texans @ Chicago Bears

Analysis: What a matchup we have this week. Two teams that are ahead of the pack in each conference battling it out for conference supremacy.  In this matchup one team (the Texans) is scoring at will while the other (the Bears) are making things happen on the defensive side of the ball. Texans may struggle to get much going against this stellar Bears defense but I can’t see Cutler doing enough on offense to give the Bears the edge. Expect a great game that will come down to the wire.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Analysis: Are the Chiefs really on prime time again? Even without a healthy receiving core (Brown is out), the Steelers are going to throw all over the Chiefs. Remember how Todd Haley was fired? He seems like the kind of guy that will want to get back at his old team; expect his play calling to be a little looser this week and the Steelers to take a few shots down the field.

Key Player: Matt Cassel. I think its gonna be a rough day for the once benched quarterback.

Lastly, I want to throw this out there. This awesome video of Sam Gordon, 9 year old, wrecking guys in football!!

Granted she probably won’t be able to continue this success as she gets older (and the guys get bigger) but for her age she has tremendous vision! Great Stuff Right Here!

Thanks for reading! See you next week

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Will the desperate Panthers get a Win this week? Week Nine Predictions

November 1, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Cam Newton and the Panthers are struggling for answers. Do they find the answers this week against the Redskins?

As the cold winter winds begin to roll in, we enter week nine and the second half of the NFL season. Our thoughts are with the millions affected by Hurricane Sandy.

After finishing 10-4 last week, I am hoping for another solid week since my week six blowout. Of the four losses, two came down to the last few drives (Seattle & San Diego). It comes as no surprise that the Cleveland Browns upset the San Diego Chargers and the Seattle Seahawks were a few plays away from heading to OT with the Lions. Second guessing is a no no as I changed last minute to the Jets; what a dumb decision that was as the Dolphins took advantage of the Jets at home.

My highlight of the week comes from the meathead of all meatheads: Rob Gronkowski.

That is my favorite celebration of the year. Gronk, a total meat heat (did I mention that yet), is an absolute riot with his celebration at Wembley Stadium.

Anyone else think Gronk and Thad from Blue Mountain State are the same person? I bet this is how practice went at Arizona with Gronk….

AND INTO THE PICKS!

Kansas City Chiefs @ San Diego Chargers
Analysis: This may be the worst prime time game of the season. The Chiefs haven’t led in a single game this year and the Chargers are so inconsistent. The Cassel era ended and restarted when Brady Quinn got hurt. I expect the Chargers to get the W today with Norv Turner on the hot seat but expect an ugly game.
Key Player: Jamaal Charles. The Chiefs MUST get Charles going to stay in this game. The Chiefs must find a way to get the stud running back carries after only having five against the Raiders last week.

Denver Broncos @ Cincinnati Bengals
Analysis: Andy Dalton and the Bengals passing attack will have a tough time getting things going this week as the Broncos defense is shutting down opposing pass offenses. After shutting down Drew Brees and the Saints last week, the Broncos D looks to slow down AJ Green and company. Peyton Manning looks as good as ever and will continue to put up MVP (yes I said MVP but more like Comeback Player of the Year) numbers.
Key Matchup: AJ Green vs the Bronco Secondary. Green must rebound from a 1 catch, 8 yard (6 target) game versus the Steelers. The Bronco secondary has been stingy in recent weeks

Baltimore Ravens @ Cleveland Browns
Analysis: The Browns are picking up some steam with a win versus the Chargers. Also, Cleveland is a few drops away from a win against the Colts and a three game winning streak. Trent Richardson had a nice rebound game last week and looks to be recovered from a rib injury that sidelined him earlier in the season. The last time the Ravens & Browns battled, the Ravens won by seven. Although the Browns are gaining steam and won’t lay down, the Ravens will get a rebound W after a bye week and a horrendous loss to the Texans.
Players to Watch: Baltimore Ravens defense. This unit must respond if the Ravens want to be Superbowl contenders this season. The return of Terrell Suggs will provide a boost to this defense but will it be enough?

Arizona Cardinals @ Green Bay Packers
Analysis: The Cardinals…stand no chance in this game. The Cardinals are losers of four straight and this game will be a fifth. The Packers are not the dominating team we all expected them to be this year but expect a nice victory for them here.

Fantasy Dud of the Week: Larry Fitzgerald. Fitz, although one of the most talented players in football, isn’t in a good position this week. Skelton doesn’t seem to get him the ball and the matchup is a rough one. Expect a couple catches for 40 yards (I hope I am wrong though as I need him in fantasy this week!).
Fantasy Stud: Packers defense. Expect a multi-sack effort from this unit. The Packers shouldn’t allow more than 14 points, will have 4 sacks, 1 interception and a fumble recovery.

Chicago Bears @ Tennessee Titans
Analysis: The Monsters of the Midway are back. The Chicago defense gave up a few points to the Carolina Panthers but came through with a pick six in the end. While the Bears offense is slowly getting things done, the defense is good for a touchdown every week. The Titans are getting things together but will have a tough time against a stellar defense. The Bears front seven will take control of this game.

Miami Dolphins @ Indianapolis Colts
Analysis: The Colts are 3-1 at home and are coming off another late game gem vs the Titans. The Dolphins are gaining momentum on a three game winning streak but I am taking the upset here (two weeks in a row I changed my mind on the Dolphins. Will they make me pay again?).
Player to Watch: Ryan Tannehill. It remains to be seen if Tannehill will be ready to go on Sunday as he has been splitting reps with backup Matt Moore. Although I believe Moore gives the Dolphins a better chance to win this week, Tannehill will be the one to keep your eyes on.

Pick Center of the Week: Carolina Panthers + 3  @ Washington Redskins
Due to popular demand, one game a week I will pick a game versus the spread.
Analysis: I am high on the Redskins but this may be the one week the Carolina Panthers can put it all together. With close loss after close loss, the Panthers are due for a W. The Panthers played well enough (almost) to get the W versus the Bears but some late game play calling for the Panthers defense resulted in the Bears calling slant after slant until they kicked a game winning field goal. The Redskins finally took a beating at the hands of an angry Steeler team. I expect the secondary to be exposed again and Newton to have a solid game down the field.

Detroit Lions @ Jacksonville Jaguars
Analysis: The Jaguars didn’t lay an egg against the Packers as we expected and the Lions made a late game comeback against the Seahawks. Blaine Gabbert had one of his best games of his young career even with nine drops by his receivers. Expect the Lions, owners of the second ranked pass offense, to take full advantage of a weak Jaguar secondary. The emergence of Titus Young and Ryan Broyles should open things up for Megatron.
Fantasy Stud: Calvin Johnson. Megatron is poised to break out of his slump and have a solid game against the Jags.

Buffalo Bills @ Houston Texans
Analysis: The Texans are coming off a bye and a shellacking  of the Baltimore Ravens. The Texans, if they can stay healthy, look to be one of the favorites in a wide open AFC. The Bills, although competitive, just haven’t been able to get things together this season.
Matchup to Watch: Mario Williams vs. ALL. Williams wanted to stay in Houston and wants to show his former team that they made a mistake in letting him walk. Expect Williams to be all over the field and have a solid day chasing the quarterback.
Fantasy Stud: Mr. Arian Foster. Foster is having another solid season and will have another multi-touchdown game in this one.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Oakland Raiders
Analysis: This should be a fairly close game between the two bay area teams (opposite sides of the country of course). The Buccs will make the cross country trip into the black hole on Sunday and come out on top. Carson Palmer is quietly having a nice season and is finally connecting with his main target Denarius Moore. Freeman is finally putting things together and will have another solid game against a weak secondary.
Key Player: Doug Martin. After a monster game last week, Martin needs to get things going again to open up the Buccaneer offense.

Minnesota Vikings @ Seattle Seahawks
Analysis: I am high on the Seahawks bandwagon; the team is playing stellar at home. Minnesota has been inconsistent this season and the matchup doesn’t bode well for them. Again, Christian Ponder needs to limit his turnovers for the Vikings to get a W on the road.
Key Player: Chris Clemons. Clemons is having a fantastic season and should be able to generate a solid pass rush against a Viking offensive line that has given up a number of sacks in its last couple games.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ New York Giants
Analysis: This game has the makings to be a very good one as both teams are starting to hit their stride. The Giants must take advantage of a Steeler defense that has been battling injuries all season. The X-Factor of this game isn’t a player but the fact that the Steelers will have to fly into New York the morning of because of a hotel room issue. Although this seems like something small, NFL players are in a routine and who wants to play a football game against a great team on the road after a couple hour flight?
Key Matchup: Victor Cruz vs the Steelers secondary. Cruz is a matchup problem for the Steelers as the team likes to deploy four linebackers a majority of the time. When Cruz lines up in the slot, I expect him to make some noise.
Fantasy Stud: Mike Wallace & Antonio Brown. Did you see the stat line of the Cowboy wide receivers last week? Granted Romo threw the ball 62 times but the Cowboy receivers (& tight ends) looked as though they were playing Madden on rookie.

Dallas Cowboys @ Atlanta Falcons
Analysis: The Falcons keep rolling off victories by any means necessary. The Cowboys, on the other hand, are giving away games and finding ways to lose every week.
Key Matchup: The Cowboys corners vs The Falcons receivers. Oh do we have a thriller on our hands! The Falcon wide receivers are loaded with talent but so is the Cowboys secondary, who shut down the Giant receivers last week.

Philadelphia Eagles @ New Orleans Saints
Analysis: This game should be a high scoring affair as both teams are having some issues with their defenses. The Saints offense was held in check last week against the Bronco secondary but I don’t expect the same result this week. The Eagles are in must win mode as both Coach Reid & Michael Vick’s jobs are on the line.
Key Player: LeSean McCoy. McCoy is going to get things going against the Saints defense; expect multiple touchdowns this week!

Phew..that took a while!

Keep checking us out each and every week.

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Wild Week Eight Predictions!

October 26, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Which quarterback will lead his team to victory this Sunday?

As week eight has arrived we are roughly approaching the half way point of the season. The next few weeks will be very critical for a number of teams as teams will determine who are the contenders and who are the pretenders.

Week seven was a redemption week for me as I finished 12-1 on predictions with my only loss on a one-point Tennessee upset over the Bills (c’mon Buffalo, I thought you would do much better this season). With last weeks results, I am back up to 62% winning percentage on the year. Although last week was more of a “favorites” type of week, this week should prove to be much better for the ‘dogs.

To start off the week, I chose incorrectly on Thursday Night Football Game despite touting the Buccaneers to a number of people earlier in the day. I apologize for the lack of proper grammer in the following text message but had to show it for verification purposes (looks as though I was preoccupied doing something else while having a lot to say). I will omit the individual I was texting but they know who they are.

(Yeah Ponder has sucked lately and Freeman playing very well. Ap has that injury. Thursday games are very hard to predict and all have come down to the wire. No time to game plan on a short week. I might take tampa to win outright on the upset.)

But what do you know? I go ahead and make this prediction just a few hours later.

Oh man I was wrong; 0-1 to start the week off. I love Josh Freeman and I have since he arrived in the league. Despite some struggles last season and earlier this season, the Buccaneers are putting it together on offense. With the addition of Vincent Jackson plus emergence of rookie Doug Martin, the Buccaneers are showing signs of life on offense (LeGarrette Blunt is finally not the lead back). The Vikings again will only go as far as Christian Ponder will take them. Adrian Peterson, only 10 months removed from an ACL tear, looks better each week while Percy Harvin looks like an offensive MVP. Are the Buccs that good or are the Vikings just that overrated?

While you Ponder on that (see what I did there?), lets look at the interesting matchups we have for week eight.

New England Patriots “@” St. Louis Rams

Analysis: This is a home game for the Rams but the two teams will be squaring off in England of all places. The Rams have struggled on the road and I dont expect them to change that this week. New England comes back after a close OT game versus the Jets last week.

Key Players: Stevan Ridley. The running back has struggled in his last two games to go along with some problems holding onto the ball. If Ridley gets things going, it will allow the Patriots offense to spread the ball around more effectively.

Indianapolis Colts @ Tennessee Titans

Analysis: Again I bet against the Titans. Although they were road dogs last week and are home favorites this week, I am testing my Luck with the Colts (how many Luck comments can I make in one season?). Andrew Luck should be able to find his targets early and often. I expect this to be a high scoring affair.

Fantasy Stud: Chris Johnson. CJ continues to improve as a runner and the matchup certainly favors him in this game. Johnson’s home run ability has allowed the Titans to stay competitive (as of recently). Johnson is starting to hit the holes much better but which Colts D will show up to play? I expect CJ to have a nice game again this week.

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Green Bay Packers

Analysis: No explanations needed here. Packers will win this one easily. (But I gotta add I feel for Jennings as he is in a contract year and can’t get on the field).

Key Player: Rashad Jennings. This is his opportunity to prove his worth in MJDs absence.

San Diego Chargers @ Cleveland Browns

Analysis: I feel as though this is a trap game of sorts. The majority of betting lines put this game at 3 or 3 1/2. With the way both teams have been playing, I would expect the Chargers to be at least six point favorites. Although the numbers are a bit skewed, Brandon Weeden is playing much better as of lately; his receivers need to learn how to catch the ball (pretend its toilet paper like in the little giants?).

Key Player: Coach Norv Turner. In a twist, Turner is the one to watch. If he loses this game then his seat (as well as GM AJ Smith’s seat) will be just a little hotter. The Chargers consistently underachieve and someone needs to take the blame. On the other side, Browns coach Pat Shurmur must win some games. With a new owner lurking and Holmgren on his way out the door, it doesn’t look like a story book ending for the Browns coach.

Atlanta Falcons @ Philadelphia Eagles

Analysis: Yes, I know the Andy Reid is 13-0 following the bye week and the Falcons have played in a number of close games and are probably due to lose one but I don’t think it is this week. Although the Eagles are favored to win this one, I believe Atl will get the best of this low scoring affair.

Key Player: Michael Vick. If he continues to turn the ball over, the Eagles have no shot at winning this game (don’t expect Matt Ryan to have a high turnover game as he did previously).

Seattle Seahawks @ Detroit Lions

Analysis: I hate to do this but I am picking against the Lions. I thought this team showed so much promise and hope but they look like they are the same old Lions (almost). The Seahawks are keeping games close so I expect them to squeak one out this week.

Keep an Eye on: Seahawks corner Richard Sherman (the self proclaimed Optimus Prime) vs. Calvin Johnson (Megatron). Calvin Johnson was held to 3 catches on 11 targets last week against the Bears (& corner back Charles Tillman who is playing lights out right now!). Megatron isn’t usually held in check for multiple weeks in a row but Stafford & Johnson are struggling to connect. This will be a great matchup to watch.

Miami Dolphins @ New York Jets

Analysis: This has the making to be a brutal game for both teams. Tensions are growing between the two teams with jabs being taken at each other via the media. The Jets looked much better last week agains the Patriots and almost upset New England in OT. I like the Jets to win this close game.

Key Player: You already know- Mr. Mark Sanchez. Which Sanchez shows up to play Sunday?

Carolina Panthers @ Chicago Bears

Analysis: Cam Newton looked great last year (mostly because he was behind every game thus was able to sit back and throw the ball around) but this year is a different story. Newtons play has been subpar (to say the least). Additionally, Newtons leadership is in question as the former number one pick has made a number of negative comments to the media in his post game interviews ( he is starting to sound like JaMarcus Russell and thats a terrible thing). The Bears defense is playing steller right now and I expect them to keep it up against the shaky Panthers.

Key Player: Matt Forte. Forte hasn’t produced as many expected him to at this point in the season. Look for him to get the ground game rolling in this one.

Game of the Week: Washington Redskins @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Analysis: I expect this game to be dogfight from start to finish. Last week the Redskins narrowly lost to the Giants while the Steelers were able to handle the Bengals. While the Steelers are suffering from injuries, the defense finally looks as though things are coming together (even though they are without Troy again this week). It remains to be seen if the Steelers pass rush can disrupt RG3 and slow down the Redskins run game.

Key Player: London Fletcher. The heart and soul of the Redskins defense, Fletcher has never missed a game in fourteen seasons in the league. Although Fletcher is listed on the injury report, I expect him to play. His presence is vital if the Redskins want to be competitive in this game.

Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs

Analysis: It looks as though the Matt Cassel era may be over (or temporarily halted – depends on how terrible Brady Quinn plays). The Raiders, per usual, are up and down each week. One week the Raiders play the Falcons tough but the next they lay down and get lucky against a weak Jacksonville squad. Arrowhead is a tough place to play and while I like the Chiefs defense, I expect Quinn to struggle in this one.

Fantasy Stud: Jamaal Charles. Although I think the Raiders will be keying him very closely, I expect him to get plenty of touches in this game to make some noise in the fantasy box score.

New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys

Analysis: Eli Manning just finds ways to win; it has been the story of this team since he joined. Manning and crew should be able to get the W in this tough division matchup. Although I am a fan of the Cowboys secondary, the absence of Sean Lee may be the nail in the coffin for this defense. Lee, an Upper Saint Clair High School alumni, has been a monster for the Cowboys for years.

Key Players: The Giants Secondary. Last week the Cowboy receivers were relatively held in check by the Panthers secondary but this week may be a different story. After being targeted 28 times in the previous two games, Dez Bryant only had three balls thrown his way. The Cowboys must get more production out of their receivers (including Witten) if they want to win this game.

Keep an Eye on: Felix Jones. Jones has never lived up to the expectations he came into the league with. A homerun hitter, Jones has trouble staying healthy. While he may get the start this week, don’t be surprised if Phillip Tanner has more carries when the game is finished.

New Orleans Saints @ Denver Broncos

Analysis: Peyton Manning and the Broncos look to take control of the AFC West after finishing off the Saints this week; the Saints defense is just too porous to handle the Bronco attack. While I don’t like this matchup for Drew Brees, you have to expect he will keep throwing and putting up stats to keep his team competitive.

Key Players: The Saints Defense. If they allow early touchdowns, expect a long day in Mile High.

Fantasy Stud: Peyton Manning. Expect the quarterback to put up solid numbers this week.

San Francisco 49ers @ Arizona Cardinals

Analysis: The 49ers had plenty of time to get the kinks out after a tough Thursday matchup vs the Seahawks. Vernon Davis must get things going to help open up the niner passing game. The Cardinals just look helpless as they have no offensive line or running game. I still don’t understand how or why John Skelton doesn’t throw the ball to Larry Fitzgerald more often?! Fitz finished with 4 catches on 7 targets but he doesn’t seem to get the passes thrown his way with Skelton at the helm.

Fantasy Stud: Frank Gore & Kendall Hunter.

Well expect another wild NFL week. Thanks for reading.

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NFL Week 6 Predictions!

October 12, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Who doesn’t like NFL Predictions?!

Each week from here on out I will post my predictions on the weekends upcoming games. For the past three NFL seasons, I have attempted to accurately predict the winners of each game. I predict games without a spread or points and have finished above 65% each year. Also I have accurately had one team in the Super Bowl each year (Packers in 2011 & Patriots in 2012). FOR THOSE WHO CAN’T READ VERY WELL, PLEASE PAY CLOSER ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE: Without going into full detail, during PRESEASON of this year I predicted the following:

AFC Division Winners: Patriots, Steelers, Texans, Broncos

NFC Division Winners: Cowboys, Packers, Saints, 49ers

AFC Wild Card: Ravens, Bills

NFC Wild Card: Bears, Falcons

Super Bowl Prediction: Packers over Ravens

It is still early but looks as though I will be missing on a few of these but only time will tell.

After finishing 8-8 for the first three weeks of the season, I went 12-3 & 11-3 respectfully; 61% accuracy at this point in the season.

Enough of the backstory- LETS GET TO THE PICKS!

This week we are going to have some really close games; games that will be closer than most suspect. Winners in BOLD & Italic

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Tennessee Titans

Analysis: The Titans defense is just atrocious and, as a result, the Steelers offense will have their way with them. Expect a lot of points scored from the Steelers. Chris Johnson may be able to get on tract if the Titans can run the ball up the middle against the less than Steeler Curtain Steeler D. Steelers a near .500 without Troy Polamalu in the lineup.

Key Players: Steelers Defense. If this unit doesn’t get it together, the Steelers may be in for a long season.

Fantasy Pick: Mike Wallace. Expect a big game from Wallace after one of the worst performances of his career last week (and as a result I lost a fantasy league by one point- COMON MAN!).

Oakland Raiders @ Atlanta Falcons

Analysis: The Falcons are clicking on offense and defense right now. Matt Ryan looks as though he is taking that extra step to join a class of great quarterbacks (I won’t throw around ELITE as everyone else does). The Raiders just dont have the weapons on defense to hang with Jones, White, Tony G & Turner.

Key Player: Darren McFadden.  McFadden is the key to these teams success. He MUST have a solid D against a suspect run D for the Raiders to have any shot in this game.

Fantasy Pick: Matt Ryan.

Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns

Analysis: Cleveland may squeak out its first win of the season this week but, in a close one, Bengals get a W.

Key Player: Brandon Weeden. He has improved each week but he must show why the Browns chose him in the first round (way too soon by the way.).

Fantasy Pick: AJ Green. AKA Calvin Johnson 2.0

St. Louis Rams @ Miami Dolphins

Analysis: Which Dolphin team comes to out to play? Dolphins must establish a run game and get Reggie in the flow for their teams success.

Key Players: Janoris Jenkins. Rams & Dolphins receiving cores; someone must show up. Jenkins is playing lights out right now and proving why he was a top 10 talent.

Fantasy Pick: Reggie Bush.

Indianapolis Colts @ New York Jets

Analysis: I want to take the Jets but I think their struggles continue.

Key Player: Who else other than Mark Sanchez?

Fantasy Pick: Colts defense because we know Sanchez will give them some points!

Detroit Lions @ Philadelphia Eagles

Analysis: The Lions have looked so up and down this year but so have the Eagles. I can see the Lions taking care of business in Philadelphia but the Lions can’t establish a run game.

Key Player: Michael Vick. Will he continue his streak of turnovers or will he turn the corner and get back to the Mike Vick we know?

Fantasy Pick: Calvin Johnson.

Kansas City Chiefs @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers 

Analysis: The Buccaneers are a talented team and have an offense that can create matchup problems. Josh Freeman’s performance has on the decline but with more weapons surrounding him can he put it together? Chiefs defense must step up so this game doesn’t get out of hand.

Key Player: Brady Quinn, hands down!

Fantasy Pick: Jamal Charles continues his hot streak.

Dallas Cowboys @ Baltimore Ravens

Analysis: I’m very high on this Ravens team. They have been competitive each of the past few seasons but have been unable to make it to the Super Bowl or win when it matters. Joe Flacco has a number of regular season wins but doesn’t have the playoff record for those wins to hold weight. As for Tony Romo, well, I’m not a fan. I believe he has terrible footwork and can’t do much with a tough pass rush in his face. The Cowboys have so much wasted talent at wide receiver, tight end and running back with Romo playing the way he is.

Key Player: TONY ROMO. Inconsistent quarterback play is the common theme here.

Fantasy Pick: Ray Rice has a great day in Baltimore.

New England Patriots @ Seattle Seahawks

Analysis: Seattle D is playing tough right now, especially at home. The Seahawks pass defense is shutting down top receivers so this matchup will be much closer than most think. The Patriots are starting to click again, which is scary for everyone.

Key Player: New England Tight Ends. If Gronk is playing, he needs to prove his hip injury isn’t an issue and if Hernandez is healthy, he must step up as he is a game changer and mismatch anytime he is on the field.

Fantasy Pick: Beast Mode- Marshawn Lynch.

Buffalo Bills @ Arizona Cardinals

Analysis: I’m not a believer in the 4-1 Cardinals. I am, however, a believer in the Buffalo Bills. I like this teams chances as I picked them early to win a wild card position. The Bills have weapons on offense and finally added pieces on defense to make this team a legitimate contender.

Key Players: The Cardinals Offensive Line. Did anyone watch the horrible Rams Cardinals game on Thursday Night Football? The Rams were rushing three against six and still getting to Kolb; this unit is absolutely abysmal.

Fantasy Pick: Larry Fitzgerald, the only player who can still put up ELITE numbers on an awful team.

New York Giants @ San Francisco 49ers

Analysis: The 49ers are once again putting it together. Harbaugh and crew are still angry from last years bitter loss. The Giants offense is looking awesome right now; the offensive players are lighting up fantasy scoreboards each week.

Key Player: Alex Smith. If he can continue his efficiency the 49ers will keep scoring Ws.

Fantasy Pick: Michael Crabtree.

Minnesota Vikings @ Washington Redskins.

Analysis: RGIII doesn’t look like a rookie and is creating a ton of excitement in Washington. The Vikings are flying under the radar right now.

Key Player: Adrian Peterson. Peterson is coming along very nicely after a terrible knee injury last year. He must continue his productive season for the Vikings to win this game.

Fantasy Pick: RGIII. He is a dual threat! Why not?

Green Bay Packers @ Houston Texans – Game of the Week

Analysis: The Texans look unbelievable right now. Arian is Fostering the People week in and week out but will this team continue its hot streak? The Packers don’t look like last years team despite Coach McCarthy saying this is his best team in years. I think this is going to be a great game for everyone to watch this weekend. The Packers are coming off a TERRIBLE loss to the Colts. Houston lost Brian Cushing. Rough Week for both teams.

Key Player: Alex Green. The Packers running back is an unknown unless your fantasy team is weak at running back and you needed a wavier wire pickup. He showed a few flashes last week but Green must get going or the Packers will be one dimensional once again.

Fantasy Pick: Arian Foster. Once again he shows why he is one of the most complete backs in the NFL.

Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers

Analysis: The Broncos have played teams close each game of the season (or close in the fourth quarter that is). Manning and crew are looking as advertised and Demaryius Thomas is carry all of my fantasy teams! I’m not high on the 3-2 Chargers as they really haven’t beat any good teams this year (Raiders, Titans & Chiefs) and lost to the Saints last week.

Key Players: Ryan Matthews. I am VERY high on Matthews and his potential despite being hurt and in the doghouse for the past few years. Matthews put up solid numbers last year despite giving up goal line carries to Tolbert. Matthews had a nice week running and catching passes despite not playing much during the beginning of the game.

Fantasy Pick: Demaryius Thomas. The 24 year old, 6’3” 229 lb wide receiver is a monster out there. Despite a lack of end zone targets, the receiver is putting up monster numbers each week.

Phew. Well hope you enjoyed my predictions and analysis.

Come back each and every week for more insight!

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