The Broncos headed to Arrowhead Stadium on Christmas night with a slim chance at making the playoffs, but there was still a chance. A win on Sunday night was a must with the Dolphins beating the Bills on Christmas Eve. The Broncos not only got beat by the Chiefs, but they got embarrassed and there was no kicking and screaming on their way out of playoff contention. They trailed 14-0 early and then 21-7, but they were never able to really close the gap on their way to a resounding 33-10 defeat. Now, the Broncos have to pick up the pieces on a season that started 4-0 and 6-2, and now they have to deal with a lot of questions as they head into the offseason and a year without a playoff berth since 2010. Here are my thoughts and observations on the game....
1) The Chiefs started hot and Denver's defense couldn't catch up. Alex Smith scored on zone-read QB run to give KC the 7-0 lead, and then Tyreek Hill broke a long run from the RB spot and the next thing you know it is 14-0. It just looked like the Broncos defense was a step slow and they were without T.J. Ward, Brandon Marshall and Derek Wolfe only played a quarter.
2) The Broncos got back into the game after Justin Simmons intercepted an Alex Smith pass and returned it down inside the 10. Justin Forsett punched it in and made it 14-7, but that was about the only highlight of the night.
3) The Chiefs came right back and returned the favor and Travis Kelce took a quick screen and broke it for 80 yards and a back-breaking TD to make it 21-7 in the first quarter. At that point, the Broncos were done. Kelce killed Darian Stewart in coverage all night long.
4) The Broncos did stabilize the game a little bit and got it to 21-10 at the half, and 24-10 early in the 4th quarter, but the Broncos offense couldn't do anything all night long. The run game was non-existent all night-as usual- and Trevor Siemian had his worst game of the season. Siemian struggled all night long, and there will be a lot of discussion about him and his future as the starter going forward.
5) The loss was punctuated with Dontari Poe lining up in the backfield and throwing a TD pass late in the game to make it 33-10. I know it looked like a dick move by Andy Reid, and it is something the Broncos can use as motivation next year, but the NFL is a big boy league and I'm not going to lose my mind about that play.
6) At 8-7, the Broncos are officially eliminated from the playoffs and will now play a meaningless game against the Raiders on Sunday in Denver. It will be the first meaningless game since 2010 and the first non-playoff season since 2010 as well. It is a bitter pill to swallow for a team that started 4-0, 6-2, and was 8-4 with a month to go in the season. There are a lot of things that are going to change in Denver, but that will be for another day to discuss.
Thursday, December 29, 2016
Friday, December 23, 2016
Broncos-Chiefs Preview and Week 16 Picks!
The Broncos come into their Week 16 showdown in Arrowhead against the Chiefs on Christmas night with their backs squarely against the wall in order to make the playoffs. Not only do they need help with the likes of Miami and Baltimore losing the last two weeks, but the Broncos have to win out to have a realistic chance of making the playoffs. That won't be easy considering they face the Chiefs and Raiders the last two weeks. The first stop is at Kansas City this week. The Chiefs are 10-4 and are coming off a shocking loss to the Titans last week at home. Can they lost two games at home in a row? I'm not sure. Can the Broncos win a sixth straight time in Arrowhead? I'm not so sure either. Plus, the Broncos are banged up and could be without T.J. Ward, Derek Wolfe and Brandon Marshall. Those are a lot of key guys out on that defense. On offense, we are looking at the possibility of having A.J. Derby and Virgil Green missing the game. I just don't see how this offense is going to move the ball and put points on the board against that fired up crowd and that KC defense. The Broncos playoff hopes will take a major hit on Sunday night, and we might have to start looking towards 2017 a lot earlier than we thought.
KANSAS CITY (-4) over Denver
Final Score: Chiefs-26 Broncos-12
Onto the picks for Week 16......
Last Week's Record: 11-4-1
Overall Record: 126-83-13
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Washington (-3) over CHICAGO: Bad loss by the Skins at home to the Panthers last night, and now they have to run the table to possibly get in. I think they will take care of business in Chicago this Sunday.
Miami (+3) over BUFFALO: The Dolphins have one win over a team that is over .500 this year but somehow at 9-5, they are in position to get the final wild card in the AFC. I think they somehow pull out a win in Buffalo this week-even with Matt Moore at the helm for the injured Ryan Tannehill.
Atlanta (-3) over CAROLINA: Atlanta is rolling at 9-5 and in position to win the NFC South and the #3 seed in the NFC. I think this will be a close and entertaining game, and I wonder how much the Panthers have left here down the stretch at 6-8. Take Atlanta to win it late.
Minnesota (+7) over GREEN BAY: At 8-6, the Packers have won four straight and are making a run to the NFC North title. At 7-7, the Vikings' season has collapsed. I think the Packers win, but this will be a close one in Lambeau.
NY Jets (+16.5) over NEW ENGLAND: The Patriots will roll in this one at home, but I don't know if they get the cover. In any event, they will put it on the Jets and get to 13-2.
Tennessee (-4) over JACKSONVILLE: At 8-6, the Titans have a shot to win the AFC South. They head to Jacksonville, who is 2-12 and just fired their coach, Gus Bradley. I think the Jags will have their minds on the holidays and not the Titans, and I think the Titans will win easily to get to 9-6.
CLEVELAND (+6) over San Diego: The Browns are 0-14 and look like they are headed to 0-16. I just can't see them winning a game these last two weeks. The Chargers are coming in at 5-9, but I think they are too talented to screw this up and lose to the lowly Browns.
OAKLAND (-3) over Indy: Interesting game because the 7-7 Colts are not out of the AFC South race just yet, and I could see Andrew Luck giving the Raiders defense fits. I think the Raiders will close the deal in the 4th quarter like they always do, and they will get to 12-3 with the #1 seed in play.
LOS ANGELES (-3) over San Francisco: A matchup pitting the 1-13 49ers and the 4-10 Rams is about as bad as you can get on Christmas Eve.
SEATTLE (-8) over Arizona: At 9-4-1, the Seahawks are in position to get the #2 seed in the NFC. I think they will take full advantage of a Cardinals team that is limping towards the finish line in a disappointing year.
Tampa Bay (+3) over NEW ORLEANS: The Bucs are 8-6 and still in the thick of the NFC wild card picture. A win here could really boost their odds of making it. It won't be easy on the road in New Orleans, but I have a feeling the Bucs will pull this one out-especially considering they are underdogs. I a gut feeling that the Bucs are going to find their way into the playoffs somehow.
Cincy (+3) over HOUSTON: Bill O'Brien decided to bench the struggling Brock Osweiler last week as the Texans were in danger of losing to the Jaguars at home. In comes Tom Savage and the Texans pulled off the comeback and the 21-20 win. At 8-6, they can still win their division, but it will be interesting to see how Savage responds getting the start on Christmas Eve against the Bengals. I wouldn't be surprised to see the Bengals play spoiler here.
Baltimore (+5) over PITTSBURGH: Great game for Christmas Day as the AFC North could possibly be decided between these two bitter rivals. I had the Steelers pegged to win the division from the beginning of the season, so I still think they will get it done, but I just think this spread is way too high. These games are always tough, and I see the Ravens giving the Steelers everything they can handle on Sunday. It feels like a three-point game regardless.
Detroit (+7) over DALLAS: What is the motivation for Dallas considering they have the NFC East and #1 seed in the NFC locked up? The Lions have more to play for at 9-5, and usually the teams that have more to play for to get into the playoffs play harder than the teams that are already in. Look for that to happen on Monday night with the Lions and the Cowboys.
KANSAS CITY (-4) over Denver
Final Score: Chiefs-26 Broncos-12
Onto the picks for Week 16......
Last Week's Record: 11-4-1
Overall Record: 126-83-13
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Washington (-3) over CHICAGO: Bad loss by the Skins at home to the Panthers last night, and now they have to run the table to possibly get in. I think they will take care of business in Chicago this Sunday.
Miami (+3) over BUFFALO: The Dolphins have one win over a team that is over .500 this year but somehow at 9-5, they are in position to get the final wild card in the AFC. I think they somehow pull out a win in Buffalo this week-even with Matt Moore at the helm for the injured Ryan Tannehill.
Atlanta (-3) over CAROLINA: Atlanta is rolling at 9-5 and in position to win the NFC South and the #3 seed in the NFC. I think this will be a close and entertaining game, and I wonder how much the Panthers have left here down the stretch at 6-8. Take Atlanta to win it late.
Minnesota (+7) over GREEN BAY: At 8-6, the Packers have won four straight and are making a run to the NFC North title. At 7-7, the Vikings' season has collapsed. I think the Packers win, but this will be a close one in Lambeau.
NY Jets (+16.5) over NEW ENGLAND: The Patriots will roll in this one at home, but I don't know if they get the cover. In any event, they will put it on the Jets and get to 13-2.
Tennessee (-4) over JACKSONVILLE: At 8-6, the Titans have a shot to win the AFC South. They head to Jacksonville, who is 2-12 and just fired their coach, Gus Bradley. I think the Jags will have their minds on the holidays and not the Titans, and I think the Titans will win easily to get to 9-6.
CLEVELAND (+6) over San Diego: The Browns are 0-14 and look like they are headed to 0-16. I just can't see them winning a game these last two weeks. The Chargers are coming in at 5-9, but I think they are too talented to screw this up and lose to the lowly Browns.
OAKLAND (-3) over Indy: Interesting game because the 7-7 Colts are not out of the AFC South race just yet, and I could see Andrew Luck giving the Raiders defense fits. I think the Raiders will close the deal in the 4th quarter like they always do, and they will get to 12-3 with the #1 seed in play.
LOS ANGELES (-3) over San Francisco: A matchup pitting the 1-13 49ers and the 4-10 Rams is about as bad as you can get on Christmas Eve.
SEATTLE (-8) over Arizona: At 9-4-1, the Seahawks are in position to get the #2 seed in the NFC. I think they will take full advantage of a Cardinals team that is limping towards the finish line in a disappointing year.
Tampa Bay (+3) over NEW ORLEANS: The Bucs are 8-6 and still in the thick of the NFC wild card picture. A win here could really boost their odds of making it. It won't be easy on the road in New Orleans, but I have a feeling the Bucs will pull this one out-especially considering they are underdogs. I a gut feeling that the Bucs are going to find their way into the playoffs somehow.
Cincy (+3) over HOUSTON: Bill O'Brien decided to bench the struggling Brock Osweiler last week as the Texans were in danger of losing to the Jaguars at home. In comes Tom Savage and the Texans pulled off the comeback and the 21-20 win. At 8-6, they can still win their division, but it will be interesting to see how Savage responds getting the start on Christmas Eve against the Bengals. I wouldn't be surprised to see the Bengals play spoiler here.
Baltimore (+5) over PITTSBURGH: Great game for Christmas Day as the AFC North could possibly be decided between these two bitter rivals. I had the Steelers pegged to win the division from the beginning of the season, so I still think they will get it done, but I just think this spread is way too high. These games are always tough, and I see the Ravens giving the Steelers everything they can handle on Sunday. It feels like a three-point game regardless.
Detroit (+7) over DALLAS: What is the motivation for Dallas considering they have the NFC East and #1 seed in the NFC locked up? The Lions have more to play for at 9-5, and usually the teams that have more to play for to get into the playoffs play harder than the teams that are already in. Look for that to happen on Monday night with the Lions and the Cowboys.
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Patriots Put Broncos Away 16-3, Denver Falls to 8-6
The Broncos took on the Patriots in a rematch of the epic 2015 AFC Championship Game on Sunday in the same stadium that the Broncos pulled the upset over New England and sent them on their way to Super Bowl 50 and their third Lombardi Trophy. All the good vibes from that day and that game evaporated about four plays in when Jordan Norwood fumbled a punt and the Pats recovered and took a 3-0 lead. In a game that the Pats never trailed, the Broncos defense was valiant but their offense couldn't move the ball a lick on the Pats, and New England rolled to a 16-3 thumping of the Broncos. Denver falls to 8-6 and on the outside looking in of the playoffs with only two games left. They are also going to need a lot of help to get in. Here are my thoughts and observations on the game....
1) Jordan Norwood's fumbling the first punt return in the game really just set the tone. Norwood struggled with punts in the KC game a few weeks ago, and the Broncos made a roster move to promote Kalif Raymond as their punt returner, but Gary Kubiak decided to deactivate Raymond and elevate Norwood back to the return spot and it backfired. After the defense forced a three and out, Norwood gave the ball right back to the Pats and they converted a field goal and the Broncos were already down 3-0.
2) The other turning point in the first half was Trevor Siemian's pick deep in NE territory early in the second quarter with game tied at 3. The Broncos were moving the ball well and had put together a solid drive and were inside the Pats 20, so they were looking like they were getting at least 3 points, but Siemian threw a terrible pick to Logan Ryan and the Pats scored on the ensuing possession to take 10-3 lead. That pretty much doomed the Broncos right there.
3) Another bad play by Siemian happened late in 2nd quarter. Denver lost six yards on a dump off to Justin Forsett and it took then them out of FG range.
4) The Broncos defense played well early. Tom Brady started the game 0-6 passing. They got some pressure, and there was a big sack by Shane Ray early in the half. It was a bend but don't break mentality in the run game. They were also good on third down. It never looked like Brady was comfortable. Unfortunately, they go no help from the offense at all. It is a shame because the defense played well enough to win and the offense killed them.
5) I actually had no problem with Kubiak not calling timeouts to get ball back with 1:40 left in the 2nd quarter. The Broncos offense was going to be backed up deep in their own end, and the Pats had timeouts and the Broncos were getting the ball to start the half. If the Broncos don't move the ball, then the Pats were going to call their timeouts and get the ball back. They were down 10-3, and there was no reason to risk going down any further. That's how bad it is for our offense at this point.
6) There was a big drop by A.J. Derby early in 3rd quarter to kill a drive and that was about it for the Broncos until the end of the game. Broncos started the second half with these offensive possessions: FIVE straight 3 and outs. Their last two possessions ended in a Demaryius Thomas drop after a big hit to lose the ball on downs and another fumble by Norwood to effectively end the game. Just a terrible job all around by the offense. The Pats were more physical, beat them up, and dominated the game from that perspective. Bill Belichick proved that Trevor Siemian doesn't scare any defense, and the Broncos simply couldn't win at the point of attack against the Pats front seven. It was 16-3 because the defense kept it somewhat manageable and the Pats also realized they didn't have to do much on offense except not take too many chances and grind out the clock. That is all they had to do in this game and it worked.
7) The Broncos fall to 8-6 and now they need major help to get to the playoffs. First, they have to beat KC and Oakland, which will be a very difficult task-especially in Arrowhead on Christmas night. If that happens, then Miami has to lose both their games and they need Baltimore to lose one more game. If Miami splits their last two, then the Broncos need the Ravens to lose one and the Titans to lose one of their last two. Again, this is all provided the Broncos somehow beat the Chiefs on Sunday night. I just don't see how the Broncos can turn this around, and I don't see them getting the breaks that they need to pull this off. There is no way they are going to get this offense going the last two games against the 10-4 Chiefs and the 11-3 Raiders. It is a shame because this team started 4-0, 6-2, and 8-4, and now they are likely to miss the playoffs. It looks pretty bleak right now in Denver and the defending Super Bowl champs look like they will be watching the playoffs at home-something that was not expected about a month ago.
1) Jordan Norwood's fumbling the first punt return in the game really just set the tone. Norwood struggled with punts in the KC game a few weeks ago, and the Broncos made a roster move to promote Kalif Raymond as their punt returner, but Gary Kubiak decided to deactivate Raymond and elevate Norwood back to the return spot and it backfired. After the defense forced a three and out, Norwood gave the ball right back to the Pats and they converted a field goal and the Broncos were already down 3-0.
2) The other turning point in the first half was Trevor Siemian's pick deep in NE territory early in the second quarter with game tied at 3. The Broncos were moving the ball well and had put together a solid drive and were inside the Pats 20, so they were looking like they were getting at least 3 points, but Siemian threw a terrible pick to Logan Ryan and the Pats scored on the ensuing possession to take 10-3 lead. That pretty much doomed the Broncos right there.
3) Another bad play by Siemian happened late in 2nd quarter. Denver lost six yards on a dump off to Justin Forsett and it took then them out of FG range.
4) The Broncos defense played well early. Tom Brady started the game 0-6 passing. They got some pressure, and there was a big sack by Shane Ray early in the half. It was a bend but don't break mentality in the run game. They were also good on third down. It never looked like Brady was comfortable. Unfortunately, they go no help from the offense at all. It is a shame because the defense played well enough to win and the offense killed them.
5) I actually had no problem with Kubiak not calling timeouts to get ball back with 1:40 left in the 2nd quarter. The Broncos offense was going to be backed up deep in their own end, and the Pats had timeouts and the Broncos were getting the ball to start the half. If the Broncos don't move the ball, then the Pats were going to call their timeouts and get the ball back. They were down 10-3, and there was no reason to risk going down any further. That's how bad it is for our offense at this point.
6) There was a big drop by A.J. Derby early in 3rd quarter to kill a drive and that was about it for the Broncos until the end of the game. Broncos started the second half with these offensive possessions: FIVE straight 3 and outs. Their last two possessions ended in a Demaryius Thomas drop after a big hit to lose the ball on downs and another fumble by Norwood to effectively end the game. Just a terrible job all around by the offense. The Pats were more physical, beat them up, and dominated the game from that perspective. Bill Belichick proved that Trevor Siemian doesn't scare any defense, and the Broncos simply couldn't win at the point of attack against the Pats front seven. It was 16-3 because the defense kept it somewhat manageable and the Pats also realized they didn't have to do much on offense except not take too many chances and grind out the clock. That is all they had to do in this game and it worked.
7) The Broncos fall to 8-6 and now they need major help to get to the playoffs. First, they have to beat KC and Oakland, which will be a very difficult task-especially in Arrowhead on Christmas night. If that happens, then Miami has to lose both their games and they need Baltimore to lose one more game. If Miami splits their last two, then the Broncos need the Ravens to lose one and the Titans to lose one of their last two. Again, this is all provided the Broncos somehow beat the Chiefs on Sunday night. I just don't see how the Broncos can turn this around, and I don't see them getting the breaks that they need to pull this off. There is no way they are going to get this offense going the last two games against the 10-4 Chiefs and the 11-3 Raiders. It is a shame because this team started 4-0, 6-2, and 8-4, and now they are likely to miss the playoffs. It looks pretty bleak right now in Denver and the defending Super Bowl champs look like they will be watching the playoffs at home-something that was not expected about a month ago.
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Broncos-Patriots Preview and Week 15 Picks!
I thought early in the year the Broncos had to be at least 9-4 heading into their final three games in order to have a very good shot at making the playoffs. At 8-5, the Broncos are in a battle for that last spot, and they are in basically must-win territory. This week in come the Patriots. Forget about last year's AFC Championship Game. This Denver defense is not the same as the one from last year, and their offense is not the same either. Here is why the Broncos are in trouble this week: First, they can't stop the run and the Pats can run the ball well. Secondly, they have trouble covering backs out of the backfield and the Pats will exploit that-especially with Brandon Marshall out of the game with a hamstring injury. Next, the Broncos will have trouble generating a pass rush because the Pats offensive line is playing very well. On offense, the Broncos can't run the ball on anyone, so I have a hard time thinking that they will be able to do it this week. The Pats defense is playing better each week, and they will get after Trevor Siemian. The Pats also smell blood in the water because a win will give them the AFC East once again, and they want to stick it to the Broncos after losing to them twice in Denver last year. Do you really think Tom Brady and Bill Belichick are going to lose to Denver three straight times?
New England (-3) over DENVER
Final Score: Patriots-30 Broncos-17
Last Week's Record: 9-6-1
Overall Record: 115-79-12
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
NY GIANTS (-3) over Detroit: The injury to Matt Stafford's hand could really hamper him in this huge game on Sunday. The 9-4 Lions and 9-4 Giants are in the thick of the NFC playoff picture, and this game will go along way in determining each team's fate come January. I like the Giants at home because I like how their defense is playing and with Stafford's injury in play, this could be a very tough game for the Lions.
BALTIMORE (-6) over Philly: Even at 7-6, the Ravens have a path to make the playoffs as a wild card. I think they will roll the Eagles at home on Sunday in rout.
CHICAGO (+7) over Green Bay: I fully expect the Packers to win the game, but this game seems like it might be close. The weather is going to be really cold in Chicago for this one, and for some reason I think the Bears keep it tight till the end.
MINNESOTA (-4) over Indy: Andrew Luck is banged up and the 6-7 Colts are almost out of it in the AFC South. I look for the Vikings to get to 8-6 with a pretty convincing win at home.
BUFFALO (-9) over Cleveland: The Bills are 6-7 but you can make a case that they can run the table the last three weeks. I think they will take their frustration out on the lowly Browns this week.
Tennessee (+6) over KANSAS CITY: Make no mistake: The Chiefs will win this game, but I could see this game being close. If the Titans can run the ball, then they can keep this game a lot closer than people think. The Chiefs will pull it out in the 4th quarter, but this game will go back and forth.
HOUSTON (-6) over Jacksonville: Houston can clinch the AFC South with wins in their next weeks and Tennessee losing once. I can't see the Jaguars going into Houston and winning this game. The Texans should win easily and be one step closer to the playoffs.
New Orleans (+3) over ARIZONA: The Cardinals are all but out of the NFC playoff race, and I think they will let down at home this week to the visiting Saints. I think the Saints will finish the season strong and look for them to pull the upset in Arizona on Sunday.
ATLANTA (-13) over San Francisco: Too easy for Atlanta here as the Falcons roll and get to 9-5.
Oakland (-3) over SAN DIEGO: The Chargers are basically done at 5-8 and it looks like they could be headed to LA after the season is over. I wouldn't expect much of a turnout on Sunday in San Diego as the Raiders will get back on track with a crucial win on the road.
Pittsburgh (-3) over CINCY: I think this game will be close, but I can't see the Steelers losing this game-even in Cincinnati. I wonder if the Bengals will be feisty the rest of the year, and I have a feeling that they will put all their chips on the table and play hard against their hated rivals.
Tampa Bay (+7) over DALLAS: I think the Cowboys will win the game, but you have to like the way the Bucs are playing during their five-game winning streak. I think that this game will be close throughout, but the Cowboys will pull the game out late in a thriller.
WASHINGTON (-6) over Carolina: The Redskins are 7-5-1 and right on the cusp of a wild card berth in the NFC. The Panthers are 5-8 and playing out the string on a very disappointing season. The Skins have more to play for and are at home, so I look for a very easy win in DC on Monday Night Football.
New England (-3) over DENVER
Final Score: Patriots-30 Broncos-17
Last Week's Record: 9-6-1
Overall Record: 115-79-12
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
NY GIANTS (-3) over Detroit: The injury to Matt Stafford's hand could really hamper him in this huge game on Sunday. The 9-4 Lions and 9-4 Giants are in the thick of the NFC playoff picture, and this game will go along way in determining each team's fate come January. I like the Giants at home because I like how their defense is playing and with Stafford's injury in play, this could be a very tough game for the Lions.
BALTIMORE (-6) over Philly: Even at 7-6, the Ravens have a path to make the playoffs as a wild card. I think they will roll the Eagles at home on Sunday in rout.
CHICAGO (+7) over Green Bay: I fully expect the Packers to win the game, but this game seems like it might be close. The weather is going to be really cold in Chicago for this one, and for some reason I think the Bears keep it tight till the end.
MINNESOTA (-4) over Indy: Andrew Luck is banged up and the 6-7 Colts are almost out of it in the AFC South. I look for the Vikings to get to 8-6 with a pretty convincing win at home.
BUFFALO (-9) over Cleveland: The Bills are 6-7 but you can make a case that they can run the table the last three weeks. I think they will take their frustration out on the lowly Browns this week.
Tennessee (+6) over KANSAS CITY: Make no mistake: The Chiefs will win this game, but I could see this game being close. If the Titans can run the ball, then they can keep this game a lot closer than people think. The Chiefs will pull it out in the 4th quarter, but this game will go back and forth.
HOUSTON (-6) over Jacksonville: Houston can clinch the AFC South with wins in their next weeks and Tennessee losing once. I can't see the Jaguars going into Houston and winning this game. The Texans should win easily and be one step closer to the playoffs.
New Orleans (+3) over ARIZONA: The Cardinals are all but out of the NFC playoff race, and I think they will let down at home this week to the visiting Saints. I think the Saints will finish the season strong and look for them to pull the upset in Arizona on Sunday.
ATLANTA (-13) over San Francisco: Too easy for Atlanta here as the Falcons roll and get to 9-5.
Oakland (-3) over SAN DIEGO: The Chargers are basically done at 5-8 and it looks like they could be headed to LA after the season is over. I wouldn't expect much of a turnout on Sunday in San Diego as the Raiders will get back on track with a crucial win on the road.
Pittsburgh (-3) over CINCY: I think this game will be close, but I can't see the Steelers losing this game-even in Cincinnati. I wonder if the Bengals will be feisty the rest of the year, and I have a feeling that they will put all their chips on the table and play hard against their hated rivals.
Tampa Bay (+7) over DALLAS: I think the Cowboys will win the game, but you have to like the way the Bucs are playing during their five-game winning streak. I think that this game will be close throughout, but the Cowboys will pull the game out late in a thriller.
WASHINGTON (-6) over Carolina: The Redskins are 7-5-1 and right on the cusp of a wild card berth in the NFC. The Panthers are 5-8 and playing out the string on a very disappointing season. The Skins have more to play for and are at home, so I look for a very easy win in DC on Monday Night Football.
Thursday, December 15, 2016
Week 15 TNF and Saturday Night Football Picks
Thursday Night Football:
SEATTLE (-14) over Los Angeles
SEATTLE (-14) over Los Angeles
Saturday Night Football:
Miami (-2) over NY JETS
Monday, December 12, 2016
Broncos Rally Late, But Fall To Titans 13-10
The Broncos left Nashville with a very disappointing defeat at the hands of the Tennessee Titans 13-10. The Broncos trailed 13-0 at halftime, and rallied in the 4th quarter to get within three, but a late A.J. Derby fumble at the Broncos 40 yard line with under a minute to go sealed their fate. It was a bitter loss that dropped the Broncos to 8-5, and they are now in a mad scramble to try to make the playoffs with a schedule that finishes with the Patriots, Chiefs and Raiders. Here are my observations and thoughts about the game....
1) The game started exactly the way we didn't want it start. We go three and out on a terrible whiff of a block by Devontae Booker that gets Trevor Siemian sacked, and the Titans methodically march down the field and punch it in with Demarco Murray to take a 7-0 lead. After a Justin Forsett fumble, the Titans drive down and get a field goal to make it 10-0. They were controlling the ball on the ground with Murray and Marcus Mariota and making a couple plays in the air. The next thing you know we are in trouble and down 10.
2) We just can't run the ball, and if the running game isn't working in this offense, then everything else is screwed. We can get a first down on any short yardage situations and it hurt us once again early in the game on Sunday. Devontae Booker just can't break a tackle.
3) A key sequence in the first half was when the Broncos punted the Titans down at their own three yard line, but the Titans drove the length of the field a got a field goal right before the half. I thought that drive was more about the stamina of the Broncos defense and how gassed they were than anything else. It was a big three points and ended up being a big drive right before the half.
4) During that drive, Titans WR Harry Douglas went low and took out Chris Harris near the end of a running play that was away from the ball. It was a dirty, cheap hit, and Harris was out for a few plays but came back in the game later. On the next play, Aqib Talib and went after Douglas and basically manhandled him on the sideline and even though he got a 15 yard penalty, it was a bit of retaliation that Douglas deserved. I actually applaud Talib for this revenge tactic.
5) After being down 13-0 at the half, the Broncos defense settled in and played very well the rest of the way. They shut down Mariota completely and didn't give Murray much running room as well. The Broncos got key stops during the entire second half and got off the field when they needed to.
6) The Broncos offense finally came alive in the second half as well. This loss wasn't on Trevor Siemian at all. He nearly brought the Broncos all the way back. The series that was a killer was the series after Denver perfectly executed a fake punt from Riley Dixon to Cody Latimer for a first down. The Broncos drove all the way inside the 10 but couldn't finish off the drive with a touchdown as Siemian's 4th down pass was incomplete in the end zone. The Broncos scored a touchdown on their next drive on a Siemian to Emmanuel Sanders TD pass and then got a field goal on the next drive to pull within three. Siemian finished 35-51 for 334 yards and 1 TD. Sanders had 11 receptions for 100 yards and Demaryius Thomas had 10 receptions for 126 yards. The problem is that the Broncos really don't want Siemian throwing 51 times in a game. That's just not going to work on the road.
7) A.J. Derby has been a nice find at TE since we traded for him in October, and his fumble late in the game with under a minute to go was a killer, but he has been a nice surprise for us this year. I fell bad for him because I really like him as a player and he has been good for us.
8) At 13-7, Bennie Fowler dropped a sure TD pass on a back shoulder throw by Siemian. It would have made it 14-13, but Fowler, who usually is very reliable, dropped the pass and the Broncos had to settle for a field goal. That might have been the play of the game right there.
9) The Broncos have now backed themselves into a corner to make the playoffs. They have to deal with NE at home, at KC on Christmas night, and host Oakland. They need Dolphins to start losing some games as well because they are tied at 8-5, and they need the Ravens or the Steelers to start losing as well. The Broncos have by far the hardest schedule remaining of all the AFC playoff contenders, so it will be very hard to see Denver winning two of these last three games. You never know what could happen and the Broncos are home for two of those games, but this will be about as difficult of a task that you could think of for this team to make it. Let's keep the faith and hope they defy the odds with these last three games. Go Broncos!
1) The game started exactly the way we didn't want it start. We go three and out on a terrible whiff of a block by Devontae Booker that gets Trevor Siemian sacked, and the Titans methodically march down the field and punch it in with Demarco Murray to take a 7-0 lead. After a Justin Forsett fumble, the Titans drive down and get a field goal to make it 10-0. They were controlling the ball on the ground with Murray and Marcus Mariota and making a couple plays in the air. The next thing you know we are in trouble and down 10.
2) We just can't run the ball, and if the running game isn't working in this offense, then everything else is screwed. We can get a first down on any short yardage situations and it hurt us once again early in the game on Sunday. Devontae Booker just can't break a tackle.
3) A key sequence in the first half was when the Broncos punted the Titans down at their own three yard line, but the Titans drove the length of the field a got a field goal right before the half. I thought that drive was more about the stamina of the Broncos defense and how gassed they were than anything else. It was a big three points and ended up being a big drive right before the half.
4) During that drive, Titans WR Harry Douglas went low and took out Chris Harris near the end of a running play that was away from the ball. It was a dirty, cheap hit, and Harris was out for a few plays but came back in the game later. On the next play, Aqib Talib and went after Douglas and basically manhandled him on the sideline and even though he got a 15 yard penalty, it was a bit of retaliation that Douglas deserved. I actually applaud Talib for this revenge tactic.
5) After being down 13-0 at the half, the Broncos defense settled in and played very well the rest of the way. They shut down Mariota completely and didn't give Murray much running room as well. The Broncos got key stops during the entire second half and got off the field when they needed to.
6) The Broncos offense finally came alive in the second half as well. This loss wasn't on Trevor Siemian at all. He nearly brought the Broncos all the way back. The series that was a killer was the series after Denver perfectly executed a fake punt from Riley Dixon to Cody Latimer for a first down. The Broncos drove all the way inside the 10 but couldn't finish off the drive with a touchdown as Siemian's 4th down pass was incomplete in the end zone. The Broncos scored a touchdown on their next drive on a Siemian to Emmanuel Sanders TD pass and then got a field goal on the next drive to pull within three. Siemian finished 35-51 for 334 yards and 1 TD. Sanders had 11 receptions for 100 yards and Demaryius Thomas had 10 receptions for 126 yards. The problem is that the Broncos really don't want Siemian throwing 51 times in a game. That's just not going to work on the road.
7) A.J. Derby has been a nice find at TE since we traded for him in October, and his fumble late in the game with under a minute to go was a killer, but he has been a nice surprise for us this year. I fell bad for him because I really like him as a player and he has been good for us.
8) At 13-7, Bennie Fowler dropped a sure TD pass on a back shoulder throw by Siemian. It would have made it 14-13, but Fowler, who usually is very reliable, dropped the pass and the Broncos had to settle for a field goal. That might have been the play of the game right there.
9) The Broncos have now backed themselves into a corner to make the playoffs. They have to deal with NE at home, at KC on Christmas night, and host Oakland. They need Dolphins to start losing some games as well because they are tied at 8-5, and they need the Ravens or the Steelers to start losing as well. The Broncos have by far the hardest schedule remaining of all the AFC playoff contenders, so it will be very hard to see Denver winning two of these last three games. You never know what could happen and the Broncos are home for two of those games, but this will be about as difficult of a task that you could think of for this team to make it. Let's keep the faith and hope they defy the odds with these last three games. Go Broncos!
Sunday, December 11, 2016
Broncos-Titans Preview and Week 14 Picks!!!!
The Broncos head to Tennessee this weekend to take on the Titans. To understand the importance of this game, analytical websites have tabbed this game as the most important game of the week in the NFL-playoff wise. The Broncos are 8-4 and their last three games feature the Pats at home, at KC, and home against the Raiders. That is about as tough as it gets for the final three games of the year. The Titans are 6-6 and in a three-way tie for the lead in the AFC South. It is pretty safe to say that this is big game. If you have watched the Titans, you have to be impressed by the way they are playing this year. What scares you about this game is the fact that Demarco Murray is having a big season, and the Broncos biggest weakness on defense is the fact that they struggle to stop the run. You could envision Murray going off on this Denver front. Plus, LB Brandon Marshall is out, and that won't help. Marcus Mariota has played very well the last month or so, and his mobility and play-making could give the Broncos fits as well. Denver also is making a second road trip in two weeks and playing in their second straight early game on Sunday. They also played 81 snaps on defense last week at Jacksonville after playing a physical overtime game the week before against the Chiefs. This will be a very difficult game for Denver to win and Trevor Siemian's status is still up in the air. I just think that the Broncos are running into a tough situation, and it will be a gut check for them to pull this one out. I'm struggling to find confidence in this particular spot.
TENNESSEE (-1) over Denver
Final Score: Titans-27 Broncos-17
Now, onto the picks for Week 14..........
TENNESSEE (-1) over Denver
Final Score: Titans-27 Broncos-17
Now, onto the picks for Week 14..........
Last Week's Record: 10-5
Overall Record: 106-73-11
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
San Diego (+2) over CAROLINA: The Panthers season is done at 4-8, and the Chargers are on full life support at 5-7. Look for SD to take down the Panthers and continue Carolina's nightmare season.
Houston (+6.5) over INDY: Both teams are 6-6 and this is a huge game in the AFC South. Everyone is now back on the Colts bandwagon but they buried a Jets team on Monday night that simply quit. Houston has lost three in a row, but I have a hunch they stop the bleeding here and get a huge road win.
CLEVELAND (+6) over Cincy: This might be the only chance the Browns have to win a game this season. RG III is actually back and starting, which might hurt their chances. I'll go with the Browns to win outright and get their first win of the year.
BUFFALO (+3) over Pittsburgh: Very interesting game in the AFC. Buffalo is 6-6 after blowing a big lead at Oakland last week. They are still in the hunt in the wildcard race, and their schedule is favorable. The Steelers are 7-5 and have won three in a row. This game could go either way, and I have a feeling the Bills will pull the upset at home.
MIAMI (+2) over Arizona: I am surprised that the Dolphins are underdogs at home to the Cardinals. Arizona is 5-6-1 and they have struggled all year long. The Dolphins are 7-5 coming off a blowout loss to the Ravens last week. I think this will be a close game, but I see the Fish winning and getting to 8-5.
DETROIT (-7) over Chicago: I like the Lions chances to win the NFC North. At 8-4, they are two games up on the Packers and Vikings. There is some mojo going with the Lions at this point, and Matt Stafford is a legitimate MVP candidate. I think this is an easy win for the Lions at home over the 3-9 Bears.
Minnesota (-3) over JACKSONVILLE: The Vikings are 6-6, and it looks like they are going to miss the playoffs after starting 5-0. I would suspect that they will be able to find a way to win in Jacksonville where Gus Bradley is obviously on his way out and the 2-10 Jags are playing out the string.
TAMPA BAY (-2) over New Orleans: You have to like what you see out of the Bucs lately. At 7-5, they are in the thick of NFC South race and a possible wild card as well. This won't be easy, but I could see Jameis Winston having a big day against the Saints defense, and Tampa Bay pulling it out late at home.
Washington (-1) over PHILLY: The Redskins have lost two straight and come in at 6-5-1. The Eagles have lost three in a row and are now 5-7. I would expect a back and forth game, but I still think the Redskins have the inside track to grab one of those two wild card spots in the NFC, so I think they will get back on track with a win in Philly.
NY Jets (+2) over SAN FRANCISCO: The Jets are 3-9 and the 49ers are 1-11. No one cares about this game.
GREEN BAY (+3) over Seattle: It looks like snow will be a factor in this game at Lambeau on Sunday in the late window. The Packers have won two in a row and now stand at 6-6. They could still get a wild card. Seattle looks like it is destined for the #2 seed. I think Seattle will move the ball effectively on the Packers, but I think Green Bay will win based on the homefield, the snow, and they are more desperate.
Atlanta (-6) over LOS ANGELES: The Rams are joke and at 4-8 they are headed for a very disappointing season. You can't make up some of the stuff that Jeff Fisher has done lately-including not being able to find his challenge flag last week during the game. This has an Atlanta rout written all over it, and the Falcons have a very favorable schedule down the stretch. Look for Atlanta to get to 8-5.
Dallas (-3) over NY GIANTS: Huge game on Sunday Night Football from the Meadowlands. The Cowboys are 11-1 and looking to wrap up the NFC East, while the G-Men are 8-4 after a bad loss at Pittsburgh last week. It's a tough one to call because I can see the Giants going all out and beating the Cowboys-especially since they are the only team to beat them this year, but there is something that tells me the Cowboys will play one of their best games of the year and knock off the Giants in Jersey.
Baltimore (+7) over NEW ENGLAND: Great game on Monday Night Football. The 7-5 Ravens come in off a beatdown of Miami last week, and the Patriots are 10-2 and looking for that 1 seed in the AFC. We all know that Baltimore doesn't fear the Pats, and they have no problem going into New England and getting a win. This will be a close game throughout, and I am not 100% sure that the Ravens are going to win, but it will be a nailbiter that will come down to the last few minutes.
Overall Record: 106-73-11
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
San Diego (+2) over CAROLINA: The Panthers season is done at 4-8, and the Chargers are on full life support at 5-7. Look for SD to take down the Panthers and continue Carolina's nightmare season.
Houston (+6.5) over INDY: Both teams are 6-6 and this is a huge game in the AFC South. Everyone is now back on the Colts bandwagon but they buried a Jets team on Monday night that simply quit. Houston has lost three in a row, but I have a hunch they stop the bleeding here and get a huge road win.
CLEVELAND (+6) over Cincy: This might be the only chance the Browns have to win a game this season. RG III is actually back and starting, which might hurt their chances. I'll go with the Browns to win outright and get their first win of the year.
BUFFALO (+3) over Pittsburgh: Very interesting game in the AFC. Buffalo is 6-6 after blowing a big lead at Oakland last week. They are still in the hunt in the wildcard race, and their schedule is favorable. The Steelers are 7-5 and have won three in a row. This game could go either way, and I have a feeling the Bills will pull the upset at home.
MIAMI (+2) over Arizona: I am surprised that the Dolphins are underdogs at home to the Cardinals. Arizona is 5-6-1 and they have struggled all year long. The Dolphins are 7-5 coming off a blowout loss to the Ravens last week. I think this will be a close game, but I see the Fish winning and getting to 8-5.
DETROIT (-7) over Chicago: I like the Lions chances to win the NFC North. At 8-4, they are two games up on the Packers and Vikings. There is some mojo going with the Lions at this point, and Matt Stafford is a legitimate MVP candidate. I think this is an easy win for the Lions at home over the 3-9 Bears.
Minnesota (-3) over JACKSONVILLE: The Vikings are 6-6, and it looks like they are going to miss the playoffs after starting 5-0. I would suspect that they will be able to find a way to win in Jacksonville where Gus Bradley is obviously on his way out and the 2-10 Jags are playing out the string.
TAMPA BAY (-2) over New Orleans: You have to like what you see out of the Bucs lately. At 7-5, they are in the thick of NFC South race and a possible wild card as well. This won't be easy, but I could see Jameis Winston having a big day against the Saints defense, and Tampa Bay pulling it out late at home.
Washington (-1) over PHILLY: The Redskins have lost two straight and come in at 6-5-1. The Eagles have lost three in a row and are now 5-7. I would expect a back and forth game, but I still think the Redskins have the inside track to grab one of those two wild card spots in the NFC, so I think they will get back on track with a win in Philly.
NY Jets (+2) over SAN FRANCISCO: The Jets are 3-9 and the 49ers are 1-11. No one cares about this game.
GREEN BAY (+3) over Seattle: It looks like snow will be a factor in this game at Lambeau on Sunday in the late window. The Packers have won two in a row and now stand at 6-6. They could still get a wild card. Seattle looks like it is destined for the #2 seed. I think Seattle will move the ball effectively on the Packers, but I think Green Bay will win based on the homefield, the snow, and they are more desperate.
Atlanta (-6) over LOS ANGELES: The Rams are joke and at 4-8 they are headed for a very disappointing season. You can't make up some of the stuff that Jeff Fisher has done lately-including not being able to find his challenge flag last week during the game. This has an Atlanta rout written all over it, and the Falcons have a very favorable schedule down the stretch. Look for Atlanta to get to 8-5.
Dallas (-3) over NY GIANTS: Huge game on Sunday Night Football from the Meadowlands. The Cowboys are 11-1 and looking to wrap up the NFC East, while the G-Men are 8-4 after a bad loss at Pittsburgh last week. It's a tough one to call because I can see the Giants going all out and beating the Cowboys-especially since they are the only team to beat them this year, but there is something that tells me the Cowboys will play one of their best games of the year and knock off the Giants in Jersey.
Baltimore (+7) over NEW ENGLAND: Great game on Monday Night Football. The 7-5 Ravens come in off a beatdown of Miami last week, and the Patriots are 10-2 and looking for that 1 seed in the AFC. We all know that Baltimore doesn't fear the Pats, and they have no problem going into New England and getting a win. This will be a close game throughout, and I am not 100% sure that the Ravens are going to win, but it will be a nailbiter that will come down to the last few minutes.
Thursday, December 8, 2016
Monday, December 5, 2016
Broncos Shut Down Jaguars 20-10, Improve to 8-4
The Broncos had one goal in mind when they headed to Jacksonville on Sunday: Get a win by any means necessary. Well, the Broncos did just that and their defense stepped up and suffocated the Jaguars 20-10 in Jacksonville on Sunday. The Broncos rebounded after their tough loss to KC the week before, and they had to get a win in Jacksonville with Paxton Lynch starting in place of the injured Trevor Siemian. It wasn't pretty at times-especially on offense- but the Broncos defense was able to impose their will, get a pick-six by Bradley Roby, and put the game away with Von Miller making his impact in a game-changing play. This won't go down as an instant classic for the Broncos, but it was effective enough and the Broncos won a game that they had to win and they should win. It was a good day for the Broncos and they have now positioned themselves to make a run for a playoff spot in the AFC. Here are my thoughts and observations on the game.....
1) Let's start with the defense. They completely dominated the game and the Jaguars offense. Blake Bortles was no threat at all to this Broncos defense. Denver was able to shut down any threat the Jaguars had. Chris Harris had a key interception in Denver territory in the second quarter, and Bradley Roby had a pick-six in the third quarter to make 17-3, and from that point the game was really in Denver's control. I know they gave up a shit drive to the Jags and Bortles scrambled in for a touchdown to cut it to 17-10. Denver's defense also got two big stops the last two drives of the game. Von Miller pushed the offensive tackle back into Blake Bortles, who fumbled the ball, and Shane Ray recovered to give the Broncos the ball with only 1:37 to go in the game. The turnover gave the Broncos the ball in Jax territory and a field goal a few plays later iced the game. The Broncos defense pitched an "A" game, and they are tough to beat when they do that.
2) The offense really struggled under Paxton Lynch. Lynch had trouble with accuracy all game long. He made some really bad throws to an open Demaryius Thomas on a deep route, and Emmanuel Sanders on a post route. Both plays could have been touchdowns, but Lynch's throws were so underthrown that they both fell incomplete. He also missed open receivers underneath and on short throws as well. It was not a good day for Lynch, and I am worried about his accuracy going forward. I'm not calling him a bust or anything like that, but he is not the answer at this point in this season. Clearly, if Trevor Siemian is healthy, he has to start the rest of the year. Lynch needs to continue his "redshirt" season this year.
3) The special teams was better this week. Riley Dixon did a nice job punting and keep the field position game in favor of the Broncos for a majority of the day.
4) The Broncos again struggled to run the ball, but Kapri Bibbs provided a spark on the Broncos lone touchdown drive in the second quarter. After Bibbs broke two good runs, the Broncos punched it in when Devontae Booker barreled in to make it 7-3 Denver on a play where he actually broke a tackle to get into the endzone.
5) The sneaky big sequence of the game was when the Broncos got the ball back right before the half and they benefitted from a late hit on the sideline for an extra 15 yards. The Broncos moved the ball enough to get a field goal and make it 10-3. That was a very interesting sequence.
6) The Broncos won a game in which their offense punted 11 times, went three and out eight times, and mustered only 206 yards on only 54 total plays. Their defense was also on the field for 81 plays. Talk about putting it on your defense.
7) The Broncos did what they had to do and went into Jacksonville and won the game. After going into overtime with KC on Sunday night, then flying across the country to take on the Jags in the early window. The Broncos got the win, but will now have to go on the road to Tennessee to take on the 6-6 Titans next week as we hit the final four games of the season. Lets Go Broncos!!1
1) Let's start with the defense. They completely dominated the game and the Jaguars offense. Blake Bortles was no threat at all to this Broncos defense. Denver was able to shut down any threat the Jaguars had. Chris Harris had a key interception in Denver territory in the second quarter, and Bradley Roby had a pick-six in the third quarter to make 17-3, and from that point the game was really in Denver's control. I know they gave up a shit drive to the Jags and Bortles scrambled in for a touchdown to cut it to 17-10. Denver's defense also got two big stops the last two drives of the game. Von Miller pushed the offensive tackle back into Blake Bortles, who fumbled the ball, and Shane Ray recovered to give the Broncos the ball with only 1:37 to go in the game. The turnover gave the Broncos the ball in Jax territory and a field goal a few plays later iced the game. The Broncos defense pitched an "A" game, and they are tough to beat when they do that.
2) The offense really struggled under Paxton Lynch. Lynch had trouble with accuracy all game long. He made some really bad throws to an open Demaryius Thomas on a deep route, and Emmanuel Sanders on a post route. Both plays could have been touchdowns, but Lynch's throws were so underthrown that they both fell incomplete. He also missed open receivers underneath and on short throws as well. It was not a good day for Lynch, and I am worried about his accuracy going forward. I'm not calling him a bust or anything like that, but he is not the answer at this point in this season. Clearly, if Trevor Siemian is healthy, he has to start the rest of the year. Lynch needs to continue his "redshirt" season this year.
3) The special teams was better this week. Riley Dixon did a nice job punting and keep the field position game in favor of the Broncos for a majority of the day.
4) The Broncos again struggled to run the ball, but Kapri Bibbs provided a spark on the Broncos lone touchdown drive in the second quarter. After Bibbs broke two good runs, the Broncos punched it in when Devontae Booker barreled in to make it 7-3 Denver on a play where he actually broke a tackle to get into the endzone.
5) The sneaky big sequence of the game was when the Broncos got the ball back right before the half and they benefitted from a late hit on the sideline for an extra 15 yards. The Broncos moved the ball enough to get a field goal and make it 10-3. That was a very interesting sequence.
6) The Broncos won a game in which their offense punted 11 times, went three and out eight times, and mustered only 206 yards on only 54 total plays. Their defense was also on the field for 81 plays. Talk about putting it on your defense.
7) The Broncos did what they had to do and went into Jacksonville and won the game. After going into overtime with KC on Sunday night, then flying across the country to take on the Jags in the early window. The Broncos got the win, but will now have to go on the road to Tennessee to take on the 6-6 Titans next week as we hit the final four games of the season. Lets Go Broncos!!1
Thursday, December 1, 2016
Broncos-Jags Preview and Week 13 Picks!!!
The Broncos are coming off a brutal 30-27 overtime loss at home to the Chiefs last Sunday night. How much are they going to have in the tank when they head to Jacksonville to take on the 2-9 Jaguars on Sunday. It is a must win game for the 7-4 Broncos who are now on the outside of the AFC playoff picture. To make matters worse for Denver, QB Trevor Siemian, coming off the best game of his career, looks like he won't play with a foot injury. He has been in a boot all week long. If he can't go, then rookie Paxton Lynch will get the start. Lynch struggled in his lone start in Week 5 against the Falcons. This is a tough spot for Lynch, who has to go on the road in a very important game. I know the Jags don't exactly have the greatest homefield advantage, but this will be a challenge for the Broncos young QB. Denver struggles to run the ball, so a lot will come down on Lynch. It just seems like a very difficult situation for him in this spot. I just have a bad feeling about this game. A lot of people are going to pick the Broncos, and I like our defense going up against Blake Bortles, but I just don't have a good feeling. Something tells me that this will be a very frustrating afternoon.
JACKSONVILLE (+3.5) over Denver
Final Score: Jaguars-20 Broncos-16
Last Week's Record: 11-3-2
Overall Record: 96-68-11
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Kansas City (+4.5) over ATLANTA: You have to be impressed with the way the Chiefs went into Denver and won that game last week. Alex Smith going down the field on the Denver defense to tie the game was surprising to say the least. I think the Chiefs have the inside track at winning the AFC West. The Falcons at 7-4 will be a difficult test and this is one of the games of the day, but I like KC to get the win on the road. Their offense will do enough to put points on the board against that Atlanta defense.
GREEN BAY (-6) over Houston: The way the Packers won on Monday night was the way they will have to win the rest of the year in order to have a chance to win their division: Aaron Rodgers has to be lights out. At 5-6, they are not dead yet, and I am nervous about taking them and giving six points, but how can you trust the Texans at this point? Brock Osweiler is struggling, and this game might be a tall order for them. I'll take the Packer at home to get to 6-6.
CINCY (-1) over Philly: At 3-7-1, the Bengals are done this year, but I think they probably have one or two more wins left in them. At 5-6, the Eagles have lost two in a row, and you can see that Carson Wentz is struggling more and more. I think the Bengals are due for a win and this week they put the Eagles playoff hopes on life support.
Detroit (+6) over NEW ORLEANS: At 7-4, the Lions are leading the NFC North and have a very good chance to win the division. Every game they play is close, and I just don't think that the Saints should be six point favorites over the Lions-even at home. The Saints are playing better and at 5-6, they are in the hunt for a surprise wild card berth. Drew Brees is playing lights out, but this one could be trouble for them. I think this game is a toss up.
San Francisco (+1) over CHICAGO: The 1-10 Niners are going up against the 2-9 Bears. This isn't exactly the game of the week in the NFL. I'll take the Niners over the beat up Bears in Chicago. By the way, how is the John Fox era working out in Chicago?
NEW ENGLAND (-12) over Los Angeles: The Pats are 9-2, but they suffered a big loss with Rob Gronkowski going out for at least eight weeks with a back injury. Luckily, they get the pitiful 4-7 Rams coming across the country and into Foxboro for an early start. How about Jeff Fisher talking about how Danny Woodhead is so dangerous for the Pats? Too bad Woodhead is on IR and on the SAN DIEGO CHARGERS!!!! The Pats will roll and get to 10-2.
BALTIMORE (-3) over Miami: This is one of the best games of the day as the 6-5 Ravens are hosting the 7-4 Dolphins. The Fish have won six in a row and are in contention for a wild card spot. The Ravens are currently leading the AFC North. This game has huge ramifications in the AFC. It should be a good one, but I'll side with the Ravens defense to shut down Jay Ajayi and Ryan Tannehill at home.
OAKLAND (-3) over Buffalo: The Raiders are rolling at 9-2 and people are actually talking Super Bowl with them. I'm not sold on them yet, but they are definitely going to make the playoffs. They play host to the 6-5 Bills in the Black Hole on Sunday, and I could see the Bills giving them some trouble with the way the Bills offense can operate. Ultimately, I think the Raiders will do enough to pull this game out to get to 10-2.
SAN DIEGO (-2) over Tampa Bay: Another good late game on Sunday in San Diego. The Chargers are 5-6 and can you imagine if they didn't blow so many games early in the year? The Bucs come in red-hot at 6-5, and they are also thinking about a path to get into the playoffs or even win the NFC South. I think this game could go either way, but I think the Chargers will find a way to get to 6-6 with a big home win.
Washington (+3) over ARIZONA: The Cardinals are pretty much done at 4-6-1, and their season is dangling by a thread. The Redskins are 6-4-1 and coming off a tough loss at Dallas on Thanksgiving. I like how the Skins are playing, and I think they are one of the most complete teams in the NFC. Look for Kirk Cousins to go into Arizona and get the win.
NY GIANTS (+6) over PITTSBURGH: This is a classic matchup featuring the 6-5 Steelers and the 8-3 Giants in Pitt on Sunday in the late afternoon window. I think the Steelers will win this game, but I think it will be close throughout. Look for Big Ben and Antonio Brown to put a drive together late to pull the game out, but this game will be back and forth all day.
SEATTLE (-6) over Carolina: The Panthers lost a heartbreaker last week in Oakland. At 4-7, their season is effectively over, and how much fight do they have left in them? The Seahawks struggled mightily last week in the loss at Tampa Bay, but they are still in line to win the NFC West easily and a first round bye. Look for a bounce back win for the Seahawks at home on SNF.
Indy (-1) over NY JETS: How bad is this game for Monday Night Football? You could see a path that the Colts could potentially win the AFC South, and at 5-6 they are still alive, so this game is very important for the Colts? The question I have for the Jets is how hard are they going to play the rest of the year as they play out the string?
JACKSONVILLE (+3.5) over Denver
Final Score: Jaguars-20 Broncos-16
Last Week's Record: 11-3-2
Overall Record: 96-68-11
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Kansas City (+4.5) over ATLANTA: You have to be impressed with the way the Chiefs went into Denver and won that game last week. Alex Smith going down the field on the Denver defense to tie the game was surprising to say the least. I think the Chiefs have the inside track at winning the AFC West. The Falcons at 7-4 will be a difficult test and this is one of the games of the day, but I like KC to get the win on the road. Their offense will do enough to put points on the board against that Atlanta defense.
GREEN BAY (-6) over Houston: The way the Packers won on Monday night was the way they will have to win the rest of the year in order to have a chance to win their division: Aaron Rodgers has to be lights out. At 5-6, they are not dead yet, and I am nervous about taking them and giving six points, but how can you trust the Texans at this point? Brock Osweiler is struggling, and this game might be a tall order for them. I'll take the Packer at home to get to 6-6.
CINCY (-1) over Philly: At 3-7-1, the Bengals are done this year, but I think they probably have one or two more wins left in them. At 5-6, the Eagles have lost two in a row, and you can see that Carson Wentz is struggling more and more. I think the Bengals are due for a win and this week they put the Eagles playoff hopes on life support.
Detroit (+6) over NEW ORLEANS: At 7-4, the Lions are leading the NFC North and have a very good chance to win the division. Every game they play is close, and I just don't think that the Saints should be six point favorites over the Lions-even at home. The Saints are playing better and at 5-6, they are in the hunt for a surprise wild card berth. Drew Brees is playing lights out, but this one could be trouble for them. I think this game is a toss up.
San Francisco (+1) over CHICAGO: The 1-10 Niners are going up against the 2-9 Bears. This isn't exactly the game of the week in the NFL. I'll take the Niners over the beat up Bears in Chicago. By the way, how is the John Fox era working out in Chicago?
NEW ENGLAND (-12) over Los Angeles: The Pats are 9-2, but they suffered a big loss with Rob Gronkowski going out for at least eight weeks with a back injury. Luckily, they get the pitiful 4-7 Rams coming across the country and into Foxboro for an early start. How about Jeff Fisher talking about how Danny Woodhead is so dangerous for the Pats? Too bad Woodhead is on IR and on the SAN DIEGO CHARGERS!!!! The Pats will roll and get to 10-2.
BALTIMORE (-3) over Miami: This is one of the best games of the day as the 6-5 Ravens are hosting the 7-4 Dolphins. The Fish have won six in a row and are in contention for a wild card spot. The Ravens are currently leading the AFC North. This game has huge ramifications in the AFC. It should be a good one, but I'll side with the Ravens defense to shut down Jay Ajayi and Ryan Tannehill at home.
OAKLAND (-3) over Buffalo: The Raiders are rolling at 9-2 and people are actually talking Super Bowl with them. I'm not sold on them yet, but they are definitely going to make the playoffs. They play host to the 6-5 Bills in the Black Hole on Sunday, and I could see the Bills giving them some trouble with the way the Bills offense can operate. Ultimately, I think the Raiders will do enough to pull this game out to get to 10-2.
SAN DIEGO (-2) over Tampa Bay: Another good late game on Sunday in San Diego. The Chargers are 5-6 and can you imagine if they didn't blow so many games early in the year? The Bucs come in red-hot at 6-5, and they are also thinking about a path to get into the playoffs or even win the NFC South. I think this game could go either way, but I think the Chargers will find a way to get to 6-6 with a big home win.
Washington (+3) over ARIZONA: The Cardinals are pretty much done at 4-6-1, and their season is dangling by a thread. The Redskins are 6-4-1 and coming off a tough loss at Dallas on Thanksgiving. I like how the Skins are playing, and I think they are one of the most complete teams in the NFC. Look for Kirk Cousins to go into Arizona and get the win.
NY GIANTS (+6) over PITTSBURGH: This is a classic matchup featuring the 6-5 Steelers and the 8-3 Giants in Pitt on Sunday in the late afternoon window. I think the Steelers will win this game, but I think it will be close throughout. Look for Big Ben and Antonio Brown to put a drive together late to pull the game out, but this game will be back and forth all day.
SEATTLE (-6) over Carolina: The Panthers lost a heartbreaker last week in Oakland. At 4-7, their season is effectively over, and how much fight do they have left in them? The Seahawks struggled mightily last week in the loss at Tampa Bay, but they are still in line to win the NFC West easily and a first round bye. Look for a bounce back win for the Seahawks at home on SNF.
Indy (-1) over NY JETS: How bad is this game for Monday Night Football? You could see a path that the Colts could potentially win the AFC South, and at 5-6 they are still alive, so this game is very important for the Colts? The question I have for the Jets is how hard are they going to play the rest of the year as they play out the string?
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