Last Week's Record: 7-5-2
Thanksgiving Record:1-2
Overall Record: 73-82-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Sunday Night Football on NBC features a highly anticipated matchup between the Broncos and the Patriots. What was originally scheduled as Brady vs. Manning now turns into Brady vs. Brock. The Broncos young QB gets his second career start as Peyton Manning will take at least two more weeks to heal his injured foot. Osweiler did a nice job last week in his first start at Chicago, and now he gets a chance to take down Bill Belichick, Tom Brady, and the defending Super Bowl champs, and stop their undefeated season at 10 wins. If Brock wins this game and plays well, then their might be "Brock Mania" to deal with in Denver. Let's not get ahead of ourselves, but Osweiler has a chance to play well because he has solid weapons, and he has the best defense in the NFL in his own building. You know Belichick will find a way to confuse him and get after him. The real key to this game is going to be the Broncos defense. I don't care that Julian Edelman is hurt or that Danny Amendola is questionable. The Broncos defense has to step to the plate once again and somehow find a way to shut down Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski and the Pats offense. Maybe this is the week that they are due for a loss. The Broncos crowd will be loud and out of control, and if the Broncos defense wants to really be considered elite, then this is the moment that have to rise up and show it. It is a tough game to call, and I'm torn. On one hand, I can see Brady finding a way to pick apart the Broncos defense just enough to allow Belichick to go to work on Osweiler and pull out the victory. On the other hand, I could see the Broncos defense rising up to the challenge and Osweiler leaning on a running game and playing mistake free to pull the upset. I'm not sure how this game plays out, but I'm going to take the Broncos and hope I'm right on the upset pick.
DENVER (+4) over New England
Final Score: Broncos-23 Patriots-22
Now, onto the picks for Week 12...
New Orleans (+3) over Houston: The Saints are 4-6 but still alive in the NFC wild card picture. They fired Rob Ryan as their defensive coordinator during the bye week, and now they head to Houston to take on the 5-5 Texans. Houston gets Brian Hoyer back this week, and how they are 5-5 and in the hunt is amazing considering how awful they have played at times. I'm not totally ready to give up on the Saints and Drew Brees, and I think they pull the upset on the road this week.
ATLANTA (-1) over Minnesota: The Falcons are in a freefall after starting the season at 5-0. They are now 6-4 and fighting for their playoff lives. The Vikings come to town at 7-3 and battling for first place of the NFC North. The Vikes are a better team, but I think the Falcons will get their act going and win a close one at home.
St. Louis (+9) over CINCY: The Bengals have lost two in a row, but I still think they are going to be fine once the playoffs start. They will get back on track this week at home, but I just think the Rams will keep it closer than the spread indicates. Jeff Fisher has to be on the hot seat as the Rams come into this game on a three-game winning streak and 4-6 overall. Look for a Cincy win, but something in the range of 27-19.
Tampa Bay (+3) over INDY: Can the Colts win another game without Andrew Luck at QB? Matt Hasselback is 3-0 as a starter last week including last week's improbable win over the Falcons in Atlanta. I think that his due for a rough performance, and I have been pretty good at backing the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay comes in a 5-5 and I like how Jameis Winston is playing.
New York Giants (-3) over WASHINGTON: With the Eagles getting crushed on Thanksgiving to the Lions, and the Cowboys getting crushed by the Panthers and losing Tony Romo once again to injury, this game becomes a huge game for both of these teams in the race to the win the putrid NFC East. The 5-5 Giants head to DC to take on the 4-6 Redskins, and you would think that the Giants have the inside track to win the division. With that said, the Giants have lost so many games this year in some of the most improbable ways, so why would this week be any different? I'll take them here because I want them to win and would like to see them make the playoffs, but I'm not sold on this pick at all because the Redskins are a dangerous team at home.
NY JETS (-3) over Miami: The Jets come in at 5-5 and struggling after their 4-1 start. Things are starting to fall apart around Gang Green, but luckily for them the Dolphins are an even bigger mess, and this might be just what the Jets needed to get going again.
Oakland (-2) over TENNESSEE: All the talk about the Raiders revival when they were 4-3 has quieted a bit here down the last three weeks as the Raiders have lost three in a row and now stand at 4-6. They travel to Tennessee this week to take on the 2-8 Titans. The only thing that Tennessee has to worry about this season is developing Marcus Mariota these last six games. That is all that matters for them. I think the Raiders snap out of their funk and get a road win here.
Buffalo (+7) over KANSAS CITY: The Chiefs have turned around their season and now stand at 5-5 after starting 1-5. They have a very favorable schedule the last six games. The records of the teams that they play down the stretch is 24-40. One of their toughest games left is this week at home against the Bills. The Bills come in at 5-5 as well, so this game will have major ramifications in the AFC playoff picture. I think the Chiefs will probably get the win here, but this line seems way too high for me. I feel like this is a 20-17 game either way.
San Diego (+4) over JACKSONVILLE: The Jags are 4-6 and only one game out of the lead in the pathetic AFC South. They host the 2-8 Chargers this week, and the San Diego has to win another game at some point this season. Why not this week? This would be very typical of the Jags to blow all of their momentum and lose this game at home to a 2-8 team.
Arizona (-9) over SAN FRANCISCO: The Cardinals are 8-2 and continue their dominant run through the NFC. They travel to San Francisco to take on Blaine Gabbert and the 49ers. I can't see Arizona losing focus this week, and I think Carson Palmer continues his hot streak and takes down the Niners fairly easily.
SEATTLE (-3) over Pittsburgh: At 5-5, the Seahawks are not out of the woods yet in their pursuit of getting back to where they were the last two years. They host the Steelers, and they have already lost two games at home this year in front of the 12th Man. Although it is tempting to take Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers, I just think that Seattle will find a way to get to 6-5. This will be a very fun and entertaining game, but look for the Seahawks to get it done.
Baltimore (+3) over CLEVELAND: Last week, ESPN was trying to hype this game as a showcase for Browns QB Johnny Manziel. Then, a video surfaced this week of Manziel partying and drinking during his bye week, so the Browns decided to bench Manziel and demote him to the third QB for this week. With Joe Flacco out for the year with a torn ACL, we get the pleasure of the 2-8 Ravens with Matt Schaub at QB heading into Cleveland to take on Josh McCown and the 2-8 Browns. This is one of those nights where you catch up on old TV shows or a holiday movie.
Friday, November 27, 2015
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Thanksgiving Tripleheader Picks!
Last Week's Record: 7-5-2
Overall Record: 72-80-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Philadelphia (+2) over DETROIT: I'm giving the Eagles one last chance to redeem themselves and right the ship on their season. If they don't, then expect the Chip Kelly to college rumors to ramp up over the next few weeks.
DALLAS (PICK) over Carolina: The Cowboys got a win last week with Tony Romo back, and now they host the 10-0 Panthers on Thanksgiving day. I can see the Cowboys coming out, playing with fire, and ending Carolina's undefeated run here in 2015.
Chicago (+8) over Green Bay: The Packers got on track last week with their win over the Vikings in Minnesota. At 7-3, they can make a run at their division and even a bye. The Bears lost a close one to Denver and now stand at 4-6, so their season is essentially on the line here. Great setting for this game: Lambeau Field, Thanksgiving, a classic rivalry and the Packers are retiring Brett Favre's number. All of those factors add up to a Packer victory, but I think the Bears get the backdoor cover at the end.
Overall Record: 72-80-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Philadelphia (+2) over DETROIT: I'm giving the Eagles one last chance to redeem themselves and right the ship on their season. If they don't, then expect the Chip Kelly to college rumors to ramp up over the next few weeks.
DALLAS (PICK) over Carolina: The Cowboys got a win last week with Tony Romo back, and now they host the 10-0 Panthers on Thanksgiving day. I can see the Cowboys coming out, playing with fire, and ending Carolina's undefeated run here in 2015.
Chicago (+8) over Green Bay: The Packers got on track last week with their win over the Vikings in Minnesota. At 7-3, they can make a run at their division and even a bye. The Bears lost a close one to Denver and now stand at 4-6, so their season is essentially on the line here. Great setting for this game: Lambeau Field, Thanksgiving, a classic rivalry and the Packers are retiring Brett Favre's number. All of those factors add up to a Packer victory, but I think the Bears get the backdoor cover at the end.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Brocktoberfest in Chicago as Broncos Down the Bears 17-15
The Broncos went into Chicago and pulled out a 17-15 victory over the Bears. The win puts Denver at 8-2 heading into a showdown with New England next Sunday night. On a freezing cold day at Soldier Field, Brock Osweiler made his first ever start and played very well to guide the Broncos to the victory. Denver's defense got back on track and made the game-saving stop on a two-point conversion try to secure the game late. The Broncos played well, and it felt like a game that the Broncos should have won easily, but in any event they needed to get the win and they did just that. Here are my thoughts and observations on the game....
1) Brock Osweiler played well in his first start-especially in frigid temperatures at Soldier Field in Chicago. Let's not go crazy here over Osweiler. He played well and go the win on the road but it is one game, so we can't go over the top. But Brock showed enough in this game that you would believe that he can carry the team when/if Peyton Manning comes back into the fold. Osweiler finished 20-27 for 254 yards and 2 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. It was a great way for him to start his career, and he looked very comfortable and smooth running Gary Kubiak's offense.
2) Speaking of Kubiak, he got the chance to run his stuff and you could tell how the offense flows off the play action and the run game like we always knew it would. The quick counts, the play action, the bootlegs, the stretch runs, and the zone schemes were all in play, and Denver ran most of the offense from under center (75%). Demaryius Thomas got in the end zone for only the second time this season on a 48 yard catch and run on the Broncos first drive of the game. Cody Latimer caught a big touchdown pass early in the 4th quarter to make it a 17-9 game. Owen Daniels had a nice game, and Vernon Davis made his most impact since coming over in a trade from SF.
3) The Broncos dominated on both sides of the ball for most of the game. The key moment in this game was when the Broncos had a 4th and 1at the 2 yard line late in the third quarter up 10-6.The decision was the right one to go for it, but Osweiler tripped Ronnie Hillman by accident on the handoff, and Hillman stumbled and got stopped short of first down mark. If the Broncos score there, I really think they run away with the victory, but it kept the Bears alive and kept the game close throughout.
3) The Broncos defense returned to form after a couple of uneven games. They stepped up and showed how good this defense can be on a week to week basis. Outside of a few breakdowns in the secondary, they completely shut down the run game for the Bears, and they did a really nice job on Jay Cutler, who came in one of the hottest QBs in the NFL the last month. The key in this game was the fact that the Broncos defense tackled so well. They also brought some key pressures in certain situations, forced a huge interception by Danny Trevathan in the 3rd quarter, and huge strip sack by Von Miller on Cutler in the 4th quarter. Also, they made the two biggest stops to preserve the victory. First, they stopped the Bears on four straight downs inside the 10 with about 10 minutes to go in the game. They also made a huge stop on a two-point conversion run up 17-15 with under a minute left. Why did Adam Gase call for a run in that situation when the Broncos had the boxed stacked and the Bears couldn't run the ball game long?
4) This was a solid win on the road, but they have to keep it going because the Chiefs keep winning too. 8-2 is nice, but it is going to take a lot more work to lock up the division. The KC schedule is very weak down the stretch.
5) It was nice to get a win and stick it to Jay Cutler (Can't forget that situation) and John Fox. Nothing against Foxy, but it still bothers me that he leaked about potentially leaving the Broncos if they lost to the Colts in the playoffs last year. He coached that game with one foot out the door.
6) Osweiler will start next Sunday night against the Patriots on SNF so it will be Brock/Brady I and not another edition of the Brady/Manning rivalry. Let's not go too crazy about Brock because he has a lot of work to do this season before we anoint him as the next QB of the future in Denver. This will be quite a test for him and the Broncos defense. The homefield will be the key here for the Broncos. They need their fans to be crazy and help the defense try to stop Tom Brady and the Patriots offense. It will be a very interesting test for both Osweiler and the Broncos.
1) Brock Osweiler played well in his first start-especially in frigid temperatures at Soldier Field in Chicago. Let's not go crazy here over Osweiler. He played well and go the win on the road but it is one game, so we can't go over the top. But Brock showed enough in this game that you would believe that he can carry the team when/if Peyton Manning comes back into the fold. Osweiler finished 20-27 for 254 yards and 2 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. It was a great way for him to start his career, and he looked very comfortable and smooth running Gary Kubiak's offense.
2) Speaking of Kubiak, he got the chance to run his stuff and you could tell how the offense flows off the play action and the run game like we always knew it would. The quick counts, the play action, the bootlegs, the stretch runs, and the zone schemes were all in play, and Denver ran most of the offense from under center (75%). Demaryius Thomas got in the end zone for only the second time this season on a 48 yard catch and run on the Broncos first drive of the game. Cody Latimer caught a big touchdown pass early in the 4th quarter to make it a 17-9 game. Owen Daniels had a nice game, and Vernon Davis made his most impact since coming over in a trade from SF.
3) The Broncos dominated on both sides of the ball for most of the game. The key moment in this game was when the Broncos had a 4th and 1at the 2 yard line late in the third quarter up 10-6.The decision was the right one to go for it, but Osweiler tripped Ronnie Hillman by accident on the handoff, and Hillman stumbled and got stopped short of first down mark. If the Broncos score there, I really think they run away with the victory, but it kept the Bears alive and kept the game close throughout.
3) The Broncos defense returned to form after a couple of uneven games. They stepped up and showed how good this defense can be on a week to week basis. Outside of a few breakdowns in the secondary, they completely shut down the run game for the Bears, and they did a really nice job on Jay Cutler, who came in one of the hottest QBs in the NFL the last month. The key in this game was the fact that the Broncos defense tackled so well. They also brought some key pressures in certain situations, forced a huge interception by Danny Trevathan in the 3rd quarter, and huge strip sack by Von Miller on Cutler in the 4th quarter. Also, they made the two biggest stops to preserve the victory. First, they stopped the Bears on four straight downs inside the 10 with about 10 minutes to go in the game. They also made a huge stop on a two-point conversion run up 17-15 with under a minute left. Why did Adam Gase call for a run in that situation when the Broncos had the boxed stacked and the Bears couldn't run the ball game long?
4) This was a solid win on the road, but they have to keep it going because the Chiefs keep winning too. 8-2 is nice, but it is going to take a lot more work to lock up the division. The KC schedule is very weak down the stretch.
5) It was nice to get a win and stick it to Jay Cutler (Can't forget that situation) and John Fox. Nothing against Foxy, but it still bothers me that he leaked about potentially leaving the Broncos if they lost to the Colts in the playoffs last year. He coached that game with one foot out the door.
6) Osweiler will start next Sunday night against the Patriots on SNF so it will be Brock/Brady I and not another edition of the Brady/Manning rivalry. Let's not go too crazy about Brock because he has a lot of work to do this season before we anoint him as the next QB of the future in Denver. This will be quite a test for him and the Broncos defense. The homefield will be the key here for the Broncos. They need their fans to be crazy and help the defense try to stop Tom Brady and the Patriots offense. It will be a very interesting test for both Osweiler and the Broncos.
Saturday, November 21, 2015
Broncos-Bears Preview and Week 11 Picks
The Broncos head to Chicago to take on the Bears and for a team that is 7-2 you would think the Broncos are a team that is on the brink of disaster. Yes, they have lost two in a row. Yes, Peyton Manning is hurt and out for an uncertain amount of time. Yes, this is Brock Osweiler's first start, but they are still 7-2 all is not totally lost. The one thing about this game that is going to be tough is the fact that Osweiler's first start has to come on the road, against his former coach and offensive coordinator, and it is going to be like 28 degrees at Soldier Field on Sunday. That is a very tough way to start your QB career. Look, Peyton Manning hasn't been great this year, but he still made enough big throws in big spots in some of these close games to help the Broncos win. That will be the challenge for Brock. Can he make the big third down or redzone throw to help the Broncos win? It is tough to see him doing that in this situation..
CHICAGO (-1) over Denver
Final Score: Bears-22 Broncos-10
Last Week's Record: 4-10
Overall Record: 65-75-6
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
CAROLINA (-7) over Washington: I can't see Washington going on the road and taking down the undefeated Panthers. I think this will be a close game, but look for Cam Newton and company to get to 10-0.
Oakland (-1) over DETROIT: The Raiders got thumped at home last week against the Vikings, and now they find themselves at 4-5 with a big road game in Detroit. I would expect the Raiders to bounce back and do a number on the Lions in Ford Field.
Dallas (PICK) over MIAMI: I have no idea how this game is going to play out, but for the Dolphins this game is huge. At 4-5, they can right the ship on their season again. The Cowboys are banking on Tony Romo's return as a way to get their season somehow back on track. I'll take the Cowboys just for fun.
ATLANTA (-5) over Indy: The Falcons have fallen to 6-3 after starting 5-0. Now, they get the Colts coming to town without Andrew Luck. The Falcons have to get a win here or their season could go down the tubes fast.
St. Louis (+3) over BALTIMORE: The Ravens are mess at 2-7, and they lost a brutal game at home to the Jaguars last week. The Rams come in at 4-5 and losers of their last two games. They have to somehow get a win this week, and they benched Nick Foles in favor of Case Keenum. We'll see how that works, but I think they will find a way this week on the road.
New York Jets (-2) over HOUSTON: This game matches the 5-4 Jets going up against the 4-5 Texans. The Jets get the opportunity to bring their defense on the road against a backup QB for the Texans with T.J. Yates filling in for the injured Brian Hoyer. I like the Jets a lot in this game.
Green Bay (+2) over MINNESOTA: Huge game in the NFC North as the division leading Vikings at 7-2 host the 6-3 Packers. I know Green Bay's offense is struggling and I know that the Vikings have looked really good, but I'll take the Packers to right the ship and get back to the top of the division.
Tampa Bay (+6) over PHILLY: I just can't figure out the Eagles. At 4-5, they host Tampa this week with Mark Sanchez starting over the injured Sam Bradford. I think the Eagles will find a way to win the game, but I think the 4-5 Bucs will keep it very close to the end. Call this 23-20 either way.
Cincy (+5) over ARIZONA: This game got flexed into the SNF game on NBC. This is very good matchup as the 8-1 Bengals head to Arizona to take on the 7-2 Cardinals. Could this be a Super Bowl preview? Perhaps, but the Bengals played very poorly in their loss to Houston on Monday night. The Cards looked great in their wild win in Seattle on Sunday night last week. I think the Cards have a little bit of a letdown this week, and the Bengals will make up for their terrible performance and get a huge road win.
SEATTLE (-10) over San Francisco: The Seahawks are struggling at 4-5, but there is no way they are losing at home this week to the 49ers. If they do, then all hell is going to break loose up there.
SAN DIEGO (+3) over Kansas City: Before we anoint the Chiefs as the AFC West champs, let's not forget that their win over the Broncos last week deserves an asterisk because that was an injured Peyton Manning that they beat up on. At 4-5, they are in range for the division, but they still have work to do. The Chargers play host to them this week, and the Chargers are in desperate need of a win at 2-7. I have a feeling the Chargers will pull the upset at home this week and put a dent into the Chiefs chances.
Buffalo (+7) over NEW ENGLAND: The Pats are 9-0 and they are definitely the team to beat in the AFC, but they have suffered two tough injuries the last two weeks. RB Dion Lewis and WR Julian Edelman were both lost for a significant time period, and they has to somehow affect their offense. Rex Ryan always plays the Pats tough, and I think he will have the Bills prepared and ready to go. I think the Pats win, but look for the Bills to keep it close.
CHICAGO (-1) over Denver
Final Score: Bears-22 Broncos-10
Last Week's Record: 4-10
Overall Record: 65-75-6
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
CAROLINA (-7) over Washington: I can't see Washington going on the road and taking down the undefeated Panthers. I think this will be a close game, but look for Cam Newton and company to get to 10-0.
Oakland (-1) over DETROIT: The Raiders got thumped at home last week against the Vikings, and now they find themselves at 4-5 with a big road game in Detroit. I would expect the Raiders to bounce back and do a number on the Lions in Ford Field.
Dallas (PICK) over MIAMI: I have no idea how this game is going to play out, but for the Dolphins this game is huge. At 4-5, they can right the ship on their season again. The Cowboys are banking on Tony Romo's return as a way to get their season somehow back on track. I'll take the Cowboys just for fun.
ATLANTA (-5) over Indy: The Falcons have fallen to 6-3 after starting 5-0. Now, they get the Colts coming to town without Andrew Luck. The Falcons have to get a win here or their season could go down the tubes fast.
St. Louis (+3) over BALTIMORE: The Ravens are mess at 2-7, and they lost a brutal game at home to the Jaguars last week. The Rams come in at 4-5 and losers of their last two games. They have to somehow get a win this week, and they benched Nick Foles in favor of Case Keenum. We'll see how that works, but I think they will find a way this week on the road.
New York Jets (-2) over HOUSTON: This game matches the 5-4 Jets going up against the 4-5 Texans. The Jets get the opportunity to bring their defense on the road against a backup QB for the Texans with T.J. Yates filling in for the injured Brian Hoyer. I like the Jets a lot in this game.
Green Bay (+2) over MINNESOTA: Huge game in the NFC North as the division leading Vikings at 7-2 host the 6-3 Packers. I know Green Bay's offense is struggling and I know that the Vikings have looked really good, but I'll take the Packers to right the ship and get back to the top of the division.
Tampa Bay (+6) over PHILLY: I just can't figure out the Eagles. At 4-5, they host Tampa this week with Mark Sanchez starting over the injured Sam Bradford. I think the Eagles will find a way to win the game, but I think the 4-5 Bucs will keep it very close to the end. Call this 23-20 either way.
Cincy (+5) over ARIZONA: This game got flexed into the SNF game on NBC. This is very good matchup as the 8-1 Bengals head to Arizona to take on the 7-2 Cardinals. Could this be a Super Bowl preview? Perhaps, but the Bengals played very poorly in their loss to Houston on Monday night. The Cards looked great in their wild win in Seattle on Sunday night last week. I think the Cards have a little bit of a letdown this week, and the Bengals will make up for their terrible performance and get a huge road win.
SEATTLE (-10) over San Francisco: The Seahawks are struggling at 4-5, but there is no way they are losing at home this week to the 49ers. If they do, then all hell is going to break loose up there.
SAN DIEGO (+3) over Kansas City: Before we anoint the Chiefs as the AFC West champs, let's not forget that their win over the Broncos last week deserves an asterisk because that was an injured Peyton Manning that they beat up on. At 4-5, they are in range for the division, but they still have work to do. The Chargers play host to them this week, and the Chargers are in desperate need of a win at 2-7. I have a feeling the Chargers will pull the upset at home this week and put a dent into the Chiefs chances.
Buffalo (+7) over NEW ENGLAND: The Pats are 9-0 and they are definitely the team to beat in the AFC, but they have suffered two tough injuries the last two weeks. RB Dion Lewis and WR Julian Edelman were both lost for a significant time period, and they has to somehow affect their offense. Rex Ryan always plays the Pats tough, and I think he will have the Bills prepared and ready to go. I think the Pats win, but look for the Bills to keep it close.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Jags-Titans Week 11 TNF Pick
JACKSONVILLE (-3) over Tennessee: The annual "Awful Bowl" between Jacksonville and Tennessee has some new meaning on this Thursday night. The Jags are 3-6 and a win here would put them right in the thick of the AFC South race. I think they get it done at home, and put some pressure on the Colts in the division.
Monday, November 16, 2015
Broncos Lose to Chiefs as Manning Gets Benched
Sunday's game at home against the Kansas City Chiefs will be a very monumental game in the history of the Denver Broncos. It was the day that the Peyton Manning era ended in Denver. Manning came into the game battling some injuries, and he left the game in the third quarter with four interceptions and a QB ration of 0.0. By the way, he actually broke Brett Favre's record for all time passing yards in the first quarter, but that was the only highlight for Manning and the entire Broncos all day long. The Chiefs handed the Broncos a humiliating 29-13 loss that dropped the Broncos to 7-2. It was revealed Monday that Manning has a tear in his left foot and it seems like he will be out at least a few games. The Chiefs dominated the Broncos from the get-go and intercepted Manning on the third play of the game. Three more picks in the first half, and the Chiefs had built a 19-0 lead at the half, and at that point the game was long over. And it looks like the Peyton Manning era has come to a crashing halt in Denver as well. Here are my thoughts and observations on the game....
1) There is no reason to go into a detailed account of the key plays in this game. It was that big of a debacle. Manning and the offense were awful in the first half and Manning's interceptions were just killer and lead to points each time. You could tell right away that Manning was injured or hurt because he had nothing left on his throws at all.
2) After his fourth interception, Gary Kubiak finally pulled Manning and put in Brock Osweiler. Oz fared a little better (14-24 for 146 yards 1 TD and 1 INT), but you really can't critique his performance because the game was out of reach from the beginning.
3) It was odd because the crowd seemed dead and there seemed to be no life to the Broncos. It was like they knew Manning was hurt and there was nothing they could do about it. It is hard to imagine this Broncos team in this shape just two weeks after they beat the Packers to get to 7-0.
4) The Broncos defense was without Aqib Talib and Demarcus Ware and they were not given a break in this game. Most of the Chiefs possessions were at midfield or were starting in Broncos territory. The fact that they forced so many field goals by the Chiefs should be commended. They need to get their horses back and they need to get their swagger back.
5) You never would imagine that Manning would go out like this, but there will be a time to analyze and discuss that. This is not the time. The Broncos are in this situation: Brock Osweiler will start for Manning on Sunday in Chicago. Manning will be out indefinitely, and when he feels better he will come back and start. Until then, it is Osweiler's show. They are 7-2 and still have a three game lead in the AFC West. If they can just get a few wins-even without Manning in the lineup-they will be able to win the West, but it will be very tough moving forward. That is the short-term outlook for this team. Hopefully, they can pull together as a team and deal with this adverse situation and get a win on the road this week in Chicago.
1) There is no reason to go into a detailed account of the key plays in this game. It was that big of a debacle. Manning and the offense were awful in the first half and Manning's interceptions were just killer and lead to points each time. You could tell right away that Manning was injured or hurt because he had nothing left on his throws at all.
2) After his fourth interception, Gary Kubiak finally pulled Manning and put in Brock Osweiler. Oz fared a little better (14-24 for 146 yards 1 TD and 1 INT), but you really can't critique his performance because the game was out of reach from the beginning.
3) It was odd because the crowd seemed dead and there seemed to be no life to the Broncos. It was like they knew Manning was hurt and there was nothing they could do about it. It is hard to imagine this Broncos team in this shape just two weeks after they beat the Packers to get to 7-0.
4) The Broncos defense was without Aqib Talib and Demarcus Ware and they were not given a break in this game. Most of the Chiefs possessions were at midfield or were starting in Broncos territory. The fact that they forced so many field goals by the Chiefs should be commended. They need to get their horses back and they need to get their swagger back.
5) You never would imagine that Manning would go out like this, but there will be a time to analyze and discuss that. This is not the time. The Broncos are in this situation: Brock Osweiler will start for Manning on Sunday in Chicago. Manning will be out indefinitely, and when he feels better he will come back and start. Until then, it is Osweiler's show. They are 7-2 and still have a three game lead in the AFC West. If they can just get a few wins-even without Manning in the lineup-they will be able to win the West, but it will be very tough moving forward. That is the short-term outlook for this team. Hopefully, they can pull together as a team and deal with this adverse situation and get a win on the road this week in Chicago.
Saturday, November 14, 2015
Broncos-Chiefs Preview and Week 10 Picks!
The Broncos are 7-1 and they host their division rival Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday at home. The Broncos have not lost to the Chiefs in the Peyton Manning era in Denver. Manning is 7-0 against the Chiefs including Week 2 and the wild, crazy ending that saw the Broncos win the game on a Bradley Roby fumble return with only seconds left. Now, in Week 10, the Broncos are in control of the AFC West at 7-1, and the Chiefs have stumbled to a 3-5 mark. The things that worry me about this game is that fact that Denver's defense is going to be without Demarcus Ware and Aqib Talib. Also, the Broncos are very banged up and they are coming off a physical contest in Indy. Plus, are the Broncos due to lose a game to Chiefs with Manning at the helm? KC almost got them in Week 2, but somehow Denver escaped with the win. This game could be a lot closer than people anticipate. I smell an upset here. Before I get to my pick of the Broncos-Chiefs and my other Week 10 picks, I wanted just to look at some stats now that the Broncos are halfway through their 2015 season:
1) The Broncos are on pace to score 384 points on offense. The most points they have scored as an offense is 27 in the win over the Packers two weeks ago.
2) The Broncos are on pace to give up on 278 points on defense.
3) Peyton Manning is on pace for 18 touchdowns and 26 interceptions with 4,250 yards passing.
4) Denver's leading rusher Ronnie Hillman is on pace for only 768 yards rushing for the year.
5) Demaryius Thomas is on pace for 102 receptions for 1,490 yards and only 2 touchdowns.
6) Emmanuel Sanders is on pace for 92 catches for 1,278 yards and 8 touchdowns.
7) As a team, the Broncos are on pace for 60 sacks. Demarcus Ware is on pace for 13 sacks, and Von Miller is on pace for 8 sacks.
We'll see how those numbers change over the course of the second half of the season.
Now, onto the picks for Week 10...
Kansas City (+7) over DENVER
Final Score: Chiefs-24 Broncos-20
Last Week's Record: 6-5-2
Overall Record: 61-65-6
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
GREEN BAY (-10) over Detroit: The Packers will get things back on track after losing two straight games to the Broncos and the Panthers. Now, they get to come home and take out their frustrations on the Lions. The Lions have lost 24 straight games in Green Bay. That is pretty astonishing. I don't see a reason why they will end their streak there this week.
Dallas (+2) over TAMPA BAY: I don't have a lot of confidence in this pick, but I'm taking the Cowboys because I want them to be somewhat relevant when Tony Romo returns from his broken collarbone. If the Cowboys can somehow win this week, then they would be 3-6 with Romo coming back, and then maybe they could get on a little run and make the NFC East more interesting.
TENNESSEE (+7) over Carolina: The Titans somehow beat the Saints in New Orleans last week, and the Panthers come to town undefeated. The Panthers will win this game, but I see it closer than people will think. Two things to look at in this game: First, you have to admire what Cam Newton has done for the Panthers. He has my MVP vote so far this year. Secondly, you have to like the future in Tennessee with Marcus Mariota at QB. Last week's win over New Orleans proved to Mariota has a bright future in this league.
ST. LOUIS (-7) over Chicago: The Rams are 4-4, but I feel like they should have a better record. If they can any kind of consistent play from Nick Foles, then they will be a playoff team. The Bears are 3-5 after winning on the road in San Diego last Monday night. You have to give John Fox credit for the Bears and their ability to fight back after starting the season 0-3. They have won three of five, and Jay Cutler is actually playing solid and turnover free football. I think this will be a tall order for them in St. Louis this week though.
WASHINGTON (+2) over New Orleans: I don't know what to make of the Saints after they blew that game at home to the Titans. They were 4-4, and had the lowly Titans in their building on a week when the Titans fired their head coach. They blew multiple leads and lost in overtime to fall to 4-5. That could be the backbreaker of their season. Now, they have to go on the road and take on the Redskins, and I like how the Skins play at home this year. The Skins aren't very good at 3-5, but they have shown some signs at times this year. I'll take them at home as an underdog.
PHILLY (-5) over Miami: This game is the toughest to call in my opinion. The Dolphins looked like they were on the verge of turning around their season after winning the first two games under interim head coach Dan Campbell, but they got blown out two games in a row to the Pats and the Bills and are now at 3-5. The Eagles are 4-4 after winning an overtime thriller in Dallas last Sunday night. I can't get a read on the Eagles, but you would think that they will be able to handle the Fish at home. Miami has talent, so if they play up to their potential they can win this game, but I'll stick with my gut and the Eagles.
Cleveland (+6) over PITTSBURGH: I think the Steelers will win this game with Landry Jones at quarterback filling in for Big Ben, but I also think the Browns will make it a close game because Landry Jones is starting at quarterback in place of Big Ben. It sounds like Johnny Manziel will get the start, and although he hasn't been spectacular when he has played this year, I have this feeling that he will somehow win a game on his own for the Browns. Maybe this is the week?
Jacksonville (+6) overt BALTIMORE: Do you really have confidence in the Ravens this year? Now, Joe Flacco's only offensive weapon, Steve Smith, is out for the year with an Achilles injury. They just don't have the firepower on offense. The Jaguars aren't good but at least they have shown some flashes the last few weeks. They beat Buffalo in London, and gave the Jets all they could handle last week. I'll take them to be feisty in Baltimore this week.
OAKLAND (-3) over Minnesota: The Vikings come in at 6-2, and the Raiders come in at 4-4, but Oakland is definitely improved and they are a legitimate playoff contender. This is a good matchup, but I think the Raiders will be too much for the Vikings-especially with Teddy Bridgewater being a question mark due to a concussion.
New England (-7) over NY GIANTS: Here in New York this week, the talk is how the Giants are the one team that isn't afraid of the Patriots. They are a team that has beaten them on the biggest stage before, and they have their number. I don't buy it this year in this game. The Giants defense could very well get carved up by the Patriots and Tom Brady. I'm sure the Giants will be pumped up and ready to throw everything they have into this game, but I just don't think it will be enough to overtake the Pats.
SEATTLE (-3) over Arizona: This is a very intriguing Sunday night game. The Cardinals lead the NFC West at 6-2, and Seattle is currently 4-4. You would have to think that the Seahawks will play one of their best games of the year this week-especially at home in front of the 12th man, but give Arizona credit because they are a very good team, and I could see them pulling an upset. I'll take Seattle at home to get the win and setup a very interesting race down the stretch in the NFC West.
CINCY (-9) over Houston: What a crummy game for Monday Night Football. The Bengals remain undefeated at 8-0, and I don't see anyway that they screw this one up at home to the Texans. They will get to 9-0 in pretty easy fashion.
1) The Broncos are on pace to score 384 points on offense. The most points they have scored as an offense is 27 in the win over the Packers two weeks ago.
2) The Broncos are on pace to give up on 278 points on defense.
3) Peyton Manning is on pace for 18 touchdowns and 26 interceptions with 4,250 yards passing.
4) Denver's leading rusher Ronnie Hillman is on pace for only 768 yards rushing for the year.
5) Demaryius Thomas is on pace for 102 receptions for 1,490 yards and only 2 touchdowns.
6) Emmanuel Sanders is on pace for 92 catches for 1,278 yards and 8 touchdowns.
7) As a team, the Broncos are on pace for 60 sacks. Demarcus Ware is on pace for 13 sacks, and Von Miller is on pace for 8 sacks.
We'll see how those numbers change over the course of the second half of the season.
Now, onto the picks for Week 10...
Kansas City (+7) over DENVER
Final Score: Chiefs-24 Broncos-20
Last Week's Record: 6-5-2
Overall Record: 61-65-6
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
GREEN BAY (-10) over Detroit: The Packers will get things back on track after losing two straight games to the Broncos and the Panthers. Now, they get to come home and take out their frustrations on the Lions. The Lions have lost 24 straight games in Green Bay. That is pretty astonishing. I don't see a reason why they will end their streak there this week.
Dallas (+2) over TAMPA BAY: I don't have a lot of confidence in this pick, but I'm taking the Cowboys because I want them to be somewhat relevant when Tony Romo returns from his broken collarbone. If the Cowboys can somehow win this week, then they would be 3-6 with Romo coming back, and then maybe they could get on a little run and make the NFC East more interesting.
TENNESSEE (+7) over Carolina: The Titans somehow beat the Saints in New Orleans last week, and the Panthers come to town undefeated. The Panthers will win this game, but I see it closer than people will think. Two things to look at in this game: First, you have to admire what Cam Newton has done for the Panthers. He has my MVP vote so far this year. Secondly, you have to like the future in Tennessee with Marcus Mariota at QB. Last week's win over New Orleans proved to Mariota has a bright future in this league.
ST. LOUIS (-7) over Chicago: The Rams are 4-4, but I feel like they should have a better record. If they can any kind of consistent play from Nick Foles, then they will be a playoff team. The Bears are 3-5 after winning on the road in San Diego last Monday night. You have to give John Fox credit for the Bears and their ability to fight back after starting the season 0-3. They have won three of five, and Jay Cutler is actually playing solid and turnover free football. I think this will be a tall order for them in St. Louis this week though.
WASHINGTON (+2) over New Orleans: I don't know what to make of the Saints after they blew that game at home to the Titans. They were 4-4, and had the lowly Titans in their building on a week when the Titans fired their head coach. They blew multiple leads and lost in overtime to fall to 4-5. That could be the backbreaker of their season. Now, they have to go on the road and take on the Redskins, and I like how the Skins play at home this year. The Skins aren't very good at 3-5, but they have shown some signs at times this year. I'll take them at home as an underdog.
PHILLY (-5) over Miami: This game is the toughest to call in my opinion. The Dolphins looked like they were on the verge of turning around their season after winning the first two games under interim head coach Dan Campbell, but they got blown out two games in a row to the Pats and the Bills and are now at 3-5. The Eagles are 4-4 after winning an overtime thriller in Dallas last Sunday night. I can't get a read on the Eagles, but you would think that they will be able to handle the Fish at home. Miami has talent, so if they play up to their potential they can win this game, but I'll stick with my gut and the Eagles.
Cleveland (+6) over PITTSBURGH: I think the Steelers will win this game with Landry Jones at quarterback filling in for Big Ben, but I also think the Browns will make it a close game because Landry Jones is starting at quarterback in place of Big Ben. It sounds like Johnny Manziel will get the start, and although he hasn't been spectacular when he has played this year, I have this feeling that he will somehow win a game on his own for the Browns. Maybe this is the week?
Jacksonville (+6) overt BALTIMORE: Do you really have confidence in the Ravens this year? Now, Joe Flacco's only offensive weapon, Steve Smith, is out for the year with an Achilles injury. They just don't have the firepower on offense. The Jaguars aren't good but at least they have shown some flashes the last few weeks. They beat Buffalo in London, and gave the Jets all they could handle last week. I'll take them to be feisty in Baltimore this week.
OAKLAND (-3) over Minnesota: The Vikings come in at 6-2, and the Raiders come in at 4-4, but Oakland is definitely improved and they are a legitimate playoff contender. This is a good matchup, but I think the Raiders will be too much for the Vikings-especially with Teddy Bridgewater being a question mark due to a concussion.
New England (-7) over NY GIANTS: Here in New York this week, the talk is how the Giants are the one team that isn't afraid of the Patriots. They are a team that has beaten them on the biggest stage before, and they have their number. I don't buy it this year in this game. The Giants defense could very well get carved up by the Patriots and Tom Brady. I'm sure the Giants will be pumped up and ready to throw everything they have into this game, but I just don't think it will be enough to overtake the Pats.
SEATTLE (-3) over Arizona: This is a very intriguing Sunday night game. The Cardinals lead the NFC West at 6-2, and Seattle is currently 4-4. You would have to think that the Seahawks will play one of their best games of the year this week-especially at home in front of the 12th man, but give Arizona credit because they are a very good team, and I could see them pulling an upset. I'll take Seattle at home to get the win and setup a very interesting race down the stretch in the NFC West.
CINCY (-9) over Houston: What a crummy game for Monday Night Football. The Bengals remain undefeated at 8-0, and I don't see anyway that they screw this one up at home to the Texans. They will get to 9-0 in pretty easy fashion.
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