Broncos-Chiefs Preview and Week 17 Picks!

The worst Broncos team of my lifetime finishes the 2017 regular season at home against the Kansas City Chiefs. KC has already locked up the AFC West, and they will be resting Alex Smith and other starters. Pat Mahomes gets the start against Paxton Lynch. The outcome of this game means nothing. I would rather see Denver lose this game and finish 5-11, and get a better draft pick then finishing 6-10. The only thing that matters in this game is what happens after the game is over. Is Vance Joseph out as head coach after one year? What other staff changes are going to be made? Are there any moves that will be made to the front office? Which players are playing their last game as a Bronco on Sunday? Who will be the next Broncos starting quarterback? All those decisions will need to be answered in the coming days, weeks, and months. In the meantime, it will be nice to put the bow on this awful Broncos season and start fresh for 2018 right away.

Prediction: Kansas City (+4) over DENVER
Final Score: Chiefs-24 Broncos-17

Now, onto the picks for Week 17 with a little added bonus as I project the NFL Playoff Schedule. Week 17 features seven 1:00 games and nine 4:25 games, and it also doesn't have a final Sunday Night Football game due to the fact that it is New Year's Eve and there was no guarantee of a great game with playoff implications to fill that spot. Here we go.....

Last Week's Record: 6-8-2
Overall Record: 122-103-15
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

NEW ENGLAND (-14) over NY Jets: The Pats will take care of business and get to 13-3 and get the #1 seed in the AFC. The Jets will finish 5-11 and look to get a franchise QB in the offseason.

Green Bay (+7) over DETROIT: The Packers finish the season with a win and an 8-8 record, and the Lions finish 8-8 and probably fire Jim Caldwell in the process.

INDY (-4) over Houston: The Colts will win to finish 4-12 in Chuck Pagano's last game as head coach, and Houston finishes 4-12 and thinks about Deshaun Watson returning next year.

PITTSBURGH (-8) over Cleveland: The Steelers get to 13-3, but get the #2 seed in the AFC. Cleveland goes 0-16 and gets the #1 pick in the NFL Draft next April.

Washington (-3) over NY GIANTS: The Redskins finish 8-8 and think about what they will do with Kirk Cousins, and the Giants finish 2-14, secure the #2 pick in the draft and think about getting a new head coach and a new QB.

MINNESOTA (-11) over Chicago: The Vikings will roll and finish 13-3 and the #2 seed in the NFC, and the Bears will finish 5-11 and look to move on from John Fox and find a new HC.

Dallas (-3) over PHILLY: The Eagles have the #1 seed in the NFC locked up, so this game means nothing to them. The Cowboys will want to finish the season at 9-7 and on a high note.

Cincy (+9) over BALTIMORE: The Ravens will win the game and get into the playoffs. There is no doubt that will happen, but I think the Bengals will play hard in what will likely be Marvin Lewis' last game as head coach.

Miami (+3) over BUFFALO: I would love to see Buffalo get into the playoffs, but I don't think it will happen, and I don't think they will even win this Sunday in Miami. The Dolphins finish a disappointing season at 7-9.

Carolina (+4) over ATLANTA: The Falcons can clinch the #6 seed in the NFC with a win over the Panthers at home on Sunday. I think this is the game that is a little wild and crazy, and I think the Panthers defeat the Falcons and knock Atlanta out of a playoff spot. The Panthers will finish 12-4 and the #5 seed in the NFC.

TENNESSEE (-3) over Jacksonville: The Jags have the AFC South locked up, and they have nothing to play for, but they will play everyone and play hard. I don't buy it and I think the Titans will benefit from the Jags having everything all clinched. I think Tennessee wins, finishes 9-7 and gets the #6 seed in the AFC.

Oakland (+8) over LA CHARGERS: I think the Chargers win the game and finish 9-7, but they won't cover and I think Oakland plays with some heart and guts as they are 6-9 and out of the playoff race this year.

Arizona (+9) over SEATTLE: The Seahawks will win and finish the season 10-6, but this game will come down to the end. The Cardinals will play hard for Bruce Arians, who is probably coaching his final game as head coach for Arizona. Seattle wins and gets the #6 seed in the NFC due to Atlanta's loss.

San Francisco (-3) over LA RAMS: The 49ers will win their fifth in a row and finish 6-10 with Jimmy G at QB. The Rams are resting their main players and will finish 11-5 and secure the #4 seed in the NFC.

New Orleans (-6) over TAMPA BAY: The Saints will win handily and finish 12-4, win the NFC South and get the #3 seed in the NFC. The Bucs finish a disappointing 4-12 and Dirk Koetter is likely getting fired after the season is over.


NFL PLAYOFF SCHEDULE PREDICTIONS:

Wild Card Weekend
Saturday 1/6
4:30 PM (ESPN/ABC)
(6) Tennessee at (3) Jacksonville
8:00 PM (NBC)
(5) Carolina at (4) Los Angeles Rams

Sunday 1/7
1:00 PM (CBS)
(5) Baltimore at (4) Kansas City
4:30 PM (FOX)
(6) Seattle at (3) New Orleans

Divisional Weekend
Saturday 1/13
4:30 PM (FOX)
at (2) Minnesota
8:00 PM (NBC)
at (1) New England

Sunday 1/14
1:00 PM (CBS)
at (2) Pittsburgh
4:30 PM (FOX)
at (1) Philadelphia

Broncos Lose to Redskins, Fall to 5-10

The Broncos were defeated by the Redskins on Christmas Eve in Washington on Sunday 27-11, and the lose gave the Broncos their 10th loss on the season. At 5-10, the Broncos are assured a 10 loss season for the first time since 2010, and only the fourth time in my lifetime. This game was a microcosm of basically every loss the Broncos had this year. They played well in the first quarter, then were non-competitive virtually from there. There is nothing else to say at this point. Here are my "Five Points" on the game.....

1) The Broncos actually started well. Their defense shut down Kirk Cousins and the offense got C.J. Anderson going and they took a 3-0 lead early in the game. I don't know if anyone noticed but the Broncos tried that trick play on a punt return where Jordan Taylor moved to his right and acted like the punt was coming to him and Bennie Fowler was running down the left to actually catch it. The Rams pulled this off years ago, but of course Fowler didn't judge the ball right and it bounce and he had to catch it off a bounce and no one on Washington was fooled.

2) Kirk Cousins got hot and showed the Broncos defense and front office what a quality QB can do. He shredded the Broncos from the second quarter on. He threw for 299 yards and 3 TDs. He certainly gave the Broncos an up close look at his talent as we head into free agency this offseason.

3) Brock Osweiler fumbled and Washington converted it into a touchdown from Cousins to Jamison Crowder to make it 10-3. From there, the Broncos were done and looking to mail it in. Another bonehead play by Isaiah McKenzie screwed the Broncos out of getting points before the half. McKenzie caught a pass by the sideline and instead of going right out of bounds, he turned inside and tried to get more yards. The Broncos had no timeouts left and were in field goal range if he goes out of bounds, but of course he didn't and the clock ran out. McKenzie has been so bad this season, it is justifiable that he could get released in the offseason. Just another awful display of football by the Broncos once again-just like every game this year.

4) I still don't know if Vance Joseph is going to get fired or not after the season, but he continues to underwhelm as a head coach. The Broncos looked checked out and they looked like they were mailing it in in the second half. There was another blown coverage that led to the Redskins third TD-something that has happened a lot this year. This game was another example of them looking lost and unprepared.

5) The Broncos finish up the regular season at home against the Chiefs. KC is resting a lot of starters and the Broncos are going with Paxton Lynch. The Broncos will finally put the finishing touches on the worst season in Broncos history, and they will enter an offseason full of change and revision.

Broncos-Redskins Preview and Week 16 Picks!

The Broncos have won two in a row and at 5-9 are playing out the string here in Week 16. They head to DC to take on the 6-8 Redskins. The only storylines worth mentioning in this game is if Brock Osweiler, who played great in relief of the injured Trevor Siemian against the Colts last week, starts or if the Broncos go with Paxton Lynch, who is recovering from an ankle injury. The other storyline involves Redskins QB Kirk Cousins. With the possibility of Washington moving on from him in the offseason, Cousins could be the hottest QB free agent since Peyton Manning in 2012. It has been widely reported that the Broncos would be interested in going after Cousins. In fact, some sources claim that Cousins is their number one priority in the offseason. There is plenty of time in the offseason to see if Cousins will be available, how much he will cost, and if the Broncos have the money to get him, but for Sunday the focus will be on Cousins, and the opportunity for the Broncos to get a first-hand look at a guy who might be their QB at this time next season.

Prediction: WASHINGTON (-4) over Denver
Final Score: Redskins-20 Broncos-13

Now onto the picks for a Christmas Eve Week 16 of the NFL..........

Last Week's Record: 9-3-4
Overall Record: 116-95-13
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

BALTIMORE (-12) over Indy: The Ravens are 8-6 and have an easy path to 10 wins and a playoff berth with Indy on Saturday and Cincy in Week 17. They shouldn't have a problem with the 3-11 Colts, whose secondary is an absolute mess.

GREEN BAY (+9) over Minnesota: I know that Aaron Rodgers was put back on IR after last week's loss to Carolina knocked the 7-7 Packers out of the playoff chase, but I still think they will play with pride this week at home in Lambeau on Saturday night. I think the Vikings will win to get to 12-3, but I think the Packers keep it close.

Detroit (-4) over CINCY: The Lions still have a viable path to the playoffs if they can win these last two games. The Bengals are done and it looks like Marvin Lewis is going to leave after the season. I think the Lions win, get to 9-6, and make it interesting for Week 17.

NY JETS (+7) over LA Chargers: This game is dicey to me because I could see the Jets pull the upset at home. The Chargers have to go across the country for an early start on Christmas Eve a week after they lost a huge game at KC. I wouldn't be surprised to see the Jets win this game.

TENNESSEE (+7) over LA Rams: The Titans need a win badly to prevent a collapse and a missed playoff berth. They host the Rams on Sunday in a huge game for both teams. The Titans are 8-6 and have to win this game. The Rams are 10-4 and look to be cruising to the NFC West title. I'll take the desperate team in this one.

CHICAGO (-6) over Cleveland: I can see the Browns going 0-16, and I don't see how they are winning in Chicago on Christmas Eve.

CAROLINA (-10) over Tampa Bay: I think Carolina will win the game and continue their run towards the division title. At 10-4, they could still win the South and get a home game in Round 1. I like them in this matchup.

NEW ORLEANS (-5) over Atlanta: The Saints are fighting for the South title at 10-4. They need this game to secure that spot. The Falcons are currently the 6 seed in the NFC with a 9-5 record. I think the Saints will be too much at home.

Miami (+9) over KANSAS CITY: It is pretty simple for the 8-6 Chiefs: They win this game at home over the Dolphins and they win the AFC West. I don't see them blowing this opportunity. I think they win the game, but I think the Dolphins will keep it closer and get the backdoor cover.

Buffalo (+12) over NEW ENGLAND: The 8-6 Bills have a chance to get into the playoffs for the first time since 1999, but they have a tall order heading to NE to take on the Pats. The Pats are 11-3 and are still fighting for homefield in the AFC after their win over Pittsburgh last week. I think this game will be closer than the spread indicates. The Bills will do everything they can to win this game. I think the Pats will win, but the Bills will give them a scare.

Jacksonville (-4) over SAN FRANCISCO: The Jags are in the playoffs for the first time since 2007. Now, they are looking to win the division. The 49ers have won three in a row and at 4-10 they have something to build on with Jimmy G at the helm. I think this will be a back and forth game that will come down to the end, but I think the Jags defense will be too much for Jimmy G, and they will get the win in SF.

ARIZONA (-3) over NY Giants: Two teams playing out the string. I think the Cards will play hard for Bruce Arians, who may step down as head coach after the season.

DALLAS (-4) over Seattle: This is basically a loser leaves town match in the NFC. I can't believe my Super Bowl pick from the NFC, the Seahawks, are going to miss the playoffs. The Cowboys still have a chance, but it will take a lot of help. I'll take the Cowboys here to keep their hopes alive and send the Seahawks packing for the offseason.

Pittsburgh (-8) over HOUSTON: At 4-10, the Texans are playing out the string and there is some rumor that Bill O'Brien might force his way out of Houston. I don't see the Steelers having a letdown here on Christmas day, and I think they will get to 12-3 heading into Week 17.

Oakland (+9) over PHILLY: The Eagles will win this game and get to 13-2 but I think it will be closer than the line. The Raiders are 6-8 and a major disappointment this year. They could be dangerous with nothing to lose here on Christmas Night. I think the Eagles win, but this will be closer than expected.

Broncos-Colts Reaction and NFL Week 15 Picks!

The Broncos went into Indy last night and defeated the Colts 25-13 to improve to 5-9 on the year. What are the Broncos doing winning two in a row? They are screwing up the Tanking theory. Anyway, the highlight of the game was after Trevor Siemian injured his shoulder in the first quarter, Brock Osweiler came in and down 10-0 he rallied the Broncos, and he was on fire leading them to three touchowns drives. First, he scrambled for a touchdown to cut the lead to 10-7 Indy. Then, he hit Cody Latimer on a corner route to take a 14-13 lead in the 3rd quarter. He then hit TE Jeff Heuerman for a long TD down the seam to make it 22-13 after Denver went for the two-point conversion and got it. It was a great night for Osweiler, and he should have been playing in front of Siemian a long time ago. Siemian was awful again early after he threw an interception on Denver's first drive, which led to Indy scoring first to take a 7-0 lead. C.J. Anderson deserves mention as he rushed for 158 yards on 30 carries as the Broncos controlled the line of scrimmage. It was a rare good night for the Broncos this season and a fun game to watch in the second half. We'll see if the win another game the rest of the year but at least for one night they rallied and played well and got the win.

Here are my quick picks for Week 15....

Last Week's Record: 12-4
Overall Record: 107-92-9
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

DETROIT (-5) over Chicago:

KANSAS CITY (+1) over LA Chargers:

NY GIANTS (+8) over Philly:

CAROLINA (-3) over Green Bay:

MINNESOTA (-9) over Cincy:

BUFFALO (-3) over Miami:

Houston (+11) over JACKSONVILLE:

NY Jets (+16) over NEW ORLEANS:

Arizona (+5) over WASHINGTON:

Baltimore (-7) over CLEVELAND:

LA RAMS (+3) over SEATTLE:

New England (-3) over PITTSBURGH:

Tennessee (+2) over SAN FRANCISCO:

Dallas (-3) over OAKLAND:

Atlanta (-6) over TAMPA BAY:

Broncos-Colts TNF Pick

The Broncos screwed up their draft positioning by beating the Jets last week to improve to 4-9. They still hold the 5th overall pick and this is a big game as far as positioning is concerned. I'm not convinced that Denver has turned the corner-even after last week's shutout. It is still probably better if they lose tonight in the long run. I am excited about their color rush orange uniforms and the old "D" back on the helmet. I think the Colts are due and it is a short week for Denver and they are on the road, so look for a Colts win in this spot. Don't worry Broncos fans: Embrace the Tank!

Prediction: INDY (+2) over Denver
Final Score: Colts- 23 Broncos-16

Broncos Shut Out Jets, Break Eight Game Losing Skid

The Broncos finally snapped their eight game losing streak as they shutout the Jets in Denver 23-0. It was the first Broncos win since October 1st, and they improved their record to 4-9. It was a total team win and the Broncos dominated from start to finish. Coincidentally, the last time the Broncos shut out an opponent was 2005 at home against the Jets. As much as I was embracing the tank and looking for the Broncos to lose out, it was nice to see them win and in such a convincing fashion. Here are my "Five Points" from Sunday's win.....

1) The Broncos were dominant from the start. After a field goal, Denver got a sack and forced fumble by Brandon Marshall and Trevor Siemian hit Demaryius Thomas for a touchdown pass to make it 10-0. It was the kind of start the Broncos haven't had since September.

2) The offense played a clean game. No interceptions, no fumbles, no costly errors. The only error was when Brandon McManus missed a 29 yard field goal in the first half. Other than that the Broncos were flawless. Look what happens when you get that kind of clean play. We haven't had that basically all season.

3) The defense has been getting a lot of shit lately, but if you watched this team every week, you know this is not on the defense. They kicked ass on Sunday. They had a forced fumble and recovery, an interception (Good to see you again, Darian Stewart), three sacks, and held the Jets to 100 total yards. The Broncos defense played inspired and with an edge that we haven't seen enough of this year.

4) I think this game was a combination of the Jets being mediocre at best and the Broncos being due for a win after losing eight straight games. At some point the streak had to be snapped and it took a beautiful day against a below average team for that to happen.

5) Obviously, the Broncos and their players and coaches were happy with the win, but to say that this win saved Vance Joseph's job is just ridiculous. The Broncos were mired in the worst slump since they were in the AFL in the 1960s. This team was getting embarrassed every week, so winning this game over the Jets doesn't change anything in my opinion about VJ's future.

Broncos-Jets and Week 14 Picks

The Broncos host the Jets this week in another meaningless, dismal game here in Week 14. At 3-9, the Broncos season is done, and they are on their way to being one of the worst Broncos team ever, and certainly the worst Broncos team in my lifetime. They were bad in 2010, but at least they were more competitive than this group. I never thought I would say this, but I am embracing the tank for the rest of the season. Just lose them all now. Who cares? Lose all the games, get a top 4 pick, get a new QB, and get Vance Joseph out of here as fast as possible and start fresh with a new head coach next year. All the fun and excitement is gone from this season and Sundays have become pretty sad. Just lose out, Broncos!

Prediction: NY Jets (-1) over DENVER:
Final Score: Jets-24 Broncos-16

Now onto the picks for Week 14.....

Last Week's Record: 5-11
Overall Record: 95-88-9
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

Detroit (-1) over TAMPA BAY: At 6-6, the Lions are fighting for a playoff spot and badly need a win. The Bucs are 4-8, playing out the string, and probably getting a new head coach next year.

Chicago (+7) over CINCY: The Bengals are 5-7 and coming off an emotional, physical game to the Steelers on Monday Night Football last week. They are banged up and I question how much they have for this game. I'll take the Bears to cover.

Indy (+5) over BUFFALO: As bad as Indy as been this year, they have been more competitive than expected. The Bills are 6-6 and Tyrod Taylor might not play this week due to a knee injury. I can't put much faith into Nathan Peterman at this point.

JACKSONVILLE (-2) over Seattle: This is a long trip for the Seahawks, and I think they will struggle against that Jacksonville defense. The Jags are going to the playoffs it is just a matter if they win the South or get in as the #5 seed. I think they take a huge step towards the playoffs this week.

KANSAS CITY (-3) over Oakland: The Chiefs are falling apart and are now 6-6 after starting 5-0. The Raiders are 6-6 but feasted on Paxton Lynch and Geno Smith the last two games. I think KC is due and I don't trust the Raiders in this spot.

CAROLINA (+3) over Minnesota: At 10-2, the Vikings are flying in the NFC, but this is their third straight road game. They are due for a bad week, and I like the Panthers at home in this game. I have liked them all week.

Green Bay (-3) over CLEVELAND: The Packers are 6-6 and they might get Aaron Rodgers back in the next week or two. If they can win this game and get to 7-6, then they have a chance to make a run at the playoffs if Rodgers comes back. I think they will do enough to get the win in lifeless and winless Cleveland.

San Francisco (+3) over HOUSTON: It is a shame that the Texans lost Deshaun Watson to that knee injury because they would be in the mix of the playoffs if he was still playing. I think they are mentally checked out and I like what I saw out of Jimmy G last week that I think he is the answer to the 49ers QB problem.

ARIZONA (+3) over Tennessee: The Titans are a shaky team, but they are probably going to make the playoffs this year. I do worry about them going on the road and they are playing a Cardinals team that plays hard every week.

LA CHARGERS (-5) over Washington: I think the Chargers get to 7-6 to set up a showdown with the AFC West on the line next week at KC. 

Philadelphia (+3) over LA RAMS:  I think the Eagles rebound after their loss to the Seahawks last week, and I look for a solid, complete game by Philly. This should be a fun game in LA, and I think it will be back and forth, but I like the Eagles to win it and get to 11-2.

Dallas (-4) over NY GIANTS: The Giants fired Ben McAdoo on Monday, and at 2-10 they are going back to Eli Manning this week at home. How bad is it that this game got switched from 4:25 to 1:00? I think the Giants will play more inspired, but I think Dallas does enough to win the game and get to 7-6.

PITTSBURGH (-4) over Baltimore: The Ravens are currently the #6 seed in the AFC with a 7-5 record. The Steelers are 10-2 and fighting for the #1 seed in the AFC. After a scary moment on MNF with Steelers LB Ryan Shazier being carted off with a spinal injury, the Steelers somehow rallied from a 17-0 deficit and beat the Bengals 23-20. This is a great rivalry, but I just think the Steelers defense will be too much for that terrible Ravens offense.

New England (-10) over MIAMI: The Dolphins suck and I don't see any way they win this game. I think the Pats are just rolling through everyone and eyeing that #1 seed in the AFC once again.

TNF Week14 Pick!

ATLANTA (-2) over New Orleans

Broncos Get Embarrassed By the Dolphins, Lose Eighth Game in a Row

The Broncos miserable season continued with another awful performance Sunday in Miami as the Dolphins pounded the Broncos 35-9 to send Denver to their eighth straight loss and a 3-9 record. The Dolphins came into the game at 4-7 with a five-game losing streak, and they pounded the Broncos. The Broncos hit a new low once again this season, but the issues are larger than just this game. This game was just another example of how far this team has fallen, and it shows how poorly coached and constructed this team is. The Broncos have become a punchline and a laughingstock every week. There really isn't anything left to say at this point but I'll try to provide some analysis. Here are my "Five Points" on yet another loss........

1) Another week and more bad play all around by the Broncos. A Trevor Siemian interception early I the game ended a promising drive. A safety when the ball was snapped over the head of Siemian and out of the endzone. A pick-six on Siemian that extended the Dolphins lead to 16-3. A blocked punt later in the game. After Isaiah McKenzie fumbled a punt return and pounced on it for a safety, it was the second safety in the game against Denver. How many times has a team had two safeties in a game? Constant penalties in all three phases of the game. It is so bad every week that it is just laughable at this point. I've never seen a Broncos team make so many mistakes very week. It is just bad football.

2) When Isaiah McKenzie fumbled the punt into the endzone for the safety it was so bad, but it was symbolic of how bad this team has been this year. McKenzie was inactive for a few games after muffing or fumbling five punts this year, but this week he was active and returning punts and of course he fumbled the punt into the endzone and had to fall on it for the safety. Why the hell is he even out there? Why would Vance Joseph even put him out there again? Once again, bad football all around.

3) Vance Joseph looks like he is in over his head. I was not in favor of letting him go after only one season, but I think after this debacle is over in a few weeks, he needs to be shown the door. It is his team, and he is the head coach, and he needs to be held accountable for the worst Broncos season since the 1960s. Gary Kubiak went 9-7 with this team last year, and it is basically the same players. Maybe things will work out for VJ somewhere else, but it just didn't work out in Denver. Time to move on next year. Do you think Pat Bowlen would stand for this?

4) The defense is mentally checked out. They aren't as good as they were last year, but they get no help from the offense. After Chris Harris picked off Jay Cutler in the second quarter, the offense did nothing. Justin Simmons had a nice pick-six in the third quarter to make it 19-9, but it didn't matter after that, and Kenyon Drake gashed this unit for a long TD run to make it 26-9 and put the game officially out of reach. The Broncos QBs and offense has been so bad that it hasn't given the defense a chance at all. It's reached the breaking point.

5) One of the storylines to come out of this game was the fact that Adam Gase went for a surprise onside kick up 33-9 in the 4th quarter. I'm really not angry about Gase going for the onside kick because it is the NFL and it is a big-boy league, so if you don't want to get embarrassed, then step up and do something about it. Of course, the Dolphins recovered the kick. The only issue I have is why Gase is so pissed off at John Elway for the coaching situation in January of 2015. Apparently, Gase feels that Elway badmouthed him to Trent Baalke of the 49ers when Gase was interviewing for the HC job there. With John Fox let go, Gase did interview with the Broncos and Elway, but Elway obviously chose Gary Kubiak, and the Broncos won the Super Bowl the next year. It seems a little much from my perspective, and I just don't think it makes a lot of sense. I haven't been impressed with Gase in Miami and his offense hasn't done anything either since he went there. I think it is a bad look for him. I guess everyone is just jumping on the Anti-Elway bandwagon these days.

Broncos-Dolphins and Week 13 Picks!

How bad is this week's Broncos-Dolphins game? The 3-8 Broncos have lost seven in a row and the 4-7 Dolphins have lost five in a row. Something has to give here, right? To make matters worse, the Broncos have to turn back to Trevor Siemian at QB again because Paxton Lynch hurt his ankle in the third quarter of last week's game against the Raiders and he is out 2-4 weeks with a high ankle sprain. So, now I am stuck with a crappy Broncos team playing out the string, and I have to sit through another game with Siemian. This Broncos season can't end fast enough. You know that Siemian will do just enough to win the next three games (Miami, Jets, and Indy) that it will probably knock Denver out of the top five in next year's draft. The Broncos currently sit fourth behind the Browns, Giants, and 49ers. We need to keep losing and we need those other teams to win a few games here. Anyway, for the first time in my life, I'm not going to be mad if Denver loses on Sunday. If Lynch were starting, I would want him to play well and the Broncos to win. I'm not doing that with Siemian at the helm. We all know he is not the guy (Backup QB option at best), and we need a franchise QB. We could possibly get that in this year's draft if we pick high enough, so let's lose out and see take our chances.

Denver (-1) over MIAMI
Final Score: Broncos-20 Dolphins-17

Now, onto the picks for Week 13.............


Last Week's Record: 10-5-1
Overall Record: 90-77-9
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

BALTIMORE (-3) over Detroit: Two 6-5 teams battling it out in a cross-conference matchup with playoff considerations on the line. That is how I would sell this game if I was in the NFL business. I think the Ravens are making the playoffs as the #6 seed and I think they win this week at home, but I am nervous about this one.

CHICAGO (-3) over San Francisco: The Bears are due for a home win and I think they will thwart the 49ers in Soldier Field as they spoil Jimmy G's debut for San Fran.

ATLANTA (-3) over Minnesota: The Vikings are 9-2 and one of the biggest stories of the year led by MVP candidate Case Keenum. They head to Atlanta to take on the suddenly surging, 7-4 Falcons. I think Atlanta gets the victory in this one and improves to 8-4.

New England (-8) over BUFFALO: Sneaky good game in Buffalo on Sunday. The 6-5 Bills host the 9-2 Patriots. The Bills went back to Tyrod Taylor last week and they upset the Chiefs in Arrowhead. This week, I don't see the same result. The Pats will do what they do and take care of business.

Houston (+6) over TENNESSEE: I hope the Titans make the playoffs and at 7-4, they have a very solid chance in the putrid AFC, but they just don't impress you each week. They should win at home against the Texans, and I think they will, but I see Houston keeping it close until the end.

Indy (+10) over JACKSONVILLE: Jax will probably win the division and make the playoffs, and I think they win this game too, but I think the spread is too high and I'm taking the Colts.


Tampa Bay (+2) over GREEN BAY: The "Bay of Pigs" renews this week with Brett Hundley taking on Jameis Winston. I think with Winston back the Bucs will do enough to win this game on the road. Hopefully, the Packers can keep things afloat to give Aaron Rodgers a reason to comeback in Week 16.

Kansas City (-3) over NY JETS: The Chiefs are collapsing as we speak and at 6-5 they only lead the AFC West by one game. Now, they head to the Meadowlands to take on the 4-7 Jets. Give the Jets some credit because they play hard each and every week, but I think the Chiefs right the ship for this week with a huge, road win.

Carolina (+4) over NEW ORLEANS: Huge game in the NFC South this week in New Orleans. The Panthers and Saints are 8-3 and this game will go a long way to see who might win the division and possibly a wild card berth. On paper, it looks like a game that the Saints should win, but I have a feeling that the Panthers will pull the upset on the road. Call it my "Gut Call of the Week."

LA CHARGERS (-12) over Cleveland: The Chargers are 5-6 after an 0-4 start and combined with the Chiefs downfall, LA has a legitimate chance to win the AFC West. There is no way they will stumble this week at home against the 0-11 Browns.

ARIZONA (+7) over LA Rams: The Cardinals are 5-6 and playing hard for Bruce Arians. Give Blaine Gabbert some credit. He looks pretty good in his time as the Cardinals starter. I think they will be feisty enough to give the Rams trouble in Arizona this week. I think the Rams will pull it out, but this seems like a 27-24 type of game.

OAKLAND (-7) over NY Giants: The Giants benched Eli Manning this week in favor of Geno Smith, which is a debacle of a situation. Now, Geno gets to head to the Black Hole to take on the 5-6 Raiders. The Raiders aren't very good but after feasting on Paxton Lynch last week, they now get Smith this week. I'll take the Raiders at home to get to 6-6.

SEATTLE (+4) over Philly: Great game on Sunday Night Football as the 10-1 Eagles head to Seattle to take on the 7-4 Seahawks. Carson Wentz goes on the road to take on a playoff caliber team in their own building in primetime. This is what you are looking for as far as storylines go this late in the year in the NFL.

CINCY (+6) over Pittsburgh: At 5-6, the Bengals are only one game out of the AFC Wild Card picture. They are right in the thick of things and they need this win on Monday Night Football against their hated rivals. The Steelers are 9-2 and battling the Patriots for the #1 seed in the AFC. Very good game on MNF this week. I'll take the Bengals and the points.

TNF Week 13 Pick

Washington (-1) over DALLAS

Broncos Lose Seventh Straight Game, Fall to 3-8 after 21-14 Loss to the Raiders

Another Sunday and another loss for the Broncos. This week Denver traveled to Oakland to take on the 4-6 Raiders, and the Broncos fell behind 21-0, rallied to cut it to 21-14, then ultimately lost the game by that same score. The loss was the seventh straight by the Broncos and it now puts their record at 3-8. The only drama left in this season is how many games the Broncos will lose and what their draft pick will be next year. Here are my "Five Points" on the game....

1) A few minutes into the game an all out brawl happened between the two teams. The fight was centered around Aqib Talib and Michael Crabtree. Crabtree sucked punched Chris Harris while blocking on the play before, and one the next play, Talib and Crabtree went at it. Both threw punches and both were ejected from the game. It was an ugly incident, something the league doesn't need to see now, and it cost the Broncos one of their best players early in the game.

2) Paxton Lynch wasn't good in his first start of the year. But, it is also not all on him. He had a very simple gameplan, and it was all about keeping things simple and easy. They couldn't run the ball so it put them in 3rd and long and Lynch took some bad sacks. He threw a nice ball to Devontae Booker down to the 1 yard line, but he was picked in the endzone two plays later on a deflection. Lynch looks confused and unsure of himself and his accuracy is suspect. We need to see more of him, but it looks like Lynch won't be the Broncos future at the QB position. He left in the third quarter with an ankle injury and he didn't return, and his status is up in the air for next week.

3)  After Talib was ejected, rookie Brendan Langley was inserted into the lineup and he got picked on by the Raiders offense time after time. He was the weak link in the secondary, and Oakland exploited it over and over again.

4) After Lynch didn't return,Trevor Siemian came in a led two touchdown drives to cut the lead to 21-14. I don't want to hear about Siemian at this point. He engineered two garbage time TDs. We have seen enough of Siemian and we know he isn't the answer at QB for this team. I really hope he doesn't start next week in Miami if Lynch can't go.

5) At 3-8 there is no hope and the season is done. There nothing for the Broncos to play for until next year. The only thing that matters is their draft position. At this point, it is probably better to just lose the rest of the way and get the highest pick possible. This has been an awful year all around. I think it is the worst in my lifetime as a Broncos fan. At least in 2010, we had to look forward to watching Tim Tebow the last three weeks of the year. I haven't been excited or had any thrill watching this team play since they beat the Raiders in Week 4. Every week they set a new record for futility. This week's loss was the first time the Broncos have lost 7 games since 1967. It has been just an awful, awful season in Broncos Country.

Broncos-Raiders and Week 12 Picks!

The Broncos 2017 season is a disaster. I never would I have guessed that they would be 3-7 and basically playing out the string by Thanksgiving weekend. This past week featured the firing of OC Mike McCoy, Paxton Lynch named starter, the release of CB Lorenzo Doss for being late to practice, a bunch of fights at practice, and the relentless criticism of both John Elway and Vance Joseph. A lot of Bronco fans are taking the "Let's root against our team the rest of the year, so we can get a high draft pick next year" theory. I'm not and I never will root for the Broncos to lose. I don't believe in that in philosophy. My take is that let's see how Paxton Lynch plays the next six games. If he plays well, shows ability, and looks like he can be the guy going forward for this franchise, then that will help us next year and we can focus on drafting and improving this team in other areas. If Lynch is bad, looks lost and shows no promise that he is the guy going forward, then at least we know we have to do anything we can to improve our QB position next year via free agency or the draft. If anything with Lynch starting, it makes these last six games exciting and gives me something to root for.

Prediction: OAKLAND (-5) over Denver
Final Score: Raiders-27 Broncos-9

Now, onto the picks for Week 12....

Last Week's Record: 9-5
Overall Record: 80-72-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

CINCY (-7) over Cleveland: At 4-6 and with a favorable schedule down the stretch, the Bengals could actually make a run at the #6 seed in the AFC. They will get to 5-6 with a win over the winless Browns this week.

Chicago (+14) over PHILLY: The Eagles are 9-1 and have the best record in the NFL. They have the NFC East all but wrapped up at this point. I don't see a scenario where they lose this game or collapse down the stretch, but I think the Bears can keep this game close enough to cover.

Miami (+16) over NEW ENGLAND: There is no way that the Pats will lose this game, but keep in mind they played at Denver two weeks ago, stayed in Colorado all week to practice, then played in Mexico City against the Raiders last week. That is rough stretch in high altitude. I think they will be gassed a little in this game, play sluggish early, and gut out a win over the crappy Dolphins.

Buffalo (+10) over KANSAS CITY: The Chiefs will rebound from their terrible loss to the Giants last week, and they will get to 7-4, but I think the Bills will keep it close. Tyrod Taylor goes back to starting for the Bills after Nathan Peterman's awful performance last week. Close game, but KC gets the win late.

ATLANTA (-9) over Tampa Bay: The Falcons are 6-4 and I think they might be getting hot at the right time. I think they jump all over the 4-6 Bucs at home, who are still without Jameis Winston.

Carolina (-5) over NY JETS: The Jets are 4-6 and somehow still in the thick of the AFC Wild Card race. They host the 7-3 Panthers, and I think the Panthers won't mess around in this one. I think Carolina comes into Metlife Stadium and takes care of business.

Tennessee (-3) over INDY: The Titans are 6-4 and had 10 days to lick their wounds after getting blown out by the Steelers last Thursday night. Indy will start Jacoby Brissett after he suffered a concussion a few weeks ago. I like the Titans to get the road win and improve to 7-4.

Seattle (-6) over SAN FRANCISCO: How long do the Niners stick with C.J. Beatherd at QB before they turn to Jimmy Garrapolo? I would hope they would pull the trigger soon considering they are 1-9. Seattle is hurting and at 6-4, they are in danger of not making the playoffs. I think they rebound and get a much needed win this week in SF.

LA RAMS (-2) over New Orleans: Who would have thought that the marquee game in the NFC in Week 12 would be the Rams and Saints? Crazy season indeed. I think the Rams win this one because the Saints are banged up in the secondary, and the Ram offense can be explosive and exploit that. Plus, the Saints have won eight in a row, and I think they are due for a loss.

ARIZONA (+5) over Jacksonville: I know the Jags defense is the best in the NFL at this point. I know they are going against Blaine Gabbert and that Arizona offense, but I'm not ready to trust the Jags-especially on the road. I think this game is close and I think it is a field goal game either way.

PITTSBURGH (-14) over Green Bay: The NFL hasn't had a lot of things go their way this season, and here is another example of that bad luck. Instead of Aaron Rodgers and the Packers heading to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers in a huge Sunday night game on Thanksgiving weekend, we are subjected to the 5-5 Packers limping in there with Brett Hundley. This won't go well for the Packers. I think the Steelers roll at home to get to 9-2.

BALTIMORE (-7) over Houston: At 5-5, the Ravens are in contention for the 6th seed in the AFC. They have a favorable schedule down the stretch and I think they could sneak into the playoffs. They get Tom Savage and the Texans at home on Monday Night Football this week, and I think that their defense will feast and create problems all night for the Houston offense.

Thanksgiving Day Picks!

DETROIT (+3) over Minnesota

DALLAS (+1) over LA Chargers

WASHINGTON (-7) over NY Giants

Broncos Fall to Bengals 20-17, Suffer Sixth Straight Defeat

The Broncos fell to the Bengals 20-17 on Sunday in Denver. The Broncos lost their sixth straight game, fall to 3-7, and their disastrous 2017 season continues with any playoff hopes dashed. It was a disappointing loss to a team that many people figured Denver would take care of and snap their losing streak, but it didn't work that way. Here are my "Five Points" from the game..

1) The following sequence really sums up the entire season so far: Denver forces an early three and out, and they block a Cincy punt to get good field position in Bengals territory. They drive down inside the five, and on 3rd and goal, Brock Osweiler gets picked off in the end zone by Dre Kirkpatrick, and he returned it to the Denver 3 yard line. They scored three plays later and all of a sudden they are down 6-0. All the momentum was gone and they were behind in the first quarter of a game once again.

2) Another play that just summarizes their season is this play: C.J. Anderson's fumble in the 4th quarter. Down 13-10, near midfield on a second down and Anderson breaks free for a short gain and gets hit by Vontaze Burfict and fumbles the ball and Cincy recovers. A few plays later, Andy Dalton hits A.J. Green for a touchdown and it is now 20-10 Cincy.

3) Bradley Roby got beat twice for big touchdowns, one in the second quarter and one in the fourth quarter, and it seemed like he didn't even care. Both were backbreaking plays, and Roby has been picked on all year long, and once again the Broncos defense didn't adjust during the game to a matchup problem.

4) If it is not the offense, then it is the special teams, then the defense lays an egg. Each week a different group makes a critical error. This team is just so bad to watch. It makes plays that are so bad that they look JV football team. It is just a mess all around and really hard to watch every week. This game was a perfect example of that.

5) The team is now 3-7 and the list of dubious marks just continues. It was the first time they lost to the Bengals at home since 1975, and it is the first six game losing streak for the Broncos since 1990. They are done as far as the playoffs are concerned and now it is time to turn it over to Paxton Lynch. Mike McCoy took the axe on Monday, and he is just one of the many heads that will roll. Right now, the Broncos have to hope two things going forward: 1) Paxton Lynch looks amazing or 2) They lose so many games that they are picking in the top 3 or 4 of the draft next year. It has been a rough year in Denver, and the sad part is that if they had won on Sunday, they would have only been 1 game out of the Wild Card and only 2 games out of the AFC West. Unfortunately, they lost to the Bengals and that effectively ends their playoff hopes and everyone in this organization (Front Office, Coaches, and Players) needs to be held accountable.

Broncos-Bengals and Week 11 Picks

I figured I would give the usual weekly breakdown of the Broncos game a break after this awful five game losing streak and the bleak year that they are going through. Sunday's game against the Bengals takes place on my birthday, November 19th, and I thought it would interesting to see how many times the Broncos actually played on my birthday since I have been a Broncos fan (1985.) It was neat to go back and look at how infrequent this occurrence was. Here are the games that the Broncos have played on my birthday:

1995: Broncos-30 Chargers-27: The Broncos got out to a 21-0 lead but lost the lead only to win the game on Jason Elam field goal late. I remember this game wasn't on in New York, but I watched whatever game was on to get the score every 10 minutes so.

2000: Broncos-38 Chargers-37: This was the Gus Frerotte game as he rallied the Broncos to win a shootout against Ryan Leaf in Mile High. Frerotte finished with 5 TDs in the epic comeback.

2006: Chargers-35 Broncos-27: This was a tough loss for the Broncos on SNF in Denver. Both teams came in at 7-2, and the Broncos had a 24-7 lead over SD, but the Chargers rallied back and won the game going away. This was the changing of the guard game in Mile High this year. The Broncos finished 9-7 and missed the playoffs.

2007: Broncos-34 Titans-20: The Broncos took it to the Titans on Monday Night Football back in 2007 The Broncos won the game by two touchdowns and they got their record to 5-5, but this was one of the last good memories of the season as the Broncos faded down the stretch that year and finished 7-9.

Sunday's game will only mark the fifth time that the Broncos will play on my birthday. Hopefully they win the game and end their five game losing streak. That would the best birthday gift that I could get.

Prediction: Cincy (+3) over DENVER
Final Score: Bengals-22 Broncos-19

Here are some quick picks for Week 11............


Last Week's Record: 7-5-2
Overall Record: 71-67-8
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

CHICAGO (+4) over Detroit:

Kansas City (-10) over NY GIANTS:

MIAMI (-1) over Tampa Bay:

Baltimore (-2) over GREEN BAY:

MINNESOTA (-2) over LA Rams:

HOUSTON (+1) over Arizona:

Jacksonville (-7) over CLEVELAND:

Washington (+8) over NEW ORLEANS:

LA CHARGERS (-3) over Buffalo:

New England (-6) over Oakland (In Mexico City):

DALLAS (+4) over Philadelphia:

SEATTLE (-3) over Atlanta:

Titans-Steelers Week 11 TNF Pick

Tennessee (+7) over PITTSBURGH

Broncos Falter, Get Embarrassed by Patriots, Fall to 3-6

The Patriots came to Denver on Sunday night and did what they had to do in shellacking the Broncos 41-16. The loss was Denver's fifth straight loss and the Broncos fall to 3-6. It was more of the same for the Broncos. The same issues that have buried the Broncos week after week came up again last night. Turnovers, penalties, awful mistakes, and no coaching adjustments were all on display in this game, and when that happens against the Patriots, you have no chance at all of winning the game. The Broncos have now fallen flat and their season is really spiraling out of control. I'll get into all of that in my "Five Points" regarding the Broncos listless defeat at the hands of the Pats....

1) The Broncos once again started off by committing turnovers and put themselves in a hole. After a NE three and out, the Broncos forced a punt, and Isaiah McKenzie muffed the punt and the Pats recovered. A few plays later, Tom Brady hit Rex Burkhead for a TD and the Broncos are already down 7-0. After a Broncos field goal, the Broncos kicked it to Dion Lewis and he went 103 yards to make it 14-3. Later in the half, the Broncos had a punt blocked, which led to a field goal to make it 20-6. They had a hat trick of special teams mistakes in the first half, and it absolutely killed the Broncos.

2) The Broncos added Vance Joseph as the new head coach, promoted Joe Woods to defensive coordinator, and made Brock Olivo the new special teams coach. All three looked liked they were completely outmatched in this game. Olivo's special teams units are so bad and made critical mistakes. Woods made no adjustments on defense, and VJ looks like he might be in over his head as a head coach in the NFL. There was a time when they only had 10 players on the field when the Pats scored a TD in the third quarter, and they had 12 men on the field when the Pats punted in the 4th quarter, and it kept the NE drive alive and the Pats scored another touchdown. THAT CAN'T HAPPEN! It looks really bad with the moves that the Broncos made regarding their coaches.

3) The Broncos defense can't cover any quality TE or any good back out of the backfield. It has been a problem for two years in a row, and this year it has killed them. All the Pats did was go to work in that area. Tom Brady didn't even challenge Chris Harris and Aqib Talib, and he just carved up the Broncos underneath with the TEs and RBs matched up on their LBs and Safeties. There was nothing the Broncos could do. They also couldn't get any pressure on Brady, and even when the Broncos somehow stabilized the game, the defense would give it right back to the Pats offense-including right before the half.

4) Brock Osweiler wasn't awful in this game. This loss was not on him. Also, Emmanuel Sanders played great and looked like he was one of the few guys to give a shit about this game. They just can't score TDs in the redzone. The Broncos know it, their fans know it, and the other team knows it. They drove the ball effectively on their first three drives but settled for field goals all three times. This offense isn't good enough to score touchdowns and in this game they needed touchdowns instead of field goals to keep this game close and that didn't happen.

5) The Broncos are heading into some uncharted territory as a franchise during this 2017 season. They have lost five in a row for the first time since 2010 (Josh McDaniels era). This was the largest margin of defeat at home since 2011. They have lost all five of these games by scores of 23-10, 21-0, 29-19, 51-23, and 41-16. They have given up 92 points in back-to-back weeks and that is the most points given up in two straight games since 1988. They are also second to last turnover ratio in the NFL. They are poorly coached, they have a terrible QB situation, their defense is not the same as the last two years, and they are basically non-competitive. It is hard to lose five straight games in the NFL and not be competitive in any of these games. They have only lead once the last five weeks and that was when they lead the Eagles 3-0 after the first drive two weeks ago. This is the worst Broncos team since that 4-12 2010 team, and it is one of the worst stretches of Broncos football in my lifetime. This was all on display in this debacle on SNF. Bill Belichick and Tom Brady absolutely toyed with the Broncos and embarrassed them. The sad part is that the Broncos fans now expect this to happen each week and the home crowd didn't seem to care. This season has just spiraled out of control and I think it is fare to question the Vance Joseph hire and it is time to look forward to 2018.

Broncos-Patriots Preview and Week 10 Picks!

The Broncos return to Denver with a 3-5 record, a four game losing streak, and a lot of issues as they embark on the second half of the season. Who is waiting for them on Sunday Night Football? The 6-2 Patriots. Normally, I would figure that the Broncos would be able to snap out of this funk, get a win at home, and get some confidence back, but with Tom Brady looming on Sunday night, I just can't see that happening. The Broncos are off to their worst start after eight games since 2011, and Tim Tebow saved that season, but I don't see Brock Osweiler or Paxton Lynch doing the same this year. The Broncos have lost four straight games by 10 or more points, which is the worst stretch since 1964! They have lost by a combined score of 31-13. It has been bad. The Patriots aren't sleeping on the Broncos at all, and I think they will be dialed in. Maybe Denver keeps it close for a little while, maybe they can frustrate Brady a little, and the defense should be better than it played last week in Philly. In the end, the Patriots will be too much for the Broncos to handle, and Denver will be handed their fifth straight defeat.

Prediction: New England (-7) over DENVER
Final Score: Patriots-26 Broncos-16

Now, onto the picks for Week 10 in the NFL.................

Last Week's Record: 4-7-2
Overall Record: 64-62-6
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

WASHINGTON (+2) over Minnesota: I'm in on the Vikings being a Super Bowl contender, but the obvious concern is QB Case Keenum. How about the possibility of Teddy Bridgewater returning to play for the Vikings this year? Wouldn't that be a nice addition for that team with Sam Bradford on IR? Anyway, it is Keenum again this week, and I think he will struggle for the 6-2 Vikings in Washington. The Redskins are 4-4 after a huge comeback win in Seattle. I think they will be too much for the Vikings in this game, and they will get to 5-4.

CHICAGO (-4) over Green Bay: The Packers are 4-4 and have lost three straight since Aaron Rodgers went down with a broken collarbone. They are pretty much finished with Brett Hundley at QB. I think their slide continues as they head to Soldier Field to take on the Bears. The Bears haven't had a lot of success against the Packers the past few years, but they will enjoy this one.

Pittsburgh (-9) over INDY: At 3-6, the Colts are struggling without Andrew Luck, and I think they will continue to struggle mightily against good teams like the Steelers. The Steelers have been known to lose these types of games against crappy teams, but I think they will break that trend this week in Indy.

JACKSONVILLE (-3) over LA Chargers: The Jags are 5-3 and in the thick of the playoff hunt in the AFC. Their defense is really good, and they are using that recipe to win games this year. I think this is a good matchup for them. The Chargers have to come all the way across the country and play an early game. The Jags crowd will be fired up at home, and I think the Jags defense rules the day once again.

TAMPA BAY (+3) over NY Jets: The Bucs are a major disappointment this year. At 2-6, they are basically out of the playoff race in the NFC, and now Jameis Winston is out at least two weeks with a shoulder injury. I know that Ryan Fitzpatrick is in at QB, but I have a feeling the Bucs will break out this week just enough to get the win. The Jets are playing well at 4-5, but I have a feeling they fall flat in TB on Sunday.

Cincy (+5) over TENNESSEE: I think that the Titans will win this game, but I don't love the line. I think the Bengals could be feisty in Tennessee on Sunday. I think the Titans are good, but I think that they are vulnerable at home in this spot. This feels like a 23-20 kind of game.

BUFFALO (+3) over New Orleans: How many people predicted that the top early game in Week 10 would be the Saints and Bills from Buffalo? The 6-2 Saints have won six in a row, and the Bills are 5-3, and they are on their way to a possible playoff berth in the AFC. The Bills are home and they are licking their wounds after a bad loss at the Jets last Thursday night. I think they turn back the Saints and end their six game winning streak, and the Bills get to 6-3.

DETROIT (-11) over Cleveland: Who cares about this game? The Lions will get to 5-4 and the Browns will suffer another defeat.

LA RAMS (-10) over Houston: Too many injuries (Deshaun Watson/J.J. Watt) for the Texans to overcome. Now, they have to head all the way to LA to take on the 6-2 red-hot Rams. I think the Rams continue their winning ways and they will move to 7-2 with a rather easy win at home.

ATLANTA (-3) over Dallas: The Falcons are 4-4 and need a win to keep their hopes alive for the playoffs. The Cowboys are playing well at 5-3, but now Zeke Elliot is finally serving his six game suspension, so they will have a very tough time on the road without him. I think too much of this game will fall on Dak Prescott, and I think the home crowd will make a difference.

SAN FRANCISCO (+3) over NY Giants: This is about as bad as it gets this year. The 1-7 Giants take on the 0-9 49ers. This game is a far cry from those classic 49er-Giants games in the 1980s.

Miami (+9) over CAROLINA: The Dolphins are 4-4, but with their offense you get the feeling that they are going nowhere this season. They head to Carolina to take on the 6-3 Panthers on Monday Night Football. I think the Panthers win, but I don't see them blowing out the Fish in this game.

Week 10 TNF Pick

ARIZONA (+6) over Seattle 

Broncos Hit Rock Bottom in 51-23 Humilating Loss to the Eagles, Fall to 3-5

There isn't a lot of positive things to write about after Denver's 51-23 loss to the Eagles in Philly on Sunday. I thought the Broncos might be able keep this game close and give the Eagles and Carson Wentz some trouble but I was dead wrong. There isn't too much to say about the game, but here are my "Five Points" about the latest debacle by the Broncos....

1) The Broncos got blitzkrieged early by the Eagles and they had no answers on defense. Once they got down 17-3, you knew the game was over. I guess it was a matter of time before the defense finally collapsed in a game, and Sunday was that game. They got out-executed and out-coached, and the Eagles offense completely took control of the game and ran away with it.

2) Brock Osweiler wasn't good, but he performed the same way Trevor Siemian would have played anyway. He finished 19-38 for 209 yards 1TD (Garbage time), and 2 INT. I wasn't expecting a big-time performance but I thought he might be able to play smart enough to avoid turnovers and keep the Broncos in the game. His interception when they were down in their own end down 10-3 in the first quarter was a really bad. He looked like his pass was intended for the Eagles defender instead of Demaryius Thomas. It led to a Philly touchdown to make it 17-3 and the game was pretty much over from that standpoint.

3) The Broncos commit so many penalties every week. They hold on offense, they hold or block in the back on special teams returns, they go offside on defense all the time, and it is week after week they make these mistakes. It's pretty bad. That is bad coaching and bad football all around, and it was really embarrassing this week.

4) I don't think the Broncos quit in this game. I think that narrative was being thrown around after the game on Sunday, and I don't think the Broncos quit-even on defense. I think they got out-executed and got flat out beat, but I don't think they quit.

5) This was the first time the Broncos gave up 50 or more points in a game since 2010 when the Raiders dropped 59 on the Broncos in Denver. They game led to the firing of head coach Josh McDaniels. The Broncos have now lost four straight games and this game was the worst of the bunch. The Broncos were simply no match for the Eagles, and they look like they have a lot more problems than just the lack of a QB at this point. At 3-5, it doesn't get any easier for the Broncos as the Patriots are coming into Denver next Sunday night. It is a tough time for the Broncos and the fanbase right now. We haven't been here since the Josh McDaniels-Kyle Orton days. We still have eight games left to turn things around, but it is hard right now to see how the Broncos can get out of this mess and make something of this season.

Broncos-Eagles Preview and Week 9 Picks

The Broncos head to Philly on Sunday to take on Carson Wentz and the 7-1 Eagles in a must win game for the 3-4 Broncos. Trevor Siemian is benched and in comes Brock Osweiler for the start on Sunday. If you would have told me in mid-August that Osweiler would be starting at QB for the Broncos this year, I wouldn't have believed it, but here we are. I'm actually a little excited to see him start, and I'm just happy that Trevor Siemian is done. I couldn't take much more of Siemian. I'm not expecting a lot out of Osweiler this week, but you never know what can happen. The whole offense has to play better. They can't drop passes, fumble the ball, commit turnovers, and make all the mistakes that a typical JV football team makes. In any event, I think the game will be close for a little while, but ultimately Brock won't be able to revive this offense, and the Broncos will lose for the fourth straight game.

Prediction: PHILLY(-7) over Denver
Final Score: Eagles-24 Broncos-14

Now, onto the picks for Week 9 in the National...............Football..................League:

Last Week's Record: 7-6
Overall Record: 60-55-4
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

NY GIANTS (+4) over LA Rams: Home underdogs have performed well this year, and eventhough the Giants are a dumpster fire, I can see them playing well enough to pull the upset over the Rams or even keep it close. I'll take the Giants at home to get their second win.

Tampa Bay (+7) over NEW ORLEANS: I think the Saints will win the game, but I think Tampa Bay has to play well at some point and put one good game together. At 2-5, they are in desperate need of a win, and I think they will make this a very close game.

Cincinnati (+6) over JACKSONVILLE: I know Jacksonville's defense is very good, but you can't trust them week to week because of their QB situation. I think Cincy is done at 3-4, but I could see them pulling the upset on the road. I just can't get a handle on the Jags just yet.

CAROLINA (+1) over Atlanta: The Falcons got a win over the Jets last week to get to 4-3, and the Panthers come in at 5-3, so this is a pretty big game in the NFC South. I like Carolina as a home underdog here. Atlanta was lucky to even beat the Jets, so I'll stick with the Panthers to get to 6-3.

Indy (+7) over HOUSTON: Andrew Luck was officially placed on IR, so he is done for the season. It will be Jacoby Brissett the rest of the way for the Colts. I think that the Colts can actually be somewhat competitive here because the Texans suffered a terrible blow when Deshaun Watson went down in practice on Thursday with a torn ACL. They now have to turn to Tom Savage once again, and I think the effects of that injury to Watson will kill their season. I'll take Indy and the points.

TENNESSEE (-3) over Baltimore: The Ravens got back to 4-4 with a win over the Dolphins last Thursday night. The Titans are 4-3 and are trying to take control of the AFC South. This is a big game in the AFC. Normally, I would take the Ravens in this type of spot, but I like the Titans here. I think they make a statement that the South is there for them to grab. I'll take Tennessee at home.

SAN FRANCISCO (+3) over Arizona: Drew Stanton on the road for the Cardinals. That statement right there is enough for me to take the 49ers as home underdogs. I think SF will finally get their first win of the year and continue the good vibes the organization is feeling after trading for Jimmy Garropolo this week.

SEATTLE (-7) over Washington: The Redskins are 3-4, banged up, and fading in the NFC East. I think the Seahawks are going to be there in the end in the NFC, so I think they continue their winning ways and bounce the Redskins.

Kansas City (PICK) over DALLAS: Zeke Elliot will be playing in this game as his suspension gets delayed once again. This should be a fun matchup in the late window on Sunday afternoon. The 4-3 Cowboys hosting the 6-2 Chiefs. I have liked KC all week long, and I still like them. This should be a fun game, but look for a late KC drive to win it and get them to 7-2.

Oakland (-3) over MIAMI: Talk about a Sunday Night Football stinker. The Raiders are struggling at 3-5, and the Dolphins are a bad 4-3 team. Both teams have offenses that are really struggling to move the ball and score points. This could be a snoozefest on SNF. I think the Raiders are not dead yet, and I could see them playing better in the second half of the season as opposed to the Fish. I'll take Oakland here to get to 4-5.

Detroit (-2) over GREEN BAY: Pretty weak Monday night game with Aaron Rodgers out with a broken collarbone. Brett Hundley just doesn't move the needle. I think the Lions will win the game because I just don't know what to expect out of the Packers without Rodgers, so until they prove me wrong, then I have to go against them each week.

NFL Week 9 TNF Pick

Buffalo (-3) over NY JETS

Broncos Fall to Chiefs 29-19, Third Straight Loss Puts Them at 3-4

The Broncos lost 29-19 in Arrowhead Stadium to the Chiefs on Monday night. The Broncos have now lost three straight games and sit at 3-4. What once looked like a promising season at 3-1 has now turned into a possibly disastrous year as they are looking down the barrel at 3-6 after the next two weeks against Philly and New England. The Broncos fell behind 14-0 early, rallied to make it a one score game at 20-13 late in the third quarter, but ultimately couldn't complete the comeback as the Chiefs pulled away and won 29-19. The Broncos made mistakes like they always seem to do the last three weeks. Three Trevor Siemian interceptions, a Jamaal Charles fumble,a fumble on a punt return, and numerous dropped passes just killed the Broncos in this game, and once again put them in position to lose. Here are my "Five Points" from the game....

1) Trevor Siemian was awful once again. He has poorly since the second half of Week 3 against the Bills. He missed an open A.J. Derby on the first third down of the game, and that set the tone. His interceptions were awful throws. The one to Marcus Peters in the first quarter down 14-0 looked like he was throwing to Peters instead of Demaryius Thomas. He took sacks when he couldn't, he looked skittish, and he looked like he was lost out there. Siemian deserved to be benched in the game. He hasn't played well enough for this team, and when he got hot later in the game, it was too little too late.

2) The Broncos defense played well once again. They had trouble stopping Travis Kelce, but otherwise they shut down Kareem Hunt, and they did a nice job on Alex Smith and Tyreek Hill. They play hard every week and they kept this game somewhat close, but they were put in bad situations all night long; however, at 20-13 in the early fourth quarter, they have to stop the Chiefs and get off the field on that drive. Instead, they allowed KC to go down the field and get a field goal to make it a two score game.

3) The Broncos turn the ball over and make mistakes like a JV football team. It's unreal. Three interceptions by Siemian were awful, but Jamaal Charles fumbled on the second series of the game when they were driving and Marcus Peters returned it for a touchdown to make it 7-0. Isaiah McKenzie has been shaky as a punt returner and he fumbled a punt once again. Bennie Fowler and Virgil Green each had key drops in the second half-Fowler dropped a sure touchdown. It is almost comical at this point. There turnover margin is second worst to the Browns in the NFL. It is just hard to watch and Monday night was a prime example of that.

4) I'm not going to kill Vance Joseph yet, but I felt like he didn't have the pulse of his team by not benching Trevor Siemian in the second half. You can't play any worse than Siemian did in the first half, and the fact that VJ kept him in there made me wonder for the first time if he can handle the moment as a head coach and decisions like this are something that needs to be looked at in the future.

5) This game was 14-0 and Siemian threw a pick to Peters, and the Chiefs were about to go up 21-0 or 17-0 when they had a first and goal inside the Broncos 10. KC called a halfback option pass to Tyreek Hill and he got intercepted it the endzone by Darian Stewart. That was the only reason why this game wasn't a huge blowout for the Chiefs. A poor playcall by Andy Reid prevented it from happening. The Broncos now find themselves at 3-4 and they head to Philly to take on the 7-1 Eagles. They have to bench Siemian and turn it over to Brock Osweiler while Paxton Lynch recovers from his shoulder injury. As soon as Lynch is healthy, then he should get a turn. I'm not expecting a miracle from Osweiler, but it is better than watching Siemian out there. Lastly, all is not totally lost for the Broncos. They are 3-4, but if they can somehow manage a split the next two games, which will not be easy, they can be 4-5 with Cincy coming to Denver on November 19th. It would help if they could cut down the turnovers. If they do that, then they will have a chance.

Broncos-Chiefs Preview and Week 8 Picks!

The Broncos are 3-3 and have lost the last two games to the Giants and the Chargers, and there is a lot of hysteria surrounding the team right now-and there should be. The offense can move the ball and score points, Trevor Siemian is being exposed for being the backup level QB that he is, their offensive line can pass protect, and the defense is being wasted once again. Plus, their special teams is a mess, and there is heat on first year head coach Vance Joseph. The bottom line is the Broncos are a mess right now, and it is a long way away from 2015 and the Peyton Manning days. I know this team pretty well, and I have a good feel for them week-to-week and year to year, and I know what to expect, and this game in Arrowhead on Monday night is going to be a long night for the Broncos. I don't see any way that they stay competitive in this game-especially with KC coming off two straight losses. I see a very long evening for the Broncos, and look for the Chiefs to jump all over them early and often.

Prediction: KANSAS CITY (-7) over Denver
Final Score: Chiefs-34 Broncos-10

Last Week's Record: 6-7-2 
Overall Record: 53-49-4
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

Minnesota (-8) over Cleveland (In London): This should be an easy win for the Vikings. I don't see the Browns putting up much of a fight in London. The Vikings should get to 6-2.

Chicago (+9) over NEW ORLEANS: I think the Saints will win at home to get to 5-2, but I think the 3-4 Bears will keep this game close. I'm very surprised how the Saints responded after starting 0-2. They could be legitimate contenders in the NFC as the season progresses.

Atlanta (-4) over NY JETS: The 3-3 Falcons have been very disappointing and their offense has really struggled in recent weeks. I think they right the ship and get back on track with a big, road win over the 3-4 Jets in the Meadowlands.

TAMPA BAY (-2) over Carolina: What has happened to the Panthers? After a 4-1 start, they are now 4-3 and their offense looks bad again. They head to Tampa to take on the struggling Bucs. At 2-4, the Bucs are more desperate, so I'll take them to win the game, but I'm not confident about this game. This game seems like a coin flip.

San Francisco (+14) over PHILLY: The 49ers are winless but they have been in most of their games. The Eagles are 6-1, Carson Wentz looks like a MVP candidate, and they are home looking to go to 7-1. Philly wins the game, but the 49ers make them sweat a little bit.

Oakland (+3) over BUFFALO: This is a very interesting game in the AFC. The Bills are 4-2 and the Raiders come in at 3-4. This game has a lot of implications in the AFC playoff picture. I like the Raiders in this one, but it won't be easy for them. Look for a close game, but the Raiders will pull it out late.

Indy (+11) over CINCY: This is a very tough game to get into even for a diehard NFL fan. I'll take the Colts getting the points.

NEW ENGLAND (-7) over LA Chargers: After an 0-4 start, the Chargers have won three in a row and at 3-4 they have a little momentum going heading to Foxboro take on the 5-2 Patriots. I know it is tempting to take the Chargers here, but I think the Pats will play well-especially since this game is an early game on the East coast. Look for the Patriots to win going away.

SEATTLE (-5) over Houston: I like the Seahawks at home, but I'm interested to see what Deshaun Watson can do against this Seattle defense. You have to like the Seahawks chances in this game, and I think it will be close for a while, then their defense will take over.

WASHINGTON (+3) over Dallas: Big game in the NFC East as the 3-3 Cowboys travel to Washington to take on the 3-3 Redskins. I'm torn over this one and I think this game can go either way, but I'll go with my gut and take the Redskins in a very tight affair/

DETROIT (+3) over Pittsburgh: I think Pittsburgh is the class of the AFC right now at 5-2, but they lose focus in these games sometimes. Every game Detroit plays in is a battle, and I think this one will be the same. Look for the Lions to pull it out late on a field goal or a late Matt Stafford game-winning drive.

Week 8 TNF Pick

BALTIMORE (-3) over Miami

Broncos Shutout in Awful Loss at Chargers, Drop to 3-3

The Broncos suffered another bad loss on Sunday as they got whipped by the Chargers in Los Angeles 21-0. It was the Broncos first time being shutout since 1992 (Tommy Maddox), and now the Broncos have dropped two straight games and stand at 3-3 with their roughest stretch of the year coming up. I was feeling good about the Broncos when they were 3-1 heading into their bye week and they had the 0-4 Giants and 0-4 Chargers coming up. Now, they are 3-3 after getting thumped by those two teams, and this team is definitely in trouble. I thought last week's loss to the Giants was bad, but this one might be worse. Here are my thoughts on one of the worst losses I have seen in a long time as a Broncos fan......

1) Trevor Siemian's days might be numbered. He had another bad performance. He looks gun shy, and he looks like he played down the stretch last year. Siemian has a nice story, and people are rooting for him, but he is just not a starter in this league and not the guy going forward for the Broncos. Yesterday, he did nothing. He got fumbled once, got picked off and he just looks at the first read and then runs. He looked scared in this game. I'm kind of getting sick of the Trevor Siemian era.

2) You can't blame the defense for this one. They gave up two touchdown drives but held the Chargers to 242 total yards of offense and only 3-12 on third down. The Broncos defense needs to force more turnovers, but you can't pin in on this unit. They can only do so much.

3) Our offense can't run the ball and C.J. Anderson and Jamaal Charles have no where to go. Our offensive line can't protect on the edges. Garrett Bolles looks like he will be okay, but Sunday was a rough day for him. Our RT spot is shot. Allen Barbre started in place of the injured Menelik Watson and Donald Stephenson and had a nightmare day trying to contain Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram. Our offensive line just couldn't protect in this game, and it was awful to watch. A big moment also came when a ticky-tack offensive pass interference call negated an 81 yard reception by Demaryius Thomas that would have put the ball at the Chargers 10. Instead, it backed us up and took away the Broncos only real threat to score in the game.

4) The Broncos special teams were bad again. This week they gave up a punt return TD in the first quarter to Travis Benjamin to go down 7-0. This stuff happens to us every week. It's either penalties on returns, missed field goals or a big return, but the Broncos special teams killed us again this week and put us in a hole.

5) Broncos are 3-3 and fading fast. Two horrific losses in a row and that 3-1 start is now 3-3 and they are staring at 3-6 after they have to go to KC, Philly, and then host the Pats the next three weeks. We don't have a quarterback, have scored only 26 points the last three games combined, and are the worst team in the AFC West. Plus, I remember the last time the Broncos were shutout in a game. In 1992, I was in 8th grade and the Broncos were rolling at 7-3 when John Elway went down with a shoulder injury. He missed the next game at the Raiders, and Tommy Maddox started for the Broncos and they got shut out 24-0. I remember I bet the Broncos on one of those betting sheets I got from school for like five dollars. I learned a gambling lesson very early on in my life. That was the last time the Broncos got shut out before yesterday's awful performance in LA. Good times indeed watching these 2017 Broncos.

Broncos-Chargers Preview and Week 7 Picks!

I'm still trying to comprehend how the Broncos lost that game last Sunday night to the 0-5 Giants. I think the part about it that really upsets me is that the Broncos got beat and got beat soundly. I just don't think the Broncos are a good team. I think the 3-1 start gave us false hope. I think Trevor Siemian has shown he isn't answer, our offensive line struggles in pass protection, our run defense is overrated, we still can't cover tight ends and backs, and our kicker is in a deep funk. Things aren't looking so good right now in Broncos Country. Sunday, the Broncos head to Los Angeles to take on the Chargers in a huge game in the AFC West. The Broncos are 3-2 and the Chargers are 2-4, winners of two straight. I'm really down on the Broncos, and to make matters worse, they are going to be without Emmanuel Sanders, Isaiah McKenzie, Menelik Watson, and possibly Brandon Marshall. I have no faith right now in the Broncos as they head into the most difficult stretch of the season. I think they will have a very difficult time winning this game in LA on Sunday afternoon. I just don't believe in this team after last week's letdown.

LA CHARGERS (-1) over Denver
Final Score: Chargers-26 Broncos-16

Now, here are the picks for the Week 6 of the NFL...................


Last Week's Record: 8-6
Overall Record: 47-42-2
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

Tennessee (-6) over CLEVELAND: At 3-3, the Titans have Marcus Mariota back starting after missing a game with a hamstring injury. I think they easily get to 4-3 over the winless Browns, who are going back to DeShone Kizer this week as starter.

INDY (+4) over Jacksonville: With it looking more and more like Leonard Fournette is going to be out for this game, I'll take the Colts at home. I know the Colts aren't good offensively, but I just like taking home underdogs this year, and I'll continue that trend with the Colts.

Cincy (+6) over PITTSBURGH: I think the Steelers made everyone realize that they are not dead yet, and they will be a factor in the AFC after their win in Arrowhead over the Chiefs on Sunday. This is a rivalry game, so anything can happen. I'll take the Bengals to keep it close and look for a close Pittsburgh win.

Baltimore (+6) over MINNESOTA: Give Case Keenum credit. He is playing well enough to hold down the fort while Sam Bradford is hurt. The Vikings are 4-2 and in first place of the NFC North. The Ravens are having trouble trying to get out of their own way. I still like the Ravens defense, but their offense is so bad right now. I think the Vikings win this game, but look for the Ravens to keep to it close.

MIAMI (-3) over NY Jets: The Jets got the best of the Dolphins in Week 3, and now some people out there are questioning Miami's heart. I think this is a game where they play one of their best games. They want revenge for what happened to them in Week 3, and I think they get it at home this week.

BUFFALO (-3) over Tampa Bay: This will be a tough game for the Bucs as they go on the road to take on the 3-2 Bills, who are coming off their bye week. I think it is a close game that could go either way, but I'll take the Bills at home to get to 4-2.

Carolina (-3) over CHICAGO: The Panthers had 10 days to think about their tough home loss to the Eagles two Thursday nights ago. I think they will take control of the game, and I think they will suffocate Mitch Trubisky and that Bears offense.

New Orleans (-4) over GREEN BAY: The Packers have to deal with life without Aaron Rodgers as he is gone for most of the season with a fracture collarbone. In his place, steps Brett Hundley, and I don't think it will be easy for him early on. Don't look now but the Saints are 3-2 and could get to 4-2 with a win in Lambeau on Sunday.

LA Rams (-3) over Arizona (In London): The Rams are a surprising 4-2 and the Cards are 3-3. Too bad this teams had to head over to London for this one. I think the Rams will get the win and get to 5-2 over the up and down Cardinals.

SAN FRANCISCO (+6) over Dallas: Dallas wins outright. There is no doubt in my mind, but this one will be close-like every 49ers game this year. The Cowboys hold them off to get to 3-3.

Seattle (-5) over NY GIANTS: I'm not buying the resurgent Giants after they upset the Broncos last week. The Seahawks will come to the Meadowlands and take down the Giants. There won't be a letdown with Seattle this week.

NEW ENGLAND (-3) over Atlanta: I can see the Falcons going into Foxboro and winning this game because we have seen some strange things take place this year. Both teams have issues on both sides of the ball, but I'll take the Pats at home.

Washington (+4) over PHILLY: Very good Monday Night Football game in the NFC East. I think the Eagles and Carson Wentz are the early story in the NFC this year. I see a back and forth game, but I think the Redskins are my gut pick of the week in the upset.

Broncos Upset by Giants in Embarrasing Home Loss

The Broncos suffered one of the most pathetic home losses in a long time at the hands of the 0-5 New York Giants on Sunday night in Denver. The Broncos came out flat, got down early, make mistake after mistake, and the Giants took control and won going away 23-10. The loss drops the Broncos to 3-2, and it was a critical loss as they head into a three game road trip. It was about as disappointing of a loss that you can have as a team in the NFL. The Broncos were 12 point favorites and it didn't matter as the Giants shocked them and most of the country with the upset. Here are my "Five Points" on the game...

1) Trevor Siemian played awful. Siemian was not good, and really he hasn't played well in the last three games. He killed the Broncos with his mistakes. His red zone interception killed a drive early in the second quarter, and then his interception which was returned for a touchdown by Janoris Jenkins right before halftime to make it 17-3. Siemian has to play better than he did on Sunday night. Right now, he is not playing well enough to win many games. Throw in the fact that our offensive line blows in pass protection, and Siemian holds the ball for too long, and the Broncos can't move the ball effectively enough.

2) The Broncos just made too many mistakes in this game. Two missed field goals (one was blocked), a red zone interception, a pick six, a fumble, and getting stuffed inside the one on a 4th and goal. It was like watching a JV football team. Even their defense just let the Giants make big plays in the running game, and even some key conversions in the passing game. It was just an awful performance.

3) I don't care what anyone says, but Denver took the Giants for granted. They thought it was going to be a cakewalk, and the Broncos felt that they were going to win the game just by showing up. The Giants were 0-5, lost their three top receivers to injury (OBJ, Brandon Marshall, Sterling Shephard), Olivier Vernon was out, and the Giants suspended Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie for the game. Everything seemed to be in the Broncos favor to win this game, and they came out and laid an egg. The Broncos were overlooking the Giants and you just can't do that in the NFL. Once the Giants got confidence early, they knew they could play with the Broncos and got the lead and took control.

4) Brandon McManus is a problem right now. He missed a 35 yard field goal early on and had another one blocked. He has missed five field goals at home this season. You can't miss five field goals all year long, and yet McManus has missed five already at home. He seems like he is spooked and can't get it out of his head. He is killing the Broncos right now, and he better snap out of it.

5) This was the worst Broncos home performance since the 59-14 loss against the Raiders in 2010. I just can't believe how poorly this team played in this game. It was like they just fell apart, and it almost seemed like they were throwing the game. That was what it seemed like was taking place. This loss was so critical because the Broncos had a chance to get to 4-1, and the Chiefs lost on Sunday to fall to 5-1, and the Raiders lost to the Chargers to fall to 2-4. They had a chance to solidify their spot in the division and in the AFC, and they lost all that on Sunday night. Now, they are 3-2, and embark on a four game stretch that includes a three game road stretch (LAC, KC, and Philly) and New England at home. There is a very good chance that the Broncos are 3-5 by the middle of November.

Chiefs-Raiders Week 7 TNF Pick

OAKLAND (+3) over Kansas City

Broncos-Giants Preview and Week 6 Picks

The Broncos host the 0-5 Giants on Sunday Night Football this week, and EVERYONE believes the Broncos will run away with this game due to the fact that the Giants are coming in with a tremendous amount of injuries at the WR position. Odell Beckham Jr, Sterling Shepard and Brandon Marshall are all out for this game, and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is suspended for conduct detrimental to the team. That leaves Eli Manning throwing to a bunch a backups and practice squad call ups. Is this game a layup for the Broncos? On paper, you would think so, but I don't think any game for the Broncos is a layup. They are not built that way. Yes, this team is a playoff caliber team in the AFC, and they should be around in January, but they aren't a team that is just going to blow out a lot of teams. The Broncos defense has favorable matchups against a weak Giants running game, and the No Fly Zone should handle the banged-up Giants passing attack easily. The Broncos need to show their fans and the rest of the league that they can destroy an inferior opponent. I just don't know if the Broncos are capable of doing that just yet. I think the Broncos win, but I think the Giants keep it closer than everyone predicts. In any event, the Broncos need to get the win and get to 4-1 heading to Los Angeles to take on the Chargers next week.

Prediction: NY Giants (+12) over DENVER:
Final Score: Broncos-22 Giants-13

Last Week's Record: 9-4-1
Overall Record: 39-36-2
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)


HOUSTON (-9) over Cleveland: At 2-3, it would appear that the Texans are disappointing so far this year, and with the loss of J.J. Watt for the season to a knee injury, it would seem like the season is lost for the year, but with the play of rookie QB Deshaun Watson the Texans have a chance to make something out of this season. In comes the Browns, who are starting Kevin Hogan in place of DeShone Kizer. I would expect the Texans to play very well, and Watson should continue to shine in a convincing home win over the Browns. Do you realize that Hue Jackson is currently 1-20 as Browns coach the last two years?

New England (-8) over NY JETS: Raise your hand if you had predicted the 3-2 Pats taking on the 3-2 Jets at this point in the season? No one would have expected that heading into the season, but at least we have an interesting early game on Sunday. I think New England will take care of business, get their defense on track against the Jets offense, and move on at 4-2, but wouldn't it be fun if this game is close till the very end or if the Jets actually win this game outright?

Miami (+11) over ATLANTA: I have no reason to suspect that the Dolphins will be able to win this game on the heels of their anemic offense with a checked-out Jay Cutler and a week after their offensive line coach had to resign for having a video of him snorting lines of cocaine get released by his stripper girlfriend. The Dolphins season has been a mess, but I have won a lot by taking huge underdogs this year. The Falcons will win the game, but I'm looking for a Miami backdoor cover.

Detroit (+5) over NEW ORLEANS: Weird line as the 3-2 Lions head into New Orleans to take on the Saints, who are 2-2. I think Matt Stafford's health will be a factor, and if he can't go, then the Saints will roll. If he does play, then this is going to be a close game and I'll take the Lions and the points.

Green Bay (-3) over MINNESOTA: The 4-1 Packers travel to Minnesota to take on the 3-2 Vikings. The Vikes are going back to Case Keenum as Sam Bradford is just not healthy enough to start, and I see the Packers and Aaron Rodgers, coming off their huge win at Dallas last week, taking down their rivals on the road.

BALTIMORE (-7) over Chicago: The Ravens offense is really struggling, and in come the 1-4 Bears. Normally, this would be a layup, but the Ravens offense actually keeps the other teams in these games. I think this week the Ravens defense will keep the Bears and Mitch Trubisky at bay and the Ravens will do enough to win this game by more than a touchdown.

San Francisco (+10) over WASHINGTON: The Redskins will win the game at home to keep them near the top of the NFC East, but the Niners have been frisky all year despite their 0-5 record. I think this game will be close and the Skins win late, but San Fran covers the spread.

LA Rams (+3) over JACKSONVILLE: The Rams are 3-2 and have to head all the way across the country to take on the 3-2 Jags. I think Wade Phillips will devise a plan to shut down Leonard Fournette, and I will take the Rams on the road to get a very important win.

ARIZONA (+3) over Tampa Bay: All signs point to the Bucs taking down the Cardinals, but I have had success with home underdogs this year, so I will take the Cardinals at home. I just don't know if the Bucs are ready to step up to the next level just yet this year.

Pittsburgh (+6) over KANSAS CITY: The Chiefs are 5-0 and Alex Smith looks like the MVP favorite at this point in the year. This week the 3-2 Steelers come to town, and Ben Roethlisberger is coming off a 5 INT day in a loss to Jacksonville at home this week. I know this has the chance to be a blowout-especially since the game is at Arrowhead. I'm not ready to write off Big Ben or the Steelers just yet, and I think Steelers will rise up and play well in a gut-check game for them.

OAKLAND (-3) over LA Chargers: It looks like Derek Carr is back this week after suffering a back injury two weeks ago. I think he will play well enough for the 2-3 Raiders to get back on track and get the easy win over the 1-4 Chargers.

TENNESSEE (PICK) over Indy: Marcus Mariota should be back for the Titans this week and now they get the Colts at home, who are starting Jacoby Brissett with Andrew Luck still out. I think the Titans will get the win big at home, and they will get to 3-3 and keep themselves in the AFC South mix.

NFL Week 6 TNF Pick!

CAROLINA (-3) over Philly

Broncos at the Bye and Week 5 Picks!

Here we are with the Broncos at the bye week, and they are 3-1 heading into the week off. Divisional home wins over the Chargers and Raiders and an impressive blowout win over the Cowboys have given the Broncos a nice cushion to start the year. There is a lot left to be done, and last year they were 4-0 after four games and they ended up going 9-7. Some numbers to look at for this team heading into the bye: Trevor Siemian is on pace for 3.552 yards, 28 TDs, and 16 INT. C.J. Anderson is on pace for over 1,300 yards rushing. Demaryius Thomas is on pace for 72 receptions and 988 yards, and Emmanuel Sanders is on pace for 80 catches and 760 yards. We need those receiver numbers to go up the next 12 games. The offense has scored 91 points (not including Aqib Talib's pick six against the Cowboys) and that averages to 22 points a game. Also, the defense has been phenomenal. Von Miller have 4 sacks and is on pace for 16. Derek Wolfe, Shaq Barrett, Domata Peko, Adam Gotsis, and Shelby Harris have all played solid on the front seven, and we know about the secondary. Chris Harris, Bradley Roby, Aqib Talib, and Justin Simmons all have interceptions this year. The defense is averaging 18 points given up a game. The Broncos look to be a solid team, but with a lot of road games ahead of them, they are going to be tested. What type of team is this group on the road? We'll find out soon enough. Plus, Denver gets the Giants in two weeks at home on SNF, and then travels to Los Angeles to take on the Chargers. Those teams are a combined 0-8 right now. They have to be 5-1 heading after those games-no excuses otherwise.

Now, onto the picks for Week 5 in the NFL...............


Last Week's Record: 9-7
Overall Record: 30-32-1
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

NY GIANTS (-3) over LA Chargers: Both teams come in at 0-4, and now the Chargers have to come all the way across the country to take on the Giants in an early start on Sunday. I think the Giants are bad, but they should find a way to send the Chargers packing at 0-5.

Buffalo (+3) over CINCY: I've doubted the Bills all year long and they are coming off big wins over the Broncos at home and the Falcons on the road. I'm nervous about taking them in this spot, but I am going to ride the Bills bandwagon one more week. This will be tough, but I can see the Bills winning late.

CLEVELAND (-1) over NY Jets: The Jets were supposed to be the worst team in the league and now they are 2-2 after back-to-back wins over the Dolphins and Jags. Now, they head to Cleveland and everyone thinks they will dominate the 0-4 Browns. I think the Browns will surprise some people and will get their first win of the season and give the Jets and their fans a dose of reality.

Jacksonville (+9) over PITTSBURGH: At 2-2, the Jags are playing okay, and I like them in this matchup as a huge underdog. I think the Steelers will win the game, but I see this game being closer than the line indicates. As long as Blake Bortles doesn't implode, I think the Jags defense will keep the Steelers in check for a while. Call it 24-20 Steelers.

MIAMI (+3) over Tennessee: Miami plays at home for the first time this season. After getting their bye in Week 1 because of Hurricane Irma, the Fish had three straight road games including a trip to London. Miami is 1-2 and their offense looks awful at this point. The Titans come in at 2-2 and Marcus Mariota is questionable with a hamstring injury. I have a feeling the Dolphins break out just enough to get the win over the Titans as a home underdog.

INDY (-1) over San Francisco: Andrew Luck is still not ready to return, so it will be Jacoby Brissett once again. I think that the 1-3 Colts should find a way to take care of the 0-4 49ers in a game that I will probably not watch at all. There you go.

PHILLY (-6) over Arizona: The Eagles are 3-1 and now they host the 2-2 Cardinals. Arizona looks like it just doesn't have it this year-they barely got by the 49ers at home last week. I think Philly could be sneaky good, and I'll take them here at home to win and get to 4-1.

Carolina (+3) over DETROIT: A matchup of two 3-1 teams in Ford Field on Sunday. I have liked the Panthers in this game since the moment the line came out. I think that it will be a close, tight game throughout, but I like the Panthers to pull it out late.

Seattle (+2) over LA RAMS: A very interesting late game on Sunday afternoon. I'm very intrigued by this game. I like Seattle in this spot because I just don't know if the Rams are ready for this moment yet. I think the Rams are fun and exciting to watch right now, but I can't bet against Seattle just yet. Fun game regardless.

Baltimore (+2) over OAKLAND: Another very interesting game on Sunday in the late window. The Raiders are 2-2 and look lost on offense, and now Derek Carr is out 2-6 weeks with a back injury compliments of the Broncos defense last week. They come home to host the 2-2 Ravens, who have lost two in a row. I like the Ravens because they have a solid defense and good defenses can travel. I'll take that matchup against the Raiders, who are starting E.J. Manuel in place of Carr, and I think the Ravens win going away.

Green Bay (+3) over DALLAS: The marquee game of the day is in Dallas as the 2-2 Cowboys host the 3-1 Packers in a rematch of their classic Divisional Playoff last year. I think Dallas should be kicking themselves for blowing a 17-6 lead last week at home to the Rams and losing 35-30. I don't love Dallas' defense, and I just think that Aaron Rodgers relishes these spots. I think the Packers get to 4-1 with a road win in Big D.

HOUSTON (+2) over Kansas City: I really like this game on SNF, I think the Texans are ready to take down Chiefs. I like the way that Deshaun Watson has looked so far, and I think Houston knocks off the 4-0 Chiefs. This is a very good SNF game and has a lot of implications in the AFC as well.

CHICAGO (+3) over Minnesota: The 1-3 Bears host the Vikings with Mitch Trubisky getting the nod at QB for Chicago. At least he can provide some excitement after the Bears trotted out Mike Glennon for the first four weeks. The Vikings are still waiting for Sam Bradford to get healthy again, so it looks like it will be Case Keenum once again. It is hard to tell what type of team the Vikings are without Bradford at the controls. I'll take the Bears in an upset at home, even with the rookie QB going against the Vikings defense.