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.
Friday, October 27, 2017
Thursday, October 26, 2017
Monday, October 23, 2017
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.
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.
Saturday, October 21, 2017
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
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.
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.
Thursday, October 19, 2017
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.
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.
Friday, October 13, 2017
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.
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.
Thursday, October 12, 2017
Friday, October 6, 2017
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
Week 5 TNF Pick!
TAMPA BAY (+5.5) over New England: I'm not counting the Pats out at 2-2, but their pass defense has been awful so far. I know Bill Belichick will find a way to fix this team and their defense, but it will be hard this week on a short week going to Tampa. The 2-1 Bucs come in off a big win over the Giants, and now they will have a chance to show the nation that they are for real in the NFC. I know I might get burned by this pick, but I could see the Bucs winning outright. It wouldn't surprise me if the Pats fell to 2-3 before making their move and righting the ship.
Monday, October 2, 2017
Broncos Smother Raiders 16-10, Move to 3-1
The Broncos defeated the Raiders in Denver on Sunday 16-10. Any win in the division is huge, and this one over the Raiders now gives Denver a 2-0 record in the AFC West, and the Broncos are now 3-1 heading into their bye week. This wasn't the prettiest victory and it felt like the Broncos were the better team and dominated the game for most of it, but it still came down to the end with a Justin Simmons interception to seal the win. As Broncos fans, we'll take it and be happy going into our bye week. Here are my "Five Points" about this game....
1) This was like a classic 2015 Broncos win. The offense started fast, got an early lead, then fizzled out. It was close at the end and the defense bailed them out late in the game. This was how they won the Super Bowl two years ago, and this was how they won this game on Sunday. As I said back in 2015, I'll take this kind of game anyday with this group. They love playing in these type of games. It's like they feed off it.
2) A.J. Derby made one of best catches of the year, and it was one of the best one-handed catches you will ever see. It was a great catch and punctuated a great drive to give Denver a 7-0 lead. I like Derby a lot, and that drive was a great drive, but the Broncos couldn't do much after that drive. He finished with 4 catches for 75 yards. I also have to applaud C.J. Anderson on his 95 yards rushing and Jamaal Charles looked explosive once again. I like the way C.J. and Jamaal are running the ball so far this year. Anderson had a couple of big runs to set up Broncos field goals.
3) The Broncos completely shut down Marshawn Lynch and the Raiders running game. They took Lynch out of the game and he was a non-factor. Outside of the one touchdown drive that went for 99 yards, the Broncos defense completely dominated Derek Carr, and even knocked him out of the game with a back injury. I thought the big series was when they stuffed Marshawn Lynch on a 4th and 1 in the second quarter. It sent a message that the Raiders were going to have a tough time moving the ball on them in this game. Give props to the Broncos run defense not only for this game but for the entire season so far.
4) A huge sequence was when the Raiders went for a fake punt at their own 33 with only 2:30 left in the third quarter. I know Brandon McManus missed a 29 yard field goal and the Broncos squandered a chance to go up 19-7. It didn't result in points but the fake punt by the Raiders seemed like they were in desperation mode by going for the fake punt there. It looked like they had no confidence in their offense at all.
5) You hate to see this game come down to the end, and it would have been a brutal defeat-especially at the hands of E.J. Manuel, who was replacing Carr, but Justin Simmons stepped up and saved the day with an interception at the Denver 8 with only 1:56 left in the game. It was a type of win that typifies this team the last two or three seasons. The Broncos are now 3-1 and head into their bye with a confidence that they can be a team that will be a playoff contender come January.
1) This was like a classic 2015 Broncos win. The offense started fast, got an early lead, then fizzled out. It was close at the end and the defense bailed them out late in the game. This was how they won the Super Bowl two years ago, and this was how they won this game on Sunday. As I said back in 2015, I'll take this kind of game anyday with this group. They love playing in these type of games. It's like they feed off it.
2) A.J. Derby made one of best catches of the year, and it was one of the best one-handed catches you will ever see. It was a great catch and punctuated a great drive to give Denver a 7-0 lead. I like Derby a lot, and that drive was a great drive, but the Broncos couldn't do much after that drive. He finished with 4 catches for 75 yards. I also have to applaud C.J. Anderson on his 95 yards rushing and Jamaal Charles looked explosive once again. I like the way C.J. and Jamaal are running the ball so far this year. Anderson had a couple of big runs to set up Broncos field goals.
3) The Broncos completely shut down Marshawn Lynch and the Raiders running game. They took Lynch out of the game and he was a non-factor. Outside of the one touchdown drive that went for 99 yards, the Broncos defense completely dominated Derek Carr, and even knocked him out of the game with a back injury. I thought the big series was when they stuffed Marshawn Lynch on a 4th and 1 in the second quarter. It sent a message that the Raiders were going to have a tough time moving the ball on them in this game. Give props to the Broncos run defense not only for this game but for the entire season so far.
4) A huge sequence was when the Raiders went for a fake punt at their own 33 with only 2:30 left in the third quarter. I know Brandon McManus missed a 29 yard field goal and the Broncos squandered a chance to go up 19-7. It didn't result in points but the fake punt by the Raiders seemed like they were in desperation mode by going for the fake punt there. It looked like they had no confidence in their offense at all.
5) You hate to see this game come down to the end, and it would have been a brutal defeat-especially at the hands of E.J. Manuel, who was replacing Carr, but Justin Simmons stepped up and saved the day with an interception at the Denver 8 with only 1:56 left in the game. It was a type of win that typifies this team the last two or three seasons. The Broncos are now 3-1 and head into their bye with a confidence that they can be a team that will be a playoff contender come January.
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