Broncos-Chargers and Week 17 Picks

The Broncos lost a heart-breaker on Christmas Eve to the Patriots 26-23 on a last second field goal. It was a brutal loss and one of the most disappointing losses in recent memory for the Broncos-considering what was at stake. If the Broncos would have won out, they would have had an 83% chance of making the playoffs. Now, after the loss to the 4-11 Patriots, their odds stand at 5%. They need to win their last two games and get a lot of help. This week also brought the benching of Russell Wilson and the promotion of Jarrett Stidham to QB. There is so much to say about this move, but that is for another time after the season is over. Right now, Denver has the 5-10 Chargers coming to town with an interim head coach and backup QB. You would think Denver should be able to take advantage of that, but the Broncos are missing three key starters this week with Courtland Sutton, Baron Browning, and Marvin Mims all out. I don't know how Stidham will play and I don't know how the Broncos will respond to the benching of Wilson and the devastating loss last week. I guess I don't have much hope that they will step up and take care of business this week.

Prediction: Chargers (+3.5) over DENVER

Final Score: Chargers-23 Broncos-20

Now, onto the picks for Week 17....

Last Week's Record: 9-5-2

Overall Record: 123-99-17

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

Miami (+3.5) over BALTIMORE

New England (+14) over BUFFALO 

CHICAGO (-2.5) over Atlanta

HOUSTON (-4) over Tennessee

INDIANAPOLIS (-3) over Las Vegas

Carolina (+6) over JACKSONVILLE

Rams (-5) over GIANTS

PHILADELPHIA (-12) over Arizona

TAMPA BAY (-2) over New Orleans

San Francisco (-13) over WASHINGTON

Pittsburgh (+4) over SEATTLE

Cincinnati (+7) over KANSAS CITY

Green Bay (+1) over MINNESOTA

Week 17 TNF and Saturday Night Pick

Thursday Night Football Pick: 

CLEVELAND (-7) over Jets

Saturday Night Football Pick:

DALLAS (-6) over Detroit

Broncos-Patriots and Week 16 Picks

The Broncos head into a Christmas Eve battle against the Patriots in Denver. This is another huge game for the Broncos. They sit at 7-7, but have a path to the playoffs. If they win out and go 10-7, they have over an 80% chance to get in as a wild card. The first step begins with the hated Patriots on Sunday night. I don't think I will go into any game the Broncos play with so much confidence, but they have to find a way to beat the Patriots. The Pats are 3-11 and worried about getting the top pick of the draft. No game will be easy for the Broncos, and they have to figure out a way to win this game on Xmas Eve.

PREDICTION: New England (+6.5) over DENVER

Final Score: Broncos-19 Patriots-16

Now, onto the picks for Week 16....

Last Week's Record: 5-9-2

Overall Record: 114-94-15

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

PITTSBURGH (+3) over Cincinnati

Buffalo (-12) over CHARGERS

Indianapolis (+1) over ATLANTA

Green Bay (-5) over CAROLINA

Cleveland (-2) over HOUSTON

Detroit (-3) over MINNESOTA

JETS (-3) over Washington

TENNESSEE (+3) over Seattle

TAMPA BAY (PICK) over Jacksonville

CHICAGO (-4) over Arizona

Dallas (+2) over MIAMI

Las Vegas (+10) over KANSAS CITY

Giants (+12) over PHILADELPHIA

SAN FRANCISCO (-5) over Baltimore

Week 16 TNF Pick

 RAMS (-4) over New Orleans

Broncos-Lions and Week 15 Picks

The Broncos are 7-6 and heading into a Saturday night showdown at Detroit against the 9-4 Lions. The Broncos are right in the thick of the AFC Wild Card picture. As big as this game is, the Broncos can still lose this game and the season is not over. If the Broncos are to lose any game down the stretch, then this is the one because it is a NFC game and not an AFC game. With that said, the Broncos need to win and that will take care of everything. The Lions have struggled the last month, but they are still a dangerous team with a very good offense playing at home. I think this will be a tough game for Denver to win-especially being the last of a three game road stretch. 

Prediction: DETROIT (-5) over Denver

Final Score: Lions-27 Broncos-20

Now, onto the picks for Week 15....

Last Week's Record: 7-6-1

Overall Record: 109-85-13

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

CINCINNATI (-3) over Minnesota

Pittsburgh (+2) over INDIANAPOLIS

CAROLINA (+3) over Atlanta

CLEVELAND (-3) over Chicago

GREEN BAY (-3) over Tampa Bay

Jets (+10) over MIAMI

Giants (+4.5) over NEW ORLEANS

TENNESSEE (-2) over Houston

Kansas City (-9) over NEW ENGLAND

San Francisco (-13.5) over ARIZONA

Washington (+6) over RAMS

Dallas (+3) over BUFFALO

JACKSONVILLE (+3.5) over Baltimore

Philadelphia (-3) over SEATTLE

Week 15 TNF Pick

LAS VEGAS (-3) over Chargers 

Broncos-Chargers and Week 14 Picks

The Broncos are 6-6 after a tough, heart-breaking loss to the Texans last week. Now, they have to head to LA to take on the 5-7 Chargers. It has been a disappointing season for the Chargers so far, but they are still a dangerous team. Justin Herbert has been playing well this year, and he can explode on a defense any week at any time. I think this game will be tough for the Broncos. It features a divisional opponent on the road, and I have a feeling the Broncos are going to struggle to generate a lot of points on offense.

Prediction: CHARGERS (-3) over Denver

Final Score: Chargers-27 Broncos-20

Now, onto the pick for Week 14....

Last Week's Record: 6-6-1

Overall Record: 102-79-12

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

Tampa Bay (+2) over ATLANTA

BALTIMORE (-7) over Rams

CINCINNATI (+1) over Indianapolis

CLEVELAND (-3) over Jacksonville

Carolina (+5) over NEW ORLEANS

JETS (+6) over Houston

LAS VEGAS (+3) over Minnesota

Seattle (+10.5) over SAN FRANCISCO

KANSAS CITY (-1.5) over Buffalo

DALLAS (-3) over Philadelphia

Tennessee (+13) over MIAMI

Green Bay (-6) over GIANTS

Week 14 TNF Pick

 New England (+7) over PITTSBURGH

Broncos-Texans and Week 13 Picks

Huge game in the AFC playoff race as Denver travels to Houston to take on the Texans. Both teams are 6-5, and the winner of this game is going to get a huge jump in their playoff chances. It is remarkable that Denver is even in this spot. After starting 1-5, the Broncos have righted the ship, ripped off five straight wins, and are heading into December in the thick of the wildcard chase. This will be a tough test because of C.J. Stroud. The Texans rookie QB is having one of the best rookie QB seasons in recent memory, and he will be tough to stop for the Broncos defense. There is a path to victory for the Broncos. I am not as high on the Texans as most people are. Everyone is picking Houston to win, and as much as I want to pick Denver, I have a feeling that this is where their winning streak ends.

Prediction: HOUSTON (-3) over Denver

Final Score: Texans-30 Broncos-20

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

Last Week's Record: 9-7

Overall Record: 96-73-11

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

Chargers (-6) over NEW ENGLAND

Detroit (-4) over NEW ORLEANS

JETS (+3) over Atlanta

Arizona (+6) over PITTSBURGH

TENNESSEE (+1) over Indianapolis

WASHINGTON (+10) over Miami

TAMPA BAY (-5) over Carolina

PHILADELPHIA (+3) over San Francisco

RAMS (-2) over Cleveland

GREEN BAY (+7) over Kansas City

Cincinnati (+9) over JACKSONVILLE

Week 13 TNF Pick

 Seattle (+9) over DALLAS

Broncos-Browns and Week 12 Picks

The Broncos have battled their way to 5-5 after a big win on SNF over the Vikings. Denver is only one game out of a wild card spot. The Broncos have actually brought some life and hope to this season. The task won't get any easier though. They host the 7-3 Browns on Sunday. Cleveland is without QB Deshaun Watson for the rest of the season, but their defense is the best in the league and that is the anchor of their team right now. This will be a very difficult task for Denver as they try to knock off the Browns. It looks like the making of a low-scoring slugfest, but I give the edge to Cleveland to pull it out late.

Prediction: Cleveland (+1.5) over DENVER

Final Score: Browns-19 Broncos-13

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

Last Week's Record: 6-7-1

Overall Record: 87-66-11

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

ATLANTA (-1) over New Orleans

Pittsburgh (-1) over CINCINNATI

Jacksonville (-1) over HOUSTON

Tampa Bay (+2) over INDIANAPOLIS

New England (-3) over GIANTS

TENNESSEE (-3) over Carolina

ARIZONA (+1) over Rams

Kansas City (-8) over LAS VEGAS

Buffalo (+4) over PHILADELPHIA

CHARGERS (+4) over Baltimore

MINNESOTA (-3) over Chicago

Week 12 Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday Picks

Thanksgiving Day: 

-Green Bay (+8) DETROIT

-Washington (+10) over DALLAS

-San Francisco (-7) over SEATTLE

Black Friday:

Miami (-7) over JETS

Broncos-Vikings and Week 11 Picks

The Broncos have won 3 straight games and are back in the race at 4-5. They are making something out of this season, which seemed like a longshot over a month ago. After the big win over the Bills in Buffalo on Monday, Denver hosts the Vikings on Sunday Night Football this week. Josh Dobbs has played well for Minnesota after coming over in a trade when Kirk Cousins went down. Both teams started 1-4. The Vikings have clawed their way to 6-4 and Denver is now at 4-5. This is a tough game for the Broncos after a draining game on Monday night on the road. I think the Vikings clip them off at the end. 

Prediction: Minnesota (+2.5) over DENVER

Final Score: Vikings-24 Broncos-22

Now, onto the picks for Week 11....

Last Week's Record: 8-4-2

Overall Record: 81-59-10

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

Dallas (-10) over CAROLINA

CLEVELAND (-1) over Pittsburgh

DETROIT (-7) over Chicago

GREEN BAY (+3) over Chargers

Arizona (+5) over HOUSTON

Tennessee (+7) over JACKSONVILLE

MIAMI (-12) over Las Vegas

Giants (+9) over WASHINGTON

Tampa Bay (+11) over SAN FRANCISCO

BUFFALO (-7) over Jets

Seattle (-1) over RAMS

KANSAS CITY (-2) over Philadelphia 

Week 11 TNF Pick

 Cincinnati (+4) over BALTIMORE

Broncos-Bills and Week 10 Picks!

The Broncos come off their bye at 3-5 and winners of two consecutive games. They travel to Buffalo for a Monday night game against the Bills. Buffalo is 5-4 and struggling a bit, but this just seems to be too tall of an order for the Broncos. They might get some more wins after this week, but I don't see them at the level to go into Buffalo and upset the Bills. 

Prediction: BUFFALO (-7.5) over Denver

Final Score: Bills-34 Broncos-21

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

Last Week's Record: 10-4

Overall Record: 73-55-8

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

NEW ENGLAND (+2) over Indianapolis (In Germany)

Cleveland (+6) over BALTIMORE

CINCINNATI (-6) over Houston

San Francisco (-3) over JACKSONVILLE

MINNESOTA (+3) over New Orleans

PITTSBURGH (-3) over Green Bay

TAMPA BAY (-1) over Tennessee 

Atlanta (-1) over ARIZONA

Detroit (-3) over CHARGERS

DALLAS (-15) over Giants

Washington (+7) over SEATTLE

LAS VEGAS (+1) over Jets

Week 10 TNF Pick

 Carolina (+3) over CHICAGO

Week 9 Picks

With the Broncos on a bye this week, here are the Week 9 picks...

Last Week's Record: 11-3-2

Overall Record: 63-51-8

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

Miami (+2) over Kansas City (In Germany)

ATLANTA (-4) over Minnesota

BALTIMORE (-6) over Seattle

Arizona (+8) over CLEVELAND

GREEN BAY (-3) over Rams

Tampa Bay (+3) over HOUSTON

NEW ENGLAND (-3) over Washington

Chicago (+9) over NEW ORLEANS

Indianapolis (-2) over CAROLINA

LAS VEGAS (-1) over Giants

PHILADELPHIA (-3) over Dallas

CINCINNATI (-2) over Buffalo

CHARGERS (-3) over Jets

Week 9 TNF Pick

 PITTSBURGH (-2) over Tennessee

Broncos-Chiefs and Week 8 Picks

The Broncos have not beaten the Chiefs since September of 2015, and they have not won at home against KC since 2014. If there was a chance for the Broncos to turn around this season, then this would be the chance to do it. They did play the Chiefs tough a few weeks ago on Thursday Night Football. At some point, they have to beat the Chiefs-especially at home, but until I see it, I just can't pick them....

Prediction: Kansas City (-7) over DENVER

Final Score: Chiefs-31 Broncos-17

Onto the picks for Week 8.....

Last Week's Record: 6-7

Overall Record: 52-48-6

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

CAROLINA (+3) over Houston

DALLAS (-6) over Rams

Minnesota (-1) over GREEN BAY

New Orleans (-1) over INDIANAPOLIS

MIAMI (-8) over New England

GIANTS (+3) over Jets

PITTSBURGH (+3) over Jacksonville

TENNESSEE (+3) over Atlanta

Philadelphia (-6) over WASHINGTON

Cleveland (+4) over SEATTLE

ARIZONA (+9) over Baltimore

SAN FRANCISCO (-3) over Cincinnati 

CHARGERS (-8) over Chicago

DETROIT (-8) over Las Vegas 

Week 8 TNF Pick

 Tampa Bay (+10) over BUFFALO

Broncos-Packers and Week 7 Picks

The Broncos host the Packers this week, and Denver enters the contest with a 1-5 record. The Packers are 2-3, so maybe the Broncos can win this game at home. They are 0-3 to start the year in Denver, so they are due for a home win in this spot. As always though, I just can't trust the Broncos in this spot. I have no faith that they will be able to get the win at home, and until I see it consistently, I just can't pick them to win the game.

Prediction: Green Bay (-1) over DENVER

Final Score: Packers-31 Broncos-21

Now, onto the picks for Week 7..... 

Last Week's Record: 9-5-1

Overall Record: 46-41-6

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

BALTIMORE (-3) over Detroit

Las Vegas (-3) over CHICAGO

Cleveland (-2) over INDIANAPOLIS

NEW ENGLAND (+9) over Buffalo

GIANTS (+3) over Washington

TAMPA BAY (-2) over Atlanta

Pittsburgh (+3) over RAMS

SEATTLE (-7) over Arizona

Chargers (+6) over KANSAS CITY

Miami (+3) over PHILADELPHIA

MINNESOTA (+7) over San Francisco 

Week 7 TNF Pick

 NEW ORLEANS (-1) over Jacksonville

Week 6 Picks

Here are the picks for Week 6.....

Last Week's Record: 5-8-1

Overall Record: 37-36-5

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

Baltimore (-3) over Tennessee (In London)

Washington (+3) over ATLANTA 

Minnesota (-2) over CHICAGO

CINCINNATI (-2) over Seattle

CLEVELAND (+7) over San Francisco

New Orleans (-1) over HOUSTON

JACKSONVILLE (-3) over Indianapolis

MIAMI (-12) over Carolina

New England (+3) over LAS VEGAS

TAMPA BAY (+4) over Detroit

RAMS (-6) over Arizona

Philadelphia (-5) over JETS

BUFFALO (-13) over Giants

Dallas (-2) over CHARGERS

Broncos-Chiefs Week 6 TNF Pick

 The Broncos are 1-4 after losing to the Jets at home last week, and now they face the impossible task of going to Arrowhead to take on the Chiefs on a short week on Thursday night. The Broncos have no chance of winning this game. Kansas City has won 15 in a row over Denver and they will make it 16 in a row. This season is depressing already....

KANSAS CITY (-11) over Denver

Final Score: Chiefs-41 Broncos-17

Broncos-Jets and Week 5 Picks

The Broncos are 1-3 after coming back from a 28-7 deficit to defeat the Bears last week. It was a great comeback win, but it is hard to get excited about the Broncos after that game. The Jets come to Denver on Sunday with a 1-3 record as well. The Jets are a better overall team from top to bottom, but the only thing that Denver can maybe capitalize on is the play of Jets QB Zach Wilson. I would really like the Broncos to beat the Jets this week and get revenge on Nathaniel Hackett, but I still can't trust this team to win a game like this.

Prediction: Jets (+1) over DENVER

Final Score: Jets-27 Broncos-20

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

Last Week's Record: 8-6-2

Overall Record: 32-28-4

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

Buffalo (-5) over Jacksonville (In London)

ATLANTA (-2) over Houston

Carolina (+10) over DETROIT

Tennessee (+1) over INDIANAPOLIS

MIAMI (-10) over Giants

NEW ENGLAND (-1) over New Orleans

Baltimore (-3) over PITTSBURGH

Cincinnati (-4) over ARIZONA

RAMS (+5) over Philadelphia

MINNESOTA (+5) over Kansas City

SAN FRANCISCO (-3) over Dallas

LAS VEGAS (+2) over Green Bay

Week 5 TNF Pick

 WASHINGTON (-5) over Chicago

Broncos-Bears and Week 4 Picks

The Broncos are 0-3. Sean Payton's first three games as the Denver head coach have not gone as planned. Last week, the Broncos were embarrassed 70-20 by the Dolphins in Miami. I didn't think I would see 70 points scored by a team in the NFL, and yet it happened to Denver last week. Now, they are the laughingstock of the NFL as they head to Chicago to take on the 0-3 Bears. This really is the "Toilet Bowl." Until the Broncos prove to me that they can win, I can't pick them. I don't see it happening once again this week.

Prediction: Chicago (+3) over Denver

Final Score: Bears-27 Broncos-21

Now, onto the picks for Week 4.......

Last Week's Record: 9-7

Overall Record: 24-22-2

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

Jacksonville (-3) over Atlanta (In London)

Miami (+3) over BUFFALO

Minnesota (-3) over CAROLINA

CLEVELAND (-2) over Baltimore

Pittsburgh (-3) over HOUSTON

Rams (+2) over INDIANAPOLIS

Tampa Bay (+3) over NEW ORLEANS

PHILADELPHIA (-7) over Washington

Cincinnati (-1) over TENNESSEE

CHARGERS (-4) over Las Vegas

DALLAS (-7) over New England

SAN FRANCISCO (-13) over Arizona

Kansas City (-9) over JETS

Seattle (-2) over GIANTS

Week 4 TNF Pick

 Detroit (-1) over GREEN BAY

Broncos-Dolphins and Week 3 Picks

There's no chance the Broncos will win this game in Miami. At 0-2, the Broncos are desperate for a win after blowing the Washington game at home in Week 2, but I just think the Dolphins are too good for the Broncos at this point.

Prediction: MIAMI (-7) over Denver

Final Score: Dolphins-30 Broncos-17

Now, onto the picks for Week 3.....

Last Week's Record: 6-8-2 

Overall Record: 15-15-2

BALTIMORE (-8) over Indianapolis:

Tennessee (+5) over CLEVELAND:

DETROIT (-3) over Atlanta:

GREEN BAY (-2) over New Orleans:

Houston (+9) over JACKSONVILLE:

Chargers (-1) over MINNESOTA:

New England (-2) over JETS:

WASHINGTON (+7) over Buffalo:

SEATTLE (-4) over Carolina:

Dallas (-10) over ARIZONA:

Chicago (+13) over KANSAS CITY:

LAS VEGAS (+1) over Pittsburgh:

Philadelphia (-6) over TAMPA BAY:

Rams (+6) over CINCINNATI: 

Week 3 TNF Pick

 SAN FRANCISCO (-9) over Giants

Broncos-Commanders and Week 2 Picks

The Broncos opened the 2023 season with a deflating loss to the Raiders 17-16 at home in Denver. It is amazing but it felt like the same old story we have been watching the past few years in Denver. It doesn't matter if you change the owner, the coach, or the QB, the result is the same. Denver has now lost 17 out of their last 22 regular season games. This week they host Washington, but I have a hard time at this point picking the Broncos to win. I have to see it to believe it.

Prediction: Washington (+3) over DENVER

Final Score: Commanders-23 Broncos-17

Now, onto the picks for Week 2....

Last Week's Record: 9-7

Overall Record: 9-7

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

Green Bay (-2) over ATLANTA: Both teams come in at 1-0, but I really liked what I saw out of Packers and Jordan Love last week in their win over the Bears.

Las Vegas (+9) over BUFFALO: The Bills blew that game at the Jets on MNF in Week 1. The Raiders are 1-0 and looked pretty good. I think the Bills win but the Raiders keep it close.

CINCINNATI (-3) over Baltimore: The Bengals looked horrible in their loss at Cleveland in Week 1. The Ravens cruised to a home win over the Texans. I like the Bengals in their home opener to bounce back.

DETROIT (-5) over Seattle: I was on the anti-Seahawks bandwagon this year, and they got beat badly at home by the Rams last week. The Lions upset the Chiefs in KC in the TNF opener, and I think they will get to 2-0 at home this week.

HOUSTON (+1) over Indianapolis: I think CJ Stroud out duels Anthony Richardson in the battle of rookie QBs.

Kansas City (-3) over JACKSONVILLE: I think the Chiefs will rebound this week and go into Jacksonville and get a win to get to 1-1. This will be a tough game for KC, but Pat Mahomes will find a way to win it.

Chicago (+4) over TAMPA BAY: I'm not going to overreact to the Bucs Week 1 win over the Vikings last week. I think this will be a close game. The Bears played awful in their Week 1 loss, and I think they will bounce back.

LA Chargers (-3) over Tennessee: Tough game to pick, and a lot of people are going to back the Titans at home, but I can't see Ryan Tannehill outplaying Justin Herbert. Both teams are 0-1, so this game is huge, but I like the Chargers to win it.

NY Giants (-3) over ARIZONA: The Giants will bounce back from that embarrassing loss to Dallas in Week 1, and they will go on the road and take care of the Cardinals. 

LA RAMS (+8) over San Francisco: The Niners looks lights out in their Week 1 win. The Rams upset Seattle on the road. I think the 49ers win, but the Rams keep it close.

NY Jets (+8) over DALLAS: The Jets lost Aaron Rodgers for the season to an Achilles injury just four plays into the season on MNF against the Bills. It is a crushing loss for the franchise. The Jets came back and beat the Bills and proved how good of a team they have. Now, they have to ride with Zach Wilson at QB, and we saw how that looked last year. Dallas will get the win at home but it might be closer than people anticipate. 

Miami (-3) over NEW ENGLAND: If Tua is healthy, the Dolphins offense is going to be very hard to stop. I think they will keep it rolling this week on the road in New England.

CAROLINA (+3) over New Orleans: This game is a toss-up. I'll take Carolina on a hunch.

PITTSBURGH (+2) over Cleveland: I think the Steelers will respond and play a lot better than they did in their home loss to the 49ers last week. The Browns upset the Bengals in Week 1, but I think they will fall short on the road this week. 

 

Eagles-Vikings Week 2 TNF Pick

 Minnesota (+7) over PHILADELPHIA

Broncos-Raiders and Week 1 Preview

Week 1 is here and the 2023 NFL season kicks off this weekend. There will be plenty of surprises and over-reactions in Week 1, but I'll try to get off to a good start with my picks.....

The Broncos open up the Sean Payton era at home against the Raiders. Denver has lost six straight games to the Raiders, and they have not beaten them since December of 2019. I get why the Broncos are favored in this game at home, and I'm sure the crowd will be a factor, but until I see it, I can't be confident in picking the Broncos at this point. I need to see it first.

Prediction: Las Vegas (+4) over DENVER

Final Score: Raiders-24 Broncos-20 

Now, onto the rest of the picks for Week 1......

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

ATLANTA (-3) over Carolina:

CLEVELAND (+3) over Cincinnati: 

INDIANAPOLIS (+4) over Jacksonville:

MINNESOTA (-6) over Tampa Bay: 

Tennessee (+3) over NEW ORLEANS:

PITTSBURGH (+3) over San Francisco:

WASHINGTON (-7) over Arizona:

BALTIMORE (-9) over Houston:

CHICAGO (-2) over Green Bay:

Philadelphia (-3) over NEW ENGLAND:

Los Angeles Rams (+5) over SEATTLE:

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS (-3) over Miami:

Dallas (-2) over NY GIANTS:

NY JETS (+2) over Buffalo: 

Chiefs-Lions Week 1 TNF Season Opener Pick

 KANSAS CITY (-4) over Detroit

2023 NFL Predictions

 AFC

AFC East

1) Buffalo Bills (11-6)

2) NY Jets (10-7) *Wild Card

3) Miami Dolphins (8-9)

4) New England Patriots (7-10) 

AFC North

1) Cincinnati Bengals (12-5)

2) Cleveland Browns  (11-6)*Wild Card

3) Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)*Wild Card 

4) Baltimore Ravens (9-8)

AFC South

1) Tennessee Titans (10-7)

2) Jacksonville Jaguars (8-9) 

3) Indianapolis Colts (7-10)

4) Houston Texans (4-13) 

AFC West

1) Kansas City Chiefs (12-5)

2) Los Angeles Chargers (8-9)

3) Denver Broncos (8-9)

4) Las Vegas Raiders (5-12)

NFC

NFC East

1) Philadelphia Eagles (12-5)

2) Dallas Cowboys (11-6)*Wild Card 

3) New York Giants (9-8)

4) Washington Commanders (5-12)

NFC North

1) Minnesota Vikings (11-6)

2) Detroit Lions (10-7)*Wild Card 

3) Green Bay Packers (10-7)*Wild Card

4) Chicago Bears (6-11)

NFC South

1) New Orleans Saints (9-8)

2) Carolina Panthers (8-9)

3) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-10) 

4) Atlanta Falcons (5-12)

NFC West

1) San Francisco 49ers (11-6)

2) Los Angeles Rams (8-9)

3) Seattle Seahawks (7-10)

4) Arizona Cardinals (3-14) 

AFC Playoff Seeds

1) Cincinnati Bengals

2) Kansas City Chiefs 

3) Buffalo Bills

4) Tennessee Titans

5) Cleveland Browns

6) NY Jets

7) Pittsburgh Steelers 

NFC Playoff Seeds

1) Philadelphia Eagles

2) San Francisco 49ers

3) Minnesota Vikings

4) New Orleans Saints

5) Dallas Cowboys

6) Detroit Lions

7) Green Bay

2023 Playoff Predictions

Wild Card Weekend:

AFC

2) Kansas City over 7) Pittsburgh

3) Buffalo over 6) NY Jets

5) Cleveland over 4) Tennessee 

NFC

2) San Francisco over 7) Green Bay

6) Detroit over 3) Minnesota

5) Dallas over 4) New Orleans

Divisional Round:

AFC 

1) Cincinnati over 5) Cleveland

3) Buffalo over 2) Kansas City

NFC

1) Philadelphia over 6) Detroit

5) Dallas over 2) San Francisco

Championship Sunday:

3) Buffalo over 1) Cincinnati 

1) Philadelphia over 5) Dallas

Super Bowl

Buffalo over Philadelphia 

2023 Broncos Season Preview

With training camp in the rear view, the Broncos have finalized their roster and are looking forward to the beginning of the 2023 season and their Week 1 season opener at home against the rival Las Vegas Raiders. Instead of doing a training camp preview for the Broncos this year, I decided to do something different. I wanted to do a Broncos Preview once training camp ended in preparation for the 2023 season. Here's this year's 2023 Denver Broncos Preview......

Where we left off? The last time we saw the Broncos in the 2022 season they defeated the Los Angeles Chargers at home in Mile High, but the season was a disappointment. They finished 5-12 and fired head coach Nathaniel Hackett a few weeks earlier, and the season was a massive disappointment. 

What changed? Sean Payton was named head coach shortly after the season. The Broncos desperately needed a new head coach and REAL head coach to lead this franchise. Payton fit the bill with his terrific record in New Orleans and a Super Bowl championship. Payton comes to Denver and tries to change the culture from the Hackett regime and turn the Broncos franchise around. 

New Faces in Denver: The Broncos added starters on the offensive line with the free agent signings of Mike McGlinchey and Ben Powers. They also added DL Zach Allen from Arizona, and pass rusher Frank Clark. Denver also bolstered their RB position with the addition of Samaje Perine. In the draft, Denver added WR Marvin Mims and LB Drew Sanders in Rounds 2 and 3. All of those additions figure to play a significant role in the Denver lineup this year.

Can Russ Still Cook? The biggest question in Denver is if Sean Payton can get Russell Wilson to be "Russ" again and get back to his All-Pro form. It just was a disaster last year with Wilson and Hackett, and it just never clicked. I think that Payton will be able to help Russ and get him to play well. Wilson might not be the player he once was, but I think Payton can get him back on track to get him to play well enough to get the Broncos offense going in the right direction.

Rookies to Watch: Look for LB Drew Sanders to make an impact on defense for the Broncos. A lot of people thought that Sanders was a steal for the Broncos in the 3rd round. He looked really good in the preseason. Also, undrafted RB Jaleel McLaughlin was a stud in preseason and looks like a nice change of pace back to help Javonte Williams ease back in from that terrible knee injury he suffered last October. 

Impact Players: We know about the importance of Javonte Williams, but look for Perine and McLaughlin help the running game tremendously. Also, with the season-ending injury to WR Tim Patrick and the hamstring injury to Jerry Jeudy, look for Courtland Sutton to be a big contributor for Wilson in the passing game. Plus, look for TE Greg Dulcich to take a big step in year two. On defense, the Broncos still have Justin Simmons and Pat Surtain in the secondary, and the LB combo of Alex Singleton and Josey Jewell. If Randy Gregory can stay healthy, then he and Frank Clark can provide a solid pass rush combination with DTs DJ Jones and Zach Allen can be steady in stopping the run game.

Schedule Outlook: The Broncos have to get off to a 2-0 start with two home games against the Raiders and Commanders. They need to be 5-3 after their first eight games before the bye week. After that, there is a realistic path to going 5-4 the last nine games and getting to 10 wins. I'm going into this season with cautious optimism. Nothing can be worse than last year, so there is hope that this year will be a fun and exciting season. As long as Denver has a chance to make the playoffs in Weeks 17 and 18, then that will be a positive for the Broncos and their fans. 

Final Thoughts: The Broncos should be better than the debacle that we endured last year. They will be better coached with Sean Payton, and he should be able to get Russell Wilson to at least play better than he did last year. I like the defensive pieces 

Broncos Final 53 man Roster

 Here are your 2023 Denver Broncos....

Offense

QB: Russell Wilson, Jarrett Stidham

FB: Michael Burton

RB: Javonte Williams, Samaje Perine, Jaleel McLaughlin

WR: Jerry Jeudy, Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims, Brandon Johnson

TE: Adam Trautman, Greg Dulcich, Chris Manhertz, Nate Adkins

OL: Garrett Bolles, Ben Powers, Lloyd Cushenberry, Quinn Meinerz, Mike McGlinchey, Cam Fleming, Quinn Bailey, Luke Wattenberg, Alex Forsyth 

Defense

DL: Zach Allen, Mike Purcell, Matt Henningsen, D.J. Jones, Jonathan Harris, Elijah Garcia

LB: Randy Gregory, Jonathon Cooper, Frank Clark, Nik Bonitto, Thomas Incoom, Josey Jewell, Alex Singleton, Drew Sanders, Justin Strnad, 

CB: Patrick Surtain, Demarri Mathis, Fabian Moreau, Ja/Quan McMillian, Essang Bassey, Riley Moss, Tremon Smith

S: Justin Simmons, Caden Sterns, Kareem Jackson, Delarrin Turner-Yell, JL Skinner

Special Teams

K: Will Lutz

P: Riley Dixon

LS: Mitchell Fraboni

* (CB)K'Wuan Williams, (S)P.J. Locke, and (OT)Alex Palczewski were placed on short-term IR, so they can return after the first four games of the season. Also, (LB) Baron Browning is on the PUP list and he can return a month into the season as well. 

2023 Broncos Schedule

 Here is the 2023 Broncos schedule with some analysis and breakdown....

WEEK 1- Sunday 9/10/23: Las Vegas- 4:25pm EST (CBS)

WEEK 2-Sunday 9/17/23: Washington-4:25pm EST (CBS)

WEEK 3-Sunday 9/24/23: @ Miami-1:00pm EST (CBS)

WEEK 4-Sunday 10/1/23: @Chicago-1:00pm EST (CBS)

WEEK 5-Sunday 10/8/23: NY Jets- 4:25pm EST (CBS)

WEEK 6-Thursday 10/12/23: @Kansas City- 8:15pm EST (Amazon Prime)

WEEK 7-Sunday 10/22/23: Green Bay- 4:25pm EST (CBS)

WEEK 8-Sunday 10/29/23: Kansas City-4:25pm EST (CBS)

WEEK 9- BYE WEEK

WEEK 10-Monday 11/13/23: @Buffalo-8:15pm EST (ESPN)

WEEK 11-Sunday 11/19/23: Minnesota-8:20pm EST (NBC)

WEEK 12-Sunday 11/26/23: Cleveland-4:05pm EST (FOX)

WEEK 13-Sunday 12/3/23: @Houston-4:05pm EST (CBS)

WEEK 14-Sunday 12/10/23: @LA Chargers-4:25pm EST (CBS)

WEEK 15-Sunday 12/17/23: @Detroit- TBD (Game could be flexed to Saturday 12/16)

WEEK 16-Sunday 12/24/23: New England-8:15pm EST (NFL Network)

WEEK 17-Sunday 12/31/23: LA Chargers-4:25pm EST (CBS)

WEEK 18-Sunday 1/7/24: @Las Vegas-TBD 

-I like having the first two games of the Sean Payton era at home. Those are two winnable games (Raiders and Commanders) and to get off to a 2-0 start will be helpful for this team. 

-The back-to-back road games will be tough in Weeks 3 and 4. Miami will be hot and humid that time of the year, and then the Bronco come back from Florida and travel the next week to Chicago. That will be a challenging two weeks.

-Weeks 5-10 will be challenging because the Broncos play the Jets, Chiefs twice, and Buffalo in that span. Those are four really tough games in that spot. I think Denver going to Arrowhead to play the Chiefs on TNF is a tough spot and going to Buffalo on a Monday night will be daunting as well.

-The Broncos get the dreaded three straight road games in Weeks 13-16. They are going to have to win 2 out of those 3 games-especially at that time of the year-which won't be tough with Houston, Chargers, and Detroit. I actually hope the Lions game gets flexed to Saturday December 16th. 

-I like the fact that the Broncos are hosting the Patriots on Christmas Eve, but I hate the fact that it is at 8:15pm EST. Christmas Eve is an impossible spot for me to truly watch and pay attention to this game.

-I'm good with the New Year's Eve game-especially since it is at 4:25pm. That works for me.

-The big advantage for the Broncos and this schedule is that 5 out of the first 8 games are at home. If you count the bye week in Week 9, Denver is only traveling for 3 out of the first 9 weeks of the season. That means that in September and October, they only travel for a road game 3 times, and have the mini-bye after the KC TNF game. To take it a step further, Denver has home games for 7 out of the first 11 games and don't have to travel only 4 times during the first 12 weeks, or 3 months of the season.  

Broncos 2023 Draft Class

 The Broncos only had five picks going into the 2023 NFL Draft, and they had no picks in the 1st and 2nd round due to the Russell Wilson trade and Sean Payton acquisition. The Broncos ended up making five picks but they maneuvered their way around and ending up trading into the second round. Here are their picks for the 2023 Draft and some analysis for each one...

-2nd Round (#63 overall):Marvin Mims, WR, Oklahoma: Mims is a burner and speed guy who can stretch the defense and provide a deep threat to open up other elements of the passing game. He can also return punts and kicks. His selection puts KJ Hamler and Montrell Washington's status on this roster in serious jeopardy.

-3rd Round (#67 overall): Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas: Sanders was mocked to go in the late 1st round in a lot of the projections, so to get him here is a great value. Sanders can play ILB, but he also can rush the passer, so he could be a very valuable player on the Broncos defense. He will also play special teams and play a role in improving that part of the team.

-3rd Round (#83 overall): Riley Moss, CB, Iowa: Moss was a highly productive player on Iowa's defense the last few years, and he fits a role in Denver's defense. You can never have enough CBs, and there is a chance he can play Safety too. Moss figures to play a role on special teams as well. He should be able to contribute in his first year as a Bronco.

-6th Round (#183 overall): JL Skinner, S, Boise State: Skinner is a depth player added to the secondary. He will also be asked to contribute on special teams as well. He will probably be a fringe player as far as making the main roster or practice squad, but if he does well in training camp and preseason, then he can contribute in those areas on the active roster. 

-7th Round (#257 overall): Alex Forsyth, C, Oregon: Forsyth could provide depth as a backup Center this year if he makes the 53-man roster. If he doesn't, he will be a practice squad candidate. 

2023 NFL Mock Draft

 Here it is....my 2023 NFL Mock Draft....

1) Carolina Panthers select Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

2) Houston Texans select Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech

3) TRADE- Arizona Cardinals trade with Las Vegas Raiders (Arizona gets Las Vegas 1st round pick, 7th overall, Las Vegas 2nd round pick, 38 overall, and a 2024 2nd round pick)

Las Vegas Raiders select C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

4) Indianapolis Colts select Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

5) Seattle Seahawks select Will Anderson, EDGE, Alabama

6) Detroit Lions select Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

7) Arizona Cardinals select Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia

8) TRADE-Atlanta Falcons trade with Minnesota Vikings (Atlanta gets Minnesota's 1st round pick, 23rd overall, Minnesota's 3rd round pick, 87th overall, and Minnesota's 5th round pick, 119th overall) 

Minnesota Vikings select Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

9) Chicago Bears select Peter Skoronski, OL, Northwestern

10) Philadelphia Eagles select Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia

11) Tennessee Titans select Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

12) Houston Texans select Jaxson Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

13) Green Bay Packers select Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah

14) New England Patriots select Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa

15) New York Jets select Paris Johnson, OT, Ohio State

16) Washington Commanders select Broderick Jones, OT Georgia

17) Pittsburgh Steelers select Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

18) Detroit Lions select Steve Avila, G, TCU

19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers select Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas 

20) Seattle Seahawks select Quentin Johnson, WR, TCU

21) Los Angeles Chargers select Jordan Addison, WR, USC

22) Baltimore Ravens select O'Cyrus Torrence, OG, Florida

23) Atlanta Falcons select Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

24) Jacksonville Jaguars select Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

25) New York Giants select Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

26) Dallas Cowboys select Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

27) Buffalo Bills select Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas

28) Cincinnati Bengals select Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State

29) New Orleans Saints select Bryan Bresee, DL, Clemson

30) TRADE-Philadelphia Eagles trade with Miami Dolphins (Philly gets Miami's 2nd round pick, 51st overall, and Miami's 2024 2nd round pick)

Miami Dolphins select Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama

31) Kansas City Chiefs select Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma 

2023 NFL Draft Cheat Sheet-Offensive Rankings

 Quarterback

1) Bryce Young- Alabama

2) C.J. Stroud- Ohio State

3) Will Levis- Kentucky

4) Anthony Richardson- Florida

5) Hendon Hooker- Tennessee

6) Jake Haener- Fresno State

7) Aidan O'Connell- Purdue

8) Clayton Tune- Houston

9) Tanner McKee- Stanford

10) Jaren Hall- BYU

Running Back

1) Bijan Robinson- Texas

2) Jahmyr Gibbs- Alabama

3) Roschon Johnson- Texas

4) Devon Achane- Texas A&M

5) Tyjae Spears- Tulane

6) Zach Charbonnet- UCLA

7) Tank Bigsby- Auburn

8) Zach Evans- Ole Miss

9) Eric Gray- Oklahoma

10) Kendre Miller- TCU

Wide Receiver

1) Quentin Johnson- TCU

2) Jaxon Smith-Njigba- Ohio State

3) Zay Flowers- Boston College

4) Jordan Addison- USC

5) Josh Downs- North Carolina

6) Tyler Scott- Cincinnati 

7) Jalin Hyatt- Tennessee

8) Jayden Reed- Michigan State

9) Rashee Rice- SMU

10) Marvin Mims- Oklahoma

11) Cedric Tillman- Tennessee

12) Parker Washington- Penn State

13) Nathaniel Dell- Houston

14) A.T. Perry- Wake Forest

15) Kayshon Boutte- LSU

Tight End

1) Michael Mayer-Notre Dame

2) Dalton Kincaid- Utah

3) Darnell Washington-Georgia

4) Sam LaPorta-Iowa

5) Luke Musgrave-Oregon State

6) Tucker Kraft- South Dakota State

7) Will Mallory-Miami

8) Brenton Strange- Penn State

9) Zack Kuntz- Old Dominion

10) Luke Schoonmaker- Michigan 

Offensive Tackle

1) Peter Skonronski- Northwestern

2) Paris Johnson- Ohio State

3) Tyler Steen- Alabama

4) Jaelyn Duncan-Maryland

5) Darnell Wright- Tennessee

6) Broderick Jones-Georgia

7) Anton Harrison-Oklahoma

8) Nick Broeker- Ole Miss

9) Dawand Jones- Ohio State

10) Ryan Hayes- Michigan

Guard

1) O'Cyrus Torrence- Florida

2) Cody Mauch- North Dakota State

3) Steve Avila - TCU 

4) Joe Tippman- Wisconsin

5) Jarrett Patterson- Notre Dame

6) Emil Ekiyor- Alabama

7) Andrew Vorhees- USC

8) Braeden Daniels- Utah

9) McClendon Curtis-Chattanooga

10) K.T. Leveston- Kansas State

Center

1) Olusegan Oluwatimi- Michigan

2) John Michael Schmitz-Minnesota

3) Luke Wypler- Ohio State

4) Alex Forsyth-Oregon

5) Darrian Dalcourt- Alabama

2023 NFL Draft Cheat Sheet-Defensive Rankings

 Defensive Line

1) Jalen Carter- Georgia

2) Bryan Bresee- Clemson

3) Calijah Kancey- Pittsburgh

4) Adetomiwa Adebawore- Northwestern

5) Mazi Smith- Michigan

6) Gervon Dexter- Florida

7) Karl Brooks- Bowling Green

8) Moro Ojomo- Texas

9) Zacch Pickens- South Carolina

10) Tuli Tuipulotu-USC

Edge

1) Will Anderson- Alabama

2) Tyree Wilson- Texas Tech

3) Lukas Van Ness- Iowa

4) Nolan Smith- Georgia

5) Myles Murphy- Clemson

6) BJ Ojulari- LSU

7) Derick Hall- Auburn

8) Felix Anudike-Uzomah- Kansas State

9) Will McDonald- Iowa State

10) Andre Carter- Army 

11) Jalen Redmond- Oklahoma

12) Byron Young- Tennessee

13) Keion White- Georgia Tech

14) Isaiah Foskey- Notre Dame

15) Zach Harrison- Ohio State

Linebacker

1) Drew Sanders- Arkansas

2) Daiyan Henley- Washington State

3) Jack Campbell- Iowa

4) Trenton Simpson- Clemson

5) Dorian Williams- Tulane

6) Henry To'oto'o- Alabama

7) Noah Sewell-Oregon

8) Mike Jones- LSU

9) Owen Pappoe- Auburn

10) DeMarvion Overshown- Texas

Cornerback

1) Christian Gonzalez- Oregon

2) Devon Witherspoon- Illinois

3) Joey Porter Jr. Penn State

4) Cam Smith- South Carolina

5) Deonte Banks- Maryland

6) Kelee Ringo- Georgia

7) Emmanuel Forbes- Miss State

8) Jakorian Bennett-Maryland

9) Eli Ricks- Alabama

10) Julius Brents- Kansas State

11) DJ Turner- Michigan

12) Cory Trice- Purdue

13) Clark Phillips- Utah

14) Ji'Ayir Brown- Penn State

15) Darius Rush- South Carolina

Safety

1) Brian Branch- Alabama

2) JL Skinner- Boise State

3) Jartavius Martin- Illinois

4) Antonio Johnson- Texas A&M

5) Daniel Scott- Cal

6) Sydney Brown- Illinois

7) Marte Mapu- Sacramento State

8) Jordan Battle- Alabama

9) Kaevon Merriweather- Iowa

10) Brandon Joseph- Notre Dame

Broncos Make Major Moves in Free Agency

 The Broncos wasted no time and no money when they dove into the free agency market at the beginning of the new league year this week. The Broncos spent a lot of money to sign free agents and were very active. I know that winning free agency in March doesn't guarantee winning games in September, but at least the Broncos were aggressive and went out and improved the team. Here are the moves the Broncos made and some analysis for each one:

1) Broncos sign RT Mike McGlinchey (5 years $87.5 million -$50 million guaranteed): The Broncos needed to improve their offensive line and they did by adding McGlinchey. He is a road-grader and was a top offensive tackle for the 49ers the last few years. The Broncos have needed solid stability at the Right Tackle spot, and they think they have found one in McGlinchey.

2) Broncos sign G Ben Powers ( 4 years $51.5 million- $28.5 million guaranteed): The Broncos also needed to improve on the interior of their offensive line, and Powers was one of the top-rated Guards available. He was really good in Baltimore last year, and this is another move that improves the Broncos offensive line. 

3) Broncos sign DE Zach Allen (3 years $45.75 million- $32.5 million guaranteed): Instead of trying to sign Dremont Jones, the Broncos opted to sign Allen away from Arizona. He had similar production to Jones last year, and he is run-stuffer and can get after the QB. We will see if this turns out to be an upgrade over Jones. 

4) Broncos sign QB Jarrett Stidham (2 years $10 million- $5 million guaranteed): I had a feeling that Brett Rypien's days in Denver as the backup QB were going to be over, and Stidham comes over from the Raiders to back up Russell Wilson. If Stidham has to play due to a Wilson injury, there is some optimism that he can play well for a start or two. 

5) Broncos sign TE Chris Manhertz (2 years $6 million-$3.3 million guaranteed): Not only did the Broncos need to improve their offensive line, but they needed to add another blocker to the TE position. Manhertz is a blocking TE, and it will be fun to see him join Greg Dulcich and Albert O. 

6) Broncos sign RB Samaje Perine (2 years $7.5 million-$3 million guaranteed): This was a really good signing by Denver. They get a physical back in Perine, who can also help out in pass protection. Perine could be a real key in the Broncos offense under Sean Payton. 

7) Broncos sign FB Michael Burton (1 year $1.3 million guaranteed): The Broncos didn't have a Fullback on the roster last season, and now they add Burton from the Chiefs. It will be fun to see Denver line up in some formations with a fullback leading the way for their tailbacks. 

8) Broncos sign CB/RET Tremon Smith (2 years $5.5 million): Montrell Washington did not have a good rookie season as a returner in Denver, so it was a position that they had to look to help and/or upgrade. They sign Smith from the Texans and this could be a big upgrade to get the special teams going.

9) Broncos re-sign LB Alex Singleton (3 years $18 million- $9 million guaranteed): This was a move that every Broncos fan wanted to see the team make. Getting Singleton back was huge. He had a great season in Denver last year, and is a tackling machine. It will be nice to see him comeback and pair up with Josey Jewell in the middle again.

10) Broncos re-sign S P.J. Locke (Terms Undisclosed): Locke was re-signed as a restricted free agent, and he brings some depth and value to the secondary. 

Super Bowl LVII Recap and Reaction

 Super Bowl LVII is in the books, and the Kansas City Chiefs are hoisting the Lombardi Trophy after defeating the Eagles in a thriller 38-35. It is the third Super Bowl in franchise history for the Chiefs and the second in four years. Pat Mahomes was named Super Bowl MVP, and the game certainly lived up to the hype. It was a great back and forth game and a shootout, but in the end Mahomes and the Chiefs pulled it out late and are back on top of the NFL. Here are some quick hit thoughts about the game from my perspective.....

1) This was a very fun and entertaining Super Bowl. There haven't been to many shootouts in the Super Bowl, but this was a classic. It had a lot of big plays on both sides of the ball and came down to a field goal at the end. A great game by any measure for a Super Bowl.

2) The Chiefs deserved the win and Mahomes was lights out in the second half. After trailing 24-14 at halftime, Mahomes led the Chiefs to three straight touchdown drives and the game-winning field goal. He has cemented his status as the NFL's best player, and he is already a Hall of Famer after only starting for five seasons. He is the face of the league and with two Super Bowls, he might be on pace to catch Tom Brady. It is still early and a lot can happen but it is all there for Mahomes to ascent himself as a Top 3 All-Time QB.

3) The Eagles and their fans will have a very long and bitter offseason after losing this game. The Eagles controlled this game for three quarters, and I really felt like they were going to win until the very end. I think the key moments in this game for the Eagles were: The Jalen Hurts fumble that was recovered by Nick Bolton and returned for a TD in the 2nd quarter to tie the game at 14. Also, when they were up 24-21 and settled for a field goal and going up 27-21 instead of possibly being up 31-21 in the 3rd quarter. The overturn replay of the Devonta Smith catch on the sideline really hurt the Eagles chances. Finally, when the Chiefs took the lead at 28-27 with 12:04 left in the game, it felt like the Eagles had done so much right in this game, and then all of a sudden they were trailing.

4) Eagles QB Jalen Hurts was amazing all game long. He ran for three touchdowns and threw for another and accounted for almost 400 yards of total offense. He matched Mahomes play-for-play, and he was the best player on the field-despite the critical fumble- and would have won the MVP if the Eagles won the game. Give credit to Hurts because he was phenomenal in a losing effort, and proved he will be a top-tier QB moving forward.

5) The Eagles defense had a very bad day and it cost them the game. For two weeks, all we heard about was the Eagles pass rush and how they were going to get after Mahomes, but they didn't even register a sack in the game. They barely generated any pressure. Their defense also got gashed by the Chiefs in the run game-which no one had predicted. They had no adjustments in the second half and had no answers as the Chiefs went down the field on them the entire second half and took the game over. The Eagles prided themselves for two weeks on how good their defense was, but they didn't match that hype in the Super Bowl at all.

6) I thought Andy Reid did a great job in this game. His play-calling and play design was fantastic and he created some great plays to help KC get in the endzone at key moments down the stretch. He out-schemed and out-coached the Eagles coaching staff in the second half and it proved the difference in the game.He once again showed why is a Hall of Fame caliber head coach and now he has two Super Bowl rings to prove it. 

7) The refs called a controversial penalty late in the game that cost Philly the Super Bowl, and that can't be overlooked. On 3rd and 8 from the Philly 15 with only 1:54 seconds left, Mahomes threw incomplete to JuJu Smith-Schuster in the end zone. There was a flag and Philly CB James Bradberry was flagged for defensive holding. It gave the Chiefs a first down and they were essentially able to run the clock down to 8 seconds and kick the game-winning field goal. Yes, there was a tug from Bradberry on the play, but it really wasn't that bad and I think the ref should have not thrown the flag. You can't throw the flag at that point in the game. The problem is that every week in the NFL the officiating either makes a call or a non-call on a play like that and it affects the outcome-in this case the Super Bowl. It is just not consistent week to week with these NFL officials. I hated the call. The ball was overthrown anyway. I just think the ref has to put the flag away in those situations and just let them play. It was a rough call to end a really good game.

8) The Eagles have a built a very talented team and Hurts has blossomed into a star, but you just never know if you will get back to a Super Bowl. It is so tough. Even though the NFC is weak, you just can't pencil the Eagles in to get back there next year. This will be an opportunity lost for them and this one will sting a long, long time for Eagles fans. EVERYONE was picking the Eagles to win this game by the time the game kicked off. They were favored to win the game, and the line never really moved. Most of the experts on the pregame shows picked the Eagles. They were expected to win the game, dominated and controlled most of the game, and still lost. That is a tough pill to swallow.

9) As I said in my Super Bowl preview, if KC wins this game, then you can start talking about them being a dynasty. Mahomes is only 27, and Andy Reid is 65 and not looking to retire anytime soon, so this team is going to be favored next year to get back and win another Super Bowl. They are going to be a force to reckon with in the foreseeable future, and I think we will be seeing this group in many more Super Bowls-unfortunately.

10) As far as the Broncos are concerned, it is definitely demoralizing to see the Chiefs win another Super Bowl, but with Sean Payton coming into the fold as our new head coach, maybe it gives us Broncos fans some hope that we can turn this team around and somehow find a way to challenge the Chiefs. 

Super Bowl LVII Preview

Super Bowl LVII kicks off on Sunday from Arizona. It is a matchup of both #1 seeds in the AFC and NFC with the Chiefs and Eagles squaring off. These were probably the two best teams in the NFL all year long, so this is certainly a game that is evenly matched and should be a very good, competitive game. The Super Bowl has provided a lot of really good games the last 20 years, and there really is no more big blowouts like there was in the 70s and 80s. This game does feature a bunch of interesting storylines. Here is a breakdown of the five major storylines heading into Super Bowl LVII...

I) The Andy Reid Bowl: Andy Reid was the Eagles coach from 1999-2012. He led them to a Super Bowl appearance in 2004 and was considered the most successful coach in Eagles history at the time. He left and went to Kansas City in 2013 and has turned the Chiefs into a powerhouse with three trips to the Super Bowl in the last four seasons. He is a Hall of Fame coach, who was linked to the Eagles and now is linked to the Chiefs. Now, he goes for his second Super Bowl title with his former team standing in the way.

II) The Kelce Bowl: This storyline is going to get annoying and old by the time the game kicks off on Sunday, but it is noteworthy that the Kelce brothers are facing off in the Super Bowl. It also helps that both are All-Pros and are major performers for their respective teams. Travis Kelce is the best TE in the NFL, and he is one of the main reasons why the Chiefs are so good on offense. Jason Kelce is probably the best Center in the NFL, and one of the main reasons why the Eagles offensive line is so good. They also host a podcast together throughout the season. Both are big personalities, and as much as this story will be overly talked about, it is pretty cool that these two brothers are playing each other in the Super Bowl.

III) Pat Mahomes Legacy: Pat Mahomes has taken the NFL by storm since he got the starting job in KC in his second year in 2018. He has led the Chiefs to three Super Bowls in four years and has already won one Lombardi Trophy. He is on the verge of getting his second title this year. He is only 27 years old. He is already a Hall of Fame player, and he is only 27. Tom Brady just retired, but Mahomes is on his way to possibly challenge Brady in Super Bowls, wins, and passing records. Mahomes desperately needs a second title, and if he gets it this year, then his legacy will continue to grow.

IV) The Philly Turnaround: After the 2020 season, the Eagles were a mess. They had a losing season, fired HC Doug Pederson, and moved on from Carson Wentz. They had an unproven QB in Jalen Hurts, and hired an unknown coach in Nick Sirianni. Two years later, they finished with the best record in the NFC and are back in the Super Bowl. It is quite a turnaround for this franchise and it happened so quickly. If they can get their second Super Bowl title in six years, then this franchise will become one of the true model franchises of the NFL. 

V) The Kansas City Dynasty: Teams like the Packers ruled the 60s, the Steelers ruled the 70s, the Niners ruled the 80s, the Cowboys ruled the 90s, and the Patriots ruled the 2000s. Now, the Chiefs are on the verge of owning this next decade. This is their third Super Bowl in four years (2019, 2020, 2022), and they are on the cusp of winning a second title in four years. With Patrick Mahomes in place as the best QB on the planet and only 27, and a Hall-of-Fame coach in Andy Reid, the Chiefs (unfortunately for Broncos fans) are set up to win multiple Super Bowls and dominate this era just like those teams I mentioned earlier in prior decades. 

Super Bowl LVII Preview 

Kansas City vs. Philadelphia

Final 2022 Regular Season Overall Record: 137-119-16

Last Week's Playoff Record: 2-0

Overall Playoff Record: 6-6

A Case for the Chiefs: Do you really want to bet against Patrick Mahomes in a Super Bowl? After seeing what he did against the Bengals, you just can't doubt him. Even if the game is close, Mahomes can come down and pull it out at the end. That's how good he is at this moment of his career. The Eagles have had an easy path of QBs to face all year long, and they have not faced the caliber of player that Mahomes is. I give the edge in the coaching matchup to Andy Reid over Nick Sirianni. The Chiefs staff has been here before and have a lot of big game experience. You can see the Chiefs defense being able to disrupt and force Jalen Hurts into some mistakes. Hurts did not look good at all against the Niners in the NFC Championship Game. Also, it feels like the Chiefs are poised to win their second Super Bowl in the Reid-Mahomes era. They lost in 2020 to the Bucs in the Covid Super Bowl, and they blew the AFC Championship to Cincy last year, so I can't see them getting to the Super Bowl and losing it. 

A Case for the Eagles: They have cruised through the NFC all year long. They were the best team in the NFC from Week 1 all the way through the NFC Championship. They have a dominating offensive and defensive line. Usually, the team with the better line on both offense and defense will win the game, and the Eagles have that advantage over the Chiefs. I could see Philly just running the ball down the Chiefs throat all game long. Their defense also lead the NFL in sacks this year and they have a relentless pass rush. That could overwhelm the Chiefs offensive line, and you could see Mahomes running for his life. There is a swagger to this Philly team and it stems from their coach, Nick Sirianni. I think the Eagles will play fast and loose-even though they are a slight favorite.

Prediction: Kansas City (+1) over PHILADELPHIA: This game reminds me so much of the Chiefs-49ers Super Bowl LIV when KC won 31-20. The 49ers had the better defense and lines, and they kept the Chiefs in check until it was 20-10 midway through the 4th quarter. Then, Mahomes and the Chiefs exploded and won the game 31-20. I see this game playing out the same way. The Eagles grab a lead and hold onto it into the 4th quarter, but Mahomes finds a way to bring the Chiefs back and they take the lead. A late Jalen Hurts turnover seals the game for the Chiefs. Kansas City will win their second Super Bowl in four years (3rd in franchise history), and Mahomes gets his second Lombardi Trophy. 

Final Score: Chiefs-30 Eagles-20

Sean Payton Named Broncos Head Coach

 On Tuesday, Sean Payton agreed to become the next head coach of the Denver Broncos. Payton, who was still under contract with the Saints, comes to Denver after the Broncos agreed to compensate the Saints with a 2023 1st Round pick (#29 overall) and a 2024 2nd Round pick. The Broncos get a 2024 3rd Round pick back from New Orleans. The Broncos started this search looking for to make a "big splash" and a "CEO" type of head coach. They went after Jim Harbaugh and some other candidates. Well, they got one in getting Sean Payton. He is the best head coaching candidate that is out there and the Broncos were able to get him. This franchise needed an established, veteran head coach. They couldn't go down this road and hire another first-time head coach. They needed experience, leadership, and someone that can fix Russell Wilson. They got that in the hiring of Sean Payton. Here is how I breakdown this coaching hire for Denver.....

-As I said, the Broncos started this search looking for a big name, experienced coach. I would have been pleased with either Sean Payton or Jim Harbaugh. Once Harbaugh decided to go back to Michigan, getting Payton was the next best option.

-There is a lot of talk about how the Broncos preferred DeMeco Ryans as their top candidate, but the problem I had with Ryans was that he was going to be a first-time head coach. They couldn't go down that route once again.

-Regardless if Payton was their first choice or third choice, it doesn't matter. He is THE choice and it is about as good of a hire as you can get. Sean Payton's resume speaks for itself. That is the bottom line.

-I give the new Walton-Penner ownership group credit: They identified what they needed in a new head coach, and they went after it and got it-regardless of having to giving up draft capital for Payton.

-Payton is the best option for fixing Russell Wilson. We know how Payton is a great offensive mind and QB coach, so this has to be a good thing for Russ and the rest of the Broncos offense.

-Payton also brings instant leadership and credibility to the locker room. This franchise desperately needed a true head coach and a true leader. After dealing with first year head coaches the last three hires, this team needed a real coach to take over and they got that in Payton.

-This was a job that many people around the NFL thought was not a good job, and many didn't expect Sean Payton to take this job, but lo and behold he did and that still shows the value and respect the Broncos organization still has in the NFL.

-This was a move the Broncos had to make. They got the best candidate out there, and it helps improve their chances of turning this franchise around and getting back into the playoffs. Payton certainly can help get the Broncos there. I'm being cautiously optimistic because last year I got burned with the debacle of the 2022 season, but I'm happy that Sean Payton is coming to Denver to be the head coach, and I'm really excited for the 2023 season. Go Broncos!

Championship Sunday Picks

 We are down to the final four in the NFL as we get set up for Championship Sunday. The NFC Championship Game and AFC Championship Game both feature the four best teams in the NFL. What is interesting is that three of the four teams were in the Championship games last year (SF, KC, and Cincy), which is very hard to accomplish. We also have a rematch in the AFC Title Game with the Chiefs hosting the Bengals for the second straight year (First time since NE/Balt in 2011-2012). Philly and San Francisco have been on a collision source for over a month now, so the NFC game should be really good. Before I break down the games and give picks, I always like the rank the best/juiciest/most intriguing Super Bowl matchups based on the four teams left. Here is how I would rank the matchups:

1) Kansas City vs Philadelphia: The Andy Reid Bowl

2) Kansas City vs San Francisco: The rematch from Super Bowl LIV after the 2019 season

3) Cincinnati vs San Francisco: The third matchup for these teams in the Super Bowl (XVI and XXIII)

4) Cincinnati vs Philadelphia: Not a lot of history here, but you could build up the battle between Joe Burrow and Jalen Hurts

Now, let's get to the picks for Championship Sunday...

Final 2022 Regular Season Overall Record: 137-119-16

Last Week's Playoff Record: 2-2

Overall Playoff Record: 4-6

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

NFC Championship Game 

(2) San Francisco at (1) Philadelphia

A Case for the 49ers: The Niners have the best defense in the league and the best of the final four teams. They have not played the Eagles this year, and it feels like Philly might not be ready for what the 49ers bring to the table. This is the second straight year the Niners have made a NFC Championship, so they have the experience and have been there before. The moment won't be too big for them. Even if Brock Purdy struggles, we know that they have so many weapons (Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, Brandon Aiyuk) that it can help them get by. I also give the edge in coaching to Kyle Shanahan. They haven't lost since October 23rd, and it would surprise no one if they went into Philly and beat the Eagles.

A Case for the Eagles: They also can lay claim to the title of best team in the NFC all year long. Yes, they faltered a little bit down the stretch, but they completely dominated the Giants in the Divisional Round, and that could have gotten them back on track. They are at home, and that Philly crowd will be fired up with the chance to see the Eagles go back to the Super Bowl. Their run game is dominating with Jalen Hurst at the controls, and their pass rush could be the deciding factor in the game. You could see the Eagles pass rushers take over the game, and putting the end to the Brock Purdy story.

Prediction: PHILADELPHIA (-2) over San Francisco: I think this is a great game between the true two best teams in the NFC. This will be a slugfest, but I'm think the Eagles win the game with their pass rush and the homefield advantage making the difference. Philly heads to their fourth Super Bowl in franchise history and the second Super Bowl appearance in six seasons.

Final Score: Eagles-24 49ers-17

AFC Championship Game

(3) Cincinnati at (1) Kansas City

A Case for the Bengals: The Bengals looked dominating in their win over Buffalo in Orchard Park in the Divisional Round. They completely destroyed the Bills. We know they are not scared of the Chiefs. They have won three in a row over KC and that includes last year's stunning win in Arrowhead in the AFC Championship Game. Joe Burrow has put himself in that top tier of franchise QBs, and it looks like it might be his time to get a Super Bowl and create his legacy. The Bengals haven't lost since Halloween, and they have a chip on their shoulder from being overlooked with all the neutral game site involving the Bills and the Chiefs. They know they can beat the Chiefs and in Arrowhead, so that will not be an issue for them. They have been here before and the pressure won't overwhelm them. Plus, there is a lot of questions regarding Pat Mahomes' ankle after he injured it last week against the Jags. If he is limited at all, then the Bengals could really take advantage.

A Case for the Chiefs: How can you bet against or go against Pat Mahomes? He suffered a high-ankle sprain on Saturday in the Divisional Round win over the Jaguars, but he finished the game and threw a TD pass to seal the victory. He practiced all week, looked good on it, and is expected to be full go for the game on Sunday. I think he will play well and the ankle won't be a factor. I know Mahomes and the Chiefs have lost three in a row to the Bengals, but I can't see them losing a fourth straight time to them. Think about it: Are the Chiefs really going to lose back-to-back AFC Championship Games at home to the Bengals? I can't see it happening. Mahomes will do enough to find a way to help the Chiefs win. Plus, the Chiefs have plenty of motivation after being an underdog at home for most of the week, and the Bengals calling Arrowhead Stadium: "Burrowood Stadium." They hear the chatter, and they will use that in their effort against the Bengals. 

Prediction: KANSAS CITY (PICK) over Cincinnati: The Chiefs blew last year's AFC Championship Game at home to the Bengals, but they get revenge this year and punch their ticket to Super Bowl LVII, their third Super Bowl appearance in four seasons. 

Final Score: Chiefs-28 Bengals-23

2022 Divisional Playoff Picks

 The Wild Card round was a great weekend of football. I really wasn't expecting much out of the weekend, but I was wrong. On Saturday, Seattle-SF was a good game until late in the 3rd quarter, then the Niners pulled away. Jacksonville made an historic comeback down 27-0 to knock off the Chargers 31-30. Sunday saw the Bills get taken to the limit by the Dolphins and escape with a 34-31 win. The Giants went into Minnesota and upset the Vikings 31-24, and on Sunday night the Bengals barely survived the Ravens 24-17. Monday night was a bit of a dud with the Cowboys blowing out the Buccaneers, but overall the weekend was great. Now, the Divisional weekend is upon us and the two #1 seeds in the AFC and NFC get into the action with Kansas City and Philadelphia hosting games on Saturday. It should set up to be another great weekend of playoff football. Here are the picks for the 2022 Divisional Playoffs....

Final 2022 Regular Season Overall Record: 137-119-16

Last Week's Playoff Record: 2-4

Overall Playoff Record: 2-4

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

AFC Divisional Playoff

(4) Jacksonville at (1) Kansas City

A Case for the Jaguars: The Jags are really playing with nothing to lose after pulling off the stunning upset last week over the Chargers. A year after having the #1 overall pick, the Jags won the AFC South at 9-8, and won a home playoff game. They have exceeded expectations this year, and now they can just go out there in Arrowhead on Saturday and see what happens. Maybe Doug Pederson can outwit Andy Reid? Maybe Trevor Lawrence can out duel Pat Mahomes? Maybe the Chiefs try to get a little too cut like they always do and the Jaguars make them pay. 

A Case for the Chiefs: They are the #1 seed for a reason. Pat Mahomes was lights out once again this year, and he will probably win the MVP award. We know how tough they are at home, and I can't see them losing back-to-back home playoff games after they lost the AFC Championship at home last year to Cincy. They smoked Jacksonville in the regular season in Arrowhead, and I just can't see a scenario in which the Chiefs don't come out and take care of business at home in this spot on Saturday. 

Prediction: KANSAS CITY (-9) over Jacksonville: KC comes out and gets an early lead on Jacksonville and cruises to their 5th straight AFC Championship Game.

Final Score: Chiefs-30 Jaguars-20: 

NFC Divisional Playoff

(6) NY Giants at (1) Philadelphia 

A Case for the Giants: The G-Men are well-coached with Brian Daboll at the helm, and that was proved last week in their win over Minnesota. Daniel Jones was tremendous in that game, and you can expect Daboll to once again craft a gameplan to utilize Jones and Saquon Barkley like he has all season long-especially against a division opponent. The Giants are always playing with house money since no one saw them getting to the playoffs and actually winning a playoff game this year. All the pressure is on the Eagles, and the Giants can take advantage of that. Maybe Jalen Hurts is more banged up with that shoulder than the Eagles are letting on. The Giants have that "Dangerous 2011" feel to them this year as well.

A Case for the Eagles: They were the best team in the NFC all year long. They dominated the Giants in the first matchup in the Meadowlands. Although the game was close in Week 18, I don't put too much stock into that game. Also, the crowd in Philly will be electric on Saturday night-especially with their rival Giants coming to town for a playoff game. I think the Eagles will be rested and ready. I also think the Eagles defense will provide a significant challenge to the Giants offense, and that could be the real difference in this game. 

Prediction: PHILADELPHIA (-7) over NY Giants: The Eagles will win the game on Saturday night in Philly, but I think the Giants will keep it close for while. They will make the Eagles sweat a little bit in this one, but ultimately Philly gets by their rival and advances to the NFC Championship for the first time since 2017.

Final Score: Eagles-28 Giants 20

AFC Divisional Playoff

(3) Cincinnati at (2) Buffalo

A Case for the Bengals: The Bengals are legitimate Super Bowl contenders all year, and they have be kind of forgotten in the AFC with the Chiefs and the Bills. This team feels a little disrespected, and I can see them using this as extra motivation this week on the road in Buffalo. It feels a little like "Us against the World" mentality with the Bengals. I also think the Bengals will have a chip on their shoulder because they felt like they might have won that game in Cincy in Week 17 before Damar Hamlin got injured. I can see the Bengals coming out, matching the emotions of the Bills and their crowd, and putting together a terrific performance. 

A Case for the Bills: It has felt like it was going to be the Bills year before the whole thing happened to Damar Hamlin, and now they have Cincy coming to Buffalo with a trip to the AFC Championship Game on the line. They got by Miami, but I could see that reinvigorating the Bills and perhaps they come back and play lights out against the Bengals at home. The emotion of Damar Hamlin will still be there, and I see the Bills cleaning up their mistakes from last week, and playing well in front of the home crowd in Orchard Park.

Prediction: Cincinnati (+6) over BUFFALO: It feels like this matchup was supposed to happen after their Week 17 MNF game that got cancelled due to the Damar Hamlin injury. I think this a really good game that goes back and forth, and I think Buffalo wins it on a late field goal and sends them to their third straight AFC Championship Game. 

Final Score: Bills-27 Bengals-24

NFC Divisional Playoff

(5) Dallas at (2) San Francisco

A Case for the Cowboys: They looked so dominating on Monday night in their win over the Bucs in Tampa. Dak Prescott had a great game, and when their offense is on, they are hard to stop. They won 12 games this season for a reason. When is Brock Purdy story going to go badly for SF? I can see this being the week where the Cowboys defense forces Purdy into mistakes, and he has a bad game. Also, Dallas is due to advance past the Divisional Round. They haven't been to a NFC Championship Game since 1995. They have had some heartbreak in the Divisional Round in recent years, and at some point they are going to breakthrough and get back to Championship Sunday. This could be their time.

A Case for the 49ers: They are the best team in the NFC and they proved it once again last week in their win over Seattle in the Wild Card game. Seattle hung tough for almost three quarters, then the Niners turned it on and just blew them out of the water. They are the better team in this game, and you would expect their defense to be able to give Dak Prescott fits. You also have to worry about the Cowboys kicker, Brett Maher, after he missed FOUR extra points in the playoff win over Tampa.  I also favor Kyle Shanahan over Mike McCarthy in the coaching matchup and it is not even close. Also, be careful putting too much stock in Dallas' win over Tampa Bay in Round 1. That Bucs team was 8-9 and pretty bad all year. The Niners are certainly a different level of opponent. 

Prediction: Dallas (+4) over SAN FRANCISCO: This is a classic matchup between two storied franchises. This is a throwback to my childhood and the rivalry between these two teams in the 1990s. I am look for an upset this week, so I'm going to go with Dallas here. I think they spoil the 49ers playoff run and advance to their first NFC Championship since 1995.

Final Score: Cowboys-23 49ers-20 

2022 Wild Card Weekend Picks

The 2022 NFL Playoffs begin this weekend with the Wild Card round. This is a great weekend of football for the NFL fan. A doubleheader on Saturday, a tripleheader on Sunday, and a Monday night game. This year, the matchups are not the greatest, but it should be a fun three days of playoff action as the chase for the Lombardi Trophy begins....

Last Week's Record: 8-8-0

Final 2022 Regular Season Overall Record: 137-119-16

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

NFC Wild Card Game

(7) Seattle at (2) San Francisco 

A Case for the Seahawks: The Seahawks are playing with house money. No one thought they would be a playoff team this year, and they went 9-8 and somehow made it. Anything beyond that would be gravy. They are a big underdog heading into San Francisco, and they got swept by the Niners in the regular season. All the pressure is on the Niners. The Seahawks can come into this game and play fast and loose. Plus, are we due for the classic stink game by Brock Purdy? If that happens, then maybe Seattle pulls off the big upset.

A Case for the 49ers: They are one of the four best teams in the entire NFL. They are a legitimate Super Bowl contender. They dominated the Seahawks in the regular season and won both games convincingly. They have the best defense in the league and riding a 10-game win streak. Brock Purdy is playing really well, and that whole storyline might be the biggest story that no one is paying attention to in the playoffs. He doesn't have to do much except get the ball to Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Deebo Samuel. As long as Purdy doesn't make mistakes, they will be fine.

Prediction: Seattle (+10) over SAN FRANCISCO: The Seahawks will keep it closer than the last time they met over a month ago, but the 49ers will be in control most of the game and cruise to a solid victory and advance to the Divisional Round.

Final Score: 49ers-23 Seahawks-14

AFC Wild Card Game

(5) LA Chargers at (4) Jacksonville

A Case for the Chargers: They are the better team, and they are more talented in a lot of spots across the board. This is Justin Herbert's first appearance in the playoffs, and this could be the beginning of his moment. I don't think that Jacksonville is a tough place to play, so going on the road shouldn't be too much of an issue. Justin Herbert was banged up in that Week 3 loss to the Jags, so you could throw that game out of the window from a Chargers perspective. They have that "dark horse" factor and you could see this team making a run here in these playoffs.

A Case for the Jaguars: They are a surprise team and no one expected them to win their division this year. They have Doug Pederson and his playoff experience to lean on. You have to give the coaching edge to Pederson in this game over Brandon Staley. Trevor Lawrence has been playing really well, and this could be the start of his run with his first playoff appearance. They did beat the Chargers in Week 3, so they have the confidence that they can beat this team. They are also playing with house money because everyone is picking the Chargers to beat them this weekend.

Prediction: LA Chargers (-2) over JACKSONVILLE: The Chargers are making their first playoff appearance since 2018, and they will advance to the Divisional Round with a solid victory on the road in Jacksonville on Saturday night. 

Final Score: Chargers-27 Jaguars-17

AFC Wild Card Game

(7) Miami at (2) Buffalo

A Case for the Dolphins: No one truly believes the Dolphins are going to go into Buffalo and knock off the Bills, so they certainly have the underdog angle convered. Tua is out and it looks like Skyler Thompson is going to start for them, so they are definitely playing with house money. Maybe they can keep it close long enough to give the Bills a scare and then pull off the upset.

A Case for the Bills: From the moment this season started, it has been about if the Bills can finally win that elusive Super Bowl. Their whole season has built up to this moment. They also have the emotional angle of winning for Damar Hamlin, who is thankfully recovering from his scary cardiac arrest two weeks ago. They can ride that emotion in front of their home crowd and overwhelm the Dolphins, who are down to their third-string QB. This could be the year for the Bills. 

Prediction: BUFFALO (-12) over Miami: The Bills have no trouble disposing of the Dolphins and advancing to the Divisional Round for the third year in a row.

Final Score: Bills-30 Dolphins-14

NFC Wild Card Game

(6) NY Giants at (3) Minnesota

A Case for the Giants: The Giants played the Vikings really close in Week 16 on Christmas Eve in Minnesota. They lost on a last second field goal, so you know they can hang with the Vikings. Also, Brian Daboll has done such a great job with this team this year. Turning this team around in one year and getting them to the playoffs is such a huge accomplishment. You know the Giants will be prepared and ready to go in this game. Also, how confident can anyone be with the Vikings? They might be the shakiest 13 win team in recent memory.

A Case for the Vikings: They are at home and that crowd and those fans will be a big factor. They will be ready to go for the Vikings. You have to think that they will use the motivation of a lot of people picking the Giants to upset them as a way to get them fired up and not take the Giants lightly at all. They have won so many close games this year, so I could see them winning another close one here late in dramatic fashion. 

Prediction: MINNESOTA (-3) over NY Giants: As tempting as it is to take the Giants, I think the Vikings win a close game at home and get their first playoff win since 2019.

Final Score: Vikings-27 Giants-20

AFC Wild Card Game

(6) Baltimore at (3) Cincinnati

A Case for the Ravens: The Ravens are always tough in the playoffs. They are a tough out for any team that is playing. They will be prepared and come to play-no matter who is at QB. If Lamar Jackson is out, which seems likely, then no one is going to give them a chance, and that will give them extra motivation. They beat Cincy earlier in the season, and they probably didn't show a lot in their Week 18 loss knowing that they were without Jackson and Tyler Huntley at QB, and they would be probably be playing the Bengals in the Wild Card round again. I like the way the Ravens defense has played the second half of the year. That defense can keep this game close. Tyler Huntley can also keep the game close enough for their defense. All the pressure will be on the the Bengals-which could be a factor. 

A Case for the Bengals: They got to the Super Bowl last year, so they have playoff experience with this group. At one point, they were 4-4, and they finished 12-4 (including the the postponed Bills game from Week 17), so they have won eight straight and won the AFC North. With Lamar Jackson most likely being out, then this game becomes a lot easier for the Bengals. They will be at home and in primetime on Sunday Night Football. Also, everyone is talking about how the Bills and Chiefs are on a collision course for the AFC Title, but people are forgetting about the Bengals. This team is good enough to make another run. 

Prediction: Baltimore (+9) over CINCINNATI: Without Lamar Jackson, then Tyler Huntley can at least keep this game close to the 4th quarter. Jackson probably won't play, so you can see a scenario in which the Ravens defense and Huntley can keep this game close.The Bengals will win the game and advance to the Divisional Round for the second straight year and set the stage for a trip to Buffalo, but it won't be as easy as everyone predicts. 

Final Score: Bengals-26 Ravens-18

NFC Wild Card Game

(5) Dallas at (4) Tampa Bay

A Case for the Cowboys: They are one of the best teams in the NFC, and a legitimate Super Bowl contender. They are the better team than the Bucs, and I think that they can actually do some damage in these playoffs. Also, Dallas is due for a long run. They haven't been to a NFC Championship Game since 1996. They were upset last year at home in the Wild Card round, and I think they are long past due to exceed expectations. They can win this game and be the team that no one wants to play in the NFC the next two rounds. I like their defense in this matchup with the Bucs, and I can see their offense just doing enough to win the game. Plus, the Cowboys fans will travel and be well-represented in Tampa. 

A Case for the Buccaneers: They have Tom Brady as their QB, and no matter what has happened in the regular season, they still have Brady, Throw in the fact that they are a home underdog with TOM BRADY as their QB. The Bucs got into playoffs by winning the NFC South at 8-9. They have been a disappointment on offense all year long, but you can just see Brady getting hot in this game and picking apart the Cowboys. Dak Prescott has been shaky the last month of the season, and you can envision a scenario in which he collapses in this game. Also, everyone is picking Dallas, which makes you think that Brady and the Bucs will hear that all week leading up to the game, and then pull off the upset. 

Prediction: Dallas (-3) over TAMPA BAY: No one wants to see this Bucs team advance and it is more fun to see Dallas move on to the next round. I think Dallas is the better team, so I'll take the Cowboys to advance to the Divisional Round.

Final Score: Cowboys-24 Buccaneers-20