Three out of the four road teams advanced on Wild Card weekend. All four underdogs covered or won, and it sets up a very interesting Divisional Round next weekend. Before we look ahead later in the week, here is a look back at the reactions to the Wild Card games last weekend.
AFC Wild Card Game
Indianapolis-21 Houston-7
1) This game was over early. Indy went down and scored a TD on their first possession to make it 7-0. Houston went three and out, and Indy went down and scored another TD on their second possession and it was 14-0. Houston went for a 4th down at midfield on the next possession and didn't get it. A few possessions later, Indy scored and made it 21-0 at the half. The game was over by then. There was no chance at a comeback for the Texans.
2) Bill O'Brien got criticized for a few key decisions in the first half and he deserves the blame. He went for it on 4th down in the first quarter near midfield down 14-0 and DeShaun Watson got picked off. The Texans intercepted Andrew Luck on the ensuing drive, but I didn't like the call by O'Brien. He also went for it on 4th down late in the second quarter, instead of kicking a field goal. The Texans didn't get it again, and they were still down 21-0 at the half. I would have taken the three points there and at least got something going into halftime.
3) The Colts are simply the better team and deserve to win. Give their team credit. They were 1-5 and now they have won their first playoff game since 2014 and are headed to the Divisional Round. Give Frank Reich credit for the job he has done as a first-year head coach, but the key to the Colts is that Andrew Luck is finally healthy. He was hurt for half of 2015, most of 2016, and all of 2017. He is finally healthy and he is the reason why the Colts are playing so well now.
NFC Wild Card Game
Dallas-24 Seattle-22
1) The Cowboys deserve the credit for the win, but you can criticize Pete Carroll for not putting the game in Russell Wilson's hands. The play calling was very suspect for the Seahawks.
2) Jason Garrett big gaffe came in the first half when he decided to go for a 58 yard field goal with 3:17 left to play in the half. The Cowboys missed it, the Seahawks had good field position, and converted it into a field to make it 6-3 with 1:43 to go.
3) The Cowboys answered that scored with a touchdown drive of their own to take a 10-6 lead going into halftime. That was huge, and they went 75 yards in 1:19 to take the the lead.
4) The Seahawks took the lead at 14-10 after a Wilson touchdown run and two-point conversion (Sebastian Janokowski got hurt in the second quarter), with 1:59 left it the third quarter, but the Cowboys answered it with another TD drive of their own. Ezikiel Elliot's 1 yard run put the Cowboys back up 17-14 with 12:28 left in the game.
5) The key sequence was after Dak Prescott got intercepted in the endzone on a batted ball and it gave Seattle hope with 9:43 to play down three. Seattle went three and out though, punted the ball back to Dallas, and the Cowboys went down and scored another TD to make it 24-14. I thought the Cowboys were in trouble when Prescott got intercepted, but they survived that sequence.
6) The Seahawks got a late touchdown and two-point conversion to give the gambling community a wild back door cover, but their onside kick failed, and the Cowboys have their first playoff win since 2014.
AFC Wild Card Game
LA Chargers-23 Baltimore-17
1) This game was all Chargers for 90% of the game, They dominated Lamar Jackson and that Ravens offense. Here were the Ravens first half possessions: Punt, fumble, punt, punt, interception, punt. By halftime, they were down 12-0 and if the Chargers didn't settle for field goals, then who knows how bad this game would have been. Many people were already calling for Jackson to get pulled in favor of Joe Flacco.
2) The Ravens were down 12-3 in the third quarter, and Justin Tucker missed a 50 yard field goal. You know it is not the Ravens day when Tucker misses a kick. The Chargers came down and scored a TD to make it 20-3.
3) The Ravens and Jackson made a furious comeback late. They scored two touchdowns and forced two Chargers punts to cut the game to 23-17. The game would have been over if it wasn't for a hold on Russell Okung that negated a first down run by Melvin Gordon. The Ravens got the ball back with 45 seconds left at their own 34, but Jackson got sacked and fumbled and the Chargers recovered to put the game away.
4) The Chargers won their first playoff game since 2013, and the Ravens head into the offseason wondering for sure if Lamar Jackson is the future at QB for their franchise.
NFC Wild Card Game
Philadelphia-16 Chicago-15
1) This was the best game of the weekend, and it featured Nick Foles doing his magic once again. You have to start to wonder if this whole Foles-Eagles thing is not a fluke. Perhaps Carson Wentz is not the answer in Philly? Foles was big down the stretch and his TD throw on 4th and goal to Golden Tate to give the Eagles the lead late in the 4th quarter was a great play. You just had a feeling he was going to drive them down for the winning score late in the game.
2) The Bears are going to be kicking themselves over losing this one. I felt they should have won the game and advanced. You never know when you will get these chances, and the Bears are a young team with a bright future, but you just never know. This one stings badly and it will really be a long offseason for the Bears and their fans.
3) I thought Matt Nagy should have called his timeouts earlier on the Eagles final drive. He waited too long once they get inside the Bears 10. He needed to get the ball back with more time than they did. I also hated his two point conversion play when the Bears scored in the 4th quarter to make it 15-10.
4) Give Mitch Trubisky credit. He made the throws to get his team in position to win the game and it came down to Coby Parkey to hit a 43 yarder to win and he missed it. The fact that it hit the upright and the crossbar and went out was just a brutal way to end the game. Parkey has to make that kick.
5) The Eagles were dead in the water at 6-7 and Wentz getting hurt. Now, they are advancing to the Divisional Round where they will take on the Saints next weekend. The Bears beat the Vikings on purpose and it ensured the Eagles that they would be playing the Bears, and it came back to bite the Bears and eliminate them. They were better off losing to the Vikings and then playing the Vikings again this past weekend and probably advancing. You really can't make this stuff up.
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Friday, January 4, 2019
Wild Card Weekend Picks!
Although the Broncos season is over and I'm looking forward to the 2019 offseason for them, I still get excited about the next three weeks of playoff football. I love Wild Card weekend, and this year we have four good games in two days. All four road teams have a solid chance to win, and each game could be very close. Let's dive into these games and make some predictions for the first round of the 2019 NFL Playoffs.....
Last Week's (Week 17) Record: 10-6-0
Overall Final Regular Season Record: 126-113-14
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
AFC Wild Card Game
(6) Indianapolis at (3) Houston
A Case for the Colts: They are the hot team coming into the playoffs. After a 1-5 start, the Colts finished 9-1 and ended the season 10-6 and clinch the 6th seed in the AFC. Indy also should have tied the Texans earlier in the season, but Frank Reich decided to go for it in his own end near the end of overtime, which led to an easy Texans field goal. Also, Indy buried the Texans a month ago in Houston, so you know the Colts can win there. Plus, you have to like the way Andrew Luck has been played this year, and he can be very dangerous as an underdog in this spot. You could see him just taking the game over like he did in the 2013 Wild Card Game comeback win over the Chiefs. The Colts could be that feisty team that no one wants to see in the playoffs, and they are a fun team to root for in this spot because no one thought they would be in the playoffs this year. This is very dangerous team.
A Case for the Texans: The Texans are a hot team as well. After starting 0-3, they ripped off 11 of 13 and finished 11-5 and AFC South Champions. You have to like the way DeShaun Watson has played this year, and knowing how good he was on the big stage in college, I don't think playing in his first playoff game will affect him. I think he will play well. The Texans are at home and they can let their defense tee off on Andrew Luck-if they can get to him. After losing at home to the Colts a month ago, Houston should be able to make adjustments and shore things up this time around. Can Indy actually go in there and beat them in Houston twice in a month? I'm not sure that will happen, and might be too tall of an order.
Prediction: Indy (+3) over HOUSTON: Andrew Luck goes into Houston and knocks off the Texans once again. In a great duel between Luck and DeShaun Watson, the Colts come out with a win and move onto Kansas City to take on the Chiefs in the Divisional Round.
Final Score: Colts-27 Texans-24
NFC Wild Card Game
(5) Seattle at (4) Dallas
A Case for the Seahawks: Seattle has a very good chance to win because of Russell Wilson. He has been phenomenal this year. He can put this team on his back and win this game on his own. I love the running game of the Seahawks too, so they can control the game if they get a lead. This was supposed to be a rebuilding year for Seattle, but they have exceeded expectations. No one picked them to make the playoffs, and here they are. They are playing with house money, and look for them to play fast and loose. You also have to love the coaching edge with Pete Carroll over Jason Garrett in this spot.
A Case for the Cowboys: Dallas got here after being 3-5 at the midway point of the season and finished 7-1 the second half to go 10-6. Their defense is playing very well, and they can use that advantage at home on Saturday night. They are a very different team on defense and on offense from the team that lost to Seattle in Week 3 this year.The crowd will be fired up and able to help them against the Seattle offense. The Cowboys have won only one playoff game since 1997. They are due for another win and at home on Saturday night, they have as good of a chance as they have had in a while.
Prediction: Seattle (+3) over DALLAS: This is a great primetime game, and I think it will be back and forth. I think Russell Wilson has the ball with over two minutes to go and down four. I think he comes through in the clutch and sends Dallas home with another playoff heartbreaker.
Final Score: Seahawks-24 Cowboys-20
AFC Wild Card Game
(5) Los Angeles Chargers at (4) Baltimore Ravens
A Case for the Chargers: They have been one of the best teams in the NFL all year long. They are 7-1 on the road, and can go into any building and win a game. Remember, they won on the road in Pittsburgh and Kansas City down the stretch. Philip Rivers is playing some of the best ball of his career, and he has never been to a Super Bowl. Maybe this is his year? This might be his last shot, so you never know if he will get to this spot again. Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger have all won Super Bowls, and Rivers has never even been to one. He could be due for a run here. The Chargers lost at home two weeks ago to the Ravens, but they can learn a lot from that game. It's hard to beat a team twice in three weeks, and I think the Chargers can use that to their advantage.
A Case for the Ravens: The Ravens have the best defense playing this weekend. They can shut the door on anyone and they did it to the Chargers offense two weeks ago in LA. They are at home, and they are playing at 1:00pm EST on Sunday-the early television window. The Chargers have to come all the way across the country and play early on Sunday. That should give the Ravens an advantage. We don't know how the Lamar Jackson situation will play out long term, but it has worked very well for the Ravens down the stretch. In a single elimination tournament, you could see Jackson doing his thing and giving the Chargers fits all afternoon. You also have to give the Ravens an edge in the coaching department. John Harbaugh has way more playoff experience than Anthony Lynn.
Prediction: LA Chargers (+3) over BALTIMORE: This is another tough game to pick, but I'll take the Chargers to figure out a way to force Lamar Jackson to be uncomfortable. I think Phillip Rivers makes one or two big throws to sway the outcome and give the Chargers their first playoff win since 2013.
Final Score: Chargers-26 Ravens-20
NFC Wild Card Game
(6) Philadelphia at (3) Chicago
A Case for the Eagles: The Eagles were dead in the water three weeks ago, and it looked like there was no chance that they would make the playoffs. Throw in the Carson Wentz back injury, and there was no way Nick Foles was going to step in and lead them to wins over the Rams, Texans, and Redskins and get the help needed to make the playoffs. All of that happened, and Foles has been amazing these last three games. It's uncanny how the Eagles have played around him once again. The whole Foles storyline is enough to give you faith if you are an Eagles fan. Plus, they can play off the whole underdog angle from last year because no one thought they were going to make the playoffs a few weeks ago. No one will be surprised if the Eagles pick off Mitch Trubisky a few times in the first half and Foles is hitting Alshon Jeffrey on deep bombs while they jump to a 21-3 lead. Also, the Eagles are playing with house money. They won a Super Bowl last year, gave their long suffering fans a championship, and now snuck their way into the playoffs this year. This makes for a very dangerous team on Sunday in Chicago.
A Case for the Bears: A solid team from start to finish this year. They have a very good defense and that will be a huge factor for them-especially being at home. You could see them getting Khalil Mack going off the edge and that defense forcing turnovers. Also, they are young. Matt Nagy is a first-year head coach, and Mitch Trubisky is in his second year as a starter. Maybe they don't know any better. Plus, the crowd in Chicago on Sunday will be wild. They are old-school, loyal fanbase, and they haven't had a home playoff game since the 2010 NFC Championship Game. They will be a factor in this game without a doubt. I love how the Bears shutdown the Rams a month ago at home, and I could see them doing the same here in this spot to the Eagles.
Prediction: Philly (+6) over CHICAGO: I think the Bears will win the game, but I think it will be close. I have a feeling the Eagles will play well, but look for the Bears to pull it out and get their first playoff victory since 2010.
Final Score: Bears-25 Eagles-22
Last Week's (Week 17) Record: 10-6-0
Overall Final Regular Season Record: 126-113-14
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
AFC Wild Card Game
(6) Indianapolis at (3) Houston
A Case for the Colts: They are the hot team coming into the playoffs. After a 1-5 start, the Colts finished 9-1 and ended the season 10-6 and clinch the 6th seed in the AFC. Indy also should have tied the Texans earlier in the season, but Frank Reich decided to go for it in his own end near the end of overtime, which led to an easy Texans field goal. Also, Indy buried the Texans a month ago in Houston, so you know the Colts can win there. Plus, you have to like the way Andrew Luck has been played this year, and he can be very dangerous as an underdog in this spot. You could see him just taking the game over like he did in the 2013 Wild Card Game comeback win over the Chiefs. The Colts could be that feisty team that no one wants to see in the playoffs, and they are a fun team to root for in this spot because no one thought they would be in the playoffs this year. This is very dangerous team.
A Case for the Texans: The Texans are a hot team as well. After starting 0-3, they ripped off 11 of 13 and finished 11-5 and AFC South Champions. You have to like the way DeShaun Watson has played this year, and knowing how good he was on the big stage in college, I don't think playing in his first playoff game will affect him. I think he will play well. The Texans are at home and they can let their defense tee off on Andrew Luck-if they can get to him. After losing at home to the Colts a month ago, Houston should be able to make adjustments and shore things up this time around. Can Indy actually go in there and beat them in Houston twice in a month? I'm not sure that will happen, and might be too tall of an order.
Prediction: Indy (+3) over HOUSTON: Andrew Luck goes into Houston and knocks off the Texans once again. In a great duel between Luck and DeShaun Watson, the Colts come out with a win and move onto Kansas City to take on the Chiefs in the Divisional Round.
Final Score: Colts-27 Texans-24
NFC Wild Card Game
(5) Seattle at (4) Dallas
A Case for the Seahawks: Seattle has a very good chance to win because of Russell Wilson. He has been phenomenal this year. He can put this team on his back and win this game on his own. I love the running game of the Seahawks too, so they can control the game if they get a lead. This was supposed to be a rebuilding year for Seattle, but they have exceeded expectations. No one picked them to make the playoffs, and here they are. They are playing with house money, and look for them to play fast and loose. You also have to love the coaching edge with Pete Carroll over Jason Garrett in this spot.
A Case for the Cowboys: Dallas got here after being 3-5 at the midway point of the season and finished 7-1 the second half to go 10-6. Their defense is playing very well, and they can use that advantage at home on Saturday night. They are a very different team on defense and on offense from the team that lost to Seattle in Week 3 this year.The crowd will be fired up and able to help them against the Seattle offense. The Cowboys have won only one playoff game since 1997. They are due for another win and at home on Saturday night, they have as good of a chance as they have had in a while.
Prediction: Seattle (+3) over DALLAS: This is a great primetime game, and I think it will be back and forth. I think Russell Wilson has the ball with over two minutes to go and down four. I think he comes through in the clutch and sends Dallas home with another playoff heartbreaker.
Final Score: Seahawks-24 Cowboys-20
AFC Wild Card Game
(5) Los Angeles Chargers at (4) Baltimore Ravens
A Case for the Chargers: They have been one of the best teams in the NFL all year long. They are 7-1 on the road, and can go into any building and win a game. Remember, they won on the road in Pittsburgh and Kansas City down the stretch. Philip Rivers is playing some of the best ball of his career, and he has never been to a Super Bowl. Maybe this is his year? This might be his last shot, so you never know if he will get to this spot again. Eli Manning and Ben Roethlisberger have all won Super Bowls, and Rivers has never even been to one. He could be due for a run here. The Chargers lost at home two weeks ago to the Ravens, but they can learn a lot from that game. It's hard to beat a team twice in three weeks, and I think the Chargers can use that to their advantage.
A Case for the Ravens: The Ravens have the best defense playing this weekend. They can shut the door on anyone and they did it to the Chargers offense two weeks ago in LA. They are at home, and they are playing at 1:00pm EST on Sunday-the early television window. The Chargers have to come all the way across the country and play early on Sunday. That should give the Ravens an advantage. We don't know how the Lamar Jackson situation will play out long term, but it has worked very well for the Ravens down the stretch. In a single elimination tournament, you could see Jackson doing his thing and giving the Chargers fits all afternoon. You also have to give the Ravens an edge in the coaching department. John Harbaugh has way more playoff experience than Anthony Lynn.
Prediction: LA Chargers (+3) over BALTIMORE: This is another tough game to pick, but I'll take the Chargers to figure out a way to force Lamar Jackson to be uncomfortable. I think Phillip Rivers makes one or two big throws to sway the outcome and give the Chargers their first playoff win since 2013.
Final Score: Chargers-26 Ravens-20
NFC Wild Card Game
(6) Philadelphia at (3) Chicago
A Case for the Eagles: The Eagles were dead in the water three weeks ago, and it looked like there was no chance that they would make the playoffs. Throw in the Carson Wentz back injury, and there was no way Nick Foles was going to step in and lead them to wins over the Rams, Texans, and Redskins and get the help needed to make the playoffs. All of that happened, and Foles has been amazing these last three games. It's uncanny how the Eagles have played around him once again. The whole Foles storyline is enough to give you faith if you are an Eagles fan. Plus, they can play off the whole underdog angle from last year because no one thought they were going to make the playoffs a few weeks ago. No one will be surprised if the Eagles pick off Mitch Trubisky a few times in the first half and Foles is hitting Alshon Jeffrey on deep bombs while they jump to a 21-3 lead. Also, the Eagles are playing with house money. They won a Super Bowl last year, gave their long suffering fans a championship, and now snuck their way into the playoffs this year. This makes for a very dangerous team on Sunday in Chicago.
A Case for the Bears: A solid team from start to finish this year. They have a very good defense and that will be a huge factor for them-especially being at home. You could see them getting Khalil Mack going off the edge and that defense forcing turnovers. Also, they are young. Matt Nagy is a first-year head coach, and Mitch Trubisky is in his second year as a starter. Maybe they don't know any better. Plus, the crowd in Chicago on Sunday will be wild. They are old-school, loyal fanbase, and they haven't had a home playoff game since the 2010 NFC Championship Game. They will be a factor in this game without a doubt. I love how the Bears shutdown the Rams a month ago at home, and I could see them doing the same here in this spot to the Eagles.
Prediction: Philly (+6) over CHICAGO: I think the Bears will win the game, but I think it will be close. I have a feeling the Eagles will play well, but look for the Bears to pull it out and get their first playoff victory since 2010.
Final Score: Bears-25 Eagles-22
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Broncos Fire Vance Joseph
On Monday morning, hours after the Broncos season finale loss to the Chargers, Vance Joseph learned the news from John Elway that we had expected: He was out as head coach. We all expected it to happen, and after two years I had seen enough myself. VJ finished 11-21 in two years, and had back-to-back losing seasons for the first time in franchise history since 1971-1972. You can't survive that in Denver. I was skeptical of VJ from the moment he was hired, and I never understood the fascination John Elway had when he named him head coach. I'll never understand how Elway, who was around great coaches like his dad, Dan Reeves, Gary Kubiak, and Mike Shanahan, zeroed in on Joseph. I just didn't get it then and after two years, I was right. VJ was in over his head. His teams lacked discipline, (Baltimore game)2018 and Raiders game 2017) got outschemed or outcoached (Jets game and 49ers game 2018) too many times, and his game management decisions were pretty bad-especially this season (Texans and Browns game). There are some people that say that he never had a chance because of the QB situation he dealt with, but he just isn't the guy to lead this franchise. It was time for him to go. Now, we can move on and find a new head coach to lead this team. I know John Elway deserves his criticism and blame for the mess the Broncos have become, but I think he can right the ship. It starts with finding the right coach, and I think that Elway can still be the guy to find that next head man. I'll keep updating the blog with news and notes about possible candidates as the coaching search moves along.
Broncos Lose Season Finale to Chargers, Finish 6-10, Fire Vance Joseph
The Broncos finished the 2018 season with a 23-9 loss to the Chargers in Mile High. The Broncos finished the season 6-10 and fired Vance Joseph the next day. I'll get to VJ on a later post, but this game was just an afterthought. It was certainly demoralizing to watch the Broncos play meaningless football in Week 17 for the third straight year. There is not a lot to get into with this game, but here are my thoughts and observations.....
1) One sequence that summarized this season was when the Broncos were driving near the end of the first half down 7-0. Case Keenum got picked off in the endzone, and the Chargers defender tried to return it, fumbled it, and Denver recovered. Naturally, the Broncos settled for a field goal and a were down 7-3 instead of tying it.
2) Another sequence that summed up this season was when the Broncos scored to make it 14-9 on a nice throw from Keenum to Janovich early in the 4th quarter. The Broncos decided to go for two, and naturally Keenum got intercepted and the Chargers returned it 99 yards for a two point score and they led 16-9. That just about summed up the 2018 Denver Broncos right there.
3) There is really nothing left to say in this game. It was sloppy, the offense was unproductive, and the Broncos seemed to mail it in. By finishing 6-10, the Broncos had back-to-back losing seasons for the first time since 1971-1972. The writing was on the wall as Vance Joseph was fired the next day, and the Broncos begin their search for his replacement. It was a weird season. They started 2-0, lost 4 in a row, and at one point were 3-6. They rebounded with three big wins over the Chargers, Steelers, and Bengals to get to 6-6. Unfortunately, the Broncos then lost their last four games and finished 6-10. There may not be a lot of optimism and hope for the Broncos and their fans right now, but a lot can change in the NFL. Let's hope for a new head coach and brighter days in the future for the Broncos.
1) One sequence that summarized this season was when the Broncos were driving near the end of the first half down 7-0. Case Keenum got picked off in the endzone, and the Chargers defender tried to return it, fumbled it, and Denver recovered. Naturally, the Broncos settled for a field goal and a were down 7-3 instead of tying it.
2) Another sequence that summed up this season was when the Broncos scored to make it 14-9 on a nice throw from Keenum to Janovich early in the 4th quarter. The Broncos decided to go for two, and naturally Keenum got intercepted and the Chargers returned it 99 yards for a two point score and they led 16-9. That just about summed up the 2018 Denver Broncos right there.
3) There is really nothing left to say in this game. It was sloppy, the offense was unproductive, and the Broncos seemed to mail it in. By finishing 6-10, the Broncos had back-to-back losing seasons for the first time since 1971-1972. The writing was on the wall as Vance Joseph was fired the next day, and the Broncos begin their search for his replacement. It was a weird season. They started 2-0, lost 4 in a row, and at one point were 3-6. They rebounded with three big wins over the Chargers, Steelers, and Bengals to get to 6-6. Unfortunately, the Broncos then lost their last four games and finished 6-10. There may not be a lot of optimism and hope for the Broncos and their fans right now, but a lot can change in the NFL. Let's hope for a new head coach and brighter days in the future for the Broncos.
Thursday, December 27, 2018
Broncos-Chargers and Week 17 Picks!
The Broncos finish 2018 at home against the Chargers, and the game will feature a lot of no shows, the final appearance of Vance Joseph on the Denver sideline, and probably a lopsided loss. The Broncos are going to finish 6-10 and that might actually help their draft position for 2019 based on what happens the rest of the day. The Chargers still can win the division and the #1 seed in the AFC with a win, so they have something to play for. Look for the Chargers to easily roll over the Broncos and put this dreadful season behind us.
Prediction: LA Chargers (-6) over DENVER
Final Score: Chargers-31 Broncos-10
Last Week's Record: 7-6-3
Overall Record: 116-107-14
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
NY GIANTS (-5) over Dallas: The Cowboys have the NFC East wrapped up, so they will probably take it easy. This could be the last game for Eli Manning as a Giant, so I think they will send him out a winner.
Carolina (+7) over NEW ORLEANS: The Saints locked up the #1 seed in the NFC last week, so they have nothing to play for here.
NY Jets (+14) over NEW ENGLAND: The Pats need to win to get the #2 seed in the AFC, and I think they will win, but I could see Sam Darnold and the Jets keeping it closer than people expect and getting that backdoor cover.
GREEN BAY (-7) over Detroit: Both teams are playing out the string, and I think GB gets to 7-8-1.
HOUSTON (-6) over Jacksonville: The Texans will win and finish 11-5, after a 0-3 start, but they will end up as the #3 seed in the AFC after NE wins.
ATLANTA (-1) over Tampa Bay: The Falcons will win to finish 7-9 on the year.
BUFFALO (-3) over Miami: The Bills will finish the year 6-10 while the Dolphins will finish 7-9.
KANSAS CITY (-13) over Oakland: The Chiefs will win the AFC West and the #1 seed by virtue of knocking off the Raiders in Arrowhead.
Philly (-6) over WASHINGTON: Nick Foles leads the Eagles to win and a 9-7 finish but they will just miss out of the playoffs.
MINNESOTA (-4) over Chicago: The Vikings will win and finish 9-6-1 and get the #6 seed in the NFC, while the Bears will finish 11-5 and the #3 seed.
SEATTLE (-12) over Arizona: The Seahawks will rout the Cards and finish 10-6 and the #5 seed in the NFC.
LA RAMS (-9) over San Francisco: The Rams will win and be the #2 seed in the NFC.
Cleveland (+6) over BALTIMORE: I'm going to have some fun and I predict the Browns will upset the Ravens in Baltimore and knock the Ravens out of a potential playoff spot. The Browns finish 8-7-1, and that sets up.....
PITTSBURGH (-12) over Cincy: The Steelers take care of their business and win the AFC North by virtue of the Ravens loss and the #4 seed in the AFC.
Indy (-3) over TENNESSEE: Game #256 of the regular season concludes with the Colts beating the Titans on the road and getting the #6 seed in the AFC.
Based on my Week 17 predictions, here is what I think the Wild Card Weekend Schedule will look like:
Saturday 1/5
(6) Indy at (3) Houston-4:30pm (ESPN/ABC)
(6) Minnesota at (3) Chicago- 8:00pm (NBC)
Sunday 1/6
(5) LA Chargers at (4) Pittsburgh (CBS)
(5) Seattle at (4) Dallas (FOX)
To go further, I think this will be the set up for the Divisional Round the following week:
Saturday 1/12
at New England-4:30pm (NBC)
at New Orleans-8:00pm (FOX)
Sunday 1/13
at Kansas City-1:00pm (CBS)
at Los Angeles Rams-4:00pm (FOX)
Prediction: LA Chargers (-6) over DENVER
Final Score: Chargers-31 Broncos-10
Now onto the picks for Week 17....
Overall Record: 116-107-14
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
NY GIANTS (-5) over Dallas: The Cowboys have the NFC East wrapped up, so they will probably take it easy. This could be the last game for Eli Manning as a Giant, so I think they will send him out a winner.
Carolina (+7) over NEW ORLEANS: The Saints locked up the #1 seed in the NFC last week, so they have nothing to play for here.
NY Jets (+14) over NEW ENGLAND: The Pats need to win to get the #2 seed in the AFC, and I think they will win, but I could see Sam Darnold and the Jets keeping it closer than people expect and getting that backdoor cover.
GREEN BAY (-7) over Detroit: Both teams are playing out the string, and I think GB gets to 7-8-1.
HOUSTON (-6) over Jacksonville: The Texans will win and finish 11-5, after a 0-3 start, but they will end up as the #3 seed in the AFC after NE wins.
ATLANTA (-1) over Tampa Bay: The Falcons will win to finish 7-9 on the year.
BUFFALO (-3) over Miami: The Bills will finish the year 6-10 while the Dolphins will finish 7-9.
KANSAS CITY (-13) over Oakland: The Chiefs will win the AFC West and the #1 seed by virtue of knocking off the Raiders in Arrowhead.
Philly (-6) over WASHINGTON: Nick Foles leads the Eagles to win and a 9-7 finish but they will just miss out of the playoffs.
MINNESOTA (-4) over Chicago: The Vikings will win and finish 9-6-1 and get the #6 seed in the NFC, while the Bears will finish 11-5 and the #3 seed.
SEATTLE (-12) over Arizona: The Seahawks will rout the Cards and finish 10-6 and the #5 seed in the NFC.
LA RAMS (-9) over San Francisco: The Rams will win and be the #2 seed in the NFC.
Cleveland (+6) over BALTIMORE: I'm going to have some fun and I predict the Browns will upset the Ravens in Baltimore and knock the Ravens out of a potential playoff spot. The Browns finish 8-7-1, and that sets up.....
PITTSBURGH (-12) over Cincy: The Steelers take care of their business and win the AFC North by virtue of the Ravens loss and the #4 seed in the AFC.
Indy (-3) over TENNESSEE: Game #256 of the regular season concludes with the Colts beating the Titans on the road and getting the #6 seed in the AFC.
Based on my Week 17 predictions, here is what I think the Wild Card Weekend Schedule will look like:
Saturday 1/5
(6) Indy at (3) Houston-4:30pm (ESPN/ABC)
(6) Minnesota at (3) Chicago- 8:00pm (NBC)
Sunday 1/6
(5) LA Chargers at (4) Pittsburgh (CBS)
(5) Seattle at (4) Dallas (FOX)
To go further, I think this will be the set up for the Divisional Round the following week:
Saturday 1/12
at New England-4:30pm (NBC)
at New Orleans-8:00pm (FOX)
Sunday 1/13
at Kansas City-1:00pm (CBS)
at Los Angeles Rams-4:00pm (FOX)
Broncos Lose to Raiders 27-14, Fall to 6-9
Christmas Eve was not very kind to the Broncos or their fans as Denver turned in one of its' worst performances of the year in a 27-14 loss to the 4-11 Raiders in Oakland. There is nothing really memorable to say about this game. They were down 17-0 at the half, and it looked like they didn't want to be there. The Broncos are 6-9 and headed for back-to-back losing seasons for the first time since 1971-1972. That is the reality for this franchise, and the reality is that Vance Joseph is going to be gone once Week 17 mercifully ends next week at home against the Chargers. Here are my thoughts and observations on the game.....
1) Dwayne Harris returned a punt 99 yards for a touchdown after Isaac Yiadom downed the ball back in play at the one, and Harris smartly picked it up and raced down the sideline for a TD. That gave the Raiders a 7-0 lead and they never looked back.
2) It was 17-0 at the half and the Raiders second TD was a 24 yard run that not one Bronco player was near the RB as he went into the endzone untouched. It was pitiful.
3) Philip Lindsay did break the 1,000 yard rushing mark in this game, but he was hurt in the 3rd quarter with a wrist injury. He will need surgery and will be out 3-4 months. Hopefully, he comes back healthy in time for OTAs. Of course, we are robbed of seeing him in Week 17, but it was great season for Lindsay and the future is bright for him.
4) Speaking of Lindsay, my 9 year old son is a huge fan of his, and he wrote him a letter a few weeks ago. ESPN was talking about Lindsay during the game and they showed fan mail that he has received and my son's letter was on the screen as they were talking about it. It was a very cool moment for me and my family. That was the only bright spot in this dreadful game.
5) The Broncos end the 2018 season at home against the Chargers, who still can win the AFC West and the #1 seed in the AFC with a win and a Chiefs loss. It will be the final game in the Vance Joseph era (Thank God) and the Broncos will be looking for a new head coach come Monday December 31st. I'll have a wrap of the season and thoughts on the new HC next week. Until then, let's just ge this season over with and move onto 2019!
1) Dwayne Harris returned a punt 99 yards for a touchdown after Isaac Yiadom downed the ball back in play at the one, and Harris smartly picked it up and raced down the sideline for a TD. That gave the Raiders a 7-0 lead and they never looked back.
2) It was 17-0 at the half and the Raiders second TD was a 24 yard run that not one Bronco player was near the RB as he went into the endzone untouched. It was pitiful.
3) Philip Lindsay did break the 1,000 yard rushing mark in this game, but he was hurt in the 3rd quarter with a wrist injury. He will need surgery and will be out 3-4 months. Hopefully, he comes back healthy in time for OTAs. Of course, we are robbed of seeing him in Week 17, but it was great season for Lindsay and the future is bright for him.
4) Speaking of Lindsay, my 9 year old son is a huge fan of his, and he wrote him a letter a few weeks ago. ESPN was talking about Lindsay during the game and they showed fan mail that he has received and my son's letter was on the screen as they were talking about it. It was a very cool moment for me and my family. That was the only bright spot in this dreadful game.
5) The Broncos end the 2018 season at home against the Chargers, who still can win the AFC West and the #1 seed in the AFC with a win and a Chiefs loss. It will be the final game in the Vance Joseph era (Thank God) and the Broncos will be looking for a new head coach come Monday December 31st. I'll have a wrap of the season and thoughts on the new HC next week. Until then, let's just ge this season over with and move onto 2019!
Friday, December 21, 2018
Broncos-Raiders and Week 16 Picks!
The Broncos head to Oakland for a Christmas Eve showdown against the Raiders on Monday Night Football. The Broncos are 6-8 and officially eliminated from playoff contention. They are going to fire Vance Joseph at the end of the season, and now it is all about pride. It will be hard to tell how motivated they will be on MNF. They have a lot of injuries and nothing to play for. The Raiders are 3-11 but this could be the last ever game they play in Oakland. Their stadium situation is unknown for next year and since they are moving to Las Vegas in two years, there is a question about where they will play their home games next year. If this is the last ever game in Oakland, you know the Black Hole will be fired up. I could see the Raiders playing inspired while the Broncos are just looking to get the season over with.
Prediction: OAKLAND (+2) over Denver
Final Score: Raiders-26 Broncos-18
Prediction: OAKLAND (+2) over Denver
Final Score: Raiders-26 Broncos-18
Now, onto the picks for Week 16 in the NFL............
Last Week's Record: 9-6-1
Overall Record: 109-101-11
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
TENNESSEE (-9) over Washington: Somehow, the Redskins are still alive the playoff picture at 7-7 despite having to go with 4th string QB Josh Johnson. The Titans are 8-6 and on the verge of getting into the playoffs. Take the Titans at home on Saturday afternoon to get to 9-6.
LA CHARGERS (-4) over Baltimore: Very interesting game in the AFC on Saturday night. The Chargers are 11-3 and still have a chance to win the AFC West and get the #1 seed. The Ravens are 8-6 and still in contention for a Wild Card and possibly even the AFC North title. This game should be close throughout, but I think the Chargers will win by a touchdown late.
PHILLY (-2) over Houston: Another huge game with playoff ramifications. The Eagles are 7-7 and still have a chance at the playoffs after their big win over the Rams last week. Nick Foles played well in relief of the injured Carson Wentz, and they can definitely get to 8-7 with a big win here at home. The Texans are 10-4 and fighting for a first round bye, but I think they will get tripped up here. Remember, the Texans went to NY last week to play the Jets, and now they head back up East to play the Eagles. They might be tired.
Minnesota (-5) over DETROIT: The Vikings are 7-6-1 and have to win to make the playoffs. There is no way they can get tripped up at 5-9 Detroit. I think they will take care of their business.
Tampa Bay (+9) over DALLAS: I think the Cowboys win the game outright, but I have a feeling this game is close. It's just a hunch and I think Dallas gets it done and clinches the NFC East, but it won't be easy.
CLEVELAND (-8) over Cincy: The Browns are 6-7-1 and Baker Mayfield has the franchise playing with a different mindset. They can actually still make the playoffs. The fans will be fired up for the Browns this week at home, and I think they will get to 7-7-1 with a rout over the Bengals.
INDY (-8) over NY Giants: The Colts are 8-6 and are on the verge of a playoff spot. They won't slip up here at home to the 5-9 Giants. I think this game is a blowout from start to finish./
MIAMI (-4) over Jacksonville: The Dolphins are 7-7 and still have a chance at the playoffs,. They will get to 8-7 with a win over the lifeless Jags at home this week.
NEW ENGLAND (-10) over Buffalo: The Pats have lost two in a row and are now 9-5. They can still get a bye but they need to win their last two and the Texans have to lose one game. I can't see the Pats stubbing their toe at home to the Bills.
NY JETS (+3) over Green Bay: Meaningless game between two teams that are out of the playoff picture.
Atlanta (-3) over CAROLINA: Another meaningless game between two teams that are out of the playoff picture.
LA Rams (-12) over ARIZONA: I'm not worried about the Rams as much as everyone else is. I'll think they will be fine come playoff time. A lot of teams get worn down at the end of the season. They will get back on track with a blowout win over the 3-11 Cardinals.
Chicago (-2) over SAN FRANCISCO: The Niners have won two in a row, but I don't think the Bears will fall into this trap this week. The Bears can still get a bye after locking up the NFC North last week. They will get to 11-4 after a solid road win this week.
NEW ORLEANS (-6) over Pittsburgh: The Saints can lock up the #1 seed in the NFC and homefield advantage throughout with a win here. The Steelers are 8-5-1 and a loss here would be damaging but there is still a path for them to make the playoffs. I'll take the Saints at home to wrap up the NFC's top spot.
Kansas City (-2) over SEATTLE: The Chiefs are battling with the Chargers for the top seed in the AFC and the AFC West crown. The Seahawks are 8-6 and need a win to clinch a playoff spot. Seattle can get in with a win over the Cardinals next week, and the Chiefs need this game more. I think KC plays one of their best games of the year and rolls out of Seattle with a win.
Overall Record: 109-101-11
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
TENNESSEE (-9) over Washington: Somehow, the Redskins are still alive the playoff picture at 7-7 despite having to go with 4th string QB Josh Johnson. The Titans are 8-6 and on the verge of getting into the playoffs. Take the Titans at home on Saturday afternoon to get to 9-6.
LA CHARGERS (-4) over Baltimore: Very interesting game in the AFC on Saturday night. The Chargers are 11-3 and still have a chance to win the AFC West and get the #1 seed. The Ravens are 8-6 and still in contention for a Wild Card and possibly even the AFC North title. This game should be close throughout, but I think the Chargers will win by a touchdown late.
PHILLY (-2) over Houston: Another huge game with playoff ramifications. The Eagles are 7-7 and still have a chance at the playoffs after their big win over the Rams last week. Nick Foles played well in relief of the injured Carson Wentz, and they can definitely get to 8-7 with a big win here at home. The Texans are 10-4 and fighting for a first round bye, but I think they will get tripped up here. Remember, the Texans went to NY last week to play the Jets, and now they head back up East to play the Eagles. They might be tired.
Minnesota (-5) over DETROIT: The Vikings are 7-6-1 and have to win to make the playoffs. There is no way they can get tripped up at 5-9 Detroit. I think they will take care of their business.
Tampa Bay (+9) over DALLAS: I think the Cowboys win the game outright, but I have a feeling this game is close. It's just a hunch and I think Dallas gets it done and clinches the NFC East, but it won't be easy.
CLEVELAND (-8) over Cincy: The Browns are 6-7-1 and Baker Mayfield has the franchise playing with a different mindset. They can actually still make the playoffs. The fans will be fired up for the Browns this week at home, and I think they will get to 7-7-1 with a rout over the Bengals.
INDY (-8) over NY Giants: The Colts are 8-6 and are on the verge of a playoff spot. They won't slip up here at home to the 5-9 Giants. I think this game is a blowout from start to finish./
MIAMI (-4) over Jacksonville: The Dolphins are 7-7 and still have a chance at the playoffs,. They will get to 8-7 with a win over the lifeless Jags at home this week.
NEW ENGLAND (-10) over Buffalo: The Pats have lost two in a row and are now 9-5. They can still get a bye but they need to win their last two and the Texans have to lose one game. I can't see the Pats stubbing their toe at home to the Bills.
NY JETS (+3) over Green Bay: Meaningless game between two teams that are out of the playoff picture.
Atlanta (-3) over CAROLINA: Another meaningless game between two teams that are out of the playoff picture.
LA Rams (-12) over ARIZONA: I'm not worried about the Rams as much as everyone else is. I'll think they will be fine come playoff time. A lot of teams get worn down at the end of the season. They will get back on track with a blowout win over the 3-11 Cardinals.
Chicago (-2) over SAN FRANCISCO: The Niners have won two in a row, but I don't think the Bears will fall into this trap this week. The Bears can still get a bye after locking up the NFC North last week. They will get to 11-4 after a solid road win this week.
NEW ORLEANS (-6) over Pittsburgh: The Saints can lock up the #1 seed in the NFC and homefield advantage throughout with a win here. The Steelers are 8-5-1 and a loss here would be damaging but there is still a path for them to make the playoffs. I'll take the Saints at home to wrap up the NFC's top spot.
Kansas City (-2) over SEATTLE: The Chiefs are battling with the Chargers for the top seed in the AFC and the AFC West crown. The Seahawks are 8-6 and need a win to clinch a playoff spot. Seattle can get in with a win over the Cardinals next week, and the Chiefs need this game more. I think KC plays one of their best games of the year and rolls out of Seattle with a win.
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