There is no denying that social networking, and in particular Facebook, have transformed the way that people interact in the 21st century. The phenomenon is so big that one of the most anticipated movies of the year comes out this weekend, The Social Network, based on the early years of Facebook. However, this movie was based on a best-selling book The Accidental Billionaires.
The book is written with Eduardo Savarin, who provided the startup money in the early Facebook years, as a consultant. He provides a first-hand glimpse at the mindset of the genius behind what was then known as "The" Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg. Zuckerberg and Savarin were both socially inept guys at Harvard who had the typical problems meeting girls that a lot of guys their age went through. They just decided to do something about it, and to take advantage of a growing market that had not been completely captured yet.
Zuckerberg goes about creating a place where all the co-eds at Harvard can look at one another's pictures. He accomplishes this site by hacking the various internal web sites that existed at various fraternities and sororities. He puts up the site and sends an email to a few friends to ask what they think of the idea, and then goes to class. When he comes back, he realizes that he's basically shut down the university's servers because the whole campus is checking it out within a matter of hours, as all his friends have sent along the link to others who did the same. It is then that Zuckerberg realizes the possibility of what he's created.
Although he is reprimanded by the university, he is allowed to stay in school. But with Sabourin's money, Zuckerberg begins to care less about his studies and starts devoting his efforts around-the-clock into The Facebook. Around Harvard, the website is a hit, except with twin rowing sensations Cameron and Tyler Winkleross, who think Zuckerberg stole the idea from them when he did some brief consulting work on a web site idea they had. They become the first of some enemies that Zuckerberg makes along the way, and the first lawsuit that Facebook would face, though their idea was merely another dating site and much of the lawsuit seemed to be bred in jealousy of not thinking of the idea themselves. As Zuckerberg was all too happy to point out, there are thousands of designs of chairs, but the designers of all those chairs don't go around suing one another.
Part of what makes Zuckerberg so compelling and yet so aggravating is his personality. Make no mistake, he created the site to meet girls as he didn't know how to do so in the conventional sense. Walking around in a hoodie and flip-flops as his usual uniform, he eschewed the usual Harvard preppy attire. Even those close to him could often not get a read on this thoughts or mindset, or his dry sense of humor. This attitude leads to the eventual breakup of the Zuckerberg-Savarin pairing.
As Facebook grows, Zuckerberg and some of his associates move to Silicon Valley to grow the business on hiatus from Harvard. Savarin stays behind in the Harvard area with trips to New York City to grow the business financially. Zuckerberg wants Savarin to come to California as he thinks all the necessary funding is available in that area, but Savarin wants to finish his senior year of university. On a weekend trip, Savarin signs some papers given to him by the lawyers, but soon realizes he has signed away much of his share of the company (note: even though his share was diluted down to a mere 5% or so of the company, Savarin is still worth about $1 billion based on his investment of about $30,000. I wish I could get screwed over so badly). Even so, Zuckerberg becomes a bit of an awkward douchebag as he makes more and more money, complete with business cards that just say "I'm CEO bitch!" I have a feeling the movie will play up those tendencies in the name of appealing to the younger audience.
Reading this review, you would think Savarin paints Zuckerberg in a bad light, but that is far from the case. Zuckerberg was simply obsessed with the Facebook project and for Savarin, it was something of a side project and an investment. Anyone who was not completely dedicated to Facebook became an afterthought. At one point, Savarin becomes so jealous that he is putting in all the money and freezes the company's bank accounts. In many ways, Savarin had become a liability that a rapidly growing company could not afford to keep around, and Zuckerberg (as well as his new advisor, Sean Parker of Napster fame, and also the guy who suggests they just call it Facebook) realized they had to let him go.
At a little over 200 pages, The Accidental Billionaires made for a quick, easy read. As I finished it, I realized it reminded me of Bringing Down The House, the story of card counters from MIT who make millions in Las Vegas by counting cards, and then I also realized that they are written by the same author, Ben Mezrich. While many are hailing The Social Network as a breakthrough movie, if it is anything like the movie interpretation of Bringing Down The House ("21"), I don't hold much hope for it. The fact that Kevin Spacey brought both books to the big screen doesn't help matters.
Grade for the book: B
Grade for the movie: TBD
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Dexter - Season 5 - Episode 1 - "My Bad"
I have a rule about long-running television shows. I call it the Five-Year Rule. Basically, I don’t think shows should be allowed to run past 5 years. The reason? For every show that has enjoyed sustained success past its initial 5 years (South Park being a great example), there are 10 other shows where the quality goes downhill fast (The Office, CSI, Friends, ER, Family Guy), usually through the use gimmicks like a marriage or a baby, or the overuse of guest stars/big name additions to the cast to keep people watching. In most cases, the downhill slide actually starts sooner than 5 years, but allowing a show to go a full 5 years lets it have its peak (usually somewhere around season 3) and then lets it tie up any loose ends without completely jumping the shark.
In the case of Dexter, I like to pretend Season 3 never happened, as Jimmy Smits nearly brought down the franchise single-handedly. But then John Lithgow knocked one out of the park as the Trinity Killer in Season 4 and revived the show. Last season’s ending was probably this series’ peak in terms of OMG moments, unless you want to make the argument that it peaked in Season One. But now begins the decline. You could already say it was on its way even with Lithgow. Every season has followed the same formula: There’s a serial killer loose, Dexter must kill him/her, all the while avoiding his own police department and not letting his family or co-workers know his secret. Sure, there were deviations along the way, but that’s been the basic premise since the beginning.
We all know the logical conclusion of this show: the unavoidable showdown between Dexter and his sister Deb when she discovers that her brother is a serial killer. There’s no other way for this to end, and the final end will either be with Dexter’s death by his sister or Deb letting him continue to kill (likely the latter now that Baby Harrison is around). But let’s get there fast and not drag this out. Instead, Season 5 brings in Julia Stiles and Peter Weller, better known to people over the age of 35 as the guy who played Robocop. See why you end things sooner rather than later? I'll give them a season 6 if necessary, but this can't go any longer than that. At this point, I’m worried they might add Dexter to the list of series Betty White is making the rounds on.
Thankfully for “My Bad,” this year’s premiere episode, we see neither of the new guest characters. Instead, we start off with a continuation of last year’s finale, moments after Dexter finds his wife Rita dead in the bathtub at the hands of the Trinity Killer, his baby son Harrison in a pool of her blood, the same way he was found as a toddler when his own mother was killed. The police arrive and in typical Dexter fashion, he has no clue of how he is supposed to act in these situations. He half-admits to the crime, setting himself up as a prime suspect. His own Miami PD buddies are split on what to do. Lt. LaGuerta wants to leave it alone and let the FBI do the job, while her new husband Batista and Dexter’s nemesis Quinn want to investigate.
Quinn helps Deb clean up the murder scene at Dexter's house, and the teased hookup between the two finally happens, And hey, if you don't want to fuck on the kitchen floor 20 feet away from where a murder happened in the last couple of days, I don't want to know you as a person. Afterwards, Deb pretends like nothing happened, so I’m sure this will become a running plot for the coming season, as Quinn tries to chase her down, likely to no avail. However, he’ll also be chasing down Dexter. Or as I like to call it, Dexter vs. Doakes, part two, as they’ve already used this angle of cop chasing down (sort of) cop. He’s already quizzed Dexter’s neighbor about his ‘affair’ with Rita (one kiss constitutes an affair now?), so he knows there is more to this than meets the eye. Rest assured, Quinn will be swimming with the alligators by the end of this season. As for Deb, she's taking over the mother role for Rita as Dexter attempts to cope with her death.
She takes over the planning of the funeral while Dexter reminisces of his first date with his deceased wife, acting all socially awkward, and then excusing himself from the date to kill a man in the parking lot. Rita feels shocked, but then calls Dexter to admit she was lying and that she has children (which Dexter already knew because his sister set up the date). She thinks she has a connection with Dexter, who's disposing of a body at the time she calls. Who wouldn’t have a connection with a guy who excuses himself and runs off halfway through a date to go kill a guy? And that's how that relationship started. Did they show this date a few years ago too? I don't remember it being so terribly unbelievable at the time.
Dexter is forced to tell his adopted family about the murder, and does it as only Dexter can, wearing Mickey Mouse ears on his head while announcing Rita’s gruesome death. Stepdaughter Astor reacts by screaming at Dexter that she wishes it was Dexter who was dead, and wishing he would have never come into their lives. Of course, Dexter decides he should literally leave the family alone, asking Deb (and the downstairs cat lady!) to take care of Harrison while he runs away to kill in peace, pretty much even before Rita’s body is cold and her funeral is held. With his killing tools along for the ride, Dexter shanks a redneck who insults Rita, then we finally see Dexter's dad Harry appear to guide his son, telling him that his family needs him. Dexter breaks down, one of the few times he ever shows emotion, crying over top of the man he’s just killed. And then, of course Dexter predictably shows up to deliver the eulogy at Rita's funeral. It even got a little dusty in my living room during the eulogy, even as unsurprising as it might have been.
We already know Dexter will be avoiding the authorities this season, as he tries to hide his secret. Another serial killer will pop up for a game of cat and mouse soon, and Dexter can get back to killing. He’ll have to do it while raising 3 children though, so there’s your quirk for the season. Hopefully this doesn’t turn into something we’ve already seen before. But I’m having my doubts already, as you can see the recycling of plots happening. Luckily, the acting here is always top notch (unless they bring back Jimmy Smits’ character from the dead) so there’s reason to tune in. Grade: C+
In the case of Dexter, I like to pretend Season 3 never happened, as Jimmy Smits nearly brought down the franchise single-handedly. But then John Lithgow knocked one out of the park as the Trinity Killer in Season 4 and revived the show. Last season’s ending was probably this series’ peak in terms of OMG moments, unless you want to make the argument that it peaked in Season One. But now begins the decline. You could already say it was on its way even with Lithgow. Every season has followed the same formula: There’s a serial killer loose, Dexter must kill him/her, all the while avoiding his own police department and not letting his family or co-workers know his secret. Sure, there were deviations along the way, but that’s been the basic premise since the beginning.
We all know the logical conclusion of this show: the unavoidable showdown between Dexter and his sister Deb when she discovers that her brother is a serial killer. There’s no other way for this to end, and the final end will either be with Dexter’s death by his sister or Deb letting him continue to kill (likely the latter now that Baby Harrison is around). But let’s get there fast and not drag this out. Instead, Season 5 brings in Julia Stiles and Peter Weller, better known to people over the age of 35 as the guy who played Robocop. See why you end things sooner rather than later? I'll give them a season 6 if necessary, but this can't go any longer than that. At this point, I’m worried they might add Dexter to the list of series Betty White is making the rounds on.
Thankfully for “My Bad,” this year’s premiere episode, we see neither of the new guest characters. Instead, we start off with a continuation of last year’s finale, moments after Dexter finds his wife Rita dead in the bathtub at the hands of the Trinity Killer, his baby son Harrison in a pool of her blood, the same way he was found as a toddler when his own mother was killed. The police arrive and in typical Dexter fashion, he has no clue of how he is supposed to act in these situations. He half-admits to the crime, setting himself up as a prime suspect. His own Miami PD buddies are split on what to do. Lt. LaGuerta wants to leave it alone and let the FBI do the job, while her new husband Batista and Dexter’s nemesis Quinn want to investigate.
Quinn helps Deb clean up the murder scene at Dexter's house, and the teased hookup between the two finally happens, And hey, if you don't want to fuck on the kitchen floor 20 feet away from where a murder happened in the last couple of days, I don't want to know you as a person. Afterwards, Deb pretends like nothing happened, so I’m sure this will become a running plot for the coming season, as Quinn tries to chase her down, likely to no avail. However, he’ll also be chasing down Dexter. Or as I like to call it, Dexter vs. Doakes, part two, as they’ve already used this angle of cop chasing down (sort of) cop. He’s already quizzed Dexter’s neighbor about his ‘affair’ with Rita (one kiss constitutes an affair now?), so he knows there is more to this than meets the eye. Rest assured, Quinn will be swimming with the alligators by the end of this season. As for Deb, she's taking over the mother role for Rita as Dexter attempts to cope with her death.
She takes over the planning of the funeral while Dexter reminisces of his first date with his deceased wife, acting all socially awkward, and then excusing himself from the date to kill a man in the parking lot. Rita feels shocked, but then calls Dexter to admit she was lying and that she has children (which Dexter already knew because his sister set up the date). She thinks she has a connection with Dexter, who's disposing of a body at the time she calls. Who wouldn’t have a connection with a guy who excuses himself and runs off halfway through a date to go kill a guy? And that's how that relationship started. Did they show this date a few years ago too? I don't remember it being so terribly unbelievable at the time.
Dexter is forced to tell his adopted family about the murder, and does it as only Dexter can, wearing Mickey Mouse ears on his head while announcing Rita’s gruesome death. Stepdaughter Astor reacts by screaming at Dexter that she wishes it was Dexter who was dead, and wishing he would have never come into their lives. Of course, Dexter decides he should literally leave the family alone, asking Deb (and the downstairs cat lady!) to take care of Harrison while he runs away to kill in peace, pretty much even before Rita’s body is cold and her funeral is held. With his killing tools along for the ride, Dexter shanks a redneck who insults Rita, then we finally see Dexter's dad Harry appear to guide his son, telling him that his family needs him. Dexter breaks down, one of the few times he ever shows emotion, crying over top of the man he’s just killed. And then, of course Dexter predictably shows up to deliver the eulogy at Rita's funeral. It even got a little dusty in my living room during the eulogy, even as unsurprising as it might have been.
We already know Dexter will be avoiding the authorities this season, as he tries to hide his secret. Another serial killer will pop up for a game of cat and mouse soon, and Dexter can get back to killing. He’ll have to do it while raising 3 children though, so there’s your quirk for the season. Hopefully this doesn’t turn into something we’ve already seen before. But I’m having my doubts already, as you can see the recycling of plots happening. Luckily, the acting here is always top notch (unless they bring back Jimmy Smits’ character from the dead) so there’s reason to tune in. Grade: C+
Week 4 pick the lines (with Matty K)
Matt: Apparently I have to watch football on my TV to have a good week…
Week 1: hungover on my couch – 11-5
Week 2: missed games due to golf tournament, night game at buddy’s place – 6-10
Week 3: hungover at Scotty’s place – 6-9 (MNF pending)
I’m gonna take a handicap for simply overthinking some of the games this week, or I should say, trying to out think Vegas. But isn’t that why we’re here??
Alright, moving on… time for the week 4 spreads – first bye week (team’s off: Dallas, Minnesota, Kansas City, and Tampa Bay).
Scott: The KC bye week lets me claim perfection one extra week until Indy destroys them in Week 5. I’ll take my small victories where I can get them. My picks have been thoroughly mediocre this year. I mean I’m above .500 (barely) but I’m feeling like Knish in Rounders at this point, just grinding out the small victories with 9-7 weeks.
As far as why we were here, I thought it was to waste company time while still getting paid? Ok, onto the games.
ARI @ SD. Matt: The migrant farm-worker bowl!! The only inter-conference game on the docket this week. The Cards won’t have to travel very far for this one (side note: Arizona plays every California team this year). Typical bounce back game for the Chargers, and everyone should know this. Zona is the phoniest 2-1 team in the league. SD by -8.5.
Scott: Do they even have farms in Arizona? Do crops grow in 120 desert heat? What do illegal Mexican immigrants do there then? Work at McDonalds? I do ask though that you get out of my head this week or this contest won’t be much fun, as I also had San Diego by 8.5.
Actual line: San Diego by 8. No point awarded.
NYJ @ BUF. Matt: One of 9 divisional games this week. One thing I learned from week 3, that didn’t matter enough to include in my things learned email: Ryan Fitzpatrick is now the guy in Buffalo. Until Kevin Kolb becomes available… They did seem to hang tough in a shootout with the Pats, who seemingly do not have anyone to take the field Defense this year… Big win for the Jets in Miami on Sunday, and nothing like a drive upstate to pad the stats. Jets by -10.
Scott: Nice to see all the divisional games, but then I look at this schedule and wonder how I keep from falling asleep this Sunday. It says something when Trent Edwards is released and there is a lineup of teams to get him. Maybe Jeff Garcia’s UFL stint will get him a chance soon? Anyways, I see you got baited into the ‘Bills stink’ idea with your line, but I don't know if the Jets score enough. Jets by 6.5.
Actual line: Jets by 5. Point to Scott.
DEN @ TEN. Matt: Still not sure what to make of the Broncos, they’re obviously not good, but I think they can beat bad teams, and stay competitive at times with good ones. That being said, Vegas will overlook the Pitt game and give Tennessee respect at home. I low balled this one, could be higher… Titans by -7.5.
Scott: I circled this one for awhile trying to get a read on it. I’m not sure if anyone really knows what to make of Denver. I could have seen this game anywhere between about 6 and 13 points, so I split the difference and went Titans by 9.
Actual line: Titans by 6.5. Point to Matt
CIN @ CLE. Matt: Nobody seems to think Carson has it anymore, but this team is still the cock of the walk in this division. I think Senaca gives the Browns a better chance to win than Jake, but they still stink. Cincy by -9.
Scott: Cincy is the cock of the walk? Were Pittsburgh and Baltimore banished to another division, and all that’s left is the Browns and the Bengals? Cincy doesn’t make it to the playoffs, and Carson Palmer will show how bad he is. Maybe not this week, but soon. Bengals by 4.
Actual line: Bengals by 3. Point to Scott.
CAR @ NO. Matt: Your 2010 worst team in the league Panthers, formerly known as Scott’s sleeper pick. I don’t think FGs will be an issue for NO in this one. Saints by -13.
Scott: You have no proof of me ever saying such a thing (**currently deleting all blog posts mentioning Carolina or Matt Moore**). I still think everyone knows something isn’t quite right with the Saints and this line reflects it a little. Saints by 10.5.
Actual line: Saints by 13.5. Point to Matt.
BAL @ PIT. Matt: Flacco and Batch! Sounds like a cheesy 1970s cop show. I’ve failed to notice in the first 3 weeks that Pittsburgh was my kryptonite team last year – for or against, couldn’t win on games involving them – this season 0-3… Something is awry in Baltimore, but they find ways to win. Pitt is the balls. Steeltown by -4.5.
Scott: I’d watch Flacco and Batch! At least before I ever watch S*@! My Dad Says. Or Desperate Housewives. Speaking of which, the only reason that show must be still on is to give Eva Longoria a career. I was flipping through the guide on TV last night and found a movie where she was the 2nd lead in a movie. To Jason Biggs. That’s right, the Pie-Fucker! And you don’t even get top billing over him? Yeah, you better hope Tony gets a nice fat new contract, Eva. Oh yeah, Charlie Batch blows. Baltimore by 2.5.
Actual line: Pittsburgh by 1.5. Point to Matt.
SF @ ATL. Matt: This is where it really starts to fall apart for San Fran… The Dirty Birds are the class of the NFC in my opinion (over Green Bay). I’m just not sure if Vegas jumps off San Fran just yet… ATL by -7.
Scott: Class of the NFC hey? Let’s not forget they were a 25 yard field goal shank away from being 1-2. We better start making all of our Mike Singletary jokes now though, because he won’t be around much longer. Just waiting for somebody in the San Fran front office to get the nerve up to tell him he’s fired. Something tells me they’ll sacrifice an intern for that one. Or he just shows up for work one day and his access card doesn't work. Atlanta by 7.
Actual line: Falcons by 6.5. No points awarded.
SEA @ STL. Matt: All of the sudden this is an interesting matchup… hahaha OK just kidding! But after the Rams’ big win over the Skins, and Seattle’s dramatic win over SD, it complicates the situation slightly. I think the Hawks get an edge because they have one more win than STL, and before Sunday, the Rams hadn’t won a game since ’99… I think. I have this game as a pick.
Scott: I figure since nobody knows what to make of either of these teams, Vegas throws up their hands, much like I am on this one. Rams by 2.5.
Actual line: Seattle by 1. Point to Matt.
DET @ GB. Matt: Shouldn’t be too much backlash over the Packer’s loss Monday night, that Chicago D is just filthy. Unfortunately for the Lions, I don’t think this gets any easier than their game against the Vikes. Green Bay should roll them nicely. Pack by -14
Scott: Green Bay kept finding ways to lose against Chicago, but really dominated the play other than dumb penalties. Remember all that talk about Detroit being respectable? Where did that go? Packers by 13.
Actual line: Packers by 14.5. Point to Matt.
HOU @ OAK. Matt: Htown comes back to earth with a humbling loss vs the ‘Boys. How will they respond knowing that they’ve started hot in the past, only to cool off eventually? It’s difficult to imagine how Oakland can have success in this one. Texans by -6.
Scott: Houston got dominated by a desperate Cowboys team that wanted to avoid 0-3. Oakland couldn’t even beat the lowly Cardinals, but they are at home and I don’t think Houston has that much respect yet from Vegas. Houston by 4.
Actual line: Houston by 3. Point to Scott.
IND @ JAX. Matt: Another divisional game, been tight in past years. All will expect Indy to continue to roll here, so the line will be high. Colts by -9.5.
Scott: I suspect with Peyton Manning in town, the Jags might get 30K in the stadium. Most of whom will be wearing Colts jerseys. Colts by 7.5.
Actual line: Indy by 9. Point to Matt.
WAS @ PHI. Matt: Why oh why wasn’t this later in the year so this game could get flexed into the night game?? This is Luke versus Han. Interesting situation because unlike most franchise’s, where the team’s leader retires or moves on, and there is usually a few (to several) years where everyone misses the guy, Philly fans haven’t hesitated to adopt the Dog Whisperer as their saviour of Vickadelphia. In related news, Philly is the fav at this stage in the season, we will see where things are when we go to DC later. Eagles by -6.
Scott: Philly fans want a winner, and if Charles Manson could play QB they’d support him. I wish Seattle Mariners fans were the same way, they want to bounce a promising young reliever (Josh Leuke) acquired in the Cliff Lee deal out of town because he has a ‘he said she said’ incident when he was 19 where he served time already. You do your time, you get forgiven. All that said, Vegas will play on the McNabb revenge factor here, so we’ll go Eagles by 4.
Actual line: Eagles by 6. Point to Matt.
Sunday Nighter – Matt: CHI @ NYG. Three thoughts from MNF: 1) So fun watching Hester run another one back, but it will be really scary if he does it again this year… 2) Urlacher looks as good as ever, but 5 years ago he might have picked that red zone pass to Finley that whizzed by his head 3) Julius Peppers, my goodness, I’ve never seen one guy provoke that many false starts, dude could probably make anyone lose in a game of flinch! One would think they’re primed for a let down here, but I’ll argue that won’t happen because the Giants aren’t there yet… Week 1 they win decisively but over the soon to be coined worst team in the NFL, Week 2 they got creamed on SNF, week 3 return home only to get crushed again, now SNF at home in week 4 versus the only undefeated NFC team fresh off a night game victory over everyone’s sexy Super Bowl pick. Da Bears by -5.
Scott: I wasn’t nearly as impressed by the Bears as you. They won because Green Bay beat themselves with penalties, a Devin Hester runback and a fumble that somehow stayed inbounds when all physics says it should roll out of bounds.. They should be a 1-2 team. Giants by 2.5.
Actual line: Giants by 3.5. Point to Scott.
Monday Night Football - NE @ MIA. Matt: The Pats can’t defend, I’m keeping this in mind from now on. The once instantly recognizable names of Patriots defensive lore: Harrison, Seymour, Bruschi, etc. have all faded away. If Miami can keep Brady from torching them just a little, they can take this one. The Dolphin’s have much potential, so long as they don’t succumb to the status quo by relying too much on their QB (I don’t think Henne is bad at all, but it seems like every time the balance swings towards more passes, the play calling gets careless). Miami by -1.
Scott: As I wrote yesterday, the Patriots are developing more holes than swiss cheese, and they’re only a decent team because of their passing game. I don't know about you, but Tony Sparano's eye issues from a grease fire accident being the reason he wears the sunglasses depressed me. I was really hoping he actually wanted to look like one of the guys from SNL's old 'Da Bears' skits. That said, the Patriots still the PATRIOTS in a lot of people’s minds and Miami is coming off a tough loss where as you pointed out, their passing game goes awry when they have to depend on it, so New England by 1.
Actual line: Patriots by 1. Point to Scott.
Final weekly score: Matt 7-5
Season score: 2-0 Matt
Week 1: hungover on my couch – 11-5
Week 2: missed games due to golf tournament, night game at buddy’s place – 6-10
Week 3: hungover at Scotty’s place – 6-9 (MNF pending)
I’m gonna take a handicap for simply overthinking some of the games this week, or I should say, trying to out think Vegas. But isn’t that why we’re here??
Alright, moving on… time for the week 4 spreads – first bye week (team’s off: Dallas, Minnesota, Kansas City, and Tampa Bay).
Scott: The KC bye week lets me claim perfection one extra week until Indy destroys them in Week 5. I’ll take my small victories where I can get them. My picks have been thoroughly mediocre this year. I mean I’m above .500 (barely) but I’m feeling like Knish in Rounders at this point, just grinding out the small victories with 9-7 weeks.
As far as why we were here, I thought it was to waste company time while still getting paid? Ok, onto the games.
ARI @ SD. Matt: The migrant farm-worker bowl!! The only inter-conference game on the docket this week. The Cards won’t have to travel very far for this one (side note: Arizona plays every California team this year). Typical bounce back game for the Chargers, and everyone should know this. Zona is the phoniest 2-1 team in the league. SD by -8.5.
Scott: Do they even have farms in Arizona? Do crops grow in 120 desert heat? What do illegal Mexican immigrants do there then? Work at McDonalds? I do ask though that you get out of my head this week or this contest won’t be much fun, as I also had San Diego by 8.5.
Actual line: San Diego by 8. No point awarded.
NYJ @ BUF. Matt: One of 9 divisional games this week. One thing I learned from week 3, that didn’t matter enough to include in my things learned email: Ryan Fitzpatrick is now the guy in Buffalo. Until Kevin Kolb becomes available… They did seem to hang tough in a shootout with the Pats, who seemingly do not have anyone to take the field Defense this year… Big win for the Jets in Miami on Sunday, and nothing like a drive upstate to pad the stats. Jets by -10.
Scott: Nice to see all the divisional games, but then I look at this schedule and wonder how I keep from falling asleep this Sunday. It says something when Trent Edwards is released and there is a lineup of teams to get him. Maybe Jeff Garcia’s UFL stint will get him a chance soon? Anyways, I see you got baited into the ‘Bills stink’ idea with your line, but I don't know if the Jets score enough. Jets by 6.5.
Actual line: Jets by 5. Point to Scott.
DEN @ TEN. Matt: Still not sure what to make of the Broncos, they’re obviously not good, but I think they can beat bad teams, and stay competitive at times with good ones. That being said, Vegas will overlook the Pitt game and give Tennessee respect at home. I low balled this one, could be higher… Titans by -7.5.
Scott: I circled this one for awhile trying to get a read on it. I’m not sure if anyone really knows what to make of Denver. I could have seen this game anywhere between about 6 and 13 points, so I split the difference and went Titans by 9.
Actual line: Titans by 6.5. Point to Matt
CIN @ CLE. Matt: Nobody seems to think Carson has it anymore, but this team is still the cock of the walk in this division. I think Senaca gives the Browns a better chance to win than Jake, but they still stink. Cincy by -9.
Scott: Cincy is the cock of the walk? Were Pittsburgh and Baltimore banished to another division, and all that’s left is the Browns and the Bengals? Cincy doesn’t make it to the playoffs, and Carson Palmer will show how bad he is. Maybe not this week, but soon. Bengals by 4.
Actual line: Bengals by 3. Point to Scott.
CAR @ NO. Matt: Your 2010 worst team in the league Panthers, formerly known as Scott’s sleeper pick. I don’t think FGs will be an issue for NO in this one. Saints by -13.
Scott: You have no proof of me ever saying such a thing (**currently deleting all blog posts mentioning Carolina or Matt Moore**). I still think everyone knows something isn’t quite right with the Saints and this line reflects it a little. Saints by 10.5.
Actual line: Saints by 13.5. Point to Matt.
BAL @ PIT. Matt: Flacco and Batch! Sounds like a cheesy 1970s cop show. I’ve failed to notice in the first 3 weeks that Pittsburgh was my kryptonite team last year – for or against, couldn’t win on games involving them – this season 0-3… Something is awry in Baltimore, but they find ways to win. Pitt is the balls. Steeltown by -4.5.
Scott: I’d watch Flacco and Batch! At least before I ever watch S*@! My Dad Says. Or Desperate Housewives. Speaking of which, the only reason that show must be still on is to give Eva Longoria a career. I was flipping through the guide on TV last night and found a movie where she was the 2nd lead in a movie. To Jason Biggs. That’s right, the Pie-Fucker! And you don’t even get top billing over him? Yeah, you better hope Tony gets a nice fat new contract, Eva. Oh yeah, Charlie Batch blows. Baltimore by 2.5.
Actual line: Pittsburgh by 1.5. Point to Matt.
SF @ ATL. Matt: This is where it really starts to fall apart for San Fran… The Dirty Birds are the class of the NFC in my opinion (over Green Bay). I’m just not sure if Vegas jumps off San Fran just yet… ATL by -7.
Scott: Class of the NFC hey? Let’s not forget they were a 25 yard field goal shank away from being 1-2. We better start making all of our Mike Singletary jokes now though, because he won’t be around much longer. Just waiting for somebody in the San Fran front office to get the nerve up to tell him he’s fired. Something tells me they’ll sacrifice an intern for that one. Or he just shows up for work one day and his access card doesn't work. Atlanta by 7.
Actual line: Falcons by 6.5. No points awarded.
SEA @ STL. Matt: All of the sudden this is an interesting matchup… hahaha OK just kidding! But after the Rams’ big win over the Skins, and Seattle’s dramatic win over SD, it complicates the situation slightly. I think the Hawks get an edge because they have one more win than STL, and before Sunday, the Rams hadn’t won a game since ’99… I think. I have this game as a pick.
Scott: I figure since nobody knows what to make of either of these teams, Vegas throws up their hands, much like I am on this one. Rams by 2.5.
Actual line: Seattle by 1. Point to Matt.
DET @ GB. Matt: Shouldn’t be too much backlash over the Packer’s loss Monday night, that Chicago D is just filthy. Unfortunately for the Lions, I don’t think this gets any easier than their game against the Vikes. Green Bay should roll them nicely. Pack by -14
Scott: Green Bay kept finding ways to lose against Chicago, but really dominated the play other than dumb penalties. Remember all that talk about Detroit being respectable? Where did that go? Packers by 13.
Actual line: Packers by 14.5. Point to Matt.
HOU @ OAK. Matt: Htown comes back to earth with a humbling loss vs the ‘Boys. How will they respond knowing that they’ve started hot in the past, only to cool off eventually? It’s difficult to imagine how Oakland can have success in this one. Texans by -6.
Scott: Houston got dominated by a desperate Cowboys team that wanted to avoid 0-3. Oakland couldn’t even beat the lowly Cardinals, but they are at home and I don’t think Houston has that much respect yet from Vegas. Houston by 4.
Actual line: Houston by 3. Point to Scott.
IND @ JAX. Matt: Another divisional game, been tight in past years. All will expect Indy to continue to roll here, so the line will be high. Colts by -9.5.
Scott: I suspect with Peyton Manning in town, the Jags might get 30K in the stadium. Most of whom will be wearing Colts jerseys. Colts by 7.5.
Actual line: Indy by 9. Point to Matt.
WAS @ PHI. Matt: Why oh why wasn’t this later in the year so this game could get flexed into the night game?? This is Luke versus Han. Interesting situation because unlike most franchise’s, where the team’s leader retires or moves on, and there is usually a few (to several) years where everyone misses the guy, Philly fans haven’t hesitated to adopt the Dog Whisperer as their saviour of Vickadelphia. In related news, Philly is the fav at this stage in the season, we will see where things are when we go to DC later. Eagles by -6.
Scott: Philly fans want a winner, and if Charles Manson could play QB they’d support him. I wish Seattle Mariners fans were the same way, they want to bounce a promising young reliever (Josh Leuke) acquired in the Cliff Lee deal out of town because he has a ‘he said she said’ incident when he was 19 where he served time already. You do your time, you get forgiven. All that said, Vegas will play on the McNabb revenge factor here, so we’ll go Eagles by 4.
Actual line: Eagles by 6. Point to Matt.
Sunday Nighter – Matt: CHI @ NYG. Three thoughts from MNF: 1) So fun watching Hester run another one back, but it will be really scary if he does it again this year… 2) Urlacher looks as good as ever, but 5 years ago he might have picked that red zone pass to Finley that whizzed by his head 3) Julius Peppers, my goodness, I’ve never seen one guy provoke that many false starts, dude could probably make anyone lose in a game of flinch! One would think they’re primed for a let down here, but I’ll argue that won’t happen because the Giants aren’t there yet… Week 1 they win decisively but over the soon to be coined worst team in the NFL, Week 2 they got creamed on SNF, week 3 return home only to get crushed again, now SNF at home in week 4 versus the only undefeated NFC team fresh off a night game victory over everyone’s sexy Super Bowl pick. Da Bears by -5.
Scott: I wasn’t nearly as impressed by the Bears as you. They won because Green Bay beat themselves with penalties, a Devin Hester runback and a fumble that somehow stayed inbounds when all physics says it should roll out of bounds.. They should be a 1-2 team. Giants by 2.5.
Actual line: Giants by 3.5. Point to Scott.
Monday Night Football - NE @ MIA. Matt: The Pats can’t defend, I’m keeping this in mind from now on. The once instantly recognizable names of Patriots defensive lore: Harrison, Seymour, Bruschi, etc. have all faded away. If Miami can keep Brady from torching them just a little, they can take this one. The Dolphin’s have much potential, so long as they don’t succumb to the status quo by relying too much on their QB (I don’t think Henne is bad at all, but it seems like every time the balance swings towards more passes, the play calling gets careless). Miami by -1.
Scott: As I wrote yesterday, the Patriots are developing more holes than swiss cheese, and they’re only a decent team because of their passing game. I don't know about you, but Tony Sparano's eye issues from a grease fire accident being the reason he wears the sunglasses depressed me. I was really hoping he actually wanted to look like one of the guys from SNL's old 'Da Bears' skits. That said, the Patriots still the PATRIOTS in a lot of people’s minds and Miami is coming off a tough loss where as you pointed out, their passing game goes awry when they have to depend on it, so New England by 1.
Actual line: Patriots by 1. Point to Scott.
Final weekly score: Matt 7-5
Season score: 2-0 Matt
Monday, September 27, 2010
Random Sunday Football Thoughts – Week 3
First off a big thanks to Mrs. Scott for this week. She came through with a delicious spread for me and the boys. I had to take the belt out a notch today, but it was well worth it.
For those of you sick of football, yeah I know, I’m on it. I still have a review of the Accidental Billionaires, plus it’s time to review the new series Boardwalk Empire and the first episode of the new season of Dexter. In the meantime, here’s my thoughts on some of the football games I viewed yesterday.
Patriots-Bills: These aren’t your older brother’s Patriots. What first appeared to be chinks in the armor are now full-fledged body parts being exposed, and it's only time until this team loses a leg (Kevin Faulk was a hand). When the Bills can put up 30 points on you with Ryan Fitzpatrick leading the charge, it’s time to take a hard look at yourself in the mirror. What should Bill Belichick see in that reflection? A 10-6 team and a first round playoff exit. If he’s lucky.
Titans-Giants: How entertaining is an Eli Manning left-handed lob for an interception in the end zone? As it turns out, about as fun as one pick can get! This game was a lot closer than the score says, as the Giants made 3 turnovers (2 within the Titans’s 5 yard line) and Chris Johnson scored 2 TD’s to put the game out of reach. Did we learn anything? Ahmad Bradshaw appears to be the MAN at tailback for the Giants. Kareem McKenzie makes some dumb penalties. Vince Young wins football games.
Cowboys-Texans: Typical Houston. Just when you think they’re any good, they turn in an odorous effort at home against their in-state rivals. Andre Johnson didn’t look to have his same explosiveness and DeMarcus Ware played like DeMarcus Ware. I still don’t remain sold on the Cowboys until they develop some consistency, but they looked good today.
Chargers-Seahawks: Do the Cardinals or the Seahawks make the playoffs at 7-9? Couldn’t the whole NFC West schedule be played like the NBA Draft Lottery? Teams could draw balls for victories and save us all the shame of watching this train wreck of a division. By the way, Norv Turner is confirming by the day that he’s one bad coach. Yeah, the Chargers will probably come back to get to 10-6 and win the 2nd worst division in football, but they’re not impressing anyone along the way.
Colts-Broncos: We learned this week that you don’t count a team out because of a fluky Super Bowl loss and then a bad loss in Week 1 of the season. Indianapolis looked methodical this week, with Peyton Manning back as head surgeon. (Side note: Do you think Peyton ever plays that game like in Celtic Pride where he flips channels until he finds a channel with him on it? I swear he's in every 3rd commercial during football games, though the Sony bits with him and Timberlake need to end, now) With only 3 wideouts at his disposal, including Blair White off the practice squad, Manning turned in a stellar outing and easily disposed of the Broncos. The Colts’ defense will still give them issues down the stretch but against a weak offense like Denver those issues are less glaring.
Jets-Dolphins: Another game that was closer than the score, with this game coming down to the final possession. This one came down to the Jets making good plays at the right times while the Dolphins couldn’t quite get it done, especially CB Jason Allen having a terrible last few series. I like Tony Sparano as a coach, but he needs to stop running the Wildcat offense around the 35 yard line where a loss of yardage (something more likely to happen with a trick play) takes the team out of field goal range. This happened on at least one occasion last night where no points were scored. And of course Braylon Edwards had to factor into this one so the talking heads have something to talk about today.
Other thoughts for the day:
- Pittsburgh continues to look like the favorite. Chaz Batch comes in from the blueberry patch and throws 3 TD’s and they roll over Tampa. Two things can derail them now. Either Ben Roethlisberger comes in and kills the chemistry (I don’t think Shaft lets that happen) or Troy Polamalu gets hurt (always a possibility).
- Kansas City at 3-0 deserves a mention. Yesterday was the first game they really, truly deserved a win or that Matt Cassel didn’t look like a CFL reject. Their remaining schedule still has them playing Oakland and Denver twice each, Buffalo and Jacksonville both at home, plus Seattle, St. Louis and Arizona from the NFC West. There’s no reason the Chiefs couldn’t win the division with 10 wins with that schedule. At which point I will wager my children against them in the first round.
- I hate Oakland as a Chiefs fan, but I like when Oakland and Kansas City are both good at the same time. Sebastian Janikowski, shame on you. Three missed FG’s and your team loses by 1. The Chiefs now have an early 2 game lead because of you.
- The Saints are still 2-1 and only lost because of a shanked chip FG in overtime, but something isn’t quite right there. I trust they’ll turn it around, but right now Green Bay is still the clear NFC favorite.
- The NFC East was terribly over-hyped this off-season. This is the reason if you’re Andy Reid you play Mike Vick. A 9-7 team could win this division, and Vick gives them the best chance to win, even in a rebuilding year.
- I still like Green Bay tonight, even if everyone and their dog is laying the 3 points on them.
For those of you sick of football, yeah I know, I’m on it. I still have a review of the Accidental Billionaires, plus it’s time to review the new series Boardwalk Empire and the first episode of the new season of Dexter. In the meantime, here’s my thoughts on some of the football games I viewed yesterday.
Patriots-Bills: These aren’t your older brother’s Patriots. What first appeared to be chinks in the armor are now full-fledged body parts being exposed, and it's only time until this team loses a leg (Kevin Faulk was a hand). When the Bills can put up 30 points on you with Ryan Fitzpatrick leading the charge, it’s time to take a hard look at yourself in the mirror. What should Bill Belichick see in that reflection? A 10-6 team and a first round playoff exit. If he’s lucky.
Titans-Giants: How entertaining is an Eli Manning left-handed lob for an interception in the end zone? As it turns out, about as fun as one pick can get! This game was a lot closer than the score says, as the Giants made 3 turnovers (2 within the Titans’s 5 yard line) and Chris Johnson scored 2 TD’s to put the game out of reach. Did we learn anything? Ahmad Bradshaw appears to be the MAN at tailback for the Giants. Kareem McKenzie makes some dumb penalties. Vince Young wins football games.
Cowboys-Texans: Typical Houston. Just when you think they’re any good, they turn in an odorous effort at home against their in-state rivals. Andre Johnson didn’t look to have his same explosiveness and DeMarcus Ware played like DeMarcus Ware. I still don’t remain sold on the Cowboys until they develop some consistency, but they looked good today.
Chargers-Seahawks: Do the Cardinals or the Seahawks make the playoffs at 7-9? Couldn’t the whole NFC West schedule be played like the NBA Draft Lottery? Teams could draw balls for victories and save us all the shame of watching this train wreck of a division. By the way, Norv Turner is confirming by the day that he’s one bad coach. Yeah, the Chargers will probably come back to get to 10-6 and win the 2nd worst division in football, but they’re not impressing anyone along the way.
Colts-Broncos: We learned this week that you don’t count a team out because of a fluky Super Bowl loss and then a bad loss in Week 1 of the season. Indianapolis looked methodical this week, with Peyton Manning back as head surgeon. (Side note: Do you think Peyton ever plays that game like in Celtic Pride where he flips channels until he finds a channel with him on it? I swear he's in every 3rd commercial during football games, though the Sony bits with him and Timberlake need to end, now) With only 3 wideouts at his disposal, including Blair White off the practice squad, Manning turned in a stellar outing and easily disposed of the Broncos. The Colts’ defense will still give them issues down the stretch but against a weak offense like Denver those issues are less glaring.
Jets-Dolphins: Another game that was closer than the score, with this game coming down to the final possession. This one came down to the Jets making good plays at the right times while the Dolphins couldn’t quite get it done, especially CB Jason Allen having a terrible last few series. I like Tony Sparano as a coach, but he needs to stop running the Wildcat offense around the 35 yard line where a loss of yardage (something more likely to happen with a trick play) takes the team out of field goal range. This happened on at least one occasion last night where no points were scored. And of course Braylon Edwards had to factor into this one so the talking heads have something to talk about today.
Other thoughts for the day:
- Pittsburgh continues to look like the favorite. Chaz Batch comes in from the blueberry patch and throws 3 TD’s and they roll over Tampa. Two things can derail them now. Either Ben Roethlisberger comes in and kills the chemistry (I don’t think Shaft lets that happen) or Troy Polamalu gets hurt (always a possibility).
- Kansas City at 3-0 deserves a mention. Yesterday was the first game they really, truly deserved a win or that Matt Cassel didn’t look like a CFL reject. Their remaining schedule still has them playing Oakland and Denver twice each, Buffalo and Jacksonville both at home, plus Seattle, St. Louis and Arizona from the NFC West. There’s no reason the Chiefs couldn’t win the division with 10 wins with that schedule. At which point I will wager my children against them in the first round.
- I hate Oakland as a Chiefs fan, but I like when Oakland and Kansas City are both good at the same time. Sebastian Janikowski, shame on you. Three missed FG’s and your team loses by 1. The Chiefs now have an early 2 game lead because of you.
- The Saints are still 2-1 and only lost because of a shanked chip FG in overtime, but something isn’t quite right there. I trust they’ll turn it around, but right now Green Bay is still the clear NFC favorite.
- The NFC East was terribly over-hyped this off-season. This is the reason if you’re Andy Reid you play Mike Vick. A 9-7 team could win this division, and Vick gives them the best chance to win, even in a rebuilding year.
- I still like Green Bay tonight, even if everyone and their dog is laying the 3 points on them.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Week 3 NFL picks
I'm rushing this one up on Saturday night so its shelf life will be shorter than sushi, but I need to go on the record.
Last week: 8-8
YTD: 17-15
This week is full of smelly lines. Vegas is either going to win a lot or lose a lot on public teams this week. We know how that usually turns out. As Matt pointed out in the weekly pick the lines contest, all the interconference games aren't helping matters as there's few trends to base anything on.
Tennessee (+3) at NY Giants - A battle of two teams who have looked great one week and terrible the next. I'm going to chalk the Titans' stinker up to a vicious Pittsburgh defense. The Giants let Indy run all over them, and Chris Johnson is a lot better than the Colts' rushers. Pick: Tennessee
Buffalo (+14.5) at New England - I wouldn't touch this game for real money with a 2,000 foot pole. Buffalo is all kinds of stinky right now, but this is just one of those games that feels like something weird will happen for a cheap cover. The Patriots shouldn't be favored by this much, but I just can't trust the Bills to score more than 10 points. Pick: New England
Cleveland (+10.5) at Baltimore - Much like the Buffalo-New England game, I don't trust Baltimore. Their offense has been bad, scoring 10 points in each of the first 2 weeks. But Cleveland is being led by Seneca Wallace. This screams 20-3 Baltimore. Pick: Baltimore
Pittsburgh (-2.5) at Tampa Bay - Here's one of those weird lines I've been talking about. Why are the 2-0 Steelers only favored by less than a field goal? The public is going to be all over Pittsburgh here and Vegas knows it. But Josh Freeman > Charlie Batch/Byron Leftwich and Tampa is at home. Pick: Tampa Bay
Cincinnati (-3) at Carolina - Another fishy line. Cincinnati just took out a Super Bowl contender and only gives up a field goal to the Panthers (yes, we're completely and totally forgetting I made them my sleeper pick for 2010), starting rookie Jimmy Claussen at QB. I'm going to regret this one I think, but I can't trust the Panthers here. Pick: Cincinnati
Atlanta (+3) at New Orleans - Yet another weird one. But the Saints come in on a short week and really didn't deserve to beat San Francisco. The public should be all over New Orleans since they're the champs. New Orleans hasn't played very well this year, and one of these games they're going to get a wake-up call. I think this is the week. Pick: Atlanta
San Francisco (-3) at Kansas City - San Fran comes in on a short week while the Chiefs are 2-0 through a smoke and mirrors act. This is a classic 'when in doubt' take the points game, especially since the home team is getting points. Could KC be 3-0? I say yes. Pick: Kansas City
Detroit (+11.5) at Minnesota - This spread really shouldn't be more than a touchdown. But it's been increasing. Something is up on this one, and I think the Shaun Hill we all expect is going to come out one of these days, and let's not forget Detroit's rush defense isn't too good and the Vikings have Purple Jesus. Pick: Minnesota
Dallas (+3) at Houston - This line should be higher but Cowboy bias has it as a FG difference. Arian Foster ran circles around the Cowboys' D in the pre-season. I just don't trust the Cowboys right now, even if they desperately need this one. Pick: Houston
Washington (-4) at St. Louis - Exactly why is Washington favored to anyone on the road? Yeah, its the Rams. I guess. But Steven Jackson keeps this one close enough. Pick: St. Louis
Philadelphia (-2.5) at Jacksonville - Mike Vick is now the starter, meaning expectations are high. Everyone is on Philly here, so expect a big game from MoJo Drew. Pick: Jacksonville
Indianapolis (+5.5) at Denver - Why do I ever bet against Peyton Manning? Stupid, stupid, stupid. Let's not make that mistake again. Pick: Indianapolis.
San Diego (-4.5) over Seattle. - Yet another fishy line. This interconference schedule is messing with everyone. Which Seattle is the real one? The one that dominated the 49ers or the one that got killed by Denver. The Chargers are missing tons of players on offense due to holdouts, injuries or suspensions. Let's take the points. Pick: Seattle
Oakland (+4.5) at Arizona - I'll make this quick. I refuse to lay 4 points to any team with Derek Anderson at QB. Pick: Oakland
NY Jets (+1) at Miami - The Dolphins finally get their home opener after 2 road wins and take on the Jets coming off a comeback victory against the Patriots. I just like how Miami is getting things done right now. And I like betting against the Jets. Pick: Miami.
Green Bay (-3) at Chicago - I hate backing a very public team like the Packers, but this is just one of those games they need to win, on the road and in a tough environment, if they want to be taken seriously as a Super Bowl contender. And wasn't Chicago a 4-12 team coming into the year? Pick: Green Bay
Last week: 8-8
YTD: 17-15
This week is full of smelly lines. Vegas is either going to win a lot or lose a lot on public teams this week. We know how that usually turns out. As Matt pointed out in the weekly pick the lines contest, all the interconference games aren't helping matters as there's few trends to base anything on.
Tennessee (+3) at NY Giants - A battle of two teams who have looked great one week and terrible the next. I'm going to chalk the Titans' stinker up to a vicious Pittsburgh defense. The Giants let Indy run all over them, and Chris Johnson is a lot better than the Colts' rushers. Pick: Tennessee
Buffalo (+14.5) at New England - I wouldn't touch this game for real money with a 2,000 foot pole. Buffalo is all kinds of stinky right now, but this is just one of those games that feels like something weird will happen for a cheap cover. The Patriots shouldn't be favored by this much, but I just can't trust the Bills to score more than 10 points. Pick: New England
Cleveland (+10.5) at Baltimore - Much like the Buffalo-New England game, I don't trust Baltimore. Their offense has been bad, scoring 10 points in each of the first 2 weeks. But Cleveland is being led by Seneca Wallace. This screams 20-3 Baltimore. Pick: Baltimore
Pittsburgh (-2.5) at Tampa Bay - Here's one of those weird lines I've been talking about. Why are the 2-0 Steelers only favored by less than a field goal? The public is going to be all over Pittsburgh here and Vegas knows it. But Josh Freeman > Charlie Batch/Byron Leftwich and Tampa is at home. Pick: Tampa Bay
Cincinnati (-3) at Carolina - Another fishy line. Cincinnati just took out a Super Bowl contender and only gives up a field goal to the Panthers (yes, we're completely and totally forgetting I made them my sleeper pick for 2010), starting rookie Jimmy Claussen at QB. I'm going to regret this one I think, but I can't trust the Panthers here. Pick: Cincinnati
Atlanta (+3) at New Orleans - Yet another weird one. But the Saints come in on a short week and really didn't deserve to beat San Francisco. The public should be all over New Orleans since they're the champs. New Orleans hasn't played very well this year, and one of these games they're going to get a wake-up call. I think this is the week. Pick: Atlanta
San Francisco (-3) at Kansas City - San Fran comes in on a short week while the Chiefs are 2-0 through a smoke and mirrors act. This is a classic 'when in doubt' take the points game, especially since the home team is getting points. Could KC be 3-0? I say yes. Pick: Kansas City
Detroit (+11.5) at Minnesota - This spread really shouldn't be more than a touchdown. But it's been increasing. Something is up on this one, and I think the Shaun Hill we all expect is going to come out one of these days, and let's not forget Detroit's rush defense isn't too good and the Vikings have Purple Jesus. Pick: Minnesota
Dallas (+3) at Houston - This line should be higher but Cowboy bias has it as a FG difference. Arian Foster ran circles around the Cowboys' D in the pre-season. I just don't trust the Cowboys right now, even if they desperately need this one. Pick: Houston
Washington (-4) at St. Louis - Exactly why is Washington favored to anyone on the road? Yeah, its the Rams. I guess. But Steven Jackson keeps this one close enough. Pick: St. Louis
Philadelphia (-2.5) at Jacksonville - Mike Vick is now the starter, meaning expectations are high. Everyone is on Philly here, so expect a big game from MoJo Drew. Pick: Jacksonville
Indianapolis (+5.5) at Denver - Why do I ever bet against Peyton Manning? Stupid, stupid, stupid. Let's not make that mistake again. Pick: Indianapolis.
San Diego (-4.5) over Seattle. - Yet another fishy line. This interconference schedule is messing with everyone. Which Seattle is the real one? The one that dominated the 49ers or the one that got killed by Denver. The Chargers are missing tons of players on offense due to holdouts, injuries or suspensions. Let's take the points. Pick: Seattle
Oakland (+4.5) at Arizona - I'll make this quick. I refuse to lay 4 points to any team with Derek Anderson at QB. Pick: Oakland
NY Jets (+1) at Miami - The Dolphins finally get their home opener after 2 road wins and take on the Jets coming off a comeback victory against the Patriots. I just like how Miami is getting things done right now. And I like betting against the Jets. Pick: Miami.
Green Bay (-3) at Chicago - I hate backing a very public team like the Packers, but this is just one of those games they need to win, on the road and in a tough environment, if they want to be taken seriously as a Super Bowl contender. And wasn't Chicago a 4-12 team coming into the year? Pick: Green Bay
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Week 3 - Guess the NFL Lines
Matt: 8 Inter-conference games this week! 8! That’s half the games, for the slow class. Thus I threw up several 4-6 pt spreads. I have a good feeling about this week. That is, until I see the real lines. I love mine tho! Hahahaha. Given the actuals are not far off, here’s who I like at first glance: I’ve already mentioned that now is the time to jump on Tampa, just when logic tells you to stay away; Jacksonville because I don’t think there is enough controversy in Philly; Seattle possibly – check the weather report…; Detroit looks like a solid dog again this week.
Scott: After this week’s gambling debacle that was Week 2, I’m ready to wash the taste of vomit from my mouth. Let’s do this.
SF @ KC. Matt: San Fran’s late drive to tie the game really baffled me, with the game on the line, Alex Smith marches them down the field for the TD + (suspect) 2pt conversion? Since when does that happen? I think the Chiefs deserve respect for following up the emotional week 1 win with a road win (albeit vs the Browns), but they probably won’t get much. I have this game as a pick.
Scott: San Fran took everything the champs had and took them to overtime, and if not for turnovers they win that game. Just because the Chiefs are 2-0 doesn’t mean anyone thinks they’re any good. That said, Arrowhead will be rocking and the Niners are on a short week. I also had this game as a pick.
Actual line: Niners by 2. No point awarded.
TEN @ NYG. Matt: I’m calling an overreaction in regards to the Titans loss, and complete ignorance of the Giants lemon last night by Vegas. Fisher isn’t making any changes, I’m pretty sure he was just reacting to the fact that the Pitt D prepared very well for the CJ and Vince Show, and needed to throw them a curve ball to try and get back in the game. Almost worked too. In any event, Vegas will likely jump off the Titans jock and set them up as a nice dog this week. NY by -4.5.
Scott: I think you called it, Pittsburgh is a terrible matchup for Tennessee so I’m not going to put too much stock into one week, but there’s always the NYC bias involved in their lines. Giants by -3.5.
Actual line: Giants by 3. Point to Scott.
CIN @ CAR. Matt: Carolina looks to be in the same sort of tailspin that befell Tennessee last year, with seemingly no end in sight. Can’t really see them winning anytime soon. Cincy was not spectacular outside the division last year, this year might be similar. I’m setting the line a little high. Bengals by -4.
Scott: It’s only 2 weeks in, but my Carolina sleeper pick belongs on my list of ‘Stupid Shit Scotty Has Said.’ Also on this list: Eminem will never be successful with that voice, the 2010 Mariners have enough offense to contend, and Ed O’Bannon will be a great NBA player. Let’s move on. I also had Bengals -4.
Actual line: Bengals by 3. No point awarded.
DAL @ HOU. Matt: The whispers are starting. Is Houston the cock of the walk in the NFL, right now? Or is it just a fast start leading up to an eventual late stumble like we’ve seen in the past. One thing we do know is that Dallas cannot distinguish there ass from their elbow. Texans by -5.
Scott: The Cowboys are involved. And everyone will be thinking they’re playing for their lives to avoid the dreaded 0-3 start. Texans by 3.
Actual line: Texans by 3. Point to Scott.
PIT @ TB. Matt: Can we call him J-Free now? Please!! Hahahaha… Interesting scenario for Vegas with Pitt here… on the one hand, they are one of only a few expected elite teams that is actually playing like it, and yet for 2 more weeks their QB situation is up in the air. No respect for Tampa. Pitt by -6.
Scott: While I also think maybe everyone is sleeping on Tampa, the Steelers are throwing out a guy they just cut last week as their starting QB in Byron Leftwich. I figure Vegas goes with the ‘we don’t have an effing clue’ number of Steelers by 5.
Actual line: Steelers by 2 ½. Point to Scott.
PHI @ JAX. Matt: Both teams 1-1. Might just see a sell out in Jacksonville with the Michael Vick Experience coming to town… what am I saying? I must be nuts. I’m sniffing out a bait game here. Philly by -1.
Scott: You left out one thing here. Andy Reid is stuck starting Kevin Kolb for awhile. And I don’t think anyone in northern Florida is coming out to see him. Jacksonville by 1.5.
Actual line: Philly by 3. Point to Matt.
SD @ SEA. Matt: Is it… is it safe to bet on SD now?? Hmmm… I’m throwing back some QWest-love again this week. Can you imagine if it rains this Sunday? 2 of the Chargers first 3 games in the rain, in arguably the 2 loudest stadiums in the league (KC and Seattle). The line should draw the action on SD. SD by -6.5.
Scott: No matter what happened in that first game, Seattle is still bad, I’m just not sure how Vegas thinks of them and what they think of the Qwest factor. This was probably my hardest line to pick this week, I could see it being anywhere between 2 and 8, but I didn’t want to go into the Vegas Doesn’t Have a Clue Zone so I went with the Chargers by 3.5.
Actual line: Chargers by 5.5. Point to Matt.
OAK @ ARI. Matt: These teams are the same right now. Zona by -3.
Scott: Must suck to be a Cardinals fan. You wait all those years to be good, then Warner retires, Leinart flames out and you’re left with Derek Anderson throwing to the best receiver in the NFL. I have a feeling I’m going to regret this line, I’m probably giving Oakland way too much credit. Oakland by 2.
Actual line: Arizona by 4. Point to Matt.
DET @ MIN. Matt: These Lions sure are fighters boy, I hope they keep their resolve. I’m expecting a 3rd straight cover, and a heartbreaking loss, despite at least 2 picks from Favre. Minny will pull out a close one. Both teams 0-2 but Minnesota is still the defending North champs and they at home. Vikes by -5.
Scott: Much like my Dallas line, I think the Vikings get a bump for being 0-2 and needing this game, as this screams ‘field goal game’ to me. Vikings by 4.5.
Actual line: Vikings by 10 ½. You read that right. Point to Matt.
ATL @ NO. Matt: The Falcons did what they should have done vs the Cards, they stink. So an OT loss vs the best D in the league, then taking care of business at home. Now they have the champs on the road. They won’t put up 41 against the Saints. Maybe no Bush for New Orleans, had this one at 6.5 originally. NO by -4.5.
Scott: Reggie Bush isn’t Drew Brees, or even Pierre Thomas for that matter. I think the line barely moves. New Orleans by 7.
Actual line: Saints by 4.5. Point to Matt.
CLE @ BAL. Matt: I have a relatively small line here for Baltimore because I think everyone has recognized that despite all these new toys and potentially potent offence, they are only 1-1 and they’ve scored only 10 pts in both of their games. I think Senaca Wallace is a better choice than Jake right now, younger, more agile. Divisional game. Ravens by -5.
Scott: The Ravens have still played the so-called best defense in the league in the Jets and the Bengals have always given them trouble, so I’m not worried about their offense. Yet. And this is the Browns on the road. Ravens by 6.5.
Actual line: Ravens by 10 ½. Point to Scott.
BUF @ NE. Matt: Not really much to say here, There’s no reason the Pats don’t get the same treatment as GB. Pats by -14.
Scott: Yeah, there’s pretty much no reason not to lay the points and go against the Bills at this point. Patriots by 13. I wonder if we’re going to see them getting +20 by the end of the year.
Actual line: Patriots by 13. Point to Scott.
WAS @ STL. Matt: I think we can start to be impressed by Washington now. But Vegas will give us one more week to make money on them. St. Louis has to learn how to win. Skins by -3.5.
Scott: Washington still screams 8-8 team to me, even in an overrated NFC East. Some poor coaching by Shanahan in the overtime. Yes, it’s still the Rams but they’re at home so I also went Skins by 3.5.
Actual line: Skins by 3.5. No point awarded.
IND @ DEN. Matt: Whew! Colts are taking care of business, all is right with the world, right? Did blowing out Seattle impress anybody? I like Colts as touchdown favs, but will compensate for Denver’s home field. Colts by -4.
Scott: People like to bet on Peyton Manning, and Sunday night’s game reminded them why. I know Denver blowing out Seattle didn’t impress me, that’s for sure. Colts by 6 ½.
Actual line: Colts by 6. Point to Scott.
NYJ @ MIA. Matt: Seemingly every Miami game is watchable. Will we see a sub-30 O/U on this game? There should be. I think this comes down to Special Teams. Miami by -2.5.
Scott: Yes, every Miami game has some fun. They run the ball a lot so the clock moves fast, they make and create turnovers and when you hear that the Wildcat offense is in, you know you’re watching to see if anything happens. I think the Jets are the slightly better team, and I also went Miami by 2.5.
Actual line: Miami by 1 ½. No point awarded.
GB @ CHI. Matt: Meeting of undefeated division rivals, great Monday Night matchup potentially. All of the sudden looking forward to this game. All the way up until Cutler throws his 3rd pick. They are who we thought they were!!! Pack by -3.
Scott: This really is a week of duds until you get to the night games. I think people aren’t completely sold on the Bears yet, and the Packers are supposed to be the NFC favorite to make the Super Bowl, so I went Packers by 4.
Actual line: Packers by 3. Point to Matt.
Final score: 6-6, with 4 ties.
Season Score: Still 1-0 Matt.
Scott: Well that was like kissing your sister. Shocked at how much respect Vegas is giving the Vikings, especially given Detroit’s comeback ability. Final thoughts?
Scott: After this week’s gambling debacle that was Week 2, I’m ready to wash the taste of vomit from my mouth. Let’s do this.
SF @ KC. Matt: San Fran’s late drive to tie the game really baffled me, with the game on the line, Alex Smith marches them down the field for the TD + (suspect) 2pt conversion? Since when does that happen? I think the Chiefs deserve respect for following up the emotional week 1 win with a road win (albeit vs the Browns), but they probably won’t get much. I have this game as a pick.
Scott: San Fran took everything the champs had and took them to overtime, and if not for turnovers they win that game. Just because the Chiefs are 2-0 doesn’t mean anyone thinks they’re any good. That said, Arrowhead will be rocking and the Niners are on a short week. I also had this game as a pick.
Actual line: Niners by 2. No point awarded.
TEN @ NYG. Matt: I’m calling an overreaction in regards to the Titans loss, and complete ignorance of the Giants lemon last night by Vegas. Fisher isn’t making any changes, I’m pretty sure he was just reacting to the fact that the Pitt D prepared very well for the CJ and Vince Show, and needed to throw them a curve ball to try and get back in the game. Almost worked too. In any event, Vegas will likely jump off the Titans jock and set them up as a nice dog this week. NY by -4.5.
Scott: I think you called it, Pittsburgh is a terrible matchup for Tennessee so I’m not going to put too much stock into one week, but there’s always the NYC bias involved in their lines. Giants by -3.5.
Actual line: Giants by 3. Point to Scott.
CIN @ CAR. Matt: Carolina looks to be in the same sort of tailspin that befell Tennessee last year, with seemingly no end in sight. Can’t really see them winning anytime soon. Cincy was not spectacular outside the division last year, this year might be similar. I’m setting the line a little high. Bengals by -4.
Scott: It’s only 2 weeks in, but my Carolina sleeper pick belongs on my list of ‘Stupid Shit Scotty Has Said.’ Also on this list: Eminem will never be successful with that voice, the 2010 Mariners have enough offense to contend, and Ed O’Bannon will be a great NBA player. Let’s move on. I also had Bengals -4.
Actual line: Bengals by 3. No point awarded.
DAL @ HOU. Matt: The whispers are starting. Is Houston the cock of the walk in the NFL, right now? Or is it just a fast start leading up to an eventual late stumble like we’ve seen in the past. One thing we do know is that Dallas cannot distinguish there ass from their elbow. Texans by -5.
Scott: The Cowboys are involved. And everyone will be thinking they’re playing for their lives to avoid the dreaded 0-3 start. Texans by 3.
Actual line: Texans by 3. Point to Scott.
PIT @ TB. Matt: Can we call him J-Free now? Please!! Hahahaha… Interesting scenario for Vegas with Pitt here… on the one hand, they are one of only a few expected elite teams that is actually playing like it, and yet for 2 more weeks their QB situation is up in the air. No respect for Tampa. Pitt by -6.
Scott: While I also think maybe everyone is sleeping on Tampa, the Steelers are throwing out a guy they just cut last week as their starting QB in Byron Leftwich. I figure Vegas goes with the ‘we don’t have an effing clue’ number of Steelers by 5.
Actual line: Steelers by 2 ½. Point to Scott.
PHI @ JAX. Matt: Both teams 1-1. Might just see a sell out in Jacksonville with the Michael Vick Experience coming to town… what am I saying? I must be nuts. I’m sniffing out a bait game here. Philly by -1.
Scott: You left out one thing here. Andy Reid is stuck starting Kevin Kolb for awhile. And I don’t think anyone in northern Florida is coming out to see him. Jacksonville by 1.5.
Actual line: Philly by 3. Point to Matt.
SD @ SEA. Matt: Is it… is it safe to bet on SD now?? Hmmm… I’m throwing back some QWest-love again this week. Can you imagine if it rains this Sunday? 2 of the Chargers first 3 games in the rain, in arguably the 2 loudest stadiums in the league (KC and Seattle). The line should draw the action on SD. SD by -6.5.
Scott: No matter what happened in that first game, Seattle is still bad, I’m just not sure how Vegas thinks of them and what they think of the Qwest factor. This was probably my hardest line to pick this week, I could see it being anywhere between 2 and 8, but I didn’t want to go into the Vegas Doesn’t Have a Clue Zone so I went with the Chargers by 3.5.
Actual line: Chargers by 5.5. Point to Matt.
OAK @ ARI. Matt: These teams are the same right now. Zona by -3.
Scott: Must suck to be a Cardinals fan. You wait all those years to be good, then Warner retires, Leinart flames out and you’re left with Derek Anderson throwing to the best receiver in the NFL. I have a feeling I’m going to regret this line, I’m probably giving Oakland way too much credit. Oakland by 2.
Actual line: Arizona by 4. Point to Matt.
DET @ MIN. Matt: These Lions sure are fighters boy, I hope they keep their resolve. I’m expecting a 3rd straight cover, and a heartbreaking loss, despite at least 2 picks from Favre. Minny will pull out a close one. Both teams 0-2 but Minnesota is still the defending North champs and they at home. Vikes by -5.
Scott: Much like my Dallas line, I think the Vikings get a bump for being 0-2 and needing this game, as this screams ‘field goal game’ to me. Vikings by 4.5.
Actual line: Vikings by 10 ½. You read that right. Point to Matt.
ATL @ NO. Matt: The Falcons did what they should have done vs the Cards, they stink. So an OT loss vs the best D in the league, then taking care of business at home. Now they have the champs on the road. They won’t put up 41 against the Saints. Maybe no Bush for New Orleans, had this one at 6.5 originally. NO by -4.5.
Scott: Reggie Bush isn’t Drew Brees, or even Pierre Thomas for that matter. I think the line barely moves. New Orleans by 7.
Actual line: Saints by 4.5. Point to Matt.
CLE @ BAL. Matt: I have a relatively small line here for Baltimore because I think everyone has recognized that despite all these new toys and potentially potent offence, they are only 1-1 and they’ve scored only 10 pts in both of their games. I think Senaca Wallace is a better choice than Jake right now, younger, more agile. Divisional game. Ravens by -5.
Scott: The Ravens have still played the so-called best defense in the league in the Jets and the Bengals have always given them trouble, so I’m not worried about their offense. Yet. And this is the Browns on the road. Ravens by 6.5.
Actual line: Ravens by 10 ½. Point to Scott.
BUF @ NE. Matt: Not really much to say here, There’s no reason the Pats don’t get the same treatment as GB. Pats by -14.
Scott: Yeah, there’s pretty much no reason not to lay the points and go against the Bills at this point. Patriots by 13. I wonder if we’re going to see them getting +20 by the end of the year.
Actual line: Patriots by 13. Point to Scott.
WAS @ STL. Matt: I think we can start to be impressed by Washington now. But Vegas will give us one more week to make money on them. St. Louis has to learn how to win. Skins by -3.5.
Scott: Washington still screams 8-8 team to me, even in an overrated NFC East. Some poor coaching by Shanahan in the overtime. Yes, it’s still the Rams but they’re at home so I also went Skins by 3.5.
Actual line: Skins by 3.5. No point awarded.
IND @ DEN. Matt: Whew! Colts are taking care of business, all is right with the world, right? Did blowing out Seattle impress anybody? I like Colts as touchdown favs, but will compensate for Denver’s home field. Colts by -4.
Scott: People like to bet on Peyton Manning, and Sunday night’s game reminded them why. I know Denver blowing out Seattle didn’t impress me, that’s for sure. Colts by 6 ½.
Actual line: Colts by 6. Point to Scott.
NYJ @ MIA. Matt: Seemingly every Miami game is watchable. Will we see a sub-30 O/U on this game? There should be. I think this comes down to Special Teams. Miami by -2.5.
Scott: Yes, every Miami game has some fun. They run the ball a lot so the clock moves fast, they make and create turnovers and when you hear that the Wildcat offense is in, you know you’re watching to see if anything happens. I think the Jets are the slightly better team, and I also went Miami by 2.5.
Actual line: Miami by 1 ½. No point awarded.
GB @ CHI. Matt: Meeting of undefeated division rivals, great Monday Night matchup potentially. All of the sudden looking forward to this game. All the way up until Cutler throws his 3rd pick. They are who we thought they were!!! Pack by -3.
Scott: This really is a week of duds until you get to the night games. I think people aren’t completely sold on the Bears yet, and the Packers are supposed to be the NFC favorite to make the Super Bowl, so I went Packers by 4.
Actual line: Packers by 3. Point to Matt.
Final score: 6-6, with 4 ties.
Season Score: Still 1-0 Matt.
Scott: Well that was like kissing your sister. Shocked at how much respect Vegas is giving the Vikings, especially given Detroit’s comeback ability. Final thoughts?
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Random Sunday Football Thoughts - Week 2
First off, a reminder to everyone who plays fantasy football. If your significant other wants you to go for Sunday breakfast before the games start, set your lineup first! Otherwise, breakfast turns into a Wal-Mart shopping excursion (if you have a kid, 100 packs of Mega Blocks for $10!) and you get home 15 minutes late and end up leaving Jahvid Best and his 40 points on the bench in favor of Cadillac Effing Williams. And lose by 10. Better yet, set your lineup on Thursday like every other normal human being.
Also, there will be some non-football material coming up. I just finished off The Accidental Billionaires, the book that the upcoming movie The Social Network is based on, and so I'll be reviewing that. I also downloaded a couple of albums and hoping to throw up some thoughts on those. So watch for those. Without further adieu though, the football thoughts!
I watched portions of 6 games on this fine Sunday. Accompanied by a glorious tin of Pringles Multigrain Ranch chips I might add. Definitely a good tasting 'healthy' chip. I think I only put on 2 pounds today.
Packers-Bills - This one was pretty much everything I expected, a complete annihilation. I really don't have much to add other than Mrs. Scott thinks that Clay Mathews is a really good player, especially being a girl and all.
Bears-Cowboys - A few things we learned in this game: 1) The Cowboys are not as good as everyone thought. Odds are they come back and make things interesting, but they will be very fortunate to make the playoffs. 2) I was an idiot for taking Jason Witten in my fantasy football draft, bypassing Antonio Gates to do so. Miles Austin has surpassed Witten for the first guy that Tony Romo looks for, and Witten now gets the leftovers. 3) The Bears might just be back. Matt Forte looks like he did in his rookie season, and the power of Cavallari seems to have turned Jay Cutler into a competent QB again. In that division, the Bears could just sneak in and make the playoffs. 4) If any team should be looking into trading for Vincent Jackson, it's the Bears. He could be the difference between a playoff run. Their wideouts are pretty bad.
Dolphins-Vikings - The Vikings are looking like a team that begged and dragged a 40 year old QB out of retirement. If you know me, you know I've bashed Favre for years, but even I'm starting to feel a little sorry for the guy. He just looks old, he's getting hit a ton and he has no weapons he trusts. I'm thinking he might just throw a ball clean through Bernard Berrian at this point to prove a point. The Dolphins once again relied on defense, rushing and a little Wildcat magic. They're a low end playoff team, but always a tough game for the opposing team. Everyone knows when they see Miami on the schedule, it's going to be tough to get out of bed on Monday.
Patriots-Jets - Everyone wrote off the Jets after a one point loss to a tough Ravens team. Today they showed everyone they're still a threat. And Mark Sanchez saved himself from being stoned in Central Park for another week. A great catch by Randy Moss on an 'injury' to Darrelle Revis that reminded me of Michael Johnson tapping out to Donovan Bailey a bunch of years ago.
Texans-Redskins - Possibly the best game of the day, with the Texans with a huge comeback and some questionable coaching decisions in overtime. Gary Kubiak managed to call a timeout right before the game winning Redskins FG (note: this was originally a Mike Shanahan tactic, nice to see him get burned by it by his old assistant coach), and their kicker goes out and shanks the re-try. Please don't Kubiak him smart for this, it happens just as often that the kicker misses the first try right as the timeout is called and then drills the 2nd chance. The Texans got lucky, but wow can they move the ball.
Colts-Giants - I knew about 5 minutes in that my prediction on this game was totally and completely off. I'm thinking the Manning boys had a significant personal bet on this game (loser has to change Archie's Depends? Oh wait we know Cooper gets that job), because Peyton came out on a mission. Not a lot to say here, complete and total annihilation. One thing we did learn, the NFC East is not nearly as good as anyone thought it would be.
Other random thoughts:
- My Chiefs are 2-0! I'll enjoy it while I can, but barely beating Seneca Wallace doesn't exactly say they're going to win the division. San Francisco comes in on the road on a short week though, so they could be 3-0 going into their bye week.
- I'd hate to be Andy Reid right now. Kevin Kolb might be the future, but Michael Vick is the now. In a weak division, they could sneak into a division title, but not with Kolb at the helm.
- Carson Palmer is terrible, but the Bengals for whatever reason own the Ravens, despite how bad he is. Nice to see Pacman Jones with a pick.
- Also nice to see Joey Galloway with a big catch. It's always nice to see senior citizens being productive members of society.
- I usually like Jeff Fisher's decisions but benching Vince Young was not one of them. Those are the type of games Young needs to learn to win if the Titans ever expect to contend for a championship.
- The Steelers are 2-0 without Big Ben, and Tampa coming in next week. Troy Polamalu is more important to this team than Roethlisberger. Right now, if I'm picking a team to win the title, I think it's Pittsburgh. Tough defense, an offense that has been good enough and will get better in a few weeks, and Shaft as coach.
Also, there will be some non-football material coming up. I just finished off The Accidental Billionaires, the book that the upcoming movie The Social Network is based on, and so I'll be reviewing that. I also downloaded a couple of albums and hoping to throw up some thoughts on those. So watch for those. Without further adieu though, the football thoughts!
I watched portions of 6 games on this fine Sunday. Accompanied by a glorious tin of Pringles Multigrain Ranch chips I might add. Definitely a good tasting 'healthy' chip. I think I only put on 2 pounds today.
Packers-Bills - This one was pretty much everything I expected, a complete annihilation. I really don't have much to add other than Mrs. Scott thinks that Clay Mathews is a really good player, especially being a girl and all.
Bears-Cowboys - A few things we learned in this game: 1) The Cowboys are not as good as everyone thought. Odds are they come back and make things interesting, but they will be very fortunate to make the playoffs. 2) I was an idiot for taking Jason Witten in my fantasy football draft, bypassing Antonio Gates to do so. Miles Austin has surpassed Witten for the first guy that Tony Romo looks for, and Witten now gets the leftovers. 3) The Bears might just be back. Matt Forte looks like he did in his rookie season, and the power of Cavallari seems to have turned Jay Cutler into a competent QB again. In that division, the Bears could just sneak in and make the playoffs. 4) If any team should be looking into trading for Vincent Jackson, it's the Bears. He could be the difference between a playoff run. Their wideouts are pretty bad.
Dolphins-Vikings - The Vikings are looking like a team that begged and dragged a 40 year old QB out of retirement. If you know me, you know I've bashed Favre for years, but even I'm starting to feel a little sorry for the guy. He just looks old, he's getting hit a ton and he has no weapons he trusts. I'm thinking he might just throw a ball clean through Bernard Berrian at this point to prove a point. The Dolphins once again relied on defense, rushing and a little Wildcat magic. They're a low end playoff team, but always a tough game for the opposing team. Everyone knows when they see Miami on the schedule, it's going to be tough to get out of bed on Monday.
Patriots-Jets - Everyone wrote off the Jets after a one point loss to a tough Ravens team. Today they showed everyone they're still a threat. And Mark Sanchez saved himself from being stoned in Central Park for another week. A great catch by Randy Moss on an 'injury' to Darrelle Revis that reminded me of Michael Johnson tapping out to Donovan Bailey a bunch of years ago.
Texans-Redskins - Possibly the best game of the day, with the Texans with a huge comeback and some questionable coaching decisions in overtime. Gary Kubiak managed to call a timeout right before the game winning Redskins FG (note: this was originally a Mike Shanahan tactic, nice to see him get burned by it by his old assistant coach), and their kicker goes out and shanks the re-try. Please don't Kubiak him smart for this, it happens just as often that the kicker misses the first try right as the timeout is called and then drills the 2nd chance. The Texans got lucky, but wow can they move the ball.
Colts-Giants - I knew about 5 minutes in that my prediction on this game was totally and completely off. I'm thinking the Manning boys had a significant personal bet on this game (loser has to change Archie's Depends? Oh wait we know Cooper gets that job), because Peyton came out on a mission. Not a lot to say here, complete and total annihilation. One thing we did learn, the NFC East is not nearly as good as anyone thought it would be.
Other random thoughts:
- My Chiefs are 2-0! I'll enjoy it while I can, but barely beating Seneca Wallace doesn't exactly say they're going to win the division. San Francisco comes in on the road on a short week though, so they could be 3-0 going into their bye week.
- I'd hate to be Andy Reid right now. Kevin Kolb might be the future, but Michael Vick is the now. In a weak division, they could sneak into a division title, but not with Kolb at the helm.
- Carson Palmer is terrible, but the Bengals for whatever reason own the Ravens, despite how bad he is. Nice to see Pacman Jones with a pick.
- Also nice to see Joey Galloway with a big catch. It's always nice to see senior citizens being productive members of society.
- I usually like Jeff Fisher's decisions but benching Vince Young was not one of them. Those are the type of games Young needs to learn to win if the Titans ever expect to contend for a championship.
- The Steelers are 2-0 without Big Ben, and Tampa coming in next week. Troy Polamalu is more important to this team than Roethlisberger. Right now, if I'm picking a team to win the title, I think it's Pittsburgh. Tough defense, an offense that has been good enough and will get better in a few weeks, and Shaft as coach.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Week 2 NFL Picks
Last week: 9-7.
Baltimore (-2.5) at Cincinnati: I started off this week totally on the Baltimore train on this one. The line has crept from -1 to -2.5 and something is nagging at me telling me to pick Cincinnati. I'm going to side with recent history, the home crowd and the fact that I think Carson Palmer is smart enough to exploit a weak Ravens secondary. Pick: Cincinnati
Miami (+5.5) at Minnesota - This just in... Brett Favre looks old. We already knew he was old, but he'd never really looked it until the Saints battered him last week. A tough Miami defense coming in should knock him around too. A little leery here as the Vikings have had 11 days to prepare, but still.. Pick: Miami
Chicago (+7) at Dallas: Dallas moved the ball pretty well against a decent Redskins defense, but just kept finding ways to not score points. They make up for that problem here. Chicago is BAD, and a fluke win over Detroit doesn't change that. Pick: Dallas.
Philadelphia (-6.5) at Detroit - Michael Vick gets a chance to run the show for a whole game. However, he hasn't played a whole game in 4 years. Detroit has also had a full week to prepare for Vick, something the Packers didn't. I know it's Shaun Hill, but the Lions should be able to keep this one close at home. Pick: Detroit
Arizona (+6.5) at Atlanta - West Coast teams typically don't fare well with an early start time, and the Cardinals are terrible. It might be time to petition for Larry Fitzgerald to be traded. Pick: Atlanta.
Kansas City (+3) at Cleveland: My Chiefs looked terrible last week on offense, but some great special teams and timely defense got them the upset win over the Chargers. Cleveland might be going with the immortal Seneca Wallace at QB in this one. This one could go either way, so when in doubt, take the points. Pick: Kansas City
Buffalo (+13) at Green Bay - The Packers played a pretty weak game on offense last week and still put up 27 on a pretty decent Philly team. The Bills don't present that kind of threat. If Green Bay wants to be called a Super Bowl contender, these are the games they need to own. Pick: Green Bay
Pittsburgh (+5) at Tennessee - While I can see the Steeler defense keeping this one close, I can't see them winning this game with Dennis Dixon. Tennessee rolled last week and looks like them might be a legitimate contender now. Pick: Tennessee
Tampa Bay (+3) at Carolina - I called Carolina my playoff sleeper this season and they held their own until the Giants' pass rush wore them down last week. With Matt Moore available, a shrewd coach in John Fox and a superior running game... Pick: Carolina
Rams (+3.5) at Oakland - The Rams are a bad team if they can't get it done at home against Arizona. We'll learn more about Jason Campbell and Oakland this week as they're not playing a team that totally outclasses them. Pick: Oakland
Seattle (+3.5) at Denver - The more I think about it, the more I think Denver is one of the worst teams in the league. A 2-6 finish last season, combined with no Brandon Marshall and no Elvis Dumervil leaves the Broncos with a big lack of impact players. Seattle has a frisky enough defense and a QB who can make just enough plays that I think they steal this one. Pick: Seattle
Houston (-2.5) at Washington - Can we expect Arian Foster to go for 200+ yards every week? No, and they're not playing the Colts either. But until the Redskins show they are capable of scoring at least one offensive touchdown, I'm going to go with the team that's showing they are getting it done right now. Pick: Houston
Jacksonville (+7) at San Diego - San Diego isn't playing in a monsoon this week, but the body language of Philip Rivers towards his offensive line last week makes me think they might pull what the Miami Sharks did to Willie Beamen on a play or two. Jacksonville with a decent running attack and a hot QB in David Garrard. Pick: Jacksonville
New England (-2.5) at New York Jets - Probably the toughest game to pick this week. New England looked like the '99 Rams for the first half against Cincinnati but now plays a much tougher defense. My head says the Patriots, but something in my heart is telling me different..
Pick: Jets
New York Giants (+5) at Indianapolis - This matchup is about as bad for the Colts as they could get. Good pass rush for the Giants against a weak offensive line and a bad rushing defense for the Colts against a good rushing attack for the Giants. Peyton Manning might pull out some late magic, but the Giants keep it close here. Pick: Giants.
New Orleans (-5.5) at San Francisco - You know Mike Singletary went off on his team for their anemic performance up in Seattle. They'll be playing in front of a fired up home crowd on Monday night, but they're going to have to put up 30 points to keep up with Drew Brees who has had 11 days to get ready for this one. Pick: New Orleans.
Baltimore (-2.5) at Cincinnati: I started off this week totally on the Baltimore train on this one. The line has crept from -1 to -2.5 and something is nagging at me telling me to pick Cincinnati. I'm going to side with recent history, the home crowd and the fact that I think Carson Palmer is smart enough to exploit a weak Ravens secondary. Pick: Cincinnati
Miami (+5.5) at Minnesota - This just in... Brett Favre looks old. We already knew he was old, but he'd never really looked it until the Saints battered him last week. A tough Miami defense coming in should knock him around too. A little leery here as the Vikings have had 11 days to prepare, but still.. Pick: Miami
Chicago (+7) at Dallas: Dallas moved the ball pretty well against a decent Redskins defense, but just kept finding ways to not score points. They make up for that problem here. Chicago is BAD, and a fluke win over Detroit doesn't change that. Pick: Dallas.
Philadelphia (-6.5) at Detroit - Michael Vick gets a chance to run the show for a whole game. However, he hasn't played a whole game in 4 years. Detroit has also had a full week to prepare for Vick, something the Packers didn't. I know it's Shaun Hill, but the Lions should be able to keep this one close at home. Pick: Detroit
Arizona (+6.5) at Atlanta - West Coast teams typically don't fare well with an early start time, and the Cardinals are terrible. It might be time to petition for Larry Fitzgerald to be traded. Pick: Atlanta.
Kansas City (+3) at Cleveland: My Chiefs looked terrible last week on offense, but some great special teams and timely defense got them the upset win over the Chargers. Cleveland might be going with the immortal Seneca Wallace at QB in this one. This one could go either way, so when in doubt, take the points. Pick: Kansas City
Buffalo (+13) at Green Bay - The Packers played a pretty weak game on offense last week and still put up 27 on a pretty decent Philly team. The Bills don't present that kind of threat. If Green Bay wants to be called a Super Bowl contender, these are the games they need to own. Pick: Green Bay
Pittsburgh (+5) at Tennessee - While I can see the Steeler defense keeping this one close, I can't see them winning this game with Dennis Dixon. Tennessee rolled last week and looks like them might be a legitimate contender now. Pick: Tennessee
Tampa Bay (+3) at Carolina - I called Carolina my playoff sleeper this season and they held their own until the Giants' pass rush wore them down last week. With Matt Moore available, a shrewd coach in John Fox and a superior running game... Pick: Carolina
Rams (+3.5) at Oakland - The Rams are a bad team if they can't get it done at home against Arizona. We'll learn more about Jason Campbell and Oakland this week as they're not playing a team that totally outclasses them. Pick: Oakland
Seattle (+3.5) at Denver - The more I think about it, the more I think Denver is one of the worst teams in the league. A 2-6 finish last season, combined with no Brandon Marshall and no Elvis Dumervil leaves the Broncos with a big lack of impact players. Seattle has a frisky enough defense and a QB who can make just enough plays that I think they steal this one. Pick: Seattle
Houston (-2.5) at Washington - Can we expect Arian Foster to go for 200+ yards every week? No, and they're not playing the Colts either. But until the Redskins show they are capable of scoring at least one offensive touchdown, I'm going to go with the team that's showing they are getting it done right now. Pick: Houston
Jacksonville (+7) at San Diego - San Diego isn't playing in a monsoon this week, but the body language of Philip Rivers towards his offensive line last week makes me think they might pull what the Miami Sharks did to Willie Beamen on a play or two. Jacksonville with a decent running attack and a hot QB in David Garrard. Pick: Jacksonville
New England (-2.5) at New York Jets - Probably the toughest game to pick this week. New England looked like the '99 Rams for the first half against Cincinnati but now plays a much tougher defense. My head says the Patriots, but something in my heart is telling me different..
Pick: Jets
New York Giants (+5) at Indianapolis - This matchup is about as bad for the Colts as they could get. Good pass rush for the Giants against a weak offensive line and a bad rushing defense for the Colts against a good rushing attack for the Giants. Peyton Manning might pull out some late magic, but the Giants keep it close here. Pick: Giants.
New Orleans (-5.5) at San Francisco - You know Mike Singletary went off on his team for their anemic performance up in Seattle. They'll be playing in front of a fired up home crowd on Monday night, but they're going to have to put up 30 points to keep up with Drew Brees who has had 11 days to get ready for this one. Pick: New Orleans.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
NFL Week 2 lines
MIA @ MIN. Matt: May I be the first to call this one the Wildcat offence meets the Cougar offence… I like the Dolphins again this year for a number of reasons: (a) 2 years ago they found a way to win (b) last year they found out who their quarterback was and realized that Ricky Williams still has it (c) This year, both backs are healthy and they have an elite receiver in Marshall (d) Nobody respects them. The Vikes showed us a couple things on Thursday: Their defense is still to be feared, and Favre is literally decomposing in front of our eyes. But this was a 13-win team from a year ago. I have Minny by -7.
Scott: I think a lot of bettors think Brett Favre is just plain old now. I gave Miami a little more respect, they did win their first game and all, even if it was against the Bills. I went with Minnesota by 6.
Actual line: Minnesota by 5 ½. Point to Scott.
BUF @ GB. Matt: Despite almost letting Philly off the hook in the second half, Green Bay looked like the team we all thought they’d be, and so did Buffalo. Warrants my highest line of the week, Packers by -8.5.
Scott: As an Aaron Rodgers fantasy owner, I’m giddy for this one with Ryan Grant hurt too. This looks like a game that by Week 6, Vegas would have it up to 2 touchdowns, but it’s still early in the season, so I went with Green Bay by 9.
Actual line: Green Bay by 13 ½. Point to Scott.
STL @ OAK. Matt: Raiders were clearly out classed on Sunday in Nashville, but this should be a better chance to see what the potential is. Hard to get a gauge on either one of these teams in losses, we don’t know if the Rams are decent, or if Arizona sucks… I’m playing it safe, I have the Raiders by -2.5 at home.
Scott: I’ll make it easy for you. They all suck. Poor Jason Campbell. He finally gets out of rotating OC-hell in Washington and gets sent here. Can he sue the NFL for wasting his talent? I’m sick of trying to convince people he’s good. I guess somebody has to win this game, it sure won’t be the fans. This is like one of those games they give all the free tickets to the Make A Wish kids so the stadium looks more full. I won’t take this joke any further, I think you see where I’m going... Oakland by 2.
Actual line: Oakland by 4. Point to Matt.
SEA @ DEN. Matt: Does Denver get a trophy for consistently fielding the most boring team in the league? I think the Hawks have a bit of a hangover here – the road is a much more daunting place than Qwest. Denver gets the home field nod, Broncos by -2.5.
Scott: Jacksonville demands a recount in that vote!! They want their trophy! Yeah I don’t think Vegas buys the Hawks victory as a sign they’re actually relevant. I also took Denver by 2.5.
Actual line: Denver by 3.5. No points awarded.
HOU @ WAS. Matt: I bet most people looked at this matchup on Saturday and didn’t give it a second look. Now it’s a feature game on the schedule after both had upset wins over SB contenders. Arian Foster won’t be putting up 200+ against this run D. Skins by -3.
Scott: I think me and you could put up 100 yards against that Colts run defense. And yeah the Skins defense looked good but Donovan McNabb looked all sorts of terrible without all the weapons he had in Philly. Washington by 2.
Actual line: Washington by 3. Point to Matt.
NYG @ IND. Matt: Oh the brother bowl! If Indy loses this, it’s 3 in a row including the SB. The Giants look good and ended up earning that high line from week 1. Indy will still maintain their fav status until they lose more. I have the Colts by -3.5. I foresee heavy action on the Giants here.
Scott: Nothing in this game to hype is there? I joked last night that I wonder if the 3rd Manning brother (way too lazy to look up his name) shows up to games like this and at family reunions and gets all drunk and belligerent towards Peyton and Eli. "You think you’re better than me, don’t you?" Indy by 3.
Actual line: Colts by 5.5 Point to Matt.
Now onto the intra-conference games:
CHI @ DAL. Matt: Talk about 2 sides of a coin! Chicago wins on a technicality, Jay Cutler proves once again that he’s the ultimate closet a-hole (see: press conference), Dallas loses on a penalty, one of 137 flags against them I think… Outcomes aside, Dallas is still the clear favourite, but Chicago was overrated from the beginning of the season, so I think it’s the Cowboys by -5.5.
Scott: Cutler gained some respect from me when I found out he’s banging Kristin Cavallari. He can tell off a 1st grade class at this point and I’m still on the Cutler train. Well done, sir. As for Dallas, their QB knows a thing or two about dating Hollywood starlets himself, and Dallas is a huge public team, so Dallas by 7.
Actual line: Dallas by 8.5. Point to Scott.
PHI @ DET. Matt: Stafford out and Hill in skews this one in Philly’s favour. I think everyone knows that as a team they are much better than they’ve been, they just got unlucky, and despite a glowing performance by Vick, Philly still lost that game. I originally had Philly by -5 since they’re on the road, but I’m going to jack it up to Eagles by -6.5.
Scott: Wow, I’m thinking you talked to Naresh (our co-worker who is still on board the Vick train after all these years) before making this pick and he convinced you of the greatness that is Michael Vick. I’m on record that the Eagles are in a rebuilding year. And I could still see Kevin Kolb finding his way into this game. I think Vegas plays it a little safer, Eagles by 3.5.
Actual line: Philly by 4. Point to Scott.
BAL @ CIN. Matt: I don’t think a shellacking (1st half anyhow) by the Pats is an indication that the Bengals aren’t good, nor was I very high on the supposed-to-be-offensive-dynamo-Ravens after barely beating a horrible Jets team with no offense at all. Didn’t Cincy sweep this series last year? Bengals by -3.5.
Scott: Cincy was one of my teams I thought would be WAY overrated. Between last year’s easy schedule and those very public clowns at WR, they just seem like a team that was destined for overhype this year. I too won’t write them off after one bad half, but I’m totally on the other side of this one. Baltimore by 2.
Actual line: Baltimore by 1 ½. Point to Scott.
KC @ CLE. Matt: Great performance by the D and special teams last night! You’ve got 2 dynamic return men and the one guy, McCluster, is used to the offense as well. If they can get their ish together on offense, you could have a team on your hands. I don’t think Vegas will be completely sold yet however. I have this one as a pick’em.
Scott: As a Chiefs fan, I’m not sold either, though I’ll take being in 1st place for a week. I’d like to see Cassel pass for more than -14 yards before we say this team is back from the dead. By the way, here was your ‘Cassel! Delhomme! It’s the NFL on CBS, I’m Gus Johnson’ joke. Chiefs by 1.5.
Actual line: Cleveland by 2. Point to Matt.
ARI @ ATL. Matt: I don’t think we learned much from Zona’s first game, but we did about ATL. They got Dennis Dixon in perfect conditions and came out with 3 FGs and coach Smith pulled a hammy… Over-hyped? I’m not willing to jump off them after one game, but they got my attention. Falcons by -3.5.
Scott: I still think Atlanta is a quality team. Pittsburgh didn’t have Ben but they did have Troy, something they didn’t have a lot of last year. An OT road loss isn’t a terrible thing. And I don’t think anyone believes Arizona is any good. Larry Fitzgerald might sue Derek Anderson for malpractice soon. Atlanta by 7, but as I noted I’m disqualifying myself as I accidentally peeked at this line.
Actual line: Atlanta by 6.5. Point to Matt on a DQ.
PIT @ TEN. Matt: I don’t think you’re gonna see Pitt giving up points until Ben is back. Not that they deserve to this game, but just sayin. These 2 have faced each other each of the last 3 seasons: The Terrible Towel stomping, the Polamalu pick, and now this game, the Rubber match. Titans by -4.
Scott: I talked about Pittsburgh above, and I think the Titans might be little overvalued for beating up the Raiders. Steelers are still a public team so I have Titans by 3.5.
Actual line: Tennessee by 5. Point to Matt.
TB @ CAR. Matt: "Freeman! Moore! It’s the NFL on CBS! I’m Gus Johnson!" Unfortunately, given the teams, this seems like a Fox feed, but we could get lucky… I see this as a pretty even match, so I’m going with standard home field line: Panthers by -3.
Scott: This is indeed a FOX feed, so who is their 5th string announcers? The guys who normally would do the Seattle game are probably available. The Panthers looked decent for the 1st half until the Giant pass rush wore them down, I’m going to give them a pass assuming Matt Moore is back (oops, he's not). Panthers by 4.
Actual line: Panthers by 2.5. Point to Matt.
JAX @ SD. Matt: Basically the reverse of the KC game, SD is still elite until they tell us otherwise. You had a rookie back, replacing the Electric Glide, on national TV, MNF, in KC, in the rain – I think we can forgive poor Ryan Matthews for a poor game. The rest of the team, not so much, all but imploding on offense. They were never out of the game however, and the Jags likely won’t travel well. Chargers by -4.5.
Scott: I still can’t take Ryan Mathews seriously as a player when that’s one of the names of the characters on 90210. If that reference doesn’t scream I want to be like Bill Simmons, nothing will. As for the Chargers, I think they’ll be underrated this week, but in fairness to them, it’s not like they play a lot in the rain. Chargers by 3.5
Actual line: San Diego by 8. Point to Matt.
NE @ NYJ. Matt: It’s kind of cool that every game against the Jets feels like a rivalry. I think because their team demeanor just gets on everyone’s nerves. This is a legit rivalry however back to spygate. The Jets "offense" does not exist, Sanchize is terrible, the Jets need to wake up on that one. New England looks like their back to kick-ass mode tho, I think because of the Jets Defense, Vegas stays home, somewhat… Pats by -5.
Scott: Two very public teams. Jets are at home and I don’t trust the Patriots offensive line to hold up. While I, and most people, hate the Jets for totally irrational reasons (ok, it's because they're the cockiest team in the league but yet haven't won anything), I’m docking points for Tom Brady’s hair until further notice. Jets by 1.
Actual line: Patriots by 1 ½. Point to Scott.
NO @ SF. Matt: Monday Nighter. I can only imagine the hell that will be 49er practice this week, what’s the line on Singletary’s eyes actually popping out of his head? -150? I think this could be a better game than one might think. Still got Saints by -6.5.
Scott: Yeah, Singletary needs to talk to Mike Tomlin about how to be a cool Black coach, not a raging lunatic. Tomlin is like Shaft, he's just that cool. Does Singletary still rock the Jesus piece on the sidelines? As for the Saints, this is a week they need to dominate and show they’re still elite. I also had Saints by 6.5.
Actual line: Saints by 5. No point awarded.
Final tally: 8-6 Matt.
Scott: I think a lot of bettors think Brett Favre is just plain old now. I gave Miami a little more respect, they did win their first game and all, even if it was against the Bills. I went with Minnesota by 6.
Actual line: Minnesota by 5 ½. Point to Scott.
BUF @ GB. Matt: Despite almost letting Philly off the hook in the second half, Green Bay looked like the team we all thought they’d be, and so did Buffalo. Warrants my highest line of the week, Packers by -8.5.
Scott: As an Aaron Rodgers fantasy owner, I’m giddy for this one with Ryan Grant hurt too. This looks like a game that by Week 6, Vegas would have it up to 2 touchdowns, but it’s still early in the season, so I went with Green Bay by 9.
Actual line: Green Bay by 13 ½. Point to Scott.
STL @ OAK. Matt: Raiders were clearly out classed on Sunday in Nashville, but this should be a better chance to see what the potential is. Hard to get a gauge on either one of these teams in losses, we don’t know if the Rams are decent, or if Arizona sucks… I’m playing it safe, I have the Raiders by -2.5 at home.
Scott: I’ll make it easy for you. They all suck. Poor Jason Campbell. He finally gets out of rotating OC-hell in Washington and gets sent here. Can he sue the NFL for wasting his talent? I’m sick of trying to convince people he’s good. I guess somebody has to win this game, it sure won’t be the fans. This is like one of those games they give all the free tickets to the Make A Wish kids so the stadium looks more full. I won’t take this joke any further, I think you see where I’m going... Oakland by 2.
Actual line: Oakland by 4. Point to Matt.
SEA @ DEN. Matt: Does Denver get a trophy for consistently fielding the most boring team in the league? I think the Hawks have a bit of a hangover here – the road is a much more daunting place than Qwest. Denver gets the home field nod, Broncos by -2.5.
Scott: Jacksonville demands a recount in that vote!! They want their trophy! Yeah I don’t think Vegas buys the Hawks victory as a sign they’re actually relevant. I also took Denver by 2.5.
Actual line: Denver by 3.5. No points awarded.
HOU @ WAS. Matt: I bet most people looked at this matchup on Saturday and didn’t give it a second look. Now it’s a feature game on the schedule after both had upset wins over SB contenders. Arian Foster won’t be putting up 200+ against this run D. Skins by -3.
Scott: I think me and you could put up 100 yards against that Colts run defense. And yeah the Skins defense looked good but Donovan McNabb looked all sorts of terrible without all the weapons he had in Philly. Washington by 2.
Actual line: Washington by 3. Point to Matt.
NYG @ IND. Matt: Oh the brother bowl! If Indy loses this, it’s 3 in a row including the SB. The Giants look good and ended up earning that high line from week 1. Indy will still maintain their fav status until they lose more. I have the Colts by -3.5. I foresee heavy action on the Giants here.
Scott: Nothing in this game to hype is there? I joked last night that I wonder if the 3rd Manning brother (way too lazy to look up his name) shows up to games like this and at family reunions and gets all drunk and belligerent towards Peyton and Eli. "You think you’re better than me, don’t you?" Indy by 3.
Actual line: Colts by 5.5 Point to Matt.
Now onto the intra-conference games:
CHI @ DAL. Matt: Talk about 2 sides of a coin! Chicago wins on a technicality, Jay Cutler proves once again that he’s the ultimate closet a-hole (see: press conference), Dallas loses on a penalty, one of 137 flags against them I think… Outcomes aside, Dallas is still the clear favourite, but Chicago was overrated from the beginning of the season, so I think it’s the Cowboys by -5.5.
Scott: Cutler gained some respect from me when I found out he’s banging Kristin Cavallari. He can tell off a 1st grade class at this point and I’m still on the Cutler train. Well done, sir. As for Dallas, their QB knows a thing or two about dating Hollywood starlets himself, and Dallas is a huge public team, so Dallas by 7.
Actual line: Dallas by 8.5. Point to Scott.
PHI @ DET. Matt: Stafford out and Hill in skews this one in Philly’s favour. I think everyone knows that as a team they are much better than they’ve been, they just got unlucky, and despite a glowing performance by Vick, Philly still lost that game. I originally had Philly by -5 since they’re on the road, but I’m going to jack it up to Eagles by -6.5.
Scott: Wow, I’m thinking you talked to Naresh (our co-worker who is still on board the Vick train after all these years) before making this pick and he convinced you of the greatness that is Michael Vick. I’m on record that the Eagles are in a rebuilding year. And I could still see Kevin Kolb finding his way into this game. I think Vegas plays it a little safer, Eagles by 3.5.
Actual line: Philly by 4. Point to Scott.
BAL @ CIN. Matt: I don’t think a shellacking (1st half anyhow) by the Pats is an indication that the Bengals aren’t good, nor was I very high on the supposed-to-be-offensive-dynamo-Ravens after barely beating a horrible Jets team with no offense at all. Didn’t Cincy sweep this series last year? Bengals by -3.5.
Scott: Cincy was one of my teams I thought would be WAY overrated. Between last year’s easy schedule and those very public clowns at WR, they just seem like a team that was destined for overhype this year. I too won’t write them off after one bad half, but I’m totally on the other side of this one. Baltimore by 2.
Actual line: Baltimore by 1 ½. Point to Scott.
KC @ CLE. Matt: Great performance by the D and special teams last night! You’ve got 2 dynamic return men and the one guy, McCluster, is used to the offense as well. If they can get their ish together on offense, you could have a team on your hands. I don’t think Vegas will be completely sold yet however. I have this one as a pick’em.
Scott: As a Chiefs fan, I’m not sold either, though I’ll take being in 1st place for a week. I’d like to see Cassel pass for more than -14 yards before we say this team is back from the dead. By the way, here was your ‘Cassel! Delhomme! It’s the NFL on CBS, I’m Gus Johnson’ joke. Chiefs by 1.5.
Actual line: Cleveland by 2. Point to Matt.
ARI @ ATL. Matt: I don’t think we learned much from Zona’s first game, but we did about ATL. They got Dennis Dixon in perfect conditions and came out with 3 FGs and coach Smith pulled a hammy… Over-hyped? I’m not willing to jump off them after one game, but they got my attention. Falcons by -3.5.
Scott: I still think Atlanta is a quality team. Pittsburgh didn’t have Ben but they did have Troy, something they didn’t have a lot of last year. An OT road loss isn’t a terrible thing. And I don’t think anyone believes Arizona is any good. Larry Fitzgerald might sue Derek Anderson for malpractice soon. Atlanta by 7, but as I noted I’m disqualifying myself as I accidentally peeked at this line.
Actual line: Atlanta by 6.5. Point to Matt on a DQ.
PIT @ TEN. Matt: I don’t think you’re gonna see Pitt giving up points until Ben is back. Not that they deserve to this game, but just sayin. These 2 have faced each other each of the last 3 seasons: The Terrible Towel stomping, the Polamalu pick, and now this game, the Rubber match. Titans by -4.
Scott: I talked about Pittsburgh above, and I think the Titans might be little overvalued for beating up the Raiders. Steelers are still a public team so I have Titans by 3.5.
Actual line: Tennessee by 5. Point to Matt.
TB @ CAR. Matt: "Freeman! Moore! It’s the NFL on CBS! I’m Gus Johnson!" Unfortunately, given the teams, this seems like a Fox feed, but we could get lucky… I see this as a pretty even match, so I’m going with standard home field line: Panthers by -3.
Scott: This is indeed a FOX feed, so who is their 5th string announcers? The guys who normally would do the Seattle game are probably available. The Panthers looked decent for the 1st half until the Giant pass rush wore them down, I’m going to give them a pass assuming Matt Moore is back (oops, he's not). Panthers by 4.
Actual line: Panthers by 2.5. Point to Matt.
JAX @ SD. Matt: Basically the reverse of the KC game, SD is still elite until they tell us otherwise. You had a rookie back, replacing the Electric Glide, on national TV, MNF, in KC, in the rain – I think we can forgive poor Ryan Matthews for a poor game. The rest of the team, not so much, all but imploding on offense. They were never out of the game however, and the Jags likely won’t travel well. Chargers by -4.5.
Scott: I still can’t take Ryan Mathews seriously as a player when that’s one of the names of the characters on 90210. If that reference doesn’t scream I want to be like Bill Simmons, nothing will. As for the Chargers, I think they’ll be underrated this week, but in fairness to them, it’s not like they play a lot in the rain. Chargers by 3.5
Actual line: San Diego by 8. Point to Matt.
NE @ NYJ. Matt: It’s kind of cool that every game against the Jets feels like a rivalry. I think because their team demeanor just gets on everyone’s nerves. This is a legit rivalry however back to spygate. The Jets "offense" does not exist, Sanchize is terrible, the Jets need to wake up on that one. New England looks like their back to kick-ass mode tho, I think because of the Jets Defense, Vegas stays home, somewhat… Pats by -5.
Scott: Two very public teams. Jets are at home and I don’t trust the Patriots offensive line to hold up. While I, and most people, hate the Jets for totally irrational reasons (ok, it's because they're the cockiest team in the league but yet haven't won anything), I’m docking points for Tom Brady’s hair until further notice. Jets by 1.
Actual line: Patriots by 1 ½. Point to Scott.
NO @ SF. Matt: Monday Nighter. I can only imagine the hell that will be 49er practice this week, what’s the line on Singletary’s eyes actually popping out of his head? -150? I think this could be a better game than one might think. Still got Saints by -6.5.
Scott: Yeah, Singletary needs to talk to Mike Tomlin about how to be a cool Black coach, not a raging lunatic. Tomlin is like Shaft, he's just that cool. Does Singletary still rock the Jesus piece on the sidelines? As for the Saints, this is a week they need to dominate and show they’re still elite. I also had Saints by 6.5.
Actual line: Saints by 5. No point awarded.
Final tally: 8-6 Matt.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Sunday Football Thoughts
So Week 1 of the NFL season has almost come and gone, so only 20 more Sundays to look forward to of doing as little and eating as poorly as possible. Between the Thursday opening night and the usual Sunday games, I managed to catch a good portion of 6 games. A few random thoughts on each, all the while trying not to let one game change what I thought before a few days ago:
Saints-Vikings – This one was a lot lower scoring and sloppy than I thought, but it summed up my pre-season thoughts on these two teams. The Vikings are going to have to rely on their defense a lot more than last season. The Gunslinger doesn’t quite look the same out there, and whether its old age, missing training camp or an injured ankle remains to be seen. What boggled me most is the reluctance of Brad Childress to send out more than a few receivers, often leaving tight ends and running backs in to block and having only 2 or 3 receivers running patterns. We’ll see this week if that’s something that continues, but don’t be shocked if the Vikes go 8-8.
The Saints looked great on their first drive, then struggled the rest of the game. I expect the Saints to struggle more than most this season. I don’t think you can rely on Drew Brees every game and expect to win.
Patriots-Bengals – This one was a lot more lopsided than expected. Tom Brady looks like he’s all the way back from his knee injury, and Wes Welker looked as good as he did before his. Welker coming back strong will be huge as the Patriots use a makeshift offensive line due to injury and the absence of Logan Mankins. I still wonder if their defense can keep up with some of the great defenses in the AFC like the Jets and Steelers, but they’ll compete for the AFC East.
The Bengals had a terrible first half (plus an opening kickoff of the 2nd half) where everything that could go wrong did. Then they rebounded in garbage time and made the game somewhat competitive. With a game against division rival Baltimore next week, the Bengals could be 0-2 and staring at missing the playoffs if they don’t get things together soon. I’m leery of them rebounding at this point with a tough schedule and I don’t think Carson Palmer is any good any more.
Dolphins-Bills – I didn’t catch much of this but it sounds like it played out a lot like expected. Miami controls the game with its Wildcat running attack, and the Bills are, well the Bills. Keeping the game within a score and a chance for a winning drive is really all that could be expected of them. I question whether Miami has enough firepower to compete with the Jets and Pats, but their running game keeps them competitive and their defense makes them a threat.
Panthers-Giants – The Panthers were my pick to surprise this season, and I’m standing by that for now. The Giants are a terrible matchup for them with that pass rush and Matt Moore being inexperienced. Once the Panthers got down more than a touchdown, the Giants teed off on Moore and knocked him out of the game. The Giants showed me a lot more on offense than I thought they would. Their running game looked effective, and their young receivers stood up and had a big game. The Panthers need to go get their running game going to be dangerous. They have a fairly week schedule with Tampa and a Bengals team that doesn’t look as good as we thought coming up coming up the next couple of weeks. The Giants have the Colts and Titans the next 2 weeks so we’ll get a good idea of how good they are soon.
Packers-Eagles – Andy Reid won’t say it, but there is a QB controversy already. The merciless Eagles fans won’t stand for much more losing. Mike Vick looked effective but it’s hard to think he can sustain that effort week to week. Even so, Kevin Kolb looked pretty terrible and if his concussion keeps him out and Vick plays well he might not get the job back. This should be one long season for them. As far as the Packers, they played about as bad as they could, still scored 27 points, and still won the game fairly easily despite a late rally from Vick and the Eagles. With that offense they will be in every game they play. Aaron Rodgers should be an MVP candidate but needs to cut down on the turnovers. The Packers should have won this game more handily. That’s my only concern about them right now. Good teams will step on their opponents’ throats in games like this.
Redskins-Cowboys – This game showed 2 fatal Cowboys weaknesses that both reared their head at bad times: Bad coaching with Wade Phillips going for it at the end of the 1st half, leading to a fumble and a DeAngelo Hall touchdown, and a suspect offensive line with a penalty on the last play of the game to wipe out a game winning touchdown. The Cowboys have a ton of talent but at big moments, bad things seem to happen. Dez Bryant and Miles Austin looked awesome though. When you factor in Jason Witten and a decent running game, opposing defenses won’t be looking forward to seeing Dallas on the schedule.
The Redskins were lucky to win this one, plain and simple. Donovan McNabb continued his ineptitude against the Cowboys, their running game was non-existent until the final drive, and their defensive backs looked suspect though the Cowboys passing game will make some teams look that way. Their defense stepped up at big times and kept the Cowboys to 7 though, so some credit has to be given there. I really question how good this team can be as long as the Mike Shanahan-Albert Haynesworth feud continues. Haynesworth is one of the top defensive players in the game. For him to be getting spot duty and be used in the methods Shanahan wants is simply a waste of a huge talent. Right now, I think the Cowboys go 9-7 and the Skins go 8-8, and both miss the playoffs.
Some random thoughts on games I didn't catch:
- The Lions were robbed. Calvin Johnson's TD should have counted, and I don't care about the letter of the law.
- Tennessee looks like they could be really, really good. The Colts may have to fight to make the playoffs. When was the last time we could say that?
- Huge overtime win by Pittsburgh. Everyone is writing them off without Big Ben, but there are a lot of players there and a healthy Troy Polamalu makes a huge difference. On a side note, does Mike Tomlin not look like one of the coolest MF'ers alive? If they can even go 2-2 without Roethlisberger (and they have Tampa in Week 3, so this shouldn't be an issue), they'll be primed for a big run.
- The Denver-Jacksonville game being delayed by lightning was probably the best news those fans got all day. Both of those teams look to be all sorts bad.
- San Fran will still win their division by default, but I can't wait to bet against them in the first week of the playoffs.
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