Now, for your NFL picks! All games on Sunday, except for the Miami at New Orleans game, which is on Monday Night Football.
Chicago at Detroit, 1, Fox
This game is for the NFC North division lead. (Side thought: Is it wrong for me to still think of this division as the central? Even though it's been 11 years since Houston came into the league and the NFL rearranged its divisions.) Anyway, Chicago is looking like the team it did before it collapsed last year. Chicago's defense is looking strong, and the offense, especially Jay Cutler is looking really good under new head coach Marc Trestman. Then, the Lions are looking like the team they had in 2011 when they went to the playoffs rather than last years 5-11 team. They are playing solid defense, and Reggie Bush is helping the backfield so much with short catches and with his rushing ability. But, Chicago, right now is looking like the best team in the NFC, go with them.
Pick: Chicago 34, Detroit 23
Seattle at Houston, 1, Fox
This could potentially be a Super Bowl match up, as both teams are very good, and have played excellent football over the first three weeks of the season. Houston slipped up last week against the defending champs, but overall, they've been playing good football. Seattle meanwhile is also looking for top billing in the NFC with Chicago, as Russell Wilson is having no signs of a sophomore slump here in his second year, Marshawn Lynch is in total beast mode, and the defense is playing lights out. So, with that being said, go with Seattle in a tight one.
Pick: Seattle 28, Houston 24
Philly at Denver, 4:25, Fox
Let's see here, Peyton Manning, the NFL's best quarterback with three extremely good wide receivers, three pretty good running backs, a really good offensive line, and an emerging force at tight end in Julius Thomas against a poor Eagles defense. It doesn't matter how fast the Eagles offense will attempt to go, Peyton will shred this defense to pieces.
Pick: Denver 51, Philly 34
New England at Atlanta, 8:30, NBC
This could be a turning point game for Atlanta, as they enter the game 1-2, already trailing the Saints by two games, and not looking like they could make it as a wild card. But, if they win, they can turn their season around and make a push for the playoffs again. But, it will come against a very tough team in New England, who, while they have struggled, is still very good. Plus, the defense has looked pretty sharp thus far this season.
Pick: Atlanta 30, New England 23
Miami at New Orleans, 8:30, ESPN Monday
Both teams are off to perfect starts. But, Miami is by far the more surprising of the two, as Miami hasn't been good since Tony Sparano was in town in 2010 when they won the AFC East and then lost in the playoffs. Their pick of Ryan Tannehill in the 2012 draft looks to be genius now, as he is becoming just as good as any of the other quarterbacks taken in that quarterback laden draft. But, since this game is in New Orleans, and it's such a tough place to play, go with New Orleans to continue their comeback trail from last season.
Pick: New Orleans 35, Miami 24
Stay tuned for not one, but two, and possibly three blog posts this coming week! The first will be a preview of each MLB division series, the second is the weekly installment of 10 best football games, and I haven't decided if I'll do a primer on the NHL yet. It'd be a really short primer if I did one.
Saturday, September 28, 2013
Friday, September 27, 2013
10 Best Football Games-Week 5-Part 1
I hope that everyone is hungry for a good slate of college and pro football this weekend. Last week was a disaster for college football, as it featured some awful match ups, mainly between a powerhouse and a cupcake team. Now, this week, as teams really get into conference play finally there are some good games to look forward to. There are four games featuring a pair of top 25 teams going at it, including two from the SEC. Then, in the NFL, we are reaching "measuring stick" week. Basically, after week four, you can somewhat tell how you're team is. If your team is a playoff contender, bound for the playoffs, or lastly, wait until next season bound. Now, on to the picks.
College (All Games on Saturday)
No. 14 Oklahoma at No. 22 Notre Dame, 3:30, NBC
This game is a rematch from last year, as the two teams are finishing up a home and home set with each other this year. Last year featured both of these teams in the top ten, with the winner, Notre Dame headed to the national championship game. This year, both teams are kinda middle of the pack top 25 teams, and both hope that a victory here would propel them in their quest for a BCS bowl. Notre Dame has struggled offensively thus far this season, only putting up 28 in their walloping of Temple, and only 17 last week. They need to do a better job offensively in order to be winning games. Oklahoma has a fantastic quarterback in Blake Bell, who took over for redshirt freshman Trevor Knight in their win over Tulsa two weeks ago. The Sooners also have a good defense, but, seeing the history between these teams, which isn't all that much of one, go with the Irish.
Pick: ND 27, OU 21
No. 6 LSU at No. 9 Georgia, 3:30, CBS
Do a lot of channel surfing between this game and the one previous, as both will be fantastic games. This one is a great interconference game between two SEC and national title contenders. Georgia will be playing its third game out of four total against a top ten team. They barely lost to Clemson in death valley, and then easily handled Couth Carolina between the hedges, which is where this game will be. LSU features a very stout defense, which will pose problems for Aaron Murray and the Georgia offense. The key in this game is to see if LSU quarterback Zack Mettenberger can continue to thrive under new offensive coordinator Cam Cameron. He has done very well thus far, but I don't think that they can hold on here.
Pick: UGA 24, LSU 17
No. 21 Ole Miss at No. 1 Alabama, 6:30, ESPN
Missisippi is a team on the rise, but Bama had essentially a bye last week facing Colordao State, and they're going to just continue dominating the rest of the SEC.
Pick: Bama 34, Miss 13
Arizona at No. 16 Washington, 7, Fox
Washington is in the midst of their best start since 2001 when the Huskies really started to make a run towards the national championship. Everyone also seems to forget about them being in the upper northwest, plus they are overshadowed by Oregon and Stanford in their own division. But, things have been coming together for Steve Sarkisian and his staff up in Washington. Plus, this would be a confidence builder going into their game versus Stanford next week especially if they can keep Arizona's dynamic running back Ka-Deem Carey grounded.
Pick: Washington 38, Arizona 24
No. 23 Wisconsin at No. 4 Ohio State, 8, ABC
This is a very good match up between two traditional Big Ten powers. Wisconsin has a loss, but it was partly because of some dumb officiating when they could've gotten a chip shot field goal to end the game at Arizona State. But, as it is, they have one loss, and are headed to the horseshoe to play the team with the longest winning streak in the nation right now in Ohio State. Granted, nearly a quarter of those wins have come against the likes of Florida A&M, Buffalo, UAB, and Indiana. So, the Buckeyes haven't been tested at all. Both teams have excellent head coaches, offensive lines, and defenses. But, the reason why I think Ohio State will win is because of Braxton Miller, the dynamic dual threat quarterback for Ohio State, he is truly the best quarterback in the Big Ten, and if it wasn't for his injury, he'd be a contender for the Heisman.
Pick: Ohio State 34, Wisconsin 21
NFL picks will come later today! Enjoy the feast of college football.
College (All Games on Saturday)
No. 14 Oklahoma at No. 22 Notre Dame, 3:30, NBC
This game is a rematch from last year, as the two teams are finishing up a home and home set with each other this year. Last year featured both of these teams in the top ten, with the winner, Notre Dame headed to the national championship game. This year, both teams are kinda middle of the pack top 25 teams, and both hope that a victory here would propel them in their quest for a BCS bowl. Notre Dame has struggled offensively thus far this season, only putting up 28 in their walloping of Temple, and only 17 last week. They need to do a better job offensively in order to be winning games. Oklahoma has a fantastic quarterback in Blake Bell, who took over for redshirt freshman Trevor Knight in their win over Tulsa two weeks ago. The Sooners also have a good defense, but, seeing the history between these teams, which isn't all that much of one, go with the Irish.
Pick: ND 27, OU 21
No. 6 LSU at No. 9 Georgia, 3:30, CBS
Do a lot of channel surfing between this game and the one previous, as both will be fantastic games. This one is a great interconference game between two SEC and national title contenders. Georgia will be playing its third game out of four total against a top ten team. They barely lost to Clemson in death valley, and then easily handled Couth Carolina between the hedges, which is where this game will be. LSU features a very stout defense, which will pose problems for Aaron Murray and the Georgia offense. The key in this game is to see if LSU quarterback Zack Mettenberger can continue to thrive under new offensive coordinator Cam Cameron. He has done very well thus far, but I don't think that they can hold on here.
Pick: UGA 24, LSU 17
No. 21 Ole Miss at No. 1 Alabama, 6:30, ESPN
Missisippi is a team on the rise, but Bama had essentially a bye last week facing Colordao State, and they're going to just continue dominating the rest of the SEC.
Pick: Bama 34, Miss 13
Arizona at No. 16 Washington, 7, Fox
Washington is in the midst of their best start since 2001 when the Huskies really started to make a run towards the national championship. Everyone also seems to forget about them being in the upper northwest, plus they are overshadowed by Oregon and Stanford in their own division. But, things have been coming together for Steve Sarkisian and his staff up in Washington. Plus, this would be a confidence builder going into their game versus Stanford next week especially if they can keep Arizona's dynamic running back Ka-Deem Carey grounded.
Pick: Washington 38, Arizona 24
No. 23 Wisconsin at No. 4 Ohio State, 8, ABC
This is a very good match up between two traditional Big Ten powers. Wisconsin has a loss, but it was partly because of some dumb officiating when they could've gotten a chip shot field goal to end the game at Arizona State. But, as it is, they have one loss, and are headed to the horseshoe to play the team with the longest winning streak in the nation right now in Ohio State. Granted, nearly a quarter of those wins have come against the likes of Florida A&M, Buffalo, UAB, and Indiana. So, the Buckeyes haven't been tested at all. Both teams have excellent head coaches, offensive lines, and defenses. But, the reason why I think Ohio State will win is because of Braxton Miller, the dynamic dual threat quarterback for Ohio State, he is truly the best quarterback in the Big Ten, and if it wasn't for his injury, he'd be a contender for the Heisman.
Pick: Ohio State 34, Wisconsin 21
NFL picks will come later today! Enjoy the feast of college football.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
10 Best Football Games-Week 4
This week brings us an incredibly weak set of college games, which is perhaps why ESPN's venerable "College Gameday" is headed to a Division 1-AA school in Fargo. But, I still have to pick five games from this week's schedule to pick. Then, in the NFL, there are some pretty good match ups I have in my mind. The first is tonight. Now, on to the picks!
College
No. 3 Clemson at NC State, tonight, 7:30, ESPN
This game could be a trap game for Clemson, as the last time a number three ranked team went into NC State lost. Clemson has played very well so far, but both of those have been at home. NC State has also played pretty well, but again, their schedule dictated they played well, as they played very weak opponents. But, I'm still going with the upset and Clemson's national title dreams go up in smoke.
Pick: NC State 31, Clemson 26
Boise State at Fresno State, Friday, 9, ESPN
This game is probably the marquee game of the Mountain West season, and will help determine the Mountain West champion. Boise started out the season with an incredibly disappointing loss at Washington where they got blown out. But, have since rebounded to win their next two games. Fresno meanwhile won their first game against a power six school in Rutgers in a shootout. So, this game should be another shootout, as both defenses are not that good.
Pick: Boise State 48, Fresno State 43
Kent State at Penn State, 3:30, BTN
Penn State isn't going to lose two in a row, especially against the likes of MAC competition like Kent State. Expect a blowout.
Pick: Penn State 38, Kent State 13
Michigan State at No. 22 Notre Dame, 3:30, NBC
This is a rivalry game, and it should be a good one. Notre Dame and Michigan State have pretty good defenses, and Michigan State is bringing in an inexperienced quarterback. So, this should be low scoring and hard fought.
Pick: Notre Dame 24, Michigan State 20
No. 23 Arizona State at No. 5 Stanford, 7, Fox
This is the only game between ranked teams this week. Tells you how weak this week's schedule is on the college side. So, do yourself a favor and go out this week, not going to kill you to miss this week. But, go with Stanford, they are one of the top two teams in the Pac-12, along with Oregon, and have not unleashed their true potential yet. It'll be unleashed here.
Pick: Stanford 45, Arizona State 31
NFL (All Games on Sunday unless otherwise noted)
Kansas City at Philly, tonight, 8:30, NFLN/6ABC (Philly market)
This game is going to be a very emotional one, and should be pretty darn good too. The reason why it's emotional? Philly's coach of the past 14 seasons comes back and Donovan McNabb, the controversial quarterback is getting inducted into the Eagles ring of honor. Fans should be cheering prior to kickoff, seeing as how Reid brought a doormat of a team back into relevancy in his tenure, and McNabb led the team in so many categories and got them to the NFC Championship game five times in his tenure. Granted, they never won a Super Bowl together, but thank them for bringing this team back into the national picture. Now, on to the game itself. Kansas City has flourished under Reid and their new quarterback, Alex Smith so far this season. They've already matched their win total from all of last season and are looking great on both sides of the ball. Philly needs this game in order to push them back upright after taking a step back during last week's game against San Diego. Philly needs to be sure they will push the tempo and make Kansas City's defense weak as they run up and down the field. Problem is that Andy Reid knows this Eagles personnel better than anyone, and will find weaknesses wherever possible. It'll be a good game, and a tight one.
Pick: Philly 38, Kansas City 34
Green Bay at Cincy, 1, Fox
Both teams are coming off nice wins, but both were against fairly weak competition. So, look at week one, and both were losses against very good NFC teams. I think both teams are probably in the second tier of their respective conferences, but it'll still be a very good game. I think Green Bay needs this win more, as they have Chicago in their division, who very well could be the class of the division.
Pick: Green Bay 27, Cincy 21
Houston at Baltimore, 1, CBS
This game is going to be very good. Baltimore needs to prove to everyone that they still are really good, as they only won last week's game against Cleveland by a touchdown. Houston has won each of their first two games either in overtime or in the waning seconds of the game. Houston also played two weak opponents. Now, if only Matt Schaub could put together a complete game, as in the first half, he has not played all that well, while in second half he has played very well. Look for Baltimore to come back strong as well.
Pick: Houston 28, Baltimore 24
Atlanta at Miami, 4, Fox
Miami is pretty good this season believe it or not. Miami has started out with two road wins, and most notably against Indianapolis last week. Miami also needs to build upon this confidence, as they have tough games coming up these next few weeks as well. Atlanta is coming off a win against St. Louis, and they lost five starters that game, so it will be a tough game for the Falcons.
Pick: Miami 31, Atlanta 20
Indianapolis at San Francisco, 4:25, CBS
San Francisco is coming off an embarrassing loss at Seattle last week where they gave up 29 points and committed a ton of penalties. They cannot have that kind of performance again, and there is no chance that will happen. San Francisco will come out angry and determined this week. Look for a blowout performance.
Pick: San Francisco 45, Indy 28
College
No. 3 Clemson at NC State, tonight, 7:30, ESPN
This game could be a trap game for Clemson, as the last time a number three ranked team went into NC State lost. Clemson has played very well so far, but both of those have been at home. NC State has also played pretty well, but again, their schedule dictated they played well, as they played very weak opponents. But, I'm still going with the upset and Clemson's national title dreams go up in smoke.
Pick: NC State 31, Clemson 26
Boise State at Fresno State, Friday, 9, ESPN
This game is probably the marquee game of the Mountain West season, and will help determine the Mountain West champion. Boise started out the season with an incredibly disappointing loss at Washington where they got blown out. But, have since rebounded to win their next two games. Fresno meanwhile won their first game against a power six school in Rutgers in a shootout. So, this game should be another shootout, as both defenses are not that good.
Pick: Boise State 48, Fresno State 43
Kent State at Penn State, 3:30, BTN
Penn State isn't going to lose two in a row, especially against the likes of MAC competition like Kent State. Expect a blowout.
Pick: Penn State 38, Kent State 13
Michigan State at No. 22 Notre Dame, 3:30, NBC
This is a rivalry game, and it should be a good one. Notre Dame and Michigan State have pretty good defenses, and Michigan State is bringing in an inexperienced quarterback. So, this should be low scoring and hard fought.
Pick: Notre Dame 24, Michigan State 20
No. 23 Arizona State at No. 5 Stanford, 7, Fox
This is the only game between ranked teams this week. Tells you how weak this week's schedule is on the college side. So, do yourself a favor and go out this week, not going to kill you to miss this week. But, go with Stanford, they are one of the top two teams in the Pac-12, along with Oregon, and have not unleashed their true potential yet. It'll be unleashed here.
Pick: Stanford 45, Arizona State 31
NFL (All Games on Sunday unless otherwise noted)
Kansas City at Philly, tonight, 8:30, NFLN/6ABC (Philly market)
This game is going to be a very emotional one, and should be pretty darn good too. The reason why it's emotional? Philly's coach of the past 14 seasons comes back and Donovan McNabb, the controversial quarterback is getting inducted into the Eagles ring of honor. Fans should be cheering prior to kickoff, seeing as how Reid brought a doormat of a team back into relevancy in his tenure, and McNabb led the team in so many categories and got them to the NFC Championship game five times in his tenure. Granted, they never won a Super Bowl together, but thank them for bringing this team back into the national picture. Now, on to the game itself. Kansas City has flourished under Reid and their new quarterback, Alex Smith so far this season. They've already matched their win total from all of last season and are looking great on both sides of the ball. Philly needs this game in order to push them back upright after taking a step back during last week's game against San Diego. Philly needs to be sure they will push the tempo and make Kansas City's defense weak as they run up and down the field. Problem is that Andy Reid knows this Eagles personnel better than anyone, and will find weaknesses wherever possible. It'll be a good game, and a tight one.
Pick: Philly 38, Kansas City 34
Green Bay at Cincy, 1, Fox
Both teams are coming off nice wins, but both were against fairly weak competition. So, look at week one, and both were losses against very good NFC teams. I think both teams are probably in the second tier of their respective conferences, but it'll still be a very good game. I think Green Bay needs this win more, as they have Chicago in their division, who very well could be the class of the division.
Pick: Green Bay 27, Cincy 21
Houston at Baltimore, 1, CBS
This game is going to be very good. Baltimore needs to prove to everyone that they still are really good, as they only won last week's game against Cleveland by a touchdown. Houston has won each of their first two games either in overtime or in the waning seconds of the game. Houston also played two weak opponents. Now, if only Matt Schaub could put together a complete game, as in the first half, he has not played all that well, while in second half he has played very well. Look for Baltimore to come back strong as well.
Pick: Houston 28, Baltimore 24
Atlanta at Miami, 4, Fox
Miami is pretty good this season believe it or not. Miami has started out with two road wins, and most notably against Indianapolis last week. Miami also needs to build upon this confidence, as they have tough games coming up these next few weeks as well. Atlanta is coming off a win against St. Louis, and they lost five starters that game, so it will be a tough game for the Falcons.
Pick: Miami 31, Atlanta 20
Indianapolis at San Francisco, 4:25, CBS
San Francisco is coming off an embarrassing loss at Seattle last week where they gave up 29 points and committed a ton of penalties. They cannot have that kind of performance again, and there is no chance that will happen. San Francisco will come out angry and determined this week. Look for a blowout performance.
Pick: San Francisco 45, Indy 28
Thursday, September 12, 2013
10 Best Football Games-Week 3
Last week was quite a week of football, as it featured a slew of great games in both college and the NFL. This week has a few feature games followed by some not so good ones in both the NFL and college. But, now on to the games!
College
No. 24 TCU at Texas Tech, tonight, 7:30, ESPN
This is the first conference game for both teams. But, the difference is that Tech has played the likes of SMU and Stephen F. Austin to start their season to start 2-0 followed by this game. TCU meanwhile lost their opener against SEC foe LSU by ten, and then came back the following week to beat Southeatern Louisiana. So, really, this is the first true test for Tech and then it will be interesting to see how TCU responds to a much better team. Tech is second in the NCAA in passing yards, continuing the shootout trend started by former coach Mike Leach and now under former Leach quarterback Kliff Kingsbury. TCU must rely on sluggish starter Trevone Boykin to try and and get the team back on the winning track. TCU also will need Big 12 Rookie of the year Devonte Fields to come up big and wreak havoc on freshman Baker Mayfield in order for TCU to continue to try and stay in the top 25.
Pick: TCU 42, Tech 31
No. 16 UCLA at No. 23 Nebraska, Saturday, noon, ABC
This is one of two premier games in college this week, the other game is being previewed next. UCLA is coming off a nice victory in the opening week against Nevada, and has had two weeks to prepare for a rematch against Nebraska, whom the Bruins beat last season in Los Angeles. UCLA's minds may not be focused on the game though, as they lost walk on receiver Nick Pasquale last week. Nebraska is coming off a dominating victory over Southern Miss, and are looking to avenge their loss against UCLA when they gave up over 600 yards and slashed the Nebraska defense to pieces. Expect that to happen again.
Pick: UCLA 35, Nebraska 30
No. 1 Alabama at No. 6 Texas A&M, Saturday, 3:30, CBS
Rematches for Nick Saban are no match for the other team normally. Saban only has two losses against teams which is a rematch of the previous year. That is not a good sign for Jonny Manziel and the Aggies. Yes, the game is at TAMU, yes, Manziel has played very well in his first two games. Granted, those games were also against the likes of Rice and Sam Houston State too. But, still, go with Bama, who look to dominate.
Pick: Bama 40, TAMU 21
UCF at Penn State, Saturday, 6, BTN
This looks to be a good game, as both teams are coming in undefeated. Both teams have played two FBS opponents, and it can continue to be a good building block for freshman quarterback Christian Hackenberg for Penn State.
Pick: Penn State 34, UCF 23
No. 21 Notre Dame at Purdue, Saturday, 8, ABC
This is a rebound game for Notre Dame, as they;re coming off another tough loss at Michigan. But, they can easily rebound against a poor team like Purdue. Notre Dame has won five straight meetings against the Boilermakers. Notre Dame will get their sixth straight victory here, as Purdue has not looked too good in their first two games.
Pick: Notre Dame 45, Purdue 10
NFL
New York Jets at New England, tonight, 8:30, NFLN
Neither team looked good last week in their victories. The Jets had to drive down the field and get help from a stupid penalty Tampa gave them to be in position for the winning field goal. New England struggled against rookie quarterback EJ Manuel and the Bills before executing another late fourth quarter drive to get the win. This week, New England will bounce back easily this week. The Jets are not a very good team, and the Patriots always seem to bounce back when they struggle the week before.
Pick: New England 34, New York Jets 20
San Diego at Philadelphia, Sunday, 1, CBS
Philly came out swinging last week, putting together an amazing first drive which resulted in a touchdown for the Redskins after a turnover. But, the next drive, the Eagles do the same thing, which results in a touchdown for the Eagles. Then, the Eagles continued to put their foot on the gas, jumping out to a 33-7 lead in the middle of the third before letting go and letting the Redskins back into the game. San Diego jumped out to a huge lead of their own in the second half of last week's Monday Night Football doubleheader, and did choke it away. This week, I expect the Eagles not to let go of the gas and continue to push their blur offense on a fairly weak Chargers team.
Pick: Philly 42, San Diego 28
Washington at Green Bay, Sunday, 1, Fox
Both teams lost last week, so that means this game is crucial for making the playoffs. While starting out 0-2 may not seem like a big deal, when less than 25% of those teams make the playoffs, it is a big deal. Both teams are also looking to improve their defenses from last week when both teams gave up over 30 points. Washington is hoping Robert Griffin III can come back this week and look as crisp as he did in the second half of last week's game. If he does, it will be a close game, but if he doesn't look for Green Bay to run away with it.
Pick: Green Bay 37, Washington 23
Denver at New York Giants, Sunday, 4:25, CBS
It's Manning Bowl III. Last week, both Mannings looked completely different, as older Brother Peyton looked to be saying to the world that he wants another MVP and to lead his Broncos back to the Super Bowl for the first time since John Elway won his second in 1998. Younger brother Eli didn't look good at all, committing many turnovers and letting the game slip away from him. I do not expect this game to be any different from the past two Manning Bowls, where Peyton won with the Colts.
Pick: Denver 35, New York Giants 21
San Francisco at Seattle, Sunday, 8:30, NBC
This is a rivalry game. Both teams hate each other. Both teams feature really good defenses. Both teams feature really good quarterbacks. This game is a two game swing for the winner and will be a huge gain for leverage in the NFC West. Only advantage is that Seattle is at home, where it will be loud inside.
Pick: Seattle 23, San Francisco 21
College
No. 24 TCU at Texas Tech, tonight, 7:30, ESPN
This is the first conference game for both teams. But, the difference is that Tech has played the likes of SMU and Stephen F. Austin to start their season to start 2-0 followed by this game. TCU meanwhile lost their opener against SEC foe LSU by ten, and then came back the following week to beat Southeatern Louisiana. So, really, this is the first true test for Tech and then it will be interesting to see how TCU responds to a much better team. Tech is second in the NCAA in passing yards, continuing the shootout trend started by former coach Mike Leach and now under former Leach quarterback Kliff Kingsbury. TCU must rely on sluggish starter Trevone Boykin to try and and get the team back on the winning track. TCU also will need Big 12 Rookie of the year Devonte Fields to come up big and wreak havoc on freshman Baker Mayfield in order for TCU to continue to try and stay in the top 25.
Pick: TCU 42, Tech 31
No. 16 UCLA at No. 23 Nebraska, Saturday, noon, ABC
This is one of two premier games in college this week, the other game is being previewed next. UCLA is coming off a nice victory in the opening week against Nevada, and has had two weeks to prepare for a rematch against Nebraska, whom the Bruins beat last season in Los Angeles. UCLA's minds may not be focused on the game though, as they lost walk on receiver Nick Pasquale last week. Nebraska is coming off a dominating victory over Southern Miss, and are looking to avenge their loss against UCLA when they gave up over 600 yards and slashed the Nebraska defense to pieces. Expect that to happen again.
Pick: UCLA 35, Nebraska 30
No. 1 Alabama at No. 6 Texas A&M, Saturday, 3:30, CBS
Rematches for Nick Saban are no match for the other team normally. Saban only has two losses against teams which is a rematch of the previous year. That is not a good sign for Jonny Manziel and the Aggies. Yes, the game is at TAMU, yes, Manziel has played very well in his first two games. Granted, those games were also against the likes of Rice and Sam Houston State too. But, still, go with Bama, who look to dominate.
Pick: Bama 40, TAMU 21
UCF at Penn State, Saturday, 6, BTN
This looks to be a good game, as both teams are coming in undefeated. Both teams have played two FBS opponents, and it can continue to be a good building block for freshman quarterback Christian Hackenberg for Penn State.
Pick: Penn State 34, UCF 23
No. 21 Notre Dame at Purdue, Saturday, 8, ABC
This is a rebound game for Notre Dame, as they;re coming off another tough loss at Michigan. But, they can easily rebound against a poor team like Purdue. Notre Dame has won five straight meetings against the Boilermakers. Notre Dame will get their sixth straight victory here, as Purdue has not looked too good in their first two games.
Pick: Notre Dame 45, Purdue 10
NFL
New York Jets at New England, tonight, 8:30, NFLN
Neither team looked good last week in their victories. The Jets had to drive down the field and get help from a stupid penalty Tampa gave them to be in position for the winning field goal. New England struggled against rookie quarterback EJ Manuel and the Bills before executing another late fourth quarter drive to get the win. This week, New England will bounce back easily this week. The Jets are not a very good team, and the Patriots always seem to bounce back when they struggle the week before.
Pick: New England 34, New York Jets 20
San Diego at Philadelphia, Sunday, 1, CBS
Philly came out swinging last week, putting together an amazing first drive which resulted in a touchdown for the Redskins after a turnover. But, the next drive, the Eagles do the same thing, which results in a touchdown for the Eagles. Then, the Eagles continued to put their foot on the gas, jumping out to a 33-7 lead in the middle of the third before letting go and letting the Redskins back into the game. San Diego jumped out to a huge lead of their own in the second half of last week's Monday Night Football doubleheader, and did choke it away. This week, I expect the Eagles not to let go of the gas and continue to push their blur offense on a fairly weak Chargers team.
Pick: Philly 42, San Diego 28
Washington at Green Bay, Sunday, 1, Fox
Both teams lost last week, so that means this game is crucial for making the playoffs. While starting out 0-2 may not seem like a big deal, when less than 25% of those teams make the playoffs, it is a big deal. Both teams are also looking to improve their defenses from last week when both teams gave up over 30 points. Washington is hoping Robert Griffin III can come back this week and look as crisp as he did in the second half of last week's game. If he does, it will be a close game, but if he doesn't look for Green Bay to run away with it.
Pick: Green Bay 37, Washington 23
Denver at New York Giants, Sunday, 4:25, CBS
It's Manning Bowl III. Last week, both Mannings looked completely different, as older Brother Peyton looked to be saying to the world that he wants another MVP and to lead his Broncos back to the Super Bowl for the first time since John Elway won his second in 1998. Younger brother Eli didn't look good at all, committing many turnovers and letting the game slip away from him. I do not expect this game to be any different from the past two Manning Bowls, where Peyton won with the Colts.
Pick: Denver 35, New York Giants 21
San Francisco at Seattle, Sunday, 8:30, NBC
This is a rivalry game. Both teams hate each other. Both teams feature really good defenses. Both teams feature really good quarterbacks. This game is a two game swing for the winner and will be a huge gain for leverage in the NFC West. Only advantage is that Seattle is at home, where it will be loud inside.
Pick: Seattle 23, San Francisco 21
Thursday, September 5, 2013
10 Best Football Games of the Week!
This week starts the first of 19 Weeks of Football on both Saturday and Sunday, so sit back and enjoy the football! The National Football League starts this week with the games that count after five weeks of boring exhibition games. And there are six games worth previewing, but I'm going to bypass the second of NBC's games, the Giants/Cowboys game, mainly as I can't stand either team, and I'd rather preview the hometown Eagles opener. Then, in the college game, there are a few games featuring top 20 opponents, so it's a good weekend full of football.
College
No. 12 Florida at Miami, Noon, ESPN
This game marks the return of a rivalry, and it can be the return of a meaningful one, as Miami has not been too good over the past decade or so, not going to a BCS Bowl since the 2003 Season and the Orange Bowl. But, under Al Golden, their football team has been improving, going from 6-6 in 2011, to 7-5 last season and winning the Coastal division, to a favorite to win the Coastal again this season. Miami has some veteran offensive players as well, and they can easily win this game too. The reason why? Florida struggled last week against MAC team Toledo, and they are inexperienced defensively, so this could be a huge momentum builder for either team. But, go with the Canes, as they need this game to really prove to not only the ACC, but to the nation that they're back.
Pick: Miami 31, Florida 26
No. 6 South Carolina at No. 11 Georgia, 4:30, ESPN
This is a huge game for both teams, as this is the first game of the SEC portion of the schedule for both teams, and it will go a long way in helping to determine the Eastern division winner. Georgia really needs this game to keep alive any chance of a national title. Georgia was incredibly competitive last week in their opener against Clemson, so if they play like that again this week, they have a good chance of knocking off the Gamecocks, especially if South Carolina plays rather sluggishly like they did against North Carolina.
Pick: Georgia 34, South Carolina 28
No. 15 Texas at BYU, 7, ESPN2
This is a very intriguing game, as Texas was horrible in the first half of last week's game against an awful New Mexico State team, and BYU is coming off a loss at Virginia where they fumbled away the game, literally. Texas has found its quarterback of the next two years it seems though, with David Ash getting better and more mature over the past two years. BYU meanwhile, is looking for its first win over a top 20 opponent since the 2009 Las Vegas Bowl when they beat #16 Oregon State. And, BYU's defense is a good one, led by All-American candidate linebacker Kyle Vannoy. Plus, since Texas isn't used to the altitude in Provo, go with the Cougars.
Pick: BYU 24, Texas 20
West Virginia at No. 16 Oklahoma, 7, Fox
This game looks good on paper, and looking back at last season, it was an amazing game, with both teams combining for 99 points and shattering school records, but now that West Virginia lost some big time names like Tavon Austin and Geno Smith to the NFL, their offense now is looking for a rhythm, and it was a struggle against FCS opponent William & Mary. Imagine how it's going to be against a powerhouse like Oklahoma.
Pick: Oklahoma 45, West Virginia 10
No. 14 Notre Dame at No. 17 Michigan, 8, ESPN
This game will be very close. It's a rivalry game, College GameDay is there, it's only the second ever night game at the Big House, the other one also coming against Notre Dame two years ago, and oh yeah, it's the last scheduled meeting between these two teams at the Big House. Both teams are very good, both teams are motivated, and both teams are coming off good wins last week. The teams are evenly matched, so look for a good one here. Just watch some good football.
Pick: Michigan 28, Notre Dame 27
NFL
Baltimore at Denver, tonight, 8:30, NBC
Normally, this game would be held in Baltimore, as traditionally has been the case with previous Super Bowl winners. But, since the Orioles wouldn't move their game to the afternoon, the game is in Denver. No matter, the game full of excitement, as it's the rematch of the epic double overtime Divisional game from last season. Both teams have lost plenty of talent, but also went out and got a bunch of talent. This is going to be another great game, as most of the key components are returning. But, go with Baltimore, as Denver is without starting corner Champ Bailey and starting linebacker Von Miller.
Pick: Baltimore 31, Denver 27
Cincinnati at Chicago, Sunday, 1, CBS
Both teams are coming off 10-6 seasons, but one resulted in the playoffs, with the Bengals, and the other, the Bears, in losing their coach of nearly a decade in Lovie Smith. Both teams have strong defenses, and have good quarterbacks. Chicago's quarterback though, Jay Cutler, is looking to improve under new head coach and supposed quarterback guru Marc Trestman. Trestman is coming in from the CFL, where he led the Montreal Allouettes to consecutive Grey Cups. Cincinnati is looking not just to make the playoffs for the third straight season, which would be a franchise record. The problem is winning a playoff game, and the Bengals believe they've got the team to do that. This is a very close game to call, could be why the betting line is at three points in favor of Chicago, and I'll go with the experts in Vegas.
Pick: Chicago 27, Cincy 24
Atlanta at New Orleans, Sunday, 1, Fox
Both teams are looking to capture the NFC South title. New Orleans is looking to rebound from an off year, where they didn't have their coach for the entirety of last season, due to the "bountygate" scandal and truly wrecked their season last year. This year, they're starting fresh, and are looking to return to the postseason and knocking off the reigning champions of the NFC South. Atlanta is looking to hold on to its grip of the division, and they certainly have quite the team to do it, with the only big differences of Michael Turner is gone, but Steven Jackson was brought in to replace him, and he will fare quite well. Then, Osi Umenyiora was brought in to replace John Abraham on the defensive side. This game will make quite the splash, and allow the Saints to take a one game lead to start off the year, and make Payton and Brees 11-2 against the Falcons.
Pick: New Orleans 31, Atlanta 30
Green Bay at San Francisco, Sunday, 4:25, Fox
This is a game between what is looking like a potential NFC Championship game. These two teams tussled twice last season, once in the opener, and again in the playoffs, where San Francisco won twice. The games were completely different though, as San Francisco used a rather basic offense to beat the Packers by eight in the opener, then the Niners won by two touchdowns using the mosy dynamic quarterback in all of the NFL in Colin Kaepernick. Kaepernick came in midway through last season, and took over the offense from a conservative one to one which truly was a combination of a college zone read and pro style. Plus, San Francisco's defense isn't too shabby either, with multiple Pro Bowlers on the team. But, don't forget about the Packers, who are a perennial contender in the NFC. But, since this game is in San Francisco, and I don't think Kaepernick is a one year wonder, go with the Niners in another shootout.
Pick: San Francisco 49, Green Bay 38
Philadelphia at Washington, Monday, 6:55, ESPN/Channel 6 ABC
This game is going to be an interesting one. The two reasons why are because it's the true debut of Chip Kelly's blur offense, which was a hit in college and the other is the return of Robert Griiffin III, who is returning from injuries to his LCL and ACL in his right knee. So, the questions will be if RG3 can return to his dynamic self and what kind of rust will he have after no preseason snaps? The other question will be if Kelly's blur offense can translate to the NFL. Now, you may ask, what is the blur? Simple, try to get as many snaps off in a game as possible on offense to try and slow the opposing defense. But, if the offense sputters and the defense is subject to multiple long drives, they'll be the one to get burnt out. These will be fun questions to get at least somewhat answered on Monday night.
Pick: Philly 34, Washington 28. (Hey, I'm a homer and I'm being optimistic.)
Enjoy the first weekend of football!
College
No. 12 Florida at Miami, Noon, ESPN
This game marks the return of a rivalry, and it can be the return of a meaningful one, as Miami has not been too good over the past decade or so, not going to a BCS Bowl since the 2003 Season and the Orange Bowl. But, under Al Golden, their football team has been improving, going from 6-6 in 2011, to 7-5 last season and winning the Coastal division, to a favorite to win the Coastal again this season. Miami has some veteran offensive players as well, and they can easily win this game too. The reason why? Florida struggled last week against MAC team Toledo, and they are inexperienced defensively, so this could be a huge momentum builder for either team. But, go with the Canes, as they need this game to really prove to not only the ACC, but to the nation that they're back.
Pick: Miami 31, Florida 26
No. 6 South Carolina at No. 11 Georgia, 4:30, ESPN
This is a huge game for both teams, as this is the first game of the SEC portion of the schedule for both teams, and it will go a long way in helping to determine the Eastern division winner. Georgia really needs this game to keep alive any chance of a national title. Georgia was incredibly competitive last week in their opener against Clemson, so if they play like that again this week, they have a good chance of knocking off the Gamecocks, especially if South Carolina plays rather sluggishly like they did against North Carolina.
Pick: Georgia 34, South Carolina 28
No. 15 Texas at BYU, 7, ESPN2
This is a very intriguing game, as Texas was horrible in the first half of last week's game against an awful New Mexico State team, and BYU is coming off a loss at Virginia where they fumbled away the game, literally. Texas has found its quarterback of the next two years it seems though, with David Ash getting better and more mature over the past two years. BYU meanwhile, is looking for its first win over a top 20 opponent since the 2009 Las Vegas Bowl when they beat #16 Oregon State. And, BYU's defense is a good one, led by All-American candidate linebacker Kyle Vannoy. Plus, since Texas isn't used to the altitude in Provo, go with the Cougars.
Pick: BYU 24, Texas 20
West Virginia at No. 16 Oklahoma, 7, Fox
This game looks good on paper, and looking back at last season, it was an amazing game, with both teams combining for 99 points and shattering school records, but now that West Virginia lost some big time names like Tavon Austin and Geno Smith to the NFL, their offense now is looking for a rhythm, and it was a struggle against FCS opponent William & Mary. Imagine how it's going to be against a powerhouse like Oklahoma.
Pick: Oklahoma 45, West Virginia 10
No. 14 Notre Dame at No. 17 Michigan, 8, ESPN
This game will be very close. It's a rivalry game, College GameDay is there, it's only the second ever night game at the Big House, the other one also coming against Notre Dame two years ago, and oh yeah, it's the last scheduled meeting between these two teams at the Big House. Both teams are very good, both teams are motivated, and both teams are coming off good wins last week. The teams are evenly matched, so look for a good one here. Just watch some good football.
Pick: Michigan 28, Notre Dame 27
NFL
Baltimore at Denver, tonight, 8:30, NBC
Normally, this game would be held in Baltimore, as traditionally has been the case with previous Super Bowl winners. But, since the Orioles wouldn't move their game to the afternoon, the game is in Denver. No matter, the game full of excitement, as it's the rematch of the epic double overtime Divisional game from last season. Both teams have lost plenty of talent, but also went out and got a bunch of talent. This is going to be another great game, as most of the key components are returning. But, go with Baltimore, as Denver is without starting corner Champ Bailey and starting linebacker Von Miller.
Pick: Baltimore 31, Denver 27
Cincinnati at Chicago, Sunday, 1, CBS
Both teams are coming off 10-6 seasons, but one resulted in the playoffs, with the Bengals, and the other, the Bears, in losing their coach of nearly a decade in Lovie Smith. Both teams have strong defenses, and have good quarterbacks. Chicago's quarterback though, Jay Cutler, is looking to improve under new head coach and supposed quarterback guru Marc Trestman. Trestman is coming in from the CFL, where he led the Montreal Allouettes to consecutive Grey Cups. Cincinnati is looking not just to make the playoffs for the third straight season, which would be a franchise record. The problem is winning a playoff game, and the Bengals believe they've got the team to do that. This is a very close game to call, could be why the betting line is at three points in favor of Chicago, and I'll go with the experts in Vegas.
Pick: Chicago 27, Cincy 24
Atlanta at New Orleans, Sunday, 1, Fox
Both teams are looking to capture the NFC South title. New Orleans is looking to rebound from an off year, where they didn't have their coach for the entirety of last season, due to the "bountygate" scandal and truly wrecked their season last year. This year, they're starting fresh, and are looking to return to the postseason and knocking off the reigning champions of the NFC South. Atlanta is looking to hold on to its grip of the division, and they certainly have quite the team to do it, with the only big differences of Michael Turner is gone, but Steven Jackson was brought in to replace him, and he will fare quite well. Then, Osi Umenyiora was brought in to replace John Abraham on the defensive side. This game will make quite the splash, and allow the Saints to take a one game lead to start off the year, and make Payton and Brees 11-2 against the Falcons.
Pick: New Orleans 31, Atlanta 30
Green Bay at San Francisco, Sunday, 4:25, Fox
This is a game between what is looking like a potential NFC Championship game. These two teams tussled twice last season, once in the opener, and again in the playoffs, where San Francisco won twice. The games were completely different though, as San Francisco used a rather basic offense to beat the Packers by eight in the opener, then the Niners won by two touchdowns using the mosy dynamic quarterback in all of the NFL in Colin Kaepernick. Kaepernick came in midway through last season, and took over the offense from a conservative one to one which truly was a combination of a college zone read and pro style. Plus, San Francisco's defense isn't too shabby either, with multiple Pro Bowlers on the team. But, don't forget about the Packers, who are a perennial contender in the NFC. But, since this game is in San Francisco, and I don't think Kaepernick is a one year wonder, go with the Niners in another shootout.
Pick: San Francisco 49, Green Bay 38
Philadelphia at Washington, Monday, 6:55, ESPN/Channel 6 ABC
This game is going to be an interesting one. The two reasons why are because it's the true debut of Chip Kelly's blur offense, which was a hit in college and the other is the return of Robert Griiffin III, who is returning from injuries to his LCL and ACL in his right knee. So, the questions will be if RG3 can return to his dynamic self and what kind of rust will he have after no preseason snaps? The other question will be if Kelly's blur offense can translate to the NFL. Now, you may ask, what is the blur? Simple, try to get as many snaps off in a game as possible on offense to try and slow the opposing defense. But, if the offense sputters and the defense is subject to multiple long drives, they'll be the one to get burnt out. These will be fun questions to get at least somewhat answered on Monday night.
Pick: Philly 34, Washington 28. (Hey, I'm a homer and I'm being optimistic.)
Enjoy the first weekend of football!
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