Week 17 Picks

- Italicized for win

- Bolded for spread

Chicago @ Minnesota (-12.5) - The Bears have 2 wins in their past 3 games, but two of those wins came against below average teams from Ohio.  The Vikings are still attempting to secure a first round bye.

Cleveland (+6) @ Pittsburgh - Even though the Steelers will be without Big Ben, Antonio Brown, and LeVeon Bell, the Steelers will most likely take care of business against the 0-15 Browns although it could be close down the stretch.

Dallas (-3) @ Philadelphia - The Eagles will likely be playing their backups in a meaningless game for them.

Green Bay @ Detroit (-7) - The Lions look to complete the season sweep against the Packers which will historically taken with a grain of salt due to the absence of Aaron Rodgers.

Houston @ Indianapolis (-6) - Injuries appear to have hit the Texans hard including Jadaveon Clowney and Deandre Hopkins.

New York Jets @ New England (-15.5) - The Patriots will put it all on the line against a poor team since they are playing for homefield throughout the playoffs.

Washington (-4) @ NY Giants - Washington has appeared to found its stride against lesser opponents like the Broncos and Cardinals.  The Giants who have amassed two wins are one of those lesser teams.

Carolina @ Atlanta (-4)  - The Panthers are still playing for a divisional bye so they could keep it close.  That being said, the Falcons would be eliminated from the playoffs if they lost so look for them to put up a better effort at home.

Buffalo (-2.5) @ Miami - A tough divisional matchup on the road for the Bills but they need this one to keep their playoff hopes alive.

Cincinnati @ Baltimore (-9) - The Bengals were already shut out at home by the Ravens earlier this season.

Kansas City @ Denver (-3) - The Chiefs will most likely rest their starters in a game that does not matter for them.

Jacksonville @ Tennessee (-1.5) - I am not a big believer in this Titans team but they are at home against a team that they already beat by 21 points earlier this season.

Oakland (+7) @ LA Chargers  - The Raiders have been too inconsistent to pick here for a win, but could make it close against a division rival.

San Francisco (-5) @ LA Rams - The Rams have nothing to play for.  Look for Jimmy G to stay undefeated as a starting quarterback.

New Orleans (-6) @ Tampa Bay - The Saints are playing for a division title.  The Bucs have covered the past few weeks, but I don't see that trend continuing against a Saints team that beat them by a 20 point margin earlier in the season.

Arizona (+8.5) @ Seattle  - Seattle looks to keeps its playoff hopes alive.  The Cardinals' defense could keep it close which has given up only 22 points in their last 3 games.

Week 16 Picks Against the Spread - 7-7-2
Week 16 Picks Straight up - 12-4
2017-18 Against the Spread- 109-111-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 151-81
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

Week 16 Picks

Detroit (-3) @ Cincinnati - Detroit is still trying to keep its playoff hopes alive.  The Bengals appear to have given up on their head coach Marvin Lewis. 

Miami @ Kansas City (-10.5) - Jay Cutler reverted to the mean last week against the Bills and look for that trend to continue in another road game against Kansas City who seem to be clicking on all cylinders after a nice win against the Chargers.

Buffalo @ New England (-11.5) - The Patriots escaped with a win against the Steelers and look to take care of the Buffalo Bills at home.  

Cleveland (+6) @ Chicago  - While the Bears should win, it could be a close game down the stretch.  Head coach John Fox is 0-6 straight up in games that the Bears are favored to win.  Then again, they are playing the Browns

Tampa Bay @ Carolina (-10.5) -  Carolina's strong defense could be the difference in this one.  Christian McCaffrey has been really solid option out of the backfield for the Panthers.

Atlanta (+6) @ New Orleans - The Saints look to take care of another division rival at home although it could be a close game down the stretch.  

Denver (+3.5) @ Washington - Brock Osweiler and the Bronco's offense looked sharp against the Colts and could pose problems for Washington if they can get their running game going. 

LA Rams (-5.5) @ Tennessee- The Titans lost a nail biter to the 49ers but things do not get easier for them as they line up against  Rams team that blew the Seahawks out.

LA Chargers (-7) @ NY Jets - The Chargers look to bounce back after a bad loss to the Chiefs in order to keep their playoff hopes alive.  The Jets offense has been running on fumes with McCown out but plan to run the ball and keep it a low scoring affair.

Jacksonville (-4) @ San Francisco - Jimmy G has been sharp but it may not be enough against a Jacksonville defense that has made opponents look silly.  Leonard Fournette also returns.

NY Giants @ Arizona (-3.5) - In a battle of struggling teams, the Cardinals may be able to take this one at home.

Seattle @ Dallas (-3) - The Seahwks may put up a better effort against the Cowboys than they did against the Rams but injuries appear to have taken a toll on this team.  Plus Dallas gets Ezekiel Elliot back from a suspension.

Pittsburgh (-9.5) @ Houston - Pittsburgh suffered a heartbreaking loss.  Even with Antonio Brown out, the Steeles will likely take out their frustrations on the Texans. 

Oakland (+10) @ Philadelphia - Philadelphia will most likely win this game although it could be closer given how much the Eagles struggled to put away the New York Giants.

Week 16 Picks Against the Spread - 1-1
Week 16 Picks Straight up - 2-0
2017-18 Against the Spread- 103-105-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 141-77
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

You can see some of my picks for this week and the rest of the season here on Sports on the Hill Podcast.

Week 16 Saturday Picks

Indianapolis @ Baltimore (-13.5) - The Colts looked shaky last week against the Broncos and could struggle against the Ravens on the roads who are looking to make a playoff push. 

Minnesota (-9.5) @ Green Bay - The Packers have conceded a lost season by putting Aaron Rodgers on injured reserve.  Look for the Vikings to take advantage who are still fighting for the top playoff spot in the NFC. 

Week 15 Picks Against the Spread - 8-5-1
Week 15 Picks Straight up - 10-4
2017-18 Against the Spread- 102-104-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 139-77
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

You can see some of my picks for this week and the rest of the season here on Sports on the Hill Podcast.

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Week 15 Picks Lightning Edition

Houston @ Jacksonville (-10.5) - The Jaguars will be without Leonard Fournette but their defense could be troublesome for TJ Yates. 

Baltimore (-7) @ Cleveland - The Ravens will look to take out last week's frustrating loss to the Steelers.

Green Bay @ Carolina (-3) - Aaron Rodgers return could be anti-climatic mostly because he will have to overcome a lot of rust against a Panthers' team that is also playing for a playoff spot. 

Miami  @ Buffalo (-3)  - Miami has been playing extremely well over the past few weeks including a nice double digit victory against the Patriots.  Tyrod Taylor returns and the cold weather could favor the Bills. 

Cincinnati @ Minnesota (-11) - After getting blown out by the Bears, the Bengals face an uphill battle in Minnesota.

Arizona (+4) @ Washington - Washington's defense is a mess.  Arizona did a nice job last season containing Kirk Cousins. 

Philadelphia (-7.5) @ NY Giants - The Eagles did lose Carson Wentz for the season but the Giants appear to be running on fumes without Odell Beckham.  Engram is a nice tight end going forward but have already lost to NFC East opponents by double digits due to an inconsistent running game. 

LA Rams (+1.5) @ Seattle - Seattle at home is always scary but have already lost two games at home mostly due to a banged up secondary. 

Tennessee @ San Francisco (-1.5) - This is the first time I can remember a 3-10 team being favored against a 8-5 one.  Jimmy Garoppolo is living up to the hype.  Marcus Mariotta's 10 touchdown to 14 turnovers has left a lot to be desired.   

New England @ Pittsburgh (+3) - The Patriots were schooled by the Dolphins but that should be used as a motivation to play well in the game that matters.  Still, the Steelers offense has been explosive which could spell trouble for the Patriots defense which has been banged up.  The Steelers have outscored their opponents in the 32-7.  The Steelers need to play with that kind of desperation to win.  The Steelers appear to have more talent so I am predicting them to win although it may be tough given that the Steelers have lost 4 straight to the Patriots.

Dallas (-2) @ Oakland - Dallas has won it's last two games without Ezekiel Elliot and looks to keep it's playoff hopes alive.

Week 15 Picks Against the Spread - 0-3
Week 15 Picks Straight up - 1-2
2017-18 Against the Spread- 94-102-6
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 130-75
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

Week 15 Saturday Picks

- Italicized for win

- Bolded for spread

Chicago (+5) @ Detroit - Detroit has not won a game by more than 3 since week 9.   Chicago is a run heavy team while Detroit will choose to pass the ball.   If Detroit jumps out to an early lead it could spell trouble for the Bears, although given Detroit has a poor rush defense, the Bears could keep it close.

LA Chargers (-1) @ Kansas City - The Chargers are playing well and the Chiefs' offense has only recently started to play well over the last 2 weeks. That being said, the Chargers have lost their last 7 games against Kansas Chiefs since 2013 and the Chiefs should receive a boost in their secondary as Marcus Peters comes back from an internal suspension.  Still, the Chargers appear to have the defensive edge since they are 3rd in interceptions and could force Alex Smith into some bad throws. 

Week 15 Picks Against the Spread - 0-1
Week 15 Picks Straight up - 0-1
2017-18 Against the Spread- 94-100-6
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 129-74
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

Week 15 Thursday Night Pick

With 59 yards, Frank Gore would notch his 12th consecutive season 

with 1,000 + yards from scrimmage, the second longest  

streak in NFL history (Emmitt Smith 13

- Italicized for win- Bolded for spread

Denver @ Indianapolis (+2.5) - These are two below average teams.  While the Colts are coming off an overtime game in the snow, they are still 5-1 against the spread at home.  The Broncos' defense looked sharp against the Jets but it should be taken with a grain of salt considering Bryce Petty missed some easy passes in place of the injured McCown. The Broncos will be without four starters including Domata Peko, Derek Wolfe, Ron Leary, and Aquib Talib.  Frank Gore looks to add to his 760 yard total this season.  His body may feel a bit winded after carrying the ball 36 times in the Colts loss to the Bills.  But even at 34, Gore will attempt to amass over 1,000 yards rushing for the 10th season in his career although he will have his work cut out for him against a Broncos team that only gave up 45 yards rushing last week.  

Week 14 Picks Against the Spread - 9-7
Week 14 Picks Straight up - 9-7
2017-18 Against the Spread- 94-99-6
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 129-73
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

My picks can also be found on the Sports on the Hill Podcast at around 2:05:45 mark.  

Week 14 Picks Lightning Edition

Green Bay (-3) @ Cleveland - Brett Hundley is still an inconsistent quarterback but the Packers have managed to remain competitive last week despite of it thanks to a solid running game by their two young running backs, Jones and Williams.

  

Detroit (-3) @ Tampa Bay - Detroit has struggled, losing 4 of its past games against winning teams.  The Lions are undefeated against teams under .500.  The Bucs in the meantime have lost their 7 games with Winston starting. 

Oakland(+4) @ Kansas City - The last game ended in dramatic fashion in a Raiders' one point victory.  I expect the Chiefs to win at home by a field goal. 

Minnesota (-2.5) @ Carolina - Minnesota has a solid defense that has traveled well with 5 road wins.  Carolina's offense even with Greg Olsen back has been inconsistent.  

San Francisco (+2.5) @ Houston - San Francisco was limited to field goals in Jimmy Garoppolo's first start but the Texans defense is not as good as Chicago's defense.

Indianapolis @ Buffalo(-3) - Buffalo was semi-competitive for a while against the Patriots and may look better against a team like the Colts at home.  

Chicago(+6.5) @ Cincinnati - The Bengals are coming off a short week but should be feeling more motivated after a loss to a hated division rival.

Dallas (-3.5) @ NY Giants- Eli is back although he still has not won a division game this season.  Stranger things have happened in this weird NFC East rivalry but the Cowboys appear to have found a good running game with Alfred Morris.  Linebacker Sean Lee is also returning.

Tennessee(-3) @ Arizona - Teams are figuring out Blaine Gabbert and AP is out again.
 
NY Jets(-1) @ Denver - Josh McCown could have been had by Denver this past offseason.  

Washington @ LA Chargers (-6) - While the Chargers often play down to their competition as they did last week against the Browns, I suspect they will take Washington more seriously as LA is still playing for a division title.  

Seattle(+2.5) @ Jacksonville - Jacksonville has a better defense and a better running game but at the end of the day Russell Wilson is a better quarterback than Blake Bortles.

Philadelphia(+1) @ LA Rams - It may feel like a road game for Rams with nearby Eagles fans in what should be a toss up game.  

Baltimore @ Pittsburgh (-4) - Complacency may have set in a bit with the Steelers in a couple narrow victories against the Colts and the Bengals.  That being said, the Ravens were blown out at home and seem unlikely to beat the Steelers on the road.  

New England @ Miami (+11) - For some reason, the Patriots are 7-8 with the hoodie as a head coach against Miami.  With Gronkowski out, the Dolphins could lose by less than double digits.   

You can find my picks on the Sports on the Hill Podcast at the 2 hour 19 minute and 45 second mark.



Week 13 Picks Against the Spread - 9-7
Week 13 Picks Straight up - 12-4
2017-18 Against the Spread- 85-92-6
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 120-66
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

Week 14 Thursday Night Pick

- Italicized for win

- Bolded for spread

New Orleans (+2.5) @ Atlanta - In what could be a high scoring game, look for the Saints to get a boost with defensive rookie of the year Marhon Lattimore back in the lineup.  Ingram and Kamara look to carry the Saints to another victory. 

You can find my picks on the Sports on the Hill Podcast at the 2 hour 19 minute and 45 second mark.



Week 13 Picks Against the Spread - 9-7
Week 13 Picks Straight up - 12-4
2017-18 Against the Spread- 85-92-6
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 120-66
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

Week 13 Picks Lightning Edition

Picks
- Italicized for win- Bolded for spread

Minnesota @ Atlanta (-3) - Julio Jones appears to be clicking on all cylinders.  The Vikings are 0-1 on the road against teams projected to make the playoffs. 
 
Houston(+7) @ Tennessee - The Titans have played their opponents close lately, they have won four of their past five games but their last four wins have been by 4 points or less. 

Kansas City @ NY Jets (+3.5) - The Jets have played well at home.  The Chiefs have lost five of their past six games. 

Denver @ Miami (+1.5) - The Broncos will be without their top corner Talib.  Jay Cutler clears the concussion protocol and plays the team that drafted him. 

Indianapolis @ Jacksonville (-9.5) - Jacksonville shut out the Colts 27-0  in their first meeting.

Tampa Bay(+2.5) @ Green Bay - Jameis Winston returns, hopefully he hasn't eaten all his fingers since he's been out.

Detroit (+3) @ Baltimore - It should be a low scoring game.  The best quarterback that the Ravens have beaten this year so far is Andy Dalton.

New England (-9) @ Buffalo - The Patriots defense has picked it up.  The Bills offensive line is still sub-par. 

San Francisco(+3) @ Chicago - Jimmy Garappolo makes his first start. 

Cleveland (+14) @ LA Chargers - The Chargers actually lost to this Browns team last season. 

NY Giants (+8.5) @ Oakland - Unless Geno Smith plays terribly, which is a possibility, the Giants could make this game close. 

Carolina (+5) @ New Orleans - The Saints beat the Panthers by 3 touchdowns last time.  Their last two meetings in New Orleans have been  decided by a field goal. 

LA Rams (-7) @ Arizona - The Rams coming off a win against the Saints look to take advantage of Blaine Gabbert. 

Philadelphia @ Seattle (+5) - Seattle needs this game more than the Eagles in order to keep its playoff hopes alive. 

Pittsburgh(-5) @ Cincinnati - The Steelers appear to be a team that plays to the level of their competition and may pull out a gadget play or two against a hated division rival. 

Week 12 Picks Against the Spread - 8-7
Week 12 Picks Straight up - 12-3
2017-18 Against the Spread- 76-85-6
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 108-62
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

Week 13 Thursday Pick

Kirk Cousins is 0-3 against Dak Prescott

This is the first time they play without Ezekiel Elliot 

Washington (-1.5) @ Dallas - The loser is most likely eliminated for the playoffs in this divisional matchup, while the winner gets to keep their postseason hopes alive for at least for one more week.

Both teams are facing existential crises. The Redskins and their front office will ponder if Kirk Cousins is a top 10 quarterback and worth keeping as the highest paid quarterback.  The Cowboys may be second guessing letting Tony Romo walk into retirement as their offense has has sputtered without Ezekiel Elliot; scoring only two touchdowns in the past three weeks.

 Washington has little pity for Elliot's suspension as their top two running backs, Thompson and Kelly, are out with injuries.  Sameje Perine played well last week he rushed for over 100 yards against the Giants although ball control is still a concern.  Washington's offense should take advantage of the Cowboys' defense who has benched corner Anthony Brown and linebacker Sean Lee is still out with an injury.  While Alfred Morris may run the ball well against his former team, Washington has played well on the road in their last two games against the Seahawks and Saints.  And the Cowboys have been reeling 3 straight blowout losses.  I expect a closer game, but I have Washington winning.


You can find my picks on the Sports on the Hill Podcast, which begins at the  2 hour 12 minute mark.

Week 12 Picks

Cam Newton looks to eliminate the Jets from playoff contention

Carolina (-5.5) @ NY Jets - Carolina has won 3 straight and 4 of their past 5 road games.  The Jets have played their opponents tight at home but could struggle to put up points against the Panthers' defense led by Luke Kuechly.

Tennessee @ Indianapolis (+3.5) - The Titans did beat the Colts by double digits earlier this season but since then the Titans are 0-4 against the spread, mostly due to their defense being terrible.  Indianapolis appears to be playing well with an overtime loss to the Steelers and look to take advantage of Mariota who had 4 interceptions in his last game against Pittsburgh.

Tampa Bay @ Atlanta (-9.5) - Atlanta should win this one although the Bucs may keep it interesting with Ryan Fitzpatrick before losing by double digits.

Miami @ New England (-16.5) - New England's defense appears to have found its groove.  After giving up 30 or more points in 3 of their first 4 games, the Patriots have given no more than 17 points in their last 7 games.   The Dolphins are reeling after losing their past 4 games; 3 by double digits.  Miami does not appear to have the firepower to break through the Patriots' defense.

Chicago @ Philadelphia (-14) - The Eagles have demoralized their opponents including the 49ers, Broncos, and Cowboys.  The Bears have a more steady running game and defense than those teams but lack of a passing game leaves them susceptible to a blowout.

Buffalo (+10) @ Kansas City  - Kansas City has struggled lately including a loss to the lowly Giants but have a 3-1 record at home.  After the Peterman experiment failed with 5 interceptions in the first half against the Chargers, the Bills go back to Tyrod Taylor.  This should be a victory for the Chiefs although it could be within a touchdown.

Seattle @ San Francisco (+7) - The 49ers are coming off a bye and played the Seahawks to a 3 point loss on the road last time.  Maybe San Francisco is due for their first division at home against a Seattle team' whose secondary is decimated by injuries including losing Kam Chancellor and Richard Sherman.  Right now, I have Seattle winning the game by a small margin.

Denver (+5) @ Oakland - Oakland looks to get back on track against a struggling Denver team.  Expect a close game between division rivals, but Oakland should come out on top with a win.

New Orleans @ LA Rams (-2) - New Orleans played really well in their comeback against Washington but appear to be suffering with complacency after winning 7 games in a row.  The Rams did lose to the Vikings on the road but have not lost consecutive games this season.  The Saints will be without Marshon Lattimore and Ken Crawley.

Jacksonville (-5.5) @ Arizona - Jacksonville should take advantage of playing their former quarterback Blaine Gabbert.

Green Bay @ Pittsburgh (-14) - Green Bay's offense got exposed again without Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers will take advantge of it as they are still playing for homefield advantage throughout the playoffs with the Patriots looming.

Houston @ Baltimore (-7) - Houston's offense exploded for 31 points last time against the Cardinals but the Ravens defense appears to have found its mojo with their third shutout win of the season last week against the Packers.

Week 11 Picks Against the Spread - 1-2
Week 11 Picks Straight up - 2-1
2017-18 Against the Spread- 69-80-6
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 98-60
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

You can find my picks on the Sports on the Hill Podcast hosted by Robbie Gross
With Michael Edgley, Brian Brennan, Tim Clarke, Tavon Fennell,Louis Tenore, Daniel Evans, D.C.'s People's Champ - WCW (Ken Washington) and Mike Hoffman at the 2 hour mark.

Thanksgiving Edition Picks 2017

Stafford looks to improve 

the Lions 3-0 division record.

Minnesota @ Detroit (+2) - The Lions already beat the Vikings on the road in a game where Dalvin Cook got knocked out with a season ending injury and Minnesota struggled to put up 7 points.

LA Chargers @ Dallas- Playing on the road may help the Chargers since they are many Cowboys fans in LA.  For the past two weeks, the Cowboys have had blowout losses against the Falcon and the Eagles who have been without Ezekiel Elliot.  The Chargers are not in that tier one category but they have been knocking on the door with some close games against the Eagles and the Jaguars earlier in the season.  

NY Giants (+7) @ Washington - This could be a relatively close game against division rivals.  While Washington should edge out the Giants, they have not beaten the Giants by a touchdown or more since 2011.  The short week should hurt both teams equally given that the Giants only have to make a short commute from New York.

Week 11 Picks Against the Spread - 8-6
Week 11 Picks Straight up - 10-4
2017-18 Against the Spread- 68-78-6
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 96-59
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

Week 11 Picks 2017

Stafford is 7-1 in his last 8 games against the Bears

Detroit (-3) @ Chicago - The game could be close but the Lions with Stafford have shown more poise than the Bears whose offense is still a work in progress with Mitchell Trubisky.  The Lions already have road victories against division rivals including the Vikings and Packers this season.

Jacksonville (-7) @ Cleveland -

Blake Bortles' advice for DeShone Kizer: "Try to throw it to your team as much as possible." #Jaguars #Browns

— Mike Kaye (@mike_e_kaye) November 15, 2017

Cleveland has had some compelling games at home.  Still, the Jaguars' defense has been something else over the past few weeks and Cleveland's first win of the season is unlikely to come here.

Baltimore (-2.5) @ Green Bay - The Ravens are coming off a bye and get to look at the game film to take advantage of the inexperienced Brett Hundley.  The injury to Aaron Jones, another one of Green Bay's starting running backs, leaves the Packers even more shorthanded.

Arizona (-1.5) @ Houston -  In the battle of below average quarterbacks starring Blaine Gabbert and Tom Savage, the Cardinals boast the better run game and defense.

Tampa Bay @ Miami (-3) - The Dolphins face a familiar foe in Ryan Fitzpatrick who is 5-4 against the Dolphins but only 2-3 in Miami.

LA Rams (+2) @ Minnesota -

Case Keenum goes against his former team.

   It should be a compelling game but the Rams look like better team as they boast both a top 3 offense and top 3 defense.

Kansas City (-10) @ NY Giants - The Giants could struggle against the Eagles in what should be 12 point game.

Washington @ New Orleans (-9.5) - Washington's defensive line  has struggled against teams with good running games especially without Jonathan Allen.  The Saints defense is also a top 10 defense as Washington's could struggle due to the crowd noise

Buffalo (+7) @ LA Chargers -

Bills have benched Tyrod Taylor. Nathan Peterman will start.

— Mike Rodak (@mikerodak) November 15, 2017

After close losses to the Patriots and Jaguars, the Chargers are due for a bounce back game even if Buffalo Bills fans somehow invade the Los Angeles stadium.

Cincinnati (+3) @ Denver - The Broncos offense is terrible.  The Bengals offense is actually better than most give it credit for with a good receiving corp and a solid running game although having Andy Dalton at the helm always makes you nervous.

New England (-7) @ Oakland - The Patriots have been practicing at high altitude in Denver to prepare for the game in Mexico.  Even if that wasn't the case, the Patriots would still be favorites to win unless the officiating somehow favors the team that least supports Trump.

Philadelphia (-6) @ Dallas - Strange things can happen in rivalry games but the Eagles are coming off a bye against a Cowboys team that is still adapting to life without Ezekiel Elliot, and do not have a strong homefield advantage.

Atlanta (+3) @ Seattle -

BREAKING: The @Seahawks defense loses another key player. Per @MikeGarafolo, strong safety Kam Chancellor is likely done for the season. pic.twitter.com/QDQRYOWACB

— GMFB (@gmfb) November 18, 2017

Seattle's secondary is a mess without a few starters and could become problematic if Russell Wilson struggles to generate points because of a porous offensive line.    If the Falcons can put up some points they can sneak away with a win here.

Week 11 Picks Against the spread - 1-0
Week 11 Picks Straight up - 1-0
2017-18 Against the Spread- 61-72-6
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 87-55
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

You can also hear my picks here on the Sports on the Hill Podcast, hosted by Robbie Gross including Michael, Tim Clarke, Louis Tenore Daniel Evans, Ken Washington (D.C.'s People's Champ - WCW), and Mike Hoffman at the 2 hour mark.

Week 11 Thursday Night Game 2017

The Steelers defense has given up 

14.5 points per game over the last four weeks.

Tennessee @ Pittsburgh (-7)-  Last week, the Steelers barely put away a Colts team in overtime on the road.  That being said, the Titans may come up short due to being on road where they are 1-3 against the spread.  As a result of a short week, Tennessee may not have enough time to gameplan for Bell and Antonio Brown.

Week 10 Picks Against the spread - 5-8-1
Week 10 Picks Straight up - 8-6
2017-18 Against the Spread- 61-72-6
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 87-55
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-107

Week 10 Picks 2017

The Redskins will get back Trent Williams who

could have his hands full containing Everson Griffin 

who has 10 sacks this season (via Washington Post)  

Minnesota @ Washington (+1.5) - Jordan Reed is out so the Redskins will rely more heavily upon Jamison Crowder and Josh Doctson.  Washington could do a decent job containing the Vikings offense who had a surprising performance against Seattle.  Hopefully for Washington, the Redskins can limit turnovers as Cousins does have the most fumbles allowed by any player this season.

Green Bay @ Chicago (-5.5) - Things don't get easier for the Packers who are coming off a short week and the Bears are coming off a bye.   While Chicago's offense has not been explosive, the Packers' defense may have trouble containing the Bears running attacking including Josh Howard, Tarik Cohen, and even the scrambling QB rushes by Mitchell Trubisky.

Pittsburgh (-10) @ Indianapolis - Pittsburgh is coming off a bye and looks to advantage of the Colts that have not won consecutive games this season.

LA Chargers @ Jacksonville (-5) - The Jaguars have taken care of business over the past few weeks without Leonard Fournette and now get him back.  Philip Rivers is still a savvy quarterback but may struggle to put together a good game against a stifling Jacksonville defense.

NY Jets (-2) @ Tampa Bay- Ryan Fitzpatrick goes against his former team but Tampa Bay will be without their best wide receiver Mike Evans.  One would expect the Jets defense to effectively game plan for Fitzpatrick's strengths and weaknesses.  Josh McCown is also is playing against one of his many former teams.

Cincinnati (+5.5) @ Tennessee - Look for the Titans to take care of business against two AFC North teams in successive weeks who have won each of their past two games by a field goal.

New Orleans @ Buffalo (+3)  - Cold weather could be a factor in this one as Buffalo has not lost a game at home this season not have they lost consecutive games.   The Bills should receive a boost in their passing game with the addition of Kelvin Benjamin and the the return of Charles Clay after weeks of being sidelined.

Cleveland @ Detroit (-11) - The Lions have taken care of business against inferior opponents including double digits wins against the Giants, Cardinals, and Packers.

Houston @ LA Rams(-12) - The Rams are currently on a 3 game winnings streak of double digit wins.  The Texans offense appears to be a mess without DeShaun Watson and Houston's defense is still prone to give up big scoring outburst.

Dallas (+3.5) @ Atlanta - Dallas's defense did a good job containing the Chiefs' offense last week and look to apply a similar formula to the Falcons who have struggled with their play calling all season.  Dallas has an interesting mix of running backs including Darren McFadden and Alfred Morris without Elliot in the lineup.

NY Giants (-2.5) @ San Francisco - The Giants may come away with a win due their defense, although things could get ugly if their players decide not to show up and play for their head coach Ben McAdoo.

New England (-7) @ Denver - Brady's struggles at Denver have been noted including a 2-7 record but Tom Brady has had time to prepare for this Sunday night performance as the Patriots are coming off a bye against a reeling Broncos' team.

Miami (+9) @ Carolina  - Jay Cutler quietly had his first game with over 300 yards, 3 TDs, and 0 interceptions in a loss to the Raiders.  Still, Carolina has a much better defense with Kuchley back in the lineup.  Look for the Panthers to win by a touchdown.

You can hear my picks at the 2 hour mark on Sport on the Hill Podcast hosted by Robbie Gross, Daniel Evans, Paul Smith Mike Hoffman and Ken Washington (D.C.'s People's Champ - WCW.

Week 10 Picks Against the spread - 0-0-1
Week 9 Picks Straight up - 1-0
2017-18 Against the Spread- 56-64-5
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 79-49
2016-17 Against the Spread- 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up = 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread 140-107

Week 10 Thursday Night Pick 2017

Adrian Peterson carried the ball 37 times 

against the 49ers last week.  Expect that trend to continue tonight.

(via azcardinals.com)

Seattle (-6) @ Arizona - The Seahawks suffered a bad loss against the Redskins and look to regroup  against Drew Stanton who is 10-5-1 against the spread in his career.  That being said, Seattle's defense should be motivated to come up against a Cardinals' QB who has only completed 45 percent of his passes in his career.   Seattle has won its last 8 games coming off losses and have won their last 4 Thursday Night football games. 

Week 9 Picks Against the spread - 5-7
Week 9 Picks Straight up - 6-6
2017-18 Against the Spread- 56-64-4
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 78-49
2016-17 Against the Spread- 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up = 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread 140-107

2017-18 Week 9 Picks

Look for Shady McCoy to have a big game

against a team that he has given nightmares

Buffalo (-3) @ NY Jets - Buffalo appears to be the better team on both sides of the ball.  The Bills played fairly well against Oakland last week and look to slow down Josh McCown.

Indianapolis @ Houston (-7) - DeShaun Watson has been great although the Texans defense has struggled due to a few key injuries to their defensive line.  The Colts early season formula for success has been scouted out as head coach Chuck Pagano is on the hot seat.

Tampa Bay @ New Orleans (-7) - Jameis Winston has struggled mightily against Carolina and look for that trend to continue against another division rival on the road.  While Drew Brees didn't throw a touchdown last week, the Saints dual running attack of Ingram and Kamara has been getting it done behind a surprisingly decent Saints defense.  Plus Willie Snead is returning to the fold which could increase the explosiveness of the Saints offense.

LA Rams (-3.5) @ NY Giants - Both teams are coming off byes but the Rams have a much better offense.  Goff has been fairly consistent with only 1 interception in his past 4 games.

Atlanta @ Carolina (-1) - Both teams have been up and down this season.  Luc Kuechly should be back which should give the Panthers a boost but will be without Kelvin Benjamin.  Still, Atlanta has been pretty inconsistent this season with losses to Buffalo and Miami. They have not been the same team offensively that managed to sweep the Panthers back in 2016 and could struggle on the road.

Denver @ Philadelphia (-7.5)- Carson Wentz faces a much tougher test defensively but the Eagles should take advantage of a sub-par offense from the Broncos .

Baltimore  @ Tennessee (-3.5) - Marcus Mariota appears to have regained his mobility and should be much sharper at home to propel the Titans to victory.  The Ravens did have a nice offensive outburst against the Dolphins but are still an up and down team.

Arizona @ San Francisco (+2) - San Francisco may be in line to get its first win of the season against a team without Carson Palmer and David Johnson.  Drew Stanton has not been as good as his 6-3 record as a starter would indicate as he has only completed around 40% of his passes and had only had 2 touchdowns and 6 interceptions in his last 13 appearances.

Washington @ Seattle (-7) - While Seattle gave up 38 points last week against the Texans, it remains to be seen if Washington can muster that much firepower due to a banged up offensive line and questionable quarterback play from Captain Kirk.  The last time Washington beat Seattle on road was in 2008 but it seems unlikely that this Washington defense can hold Seattle to only 17 points which exploded for 41 points against the Texans last week.

Kansas City @ Dallas - The Cowboys will be without Ezekiel Elliot.  Perhaps Dallas can get something out of Alfred Morris and Darren McFadden but the Cowboys defense will have a tough time containing Alex Smith and Kareem Hunt.

Oakland @ Miami (+3) - Both teams suffered bad losses on the road.   Jay Cutler returns and does not inspire much confidence and the Dolphins traded their top running back .  Still, the Dolphins defense has been pretty good at home in Miami which is a big reason the Dolphins are somehow over .500.

Detroit (-2.5) @ Green Bay - Green Bay is coming off a bye.  That being said, Brett Hundley still has not shown that he is a consistent quarterback with only 1 touchdown and 4 interceptions.  The Lions have struggled at Lambeau but I am still expecting Stafford to lead the Lions to a victory.

Week 8 Picks Against the spread - 7-6
Week 8 Picks Straight up - 9-4
2017-18 Against the Spread- 51-57-4
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 72-43
2016-17 Against the Spread- 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up = 101-41
2015-16 Against the Spread 140-107

You can also find my picks on the Sports on the Hill Podcast, hosted by Robbie Gross.   Louis Tenore, Daniel Evans, Ken Washington Paul Smith and Bryan Carr also make their picks at the 9 hour mark.