Philadelphia Eagles (-3.5) @ Jacksonville Jaguars (London)- It looks like the Jaguars are one dimensional without their starting running back Leonard Fournette. And their passing game with Blake Bortles running the show has not been anything to write home about. The Jaguars had 14 points or less in 4 of their past 5 games. The Eagles will look to bounce back after a late 4th quarter collapse against Carolina. Also, four Jacksonville stars players were arrested by the police after a 'nightclub brawl over a rather expensive bill' (Source).
Denver Broncos @ Kansas City Chiefs (-9.5) - Case Keenum had a good showing against the Cardinals in blowout win but the Broncos are dealing with a couple of injuries including running back Royce Freeman, tackle Jared Veldheer(knee), safety Darius Stewart(neck/stringer) Among wide receivers, Tyreke Hill is number 1 TDs and tight end Travis Kelce is averaging 15 yards per game. The Chiefs look to get their 7th straight win against Denver.
JuJu Smith-Schuster bought 100-plus Mega Millions tickets this week. As his interview concluded, he said, "I tried to win it so we could get Le'Veon back. It didn't work."
Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-8.5) - Steelers are coming off a bye. The Browns have lost 24 in a row on the road. That being said these are a different Browns team that tied Pittsburgh, then again the Browns have also scored a combined 18 points in the last 3 games. The Steelers defense forced 6 turnovers in the first game and their defense had been playing better than their week one opener.
It's next man up on defense this Sunday, with LB and defensive captain Alec Ogletree ruled out with a hamstring injury.
Remember when the #Giants were bad, had nothing to play for, and a win against them in Week 17 would have put the #Redskins in the playoffs? That's why I don't consider Sunday easy.
Washington Redskins (-1) @ NY Giants - Giants are 2-1 against the Redskins in their last 3 games but 2-18 against everyone else in that span. The Redskins conservative QB in Alex Smith and Peterson in the backfield could be enough to get a win.
Seattle Seahawks @ Detroit Lions (-3) - Both teams are 3-3 and the home team is favored by 3 points. Matthew Stafford has thrown 2 touchdowns and interceptions in his last 3 games.
The Bucs scored 13 points in their last meeting with the Bengals in 2014
NEW: Today will be a 9 First Warning Weather Alert Day due to high winds, bursts of rain and even small hail possible as a cold front pushes through. This directly impacts outdoor conditions for the @bengals game. Here's today's marginal risk of severe weather. @wcpo#cincywxpic.twitter.com/XduP0wbjEq
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+4) @ Cincinnati Bengals - Buccaneers have the number 1 offense team in the league. and the Bengals have the worst defense according to the numbers and Burfict is out for the game. Bengals may have enough to pull it out.
#Bears D-lineman Bilal Nichols is bummed he won't get a chance to tackle Jets RB Bilal Powell, who's out for the year, on Sunday. They're the only two Bilals to play in the NFL.
Nichols:
"I was gonna say a little something to him. I was gonna say man, you got a fantastic name."
NY Jets(+8) @ Chicago Bears - Mitch Trubisky vs Sam Darnold. Billall Powell is out with a neck injury. Jets have 15 takeaways which is 3rd most of the week.
Baltimore Ravens (+2) @ Carolina Panthers - Cam Newton are 4-2 yet have played dangerously close against all 3 of their NFC East opponents. The Ravens look to bounce back after a solid showing against the Saints but Justin Tucker missed an extra point.
Cowboys have asked Amari Cooper to share "any cool plays" he learned in Oakland.
Indianapolis Colts (-3) @ Oakland Raiders - Derek Carr was criticized for crying while being injured. The Raiders traded Amari Cooper and are also going to be without running back Marshawn Lynch for the season. The Colts are tied first in converting 1st downs on 3rd down with the Atlanta Falcons.
George Kittle cares about your fantasy team.
Kittle said he talked to Aaron Donald while his 10-yard TD was being reviewed last week.
Donald: "Man, you didn't get in?"
Kittle: "I had to get in because my fantasy coaches need me to get more points."
San Francisco 49ers (+1.5) @ Arizona Cardinals - Both teams suffered big blowouts in the previous weeks. The 49ers have looked a bit better than the Cardinals by keeping it close against Green Bay in week 6.
Green Bay Packers (+10) @ LA Rams - Green Bay is coming off a bye. Cobb and Allison return could be enough to keep it within single digits.
Vikings WR Adam Thielen becomes the first player to record seven straight games with 100+ receiving yards since Demaryius Thomas did it from Weeks 5-11 of 2014.
This is the first year I’ve ever lived in a home with a heated garage...absolute game changer in the morning when I leave for work. Highly recommend it ha
New Orleans Saints(+1) (LOCK) @ Minnesota Vikings- Steffon Diggs and Marcus Williams meet p again. The Vikings have a lot of injuries including Dalvin Cook and Xavier Cooks.
Danny Amendola is the 4th WR this season to throw a TD pass (Odell Beckham, Albert Wilson, Emmanuel Sanders)
So...
NFL wide receivers have more TD passes this season (4) than the Buffalo Bills (3)
New England Patriots(-14) @ Buffalo Bills - Tom Brady vs. Derek Anderson seems like a lopsided quarterback matchup. LeSean McCoy is also questionable to play.
Week 8 Against the Spread: 1-0 Week 8 Straight Up: 1-0
2018 Season against the Spread- 45-46-3 2018 Season Straight Up- 57-36-2 2018 Locks- 9-7-1 2017-18 Against the Spread- 221-225-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7 2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
Miami Dolphins @ Houston (-7)- The Texans are currently on a 4 game winning streak. However none of those wins came against a team that was above .500. Brock Osweiler has looked alright the past couple of weeks. The problem in taking the Dolphins here is that it is a short week and Miami has been outscored 98-14 in their last 3 Thursday Night Game. More importantly, guys like Kenny Stills and Albert Wilson have hit the IR. The Texans defense has forced 7 turnovers in the past week and could get some punishment in Brock Osweiler who started for the Texans last season. The Dolphins have also lost 3 of their last 4 games by more than points including two road losses. Week 7 Against the Spread: 9-5 Week 7 Straight Up: 10-4
2018 Season against the Spread- 44-46-3 2018 Season Straight Up- 56-36-2 2018 Locks- 9-7-1 2017-18 Against the Spread- 221-225-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7 2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
Tennessee Titans @ LA Chargers (-6.5) - LA Charger's running back Melvin Gordon is out. Mariota has thrown for less than 150 yards in 4 of his 5 past games and the Titans were sacked 11 times last week.
New England Patriots (-2) @ Chicago Bears - A Super Bowl XX rematch. Perhaps the Bears are due for a bounceback game after a loss to the Dolphins. However, the Patriots are a good cold weather team. While they are winless on the road, that is when they didn't have Edelman and Gordon. Khalil Mack is banged up and did not have a sack last week.
Cleveland Browns @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3.5) - Baker Mayfield had a poor showing against the Chargers. The Bucs have a variety of consistent offensive weapons while the Browns receivers in Landry and Callaway have not been producing. Tampa Bay averages 34.6 points per game while Cleveland has scored only 26 points in their last two games; granted the Bucs defense has not been as good as either the Ravens or Chargers defense.
Detroit @ Miami (+3) - Detroit Lions plus 25 in the first quarter and look to continue that trend coming off a bye. Brock Osweiler makes his second start. Gore could be due for another big game going against the Lion's worst rushing defense.
Carolina Panthers (+5) @ Philadelphia Eagles - The Panthers could do enough to keep this one close in Philadelphia. They could be due for a rebound game after their offense imploded at the goal line against the Redskins.
Buffalo Bills @ Indianapolis Colt (-7)[LOCK] - Derek Anderson makes his first start who has a career 40 touchdowns and 40 interceptions. TY Hilton returns for the Colts. If this game becomes a shootout, it may tough for the Bills to keep pace.
Minnesota (-3.5)[LOCK] @ NY Jets - Adam Theilen is leading the league in receiver and the Jets top two cornerbacks are banged up. Kirk Cousins goes against the team that went after him in free agency.
Houston Texans (+4.5) @ Jacksonville Jaguars - Neither team looked impressive in the last few weeks. That being said, the Texans offense could be enough to keep this game close on the road.
New Orleans Saints @ Baltimore Ravens (-2.5) - Drew Brees coming off a bye could be a daunting test, then again playing the Ravens outdoors could be enough to give Baltimore the edge.
Dallas @ Washington (+1) - Both teams looked solid last week in wins, Dallas blowing out the Jaguars and the Redskins beating the Panthers. Dallas has won their past 5 games in Washington and Washington has not beaten Dallas since they drafted Ezekiel Elliot. Washington's defense has forced a turnover in their past 7 games.
LA Rams (-9.5) @ San Francisco 49ers - The Rams are now 10-1 in their last 11 road games. The 49ers offense is still running nicely under Kyle Shanahan but could be due for a letdown.
Cincinnati @ Kansas City Chiefs (-7) - While the Bengals are still a solid team, it looks like they may not be able to contain the Chiefs offense who surged for 37 points against the Patriots.
NY Giants @ Atlanta (-4) - The Falcons are a .500 team at home with losses to potential playoff teams including the Bengals and Saints. Barkley and Beckham can be due for big games against Atlanta's pourous defense but Eli Manning is also turnover prone at this stage of his career.
Week 7 Against the Spread: 1-0 Week 6 Straight Up: 1-0
2018 Season against the Spread- 36-41-3 2018 Season Straight Up- 46-32-2 2018 Locks- 7-7-1 2017-18 Against the Spread- 221-225-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7 2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
Denver Broncos (-1.5) @ Arizona Cardinals- While the Broncos have a better record than the Cardinals, they have lost four straight. Denver is also 1-9 on the road in their past two seasons. Arizona's rookie QB Josh Rosen is 1-1 since taking over as the Cardinals starter and 2-0 against the spread since taking over starting duties. Denver's defenses have also gotten shredded by the run in the past two weeks including 225 yards from scrimmage from Gurley in week six and 235 from Crowell in week 5.
The Cardinals have a rookie quarterback has played better than Keenum but his offensive line is one of the worst in the league. David Johnson, a stud running back, is only averaging 3 yards per carry this season. Plus the Cardinals offense has not looked sharped due to its competition.
Overall, the Broncos should find it much easier to contain the Cardinal's offense compared to the Rams who had a season low 23 points. I am expecting a bounce back game Keenum despite an injured throwing hand.
By the way, that lone road win that the Broncos had in the past two years was also on a Thursday Night game.
Week 6 Against the Spread: 9-6 Week 6 Straight Up: 10-5
Week 6 Locks: 1-1 2018 Season against the Spread- 35-41-3 2018 Season Straight Up- 45-32-2 2018 Locks- 7-7-1 2017-18 Against the Spread- 221-225-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7 2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
I was 12-18 and 2-3 for my locks for the 2017-18 season I was 18-12 and 4-3 for my locks for the 2016-17 season. I was 16-13-1 and 4-1 in my locks for the 2015-16 season. EASTERN CONFERENCE
Jayson Tatum ribbing Kyrie Irving about only playing 11 games at Duke. Kyrie fires back that he was No. 1 pick.
Tatum deadpans: “It’s Danny’s fault I didn’t go No. 1.”
1) Boston Celtics- OVER/UNDER 58.5 Wins OVER - 59-23- The Celtics get Kyrie Irving and Gordon Hayward back. One would expect that Jason Tatum or Jaylen Brown will take a step towards being all star caliber. Of course, the Celtics will need Al Horford to keep up his great plya. Joakim Noah, his ex-college teammate, is currently a free agent, but Horford's has less wear and tear and has a reliable 3 point shot.
Kawhi Leonard on what he missed about playing meaningful basketball over the last 9 months: "Everything. Bad calls, missing shots, making shots, winning games, high fives with teammates, and just being competitive out there. Just everything. I love the game."
2) Toronto Raptors- 55 Wins - OVER- 59-23 - Kawhi Leonard looked pretty healthy in preseason and if that's the case, he is an upgrade over DeRozan especially on the defensive end. The Raptors were also successful in re-signing 6th man Fred Van Fleet. Plus an underlooked factor in the trade was that the Raptors did get Danny Green. Overall I think the Raptors will be able to replace Poetl's minutes It will be interesting to see if Kyle Lowry keeps up his all star caliber play as he approaches his 30s.
3) Philadelphia 76ers - 52.5 - OVER - 54-28 - Philadelphia is a different looking team with the departure of players like Ersan Illysova and Marco Belinelli departing. That being said I am buying Marelle Fultz stock who did close the season as the youngest player to record a triple double in NBA history. TJ McConnell is also an effective guard to bring off the bench I also think guys like Embiid, Siimmons, and Saric to progress and to become even better.
4) Milwaukee Bucks - 47.5 - OVER- 49-33 - The most significant upgrade that the Bucks made was to their coaching staff with Mike Buldenholzer. Overall, Giannis Antetokounmpo will start attempting more 3s which should result in a better regular season and possibly an MVP season. I am a bit concerned about the Bucks interior defense from its big men like Brook Lopez but this could be the season where Giannis finally breaks out as the Conference's undisputed best player. I am down on Eric Bledsoe's game after a disappointing 207-18 campaign encapsulated by Terry Rzier trash talk. I am looking forward to see if Donte DiVincenzo can make a contribution as a rookie.
5) Washington Wizards - 45.5 Wins - OVER - 47-35- One would expect John Wall to be closer to his 2016-17 form then what he showed for most of last season where he missed 41 games. Wall did offseason training with Peter Alexander, who is the same trainer who helped transform Victor Oladipo's game. I think Bradley Beal's 4th quarter woes will diminish. I also think Otto Porter is due for a big season especially if he's healthy (Kevin Broom explains why here). Dwight Howard is also an interesting addition; while Howard's post offense is below average, it isn't necessarily a downgrade over Wall taking mid range jumpers. Plus I think Howard is more consistent than Gortat when it comes to the regular season on the boards. Ian Mahinmi has lost weight and added 3 point shot; maybe there is a road for him to become a decent rotation player. Oubre could be more reliable as an option off his bench. I do think the Austin Rivers looks bad although I hope Troy Brown, the 19 year old rookie can eventually steal his minutes.
6) Indiana Pacers - 48 Wins-UNDER - 46-36- Tyreke Evans is an interesting offseason addition although the Pacers did lose Lance Stephenson. Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis are better. Victor Oladipo had a breakout season although I am worried how much more he can realistically improve his game after shooting a career high from 3 point range. Doug McBuckets signing may have been overpay.
Jimmy Butler and his agent Bernie Lee have informed Wolves ownership that Miami is Butler's preferred trade destination, league sources say
7) Miami Heat - 42.5 Wins UNDER - 42-40 - I think Dwayne Wade's farewell tour will be enough to keep the Heat in the playoff mix. Spoelstra is a good coach. Miami could also get Jimmy Butler. That being said, I think Jimmy Butler stays with Minnesota at least until the trade deadline.
8) Cleveland Cavaliers - 30.5-OVER/LOCK - 38-42 - Overall, I think the Cavaliers have a lot of interesting pieces despite the departures of LeBron James. I expect Kevin Love to put up numbers close to what he did with the Timberwolves as the number one option. Plus I think guys like Rodney Hood, Jordan Clarkson, and Larry Nance can also fill out the stat sheet.
9) Detroit Pistons 38.5- UNDER - 36-46 - The Pistons pieces do not seem to fit together in the new era of 3 point shooting which reminds me of the former Pistons teams of Josh Smith, Greg Monroe, and Andre Drummond. Dwayne Casey is an interesting choice for head coach although it could take him a while to mold young guys like Stanley Johnson into productive players. The Pistons also did not add a rookie from the 2018 NBA draft due to the Blake Griffin trade.
10) Charlotte Hornets - 35.5 wins- UNDER - 35-47 - The Hornets really had a below average season last season primarily due to poor depth. Miles Bridges is an interesting rookie although I suspect it will take him a while to become a capable 3 and D player which is something this Hornets' roster really lacks especially since Batum's play has declined since signing his max extension. Kemba Walker could also be traded midseason.
11) Brooklyn Nets - 31.5 Wins - UNDER - 30-52 - The Nets have a lot of interesting pieces and a good head coach but overall they could be motivated to tank as the season progresses as they will have their first round pick for the first time in several years. Jarrett Allen is a nice piece but I'm not sure if the Nets can count on D'Angelo Russell and Spencer Dinwiddie to elevate the Nets towards playoff contention.
12) Chicago Bulls - 29.5-OVER - 30-52- The Chicago Bulls will not play much defense this season especially if they play Jabari Parker at the three but expect Hoiberg's offense of spreading the floor to propel the Bulls to 30 plus wins. Lauri Markinen is out for the first month of the season although the rookie Wendell Carter could fill the void. Zach Lavine can also help fill up the stat sheet.
13) Orlando Magic - 31 wins-UNDER- 29-53 -Everyone is raving about Mo Bamba and Aaron Gordon did improve last season. The problem of couse is that Orlando still does not really have a solid point guard and limited 3 point shooting although perhaps they culd address that with a midseason trade. I don't see Orlando's offseason garnering an improvement unless Mo Bamba is an immediate impact rookie and to me he looks more like a project.
14) New York Knicks - 28.5 Wins- UNDER- 26-56 - Personally I do not think that the coaching change from Jeff Hornacek to David Fizdale will pay immediate dividends especially since he struggled coaching a Memphis team to begin last season. Kevin Knox and Mitchell Robinson are interesting pieces but they will be without Porzingis who is not slated to return until February. By the way, I am not buying Kevin Durant as a free agency destination but stranger things have happened in NBA history.
15) Atlanta Hawks 23.5 - UNDER - 23-59
The Atlanta Hawks have a lot of young talent including Trae Young, the point guard from Oklahoma who can nail 3s from 35 feet and Villanova's Omari Spellman could be a gem in the late first round. That being said, this team may be over its head with a new head coach and after trading Dennis Schroeder, it's leading scorer.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
1) Golden State Warriors -63.5 Wins- OVER- 65-17- Overall, this team may be fatigued from going to 5 straight NBA Finals. That being said I expect Curry to be healthy this season after misting 31 games last season. I also think the Warriors will have some slight motivation to outpace the Rockets this season including the addition of DeMarcus Cousins who should return midseason.
2) Houston Rockets - 55.5 wins- OVER- 57-25 I expect the Rockets to take a slight step backwards after losing Trevor Ariza and Luc Mbou Moute. The Rockets also traded a promising rookie in De'Anthony Melton to offload Ryan Anderson's contract. Their replacements including Carmelo Anthony, Brandon Knight and Michael Carter Williams may be underwhelming. That being said, Chris Paul should be healthier than his 2016-2017 campaign and James harden being virtually unguardable in late game situations should still make the Rockets one of the favorites in the West.
After dumping Papa John's in July, Jazz have announced a 3-year deal with Little Caesars to provide pizza at Vivint Arena. Caesar died a long time ago, so his ability to embarrass the organization is minimal compared to Papa John.
3) Utah -49.5 - OVER - 54-28- Utah really took the league by storm with Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert anchoring the defense. The Jazz may have pushed the Rockets to six or seven games had Ricky Rubio not gone down with a season ending injury. The Jazz add Grayson Allen to the mix and Utah having one of the better homecourt advantages could make them being an interesting team in the playoffs.
4) Denver - 47.5 - OVER - 49-33- The Nuggets have another deep team that should capitalize from star play from Jokic as well as guys who hope to regain their all starm form including Paul Millsap and Isaiah Thomas. I think Jamal Murray and Gary Harris may be the NBA's most underrated backcourt. Denver's mile high altitude always gives them a boost at home. Zach Lowe thinks the Nuggets are a tier one team.Link
5) LA Lakers - 48.5 UNDER - 47-35- Overall, the Lakers could be one of the top teams when the playoffs roll around but overall it could take a while for the pieces to gel. LeBron James and Rajon Rondo are players who typically conserve their energy in the regular season. Guys like Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Klyle Kuzma, and Josh Hart are promising young players but it can be hard to get it going with LeBron dominating the ball. Case in point was Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance who saw a drop in their play playing alongside the King, who were more effective with the Lakers. While guys like Stephenson and McGee could translate into better play with LeBron off the court, I do not think the Lakers have enough capable 3 point shooting. The Lakers could be in the market for a trade but ultimately may not do anything major in order to preserve their cap space to go after a major free agent like Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, or Jimmy Butler in the 2019 offseason.
6) San Antonio Spurs - 43.5 OVER- 44-38- The Spurs may have lost good locker room leader like Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker but at least they retained Greg Popovich. Overall, I think the Spurs will do enough to eek out wins in the regular season with LaMarcus Aldridge and DeMar DeRozan carrying the load. I think Pop is excellent at coming up with defensive schemes to hide his average defenders.
7) Oklahoma City Thunder - 48.5 WINS - UNDER LOCK- 43-39 - Russell Westbrook is injured to start the season with a knee injury as well as Andre Roberson. The Thunder did retain Paul George but overall still have similar problems in finding scoring from their role players.
8) Portland Trail Blazers- 42.5- OVER-43-39 - Overall, I feel like the Trail Blazer have enough talent to make a viable run in the playoffs despite a poor showing in the playoffs against the Pelicans which was a poor matchup for them. Luckily, the Trail Blazers return their two best players in Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum. While they are unlikely to finish 3rd in the West again, they may have enough talent to sneak back in.
9) New Orleans- 45.5 Wins- UNDER- 43-39- Under- Someone has to miss the Western Conference playoffs and I do not feel great picking against a team with Anthony Davis. However, I expect guys like Mirotic to regress. I also am not sold then the Pelicans being better in the long term without a healthy DeMarcus Cousins.
10) Minnesota Timberwolves- 41.5- UNDER- 41-41- The turmoil with Jimmy Butler has me reeling on the Timberwolves. One could possibly be "bullish" on them for multiple reasons. They have a lot of former Chicago Bulls including Derrick Rose, Jimmy Buler, Luol Deng, and Taj Gibson and Thibs as their head coach. One can also see a universe where Andrew Wiggins becomes a useful player and KAT takes another step forward. That being said, I do not feel great about the Timberwolves playing well with the impending turmoil of Butler's trade demands and the Timberwolves bench is still below average.
11) LA Clippers - 36.5 Wins - OVER - 41-41 - The Clippers did finish with 42 wins and Jerry West continues to amass underrated pieces like Tobias Harris and Marcin Gortat while their stars like DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin have moved on. Overall, they have built their franchise on affordable pieces like Lou Williams and Montrezz Harrell and could be an interesting destination for a premier free agent
12) Dallas Mavericks - 34.5 Wins- OVER - 36-46- Overall, I think the Dallas Mavericks are the big winners from the NBA draft by acquiring Euroleague star Luka Doncic. Dallas still has a championship coach in Rick Carlise and also added a capable center in DeAndre Jordan.
13) Memphis Grizzlies - 34.5 - UNDER- 34-48- The Grizzlies appear to be a team on the decline since the departure of Zach Randolph. While Mike Conley and Marc Gasol are capable players, I am not a fan of Kyle Anderson outside of the Spurs system and I could see the Grizzlies possibly trying to move one of Gasol or Conley midseason. Jaren Jackson Jr. is a promising rookie which makes it tough for me to completely write off Memphis.
.@DeandreAyton preseason among rookies: #1 in points, rebounds, free throws, field goal attempts and blocks
Preseason among ALL NBA PLAYERS: #1 in points, rebounds, free throws, field goal attempts and blocks
14) Phoenix Suns - 29.5- UNDER - 27-55- The Suns have a lot of interesting young pieces including DeAndre Ayton and Mikal Bridges. Unfortunately, I think it will take another year for Devin booker to truly break out especially since he doesn't have a starting caliber point guard at the moment. While I like Elie Okobo as a potential starting point guard, it still looks like the Suns ill struggle even with the addition of Trevor Ariza.
15) Sacramento Kings - 25.5 - UNDER - 23-59 - The Sacramento Kings appear to be the running joke of the NBA although I do like some of their pieces including De'Aaron Fox and Marvin Bagley. The problem of course is that having a big team is no longer advantageous. Someone should tell that to their GM Vlade Divac who was a a former center. The Kings do not have their pick and do have a decent head coach in Dave Joeger to keep them from possibly having the worst record in NBA history. But as far as a roster standpoint, I have them as being the worst team in the NBA.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (+5.5) @ Atlanta Falcons - Jameis Winston could have a big week coming off a bye with the Falcons defense being decimated. In five starts against Atlanta, Winston has 12 touchdowns and two interceptions. The Bucs do have more wins than the Falcons and actually played the Steelers much closer than the Falcons did in their Monday night matchup. That being said, the Falcons are at home and could recover in a division rivalry game. Matt Ryan has a 144.7 passing rating in his last two home games but overall this could be a close game especially considering that both teams are division rivals.
Carolina Panthers (+1) @ Washington Redskins - The Washington Redskins have had no answer for Cam Newton although the Redskins have added a few defensive tackles of Alabama (Allen/Payne), it is still concerning how Washington was unable to contain New Orleans' wide receivers. That being said, Newton's wide receivers are not as threatening. Greg Olsen returns which could give the Panthers a boost and Newton's mobility has propelled the Panthers to five consecutive wins against the Redskins. Norv Turner, offensive coordinator of the Panthers, returns to coach against his former team and was also Alex Smith's offensive coordinator in San Francisco.
Seattle Seahawks (-3) @ Oakland Raiders - Marshawn Lynch goes against his former team a week after getting PTSD from Derek Carr throwing an interception at the goal line instead of handing the ball off at the goal line much like Seattle did in the Super Bowl a few years back. On a side note, it wasn't necessarily a terrible decision for the Seahawks to call a passing play in that situation but Russell Wilson ended up making a terrible read and missed the linebacker in coverage. This game will be played in London, neither team has much of an advantage travelling from the West Coast. Chris Carson had 116 yards last week for Seattle which looms large against a poor Raiders defense.
LA Chargers (-1) @ Cleveland Browns- Derwin James has lead the Chargers' secondary with 24 tackles and 3 sacks. While Cleveland came away with a surprising win against the Ravens, scoring 6 points in regulation will not be enough to get it done against the Chargers.
Indianapolis Colts @ NY Jets (-2.5)- The Jets have failed to put together consecutive wins but Andrew Luck has looked pretty inconsistent from week to week. Isiah Crowell had 219 yards from scrimmage for the Jets and top wideout for the Colts TY Hilton is expected to miss this one.
Arizona Cardinals (+10.5) @ Minnesota Vikings - The Vikings demise has been exaggerated after losing to the Bills but easily dismantled the Eagles. Maybe the Vikings get back on track against Arizona. The Vikings can't afford to take another rookie quarterback lightly.
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinatti Bengals (-2.5) - On paper, the Bengals appear to have the better offensive and defensive team but have lost 5 consecutive games to the Steelers. Perhaps the Bengals can break streak with LeVeon Bell out.
Buffalo Bills (+9.5) @ Houston Texans - Houston is looking to string together a nice winning streak. The Bills did well against the Titans although their offense looked terrible and one would expect the Texans' wideouts to edge out the Bills.
Chicago Bears @ Miami Dolphins (+3) - The Bears are coming off a bye. Perhaps Miami can get it together after blowing a big lead to the Bengals in what is a toss up game.
LA Rams @ Denver Broncos (+7) - The Broncos did a good job slowing down the Chiefs but overall the Rams are not in the same boat as being division rivals. Keenum only has a 77 passer rating and goes against one of his former teams. Given the cold conditions and high altitude of Denver, and that some of the Rams receivers are banged up, this could be a game that could be close.
Baltimore Ravens @ Tennessee Titans (+2) - Both teams suffered disappointing losses to lesser teams. Overall, the Titans loss was worse but at the end of the day, the Titans have homefield advantage.
Jacksonville Jaguars (-3)(LOCK) @ Dallas Cowboys - The Jaguars will look to get back on track against the Cowboys who do not have reliable downfield targets. The Jaguars have a reliable defense that can slow down Ezekiel Elliot.
Kansas City Chiefs @ New England Patriots (-3.5) - In this matchup of the top teams one would . The Patriots under Bellichick are undefeated against quarterbacks under 25. While the Chiefs took care of the Pats last season, it is hard not to like the Pats here with all their weapons returning and Mahones struggling over the past 2 weeks.
San Francisco 49ers (+9.5) @ Green Bay Packers - Aaron Rodgers is banged up and the 49ers did manage to put up 450 yards last week against Arizona.
Week 6 Against the Spread: 0-1 Week 5 Straight Up: 0-1 2018 Season against the Spread- 26-35-3 2018 Season Straight Up- 35-27-2 2018 Locks- 6-6-1 2017-18 Against the Spread- 221-225-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7 2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
Philadelphia @ NY Giants (+3)- Carson Wentz looks rusty coming off a knee injury and their secondary has been having trouble covering receivers going back to week 4 against the Titans. Granted Thielen and Diggs are tough for any team to cover but they will also have their hands full with OBJ. The rainy conditions could favor the team that can run the ball. Jay Ajayi is out for the season while Saquon Barkley keeps putting up 100 yard games from the line of scrimmage. The Giants looked respectable against the Panthers and were a muffed punt and a 64 yard field goal from beating the Panthers. Eli Manning is up and down but typically can do well against Philly's defense and made some good throws against the Panthers defense.
Week 5 Against the Spread: 7-8 Week 5 Straight Up: 8-7 2018 Thursday Night Record 3-1-1 2018 Season against the Spread- 26-34-3 2018 Season Straight Up- 35-26-2 2018 Locks- 6-6-1 2017-18 Against the Spread- 221-225-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7 2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
Tennessee Titans (-3.5)@ Buffalo Bills - The Tennessee Titans are riding high after three consecutive wins and two where they were underdogs against the Jaguars and Eagles. Now they play a team that has been terrible other than a great showing against the Vikings.
Atlanta Falcons (+3) @ Pittsburgh Steelers - Both teams are off slow starts. Certainly a toss up game in what could be a shootout. I believe the Ryan will continue finding Jones and Ridley and Freeman returns back to the backfield gives them the edge.
Denver Broncos (+1)[LOCK] @ New York Jets - The Broncos were a missed throw away to Thomas from completing an upset against the Chiefs Look for them to take advantage of the inexperience of Sam Darnold. Despite their struggles in east coast, the Broncos will probably be amped up after a close loss to the Chiefs.
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Kansas City Chiefs (-3)(LOCK) - The Chiefs historically play better at home. The Jaguars are a trick or treat team but seemed to put it together against a solid Jets defense which on paper is better than the what the Chiefs have been putting out. That being said, the Jaguars offense could in trouble without Fournette.
Green Bay Packers @ Detroit Lions(+1.5) - Aaron Rodgers and Mike McCarthy's rift may be exaggerated and the Lions were unable to get another 100 yard rushing game in consecutive weeks. The Packers being without Cobb and Allison could give the Lions the edge.
Baltimore Ravens (-3) @ Cleveland Browns - The Ravens will face a much more frisky Browns team but the Ravens looked impressive against the Steelers in the previous week.
NY Giants @ Carolina Panthers (-7) - The Giants could keep it close but the Panthers are coming off a bye and have already covered against the Cowboys.
Miami Dolphins @ Cincinnati Bengals (-6) - Miami looked like a below average team against the Patriots. Joe Mixon and Burfict return to the lineup.
Oakland Raiders @ LA Chargers (-5) - The LA Chargers have had trouble putting away opponents including the Bills and 49ers but the Raiders have given up 20 plus in the last two 2nd half games.
Arizona Cardinals (+4) @ San Francisco 49ers - The Cardinals can keep it close against a division rival.
Minnesota Vikings @ Philadelphia Eagles (-3)(Lock) - Adam Thielen leading the league in catching, but the Vikings are last in rushing. Look for the Eagles to bounce back against Kirk Cousins who has struggled on the road against Seattle. The Eagles are 8-2 in their last 10 home games.
LA Rams (-7) @ Seattle Seahawks - The Seahawks lost badly to the Rams at home in their previous matchup and have had extra time to prepare coming off a Thursday night game. Dallas Cowboys (+3.5) @ Houston Texans - These are two evenly matched teams and the Cowboys may have homefield advantage.
Washington Redskins (+7) @ New Orleans - Redskins coming off a bye could do enough to keep it close especially with a rested Adrian Peterson. Mark Ingram returns adding to a deep arsenal for the Saints. The Saints have had trouble putting away opponents. Chris Thompson returns to where he suffered a season ending injury.
Week 5 Against the Spread: 1-0 Week 5 Straight Up: 1-0 2018 Season against the Spread- 20-26-3 2018 Season Straight Up- 28-19-2 2018 Locks- 5-4-1 2017-18 Against the Spread- 221-225-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7 2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots (-10) - The New England Patriots appear to be fully back to form with a division win against the Dolphins and Julian Edelman returns. Plus the short week typically favors the home team. The Colts in the meantime are coming off an overtime game, missing TY Hilton, and could be missing a couple cornerbacks. The short rest and injuries may be too much to overcome.
Week 4 Against the Spread: 5-9-1 Week 4 Straight up: 9-6 Week 4 Locks: 1-1 2018 Season against the Spread- 28-31-3 2018 Season Straight Up- 37-25-2 2018 Locks- 6-5-1 2017-18 Against the Spread- 221-225-7
2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92
2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7 2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41
