Week 17 Picks

Marshawn Lynch was serving tequila shots

at a parking lot tailgate in Oakland eight days ago

for the Raiders' last game there.

Now he's gonna start for the Seahawks in the playoffs.

(via Matt Schneidman)

Kirk Cousins is now 0-9 on Monday Night Football.

That's the worst record in NFL history. pic.twitter.com/3SVhSiWiH3

— ESPN (@espn) December 24, 2019

Chicago Bears (+1) @ Minnesota Vikings- The Minnesota Vikings have nothing to play for given they clinched a playoff spot.    Kirk Cousins lost his week 17 matchup last season to this same Bears team and will be without his two top running backs.  The Bears could at least get back to .500 with a win plus Trubisky is also playing for his job.

Jameis Winston could go 3,700 consecutive passes without an INT and still have a worse career interception rate than Aaron Rodgers

— Josh Dubow (@JoshDubowAP) December 23, 2019

Atlanta Falcons (+1) @ Tampa Buccaneers - Look for the Falcons to continue to play well off of their 3 game winning streak especially against a Bucaneers team that is banged up at the wide receiver position. 

Miami Dolphins @ New England Patriots (-16) - The New England Patriots look to take care of business to secure a first round bye.  The Patriots defense should be able to lock up the Miami Dolphins' MVP and leading rusher Ryan Fitzpatrick.  Sony Michel should get a lot of work who has averaged 20 carries in the last 2 weeks. 

Green Bay Packers (-9.5)(LOCK) @ Detroit Lions - The Packers have a possibility with a first round bye with a win.  Aaron Jones looks to add to his 16 touchdown season.  Aaron Rodgers could bounce back against a poor Lions' defense. 

Cleveland Browns @ Cincinnati Bengals (+2.5) - Nick Chubb leads the league with 1453 yards for  but perhaps the Bengals pull out a home win against a division rival if Joe Mixon can bounce back from his stomach bug. 

Los Angeles Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs (-9.5) - The Chiefs could technically clinch a bye with a win but it seems unlikely that the Dolphins will beat the Patriots even if the Patriots are 7-5 against the Dolphins in their last 12 matchups.  Phillip Rivers could struggle against a surging Chiefs defense. 

New York Jets(+1.5) @ Buffalo Bills - The Bills are likely to rest their starters with nothing to play.  The Jets could pull out a win against the Bills backups. 

Carolina Panthers @ New Orleans Saints (-13.5)  - The Saints are playing for homefield advantage which would make them heavy favorites in the NFC.  The Saints only beat the Panthers by 3 points earlier this season although Will Grier may be a downgrade at the starting quarterback position over Kyle Allen.

Tennessee Titans (-3.5) (LOCK) @ Houston Texans - The Houston Texans can technically clinch a bye if the Chiefs lose, which seems unlikely.  The Titans have much more to play for given that they can clinch a playoff spot. 

Washington Redskins (+11) @ Dallas Cowboys - Dak Prescott and Amari Cooper are banged up which may reduce the Cowboys' chances to make this game a blow out.  While Washington has little to play for, they have generally covered against the spread given that they run the ball more under new head coach Bill Callahan. 

Indianapolis Colts (-3.5) @ Jacksonville Jaguars - The Jaguars' defense appears to have given up on this season. 

Philadelphia Eagles (-4.5)(LOCK) @ New York Giants - The Eagles are playing for a playoff spot so they should give it their all.  That being said, strange things happen in this rivalry.  Plus the Eagles defense has struggled against below average opponents including the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, and Washington Redskins where the Eagles would be 0-3 against the spread if not for a garbage time touchdown against the Redskins.  That being said, this spread is much lower.  Plus the Eagles outscored the Giants 20-0 in their matchup earlier this season although it was without Daniel Jones.

Pittsburgh Steelers (-2) (LOCK) @ Baltimore Ravens - Given the Ravens are going to play their backups, the Steelers should be locked in to keep their playoff hopes alive.  Robert Griffin should have his work cut out against the Ravens defense. 

Oakland Raiders (+3.5) @ Denver Broncos - The Raiders look to keep their playoff hopes alive but could struggle against a Broncos team that is playing well. 

Arizona Cardinals (+7) @ Los Angeles Rams - The Cardinals could keep it close if the Rams decide to play their backups.

Beastmode officially is back in Seattle. Marshawn Lynch and the Seahawks have an agreement, and Seattle has a new RB to line up against SF during Sunday night’s NFC-West-deciding showdown.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 24, 2019

San Francisco 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks (+3.5) - Seattle is without Chris Carson but could do enough to keep it close against a 49ers team they beat earlier in the season. 

Week 17 Against the Spread- 9-6-1
Week 17 Straight Up - 9-7
Week 17 Locks- 2-1-1


2019 Season Against the Spread- 112-104-2

2019 Season Straight Up- 142-97

2019 Locks - 19-17-2

2018 Season against the Spread- 112-107-7

2018 Season Straight Up- 137-86-2
2018 Locks- 21-16-2

2017-18 Against the Spread- 121-125-7

2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92

2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41

2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-110 

Week 16 Picks

If Kirk Cousins starts and finishes the last two games of this season, 

he will be the first Minnesota Vikings quarterback to 
EVER start two full straight 16 game seasons. 

talicized for win

Bolded for spread

Washington Redskins @ New York Giants (-2.5)-  Three out of four starters are out in Washington's defensive backfield.  Look for Daniel Jones to take advantage of that  weakness. Jones struggled in the first matchup against Washington.  Then again, the Giants didn't have Saquon Barkley.

These Dolphins players were deemed "busts." Turns out all they had to do was escape Adam Gase.

* DeVante Parker
* Kenyan Drake
* Ryan Tannehill

— Adam Levitan (@adamlevitan) December 15, 2019

Cincinnati Bengals(-1) @ Miami Dolphins - This should be a high scoring game between two decent offenses against two bad defenses.  Tyler Boyd could have a big receiving game for the Bengals against one of the worst secondaries in the NFL.  

New Orleans Saints (-3.5)(LOCK) @ Tennessee Titans -  The Titans will be without their star running back Derrick Henry.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ New York Jets(+6.5) - Perhaps the Jets can keep it close enough with Jamal Adams back in their lineup.  Duck Hodges does not inspire much confidence although perhaps several Jets players have quit on the team.

There have been 649 individual 1,000 rush yard seasons.

There have been 124 individual 30 pass TD seasons.

Lamar Jackson is the 1st player in NFL history with both in a season. pic.twitter.com/OE2xQc0gH2

— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) December 18, 2019

Baltimore Ravens (-10) @ Cleveland Browns - Look for the Ravens to avenge their loss against the Browns. Then again the Browns did blow out the Ravens earlier in the season but the Ravens will look to utilize a few defensive players that were not in that matchup including Pro Bowler Marcus Peters.

Carolina Panthers @ Indianapolis Colts(-6.5) - The Colts to take advantage of Panthers starting a rookie quarterback, Will Grier.  Marlon Mack should get it going against the Panthers's defense

Kansas City Chiefs (-6)(LOCK) @ Chicago Bears- The Chiefs are still playing for possible for homefield while the Bears have been eliminated from postseason contention.  

Jacksonville Jaguars (+7.5) @ Atlanta Falcons - The Falcons are coming off a nice win against the Jaguars but have yet to follow that up with a win the following week.  The Jaguars could make it interesting as Minshew did spoil the Raiders's last game in Oakland.

Oakland Raiders (+7) @ Los Angeles Chargers - The referees blew a call that would have sealed a victory for the Raiders.  While the Chargers are playing well, look for the Raiders may play well in a division game where many of their fans will attend before they move to Las Vegas next season.

Detroit Lions @ Denver Broncos (-7.5) - While the Detroit Lions will get Kerryon Johnson back in the lineup, look for the Broncos to take advantage of David Blough who could struggle on the road. Courtland Sutton should have a nice bounce back game against a bad Lions' secondary.

#NFL announced: Josh Gordon of the Seattle Seahawks has been suspended indefinitely without pay for violating the NFL policies on performance-enhancing substances and substances of abuse.

— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) December 16, 2019

Arizona Cardinals @ Seattle Seahawks (-10) - The Seahawks will look to continue running the ball with Chris Carson.  Seattle should not be hurt much by the departure of Josh Gordon, while Lockett, DK Metcalf, and Hollister could get his targets.

Dallas Cowboys (-1.5) @ Philadelphia Eagles - Dak Prescott injured shoulder could decide this game.  After all, he only threw for 212 yards, tying his lowest total for the season in what amounted to a blow out win.  The Eagles receivers being out certainly puts a significant handicap in this game that will decide the NFC East. 

Green Bay Packers @ Minnesota Vikings - The Vikings will be without Dalvin Cook but will likely fill that void with Mike Boone.  Rodgers could struggle against this Vikings team on the road.

2019 Season Against the Spread- 103-98-1

2019 Season Straight Up- 133-90

2019 Locks - 17-16-1

2018 Season against the Spread- 112-107-7

2018 Season Straight Up- 137-86-2
2018 Locks- 21-16-2

2017-18 Against the Spread- 121-125-7

2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92

2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41

2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-110 

Week 15 Picks

Winston leads the league in both touchdowns and interceptions
(via CBSSportsline)

Italicized for win

Bolded for spread

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3.5) @ Detroit Lions - Jameis Winston is coming off a thumb injury.  While Winston practiced earlier in the week by throwing a tennis ball, he is back to throwing a full sized football in practice. Winston looks to become one of the few quarterbacks that has thrown for over 5,000 yards in a season, and may be the first one in that club to lead the league in interceptions.  The Bucs will be hurt by the departure of Mike Evans although perhaps Justin Watson and Breshad Perriman can fill the void.

The Lions offense could get a boost by playing a poor Bucs pass defense. Kenny Golladay has posted an impressive season while Danny Amendola looks to fill in for an injured Marvin Jones Jr. That being said, David Blough was unimpressive generating enough offense which he may have to do if this game does become a shootout, although perhaps he can be aided by a pick six by Winston.

Philadelphia Eagles (-5.5)(LOCK) @ Washington Redskins -  Apparently the Redskins will look to rely more upon the passing game with Derrius Guice out of the lineup as Washington looks to see what they have with their rookie quarterback Dwayne Haskins.  Adrian Peterson and Chris Thompson should see an increase in their workloads with Derrius Guice is out for defense although the Eagles defense has been strong against the run.

After a shaky start against the New York Giants, the Eagles defense looked much better against Eli Manning, as the Giants failed to run a single play in Eagles' territory in the 2nd half.  A big question is whether the Eagles can manufacture enough points with their fair share of injuries to the wide receiving corp although they appeared to show some fortitude in the 2nd half and overtime by scoring three offensive touchdowns.  Miles Sanders and David Boston could have big games from the backfield through the passing attack

Chicago Bears (+5.5) @ Green Bay Packers - I am curious to see how Rodgers responds after a relatively poor effort against the Redskins, throwing for less than 200 yards and only 1 touchdown.  Rodgers now goes against a division rival that the Packers have owned at Lambeau.  Davante Adams is playing with an injured toe which has weakened the Packers passing attack.  Perhaps the Bears can keep it this close this time around with the improved play of Mitchell Trubisky.  The cold weather could lead to a low scoring game which could lower the margin of victory for the Packers.  While the Bears defense has suffered a few injuries, they did manage to contain the Packers to only 10 points last time around but only manufactured 3 points.

Bill Belichick:

"I hate social media. We get rid of it whenever we can...get rid of the phone, have a conversation...there's no cell phones out on the field"

"Who cares if you get 2,000 likes from people you don't even know? It's the 53 guys in the locker room that matter"

— Alex Barth (@RealAlexBarth) December 11, 2019

Announcers are in awe of Rodgers after he completes 

a wide open 4 yard pass with no pressure around him

New England Patriots (-10) @ Cincinnati Bengals - The Patriots look to bounce back after consecutive losses to the Texans and Chiefs against a Bengals team that has been playing much better lately.  That being said, the Patriots offense while inconsistent may be reinvigorated against a relatively weak Bengals defense.  Look for Sony Michel to potentially get it going on the the ground or whoever the Pats decide to insert at the running back position.  The Bengals will try to rely upon running back Joe Mixon who has come on strong in the 2nd half of the season.

Houston Texans (+3) @ Tennessee Titans - This is an interesting division rivalry game.  Since Tanehill has been inserted as a starting quarterback, only the Baltimore Ravens have had a better offense.  That being said, it looks like Derrick Henry may be a gametime decision.  While the Texans did struggle against the Broncos, perhaps they had their guard down and could respond with another impressive road victory when they beat the Patriots just two weeks ago.

Seattle Seahawks (-6)(LOCK) @ Carolina Panthers - While Seattle's defense may struggle a bit to contain Christian McCaffrey, the Seahawks should have their way offensively.  Chris Carson as the sole running back has a favorable matchup against a below average Panthers' rush defense.  Plus Tyler Lockett has a favorable matchup against the Panthers who have struggled to defend quick receivers in the slot.  The Panthers seemed to have mailed it in after they fired Ron Rivera after 9 years.

Denver Broncos @ Kansas City Chiefs (-10) - The Kansas City Chiefs should not take the Denver Broncos lightly.  The Broncos look to try upset another team that is fresh off a win against the Patriots as they did beat the Houston Texans last week.  That being said, the Chiefs offense will probably avoid mental lapses that they had against the Patriots.  The snowy conditions may not slow down the Chiefs' passing attack.

Miami Dolphins (+3) @ New York Giants - Eli Manning does get Sterling Shephard back and the Dolphins defense hasn't been great.  That being said, the Dolphins almost pulled off an upset against the Jets and will probably have Davante Parker back.

Jacksonville Jaguars (+6.5) @ Oakland Raiders - Both teams appear to be reeling after starting off the season well.  While the Raiders may get Josh Jacobs back, the Jaguars will be without their best wideout in DJ Chark.  Overall, the Jaguars have a road to keeping it close with some Minshew Magic and a strong running game lead by Leonard Fournette.  The Raiders appear to be motivated even though their playoff hopes decreased from 7 percent to 1 percent after their loss last week.

Cleveland Browns (-3)(LOCK) @ Arizona Cardinals - This should be a high scoring game.  Kyler Murray has struggled since coming off a bye as he was not only dealing with a hamstring injury but faced a tough Steelers defense that forced him into some poor decisions.  The Browns in the meantime look to take advantage of a porous Cardinals defense.  Mayfield could have a strong game.  The dual head running back attack of Chubb and Hunt should be enough for the Browns to separate even if Odell Beckham fails to breakout in another game.

Minnesota Vikings (-1.5) @ Los Angeles Chargers - The Vikings need to be motivated in this one in order to keep their divisional aspirations alive.  Adam Thielen returns and could give the Vikings a much needed boost.  That being said, Dalvin Cook is the key against a relatively poor Chargers defense.  Phillip Rivers has been playing better lately although could struggle against a solid Vikings defense.  Ekeler could fare better than Gordon in this matchup given that the Vikings run defense is stronger than their passing defense.

Atlanta Falcons(+10.5) @ San Francisco 49ers - The 49ers defense will be missing a lot of defensive starters including Richard Sherman as Atlanta could manufacture points.  San Francisco could also be due for a letdown after a great win against the Saints.  That being said, the 49ers will have no trouble putting up points.  While the Falcons may have enough to slow down Raheem Mostert, they will be unlikely to contain Deebo Samuels, Emmanuel Sanders, and George Kittle.  Matt Ryan could have a good week despite the loss of Calvin Ridley.

Los Angeles Rams (-1.5) @ Dallas Cowboys - The Rams look to keep their playoff hopes alive against a Dallas team that has struggled lately.  Jared Goff has struggled on the road but the new look Rams have decided to rely upon their running game lead by Todd Gurley.  This has resulted in a lower snap count for receivers like Cooper Kupp and Brandin Cooks.  A key for the Rams will be exploiting the Cowboys defense against slot receivers where either Kupp or Woods may lineup.  Dak Presscott will likely have to look off whoever Jalen Ramsey covers in this game but could do enough to make this game entertaining.  That being said, Dallas appears to be in some sort of funk that seems to have plagued the entire NFC East.

Buffalo Bills @ Pittsburgh Steelers (-1) - Both teams would make the playoffs if the season ended today.  The Bills offense may be more dynamic given the mobile QB rushing attack of Josh Allen.  However, the Steelers will try to blanket the Bills top wideout John Brown with their stingy defense.  Singletary could struggle running the ball.  With the return of James Conner could put the Steelers over the top against a Bills team that hasn't been great against the run all season.


Indianapolis Colts @ New Orleans Saints (-10) - The Saints struggled putting away the after a masterful performance by Drew Brees and it ultimately cost them.  Alvin Kamara needs to get on track for the Saints to have a realistic chance of making a deep playoff run especially given how bad the Saints defense has been.  Provided that TY Hilton is out, I do not think that the Colts can keep up with the Saints to challenge them in a meaningful way especially given that the Saints may be motivated coming off a loss.  So far this season, the Saints are 2-0 against the spread following a loss.

Week 15 Picks Against the Spread- 0-1

Week 15 Straight Up- 1-0

2019 Season Against the Spread- 103-98

2019 Season Straight Up- 124-84

2019 Locks - 16-15

2018 Season against the Spread- 112-107-7

2018 Season Straight Up- 137-86-2
2018 Locks- 21-16-2

2017-18 Against the Spread- 121-125-7

2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92

2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41

2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-110 

Week 15 Thursday Night Pick

The Baltimore Orioles have lost a game more recently than the Ravens

The Ravens lost to the Browns on September 29th

While the Orioles played their last game of the season that evening and lost to the Red Soxs

Italicized for win

Bolded for spread

New York Jets (+15) @ Baltimore Ravens - Since Sam Darnold has taken over as a starting quarterback, the Jets are 5-5 with him as a starter.  The Jets barely came away with a win against the Dolphins but were also without LeVeon Bell who has reportedly lost ten pounds but should play in this game.  The Ravens are also dealing with a few injuries themselves- Lamar Jackson and Mark Andrews will play but left tackle Ronnie Staley will miss this game.

Week 14 Picks Against the Spread- 8-6-2

Week 14 Straight Up- 10-6

Week 14 Locks - 2-1

2019 Season Against the Spread- 103-97

2019 Season Straight Up- 123-84

2019 Locks - 16-15

2018 Season against the Spread- 112-107-7

2018 Season Straight Up- 137-86-2
2018 Locks- 21-16-2

2017-18 Against the Spread- 121-125-7

2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92

2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41

2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-110 

Week 14 Picks

Eli Manning returns.

His all time record is 116-116 (via USAToday)

Italicized for win

Bolded for spread

Washington Redskins (+13) @ Green Bay Packers - Aaron Jones has not been as explosive lately while the Packers may rely on Aaron Rodgers to feast on the Redskins defense who has been playing better lately.  Maybe Guice can get it going against a below average Packers rush defense.

Detroit Lions (+13) @ Minnesota Vikings  - Kirk Cousins comes off a loss where he threw over 400 yards and looks to take advantage of the Lions defense that has struggled lately.  Dalvin Cook may not be 100% and Adam  Thielen is likely to be out.  Kyle Rudolph has 4 TDS in 4 straight games.

Indianapolis Colts @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3) - Marlon Mack returns but has a tough match-up against the Bucs; run defense. TY Hilton may not play for the rest of the season so Jacoby Brissett may struggle.

Carolina Panthers (+3) @ Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan didn't play well especially without Jones and Hooper and could get them back. The Panthers could get a surge from the firing without Ron Rivera.

San Francisco 49ers @ New Orleans Saints (-2.5) (LOCK) - Brees is usually better at home. Alvin Kamara has at least 8 targets in his last 5 games.

Cincinnati Bengals (+8.5)@ Cleveland Browns - With Andy Dalton back, perhaps the Bengals keep it close coming off a win against the Jets.  

Denver Broncos(+9.5) @ Houston Texans - Courtland Sutton may keep the Broncos in it who had 2 touchdowns last week.

“Ryan Fitzpatrick has thrown a touchdown against the Eagles for seven different teams” is an amazing stat.

— Tom Fornelli (@TomFornelli) December 1, 2019

Miami Dolphins (+6)(LOCK) @ New York Jets - Look for the Fitzmagic show to continue. Bell being out also hurts the Jets

Baltimore Ravens @ Buffalo Bills (+5.5) - Perhaps the Bills can do enough to keep it close with Josh Allen and a solid Bills defense.

Los Angeles Chargers @ Jacksonville Jaguars (+3) - Phillip Rivers has been struggling while Gardner Minshew returns.  Perhaps Fournette could get it going again as the Jaguars look to bounce back after a tough loss against the Bucs.  

Tennessee Titans (-2.5) @ Oakland Raiders - The Titans have been playing much better with Derrick Henry leading the rushing attack.  

Kansas City Chiefs (+3) @ New England Patriots -  While the Patriots are undefeated at home with Julian Edelman and Tom Brady at home in the lineup, perhaps the Chiefs can put an end to that streak.  

No Big Ben.

Bell and Brown long gone.

No JuJu, no Conner, no Pouncey or Tuitt.

Fourth-string QB from training camp.

7-5.

Pretty incredible resolve from the Steelers.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) December 1, 2019

Pittsburgh Steelers (-2.5) (LOCK) @ Arizona Cardinals - Kyler Murray can always go off but appeared to be limited with a hamstring injury last week.  The Steelers defense is much better than the Rams.  Duck Hodges should hold up against the Cardinals defense that has struggled all season.

Starter Chris Carson subbed himself out near the goal line on MNF so Rashaad Penny could score.

Penny: "Any other running back would stay in and try to punch it in. … Everybody thinks we’re supposed to hate each other. This is literally love in the backfield."

(H/T @Joe_Fann) pic.twitter.com/mLOwGiTK7a

— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) December 3, 2019

Seattle Seahawks (+1.5) @ Los Angeles Rams - The Seahawks look to continue their dual running back threat with Carson and Penny.  While Lockett has been unreliable for the Seahawks, Jared Goff may struggle to utilize all of his passing options in Kupp, Woods, and Cooks.  

The #Eagles are simultaneously both close to winning the NFC East AND a Top-10 draft pick.

— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) December 2, 2019

New York Giants (+10) @ Philadelphia Eagles - Eli Manning returns in a matchup where the Eagles look to bounce back after a tough loss to the Dolphins. 

Week 14 Picks Against the Spread- 0-1

Week 14 Straight Up- 0-1

2019 Season Against the Spread- 95-92

2019 Season Straight Up- 113-79

2019 Locks - 14-14

2018 Season against the Spread- 112-107-7

2018 Season Straight Up- 137-86-2
2018 Locks- 21-16-2

2017-18 Against the Spread- 121-125-7

2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92

2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41

2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-110 

Week 14 Thursday Night Pick

The Cowboys are 9-3 in December with Dak Prescott

Best record in December since 2016.

How BAD is NFC East?

NOT ONLY can the 5-7 #Eagles still MAKE playoffs but so can the 3-9 Redskins!#Redskins Clinch NFC East with:
1. Eagles BEAT Cowboys
➕
2. Eagles lose other 3 (6-10)
➕
3. Cowboys Lose FINAL 4 (6-10)
➕
4. Redskins Win FINAL 4 (7-9)@6abc pic.twitter.com/meVt5zrWXz

— Jeff Skversky 6abc (@JeffSkversky) December 2, 2019

#Cowboys DT Antwaun Woods was arrested on Tuesday at a traffic stop and charged with possession of marijuana over 2 ounces but less than 4 ounces, tampering with evidence, and he was cited for possession of paraphernalia, Frisco PD tells me.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 5, 2019

Dallas Cowboys(-2.5) @ Chicago Bears - This is not a typical Thursday Night as it is not a short week for both teams coming off Thanksgiving Games.  The Cowboys lost to a good Buffalo Bills team last week while the Bears barely put away a Lions team starting their 3rd string quarterback.  While Dak Prescott has struggled on the road, Mitchell Trubisky has struggled most of the season against average defenses.  

Week 13 Picks Against the Spread- 10-6

Week 13 Straight Up- 9-7 

Week 13 Locks - 3-3

2019 Season Against the Spread- 95-91

2019 Season Straight Up- 113-78

2019 Locks - 14-14

2018 Season against the Spread- 112-107-7

2018 Season Straight Up- 137-86-2
2018 Locks- 21-16-2

2017-18 Against the Spread- 121-125-7

2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92

2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41

2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-110 

Week 13 Picks

Lamar Jackson has been kind enough

to let RG3 play the last 3 weeks

Philadelphia Eagles (-10)(LOCK) @ Miami Dolphins-  The Dolphins currently have more wins against winning teams than the Dallas Cowboys.  That being said, the Eagles are starting to get their receivers back including Alshon Jeffrey and Nelson Agholoor which should open the offense for running back Miles Sanders and tight ends Zach Ertz and Dallas Goedert.   

New York Jets @ Cincinatti Bengals (+3.5)-  The Bengals are inserting quarterback Andy Dalton back in the lineup in an effort to avoid being winless. The Jets success has been keyed by their defense by stopping the run and Sam Darnold playing pretty well.  

Tennessee Titans (-2.5) @ Indianapolis Colts -  Both teams will rely upon their running games.  The Titans offense appears to be clicking more than the Colts who have been banged up with injuries to Marlon Mack and T.Y. Hilton.  

Washington Redskins @ Carolina Panthers (-10)(LOCK) - All the Redskins have to do is slow down Christian McCaffery.  That being said, that's a tax easier said than done. DJ Moore has 9 or more targets in the last 6 games.

Green Bay Packers (-6.5)(LOCK) @ New York Giants - Aaron Rodgers looks to bounce back after a tough week against the 49ers.  Saquon Barkley could get it going against Green Bay's below average rushing defense.  Look for the Packers to get Davante Adams and Aaron Jones to get more involved in the passing game.  

In 2017 Russell Wilson was the most pressured QB in the NFL, seeing pressure on 41.4% of his dropbacks.

So, the team fired the o-line coach, overhauled the scheme and signed free agents to start so that Russell Wilson could be pressured on only 41.4% of his 2019 dropbacks.

— John P. Gilbert (@JohnPGilbertNFL) November 25, 2019

San Francisco 49ers @ Baltimore Ravens (-6.5) -  The 49ers defense have had trouble with mobile quarterbacks including Kyler Murray which leads to the Ravens having edge in this matchup.  Plus the Ravens should fare much better at home against this west coast team.   

Tampa Bay Bucanneers (+1) @ Jacksonville Jaguars - Jameis Winston has been highly explosive although he is error prone. Leonarde Fournette has been solid but goes against a pretty solid Bucs' matchup although perhaps the Jaguars can take advantage of their porous pass defense.

Cleveland Browns(-1.5) @ Pittsburgh Steelers - Devlin Hodges makes his first start over Mason Rudolph.  Things could chippy in this game two weeks after the Myles Garrett incident.  

In 2017 Russell Wilson was the most pressured QB in the NFL, seeing pressure on 41.4% of his dropbacks.

So, the team fired the o-line coach, overhauled the scheme and signed free agents to start so that Russell Wilson could be pressured on only 41.4% of his 2019 dropbacks.

— John P. Gilbert (@JohnPGilbertNFL) November 25, 2019

LA Rams (-3)  @ Arizona Cardinals  - Jared Goff has had zero passing touchdowns in the month of November.  That being said the Cardinals defense has been really bad.  Kyler Murray showing up on the injury report gives me doubts whether the Cardinals can complete the upset.

Oakland Raiders @ Kansas City Chiefs (-10) - Derek Carr has traditionally struggled at Arrowhead stadim.

LA Chargers (-3) @ Denver Broncos -  Phillip Rivers has been playing pretty badly lately but perhaps he doe enough to bounce back against a division rival.  The Broncos will debut Drew Locke at quarterback who may struggle.

New England Patriots (-3.5)(LOCK) @ Houston Texans -  The Patriots will probably utilize their running game and passing game against a Texans team that has struggled since losing JJ Watt for the season.  

In 2017 Russell Wilson was the most pressured QB in the NFL, seeing pressure on 41.4% of his dropbacks.

So, the team fired the o-line coach, overhauled the scheme and signed free agents to start so that Russell Wilson could be pressured on only 41.4% of his 2019 dropbacks.

— John P. Gilbert (@JohnPGilbertNFL) November 25, 2019

Minnesota Vikings @ Seattle Seahawks (-3)(LOCK)- Kirk Cousins undefeated at primetime this season could come to an end at the hands of the Seahawks.  

Week 13 Picks Against the Spread- 3-0

Week 13 Straight Up- 2-1 

Week 12 Locks - 1-0

2019 Season Against the Spread- 88-85

2019 Season Straight Up- 100-71

2019 Locks - 12-11

2018 Season against the Spread- 112-107-7

2018 Season Straight Up- 137-86-2
2018 Locks- 21-16-2

2017-18 Against the Spread- 121-125-7

2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92

2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41

2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-110 

Week 13 Thanksgiving NFL Picks

With the Lions turning to third string QB David Blough, Jeff Driskel becomes the backup. If he gets hurt, TE Logan Thomas would be emergency backup. Thomas has thrown 9 more passes in the NFL than Blough, who will have a very memorable NFL debut as a starter. #HappyThanksgiving

— Michele Steele (@ESPNMichele) November 28, 2019

The Lions today will be the third team this season to have to start their third-string quarterback because of injuries to the top two. The Jets went 0-2 with Luke Falk, while the Steelers went 1-0 with Devlin Hodges (who is no longer the third-stringer).

— Michael David Smith (@MichaelDavSmith) November 28, 2019

Chicago Bears (-3.5) (Lock) @ Detroit Lions - The Bears look to put together back to back wins for the second time this season. Lions go to their 3rd string quarterback David Blough and could struggle against a Bears team that beat them earlier this season 20-13. The Bears defense has been susceptible against the run but so have the Lions and look for Bears' running back David Montgomery to take advantage.

Buffalo Bills (+7.5) @ Dallas Cowboys - The Cowboys play much better at home, but the Bills have been much better lately. Cole Beasley has an opportunity to get revenge against the Cowboys, his former team.  The Cowboys are 1-2 against teams from the AFC East so far this season.  

From @gmfb: The #Falcons are optimistic about having WR Julio Jones (shoulder) today, assuming his shoulder is strong enough... Meanwhile, the #Saints are slated to get CB Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) back today. pic.twitter.com/KWwXwU1QAs

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 28, 2019

New Orlean Saints (-6.5)  @ Atlanta Falcons - The Saints a few weeks ago were unable to take advantage of the Falcons coming off a bye.  That being said, Alvin Kamara looks to be closer to 100%.  Julio Jones is also banged up and the Saints get Marcus Lattimore back in the lineup.

Week 12 Picks Against the Spread- 5-8

Week 12 Straight Up- 6-7 

Week 12 Locks - 0-2

2019 Season Against the Spread- 85-85

2019 Season Straight Up- 98-70

2019 Locks - 11-11

2018 Season against the Spread- 112-107-7

2018 Season Straight Up- 137-86-2
2018 Locks- 21-16-2

2017-18 Against the Spread- 121-125-7

2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92

2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41

2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-110 

Week 12 NFL Picks

Haskins threw for 2 touchdowns last week

Unfortunately both occurred in garbage time

Italicized for win

Bolded for spread

Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Atlanta Falcons (-4) - The Falcons defense has picked up momentum recently although both teams with should feature a passing games with great receiving targets including Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley, the Falcons receivers out of Alabama and Mike Evans and Chris Godwin for the Buccaneers.

Miami Dolphins  @ Cleveland Browns (-11)  - The Browns have extra time to prepare for this one despite being without Myles Garrett.  The Browns seem like a more impressive team with Kareem Hunt in the offense.  Landry has been seeing the majority of Baker Mayfield's targets, not Odell Beckham Jr. 

A setback for the #Bears. QB Mitchell Trubisky is "good to go" on Sunday.

— NFL Fan Blitz (@NFLFanBlitz) November 23, 2019

New York Giants @ Chicago Bears (-6) -   It will be interesting to see what Daniel Jones does against Daniel Jones can do against the Bears in a low scoring game.  Saquon Barkley looks to exceed his 1 yard rushing total from last week. 

Carolina Panthers @ New Orleans Saints (-9.5) LOCK- DJ moore has been seeing a particularly large role in the Panthers offense over the last few weeks.  Alvin Kamara should get on track against the Carolina Panthers whose defense isn't great but did slow down Falcons running back Brian Hill last week.  Michael Thomas has a 91% completion from his targets and is on pace to break Marvin Harrison's record for most targets in a season. 

A setback for the #Bears. QB Mitchell Trubisky is "good to go" on Sunday.

— NFL Fan Blitz (@NFLFanBlitz) November 23, 2019

Oakland Raiders (-3.5) @ New York Jets - New York Jets did take care of the Redskins and Giants but appear to be due for a letdown against the Raiders who have twice as many wins as the Redskins and Giants combined.

Denver Broncos @ Buffalo Bills (-4) - Josh Allen had a breakout game last week targeting Josh Brown for a multi touchdown game.  Cortland Sutton looks to remain the primary receiver for Brandon Allen but their shaky closing to the Vikings game.  Although the Broncos do have a good running game that could keep the Bills defense honest. 

Chase Young is already the Redskins best player.

— Field Yates (@FieldYates) November 23, 2019

Detroit Lions (-3.5)(LOCK) @ Washington Redskins - Dwayne Haskins threw for two TDs but in garbage time.  Driscoll looks to continue to replicate Stafford's play from the quarterback position.


Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals (+6.5) - Jaylen Samuels should carry a lot snaps without James Conner in the lineup.  Perhaps the Bengals can do enough to keep it close espeicially if Mixon continues his good play over the last two weeks where he has accumulated over 200 rushing yards and 50 receiving yards.

Seattle Seahawks @ Philadelphia Eagles (-1) - Alshon Jeffrey looks like he is going to play.  Jay Ajayi looks to fill the void with Jordan Howard.  Hollister to see a big role in this one for the Seahawks. 

Jacksonville Jaguars (+3.5) @ Tennessee Titans - This could be a close game between two divisiont rivals.  I am expecting Nick Foles could bounce back especially if Fournette gets a bigger game on the run.

Today marked the 1st game in Tom Brady's career that another Patriot led the team in TD passes when Brady played the entire game.

That’s among 317 career starts, including the playoffs.

Julian Edelman tossed the lone TD pass for the Patriots in their 17-10 win over the Eagles. pic.twitter.com/86Eu7Q4JlI

— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) November 18, 2019

Dallas Cowboy (-6.5) @ New England Patriots - Tom Brady has thrown for as many TDs as Julian Edelman as the last 3 weeks.  Dak Prescott has been one of the more explosive quarterbacks and goes against one of the top defenses.   

Green Bay Packers (+3.5) @ San Francisco 49ers - Jimmy Garropolo has been solid for the 49ers targeting Deebo Samuels more recently. Aaron Rodgers is the number one rated quarterback when targeting running backs and maybe Rodgers decides to target Aaron Jones more coming off a bye. 

Baltimore Ravens (-3)  @ Los Angeles Rams - The Ravens appear to have an advantage with their three tight end offensed led by the mobile Lamar Jackson.  While the Rams defense should provide a good test, their offense remains too inconsistent to be counted on in recent weeks.

Week 12 Picks Against the Spread- 0-1

Week 12 Straight Up- 1-0  

2019 Season Against the Spread- 80-78

2019 Season Straight Up- 93-63

2019 Locks - 11-9

2018 Season against the Spread- 112-107-7

2018 Season Straight Up- 137-86-2
2018 Locks- 21-16-2

2017-18 Against the Spread- 121-125-7

2017-18 Season Straight Up - 167-92

2016-17 Against the Spread - 141-115-7
2016-17 Straight Up - 101-41

2015-16 Against the Spread - 140-110