The Hail Mary - Week 8

There is almost nothing better than stuffing your face with candy and watching football. This year Halloween falls on NFL Sunday and because of how strange and scary this entire season has been, it couldn't be more fitting.

Week 8 - Sunday, October 31

Miami (3-3) at Cincinnati (2-4), Cincinnati favored by 2

The Bengals can't get their team on the same page. The offense finally got going last weekend, but the defense couldn't slow the Atlanta Falcons down. WR Terrell Owens is having a monster year and proving his disappointing season in Buffalo was an aberration. The Dolphins can't win at home (0-3), but can't lose on the road (3-0). I think that trend continues on Sunday.

Prediction: Miami 20, Cincinnati 16

Jacksonville (3-4) at Dallas (1-5), Dallas favored by 6 1/2

I got a lot of satisfaction over watching the Cowboys season die last Monday night. The final nail in the coffin wasn't them losing the game, it was Michael Boley driving Tony Romo to the ground, knocking him out for 6-8 weeks. The Cowboys now turn to QB Jon Kitna, who hasn't won a game as a starter since 2007. Vegas doesn't seem to mind that stat and obviously thinks very little of the Jaguars with the ridiculous line they have put on this game. I don't think much of the Jags either and expect them to provide Dallas with their first home win. However, they will cover.

Prediction: Dallas 19, Jacksonville 14

Washington (4-3) at Detroit (1-5), Detroit favored by 2 1/2

It is probably a little embarrassing for the Redskins to be underdogs to a 1-5 team. However, given their recent history at Detroit it makes sense. The Lions have been in every single game they have played this season, and not surprisingly have suffered from some bad luck. They get back their starting QB Matthew Stafford for this one. The Redskins offense looked putrid last week, with the Skins winning in spite of QB Donovan McNabb's worst efforts. I don't think CB DeAngelo Hall will be coming up with four picks in this game, so the passing game will have to show up, and hopefully RB Ryan Torain can continue his string of 100 yard games. Their is no possible way the Skins can think about overlooking the Lions, especially after last season. The Skins will go into their bye week with a good feeling at 5-3.

Prediction: Washington 24, Detroit 17

Buffalo (0-6) at Kansas City (4-2), Kansas City favored by 7 1/2

Would you believe that Bills QB Ryan Fitzpatrick is one of the top quarterbacks in the league this year? If only the Bills could play defense. Chiefs QB Matt Cassel has been much improved in recent weeks and with the Chargers sputtering the Chiefs look like they have a great chance to take the AFC West. Having teams like the Bills and Jaguars on your schedule back to back weeks doesn't hurt.

Prediction: Kansas City 28, Buffalo 21

Carolina (1-5) at St. Louis (3-4), St. Louis favored by 3

The Panthers found the cure for a winless season, play the sorry San Francisco 49ers! QB Matt Moore looked like the player I expected him to be, but WR Steve Smith has yet to get going this season. Even more surprising is the lack of production of the Panthers running game, which will likely be without DeAngelo Williams for this game. I continue to be impressed by Rams rookie QB Sam Bradford. Despite being trained to be a choker at Oklahoma, he looks like the real deal. Sorry Pinto, don't like your Panthers chances in this one. However, I appreciate your undying support of The Hail Mary.

Prediction: St. Louis 27, Carolina 17

Green Bay (4-3) at New York Jets (5-1), New York Jets favored by 6

The Packers stopped the bleeding with a much needed win against the Vikings last weekend, with the help of former hero Brett Favre. They now travel to New York to take on perhaps the hottest team in the NFL, the Jets. The Jets are hoping the bye week didn't cool them off and they will continue to play efficiently on offense, and dominate on defense. The resurgence of RB LaDainian Tomlinson has got to have the Chargers shaking their heads. I expect to see WR Santonio Holmes make more of an impact in this game, then he has in his 2 games since his suspension ended.

Prediction: New York Jets 23, Green Bay 20

London, England: Denver (2-5) vs. San Francisco (1-6), San Francisco favored by 1

Just how bad are the Broncos? The 49ers are starting QB Troy Smith in this game and I didn't even know Smith was on the roster until he was named the starter earlier this week. Smith can't be much worse than the other Smith, Alex. Plus, he definitely can't be any worse than the abomination that is David Carr, who tossed away the Niners chance at a win last weekend. The Broncos are coming off one of the most embarrassing losses in NFL history, a 59-14 whipping at home against the lowly Oakland Raiders. The Broncos do one thing well, pass the ball and that isn't a recipe for success. The Niners still think they can make the playoffs but sitting 3 1/2 games behind the division leading Seahawks, it is time to start thinking about 2011. Poor London deserves a better game.

Prediction: San Francisco 6, Denver 2

Tennessee (5-2) at San Diego (2-5), San Diego favored by 3 1/2

NFL "experts" seem mystified that the Chargers, despite having a potent offense and an effective defense, are 2-5. Obviously, they forget that the Chargers are coached by one of the worst head coaches in NFL history, Norv Turner. Of course a Norv Turner coached team would have two plays in the same game, where their team turns the ball over for stupid reasons. It looks like QB Vince Young may return for this game, but the Titans certainly didn't miss him last weekend against the Eagles. Despite my bashing of Norv Turner, I really like QB Philip Rivers and hope that fantasy dud RB Ryan Mathews finally does something.

Prediction: San Diego 27, Tennessee 24

Seattle (4-2) at Oakland (3-4), Oakland favored by 2 1/2

Where the hell did that performance from Oakland come from last week? I think my favorite part of it was despite them putting up 59 points, QB Jason Campbell still found a way to put up pedestrian numbers. RB Darren McFadden is finally showing the electricity that he displayed while a Razorback in college. Oakland has been trying to win 2 games in a row for a few years now, and facing a bad Seattle road team will allow them to finally achieve that goal. I'll predict another offensive outburst from Oakland, but it wouldn't shock me to see them put up 6 points a week after putting up 59.

Prediction: Oakland 30, Seattle 20

Minnesota (2-4) at New England (5-1), Line is Off the Board

Will the streak finally end? Will Brett Favre site this one out with his fractured ankle? Reports are that the Vikings are leaning towards sitting Favre and bringing Tavaris Jackson out of moth balls to start this game. I will believe it when I see it. If Favre wants to play he will play. Either way, it won't make much of a difference as the Patriots are a better team than Minnesota. Lost in all of the Favre drama is WR Randy Moss making his return to New England. Look for Moss to have 2 TDs.

Prediction: New England 24, Minnesota 20

Tampa Bay (4-2) at Arizona (3-3), Arizona favored by 3

These two teams may have records that look pretty good but they both suck. Arizona is at least somewhat capable at home, but the Bucs have proven they can beat crappy teams. The Cardinals are a crappy team so the Bucs should go to 5-2 after this week. I have been impressed with Bucs QB Josh Freeman, he looks like a star in the making.

Prediction: Tampa Bay 23, Arizona 14

Pittsburgh (5-1) at New Orleans (4-3), New Orleans favored by 1

Remember when I predicted that the Falcons would be the surprise winners of the NFC South? That prediction is looking better and better each week. Remember when I said the Saints were definitely going to suffer a Super Bowl hangover? That prediction is looking better and better each week. However, I can't take full credit as I didn't expect the Saints to lose to sorry teams like the Cardinals and Browns. Of course QB Drew Brees starts throwing interceptions like its his job when I have him on my fantasy football team. The Saints have sorely missed RBs Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush, and also have missed their defense creating turnovers. The Steelers look like they may be the best team in the NFL and a win at the Superdome will further cement that belief. If Brees can't handle the Browns defense, what will he do against a fantastic Steelers defense?

Prediction: Pittsburgh 34, New Orleans 24

Monday, November 1

Houston (4-2) at Indianapolis (4-2), Indianapolis favored by 5 1/2

The Colts have been besieged by injuries. Losing TE Dallas Clark for the season probably kills their chances of winning the Super Bowl as I predicted in August. However, they still have the best player in all of football in Peyton Manning. Manning will find a way to make chicken salad out of chicken shit. The Texans have looked pretty fraudtastic since beating the Colts up in Week 1. The Colts defense will have to slow down RB Arian Foster, who eviscerated the Colts in Week 1. This game will come down to the wire but Manning will find a way to will the Colts to the victory.

Prediction: Indianapolis 34, Houston 31

Overall Straight Up: 39-37
Overall Against the Spread: 38-36-2

Cram Session - Week 9

After a few weeks of hiatus, Cram Session is back! I know how excited all four of you are about this. Some good games featuring Top 10 teams this week, as we move closer and closer to finding out who will be playing for the BCS Championship in January.

Games That Matter to Me That May Not Matter to You

Tulsa (4-3) at Notre Dame (4-4)

I can accept first year bumps in the road for new coach Brian Kelly, but getting thrashed 35-17 by Navy goes beyond a bump. I understand the Irish have been besieged by injuries but for a team that was supposedly game planning against Navy's triple option all off-season, to get demolished like they did was inexcusable. It appears another 6-6 finish is on the horizon. However, that assumes that Notre Dame will beat Tulsa, something the Irish definitely shouldn't do. This should be a high scoring game as neither team plays much defense, but can score points in bunches. Tulsa QB G.J. Kinne hasn't thrown an interception in three games and has 15 TDs on the season. The other offensive weapon to watch out for is WR Damaris Johnson. Johnson not only catches the ball, but is a rushing threat as well, averaging 10.8 yards per carry. Irish QB Dayne Crist had a rough go of it last week, and will hopefully have WR Michael Floyd at his disposal this week. I can't pick Notre Dame to lose at home to Tulsa, but I won't be shocked if it happens.

Prediction: Notre Dame 43, Tulsa 28

Top 10

#1 Auburn (8-0, 5-0) at Mississippi (3-4, 1-3)

This should be an interesting QB battle. Heisman front runner Cam Newton for Auburn against a guy that was considered a Heisman candidate last season, Jeremiah Masoli. After a slow start to the season Masoli has put up 9 TDs and 2 INTs in his last four games. Newton proved any skeptics wrong last week, as he destroyed a talented LSU defense. It will be interesting to see how the Tigers react to being the number one team, as that has been a curse for the last three weeks. I think the Tigers will stabilize things at the top this weekend.

Prediction: Auburn 45, Mississippi 31

#2 Oregon (7-0, 4-0) at USC (5-2, 2-2)

The Ducks are number one in the polls but number two in the BCS. The Trojans ended a two game losing streak two weeks ago by demolishing Cal. Some people are calling for the upset in this one, especially with how well Trojans QB Matt Barkley has played this season. However, to beat Oregon you have to be able to play defense and the Trojans haven't proven they can. Ducks RB LaMichael James is going to run all over the Trojans and keep the Ducks unbeaten.

Prediction: Oregon 40, USC 33

#4 TCU (8-0, 4-0) at UNLV (1-6, 1-2)

TCU plays tougher competition than Boise State and has been dominant, yet can't seem to get nearly the same amount of attention. Their biggest game of the season is next weekend at Utah, but the Horned Frogs are too good to allow UNLV to be a trap game.

Prediction: TCU 38, UNLV 6

#5 Michigan State (8-0, 4-0) at #18 Iowa (5-2, 2-1)

The Spartans kept their shocking unbeaten season going with a come from behind win against Northwestern. They are starting to resemble the Iowa Hawkeyes of last season. Creeping up the polls, finding ways to win, but everyone waiting for their eventual downfall. Most have picked this as the only possible game left for the Spartans to lose. However, I think the Spartans will win this one, but then shockingly lose to either Purdue or Penn State.

Prediction: Michigan State 24, Iowa 21

#6 Missouri (7-0, 3-0) at #14 Nebraska (6-1, 2-1)

A third straight marquee game for the Huskers in the Big 12. I almost wish this game was on the road as the Huskers have been dominant away from home, yet somehow lost to a sorry Texas team at home. The Huskers and the Tigers had a somewhat memorable game last season in Columbia. The Tigers dominated the Huskers for three quarters and Nebraska could get nothing going on offense. Then in the fourth quarter the defense created turnovers and the Huskers rolled to a win. The defense was able to force Tigers QB Blaine Gabbert into mistakes last season and I think they can do the same this year. It is all about QB Taylor Martinez for Nebraska. If he plays well they win, if he struggles they lose. Martinez proved he could throw the ball last week against Oklahoma State, but some of that had to do with the ineptness of the Cowboys defense. Missouri's defense has been excellent and is fourth in the nation in points allowed at 13.1 points per game. The winner of this game will have the inside track to earning the Big 12 North's spot in the Big 12 Championship Game. As much as I would like it to be the Huskers, I don't think it will be.

Prediction: Missouri 23, Nebraska 16

#8 Utah (7-0, 4-0) at Air Force (5-3, 3-2)

TCU is fortunate to face a patsy the week before their game against Utah. The Utes aren't so fortunate, as they have to travel to take on a tough Air Force team. I was way off the last time I picked the Utes to lose a game so maybe I am crazy for doing it again, but I think the Utes will suffer a letdown ahead of their game against TCU.

Prediction: Air Force 27, Utah 24

Colorado (3-4, 0-3) at #9 Oklahoma (6-1, 2-1)

The curse of being number one hit the Sooners in a big way at Missouri last weekend. I think the Sooners pretty much became number one by default and no one truly believed they were the best team in the country. Poor Colorado will get to face the Sooners frustration this weekend and it won't be pretty.

Prediction: Oklahoma 37, Colorado 17

Overall: 52-7

The Hail Mary - Week 5

There are more storylines than you can shake a stick at in Monday night's game at the New Meadowlands between the New York Jets and the Minnesota Vikings. It was already intriguing enough with it being the return of Brett Favre to New York, but it got even more interesting with the Vikings acquisition of WR Randy Moss. Moss is back where it all started, in Minnesota and I am going to have to dust off my old Vikings 84 jersey.

Week 5 - Sunday, October 10

Jacksonville (2-2) at Buffalo (0-4), Line is EVEN

My gut was telling me that Jacksonville would be competitive with the Colts but I chose not to listen. The Jaguars are seemingly schizophrenic but I think the bad Jags will show up in Buffalo. Buffalo is not nearly as hard a place to win at as it used to be, but for a team like Jacksonville, I can see the elements causing some issues. Besides, the Bills have to win sometime don't they?

Prediction: Buffalo 24, Jacksonville 17

Tampa Bay (2-1) at Cincinnati (2-2), Cincinnati favored by 6 1/2

Cincinnati will be happy to be home again, as they had to go on the road in three of their first four games. It remains to be seen if Tampa can build on their 2-0 start or if they will revert back to the levels of losing that were expected of them. Bengals QB Carson Palmer finally showed something last week and it allowed WR Terrell Owens to have a break out game. Bengals get back on the winning track but it will be close.

Prediction: Cincinnati 20, Tampa Bay 14

Atlanta (3-1) at Cleveland (1-3), Atlanta favored by 3

Another week where Vegas seems to be giving the Browns a lot of respect. RB Peyton Hillis has been a beast for the Browns and carried them on his back the last two weeks. The Falcons were lucky to escape with a win against my hapless Niners. Atlanta is a team I like this year, and I will chalk up their poor performance against the Niners as a hangover from their huge win against the Saints.

Prediction: Atlanta 23, Cleveland 17

St. Louis (2-2) at Detroit (0-4), Detroit favored by 3

When was the last time the Lions were favored in a game? The Rams have won two straight and are actually tied for first in the NFC West. It might turn out that the Redskins loss to the Rams won't look so bad come the end of the year. Rams QB Sam Bradford is definitely the real deal, it is too bad the Lions young gun Matthew Stafford will miss this game with an injury. I think the Rams are improving but until they show they can win on the road, I have to pick against them.

Prediction: Detroit 27, St. Louis 23

Kansas City (3-0) at Indianapolis (2-2), Indianapolis favored by 8

The Chiefs are the league's last undefeated team? Really? And even with that, they are 8 point underdogs to a team that is just .500? Just shows how weird, wild and wacky the season has been through a month. The Colts took a major step back with their loss at Jacksonville but maybe it's more a problem they have of winning on the road. I think the Chiefs will be a playoff team this year, so I expect them to cover this spread but suffer their first loss in the process.

Prediction: Indianapolis 21, Kansas City 14

Green Bay (3-1) at Washington (2-2), Green Bay favored by 2 1/2

This is the second best game of the weekend. You could basically flip a coin to try to pick this game. I still consider QB Aaron Rodgers to be elite and remain upset that the 49ers passed on him, but his stats aren't all that impressive so far this season. 8 TDs to 5 INTs, and he is only averaging about 7 yards a pass. The Skins are coming off an emotional win at Philadelphia so the chance for a let down is there. It is also now the Ryan Torain show, as Clinton Portis will be out for at least a month. The Skins showed last week that they can shut down a team with plenty of weapons, although Rodgers is much greater than Kolb. The Skins offense will have to get on track, and QB Donovan McNabb will have to be smart with the ball. The Packers have a ball hawking defense and always seem to find a way to force turnovers. This will be a very competitive game, that will come down to Mason Crosby hitting a game winning field goal, breaking all of the Skins fans hearts.

Prediction: Green Bay 24, Washington 21

Chicago (3-1) at Carolina (0-4), Chicago favored by 2 1/2

Has a team ever gone from looking like an elite team to being exposed as a fluke fraud as quickly as the Bears did last week against the Giants? There is no way this team is doing anything this year with that offensive line. The Panthers played the Saints well in New Orleans but their last drive was an abomination in clock management. I thought maybe Les Miles had started coaching them. QB Jimmy Clausen won't have Steve Smith so hopefully the Panthers finally figure out they are a running team and should just pound the ball with DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. However, with lame duck coach John Fox still running things, I don't expect that to happen. Even without Cutler, the Bears win.

Prediction: Chicago 14, Carolina 13

Denver (2-2) at Baltimore (3-1), Baltimore favored by 7

Denver's win at Tennessee really caught me off guard. Also catching me off guard is that Kyle Orton is one of the best QB's in the so far this year, and WR Brandon Lloyd is one of the best receivers. The Ravens secondary, which was supposed to be their undoing, has been top notch, and will get a stern test from the Broncos. Denver can't run the ball at all and will likely be without RB Knowshon Moreno for a third straight week. I don't think you can beat the Ravens without a running game, but you can definitely give them a run for their money.

Prediction: Baltimore 19, Denver 15

New York Giants (2-2) at Houston (3-1), Houston favored by 3

The Giants got a much needed win last weekend but the offense still seems out of sorts and turnover prone. Houston has the weapons on offense to take advantage of those mistakes, even if WR Andre Johnson misses a second straight game. RB Arian Foster is proving that he is legit and former Giant RB Derrick Ward may make an impression on his old team.

Prediction: Houston 30, New York Giants 20

New Orleans (3-1) at Arizona (2-2), New Orleans favored by 7

Undrafted rookie free agent QB Max Hall out of BYU makes his first career NFL start. From a potential Hall of Famer in Kurt Warner to Hall in just one season, quite the drop for the Cardinals. The Saints have had nothing but close games this season but if they can't beat the daylights out of a crap team with a raw QB, then they have a worse Super Bowl hangover than I thought.

Prediction: New Orleans 35, Arizona 17

Tennessee (2-2) at Dallas (1-2), Dallas favored by 6 1/2

All it took was one Cowboy win for all their bandwagon fans to start making noise again. Some people think Dallas is going to roll the Titans. The Titans loss at home to Denver was surprising but I still think they are capable of being a good team. The Titans played very well at New York two weeks ago and I expect them to put forth a tough effort at Dallas. RB Chris Johnson has been quiet for too long, hopefully he finally breaks one this weekend. When it comes down to it though, Romo > Young.

Prediction: Dallas 26, Tennessee 20

San Diego (2-2) at Oakland (1-3), San Diego favored by 6

This is a pick I may want to have back on Monday morning but the Chargers have been an awful road team thus far. The Raiders hung around with Houston, and I think they can do the same with the Chargers.

Prediction: San Diego 27, Oakland 23

Philadelphia (2-2) at San Francisco (0-4), San Francisco favored by 3 1/2

Vegas just can't quit the Niners it seems. The Niners played far better than I expected in Atlanta and would have won the game if dumb ass CB Nate Clements had either secured the ball on his interception or simply gone down and allowed the Niners to attempt to bleed the clock. It was a brutal loss. With all that being said the Niners still just sit two games out in the putrid NFC West. If they can't win this game at home, against an Eagles team with the underwhelming Kevin Kolb at QB and possibly without RB LaSean McCoy, then the Niners may go 0-16. If the Niners and Smith bring the same effort they brought against the Saints at home, a much needed win will finally come.

Prediction: San Francisco 20, Philadelphia 17

Monday, October 11

Minnesota (1-2) at New York Jets (3-1), New York Jets favored by 4

As I touched on above this is the game of the week in the NFL. Randy Moss will be playing in his second straight Monday night, and something tells me he won't be held catchless in this one. Hopefully, Jets CB Darrelle Revis will man up and stop hiding behind injury. He may decide to sit this one out though, especially after Moss embarrassed him in New York three weeks ago. I think the addition of Moss will bring a renewed energy to the Vikings offense and more importantly to QB Brett Favre. For the Vikings to win it will be up to the offensive line. The running game will have to be productive and Favre can't get hit like has been in recent weeks. It seems like a lot, but I think the Vikings defense can fluster QB Mark Sanchez, and finally force him into some turnovers. The Vikings front four can definitely slow down Jets RBs Shonn Greene and LaDainian Tomlinson. The Vikings will get a much needed win as they start this brutal stretch of their schedule.

Prediction: Minnesota 19, New York Jets 16

Last Week Straight Up: 7-7
Overall Straight Up: 34-28

Last Week Against the Spread: 5-9
Overall Against the Spread: 32-28-2

Cram Session - Week 6

There are some interesting games this weekend but most of them are taking place outside of the Top 10. However, #1 Alabama faces a third straight difficult game, as they take on #19 South Carolina on the road. The Huskers face what could be a difficult road test tonight, when they face Big 12 rival and fellow unbeaten Kansas State. The Fighting Irish look to carry over momentum from their beat down of Boston College last Saturday, when they return home to take on Pittsburgh.

Games That Matter to Me That May Not Matter to You

Pittsburgh (2-2) at Notre Dame (2-3)

Notre Dame got a much needed win last weekend at Boston College. I was tempted to pick the Irish to lose because they have always played poorly at BC but when looking at BC's roster I knew they were an awful team. They certainly played like it as on Notre Dame jumped on them early and never really looked back. QB Dayne Crist was impressive and the Irish were able to establish a running game behind Armando Allen, Jr. I would like to see Michael Floyd be a bit more involved, but sophomore Theo Riddick has emerged in the last few weeks as another weapon at wideout. The defense played much better and shockingly didn't let a freshman making his first start make them look silly. Pitt had high expectations entering the season but those were tempered after an opening night loss to Utah and then an embarrassing home loss to Miami. Sophomore RB Dion Lewis has been a huge disappointment. He missed last week's rout of Florida International with an injury but even prior to that had only been averaging 3.0 yards a carry. Sophomore RB Ray Graham started in place of Lewis last weekend and had 3 touchdowns. Even if Lewis is to return for this game, the Irish should expect a healthy dose of Graham. The Panthers are led by sophomore QB Tino Sunseri. Sunseri has 4 TDs, and 2 INTs and is completing 63% of his passes. He is not spectacular but efficient. The schedule lightens over the next three weeks for the Irish after this game so a win would be a huge momentum lift. A few weeks ago I probably wouldn't have given the Irish a chance in this game, but Pitt isn't all that impressive. I think Notre Dame's confidence from last week's win will carry over to another win.

Prediction: Notre Dame 27, Pittsburgh 23

Top 10

Thursday, October 7

#7 Nebraska (4-0, 0-0) at Kansas State (4-0, 1-0)

After a weekend off, the Huskers kick off their final Big 12 season in prime time in Manhattan, Kansas. The Wildcats will be looking for revenge from last season, when the Huskers defeated them in the final game of the season to take the Big 12 North. The lost not only denied the Wildcats a spot in the Big 12 championship game, but also a bowl bid. The Wildcats have a couple of impressive wins, including a season opening win against UCLA, and a Big 12 win over the improving Cyclones of Iowa State. The Huskers answered the mail in their last road test, when they lambasted Washington. This game reminds me of last year's prime time Thursday game between Nebraska and Missouri. Missouri came into that game unbeaten and dominated the first three quarters, before Nebraska shocked the Tigers in the fourth. The crowd will be jacked for this game, so the key for Nebraska will be to get the crowd out of it early like they did at Washington. The Huskers last game was a very poor showing against South Dakota State. QB Taylor Martinez finally played like a freshman and the entire offense looked out of sorts. He has to bounce back and manage the game. Senior RB Daniel Thomas is who the Blackshirts will have stop. Thomas already has 628 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns on the season. Central Florida was able to slow him down last weekend so hopefully Jared Crick and the rest of that defensive front can follow suit. The Huskers can't be caught looking ahead to Texas next weekend or they will lose this one. I don't think the Huskers fiery coach Bo Pelini will let that happen. It won't always be pretty but Nebraska will remain unbeaten.

Prediction: Nebraska 24, Kansas State 19

Saturday, October 9

#1 Alabama (5-0, 2-0) at #19 South Carolina (3-1, 1-1)

I knew Alabama was good but I didn't think they were capable of manhandling the Gators like they did. The road gets no easier as they now have to take on the Ol Ball Coach Steve Spurrier and the Gamecocks. South Carolina looked like they might be finally turning the corner after a 3-0 start, but then a loss to Auburn and now this game with Alabama could derail those plans. For the Gamecocks to have any chance they can't allow RB Mark Ingram to rush for 246 yards on them like he did last year. The Crimson Tide running game is overwhelming and almost impossible to stop with Ingram and Trent Richardson. QB Stephen Garcia will get the start for the Gamecocks and will be entrusted to get over his fumbling problems that got him yanked against Auburn. Arkansas proved a few weeks ago that with the right game plan teams can hang with Alabama. South Carolina will be energized by their crowd but they simply aren't good enough.

Prediction: Alabama 35, South Carolina 24

Indiana (3-1, 0-1) at #2 Ohio State (5-0, 1-0)

The Buckeyes had far more trouble with Illinois than I think most people expected. Indiana did all they could to try to upset Michigan but proved unable to slow down Denard Robinson. Buckeyes QB Terrelle Pryor isn't as electric but he will certainly give the Hoosiers fits.

Prediction: Ohio State 38, Indiana 17

#3 Oregon (5-0, 2-0) at Washington State (1-4, 0-2)

After falling behind to Stanford 21-3 it looked like Oregon would be exposed as massive fluke frauds. Instead they ended up whipping the Cardinal 52-31. This game against Washington State will essentially be a bye for the Ducks.

Prediction: Oregon 64, Washington State 17

Toledo (3-2) at #4 Boise State (4-0)

Boise State crushed New Mexico State 59-0 but still dropped behind Oregon in the polls. At this point I think it is obvious that Boise State is simply playing to be a BCS crasher and has no real chance at playing for the national championship. Toledo actually knocked off Purdue on the road a few weeks ago so they aren't completely terrible, especially if you ignore that they lost to Arizona 41-2 to open the season. However, the Broncos knocking around the Rockets won't impress anyone outside of the potato state.

Prediction: Boise State 38, Toledo 9

Wyoming (2-3, 0-1) at #5 TCU (5-0, 1-0)

I will continue to tout TCU who I believe has been unfairly overlooked due to the media's love for Boise State. Boise State whipped Wyoming 51-6 on the road, so hopefully the Horned Frogs can do even better.

Prediction: TCU 52, Wyoming 6

#8 Auburn (5-0, 2-0) at Kentucky (3-2, 0-2)

For the second straight year, Auburn coach Gene Chizik has the Tigers off to a 5-0 start. Last season the wheels somewhat fell off after that start so I am sure Tigers fans are being cautious of getting too excited. The Tigers are loaded on offense with QB Cameron Newton having already thrown for 12 TDs. Newton is also the team's leading rusher, and the Tigers also have RB Onterio McCalebb who averages 8.0 yards a carry. As for Kentucky, they just lost to shitty Ole Miss. Enough said.

Prediction: Auburn 27, Kentucky 17

Oregon State (2-2, 0-1) at #9 Arizona (4-0, 1-0)

I never see Pac-10 football so not much to say about this one. Arizona has a good defense, Oregon State has a good offense, good defense usually beats good offense.

Prediction: Arizona 31, Oregon State 20

#10 Utah (4-0) at Iowa State (3-2)

The Utes will face a challenge to their unbeaten season at Ames this weekend. The Cyclones lit up Texas Tech at home last weekend but should get more fight from a tough Utes defense. The Utes haven't had a true road challenge so it will be interesting to see how they respond. Oh what the hell, I'll pick the upset.

Prediction: Iowa State 28, Utah 27

Last Week: 8-0
Overall: 45-4

The Hail Mary - Week 4

Kind of a weak slate of games this weekend but all eyes will be on Philadelphia come Sunday afternoon. That is when Donovan McNabb will make his return to Philadelphia, where he played for 11 seasons, taking the Eagles to 5 NFC Championship games, and 1 Super Bowl. The big question is what kind of reception will McNabb get from the Eagles fans. He should be cheered when he goes on to the field. He didn't demand a trade or leave via free agency. He was traded because the Eagles determined they were better off without him. Now during the game, of course he should be booed, he will be playing for the enemy Redskins. But considering all he went through during his time in Philadelphia and how he never bashed the fans or organization despite those things, he deserves an initial standing ovation.

Week 4 - Sunday, October 3

San Francisco (0-3) at Atlanta (2-1), Atlanta favored by 6 1/2

I was a big Mike Singletary fan but unless he gets the ship righted quickly this season, he has to go. Their is no reason the 49ers should be getting blown out by teams like the Seahawks and Chiefs with the amount of talent they have. They finally fired Offensive Coordinator Jimmy Raye, who was getting nothing out of an offense with multiple Pro Bowlers on it. Who knows if that will make a difference or not. Singletary is a great motivator but it appears he and his staff is very weak when it comes to X's and O's. Luckily, the 49ers are in the atrocious NFC West, but after fluke wins by the Seahawks and Cardinals last week, they already find themselves 2 games out. Atlanta made me look good by knocking off the Saints in New Orleans as I predicted. I had a feeling that the Falcons would be this year's sleeper team. QB Matt Ryan is playing very well, WR Roddy White is on fire, and the Falcons now have two consistent running backs in Michael Turner and Jason Snelling. 0-4 is staring the 49ers right in the face, I hope they can at least be competitive.

Prediction: Atlanta 28, San Francisco 14

New York Jets (2-1) at Buffalo (0-3), New York Jets favored by 4 1/2

What do you know? Mark Sansucks has played awesome football the last two games. He has yet to throw an interception this season. Sansucks had the worst game of his young career against the Bills last season so fantasy buyers beware of starting him this weekend. The Buffalo offense showed life with Ryan Fitzpatrick at QB last weekend against the Patriots. With Jets CB Darrelle Revis being out again this week, I think the Bills will be able to move the ball against the Jets. However, a late Nick Folk field goal will be the difference.

Prediction: New York Jets 24, Buffalo 21

Cincinnati (2-1) at Cleveland (0-3), Cincinnati favored by 3 1/2

This game seems to be people's upset special this weekend. I don't see it. Sure Carson Palmer sucks and the Bengals have looked less than impressive this season but come on, it's the Browns we are talking about. Even if Jake Delhomme comes back to play this game, the Bengals win and cover.

Prediction: Cincinnati 20, Cleveland 14

Detroit (0-3) at Green Bay (2-1), Green Bay favored by 14 1/2

The Packers blew a game they should have won at Chicago on Monday night. It certainly didn't help that they had an astounding 18 penalties. The Lions looked like the Lions of old in not being able to cover an 11 point spread against the previously winless Vikings. Usually, I avoid lines that are this big but last week taught me to never bet on the Lions.

Prediction: Green Bay 35, Detroit 14

Denver (1-2) at Tennessee (2-1), Tennessee favored by 6 1/2

Because of the Broncos less than stellar beginning to the season, QB Kyle Orton's hot start has gone under the radar. Orton and the passing game are clicking in Denver, but they have been unable to establish a running game. The Titans weren't overly impressive against the Giants, they were mostly just fortunate that the Giants are really good at shooting themselves in the foot. I expect Titans RB Chris Johnson to bust out one large touchdown run in this game, and that will prove to be the difference.

Prediction: Tennessee 20, Denver 17

Seattle (2-1) at St. Louis (1-2), Seattle favored by 1

There is no doubt in my mind that Rams QB Sam Bradford is the real deal. For a rookie that has started just three NFL games he looks incredibly poised and confident. I think the sky is the limit for Bradford. I still think the Seahawks are huge fluke frauds but the Rams are so bad I find it impossible to actually pick them to win consecutive games.

Prediction: Seattle 21, St. Louis 17

Carolina (0-3) at New Orleans (2-1), New Orleans favored by 13 1/2

The Panthers offense is in shambles. Despite having two of the best running backs in the game in DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, they don't give either nearly enough touches. QB Jimmy Clausen looked awful in his first start and looks like he will be dealing with major growing pains. They have a head coach in John Fox who is completely lame duck and on his way out the door. Now they get to play an angry Saints team that blew a home game against the Falcons last weekend. One of my most loyal readers, Pinto, celebrated a birthday this week, so while I can't predict a Panthers win, I can at least predict that they will cover!

Prediction: New Orleans 24, Carolina 13

Baltimore (2-1) at Pittsburgh (3-0), Pittsburgh favored by 1 1/2

If not for McNabb's return to Philadelphia this would be the game of the weekend. I hate watching Ravens game, I find them incredibly dull and boring, but when they play the Steelers I make sure to tune in. The hatred is there between these two teams and you are guaranteed to see hard hits and intense play. The Steelers are looking to finish undefeated without QB Ben Rapelisberger. QB Charlie Batch did just enough against Tampa Bay, while the Steelers defense continues to look like it could be an all-time defense. The Ravens offense and QB Joe Flacco got some much needed confidence against the Browns, but when faced with other good defenses this year Flacco has looked awful. It is impossible to pick against the Steelers right now.

Prediction: Pittsburgh 14, Baltimore 12

Houston (2-1) at Oakland (1-2), Houston favored by 3

The Texans came back down to Earth just as I predicted they would against the Cowboys. I think Houston is good but they have major issues that need to be addressed with their passing defense. Luckily for them the Raiders really aren't the type of team that can exploit that. That means the offensive load will go to RB Darren McFadden. McFadden is finally looking like the running back everyone expected him to be coming out of Arkansas. Too much Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson, and Arian Foster for the Raiders to deal with.

Prediction: Houston 27, Oakland 17

Indianapolis (2-1) at Jacksonville (1-2), Indianapolis favored by 8 1/2

No matter what the Jaguars record is they always give the Colts fits. However, this year's Jaguars team looks like a new brand of awful. QB David Gerrard has regressed tremendously and the Jaguars defense can't stop anyone. Not good news when you have Peyton Manning and his seemingly new number one target, Austin Collie coming into town.

Prediction: Indianapolis 38, Jacksonville 17

Washington (1-2) at Philadelphia (2-1), Philadelphia favored by 6

What was most disheartening about the Skins blowout loss at St. Louis last weekend was how poorly coached they looked. In the preseason and the first two games, you could at least say that with Mike Shanahan the Skins looked competently coached. That was a Jim Zorn type effort Skins fans were treated to last Sunday. The early season story in the NFL is the sudden reemergence of Mike Vick. Vick is playing out of his mind right now. He has to come back to Earth at some point. I don't think going to jail and barely playing suddenly made Vick one of the best quarterbacks in the league. I think this game will have a playoff like atmosphere with the whole McNabb spectacle. Donovan won't admit it but he will be extra jazzed up for this game. One thing that I don't understand is why WR Devin Thomas isn't getting a shot on offense. He really isn't better than Joey Galloway or Roydell Williams? I find that hard to believe. I have a funny feeling about this game. The Skins tend to always play down to their competition but when the competition stiffens they rise to the occasion. I think the Skins pull off the mild upset, McNabb get's a measure of revenge and plays very well, and Mike Vick finally doesn't have an above average game.

Prediction: Washington 23, Philadelphia 20

Arizona (2-1) at San Diego (1-2), San Diego favored by 8

Bill Parcells used to say you are what your records say you are but that isn't always true. The Cardinals have a better record than the Chargers but they are no way a better team than the Chargers. San Diego looks like they may be an awful road team this year, and then more like the Chargers we expect to see at home. The Cardinals were destroyed by the Falcons in their last road game, and with the atrocious Derek Anderson still under center, I expect a similar result in this game.

Prediction: San Diego 31, Arizona 10

Chicago (3-0) at New York Giants (1-2), New York Giants favored by 3 1/2

Chicago is very fortunate to be 3-0. They had the bogus call win them their game against Detroit when Megatron got a touchdown stolen from him. Then last Monday night Jay Cutler was able to get away with throwing about 5 interceptions because of penalties. The New York Giants are awful. They look like they have tuned out coach Tom Coughlin, Eli Manning threw one of the most retarded passes I have ever seen in my life last weekend, and the defense continues to get pushed around. I think the Giants will start slow in this one, the New York crowd will turn against them, the heat will rise on Coughlin, and the Bears will be one of the worst 4-0 teams ever.

Prediction: Chicago 28, New York Giants 17

Monday, October 4

New England (2-1) at Miami (2-1), New England favored by 1

The Dolphins are coming off a tough to swallow loss at home against the Jets. The Patriots offense looked impressive last weekend but their defense, specifically their pass defense continues to look pathetic. Dolphins QB Chad Henne was able to get his receivers going against the Jets, and I think WR Brandon Marshall could be in for a big game against the inexperienced Patriots secondary. It would be demoralizing for the Dolphins to lose two division, prime time home games in a row. The Patriots have proven over the last couple of seasons that they aren't a very good road team anymore. That trend continues Monday night.

Prediction: Miami 27, New England 24

Last Week Straight Up: 9-7
Overall Straight Up: 27-21

Last Week Against the Spread: 11-5 (hell yeah!)
Overall Against the Spread: 27-19-2