Sunday, October 28, 2007

2007 NFL Picks Week Eight

Due to most of my writing time this week being spent on a soon-to-be released massive column on the Cleveland Indians, it means this column will be on the short side. Not to worry, we still have a Maxine Hunt pick to look forward to as well as another Ballbuster Pick of the Week. So it's not a total loss.

Congrats to me again for having the best record last week, going 11-3. The 11-3 record just so happens to be the best record anyone has had throughout seven weeks. There's still plenty of time for someone to one-up that mark.

One last side note before getting into the picks. Two of our players, Kevin and Sara, are coming home from Australia this upcoming week. On behalf of our league I wish them a safe flight home and I'm looking forward to the Seahawks game here in a week. Giddy up.

STANDINGS (after seven weeks)
1) Luke 59-44 (11-3)
2) Sara 57-46 (9-5)
3) Devin 54-49 (9-5)
4) Kevin 52-51 (9-5)
5) Mr. Normand 51-52 (8-6)
6) Grothaus 50-53 (5-9) * went back through the weeks, and saw that I missed one
7) Bart 48-55 (6-8)
8) Barnes 46-57 (6-8)

Cleveland (-3) @ St. Louis

This just screams "obvious game," but I'm not listening. I went back through the first seven weeks and compiled everyone's records against individual teams. For example, Devin has the best record with the Browns at 4-2, while Devin, Sara, and Barnes lead the way for the Rams at 4-3. Such is my life. Pick: Cleveland

Sara brings up a great point about the recent changes to the NFL Draft, "I don't have anything to say this week other than I'm glad the NFL is shortening time for draft picks to 10 minutes. Too bad this doesn't affect the Browns next year." True story.

Kevin has a full slate of comments to enjoy and starts it out with, "Steven Jackson just made this a closer game than it needs to be, but I see the Browns defense stepping up in this game. The bye week should have helped Antwan Peek and Willie McGinest heal a little bit, which should help the pass rush on Bulger. Or at least we can only hope." Welcome to the life of a Browns fan.

Mr. Normand keeps it simple, "Go Browns. Enough said." Yes sir.

CLE: Luke, Sara, Devin, Kevin, Mr. Normand, Barnes
STL: Bart

Detroit @ Chicago (-5)

The Lions have failed to cover on the road this year while the Bears haven't covered at home yet as well. Something has to give. I'm going with the Bears because I'm shivering at the mere thought of the Lions sitting at 5-2. Pick: Chicago

Mr. Normand picks Detroit and then says, "The Lions need to wake up to win 10 games." Well, they win this one and they will be well on their way.

Kevin doesn't have a comment but is 5-1 so far picking the Lions games. Do with this as you will.

DET: Kevin, Mr. Normand, Bart, Barnes
CHI: Luke, Sara, Devin

Indianapolis (-7) @ Carolina

This is the definition of a trap game, especially with Marvin Harrison not playing. However, Vinny Testaverde IS playing, and that should bold well for Bob Sanders. Pick: Indianapolis

Mr. Normand follows my line of thinking as he hopes the Colts aren't looking ahead.

Kevin asks a question that he and I both know the answer to, "I swore I would take the Panthers if Vinny and Byron Leftwich started in the same week. Now Vinny might not even start and Leftwich is out 3-4 weeks with an ankle injury. There's no way I can seriously hold the power to injure people from thousands of miles away just by talking about them, can I??"

IND: Luke, Sara, Devin, Kevin, Mr. Normand, Bart, Barnes
CAR:

New York Giants (-9.5) @ Miami @ London

The Dolphins are having a bad couple of weeks. Trent Green goes down with a season ending concussion. Ronnie Brown is done for the year. Chris Chambers is traded to the Chargers. Now, they have a home game @ London. Go figure. Pick: New York Giants

Mr. Normand adds a little English flavor, "Taking the bloddy GMEN, of course." I love it.

Kevin comes through with yet another quote of the week, "Cleo Lemon?? Jessie Chatman?? The Dolphins are looking worse every week. They even lost linebacker Zach Thomas because he's suffering from whiplash. The ironic thing is, the injury occurred after last weekend's loss in Miami to the Patriots. Thomas was rear-ended in his car by, according to police reports, a man wearing a New England jersey. They can't catch a break and still won't when they head to England. If the Dolphins can't beat NEW England, how are they supposed to beat Old ('Olde'??) England?? The word 'bloody' will have two meanings to English fans attending in London this weekend: 'The bloody Giants beat the blood out of the Dolphins. How bloody much did we pay for these tickets?? Bloody hell.'" Yes, these are my friends.

NYG: Luke, Sara, Devin, Kevin, Mr. Normand, Barnes
MIA: Bart

Oakland @ Tennessee (-7)

I've actually done quite well picking Titans games this year, posting a league best 4-2 record. However, this does nothing for me as I'm really not sure on this one. I'm banking on the Raiders keeping it close. God help me. Pick: Oakland

Kevin's Ballbuster Pick of the Week (2-4): Tennessee

Instead of over complicating things this week, Kevin decides to keep it simple and take the home team in the fifth game listed.

"I think the record for this pick is just bad. I don't even want to know it. But I am taking a different approach. Perhaps I threw too much at my Ballbuster picks right at the beginning of the year, making it more difficult to understand. That's why I'm dumbing down the playbook a little bit, so the Ballbuster can get back on track." We'll see.

OAK: Luke, Sara, Bart
TEN: Devin, Kevin, Mr. Normand, Barnes

Philadelphia (-1) @ Minnesota

I started the season 0-4 on Eagles games, but somehow managed to win the last two. Here's to hoping I can make it three. Pick: Philadelphia

Mr. Normand does the correct thing as he says, "I'm tired of waiting for McNabb to have another good game."

Philly has been one of those teams that just can not put two good games together. They also have been favored every week, going 2-4 ATS. Ouch.

Kevin wants to give up on the Eagles, but just can't quite yet, "I can't get off the Eagles' train. Making this spread one point just begs me to keep picking them. So I will."

PHI: Luke, Devin, Kevin
MIN: Sara, Mr. Normand, Bart, Barnes

Pittsburgh (-3.5) @ Cincinnati

The Steelers are 1-2 ATS on the road while the Bengals are 2-1 at home. Here's to hoping that trend continues. Pick: Cincinnati

Mr. Normand feels that even though the Bengals sometimes play up to their competition, it won't be this time.

Kevin provides some insider information I'm betting he gained during his internship, "The Steelers own the Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. This is a true instance of me not betting on my hopes." All of a sudden I don't like my pick.

PIT: Devin, Kevin, Mr. Normand
CIN: Luke, Sara, Bart, Barnes

Buffalo @ New York Jets (-3)

I'm 99% confident of my pick in this AFC East match-up. The Bills are simply not the same team on the road as they are at home. They are a perfect 4-0 at home ATS and 0-2 on the road. Pick: New York Jets

Maxine Hunt Pick of the Week (2-0): New York Jets

"Me: Buffalo at New York Jets, Jets are 3-point favorites

Mom: ? thinking**After a period of time...**

Mom: Jets

Me: Well, you spent some time on it, any particular reason why you chose them??

Mom: Cuz when i think Buffalo.....I think Buffalo Buffons

Mom: or maybe Baffoons

Mom: sounds like balloon

Mom: genius, right

Once again, she's 2-0, how can I NOT go with her picks."

Wow.

BUF: Sara, Devin, Bart, Barnes
NYJ: Luke, Kevin, Mr. Normand

Houston @ San Diego (-9)

I don't know how this happened, but I'm 7-0 on Houston Texans games. Go figure. Pick: San Diego

Mr. Normand throws a joke at Texans backup QB Sage Rosenfels, "I am not really a SAGE but going with the Chargers!"

Kevin does a good job of putting things in perspective, "Talk about not being a game about football at all. I sure hope the wildfires continue to die down/be put out. Something tells me the Chargers players will actually WANT to just play football this weekend, to not worry about their homes, etc. for a 3-4 hour period, though the opposite could happen just as easily."

HOU: Bart
SD: Luke, Sara, Devin, Kevin, Mr. Normand, Barnes

Jacksonville (-2.5) @ Tampa Bay

This spread does not do justice to the Jags QB Quinn Gray. I expect the Bucs to roll. Pick: Tampa Bay

Mr. Normand again follows my line of thinking as he expects the Bucs to beat up the Jags.

Kevin comes up with something that needs no introduction, "Have you seen this Gray guy pass the ball?? This game might be a Classic Browns score of 9-3. What's worse is I'm picking the former Brown, Jeff Garcia, to win the game. Is the world really ending?? Are the Browns 3-3?? Do I have any pants on??" For the second time this week, yes, these are my friends.

JAX: Sara, Devin
TB: Luke, Kevin, Mr. Normand, Bart, Barnes

New Orleans (-3) @ San Francisco

The Saints have covered just one game this season, but it happened on the road. Probably had something to do with last years team not having a home. Pick: New Orleans

Mr. Normand cries for the Saints to finally win one for him this year. Well in all actuality, Mr. Normand shares the best record for the Saints with a 3-3 mark. Go figure.

These comments Kevin comes up with just keep getting better, "Alex Smith is back, but is not the reason why I'm taking the 49ers. Earlier this week I learned that the Australian National Basketball League team that plays in Adelaide is the 36ers. Have I seen them play?? No. But as you can probably tell from the Ballbuster Pick and Maxine Hunt pick, I don't put a whole lot of 'knowledge' into my choices." Yet he is in fourth place.

NO: Luke, Sara, Devin, Mr. Normand, Barnes
SF: Kevin, Bart

Washington @ New England (-16)

The Patriots are 7-0 on the season and 7-0 ATS. No one seems to think they can go 16-0 on both, but if there was one coach who wanted to stick it to everyone AND had the players to do it, it's Bill Belichick. To my surprise, I'm the only one to pick New England each week. Everyone else has picked against them at least twice. Thank you very much. Pick: New England

Mr. Normand says that he has been burned so far taking the points against the Patriots. He is 100% correct. Mr. Normand is 2-5 picking New England games. That hurts.

Kevin reminds us of a New England game a couple weeks ago, "Remember what happened when the Pats played the Cowboys, who supposedly had a great defense and would give New England fits?? A couple of good cornerbacks will not stop this team. My prediction for the score: NE 45, WASH 21."

WAS: Sara
NE: Luke, Devin, Kevin, Mr. Normand, Bart, Barnes

Green Bay @ Denver (-3)

I don't know why, but I'm taking the Broncos. I guess I just don't think the Packers are well deserving of their 5-1 record. We'll see. Pick: Denver

Mr. Normand speaks for every Browns fan when he thanks the Broncos for beating the Steelers last week.

Kevin, which is the only person to have a winning record on Green Bay's games (5-1) says, "The Pack is getting points, I love it. The only thing that could pull down Green Bay this week is Brett Favre throwing the ball into bad situations while trying to prove to everyone that he still has a ton of arm strength. Well, that and the fact that DeShawn Wynn needs to show up in the Packers' running game. I just hope Favre throws nine interceptions and still wins, it would be classic."

GB: Kevin, Bart
DEN: Luke, Sara, Devin, Mr. Normand, Barnes

That's it for this week. Grothaus failed to get his picks in which causes some concern. Apparently no one has seen or heard from Grothaus since the Indians collapse. Go figure.

Bart does not have any thoughts for the week although I do know that he dressed up as Nacho Libre for Halloween. Fitting indeed.

Kevin however does have a message for Bart, "We are probably the worst two people at picking the 'Boring Game of the Week.' Mine ended up being a high scoring affair and his (Bengals-Jets) actually came down to the fourth quarter as well. We should just stop, it would do us a world of good." Gotta love it.

Allright, best of luck to everyone and GO BROWNS!!

Until next time, "read it, roll it, hole it."

Sunday, October 21, 2007

2007 NFL Picks Week Seven

There is only one word that can accurately describe the theme of this post.

Excitement.

I am excited for many different reasons, but the mere fact that they have all culminated in one week makes for well, an exciting post.

Let's start with the Cleveland Indians. Granted they did blow a 3-1 series lead on the Red Sox, but they still have a chance to win tonight in a do-or-die game seven. Doesn't get too much more exciting than that.

The Cleveland Browns entered their bye week this year with a 3-3 record. After their opening day display I would have thought that to be impossible. It makes these next couple games they play quite exciting.

I went 9-4 last week in these picks, which just so happened to be the best record for week six. That puts me in a tie with Sara for first place. You can feel the excitement in the air.

Lastly, I'm registering for classes at Ohio University on Friday for the first time in over a year. Albeit a very simple thing, for me, it's signifying the beginning of the end of my collegiate career. The goal is in sight, and I'm kick-starting that this Friday. Excitement.

For some, too much excitement is a bad thing and can ruin performances. Take J-RO for example. Whenever there was too much excitement this summer during our bowling league Jared was in trouble. Also out on the golf course it would cause Jared to miss that pretty simple putt. Being surrounded with an overload of excitement caused Jared's bowling scores to lower and raised his golfing scores.

I'm also very excited to write this post. Not for my comments but to show the world the comments made by everyone else. We have another Maxine Hunt pick as well as Bart's thoughts for the week.

Like I said, excitement.

STANDINGS (after six weeks)
1) Sara 48-41 (8-5)
1) Luke 48-41 (9-4)
3) Devin 45-44 (7-6)
4) Grothaus 44-45 (5-8)
5) Mr. Normand 43-46 (6-7)
5) Kevin 43-46 (8-5)
7) Bart 42-47 (6-7)
8) Barnes 40-49 (7-6)

Here we go.

Arizona @ Washington (-7)

Well so maybe the excitement does not carry over into some of these week seven games. However, I feel the need to make the best out of a crappy situation and/or game this week.

There should be some level of excitement for this game just simply to see how Tim Rattay will handle the reigns at quarterback this week for the Cardinals. I'm a believer that Cleveland has had some raw breaks but these Arizona Cardinals can make the same argument. They entered the season with very little worries at the QB position. Now, just six weeks in, they have Tim Rattay starting. Ouch.

These Washington Redskins gave away their game last week against the Packers and should be ready to win this game convincingly. Pick: Washington

Let the best week for comments by far begin.

Bart starts out on a great note, "If any more quarterbacks get hurt Arizona will be giving Randy Johnson a call. You heard it from me first." Seriously, this might be an option at this point.

Kevin decides that the Cardinals will have some NLCS carry over, "Arizona got swept by the Rockies, so they obviously won't cover seven against the Redskins." That's one way to look at it.
Sara manages to divert my attention for a bit, "For those of you who haven't seen ... DO check out Chris Cooley's player page on sportsline.com. You won't regret it."

Mr. Normand follows my line of thinking, "Rattay, give me a break."

ARI: No one
WAS: Everyone

Atlanta @ New Orleans (-8.5)

The Saints finally showed up last week beating the Seahawks. The question is if that type of performance will continue. On the other hand, the Atlanta Falcons are starting Byron Leftwich at QB. I can not trust this New Orleans team until they show some consistency. So, believe it or not, I'm backing Leftwich in this one. I mean what's more exciting than backing Leftwich. Not much. Pick: Atlanta

Mr. Normand feels that New Orleans is ready to roll, "The Breeses are starting to bring the heat." We'll see.

Bart puts things in perspective, "Leftwich will help the Falcons, which is not really saying much because I don’t think that they can get much worse." True story.

Kevin looks back at his past comments which causes some unintentional humor, "I think somewhere in Week One I made this joke: 'Vince Young runs rampant, while Byron Leftwich laughs while watching the game with fellow recently-released quarterback Vinny Testaverde. Meanwhile, Testaverde cracks jokes about the 70s and Leftwich has no clue what he's talking about.' All of a sudden six weeks later they're both playing again. If Vinny had a game this week, I would pick both of them to win. I thought that line was pretty funny for a week one quote and now it's even better." Strong candidate for quote of the week.

ATL: Sara, Luke, Kevin, Grothaus
NO: Devin, Mr. Normand, Bart, Barnes

Baltimore (-3) @ Buffalo

This game was a difficult one for me to pick. For one, Baltimore has been playing decent but not really beating good teams. On the other hand, three points is not that much. However, the Bills have been covering at home ALL season. I'm going to follow the #1 rule in gambling and pick the Bills until they fail to cover in Buffalo. Pick: Buffalo

Sara is absolutely correct when she says, "Buffalo will try and try to give away this game at the end, too, but it'll get bailed out because I can't think of anything more pathetic than the Ravens' offense." Baltimore can not physically complete a play for more than 12 yards. Look it up.

Mr. Normand shows his true colors, "I'm rooting against my own pick here." Go Browns.

Bart chooses to keep things simple, "The Bills suck." Yeah, but I don't think Baltimore is that much better.

Kevin's Ballbuster Pick of the Week (1-4): Baltimore

Kevin decided to take the third game listed and take the team who came up first alphabetically. But first Kevin would spell the team mascot's backwards and go from there. Wow.

"snevaR @ slliB -- I've seriously hit some lows with these. I think I might have to just revert back to picking the games randomly. It's so complicated that I have to write everything out beforehand." While that is probably true, the more complicated Hunt makes these things, the better his chances to pick the winner.

BAL: Devin, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Bart, Grothaus
BUF: Sara, Luke, Barnes

Minnesota @ Dallas (-9.5)

Memo to the Cowboys last week: "Welcome to the AFC. Where actual good teams play." Dallas stays at home this week to face the all of a sudden dangerous Minnesota Vikings. Tavaris Jackson was the happiest person alive last week when Adrian Peterson ran for over 200 yards and three TD's. However, look for Dallas to come out and make Jackson beat them. Pick: Dallas

Mr. Normand thinks the Cowboys will be able to rebound from last week, "The 'boys come back from a whoopin'." If Dallas loses this game the Giants might be the best team in the NFC right now. God help us.

Maxine Hunt Pick of the Week (1-0): Dallas

"This was her exact thoughts on the pick ...

Mom: This week while i was at bodyworks, I saw the Dallas Cowboy cheerleader competition on CMT.

Mom: How's that for a reason?

She's 1-0, so I can't complain. But it was based on a country music channel, so we'll see."

Bart tells all of us where his true passion lies, "I already ate all of my popcorn, so I think I am gonna get my Lemon Heads ready instead." Yes, these are my friends.

MIN: Bart, Grothaus
DAL: Sara, Luke, Devin, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Barnes

New England (-17) @ Miami

New England is awesome. They are very very good. However, they have a history of not playing well at Miami. If EVER there was a week where I would pick against the Patriots, this would be the week. Pick: New England

Bart puts it best regarding Miami trading Chris Chambers for a 2nd round draft pick, "I don’t think getting rid of Chris Chambers is going to help them win games this year, or ever."

Sara thinks outside the box, "I just learned this week that there are officially TWO Brady's on the Patriots (the other being the back-up tight end, Kyle). 2x("Brady") + NE = Patriots beating the rest of their schedule by a zillion points instead of 1,000." It's crazy to think that this might ACTUALLY happen.

Kevin doesn't see the 17 points (which is the biggest spread we've seen yet this year) as a problem for New Engalnd, "You do realize the Browns had a 17-point lead on Miami until the Dolphins scored with under 2 minutes to go?? Wes Welker big game against his former team."

Mr. Normand disagrees, "17 points is a lot, anyone giving me more (28)?" Sorry about your luck.

NE: Sara, Luke, Devin, Kevin, Bart
MIA: Mr. Normand, Barnes, Grothaus

San Francisco @ New York Giants (-9)

The G-Men are on a roll, which is a sure sign that they are going to fall off here soon. That's just what the Giants do. They look good for a while but then stink it up when everyone starts backing them. Eli Manning does much better when everyone thinks that he's not that good. When people start liking him, he falls under the pressure and dare I say it, the excitement surrounding him. Pick: San Francisco

Bart gets strong consideration for quote of the week, "San Francisco doesn’t have enough offense or straight people in the city to have a good team." For the second time this week, yes these are my friends.

Mr. Normand is sorry he bet on Gore to win the rushing title this year. It's scary to think Adrian Peterson has a chance to win that title. I'm still furious the Browns passed him over at #3.

Kevin sums things up nicely, "The Giants are at home and Trent Dilfer is starting for the 49ers. The reason Dilfer was anything with the Ravens was because their defense covered up his awfulness." Apparently Kevin is forgetting Dilfer's wonder years with Cleveland.

SF: Luke, Barnes, Grothaus
NYG: Sara, Devin, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Bart

Tampa Bay @ Detroit (-2)

Still have no idea about either of these teams. The Lions are getting healthy this week when Calvin Johnson comes back. The Bucs barely beat Tennessee last week while the Lions had a bye week. I'll take the fresh team to win by a field goal. Pick: Detroit

Sara is glad that football players wear helmets, "Jeff Garcia + Jon Kitna = two pretty ugly dudes."

Kevin sees a Lions disaster, "Detroit defense gives this one away in the late stages of the game and Jon Kitna blows his top." We'll see.

Devin meanwhile picks Tampa Bay and wonders if it should even be allowed.

Mr. Normand follows my line of thinking, "I'm still not sure how good or bad either of these teams are." Welcome to the NFC. This could be a playoff preview for all we know.

TB: Sara, Devin, Kevin, Bart, Barnes
DET: Luke, Mr. Normand, Grothaus

Tennessee (-1) @ Houston

Is Vince Young going to play? Is Andre Johnson going to play? Well, as I write this the latter is definitely not playing. Like I've said before Johnson just makes Houston go. Without him they will fail to win this game. Even without Vince Young the Titans have a good enough defense to win this. Pick: Tennessee

Mr. Normand says exactly what I just got done saying, "Love their [Ten] defense, will Young play?" Great minds think alike.

Kevin hopes that Vince Young does not try to do too much to show off in Houston.

TEN: Luke, Devin, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Grothaus
HOU: Sara, Bart, Barnes

Kansas City @ Oakland (-3)

I heart Herm Edwards. It's really that simple. Larry Johnson is finally starting to do something and Kansas City all of a sudden doesn't look that bad. I expect this game to be close and will take the points accordingly. Pick: Kansas City

Kevin says it correctly, "Larry Johnson is going to start gathering yards now. His 'preseason' is over." True story.

Mr. Normand believes that Johnson woke up against the Bengals. Who Dey!!

KC: Sara, Luke, Devin, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Bart, Barnes
OAK: Grothaus

New York Jets @ Cincinnati (-6)

When did the Bengals get so bad? It feels all of a sudden. They won their opening week game against the Ravens and then just fell a part. They haven't won another game since. Maybe they all had to do community service at the same time and their focus slipped a bit on the field. I really don't know. However, the key to winning these things are to pick up on trends before they happen. Here's to hoping I get this one right. Pick: Cincinnati

Bart makes another provisional pick, which I will allow based on his provisions, "I am picking whoever wears the darker uniform for this game. Other than that I have no comment on this game because I think this may win the 'Boring Game of the Year Award.'" Gotta love it.

Sara has a great point, "Apparently the Bengals are playing with better teamwork now, says Marvin Lewis. Sounds like the words of a coach on the hot seat."

NYJ: Bart, Grothaus
CIN: Sara, Luke, Devin, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Bart, Barnes

Chicago @ Philadelphia (-5)

Are the Chicago Bulls better than the Philadelphia 76ers? Absolutely.

Are the Chicago Cubs better than the Philadelphia Phillies? They both got swept, but the Phillies opponent is still in it.

Would I rather travel to the Windy City or the City of Brotherly Love? Windy City, no question.

Go Bulls. Pick: Chicago

Bart keeps the ongoing theme running, "The movie still has not gotten any better, but the team has, a little." I love it.

Kevin throws in his hat for quote of the week, "Because Mike Golic said he'd be there stuffing his face with cheese steaks. Dan Marino and the folks at Nutrisystem, meanwhile, are ticked." Not a good year for Marino. Favre breaks his records, the Dolphins won't win a game and now this. He is completely miserable.

CHI: Luke, Devin, Grothaus
PHI: Sara, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Bart, Barnes

St. Louis @ Seattle (-8.5)

As Bill Simmons put it, "I hate the Seahawks." I agree. More importantly I hate Mr. Alexander. He has killed my fantasy team the last two weeks. So here it is. If he struggles again this week I'm done with him. Completely done. I'll trade him for rubbish because that is exactly what Alexander has become. However, this Rams team is pathetic. Pick: Seattle

Bart tells it like it is, "Marc Bulger is dumb."

Mr. Normand wonders if the Rams can stay this bad forever. To answer his question: if by forever you mean the rest of this year, then yes.

Kevin however still has hope, "Marc Bulger is coming back and I didn't like anything I saw out of Seattle's defense last week. The Rams will at least keep it close, even without Steven Jackson." When I first read this it made me like my pick a lot more.

STL: Mr. Normand, Kevin, Grothaus
SEA: Sara, Luke, Devin, Bart, Barnes

Pittsburgh (-3.5) @ Denver

When I first saw this game I guessed the spread would be around (-8) for Pittsburgh. However I was quite surprised to see it down to the current (-3.5). This makes me question if the oddsmakers know something I don't. I do know that Denver is not very good this year. I do know that Pittsburgh is better than the Broncos. Both teams are coming off a bye week and as much as I want to back the Broncos, I can't afford to give away games right now. Pick: Pittsburgh

Sara, as her father did earlier, shows her true colors, "Pittsburgh sucks."

Kevin comes through with THE quote of the week, "This is Denver's last chance to keep fans from leaving Invesco Field and heading to Coors Field. It could also be Travis Henry's second-to-last game at Invesco for a year. I would use the name 'Mile High Stadium' in this situation just because Henry is likely to be suspended for marijuana charges, but I still hate John Elway. And Ernest Byner. But Elway more." Congrats Hunt. This was a tough week to win it.

Mr. Normand picks the Broncos but simply because he too hates the Steelers. I'm a big fan of family ties, especially when the Browns are involved.

PIT: Sara, Luke, Devin, Bart, Barnes, Grothaus
DEN: Mr. Normand, Kevin

Indianapolis (-3) @ Jacksonville

These are two very good teams doing battle on Monday Night Football. The key here will be Peyton Manning. Manning always performs well on MNF and I expect him to do the same here this week. The Colts are fresh, as they had a bye week last week and their stars are starting to get healthy. Don't be surprised if this comes down to the last few minutes, but the Colts will come away with the win and the cover. Pick: Indianapolis

Kevin expects the same thing as me, "NEW ENGLAND IS THE BEST TEAM IN THE ENTIRE WORLD!! Oh yeah, Indy didn't play last week. I guess by luck they just don't get publicity. I look for the 'O' and the 'D' to come out in full force on Monday Night." New England IS the best team Hunt, but the Colts are 2nd, no doubt.

Mr. Normand also picks the Colts because their weapons are healing.

IND: Everyone
JAX: No one

That wraps it up for week seven. My apologies for not posting this until 1:45. These picks were all made and the column was ready to go I just simply forgot that I had not posted it yet.

I can't think of a more exciting and/or fitting way to end this post than with the return of Bart's Thoughts of the Week. Enjoy.

"Let me start off by saying sorry to all of the fans of my comments, my computer has been broke for the last two weeks therefore making it hard to send emails. To the other seven billion people in the world, you are going to have to start suffering through them again. Kevin you were definitely wrong last week with your 'Boring Game of the Week' pick, I mean, I don’t know what you look for but, a medium amount of scoring by both teams, a rookie running back with more than 200 yards and 3 TDs, Devin Hester (need I say more?), and a last second field goal to win the game, does not constitute boring in my book. Nice pick Kevin. That’s all I got. Good luck to Sunderland of the English Premier Soccer League, they will be facing West Ham United on Sunday in a very tough road match."

Best of luck to everyone and GO TRIBE!!!

"Read it, roll it, hole it."

Sunday, October 14, 2007

2007 NFL Picks Week Six

The common theme this week is the simple fact that there are a lot of awful NFL teams. We are at the point now in the NFL regular season where teams are beginning to establish themselves as either a contender or a pretender. Entering week six it is safe to say there are four really good teams, three to four just “regular” good teams, and the rest are unpleasant at best. So, instead of talking about some of these awful teams and their match-ups this week I will talk about other things I have on my mind. The main reason I am doing this is for my own personal safety. Seriously, talking about how Vinny Testaverde and Kurt Warner are facing each other this week might make me hurt myself. On we go.

Congratulations to Bart for winning week four in a tiebreaker over Sara. Week five did not render a double-digit winner but Grothaus was able to win nine games to take home the week. Here are the standings after five weeks.

STANDINGS
1) Sara 40-36 (5-9)
2) Luke 39-37 (7-7)
2) Grothaus 39-37 (9-5)
4) Devin 38-38 (8-6)
5) Mr. Normand 37-39 (3-11)
6) Bart 36-40 (8-6)
7) Kevin 35-41 (5-9)
8) Barnes 33-43 (7-7)

Giddy up.

Cincinnati (-3) @ Kansas City

The Cleveland Indians played a five hour marathon last night in Game Two of the ALCS against the Boston Red Sox. It was a game the Indians had to win. Facing the daunting challenge of having to beat Boston in four out of five games to win the series would have been almost impossible. The Indians managed to split the first two games despite having C.C. Sabathia and Fausto Carmona fail to get out of the fifth inning. The series will be determined at Jacobs Field where the next three games are being played. Whoever wins the majority of games in Cleveland should be in full control to represent the American League in the World Series. Pick: Cincinnati

Hunt, who has a full slate of comments to enjoy this week begins with, “I have no comment on this game. My only thing to say is Happy Birthday to Luke, who turned 22 on Thursday. We may only be getting older, but hey, who isn't these days??” Thanks Hunt for the birthday wishes and for giving me some ammunition to use for one of these crappy games. Mr. Normand picks the Bengals but admits he has no faith in Cincy. Devin meanwhile forecasts a big game for Chad Johnson.

CIN: Luke, Devin, Mr. Normand, Barnes, Grothaus
KC: Sara, Bart, Kevin

Houston @ Jacksonville (-6.5)

Hey, an actual decent game! In all actuality this game could be a lot better if Texan WR Andre Johnson would be playing. This is his fourth straight week he will have missed. The Texans are 1-2 so far without his services. As far as Jacksonville goes they are one Vince Young TD drive away from being 4-0. Don’t look now but this AFC South is suddenly the best conference in football. Six and a half points might be too much for Jacksonville, but until Houston gets completely healthy I’ll take my chances with the Jaguars. Pick: Jacksonville

Hunt wants a short scoring contest, “The Jags D is allowing the second-fewest points per game, so I'm basically hoping it's a 9-3 final. Although, Maurice Jones-Drew might account for the entire spread himself.” Devin decides to take matters to a higher power by flipping a coin.

HOU: Devin, Mr. Normand, Bart, Kevin, Grothaus
JAX: Sara, Luke, Barnes

Miami @ Cleveland (-4.5)

Uh oh. The Browns take the field in a game that they should win. They are playing at home AND facing a winless Dolphin team. Everything points to the Dolphins. However, I liked what I saw last week in New England. The Browns turned the ball over three times and still were only down by ten points with under a minute remaining. That is a good sign. Do you think Cam Cameron would like to have that draft pick back? Pick: Cleveland

Sara follows my line of thinking, “If he hasn't done it already, Cam Cameron should be punching himself in the face at this point for not taking Brady Quinn in this year's draft.” Kevin provides what could have been a great tiebreaker question for this week, “Bonus point should be given to person who can correctly pick the over/under on number of times CBS shows Brady Quinn during the broadcast. My guess: 75.” Hunt, I’m taking your number and adding a 0 to the end of it. Devin goes against one of his rules and picks the Browns and hopes for a big win. Mr. Normand chooses to keep it simple, “Cleveland Rocks!” True story.

MIA: Bart, Barnes
CLE: Sara, Luke, Devin, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Grothaus

Minnesota @ Chicago (-5.5)

I’ve said it before, and I’m sure I will say it again. TAVARIS JACKSON ON THE ROAD!! TAVARIS JACKSON ON THE ROAD!! Pick: Chicago

Hunt feels like I do at the beginning of this post and decides to put a name to this battle, “In what I hope will be a continuing trend, I name this game my Boring Game of the Week. The only thing keeping both teams from running on every down is the fact that Minnesota has the top ranked run defense. So Chicago will have to throw every once in awhile, which, with Brian Griese under center, will probably just mean a lot of incompletions.” Devin believes Chicago is going to go on a roll, while Mr. Normand thinks Kelly Holcomb looks bad at Minnesota too.

MIN: Bart
CHI: Sara, Luke, Devin, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Barnes, Grothaus

Philadelphia (-3) @ New York Jets

Yes, Kevin is correct. I did turn 22 this past Thursday. I really don’t think it has sunk in that I am actually 22 years old. I have a hard time believing that I am older than most of the college football players I watch every Saturday afternoon. Not gonna lie, I only feel like a 17 year old kid. Which I guess isn’t a bad thing. I’m currently putting the over/under on the age where I don’t have to show my ID to buy beer at 35. Pick: Philadelphia

Sara comes up with an interesting way to decide the winner, “I can't think of two quarterbacks with more pressure on them than the ones from these two teams. But Chad Pennington doesn't have chunky soup.” She has a point.

KEVIN’S BALLBUSTER PICK OF THE WEEK (0-4): Philadelphia

“Ballbuster Pick of the Week. At this point, I'm following along the lines of my game comments by trying to think up the most ridiculous things I can. I hope it's working.” And what follows is how Kevin came up with this pick.

“5th game listed, whichever team has a #25 on roster -- if both have one, choose the team whose #25 has a shorter last name. Pick: Philly's Reno Mahe over New York's Kerry Rhodes.” Here’s to hoping Hunt can get that first Ballbuster winning pick.

PHI: Sara, Luke, Devin, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Barnes, Grothaus
NYJ: Bart

St. Louis @ Baltimore (-9.5)

My Dad got me a new basketball hoop for my birthday. Putting up the hoop brought back memories of the day when Dad brought home the very first basketball hoop. I was around the age of six or seven and I remember a bunch of the neighborhood kids came over to help. That first hoop has seen it’s share of basketball shots. I would love to compile a list of all the people who took a shot at that first hoop. Great, great memories. Pick: Baltimore

Hunt says, “A close runner up for Boring Game of the Week.” Mr. Normand has a hard time believing that Baltimore can even score ten points.

STL: Sara, Mr. Normand, Bart, Grothaus
BAL: Luke, Devin “whatever”, Kevin, Barnes

Tennessee @ Tampa Bay (-2.5)

If anyone reading this has not watched “The Office” on NBC then you are missing out tremendously. However there is hope for those of you that have missed the first three episodes of season four. Hit up nbc.com and you can watch every episode online. My favorite character so far this season is Kevin. “You have got to be kidding me.” “I knew it.” Seriously, take some time and watch a couple episodes, you will fall in love just like I did. Pick: Tennessee

Hunt comes through with the quote of the week, “In another new addition to my picks, this is the Maxine Hunt pick of the week. I asked her to pick a number between 1 and 13 - she chose 7 which gives her this game. She took Tampa Bay because she knew their mascot right away. But immediately replied, ‘Although I did remember the Titan name later, so i guess that's where the point spread comes into play.’ This idea instantly turned out to be one of the better investments of my time.” Yes, these are my friends.

TEN: Sara, Luke, Devin, Mr. Normand, Bart, Barnes, Grothaus
TB: Kevin

Washington @ Green Bay (-3)

Welcome to the battle for the 2nd best team in the NFC. Seriously, these are the contenders. A 40 year old Brett Favre with absolutely no running game against Jason Campbell and Joe Gibbs. Adding fuel to the proverbial fire is the fact that FOX will be televising this game. Awesome. Pick: Washington

Hunt is making the following a reoccurring theme, “Back the Pack 'cause the Pack is back‘ ... this week after letting me down for the first time this year last week.” Does anyone else remember that Brett Favre poster in Mr. Stover’s class? I remember almost losing it when Nick Lay went up there to sharpen his pencil and made sexual gestures towards Favre’s “bulge.” Hilarious.

Devin believes that Green Bay is starting to go downhill while Mr. Normand loves #4.

WAS: Luke, Devin, Bart
GB: Sara, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Barnes, Grothaus

Carolina @ Arizona (-4)

The only thing worse than a David Carr vs. Kurt Warner game is one where you take out David Carr and replace him with Vinny Testaverde. Do you know who the last quarterback was that led the Cleveland Browns to a playoff game victory? The answer, Vinny. You can not make this up. Pick: Arizona

Hunt feels extra creative as he says, “I'll coin the new Kurt Warner descriptor as ‘The Hottest Show in the Desert.’ Since I've essentially copyrighted it, I'll only let people use it at the price of a beer per use. Thanks.” No Kevin, thank you. Mr. Normand sees Kurt Warner returning to his ‘99 form, “Warner comeback continues.”

CAR: Devin, Bart
ARZ: Sara, Luke, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Barnes, Grothaus

New England (-4) @ Dallas

This just in, both of these teams are undefeated. The Dallas Cowboys are the class of the NFC, yet needed a game winning, clock expiring, 52 yard field goal to beat the lowly Buffalo Bills last week. The number one rule in sports gambling is not to jump off from a team that is winning and covering spreads. The Patriots are 5-0 this year straight-up AND against the spread. Pick: New England

Sara, somehow, includes a Cleveland Brown in her comments between two undefeated teams, “Phil Dawson is old. Dallas would've never won its last game with him. They won't win this one either.” Mr. Normand thinks that Tony Romo can not get any worse. Only time will tell.

NE: Sara, Luke, Devin, Bart, Kevin, Barnes, Grothaus
DAL: Mr. Normand

Oakland @ San Diego (-10)

These games are so bad that I deem it necessary to throw in one of my favorite jokes. “I was down in Georgia last week visiting my buddy’s family. While I was down there my buddy’s kid got caught having sex with his teacher. Well, my first thought was ‘hey good for you kid.’ However I later found out that the kid was home schooled. That was the bad news.” Pick: San Diego

Devin believes that ten is too many points for the Chargers while Mr. Normand sees L.T finally running wild.

OAK: Sara, Devin, Bart, Grothaus
SD: Luke, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Barnes

New Orleans @ Seattle (-7)

“I like an escalator, man, 'cause an escalator can never break. It can only become stairs. There would never be an ‘Escalator Temporarily Out of Order’ sign, only ‘Escalator Temporarily Stairs.’ Sorry for the Convenience." Pick: New Orleans

Hunt sees bad things with his pick, “Will New Orleans ever win?? Probably this week. But I'll take my chances.” When Hunt takes his chances, and they are against my chances, then I really like my chances. Mr. Normand comes through with, “Saints finally said their prayers last week.” I like it. Devin however refuses to pick New Orleans until they win a game.

NO: Sara, Luke, Mr. Normand, Bart, Barnes
SEA: Grothaus, Devin, Kevin

New York Giants (-3.5) @ Atlanta

This is the Monday Night game? Are you kidding me? Wow. I got nothing but another joke. “I like to wave at people I don't know. It's dangerous to wave to someone you don't know cause what if they don't have a hand? They think you're cocky. Look what I got punk! This thing is useful I'm gonna go pick something up!" Pick: New York Giants

Hunt is dead on with this, “Report: ESPN seeking money from Michael Vick for effectively ruining this Monday Night Football match-up.” Kevin, I would not doubt that this story would go on first before the Indians Game Three win. Devin asks if the Giants could actually be good. The answer to that is that we will never know because the NFC is pathetic at best.

NYG: Sara, Luke, Grothaus, Devin, Mr. Normand
ATL: Bart, Kevin, Barnes

That’s all I got. Best of luck to everyone and GO TRIBE!!!

Sunday, October 07, 2007

2007 NFL Picks Week Five

First things first, I must apologize to everyone for the hurried and abbreviated column this week. Simply put, I had way too much fun in Cleveland the past couple of days. Look for a post in the middle of the week about the Indians and the rest of the MLB Playoffs. Also, I apologize to those who were looking for me this past weekend in Athens. The plan was to come down after Friday's Game Two @ Jacobs Field. Didn't quite make it down to Ohio U. To be perfectly honest I didn't feel like driving all the way back to Tiffin (which I did due to Grothaus riding along with me) and then waking up Saturday to drive all the way to Athens. On top of that, Grothaus and I decided to stay in Cleveland a bit longer Friday night to celebrate what was the best sporting event we both had ever seen. So, apologies for my absence from Athens and for this short post. On to the picks.

I also have to apologize for those who made comments this week. Sorry for not including them in this post. Not gonna lie, it's noon, and I want to get this done before the games start. Kudos to Bart and Sara last week for having the only pair of winning records. They both went 8-6 which gives Sara the overall lead by one game and brings Bart out of the cellar. The tiebreaker question this week for Bart and Sara was "How many incomplete passes will Tom Brady throw this week?" The person who guessed the closest, without going over (Price Is Right style) would be declared the week four winner (means absolutely nothing). Note, in the case that they both go over, whoever was the closest originally would win. Sara said five while Bart went with nine. Best of luck.

STANDINGS
1) Sara 35-27 (8-6)
2) Mr. Normand 34-28 (7-7)
3) Luke 32-30 (7-7)
4) Devin 30-32 (4-10)
4) Grothaus 30-32 (5-9)
4) Kevin 30-32 (6-8)
7) Bart 28-34 (8-6)
8) Barnes 26-35 (4-10)

On to the week five picks.

Carolina @ New Orleans (-3)

CAR: Grothaus, Bart
NO: Sara, Mr. Normand, Luke, Devin, Kevin, Barnes

Jacksonville (-2.5) @ Kansas City

JAX: Luke, Devin, Grothaus, Barnes
KC: Sara, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Bart

Detroit @ Washington (-3.5)

DET: Sara, Mr. Normand, Devin, Grothaus, Bart, Barnes
WAS: Luke, Kevin

Atlanta @ Tennessee (-8.5)

ATL: Sara, Luke, Devin, Grothaus, Bart
TEN: Mr. Normand, Kevin, Barnes

Miami @ Houston (-5.5)

MIA: Luke, Bart
HOU: Sara, Mr. Normand, Devin, Grothaus, Kevin, Barnes

Seattle @ Pittsburgh (-6)

SEA: Luke, Bart
PIT: Sara, Mr. Normand, Devin, Grothaus, Kevin, Barnes

Cleveland @ New England (-14.5)

CLE: Sara, Mr. Normand, Kevin, Bart
NE: Luke, Devin, Grothaus, Barnes

Arizona (-3.5) @ St. Louis

ARI: Sara, Mr. Normand, Luke, Kevin, Barnes
STL: Devin, Grothaus, Bart

New York Jets @ New York Giants (-3)

NYJ: Mr. Normand, Luke, Bart
NYG: Sara, Devin, Grothaus, Kevin, Barnes

Tampa Bay @ Indianapolis (-10)

TB: Luke, Bart
IND: Sara, Mr. Normand, Devin, Grothaus, Kevin, Barnes

San Diego @ Denver (-1)

SD: Sara, Devin, Grothaus, Bart, Barnes
DEN: Mr. Normand, Luke, Kevin's Ballbuster Pick of the Week (0-3)

Baltimore (-3.5) @ San Francisco

BAL: Sara, Mr. Normand, Luke, Devin, Grothaus, Kevin
SF: Bart, Barnes

Chicago @ Green Bay (-3)

CHI: Luke, Grothaus, Bart
GB: Sara, Mr. Normand, Devin, Kevin, Barnes

Dallas (-10) @ Buffalo

DAL: Sara, Devin, Grothaus, Barnes
BUF: Mr. Normand, Luke, Kevin, Bart

So there are the picks for this week. I already have too many "I'm sorries" in this post so I will not be ending with any more. Best of luck to everyone this week and GO TRIBE!!