2008 NFL ATS Pick 'Em: Week Four

***UPDATE*** We are all set. I have added your comments and my reactions. Enjoy.

My weekend was going pretty well sports wise. Pete Carroll and the USC Trojans lost. Brady Quinn was splitting reps with Derek Anderson. Notre Dame looked semi-coherent in their victory over Purdue. Something was bound to take a turn for the worse.

It did. Cool Hand Luke died.

It was T. Willy who was the first to call me by that name, much to my surprise. I had never even heard of Cool Hand Luke before. After learning about the movie, and the actor (Paul Newman) who played him, I quickly embraced the new nickname. I stashed it alongside, "Flo," "Skywalker," and "Little Hugo."

Mr. Newman will be missed, but his legacy will remain through Cool Hand Luke.

Side note: I still have never seen "Cool Hand Luke."

Quote Of The Week

Honors go to Matt Barnes for his week three comment. Thus far, Barnes, Lucius and D. Frank have their seat reserved for the honors banquet at the end of the season where we will crown the Quote of the Year.

"With every loss, Detroit is devaluing the wonderful American classic that is 'The Lion King.'"

One needs to understand that The Lion King is Barnes' favorite movie, which is why this quote is so great.

Congrats goes out to Alex Lucius for posting a league best 12-4 record last week. Lucius has put two solid weeks together to vault into first place by two games.

Okay, onto the picks.

Atlanta @ Carolina (-7) - FINAL SCORE: CAR 24-9

It looks like we are at the point where the Falcons resemble last year's Bills. A team that plays well at home (always covers) but looks miserable on the road (never covers).

Barnes: "The Falcons' two wins are against the Lions and Chiefs. Pretty sure that means they aren't really that good." Or, they simply play better at home. Maybe it is a combination of both.

Jake: "The only way Matt Ryan gets away from the Carolina front seven this week is to turn into a real falcon and fly far, far away." Happy 21st Birthday Jake. Welcome to the club.

Kevin: "My hope is that Atlanta is a bad team on the road. I'm also basing this pick off history (see Minnesota-Tennessee Ballbuster)." Score one for the good guys. For once.

Jeff: "Taking a page out of Romeo's book ... reach into pocket ... flip it ... Atlanta." Right off the bat, Jeff comes through with a QOTW possibility. Good stuff.

ATL: Shane, Braves, Devin, Jeff, Polito, Justin, Sara, Bart

CAR: Lucius, Grothaus, Luke, Rapking, Curtis, Josh, Chewy, Brian, Kevin, Bursa, Barnes, Jake

Cleveland @ Cincinnati (-3.5) - CLE 20-12

I don't even want to talk about this game. There will be a entire post dedicated to the state of the Browns franchise coming up tomorrow, as well as a letter I found that Romeo wrote to Brady Quinn.

Justin: "High expectations for a Cleveland team have again left me feeling down. I didn't see this 0-3 start coming, and I am a little shaken by it. To build my confidence back up, I would like to share with everyone the three things about Cleveland sports that I am certain of.

1. To be effective, a 3-4 defense requires very talented linebackers. The Browns do not have very talented linebackers.

2. No human on earth has spent more time diving unsuccessfully for ground balls that Jhonny Peralta.

3. The Cavaliers are going to play 82 games this regular season, and they will win some and they will lose some. I have dubbed this the season of no expectations. (Although two weeks ago I would have told you that Mo Williams is the answer, our bench is as deep as any team's, and James Posey's departure from Boston makes the Cavaliers the best team in the East.)" I particularly loved the Peralta reference. What do you think about him playing third-base possibly next season?

Barnes: "As if the baseball seasons of both teams weren't disappointing enough, the football teams are making the state of Ohio look like a joke." This game was anything BUT comical. It was ugly. And oh yeah Barnes, don't forget about the Buckeyes getting destroyed in their last three big football games. They aren't helping Ohio's football reputation either.

Kevin: "I'll be at work during this game, so whatever. I'm just really disappointed Steve Beuerlein isn't calling this game, as I am for every Browns-Bengals game he doesn't call after the 'Almost makes you wish you were from Ohio' comment from years ago. In fact, Steve Beuerlein doesn't even have a game this week. I'm concerned to be honest with you. That comment put him near the top of my not-written-yet-highly-referenced "List of Clowns" (it's right beside the "Things to Remember" notebook I'm sure). I'll cut him some slack though, he DID have to call the Browns-Ravens game last week. And I apologize for not being able to find a video of the aforementioned comment, so this clip of Beuerlein will have to do." That is a great video, and it is what everyone in the state of Ohio wanted to do to Beuerlein after that comment. It was one of those memories I will never forget.

Chewy: "Last time I pick the Brownies untill they start playing Brady Quinn." Well Chewy, if you listened to Phil Savage yesterday, you might be picking against Cleveland for a while. Maybe forever.

Jeff: "BROWNS DAMN IT. I AM NOT PAINTING BENGAL STRIPES ON MY CAR!" What a great car. What a sorry team this year.

CLE: Lucius, Grothaus, Luke, Shane, Braves, Jeff, Curtis, Josh, Chewy, Brian, Justin, Kevin, Sara, Bursa, Jake

CIN: Devin, Rapking, Polito, Barnes, Bart

Houston @ Jacksonville (-8) - JAX 30-27 OT

Give credit to the Texans. They have played three straight games on the road and the thinking was that they would be tired. Not the case at all. Even though they lost, this game tells me that Houston might be a factor down the road this year.

Jake: "I'm playing a hunch that Houston will keep it close this week. Man I hope I'm right. Mario Williams and DeMeco Ryans need to step up in a big way and Big Bad Schaub needs to do ... something. Ahman Green for 100 yards?? Anyone??" Well, Jake got the Houston keeping it close part right, but Ahman Green didn't register a single yard. Good thing Jake got the important one correct.

Jeff: "Another lopsided loss for the Texans, must be some fans feeling worse than I do." They did sent it to OT, but hopefully Jeff feels a little better now that the Browns won. Maybe.

Devin: "Neither team looks good, I take Jacksonville at 6 not 8." Well played.

HOU: Lucius, Shane, Devin, Chewy, Brian, Polito, Sara, Bart, Jake

JAX: Grothaus, Luke, Braves, Rapking, Jeff, Curtis, Josh, Justin, Kevin, Bursa, Barnes

Denver (-9.5) @ Kansas City - KC 33-19

Well Rapking, how did you foresee this? Larry Johnson resurrected his career against the Broncos. I'm a little disappointed in Chewy telling me Denver had their run defense figured out. What's the deal?

Kevin: "When I saw that this was the game she got, I KNEW what was coming ...

Maxine Hunt Pick of the Week (0-3): Denver (-9.5)

Mom: They always beat Cleveland. If I pick them they'll lose. So we might as well make them lose.

Me: But if they lose, you lose your pick too.

Mom: But they beat Cleveland all those times!

Me: Don't worry, it's already written down."

Now Mrs. Hunt is doing worse than the Browns. This was the only thing I could think of ...

Barnes: "I pity the fool that picks the Chiefs to cover." That's why he is in 19th place.

Jake: "Denver gives up a lot of points, but Kansas City really is not good in any facet of the game." This was the popular opinion. Rapking must have saw something.

Chewy: "We are going to tear up KC. Who are the Chefs?" And the Snickers commercial is now referenced three weeks in a row. This has taken the place of "Philadelphia" from last year. (It does make a comeback this week however ... read more to find out where)

DEN: Everyone BUT Rapking

KC: Rapking

San Francisco @ New Orleans (-6) - NO 31-17

Saints are right there with the Falcons. 2-0 ATS @ home. 0-2 ATS on the road. This thing is all about trends people. I'm trying to help you out.

Jake: "Brees throws for 400 yards and four touchdowns, two to Reggie Bush." Brees did throw three TD's, but zero to Mr. Bush. Again, at least Jake got the right pick.

SF: Lucius, Grothaus, Shane, Jeff, Josh, Polito, Bursa, Bart

NO: Luke, Braves, Devin, Rapking, Curtis, Chewy, Brian, Justin, Kevin, Sara, Barnes, Jake

Arizona @ New York Jets (-1.5) - NYJ 56-35

What a shoot-out. Kurt Warner, despite throwing for more than 400 yards and a pair of touchdowns, actually got me negative five points in our fantasy league, which I love. My QB I had on the bench ... Brett Favre. All he did was throw for a CAREER-HIGH six TD's. Whoops.

Barnes: "Battle of the AARP quarterbacks." They combined for eight TD's and more than 750 yards. 1998 called, they want these guys' statistics back.

Jake: "Favre against Warner ... first one to 300 yards gets the win." More like the first one to toss SIX touchdowns. Unreal.

Kevin: "The Warner vs. Favre matchup has every man over 80 years old tuning in to watch. It's also the first time this season that Brett the Jet's game won't be on network TV in the state of Wisconsin. Without the following, Cardinals roll to an easy win." This is a QOTW candidate, only because of it being an extremely exciting game, Hunt not being able to watch it, and for the fact he picked the Cardinals to roll.

ARI: Grothaus, Shane, Braves, Devin, Rapking, Kevin, Sara, Bursa, Bart

NYJ: Lucius, Luke, Jeff, Curtis, Josh, Chewy, Brian, Polito, Justin, Barnes, Jake

Green Bay @ Tampa Bay (-1) - TB 30-21

A little surprised only Justin and myself backed the Bucs. Devin, I'm looking in your direction.

Jake: "It doesn't bode well for the Packers that it's supposed to be 87 degrees outside, them being from Wisconsin and all. How can I pick against them though?" Have to respect the loyalty.

Kevin: "Battle of the Bays. Boston Red Sox outfielder Jason Bay is from Canada, which is obviously closer to Green Bay. Go Pack Go." And the Red Sox again end up hurting Hunt.

Jeff: "Griese won't throw for 400 yards on this defense. Taking the Packers." Jeff pulled the anti-Jake. Griese only threw for 149 yards, but won the game.

Devin: "Brian Griese + 60 plus attempts = Devin + Brain Aneurysm (totally had to look how to spell that)." Devin is trying to stake his claim to another QOTW.

GB: Everyone EXCEPT Luke and Justin

TB: Luke and Justin

Minnesota @ Tennessee (-3) - TEN 30-17

If I could have one pick back, this one would be it. Tennessee is legit and they are the best team in the AFC right now.

Kevin Hunt's Ballbuster Pick of the Week (2-1): Tennessee (-3)

"Under inspiration from last night's walk-off grand slam win by the Brewers (5-1), I'm taking that score and running with it. The team whose #55 graduated from college first. It turns out Tennessee is the team that actually has a #55.

His name is Stephen Tulloch, a linebacker out of N.C. State in his 3rd NFL season. And, while this is a bold statement, having him for my Ballbuster very well could be the pick that turns my entire season around.

First reason: he has 96 career tackles. Let's flash back for a moment to 1996.

It was the first season Cleveland was without an NFL team, a season I might even want to have back now that I get to watch the miserableness they call the Browns this year. Also in 1996, the St. Mary's Elementary Class of 2000 entered 5th grade - the first year of CYO basketball play - and, overall, organized team play. Even with the slim pickings for players (I'm talking numbers AND talent here), this was the beginning of a St. Mary's squad that would rival the cross-town St. Joe's teams for years (and by "years" I mean two years). 1996 was also the year of the Olympic bombings in Atlanta (see Falcons pick).

Another reason: Tulloch's birthday ... 1/1/85. He's a New Year's baby ... and with this random choice begins MY new year in the picks (hopefully). And if it works out, I really have Ryan Braun to thank."

I think Hunt finally out-did himself. No way he tops that the rest of the year. Or will he?

Jake: "Tennessee has been good to me this year, and there I go punching the gift horse in the mouth for a team that has brought me nothing but unhappiness (except when the Packers beat them), but here I go taking the Vikings. Here's hoping the Titans win by one." I think Jake would like to have this pick back too.

Chewy: "They are a lot better since Vince Young got hurt. I stand corrected Luke." If only I would have listened to myself from two weeks ago. Oh well, such is life.

Jeff: "Gus Frerotte against Kerry Collins. Is this the Seniors Tour?" All I could think of was this ...

MIN: Lucius, Luke, Shane, Rapking, Curtis, Brian, Justin, Sara, Bursa, Barnes, Bart, Jake

TEN: Grothaus, Braves, Devin, Jeff, Josh, Chewy, Polito, Kevin

San Diego (-7.5) @ Oakland - SD 28-18

As soon as I saw that everyone picked San Diego, I was almost positive that Oakland would cover. That's how it worked last year, where it seemed every time we reached a league consensus, we ended up losing. If it weren't for a late TD by LT, this theory would have held.

Let the Lane Kiffin comments begin!

Barnes: "Seriously, Lane Kiffin will be fired one of these days. I'm not really hoping for it but something tells me, he is. Get paid and not work? Sign me up!" Barnes finally got it right. He made it his 'promise' last week, so if at first you don't succeed ... you know the rest.

Kevin: "The Chargers realize how important it is to win games you're supposed to win. This might be the 'reason' for Lane Kiffin's departure." And tell him what he won Johnny!

Devin: "Just put Lane Kiffin out of his misery." Done and done. Is Marvin Lewis next?

SD: Everyone

OAK: No one

Buffalo (-8.5) @ St. Louis - BUF 31-14

The St. Louis Rams are historically bad. Did everyone who picked the Rams know they were starting Trent Green? Just curious.

THE PROMISE'S PROMISE (1-2): St. Louis (+8.5)

"The Rams have burned me before but I got a feeling this week. They've been cutting players left and right and all those baseball fans will make their way into the dome and show them some love. They may not win this game but they'll keep it close. And that's a Promise from The Promise."

These are starting to turn into Ballbuster picks of last year. Meaning, go the opposite direction.

Kevin: "Trent Green throws a touchdown ... teammates pat him on the back AND smack him in the helmet ... Green crumbles to the ground, spitting out practically inaudible and nonsensical phrases like, 'torched tangerines make delightful lawnmowers' and 'Remember the Jesse Crain! ... when departing the plane' or maybe even something to the effect of 'and the Cleveland Browns win the Super Bowl!' ... Marc Bulger enters game, throws for 278 yards and 3 TDs ... Rams win by 3." Allow me to introduce everyone into the world of Kevin T. Hunt.

Chewy: "I agree with Alex's comment from last week (I love Freedom Fries ... Mmerica)." Those two, coupled with Bart, could do some serious damage at a buffet.

Devin: "AFC East Champs?? Doesn't matter, the SEC Champs could beat the Rams." Would that be Alabama? LSU? Or dare I say, Vanderbilt?

BUF: Lucius, Grothaus, Luke, Braves, Devin, Rapking, Jeff, Curtis, Josh, Chewy, Brian, Sara, Bursa

STL: Shane, Polito, Justin, Kevin, Barnes, Bart, Jake

Washington @ Dallas (-11.5) - WAS 26-24

Not surprised Washington won ATS, but really surprised to see them win straight-up. After their week one contest, I would have pegged this Washington team with a 6-10 record. Now, I have absolutely no clue who is going to win the NFC East. Would you really be surprised if Washington won it? I wouldn't.

Jake: "This is usually a close game, but Dallas is a great, great team. Oh well. I'm picking the rivalry." Great pick by Jake. History has shown that these two teams play close games, even when there is an uneven distribution of talent between them.

WAS: Everyone EXCEPT Shane, Devin and Curtis

DAL: Shane, Devin, Curtis

Philadelphia (-3) @ Chicago - CHI 24-20

No way Chicago wins this game if Brian Westbrook is playing. Not a chance.

Barnes: "Instead of dissecting the football matchup, let's dissect the movie matchup. Philadelphia had 5 Oscar nominations and two wins for Best Actor (Tom Hanks) and Original Song (Bruce Springsteen's "Streets of Philadelphia"). Chicago had 13 Oscar nominations and 6 wins, including Best Picture. I haven't seen either movie but after reading the plots of each on imdb.com, I'm pretty sure I would like Philadelphia more ... so gimme the Iggles." Yes, these are my friends. Good to see "Philadelphia" return. That never gets old.

PHI: Lucius, Grothaus, Luke, Shane, Devin, Rapking, Jeff, Curtis, Chewy, Brian, Polito, Justin, Kevin, Sara, Bursa, Barnes

CHI: Braves, Josh, Bart, Jake

Baltimore @ Pittsburgh (-7) - PIT 23-20 OT

First Monday Night game I lost. In the second battle of teams from the AFC North, the banged-up Steelers did just enough to win, but not enough to cover. Right now Pittsburgh has to be considered the favorite to win the division, but their players are dropping like flies.

Barnes: "The Steelers injuries scare me but I think they'll overcome them. And by think, I mean hope cause I really need to get some games right." True story Barnes. True story.

Jake: "Rashard Mendenhall gets his first major playing time, and he goes over 100 yards on MNF. Mark it down." What actually took place: Mendenhall gets nine carries and 30 yards. AND, he's done for the year. He won't get 100 yards for the ENTIRE season. I love this recap post idea.

BAL: Lucius, Grothaus, Shane, Braves, Rapking, Curtis, Chewy, Brian, Polito, Justin, Kevin, Bursa

PIT: Luke, Devin, Jeff, Josh, Sara, Barnes, Bart, Jake

CHEW ON THIS - VOL. IV - By: Andrew Reinhart

"Sam Adams is one of my heroes. I am not sure who he is playing for this year, but chances are he is still making it a lot harder for people to run up the middle against that team. When they put that he only weighs 350Ibs. I think they are slimming him down a bit.

Note: Every team I write about it seems that I have cursed them for that week (Except my Broncos), but then they play great the following week ie. Miami. Lets see if the trend continues with Houston."

Well Chewy, Houston played well against Jacksonville, at least to the point where they covered. AND, Sam Adams no longer plays in the league. He retired last year after 14 seasons of clogging up the middle.

THE END

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

Debate Of The Young Sports Minds: Cubs or Rays?

This is our third debate, and so far we've covered college football and golf. Now, with the long and often times slow-moving baseball regular season is coming to an end, we've decided to talk about which story would be better: The Chicago Cubs or the Tampa Bay Rays winning the World Series.

It was Barnes' idea to turn this thing into a voting contest, and thanks to all of your votes, I am a perfect two-for-two. I am attempting the debate-trifecta by backing the Cubs. As always, please leave comments for us at the end. Enjoy.

MATT BARNES: September 22nd, 1:49 PM

In a time in baseball where teams with lower payrolls are given almost no chance to compete, it's refreshing to see a team like Tampa Bay make the playoffs. And if you ask me, if both the Cubs and Rays make the World Series, the Rays are the better story.Just think, this is the same team that went 66-96 last season, the worst record in all of baseball. And in the nine years before that, the team had only one 70-win season. Talk about being bad. But despite all that, they pulled all of its talent together this year and clinched a playoff berth. Now, that's a team that anyone can root for.

And unlike the Cubs who have a rich history with Hall of Famers and even a World Series, the Rays pretty much have no history. This is their first playoff berth of all-time and they are doing it with 15 players that are 25 and younger. Even their manager is a great story. The highest level he ever played in was Class A and after quitting his playing career, he worked his way from the minor league ranks (he started in Idaho Falls-Class A) to his first managerial position in Tampa. Plus, Don Zimmer is the senior baseball advisor and who wouldn't wanna see Zim get one more ring.

I have many more reasons for why the Rays are the better story but I'll make this something like an opening argument and leave it open now. Congrats to the Rays though for making the playoffs. Proving people wrong one game at a time and now, slowly becoming America's favorite team to root for to win the World Series.

LUKE FLORENCE: September 23rd, 12:12 AM

First of all, if both the Cubs and Devil Rays (they will always be the Devil Rays in my book) make the World Series, let me be the first to offer condolences to my father (Big John). He is a huge Casey Blake fan, and with the Indians slumping, the only thing he has going is Casey Blake thriving with the Dodgers. A Cubs-Rays World Series would devastate him. Okay, after I got that out of the way, let's talk some baseball.

I've been rooting for the Rays all season long for all of those reasons Matt mentions. They are young, never had a winning record, and are flat out fun to watch. However, the story for the Rays is making the playoffs, NOT making the World Series. The better story in the Cubs-Rays hypothetical match-up is without a doubt the Chicago Cubs.
You have to be careful Barnes, making a statement that includes both the Cubs and a "rich history." Ask any knowledgeable sports fan, and they will tell you, the Cubs have one of the most depressing histories in all of professional sports. They haven't won a World Series since 1908. They have the Curse of the Billy Goat. They have Steve Bartman. They have Lou Pinella pulling Carlos Zambrano early in Game One of the NLDS last year to save him for a Game Four that never came. None of that seems particularly "rich" to me. If you are talking about the Cubs BEFORE 1910, then yea, I guess they had a pretty impressive history.

Don't get me wrong, the Rays making the World Series would be an incredible achievement, but you are not going to find ANY disappointed Rays fans if they fall short in October. For them, just making it to October is monumental. However, the Cubs would be heart-broken again if they failed to win the World Series.

We all remember where we were when the Red Sox finally broke the curse, even if you weren't a fan of those Pawtucket players. They had so much negative history behind them that you almost had to root for them (after the Indians were gone mind you). The same applies for the Cubbies. The Rays are too young of a franchise to be the better story here. It has to be Chicago, their back-story continues to set them up for a memorable World Series celebration, whenever it finally takes place.

MATT BARNES: September 23rd, 1:28 PM

Well, first of all, I hope Big John gets his wish. I don't wanna see him depressed. Plus, even I wanna see the Casey Blake playoff beard make a return. But back to the topic ...

I'm glad to see that you have been rooting for the Rays as you should, considering their amazing rise from futility. They are the definition of an underdog defying the odds already and to add a World Series to that would just be amazing. And who does not like the Rays? They have no natural rivals so everyone is behind them unlike the Cubs. While many would like to see the Cubbies break their supposed "curse," there are many in Chicago that would love to see the Cubs choke again.

And to say that the Cubs don't have a rich history is just flat-out wrong. They've been around since 1874. Thirty-seven Hall of Famers have played for the Cubs, including the likes of Billy Williams, Ryne Sandberg and "Mr. Cub" Ernie Banks. Nine different Cubs have won the MVP award, including Sammy Sosa, Andre Dawson and Rogers Hornsby. Four pitchers have won Cy Youngs, including Greg Maddux and Bruce Sutter and since 1960, they have won 35 gold gloves. And the amount of all-stars ... well, let's not go there.

Now, let's take a look at the Rays. Been around since 1998. The only Hall of Famer to play for them was Wade Boggs and that was at the end of his career when he could barely run the bases. Besides 1999 (Jose Canseco and Roberto Hernandez) and this season (Scott Kazmir, Evan Longoria, and Dioner Navarro), they've only had the mandatory one all-star and some of those names are laughable (Lance Carter, Danys Baez, Greg Vaughn and Fred McGriff).And let's not forget, the Rays are doing all of this with the lack of any fan base and nice stadium. So to see them overcome all of these odds is just refreshing to see in a sport where money makes teams good. That's not the case for this team with a total payroll of $43 million. That's less than Carlos Zambrano, Aramis Ramirez and Alfonso Soriano combined ($45 million).

In the end, the Rays are not only more fun to watch and more fun to root for by everyone. You mentioned the Red Sox winning their title. Problem for the Cubs now is that since the Sox did it, seeing the Cubs win a World Series just isn't as big or as good of a story anymore, but the Rays' uprising in just one year definitely is one for the record books. Here's hoping that they win the whole thing and become the best sports story of the year.

LUKE FLORENCE: September 24th, 1:40 AM

Yeah, you can't go wrong with the Casey Blake playoff beard. Wait, what am I saying? Last time Blake was in the playoffs, he gave a crucial ground ball the old Roger Dorn "ole" late in Game Seven of the ALCS. Good riddance.
You missed my point saying the Cubs don't have a rich history. Of course they have several players in the Hall Of Fame, and it was refreshing to see you dropping the Billy Williams reference on all of us. The point I was conveying is that the Chicago Cubs have a horrible playoff history, and isn't that the time when it matters the most? Everyone seems to anticipate something bad happening to the Cubs as soon as the playoffs start. Who doesn't remember Alex Gonzalez letting a potential inning-ending double-play ball go right through his legs immediately AFTER the Steve Bartman incident. In fact, if there was no Gonzalez error, then there is no Steve Bartman. I could go on and on about the Billy Goat Curse of 1945, and how they failed to win just one out of three games in San Diego during the 1984 NLCS, but it starts to remind me of old Cleveland Browns stories, so I will digress.

The fact that the Rays have no natural rival is not a good thing. Every great "story" (as you dubbed this Barnes), has an evil and a hero. The Rays are a hero without a villain. While the Cubs have their playoff history behind them acting as the overseeing nemesis preventing them from reaching their Utopia. Both sides are necessary for a compelling story. The Cubs have it. The Rays, unfortunately, do not.

Right now, make no mistake, the Rays are the better story. They are on the verge of clinching the AL East and have essentially knocked the New York Yankees out of the playoffs for the first time since 1995. Who doesn't love that? For the Rays, everything that happens after the playoffs start is gravy. However, for the Cubs, it is not enough to JUST get to the playoffs, they have been there many many times, yet they ALWAYS fall short. That resonates with the general public. It's the same reason the Red Sox winning the Series in 2004 was such a huge history. They finally got over the hump. It's the same reason movies like "Rocky" and "Cool Runnings" are American classics.

Go ahead and watch this video. It is simple and yet still shows how the Cubs winning the World Series would be the better story.

That's pretty compelling stuff. It's crazy to think that the last time the Cubs won it all happened BEFORE The Titanic sank.

The Cubs have some of the most depressing playoff history in all of professional sports. If they win the World Series, that would be the better story. Their history trumps whatever the ten-year old Rays franchise has to offer. The Rays winning would be a nice story, but the Cubs winning would truly be history. And baseball is all about history.

MATT BARNES: September 25th, 12:07 AM

How dare you dismiss the Casey Blake playoff beard? It's just classic. But we can make that a debate for another day.

After reading your latest argument, I wanted to give you a tissue ... cause all you did was whine about how the Cubs squander away regular season success. I don't know about you but when you have the money they have, the fan base they have, and the amazing history they have, seeing them win a World Series just doesn't exactly excite me.

You know what does excite me and most of America though? Seeing a team like the Rays defy all odds. They haven't even had the resources to even have a chance to screw up like the Cubs. I know they have no natural rival but to say they didn't have a villain in this amazing story is wrong. The villain was everyone who didn't believe in them, and that's a lot of people, including you and I when the season began.

Give it up Luke. As much as you can bring up Bartman and Billy Goats, the Cubs are old news almost now. Seeing them choke over and over again has killed much of the enthusiasm to seeing them actually win the World Series. If they actually do it, most of America will say "Finally!" and move on with their lives. Like I said in the last post, once the Red Sox did it, it took the luster off the Cubs' eventual World Series title. It's just not that big of a deal as it once was and definitely not as good a story the Rays' ride.

The Rays making the playoffs is a great story but it's not THE story as you claim. A lot of teams have moved from the worst record in a sport to the playoffs before (2008 NHL playoffs - Philly Flyers). But if they win the World Series, oh buddy. And while I know ESPN will make it seem like the Cubs winning is the biggest thing since sliced bread (like USC-OSU, Brett Favre retiring/unretiring, anything dealing with the Patriots, etc...), you and I both know what the Rays have done and could do in the World Series would be the better story for ESPN, MLB and people everywhere.

America loves underdogs. The Rays qualify no doubt. The Cubs ... not so much. Not with that payroll, fan base, and history. And if you need further proof the Rays are the better story, check this out. The Rays were asked who will throw out the first pitch of their first playoff game. And they had no idea. Why? Because they are in an unprecedented spot and with their lack of history and popularity, the only names kicked around were Wade Boggs and Dick Vitale. Yikes.
If the Cubs win, good for them. 100 years in the making. 'Bout time. But if the Rays win, it will just what baseball and frankly America needs. Our economy is in the depths of hell, just like the Rays once were. America needs a team that relates to where we are. If the Rays win it all, not only now is it already the better story, but it provides inspiration to all. It can happen folks. It can happen. Go Rays!

LUKE FLORENCE: September 25th, 1:55 AM

I have to tell you, if I were ranking your arguments thus far, that last piece of nonsense would go straight to the bottom. Basically, you are trying to say that Tampa Bay is America's Team and that me and you acted as "villains" for the Rays because we didn't believe in them?? I honestly don't know how to respond to that, except that you must have been watching an unhealthy amount of FOX News before you wrote that. You are also arguing like the Rays winning it all would solve the economical crisis or solve world hunger. Ridiculous and downright dumb.

Then you throw in the Philadelphia Flyers out of left field as a representative of why the Rays making the playoffs is not the big story. Oh that's right, the Flyers back in 2008, wasn't that their first time EVER reaching the NHL playoffs? I don't think so. Not even close Barnes. Nice try. Wait ... no it wasn't.

You have to clump the Rays in with the Florida Marlins and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Two expansion franchises that quickly vaulted into the playoffs and went on to win the World Series. They are nice stories, but they are forgettable in the long run. They are the teams that when you go back and try to remember what year they won, you can't, because they blend in with each other.

Here's a story for you, one that people will remember. A franchise, one that hasn't won a World Series since 1908, finally triumphs over their Albatross which is the MLB playoffs and wins it all. It doesn't get much better than that. And thanks for the tissue Barnes. Cubs fans appreciate it.

Oh, and saying that seeing the Cubs choke over and over just drives home my point. We EXPECT that to happen with the Cubs. We don't EXPECT them to WIN. This is where the Red Sox comparison comes in. Even when Boston was one out away from winning it all and the weak ground ball was fielded by the pitcher, Keith Foulke, you still thought he would throw it away. But he didn't. They finally won. It was something that every sports fan can resonate with and one they will always remember. Whenever the Cubs win it all, this will happen again. Probably even more so, because the Cubs have suffered more than any other sports franchise.You make this too easy Barnes when you talk about how the Rays don't even know who will throw out the first pitch in the playoffs. They have no back-story, they have no history. Yes they are a professional baseball franchise, but they are not on the same level of the Cubs, Yankees, and Indians - teams that have been a part of baseball's history.

It takes one major thing for the Rays to be a part of that. Time. They are only ten years old, babies in comparison to the Cubs. So what if they win? There will be no over-bearing historical significance. Yeah it's a nice little story for the baseball season, but then everyone will forget about it. However, if the Cubs win it all, especially this season - the 100 year anniversary of their last Championship - well, now that would be something that no sports fan would ever forget.

THE END ... PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK

2008 NFL ATS Pick 'Em: Week Three

If one is an accident, and two is a trend, what does that make three?

While there have been several teams who have started out 0-2 and still made the playoffs - the Giants did it last year, and won the entire thing - very few 0-3 teams find themselves playing games after Week 17. So, that would make three an eliminator.

In fact, if your team starts the season out 0-3, go ahead and make those vacation plans for the middle of January, because you will be available. That’s just the way it works. Winless teams after three weeks are essentially eliminated from playoff talk.

Since 1990, only three teams have reached the playoffs after starting 0-3, and none since Grothaus’ Buffalo Bills accomplished the difficult task back in 1998. The writing is on the wall. You HAVE to pick up a win before week four. If you don‘t get one, well, then remember to pack sunscreen for your trip.

For that very reason, week three is the hardest one to correctly pick games ATS. Look at Barnes last year. He led after the first two weeks, but went 3-13 (all three wins coming via a tie) in the third week, and never was the same. What happened? Well, some of the 0-2 teams (Jaguars, Chargers, Browns, Seahawks, etc) will play extra hard this week to try and earn their first win. Some will not. It’s tough to judge, but that is essentially what we, as pickers of ATS games, will attempt to do.

In reality, it probably takes five to six games before we can actually separate the pretenders from the contenders, and even then, there might be a team or two that floats from one group to another during the remainder of the year. The key this week is to keep the proverbial ship afloat, make smart choices, take your lumps and then regroup. You can’t win this pick ‘em in week three. But you can definitely lose it. Ask Barnes.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: There were a lot of contenders for quote of the week, even more so than the first week. I hope this is a sign of things to come.

In a tight contest, Alex Lucius held off Devin Frank’s chance to repeat and claimed the Quote Of The Week for Week Two.

“St. Louis is the worst team probably in the history of the world. If France had a football team, they would beat the Rams.” - Alex Lucius.

All 17 QOTW winners will be eligible to win the prestigious Quote of the Year at our Awards Banquet. Lucius took the week off with regards to comments, so he leaves the door open for someone to grab this week’s QOTW.

Congrats goes to our week two winner Josh Florence, for going a ridiculous 13-2 in picks. He hardly watches any football, yet somehow, posted the best record by a full three games. As I have said before, one is an accident and two is a trend. We will see if he can keep it up.

Onto the picks.

Kansas City @ Atlanta (-5)

It continually amazes me how futile the QB situation is in the NFL. There just are not that many good ones out there. Let me correct that statement. There just are not that many competent QB’s out there. The Chiefs are starting Tyler Thigpen from Coastal Carolina this week, in an effort to try and snap an 11 game losing streak. Sorry, but even though the Falcons aren’t that good, there is no way I’m taking Tyler Thigpen on the road.
My Pick: ATL (-5)

Kevin: “Did you see Darren McFadden last week ... on the road ... against the Chiefs? Did you see Michael Turner in week one ... at home ... against another bad team, the Lions? By the way, I know it's early, but KC has the second-worst run defense in the league to only Detroit.” I think it’s safe to say that we aren’t expecting the Chiefs to be one of those 0-2 teams who HAVE to win this week. They don’t HAVE to win ANY games this YEAR. And they just might pull it off.

Barnes: "I would like to say a hearty 'F#$%' for being stuck with this crappy game at the 1pm hour. The alternatives aren't much better I know but this game is just turrable (say it like Barkley).” Got to watch the language Barnes. All 53 of Shawn Kemp’s kids are avid readers. I don’t want them picking up any bad habits.

Jake: “It's kind of a high line, so I'm a little afraid to take the pick, but The Burner isn't even listed on the injury report, so I'm going to say that he goes McFadden on the Chefs (does anyone else miss that Snickers commercial?? That's great, but who are the Chefs?? Great googily moogily...hahahaha) and handles business.” Okay, it’s official, we need new football-related commercials. That’s twice in as many weeks someone has referenced that Snickers commercial. It’s great, but we need new ones.

Chewy: “Atlanta's one win against Detroit is not that impressive, and I don't think KC will lose three in a row (as most teams in the NFL rarely do). I think Dorsey will start making an impact on the D Line and Larry Johnson will have a big game.” That’s what makes this KC team special Chewy. Their ability to lose more than you think they would be capable of.

Jeff: “Who is starting for KC?? Enough said.” Wait, you mean you’ve never heard of Tyler Thigpen?? Yeah, me either Jeff.

KC: Grothaus, Chewy, Sara, Josh, Justin, Devin, Rapking

ATL: Braves, Luke, Shane, Curtis, Jeff, Kevin, Bursa, Lucius, Polito, Barnes, Bart, Jake, Brian

Oakland @ Buffalo (-9)

That win last week for Buffalo is going to be huge in the long run. They came back and defeated a very good Jacksonville squad on the road. They continue that success here this week. Besides, they always play well on the road. Al Davis fires Lane Kiffin at halftime and gives Art Shell one more chance.
My Pick: BUF (-9)

The Promise's Promise (1-1): Lane Kiffin gets fired after this game.

“It actually has nothing to do with the game cause Buffalo should roll over the lowly Raiders. This would've happened last week but firing someone after a win just isn't classy. But then again, we are talking about Al Davis so not sure if I have a point.”

I’m pulling a Mills Lane and allowing it.

Devin: “I like Buffalo to win, but not by two scores.” Aw yes, the beauty of ATS.

Kevin: “I'm sure the Bills are one of those trends you talk about, but they're a trend I don't want to take. Don't ask why, cause I got nothing.” Well Kevin they are, unless you are playing the anti-trend card, which could then become a trend in itself. My head hurts.

Jake: “Buffalo will win the game, but the Bills don't blow people out. They don't have the offense to do it. They do, however, have the defense to stop McFadden enough to pull out the win, especially with him on a gimpy toe.” No one seems to have faith with the Bills. Check out their schedule (OAK, @ STL, @ ARI, BYE, SD, @ MIA, NYJ, @ NE). They could easily be 7-2 and sitting in first place in the all-of-a-sudden open AFC East. I’m serious, this could happen.

Chewy: “If they could stop Jacksonville's impressive running game they should be able to stop Oakland's (especially with Fargas' hurt groin and McFadden's injured toe).” Can’t agree with you more Chewy. I figured this Bills team would be improved, but that Jacksonville game told me they are ready for the playoffs.

OAK: Grothaus, Shane, Lucius, Devin, Kevin, Justin, Rapking, Polito, Jake

BUF: Braves, Luke, Jeff, Sara, Chewy, Curtis, Josh, Bursa, Barnes, Bart, Brian

Tampa Bay @ Chicago (-3)

What appears to be a difficult choice is actually not that complicated once you take a closer look. Tampa Bay appears to be a playoff contender, while the book is still open on the Bears. They shocked the Colts in week one, but let a win get away from them a week later at Carolina. This one should be a defensive struggle, and even though the Bears are playing their first home game of the year, I’ll take the points.
My Pick: TB (+3)

Maxine Hunt Pick of the Week (0-2): Chicago (-3)

“She takes them because they're ‘Da Bears!’”

This is a must win game for Mrs. Hunt. She has a lot in common with the Browns, besides both being 0-2 thus far. They both came out of absolute nothingness last season to reach places never thought possible. Now, with the world watching, they are both looking a tad below mediocre. It’s still a long season, but, as Kevin puts it, “Holes are hard to dig out of.”

Barnes: “The Bears better enjoy any attention they are getting right now. Cause once the Cubbies and Sox get into the postseason, people will forget there is a mediocre football team in the city.” Good point Barnes. I’m curious myself how much attention I will pay to the playoffs. I’m rooting for a Tampa Bay-Los Angeles Dodgers World Series. The main reason, besides Tampa Bay being a great story, will be to see if Casey Blake can win the World Series MVP. That would make Big John happier than if the Tribe were to win the whole thing. I’m not kidding.

Jake: “Talk about being conflicted about a pick. Is Tampa Bay better than Carolina?? Isn't that what we're asking here?? I say yes. I could be wrong. And if I am, that'll only be the third time in three weeks I've picked the Chicago game wrong. At least I'm consistent.” Maybe you should pull a George Costanza and do the opposite of every instinct you get? It worked for him.

Chewy: “Graham looks good at RB, but three average QBs do not equal one good one ... Chicago wins.” For a second I thought Chewy was saying that Kyle Orton was good. I realized he was simply saying that Tampa Bay does not have a good QB. Phew. Kind of scared me there for a second.

TB: Grothaus, Luke, Shane, Lucius, Sara, Devin, Rapking, Polito, Bursa, Bart, Jake, Brian

CHI: Braves, Jeff, Curtis, Chewy, Josh, Kevin, Justin, Barnes

Carolina @ Minnesota (-3.5)

Here is where it gets tricky. The Vikings are going to be doing everything they can to get this win in order to avoid the death sentence which is an 0-3 record. However, I have been riding Jake Delhomme so far this season, and he has not let me down. Throw in the return of Steve Smith, which could mean the grim reaper is going to have a Monday morning meeting with the Vikings.
My Pick: CAR (+3.5)

Devin: “RIP Tavaris Jackson.” And long live Gus Frerotte.

Kevin: “Even though Tavaris Jackson got booed about as much as Vince Young, Gus Frerotte is no Kerry Collins. These situations aren't the same to me. I can't believe I'm taking Jake ‘of the man’ this week.” Only Kevin could include five quarterbacks in a 36-word comment.

Barnes: “This pick hinges on two players. One is Steve Smith, who is back in the lineup. The other is Adrian Peterson, who is apparently banged up.” Picking these games involves a heavy dose of luck. If AP can play, it changes things. All you can do is make a well-educated guess and go from there.

Jake: “Man, I don't feel good about this pick at all. I'm just praying that Jonathan Stewart can keep up with Adrian Peterson, and Steve Smith busts out in his first start of 2008.” But will AP play? That’s the question for this game.

Jeff: “Gus at QB, one NFL player older than me I think.” The 37-year-old Kittanning PA native played college ball at Tulsa, and is in his 15th NFL year. Frerotte has played for seven different teams, and this is his second stint with the Vikings. The more you know.

CAR: Braves, Grothaus, Luke, Shane, Jeff, Lucius, Justin, Kevin, Bursa, Barnes, Bart, Jake, Brian

MIN: Curtis, Chewy, Sara, Devin, Josh, Rapking, Polito

Miami @ New England (-12.5)

For several obvious reasons, this is not last year’s Patriots squad. This team does anything it takes to simply win the game. Last week it was defense, a solid running game, and their QB Matt Cassell not turning the ball over. That doesn’t bold well for ATS. However, the Dolphins have not covered yet, and I don’t anticipating them doing so here.
My Pick: NE (-12.5)

Kevin: “I think they want to win games even more than last year, just to prove their dominance. Well, that, and because their defense only has a shelf life of about one more year.” Hunt brings up a point that is worth talking about. How long can the Patriots be the Patriots? It happens with all dynasties (49ers, Cowboys, New York Yankees), and one has to wonder when the clock is going to strike zero on Belichick.

Barnes: “Let it be known, I still hope the Patriots crash and burn this season, just like the Yankees.” It is going to be nice seeing the Yankees miss out on October baseball. What will TBS and Chip Carey do? Oh, and by the way, did you know there is only one October? I was unaware.

Jake: “Joey Porter spouted off that it would be nice to get their first win of the year this week. So ... I'm thinking our boy Bill Belichick is going to open up a can of whoop ass this week on the Fins.” Normally I would agree with Jake, but after losing Brady, I’m not sure Belichick has the tools-at-hand for a job like that.

Chewy: “NE hasn't won a game by ten points yet, and I just like the fact that Ricky Williams is playing football again.” QOTW favorite. Any time you have someone enjoying the return of Ricky Williams, you make a strong case for QOTW.

MIA: Braves, Chewy, Lucius, Josh, Justin, Rapking, Polito

NE: Grothaus, Luke, Shane, Jeff, Curtis, Sara, Devin, Bursa, Kevin, Barnes, Bart, Jake, Brian

Cincinnati @ New York Giants (-13.5)

After the Bengals lose this game they play: Cleveland, @ Dallas, @ New York Jets, Pittsburgh, Bye Week, and Jacksonville. Have fun with that. Odds of Marvin Lewis still being around come week ten? 15-1? 30-1?
My Pick: NYG (-13.5)

Bursa: “Somebody's gotta make somethin' happen." Nice to see Brad showing his support for the Bengals. It’s a good thing he is all the way out in Denver and can’t watch them play. As for his comment, something tells me that Marvin Lewis getting fired will be the first thing to “happen” with Cincinnati this season.

Kevin: “This is the freaking game I get to watch early on Sunday. THEN, I have to go to a sports bar to watch the Browns because Steelers-Eagles is on instead. Talk about a terrible Sunday, really. BUT, the Packers are on Sunday night, so hopefully I can find somewhere to drink off the Browns game.” Flash-forward ten years and Kevin could use this exact same quote. It’s timeless.

Barnes: “It's official. The Bengals are the laughing stock of Ohio football teams.” In a related story, the St. Wendelin Mohawks are relieved.

Chewy: “ I don't plan on picking Cincy again after last week. As one of my idols (Michael Scott) would say about his HR guy. They are the worst.” Michael to Toby: “Why are you the way that you are? Honestly, every time I try to do something fun or exciting, you make it not that way. I hate so much about the things that you choose to be.” God I love The Office.

CIN: Jeff, Sara, Bursa, Devin, Justin, Rapking, Polito, Brian

NYG: Grothaus, Braves, Luke, Shane, Curtis, Chewy, Lucius, Josh, Kevin, Barnes, Bart, Jake

Houston @ Tennessee (-5)

The only reason to stop riding hot teams is if there is a major injury to a key player. The Titans are hot, and they are healthy. While Houston COULD be good, we know with a lot more certainty what Tennessee brings to the table.
My Pick: TEN (-5)

Kevin: “In games following a bye week since Houston rejoined the league, the Texans are 2-4, including 0-3 in road games with an 18-point average margin of defeat. Plus there's that whole ‘we might not play home games in our stadium for a bit’ thing.” That not-playing-at-home idea worked wonders for the Saints two years ago. They almost made it to the Super Bowl. AND, the Browns were the only team in the NFL to play their first two games of the year at home, which they promptly lost both. Could we be on to something? Could not having a home be a good thing? Well, the Bills are testing that theory, as they are playing some 'home' games up in Toronto, eh.

Barnes: “Battle of New Oilers and Old Oilers. I'm just glad there is no longer a team called the Oilers cause they'd be the most hated team in the USA right now.” You can always count on Barnes to provide a nice blend of politics and sports.

Jake: “The Titans and their fearless leader Kerry Collins make it 3-0 this week. The Texans will be pumped up after a week off, but that won't matter because the Tennessee defense is very tough.” QOTW could be in store for Jake’s ability to sneak in “fearless leader” when describing Kerry Collins.

Jeff: “DEFENSE wins championships and the Titans have a good one.” But do defenses cover spreads?? I’ve never heard of a slogan surrounding defenses and ATS pick ‘em. It’s time for one. Thoughts?

HOU: Curtis, Chewy, Josh, Polito, Brian

TEN: Braves, Grothaus, Luke, Shane, Jeff, Lucius, Sara, Devin, Justin, Kevin, Rapking, Bursa, Barnes, Bart, Jake

Arizona @ Washington (-3)

The Cardinals have looked sharp so far, winning their first two games by a combined score of 54-23. However, they have beaten the 49ers and the Dolphins, two of the worst teams in the league. Meanwhile the Redskins played the Giants tough in week one, and then rallied to defeat the Saints last Sunday. The safe pick is the Redskins. I’m going safe.
My Pick: WAS (-3)

Barnes: “I am basing this pick on one thing only: John McCain. He's better representing Arizona then he would be representing our whole nation as President for nine months (cause he's really old any probably will die)." I may be well off base, but, I’m guessing Barnes will NOT be voting Republican in this upcoming election.

Jake: “Last week I said that Arizona sucked, this week I'm saying they'll beat the team that took down New Orleans last week. I must be out of my mind. I haven't picked a Washington game right yet. Why start now.” I hinted at it earlier with regards to Kevin and the Bills game, but this is the anti-trend approach in its’ purest form.

ARI: Braves, Shane, Jeff, Curtis, Justin, Josh, Polito, Bursa, Barnes, Bart, Jake,

WAS: Grothaus, Luke, Chewy, Lucius, Sara, Devin, Kevin, Rapking, Brian

New Orleans @ Denver (-5.5)

A member of this league, Jake Young came out with a blog entry titled, “What did I learn from week two of the NFL?” Well, in following that line of thinking, I learned that the Saints are not the same team on the road. Also, I learned that Denver has the potential of scoring a ton of points. Everything points to Denver in this one.
My Pick: DEN (-5.5)

Chewy: “ Do I even need to send you this one Luke?” As the lone Denver fan out of this bunch, I must admit Chewy, your Broncos have been the most entertaining team to watch thus far. I’m interested to know of your thoughts about Mike Shanahan going for two?

Jeff: “I have Eddie Royal and Brandon Marshall in a league so light it up.” I’m fairly certain Jeff is referencing his fantasy football team here, and not reading straight out of Ricky Williams' diary.

NO: Shane, Josh, Polito, Brian

DEN: Braves, Grothaus, Luke, Jeff, Curtis, Chewy, Lucius, Sara, Bursa, Devin, Justin, Kevin, Rapking, Barnes, Bart, Jake

Detroit @ San Francisco (-4)

I hate the NFL. The fact that one of these two teams will walk away from this contest with a win, is a downright tragedy to teams like Jacksonville and San Diego. Eeny, meeny, miny, … Lions.
My Pick: DET (+4)

Kevin Hunt’s Ballbuster Pick of the Week (1-1): Taking the team that wears team colors (DET=blue, SF=red).

“Somewhat of a provisional pick as well. I think I needed to spice it up. I took the team colors (which will likely be the Lions) because I love when teams wear their colors and not the white jerseys. In college, the white jerseys usually mean you're on the road, but in the pros it seems to switch. I wish ALL home teams wore their team colors, including basketball. But I don't see that ever happening, so I have to stake my wishes on a Ballbuster Pick. 1-1 on the year with these (about even in winnings).”

Could someone let me know which team wore their team colors? I really don’t want to watch two seconds of this game. Thanks.

Devin: “They almost beat GB, hopefully they can take SF.” Let’s be honest here. They never really ‘almost beat Green Bay.’ Yes they were up with less than ten minutes to go in the fourth quarter, but who didn’t see that collapse coming? I couldn’t have been the only one.

Barnes: “With every loss, Detroit is devaluing the wonderful American classic that is The Lion King.” This one is going to make a strong case for QOTW. One of Barnes’ best.

Chewy: “Frank Gore is one of the reasons I love football. Only God Knows why Detroit sucks every year, but they do.” Let me take a guess. His last name is 'Millen' and his first name starts with an ‘M’ and rhymes with ‘Matt.’

DET: Grothaus, Luke, Jeff, Sara, Devin, Rapking, Bart, Jake, Brian

SF: Braves, Shane, Curtis, Chewy, Lucius, Josh, Justin, Polito, Bursa, Barnes

St. Louis @ Seattle (-9.5)

The Seahawks ruined my three-team teaser last week by failing to defeat the 49ers. For that reason, and that reason only, I’m taking the Rams. Lord help me. So far I’ve taken the Lions, the Rams, and the Falcons. Please don’t let me pull a Barnes this week.
My Pick: STL (+9.5)

Barnes: “How bad is life in Seattle right now. Seahawks suck. Mariners suck. Sonics are gone. Tyrone Willingham and UW suck. And Frasier is not on the air anymore. No wonder people are sleepless there.” Good to have a complete slate of quotes from Barnes this week. It’s just not the same without them.

Jake: “I just don't think Seattle's very good. I know St. Louis is terrible, and I said just last week that I'd never pick them again, but I'm just playing a hunch ... with such a high line, is it really that unfathomable??” Can’t answer that Jake, but, by using “unfathomable,” I can assure you that you just sent Lucius scrambling for a dictionary, or as he prefers to call it, “the big book with a bunch of words in it.”

STL: Grothaus, Luke, Shane, Devin, Justin, Rapking, Jake

SEA: Braves, Jeff, Curtis, Chewy, Lucius, Sara, Josh, Kevin, Polito, Bursa, Barnes, Bart, Brian

Cleveland @ Baltimore (-2)

So now Eric Steinbach might not play? Donte Stallworth is already out. What a disaster. If the Browns lose this game, then they are done this year. If the Browns lose this game then Brady Quinn should be starting in week five against the Giants on Monday Night. Until the Browns win a game, I’m taking the insurance policy.
My Pick: BAL (-2)

Devin: “That’s right, Devin James Frank has not lost the faith! Sure there are some naysayers who say things like the Brownies suck and they will be cursed forever. Not me, I keep the faith, and I will go out on a limb. Write this down, the browns will not only cover the two point spread but they will win this game.” Not sure how big of a limb that is there Devin. The only way the Browns cover and don’t win is if they lose by one. Romeo Crennel won’t let it be that close.

Barnes: “BEWARE: Ed Hochuli is working this game. And we all know that if one team is going to get screwed in this game, it will be Cleveland.” Polito covers this aspect in his Knowledge Dropping this week. You may be surprised as to which category Po places him.

Chewy: “Baltimore just looks bad on paper, and the Browns are supposed to be a good team. They will have my faith for one more week.” As Chris Berman says, “And that’s why they play the game.”

Jeff: “Brownies, time to roll the table. Browns forever and Modell never.” Finally!! Jeff picks Cleveland! Big things are coming. (That’s what she said … or he said.)

CLE: Braves, Shane, Jeff, Curtis, Chewy, Lucius, Sara, Josh, Bursa, Devin, Justin, Kevin, Rapking, Polito, Bursa, Barnes, Jake, Brian

BAL: Grothaus, Luke, Bart

Jacksonville @ Indianapolis (-5.5)

So what the Jaguars got off to a slow start. They did the same thing last year, at least in terms of ATS (failing to cover the first two weeks). This game means more to the Jaguars then the Colts. At the very least, I anticipate a close contest.
My Pick: JAX (+5.5)

Devin: “Neither team is as good as last year. Jacksonville usually plays Indy close.” Both these teams could turn it around however, and no one would be surprised.

Kevin: “This defense steps up without Bob Sanders like the Pats without Tom Brady.” I know Browns fans are crying about how many injuries they have, but Cleveland is not the only team suffering. The Eagles lost their two starting wide-receivers. The Pats lost Tom Brady. L.T. hasn’t been healthy all season long. It happens, it’s part of football. Anticipating otherwise would be just plain ignorant.

Barnes: “Oh, I get this game at 4pm instead of the Keystone State showdown. I'll save the F-bomb this time but still not happy.” Kemp’s children thank-you Barnes.

Jake: “This is usually a close game, and Jacksonville hasn't played very well so far, but there are two things I see happening. Jacksonville's run game has its first break out performance of the season against a Bob Sanders-less Indy D, and the Jags D-Line pummels the Colts O-Line. If Dallas Clark and Jeff Saturday play, I'm sure none of this will matter and Indy will roll. Ha.”

Chewy: “Both of these teams are horribly disappointing and injured. Bob Sanders is another reason I love football, but he is sitting out with an injury.” If both Jacksonville and Tennessee win this week, then the Titans will have a two-game lead on the Jags AND the Colts. Wow.

Jeff: “The rust is off the race-car, it’s time for Indy to go full throttle.” Bonus points to Jeff for his Indianapolis 500 reference. Well done.

JAX: Luke, Shane, Chewy, Lucius, Devin, Jake, Brian

IND: Braves, Grothaus, Jeff, Curtis, Sara, Devin, Justin, Josh, Kevin, Rapking, Polito, Bursa, Barnes, Bart

Pittsburgh @ Philadelphia (-3)

Donovan McNabb looked good last Monday Night. Even though the Eagles lost, they played the Cowboys tough on the road. Now they turn around and face a team in the Steelers that several pundits have tabbed the team to beat in the AFC. I don’t see that, although they are near the top. In another toss-up game, I’ll back the Steelers.
My Pick: PIT (+3)

Kevin: “This pick might be out of anger. Yup, it sure is.”

Barnes: “This is a toss-up. Can't just go with the black QB cause Pittsburgh has a black coach. So I'll go with the home team.” Yes, these are my friends.

Jake: “Donovan looks good. Ben is injured. The Eagles seem to score a lot. The Steelers don't. I'm taking Philly.” Well Jake, the Steelers did put up 38 on Houston.

Jeff: “Show the Browns how to beat Pittsburgh, and it’s not with field goals.” Romeo is the oldest coach in the league, and it just seems as if the game is moving too fast for him. Brady Quinn + Bill Cowher = AFC Championship. Watch it happen.

PIT: Luke, Chewy, Sara, Justin, Josh, Bursa, Bart, Brian

PHI: Braves, Grothaus, Shane, Jeff, Curtis, Lucius, Devin, Kevin, Rapking, Polito, Barnes, Jake

Dallas (-3) @ Green Bay

I’ve said it before. You have to make smart picks in week three. You can kill yourself by going out on a limb too many times. Dallas at only minus-three? Thank you very much.
My Pick: DAL (-3)

Kevin: “Back the Pack cause the Pack is Back! Might Rodgers do what Favre never really could and beat the Cowboys? That would solidify his status this year. At least for a week.” Kevin maintained a solid record throughout the early portion of last year on that stupid Packers saying. He’s trying to do it again this season.

Barnes: “John Madden in Green Bay but no Brett Favre? What will he talk about? Oh I know ... Brett Favre.” And that’s what that’s all about.

Jake: “I picked against my Pack in week one, and I paid for it. Never again says your fearless forecaster. Romo's a hack. Don't be surprised though if TO has 180 yards receiving. Al Harris prides himself on being physical, but how physical can you get when the receiver is that much bigger than you?? Case in point ... last year's Green Bay-Dallas game.”

Jeff: “Should be a great game to watch. It will let us see how good Rodgers is.” So far, Rodgers has been impressive. Do you think the Vikings would like to have their pick back from the 2005 draft when they took DE - Erasmus James instead of Rodgers? I certainly would think so.

DAL: Grothaus, Luke, Shane, Jeff, Curtis, Lucius, Bursa, Devin, Justin, Rapking, Bart

GB: Braves, Chewy, Sara, Josh, Kevin, Polito, Barnes, Jake, Brian

New York Jets @ San Diego (-9)

Brett Favre back on Monday Night Football. As for the Chargers, well, they very easily could be 2-0 instead of winless based on just two plays. If the Panthers don’t score on the final play in week one, and if Ed “Big Guns” Hochuli makes the correct call in week two, then San Diego is 2-0. I’m taking the home team, because they need this game, and the Jets did not impress me at all against the Pats last Sunday.
My Pick: SD (-9)

Kevin: “Dick Enberg put Norv Turner on suicide watch last week. So why am I picking Norv to make a big comeback? I have no clue.” Serious QOTW contender. Why you ask? Because he included Norv Turner and Dick Enberg in the same sentence. This is how these things are won.

Barnes: “I'm going to watch this game on mute so I don't have to hear Tony Kornheiser talk about Brett Favre. When Madden does it, it's funny. When Kornheiser does it, it's forced, kind of like any pass from Jon Kitna.” Barnes ends a more than solid week with a QOTW hopeful. Well done.

Jake: “The J-E-T-S can score against this team, and LT is not feeling too hot. I just don't like my Super Bowl pick at all right now.” I tried warning you Jake, Norv Turner and Super Bowl just don’t go together.

Chewy: “SD offense has been impressing in spite of their losses. I like them to get their first victory this week at home on national TV.”

Jeff: “Favre on Monday Night is a lock.” Somebody better check on Jeff, I think Tony Kornheiser is sending in his picks.

NYJ: Braves, Grothaus, Shane, Jeff, Curtis, Sara, Bursa, Devin, Polito, Jake

SD: Luke, Chewy, Justin, Josh, Lucius, Kevin, Rapking, Barnes, Bart, Brian

CHEW ON THIS - VOL. III - By: Andrew Reinhart

“One of the biggest reasons I have been picking the Texans over the last few weeks is their talented and young Defensive line. Mario Williams and Amobi Okoye can both have an immense impact on a game.

A team that can pressure a QB without blitzing line-backers is at a massive advantage (as my Buckeye's have painfully demonstrated in their last two National Championship disasters), and this is Super Mario's biggest contribution. They are not a "pass-specializing" D-Line either. They will play well against the run game. It will be interesting to see how these young guys react after the postponed game and natural disaster. I think they will rise above the adversity and play with extra motivation for the rest of the season.”

PO‘S KNOWLEDGE DROPPING - Week Two in Review - By: Ryan Polito

“Most Dominant: Ed Hochuli

Okay, so many people probably think this guy deserves to be on the least dominant list after blatantly costing the Chargers the game against Denver this past week. However, he has handled the criticism better than any of ref in the NFL could have. He has come out and admitted his mistake to the world and feels terrible about it. He sent an apology note to the San Diego Chargers and the fans. He has responded to all of his hate mail, and you cant ask for a guy to show more class than he has. Face it, he made a mistake and he feels badly about it. In my opinion he is still the best official the NFL has, and he definitely has the biggest guns.

Others receiving votes:
Mike Shanahan - having the guts to go for a two-point conversion to beat the rival Chargers and send his Broncos to a 2-0 start.

Least Dominant: Romeo Crennel

Last week this guy shot to the top of my list for Coach of the Year. This is because I am a Steelers fan. Being a Steelers fan I was thrilled when the Browns lost to the Steelers for the tenth straight time. However, there was one coaching decision during that game that puts Romeo on least dominant for the week.

With the Browns trailing 10-3 late in the game facing a 4th and 7 on the Steelers 13-yard-line, Romeo decides to be dumb and kick a field goal with only three minutes left in the game. The Browns convert the FG to make the score 10-6, but don’t get the ball back until only :26 remained on the clock leaving the Browns no time to do anything.

If Mike Tomlin made the decision to kick a field goal down 10-3, I would drive to his house and slap him myself. I realize they had three timeouts, but the Browns hadn’t done anything on offense all game, and you need a TD anyway at some point in the game if you want to win. Kicking a FG still left the Browns needing another TD to win, so why not go for the TD at that point in time.

This dumb decision rivals Romeo's decision in Week 1 to kick a FG down 28-7 against the Cowboys. The Browns are in a big 0-2 hole this season, and if things don’t change Romeo might be finding himself on the unemployment list instead of the least dominant list.

Others receiving votes:
Tavaris Jackson - Personally making the Vikings 0-2 on the year. They should have beaten the Packers and the Colts, but they had no QB help at all. When you get benched in favor of the head-smasher Gus Frerotte then you need to be on least dominant.

God - I apologize to the good lord here, but he’s on least dominant this week. He’s here for causing a massive wind storm last Sunday night causing thousands of people to lose power for many days. Not only that, but I missed most of the Browns-Steelers game due to lack of power in my house. I had to listen to gay blondie Jim Donovan on the Browns radio network all night because I couldn’t get the Steelers network to work either. So God, next time you want to be hard and cause lots of wind, please let it happen on a Tuesday or something. AMEN."

THAT'S ALL SHE WROTE

Thanks to everyone for another successful week. This column has really taken off, and it's not possible unless people like yourself are reading it. I'm always up for ideas, and I love comments, so keep those coming.

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