Saturday, December 31, 2011

NFL - Week 17 Predictions

Ringer's Record
Last Week ATS: 8-8
Last Week SU: 10-6

Season ATS: 122-114-1 (52%)
Season SU: 162-77 (68%)

Detroit (-1.5) at Green Bay
Mike McCarthy has yet to come out and say whether he plans to rest his starters or not for this game. All indications are that the Green Bay backups will see extended time. The Packers wrapped up home field throughout the NFC Playoffs with their win over Chicago on Christmas night. That means the road to the Super Bowl runs through Lambeau Field. One of those teams going through Lambeau could be Detroit. The Lions clinched their first playoff berth since 1999 last week. A win here means the Lions will be the 5 seed in the NFC and travel to the NFC East champion next week. So this game does matter to the Lions.

Prediction - Detroit 27 Green Bay 17

Tennessee (-3.5) at Houston
The Tennessee Titans are still alive in the AFC Wild Card hunt. The Titans need to take care of business against division nemesis Houston, and then get some help to continue playing next weekend. There are a couple of different scenarios in which the Titans move on. But I don;t have room to fit those in this paragraph. Let's just say that the Titans need a lot of chips to fall in the right place. The Texans are locked in at the 3 seed in the AFC, but have lost 2 straight. the Texans are slumping at the wrong time and could use a win to generate some momentum.

Prediction - Houston 21 Tennessee 20

Indianapolis (+4.5) at Jacksonville
Don;t look now but the Indianapolis Colts have won 2 games in a row. They are running themselves right out of the Andrew Luck sweepstakes. Peyton Manning should be happy about the way his team is playing. This is another winnable game for the Colts, which means they could draft 2nd instead of 1st overall in the April draft. They head to Jacksonville to take on a Jags team that quite frankly stinks every bit as much as they do. The Jags have not looked good in recent weeks, and will lose this game, probably to the dismay of Colts fans.

Prediction - Indianapolis 17 Jacksonville 15

NY Jets (+1.5) at Miami
It may seem weird that a team fighting for their playoff life is an underdog versus a team that started the season 0-7. Such is the case when the Jets visit Miami. The Jets have looked bad in recent weeks, and probably don't deserve to make the postseason. They need a win and some help to make their 3rd consecutive playoff appearance. Miami is 5-3 since their dreadful start to the season. They are certainly capable of blowing the Jets playoff hopes. Nothing would make Miami fans happier this weekend.

Prediction - Miami 19 NY Jets 16

Chicago (-1.5) at Minnesota
Boy how the wheel shave fallen off for both of these squads. Chicago began the season at 7-3 and appeared to be one of the most serious threats to Green Bay in the NFC. Then Jay Cutler got hurt. Then Matt Forte got hurt. The Bears haven't won a game since and now stand at 7-8. Minnesota had some hope to begin the season. There was still talent on their roster and they were hoping that Donovan McNabb could revive his career in the Twin Cities. Then McNabb got benched. Then he got cut. Now Adrian Peterson has a torn ACL. This game doesn't mean much for either team. I'll take the Bears because of their defense.

Prediction - Chicago 14 Minnesota 10

Buffalo (+12.5) at New England
Remember when the Bills beat the Patriots early on in the season, and everyone thought that Buffalo could be a contender in the AFC East? I vaguely remember that, but I bet the Patriots remember it much more vividly. New England won't take the Bills lightly, despite their 3-9 record since that game. The Patriots have a chance to clinch home field throughout the AFC Playoffs with a win. Gillette Stadium is not an easy place to win, and the Bills won't be able to get it done this week.

Prediction - New England 35 Buffalo 27

Carolina (+8.5) at New Orleans
Drew Brees broke Dan Marino's single season passing yards record last week as the Saints clinched the NFC South in a win over Atlanta. They still have a chance to get a bye through the Wild Card round if they beat the Panthers and get some help by the Rams upsetting San Francisco. New Orleans welcomes in another record-setting QB as Cam Newton and the Panthers come to town. Newton has set rookie records for passing yards and total TD. I think the Saints will play their starters and try to get that bye, and get a win in the process.

Prediction - New Orleans 30 Carolina 24

Washington (+9.5) at Philadelphia
The Eagles will end their season on Sunday without a playoff berth. That is a far cry from what most thought the Eagles would do this season. Vegas actually dubbed them as the favorites to win the Super Bowl. As disappointing as this season has been, the Eagles are playing good football now and have an opportunity to end the year with 4 straight wins. Washington had another poor season under Mike Shanahan. The 2-time Super Bowl winning coach has not been able to turn it around in the nation's capital. A win over the Eagles would help ease some pain, but they just don;t have the talent to win to hang with Philly when they are playing well.

Prediction - Philadelphia 27 Washington 16

San Francisco (-11.5) at St. Louis
The 49ers have an opportunity to clinch a bye in the NFC Playoffs by beating the lowly Rams on Sunday. San Francisco has surpassed all expectations in Jim Harbaugh's 1st season on the sidelines. Not much was expected of the 49ers but they are on the verge of a 13-win season. On the other side, Saint Louis was thought to be one of the favorites to win the division. Instead they are in the hunt for the #1 overall pick in the NFL Draft. Sam Bradford wants a win here to avoid any chance of the Rams selecting Andrew Luck as his replacement. He won't have anything to say about it though. 49ers win easy.

Prediction - San Francisco 30 St. Louis 10

Tampa Bay (+14.5) at Atlanta
The Falcons clinched their 2nd straight playoff berth by virtue of a Bears loss on Christmas night. This is the 1st time in franchise history that the Falcons have made consecutive appearances in the postseason. Then they promptly went out and laid an egg versus the Saints. They will look to bounce back against Tampa Bay. The Bucs have been absolutely abysmal. They have gotten blow out in 4 straight weeks. Raheem Morris has gone from one of the hottest young coaches to having his seat scolding hot. I don't see the Bucs turning it around this week.

Prediction - Atlanta 33 Tampa Bay 14

Baltimore (-2.5) at Cincinnati
This is one of the most important games of the weekend. Baltimore clinches the AFC North and at least a 1st Round bye with a win. Cincinnati clinches a playoff berth with a win. Both teams control their own destiny and do not want to leave it up to others. A loss for Baltimore means that they could potentially end up as a Wild Card and play all games away from M&T Bank Stadium. A loss for the Bengals means they could miss the playoffs entirely. The Ravens are a veteran team that knows how to win in important situations. The Bengals are a young team that has never been in this position. I'd rather have the veterans.

Prediction - Baltimore 21 Cincinnati 16

Pittsburgh (-7.5) at Cleveland
A lot happened to alter the season the last time these 2 bitter rivals met. Ben Roethlisberger's ankle was sandwiched in between 2 Browns defenders causing a high ankle sprain. It actually looked much worse, but Ben returned to the game and lead the Steelers to victory like he has done many times before. Since then, Roethlisberger looked very immobile in a loss at San Francisco and was left out of the game last week versus Saint Louis. The Steelers need to win this game in order to have a chance to win the AFC North. Odds are that Ben will find his way on to the field. Colt McCoy was also injured the last time they played. He hasn't played since. That means Seneca Wallace gets the start for the Browns, and also means they lose again.

Prediction - Pittsburgh 23 Cleveland 13

Seattle (+3.5) at Arizona
Neither one of these teams have anything to hang their heads about. Both teams started off the season poorly, before coming on late. Both of them actually had a chance to make the playoffs as recently as last week. Those dreams were dashed though and now they are playing for pride and the chance to finish the season at .500.  This should be a hard fought game that's tough to call. I'll say the Cardinals win closely.

Prediction - Arizona 23 Seattle 20

Kansas City (+3.5) at Denver
This is probably the juiciest game of the final weekend. Kyle Orton and the Kansas City Chiefs head to Mile High to try and ruin the playoff aspirations of Tim Tebow and the Broncos. Orton began the year as the starting QB in Denver. The Broncos started the year 1-4, and Orton was benched and subsequently released. Denver went with Tim Tebow at QB and the Broncos quickly went from worst to 1st in the AFC West. But the Broncos need to win this game to win the division. Tebow is 1 game away from his 1st playoff appearance, but Orton would love to spoil that. I just can't go against Tebow here.

Prediction - Denver 20 Kansas City 17

San Diego (+3.5) at Oakland
The Oakland Raiders are alive heading into the season's final weekend. This has not been the case in almost a decade. It has been an amazing season for the Raiders in which they lost their starting QB and RB to injury, and their owner passed away. Despite all of this, Oakland needs to win and get some help from Kansas City to make it into the AFC Playoffs. They face the Jekyll and Hyde Chargers. San Diego was making their typical late season surge before running into a Detroit buzzsaw that ruined their season. If the Chargers play with any type of motivation, I think they will ruin the Raiders' postseason plans.

Prediction - San Diego 27 Oakland 24

Dallas (+3.5) at NY Giants
The final game of the NFL regular season will decide the final playoff spot in the NFC. The NFC East is up for grabs when 2 bitter rivals square off in the Meadowlands. Both of these teams have been hard to figure out. The winner of this game, no matter who it is, will have the talent to do some damage in the playoffs. These teams have been eerily similar. Their QBs have been magnificent most of the time, but have also given some games away. Their defenses are very talented but injuries have caused them to be exposed more times than not. The QB that can avoid mistakes and take advantage of some poor defense will win the game. That will be Eli Manning.

Prediction - NY Giants 34 Dallas 28

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

BCS National Championship Game Preview



1 LSU (E) vs. 2 Alabama

This is the 2nd time this season that these 2 schools will meet as the Top 2 ranked teams in the country. When the final BCS standings were revealed, it assured that SEC would win its 6th straight national title. Everybody knew that there was a chance that these teams could meet in New Orleans, even after LSU beat Alabama in the latest edition of "The Game of the Century". LSU won that defensive slugfest 9-6 in OT. There was not a single TD scored in the game. I have a feeling that will change this time. But don;t expect any type of explosion. The Hesiman finalist that makes a game breaking play will lead his team to a national championship. Will that be the Honey Badger, Tyrann Mathieu or Trent Richardson? I know I shouldn't bet against LSU after the way they have passed every test with flying colors this season, but I can't bring myself to bet against Nick Saban when he has this much time to prepare. I'm taking the Crimson Tide to get revenge and take home their 2nd crystal ball in 3 seasons.

Prediction - Alabama 24 LSU 16

Godaddy.com Bowl Preview



Arkansas St. (-1.5) vs. Northern Illinois

Arkansas State had a season of historic proportions. They went undefeated in the Sun Belt conference and became the 1st team from the conference to ever reach 10 wins. They travel to Mobile, Alabama to take on another 10-win team - Northern Illinois. The Huskies have become regulars to the bowl season. This will be their 4th consecutive year going bowling. This should be a highly competitive ball game between 2 of the best teams not playing in a major conference.

Prediction - Northern Illinois 35 Arkansas St. 28

BBVA Compass Bowl Preview



Pittsburgh (-3) vs. SMU

The Pitt Panthers had a disappointing year as they are looking for their 4th Head Coach since ending last season. Todd Graham bolted for the desert after a 6-6 season in the Steel City. They return to Birmingham, Alabama for for their bowl game for the 2nd straight year. this year they take on the SMU Mustangs who also had a disappointing year. Many thought that SMU could contend for the Conference USA title. After a 5-1 start, that included a win over TCU, it looked like they were well on their way. They limped to the finish line and get one last chance to make a statement against a team that plays in their future conference. Pitt has more talent on their roster and should get the job done.

Prediction - Pittsburgh 31 SMU 20

Cotton Bowl Preview



5 Arkansas (-8) vs. 12 Kansas St.

What a season Arkansas and Kansas State each compiled this year. Arkansas was 3 quarters away from potentially playing for the National Championship. Kansas State was expected to finish near the bottom of the Big 12, and instead rattled off 10 wins in one of the nation's toughest conferences. The Hogs are lead by a high-flying offense that can beat you in every way. Kansas State is lead by their do it all QB Collin Klein. Bill Snyder's club has surprised many throughout the year, but I think Arkansas has too much firepower for the Wildcats to overcome.

Prediction - Arkansas 42 Kansas St. 31

Orange Bowl Preview



18 Clemson (-3.5) vs. 23 West Virginia

While the Sugar Bowl was the most controversial of the BCS bowls, the Orange Bowl is probably the least hyped. Neither of these teams are ranked in the Top 15 of the Ringer Poll despite winning their conference championships. Clemson won their 1st ACC Championship game by blowing out Virginia Tech. West Virginia won the Big East by being the only team ranked in the BCS. With all that said - this should be a very entertaining game. Both QBs are very athletic and can provide a big play and any moment. Tahj Boyd and Geno Smith will have a lot to do with which team takes home the Orange Bowl.

Prediction - Clemson 30 West Virginia 27

Sugar Bowl Preview



10 Virginia Tech (+2.5) vs. 11 Michigan

The Sugar Bowl has received the most scrutiny of any BCS bowl this season. Many figured that Michigan would receive a bid by going 10-2. After all, they travel well and have returned to national relevance in Brady Hoke's 1st season in Ann Arbor. Virginia Tech on the hand, caused a little bit of controversy despite having a season comparable with Michigan's on all levels. What caused the Hokies selection to be such a surprise was their 38-point blowout loss in the ACC Championship to Clemson. Frank Beamer's squad will make no excuses for being here though. I expect the team that runs the ball better to control this game and come out on top.

Prediction - Michigan 27 Virginia Tech 20

Fiesta Bowl Preview



3 Oklahoma St. (-3.5) vs. 4 Stanford

Back in the day the NCAA Basketball Tournament used to have a 3rd Place Game for the 2 teams that lost in the Final 4. That is essentially what the Fiesta Bowl is this year. Both of these teams lost just 1 game this season, but they also lost in the polls. That is why they meet in Glendale instead of having a chance to win a national title. Stanford is lead by the Heisman runner-up each of the last 2 years, QB Andrew Luck. That is not all the Cardinal have though. They can run the ball, and have a rugged front 7 on defense. The Pokes possess a high scoring attack lead by QB Brandon Weeden and 2-time Biletnikoff winner Justin Blackmon. Their defense has given up a lot of yards but have caused plenty of turnovers. Both teams will score points, so it could come down to whose defense makes a game-changing play.

Prediction - Stanford 41 Oklahoma St. 38

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Rose Bowl Preview



7 Oregon (-6) vs. 9 Wisconsin

The Rose Bowl should be one of the most entertaining games that the bowl season has to offer. Both of these teams can score in bunches. Oregon and Wisconsin rank 3rd and 4th nationally in scoring offenses. they each prefer to do it on the ground, but can also air it out when needed. Oregon RB LaMichael James was a Heisman finalist in 2010. Wisconsin RB Montee Ball was a Heisman finalist this year. There will be speed all over the field. The Big Ten has gotten a bad reputation for not having elite speed, so it will be interesting to see if the Badgers can keep up with the Ducks. Wisconsin is looking to avenge last season's Rose Bowl loss to TCU. Oregon is looking to give Chip Kelly his 1st BCS victory, after leading the Ducks to the Rose Bowl and BCS National Championship before losing each of the last 2 seasons.

Prediction - Oregon 38 Wisconsin 34

Capital One Bowl Preview



8 South Carolina (-2.5) vs. 20 Nebraska

Nebraska's inaugural season in the Big Ten isn't going to end up on the coast they had hoped. The Huskers had their eyes set on playing on the Pacific Coast in the Rose Bowl. They fell short of that goal and head to Orlando instead. Nebraska will take on South Carolina on January 2. Steve Spurrier is building a nice program in Columbia. The Gamecocks reach 10 wins for just the 2nd time in school history, and did so with losing their Heisman-caliber RB, Marcus Lattimore, to an ACL injury. They also kicked their starting QB, Stephen Garcia, off the team for repeated violations of team rules. The reason South Carolina could overcome these losses was a stout defense. Nebraska was supposed to have one of the best defenses in the nation, but South Carolina's out did them. The defense that outplays the other should lead their team to victory.

Prediction - South Carolina 28 Nebraska 16

Outback Bowl Preview



16 Georgia (-3.5) vs. 17 Michigan St.

Here is another one of the SEC-Big Ten matchups we get during bowl season. This one features the runner-up in both conferences. Georgia started the season badly, by losing to Boise State and South Carolina in their opening 2 games. They followed that up by rattling off 10 consecutive wins. That came to a crashing halt when LSU scored 42 unanswered points to send the Bulldogs to defeat in the SEC Championship. Michigan State came oh so close to their first Rose Bowl appearance since 1988. The Spartans beat Wisconsin in the regular season on a last second Hail Mary, but didn't have miracle in the Big Ten Championship as they fell to the Badgers 42-39. Now both teams must settle for a trip to Tampa for the Outback Bowl. The SEC has dominated the Big Ten in recent years, but I like the Spartans to get one for the Big Ten.

Prediction - Michigan St. 28 Georgia 27

Gator Bowl Preview



Florida (-2) vs. Ohio St.

Was it coincidence that Urban Meyer's new team is playing his old team in the Gator Bowl? Perhaps. But I think that Gator Bowl executives knew that this matchup could drum up some interest despite featuring 2 teams that went 6-6. The truth is, neither of these teams deserve to play in such a notable bowl game. They both travel well and have historic programs - not to mention the new intrigue with Urban Meyer - and here you are. These schools will play each other for the 1st time since Florida started the SEC's string of 5 straight BCS titles by dominating the Buckeyes 41-14 in the 2007 BCS National Championship Game. They both seem a long way away from returning to those glory days at the moment. Ohio State won't even be eligible to play in a bowl game next year. Urban Meyer and new Florida coach Will Muschamp have their eyes on changing that. The winner of this game could take one step toward regaining their national relevance.

Prediction - Florida 23 Ohio St. 20

Saturday, December 24, 2011

Ticket City Bowl Preview



13 Houston (-6) vs. 21 Penn St.

This is a very intriguing matchup in Dallas. The Ticket City Bowl gets a game featuring 2 ranked teams in just the 2nd edition of the bowl game. Houston could lack motivation. The Cougars were on the verge in playing in their 1st BCS game, before getting blow out in the Conference USA title game and squandering a perfect season. I'm not sure that there are words to describe Penn State's tumultuous season. In a season unlike any other, the Nittany Lions went 9-3 but slipped to the Ticket City Bowl as many bowls wanted to stay away from the controversy that lies at the school. This game features the nation's leading passer in Houston's Case Keenum going up against the 5th ranked passing defense. The team that gets the best of that battle should win the game.

Prediction - Penn St. 31 Houston 27

Chick-fil-A Bowl Preview



Auburn (-3) vs. Virginia

Auburn's season isn't ending quite like it did last year. The Tigers struggled down the stretch, finishing at 7-5 a year after winning the National Championship. Gene Chizik's squad survived a couple scares early on in the season, but ended up getting blow out in 3 of their final 4 games. They realized that life after Cam Newton isn't quite as fun. Virginia surprised many by getting to 8-4 on the year. Mike London seems to have the Cavaliers program in a good place as they had their 1st winning season since 2007. A win over a top flight SEC school could go a long way.

Prediction - Auburn 28 Virginia 21

Liberty Bowl Preview



Vanderbilt (-2) vs. Cincinnati

The Vandy program is headed toward relevance, under the guidance of 1st year head coach, James Franklin. It is always an accomplishment when the Commodores make a bowl appearance, but Franklin is hoping they can do this on a perennial basis. They will head across the state of Tennessee to take on Cincinnati in Memphis. The Bearcats won a share of the Big East title, but were relegated to the Liberty Bowl because West Virginia was ranked ahead of them in the BCS standings. Butch Jones has lead the team back to where Brian Kelly had the program. A win here would give Cincy a 10-win season.

Prediction - Cincinnati 24 Vanderbilt 23

Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl Preview



Illinois (-2.5) vs. UCLA

This bowl game features 2 programs that are reeling at the moment. UCLA enters the game as the only bowl team with a losing record, finishing at 6-7. This cost Rick Neuheisel his job. Jim More Jr. is the new man in charge at UCLA, but he will not be on the sideline for the game. Illinois opened up the year 6-0 and were ranked in the Top 20 in the nation. Then the bottom fell out, as the Illini lost their last 6 to finish 6-6. This cost Ron Zook his job. Tim Beckman heads to Champaign from Toledo to try to rejuvenate the program. One of these teams will enter the offseason on a high note, and the other will add one more downfall to a terrible ending to 2011.

Prediction - UCLA 24 Illinois 22

Friday, December 23, 2011

2012 NBA Predictions

Here you go NBA fans, you're receiving the best Christmas present you could ask for - actual NBA games that count. The NBA will get its season started on Christmas day with some very intriguing matchups. Every team that will likely factor into who hoists the Larry O'Brien Trophy at the end of the year will be playing. The Mavs, Heat, Bulls, Lakers, Thunder, Cletics, Knicks, and the Clippers all play on Christmas. And yes I mentioned the Cliipers as a team that could make a push for a title. The season will be condensed to 66 games in just 120 days. Below is a look at how I expect the year to unfold. Everyone seems to have Miami winning it all, but not me. I think Derrick Rose is going to be on a mission. He should have some help at SG with the addition of Rip Hamilton, and they will be just as tenacious on D. The Bulls will return to their glory days with a Finals victory over the up and coming Oklahoma City Thunder.

Atlantic
1. Boston 43-23
2. New York 40-26
3. Philadelphia 35-31
4. New Jersey 22-44
5. Toronto 15-51

Southeast
1. Miami 51-15
2. Orlando 41-25
3. Atlanta 37-29
4. Washington 27-39
5. Charlotte 19-47

Central
1. Chicago 47-19
2. Indiana 33-33
3. Milwaukee 30-36
4. Detroit 22-44
5. Cleveland 18-48

Southwest
1. Dallas 44-22
2. Memphis 43-23
3. San Antonio 38-28
4. Houston 28-38
5. New Orleans 24-42

Northwest
1. Oklahoma City 46-20
2. Portland 36-30
3. Denver 34-32
4. Utah 26-40
5. Minnesota 17-49

Pacific
1. LA Lakers 47-19
2. LA Clippers 44-22
3. Golden State 32-34
4. Phoenix 30-36
5. Sacramento 21-45

Eastern Conference Quarterfinals
1 Miami over 8 Indiana 4-1
5 New York over 4 Orlando 4-3
3 Boston over 6 Atlanta 4-2
2 Chicago over 7 Philadelphia 4-1

Western Conference Quarterfinals
1 LA Lakers over 8 Denver 4-2
4 Dallas over 5 Memphis 4-2
6 San Antonio over 3 LA Clippers 4-3
2 Oklahoma City over 7 Portland 4-1

Eastern Conference Semifinals
1 Miami over 5 New York 4-1
2 Chicago over 3 Boston 4-1

Western Conference Semifinals
4 Dallas over 1 LA Lakers 4-2
2 Oklahoma City over 6 San Antonio 4-1

Eastern Conference Finals
2 Chicago over 1 Miami 4-3

Western Conference Finals
2 Oklahoma City over 4 Dallas 4-2

NBA Finals
2 Chicago over 2 Oklahoma City 4-2

Finals MVP - Derrick Rose
NBA MVP - Kevin Durant
Defensive POY - Dwight Howard
Rookie of the Year - Kemba Walker
Coach of the Year - Vinny Del Negro
6th Man of the Year - James Harden

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

NFL - Week 16 Predictions

Ringer's Record
Last Week ATS: 8-8
Last Week SU: 10-6

Season ATS: 114-106-1 (52%)
Season SU: 152-69 (69%)

Houston (-6.5) at Indianapolis
Houston lost the inside track to homefield throughout the AFC Playoffs, when they lost to Carolina last week. TJ Yates suffered his 1st loss as the starting QB of the Texans, but looks to bounce back on Thursday night in Indianapolis. The Colts avoided becoming just the 2nd team ever to lose every game of a 16-game season when they beat Tennessee last week. Indy is now in danger of not winning the Andrew Luck sweepstakes. I think Houston has too much to play for and will bounce back, keeping the Colts the favorites to draft #1 overall.

Prediction - Houston 28 Indianapolis 14

Cleveland (+13.5) at Baltimore
The Ravens nearly lost control of the AFC North after they were blown out in San Diego. Luckily for them, the Steelers were also blown out in San Francisco. That means that Baltimore still controls their own destiny. If they win out they will win the division and have a 1st Round bye. They should take one step forward towards that goal this week when Cleveland comes to town. The Browns found a way to snatch defeat from the hands of victory again. They have now lost at least 10 games for the 4th consecutive year. They don't pose much of a threat to Baltimore.

Prediction - Baltimore 27 Cleveland 13

Denver (-3.5) at Buffalo
The Tebow train couldn't overcome the deficit they faced New England. The Broncos lost for just the 2nd time since Tebow took over under center. A loss by Oakland kept Denver on top of the AFC West though. Now they travel to Buffalo to face a Bills squad that is playing horribly. After a 5-2 start, Buffalo now stands at 5-9 after 7 straight losses. Ryan Fitzpatrick has not looked good since signing a contract extension. It is hard to imagine that he will play well against a tough Broncos D, or that Tebow will let his team lose this one.

Prediction - Denver 21 Buffalo 17

Tampa Bay (+7.5) at Carolina
The Buccaneers are playing as poorly as any team in the league. They began the season 4-2 and many thought that this team was a playoff contender. It turns out that they are a far way from the postseason. Tampa could potentially enter the offseason having lost 10 in a row. To avoid that, the Bucs need to find a way to slow down Cam Newton. In less than a season, Newton has helped guide the Panthers from the worst offense in the NFL to a top 10 offense. I don't see Carolina slowing down this week.

Prediction - Carolina 35 Tampa Bay 24

Arizona (+4.5) at Cincinnati
We are nearing the end of the regular season, and the Bengals are still hanging around in the Wild Card race. They are waiting for the Jets to slip up to seize their opportunity. They welcome the Cardinals into the Queen City this week. Arizona is surprisingly still alive for the playoffs, even after a 1-6 start. The Cards have climbed their way back to .500. Arizona has actually trailed in the 2nd Half of every game this season. That amazing trend should continue, as Cincy squeaks out a close one.

Prediction - Cincinnati 21 Arizona 20

Oakland (+1.5) at Kansas City
The Raiders are fading quickly. A few weeks ago, they stood at 7-4 and were the leaders of the AFC West. Now they need to win out and get some help to reach the playoffs. Carson Palmer has played better in recent weeks, but the defense has faltered. Now they must win in Kansas City, which is not an easy task. The Chiefs are coming off an inspiring win that ended Green Bay's dream of a perfect season. This team wants to play well for interim coach Romeo Crennel. This could be the 2nd straight week KC shatters another team's dreams.

Prediction - Kansas City 23 Oakland 21

Miami (+10.5) at New England
The path to the Super Bowl appears that it could run through Foxborough. After Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Houston all lost last week, the Patriots now hold a game lead on all of them with just 2 to play. Miami comes into Gillette Stadium trying to spoil those plans. The Dolphins have played very well in the 2nd half of the season. They have Reggie Bush running well, and he should pass 1,000 yards for the year this week. Miami should hang around, but Brady won't lose a game like this at home.

Prediction - New England 35 Miami 27

NY Giants (+3.5) at NY Jets
The Battle of New York is a virtual must-win for both teams. After both teams laid an egg last week, they each need to bounce back in a bad way. The Giants were never really in a game that a playoff team has to win. While the Jets were completely dismantled by the underachieving Eagles. Now it's time for someone to step up. The Giants have a recent history of late season meltdowns. The Jets have recent history of late season surges. I see history repeating itself.

Prediction - NY Jets 23 NY Giants 20

St. Louis (+14.5) at Pittsburgh
Ben Roethlisberger did not look good Monday Night. The Steelers lost 20-3 in San Francisco and Ben turned the ball over 4 times. Now the Steelers have lost control of their own destiny. And Mike Tomlin faces a dilemma on whether to play Ben this week or rest him up for the playoffs. My gut says that Charlie Batch will be taking the snaps. The Rams are dreadful and the Steelers D should be able to win this game, even if Batch looks slow and old.

Prediction - Pittsburgh 21 St. Louis 6

Jacksonville (+8.5) at Tennessee
The Titans playoff hopes took a huge blow last week. They became the 1st team to lose to the Colts this season. It had to be painful for the Tennessee faithful to watch their playoff chances slip away to a winless team. They are still alive though, and come home to host another miserable team. Jacksonville was blow out last week, and pretty much have just one threat in Maurice Jones-Drew on their squad. The Titans will try to take MJD away, and will do enough to avoid a 2nd embarrassing loss in a row.

Prediction - Tennessee 20 Jacksonville 16

Minnesota (+6.5) at Washington
All of a sudden, Minnesota is in the Andrew Luck sweepstakes. Or the #1 draft pick sweepstakes. It is still somewhat of an unknown what the Vikings have in Christian Ponder. Ponder has looked good at times, and has looked awful at times. Such is life as a rookie QB. The Redskins wish they were in the running for Andrew Luck's services. But they've won too many games. This game features 2 bad teams that someone has to win. Give me the Skins at home.

Prediction - Washington 24 Minnesota 20

San Diego (+2.5) at Detroit
Don't look now, but here come the San Diego Chargers again. How do they do this every year? The Chargers fall asleep at some point in the season, only to surge towards a possible playoff berth down the stretch. It may be too late this year, but they are certainly making it interesting. Nobody is playing better than San Diego right now. But Detroit isn't an easy place to win anymore. The Lions can clinch their 1st playoff spot this century with a win. This should be a fun game to watch.

Prediction - San Diego 30 Detroit 28

Philadelphia (+2.5) at Dallas
The Philadelphia Eagles still have a chance to win the NFC East. They will need some help, but the dream is still alive for the "Dream Team". The Cowboys got a big win in Tampa last week. They return home for a completely different challenge. The Eagles are finally playing good football. How will the Cowboys handle the pressure? Dallas could clinch the division with a win and a Giants loss. But if the Giants lose and the Eagles win this game. things will get very interesting next weekend.

Prediction - Philadelphia 30 Dallas 27

San Francisco (-2.5) at Seattle
The 49ers need this game. They are mathematically alive for home field in the NFC, but that is unlikely to happen. The more realistic possibility is a bye into the Divisional Playoffs. If San Francisco wins out, they avoid a Wild Card game and will host a playoff game for the 1st time in a decade. They flexed their muscle against Pittsburgh Monday Night. But now they travel to Seattle on a short week. Seattle is one of the hardest places to win in the NFL. There is something about this 49er team though.

Prediction - San Francisco 20 Seattle 13

Chicago (+13.5) at Green Bay
The Packers run at perfection is over. Now they can concentrate on securing home field throughout the playoffs, and gearing up for another Super Bowl run. They can assure that the NFC Playoffs run through Lambeau Field by beating their arch rival, Chicago Bears, on Christmas night. Chicago has not won a game since they lost Jay Cutler. The Caleb Hanie experiment is over. The keys are being turned over to Josh McCown this week. It is hard to believe that McCown will be able to keep up with Aaron Rodgers.

Prediction - Green Bay 30 Chicago 10

Atlanta (+6.5) at New Orleans
The Saints can clinch the NFC South with a win at home on Monday. A loss means that the Falcons are still alive. Either way, it appears that both teams are going to be playing in the postseason. The Saints have been an unstoppable force at home. They will look to improve to 7-0 at the Superdome. Atlanta has been playing much better and look to be on the verge of playing up to their preseason hype. A win over the Saints could propel them to big things in January. New Orleans is just too good at home.

Prediction - New Orleans 31 Atlanta 21

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Sun Bowl Preview



Georgia Tech (-3) vs. Utah

The Sun Bowl should be a classic battle of good offense versus good defense in El Paso. Georgia Tech enters the bowl season, losers of 4 of their last 6. Despite some of the poor play down the stretch, the Rambling Wreck contains one of the most lethal rushing attacks in the nation. Their triple option style could give Utah some problems. The Utes have been good defensively though. Their 1st season in the Pac-12 provided 5 losses, but to no fault of the D. Utah gave up less than 20 points a game against some high-powered offenses.

Prediction - Utah 31 Georgia Tech 27

Meineke Car Care Bowl of Texas Preview



Texas A&M (-10) vs. Northwestern

Meineke Car Care moved their bowl sponsorship from Charlotte to Houston this year. Texas A&M gets to stay in-state to battle Northwestern for this bowl. The Aggies had national title hopes to begin the year, but struggled to a 6-6 record. This cost Mike Sherman his head coaching job, and had many A&M fans disgruntled as one of the most hyped seasons in school history failed to meet expectations. Northwestern never really met their full potential this season as their All-Big Ten QB, Dan Persa, was banged up most of the year. Persa will play in the bowl game, and his counterpart will be Ryan Tannehill of A&M. Persa has had the accolades in college, but Tannehill has the tools pro scouts are looking for.

Prediction - Texas A&M 35 Northwestern 24

Insight Bowl Preview



17 Oklahoma (-14) vs. Iowa

It is hard to believe that Oklahoma finds themselves playing in the Insight Bowl. The Sooners began the season as the #1 team in the Ringer Poll. They held on to that spot for the 1st half of the season. Then they shockingly lost to Texas Tech, and their season began to sputter from there. They lost Ryan Broyles to an ACL injury and the offense would never click like it did earlier in the season. The Sooners eventually finished the year 9-3 and that's how they end up playing in Tempe. Bob Stoops' club will take on Iowa. The Hawkeyes appear in this bowl game for the 2nd straight year. There is no doubt that Oklahoma has more talent than Iowa. But will Oklahoma be motivated to play in this game?

Prediction - Oklahoma 30 Iowa 20

Music City Bowl Preview



Mississippi St. (-7) vs. Wake Forest

Mississippi State came into this season with lots of expectations. They failed to live up to them and limped to a 6-6 season. Wake Forest had very little expectations coming into the season. They surpassed their expectations and are going bowling for the 1st time since 2008. Wake was spanked by an SEC team to end the season, as they lost to Vandy 41-7. Mississippi State has superior speed and talent compared to Vandy, which should translate to success in Nashville.

Prediction - Mississippi St. 34 Wake Forest 21

Pinstripe Bowl Preview



Rutgers (-1.5) vs. Iowa St.

Rutgers returns to the bowl season close to their backyard, in New York City. The Scarlet Knights will cross the river from New Jersey to take on Iowa State at Yankee Stadium for the 2nd edition of the Pinstripe Bowl. The Cyclones are most well known fro ruining the national title hopes of Oklahoma State. After ISU shocked the world, they lost their final 2 games of the regular season. I think there are a few reasons that Rutgers wins this game: hometown crowd, a stout D, and WR Mohamed Sanu.

Prediction - Rutgers 26 Iowa St. 24

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Armed Forces Bowl Preview



BYU (-2.5) vs. Tulsa

Both of these teams have quietly had very good seasons. BYU finished 9-3 in their 1st season as an independent, and will likely find themselves ranked with a win in the Armed Forces Bowl. Tulsa come sin at 8-4, but have won 7 of their last 8. Tulsa has beaten everyone on their schedule that isn't ranked. This isn't your typical BYU and Tulsa squads though. In years past, these teams have been known for their potent offenses. The scoring hasn't been quite as high this year. BYU actually has one of the nation's better defenses. That should give them a slight edge.

Prediction - BYU 23 Tulsa 20

Alamo Bowl Preview



15 Baylor (-9.5) vs. Washington

The Alamo Bowl got a lot more appealing when RG3 took home the Heisman Trophy. It is a bit unusual to see the Heisman winner play so early in the bowl season, but the Alamo Bowl committee has no problem with it. Baylor has the opportunity to get its first 10-win season. And they could get it in their home state of Texas in what could be RG3's final college game. They will take on the Washington Huskies, who are playing in back to back bowls for the 1st time since 2001 and 2002. The Huskies have struggled down the stretch, especially defensively. Having the duty of slowing the most dynamic player in the country surely won't be easy.

Prediction - Baylor 41 Washington 30

Champs Sports Bowl Preview



24 Florida St. (-3) vs. 25 Notre Dame

On paper this is an excellent football game. Orlando isn't exactly the place that these 2 had hoped they may meet this year. Both teams had BCS aspirations, that never came to fruition. Florida State began the season ranked in the Top 5, and got off to a decent start. They lost to Oklahoma when the Sooners were #1 and the wheels fell off a bit from there. FSU's lofty expectations may have been a year too early as the team finished with an 8-4 record. The Irish couldn't have gotten off to a worse start. They began the year with back to back losses and never looked the part of a possible BCS team as they finished 8-4 as well. With the reputations that both of these schools have, mixed with the talent they will both return, each school will probably have high hopes again next year. This bowl game could have something to do with who's ranked higher.

Prediction - Florida St. 24 Notre Dame 23

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Holiday Bowl Preview



Texas (-3) vs. Cal

Texas had an epic fall last season as they went from the BCS title game to 5-7. They return to the postseason, albeit with a 7-5 record. The Longhorns aren't where they typically expect to be in terms of the national conversation, but they are making progress. Mack Brown has been rumored to be on the hot seat, and he could use a win badly in San Diego. Cal also had a 7-5 record this year, but they finished the year much better than Texas did. The Golden Bears take a trip down Pacific Coast Highway to try to get a signature win.

Prediction - Texas 28 Cal 24

Military Bowl Preview



Toledo (-3) vs. Air Force

Toledo got to play on a national stage numerous times toward the end of the season. The MAC has done a fabulous job of getting on the national scene by playing on weeknights on ESPN. The Rockets gained even more recognition by playing in back to back games that totaled over 120 points. Expect another high scoring affair. Toledo can put up points, but can't stop anyone. Air Force's option attack should give them plenty of problems. But Toledo has fared well in high-scoring games and Air Force went 0-5 against bowl teams this year.

Prediction - Toledo 45 Air Force 35