NFL Playoff Predictions (Week 16 Version)

NFL Playoff Predictions (Week 16 Version)
M.D. Wright
12.22.09

***EDITOR'S NOTE: This is pure conjecture. If anything happens to turn out the way I claim in this note, fly me to Vegas so I can go work for the house ha.

NATIONAL FOOTBALL CONFERENCE


Big games coming up this weekend and next. Attention will be palpable. The Vikings' loss to Carolina in Week 15 opened the door for a whole new set of scenarios that previously looked impossible. A month ago, the Saints and Vikings were mortal locks for the #1 and #2 seeds in the NFC, leading to Bye Weeks in the first round of the playoffs. Now? Not so. By virtue of the aforementioned loss by Minnesota, and Philadelphia being White Hot right now, there lends more importance to every game being played over the next 11 days. ARE YOU READY?

As it stands today (again, mere conjecture), these are the real playoff contenders:

1. New Orleans Saints. (13-1).
2. Minnesota Vikings (11-3).
3. Philadelphia Eagles (10-4).
4. Arizona Cardinals (9-5).
5. Green Bay Packers (9-5).
6. Dallas Cowboys (9-5).
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7. New York Giants (8-6).

The Eagles can possibly grab the #2 seed in the NFC.

The Cards can go as high as 2 (unlikely, as both MIN and PHI must lose both of their remaining games and ARZ must win both of its remaining 2 games in order for this to happen).

The Giants own the very important tiebreaker against Dallas, as well as the tiebreaker over Green Bay (should it come into play) due to better conference record and the common opponents tiebreaker.

The Cowboys can win the NFC East by winning their last two games and Philadelphia splits (with their loss obviously coming head to head with Dallas, who would own the tiebreaker against PHI, as a result).

Philadelphia clinches the NFC East with a win in Week 16 vs. Denver and a win Week 17 vs. Dallas.

The Giants cannot win the NFC East, however, they can either jostle for the #5 or #6 seed. The Packers have yet to clinch a playoff berth, and can potentially miss the playoffs altogether if they lose both of their final two games.

Because of the Vikings' loss, the Cards now have "something to play for" in both of their final two games, meaning Green Bay could very well need help from the Giants in order to make the playoffs in Week 17 (facing ARZ).

The Giants simply need to win vs. Carolina at home Week 16 and win vs. Minnesota Week 17 and they are in -- WITH a Dallas loss to either Washington or Philadelphia.

SUBPLOTS:

Washington OWNS Dallas in December in Landover.
Philadelphia ended Dallas' season last year and have the opportunity to do so again this year.
The Cardinals will not know who their opponent will be until their game ends Week 17. It could be any team between Green Bay, Dallas or NY Giants.

If Philadelphia wins the NFC East and gets the 3 seed, the Giants could return to Lincoln Financial Field. If they Iggles clinch the 2, the Giants could go back to Minnesota or Arizona and then would face New Orleans in a rematch.

IN OTHER WORDS, STAY TUNED. Every game matters these last two weeks. This is probably the most exciting final stretch in years.

AMERICAN FOOTBALL CONFERENCE


The AFC is a little more cut and dry (at the top, anyway) than the NFC.

1. Indianapolis Colts. (14-0)*.
* - Denotes clinched homefield advantage throughout playoffs, including Super Bowl (as home team, for what it's worth).
2. San Diego Chargers (11-3).
3. Cincinnati Bengals (9-5).
4. New England Patriots (9-5).
5. Baltimore Ravens (8-6).
6. Denver Broncos (8-6).
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7. Miami Dolphins (7-7).
8. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-7).
9. Tennessee Titans (7-7).
10. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-7).
11. Houston Texans (7-7).
12. NY Jets (7-7).

First off, the Colts have a major advantage avoiding having to play "in weather" by virtue of their #1 seed. However, they aren't the hottest team in the NFL right now. The Chargers are. And outside of playing in Foxborough, there isn't a place in the NFL where I think the Chargers have a chance of faltering right now. They are my favorites to win it all from THIS MOMENT.

The Colts and Chargers are both locked in as they own tiebreakers against all comers.

The Bengals had an opportunity to make a push for the #2 seed with a head to head game vs. SD, which would have yielded the tiebreaker with them and had them both with identical 10-4 records. As it stands, they must win out to avoid falling to the #4 seed, because New England likely will not lose another game.

The Ravens control their proverbial destiny. Win out and they're in. In that course, they have a tough game against the desperate Pittsburgh Steelers coming up Week 16.

Likewise with Denver. The Ravens control the head-to-head tiebreaker, but if they win out, they're in.

Denver has a tough game vs. Philadelphia Week 16, a loss muddles the picture, as there could be 6 teams with 8-7 records, with tiebreaker implications abounding.

Miami, Jacksonville, Tennessee, NY Jets, Houston and Pittsburgh all sit at 7-7.

Houston may have cost themselves an opportunity to control their destiny by losing several games late and a couple of games they "should have won". They need tons of help.

The Steelers have to play a steely (no pun) Ravens team and Miami in order to even have a chance to make the playoffs. A loss eliminates them. Even with a win vs. BAL, they would be in trouble because of the tiebreakers with TEN and HOU (who, if they win out, would have a voice in PIT's playoff stakes, amazingly).

Jacksonville lost two straight and put themselves in a tenuous situation.

Miami's loss Sunday may have crushed them. Although not confidence-wise, as they have bounced back several times this year from crushing defeats.

NY Jets are probably in the most trouble, and it has mostly been due to self-inflicted wounds -- including leaving at least 24 points on the field while America sat and observed a good half dozen times for them to progress beyond their 7-3 lead over the lowly Falcons. Allowing the Falcons to hang around and snatch the victory away at the last minute puts the Jets in a situation where they need the Dolphins and Jaguars to lose out and hope that Houston is the other team sitting at 9-7 at the end -- the only tiebreaker they own against the remaining teams.
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AS I SEE IT:

NATIONAL FOOTBALL CONFERENCE


1. New Orleans.
2. Philadelphia.
3. Arizona.
4. Minnesota.
5. Green Bay.
6. NY Giants.

1/2 -- Bye Weeks, Wild Card Playoff Weekend

6 plays at 3
5 plays at 4

NY Giants vs. Arizona Cardinals.
GIANTS RIDING MOMENTUM AND ADMITTEDLY HAVING A BETTER TEAM.

Green Bay Packers vs. Minnesota Vikings.
WOW. The talking heads will have a field day if this happens. And if Favre does what FAVRE DOES (since 1997) DEAR GOD WATCH OUT. We may hear Favre stories from February until September. AGAIN.

I'm still picking Minnesota though.

NY Giants vs. New Orleans Saints.
TOO TOUGH TO CALL. Rematch, and the Giants won't be a step slow all game this time. Everyone saw what Dallas did to flummox Brees with an average defense, so it doesn't take the Jets' D to beat the Saints.

Minnesota Vikings vs. Philadelphia Eagles.
Peterson would have to earn his keep in this game, but I think Favre is going to be the deciding factor. He and/or Childress and his play-calling/decision-making. They have the defense to contend with Philadelphia. I'm not making a call here.

-------------------------

AMERICAN FOOTBALL CONFERENCE


1. Indianapolis Colts.
2. San Diego Chargers.
3. Cincinnati Bengals.
4. New England Patriots.
5. Baltimore Ravens.
6. Tennessee Titans.

NO ONE WANTS TO PLAY THE BOLTS. That's not supposed to be a C for COLTS. It is a B for BOLTS.

1/2 have Bye Weeks during the Wild Card Playoff.

" "

Tennessee Titans vs. Cincinnati Bengals.
WOW. Vince knows how to win games and they have the best RB in the NFL this year in Chris Johnson.
The Bengals don't really do anything in spectacular fashion. Benson has been slowed, Carson Palmer has been disgustingly average all season (even below average in many games) although he has been clutch, which is all that matters at the end.

I'd take Tennessee. This Chris Henry thing could galvanize the Bengals, but I think more than anything else, they don't have the front 7 to keep Johnson in front of them AND contend with Young.

Baltimore Ravens vs. New England Patriots.
This is one game I can see going in the road team's favor. The Ravens were lined up to beat the Pats earlier before bobbling away (literally -- Mark Clayton and Derrick Mason) the game late when they played earlier in 2009. The Ravens do not fear nor respect New England and along with smacking Welker (which they did earlier as he came out of the slot), they will keep Moss under control and Ray Rice will have a field day against their slow defense. Flacco avoids mistakes for the most part.

Tennessee Titans vs. Indianapolis Colts.
Now.... the Colts certainly have Tennessee's number. Even with Young in the starting lineup, the Colts beat the Titans going away earlier this season. Unlike many teams, the Colts have the defensive staff. WATCH OUT. But I think the Colts prevail and make it back to the AFC Championship.

Baltimore Ravens vs. San Diego Chargers.
Rematch, but no revenge. The Chargers simply do everything great and the Ravens don't feature the dominant defense they once had. Philip Rivers is the 2nd best QB in the NFL and he proves it every week without begging the officials for flags nor failing to show up against an average defense at home with momentum.

Yeah, I said it. If you can read, you know who those statements were aimed at.

San Diego Chargers vs. Indianapolis Colts.

I won't make any calls until the playoffs materialize, but in both conferences, this is pretty much how I see it developing. We will report back at the end of Week 16, Week 17, Wild Card Weekend and after the Divisional Playoffs and Conference Championship Games with more predictions and analysis.

NFL Week 16 Powre Rankings

NFL Week 16 Powre Rankings
M.D. Wright
12.22.09

1. San Diego Chargers.
At this point, I'm beginning to buy them as the best team in the NFL because the Colts' inability and lack of desire to run the ball (STRETCH PLAY, PLEASE???) is going to catch up to them when teams are able to get near Manning's feet. I think that's going to give the Chargers a slight edge should they face one another in the AFC Championship Game.

2. Indianapolis Colts.
What I just said.

3. New England Patriots.
Hard to detract from what they're doing at this point. No one in the NFC appears to be dominant.

4. Philadelphia Eagles.
For all that they have done (big plays all year, winning the NFC East -- as they're going to do -- and looking impressive the past month and a half) everyone knows that the playoffs are a different ball game and the other shoe will come down.

Side note: for all the so-called "EXPERTS" out there on ESPN (STEVE YOUNG, TONIGHT) who fail to mention a very important fact in the NFC playoff hunt, let me put you on: the Iggles have a chance to secure the 2 seed by virtue of the somewhat shocking Vikings loss last night. The Vikes aren't a shoe-in to win either of their last two games and they have not by any means secured that 2 spot yet. With the Cards having the head-to-head tiebreaker and the Iggles having it (if PHI wins out), they will be playing their starters. The Iggles will be also, meaning Dallas may be in for yet another epic collapse at the hands of the Iggles, more questions and thus thereby knocking down the final obstacle for the Giants to clinch a playoff berth. Don't act surprised two weeks from now when this materializes.

5. New Orleans Saints.
EXPOSED. And worse yet, it was against a team with a shaky confidence level that thoroughly smacked them around and proved that the Saints' running game is a mirage and their defense had been playing over its head/not as good as statistics would indicate.

6. Green Bay Packers.
Likewise with THEIR defense, which really hadn't done anything impressive except in the Dallas game.

7. Dallas Cowboys.
Credit to them for winning Saturday night, they get the December talk off their back -- at least until they lose to Washington Sunday.

8. Arizona Cardinals.
You just never know which team is going to show up every week. The way it looks, Bill Parcells is right ONCE AGAIN -- "YA ARE WHAT YA RECORD SAYS YA ARE" and the Cards record shows they post two good ones for every STINKER they mail in. They're 9-5 right now. By that ratio, they are due for a blowout next week (2:1 -- 10-5, get it?) and a STINKER vs. Green Bay. Hmmmm... with the 3 seed at stake for them, their last two games are actually not games where they will be resting starters.

9. Minnesota Vikings.
I've been pointing it out almost from the time Favre signed there. And I'm saying it AGAIN, you saw the crack in the dam last night -- it's going to be Childress' play-calling and decision-making and/or Favre's erratic playoff performance (a staple since 2000 -- look at the stats, records and outcomes -- Favre has STUNK in the playoffs since 1997, but especially since 2000; and that's WHEN they've made it to the playoffs). Keep an eye out, because they could be facing a desperate Giants team Week 17 and once again in the Wild Card Playoff the following week. The Giants have their mojo and moxie back and the Vikes are clearly missing EJ Henderson. They need to get their running game back on track and figure out what teams are doing to take Kevin Williams and Jared Allen out of games or they are going to be one and done.

10. New York Giants.
Even if it was for an extended period of time, anyone with eyes knows the Giants have the personnel on defense to return to their perennial perch amongst the best defenses in the NFL. They did not play like it for two months, but much like '07, there was a lull before the new coordinator (Spagnuolo) and his system took off. Sheridan finally got it right -- and if they continue to play to the personnel's strengths, the first 5 games and the Washington game will once again loom as the trend and not the aberration that they appear to be to the haters (and the 2-6 streak will be marked as an aberration). Too many playmakers on both sides of the ball to keep this team down -- a team that scores almost 27 PPG legitimately every season and had perennially ranked amongst the best defenses in the NFL the past few seasons before the aforementioned lull.

11. Cincinnati Bengals.
I dunno how much they'll have left in the tank after Chris Henry's passing. But more of a cause for alarm is how mediocre to downright bad Carson Palmer's numbers have been in most of the games this year. Coming off a 90 yard game in Week 14, he played well enough in Week 15 vs. San Diego, but the Bengals aren't dynamic enough in the running game -- rather solid -- if not unspectacular; to be able to get by with Palmer averaging less than 200 yards per game passing.

12. Tennessee Titans.
Record aside, VINCE YOUNG KNOWS HOW TO WIN. Had he been inserted sooner, the Titans might very well have one of those Wild Card spots sewn up with a 10-4 record. As it is, Jeff Fisher -- who is proving that he is losing his touch a bit (clock management in Week 15?) gave Young his job back a couple of weeks too late. The Titans CAN still make the playoffs, but they need help from Pittsburgh and Philadelphia in order to have a shot. That said:

NO ONE WANTS TO PLAY THEM IF THEY MAKE THE PLAYOFFS. NO ONE.

13. Baltimore Ravens.
Their destiny is in their hands. A win versus Pittsburgh almost certainly gives them control over one of the Wild Card spots. But it is a huge task to fulfill to go into Pittsburgh and beat a very desperate Steelers team. The caveat being the Steelers don't rely upon the run anymore for the Ravens to flex their true muscle (stuffing the run). The Ravens CAN be had in the air and Roethlisberger has been as prolific as any in doing so this season.

14. Miami Dolphins.
WATCH OUT. That's all I'm saying. The AFC East can break VERY CRAZY if the Patriots don't take care of business in these last two games.

15. Pittsburgh Steelers.
Gutsy play in Week 15, but they're at long odds to even make the playoffs. And I think the young Ravens end their season appropriately in Week 16.

16. Jacksonville Jaguars.
Valiant effort vs. Indianapolis, but -- eh.

17. Houston Texans.
As is their trademark year in and year out -- too little, too late. They don't have any tiebreaker advantages. All they can do is hope everyone ahead of them loses (and some of those teams play one another) so, yeah...

18. Denver Broncos.
I know this team. I knew they'd beat Dallas. I knew they'd lose to Baltimore. I knew they'd lost to Oakland. And I know they're going to beat Philadelphia this weekend. Brian Dawkins might try to take DeSean Jackson's head off this week. I wouldn't mind this.

19. Oakland Raiders.
How about the MOXIE of this team??? Old Man Cable is showing that with time, he can make a bunch of misfits, complete busts and undeveloped talent look pretty doggone good. They have some very impressive wins this year, which all look less and less fluky with each passing week.

20. Atlanta Falcons.
Not knocking them, but the Jets left 24 points on the field and left the door WIDE OPEN all game. They're still horridly average.

21. New York Jets.
Sanchez can't totally be blamed (although he's on the hook for a good 67% of it in this most recent loss) but he's cost them 5 full games and was most of the reason they lost Week 15.

22. Carolina Panthers.
They're riding high right now...

Until they come to East Rutherford and get smacked Sunday.

23. San Francisco 49ers.
Fading fast and complete lack of effort in a game they should have won Week 15.

24. Buffalo Bills.
...........

25. Washington Redskins.
They had been playing better for the past 5 games until they failed to show up Week 15.

26. Seattle Seahawks.
The Seabags are just a pile of garbage. No other way of putting it.

27. Chicago Bears.
Lovie, pack your bags.

28. Cleveland Browns.
WHO KNEW???

29. Kansas City Chiefs.
What a horrific defensive performance against one of the historically worst offenses ever.

30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
They try.

31. St. Louis Rams.
Inspired ball of late, but I bet Spags wishes he had stayed on as our DC this year. He'd be 13-1 instead of 1-13.

32. Detroit Lions.
DEAR GOD. After an inspiring start in the first two weeks, they've reverted back to their ways from last season. 1-31 in their last 32 games (and I shant reel off their overall record in the decade. YIKES). The Rams are right there with them in these past two seasons, though. 2-30. UFFFFFF.

NFL Week 15 Bettor's Guide

NFL Week 15 Bettor's Guide
M.D. Wright
12.16.09

Remember, the SCORE I call is based upon the spread, money lines and the Over/Under; so when I refer to my record versus the SU (Straight-Up picks) and ATS (Against The Spread), that is what it in reference to.

Let's go.

Indianapolis Colts vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville Stadium
Jacksonville, Florida
***THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 43
JAX: +3
IND: -175
JAX: +155

Hmmmm... the Jags usually give Peyton Manning fits, but I don't see it happening. And the Colts' D has been a fixture in all their games. That's why they're going to be a tough out for anyone not named San Diego.

Pick:
Indianapolis 31
Jacksonville 20

FINAL
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Dallas Cowboys vs. New Orleans Saints
The Louisiana Superdome
New Orleans, Louisiana
***SATURDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 53.5
NO: -7
DAL: +260
NO: -320

The carnage continues for Dallas and their fans. How can they deal with all the December swoon talk? They're going to get blown out in this game, they always lose to Washington late and that game in Philadelphia won't mean anything unless the Iggles lose to San Francisco and Denver prior (which COULD happen, but Dallas was 8-3 and in the driver's seat just 3 weeks ago -- now they are in danger of going 8-8 and missing the playoffs altogether?)

SHEESH.

Keep in mind the Saints are gunning for that scoring record (needing to average 41 PPG in the last 3 games to do so) so they will finish off the Cowboys.

Pick:
Dallas 27
New Orleans 48

FINAL
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Cleveland Browns vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Arrowhead Stadium
Kansas City, Missouri
Over/Under: 37
KC: -1.5

The Chiefs seemed poised to take a step forward before last week, but I dunno. The Browns have (at least what THEY call momentum) after last week's win vs. PIT. Vegas sets some ugly lines when the Chiefs are involved. Tough call. UNDER CITY though.

Pick:
Cleveland 13
Kansas City 17

FINAL
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New England Patriots vs. Buffalo Bills
Ralph Wilson Stadium
Orchard Park, New York
Over/Under: 40.5
BUF: +7
NE: -330
BUF: +270

People are predicting a big game by Randy Moss and a blowout by New England. But consider this: the Bills all but manhandled the Pats in their first game this season. And consider this also: the Pats' offense isn't NEAR as potent when Moss is the focal point. They are only able to move the ball consistently because of Welker's action in the slot (and never being bumped off the snap for the love of EVERYTHING SACRED). The Bills will rough up Welker and they did a decent job on Moss before. Owens has awakened since Jauron was fired, so this game is going to be closer than some think. More like the first game with the Bills possibly FINISHING what they didn't finish the first time.

Pick:
New England 27
Buffalo 31

FINAL
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Arizona Cardinals vs. Detroit Lions
Ford Field
Detroit, Michigan
Over/Under: 47
DET: +12
ARZ: -700
DET: +500

The Cards had their Every-Fourth-Game Stinker last week, so you know what's coming.

Pick:
Arizona 51
Detroit 10

FINAL
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San Francisco 49ers vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Lincoln Financial Field
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Over/Under: 42.5
PHI: -8
SF: +315
PHI: -390

The Niners do not travel well at all. Interesting enough, however, their back seven matches up very well with what the Iggles like to do in the air. Fans of the Cowboys (especially) and Giants are pulling for the Iggles to lose out and this will be one of the games where that will occur.

Pick:
San Francisco 27
Philadelphia 23

FINAL
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Chicago Bears vs. Baltimore Ravens
M&T Bank Stadium
Baltimore, Maryland
Over/Under: 40.5
BAL: -11
CHI: +460
BAL: -620

Lofty numbers here by Vegas. They're trying to suck in a few people who got happy after seeing the Ravens score 48 Sunday against the lowly Lions? The Bears, while admittedly trash, are not total slouches, and the Ravens are by NO MEANS to be confused with being consistent or thoroughbreds. This game will be close. So just look at the numbers above and draw the conclusion.

Pick:
Chicago 24
Baltimore 23

FINAL
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Cincinnati Bengals vs. San Diego Chargers
Qualcomm Stadium
San Diego, California
Over/Under: 43.5
SD: -6.5
CIN: +250
SD: -300

Again, NO ONE wants to play the Chargers now NOR in the playoffs. If the Bengals went out west and struggled with the Raiders, best believe they are gonna be in for it in this one.

Pick:
Cincinnati 20
San Diego 41

FINAL
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Oakland Raiders vs. Denver Broncos
InVesco Field
Denver, Colorado
Over/Under: 37.5
DEN: -14

Denver? 14 point favorites? ha. They are so wildly inconsistent. They got 3 INT off Peyton Manning Sunday, but still lost by 2 touchdowns. They will lose this game and SOMEHOW beat Philadelphia in Week 16. Go figure.

Pick:
Oakland 20
Denver 17

FINAL - OT
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Seattle Seahawks
Qwest Field
Seattle, Washington
Over/Under: 39.5
SEA: -6.5
TB: +250
SEA: -300

The Seabags are a train wreck. As a matter of fact, this GAME is a train wreck, because you know the Bucs are a sick joke right now (after a minor "awakening" midseason).

Pick:
Tampa Bay 13
Seattle 17

FINAL
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Green Bay Packers vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Heinz Field
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Over/Under: 40.5
PIT: -2
GB: +110
PIT: -130

Exactly WHY are the Steelers favorites here? Even if they're only 2 point favorites? The Pack go in there and cause heads to roll (and spin) on both sides of the ball. Steelers get embarrassed at home in back to back weeks. WHO KNEW???

Pick:
Green Bay 34
Pittsburgh 23

FINAL
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Minnesota Vikings vs. Carolina Panthers
Bank of America Stadium
Charlotte, North Carolina
***SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 43
CAR: +9
MIN: -450
CAR: +350

Win or lose, are Chris Gamble and Richard Marshall & Co. gonna be giving out grades for YOUNG SID RICE and YOUNG PERCY HARVIN after they torch them, or will they claim that Berrian "quit" ha?

Oh, and Adrian Peterson smacks everyone in the face who said he was wearing down this year. 200 yard game coming.

Pick:
Minnesota 38
Carolina 21

FINAL
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New York Giants vs. Washington Redskins
FedEx Field
Landover, Maryland
***MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 44
WSH: +3
NYG: -140
WSH: +120

Appropriate lines here. Although the OVER may be a virtual lock with the way the Giants are able to score (and the Skins keep pace with teams that score -- see Saints and Eagles games of late). The Giants defense looks like a turnstile at Penn Station DEAR GOD. If the Skins had any semblance of an offense, I'd be legitimately worried. The Giants don't play well at night under Coughlin and DEFINITELY not on Monday Nights well, but it is a game they know they need and the Skins don't do anything particularly well for more than a quarter at a time (classic point: Jason Campbell, has good first halves and occasionally a good 3rd quarter, but falls apart like Jim Jones' "career" has since he broke up Dipset).

Pick:
NY Giants 34
Washington 24

FINAL
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***JETS GAME IS NOT POSTED, BUT WHEN IT IS, I WILL POST PICKS.

Black Men & Education

Black Men & Education
M.D. Wright
12.16.09

Arrite, I'mma get off real quick no homo, but after reading one of my friend's blogs earlier, and having a conversation with one of my boys about my plight since I left my last real job (August 2005), I gotta get this off my chest.

What is wrong with America? Capital gains taxes through the roof, corporate taxes further alienating big business, making it tougher for those companies who WOULD create jobs (let's be real, most companies would continue to outsource even with capital gains back down to 15% and corporate taxes back below 40% -- they would only create jobs here with MASSIVE INCENTIVES to do so, and creating jobs and paying the underclass a "reasonable wage" is NOT an incentive to them, so don't be naive) to do so. Women land interviews at a rate of about 40% more than men do, and land jobs at an ALARMING 80% rate than men in 2009.

Think about that for a minute: For every job posting in 1997, there was an average of 2-3 people applying for and interviewing for it. Meaning, you had a good 33% chance of getting the job. Now for every job posting, about 12-15 people apply for and interview for it. Obviously longer odds. Here in New York City, those odds are even longer; with every job posting yielding 25-30 applicants who garner interviews.

Of those, you already see that most of the hired hands will be women and non-Black men.

The interesting corollary here is actually rather complex and manifold. Especially within the Black community. You hear Black women flaunting their ability to be "Independent" now more than ever. You hear stories of good, hard (rather SMART-working, in my case, anyway), educated, innovative Black men getting put down because they don't have a bevy of material possessions or a cache of cash. But what these women forget is that guys like myself get passed over for jobs now or LOST our jobs so that many of these women would have the jobs THEY have today. Yet, we get accused of being "intimidated" by their education or success. I could see how that is valid in some men's cases, but for someone who simply isn't being given a shot, the sentiment is more "greatly annoyed" than "intimidated" (because not even multimillionaires and CEOs of Top 50 companies -- of whom I've met and interacted with on numerous occasions -- intimidate me; surely a woman who is at most my EQUAL is not going to do so, just because she is where I was 7 or 8 years ago financially and materially-speaking.

If you are a Black woman, it is not the time to put Black men down. It is the time to further ENCOURAGE and assist them in finding the right open door. Yet, the opposite is happening far more often.

Regardless of all this, one thing continues to FLUMMOX me -- how is it that I was able to get better job offers with a high school diploma and just a few college credits under my belt when I was applying for jobs in lower Manhattan and Brooklyn in the late 90s? Or when I was at Aetna and rival insurance companies were offering me several thousand just to jump ship -- but now that I have a Bachelors degree (REGARDLESS OF THE ECONOMY, because this was going on even when I was undergrad from 2005-2007 while things were still good)I can't even get an interview, much less the job?

Makes you think, huh?

DISCUSS.

NFL Week 15 Powre Rankings

NFL Week 15 Powre Rankings
M.D. Wright
12.16.09

As always, I have to remind people, this is less about rankings as it is about how the team is playing RIGHT NOW -- and if they're sliding or on a hot streak, that plays a role.

1. Indianapolis Colts.
Cruise mode. Their defense is so good that Manning had a terrible game and they still win easily. Until the Saints can afford to have an off game by Brees against a decent team, then they cannot overtake the Colts.

2. San Diego Chargers.
NO ONE WANTS TO PLAY THEM NOW NOR IN THE PLAYOFFS. They will represent the AFC in the Super Bowl.

3. New Orleans Saints.
I am done writing about them. The only relevant thing to them is possibly breaking the Patriots' PPG/points scored record set in 2007 without cheating to do so. They're one and done in the playoffs, with that loss looking more and more like it's going to come at the hands of either the Packers or Eagles.

4. Green Bay Packers.
They're as hot as anyone right now. Why? Because they finally figured out how to protect Rodgers. Their line holds a TON, though. Somehow they get away with it.

5. Minnesota Vikings.
Nice win Sunday, but that loss to Arizona looks even worse after the Cards lost to a desperate San Francisco squad.

6. Philadelphia Eagles.
For the love of all sacred, why don't teams bump Desean Jackson and Wes Welker? Welker keeps the Patriots offense moving (when they'd have a ton of 3 and outs otherwise with their paltry running game and one-dimensional scheme to get the ball to Moss), and the Iggles LIVE on big plays, otherwise, they stink. Sure, against a sieve of a defense such as the Giants they look like studs, but don't buy the fool's gold. In the playoffs, the Iggles will have to move the ball more methodically and won't be able to in 3 straight games.

7. Cincinnati Bengals.
How they win and CURSIN' hasn't had a good game (he's been clutch late in a few, which is really all that matters) all season is a testament to Cedric Benson and their defense.

8. Arizona Cardinals.
Bad loss. Further shows why they're not ready to step up into the elite.

9. New England Patriots.
Buffalo gets their revenge Sunday and puts a huge damper on the Patriots' playoff chances.

10. Dallas Cowboys.
The free-fall has begun. They won't sniff higher than 15 after this beatdown coming Saturday night.

11. Denver Broncos.
Hard to take them seriously.

12. Miami Dolphins.
WATCH OUT FOR THE FINS.

13. New York Jets.
The Jets may have something here if Sanchez comes back. If they have to rely on Thomas Jones too much, they may wear down. Huge plays by their secondary the past few games. Kellen Clemens should make every Jets fan nervous for the entire game.

14. New York Giants.
Sheridan and the players seem to be of two different minds. Top shelf talent, BOTTOM SHELF/WORST-IN-NFL results prove this. The offense, just as it has been since Coughlin got here (averaging 26 PPG during his tenure and yes, 26 PPG this year) isn't the problem. We can move the ball and score on anyone. But conversely, we can't stop anyone all of a sudden. We really miss Kenny Phillips. But more than that, playing Aaron Ross at Safety makes little sense to me. He has the speed that Johnson and Rouse don't, but he has CB instincts, not S instincts. Rouse and Johnson got caught peeking in the backfield against McNabb like there was an X-rated Peep Show going on back there DEAR GOD. Jackson is NOT as great as we make him look. The previous sentence explains why he was so open.

15. Baltimore Ravens.
Flacco has made some mind-numbing mistakes in 3 of their losses -- each late in games.

16. Jacksonville Jaguars.
Does reality begin to set in after that loss to Miami? The Jags are NOT 7-5 good. Not 7-6 good. This is a 4-9 team. I don't get it.

17. Tennessee Titans.
They still put Vince in 3 games too late. Had he been in sooner, they'd be 9-4.

18. Houston Texans.
Kubiak has to go. Too much talent to continue the same start slow/go on a little run/fade/win meaningless games late in the season trend. This is 3 straight years.

19. Atlanta Falcons.
UGH.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers.
Thank God we won't have to listen to their fans in the playoffs. The fake ones, that is, since those are the ones you hear most.

21. San Francisco 49ers.
Season saving win. If for only one week ha.

22. Chicago Bears.
DEAR GOD LOVIE SMITH SHOW SOME EMOTION, 5!!!

23. Carolina Panthers.
They are great talent evaluators at the WR position, ha. But as Bill Belichick said Monday, (which was gold) "they would say that (Moss quit), but they haven't really won many games this year. They do an awful lot of talking, but they've lose a lot of games" (paraphrasing).

24. Buffalo Bills.
Spoiler mode begins Sunday.

25. Seattle Seahawks.
The Seabags are SOFT.

26. Oakland Raiders.
Watch out for the Raiders next year. SERIOUSLY!

27. Washington Redskins.
We appreciate having them on MNF next week to help us fine tune what we've been doing wrong on defense.

28. Kansas City Chiefs.
Just when I thought they were going to build on this...

29. Cleveland Browns.
HA.

30. Detroit Lions.
Cue the Jim Mora rant (one of the lesser known versions) from '92.

31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
I don't know what kind of statement the Bucs' front office was trying to make by hiring Morris and gutting the team. How did they expect the man to fare? Not even a veteran coach could have done anything with this mess. So he's going to get fired and probably not even get serious consideration for a job until he's 52? I'm sick of them doing this to Black guys. Always putting them in positions to fail and when they don't work magic, they get chased out of town. He's no Tony Dungy (who, while admittedly having MUCH MORE talent with Sapp, Brooks, Dunn, Lynch, etc., was able to turn around the NFL-worst Bucs to winners -- which Gruden benefitted from, BTW).

32. St. Louis Rams.
YIKES. Just flat out YIKES. If not for Steven Jackson, they'd be pushing for back to back 0-16 seasons in the NFL.

NFL Week 14 Bettor's Guide

NFL Week 14 Bettor's Guide
M.D. Wright
12.11.09

Arrite, I had to go OT and take care of some family business, on both ends of the emotional spectrum for the past two weeks, but I'm back with the picks. We're in crunch time now and this is when the cream rises to the top -- not only in the NFL but for bettor's and handicappers such as myself. I'm usually batting about .725 this time of the year. YEAH, THAT'S ATS AND NOT SU.

Seattle Seahawks vs. Houston Texans
Reliant Stadium
Houston, Texas
Over/Under: 44.5
HOU: -6.5
SEA: +240
HOU: -280

The Seabags are a monstrosity. I wonder how they even win games. The Texans' problem is inconsistency, not playmaking ability, that's for sure. They'll win this one easy. Why, you ask? Because they're not in the playoff hunt anymore, so they'll win these games that they would've lost a month ago when they were in contention for a wild card. Kubiak should be fired.

Pick:
Seattle 17
Houston 30

FINAL
----------

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Metrodome
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Over/Under: 43.5
MIN: -6.5
CIN: +240
MIN: -280

Not sure why Cincinnati is getting almost 7 points. Before that game Sunday night and consequently losing MLB EJ Henderson (who shouldn't have even been in the game, down 30-17 with 4 minutes remaining), I would've said the Bengals have little shot to go into the dome and beat the Vikes. However, given the aforementioned facts, plus the fact that Adrian Peterson has either a) worn down and/or b) been flat out neutralized against good run defenses this year, I am taking the Bengals to cover, win straight up, their money line AND the OVER. Easiest pick of the week, IMO.

Pick:
Cincinnati 31
Minnesota 24

FINAL
-----------

Denver Broncos vs. Indianapolis Colts
Lucas Oil Stadium
Indianapolis, Indiana
Over/Under: 44
IND: -7
DEN: +250
IND: -300

NO CHANCE. Their playoff aspirations go COMPLETELY down the drain with this loss (look at the tiebreakers).

Pick:
Denver 16
Indianapolis 34

FINAL
------------

New York Jets vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Raymond James Stadium
Tampa, Florida
Over/Under: 37
TB: +3
NYJ: -180
TB: +160

The pessimistic Jet fan knows this is the type of game that the Jets lose. They have a prime chance to get back into contention for winning the AFC East, they gained new life with the Steelers losing 5 straight and the Ravens losing their last couple of games in the Wild Card also. Although I do believe with Clemens in for Sanchez, the Jets will run the ball a good 40 times this Sunday and avoid any of the foolish mistakes that have cost them in all but one of their games.

Pick:
NY Jets 23
Tampa Bay 9

FINAL
----------

Buffalo Bills vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Arrowhead Stadium
Kansas City, Missouri
Over/Under: 37.5
KC: +1

Buffalo, on the road at always-tough Arrowhead? I dunno. But the Bills have played inspired ball for coach Fewell. The Chiefs are dangerous. And I'm going to continue to remind you that I called that they would get strong by the end of this season (said it from the beginning -- go check) and will be able to build off it next year with that chump RB off the team and not holding them back now. I'm taking the Chiefs and the cheap cover. No over, though.

Pick:
Buffalo 10
Kansas City 17

FINAL
------------

Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears
Soldier Field
Chicago, Illinois
Over/Under: 41
CHI: +3.5
GB: -210
CHI: +175

Trap game for the Packers. The Bears stink. I know it. YOU, my readers, KNOW IT. Lovie Smith knows it, but you wouldn't know that he knows it because his expression never changes.

Just when Packer Nation sought an opening to sneak back into the NFC North division title picture or grab a strangle hold on a wild card spot...

Pick:
Green Bay 24
Chicago 27

FINAL - OT
-----------------

New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons
The Georgia Dome
Atlanta, Georgia
Over/Under: 50
ATL: +10
NO: -550
ATL: +425

With Matthew Ice, I would've said the Fulcons get their revenge from that B.S. 4th Quarter in the first matchup, but without him and Chris Redman (yeah, HIM) in, NO CHANCE.

Pick:
New Orleans 34
Atlanta 17

FINAL
-------------

Detroit Lions vs. Baltimore Ravens
M&T Bank Stadium
Baltimore, Maryland
Over/Under: 39.5
BAL: -13.5
DET: +550
BAL: -750

No way the woefully inconsistent Ravens should be giving away this many points in any game. Not even against the Lions -- who will fight them to the end. The Ravens will run the ball all day against the cats, though.

Pick:
Detroit 14
Baltimore 23

FINAL
-----------

Miami Dolphins vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville Stadium
Jacksonville, Florida
Over/Under: 44
JAX: -3
MIA: +120
JAX: -140

Just when a few people were getting ready to come around on the Jags, and when a few others were ready to write the Fins off (before last week) the Fins will go into Jacksonville and ruin the Jags' resurgent season. Turns out the AFC East may have been the most balanced division out there. Lookit -- the Pats, Jets, Fins all could be 7-6 after Sunday. As a matter of fact, when you see my upset pick of the week, I'm COUNTING ON IT.

Pick:
Miami 20
Jacksonville 17

FINAL - OT
----------------

St. Louis Rams vs. Tennessee Titans
LP Field
Nashville, Tennessee
Over/Under: 41
TEN: -13
STL: +500
TEN: -700

The only thing noteworthy about this game is watching the RBs. Steven Jackson is having an excellent season, and Chris Johnson is on his way to having 2,000 yards this year. He will get about 215 of the 491 yards he needs to reach 2,000 in this game alone. DEAR GOD@THE RAMS RUN DEFENSE.

Pick:
St. Louis 13
Tennessee 28

FINAL
--------------

Carolina Panthers vs. New England Patriots
Gillette Stadium
Foxborough, Massachusetts
Over/Under: 44
NE: -13
CAR: +500
NE: -700

I'm hearing all kinds of excuses from the Patriots fans out there. I see Belichick at his old games trying to throw off John Fox and his defense with the Brady reports.

Whatever.

Just admit they've played over their heads on defense most of the season, but are otherwise too slow to really be considered contenders. Giving up Seymour killed their pass rush and weakside run defense. They do their thing offensively, but so do about 10 other teams. If you can't stop the run, you're not going to win week in and week out. And I really believe the Panthers will be working the perimeter with the run game AND the short passing game to take advantage of the Pats' lack of speed.

***UPSET PICK OF THE WEEK***
Pick:
Carolina 27
New England 21

FINAL
-----------

Washington Redskins vs. Oakland Raiders
The Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
Oakland, California
Over/Under: 37.5
OAK: +1

......................



Nah, honestly, this may turn out to be an entertaining game. You know, the one they flip over to at 7:36 PM when the others are going off and Gradkowski is scrambling around wildly looking for Lou Murphy with 6 seconds left ha?

Pick:
Washington 24
Oakland 22

FINAL
----------------

San Diego Chargers vs. Dallas Cowboys
Cowboys Stadium
Arlington, Texas
Over/Under: 48.5
DAL: -3
SD: +145
DAL: -165

Can't go against the Bolts at this point.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDiCxhtGMhc

Pick:
San Diego 38
Dallas 28

FINAL
-----------

Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Football Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey
***SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 44
NYG: -1

The divsion lead is at stake. Here is the breakdown: the Iggles win, and (if the SD vs. DAL game goes as I picked) they control the NFC East with the tiebreaker over the Giants in any scenario -- and a huge game coming up against Dallas Week 17. The Giants win and have the tiebreaker over both Dallas and Philadelphia with control of their own destiny and three games remaining @Washington, vs. Carolina and @Minnesota -- who may very well be resting their starters.

In other words -- HUGE GAME.

The Giants are back to playing Giants football and the Eagles have proven they are no more than the 49ers when they can't get the big plays (which the Giants haven't given up since benching CC Brown). GET IT?

Pick:
Philadelphia 17
NY Giants 27

FINAL
------------

Arizona Cardinals vs. San Francisco 49ers
Candlestick Park
San Francisco, California
***MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 44.5
SF: +3.5
ARI: -190
SF: +165

What happened to SF sheesh? The Curds have been inconsistent at times, but they looked mighty strong vs. Minnesota and impressed me. With a chance to put the Niners away and stop all talk about the NFC West being up for grabs, they'll take care of business relatively easy.

Pick:
Arizona 37
San Francisco 21

FINAL
------------

NFL Week 12 Powre Rankings

NFL Week 12 Powre Rankings
M.D. Wright
11.24.09

Jeff Fisher looks like an idiot for not starting Vince Young out of the gate this year. Besides, Collins hasn't done anything to prove that he can be counted on in back to back years. In reality, Vince should've started the season. The Titans are on a real hot streak, and as always, RECORDS aren't the tell-tale in the POWER rankings, it is how the team is playing week to week, especially if they are sliding, White Hot or just stagnant.

1. Indianapolis Colts.
They just keep getting it done, even as people continue to try to write them off as "lucky" or their inability/lack of desire to run the ball.

2. Minnesota Vikings.
Every week I say the same thing -- it is going to come down to whether Favre or Chilly Willy kill them with INTs/bad coaching decisions, respectively.

3. New England Patriots.
Impressive and dominant win vs. NY Jets in a game the Jets needed to win. There is something to be said about that.

4. New Orleans Saints.
Still overrated. They're going to lose their first playoff game -- and aside from blowing out an overmatched Tampa Bay team, they have been reeling and looking stodgy at best.

5. San Diego Chargers.
This streak they are on is NO FLUKE. They are going to keep it going for about 4 more games also, before resting starters. I did, in fact, pick them to win 13 or 14. 12 is more likely, given how they may give one away late.

6. Arizona Cardinals.
They're getting on the same page offensively at the right time, but if Warner goes down, so will their ranking, because Leinart absolutely STINKS.

7. Cincinnati Bengals.
Losing to the Raiders is not shameful like it was earlier in the season when Philadelphia did it. The Raiders are actually semi-respectful without Russell turning the ball over 4-5 times a game.

8. Pittsburgh Steelers.
Fading fast. And they may miss the playoffs. So much for their fans talking 16-0.

9. Dallas Cowboys.
Their offense is absolutely atrocious of late and if they don't fix that in the next two weeks, they will lose their spot in first place in the division and much more. Struggling against the Packers and Skins should not happen.

10. New York Giants.
The Giants avoided choking away the win this week, unlike Week 9. And despite what people say about the offense, they still average 27 PPG. The problem had been the fact that they have been surrendering 30 PPG to the above-stinker teams. They look much more solid on defense with Rouse not giving up big plays like CC Brown and Aaron Ross back to solidify the cornerback tandem. The defensive line also looks live again.

11. Green Bay Packers.
Somehow, they are here. If they could consistently protect Rodgers, who is having an all-world season, they'd be 8-2 or 9-1.

12. Jacksonville Jaguars.
I JUST DON'T GET IT. One man on both sides of the ball (Jones-Drew/Mathis) and they're 6-4???

13. Philadelphia Eagles.
Struggled as expected vs. Chicago -- and should've lost -- while looking pretty pedestrian minus the big plays, which has been their shortcoming all season.

14. Baltimore Ravens.
One is an accident, two is a concern, three is a trend. FIVE IS WHAT YOU REALLY ARE. The Ravens just cannot close games out and it has killed them in every game they've lost. They could VERY REALISTICALLY BE 10-0. No jokes.

15. Miami Dolphins.
Huge win last Thursday, but will they overcome their major injuries to key players?

16. Denver Broncos.
6 fluky wins, 4 losses that are more indicative of what this team is -- and it continues Thursday with the Giants coming to town. I picked the Broncos to win 6 games ALL SEASON and they may not win more than 7 -- if that.

17. Atlanta Falcons.
Disgustingly average.

18. Tennessee Titans.
They would've been better off with Young and Johnson in tandem all year. Teams cannot defend them BOTH all game.

19. Houston Texans.
They are plagued with the same issue that the Ravens have. Shame. I'd love to watch them in the playoffs, but if they don't finish 5-1, it won't happen.

20. Carolina Panthers.
They pretty much need to win out to have any shot of making the playoffs. That's not going to happen with games against the Saints and Giants, amongst others, left on the slate.

21. San Francisco 49ers.
WHAT HAPPENED TO THESE GUYS?

22. New York Jets.
Sanchez has cost the Jets single-handedly in 5 of the Jets' 6 losses DEAR GOD.

23. Oakland Raiders.
The Raiders SHOULD be able to build upon this next year.

24. Chicago Bears.
The Bears are that team that when they have another team's number (in this case, Philly) they look halfway competent, but otherwise -- SHEESH.

25. Kansas City Chiefs.
Again, I've been saying all year, once this team molds and matures WATCH OUT.

26. Washington Redskins.
Losing both their top RBs might cause them to get blown out of several of their remaining 6 games.

27. Seattle Seahawks.
......................

28. Buffalo Bills.
Wasted effort by Terrell Owens.

29. Detroit Lions.
Huge win. Of course Stafford gets hurt after his 26-43, 422 yard-5 TD performance.

30. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
What is going on with this team. They've fired both of their coordinators and the season is only 2/3 over ha.

31. St. Louis Rams.
It's Steven Jackson and nothing else. Bulger is hurt YET AGAIN.

32. Cleveland Browns.
GOOD GRIEF.

The State Of The New York Football Giants: MIDSEASON REPORT

The State Of The New York Football Giants: MIDSEASON REPORT
M.D. Wright
11.19.09

***EDITOR'S NOTE: While this is a MIDSEASON REPORT, there will be commentary on the remaining games on the schedule and a potential playoff outlook, as well.

OK, we're basically at the halfway point in the season for the Giants. They are 5-4 through 9 games, with 7 to go and coming off a bye. After reading my boy's assessment of his team, the Jets, I decided to do one for the Giants in the same manner.

What this analyzation consists of is a brief summary of each game to this point, what each team did well/poorly, who stood out both good and bad and what could be built upon going ahead.

***EDITOR'S NOTE: The Giants will reportedly get CB Aaron Ross back in Week 11, along with LB Michael Boley and DE/DT Chris Canty. I saw CB Terrell Thomas at a club here in New York last night and he confirmed that Ross will play in Week 11.

WEEK 1:
Washington Redskins vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey

FINAL SCORE:
Washington 17
NY Giants 23

Going in, expectations were huge for the defense, which, while it didn't disappoint, wasn't completely dominant against a Redskins' offense that by all measures would be average at best going into the season. The running game was decent, although RB Brandon Jacobs appeared to be tiptoeing and a step slow all game. RB Ahmad Bradshaw made the most of his carries and QB Eli Manning was efficient. The offensive line was its normal consistent. FS Kenny Phillips played very well while standing out in the secondary.

The Redskins, as previously mentioned, were projected to be average at best offensively. The defense was expected to be bolstered with the signing of the $100M man, Albert Haynesworth, but his effectiveness was limited by a decent job done by the Giants' offensive line. LB London Fletcher tackled everything moving.

GRADE: B+.

WEEK 2:
New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys
Cowboys Stadium
Arlington, Texas

FINAL SCORE:
NY Giants 33
Dallas 31

For all intents and purposes, the Cowboys dominated this game offensively. They put three running backs into the game and they all had their way running off the left side behind LT Flozell Adams (who nearly took out both the Giants' starting defensive ends, DE Justin Tuck/DE Osi Umenyiora within minutes of one another with a leg whip on each). If not for an awful game by QB Tony Romo, the Cowboys would have won by 10.

QB Eli Manning had an excellent game and once again FS Kenny Phillips stood out with 2 INTs, with a TD being taken off the board by horrific officiating. WRs Mario Manningham and Steve Smith were able to do basically whatever they wanted against the Cowboys' secondary. Cowboys' DT Jay Ratliff made several plays in this game that I have never seen a defensive tackle make in my LIFE.

GRADE: B.

WEEK 3:
New York Giants vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Raymond James Stadium
Tampa, Florida

FINAL SCORE:
NY Giants 24
Tampa Bay 0

The Giants did what they should've. They let the Bucs hang around a bit. Eli Manning did not have a stellar day, however RB Brandon Jacobs scored a TD and RB Ahmad Bradshaw had 104 yards on limited carries. The offensive line did its thing, providing holes for 226 rushing yards.

The biggest part of this game was the Giants defense and its ability to shut out the Bucs; however minuscule that feat may appear. They held the Bucs to under 100 total yards and did not yield a 1st down until the 3rd quarter was nearly over. CB Terrell Thomas notched his first INT of the season in this game.

GRADE: A-.

WEEK 4:
New York Giants vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Arrowhead Stadium
Kansas City, Missouri

FINAL SCORE
NY Giants 27
Kansas City 16

The good thing about playing three straight road games is the fact that the tough games late are at home. Or is that good news? Giants fans and people who know the team's recent struggles in late December and in the playoffs know what this means.

At any rate, the Giants thoroughly dominated this game until allowing the Chiefs to score a couple of cheap ones late.

WR Steve Smith had a HUGE day, 11 receptions for 134 yards and RB Brandon Jacobs rushed for 92 yards.

The defense was able to rattle QB Matt Cassel all game, and RB Larry Johnson was invisible for the entire game.

WR Hakeem Nicks became a factor and caught his first TD in the NFL.

GRADE: A-.

WEEK 5:
Oakland Raiders vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey

FINAL SCORE:
Oakland 7
NY Giants 44

Complete domination. While only passing for 173 yards, QB Eli Manning barely missed any passes all game. He was able to sit most of the 2nd half, while injuring his heel -- which began concerns for Giants fans with more competitive games upcoming.

RB Ahmad Bradshaw had another stellar game with 110 rushing yards (on just 11 carries) and 2 TDs. The offensive line opened gaping holes behind LT Dave Diehl and LG Rich Seubert all game; including Bradshaw's biggest run of the game.

WR Steve Smith silenced all the "other Steve Smith" talk while continuing the lead the NFL in catches and yardage, and, at the time, TDs.

The Giants' defense confounded Raiders' QB JaMarcus Russell all game, before he was eventually benched. The Raiders' rushing game was completely stifled and their offense in general was held to 124 yards. CB Terrell Thomas recorded a forced fumble and his 1st NFL sack; while always-there DE Justin Tuck was there on the play to recover the fumble by Russell.

DE/LB Mathias Kiwanuka made some noise while sacking Russell as well, with MLB Antonio Pierce able to record the recovery of the fumble by Russell.

WR Hakeem Nicks continued to prove why he was drafted when he was, and how fortunate Giants fans must be to have him, recording another TD from Manning on an outstanding catch. WR Mario Manningham continued his strong play.

GRADE: A+.

WEEK 6:
New York Giants vs. New Orleans Saints
Louisiana Superdome
New Orleans, Louisiana

FINAL SCORE:
NY Giants 27
New Orleans 48

The Saints completely annihilated the Giants in every facet. From the opening drive, the Saints (aided by a missed INT by CB Corey Webster) did whatever they wanted on offense. The officiating was ghastly and slanted in the Saints' favor, essentially taking 10-14 points off the board for the Giants while the game was still competitive.

Nevertheless, the Saints were the better team and the Giants looked completely outmatched, outcoached, outphysicalled -- basically, Jim Mora could've given the speech he gave following his last game with the Saints in 1996 vs. the Carolina Panthers for the Giants following that game.

View the clip and see how accurate what Mora said jived with what took place in that game (if you watched it and not just looking at the score).

Defensive Coordinator was petrified on the sidelines all game, perplexed by the different looks the Saints featured and never adjusting from the basic 4-3 alignment. SLB Danny Clark is a good player, but forcing him to cover TE Jeremy Shockey is not a favorable matchup. Likewise with MLB Antonio Pierce trying to cover downfield. OLB Michael Boley was out and that really killed any chances for the Giants to cover the middle of the field in the passing game. FS C.C. Brown had one of the worst games I have ever seen in my life in 25 years watching Giants football (and old heads know that INCLUDES Elvis "Toast" Patterson), as QB Drew Brees picked on him all game. WR Marques Colston appeared to have been playing in 7 on 7 drills, not a Sunday NFL game.

The Giants appeared to be trying to trade shot for shot with the Saints offensively. When healthy and the playcalling is unpredictable (which it began to become anything BUT starting with this game), the Giants could score with anyone. But with atrocious playcalling by atrocious Offensive Coordinator Kevin Gilbride, who deserves THIS again: . You saw in this game why us Giants fans call him Kevin KILLDRIVE or Kevin KILLJOY.

The Giants could've run the ball with ease, had Gilbride not gotten away from it and called for QB Eli Manning to pass just as much as Brees did. That would've slowed the tempo and kept the Saints' offense off the field; especially since the Saints' defense was playing WAY over its head at that point in the season. The Giants had nice runs early and would've had 200 yards rushing had they committed to the run.

The lone bright spot for the Giants on this day was WR Hakeem Nicks with 114 receiving yards and a TD.

GRADE: D.

WEEK 7:
Arizona Cardinals vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey

FINAL SCORE:
Arizona 24
NY Giants 17

Nightmare game for the Giants. They played this game as if they were spotting the Cardinals points and thought they could score at any time late to win it. Conservative play-calling, poor execution, being a half a step slow getting to QB Kurt Warner all game and some poor route-running by the Giants' wide receivers characterized this game.

RB Brandon Jacobs had a decent game, with yet again, poor play-calling limiting his carries. WR Hakeem Nicks had 80 yards receiving. The Giants' defense appeared to be like a dam breaking with FS C.C. Brown experiencing MORE nightmares.

Cardinals' DT Darnell Dockett proved that he is a "MAYNE" and the 2nd best DT in the NFL. CB Dominique Rogers-Cromartie (hereafter known as "DRC") made tons of plays all over the field all game before leaving with an injury (when, all of a sudden, the Giants were able to get the ball to WR Steve Smith).

I find it hard to believe how anyone can justify why WR Domenik Hixon sees the field outside of MAYBE kick returning; and even that, he doesn't really excel in, except a couple of decent returns ever 3-4 games.

GRADE: C-.

WEEK 8:
New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Lincoln Financial Field
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

FINAL SCORE:
NY Giants 17
Philadelphia 40

What a headache. One is a legit loss, two is a worry, three is a trend. The Saints game was 80% Saints/15% Refs/5% Frozen Play-Calling on both sides of the ball for the Giants. The Cardinals game appeared to be the Giants playing in reverse all game until they ran out of time to finally put together a continuous drive.

The Eagle game, while obviously an aberration, given the way the Eagles play when they don't get the big plays that they were able to execute in this game, was disturbing, because nothing changed in the philosophy of the Giants. The Eagles are not nearly as formidable defensively as they were with previous Defensive Coordinator Jim Johnson (RIP, 2009), but the Giants played right into their hands with their offensive play-calling. The running game had opportunities all game, but with decisions to pass the ball when the run was obviously what was necessary (all Giants fans agree) led to game-changing interception and the killed drives that Kevin Gilbride is known for as the Giants' offensive coordinator.

Not to take anything away from the Eagles, but starting C.C. Brown at Free Safety led to three Eagles touchdowns -- not shockingly, the margin of victory (effectively). Even FB Leonard Weaver... THE FULLBACK, scored on a 40 yard run, because... YOU GUESSED IT, C.C. Brown got caught in the wash in the box. For whatEVER reason, he was even there to begin with, he couldn't even run down a 260 lb FB? Unforgivable. Then he was caught out of position all day as WRs DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin were able to go wherever they wanted and make big plays all game. To be sure, QB Donovan McNabb is playing some of his best ball ever, but the Giants made him look like a first ballot Hall of Famer by not even getting pressure on him from the defensive front seven. TE Kevin Boss made some plays for the Giants.

GRADE: F.

WEEK 9:
San Diego Chargers vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey

FINAL SCORE:
San Diego 21
NY Giants 20

Simply put: HEARTBREAK CITY. The Giants held the potent Charger offense under wraps all game. After finally, benching FS C.C. Brown in favor of FS Aaron Rouse (who, to be sure, is only a band-aid if/until we get regular starter Kenny Phillips back next year -- hoping that knee issue isn't degenerative and chronic), the Giants didn't give up any big plays all game. Only at the very end, after MORE over-conservative play-calling on the Giants' last drive, did the Giants' defense finally crumble. DE Justin Tuck had the leave the game during the middle of the drive and the Giants were unable to summon any pressure on QB Philip Rivers. RBs LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles did absolutely nothing all game.

CB Terrell Thomas continued to shine in an increased role with an INT (that he should've scored on -- which would've ended the game -- and admitted last night when I saw him that he should've ha). An esoteric holding penalty on RG Chris Snee moved the ball from the Chargers' 1 on the last drive, following a run by RB Brandon Jacobs, then the Giants inexplicably (after being moved to the 11 on the holding that did not occur) ran the ball on consecutive plays instead of at least attempting to put the game away with a pass into the end zone. Following a baffling draw play on 3rd and Goal from the 10 which netted 6 yards, the Giants settled for a field goal, putting them up 20-14. Not the LOCK that 24-14 would have been -- so Gilbride once again gives us heart issues because now the Giants have to stop a team in two-minute mode -- something they aren't exactly adept at doing with a porous secondary and half-step-slow pass rush/slow linebackers (without Boley at times).

QB Eli Manning was very efficient most of the game, 25-33, 215 yards and 2 TD, but for whatever reason, the Giants were unable to cash in on a multitude of opportunities. Whether it was legit and esoteric penalties or MORE AWFUL PLAY-CALLING, they only mustered 20 points with a game turned in such as the one Manning offered.

CB Corey Webster, while still a Top 5 CB in the NFL was burned on the last play, when WR Vincent Jackson scored the GW TD.

GRADE: B-

WEEK 10:
BYE

WEEK 11:
Atlanta Falcons vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey

The Falcons do not travel well at all. And while it will be relatively warm for late November in Jersey, without Michael Turner, expect them to struggle. The Giants have had a week and a half to prepare for this game and fix their very-fixable problems on both sides of the ball (namely pass protection, run blocking, schematics in the front seven and getting Ross healthy to go in tandem with Webster -- and at LEAST providing a band-aid for the busted dam that was C.C. Brown, following Kenny Phillips' injury and placement on IR).

Very winnable game.

WEEK 12:
New York Giants vs. Denver Broncos
InVesco Field at Mile High Stadium
Denver, Colorado

The Broncos have landed back on earth. After playing over their heads for 1/3 of the season and teams (for whatever reason) not blitzing the hell out of QB Kyle Orton, the Broncos have been exposed. They're frauds. Even their defensive statistics, much like the Giants' early, were hollow. They can't stop anyone and Orton doesn't use WR Eddie Royal as he should (i.e. as E. Manning uses S. Smith and T. Brady uses W. Welker).

Giants SHOULD win this one also.

WEEK 13:
Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey

Dallas is coming to the area looking for revenge for the heartbreaking loss in Week 2. Who knows if A) Romo is swooning again like every year in December and the team in general is folding in December as it has the past 15 years and B) the Giants will be on a winning streak or reeling. On paper, the teams are even talent-wise. And while Manning has been slightly more consistent than Tony Romo for the most part, that position and the play by both will be the determining factor, all else being relatively equal. Dallas could very well win this game, and the one game out of the final 7 that I will concede, because the others should be wins.

WEEK 14:
Philadelphia Eagles vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey

The Week 8 game was clearly an aberration, and the play-calling flaws were fixed during this Week 10 Bye, so no 40-17 (at least in Philly's favor). The Iggles have proven they are one-dimensional. If they can't get the big play on either side of the ball (via deep bombs to DeSean Jackson, or returns of punts and kicks by him) or get INTs/FFs, they can neither sustain long drives over an entire game nor stop teams that are consistent with running the ball (a major sticking point with Giants fans as the offensive coordinator has gotten away from the running game several times this season).

The Giants WILL win this game.

WEEK 15:
New York Giants vs. Washington Redskins
FedEx Field
Landover, Maryland

The Skins try hard, but they don't have a fraction of the talent that the Giants have, and Coughlin has instilled into the team of late the mentality they need to have in order to finish this season strongly.

Close game, but Giants win.

WEEK 16:
Carolina Panthers vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey

The Panthers' loss in Week 11 to the Miami Dolphins all but sunk their playoff chances. With some help, this game may loom HUGE for both these teams if the Giants are unable to win the NFC East. The Panthers can only make the playoffs via the Wild Card, so most likely they will be playing spoilers here. With the Giants getting healthy on the defensive side of the ball and going against QB Jake Delhomme, that is a recipe for disaster for the Panthers and their fans -- especially if their offensive coordinator forgets to run the ball (as he did early and in Week 11).

Giants win.

WEEK 17:
New York Giants vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Metrodome
Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Vikes will be resting their starters for this game, and most likely, the Giants will be fighting for the division until the very end -- or at the very least, a wild card spot, so with the Vikes standing to gain nothing (once they sew up the division in Week 13), expect the Giants to win this game also and finish 11-5.

More to come, as the weeks advance, including a playoff synopsis following Week 17.

The Music Industry: More Education/Insight

The Music Industry: More Education/Insight
M.D. Wright
11.19.09

For many people, their knowledge of the music industry stops once they turn off their iPods or leave a show. Sure, a few may read the liner notes, hoping to see lyrics to the songs that they go "I only wish I could somethin'/somethin'/somethin'" to, but that's about it. A couple of sophisticates here and there know how distribution affects Soundscan and others have theories about secret societies running the industry inside and out. But to summarize everything into one statement:

THE MUSIC INDUSTRY IS CONTROLLED BY GREED.

Today's lesson answers the question:

"WHAT HAPPENED TO THE LOST ART OF BEING A DJ?"

Again, people have theories. There are a couple of possible answers for this, one of them being how the industry has evolved and talent has been diluted. Hip-Hop itself is ever-changing in the methods it uses to express the Four Elements (Five, if you are a fashionista). There was a time when sampling was not widespread and most DJs and producers did not have access to the vinyls nor the clearance to play artists' records without paying them royalties (as Biz Markie found out in his now-landmark case settled in the early 1990s which changed the landscape of the Hip-Hop culture musically as well as how sampling is carried out.

While this is true, the BOTTOM LINE REASON the DJ has been cut out of the picture is both simple and complex (leading to the break-up of some legendary groups):

REVENUE SHARING.

For many years, when it came to publishing and being paid royalties from the play/sale/distribution of records, the DJ/producer would receive 50% of the proceeds and the rapper would get the other 50% (minus what he/she had to split with any artist appearing on the song in a cameo role). Most rappers are not savvy enough to read the paperwork and understand the Gentleman's Rule that the producer generally receives 50% at all times simply because he puts in more work -- from sampling, to adding instruments (whether live or digital), sequencing, mixing and mastering and putting the finishing touches on the record after the rapper(s) lay their 16s on the track that the producer created. Naturally, he/she should receive more.

The latest instance of this type of squabble between DJ/producer vs. rapper(s) is what took place between various different members of the Wu-Tang Clan and their chief producer over the years, RZA. RZA is a smart dude. He got that 50%, plus other agreements that the group made in terms of their other projects like clothing and the such like. He was getting the standard 50% PLUS a share of the other portion left over for rappers (whenever he laid 16s, which he is underrated at doing, BY THE WAY).

However, some of the seminal groups from the 80s all broke up for this same reason, over and over and over. EPMD, Erick Sermon and Parrish Smith split with their DJ/producer and then squabbled with each other when they realized they weren't even making half of what they thought they should've been from 1988-1996.

Eric B. & Rakim broke up for the same reason. Eric B. was getting half and in some cases, a bit more, whereas Rakim (in his mind) was doing the most work by lacing the track with his bars.

Likewise with GangStarr (Guru and DJ Premier).

So while modern technology plays a role, a lot of the reason (or blame, if you view it that way) for the lack of DJs outside of the club/party scene is the fact that rappers are greedy and don't want to have to share with a DJ. However, in doing so, we have gotten away from the art form itself. Notice the parallel between the descent of the rap game along with the eradication of DJs and multiple producers? The more producers, the smaller the rapper's checks are going to be.

Considering everyone else the rapper (and those R&B singers as well) has to split royalties with, can you really blame them?

DISCUSS.

NFL Week 11 Bettor's Guide

NFL Week 11 Bettor's Guide
M.D. Wright
11.19.2009

Hit 'n' Run again, let's get right to the picks. I don't have the free time to do this like does ha.

***EDITOR'S NOTE: The picks I like are in BOLD.

Miami Dolphins vs. Carolina Panthers
Bank of America Stadium
Charlotte, North Carolina
***THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***

Over/Under: 42
CAR: -3.5
MIA: +170
CAR: -200

The Fins need this game to remain in playoff contention. The Panthers need this game to remain in playoff contention. Other than the stakes, please tell me what is interesting about this game? NFL Network has some eyesore games DEAR GOD.

Pick:
Miami 24
Carolina 17

FINAL
--------------


Cleveland Browns vs. Detroit Lions
Ford Field
Detroit, Michigan

Over/Under: 37.5
DET: -3.5
CLE: +165
DET: -190

Probably a good thing this monstrosity is blacked out. Or... ehhh... BROWNED out.

Pick:
Cleveland 13
Detroit 24

FINAL
-----------------

Buffalo Bills vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville Stadium
Jacksonville, Florida

Over/Under: 42.5
JAX: -8.5
BUF: +320
JAX: -400

I'm still trying to figure out how the "Jagwires" are a potential wild card team with only one player on both sides of the ball. However, this line seems about right. The Bills are dead in the water. The only thing that could set this off is the team somehow waking up and playing inspired ball for a new coach (Dick Jauron was fired on Tuesday).

Maurice Jones-Drew should have a day for the ages against this porous and slow defense.

Pick:
Buffalo 10
Jacksonville 23

FINAL
-----------------

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Arrowhead Stadium
Kansas City, Missouri

Over/Under: 40
KC: +10
PIT: -550
KC: +425

First thing that jumps out to me is the fact that this line is far too high. The Steelers will have to fight to win this one. Their fans don't want to admit that, nor do they like the thought of it, but the Chiefs are somewhat renewed with crybaby Larry Johnson off the team (may very well be the final nail in the coffin his career, given that he's 30 and lost a step).

The Steelers are going into still-hostile Arrowhead and will find this game a lot closer than they'd like.

Pick:
Pittsburgh 20
Kansas City 17

FINAL
----------------

Indianapolis Colts vs. Baltimore Ravens
M&T Bank Stadium
Baltimore, Maryland

Over/Under: 44
BAL: +1.5

I like this game. I think the Colts can win anywhere, anytime against anyone at this point. The Ravens have stumbled here and there, but still feature a superb offense. They may experience success rushing against the Colts, but the Ravens have had trouble closing games out. The Colts, however, have had two very dramatic comebacks this year and fear no deficits or late-game situations. Even on the road, I'm taking the Colts, the points and the OVER.

Pick:
Indianapolis 31
Baltimore 21

FINAL
--------------------

Atlanta Falcons vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey

Over/Under: 46
NYG: -6.5
ATL: +255
NYG: -310

Perfect team for the Giants to get off the schnide. They were able to stay home, rest (Tuck), recuperate (Boley, Canty, ROSS) and two weeks to gameplan for Matthew Ice & Co. The Fulcons are down Michael Turner and, along with their other problems (smallish on both sides of the ball -- nightmares going against a punishing offensive line and a swarming front seven) and their notoriously poor travel record, the Giants SHOULD be fine here.

However, keep in mind my rule about the Giants giving more than 5 points. That is, NEVER TAKE THEM in that scenario.

Pick:
Atlanta 23
NY Giants 27

FINAL
--------------

San Francisco 49ers vs. Green Bay Packers
Lambeau Field
Green Bay, Wisconsin

Over/Under: 42
GB: -6.5
SF: +240
GB: -280

Interesting scenario here from a bettor's standpoint. The Niners do not travel outside of the West Coast well at all. They are playing a semi-hot Packers team that is feeling good about itself after nearly shutting out the most powerful rushing attack in the NFC last week. The Packers still don't protect Rodgers, but if they are able to run the ball effectively as they did last week, it may not matter here.

I am just not sold on Alex Smith, especially in Green Bay.

Pick:
San Francisco 24
Green Bay 28

FINAL
---------------

Seattle Seahawks vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Metrodome
Minneapolis, Minnesota

Over/Under: 46
MIN: -10.5
SEA: +425
MIN: -550

I like this, if you are a bettor. The Seabags are a NIGHTMARE. They're going into the loud Metrodome against a Super Bowl contending team. Meanwhile, they (Seabags) are injured up and down and on both sides of the ball. They aren't going to even be able to slow Adrian Peterson down, much less stop him. Brett Favre can lob it all day to Sidney Rice and hit young Percy Harvin in the seam all game. They may score 40.

Pick:
Seattle 17
Minnesota 42

FINAL
--------------

Washington Redskins vs. Dallas Cowboys
Cowboys Stadium
Arlington, Texas

Over/Under: 41.5
DAL: -11
WSH: +425
DAL: -550

The Skins are missing Clinton Portis for the 2nd straight game. Tough baskets (or tough yards) for them. Ladell "Tricky" Betts has filled in admirably, but he's not Portis. The Skins actually feature a somewhat formidable defense, so the Cowboys won't run away with this game (nor cover those 11 points they're giving Washington) but the Skins still have problems moving the ball consistently and scoring points with their smallish WRs who never seem to get open (outside of my man 'tana on Go routes at times).

The Cowboys really need Romo to cut out the bonehead mistakes, because there are two things not playing in Dallas' favor in this particular game at this particular time: 1) they usually begin going south at this time of the year, as well as Romo's play and 2) they have struggled with Washington the past few years, even if the Skins have been pedestrian-to-downright atrocious at times throughout that period.

Close game, but give the edge to Dallas late at home. If it were in Landover, the Cowboys would probably lose.

Pick:
Washington 17
Dallas 23

FINAL
--------------

New Orleans Saints vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Raymond James Stadium
Tampa, Florida

Over/Under: 51
TB: +11.5
NO: -550
TB: +425

After starting out white hot, the Saints have come back to reality. They're due to start losing every other game at this point. I would go so far as to say this one, but I'll have to think about it as I summarize everything else in this one and decide when I get to the "Pick:" field ha.

Brees has been throwing INTs lately. The Saints let the Rams stick around all game last week and struggled/had referee help and had to rely on a bad throw by Matt Ryan to beat the Falcons. They also saw the Dolphins fall completely apart in the 4th quarter of their game prior to that. Those should've been three losses. The Saints don't run the ball well and honestly they don't stop it that well. Derrick Ward could have a big game. Josh Freeman looks like he's going to be legit. He'll be able to hit some throws to Clayton here and there.

Yeah, this is going to be my upset pick. I don't automatically take the Saints in OVERS anymore, either after last week.

Pick:
New Orleans 24
Tampa Bay 27

FINAL
----------------

Arizona Cardinals vs. St. Louis Rams
Edward Jones Dome
St. Louis, Missouri

Over/Under: 46.5
STL: +9
ARZ: -400
STL: +320

Yeah, I know the Rams are playing slightly better and Steven Jackson is a MAYNE, but...

Pick:
Arizona 38
St. Louis 17

FINAL
----------------

New York Jets vs. New England Patriots
Gillette Stadium
Foxborough, Massachusetts

Over/Under: 45
NE: -10.5
NYJ: +425
NE: -550

The spread is too high. The Jets are going to sweep the season series. Forget all that talk about the Patriots being "OD upset" after last week. Whatever. They have no one to be upset with but their own coach for that loss. The Jets thoroughly outplayed them earlier this season and they're going to do it again. I highly doubt the Patriots will be able to do electrify the skies with their offense when they can't stop the run. The Colts barely run the ball, but the Jets are the best in the conference at doing so. Different ballgame.

Pick:
NY Jets 23
New England 20

FINAL
----------------

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Oakland Raiders
The Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
Oakland, California

Over/Under: 36
OAK: +9.5
CIN: -450
OAK: +350

...................................

Pick:
Cincinnati 34
Oakland 6

FINAL
----------------

San Diego Chargers vs. Denver Broncos
InVesco Field at Mile High Stadium
Denver, Colorado

Over/Under: 41.5
DEN: +6.5
SD: -270
DEN: +230

The Chargers are taking no shorts (yeah, I went back to the early 90s) and they're on their annual White Hot Streak. The Broncos have a decent team, but their QB has been playing so far over his head all season that it was about time that he came crashing back to normalcy. The Chargers win EASILY on the road.

Pick:
San Diego 30
Denver 21

FINAL
--------------------

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Chicago Bears
Soldier Field
Chicago, Illinois
***SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***

Over/Under: 45
CHI: +3
PHI: -155
CHI: +135

Perfect lines. The Iggles are not overwhelming by any stretch. They've struggled with the Bears for years, even this stinkpot of a Bears team is going to keep it close. The Iggles struggle to move the ball if they can't hit big plays with DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin. Brian Westbrook may not play anytime soon. As dynamic as McCoy can be, he isn't ready to be an every-down back.

The Bears stink for sure, but I doubt they get blown out here.

Pick:
Philadelphia 23
Chicago 24

FINAL
---------------

Tennessee Titans vs. Houston Texans
Reliant Stadium
Houston, Texas
***MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***

Over/Under: 48
HOU: -4.5
TEN: +180
HOU: -220

This game looks a lot better now on the MNF slate than it did 3-4 weeks ago when Kerry Collins was playing. Vince Young is 3-0 since being reinserted as the starter. I called for this sooner. I figured the Titans would start out slowly, not winless slow, but slowly, because Collins never has back to back good years. Besides, last year was a fluke in every sense -- the way the team started the season with Young was too small of a sample size to bench him, and Collins winning 12 out of 14 was a fluke if I ever saw it. They miss Haynesworth for sure, but with VY and Chris Johnson, they can run the ball very well.

The Texans are going to light them up, however.

Pick:
Tennessee 20
Houston 37

FINAL
--------------