NFL Week 7 Powre Rankings
M.D. Wright
10.20.09
Big shakeup this week, but before we go overreacting (as ESPN hacks are doing), let's keep things in proper perspective: there are 4 elite teams, 2 on-the-cusp teams, 18-20 middling squads and then the dredge of the NFL follows. The rankings dictate this --
1. Indianapolis Colts.
Peyton Manning for MVP. Using a bunch of rookies and no-names and making people forget about Marv very quickly. Someone should be exploiting their defense by now, but as it stands, no one has yet and they are making plays.
2. Minnesota Vikings.
They do whatever they want on offense and no one (NOONE) can stop them consistently. Their defense can be exploited through the air, however.
3. New Orleans Saints.
They remind me a lot of the '99-'02 Rams. Take them off that fast track in that dome and play in the elements north of the Mason-Dixon line and they slow considerably. Their defense is more opportunistic than great. They manhandled the still-best defense in the NFL Sunday. I still see the team that lost to the Bears in the cold a year and a half ago.
4. Denver Broncos.
Teams are going to have to realize what Orton's weaknesses are and begin blitzing him. He is NOT this good.
5. New York Football Giants.
Still a 13 or 14 win season (look at the schedule) and potentially hosting the NFC Championship game (meaning the Saints or Vikings would have to play in 35 degree temps/20 MPH winds). Reports of the defense being overrated are ludicrous. Still the best defense in the NFL and 2nd best offense in the NFL. Ran into a hot team at home on a fast track and didn't adjust one bit. Three touchdown loss indeed the suitable result.
6. Atlanta Falcons.
We'll see if they're for real when they come to East Rutherford.
7. New England Patriots.
Shameless running up the score -- and they may do it again to Tampa Bay. But hey, it's football and Belichick isn't part of any coaching fraternity, so he doesn't care who hates him for running up the score against hapless opponents. They will be exposed against the Saints -- if they're really back or not. However, they are coming together and they cut Galloway today, so they will be in line to win the division. Again.
8. Cincinnati Bengals.
They may not be this high again, now that teams know that you must make the Bengals' defense play out in space -- and their best player thus far on that unit, Antwan Odom, just ruptured his Achilles' and is out for the year.
9. Baltimore Ravens.
They are better than 3-3, but three STRAIGHT last-second losses are just that: LOSSES.
10. San Francisco 49ers.
They get Crabtree this week. Despite the inactivity, that has to help.
11. Houston Texans.
Are they finally coming together? They actually had a strong defensive game. We KNOW what they can do offensively.
12. Arizona Cardinals.
Huge test for them as they travel east to East Rutherford for SNF against the Giants. Beating up on an inexplicably overrated Seattle team proved nothing.
13. San Diego Chargers.
Their defense and special teams play this year (and really under Norval Turner in general) has been ABOMINABLE.
14. Pittsburgh Steelers.
Polamalu comes back this week, but they're still committing too many turnovers and they cannot run the ball.
15. Philadelphia Eagles.
Horrific loss. Andy Reid passed the ball an unforgivable 45 times against a defense that is pretty decent against the pass, but CAN'T stop the run. Go figure.
16. Dallas Cowboys.
They can still make a playoff run, but Romo has to (for the first time ever) be consistent for 10 straight games in order to do so.
17. Chicago Bears.
I still don't know why some people think the Bears are good. Cutler can't win alone. He may have a cannon and throw the best deep ball (tied with Flacco) but with unreliable receivers and a shaky TE, does it matter?
18. Green Bay Packers.
Beat up on a Lions team missing their (overpaid) rookie QB and their best player (C. Johnson). They still have a maddeningly porous offensive line.
19. New York Jets.
Sanchez better learn how to play in the northeast quickly. 5 INT against a team who couldn't even beat the BROWNS last week made Jet fans want to kill someone Sunday.
20. Jacksonville Jaguars.
Almost lost to the Rams, which would've certainly ended Del Rio's tenure with the Jags. As it is, they are 3-3, but ridiculously inconsistent.
21. Miami Dolphins.
HUGE test Sunday coming against the Saints off a bye week. We'll see what they're really made of. Desperation time for the Fins.
22. Carolina Panthers.
They still had to fight to beat the Bucs, when everyone else has done it with ease (well, except the Redskins).
23. Seattle Seahawks.
The Seabags STINK. Flat out and simple.
24. Buffalo Bills.
They "win" Sunday, but they gave away two others. Did those two close losses kill their mojo before the season got going good? This team could easily be 4-2.
25. Oakland Raiders.
The Raiders really aren't all that bad. Russell has had two games without tons of mistakes and had a relatively decent passer rating as well.
26. Kansas City Chiefs.
I have maintained the past month that their defense is really not that bad. They have some players at each level. Just no continuity -- and the inability to tackle when it matters. Their offense definitely doesn't have the firepower right now. Larry Johnson and LaDainian Tomlinson are the next in line for RBs to head to RB heaven; they are BOTH done and lost two steps in the past couple of years.
27. Detroit Lions.
Missing Megatron badly on Sunday. As long as he's out and no defense, they have ZERO chance to win a game.
28. Cleveland Browns.
They were robbed by the refs when they still had a chance to stay in the game at 21-14 and getting the ball back from the Steelers -- who turned the ball over 4 times.
29. Washington Redskins.
This team is a colossal trainwreck in every facet.
30. Tennessee Titans.
Jeff Fisher has had a good 15 year run, but they are stubborn in their approach to the game. They adjust even less on defense than Giants' defensive coordinator Bill Sheridan did against the Saints in Week 6. But not adjusting and getting blown out by not even showing up against New England might mean they need a complete overhaul.
Oh, and they miss Albert Haynesworth even more than I thought they would (which I said would be IMMENSE). They have the same team on both sides of the ball. Even upgraded their WR corps. And got WORSE? They miss Haynesworth more than words can describe. At the same time, he looks like an overpaid bust in Washington. Then again, defensive tackles can only have a limited effect on a game, so paying $100 million for one is stupid. But that's Daniel Snyder for you. I should've written this on the Redskins' write-up, but they stink in every phase of the game.
31. St. Louis Rams.
They've been fighting at least. Almost won Sunday.
32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
This team has no heart whatsoever. And that starts from their wuss owner, down to the spineless coach, down to the team which has waived and traded most its stalwarts in the past two years.
As politically incorrect as I wanna be.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
Hiring?
Hiring?
M.D. Wright
10.16.09
Is it just me? Or is it not? But there seems to be a common theme with the hiring practices of companies nowadays -- recession or not; because some of these trends were in place as far back as 2004. However, it is worth noting that many Human Resources (my prime target) jobs are being outsourced overseas and those that are supposedly hiring for that position are lowballing experienced veterans.
A side note:
BEWARE OF THE VAUNTED "ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE/MANAGER" TITLE. That's just code word for "tons of cold-call sales". That's the only way some of these companies can manage to lure you in for their greasy presentations before you realize an hour and a half of your life has been wasted (unless you're just the MAVERICK SALESMAN WITH EXTENSIVE NETWORKING LINES). I've been warning people about that for about five years when I was initially duped by the slick wording for the position. I am NOT a salesman. Yes, I am persuasive by nature and have a dominant personality, but I ABHOR sales.
It seems nowadays that the only jobs opening up are 100% commission sales. Who can afford to do that -- unless you are sitting on a few stacks? I'm not. I have student loans to repay. I can't deal with 97 out of 100 people telling me "no" or slamming the door in my face before I even get the opportunity to be told "no".
While it's true that the recession (DEPRESSION) hasn't hit us here in New York QUITE the way it has in other cities, the job crunch is real. 10% of the city's eligible workers are unemployed. 1 in every 5 Black males in New York City is unemployed. Meanwhile, women are being employed 4 times as much as men (prompting me to continue the onslaught against the "independent" nonsense, when a lot of men are being passed over for jobs that are going to these women who in turn flash their wealth and material possessions in these guys' faces as if they are unemployed through a complete lack of effort).
It is a very disturbing trend. I did not drink the Obama Kool-Aid last year and I refuse to do so until the jobs open up. You'd think before ANYWHERE ELSE, we would see some of these so-called government initiatives pop up here in New York State. There needs to be jobs created here ASAP. We're going to end up back in the late 80s/early 90s-type New York City with high crime and people resorting to unconscionable acts in order to survive. Wall Street and Midtown sleazeballs continue to get bailed out and receive major bonuses while the divide between them and the lower crust continues to widen. To be sure, there has always been a wide divide between Upper East Side residents' salaries/wealth and those who live just a couple of miles north of them in parts of Harlem.
As a Black man, the more education you have, the harder it is to get a decent job. I could find a job much more easily if I didn't even graduate high school. And to think, I'm pursuing an MBA, JD and a Ph.D.
For all the talk about "start a new business, create your own opportunities" -- HEY! GENIUS! YOU NEED CAPITAL TO DO THAT.
Just needed to throw that in there for the slouches who suggest that while they are comfortable with their cushy mid-management jobs and houses in the suburbs; never having to (nor having the stones to) take the risk of doing so themselves.
Always easy to dole out advice rather than live by it, right?
M.D. Wright
10.16.09
Is it just me? Or is it not? But there seems to be a common theme with the hiring practices of companies nowadays -- recession or not; because some of these trends were in place as far back as 2004. However, it is worth noting that many Human Resources (my prime target) jobs are being outsourced overseas and those that are supposedly hiring for that position are lowballing experienced veterans.
A side note:
BEWARE OF THE VAUNTED "ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE/MANAGER" TITLE. That's just code word for "tons of cold-call sales". That's the only way some of these companies can manage to lure you in for their greasy presentations before you realize an hour and a half of your life has been wasted (unless you're just the MAVERICK SALESMAN WITH EXTENSIVE NETWORKING LINES). I've been warning people about that for about five years when I was initially duped by the slick wording for the position. I am NOT a salesman. Yes, I am persuasive by nature and have a dominant personality, but I ABHOR sales.
It seems nowadays that the only jobs opening up are 100% commission sales. Who can afford to do that -- unless you are sitting on a few stacks? I'm not. I have student loans to repay. I can't deal with 97 out of 100 people telling me "no" or slamming the door in my face before I even get the opportunity to be told "no".
While it's true that the recession (DEPRESSION) hasn't hit us here in New York QUITE the way it has in other cities, the job crunch is real. 10% of the city's eligible workers are unemployed. 1 in every 5 Black males in New York City is unemployed. Meanwhile, women are being employed 4 times as much as men (prompting me to continue the onslaught against the "independent" nonsense, when a lot of men are being passed over for jobs that are going to these women who in turn flash their wealth and material possessions in these guys' faces as if they are unemployed through a complete lack of effort).
It is a very disturbing trend. I did not drink the Obama Kool-Aid last year and I refuse to do so until the jobs open up. You'd think before ANYWHERE ELSE, we would see some of these so-called government initiatives pop up here in New York State. There needs to be jobs created here ASAP. We're going to end up back in the late 80s/early 90s-type New York City with high crime and people resorting to unconscionable acts in order to survive. Wall Street and Midtown sleazeballs continue to get bailed out and receive major bonuses while the divide between them and the lower crust continues to widen. To be sure, there has always been a wide divide between Upper East Side residents' salaries/wealth and those who live just a couple of miles north of them in parts of Harlem.
As a Black man, the more education you have, the harder it is to get a decent job. I could find a job much more easily if I didn't even graduate high school. And to think, I'm pursuing an MBA, JD and a Ph.D.
For all the talk about "start a new business, create your own opportunities" -- HEY! GENIUS! YOU NEED CAPITAL TO DO THAT.
Just needed to throw that in there for the slouches who suggest that while they are comfortable with their cushy mid-management jobs and houses in the suburbs; never having to (nor having the stones to) take the risk of doing so themselves.
Always easy to dole out advice rather than live by it, right?
Thursday, October 15, 2009
NFL Week 6 Bettor's Guide
NFL Week 6 Bettor's Guide
M.D. Wright
10.15.09
I am loving how this season is full of surprises; blowouts from unexpected teams (ATL, SEA) and there is never a shortage of drama (NE vs. DEN) and last-second efforts to put teams away (CIN vs. BAL).
IT'S ONLY GOING TO GET BETTER FOLKS!
Let's get to the picks and see what we have in store for Week 6.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Washington Redskins
FedEx Field
Landover, Maryland
Over/Under: 37
WASH: -6.5
KC: +225
WASH: -265
UGH.
Pick:
Kansas City 13
Washington 14
FINAL
-------------
Houston Texans vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Paul Brown Stadium
Cincinnati, Ohio
Over/Under: 46
CIN: -5
HOU: +220
CIN: -260
This should be a very good game. The Texans can score at will, but they give up points with the same alacrity. The Bengals are a force to be reckoned with right now in every facet. Their problem the past three seasons had been injuries to Palmer and no running game. Well, Palmer is healthy and Cedric Benson looks like the guy at the University of Texas who looked like a lite version of Earl Campbell while in college. Chad is experiencing a resurgence for the ages and their defense is finally beginning to play at the level expected from a defensive-minded head coach. Given that the Texans typically don't travel well, the Bengals should be good money at home.
Pick:
Houston 24
Cincinnati 28
FINAL
-------------
Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Heinz Field
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Over/Under: 38
PIT: -14
CLE: +700
PIT: -1000
I don't trust Pittsburgh with 14 points with as porous as their defense has been. The Browns are terrible, though.
Pick:
Cleveland 10
Pittsburgh 26
FINAL
---------------
Baltimore Ravens vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Over/Under: 44.5
MIN: -3
BAL: +120
MIN: -140
Should be the best game of the week. The one everyone thinks will be a showdown is going to be one-sided. More on that in a minute.
But the Vikes do everything well right now (enough to mask the deficiencies in their secondary). Flacco passes well and throws a great deep ball. Not sure that the Vikes will be able to get to him all game as they were able to vs. Green Bay and St. Louis. If they can't, the Vikings' secondary may be in for a long day. Brett Favre does not hold the ball long and Peterson is due for PETERSON GAME. Vikes at home to cover.
Pick:
Baltimore 20
Minnesota 24
FINAL
--------------
St. Louis Rams vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville Stadium
Jacksonville, Florida
Over/Under: 43
JAX: -9.5
STL: +400
JAX: -500
Goodness gracious SAKES alive.
Pick:
St. Louis 6
Jacksonville 27
FINAL
--------------
New York Football Giants vs. New Orleans Saints
The Louisiana Superdome
New Orleans, Louisiana
Over/Under: 47
NO: -3
NYG: +155
NO: -175
A couple of things have to give here, and people who really have watched both teams know which things these are.
The Saints have had moderate success running the ball thus far this season; a new addition to their one-dimensional attack from the past two seasons. However, their offensive line isn't great. It protest Brees relatively well, although he typically gets rid of the ball quickly enough that it doesn't matter. The Saints haven't faced a defensive line of the Giants' calibre and they will get to Brees a few times (including an INTTD). The Jets shut the Saints' vaunted offense down and the Giants' defense is even better than an already-very good Jets' defense.
Offensively, ball control will be the tone of this game. The Giants can sustain 70 and 80 yard drives because they can run the ball consistently all game. The Saints run it in fits and spurts. Eli doesn't make mistakes and the receivers have had great games all season. Having Nicks back as a 3rd option only helps. Darren Sharper gets his INTs off rookie mistakes. Otherwise, he's lost a step and that could get him in trouble as Manningham, Smith and Nicks go downfield. With the best offensive line in football, the Saints will have trouble stopping the run AND getting to Eli in the passing game.
Pick:
NY Giants 33
New Orleans 24
FINAL
-------------
Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Raymond James Stadium
Tampa, Florida
Over/Under: 39
TB: +3
CAR: -175
TB: +155
These two teams may be two of the most painful teams to watch for two diametrically opposed reasons. The Bucs are just a travesty in every way; offensively, defensive and special teams. They do nothing well. The Panthers have far too much talent in each of those aforementioned categories to be as bad as they are. But they SHOULD win this game and cover.
Pick:
Carolina 20
Tampa Bay 6
FINAL
--------------
Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers
Lambeau Field
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Over/Under: 47.5
GB: -13.5
DET: +525
GB: -725
Upset special of the week. No way Green Bay should be giving that many points to the Lions. The Lions are too game for that. And the Packers' offensive line is a sick joke. The Lions will get to Rodgers. Bet that. Kevin Smith is running the ball relatively well and regardless of the QB, the Lions haven't looked half bad in the passing game. They do need Calvin, however and as of right now it appears he will play. I'm taking the Lions straight up.
Pick:
Detroit 28
Green Bay 24
FINAL
---------------
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Oakland Raiders
The Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
Oakland, California
Over/Under: 40.5
OAK: +14
PHI: -900
OAK: +650
The Raiders are going to be one demoralized team by the end of this month -- as if they weren't when Tom Cable broke his assistant coach's jaw ha. Iggles cover easily and win going away.
Pick:
Philadelphia 37
Oakland 13
FINAL
--------------
Arizona Cardinals vs. Seattle Seahawks
Qwest Field
Seattle, Washington
Over/Under: 46.5
SEA: -3
ARI: +130
SEA: -150
The Cards stink on defense at times, and yes, I know Qwest is loud and the fans are literally looking down on the field with the way the field was constructed. But we're talking about the SEABAGS here dear god.
Pick:
Arizona 31
Seattle 20
FINAL
--------------
Buffalo Bills vs. New York Football Jets
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey
Over/Under: 37
NYJ: -9.5
BUF: +350
NYJ: -450
The Jets are angry because they lost last minute against the friggin' WILDCAT offense. The Bills lost to the CLEVELAND BROWNS 6-3 last week. Enough said.
Pick:
Buffalo 9
NY Jets 28
FINAL
--------------
Tennessee Titans vs. New England Patriots
Gillette Stadium
Foxborough, Massachusetts
Over/Under: 43
NE: -9
TEN: +350
NE: -450
If Vince plays, watch out. I'm going to write this up as if he will play. If so, the Patriots will be on upset alert.
Pick:
Tennessee 17
New England 13
FINAL
--------------
Chicago Bears vs. Atlanta Falcons
The Georgia Dome
Atlanta, Georgia
***SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 45.5
ATL: -3.5
CHI: +160
ATL: -190
I don't like this game being on SNF, but whatever. The Bears are a snooze to watch. It will be cold in the southeast on Sunday, but the game is indoors. That favors the Falcons at home.
Pick:
Chicago 20
Atlanta 23
FINAL - OT
---------------------
Denver Broncos vs. San Diego Chargers
Qualcomm Stadium
San Diego, California
***MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 44
SD: -3
DEN: +155
SD: -175
Vegas favors the Chargers at home I see. The Chargers usually stink it up on national TV. They start slow, try to flip the switch late and half the time it comes back to bite them. They start their "save the season" campaign this Monday, however. They know if they lose this game, they'll be in the same predicament they were in last year -- which, if not for the Broncos' epic collapse late in the season, the Chargers would not have won the division and made the playoffs. The Chargers will win going away.
Pick:
Denver 17
San Diego 34
FINAL
-------------
Terrible week last week ATS, should be a great bounceback for me. We shall see. Let's hear your feedback.
M.D. Wright
10.15.09
I am loving how this season is full of surprises; blowouts from unexpected teams (ATL, SEA) and there is never a shortage of drama (NE vs. DEN) and last-second efforts to put teams away (CIN vs. BAL).
IT'S ONLY GOING TO GET BETTER FOLKS!
Let's get to the picks and see what we have in store for Week 6.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Washington Redskins
FedEx Field
Landover, Maryland
Over/Under: 37
WASH: -6.5
KC: +225
WASH: -265
UGH.
Pick:
Kansas City 13
Washington 14
FINAL
-------------
Houston Texans vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Paul Brown Stadium
Cincinnati, Ohio
Over/Under: 46
CIN: -5
HOU: +220
CIN: -260
This should be a very good game. The Texans can score at will, but they give up points with the same alacrity. The Bengals are a force to be reckoned with right now in every facet. Their problem the past three seasons had been injuries to Palmer and no running game. Well, Palmer is healthy and Cedric Benson looks like the guy at the University of Texas who looked like a lite version of Earl Campbell while in college. Chad is experiencing a resurgence for the ages and their defense is finally beginning to play at the level expected from a defensive-minded head coach. Given that the Texans typically don't travel well, the Bengals should be good money at home.
Pick:
Houston 24
Cincinnati 28
FINAL
-------------
Cleveland Browns vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Heinz Field
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Over/Under: 38
PIT: -14
CLE: +700
PIT: -1000
I don't trust Pittsburgh with 14 points with as porous as their defense has been. The Browns are terrible, though.
Pick:
Cleveland 10
Pittsburgh 26
FINAL
---------------
Baltimore Ravens vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Over/Under: 44.5
MIN: -3
BAL: +120
MIN: -140
Should be the best game of the week. The one everyone thinks will be a showdown is going to be one-sided. More on that in a minute.
But the Vikes do everything well right now (enough to mask the deficiencies in their secondary). Flacco passes well and throws a great deep ball. Not sure that the Vikes will be able to get to him all game as they were able to vs. Green Bay and St. Louis. If they can't, the Vikings' secondary may be in for a long day. Brett Favre does not hold the ball long and Peterson is due for PETERSON GAME. Vikes at home to cover.
Pick:
Baltimore 20
Minnesota 24
FINAL
--------------
St. Louis Rams vs. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville Stadium
Jacksonville, Florida
Over/Under: 43
JAX: -9.5
STL: +400
JAX: -500
Goodness gracious SAKES alive.
Pick:
St. Louis 6
Jacksonville 27
FINAL
--------------
New York Football Giants vs. New Orleans Saints
The Louisiana Superdome
New Orleans, Louisiana
Over/Under: 47
NO: -3
NYG: +155
NO: -175
A couple of things have to give here, and people who really have watched both teams know which things these are.
The Saints have had moderate success running the ball thus far this season; a new addition to their one-dimensional attack from the past two seasons. However, their offensive line isn't great. It protest Brees relatively well, although he typically gets rid of the ball quickly enough that it doesn't matter. The Saints haven't faced a defensive line of the Giants' calibre and they will get to Brees a few times (including an INTTD). The Jets shut the Saints' vaunted offense down and the Giants' defense is even better than an already-very good Jets' defense.
Offensively, ball control will be the tone of this game. The Giants can sustain 70 and 80 yard drives because they can run the ball consistently all game. The Saints run it in fits and spurts. Eli doesn't make mistakes and the receivers have had great games all season. Having Nicks back as a 3rd option only helps. Darren Sharper gets his INTs off rookie mistakes. Otherwise, he's lost a step and that could get him in trouble as Manningham, Smith and Nicks go downfield. With the best offensive line in football, the Saints will have trouble stopping the run AND getting to Eli in the passing game.
Pick:
NY Giants 33
New Orleans 24
FINAL
-------------
Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Raymond James Stadium
Tampa, Florida
Over/Under: 39
TB: +3
CAR: -175
TB: +155
These two teams may be two of the most painful teams to watch for two diametrically opposed reasons. The Bucs are just a travesty in every way; offensively, defensive and special teams. They do nothing well. The Panthers have far too much talent in each of those aforementioned categories to be as bad as they are. But they SHOULD win this game and cover.
Pick:
Carolina 20
Tampa Bay 6
FINAL
--------------
Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers
Lambeau Field
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Over/Under: 47.5
GB: -13.5
DET: +525
GB: -725
Upset special of the week. No way Green Bay should be giving that many points to the Lions. The Lions are too game for that. And the Packers' offensive line is a sick joke. The Lions will get to Rodgers. Bet that. Kevin Smith is running the ball relatively well and regardless of the QB, the Lions haven't looked half bad in the passing game. They do need Calvin, however and as of right now it appears he will play. I'm taking the Lions straight up.
Pick:
Detroit 28
Green Bay 24
FINAL
---------------
Philadelphia Eagles vs. Oakland Raiders
The Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
Oakland, California
Over/Under: 40.5
OAK: +14
PHI: -900
OAK: +650
The Raiders are going to be one demoralized team by the end of this month -- as if they weren't when Tom Cable broke his assistant coach's jaw ha. Iggles cover easily and win going away.
Pick:
Philadelphia 37
Oakland 13
FINAL
--------------
Arizona Cardinals vs. Seattle Seahawks
Qwest Field
Seattle, Washington
Over/Under: 46.5
SEA: -3
ARI: +130
SEA: -150
The Cards stink on defense at times, and yes, I know Qwest is loud and the fans are literally looking down on the field with the way the field was constructed. But we're talking about the SEABAGS here dear god.
Pick:
Arizona 31
Seattle 20
FINAL
--------------
Buffalo Bills vs. New York Football Jets
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey
Over/Under: 37
NYJ: -9.5
BUF: +350
NYJ: -450
The Jets are angry because they lost last minute against the friggin' WILDCAT offense. The Bills lost to the CLEVELAND BROWNS 6-3 last week. Enough said.
Pick:
Buffalo 9
NY Jets 28
FINAL
--------------
Tennessee Titans vs. New England Patriots
Gillette Stadium
Foxborough, Massachusetts
Over/Under: 43
NE: -9
TEN: +350
NE: -450
If Vince plays, watch out. I'm going to write this up as if he will play. If so, the Patriots will be on upset alert.
Pick:
Tennessee 17
New England 13
FINAL
--------------
Chicago Bears vs. Atlanta Falcons
The Georgia Dome
Atlanta, Georgia
***SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 45.5
ATL: -3.5
CHI: +160
ATL: -190
I don't like this game being on SNF, but whatever. The Bears are a snooze to watch. It will be cold in the southeast on Sunday, but the game is indoors. That favors the Falcons at home.
Pick:
Chicago 20
Atlanta 23
FINAL - OT
---------------------
Denver Broncos vs. San Diego Chargers
Qualcomm Stadium
San Diego, California
***MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 44
SD: -3
DEN: +155
SD: -175
Vegas favors the Chargers at home I see. The Chargers usually stink it up on national TV. They start slow, try to flip the switch late and half the time it comes back to bite them. They start their "save the season" campaign this Monday, however. They know if they lose this game, they'll be in the same predicament they were in last year -- which, if not for the Broncos' epic collapse late in the season, the Chargers would not have won the division and made the playoffs. The Chargers will win going away.
Pick:
Denver 17
San Diego 34
FINAL
-------------
Terrible week last week ATS, should be a great bounceback for me. We shall see. Let's hear your feedback.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
NFL Week 6 Powre Rankings
NFL Week 6 Powre Rankings
M.D. Wright
10.13.09
The separation continues. Bad losses by a couple of teams are going to drop them, and a couple of teams are going to experience meteoric rises this week as well. As always, this is not a prediction of where teams will FINISH in 2009, nor arguing statistics developed over a 5 game stretch. It is solely a barometer (and an OBJECTIVE one; not subjective) of where teams lie at the moment.
1. New York Football Giants.
Still the best team in football. Even fans of arch rival teams must admit: the Giants, top to bottom, are the best team in the NFL. Best offensive line, best defensive line and overall defense and 2nd best offense.
2. Indianapolis Colts.
The Colts keep trucking, even when some people were picking them to lose to Tennessee, they steamroll them with ease. Unlike ESPN, I don't put them ahead of the Giants. Colts still have questions defensively when they're actually playing a decent offense.
3. New Orleans Saints.
They've earned this. How long will it last, however? They are riding the wave of their defensive play under new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, but they face their first test Sunday.
4. Minnesota Vikings.
Doing everything they would've done regardless of the QB to this point -- aside from the 49er game's ending. When will Favre kill them?
5. Cincinnati Bengals.
One loss was to the team following them in the ratings, but they shut Denver down. "Winning" on a fluke play doesn't make Denver better.
6. Denver Broncos.
Deserve some respect for beating the Patriots straight up, but I feel like the other shoe is going to drop for Orton when they play the actual GOOD teams in the NFC East.
7. Atlanta Falcons.
Destroyed SF at home. Not expected.
8. New York Jets.
Fluky loss late at Miami, however they have Edwards now -- a receiver who can produce since Laveranues Coles in his youth. Defense gave up a few big plays against a virtual rookie QB, but Kris Jenkins is a MAN - leading the Jets' defense.
9. Philadelphia Eagles.
Still waiting to see if they can do it on both sides of the ball, they gave up 45 to the Saints -- McNabb or NOT.
10. Baltimore Ravens.
Two last second losses, both aided by referees -- albeit the Patriot game's referreeing was horrible, the calls vs. Cincinnati Week 5 were legit, and a dropped pass from being 5-0.
11. New England Patriots.
I still just think of them as a run-of-the-mill 10-6, 11-5 team that won't go far in the playoffs. They're 3-2 and could/should very well be 1-4. Monumental collapse (not "win" for NE) by Buffalo and ref-aided "win" vs. Baltimore Week 5. Could not stop KYLE ORTON. Thomas isn't invincible anymore, either.
12. Chicago Bears.
13. San Francisco 49ers.
Horrible loss, but let's not read too much into it. There was a torrent vs. Atlanta Week 5 and their other loss was a miraculous throw by Brett Favre in the last seconds of Week 3. They're still a good team. Dre Bly needs to stop trying to imitate PRIME after all these years. He's 32 years old and lost 5 steps DEAR GOD.
14. Pittsburgh Steelers.
Uninspiring and even though they looked great Week 1, I don't think they'll be all that good once Polamalu does come back. Mendenhall CAN be stopped.
15. Green Bay Packers.
Need to fix their offensive line woes ASAP.
16. Dallas Cowboys.
Fluky play for the win late vs. a notoriously poor-tackling Kansas City team saved them from being 2-3.
17. San Diego Chargers.
Is it me, or was I right about LaDainian Tomlinson ultimately regretting signing that extension with San Diego a few years back -- and getting to this point (losing 2 steps, cutting ability, explosiveness, etc.) only to realize he played in relative obscurity as Chuck Muncie did once upon a team in San Diego -- when he could've had the money AND a Super Bowl ring by now had he left when he had the chance? Rivers can pass for 400 every other game (which he actually seems to do) but they can't stop anyone.
18. Arizona Cardinals.
Let Houston back into a blowout. A win is a win, but as Kurt is starting to come around and Hightower gets things done, their defense is woefully underachieving. Too many athletes and flat out studs at each level (Dockett, Hayes, DRC, Rolle, Wilson) to be such poor tacklers (Hayes GOOD HEAVENS you have to wrap Andre up no homo), take such poor angles (Rolle, frequently) and gamble needlessly (DRC).
19. Miami Dolphins.
Gutty (lucky) win using the Wildcat 25% of their plays on Monday Night. Henne may be better for them than weak-armed Chad after all.
20. Houston Texans.
They need to fix their defense or they are going to be hovering around .500 the rest of the way.
21. Seattle Seahawks.
Hard to figure this team out. They play better with Wallace in the game most of the time, it seems. But Hasselbeck is better. Go figure. They have a blowout for the ages against a team that just had one against a team that was picked by some to beat the 2009 Colts the week before (Tennessee). Doesn't make sense.
22. Detroit Lions.
They will learn how to close games. They would be 3-2 right now if they could at the moment.
23. Carolina Panthers.
UGH.
24. Jacksonville Jaguars.
UGLY TEAM.
25. Washington Redskins.
UGH. REMIX.
26. Buffalo Bills.
6-3 loss? TO EDWARDS-LESS CLEVELAND? *BARFS*
27. Cleveland Browns.
They finally "win" a game by scoring 6 pts and their starting QB completing 2 passes for less than 30 yards?
............................................
28. Tennessee Titans.
I had them 6-10, 7-9 this year and Vince coming in to fix the mess like teams always do with the Black player/coach (putting him in when there's nothing else to lose, he has little or no chance to succeed, then he'll get ripped out of there right as the team is on the precipice of success -- Tampa Tony Dungy, Prime Example). Vince can't win in Tennessee. He's better for them, and they may finish 10-6 this year -- but he'll probably be outta there either way and they'll bring someone like David Carr or Brady Quinn in, win 11 or 12 next year and get all the credit. This is for sure: Kerry Collins needs to retire. He could never run, and definitely can't now at age 37.
29. Kansas City Chiefs.
They can't tackle to save their lives and can't stop anyone on defense despite having a ton of 1st round picks. They're not as bad as this 0-5 record, but they can't get many more "wait, they're gonna improve" comments before (as Bill Parcells famously said in the 1980s about the Giants) "ya'are what ya'are".
30. Oakland Raiders
Finally watched an entire game of theirs. Russell missed a couple of receivers by a mile, but he didn't throw an INT (completely unexpected against the league's best defense) but otherwise, their major problem is no blocking whatsoever in the run/pass offense and their defense being unable to get to the QB at all. Asomugha is the 2nd best CB in the NFL (Revis) but even he can't cover the likes of Steve Smith and Hakeem Nicks (who burned him twice) all day.
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
No heart = weekly annihilation in the NFL.
32. St. Louis Rams.
.
M.D. Wright
10.13.09
The separation continues. Bad losses by a couple of teams are going to drop them, and a couple of teams are going to experience meteoric rises this week as well. As always, this is not a prediction of where teams will FINISH in 2009, nor arguing statistics developed over a 5 game stretch. It is solely a barometer (and an OBJECTIVE one; not subjective) of where teams lie at the moment.
1. New York Football Giants.
Still the best team in football. Even fans of arch rival teams must admit: the Giants, top to bottom, are the best team in the NFL. Best offensive line, best defensive line and overall defense and 2nd best offense.
2. Indianapolis Colts.
The Colts keep trucking, even when some people were picking them to lose to Tennessee, they steamroll them with ease. Unlike ESPN, I don't put them ahead of the Giants. Colts still have questions defensively when they're actually playing a decent offense.
3. New Orleans Saints.
They've earned this. How long will it last, however? They are riding the wave of their defensive play under new defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, but they face their first test Sunday.
4. Minnesota Vikings.
Doing everything they would've done regardless of the QB to this point -- aside from the 49er game's ending. When will Favre kill them?
5. Cincinnati Bengals.
One loss was to the team following them in the ratings, but they shut Denver down. "Winning" on a fluke play doesn't make Denver better.
6. Denver Broncos.
Deserve some respect for beating the Patriots straight up, but I feel like the other shoe is going to drop for Orton when they play the actual GOOD teams in the NFC East.
7. Atlanta Falcons.
Destroyed SF at home. Not expected.
8. New York Jets.
Fluky loss late at Miami, however they have Edwards now -- a receiver who can produce since Laveranues Coles in his youth. Defense gave up a few big plays against a virtual rookie QB, but Kris Jenkins is a MAN - leading the Jets' defense.
9. Philadelphia Eagles.
Still waiting to see if they can do it on both sides of the ball, they gave up 45 to the Saints -- McNabb or NOT.
10. Baltimore Ravens.
Two last second losses, both aided by referees -- albeit the Patriot game's referreeing was horrible, the calls vs. Cincinnati Week 5 were legit, and a dropped pass from being 5-0.
11. New England Patriots.
I still just think of them as a run-of-the-mill 10-6, 11-5 team that won't go far in the playoffs. They're 3-2 and could/should very well be 1-4. Monumental collapse (not "win" for NE) by Buffalo and ref-aided "win" vs. Baltimore Week 5. Could not stop KYLE ORTON. Thomas isn't invincible anymore, either.
12. Chicago Bears.
13. San Francisco 49ers.
Horrible loss, but let's not read too much into it. There was a torrent vs. Atlanta Week 5 and their other loss was a miraculous throw by Brett Favre in the last seconds of Week 3. They're still a good team. Dre Bly needs to stop trying to imitate PRIME after all these years. He's 32 years old and lost 5 steps DEAR GOD.
14. Pittsburgh Steelers.
Uninspiring and even though they looked great Week 1, I don't think they'll be all that good once Polamalu does come back. Mendenhall CAN be stopped.
15. Green Bay Packers.
Need to fix their offensive line woes ASAP.
16. Dallas Cowboys.
Fluky play for the win late vs. a notoriously poor-tackling Kansas City team saved them from being 2-3.
17. San Diego Chargers.
Is it me, or was I right about LaDainian Tomlinson ultimately regretting signing that extension with San Diego a few years back -- and getting to this point (losing 2 steps, cutting ability, explosiveness, etc.) only to realize he played in relative obscurity as Chuck Muncie did once upon a team in San Diego -- when he could've had the money AND a Super Bowl ring by now had he left when he had the chance? Rivers can pass for 400 every other game (which he actually seems to do) but they can't stop anyone.
18. Arizona Cardinals.
Let Houston back into a blowout. A win is a win, but as Kurt is starting to come around and Hightower gets things done, their defense is woefully underachieving. Too many athletes and flat out studs at each level (Dockett, Hayes, DRC, Rolle, Wilson) to be such poor tacklers (Hayes GOOD HEAVENS you have to wrap Andre up no homo), take such poor angles (Rolle, frequently) and gamble needlessly (DRC).
19. Miami Dolphins.
Gutty (lucky) win using the Wildcat 25% of their plays on Monday Night. Henne may be better for them than weak-armed Chad after all.
20. Houston Texans.
They need to fix their defense or they are going to be hovering around .500 the rest of the way.
21. Seattle Seahawks.
Hard to figure this team out. They play better with Wallace in the game most of the time, it seems. But Hasselbeck is better. Go figure. They have a blowout for the ages against a team that just had one against a team that was picked by some to beat the 2009 Colts the week before (Tennessee). Doesn't make sense.
22. Detroit Lions.
They will learn how to close games. They would be 3-2 right now if they could at the moment.
23. Carolina Panthers.
UGH.
24. Jacksonville Jaguars.
UGLY TEAM.
25. Washington Redskins.
UGH. REMIX.
26. Buffalo Bills.
6-3 loss? TO EDWARDS-LESS CLEVELAND? *BARFS*
27. Cleveland Browns.
They finally "win" a game by scoring 6 pts and their starting QB completing 2 passes for less than 30 yards?
............................................
28. Tennessee Titans.
I had them 6-10, 7-9 this year and Vince coming in to fix the mess like teams always do with the Black player/coach (putting him in when there's nothing else to lose, he has little or no chance to succeed, then he'll get ripped out of there right as the team is on the precipice of success -- Tampa Tony Dungy, Prime Example). Vince can't win in Tennessee. He's better for them, and they may finish 10-6 this year -- but he'll probably be outta there either way and they'll bring someone like David Carr or Brady Quinn in, win 11 or 12 next year and get all the credit. This is for sure: Kerry Collins needs to retire. He could never run, and definitely can't now at age 37.
29. Kansas City Chiefs.
They can't tackle to save their lives and can't stop anyone on defense despite having a ton of 1st round picks. They're not as bad as this 0-5 record, but they can't get many more "wait, they're gonna improve" comments before (as Bill Parcells famously said in the 1980s about the Giants) "ya'are what ya'are".
30. Oakland Raiders
Finally watched an entire game of theirs. Russell missed a couple of receivers by a mile, but he didn't throw an INT (completely unexpected against the league's best defense) but otherwise, their major problem is no blocking whatsoever in the run/pass offense and their defense being unable to get to the QB at all. Asomugha is the 2nd best CB in the NFL (Revis) but even he can't cover the likes of Steve Smith and Hakeem Nicks (who burned him twice) all day.
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
No heart = weekly annihilation in the NFL.
32. St. Louis Rams.
.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
NFL Week 5 Bettor's Guide
NFL Week 5 Bettor's Guide
M.D. Wright
10.10.09
We're at the quarter-mark for the season. We know who the real contenders are (and there are only 5... maybe 6) and the imposters (20-23 teams) and who the PUTRID STINK BOMBS are (i.e. read the Powre Rankings). Picks should become easier this week. Fantasy Football becomes less of a pick 'em challenge. Winning percentages in straight-ups, Against the Spreads, Over/Unders and Money Lines should be close to .800 for us experts. With that said, let's get down to it for Week 5.
Minnesota Vikings vs. St. Louis Rams
Edward Jones Dome
St. Louis, Missouri
Over/Under: 41
STL: +10
MIN: -550
STL: +425
I meant what I said. I'm not writing anything about a game involving the Rams until I see an NFL team again.
Pick:
Minnesota 31
St. Louis 10
FINAL
---------------
Dallas Cowboys vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Arrowhead Stadium
Kansas City, Missouri
Over/Under: 42.5
KC: +8
DAL: -380
KC: +310
Sucks to be a fan of Missouri NFL teams doesn't it ha? However, the Chiefs try hard. They are a feisty bunch. Even if they're only half good. This won't be a blowout and the Chiefs WILL cover, because Romo will keep them in it. Expect big games from Hali and Derrick Johnson. Dallas will win, but they don't cover and it won't go over.
Pick:
Dallas 21
Kansas City 17
FINAL
--------------
Washington Redskins vs. Carolina Panthers
Bank of America Stadium
Charlotte, North Carolina
Over/Under: 37.5
CAR: -4
WASH: +170
CAR: -210
The Skins finally win a game? Hmmmm... I like them here, even if they are PUTRID offensively. But I won't pick them because I think Jake finally shows up and gets the ball to old man Steve and Moose at will against the underwhelming Skins' D. Stay away from this game with the lines and the spread -- however, I DO like the UNDER here.
Pick:
Washington 13
Carolina 17
FINAL
---------------
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Lincoln Financial Field
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Over/Under: 41.5
PHI: -15.5
TB: +750
PHI: -1500
The Iggles' money line is -1500 DEAR GOD HA. And they're giving the Bucs 16 points??? *DEAD*. The thing is, they're not totally far-fetched, but I don't trust the Iggles' defence enough to cover that. I barely see this game going over. The Bucs have no heart and since they're not going anywhere this season, you'd think coach Morris would not play so close to the vest (had an opportunity to win Week 4 vs. Washington but settled for a FG on a 4th and 1 instead of going for the TD).
Pick:
Tampa Bay 16
Philadelphia 27
FINAL
---------------
Oakland Raiders vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey
Over/Under: 37.5
NYG: -15.5
OAK: +750
NYG: -1200
I almost typed the same write-up from the last game. Vegas likes the home teams playing east against two of the worst teams in football. Expected. But I never trust the Giants giving any more than 8-10 points MAX. Especially given their propensity for letting teams hang around, or come back late with garbage points (ONCE AGAIN Week 4 vs. Kansas City).
Eli will play and the Giants will be able to do whatever they want on both sides of the ball. If they cover, it will be because Russell throws 2 TDINTs.
Pick:
Oakland 9
NY Giants 31
FINAL
--------------
Cleveland Browns vs. Buffalo Bills
Ralph Wilson Stadium
Orchard Park, New York
Over/Under: 41
BUF: -6
CLE: +330
BUF: -260
The Bills are sloppy. I gave them too much credit early on. They are going to let the Browns hang around even if they SHOULD cover those 6 points they're giving CLE rather easily. Lynch is back, Owens needs a catch in the worst way but Edwards is no better than Anderson. Ugly game. I hate it for regional viewers who won't have a better game available.
Pick:
Cleveland 13
Buffalo 19
FINAL - OT
-----------------------
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens
M&T Bank Stadium
Baltimore, Maryland
Over/Under: 42
BAL: -9
CIN: +330
BAL: -420
Tricky game. The Bengals -- are they really good? Can the Ravens really stop anyone? I don't see the Ravens covering, that's all I know. I can run down all the individual matchups or unit vs. unit, but that -9 is high.
TAKE THE OVER, however.
Pick:
Cincinnati 27
Baltimore 31
FINAL
--------------
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Detroit Lions
Ford Field
Detroit, Michigan
Over/Under: 44
DET: +10.5
PIT: -550
DET: +425
The Lions are game. The Steelers miss Polamalu. This game will be close.
Pick:
Pittsburgh 26
Detroit 20
FINAL - OT
----------------------
Atlanta Falcons vs. San Francisco 49ers
Candlestick Park
San Francisco, California
Over/Under: 40.5
SF: -2.5
ATL: +120
SF: -140
All the positive things that can be said about the FULCONS go out the window when they travel. Especially WEST. I don't see them doing anything offensively in this game. They're going to be just as sloppy as they were against the Patriots.
Pick:
Atlanta 17
San Francisco 27
FINAL
---------------
New England Patriots vs. Denver Broncos
InVesco Field
Denver, Colorado
Over/Under: 41
DEN: +3
NE: -175
DEN: +155
Should be a good game. We will know what the Broncos are after this one. Not that the Patriots are the Colts, Giants or Saints, or even the Vikings, but it is the closest thing to a great team the Broncos will have played. I still think this Broncos' outfit is a replay of the '07 Packers that won 13-3 by smoke and mirrors all season before the real team came out in the NFC Championship game. Don't be surprised if the Broncos win, especially with how they've played defence lately. But I dunno about this one. Especially with the Broncos getting 3 points at home.
THE OVER LIVES, however.
Pick:
New England 28
Denver 31
FINAL
---------------
Houston Texans vs. Arizona Cardinals
University of Phoenix Stadium
Glendale, Arizona
Over/Under: 50
ARI: -6
HOU: +200
ARI: -240
Not worth wagering on -- not even the OVER, with the way the Cards have played on offence. The UNDER has a chance when Kurt is off, WHICH CAN HAPPEN. Although the Texans will score 30+ anyway, it won't really matter either way. I like the Cards at home, but not covering.
Pick:
Houston 31
Arizona 33
FINAL
---------------
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Seattle Seahawks
Qwest Field
Seattle, Washington
Over/Under: 44
Pick 'em
Ugly game. Do I even need to write up about this? Even Vegas doesn't care to get over on their typical 65% of bettors for a game like this. Just take the under and g'home.
Pick:
Jacksonville 20
Seattle 17
FINAL - OT
----------------------
Indianapolis Colts vs. Tennessee Titans
LP Field
Nashville, Tennessee
***SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 45.5
TEN: +3.5
IND: -190
TEN: +160
Let's see. The Colts are playing out of their minds and they're only giving the Titans -- who can't do anything well right now -- 4 points? Hmmm. The Raiders and Bucs are getting SIXTEEN points in their games. The Titans really AREN'T that good. They're not 0-4 bad, but they're not a good team. Vince may play and that may keep them close enough to cover, but otherwise -- eh.
Pick:
Indianapolis 34
Tennessee 17
FINAL
------------------
New York Jets vs. Miami Dolphins
Dolphin Stadium
Miami Gardens, Florida
***MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 36
MIA: +1.5
The Jets get no respect. But they will rebound here. The Fins have a 2nd year backup starting. No wildcat. BUT SEMINOLE LIVES. Leon Washington, FROM?!?!
Pick:
NY Jets 27
Miami 21
FINAL
----------------
Recaps with the picks and Week 4 results coming late Monday after MNF.
M.D. Wright
10.10.09
We're at the quarter-mark for the season. We know who the real contenders are (and there are only 5... maybe 6) and the imposters (20-23 teams) and who the PUTRID STINK BOMBS are (i.e. read the Powre Rankings). Picks should become easier this week. Fantasy Football becomes less of a pick 'em challenge. Winning percentages in straight-ups, Against the Spreads, Over/Unders and Money Lines should be close to .800 for us experts. With that said, let's get down to it for Week 5.
Minnesota Vikings vs. St. Louis Rams
Edward Jones Dome
St. Louis, Missouri
Over/Under: 41
STL: +10
MIN: -550
STL: +425
I meant what I said. I'm not writing anything about a game involving the Rams until I see an NFL team again.
Pick:
Minnesota 31
St. Louis 10
FINAL
---------------
Dallas Cowboys vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Arrowhead Stadium
Kansas City, Missouri
Over/Under: 42.5
KC: +8
DAL: -380
KC: +310
Sucks to be a fan of Missouri NFL teams doesn't it ha? However, the Chiefs try hard. They are a feisty bunch. Even if they're only half good. This won't be a blowout and the Chiefs WILL cover, because Romo will keep them in it. Expect big games from Hali and Derrick Johnson. Dallas will win, but they don't cover and it won't go over.
Pick:
Dallas 21
Kansas City 17
FINAL
--------------
Washington Redskins vs. Carolina Panthers
Bank of America Stadium
Charlotte, North Carolina
Over/Under: 37.5
CAR: -4
WASH: +170
CAR: -210
The Skins finally win a game? Hmmmm... I like them here, even if they are PUTRID offensively. But I won't pick them because I think Jake finally shows up and gets the ball to old man Steve and Moose at will against the underwhelming Skins' D. Stay away from this game with the lines and the spread -- however, I DO like the UNDER here.
Pick:
Washington 13
Carolina 17
FINAL
---------------
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Lincoln Financial Field
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Over/Under: 41.5
PHI: -15.5
TB: +750
PHI: -1500
The Iggles' money line is -1500 DEAR GOD HA. And they're giving the Bucs 16 points??? *DEAD*. The thing is, they're not totally far-fetched, but I don't trust the Iggles' defence enough to cover that. I barely see this game going over. The Bucs have no heart and since they're not going anywhere this season, you'd think coach Morris would not play so close to the vest (had an opportunity to win Week 4 vs. Washington but settled for a FG on a 4th and 1 instead of going for the TD).
Pick:
Tampa Bay 16
Philadelphia 27
FINAL
---------------
Oakland Raiders vs. New York Giants
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, New Jersey
Over/Under: 37.5
NYG: -15.5
OAK: +750
NYG: -1200
I almost typed the same write-up from the last game. Vegas likes the home teams playing east against two of the worst teams in football. Expected. But I never trust the Giants giving any more than 8-10 points MAX. Especially given their propensity for letting teams hang around, or come back late with garbage points (ONCE AGAIN Week 4 vs. Kansas City).
Eli will play and the Giants will be able to do whatever they want on both sides of the ball. If they cover, it will be because Russell throws 2 TDINTs.
Pick:
Oakland 9
NY Giants 31
FINAL
--------------
Cleveland Browns vs. Buffalo Bills
Ralph Wilson Stadium
Orchard Park, New York
Over/Under: 41
BUF: -6
CLE: +330
BUF: -260
The Bills are sloppy. I gave them too much credit early on. They are going to let the Browns hang around even if they SHOULD cover those 6 points they're giving CLE rather easily. Lynch is back, Owens needs a catch in the worst way but Edwards is no better than Anderson. Ugly game. I hate it for regional viewers who won't have a better game available.
Pick:
Cleveland 13
Buffalo 19
FINAL - OT
-----------------------
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens
M&T Bank Stadium
Baltimore, Maryland
Over/Under: 42
BAL: -9
CIN: +330
BAL: -420
Tricky game. The Bengals -- are they really good? Can the Ravens really stop anyone? I don't see the Ravens covering, that's all I know. I can run down all the individual matchups or unit vs. unit, but that -9 is high.
TAKE THE OVER, however.
Pick:
Cincinnati 27
Baltimore 31
FINAL
--------------
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Detroit Lions
Ford Field
Detroit, Michigan
Over/Under: 44
DET: +10.5
PIT: -550
DET: +425
The Lions are game. The Steelers miss Polamalu. This game will be close.
Pick:
Pittsburgh 26
Detroit 20
FINAL - OT
----------------------
Atlanta Falcons vs. San Francisco 49ers
Candlestick Park
San Francisco, California
Over/Under: 40.5
SF: -2.5
ATL: +120
SF: -140
All the positive things that can be said about the FULCONS go out the window when they travel. Especially WEST. I don't see them doing anything offensively in this game. They're going to be just as sloppy as they were against the Patriots.
Pick:
Atlanta 17
San Francisco 27
FINAL
---------------
New England Patriots vs. Denver Broncos
InVesco Field
Denver, Colorado
Over/Under: 41
DEN: +3
NE: -175
DEN: +155
Should be a good game. We will know what the Broncos are after this one. Not that the Patriots are the Colts, Giants or Saints, or even the Vikings, but it is the closest thing to a great team the Broncos will have played. I still think this Broncos' outfit is a replay of the '07 Packers that won 13-3 by smoke and mirrors all season before the real team came out in the NFC Championship game. Don't be surprised if the Broncos win, especially with how they've played defence lately. But I dunno about this one. Especially with the Broncos getting 3 points at home.
THE OVER LIVES, however.
Pick:
New England 28
Denver 31
FINAL
---------------
Houston Texans vs. Arizona Cardinals
University of Phoenix Stadium
Glendale, Arizona
Over/Under: 50
ARI: -6
HOU: +200
ARI: -240
Not worth wagering on -- not even the OVER, with the way the Cards have played on offence. The UNDER has a chance when Kurt is off, WHICH CAN HAPPEN. Although the Texans will score 30+ anyway, it won't really matter either way. I like the Cards at home, but not covering.
Pick:
Houston 31
Arizona 33
FINAL
---------------
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Seattle Seahawks
Qwest Field
Seattle, Washington
Over/Under: 44
Pick 'em
Ugly game. Do I even need to write up about this? Even Vegas doesn't care to get over on their typical 65% of bettors for a game like this. Just take the under and g'home.
Pick:
Jacksonville 20
Seattle 17
FINAL - OT
----------------------
Indianapolis Colts vs. Tennessee Titans
LP Field
Nashville, Tennessee
***SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 45.5
TEN: +3.5
IND: -190
TEN: +160
Let's see. The Colts are playing out of their minds and they're only giving the Titans -- who can't do anything well right now -- 4 points? Hmmm. The Raiders and Bucs are getting SIXTEEN points in their games. The Titans really AREN'T that good. They're not 0-4 bad, but they're not a good team. Vince may play and that may keep them close enough to cover, but otherwise -- eh.
Pick:
Indianapolis 34
Tennessee 17
FINAL
------------------
New York Jets vs. Miami Dolphins
Dolphin Stadium
Miami Gardens, Florida
***MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL***
Over/Under: 36
MIA: +1.5
The Jets get no respect. But they will rebound here. The Fins have a 2nd year backup starting. No wildcat. BUT SEMINOLE LIVES. Leon Washington, FROM?!?!
Pick:
NY Jets 27
Miami 21
FINAL
----------------
Recaps with the picks and Week 4 results coming late Monday after MNF.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
2009 Major League Baseball Predictions
2009 Major League Baseball Predictions
M.D. Wright
10.6.09
While we have a 163rd regular season game/playoff to decide the last team in the American League wild card, I will go ahead with who I think will win that game and go on from there with the predictions in each circuit.
WILD CARD DIVISIONAL SERIES
AMERICAN LEAGUE
AL Central Champion Minnesota Twins.
vs.
AL East Champion New York Yankees.
Twins are scrappy. Their pitching staff is nothing special, but they are never really out of games. However, the Yankees own the Twins historically in the regular season and playoffs. Top to bottom the Yankees are better.
Yanks in 3.
--------------------------
AL Wild Card Champion Boston Red Sox.
vs.
AL West Champion Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.
The Red Sox OWN the Angels, but I do believe this is the year the Angels snap that spell. For one, they led the majors in offence without sacrificing good pitching. In years past, they got wins by manufacturing them base to base. They have tons of guys who have high slugging percentages and total bases. This is the year the Angels beat the Red Sox.
The Sox are also entering the playoffs on a hot streak, but their offence CAN go cold at times and it will in this series.
Angels in 4.
----------------------------
NATIONAL LEAGUE
NL West Champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
vs.
NL Central Champion St. Louis Cardinals.
I just think the Cardinals have two of the best pitchers in all of baseball and enough consistent offence (if Holliday is healthy) to outscore the Dodgers, regardless of who is on the mound for LAD. They're too banged up and inconsistent with their starters.
Cards in 4.
-----------------------------
NL Wild Card Champion Colorado Rockies.
vs.
NL East Champion Philadelphia Phillies.
The Phillies whine too much. They whine about having to play at 2:30 today. SO WHAT. Would you rather that the Braves made the playoffs in your stead? Play ball, wuss boys. I think the Rockies are feisty and the Phillies have enough pitching questions that the Rockies WILL beat them.
Rockies in 5.
------------------------------
LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
AMERICAN LEAGUE
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
vs.
New York Yankees.
Yanks have homefield. It matters. Against a team in Anaheim, which has owned the Yankees this entire decade, it is imperative to have any advantage working for you. The Angels can score just as much as the Yankees do, so it's a pick 'em there. The Angels' pitching can be just as good -- although we know CC Sabathia's struggles in the past will be mitigated this year by run support and Andy is ALWAYS clutch. For the first time in years, the Yanks don't bog down offensively and win the pennant.
Yankees in 6.
-------------------------
NATIONAL LEAGUE
Colorado Rockies
vs.
St. Louis Cardinals.
The Rockies will fight to the death, but the Cards are just too good across the board to beat them with luck over 7 games.
Cardinals in 5.
-------------------------
WORLD SERIES
St. Louis Cardinals
vs.
New York Yankees.
The Cards can score, no doubt. They "Ulbert" The Machine. They have Wainwright and Carpenter. However, give me Andy in any series twice and I love the Yanks' chances. Check the stats. And ask any REAL non-bragging Yankee fan. ANDY IS AUTOMATIC.
Yankees in 6.
YANKEES WIN. THEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE YANKEES WIN.
M.D. Wright
10.6.09
While we have a 163rd regular season game/playoff to decide the last team in the American League wild card, I will go ahead with who I think will win that game and go on from there with the predictions in each circuit.
WILD CARD DIVISIONAL SERIES
AMERICAN LEAGUE
AL Central Champion Minnesota Twins.
vs.
AL East Champion New York Yankees.
Twins are scrappy. Their pitching staff is nothing special, but they are never really out of games. However, the Yankees own the Twins historically in the regular season and playoffs. Top to bottom the Yankees are better.
Yanks in 3.
--------------------------
AL Wild Card Champion Boston Red Sox.
vs.
AL West Champion Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.
The Red Sox OWN the Angels, but I do believe this is the year the Angels snap that spell. For one, they led the majors in offence without sacrificing good pitching. In years past, they got wins by manufacturing them base to base. They have tons of guys who have high slugging percentages and total bases. This is the year the Angels beat the Red Sox.
The Sox are also entering the playoffs on a hot streak, but their offence CAN go cold at times and it will in this series.
Angels in 4.
----------------------------
NATIONAL LEAGUE
NL West Champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
vs.
NL Central Champion St. Louis Cardinals.
I just think the Cardinals have two of the best pitchers in all of baseball and enough consistent offence (if Holliday is healthy) to outscore the Dodgers, regardless of who is on the mound for LAD. They're too banged up and inconsistent with their starters.
Cards in 4.
-----------------------------
NL Wild Card Champion Colorado Rockies.
vs.
NL East Champion Philadelphia Phillies.
The Phillies whine too much. They whine about having to play at 2:30 today. SO WHAT. Would you rather that the Braves made the playoffs in your stead? Play ball, wuss boys. I think the Rockies are feisty and the Phillies have enough pitching questions that the Rockies WILL beat them.
Rockies in 5.
------------------------------
LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
AMERICAN LEAGUE
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
vs.
New York Yankees.
Yanks have homefield. It matters. Against a team in Anaheim, which has owned the Yankees this entire decade, it is imperative to have any advantage working for you. The Angels can score just as much as the Yankees do, so it's a pick 'em there. The Angels' pitching can be just as good -- although we know CC Sabathia's struggles in the past will be mitigated this year by run support and Andy is ALWAYS clutch. For the first time in years, the Yanks don't bog down offensively and win the pennant.
Yankees in 6.
-------------------------
NATIONAL LEAGUE
Colorado Rockies
vs.
St. Louis Cardinals.
The Rockies will fight to the death, but the Cards are just too good across the board to beat them with luck over 7 games.
Cardinals in 5.
-------------------------
WORLD SERIES
St. Louis Cardinals
vs.
New York Yankees.
The Cards can score, no doubt. They "Ulbert" The Machine. They have Wainwright and Carpenter. However, give me Andy in any series twice and I love the Yanks' chances. Check the stats. And ask any REAL non-bragging Yankee fan. ANDY IS AUTOMATIC.
Yankees in 6.
YANKEES WIN. THEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE YANKEES WIN.
NFL Week 5 Powre Rankings
NFL Week 5 Powre Rankings
M.D. Wright
10.6.09
What an exciting weekend of NFL football. FROM START TO FINISH. The 4 or 5 great teams are separating themselves from the rest of the pack. The worst teams in the NFL are pretty much determined and the 15 or 16 teams that aren't going anywhere are evident and identical at this point. I love the 1/4 mark of the season. Things become clearer:
1. New York Giants.
Again. I say it every week, but Best Offensive Line + Best Defense + Best Running Game + Top 5 QB = Best Team in the NFL. 4-0, regardless of opponents, lands them #1 until they are unseated. And yes, the next two teams are extremely close.
2. Minnesota Vikings.
They are solid all around. Favre is playing well FOR NOW. We know that won't last all season. AD is the best RB in the NFL. Their defence is a bit overrated, however. They get it done with Kevin Williams (Pat is overrated -- just fat), Jared Allen is a machine at RE (Edwards is nothing to speak of at LE) and Antione Winfield is the most underrated CB in the NFL -- has been for years. HOWEVER, their pass defence is poor and susceptible to big plays. That is probably the sole reason (apart from Favre's inevitable killer INTs) why they can't be #1.
3. Indianapolis Colts.
Man oh man, Peyton continues to prove why he is the best QB in the NFL (Brees and his brother are the only ones playing at his level as of Week 5 in 2009). Whoever the Colts trot out there at WR, Peyton makes them look good (Garçon, for instance). The running game has not been explosive, but it gets the job done. The Colts are opportunistic on defence. They win. That's all that matters.
4. New Orleans Saints.
Explosive as all hell on offence. They fly around and are opportunistic on defence. However, they have tons of holes on both sides of the ball. Their defence can be scored upon by great QBs and their offence appears to be one-dimensional with no-names at running back. BUT, they win.
5. Denver Broncos.
UGH. I hate putting them here, but they keep winning and they have only yielded 26 points in FOUR GAMES. Can't hate.
6. Cincinnati Bengals.
THE YOUNG BENGALS. I will say it every week, but aside from a fluky play in Denver, they would be 4-0. It was an ugly win vs. Cleveland in Week 4, but they won.
7. Chicago Bears.
UGH.
8. New England Patriots.
Whatever. They should be 1-3. Buffalo had them beat and with the aide of two of the most BOGUS roughing the passer penalties I've seen this decade, they managed to "win" in Week 4.
9. New York Jets.
Nothing to hang their heads for. Actually shut down a vaunted Saints' offence. Only Sanchez' rookie mistakes, which will happen, were the difference. They played the Saints neck and neck otherwise.
10. Houston Texans.
Texans' MO: Score a ton against good teams. Give up a ton to good teams. Score a ton on bad teams. Give up nothing against bad teams. That simple formula yields 2/3 percentages. .667 is a good winning percentage in the NFL and if they manage that this year, it would be the Texans' best season and a Wild Card berth, since the Colts are going to win that division.
11. Pittsburgh Steelers.
They miss Polamalu, but otherwise, they are fine.
12. Baltimore Ravens.
Yielding more points than ever this year, but they were screwed by terrible officiating in Week 4.
13. Philadelphia Eagles.
We will be waiting all season for this supposed "unstoppable" offence. Yes, on paper, those names look great and if they're healthy, yes, they are formidable. Their defence has more holes than ever. They can't win it all with that defence. They are the Saints North.
14. Dallas Cowboys.
Romo can make plays that no one else can. But he makes dumb mistakes that no (supposed) great QB does nor should. Otherwise, they'd be 4-0.
15. San Francisco 49ers.
They have to do it back to back weeks. Granted, they lost on a last second play, but they looked shaky before Seattle handed them the game in Week 4.
16. Atlanta Falcons.
Nothing special here. They don't kill themselves, but they're not a good road team and that will land them in this precise spot when the season ends (i.e. last team in the playoff wild card in the NFC).
17. San Diego Chargers.
Waiting until the 4th quarter to play football won't get it done. This team was inked to win the AFC West by 5 games. They may barely make the playoffs (again) at this rate.
18. Arizona Cardinals.
The OTHER underachieving team of the year with San Diego. You have two STUDS at WR and the best slot WR in the NFC and you can't score against average defences?
19. Miami Dolphins.
Blew out the Bills -- in MY face.
20. Jacksonville Jaguars.
Finally coming alive. Two straight strong games.
21. Tennessee Titans.
FALLING FAST. Time to bench Collins. Told you this would happen.
22. Green Bay Packers.
Have to knock them. Their offensive line SUCKS. Rodgers is just THAT MUCH OF A STUD that he is able to get it done with NO time to pass.
23. Seattle Seahawks.
Seriously UNclutch.
24. Buffalo Bills.
Edwards just can't cut it. He looked good in the preseason, but there's no excuse for this with his weapons. Dick Jauron sucks as a coach, though. Owens won't blow up like everyone predicts, however.
25. Detroit Lions.
Still making strides. They try so hard.
26. Washington Redskins.
Zorn is skating on thin ice with every game. Win or lose.
27. Carolina Panthers.
They need to fix their offense QUICKLY -- and wake Julius Peppers.
28. Oakland Raiders.
JaMarcus Russell GOOD HEAVENS.
29. Kansas City Chiefs.
They're feisty, but years from contention.
30. Cleveland Browns.
YUCK. Dumb coach, no continuity offensively and they don't know who their QB is going to be week to week.
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
When you suck like Tampa does, you have to play to win the game. Coach Morris doesn't appear to have a set of brass ones, as evidenced by his decisions late in the Redskins game Week 4.
32. St. Louis Rams.
The absolute worst team I've seen for three straight years outside of the Lions prior to this year and some of the Tampa teams from my childhood. DEAR. GOD.
M.D. Wright
10.6.09
What an exciting weekend of NFL football. FROM START TO FINISH. The 4 or 5 great teams are separating themselves from the rest of the pack. The worst teams in the NFL are pretty much determined and the 15 or 16 teams that aren't going anywhere are evident and identical at this point. I love the 1/4 mark of the season. Things become clearer:
1. New York Giants.
Again. I say it every week, but Best Offensive Line + Best Defense + Best Running Game + Top 5 QB = Best Team in the NFL. 4-0, regardless of opponents, lands them #1 until they are unseated. And yes, the next two teams are extremely close.
2. Minnesota Vikings.
They are solid all around. Favre is playing well FOR NOW. We know that won't last all season. AD is the best RB in the NFL. Their defence is a bit overrated, however. They get it done with Kevin Williams (Pat is overrated -- just fat), Jared Allen is a machine at RE (Edwards is nothing to speak of at LE) and Antione Winfield is the most underrated CB in the NFL -- has been for years. HOWEVER, their pass defence is poor and susceptible to big plays. That is probably the sole reason (apart from Favre's inevitable killer INTs) why they can't be #1.
3. Indianapolis Colts.
Man oh man, Peyton continues to prove why he is the best QB in the NFL (Brees and his brother are the only ones playing at his level as of Week 5 in 2009). Whoever the Colts trot out there at WR, Peyton makes them look good (Garçon, for instance). The running game has not been explosive, but it gets the job done. The Colts are opportunistic on defence. They win. That's all that matters.
4. New Orleans Saints.
Explosive as all hell on offence. They fly around and are opportunistic on defence. However, they have tons of holes on both sides of the ball. Their defence can be scored upon by great QBs and their offence appears to be one-dimensional with no-names at running back. BUT, they win.
5. Denver Broncos.
UGH. I hate putting them here, but they keep winning and they have only yielded 26 points in FOUR GAMES. Can't hate.
6. Cincinnati Bengals.
THE YOUNG BENGALS. I will say it every week, but aside from a fluky play in Denver, they would be 4-0. It was an ugly win vs. Cleveland in Week 4, but they won.
7. Chicago Bears.
UGH.
8. New England Patriots.
Whatever. They should be 1-3. Buffalo had them beat and with the aide of two of the most BOGUS roughing the passer penalties I've seen this decade, they managed to "win" in Week 4.
9. New York Jets.
Nothing to hang their heads for. Actually shut down a vaunted Saints' offence. Only Sanchez' rookie mistakes, which will happen, were the difference. They played the Saints neck and neck otherwise.
10. Houston Texans.
Texans' MO: Score a ton against good teams. Give up a ton to good teams. Score a ton on bad teams. Give up nothing against bad teams. That simple formula yields 2/3 percentages. .667 is a good winning percentage in the NFL and if they manage that this year, it would be the Texans' best season and a Wild Card berth, since the Colts are going to win that division.
11. Pittsburgh Steelers.
They miss Polamalu, but otherwise, they are fine.
12. Baltimore Ravens.
Yielding more points than ever this year, but they were screwed by terrible officiating in Week 4.
13. Philadelphia Eagles.
We will be waiting all season for this supposed "unstoppable" offence. Yes, on paper, those names look great and if they're healthy, yes, they are formidable. Their defence has more holes than ever. They can't win it all with that defence. They are the Saints North.
14. Dallas Cowboys.
Romo can make plays that no one else can. But he makes dumb mistakes that no (supposed) great QB does nor should. Otherwise, they'd be 4-0.
15. San Francisco 49ers.
They have to do it back to back weeks. Granted, they lost on a last second play, but they looked shaky before Seattle handed them the game in Week 4.
16. Atlanta Falcons.
Nothing special here. They don't kill themselves, but they're not a good road team and that will land them in this precise spot when the season ends (i.e. last team in the playoff wild card in the NFC).
17. San Diego Chargers.
Waiting until the 4th quarter to play football won't get it done. This team was inked to win the AFC West by 5 games. They may barely make the playoffs (again) at this rate.
18. Arizona Cardinals.
The OTHER underachieving team of the year with San Diego. You have two STUDS at WR and the best slot WR in the NFC and you can't score against average defences?
19. Miami Dolphins.
Blew out the Bills -- in MY face.
20. Jacksonville Jaguars.
Finally coming alive. Two straight strong games.
21. Tennessee Titans.
FALLING FAST. Time to bench Collins. Told you this would happen.
22. Green Bay Packers.
Have to knock them. Their offensive line SUCKS. Rodgers is just THAT MUCH OF A STUD that he is able to get it done with NO time to pass.
23. Seattle Seahawks.
Seriously UNclutch.
24. Buffalo Bills.
Edwards just can't cut it. He looked good in the preseason, but there's no excuse for this with his weapons. Dick Jauron sucks as a coach, though. Owens won't blow up like everyone predicts, however.
25. Detroit Lions.
Still making strides. They try so hard.
26. Washington Redskins.
Zorn is skating on thin ice with every game. Win or lose.
27. Carolina Panthers.
They need to fix their offense QUICKLY -- and wake Julius Peppers.
28. Oakland Raiders.
JaMarcus Russell GOOD HEAVENS.
29. Kansas City Chiefs.
They're feisty, but years from contention.
30. Cleveland Browns.
YUCK. Dumb coach, no continuity offensively and they don't know who their QB is going to be week to week.
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
When you suck like Tampa does, you have to play to win the game. Coach Morris doesn't appear to have a set of brass ones, as evidenced by his decisions late in the Redskins game Week 4.
32. St. Louis Rams.
The absolute worst team I've seen for three straight years outside of the Lions prior to this year and some of the Tampa teams from my childhood. DEAR. GOD.
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