NFL 2019 Week 13 Picks

Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action is coming upon us as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. There is only five more weeks of regular season left in the season and the playoff picture is still hazy as many divisions are very tight. This post will be a fairly long one as there will be a NFL 100 Spotlight, a Thanksgiving tradition in which what all 32 teams are thankful for, and my picks for the Week 13 games. Let's get to work!

NFL 100: A Spotlight

The 1980's was a turning point in the NFL. The previous decade brought much dominance from the American Football Conference. While the AFC would win two more Super Bowl's in the 1980's, the decade belonged to the National Football Conference. The team that would dominate the decade would be the San Francisco 49ers.

In 1979, the San Francisco 49ers hired Bill Walsh to help reverse the course of the franchise. San Francisco's playoff success in the early 70's took a turn for the worst by the mid to late 1970's. Bill Walsh, who made a name for himself as the offensive coordinator with the Cincinnati Bengals from 1968 to 1975, made it a point to help revamp the 49ers offense.

In the draft,  Bill Walsh drafted Joe Montana and Dwight Clark. The arrival of the two wouldn't cause an immediate impact as the 49ers finished 1979 with a 2-14 record. When the team won it's 2nd game the fans stormed Candlestick Park, tore down the goalposts and the 49ers players carried Bill Walsh off the field. It perhaps was a foreshadow of what was about to come for the coming decade.

By 1980, the franchise was finally putting fans in the stands as the 49ers offense was putting points on the board. The problem was that their defense couldn't stop opposing offenses from scoring points. San Francisco would finish the season with a 6-10 record.

In 1981, Bill Walsh would draft his defense, particularly the secondary, with such players like Ronnie Lott and Eric Wright. Their new players along with additions like Fred Dean and Jack "Hacksaw" Reynolds they were the surprise story in 1981 with a 13-3 record. They would beat the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys in the playoffs, the latter game would be known as "The Catch" as Joe Montana hit Dwight Clark for a game-winning touchdown. They would beat the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl XVI.

The next two seasons wouldn't see a Super Bowl championship for San Francisco. In 1982, the 49ers failed to recapture the magic that the previous year found as the 49ers finished 3-6 in the strike-shortened season. The next season would see the 49ers return to success as they finished with a 10-6 record with a division title. They would beat the Detroit Lions in the divisional playoffs but would lose to the Washington Redskins on a questionable pass interference call.

In 1984, the 49ers returned to glory as both their defense and offense dominated the competition with a 15-1 record. They beat the New York Giants and Chicago Bears in the playoffs with scores of 21-10 and 23-0 respectively. They were back in the Super Bowl.

For the 49ers in Super Bowl XIX, their star quarterback in Joe Montana played 2nd fiddle to Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino, who had a successful season. The 1984 Dolphins offense was one of the best in NFL history and made records that stood until the 2007 Patriots broke them. San Francisco's defense would cause havoc against Marino and wouldn't have a great game. Joe Montana, on the other hand, would have one of his greatest games as the 49ers would rout the Dolphins 38-16.

The next three seasons would bring change as the 49ers began to revamp their roster. In 1985, the 49ers drafted a diamond in the rough in Jerry Rice. The 49ers would finish the season with a 10-6 record but would lose to the Giants in the Wild Card round.

In the 1986 draft, the 49ers would draft Charles Haley, Tom Rathman, and John Taylor to help revamp the roster where older veterans would retire. The season was much of the same as the 49ers won the division by a 10-5-1 record. They would lose to the Giants in one of the worst losses in the Bill Walsh era as they were routed 49-3. One of the reasons for the loss was that Joe Montana was knocked out of the game.

The 1987 draft was somewhat of a quiet one as the 49ers would draft Harris Barton out of North Carolina. However, the team traded for Steve Young from Tampa Bay. The team finished with the best record in the strike-shorted season with a 13-2 record. San Francisco's season would end in one of the biggest playoff upsets as the Minnesota Vikings won on the road by a score of 36-24. Joe Montana struggled during the game and Steve Young wouldn't play savior either. Bill Walsh was stripped of his team president badge and there was much doubt whether or not the 49ers were finished.

The 1988 season would see much doubt as Bill Walsh alternated Steve Young and Joe Montana at quarterback. The carousel would match the record as the 49ers limped with a 10-6 record. There was doubt if the 49ers would win the Super Bowl. Joe Montana would recover and return to his past self late in the season and well into the playoffs. They would get their revenge over the Vikings and beat the Bears in the NFC championship game.

Their opponent in Super Bowl XXIII was a familiar one as the Cincinnati Bengals looked to get their revenge over their loss in Super Bowl XVI. They were also coached by Sam Wyche, Joe Montana's former quarterbacks coach. Montana would lead the 49ers on a game-winning drive to beat the Bengals 20-16. The game would be Bill Walsh's last as head coach.

In 1989, the 49ers would continue their momentum and plowed through the competition with a 14-2 record. George Seifert was named head coach. They would beat the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams by scores of 41-13 and 30-3 respectively. Super Bowl XXIV would be one of the biggest routs in NFL history as the 49ers beat the Denver Broncos 55-10 to close out the decade.

While the 49ers in the 1980's weren't quite the dynasty in terms of "X number of championships in less than 5-6 years" they were rather a dominant team that had much success in the decade, rather than being dominant in a period of the decade like the 2000's Patriots or the 1990's Cowboys. Truly the centerpiece for their team was the duo of Joe Montana and Bill Walsh.

Thanksgiving: NFL Style

When I restarted doing blogs on the NFL back in 2017, I made it a tradition to have a "Thanksgiving" portion of the blog where all 32 teams had something to be thankful for. Since everyone has something to be thankful for things like: health, family, friends, etc. This is essentially the same for NFL teams. Here's the list:

Arizona Cardinals: That you have a competent quarterback that you should keep for longer than a year. Seriously give him some help.

Atlanta Falcons: You've had a bad season but you did beat the Saints in the SuperDome in one of the biggest upsets of the season. You have that.

Baltimore Ravens: Lamar fucking Jackson! Enough said.

Buffalo Bills: You've had a soft schedule but you almost beat New England at home. Josh Allen is reasonably good quarterback, give him some help.

Carolina Panthers: You may have found a diamond in the rough in terms of Kyle Allen but more importantly you have Christian McCaffrey as a potential MVP candidate.

Chicago Bears: The Mitchell Trubisky era might be over... soon... eventually.

Cincinnati Bengals: You might be in the running for the #1 pick in the draft!

Cleveland Browns: You still have a shot to make the playoffs despite all the hype that you've gotten.

Dallas Cowboys: The Jason Garrett era might be over... eventually.

Denver Broncos: There's a plethora of quarterbacks in the draft... that John Elway will take another shot at.

Detroit Lions: Can't lose in the playoffs if you're not in the playoffs. Smart move.

Green Bay Packers: Matt LeFleur and Aaron Jones.

Houston Texans: DeShaun Watson has the possiblity to lead you into a division title while your division is terrible.

Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck might've retired but the fact that you're at where you're at is more than enough to be thankful.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Gardner Minshew for giving you four of the four wins you have right now.

Kansas City Chiefs: Patrick Mahomes, otherwise your inept running game and defense would see this team below .500

Los Angeles Chargers: You're not likely going to go to London but Los Angeles isn't exactly your home either. You could always move back to San Di... oh that's right. :-(

Los Angeles Rams: You've had a rough season but you get to move into a new stadium next year.

Miami Dolphins: You're not going to be the first team to have teams that went 17-0 and 0-16 as a franchise.

Minnesota Vikings: Kirk Cousins resurgence as a passer and Dalvin Cook.

New England Patriots: Tom Brady. You're spoiled as fuck.

New Orleans Saints: Teddy Bridgewater keeping you in the playoff hunt.

New York Giants: Danny Dimes.

New York Jets: Adam Gase is eventually going to be fired... right?

Oakland Raiders: You could potentially still be in the playoffs in your last season at Oakland.

Philadelphia Eagles: Your wide receivers could find their 2nd calling as jugglers since... they drop balls.

Pittsburgh Steelers: You still could get in the playoffs despite losing Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown in the offseason while losing Ben Roethlisberger to injury.

San Francisco 49ers: Your team is reminiscent of those 80's and 90's teams.

Seattle Seahawks: Russell Wilson.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jameis Winston throwing a touchdown pass. Pretty much any pass in general is reason to be thankful for.

Tennessee Titans: Ryan Tannehill has given new life to your offense and you're one of the hotter teams in the NFL.

Washington Redskins: Your team sucks but eventually Daniel Snyder has to go away (whether it'll be death, selling the team). At least you have the Capitals and the Nationals to give you attention.

Week 13 Picks!

Week 13 in the NFL regular season will start in Detroit, Michigan and ends in Seattle, Washington. No teams are on a bye week. There will be three Thursday games, eight early games, three late games, a Sunday night game and a Monday night game. CBS will have the double-header this week while FOX will have the single, regional game. Here are the picks!

Chicago (5-6) @ Detroit (3-7-1) (FOX): TW: Bears; CV: Bears

The Bears beat the Giants and the Lions lost to the Redskins last week. Thanksgiving starts off with a decent match-up with two NFC North rivals. I feel the Bears will get it done based on their defense. Plus, the Lions are starting David Blough whom I had no idea who he was until now. Sorry Lions.

Buffalo (8-3) @ Dallas (6-5) (CBS): TW: Cowboys; CV: Bills

The Bills beat the Broncos and the Cowboys lost to the Patriots last week. The "turkey in your system forcing you to sleep" game features a match-up that the Cowboys should win. Buffalo hasn't played a solid team and won in the same game. I can't trust them. I feel if the Cowboys can get Ezekiel Elliot going and create balance on offense and make Josh Allen beat you, then Dallas has a shot to win.

New Orleans (9-2) @ Atlanta (3-8) (NBC): TW: Saints; CV: Saints

The Saints beat the Panthers and the Falcons lost to the Buccaneers last week. While you're out shopping for gifts, this game will be on. This game wouldn't have much storylines had the Saints beat the Falcons a few weeks ago. The game will be a grand revenge game for New Orleans who upset them at home. Go get 'em.

San Francisco (10-1) @ Baltimore (9-2) (FOX): TW: Ravens; CV: 49ers

Both teams got wins last week as the 49ers beat the Packers and the Ravens beat the Rams. A really good early game to watch if you're bored. The 49ers are traveling cross-country and we will learn a lot about their rush defense and how they can defend against Lamar Jackson and Mark Ingram. I feel the jet lag will effect them the way that Oakland had last week.

Tampa Bay (4-7) @ Jacksonville (4-7) (FOX): TW: Buccaneers; CV: Jaguars

The Buccaneers beat the Falcons and the Jaguars lost to the Titans. Nick Foles has yet to get a win in his tenure at Jacksonville. In general, I like the Bucs pass offense as they do have some great weapons in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin and a running game to match. Jaguars defense is not good.

Tennessee (6-5) @ Indianapolis (6-5) (CBS): TW: Titans; CV: Colts

The Titans beat the Jaguars and Colts lost to the Texans last week. The Colts rush defense will have their hands full in this one as the Titans have a great running attack. The Colts will need to find a capable back to ease some pressure off of Jacoby Brissett. Ultimately, I like the Titans running game and their quarterback Ryan Tannehill has done well in Marcus Mariota's stead.

Washington (2-9) @ Carolina (5-6) (CBS): TW: Panthers, CV: Panthers

The Redskins beat the Lions and the Panthers lost to the Saints last week. The game is a mismatch on offense as the Panthers have balance on offense, while the Redskins... don't. Washington's defense could make this game interesting and close but I don't see them slowing or stopping Christian McCaffrey.

Philadelphia (5-6) @ Miami (2-9) (FOX): TW: Eagles; CV: Eagles

Both teams lost last week as the Eagles lost to the Seahawks and the Dolphins lost to the Browns. The game is a must win for the Eagles if they want to stay with the Cowboys in the division race. It will take a lot of luck for them to get a wild card spot. Miami isn't quite the team to match with the Eagles but this game could be an upset if you're not too careful. I'll take the safe bet with Philly.

NY Jets (4-7) @ Cincinnati (0-11) (CBS): TW: Jets; CV: Jets

The Jets beat the Raiders and the Bengals lost to the Steelers last week. If there was a game where the Bengals could get win #1, it is this one. It's a long shot but its better than 0% chance. Unfortunately, I like the Jets in their pass offense and their overall defense. I'm gonna take the safe bet again and take the Jets.

Green Bay (8-3) @ NY Giants (2-9) (FOX): TW: Packers; CV:  Packers

Both teams lost last week as the Packers lost to the 49ers and the Giants lost to the Bears. Green Bay had its worst showing last week and they're heading into a period of playing weaker teams in the schedule. Aaron Rodgers and the offense needs to play better and get back to the plays that made them an 8-3 team. Green Bay's defense should be alright as the Giants offense outside of Saquon Barkley pose a tremendous threat.

Cleveland (5-6) @ Pittsburgh (6-5) (CBS): TW: Steelers; CV: Steelers

Both teams got wins last week as the Browns beat the Dolphins and the Steelers beat the Bengals. The game will have intensity but not the "helmet swinging" intensity as the last game. Cleveland could very well win the game but they haven't done well on the road with a 2-3 record so far. Devlin Hodges has a small sample size of tape but I feel that Hodges is a winner and can play confident in this game. The loss of Myles Garrett due to the suspension will hurt the Browns defense. If the Steelers defense can cause havoc against the Browns offense, they got a good chance to win.

LA Rams (6-5) @ Arizona (3-7-1) (FOX): TW: Rams; CV: Rams

The Rams lost to the Ravens and the Cardinals were on a bye last week. Arizona will have an extra week of rest while the Rams look to redeem themselves after a terrible loss. I think the Rams will win based on their running game and a capable quarterback that can throw to his receivers. I don't like the Rams chances if they let the Cardinals hang around in this game as Kyler Murray can get it done with his legs and arm.

LA Chargers (4-7) @ Denver (3-8) (CBS): TW: Chargers; CV: Broncos

The Chargers were on a bye and the Broncos lost to the Bills last week. Phillip Rivers had pretty bad game against the Chiefs two weeks ago and the Broncos defense are hungry for his mistakes. Denver has a pretty good running game and its hard to say which team's run game will win the game. I tend to lean the Chargers as they do have a decent defense.

Oakland (6-5) @ Kansas City (7-4) (CBS): TW: Chiefs; CV: Chiefs

The Raiders lost to the Jets and the Chiefs were on a bye last week. The Raiders-Chiefs rivalry will have its best chance to reignite in this one. The Chiefs running game will need to step it up and keep Patrick Mahomes on the field as he presents the biggest obstacle for the Raiders to win. It's a tough task and the Raiders will utilize Josh Jacobs to the fullest extent but the Chiefs will get a win at home.

New England (10-1) @ Houston (7-4) (NBC): TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots

Both teams got wins last week as the Patriots beat the Cowboys and the Texans beat the Colts. The game looks like a good one as both teams have capable quarterbacks and running games to match. Defense will be the deciding factor in this game as New England presents a great challenge against the Texans offense as they can shut down any team, especially when it comes to scoring touchdowns. I like the Pats defense.

Minnesota (8-3) @ Seattle (9-2) (ESPN): TW: Seahawks; CV: Vikings

The Vikings were on a bye and the Seahawks beat the Eagles last week. Minnesota will be on extra rest in the game while the Seahawks look to keep up in the division race with San Francisco. Both teams really are similar and I feel the Vikings defense is better than Seattle's, I feel the balanced attack of Seattle will expose the Vikings defense. Seattle will need to shut down Dalvin Cook if they want a shot to get a win. Definitely an entertaining match-up to end the week.

Local TV Schedule:

FOX Single:
Philadelphia @ Miami
Kenny Albert, Ronde Barber

CBS Early:
Cleveland @ Pittsburgh
Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts

CBS Late:
Oakland @ Kansas City
Jim Nantz, Tony Romo

Courtesy as always from 506sports, games subject to change, for more info on which game is being played in your area, check out: NFL 2019: Week 13 Maps

The Records (By Week & Year):

Cardinal Viking:

2017: 167-89

2018: 156-98-2

2019:

Week 1: 11-4-1

Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 10-6

Week 4: 7-8

Week 5: 9-6

Week 6: 7-7

Week 7: 10-4

Week 8: 11-4

Week 9: 8-6

Week 10: 2-11

Week 11: 12-2

Week 12: 9-5

Overall: 108-69-1

My record: 

2012: 164-90-2

2013: 162-92-1

2014: 172-83-1

2017: 164-92

2018: 156-98-2

2019:

Week 1: 12-3-1

Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 11-5

Week 4: 8-7

Week 5: 5-10

Week 6: 9-5

Week 7: 7-7

Week 8: 14-1

Week 9: 8-6

Week 10: 5-8

Week 11: 10-4

Week 12: 10-4

Overall: 109-66-1

I will see you guys after the Monday night game for the Week 13 Recap!

-Tom

NFL 2019 Week 12 Recap

Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action has passed us by. Last week was still a good week for me in picks with a 10-4 record. We shall see if I can keep up with that record this week. In the post, I will talk about the 1970's Steelers and a recap of the week's games. Let's get to work!

NFL 100: A Spotlight

The 1970's were the beginning of the modern era of the NFL. The American Football League merged with the NFL. With the merger the NFL's three teams joined the newly formed American Football Conference. One of those three teams were the Pittsburgh Steelers. Perhaps without the merger, there would be no mention of the Steelers in the 1970's.

For the first 40 years of their existence, the Steelers were known as a laughing stock. They would lose games by bizarre circumstances and finish with a winning record eight times from 1933 to 1971. Their winds of misfortune changed when they hired Chuck Noll.

On January 26th, 1969 Chuck Noll was hired to reverse the course of the franchise. His way of doing of building this team into a powerhouse was through the draft. Noll drafted little-known defensive end from North Texas by the name of Joe Greene. A future hall of famer. To his undying credit he and the scouting system helped transformed the Steelers.

Noll would continue to draft well in the coming years adding L.C. Greenwood in the 1969 draft to complement Joe Green on the defensive line. In 1970, the Steelers drafted Terry Bradshaw (Steelers won a coin flip) and Mel Blount. Bradshaw and Blount would become future hall of famers as well. In 1971, they drafted Jack Ham, Mike Wagner, and Larry Brown (Ham would be a hall of famer as well and Mike Wagner would immediately start and would continue to start for the rest of the decade).

In the magical year of 1972 they added Franco Harris and Joe Gilliam. It would be in 1972 that they achieved an 11-3 record and a berth in the playoffs. In a game dubbed "The Immaculate Reception" they won their first playoff game with Franco Harris scoring the game-winning touchdown.

In 1973, the Steelers didn't add a hall of famer. That year they would continue to build off what they started the year before with a 10-4 record. They would lose to the Oakland Raiders in a revenge game. The next year would be much different.

The 1974 NFL draft for Pittsburgh was the best in NFL history. They drafted Lynn Swan, John Stallworth, Jack Lambert, and Mike Webster. All four of them would become hall of famers. Some notables that went undrafted that Pittsburgh signed were Donnie Shell and Randy Grossman. The 1974 season was a rollercoaster for the quarterback position as the Steelers jumbled between quarterbacks throughout the year. While the rest of the team was gelling together.

Terry Bradshaw, who had endured much scorn from the fans and his head coach Chuck Noll, would transform into one of the best. He would finally come into his own late in 1974 to help lead the Steelers in playoff wins against the Buffalo Bills, Oakland Raiders and the Minnesota Vikings. What changed I think was that he became more confident as a passer. The Steelers were finally champions after 41 years with the Super Bowl IX victory.

Unlike most coaches who would be satisfied with one championship, Chuck Noll predicted that the Steelers would go out and do it again in 1975. Who could blame him. His team was relatively young and got a taste of winning championships. The 1975 season was even more of a joy knowing that the team could execute the gameplan and display that confidence since they know how to win a championship. They would finish with a 12-2 record and would get victories against the Baltimore Colts, Oakland Raiders and Dallas Cowboys enroute to their 2nd championship.

The 1976 and 1977 seasons didn't yield a championship but the team would still put up quite the numbers. Franco Harris and Rocky Blier would run for 1,000 yards rushing while the defense put up four shutouts. The Steelers run as Super Bowl champions ended in the AFC championship against the Oakland Raiders. Pittsburgh would finish with a 9-5 record with another AFC Central crown and a berth in the playoffs. The Steelers would lose to the Denver Broncos in the divisional round.

In 1978, the Steelers would return to glory with a 14-2 record. Terry Bradshaw would have his best season as a quarterback and the offense would change under new rules. One of the new rules was dubbed "The Mel Blount Rule." The team would get their revenge over the Denver Broncos while easily handling the Houston Oilers they would return to the Super Bowl. They would win their 3rd championship against the Dallas Cowboys in an instant classic game in Super Bowl XIII. Even with three titles, Chuck Noll still felt that the team had not reached their peak.

Pittsburgh earned the title of "City Of Champions" throughout the 1970's. The Pittsburgh Pirates had won championships in 1971 and then in 1979. The Steelers pressure to win a championship was ever so present as the Pirates played in Three Rivers Stadium as well as the Steelers.

The team struggled with injuries and turnovers. They finished 1979 with the best offense but would commit 53 turnovers throughout the season. They would finish the season with a 12-4 record and beat the Miami Dolphins and Houston Oilers enroute to Super Bowl XIV. The Pittsburgh Steelers would struggle in the first half but would turn it up enroute to a 31-19 victory over the Los Angeles Rams to win their 4th championship in six seasons.

While the team wouldn't have the same success into the 1980's, the Pittsburgh Steelers mark in NFL history is undisputed. They had one of the greatest defenses in the history of the NFL, a running game that was superb and a quarterback that is highly underrated. All the while being coached by one of the most underrated head coaches in NFL history, Chuck Noll.

Week 12 Recap

Indianapolis 17, Houston 20: TW: Texans; CV: Texans

Oh boy did this game have some drama. Not really in-game drama but certainly some PTSD from me picking the Texans in week's past. Jacoby Brissett would finish the game with 129 yards passing with zero touchdowns while scoring a rushing touchdown with 20 yards. Jonathan Williams was the Colts leading rusher with 104 yards with a touchdown. DeShaun Watson finished with 298 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Carlos Hyde had a good day on the ground with 67 yards rushing. Key division win for Houston, the sky is the limit the rest of the way for them.

All-time series: Colts lead 28-9

Next week: Indianapolis: vs Tennessee; Houston: vs New England

TW: 1-0; CV: 1-0

Oakland 3, NY Jets 34: TW: Raiders; CV: Raiders

Well, shit happens. Derek Carr finished with 127 yards passing with an interception. Josh Jacobs would finish with 34 yards rushing, not quite the game that I was expecting from him. Sam Darnold threw the ball for 315 yards with two touchdowns, playing well and being confident. Darnold would rush for a touchdown as well. Le'Veon Bell ran the ball for 49 yards. Sam Ficken would hit 2 of 3 field goals in the win. Maybe it was the... jet lag. Get it? 

All-time series: Raiders lead 25-20-2

Next week: Oakland: @ Kansas City; NY Jets: @ Cincinnati

TW: 1-1; CV: 1-1

NY Giants 14, Chicago 19: TW: Bears; CV: Bears

The Return of the Mitch! Daniel Jones would provide the only scoring in the game with 150 yards passing with two touchdowns. Saquon Barkley ran the ball for 59 yards. Darius Slayton had 67 yards receiving. Mitchell Trubisky finished the game with 278 yards with a touchdown while throwing two interceptions. Trubisky would run it in for a score as well. Tarik Cohen ran the ball for only 25 yards. Chicago is still alive... barely.

All-time series: Bears lead 34-24-2

Next week: NY Giants: vs Green Bay; Chicago: @ Detroit (Thanksgiving)

TW: 2-1; CV: 2-1

Pittsburgh 16, Cincinnati 10: TW: Steelers; CV: Steelers

Mason Rudolph struggled but perhaps the Steelers found a winning formula with Devlin Hodges. Rudolph would throw for 85 yards with an interception before getting benched for Hodges. Hodges gave a boost to the Steelers offense with a 78-yard bomb James Washington, finishing the game with 118 yards with a touchdown. Benny Snell almost had a 100-yard day but would finish the game with 98 yards rushing. Ryan Finley would finish the game with 192 yards with a touchdown. Joe Mixon would rush for 79 yards with zero touchdowns.

All-time series: Steelers lead 66-35

Next week: Pittsburgh: vs Cleveland; Cincinnati: vs NY Jets

TW: 3-1; CV: 3-1

Seattle 17, Philadelphia 9: TW: Seahawks; CV: Seahawks

The Eagles offense struggled and it really showed. Russell Wilson might not have the best game so far this season but it was effective. Wilson finished with 200 yards passing with a touchdown while throwing an interception. It should be noted that Wilson was sacked six times. Raashad Penny was the MVP for Seattle this game with 129 yards rushing including a 58-yard touchdown. Carson Wentz had 256 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions while sacked three times.

All-time series: Seahawks lead 10-7

Next week: Seattle: vs Minnesota; Philadelphia: @ Miami

TW: 4-1; CV: 4-1

Tampa Bay 35, Atlanta 22: TW: Falcons; CV: Buccaneers

I praise you for two weeks of solid play and you do that to me, Atlanta! Shame on you. Jameis Winston would finish the game with 313 yards passing with three touchdowns and threw for two interceptions (one of them early in the game). Ronald Jones ran the ball for 51 yards with a touchdown. Matt Ryan threw the ball for 271 yards with an interception. The other Matt at quarterback in Matt Schaub would get 59 yards with a touchdown. Qadree Ollison was the leading rusher for Atlanta with 20 yards.

All-time series: Falcons lead 27-25

Next week: Tampa Bay: @ Jacksonville; Atlanta: vs New Orleans

TW: 4-2; CV: 5-1

Miami 24, Cleveland 41: TW: Browns; CV: Browns

Miami didn't get a lot going in this game but Ryan Fitzpatrick would provide the only touchdowns for the Dolphins. Fitzpatrick finished the game with 214 yards with two touchdowns while throwing two interceptions. He would also run for 45 yards with a rushing touchdown. Baker Mayfield threw for 327 yards with three touchdowns while throwing an interception. Nick Chubb ran the ball for 106 yards with a touchdown. Cleveland is still alive.

All-time series: Dolphins lead 11-9

Next week: Miami: vs Philadelphia; Cleveland: @ Pittsburgh

TW: 5-2; CV: 6-1

Detroit 16, Washington 19: TW: Lions; CV: Lions

The leg of Dustin Hopkins and special teams would lead the Redskins to victory. Jeff Driskel finished the game with 207 yards passing with a touchdown while throwing three picks. Bo Scarborough had a good day on the ground with 98 yards rushing. Dwayne Haskins threw the ball for 156 yards with an interception. Derrius Guice ran the ball for 32 yards, giving him leading rusher honors for the Redskins. Dustin Hopkins hit 4 for 4 in field goals while Steven Sims ran in for a touchdown on a 91-yard kickoff return. Special teams can help win games too.

All-time series: Redskins lead 31-14

Next week: Detroit: vs Chicago (Thanksgiving); Washington: @ Carolina

TW: 5-3; CV: 6-2

Denver 3, Buffalo 20: TW: Bills; CV: Bills

The Broncos couldn't get a lot going as the underrated Bills defense got another win. Brandon Allen finished the game with 82 yards passing with an interception. Phillip Lindsey ran the ball for 57 yards. Josh Allen threw the ball for 185 yards with two touchdowns while throwing an interception. Devin Singletary had a field day on the ground as he ran the ball over the Broncos defense with 106 yards. Buffalo has a good record but unless they can beat the good teams in their league, they won't get far.

All-time series: Bills lead 22-16-1

Next week: Denver: vs LA Chargers; Buffalo: @ Dallas (Thanksgiving)

TW: 6-3; CV: 7-2

Carolina 31, New Orleans 34: TW: Saints; CV: Panthers

The game was pretty close and it really came down to which team's kicker could come up in the clutch. Kyle Allen had a good rebound game as he threw for 256 yards and three touchdowns. Christian McCaffrey ran the ball for 64 yards with a touchdown and got 69 yards receiving with a touchdown. Drew Brees threw the ball for 311 yards with three touchdowns and an interception. Latavius Murray ran the ball for 64 yards with a touchdown. Wil Lutz would hit the game-winner from 33 yards.

All-time series: Tied 25-25

Next week: Carolina: vs Washington; New Orleans: @ Atlanta (Thanksgiving)

TW: 7-3; CV: 7-3

Jacksonville 20, Tennessee 42: TW: Titans; CV: Jaguars

The Titans score six touchdowns in this game. Nick Foles threw the ball for 272 yards but wouldn't get a touchdown in the game. Foles did get 20 yards from the ground. Leonard Fournette would provide the touchdowns for the Jags as he ran the ball for 97 yards with two touchdowns. Ryan Tannehill would have another good game as he threw the ball for 259 yards with two touchdowns. Tennessee's running game was stellar as Derrick Henry ran the ball for 159 yards with two touchdowns. Ryan Tannehill ran the ball for 40 yards with two touchdowns. Tennessee as a playoff team could be very dangerous.

All-time series: Titans lead 30-21

Next week: Jacksonville: vs Tampa Bay; Tennessee: @ Indianapolis

TW: 8-3; CV: 7-4

Dallas 9, New England 13: TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots

Another huge loss for Dallas in a season where they were supposed to go far in January. Dak Prescott threw the ball for 212 yards while throwing an interception. Ezekiel Elliot did fine with the ground game with 86 yards. Tom Brady threw the ball for 190 yards with a touchdown. The touchdown was a pass from Brady to Nkeal Harry. Sony Michel would run the ball for 85 yards. New England didn't really need it but a win is a win.

All-time series: Cowboys lead 7-6

Next week: Dallas: vs Buffalo (Thanksgiving); New England: @ Houston

TW: 9-3; CV: 8-4

Green Bay 8, San Francisco 37: TW: Packers; CV: 49ers

Well the game I thought would be closer but to the 49ers pass rush credit, they made this game a blowout by halftime. Aaron Rodgers finished the game with 104 yards with a touchdown (not a typo with the passing yards) and was sacked four times. The Packers running game was largely ineffective but Jamaal Williams ran the ball for 45 yards. Jimmy Garoppolo was really good in the game, throwing the ball for 253 yards with two touchdowns. Raheem Mostert and Tevin Coleman would score rushing touchdowns while compiling 45 and 39 yards rushing respectively. Maybe the Packers needed another wake up call.

All-time series: Packers lead 36-31-1

Next week: Green Bay: @ NY Giants; San Francisco: @ Baltimore

TW: 9-4; CV: 9-4

Baltimore 45, LA Rams 6: TW: Ravens; CV: Rams

Another blowout in primetime! To say that Lamar Jackson was spectacular would be an understatement. Jackson threw the ball for 169 yards with five touchdowns, while compiling 95 yards rushing. Mark Ingram would be the leading rusher for Baltimore with 111 yards with a touchdown. Jared Goff was largely ineffective in the game with his 212 yards passing while throwing two interceptions. Todd Gurley was ineffective in the running game as he amassed 22 yards. I can't see the Rams recovering well after this game. Shame that this team was in the Super Bowl nearly 10 months ago.

All-time series: Ravens lead 4-2

Next week: Baltimore: vs San Francisco; LA Rams: @ Arizona

TW: 10-4; CV: 9-5

The Records (By Week & Year):

Cardinal Viking:

2017: 167-89

2018: 156-98-2

2019:

Week 1: 11-4-1

Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 10-6

Week 4: 7-8

Week 5: 9-6

Week 6: 7-7

Week 7: 10-4

Week 8: 11-4

Week 9: 8-6

Week 10: 2-11

Week 11: 12-2

Week 12: 9-5

Overall: 108-69-1

My record: 

2012: 164-90-2

2013: 162-92-1

2014: 172-83-1

2017: 164-92

2018: 156-98-2

2019:

Week 1: 12-3-1

Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 11-5

Week 4: 8-7

Week 5: 5-10

Week 6: 9-5

Week 7: 7-7

Week 8: 14-1

Week 9: 8-6

Week 10: 5-8

Week 11: 10-4

Week 12: 10-4

Overall: 109-66-1

NFL 2019 Week 12 Picks

Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action is upon us. The week that was last week was a fairly good week with a 10-4 record in picks. The margin between me and Cardinal Viking (my current roommate) is very slim coming into this week with me ahead by a few games. Hopefully my good fortune will continue into Week 12. In this post I'll talk about the 1960's Packers in the NFL 100 Spotlight and the picks for the games. Let's get to work!

NFL 100: A Spotlight

In 1958, the Green Bay Packers would endure the worst season in their history with a 1-10-1 record. The season would be Ray McLean's only season with the club. They hadn't won a league championship since 1944. It was during the glory years of head coach Curly Lambeau and the likes of wide receiver Don Hutson ravaging opposing defenses with his speed. McLean's successor would be an offensive coordinator named Vince Lombardi.

What Lombardi brought was a change of the culture to the team. His emphasis of endurance, courage, and hard work would transform one of the worst teams in the league into one of the best. The team that he inherited had the pieces that Lombardi needed to help guide them into the next decade. He had players by the like of Ray Nitschke, Jerry Kramer, Max McGee, and Bart Starr. 

By 1960, Lombardi's 2nd season with the team, he led the team to the 1960 NFL championship against the Philadelphia Eagles. The two-year turnaround was met with defeat as the Packers lost to the Eagles 17-13. It would be the only loss in Lombardi's tenure in Green Bay. 

The Packers would rebound in 1961 to win their first championship since 1944 when they beat the New York Giants 37-0 in Lambeau Field. The same two teams would met again in 1962 and the Packers would beat the Giants 16-7 in Yankee Stadium. They heavily used their running backs Paul Hornung and Jim Taylor in those contests. 

The hopes of a three-peat were foiled in 1963 when the Packers lost to the Chicago Bears late in the season with the score of 26-7. Ultimately the loss was all that was needed as the Bears would beat the Giants in the championship game that year. The Packers failed to reach the championship game again in 1964 as the Baltimore Colts were the representatives in the Western Conference. The Colts would lose to the Cleveland Browns 27-0. 

The 1965 season was a return to glory but was met with some opposition. The Packers finished with a 10-3 record but would have to play the Colts in a tie-breaker game for the rights to face the Browns in the championship game. The Packers would beat the Colts in overtime 13-10 and would beat the Browns in a muddy Lambeau Field with the score of 23-12. It was a return to glory. 

For the first time in league history there would be another game to be played after the league championship game. Lombardi's Packers would continue their momentum from 1965 to a 12-2 record in 1966. They went toe to toe against the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL championship game in the Cotton Bowl and would go on to win the first Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs 35-10.

Vince Lombardi's message to the team in 1967 was clear. The team wanted to go for the three-peat. They had failed to do it in 1963 but another opportunity presented itself. Lombardi's final year in Green Bay wasn't an easy one as the Packers finished with a 9-4-1 record. Age was catching up to the team as most of the players were in their 30's and it would take every ounce of energy to get them to the top for the 3rd time. 

The Packers would easily handle the Los Angeles Rams in the NFL divisional playoff game by the score of 28-7. The Packers would have to battle two opponents in the next game. The Dallas Cowboys and the subzero temperatures would test the Packers in Lombardi's final home game as Packers head coach. It would take a Bart Starr sneak into the endzone to help seal the Packers legacy as NFL champions in 1965, 1966, and 1967. In Super Bowl II, the Packers would easily handle the AFL's Oakland Raiders by the score of 33-14. Two weeks after the game, Vince Lombardi resigned as head coach. It would be another 29 years until the Packers would win another Super Bowl.

In the 1960's, the game of football started to gain traction in the consciousness in America. The Green Bay Packers and Vince Lombardi were easily one of the teams that helped garner that attention. Top to bottom the team that Lombardi put out during those years were amazing. They could beat you with the arm of Bart Starr with his versatile receiving corp, or the running tandem of Jim Taylor or Paul Hornung. They could beat you with their fearsome defense with the likes of Willie Davis or David Robinson on the defensive line, Ray Nitschke as a linebacker and Willie Wood and Herb Adderley patrolling the field in the secondary. They were truly a great dynasty in NFL history. 

Week 12 Picks

Week 12 in the NFL regular season will start in Houston, Texas and ends in Los Angeles, California. Four teams will be on a bye this week: Arizona Cardinals, Minnesota Vikings, Kansas City Chiefs, and Los Angeles Chargers. There will be a Thursday night game, nine early games, two late games, a Sunday night game and a Monday night game. CBS will have the single, regional game while FOX will have the double-header. Here are the picks!

Indianapolis (6-4) @ Houston (6-4) (FOX/NFL Network): TW: Texans; CV: Texans

The Colts beat the Jaguars and the Texans lost to the Ravens last week. Marlon Mack will be out of the game with a hand injury. I can't expect the Colts running game to get the same amount of yardage that Mack would probably get in this game. Unless the Colts run game gives Jacoby Brissett some help, I feel the Texans will edge this one out as they have a capable running back to get them a win. Houston has let me down before, sadly. 

Oakland (6-4) @ NY Jets (3-7) (CBS): TW: Raiders; CV: Raiders

Both teams got wins last week as the Raiders beat the Bengals and the Jets beat the Redskins. Oakland has a very unique opportunity to gain some ground on the Chiefs in the division. Josh Jacobs is a great story for a potential Rookie of the Year honors. I feel Oakland will win based on the their well balanced offense and a defense that can ravage on Sam Darnold. I'll take the Raiders.

NY Giants (2-8) @ Chicago (4-6) (FOX): TW: Bears; CV: Bears

The Giants were on a bye and the Bears lost to the Rams last week. The difference I feel in this match-up is that the Bears have a defense and the Giants don't have one. The problem is that whoever the Bears have at quarterback could pose a problem, whether it will be Chase Daniel or Mitchell Trubisky. If the Bears want to get back into the playoff conversation, they need a win. 

Pittsburgh (5-5) @ Cincinnati (0-10) (CBS): TW: Steelers; CV: Steelers

Both teams lost last week as the Steelers lost to the Browns and the Bengals lost to the Raiders. The season has gone poorly for the Bengals and unfortunately they won't have an easy time in this one. I like the Steelers defense to overwhelm the Bengals offense. Pittsburgh should be fortunate that Mason Rudolph wasn't suspended for last week's brawl against Myles Garrett. I'll take Pittsburgh based on their defense.

Seattle (8-2) @ Philadelphia (5-5) (FOX): TW: Seahawks; CV: Seahawks

The Seahawks were on a bye and the Eagles lost to the Patriots last week. Jet lag could be a problem for the Seahawks traveling a near 3-hour difference. The Eagles could play havoc with their defense but I like the Seahawks offense in this match-up. Seahawks have a good running game as well. I'll go with Seattle.

Tampa Bay (3-7) @ Atlanta (3-7) (FOX): TW: Falcons; CV: Buccaneers

The Buccaneers lost to the Saints and the Falcons beat the Panthers last week. Atlanta has been on a tear in the last few weeks and I'll go with that momentum into this game. It's certainly a guarantee that Jameis Winston will throw for over 250+ yards but its likely he will throw interceptions in this one. I don't trust the Bucs in the game so I'll give the nod to Atlanta. Don't let me down. 

Miami (2-8) @ Cleveland (4-6) (FOX): TW: Browns; CV: Browns

The Dolphins lost to the Bills and the Browns beat the Steelers last week. Cleveland will be without Myles Garrett for the rest of the season due to the brawl last week. Despite the loss I still like the Browns defense against a fairly decent Dolphins offense. As long as the formula of Baker Mayfield playing the field manager and Nick Chubb taking the load off of Mayfield's shoulder, I'll take the Browns in the game. 

Detroit (3-6-1) @ Washington (1-9) (FOX): TW: Lions; CV: Lions

Both teams lost last week as the Lions lost to the Cowboys and the Redskins lost to the Jets. It's the sexy match-up of Jeff (not Jake) Driskel and Dwayne Haskins in this game. I like the Lions in the game as they do have some capable weapons for Driskel to go to. The Redskins defense could put up a fight in this one but with the way they played against the Jets, I don't trust them to scare a rock. I'll take the Lions in a close game.

Denver (3-7) @ Buffalo (7-3) (CBS): TW: Bills; CV: Bills

The Broncos lost to the Vikings and the Bills beat the Dolphins last week. Buffalo looks to continue its season with getting a win against a sub-par team in the Broncos. Denver looks to try to upset the Bills on the road where they haven't won in since 2007. I like the Bills in the game due to their defense and versatility in quarterback as Josh Allen can beat you with his arm and his legs. The Broncos could play spoiler in ways that they had last week against Minnesota but they have to play all four quarters to get a win.

Carolina (5-5) @ New Orleans (8-2) (CBS): TW: Saints; CV: Panthers

The Panthers lost to the Falcons and the Saints beat the Buccaneers last week. Carolina has been on downward spiral since losing to the Packers and I sadly feel that this will continue. Christian McCaffrey will cause problems on the Saints defense but can I trust Kyle Allen to do well in a hostile environment in the SuperDome. I personally don't think so. I'll take the Saints.

Jacksonville (4-6) @ Tennessee (5-5) (CBS): TW: Titans; CV: Jaguars

The Jaguars lost to the Colts and the Titans were on a bye last week. The game seems like a reverse to their previous meeting earlier in the season. The Jaguars had a capable quarterback in that game in Gardner Minshew and the Titans didn't. In this game, I feel the Titans found their answer and quarterback in Ryan Tannehill. The sample size of film for Nick Foles has been limited due to his lengthy injury. I can't trust the Jaguars defense to slow down the Titans offense. I'll take the Titans for once. 

Dallas (6-4) @ New England (9-1) (FOX): TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots

Both teams won last week as the Cowboys beat the Lions and the Patriots beat the Eagles. This game will be nationally televised. Dallas does have a shot to win this game as they do have a capable running game to help their offense keep the Patriots defense on the field. Fortunately for Brady and company they have a good running attack as well and I don't think the Cowboys defense compares to the Patriots defense. I'll take New England. 

Green Bay (8-2) @ San Francisco (9-1) (NBC): TW: Packers; CV: 49ers

The Packers were on a bye and the 49ers beat the Cardinals last week. The marquee game of the week. Two teams that have really good offenses and solid defenses. While I do think the 49ers defense is playing better than the Packers defense, the 49ers weakness is in rush defense which is something I think the Packers can exploit. Green Bay needs to have a good game from Aaron Jones as the 49ers have a great pass defense. Turnovers could be a key in this game. I'll take the Pack.

Baltimore (8-2) @ LA Rams (6-4) (ESPN): TW: Ravens; CV: Rams

The Ravens beat the Texans and the Rams beat the Bears last week. Week 12 finishes with a good match-up on ESPN. Both teams have great running games, and good defenses. Lamar Jackson is the x-factor for this match-up as he has both a great arm and two legs that can get first downs and more. I'll take the Ravens in the game as I can't trust Jared Goff to get his team to a win against a very good Ravens team. 

Local TV Schedule (courtesy of 506sports.com, subject to change):

CBS Single:

Carolina @ New Orleans

Jim Nantz, Tony Romo

FOX Early:

Seattle @ Philadelphia

Kevin Burkhardt, Charles Davis

FOX Late:
Dallas @ New England

Joe Buck, Troy Aikman

For more information on which game is played in your area, check out: NFL Maps: Week 12

The Records (By Week & Year):

Cardinal Viking:

2017: 167-89

2018: 156-98-2

2019:

Week 1: 11-4-1

Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 10-6

Week 4: 7-8

Week 5: 9-6

Week 6: 7-7

Week 7: 10-4

Week 8: 11-4

Week 9: 8-6

Week 10: 2-11

Week 11: 12-2

Overall: 97-64-1

My record: 

2012: 164-90-2

2013: 162-92-1

2014: 172-83-1

2017: 164-92

2018: 156-98-2

2019:

Week 1: 12-3-1

Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 11-5

Week 4: 8-7

Week 5: 5-10

Week 6: 9-5

Week 7: 7-7

Week 8: 14-1

Week 9: 8-6

Week 10: 5-8

Week 11: 10-4

Overall: 99-62-1

See you guys after the Monday night game for the Week 12 recap! Enjoy the games!

-Tom

NFL 2019 Week 11 Recap

Hello readers! Another week of National Football League has ended. Last week was somewhat of a rough week with a 5-8 record. With 14 games on this week's slate, it is certainly possible to finish with a .500 record. This post will include an NFL 100 spotlight and a recap of the week's action. Let's get to work!

NFL 100: A Spotlight

The Cleveland Browns had some glimpses of good football in 2018, not so much in 2019. However, there was at one point when the Browns were one of the dominant teams in the NFL. A time when they had stability at quarterback, an offense that was scary, a defense to match and most importantly they won division titles and NFL championships. Let's take a look at the 1950's Browns.

The Cleveland Browns were founded in 1944 and became one of the charter franchises in the newly-minted All-American Football Conference. The new league would start operations in 1946 and would continue to operate until 1949, the year when league agreed to a merger with the NFL. The Browns would dominate every season while in the AAFC.

Unlike the more successful American Football League, the AAFC would let three of its seven teams join the NFL after the two leagues agreed to merge. The AFL would let all ten of their franchises join the league after the AFL and NFL agreed to a merger. The teams that would join the NFL from the AAFC were: Cleveland Browns, San Francisco 49ers, and Baltimore Colts (this version of the Colts would exist for only one season in 1950 but a different iteration of the Colts would begin in 1953).

Many of the experts expected the Cleveland Browns to fail in 1950 as many NFL people felt that the AAFC was a minor league compared to the established NFL. After all, the NFL had survived its roughest stretch of existence due to World War II and was coming out of the war with its feet intact and looked to a brighter future. Most of the top athletes during this era were still playing baseball, or boxing. Once the Browns entered the NFL, the American consciousness would start to shift.

The Browns during the 1950's would enjoy some of the best football ever seen in the history of the NFL. They would win the NFL championship in 1950, 1954 and 1955. They would win the conference championship every year from 1950 to 1955, as well as 1957. One of the craziest statistics is that they won their division every year from 1946 to 1955. You have to remember this was during a time when the NFL had lesser teams, the rules were less, and defenses could literally do anything. The 1950's Browns were really and truly the first great dynasty in the NFL.

They had great players during those years. Such players like Otto Graham, Lou Groza, Dante Lavelli, Marion Motley and Bill Willis (Motley and Willis were two of the earliest African-American players to play professional football). The man who coached those players stands above all others, Paul Brown.

Paul Brown was the franchise's first head coach and where the team got their name from. He would coach those championship years for the Browns. What I think Brown brought to the table was turn the coaching profession into a science. He controlled everything in a player's daily schedule. From practice, watching game film, to forcing players to not have sex after Tuesday or signing players regardless of race. The topic of race never resonated with him, if he was good at playing the game, Brown would stop at nothing to sign him. Many coaches like Chuck Noll, Don Shula, and Bill Walsh used Brown's system.

Week 11 Recap

Pittsburgh 7, Cleveland 21: TW: Steelers; CV: Steelers

The game was an old-fashioned black and blue football game, but it was overshadowed by two players: a player who instigated the fight, and a player who lost his cool in the moment. Mason Rudolph was the one who instigated the fight would finish the game with 221 yards passing with a touchdown but threw for four interceptions. Pittsburgh's running game didn't do much as Jalen Samuels was the leading rusher with 26 yards, James Conner had only 10. Baker Mayfield continued to play it safe and finished the game with 193 yards passing with two touchdowns. Mayfield would run it in for a touchdown on a 1-yard play. Nick Chubb would have a good day on the ground with his 92 yards from the ground. Overall, I think Mason Rudolph should get some punishment for instigating the fight between him and Myles Garrett. Don't get me wrong, I think Garrett deserves the blame for it as well. 

All-time series: Steelers lead series 75-59-1

Next week: Pittsburgh: @ Cincinnati; Cleveland: vs Miami

TW: 0-1; CV: 0-1

Houston 7, Baltimore 41: TW: Ravens; CV: Ravens

The match-up between DeShaun Watson and Lamar Jackson was well... not what was expected from the final result. Watson douldn't do much against the Ravens defense, finishing the day with 169 yards passing with an interception. He couldn't do much on the ground with 12 yards rushing. Carlos Hyde was the Texans leading rusher with 65 yards. Penalties and turnovers didn't help much for Houston as they took three penalties and two turnovers. Lamar Jackson had a fine day with 222 yards passing with four touchdowns and would ran for 86 yards. Gus Edwards was the leading rusher with 116 yards with a touchdown. Just another day in the office for Lamar Jackson.

All-time series: Ravens lead 9-2

Next week: Houston: vs Indianapolis (Thursday); Baltimore: @ LA Rams

TW: 1-1; CV: 1-1

Denver 23, Minnesota 27: TW: Vikings; CV: Vikings

It was a game of two halves: the "Vikings did squat while the Broncos played aggressive football" and the "Vikings got back to playing better football while the Broncos did squat." Brandon Allen did well enough, finishing the day with 240 yards passing with a touchdown while throwing an interception late in the first half. Philip Lindsey was the leading rusher for Denver with 67 yards while Andy Janovich ran it in for a touchdown on a 1-yard play. Kirk Cousins was sluggish in the first half but would turn it up in the 2nd half, finishing the game with 319 yards with three touchdowns. Denver did well containing Dalvin Cook, holding the runningback to 26 yards but would get a touchdown in the game. Broncos did fine, but forgot to put the foot on the gas after halftime.

All-time series: Vikings lead 8-7

Next week: Denver: @ Buffalo; Minnesota: Bye

TW: 2-1; CV: 2-1

Jacksonville 13, Indianapolis 33: TW: Colts; CV: Colts

Nick Foles returned to the Jaguars after getting injured in Week 1. Foles did fine in the game, with his 296 yards passing with two touchdowns while throwing an interception. Leonard Fournette didn't see a lot of action from the ground with eight carries for 23 yards, probably because that the Jags defense couldn't stop Indy. Jacoby Brissett returned and had a meager day with his 148 yards with a touchdown and an interception. It would be the Colts running game that would shine best as Marlon Mack and Johnathan Williams would both run for 109 and 116 yards rushing respectively, with Mack getting the rushing touchdown. It would be the first time that Indy had two 100+ yard rushers in a game since 1985.

All-time series: Colts lead 24-13

Next week: Jacksonville: @ Tennessee; Indianapolis: @ Houston (Thursday)

TW: 3-1; CV: 3-1

New Orleans 34, Tampa Bay 17: TW: Saints; CV: Saints

The Saints had a wake up call last week, losing to Atlanta and in a competitive NFC, they needed a win. Drew Brees threw the ball for 228 yards with three touchdowns. Alvin Kamara ran the ball for a good amount of 75 yards. Jameis Winston reverted back to his wild ways, finishing the game with 313 yards passing with two touchdowns and four interceptions. Winston was the leading rusher with 23 yards in the game.

All-time series: Saints lead series 35-21

Next week: New Orleans: vs Carolina; Tampa Bay: @ Atlanta

TW: 4-1; CV: 4-1

NY Jets 34, Washington 17: TW: Redskins; CV: Jets

Well I took a chance on Washington, and it backfired, such my luck. Sam Darnold had one of his better games this season with 293 yards passing with four touchdowns and an interception. Le'Veon Bell had a decent day with 59 yards rushing with a touchdown. Dwayne Haskins had a better game than some of his previous starts this season, finishing with 214 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Adrian Peterson wouldn't be able to get much of a ground game going with only 26 yards rushing on nine carries.

All-time series: Redskins lead series 8-4

Next week: NY Jets: vs Oakland; Washington: vs Detroit

TW: 4-2; CV: 5-1

Dallas 35, Detroit 27: TW: Cowboys; CV: Cowboys

The Cowboys defense had a rough game but Dak Prescott saved the day. Prescott threw for 444 yards with three touchdowns in the game, a pretty good game for him for sure. Ezekiel Elliot didn't get much on the ground with 45 yards but would run it in for a touchdown. Michael Gallup had 148 receiving yards. Jake Driskel started in place of Matthew Stafford and did okay with his 209 yards with two touchdown. Driskel would run for 51 yards with a touchdown. Bo Scarborough was the leading rusher for the Lions with 55 yards. With Philadelphia's loss, the Cowboys have a 1-game cushion in the division.

All-time series: Cowboys lead 17-12

Next week: Dallas: @ New England; Detroit: @ Washington

TW: 5-2; CV: 6-1

Buffalo 37, Miami 20: TW: Bills; CV: Bills

The Bills did what they were expected to, they beat a bad team. Josh Allen did well in this game with 256 yards with three touchdowns. Devin Singletary had a good day on the ground with 75 yards but wouldn't score a touchdown. Ryan Fitzpatrick had 319 yards passing but wouldn't get a passing touchdown in the game. Oddly enough, both Jakeem Grant and Kalen Ballage would score a touchdown each but could only put up 7 and 9 yards rushing respectively. Grant would also score a touchdown on a 101-yard kickoff return, his fourth overall kick-six in his career. Buffalo is 7-3 for the first time since 1999.

All-time series: Dolphins lead 61-50-1

Next week: Buffalo: vs Denver; Miami: @ Cleveland

TW: 6-2; CV: 7-1

Atlanta 29, Carolina 3: TW: Panthers; CV: Panthers

Where was this Atlanta team earlier in the year? Matt Ryan had a better game than what he had last week as he finished the game with 311 yards passing with a touchdown but improved in that he didn't throw an interception. Brian Hill didn't get too much on the ground as he put up 30 yards rushing. Kyle Allen looked very mortal in this game as he threw for 325 yards but would throw four interceptions. Christian McCaffrey had a good day on the ground and air with 70 rushing yards and 122 receiving yards. What's wrong with Carolina?

All-time series: Atlanta leads 31-18

Next week: Atlanta: vs Tampa Bay; Carolina: @ New Orleans

TW: 6-3; CV: 7-2

Arizona 26, San Francisco 36: TW: 49ers; CV: 49ers

The 49ers kept this one close but you have to give credit to Arizona when its due. Kyler Murray threw the ball for 150 yards with two touchdowns while running the ball for 67 yards with a touchdown. Kenyan Drake would get 67 yards as well. Jimmy Garoppolo was quite interesting in this game. He threw for 424 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions, the only blemish was the two picks. It was another game where the running game was quiet as Tevin Coleman ran for 14 yards. San Francisco's offense needs to get better if they want to beat Green Bay next week.

All-time series: 49ers lead 31-26

Next week: Arizona: Bye; San Francisco: vs Green Bay

TW: 7-3; CV: 8-2

Cincinnati 10, Oakland 17: TW: Raiders; CV: Raiders

The Bengals remain winless while the surprise Raiders keep on winning. Ryan Finley started again for the Bengals, and he finished the game with 115 yards passing with an interception. Joe Mixon would score the only touchdown for the Bengals while compiling 86 yards rushing. Derek Carr did fine in the game with 292 yards with a touchdown and an interception. It was another 100+ yard game for Josh Jacobs who has already broken the Raiders rookie rushing record. Jacobs finished the game with 112. His 4 100-yard games this season broke the record set by Marcus Allen. Not too bad.

All-time series: Raiders lead 21-11

Next week: Cincinnati: vs Pittsburgh; Oakland: @ NY Jets

TW: 8-3; CV: 9-2

New England 17, Philadelphia 10: TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots

The Super Bowl rematch was more of a defensive battle than the actual championship game these two teams played back in February 2018. Tom Brady looked alright but threw the ball for 216 yards for zero touchdowns. Julian Edelman did manage to throw a touchdown pass for 15 yards. Sony Michel was able to muster 33 yards from the ground. Carson Wentz had similar numbers like Brady but threw for 214 yards with a touchdown, a pass from Wentz to Dallas Goedert. Miles Sanders was the leading rusher for the game with 38 yards rushing. Don't really know how good the Patriots can be without a solid offensive line.

All-time series: Eagles lead 8-7

Next week: New England: vs Dallas; Philadelphia: vs Seattle

TW: 9-3; CV: 10-2

Chicago 7, LA Rams 17: TW: Rams; CV: Rams

The game was what I had expected it to be. It was pretty ugly and both quarterbacks didn't do very well. Mitchell Trubisky had 190 yards with a touchdown and an interception. It might've been an end of an era for Trubisky as Chase Daniel was put into the game. Tarik Cohen had 39 yards rushing for the game. Jared Goff finished the game with 173 yards passing with an interception. Todd Gurley would be the focal point of the offense, as Sean McVay would say, as Gurley finished with 97 yards rushing with a touchdown. Malcolm Brown had 15 yards for the game with a touchdown in the game as well. The Rams stay alive.

All-time series: Bears lead 54-37-3

Next week: Chicago: vs NY Giants; LA Rams: vs Baltimore

TW: 10-3; CV: 11-2

Kansas City 24, LA Chargers 17: TW: Chargers; CV: Chiefs

The game was just as ugly as the Sunday night game. Five total turnovers from both teams, granted that four of them are from the Chargers. Patrick Mahomes wasn't his normal self but was more of manager with 182 yards passing with a touchdown and an interception. Mahomes was the leading rusher with 59 but Damien Williams and LeSean McCoy scored for touchdowns in the game. Philip Rivers really looked not good in this game, throwing the ball 52 times and threw for 353 yards passing with a touchdown and 4 interceptions. Melvin Gordon did fine in the game with the ground as he racked up 69 yards rushing. Just imagine how the game could've changed when Rivers had lesser interceptions. I feel the Chargers are done.

All-time series: Chiefs lead 62-56-1

Next week: Kansas City: Bye; LA Chargers: Bye

TW: 10-4; CV: 12-2

The Records (By Week & Year):

Cardinal Viking:

2017: 167-89

2018: 156-98-2

2019:

Week 1: 11-4-1

Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 10-6

Week 4: 7-8

Week 5: 9-6

Week 6: 7-7

Week 7: 10-4

Week 8: 11-4

Week 9: 8-6

Week 10: 2-11

Week 11: 12-2

Overall: 97-64-1

My record: 

2012: 164-90-2

2013: 162-92-1

2014: 172-83-1

2017: 164-92

2018: 156-98-2

2019:

Week 1: 12-3-1

Week 2: 10-6

Week 3: 11-5

Week 4: 8-7

Week 5: 5-10

Week 6: 9-5

Week 7: 7-7

Week 8: 14-1

Week 9: 8-6

Week 10: 5-8

Week 11: 10-4

Overall: 99-62-1

See you guys on Wednesday for the Week 12 Picks post!
-Tom