NFL 2019 Week 16 Recap

Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action has gone by. The second to last week of the regular season has finished, with one week to go before the NFL's second season comes. This post will have an NFL 100 spotlight on the 1990's Buffalo Bills and the recap of the week's games. Let's get to work!

NFL 100: A Spotlight

History is written by the winners. At least as the old saying goes. Much goes the same with the National Football League as most people will remember who won a championship and the team who didn't. What if I told you there was a team that is remembered for going to the big game not once, not twice, certainly not three, but four straight times. The only team to do it was the 1990-1993 Buffalo Bills.

It had been 25 years since the city of Buffalo, New York saw its football team win a league championship. The 1964 and 1965 Buffalo Bills were the only team in the AFL's short history to win the league championship in consecutive years. From 1967 to 1987, the Buffalo Bills would endure one of their toughest stretches in franchise history, producing only four winning seasons during that year with three playoff appearances.

The Bills luck was starting to change with the inclusion of Jim Kelly (who was originally drafted by Buffalo in the 1983 draft but bolted to the USFL) at quarterback, Bruce Smith at defensive end, and Marv Levy (who would finish 1986 with a 2-5 record) at head coach.

By 1990, the Bills added such talents like Andre Reed, Thurman Thomas, Trumaine Johnson, and Darryl Talley. The Bills made the playoffs in 1988 and 1989 but couldn't make it to the Super Bowl. The team was destined to be the next biggest thing.

The 1990 Bills was a magical season. The team finished with 13-3 record and earned the top seed in the playoffs. They even beat the New York Giants, their future Super Bowl opponent, on the road in a close 17-13 win. They would easily handle the Dolphins and Raiders en route to their first Super Bowl appearance. 

Thurman Thomas would have a great day on the ground but the Bills passing game was grounded due to the masterful gameplan by Giants defensive coordinator Bill Belichek. It ultimately came down to Scott Norwood to hit a field goal to give the Bills the win. The kick was good but the ball was mere inches from making it, going wide right. They failed to win the Super Bowl but they were still a young team that hoped to win it next year.

They would return in 1991 with an identical 13-3 record to 1990. The Bills would beat the Chiefs and Broncos in the AFC Playoffs to get to their consecutive Super Bowl appearance. Their opponent was the Washington Redskins. 

The game would end up being worst than the year before as the Bills lost to the Redskins 37-24. The game was known for two things: Thurman Thomas's missing helmet and Bills defensive line coach Chuck Dickerson mocking the Redskins offensive line "The Hogs" before the game. Two straight losses were mounting but the window was still open.

The 1992 Bills would prove to be a tough test for Marv Levy and company as the Bills finished with a 11-5 record, getting into the playoffs as a wild-card team. During the Wild-card round against the Houston Oilers, Jim Kelly was out of the game with an injury. Frank Reich would have to guide the Bills out of a 35-3 deficit in the 3rd quarter. The Bills would finish the game with a 38-10 run to beat the Oilers in overtime. It was the biggest comeback in NFL history. They would finish the playoffs beating the Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins to their 3rd straight championship apperance.

The Cowboys were their opponent, a young team that had talent on both sides of the ball. Dallas would get to Jim Kelly early and knock Kelly out and put Reich in. There would be no comeback for the Bills as the Cowboys routed them in a 52-17 loss. The losses were beginning to mount and at least one more year of their window was still left. 

The Buffalo Bills in 1993 had a better year, record wise, with a 12-4 finish. They would exact some revenge on the Cowboys with a 13-10 win in Week 2. The Bills would enter the playoffs with a first-round bye and would beat the Raiders and Chiefs in the playoffs to get to their 4th straight championship appearance. Perhaps, this would finally be their year. 

For the consecutive year, their opponent that stood between them and the Lombardi trophy was the Dallas Cowboys. The first half wasn't a blowout but the Bills maintained a 10-6 halftime lead, their only halftime lead during those years. Buffalo forgot to play in the 2nd half as the Cowboys would go on a 24-7 scoring run to beat the Bills 30-13. Four straight times to the Super Bowl and all four times they lost. 

The Bills would fail to make the playoffs in 1994 but would return to the postseason in 1995 and 1996 but ultimately failed to make it back to the big game. Their window was closed. Marv Levy would continue to coach the team until he retired after the 1997 season. 

The 1990's Bills legacy is certainly mixed by NFL fans. They went to four straight Super Bowls. At that time, they joined the Minnesota Vikings and Denver Broncos as the only teams to lose four of those games before winning their first (then Denver won the big game in 1997 and 1998). Some of the biggest names in NFL history never made it to a Super Bowl. Such names like Dan Fouts, Jim Brown, OJ Simpson, and Barry Sanders never made it to the big game. To make it to a Super Bowl is a tough challenge unto itself but to make it four times in a row is an achievement. Their place in NFL history may not be remembered as being a winner but they have to be one that has to be mentioned. 

Week 16 Recap

Houston 23, Tampa Bay 20: TW: Buccaneers; CV: Texans

The game started at 1:00 pm Eastern. Jameis Winston would throw his first interception at 1:02 pm Eastern. DeShaun Watson threw for 184 yards with an interception. He would run the ball for 37 yards while Carlos Hyde ran for 27 yards with a touchdown. Jameis Winston would throw for more yards as he finished with 335 yards with a touchdown but threw four interceptions (three were in the first half). Ronald Jones would finish with 77 yards rushing with a touchdown, his longest was from 49 yards. Despite the five turnovers by Tampa, the Texans wasn't dominating like they should've. Typical Houston. 

All-time series: Texans lead 4-1

Next week: Houston: vs Tennessee; Tampa Bay: vs Atlanta

TW: 0-1; CV: 1-0

Buffalo 17, New England 24: TW: Patriots; CV: Bills

Pretty entertaining game but New England earned its 11th straight AFC East title. Josh Allen did fine in the game with 208 yards passing with two touchdowns while running it for 43 yards. Devin Singletary was the leading rusher for Buffalo with 46 yards. Tom Brady returned to his old self with 271 yards passing with a touchdown and zero interceptions. Sony Michel was the leading rusher in the game with 96 yards. Rex Burkhead had 20 yards rushing with a touchdown. Not an easy division title clincher but all in a day's work for them. 

All-time series: Patriots 76-34-1

Next week: Buffalo: vs NY Jets; New England: vs Miami

TW: 1-1; CV: 1-1

LA Rams 31, San Francisco 34: TW: 49ers; CV: 49ers

Emmanuel Sanders would give Robbie Gould a chance to get a tough win against the rival Rams. Jared Goff threw the ball for 323 yards with two touchdowns with an interception. Todd Gurley ran the ball for 48 yards with two touchdowns. Jimmy Garoppolo threw the ball for 248 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions. Raheem Mostert and Deebo Samuel both scored rushing touchdowns while getting 53 and 28 yards rushing respectively. Robbie Gould would hit a 33-yard field goal to give San Francisco the win and an edge in the NFC West division.

All-time series: 49ers lead 71-67-3

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

TW: 2-1; CV: 2-1

Jacksonville 12, Atlanta 24: TW: Falcons; CV: Falcons

It might be Dan Quinn's last season in Atlanta but at least he got a home win. Gardner Minshew threw 13 of 31 passes for 181 yards with a touchdown. Leonard Fournette ran the ball well fine with 71 yards. Matt Ryan didn't throw particularly well but he finished with 384 yards passing with a touchdown and two interceptions. Devonta Freeman and Quinton Ollison scored rushing touchdowns, finishing the game with 53 and 3 yards rushing respectively. Minshewmania faded pretty quickly. 

All-time series: Falcons lead 4-3

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

TW: 3-1; CV: 3-1

New Orleans 38, Tennessee 28: TW: Saints; CV: Saints

The Titans are now in the drivers seat for the playoffs as the Steelers lost on Sunday. Drew Brees threw for 279 yards with three touchdowns. Alvin Kamara ran the ball with 80 rushing yards with two touchdowns. Michael Thomas would beat Marvin Harrison's single season receptions record set in 2002 with 145 receptions for Thomas. Ryan Tannehill threw for similar numbers with 272 yards passing with three touchdowns. Dion Lewis ran the ball for 68 yards and AJ Brown ran the ball for 49 yards for a touchdown on his only carry in the game. 

All-time series: Titans lead 8-6-1

Next week: New Orleans: @ Carolina; Tennessee: @ Houston

TW: 4-1; CV: 4-1

NY Giants 41, Washington 35: TW: Giants; CV: Giants

Daniel Jones had a pretty darn good game. Jones threw for 352 yards with five touchdown passes in the game. Saquon Barkley arguably had an even better game with 189 yards from the ground with a touchdown. Dwayne Haskins started for the Redskins, throwing for 133 yards with two touchdowns, before going down with an injury. Case Keenum would finish the game with 158 yards with a touchdown. 

All-time series: Giants lead 103-69-4

Next week: NY Giants: vs Philadelphia; Washington: @ Dallas

TW: 5-1; CV: 5-1

Pittsburgh 10, NY Jets 16: TW: Steelers; CV: Steelers

Pittsburgh's quarterbacks let the team down. Devlin Hodges started for Pittsburgh and threw for 84 yards with two interceptions before getting benched for Mason Rudolph. Rudolph played better with 129 yards passing with a touchdown. James Conner could only muster 32 yards rushing. Sam Darnold threw the ball for 183 yards with a touchdown pass. Le'Veon Bell did fine in the game rushing for 72 yards against his former team. The Steelers are still alive but they'll need a miracle if they want to get a playoff spot. 

All-time series: Steelers lead 20-6

Next week: Pittsburgh: @ Baltimore; NY Jets: @ Buffalo

TW: 5-2; CV: 5-2

Carolina 6, Indianapolis 38: TW: Colts; CV: Panthers

Nyheim Hines gave the Colts all the offense they needed on punt return. Will Grier didn't have a particularly great game as he threw for 224 yards with three interceptions. Christian McCaffrey ran the ball for 54 yards with 119 receiving yards. Jacoby Brissett threw for 119 yards in the game. Marlon Mack, Jordan Wilkins and Jacoby Brissett would score rushing touchdowns while getting 5, 84, and 37 yards rushing respectively. Nyheim Hines scored two touchdowns on punt returns with his longest was from 84 yards. 

All-time series: Panthers lead 5-2

Next week: Carolina: vs New Orleans; Indianapolis: @ Jacksonville

TW: 6-2; CV: 5-3

Baltimore 31, Cleveland 15: TW: Ravens; CV: Ravens

The Ravens beat the last team that beat them back on September 29th. Lamar Jackson threw for 238 yards passing with three touchdowns with 103 yards rushing. Justice Hill would get 19 yards rushing with a touchdown run. Baker Mayfield threw for 192 yards with two touchdowns with an interception. Nick Chubb would get 45 yards rushing on the day. The AFC playoffs will go through Baltimore. 

All-time series: Ravens lead 31-11

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

TW: 7-2; CV: 6-3

Oakland 24, LA Chargers 17: TW: Raiders; CV: Raiders

The Raiders are still alive?! Derek Carr threw for 291 yards with a touchdown. Deandre Washington ran the ball for 85 yards with a touchdown as well. Derek Carr would score a touchdown on a 3-yard run. Phillip Rivers threw for 279 yards but neither scored a touchdown or threw an interception. Melvin Gordon ran the ball for 15 yards with two touchdowns on the ground. At least the Chargers don't have to play in that soccer stadium anymore. 

All-time series: Raiders lead 65-54-2

Next week: Oakland: @ Denver; LA Chargers: @ Kansas City

TW: 8-2; CV: 7-3

Detroit 17, Denver 27: TW: Broncos; CV: Broncos

The Drew Lock Shuffle could become a thing. David Blough started again for Detroit and threw for 117 yards with a touchdown. Kerryon Johnson did return for the Lions after missing a huge chunk of the season due to injury. Johnson would finish with 42 yards rushing. Drew Lock finished the game with 192 yards with a touchdown. Philip Lindsay and Royce Freeman carried their load in the offense, getting 109 and 28 yards rushing with a touchdown each. Looking like a possible 7-9 or 6-10 season finish for Denver. 

All-time series: Broncos lead 8-5

Next week: Detroit: vs Green Bay; Denver: vs Oakland

TW: 9-2; CV: 8-3

Arizona 27, Seattle 13: TW: Seahawks; CV: Seahawks

Huge surprise. Kyler Murray threw the ball for 118 yards with a touchdown. Brett Hundley would see some action as well with 49 yards passing but didn't throw a touchdown. Kenyon Drake had another big game as the runner racked up 166 yards rushing with two touchdowns. Russell Wilson threw the ball for 169 yards with a touchdown. Chris Carson was rather quiet in the game as he only ran for 40 yards with zero touchdowns. 

All-time series: Seahawks lead 21-20-1

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

TW: 9-3; CV: 8-4

Dallas 9, Philadelphia 17: TW: Eagles; CV: Eagles

I was hesitating on taking the Eagles, but Carson Wentz reassured me that I was making the right call. Dak Prescott threw the ball for 265 yards with zero touchdowns. Ezekiel Elliot ran the ball for 47 yards, in a rather quiet game for him. Carson Wentz threw the ball for 319 yards with a touchdown. Miles Sanders had a solid day on the ground with 79 yards rushing with a touchdown, his longest run was from 38 yards. Philly's pass catchers actually figured out to catch balls.

All-time series: Cowboys lead 69-53

Next week: Dallas: vs Washington; Philadelphia: @ NY Giants

TW: 10-3; CV: 9-4

Kansas City 26, Chicago 3: TW: Chiefs; CV: Chiefs

The final score was as to be expected. Sorry Chicago. Patrick Mahomes threw the ball for 251 yards with two touchdowns but all in all it was an average day for the stellar passer. Damien Williams ran the ball for 65 yards with zero touchdowns. Mitchel Trubisky would finish the game with 18 of 34 completions for 157 yards with zero touchdowns. Devin Montgomery had an alright game with 57 yards rushing but didn't score a touchdown. 

All-time series: Bears lead 7-6

Next week: Kansas City: vs LA Chargers; Chicago: @ Minnesota

TW: 11-3; CV: 10-4

Cincinnati 35, Miami 38 (F/OT): TW: Dolphins; CV: Dolphins

Nearly forgot about this gem of a game. Andy Dalton did have a good game with 396 yards with four touchdowns. Joe Mixon ran the ball for 50 yards on 21 carries. Ryan Fitzpatrick threw for 419 yards with four touchdowns and an interception. Miles Gaskin ran the ball for 55 yards rushing with a touchdown. Biggest difference was that the Dolphins made one more play than the Bengals, in terms of kickers. Jason Sanders would hit a 37-yard field goal to give the Dolphins their 4th win and won't pick #1 in the draft.

All-time series: Dolphins lead 17-7

Next week: Cincinnati: vs Cleveland; Miami: @ New England

TW: 12-3; CV: 11-4

Green Bay 23, Minnesota 10: TW: Vikings; CV: Vikings

Well it was still a win-win if I lost the pick. NFC North Champs! Aaron Rodgers wasn't quite at his best as he threw for 216 yards with an interception. Aaron Jones would have a monster game with 154 yards rushing for two touchdowns. His longest run was from 56 yards for a score. Kirk Cousins threw for 122 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Mike Boone was the leading rusher for Minnesota and finished with 28 yards rushing. Packers gave up three turnovers but defense kept them in it. 

All-time series: Packers lead 62-54-3

Next week: Green Bay: @ Detroit; Minnesota: vs Chicago

TW: 12-4; CV: 11-5

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

Week 13: 8-8

Week 14: 9-7

Week 15: 10-6

Week 16: 11-5

Overall: 146-95-1

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

Week 13: 10-6

Week 14: 9-7

Week 15: 10-6

Week 16: 12-4

Overall: 150-89-1

See you guys on Friday for the Week 17 Picks post! 

-Tom

NFL 2019 Week 16 Picks

Hello readers! Another week of National Football League regular season action is soon upon us! With only two weeks of regular season left, many teams are still in position for playoffs while some are looking ahead to next year. This post will have the latest playoff picture, a spotlight on the "Miracle At The New Meadowlands" in 2010, and my picks for the week's games.

Playoff Picture: Week 16

Let's start with the AFC:

1st seed: Baltimore Ravens (12-2) (clinched AFC North)
2nd seed: New England Patriots (11-3) (clinched playoff berth)
3rd seed: Kansas City Chiefs (10-4) (clinched AFC West)
4th seed: Houston Texans (9-5)
5th seed: Buffalo Bills (10-4) (clinched playoff berth)
6th seed: Pittsburgh Steelers (8-6)

Wild card matchups:

Pittsburgh @ Kansas City
Buffalo @ Houston

Still alive:
Tennessee (8-6), Cleveland (6-8), Oakland (6-8)

Eliminated:
Everyone else not mentioned... I'm lazy

Baltimore can clinch the first-round bye with a win or tie or Chiefs loss or tie, or Patriots loss. New England can clinch the AFC East with a win vs Buffalo on Saturday. Houston can clinch the AFC South with a win or Texans tie + Titans tie or Titans loss. Essentially, you win and you're in (are you listening Houston?).

NFC:

1st seed: Seattle Seahawks (11-3) (clinched playoff berth)
2nd seed: Green Bay Packers (11-3) (clinched playoff berth)
3rd seed: New Orleans Saints (11-3) (clinched NFC South)
4th seed: Dallas Cowboys (7-7)
5th seed: San Francisco 49ers (11-3) (clinched playoff berth)
6th seed: Minnesota Vikings (10-4)

Wild card matchups:
Minnesota @ New Orleans
San Francisco @ Dallas

Still alive:
Los Angeles Rams (8-6), Philadelphia Eagles (7-7)

Eliminated:
Everyone else not mentioned.

Green bay can win the NFC North with a win or tie. Dallas can clinch the NFC East with a win. Minnesota can clinch a playoff berth with a win or tie or a Rams loss or tie. Win and you're in.

NFL 100: A Spotlight

I had planned on doing something totally different for the spotlight then I found out that today marks the 9th anniversary of the "Miracle At the New Meadowlands" or "Miracle At The Meadowlands IV" on December 19th, 2010. I remembered this game very well as the Packers were in the hunt for the wild card. If the Giants won, the Packers hopes would've greatly diminish but nonetheless as you will see, this was not the case.

Gone were the days of Donovan McNabb captaining the Eagles offense as the passer would get moved to Washington in the offseason. Michael Vick would get most of the starts in the 2010 season with Kevin Kolb in the wing. The Eagles were stacked on offense with LeSean McCoy, DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin.

The New York Giants still had a solid offense, ranking 7th in points for in 2010. Their problem was that they couldn't keep opponents out of the endzone. Thus the Giants would have to rely on the arm of Eli Manning to get them back into the playoffs and to a championship. They had some nice pieces with Mario Manningham, Ahmad Bradshaw, Hakeem Nicks, and Steve Smith.

The aftermath was devastating for New York as they had the same record as the Eagles with 10-6 but Philly held the tiebreaker in terms of head-to-head (Eagles won both matchups). They would find a spark on defense and a new weapon for Eli Manning in Victor Cruz for the 2011 championship run. They would beat the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI.

For Philly the win would give them the 3rd seed in the playoffs as they would play host to the Green Bay Packers in the wild-card matchup. They would lose to the eventual Super Bowl champion. The game would be Andy Reid's last playoff game as head coach. He would be fired after the 2012 season.

I would normally break down the scoring in the game but when it comes to miracles, it's best to let the video speak for itself. Take it away Joe Buck and Troy Aikman.

Week 16 Picks

Week 16 in the National Football League's regular season will start in Tampa, Florida and finish in Minneapolis, Minnesota. There will be 16 games on the slate this week. The week includes three Saturday games, seven early games, four late games, a Sunday night game, and a Monday night game. FOX will have the double-header and CBS will show the single, regional game. Let's get to the picks!

Houston (9-5) @ Tampa Bay (7-7) (NFL Network): TW: Buccaneers; CV: Texans

Both teams got wins last week as the Texans beat the Titans and the Buccaneers beat the Lions. This game has shootout written all over it. The Bucs defense has been decent this season and the loss of JJ Watt for Houston will make this difficult to pick in terms of defense. I'm somewhat going to ride on Tampa's momentum as they have four straight wins. That and the AFC South is horribly unpredictable. I can't trust Houston to do something right. 

Buffalo (10-4) @ New England (11-3) (NFL Network): TW: Patriots; CV: Bills

Both teams got wins as the Bills beat the Steelers and the Patriots beat the Bengals. The game has some interesting storylines for it. Can the underdog Bills get the rare win on the road. New England could clinch their 10th straight division title with a win. Buffalo is a nice story but ultimately this late in the season, I can't see the Patriots losing in a game they need to win if they want that 1st round bye.

LA Rams (8-6) @ San Francisco (11-3) (NFL Network): TW: 49ers; CV: 49ers

Both teams lost last week as the Rams lost to the Cowboys and the 49ers lost to the Falcons. Atlanta exposed the 49ers defense badly on Sunday with missing pieces like Dee Ford or Kwon Alexander. Their opponents have found success with the ground game and the Rams have a talented backfield. I still like the 49ers in the match-up but this could be a shootout. 

Jacksonville (5-9) @ Atlanta (5-9) (FOX): TW: Falcons; CV: Falcons

Both teams got wins last week as the Jaguars beat the Raiders and the Falcons beat the 49ers. It's in general a meaningless game but the game does feature some decent running backs with Leonard Fournette in Jacksonville and Devonta Freeman for Atlanta. Ultimately, the Falcons offense has a few more highly-touted weapons than Jacksonville. 

New Orleans (11-3) @ Tennessee (8-6) (FOX): TW: Saints; CV: Saints

The Saints beat the Colts and the Titans lost to the Texans last week. Ultimately, the game will come down to which offense stays on the field longer as both teams have great offenses, particularly in running back. Tennessee has had a nice turnaround with Ryan Tannehill at quarterback and they could win this game with Derrick Henry having a great day. I just feel New Orleans is a bit more talented.

NY Giants (3-11) @ Washington (3-11) (FOX): TW: Giants; CV: Giants

The Giants beat the Dolphins and the Redskins lost to the Eagles last week. It wasn't a pretty sight for the Redskins last time these two teams met. Dwayne Haskins was a different quarterback then but how much of a difference is he then to he is now? I like the Giants in the match-up as they do have a few more weapons on offense with Saquon Barkley at running back. It feels like a safe pick even though the Redskins are the favorite but not by much.

Pittsburgh (8-6) @ NY Jets (5-9) (CBS): TW: Steelers; CV: Steelers

Both teams lost last week as the Steelers lost to the Bills and the Jets lost to the Ravens. Pittsburgh is still in the driver's seat in terms of playoffs. Win this week and next week and they're in. Fortunately they have a somewhat interesting match-up with a Jets team that wants to play spoiler. Pittsburgh's defense needs to take advantage of turnovers and make the best of them. Devlin Hodges needs to play smarter and not take risks. He has a running game that is ready to lend a hand. I'll take the Steelers.

Cincinnati (1-13) @ Miami (3-11) (CBS): TW: Dolphins; CV: Dolphins

Both teams took losses last week as the Bengals lost to the Patriots and the Dolphins lost to the Giants. Even if the Bengals do find a way to win, they're still likely to end up being with the #1 pick in next spring's draft. Ryan Fitzpatrick has been playing fairly well the last few weeks despite not getting a lot of wins. Miami's run offense needs to find a way to get past the Bengals rush defense. At least you'll be #1 at something Cincinnati.

Carolina (5-9) @ Indianapolis (6-8) (FOX): TW: Colts; CV: Panthers

Both teams lost last week as the Panthers lost to the Seahawks and the Colts lost to the Saints. Kyle Allen for Carolina started off well enough but it hasn't been the same for quite a while. I like the Colts in the game with their running game of Marlon Mack and company. Mack needs to get more than just the 19 yards in the loss to the Saints. Christian McCaffrey was a nice story but it will take a miracle for him to get the MVP. 

Baltimore (12-2) @ Cleveland (6-8) (CBS): TW: Ravens; CV: Ravens

The Ravens beat the Jets and the Browns lost to the Cardinals last week. Here's an interesting stat: the Baltimore Orioles have lost more recently than the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens lost on September 29th, and haven't lost since that date (as of 12/19/19). Both teams have changed since that Week 4 match-up. I like the Ravens in the game based on what has gotten them there. Sorry Cleveland but your playoff hopes die this week. 

Oakland (6-8) @ LA Chargers (5-9) (CBS): TW: Raiders; CV: Raiders

Both teams lost last week as the Raiders lost to the Jaguars and the Chargers lost to the Vikings. The Chargers will play their last game in Carson City and will move into the new stadium with the Rams next season. Other than that, I have no reason to pick the Chargers in this game as they have played terrible despite all the talent they have. Both teams have offenses that can put up yards but a lot of turnovers too. I don't trust either team but I'll take the Raiders in spoiling the farewell. 

Detroit (3-10-1) @ Denver (5-9) (CBS): TW: Broncos; CV: Broncos

Both teams lost last week as the Lions lost to the Buccaneers and the Broncos lost to the Chiefs. Drew Lock's overall grade has been a C to C- at times throughout this season. How well he can play against the Lions defense has yet to be seen. I like the Broncos in the game as they do have a better running game with Philip Lindsay and Royce Freeman with some okay wide outs. David Blough hasn't been solid as Detroit's starter since he played on Thanksgiving. I'll take the high altitude in Denver.

Arizona (4-9-1) @ Seattle (11-3) (FOX): TW: Seahawks; CV: Seahawks

Both teams got wins last week as the Cardinals beat the Browns and the Seahawks beat the Panthers. The previous meeting resulted in a Seahawks 27-10 win. I feel the same result will happen. I feel the Seahawks offense will carve up the Cards defense quite a bit in the game. With the crowd noise in Seattle, I feel the Seahawks will take this one. 

Dallas (7-7) @ Philadelphia (7-7) (FOX): TW: Eagles; CV: Eagles

Both teams got wins last week as the Cowboys beat the Rams and the Eagles beat the Redskins. Dak Prescott's health will matter in this game and Jerry Jones seems to think that he will play. So I guess you have to feel that Prescott will play. The Eagles have a tough task ahead in trying to slow down the Cowboys passing attack and running game. Fortunately for Philadelphia, they have the quarterback and running game to match. Miles Sanders needs to have a great day if the Eagles want to have a chance to win. Go Wentz!

Kansas City (10-4) @ Chicago (7-7) (NBC): TW: Chiefs; CV: Chiefs

The Chiefs got a win against the Broncos and the Bears lost to the Packers last week. The match-up will depend on how well the Chiefs running game will fare against the Bears run defense. Chicago does have a formidable run defense. It will be a fun challenge how well the Chiefs offense can play against the Bears. I don't trust the Bears offense to really put up points in this one so I'll take the Chiefs.

Green Bay (11-3) @ Minnesota (10-4) (ESPN): TW: Vikings; CV: Vikings

Alright, I know what you're thinking. WTF TOM! It's more of a personal reason. The margin between me and Cardinal Viking is very narrow. I feel its a win-win for me either way. If Green Bay loses, I stay ahead despite me being a Packer fan. If Green Bay wins, I'll take the loss with some pride in knowing that the Packers won against the Vikings on the road for the first time since 2015. It should be a fun game to finish up the Monday night slate. 

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

CBS Single

Baltimore @ Cleveland

Jim Nantz, Tony Romo

FOX Early

New Orleans @ Tennessee

Kenny Albert, Ronde Barber

FOX Late

Dallas @ Philadelphia

Joe Buck, Troy Aikman

For more information on which game is being played in your area, check out: NFL 2019: Week 16 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

Week 13: 8-8

Week 14: 9-7

Week 15: 10-6

Overall: 135-90-1

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

Week 13: 10-6

Week 14: 9-7

Week 15: 10-6

Overall: 138-85-1

See you guys after the Monday night game for the Week 16 Recap post!

-Tom

NFL 2019 Week 15 Recap

Hello readers! Another week of National Football League action has gone by. Some teams are inching closer to play into January, while some are looking to finish out the year on a high note. Last week in picks I did fine with a 9-7 finish. Hopefully I'll have another week of good fortune in picking. In this post I'll do an NFL 100 spotlight on the "Freezer Bowl" and the recap of the games. Let's get to work!

NFL 100: A Spotlight

On the same day when "The Catch" occurred on January 10th, 1982, one of the coldest games in NFL History occurred. It was held in Riverfront Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio between the Cincinnati Bengals and the San Diego Chargers. The air temperature was -9 degrees Fahrenheit (-22.8 Celsius), with the wind sustaining 27 miles per hour, would have a wind chill factor of -37 degrees Fahrenheit (-59 Celsius). It was the last thing the Chargers wanted.

The week prior, the same Chargers team played in "The Epic In Miami" where the Chargers played in Miami, Florida with temperatures of 88 degrees Fahrenheit (31.1 Celsius). The temperature difference if you compared the 88 degrees to the -37 wind chill would be 125. It was truly going from one hell to another hell, weather wise.

Cincinnati would win their first playoff game against the Buffalo Bills the week before. They won 28-21 in the Divisional playoff. The team had been 0-3 in the postseason prior to the 1981-1982 playoffs.

The Bengals were more accustomed to the weather as the entire offensive line wore no long sleeves. They kept warm by putting their hands down their pants, near their male supporter. The Chargers were ill-equipped to handle the weather. After all they had just played in very warm weather the week before and they lived and played in San Diego, also known for their warmer climate during the winter months.

In the end, the Chargers were put into the deep freeze as Dan Fouts and the high powered Chargers offense was ineffective to play in the game. One of the factors was that Fouts didn't always throw the perfect spiral that you're accustomed to seeing in quarterbacks. The wind was a factor in making the throws from Fouts largely ineffective in getting to his receivers like Wes Chandler, Chuck Muncie or Kellen Winslow. The Chargers would lose the game 27-7.

The Bengals would lose to the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XVI. They wouldn't make another trip to the Super Bowl in the 1988 season where the 49ers would beat the Bengals again in Super Bowl XXIII. The Chargers would make it back to the playoffs in 1982 but it would be their last in the Don Coryell era. They wouldn't make it back to the AFC Championship game, let alone a Super Bowl, until the 1994 season where the Chargers lost to the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XXIX. Essentially, the 49ers were always in the way if you wanted to win a championship.

Week 15 Recap

NY Jets 21, Baltimore 42: TW: Ravens; CV: Ravens

The game was as to be expected. Sam Darnold started for the Jets and threw for 218 yards with two touchdowns and threw one pick. Le'Veon Bell would rack up 87 yards from the ground in the game, certainly one of his highest in the season. Lamar Jackson was amazing in the game as he threw for 212 yards with five touchdowns with 86 rushing yards. Mark Ingram would finish with 76 rushing yards with a touchdown. The AFC North belongs to the Ravens. 

All-time series: Ravens lead 9-2

Next week: NY Jets: vs Pittsburgh; Baltimore: @ Cleveland

TW: 1-0; CV: 1-0

Miami 20, NY Giants 36: TW: Giants; CV: Dolphins

Eli's coming! Ryan Fitzpatrick started for Miami and threw for 279 yards with two touchdowns. Patrick Laird ran the ball for 46 yards for the Dolphins. Eli Manning threw the ball for 283 yards with two touchdowns while throwing for three interceptions. Saquon Barkley would have a great game with his 112 yards rushing with two touchdowns. Javorius Allen would run for 28 yards with a touchdown. It was also Eli's last home start in his decorated career.

All-time series: Giants lead 7-2

Next week: Miami: vs Cincinnati; NY Giants: @ Washington

TW: 2-0; CV: 1-1

Houston 24, Tennessee 21: TW: Titans; CV: Titans

Houston is now in the driver's seat for the division. DeShaun Watson threw the ball for 243 yards with two touchdowns while throwing two interceptions. Carlos Hyde ran the ball for 104 yards with a touchdown. Ryan Tannehill was effective in his throws for the most part, throwing for 279 yards with two touchdowns while throwing a pick. Tannehill would get 10 rushing yards with a touchdown as well. Derrick Henry wouldn't get get 100 yards from the ground but did finish with 86 yards. Somewhat of an ugly game but hopefully there won't be anymore changes in the AFC South division race.

All-time series: Titans lead 18-17

Next week: Houston: @ Tampa Bay; Tennessee: vs New Orleans

TW: 2-1; CV: 1-2

New England 34, Cincinnati 13: TW: Patriots; CV: Patriots

New England would get back on track in the 2nd half and returned to normal play that we expect from them. Tom Brady threw the ball for 128 yards with two touchdowns. Sony Michel ran the ball for 89 yards while Rex Burkhead ran for 53 yards with a rushing touchdown. Andy Dalton would start for the Bengals and threw for 151 yards with a touchdown while throwing an astounding four interceptions. Joe Mixon was the leading rusher in the game with 136 yards. 

All-time series: Patriots lead 17-9

Next week: New England: vs Buffalo; Cincinnati: @ Miami

TW: 3-1; CV: 2-2

Seattle 30, Carolina 24: TW: Seahawks; CV: Seahawks

The game was closer than most expected but Carolina did cover the spread at +6. Russell Wilson threw the ball for 286 yards with two touchdowns. Chris Carson did very well in the ground game with 133 yards with two touchdowns. Kyle Allen threw for 277 yards with a touchdown while throwing for three interceptions. Christian McCaffrey ran the ball for 87 yards while getting 88 receiving yards. I feel the McCaffrey for MVP train ran its course, sadly. 

All-time series: Seahawks lead 10-4

Next week: Seattle: vs Arizona; Carolina: @ Indianapolis

TW: 4-1; CV: 3-2

Tampa Bay 38, Detroit 17: TW: Buccaneers; CV: Buccaneers

Jameis Winston has made strides this season. Winston would finish the game with 458 yards passing with four touchdowns with one interception. He would also become the first player in NFL history to throw for 450 yards in consecutive games. Ronald Jones would rush for 23 yards with zero touchdowns in the game. David Blough wouldn't fare well in the game as he threw for 260 yards with two interceptions. Wes Hills was the leading rusher for the Lions with 21 yards rushing with two touchdowns. 

All-time series: Lions lead 31-28

Next week: Tampa Bay: vs Houston; Detroit: @ Denver

TW: 5-1; CV: 4-2

Denver 3, Kansas City 23: TW: Chiefs; CV: Chiefs

The snow nor the Denver Broncos could stop the Patrick Mahomes' Chiefs into their 10th win of the season. Drew Lock finished the game with 208 yards passing with an interception. Phillip Lindsay ran the ball with 32 yards rushing on seven carries. Patrick Mahomes threw the ball for 340 yards with two touchdowns while throwing an interception. Darwin Thompson ran the ball for 38 yards. 

All-time series: Chiefs lead 65-55

Next week: Denver: vs Detroit; Kansas City: @ Chicago

TW: 6-1; CV: 5-2

Philadelphia 37, Washington 27: TW: Eagles; CV: Eagles

Washington showed up to play but Philly would stay alive. Carson Wentz threw the ball for 266 yards with three touchdowns. Miles Sanders really had a good day on the ground with 122 yards rushing with a touchdown. Dwayne Haskins had one of his best games since becoming the starter with 261 yards passing with two touchdowns. Adrian Peterson did alright in the game with 66 yards rushing with a touchdown. Next week will be a huge game for both Dallas and Philadelphia.

All-time series: Redskins lead 86-79-5

Next week: Philadelphia: vs Dallas; Washington: vs NY Giants

TW: 7-1; CV: 6-2

Chicago 13, Green Bay 21: TW: Packers; CV: Packers

The Green and Yellow win meeting #200 against the Bears. Mitchell Trubisky threw the ball for 334 yards with a touchdown while throwing two picks in the game. Devin Montgomery ran the ball for 39 yards with zero touchdowns. Aaron Rodgers threw the ball for 203 yards with a touchdown. Aaron Jones finished the game with 51 yards rushing with two touchdowns. Chicago would've made it a possible tie game with a late march to the endzone on the game's final play. Fortunately, the Packers defense held them on the 2nd yard line. 

All-time series: Packers lead 99-95-6

Next week: Chicago: vs Kansas City; Green Bay: @ Minnesota

TW: 8-1; CV: 7-2

Jacksonville 20, Oakland 16: TW: Raiders; CV: Raiders

Emotions ran high in the final game at the Oakland Coliseum. Gardner Minshew would throw the ball for 201 yards with two touchdowns. Leonard Fournette ran the ball for 42 yards while not scoring a touchdown. Derek Carr would throw the ball for 267 yards with a touchdown pass while running for 12 yards on one carry. Josh Jacobs ran the ball for 89 yards in the game on 24 carries. Perhaps the Raiders will have better luck in Las Vegas next season. 

All-time series: Jaguars lead 5-4

Next week: Jacksonville: @ Atlanta; Oakland: @ LA Chargers

TW: 8-2; CV: 7-3

Cleveland 24, Arizona 38: TW: Browns; CV: Browns

Where the hell did Kenyan Drake come from? Baker Mayfield threw the ball for 247 yards with two touchdowns with one interception. Nick Chubb ran the ball for 127 yards with a touchdown. Kyler Murray would play the supporting role in the game as he threw for 219 yards with a touchdown while throwing a pick. The star in the game, Kenyan Drake, ran for 137 yards with four (not a typo) rushing touchdowns. Where was this Kenyan Drake when he was still a Dolphin? Seriously.

All-time series: Browns lead 33-15-3

Next week: Cleveland: vs Baltimore; Arizona: @ Seattle

TW: 8-3; CV: 7-4

Minnesota 39, LA Chargers 10: TW: Vikings; CV: Vikings

The Chargers turned the ball over seven times! Kirk Cousins did alright in the game with 207 yards passing with a touchdown while throwing an interception. Mike Boone was the leading rusher in the game with 56 yards from the ground with two touchdowns. Dalvin Cook would leave the game with an injury in the 3rd quarter. Phillip Rivers would have higher passing yards with 307 yards with a touchdown pass but three of the seven turnovers were from Rivers interceptions. Melvin Gordon wouldn't be utilized a lot in the game as he could muster 28 yards on seven carries. As a Packer fan, next week scares me. 

All-time series: Vikings lead 7-6

Next week: Minnesota: vs Green Bay; LA Chargers: vs Oakland (last home game in Carson City)

TW: 9-3; CV: 8-4

Atlanta 29, San Francisco 22: TW: 49ers; CV: 49ers

In the battle between teacher (Kyle Shanahan, former Atlanta offensive coordinator) and student (Matt Ryan), the student would come out on top. Matt Ryan threw the ball for 210 yards with two touchdowns while throwing zero picks. Devonta Freeman ran the ball for 39 yards on 12 carries. Qadree Ollison would run in for a rushing touchdown on a 1-yard play. Jimmy Garoppolo had similar numbers with 200 passing yards with a touchdown. Raheem Mostert was the leading rusher in the game with 54 yards with a touchdown. 

All-time series: 49ers lead 47-32-1

Next week: Atlanta: vs Jacksonville; San Francisco: vs LA Rams

TW: 9-4; CV: 8-5

LA Rams 21, Dallas 44: TW: Rams; CV: Rams

The game was pretty much over by halftime. Jared Goff was fine in the game with 284 yards passing with two touchdowns while throwing a pick close to halftime. Todd Gurley could only muster about 20 yards rushing with a touchdown. Dak Prescott would throw the ball for 212 yards with two touchdowns while getting 12 yards rushing. Tony Pollard was the leading rusher in the game with 131 yards and a touchdown. Ezekiel Elliot would get 117 yards with two rushing touchdowns in the game. Overall fine team effort by Dallas. Huge game against Philly next week.

All-time series: Cowboys lead 18-17

Next week: LA Rams: @ San Francisco; Dallas: @ Philadelphia

TW: 9-5; CV: 8-6

Buffalo 17, Pittsburgh 10: TW: Steelers; CV: Bills

The season isn't over yet for Pittsburgh but losing last night didn't help their cause a lot. Josh Allen threw the ball for 139 yards with a touchdown and an interception, the touchdown would be the game-winner. Allen would also get 28 yards rushing with a touchdown. Devin Singletary would get leading rusher honors in the game with 87. Devlin "Duck" Hodges quacked his way to 202 yards passing with a touchdown but threw four interceptions. James Conner came back from injury but wouldn't get much as he finished with 42 yards. Conner would score a receiving touchdown though. Good defensive game despite the Pittsburgh turnovers.

All-time series: Steelers lead 16-10

Next week: Buffalo: @ New England; Pittsburgh: @ NY Jets

TW: 9-6; CV: 9-6

Indianapolis 7, New Orleans 34: TW: Saints; CV: Saints

The game wasn't really close but Drew Brees stands alone on the all-time career touchdown's list. Jacoby Brissett didn't get a lot of yards but he did manage to get 165 in his best efforts. Marlon Mack wouldn't get much either as he could only put up 19 yards. Jordan Wilkins would score the only touchdown for Indy on a 1-yard play late in the 4th quarter. Drew Brees was purely magical as he would tie and break Peyton Manning's career touchdown record. Brees would finish the game with 307 yards with four touchdowns with no interceptions. Alvin Kamara would be the leading rusher in the game with 66 yards. He holds onto the record... unless Tom Brady gets super hot late in the year.

All-time series: Saints lead 8-5

Next week: Indianapolis: vs Carolina; New Orleans: @ Tennessee

TW: 10-6; CV: 10-6

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

Week 13: 8-8

Week 14: 9-7

Week 15: 10-6

Overall: 135-90-1

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

Week 13: 10-6

Week 14: 9-7

Week 15: 10-6

Overall: 138-85-1

No game on Thursday but there will be games on Saturday. See you guys on Thursday for the Week 16 Picks post!

-Tom